Fibromyalgia on its own is tough enough, but throw back pain into the mix, and it can feel like too much to handle. Almost half of the people with fibromyalgia also deal with chronic lower back pain. Sometimes, the two just seem to go hand in hand, making everyday tasks feel that much harder to get through. It's a double burden, and it can make everything feel more overwhelming. Both back pain and fibromyalgia belong to a group of conditions known as central hypersensitivity syndromes. Though the root causes of these two disorders are different, back pain might stem from a damaged vertebral disk — the pain experiences of the two disorders bear some similarities. Among them is the sense that these chronic pain conditions put you on a “high alert” setting of sorts. And then, to top it off, the pain wears you down, resulting in fatigue, depression, and anxiety that make living with fibromyalgia and low back pain all the more draining. One of the most important things is to get an accurate diagnosis of your low back pain. Lots of physicians who treat fibromyalgia can also assess your back pain's possible culprits. But ask for a referral to a pain doctor if you have any concerns about your doctor's ability to parse out the factors that lead to lower back pain https://www.newyorkpaincare.com/conditions/conditions-of-the-spine/low-back-paininjury/ and prescribe the appropriate medical treatment. Here are five strategies that may help reduce fibromyalgia-related back pain and improve your quality of life. 1. Make Lifestyle Adjustments Symptoms of low back pain and fibromyalgia might improve as you work on a healthier lifestyle. This includes changing your diet, increasing exercise, and losing weight if necessary. 2. Address Mental Health Challenges Chronic pain doesn't just wear down your body—it messes with your mind, too. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or sleep issues on top of fibromyalgia, the pain can feel even worse. It's a vicious cycle, but there are ways to break it: - Therapy That Actually Helps – Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other counseling methods can give you real tools to manage pain, stress, and the mental weight that comes with it. - Medication If Needed – Sometimes, antidepressants or anti-anxiety meds can help balance brain chemicals that play a role in how you feel pain. - Mindfulness & Relaxation – Meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your nervous system and make pain more manageable. Your mind and body are connected. Taking care of your mental health can make a real difference in how you experience pain. 3. Try Physical Therapy A good physical therapist can make a real difference. They don't just tell you to stretch and call it a day—they teach you how to move in ways that actually help. Here's what they can do for you: - Fix How You Move – The way you sit, stand, and even pick things up can add extra strain to your back. A therapist can show you smarter ways to do these everyday things so you're not making the pain worse. - Build Strength & Flexibility – Gentle exercises can ease tension, improve posture, and give your back more support. - Loosen Up Stiff Muscles – Fibromyalgia makes muscles tight, which only adds to the pain. The right movements can help release that tension and get you moving more freely. Even a few simple exercises done regularly can make a big difference. 4. Explore Alternative Treatments Options like acupuncture, biofeedback, and music therapy can help alleviate low back pain. Pain management doctors are well-versed in the complexity of pain treatment and will be open to any questions you may have about alternative approaches. Talking with your team about options you're considering will also help you prevent any interactions between alternative treatments and prescription medications. 5. Educate Yourself About Your Condition The more you know about fibromyalgia, the better you can handle it. Pain isn't just something you feel—it's how your body processes signals, and fibromyalgia messes with that system. Stress? It makes things worse. Inflammation? That too. And if back pain is in the mix, understanding how it all connects is a game-changer. Next time you see your doctor, ask: - What exactly is happening in my nervous system that makes pain feel this intense? - How does inflammation play a role in my back pain? - What can I do to build up my pain tolerance over time? Knowledge puts you in control. The more you understand, the better you can manage your symptoms.

