Stressful Events and Low Back Pain
An analysis of data concerning 2,930 older men in the Osteoporotic Fracture in Men Study revealed that 57% had experienced a stressful life event—such as the loss of a pet or partner or financial problems—within the previous year. These individuals were 42% more likely to have present low back pain and 56% more likely to develop back pain in the following year. European Journal of Pain, August 2023
Negative Thoughts and Depression Relapse
New research suggests that patients with a history of major depression can reduce their risk for a future episode by learning to reframe negative thought patterns with the aid of cognitive behavioral therapy. Additional strategies for managing depression include getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet. Journal of Psychopathology and Clinical Science, August 2023
Bystander CPR, Defib Use Saves Lives
If an individual experiences cardiac arrests in a public setting, the use of an automated external defibrillator and CPR by bystanders until emergency medical technicians arrive can more than double their chances for survival. European Society of Cardiology, August 2023
Mid-Life Hypertension Can Dramatically Increase Heart Risks
Among a group of 1,029 middle-aged adults whom researchers monitored for more than two decades, those with elevated blood pressure readings—which accounted for more than half of participants—had up to an eleven-times greater risk for developing cardiovascular disease. Hypertension, September 2023
Dietary Fat Can Affect Platelet Counts
In a recent animal study, researchers observed that adding polyunsaturated fatty acids to the diet of mice led to increased platelet counts, while increasing their saturated fat intake reduced platelet counts. The findings suggest that individuals with low platelet counts, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, may benefit from switching from a high-saturated fat Western diet pattern to a polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich diet, such as the Mediterranean diet. Nature Cardiovascular Research, July 2023
Pilates an Option for Chronic Low Back Pain Patients
Doctors of chiropractic often advise chronic low back pain patients to engage in at-home exercises to strengthen the core muscles to both aid in recovery and reduce the risk for recurrence. An analysis of data from eight clinical trials found that Pilates is an effective option for improving core muscle strength in chronic low back pain patients and can serve as a viable alternative to other core strengthening exercises. Healthcare (Basel), May 2023
“Today, you have 100% of your life left.” ~ Tom Landry
