Sometimes imaging doesn’t explain a patient’s pain, and when that is the case, many will feel discouraged if not flat-out alarmed. Trigger points can offer answers, and it’s the topic of this episode of Back Talk Doc. Marty Kestin joins the podcast to explain more about trigger points and how they are involved in causing pain. At https://ensomabodyworks.com/ (Ensoma Bodyworks), Marty teaches both patients and students how to restore and improve body functioning by the way of advanced orthopedics like neuromuscular massage therapy and neuroplasticity. Trigger points typically come into play when MRI imaging and other avenues of identifying pain come up short. Just because the cause of pain can’t be detected through imaging, doesn’t mean the patient is faking it. Quite the opposite. As Dr. Lakhia remarks in this episode: “Your pain is real. We're going to go on the hunt to find where it's coming from.” Listen to this episode of Back Talk Doc to understand the science behind how trigger points work, their role in causing pain, and how understanding them can lead to better pain management.  ? Featured Experts ?Name: Marty Kestin What he does: As a Pain Detective, Marty draws on 25-years of pain management experience to not only find what is causing a patient’s pain, but to rid them of it. Company: https://ensomabodyworks.com/ (Ensoma Bodyworks) Words of wisdom: “My practice has been attracting recalcitrant or just stubborn enigmatic cases for about 10, 15 years now. Fortunately, they've already been to the doctor, or the chiropractor, or the PT, or the acupuncturist. Or the massage therapist. They come to me and go, ‘Nobody could figure it out.’ So they've gone through a lot of diagnostics and assessments, and I ask them, ‘How many people have examined your skeletal muscle in a microscopic way where they're combing over what they think the problematic area could be?’ Almost always, nobody's ever done that for them.” Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marty-kestin-1823672/ (LinkedIn) ⚓ Anchor Points ⚓Top takeaways from this Back Talk Doc episode ★    Don’t overlook trigger point evaluation if you haven’t come up with answers for your pain.  Many doctors don’t consider trigger points when it comes to determining the cause of pain; you’ll need to see a specialist. It’s important to know that it is an option, especially if a physician cannot determine what is causing your body pain in a traditional manner. ★    There are multiple ways to treat trigger points. There is never a one size fits all approach to pain, even when the pain results from trigger points. With a host of different treatment options, it’s important to understand each treatment method and what may be best for you. Dry needling is particularly popular, but “spray and stretch” may be more comfortable for some people. ★    Other symptoms could be related to trigger points. With trigger points, it’s not uncommon for there to be other symptoms aside from pain. Abdominal trigger points can cause diarrhea or IBS, for example. ⚕️ Episode Insights ⚕️[00:00] Mobile-based solutions for clinical practice: Check out our sponsor, https://qxmd.com/apps (QxMD), which builds mobile solutions that drive evidence-based medicine in clinical practice with over 500 easy-to-use decision support tools. [01:50] The bodywork savant: Dr. Lakhia introduces Marty, a friend and colleague, and his work with trigger points and massage therapy. [03:43] What is a trigger point?: Marty defines exactly what a trigger point is by explaining its history and physical representation in a person’s body. [08:21] When to suspect a trigger point: Dr. Lakhia asks Marty what can indicate a trigger point is the cause of pain and what to look out for, and which doctors to seek out. [11:09] A short history on imaging studies: Marty talks about imaging studies — especially in relation to trigger points and pain patterns....

