For women experiencing lower back and pelvic pain, could understanding symptoms help in the diagnostic process, treatment options, and prevention?
Low Back and Pelvic Pain In Women
In women, lower back and hip pain that radiates to the front pelvis area can have a variety of causes. The pain can feel dull, sharp, or burning. The main causes of lower back and pelvic pain in women fall into two categories. (William S. Richardson, et al., 2009)
Musculoskeletal and nervous system
Related causes of pain affect how your muscles, nerves, ligaments, joints, and bones move.
Examples include sciatica, arthritis, and injury.
Other organ system-based
Causes may stem from the following:
Acute/chronic conditions or infections
Kidneys – stones, infection, and other ailments or conditions.
Reproductive system – such as the ovaries.
Gastrointestinal system – inguinal hernias or appendix.
Musculoskeletal and Nervous System Causes
Musculoskeletal and nervous system-related causes can be from injuries like a fall or practicing unhealthy posture.
Overuse Injuries and Trauma
Frequent use and repetitive movements can lead to overuse injuries to the muscles, ligaments, and joints. :
Exercises, sports, and physical activities that require repetitive twisting and bending.
Lifting, carrying, and placing objects that require movements that are repeated regularly.
Trauma from vehicle collisions, accidents, falls, or sports accidents can inflict acute and chronic bodily injuries, like strained muscles or broken bones.
Depending on the type of trauma, healing and recovery time and treatment vary.
Both types of injuries can lead to numbness, tingling, pain, stiffness, popping sensations, and/or weakness in the legs.
Mobility Problems
Over time, a decreased range of motion and mobility in muscles and joints can cause discomfort and pain. Causes include:
Long periods of time spent in the same position.
Sitting for extended periods.
The pain often feels dull, achy, and stiff.
It can also lead to muscle spasms characterized by quick episodes of sharp and intense pain.
Posture
Posture while sitting, standing, and walking affects the body’s range of motion.
It can affect the nerves and blood circulation to the back and pelvic region.
Prolonged unhealthy postures can contribute to lower back pain and muscle strain.
Posture-related symptoms can feel achy and stiff and lead to quick episodes of severe or intense pain, depending on the position.
Sciatica and Nerve Compression
A bulging or herniating vertebral disc most commonly causes sciatica and pinched or compressed nerves.
The sensations can be sharp, burning, electrical, and/or radiating pain along the nerve pathway.
Arthritis
Arthritis inflammation causes swelling, stiffness, pain, and the breakdown of cartilage that cushions the joints.
Hip arthritis causes groin pain that can radiate to the back and becomes more intense when standing or walking.
Thoracic and lumbar spine arthritis, or degenerative disc disease, are other common causes of back pain.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The sacroiliac joints connect the lower spine and pelvis.
When these joints move too much or too little, it can cause sacroiliac joint pain, leading to a burning sensation in the lower back and pelvic area. (Daisuke Kurosawa, Eiichi Murakami, Toshimi Aizawa. 2017)
Renal and Urinary Causes
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are the build-up of minerals and salts, which form into hard stones in the kidneys.
When the kidney stone begins to move to the bladder, pain symptoms will present.
It can trigger severe back and side pain that radiates to the pelvic region.
Other symptoms include – a change in urine color, pain when urinating, nausea, and vomiting.
Kidney Infection and Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract and kidney infections are also causes of lower back and pelvic pain in women.
They cause fever, continued urge to urinate, and painful urination.
Gynecological Causes
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Infections, known as pelvic inflammatory disease, occur when sexually transmitted bacteria spread through the vagina, womb, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. Symptoms include:
Pain during intercourse.
Bleeding between periods.
Vaginal discharge.
Pain in the lower abdomen or groin.
Fever.
Ovarian Cysts
The cyst can be a solid or fluid-filled sac on the surface or within an ovary.
Small ovarian cysts are unlikely to cause pain.
Large cysts or those that rupture can cause mild to severe pain.
The pain can occur during menstruation or intercourse and present acutely in the back, pelvis, or lower abdomen.
During Pregnancy
Back pain and discomfort in the pelvis area are common.