Pain is one of the most common reasons for individuals to see an orthopedic doctor. These specialists focus on the complete musculoskeletal system, including the many types of joints and how they function. This comprises muscles, nerves, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other connective tissues. Many musculoskeletal diseases and traumas can cause pain, and orthopedic experts can frequently help alleviate or eliminate discomfort. If you are in pain, consider scheduling an appointment. Orthopedic specialists diagnose and treat several forms of pain across the body. Get an Expert Opinion Individuals often see orthopedic doctors to seek the advice or second opinion of a specialist. It's always a good idea to consult with professionals who deal with diseases or injuries like yours on a daily basis. Make an appointment with a best orthopedic doctor near me https://premierspinenj.com/best-orthopedic-surgeon-nj/ if you have or suspect you have a persistent orthopedic condition, or if you have been injured in your muscles, bones, joints, or connective tissue. It is always better to be safe than sorry. You don't have to tolerate pain and dysfunction. In fact, there's a considerable chance that therapy will significantly improve your symptoms. Symptoms may include hip, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, ankle, back, neck or foot pain. Whether your pain is mild or intense, chronic or acute, an orthopedic doctor may be able to help. How Can an Orthopedic Doctor Help You? Orthopedic specialists can: - Enhance your range of motion Pain, edema, injury, and joint stiffness can all cause reduced range of motion. When your range of motion is limited, it can be difficult or uncomfortable to do daily duties such as carrying objects, self-care, and walking. Orthopedic experts can work with you to improve your range of motion and help you return to normal. Physical therapy, non-surgical treatment, and, in certain cases, surgery can all help you increase your range of motion; - Can make it simpler to accomplish ordinary duties Many people are willing to put up with pain, limited range of motion, stiffness, and other symptoms that are bothersome but do not interfere with their life. However, when it becomes difficult to accomplish ordinary actions, such as reaching into a cabinet, bending over to pick something up from the floor, or just getting out of bed or going for a stroll, it is time to consult a doctor. Orthopedic experts can consult with you to determine the origin of your symptoms and provide a treatment plan that is appropriate for you and your lifestyle; - Treat injuries and musculoskeletal conditions Broken bones, compression fractures, stress fractures, dislocations, muscle injuries, and tendon rips or ruptures are some of the most common reasons patients see an orthopedic doctor. Athletes frequently consult with orthopedists to help avoid future injuries and improve performance. For example, some sportsmen are prone to shoulder dislocation. Once they've had one dislocation, they're more likely to have another one. Therapy may be able to assist avoid further dislocations. Orthopedic surgeons can repair fractured bones, muscle and tendon injuries, and assist restore function while reducing or eliminating pain. They can also collaborate with other experts, such as therapists, rehabilitation physicians, and pain management specialists, to improve therapy. This will result in greater function and mobility, less discomfort, and a higher quality of life. Physical therapy, non-surgical therapies, and surgery can treat limb fractures, compression fractures of the vertebrae, and tendon injuries like Achilles tendon rupture or ACL rupture. Possible conditions include meniscus tears, ankle sprains, and plantar fasciitis. Common causes of shoulder discomfort include labral tears of the shoulder or hip, as well as rotator cuff tears, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, and stress fracture. Some orthopedic disorders, such as arthritis, can affect several regions of the body. Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints that causes pain and disability. It can affect any joint. The five major types of orthopedic problems are: - Arthritis (which includes osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis); - Conditions include bursitis, osteoporosis, and malignancies; - Discomfort (e.g., knee, hip, joint, or muscular discomfort). When Should You Contact an Orthopedic Doctor? If you are suffering any of the following symptoms, please see an orthopedic doctor for an evaluation: - Pain, stiffness, or discomfort that hinders daily tasks; - Chronic pain (pain that has lasted more than twelve weeks). Symptoms may include restricted range of motion, instability while walking or standing, gradual weakness or numbness in arms or legs, and persistent soft tissue damage after a few days.

