March 2017 www.womanthismonth.com showcase 44 Back and neck pain affects all age groups, with 80 per cent of the population expected to suffer it at some time. It can start with or without injury, sudden movement or excessive activity. It can be in the cervical [neck] region, dorsal region and/or the lumbar or sacral [lower back] area. Pain can radiate from the neck to the head, shoulders and upper extremities or from the lumbar region to the buttocks and lower extremities. The condition may be due to worn-out spinal discs and joints, muscle spasm, nerve pinching, slipped disc or vertebra. It can also be attributed to simple causes such as weak muscles and poor posture with lack of fitness. Other risk factors include carrying excess weight, smoking and sitting at a desk for long periods. Operating or driving certain machinery or vehicles can also be a risk factor and most women in the final months of pregnancy will experience lower back pain. The condition is usually shown through a limitation of movement ,with pain, tenderness and muscle spasm, weakness or numbness in the lower extremities. Identification of the causes of back and neck pain involves careful history taking, clinical examination, X-ray and MRI. Sometimes other options will be used such as nerve or blood testing. The recommended treatment depends on the clinical diagnosis and test results. Most is initially conservative, including rest, pain relief and re-evaluation. If pain is severe or associated with muscle weakness or numbness, injections or surgery may be needed. Weakness in the extremities or loss of bowel or bladder control requires immediate medical attention. Dr Al-Hamdan is also director of the Spine Science Institute, Washington. Call 17 812-222 or email [email protected] Dr Farouq A Al-Hamdan, senior consultant spinal surgeon, explains a condition that affects many of us. BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL DEMYSTIFYING BACK & NECK PAIN Dr Farouq A Al-Hamdan Fish for Fun Yateem Centre held a Fish for Fun promotional event at its premises in Manama. Roaya Management & staff Management & guests at the event Tasting Menu Villa Mamas held a new tasting menu event at its premises in Saar.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==