As the body adjusts, the bones and round ligaments in the pelvis move and stretch, which can cause discomfort.
Symptoms are usually normal but should be discussed with a healthcare provider during check-ups.
Pain in the lower back and groin can be a sign of miscarriage or labor – including preterm labor.
Sexually Transmitted Infection
Sexually transmitted infections, like chlamydia or gonorrhea, can cause lower back and groin pain.
Other symptoms can include – painful urination, vaginal discharge, intercourse pain, and bleeding between periods.
Yeast Infection
A yeast infection – overgrowth of the fungus candidiasis.
A common vaginal infection with symptoms including – itching, swelling, irritation, and pelvic pain.
Other Causes
Appendicitis
When the appendix becomes blocked, infected, and inflamed.
In most cases, a major symptom is pain that starts near or around the belly button.
In other cases, it can start in the lower back and radiate to the right side of the pelvic area. (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2023)
Associated pain can worsen over time or when coughing, moving, or taking deep breaths.
It involves soft tissue and part of the intestine, pushing through weak groin muscles.
Pain presents in the abdomen, lower back, or pelvis, especially when bending or lifting objects.
Pancreatitis
Inflammation in the pancreas.
Infection, bile stones, or alcohol can cause it.
One symptom is abdominal pain that radiates to the back.
The pain becomes worse during and after eating.
Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and fever.
Enlarged Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes lie in the internal and external regions of the iliac artery in the pelvis.
These can become enlarged by infection, injury, and, in rare cases, cancer.
Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, skin irritation, and fever.
Enlarged Spleen
The spleen is located behind the left side of the rib cage.
It filters the blood and supports new blood cell creation.
Infections and diseases can cause the spleen to become enlarged.
An enlarged spleen – a condition known as splenomegaly – causes pain in the upper left part of the belly and sometimes the left shoulder and upper back.
However, some individuals with an enlarged spleen experience abdominal symptoms – not being able to eat without discomfort. (Mount Sinai. 2023)
Diagnosis
Depending on the cause of your pain, a healthcare provider may be able to diagnose it with a physical exam and by asking questions about your condition.
Other tests may be needed to find the cause, particularly blood work and imaging (X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging).
Treatment
Treatment of symptoms depends on the cause.
Once a diagnosis is made, an effective treatment plan will be developed and contain a combination of therapies:
Lifestyle Adjustments
For injuries caused by muscle strains, joint sprains, overuse, and smaller traumas, pain can be resolved with:
Rest
Ice therapy
Over-the-counter pain relievers – acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Braces or compression wraps can help support the body and alleviate symptoms during healing and recovery.
Exercises to improve posture
Paying attention to form when lifting objects
Stretching can help ease the pain.
Medication
Medications can be used in a variety of ways to help in the treatment of lower back and pelvic pain. If an infection is the cause, medications will be prescribed to remove the infection and resolve the symptoms, which can include:
Antibiotics
Antifungals
Antivirals
Medications may also be prescribed to help manage pain symptoms and may include:
Medication to relieve nerve pain
Muscle relaxants
Steroids
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can help to correct problems with:
Posture
Decreased mobility
Walking gait
Strengthening
A physical therapist will provide exercises to help increase and maintain strength, range of motion, and flexibility.
Pelvic Floor Therapy
This is physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the pelvis.
It helps with pain, weakness, and dysfunction in the pelvic area.
A treatment plan will be developed to help with strength and range of motion in the pelvic muscles.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractors offer spinal and hip adjustments to realign the joints of the spine.
Some more severe conditions could require surgery.
Ovarian cysts, hernias, and other infections sometimes require surgery to remove infected or unhealthy tissue – ruptured ovarian cysts or appendicitis.
Recommended surgeries can include:
A hernia repair.
Hip replacement.
Gallbladder removal to prevent recurring pancreatitis.
Prevention
Not all conditions and diseases cause lower back and pelvic pain. Symptoms can be prevented and reduced by adopting lifestyle changes. Prevention recommendations can include:
Staying hydrated.
Using proper bending and lifting techniques.
Eating healthy foods.
Regularly engaging in some form of physical activity – walking, swimming, yoga, cycling, or strength training.
Maintaining a healthy weight.
