Most cases of back pain get better on their own and might be classified by a doctor as ‘simple’ back pain or non-specific back pain; this means no severe or severe underlying pathology is likely.
Author archives: Sandie E
Ashwagandha, the wonder herb?
Ashwagandha is a popular ancient medicinal herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 2,500 years. It is becoming popular in the west because of its history of helping to reduce stress, the primary ‘disease’ of twenty-first-century life.
Turmeric and Curcumin, what’s the inside scoop.
Turmeric is best known as one of the quintessential spices used in much of Asian cooking. Also called Indian saffron, it gives curry it’s distinctive yellow colour and has warming earthy, pungent flavour which smells a little like mustard, probably because it’s one of the ingredients used to make it.
Adaptogens explained
Adaptogens are non-toxic plants (herbs and roots) which can help the body resist physical, chemical or biological stressors. Chinese and Ayurvedic healing traditions have used these herbs and roots for centuries, and they’re having a revival. Turmeric is probably the most popular food adaptogen.
Thyroid Disorders Part 4: Subclinical Hypothyroidism
Are you always tired all the time, struggling with dry skin and hair loss or gaining weight despite no changes in your eating habits. While these can be signs of many things, they might suggest subclinical hypothyroidism.
Thriving through COVID-19.
The Covid-19 outbreak has meant that life as we know it has changed, at least for a while, and this may have caused you to feel anxious, stressed, worried, frustrated, sad, bored, lonely, or frightened. It’s important to remember everyone reacts differently to stressful events, and it’s okay to feel this way. Your feelings are […]
Thyroid Disorders Part 3: Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of hormones, causing your body to be in a constant state of overdrive. Around 85% of cases are caused by Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition that runs in families and is more common in women aged 20 to 30.
Thyroid Disorders Part 2: Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s
Hypothyroidism means an underactive thyroid gland. The most common cause is an autoimmune condition called Hashimoto’s disease, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and gradually destroys the thyroid gland.
Thyroid Disorders Part 1: The Inside Scoop
Thyroid disorders are far more common than many people realise. Around 1 in 20 people live with a thyroid condition, some temporary and some lifelong.
Coronavirus/COVID-19, stress less by getting informed.
While I appreciate that you are probably feeling bombarded with news and updates about this virus. As a healthcare professional, it concerns me that growing misconceptions and myths around this rapidly changing health crisis are causing people to feel increasingly concerned about how to keep themselves and their loved ones safe.
Pain management, ways forwards
The previous post, “pain what’s really going on?” looked at pain from a medical and scientific point of view to understand how pain can be categorised, the variety of words to describe pain, and the regular healing times, which may help people avoid slipping into persistent or chronic states. This post will look at current best […]
Your chair is killing you! Time to start squatting.
Okay, that’s a slight exaggeration but it’s probably contributing your ability to move well by reducing your range of motion. When you think about squatting, what comes to mind? The burn from your last gym session? Struggling to pick up your dropped keys? Or using a lavatory in tropical climes? Did you know that squatting […]
Pain, what’s really going on?
Pain is tricky; it can be a valuable and potentially life-saving protection mechanism. You only have to touch something unexpectedly hot to appreciate that the resulting OUCH was helpful because it made you pull your hand away and prevent possible further injury. But what exactly is pain?
Core stability, demystifying the myths.
Almost every day, I hear someone talking about their core, usually stating that they need to strengthen it, or that having a strong one [core] will cure their back pain… mmm [sigh]. Here’s a recent example; a new patient lets call him mister B was telling me that a trainer had told them they needed […]
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a common back condition where the nerve roots or the spinal cord become pinched or compressed because the spaces within the spinal canal narrowing. It affects men and women in equal numbers, and around 10% of the UK population is believed to be living with this condition. Who gets it, are you […]
Pillows, do we really need them?
Following on from the articles on sleep positions and mattress advice for pain-free sleep, the other question I get asked relating to sleep is “Do I really need a pillow to sleep well”?
Sleep positions for pain-free z-z-z-z’s
As an osteopath, it’s routine to be talking with patients about sleep, especially if discomfort or pain is making it difficult to get to sleep. Any joint-related problem or health concern can be a factor that influences our choice of sleep position. The question that comes up most often is what position is best?
Back Pain: Debunking Misconceptions and Myths
Back pain is common; 80% of people worldwide will experience at least one episode. It’s an often invisible condition that can affect anyone from *children to the elderly, but worldwide, only around 1% of cases are because of something sinister such as a tumour.
Lactose intolerance
Do you get bloating and abdominal pain after drinking a large cappuccino, or eating ice cream? If the answer is yes, you could have Lactose deficiency, which causes Lactose intolerance.
Calcium, why it’s important.
Did you know that the body contains more calcium than any other mineral? Alongside it’s a vital role with bones, it helps with heart health, and is needed for the nervous system to work efficiently.