Back Talk Doc

The Art and Science of Trigger Point Treatments

Just like the spine — the clinicians, doctors, and practitioners who practice spinal care comprise a complex system. In this episode of Back Doc Talk, we are talking about the team it takes to manage your spinal health, and especially the role of Physician Assistants (PAs).  PAs like Mike Nido of https://www.cnsa.com/ (Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates) are responsible for a range of treatments and assistance when it comes to fixing back and spine problems. But is patient care compromised when you see a PA instead of a physician? PAs are a backbone of the spine issue treatment. Pun fully intended! Whether it is always seeking that second opinion, having multiple safety nets in place when it comes to films and imaging, or just having a friendly face, “We make it very clear to [patients] that even though I'm here providing your care, the doctor that's standing behind me is very aware of what's going on and very involved in all of the decisions that are made,” Mike explains. Listen to this episode of Back Talk Doc to understand the role of a PA and the type of care you can expect from one, how they work with physicians to address spine issues, and much more.   ? Featured Expert ?Name: Michael Nido What he does: Mike pulls double duty not only as a Physician Assistant, but also as the Director of Clinical Services at Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates. He’s been with the clinic for 24 years.  Company: https://www.cnsa.com/ (Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates) Words of wisdom: “The important thing for our patient to understand is that you're not getting second class care. You're not going to the B team. This is your way of getting your foot in the door, getting your care initiated in such a way that by the time you see the physician, all the important stuff has been completed and ready for his review.”  Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-nido-pa-c-93940019/ (LinkedIn)   ⚓ Anchor Points ⚓Top takeaways from this Back Talk Doc episode  ★    The team needed to keep a clinic running is larger than you think.  Between doctors and receptionists, nurses, and PAs, there are more types of medical professionals at your local spinal clinic than you may realize. It truly takes a team to provide care and aid your back and spinal recovery. ★    PAs and physicians are in constant communication. One of the main concerns from patients when they go into a clinic and are assigned a Physician's Assistant rather than a doctor is that they may not believe the PA is up to the task. But the fact is that PAs work very closely with physicians and are making sure you are getting the highest quality care. PAs and physicians communicate a ton behind the scenes. ★    Seeing a PA is practical. When patients see a Physician’s Assistant rather than a physician, they’re not getting sub-quality care. In fact, it makes practical sense because a PA can help a doctor get all the tools needed to make a diagnosis. PAs help get tests done and identify the problem so that by the time the patient does see the doctor, everything will be in place for diagnosis and treatment.    ⚕️ Episode Insights ⚕️[00:00] Mobile-based solutions for clinical practice: Check out our sponsor, https://qxmd.com/apps (QxMD), which builds mobile solutions that drive evidence-based medicine in clinical practice. [02:47] Introducing Physician Assistants: The lead Physician Assistant at Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, Mike Nido, describes his role. [05:13] The role of Physician Assistants in clinics: Mike gets into the details of his day-to-day experience as a PA, including the education needed and what types of patients he cares for. [07:33] PA vs. Certified Nurse Practitioner: Knowing all the different types of practitioners can be overwhelming. Dr. Lakhia asks Mike to explain the difference between these roles,...

Should You Be Concerned About Seeing a Physician Assistant for Spine Care?

We’re talking about healthy relationships on this episode of Back Doc Talk. What does that have to do with back and spine health? A lot.  With power couple and relationship coaches Jocelyn and Aaron Freeman at the helm, this episode examines how back and spine issues can affect your relationship and vice versa.  Physical pain influences how we feel and how we interact with others, and developing a conscious awareness about how that affects our loved ones is critical. Aaron dissects the difference between pain and suffering, while Jocelyn explains the importance of setting expectations.  A sudden injury can change your life considerably, and dealing with the pain can feel like a burden to a partner. One way to address this is by more clearly defining roles and responsibilities when a family member is dealing with pain. This helps ensure there’s a discussion around expectations and to avoid leaving family members disappointed.  Helping a partner who is managing pain is a balancing act — one that can be strengthened by better understanding how your partner communicates. No one is a mind reader!  Tune in to this episode to discover how you can improve communication about back pain and prevent spine issues and injuries from wreaking havoc on your relationship.   ? Featured Experts ?Name: Aaron and Jocelyn Freeman  What they do: Aaron and Jocelyn are a power couple in the relationship world, helping couples navigate the highs and lows of married life. Through their sold-out events all over Arizona, their book, and coaching classes, Aaron and Jocelyn are in the business of healthy relationships. They are the founders of the https://www.meetthefreemans.com/empowered-couples-university (Empowered Couples University), which helps couples harness important communication skills and invest in their relationship.  Company: https://www.meetthefreemans.com (Meet the Freemans)  Words of wisdom: “[T]he place to really start to make a differentiation here, between the impact on the person that has the ailment, and is actually in physical pain versus the spouse. It is the difference...between pain being of the body and suffering being of the mind.”  Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-and-jocelyn-freeman-bab8ab21/ (LinkedIn) | https://www.facebook.com/MeetTheFreemansAuthors/ (Facebook) | https://www.meetthefreemans.com/empowered-couples-podcast (Podcast)   ⚓ Anchor Points ⚓Top takeaways from this Back Talk Doc episode  ★    Open communication is your greatest tool. To prevent pain from creating havoc on your relationship, open and honest communication is essential for couples. This applies directly to how spouses and partners deal with their loved ones being in pain. How to navigate that is critically important, not only for suffering but for support. ★    Understanding you and your partner’s personality type is crucial. Whether you are a reserved or assertive communicator will affect how you handle a challenge — like pain in your relationship. Knowing whether you need to ask more questions (or fewer!) can be critical in navigating pain management and care of a loved one. Jocelyn and Aaron developed a quiz to determine your personality type. Take it at http://mycouplesquiz.com (mycouplesquiz.com).  ★    ‘Depositing’ thanks and ‘withdrawing’ energy. Using a bank account as a metaphor to describe the transfer of energy and emotions between couples is a useful way to think about pain and stress. When you’re the one in pain, “depositing” gratitude into your partner’s bank account can greatly help your recovery process. On the other hand. “withdrawing” too much of their energy can cause resentment. Balancing this and understanding you’re not a burden is a hard lesson to learn, but an important one.   ⚕️ Episode Insights ⚕️[00:00] Mobile-based solutions for clinical practice: Check out our...