Pregnancy and Sciatica
References
Richardson, W. S., Jones, D. G., Winters, J. C., & McQueen, M. A. (2009). The treatment of inguinal pain. Ochsner journal, 9(1), 11–13.
Kurosawa, D., Murakami, E., & Aizawa, T. (2017). Groin pain associated with sacroiliac joint dysfunction and lumbar disorders. Clinical neurology and neurosurgery, 161, 104–109. doi.org/10.1016/j.clineuro.2017.08.018
Santilli, V., Beghi, E., & Finucci, S. (2006). Chiropractic manipulation in the treatment of acute back pain and sciatica with disc protrusion: a randomized double-blind clinical trial of active and simulated spinal manipulations. The spine journal : official journal of the North American Spine Society, 6(2), 131–137. doi.org/10.1016/j.spinee.2005.08.001
For individuals dealing with pain, inflammatory conditions, and stress issues, could adding acupuncture to a treatment plan help bring relief and healing?
Acupuncture Treatment
Acupuncture treatment is a traditional Chinese medicine based on circulating the body’s life energy, or qi, with the idea that a blockage or disturbance in the energy flow can cause health issues. Acupuncturists insert thin needles into specific points throughout the body to rebalance the body’s energy, stimulate healing, and promote relaxation. (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2023) Researchers are not exactly sure how the treatment works; however, theories suggest that it can help release endorphins, as well as influence the autonomic nervous system.
How Does It Work?
Researchers have not been able to understand how acupuncture works fully, but some theories include:
The needles stimulate the release of endorphins – the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.
They can influence the autonomic nervous system, and specific needle placement impacts breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate. (Tony Y. Chon, Mark C. Lee. 2013)
The health benefits can vary depending on the individual. It may take several sessions before benefits are noticed. (Tony Y. Chon, Mark C. Lee. 2013) Research is still limited; however, there are some studies that found acupuncture to be helpful for certain conditions.
Low Back Pain
A study on non-pharmacological options for lower back pain showed that acupuncture treatment relieved intense pain and promoted better back functioning.
However, in terms of long-term benefits, it was not clear how helpful the treatment was. (Roger Chou, et al., 2017)
Migraines
Research done over a six-month period showed that:
Acupuncture was able to reduce the frequency of migraine symptoms by half in 41% of individuals compared to those not receiving acupuncture.
Treatment was noted as being helpful as preventative migraine medications. (Klaus Linde, et al., 2016)
Tension Headaches
According to research, having at least six acupuncture sessions may be helpful for individuals with frequent head pain or pressure/tension headaches.
This study also noted that acupuncture, combined with pain medication, significantly reduced headache frequency compared to those only given medication. (Klaus Linde, et al., 2016)
Knee Pain
Multiple studies found that acupuncture treatment may be able to improve knee function short and long-term in individuals who have knee osteoarthritis.
This condition causes the connective tissue in the knee to break down.
The study also found that treatment was able to help with osteoarthritis and decrease knee pain but was only helpful for the short term. (Xianfeng Lin, et al., 2016)
Another review looked at multiple studies that found that treatment delayed and reduced the use of pain medication in individuals who had knee replacement surgery. (Dario Tedesco, et al., 2017)
Facial Elasticity
Cosmetic or facial acupuncture is used to improve the appearance of the skin on the head, face, and neck.
In a study, individuals had five acupuncture sessions in three weeks, and a little over half of the participants showed skin elasticity improvement. (Younghee Yun et al., 2013)
The Process
Before getting acupuncture treatment, the acupuncturist will ask the individual about their medical history and may perform a physical examination.
Thin needles are placed in specific areas to address your concern or condition.
The acupuncturist may gently twist the needles to emphasize stimulation.
The needles are left in for 20 to 30 minutes, with the total session lasting anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. (Tony Y. Chon, Mark C. Lee. 2013)
This is the burning of dried herbs near the acupuncture needles to warm and stimulate the points and enhance healing.
Electroacupuncture
An electrical device is connected to the needles, providing a gentle electrical current that stimulates the muscles.