Orthodontics is more than straightening teeth for a beautiful smile. It is a comprehensive medical specialty that helps improve oral health and quality of life for many people worldwide. However, despite rapid technological development and the availability of information, many myths surround orthodontics. In this article, we have gathered seven myths about orthodontics that should be addressed ASAP. Myth 1: Orthodontic treatments are only for children and teens Some people believe that only children and titans can use braces. In fact, you can correct your bite or straighten your teeth at any age. Modern braces and aligners are suitable for both teenagers and adults. In addition, adult patients often turn to orthodontics not only for aesthetic reasons but also to prevent problems with gums, joints, and chewing function. Myth 2: If your teeth are straight, you don't need orthodontics Straight teeth are great, but even if your teeth look perfect, your bite may be crooked. For example, improper jaw closure can cause headaches, temporomandibular joint problems, and wear on tooth enamel. The orthodontist assesses not only the appearance of the teeth but the entire system. Myth 3: Braces are painful and uncomfortable In the first few days after you have your braces fitted, you may actually feel some discomfort – your teeth will hurt a little, and your gums will be sensitive. However, these sensations are temporary and will pass after a few days. Modern designs have become much more comfortable, and the braces are almost invisible on the teeth. The main thing is that you follow your doctor's recommendations and take proper care of your oral cavity. Myth 4: Orthodontic treatment takes too long The average duration of wearing braces is one to two years. But it all depends on the complexity of the case. To correct minor defects, 6-9 months is sometimes enough. Moreover, modern technologies such as Invisalign aligners https://www.queenssmile.com/invisalign-braces/ or self-adjusting braces speed up the treatment process and make it more comfortable. Myth 5: After removing the braces, the teeth shift again After completing the main treatment phase, a retention phase inevitably follows - wearing special caps or wires that fix the teeth in a new position. If you follow the recommendations of your dentist and wear a retainer, your teeth will stay straight for many years. Without this stage, relapse is possible, but it can be easily prevented. Myth 6: Braces damage tooth enamel Braces don't damage teeth. However, poor oral hygiene during treatment can lead to plaque accumulation, tooth decay, or gingivitis. That is why it is extremely important to brush your teeth thoroughly, use mouthwash, and visit your dentist for professional teeth cleaning. Myth 7: Orthodontic treatment is only about beauty While many people turn to orthodontics to get a more beautiful smile, the benefits go far beyond just looks. Orthodontic treatment helps improve the overall function of your mouth by correcting bite problems, preventing tooth wear, and taking care of jaw alignment. Additionally, it can relieve pain caused by misalignment, reduce the risk of gum disease, and even help with problems like speech and chewing difficulties. Therefore, orthodontic treatment plays a crucial role in maintaining your oral health and overall well-being. The bottom line Orthodontics is a science that makes people's lives more comfortable. Modern treatment methods have become less traumatic, faster, and more accessible. If you have been thinking about bite correction or teeth correction for a while, don't hesitate to make an appointment with an orthodontist. Timey and proper treatment can help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile that will last you a lifetime.

If you've got varicose veins, you've probably noticed that your weight can make them worse. Being overweight or obese can increase your chances of developing varicose veins, and it can also make the ones you already have more painful and swollen. But here's the good news: losing weight can actually help ease some of the discomfort and even make professional treatments work better. Let's take a closer look at how shedding those extra pounds can improve your vein health and help manage varicose veins. 1. How Weight Loss Affects Vein Health Carrying extra weight? It's like adding extra pressure on your veins. That pressure messes with blood flow, making it harder for blood to get back to your heart. Over time, this strain can damage the tiny valves in your veins that are supposed to keep blood moving the right way. The result? Varicose veins get worse, and you're stuck with more swelling and discomfort. But here's the good news: losing weight takes that pressure off. With less strain on your veins, your blood can flow more easily. Better circulation can help ease the discomfort, making varicose veins less swollen and painful. And if you're dealing with obesity, shedding some pounds can lower your risk of more serious vein issues, like venous thromboembolism—a condition where blood clots form and cause major problems. 2. Will Losing Weight Make Varicose Veins Go Away? Losing weight can definitely help with the discomfort and stop your varicose veins from getting worse, but don't expect it to make them vanish. Those veins and valves are damaged, and weight loss doesn't undo that. However, if you're overweight, shedding some pounds can actually boost the effectiveness of professional treatments. So, if you're thinking about treatments like sclerotherapy, laser therapy, or vein removal, losing weight beforehand might just give you better results. 3. Why Do Varicose Veins Look Larger After Weight Loss? It might sound strange, but losing weight can sometimes make your varicose veins stand out more. How? Well, weight loss can cause your skin to loosen, which means your veins become more visible. This tends to happen most in areas like your legs and arms, where veins are already easier to see due to less fat around them. If you've lost a lot of weight or have a low body fat percentage, you might notice this more. But don't worry—just because your veins look bigger doesn't mean they're getting worse. It's just the skin becoming looser, that's all. Ways to Manage Varicose Veins Weight is merely one of the factors that influence varicose veins. Consider wearing compression socks, reducing extended sedentary activity, quitting smoking, and eating a well-balanced diet to improve overall vein health. They can help lower your risk of varicose veins and keep existing ones from deteriorating. If you want to eliminate your varicose veins, talk to your doctor about your choices. Varicose vein removal https://www.downtownveinvascular.com/varicose-veins/ methods include: - Sclerotherapy. It is a minimally invasive method that is now used to eliminate varicose veins. A particular solution will be injected into the veins, causing them to break down. It usually takes at least a few sessions before they entirely fade. - Laser therapy. It is another minimally invasive treatment option for varicose veins. The lasers' heat gradually destroys them. Seeing results may require multiple sessions. - Ablation of the veins at the end. This is a more intrusive approach to treating varicose veins in the legs. A tiny incision in the skin is required. The veins will then be broken down immediately using radiofrequency or laser heat. - Surgery. This procedure may be appropriate for patients with larger veins or those who have not responded to other therapies. You should be able to resume normal activities within a day or two of having treatment. After treatment, you will need to wear compression stockings for a week during the day.

