If your back hurts, you’re part of a pretty big group. Almost 85 percent of people over age 50 have been afflicted with back pain at some time. Pain, muscle weakness and limited activity resulting from back and neck injuries can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life and the ability to enjoy everyday activities.
What can you do to help prevent back pain? Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital has the information you need — and it’s available for free during the Spine Education class held on the second Wednesday of every month.
“Most people are blissfully unaware of the importance of spine health until it’s suddenly taken away, at which point they become acutely aware of how much their spine really does,” said Heather deCordova, MPT, OCS, CSCS and assistant director of rehabilitation services at Henry Mayo. “Our goal is to increase awareness of spine anatomy and protection to reduce injuries, avoid worsening symptoms, and prevent pain.”
Although some individuals believe that rest is best for back pain, deCordova explained that exercise may actually correct current back problems, help prevent new ones, and relieve back pain. “Proper exercise strengthens back muscles that support the spine, reducing strain on the back. Exercise also strengthens bones and increases function, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.”
Topics at Henry Mayo’s Spine Education class range from spine health and basic anatomy to body mechanics such as proper lifting, pushing and pulling techniques. Although exercise programs are discussed, actual exercises are not performed. Exercise programs based on each individual’s specific injury or need should always be discussed with a physician.
While statistics estimate $31 million is spent on office visits to physicians for back pain, only three percent of that total cost goes to prevention of back pain. That’s why spine education provided at Henry Mayo is so vital, as deCordova explained. “The spine is the core of all movement. Maintaining spine health affects all aspects of life,” she said.
Henry Mayo’s Spine Education classes are held the second Wednesday of every month, from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Outpatient Therapy Services/Ambulatory Care Center, 25751 McBean Parkway, Suite 310 in Valencia. This informative community event is free of charge, but RSVPs are encouraged as space is limited. Optional educational material is available for $5. All ages are welcome. To RSVP, call 661-253-8959.