Cupping
Glass or silicone cups are placed on the area, creating a vacuum/suction effect, which helps stimulate blood circulation and rebalance the energy. (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2023)
After the treatment, some individuals may feel relaxed, while others may feel energized.
Is It Painful?
Individuals may feel a slight ache, sting, or pinch as the needle is inserted. Some acupuncturists adjust the needle after it has been inserted, which can cause additional pressure.
Once the needle is properly placed, individuals may feel a tingling or heavy feeling, referred to as de qi. (National Institutes of Health. (N.D.)
Let the acupuncturist know if there is discomfort or increased pain at any point during the session.
In order to reduce the risks, the treatment should always be done by a licensed trained healthcare provider using clean, disposable needles. It is recommended to consult with a primary care physician before getting acupuncture, as the treatment may not be right for individuals with certain health conditions.
Yun, Y., Kim, S., Kim, M., Kim, K., Park, J. S., & Choi, I. (2013). Effect of facial cosmetic acupuncture on facial elasticity: an open-label, single-arm pilot study. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2013, 424313. doi.org/10.1155/2013/424313
Chou, R., Deyo, R., Friedly, J., Skelly, A., Hashimoto, R., Weimer, M., Fu, R., Dana, T., Kraegel, P., Griffin, J., Grusing, S., & Brodt, E. D. (2017). Nonpharmacologic Therapies for Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review for an American College of Physicians Clinical Practice Guideline. Annals of internal medicine, 166(7), 493–505. doi.org/10.7326/M16-2459
Linde, K., Allais, G., Brinkhaus, B., Fei, Y., Mehring, M., Vertosick, E. A., Vickers, A., & White, A. R. (2016). Acupuncture for the prevention of episodic migraine. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2016(6), CD001218. doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD001218.pub3
Linde, K., Allais, G., Brinkhaus, B., Fei, Y., Mehring, M., Shin, B. C., Vickers, A., & White, A. R. (2016). Acupuncture for the prevention of tension-type headache. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 4(4), CD007587. doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD007587.pub2
Lin, X., Huang, K., Zhu, G., Huang, Z., Qin, A., & Fan, S. (2016). The Effects of Acupuncture on Chronic Knee Pain Due to Osteoarthritis: A Meta-Analysis. The Journal of bone and joint surgery. American volume, 98(18), 1578–1585. doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.15.00620
Tedesco, D., Gori, D., Desai, K. R., Asch, S., Carroll, I. R., Curtin, C., McDonald, K. M., Fantini, M. P., & Hernandez-Boussard, T. (2017). Drug-Free Interventions to Reduce Pain or Opioid Consumption After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA surgery, 152(10), e172872. doi.org/10.1001/jamasurg.2017.2872
Chan, M. W. C., Wu, X. Y., Wu, J. C. Y., Wong, S. Y. S., & Chung, V. C. H. (2017). Safety of Acupuncture: Overview of Systematic Reviews. Scientific reports, 7(1), 3369. doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-03272-0
For individuals trying to make healthy lifestyle adjustments, can adding protein bars into their diet help achieve health goals?
Protein Bar
Protein bars provide a quick energy boost between meals that can help curb appetite and avoid filling up on high-fat, sodium-packed snacks for individuals trying to lose weight. They can also increase calorie intake for individuals like athletes trying to increase muscle mass. Protein bars can vary in terms of factors like additives, calories, fat, sugars, and other ingredients. Labels need to be read carefully; otherwise, the bar can be more of a candy bar than a healthy, nutritious mini-meal or snack. It’s important to have a sense of how much protein is really needed each day, and the amount varies depending on individual factors.
How Much Protein Is Needed
Protein is vital to many body functions, but the body can’t produce this macronutrient, and it has to come from food. Dietary protein is broken down during digestion, and compounds known as amino acids are formed:
These are the building blocks the body uses to build and maintain muscles and organs.
It is vital to the production of blood, connective tissue, antibodies, enzymes, and hair. (Marta Lonnie, et al., 2018)
As protein is necessary for building muscle, athletes or individuals with physically demanding jobs are recommended to eat more.