It is true that wisdom teeth can create a variety of issues for a large proportion of the population. However, regardless of whether you get orthodontic treatment, not everyone is required to go through the hassle and expense of having wisdom teeth out. There are several half-truths and fallacies about wisdom teeth and orthodontic treatment, so let's set the record straight. What Actually Are Wisdom Teeth? Wisdom teeth are the third molars, found in the rear of the mouth. We no longer require wisdom teeth, as our forebears did millennia ago, due to improved oral health and dietary changes throughout centuries. Most people have four wisdom teeth (two on the top arch and two on the bottom), although some never develop them in the gums, while others are present but do not erupt. The following are potential circumstances for wisdom teeth: - All four wisdom teeth emerge into the ideal place; - The teeth erupt into the ideal place, but a gum flap covers them; - One or more teeth emerge at an angle (impact); - One or many teeth remain unerupted in the gum; - No wisdom teeth are discovered on the x-ray. Myth 1 - Wisdom teeth should be routinely removed before braces An orthodontist will always evaluate wisdom teeth before beginning treatment. If the teeth have not yet erupted and there is clearly insufficient room for them, an orthodontist may propose that they be removed before treatment begins. However, if there is enough room in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to emerge, the orthodontist may advise keeping the teeth in place and continuing therapy while monitoring. The reasons for wisdom teeth removal near me https://www.riversideoralsurgery.com/wisdom-teeth/wisdom-teeth-removal/ are: - Because food is trapped behind the wisdom teeth, the adjacent gum and/or cheek become infected several times; - The impacted wisdom tooth traps food, causing deterioration in the wisdom teeth or second molar; - The wisdom tooth has deteriorated to the extent that it cannot be repaired; - There is an infection or cyst near the wisdom teeth. Myth 2 - Braces aren't considered for impacted wisdom teeth Braces are a successful treatment option for certain impacted teeth, but not all. An orthodontist may be able to salvage an impacted tooth by creating extra space for it or using braces to pull it upright. However, not everyone has adequate space in the jaw for an impacted wisdom tooth since the adjacent teeth have nowhere to go. The most prevalent reason for wisdom tooth extraction is a lack of available space. Even when braces cannot be put on an impacted tooth, they can help the adjacent teeth. The tooth next (above or below) an impacted tooth may frequently protrude from the gum to compensate for its affected neighbor. The tooth is at danger due to exposed roots and being out of alignment with teeth on either side. Braces are perfect for pushing the tooth back into the gum and aligning the tip with the rest of the teeth. Myth 3 - Wisdom teeth can't be extracted with braces While many orthodontic patients have their wisdom teeth removed prior to or after receiving braces, wisdom teeth can also be removed during orthodontic therapy. Your orthodontist will refer you back to your dentist or an oral surgeon for extractions. Myth 4 - After having braces, you don't need to worry about wisdom teeth Patients who have completed orthodontic treatment should continue to see their dentist and orthodontist at regular intervals to monitor the growth of their wisdom teeth. If wisdom teeth erupt, the surrounding teeth may become overcrowded. And within months, we will be able to eliminate all of the effort required to obtain the perfect smile with the use of braces. Myth 5 - If your wisdom teeth erupt after braces, you should panic After investing in braces, it's fair that you don't want to take any chances with your teeth. It is crucial to see your dentist as soon as you see your wisdom teeth erupting, but it does not have to be within days. If you wear your retainers as prescribed by your orthodontist, the little pressure your wisdom teeth apply on the surrounding teeth will be ineffective against the retainer. Wear your retainer as directed until your next dental appointment to maintain your teeth in the proper position.