How Back Pain Can Affect Your Relationship (and What to Do About It)

The general public’s understanding of spinal fusion often starts with a misconception. When Dr. Hunter Dyer talks to people about lumbar fusion, many think that it’s the screws doctors place that are the fusion. But that’s not true — the hardware just holds the spine in alignment until the vertebrae or spinal elements grow back together. As an expert in spinal fusions, Dr. Dyer is familiar with what people get wrong or just don’t understand about caring for their spine and fixing spinal issues. It’s a complicated field of medicine and, as such, patients considering surgery like a fusion should consult with an expert first. For example, Dr. Dyer says that most patients with back pain don’t actually need surgery. Rather, alternative care like physical therapy is often a better starting point before committing to the sometimes-extensive recovery from a fusion procedure. In addition, there are myriad risk factors to consider: Does the patient smoke? What’s their surgical history? How old are they? What’s their body type? All these things and more, Dr. Dyer says, can influence whether a patient is a good candidate for a spinal fusion. On this episode of Back Talk Doc, Dr. Dyer explains all things spinal fusion with host Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia.   ? Featured Doc ?Name: Dr. Hunter Dyer What he does: Dr. Dyer is an expert in degenerative spine disease, endoscopic spine surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, skull base surgery, spinal fusion, transsphenoidal surgery and vascular neurosurgery. He is the President at Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates.  Company: https://www.cnsa.com/ (Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates)  Words of wisdom: “The key to any great job, or being good at what you do, is I absolutely love what I do. I wake up every single day excited to see what I've got for the day and see if I can help people surgically, to see if I can help people in the clinic. And that's why we love being physicians and we love being in health care, because it's just so rewarding.”  Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/e-hunter-dyer-3b472952/ (LinkedIn)   ⚓ Anchor Points ⚓Top takeaways from this Back Talk Doc episode  ★    Most spinal issues probably don’t need surgery. Even as a surgeon, most patients Dr. Dyer sees can address their issues with conservative care — physical therapy, spinal traction, or injections. “The only people that we need to consider for spinal fusion are typically those that have problems where they require so much bone removal that they require stabilization of the spine,” he says. ★    Smoking is a major risk factor for spinal issues. It can affect people with problems in either the neck or back. “We typically do not like to even consider spinal fusion if somebody is using tobacco,” Dr. Dyer says. “If they've used it in the past, it's likely that they get degeneration of the disk and that can lead to accelerated adjacent-level problems.”  ★    The direction of spinal surgery can influence the healing process. Dr. Dyer explains that when a surgeon uses a lateral approach, patients don’t often experience a lot of pain. When the best course of action involves the posterior or anterior approach, patients can experience more pain after surgery. “In general, there's more pain with the posterior approach, but it's still the most common way because it does provide that direct view of the nerves,” he notes.  ★    Spinal fusion techniques are advancing rapidly — which is good for patients. In the past five years, technology has advanced so that surgeons can be more precise with placing screws, thanks to MRI and CT images. In addition, robotic tools have made surgery much safer and much easier to heal from. “For many people, it’s just a better thing all around,” Dr. Dyer says.   ⚕️ Episode Insights⚕️[00:00] Mobile-based solutions for clinical practice: Check out...