The ideal protein intake considers how much is eaten at individual sittings. The average individual is recommended to consume between 25 and 35 grams of protein at every meal. (Emily Arentson-Lantz, et al., 2015)
Sources
The richest sources of dietary protein include:
Meats
Poultry
Fish and shellfish
Eggs
Milk and other dairy products
Plant sources include:
Beans
Legumes
Nuts
Seeds
Whole grains
These are foods that are easy to include in a balanced diet, so eating a variety in ample quantities daily will equal the recommended amount of protein. Recommendations are to stick with those low in saturated fat and processed carbs and rich in nutrients. However, eating too much protein can cause kidney problems. Therefore, individuals who are predisposed to kidney disease are recommended to be careful over-protein intake. (Kamyar Kalantar-Zadeh, Holly M. Kramer, Denis Fouque. 2020)
What To Look For
Incorporating protein bars into a diet, either as a between-meal snack, as a grab-and-go option when there is no time for a full meal, or as a part of a weight-loss or weight-gain strategy, individuals need to read and understand the ingredients on the different types of bars to choosing the healthiest options. Some general guidelines to consider:
Protein Content
For a between-meal or pre-post-workout snack, look for a bar with at least 20 grams of protein.
Meal replacement bars should have at least 30 grams of protein.
A less is more approach to these guidelines is recommended, as the body can digest only between 20 and 40 grams of protein in one sitting. (Brad Jon Schoenfeld, Alan Albert Aragon. 2018)
Protein Type
The protein usually comes from dairy or plant sources.
The most common include eggs, milk, rice, whey, soy, peas, and hemp.
Individuals with allergies or sensitivities need to choose a bar that is comprised of a type of protein that is safe to eat.
Calories
For a bar to eat between meals, recommendations are those with around 220 to 250 calories.
A protein bar that substitutes for a full meal can have 300 to 400 calories.
Fat
Ten to 15 grams of total fat and no more than two grams of saturated fat is ideal.
Steer clear of unhealthy trans fats found in partially hydrogenated oils.
Fiber
Fiber is filling, so the more fiber, the more likely it is to keep hunger satisfied until the next snack or meal.
It is recommended to choose those that contain more than three to five grams of fiber.
Sugar
Some protein bars have just as much sugar content as candy bars.
Some have as much as 30 grams of added sugar.
The ideal amount is around five grams or less.
Artificial sweeteners like erythritol, sorbitol, and maltitol are not better options as they can cause bloating and gas.
It is recommended to work with a nutritionist to figure out the most effective type so that they can be incorporated into an individual’s diet to achieve and maintain health goals.
Nutrition Fundamentals
References
Lonnie, M., Hooker, E., Brunstrom, J. M., Corfe, B. M., Green, M. A., Watson, A. W., Williams, E. A., Stevenson, E. J., Penson, S., & Johnstone, A. M. (2018). Protein for Life: Review of Optimal Protein Intake, Sustainable Dietary Sources and the Effect on Appetite in Ageing Adults. Nutrients, 10(3), 360. doi.org/10.3390/nu10030360
Stephens, T. V., Payne, M., Ball, R. O., Pencharz, P. B., & Elango, R. (2015). Protein requirements of healthy pregnant women during early and late gestation are higher than current recommendations. The Journal of nutrition, 145(1), 73–78. doi.org/10.3945/jn.114.198622
Arentson-Lantz, E., Clairmont, S., Paddon-Jones, D., Tremblay, A., & Elango, R. (2015). Protein: A nutrient in focus. Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme, 40(8), 755–761. doi.org/10.1139/apnm-2014-0530
Kalantar-Zadeh, K., Kramer, H. M., & Fouque, D. (2020). High-protein diet is bad for kidney health: unleashing the taboo. Nephrology, dialysis, transplantation : official publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association – European Renal Association, 35(1), 1–4. doi.org/10.1093/ndt/gfz216
Schoenfeld, B. J., & Aragon, A. A. (2018). How much protein can the body use in a single meal for muscle-building? Implications for daily protein distribution. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 15, 10. doi.org/10.1186/s12970-018-0215-1
Individuals who have gone through recent low back surgery, like a lumbar laminectomy and discectomy, could they benefit from physical therapy for full recovery? (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2008)
Rehabilitation Exercise Program
A lumbar laminectomy and discectomy is a surgical procedure performed by an orthopedic or neurologic surgeon to help decrease pain, relieve associated symptoms and sensations, and improve flexibility and mobility. The procedure involves cutting away disc and bone material that presses against, irritates, and damages the spinal nerves. (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2023)
Post-Surgery
The therapist will work with the individual to develop a rehabilitation exercise program. The objective of a rehabilitation exercise program is to help the individual:
Relax their muscles to prevent muscle tensing and becoming over-cautious
Regain full range of motion
Strengthen their spine
Prevent injuries
A guide on what to expect in physical therapy.
Postural Retraining
After back surgery, individuals have to work to maintain proper posture when sitting and standing. (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2008)
Postural control is important to learn as it maintains the lower back in the optimal position to protect and expedite the healing of lumbar discs and muscles.
A physical therapist will teach the individual how to sit with proper posture and use lumbar support.
Attaining and maintaining proper posture is one of the most important things to help protect the back and prevent future back problems.
Walking helps to improve cardiovascular health and blood circulation throughout the body.
This helps to provide added oxygen and nutrients to the spinal muscles and tissues as they heal.
It is an upright exercise that puts the spine in a natural position, which helps to protect the discs.
The therapist will help set up a program tailored to the individual’s condition.
Prone Press Up
One of the exercises to protect the back and lumbar discs is prone press-ups. (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2008) This exercise helps keep the spinal discs situated in the proper position. It also helps to improve the ability to bend back into lumbar extension.
To perform the exercise:
Lie facing down on a yoga/exercise mat and place both hands flat on the floor under the shoulders.
Keep the back and hips relaxed.
Use the arms to press the upper part of the body up while allowing the lower back to remain against the floor.
There should be a slight pressure in the lower back while pressing up.
Hold the press-up position for 2 seconds.
Slowly lower back down to the starting position.
Repeat for 10 to 15 repetitions.
Sciatic Nerve Gliding
Individuals who had leg pain coming from the back prior to surgery may have been diagnosed with sciatica or an irritation of the sciatic nerve. Post-surgery, individuals may notice their leg feels tight whenever straightening it out all the way. This could be a sign of an adhered/trapped sciatic nerve root, a common problem with sciatica.
After lumbar laminectomy and discectomy surgery, a physical therapist will prescribe targeted exercises called sciatic nerve glides to stretch and improve how the nerve moves. (Richard F. Ellis, Wayne A. Hing, Peter J. McNair. 2012)
Nerve glides can help free the stuck nerve root and allow for normal motion.
To perform the exercise:
Lie on the back and bend one knee up.
Grab underneath the knee with the hands.
Straighten the knee while supporting it with the hands.
Once the knee is fully straightened, flex and extend the ankle about 5 times.
Return to the starting position.
Repeat the sciatic nerve glide 10 times.
The exercise can be performed several times to help improve how the nerve moves and glides in the lower back and leg.
Supine Lumbar Flexion
After surgery, gentle back flexion exercises can help safely stretch the low-back muscles and gently stretch the scar tissue from the surgical incision. Supine lumbar flexion is one of the simplest exercises to improve lumbar flexion range of motion.
To perform the exercise:
Lie on the back with the knees bent.
Slowly lift the bent knees towards the chest and grasp the knees with both hands.
Gently pull the knees toward the chest.
Hold the position for 1 or 2 seconds.
Slowly lower the knees back to the starting position.
Perform for 10 repetitions.
Stop the exercise if experiencing an increase in pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs.
Hip and Core Strengthening
Once cleared, individuals can progress to an abdominal and core strengthening program. This involves performing specific motions for the hips and legs while maintaining a pelvic neutral position. Advanced hip strengthening exercises help generate strength and stability in the muscles that surround the pelvic area and lower back. A physical therapist can help decide which exercises are recommended for the specific condition.
Return-to-Work and Physical Activities
Once individuals have gained an improved lumbar range of motion, hip, and core strength, their doctor and therapist may recommend working on specific activities to help them return to their previous level of work and recreation. Depending on job occupation, individuals may need to:
Work on proper lifting techniques.
Require an ergonomic evaluation if they spend time sitting at a desk or workstation.
Some surgeons may have restrictions on how much an individual can bend, lift, and twist from two to six weeks after surgery.
Low-back surgery can be difficult to rehab properly. Working with a healthcare provider and physical therapist, individuals can be sure to improve their range of motion, strength, and functional mobility to return to their previous level of function quickly and safely.
Ellis, R. F., Hing, W. A., & McNair, P. J. (2012). Comparison of longitudinal sciatic nerve movement with different mobilization exercises: an in vivo study utilizing ultrasound imaging. The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, 42(8), 667–675. doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2012.3854
Individuals experiencing headaches on top of the head could be caused by different factors. Can recognizing what triggers pain or pressure help prevent this type of headache, and healthcare providers develop effective treatment plans?
Headache On Top of The Head
Various factors could cause a headache on top of the head; common causes include:
Stress
Sleep problems
Eye strain
Caffeine withdrawal
Dental problems
Hormonal changes
Alcohol consumption
Causes
Many causes have to do with underlying issues happening in other parts of the body.
Stress
Stress is a common cause of headaches, including one on top of the head.
Researchers don’t know exactly how stress causes headaches, but they think it causes tightening of the muscles in the back of the head or neck, which
pulls the tissues down, resulting in pain or pressure in the scalp and/or forehead area.
These are also called tension headaches.
Headaches caused by stress generally feel like dull pressure rather than throbbing pain.
Sleep Problems
Not getting enough sleep can induce a headache on top of the head.
When the mind and body do not get proper sleep, it can interfere with body functions like temperature, hunger, and sleep-wake cycles, which can lead to headaches.
It is common to feel more stressed when sleep-deprived, which can cause or compound a headache and other symptoms.
Eye Strain
You may develop a headache on the top of your head after you’ve been reading, watching, or otherwise focusing on something for a while.
Over time, your eye muscles tire and have to work harder, causing them to contract.
These spasms can lead to headaches. Squinting can make the muscle contractions even worse.
Caffeine Withdrawl
Individuals may feel pain on the top of their heads if they skip their regular coffee.
Regular caffeine consumption can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms, which include headaches when intake is reduced or stopped.
This type of headache can be moderate to severe and can feel worse with activity.
Teeth issues like cracks, cavities, or impaction can irritate the trigeminal nerve, setting off head pain.
Teeth grinding can also lead to headaches.
Hormonal Changes
Individuals who have a low level of thyroid hormone may experience headaches.
This could be from having too little thyroid or a symptom of the condition.
Like stress-induced headaches, this type is generally dull and not throbbing.
Some women may feel pain on the top of their heads before menstruation triggered by estrogen levels dropping.
Alcohol
Some individuals develop a headache on the top of their head or elsewhere within a few hours after drinking alcohol.
This is known as a cocktail headache.
Alcohol-induced headaches usually resolve within 72 hours.
The mechanism behind this headache is not fully researched, but it’s been thought that the widening of blood vessels in the brain/vasodilation when consuming alcohol may trigger head pain.
This type of headache is different than a hangover headache that comes from overconsumption and is based on dehydration and the toxic effects of alcohol. (J G Wiese, M. G. Shlipak, W. S. Browner. 2000)
Rare Causes
Top-of-the-head pain can also result from more serious and rare causes:
Brain Tumor
Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of brain tumors.
A headache on the top of the head depends on the location and size of the tumor. (MedlinePlus. 2021)
Brain Aneurysm
This is a weak or thin area in a brain artery that bulges and fills with blood, which can cause a life-threatening rupture.
A medical professional will be able to help identify the type of headache being experienced, offer treatment options, and advise on how to manage triggers.
For individuals looking to increase their antioxidant, fiber, and vitamin intake, can adding pomegranates to their diet help?
Pomegranates
Pomegranates can amplify various dishes, from breakfasts to sides to dinners, with their balanced blend of mild sweetness, tartness, and crunch from their seeds.
Health Benefits
The fruit has been found to be a healthy source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. A medium-sized fruit contains:
FoodData Central. U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2019) Pomegranates, raw.
Zarfeshany, A., Asgary, S., & Javanmard, S. H. (2014). Potent health effects of pomegranate. Advanced biomedical research, 3, 100. doi.org/10.4103/2277-9175.129371
Individuals dealing with chronic knee discomfort, hip tightness, and lower back pain could be experiencing dormant gluteal-butt syndrome. Can recognizing the symptoms and signs and incorporating lower body and core fitness help prevent and treat the condition?
Dormant Gluteal Butt Syndrome
Knee, hip, and lower back problems could be traced back to weakened buttocks. Some scientists call the condition “dormant butt syndrome” (Ohio State University, .2023). However, researchers are learning about the important role the gluteal muscles provide in maintaining the lower body strong and healthy. (Hal David Martin, Manoj Reddy, Juan Gómez-Hoyos. 2015)
What Is It?
The syndrome is defined as weak buttock muscles and tight hip flexors. Experts from the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center have worked with individuals dealing with knee, hip, or back injuries and believe many of these issues are linked to weakened gluteal muscles. (Ohio State University.2023) The glutes are the muscles of the hips and buttocks. Weakened muscles fail to absorb the shock they’re supposed to during activities, which results in overloading the surrounding muscles and joints and increases the risk of injury. (Ohio State University, .2023)
Dormant gluteal-butt syndrome can result from a sedentary lifestyle and prolonged inactivity, like sitting for long periods.
The condition also occurs in runners and other physically active individuals who forget about these muscles with targeted exercises.
Exercises
Exercises to target the gluteals and prevent dormant gluteal-butt syndrome include activities/exercises that work the hips and core.
When walking properly, the gluteals should execute hip extension naturally.
Unhealthy postures, excessive sitting, and continued dysfunctional biomechanics mean walking without achieving optimal hip extension. (Hadi Daneshmandi. 2017)
When this happens, the gluteal muscles never get to fully function work, ending up with a series of aches and pains.
Pilates exercises can be adjusted to address order, repetition, and variation to strengthen the gluteals. (Laís Campos de Oliveira, 2015)
Hamstring Curls
Lie face down on an exercise mat.
Use your hands to create a cushion for the forehead.
Bend both knees so the feet point up towards the ceiling.
Let the knees be slightly apart, but keep the heels together.
Squeeze the heels together and tighten the gluteal muscles.
Hold for 3 seconds, then release the buttocks.
Repeat 10 times and then rest.
Hamstring curls can also be done using a weight machine.
Place the hands just behind the backside with the fingers pointing forward if possible.
Raise the body up.
Keep your head up and look straight ahead.
Raise one leg as high as possible.
Hold for as long as possible.
Lower and raise the other leg.
Repeat for a total of 3 reps.
Lining Up With A Wall Posture Helper
Standing posture is important to proper buttock function. Lining the body up with a wall can help train the body to maintain proper posture.
Find a wall and stand against it from the heels to the back of the head.
Work the backs of the legs and spine as firmly as possible into the wall.
Work to get the back of the skull into the wall as well.
Add some abdominal work by working the waistline inward and upward.
Hold for up to one minute.
The alignment is how you want to hold your body.
As you move off the wall, learn to maintain that posture throughout the day and night.
Repeat the wall exercise several times for reinforcement.
If aching of the hip, back, or knee is part of daily struggles, working out the gluteal muscles may be the solution. Contact the Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic for a full consultation.
Martin, H. D., Reddy, M., & Gómez-Hoyos, J. (2015). Deep gluteal syndrome. Journal of hip preservation surgery, 2(2), 99–107. doi.org/10.1093/jhps/hnv029
Daneshmandi, H., Choobineh, A., Ghaem, H., & Karimi, M. (2017). Adverse Effects of Prolonged Sitting Behavior on the General Health of Office Workers. Journal of lifestyle medicine, 7(2), 69–75. doi.org/10.15280/jlm.2017.7.2.69
Campos de Oliveira, L., Gonçalves de Oliveira, R., & Pires-Oliveira, D. A. (2015). Effects of Pilates on muscle strength, postural balance and quality of life of older adults: a randomized, controlled, clinical trial. Journal of physical therapy science, 27(3), 871–876. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.27.871
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