In’s and Out’s of Spinal Fusions with Dr. Hunter Dyer

With fifteen years of experience as a spine physician, Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia is always on the lookout for ways to help his patients improve their back health, particularly with natural, less invasive methods that can be easily integrated into their day-to-day lives. Today, we’re going to be discussing a common cause of back and neck pain, prolonged periods of sitting. Joining us on this episode of Back Talk Doc is Dr. Turner Osler, a retired trauma surgeon, epidemiologist, entrepreneur, and founder of https://qor360.com/ (QOR360), a company designing chairs to improve posture and prevent back pain caused by conventional sitting. Dr. Osler explains “Sitting Disease” and explores the negative affects sitting prolonged periods of sitting have on the body. “We think all the chairs that we have are normal, and they are not. Humans are not designed to sit all day… We're simply not set up to sit slumped in front of a PC all day.” (6:37) Many issues like headaches, neck and back pain, weight gain, and even mood disorders can be traced back to incorrect posture while sitting. Dr. Osler discusses the natural human posture (10:05) and how we have been letting our chairs shape our bodies, instead of shaping our chairs to fit our bodies. (11:34)  Dr. Osler then discusses the benefits of “active sitting” (a sitting experience that allows and/or encourages movement while seated), including reducing back pain and improving posture. (21:23) Other topics discussed include negative effects of sitting in a slumped posture (14:03), contraindications for using an active sitting chair, (35:11) and a word of caution for those with lumbar disk herniations or acute back pain. (38:51)   Links and ResourcesTo learn more about Dr. Osler’s mission of educating the community about the benefits of active sitting, visit https://qor360.com/ (QOR360.com) and https://buttonchairs.org/ (ButtOnChairs.org), which promotes active sitting for children. View Dr. Osler’s https://www.ted.com/talks/turner_osler_active_sitting_could_we_give_our_kids_a_future_without_back_pain (TED Talk). https://gokhalemethod.com/ (The Gokhale Method): a system of healthy posture and movement to help restore your structural integrity, so you can live an active and pain-free life.   For more information on Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia and Back Talk Doc visit https://backtalkdoc.com/ (BackTalkDoc.com).   Back Talk Doc is brought to you by Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, with offices in North and South Carolina. To learn more about Dr. Lakhia and treatment options for back and spine issues, go to backtalkdoc.com. To schedule an appointment with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, you can call us at 1-800-344-6716 or visit our website at http://carolinaneurosurgery.com/ (carolinaneurosurgery.com).

Reduce Back Pain and Improve Posture with Active Sitting

On Episode 13 of Back Talk Doc we spoke with Dr. Matt McGirt about Adult Spinal Deformity (Ep. 13 - Adult Spinal Deformity with Dr. Matt McGirt.) It proved to be a popular and valuable episode for our community, so today we’re following up that episode with a discussion of scoliosis and spinal deformity in pediatric patients. Joining us is Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates’ new partner, https://www.cnsa.com/providers/michael-bohl-md (Dr. Michael Bohl). Dr. Bohl attended medical school at the University of Michigan and completed his residency at Barrow Neurological Institute. A U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, Dr. Bohl was involved in humanitarian aid missions in East Africa. While he was not considering medical school at the time, the impact of that experience led him to return to East Africa after leaving the Marine Corp to work as a nurses aid. Dr. Bohl and Dr. Lakhia first differentiate between the terms ‘scoliosis’ and ‘spinal deformity’, which are frequently used interchangeably. (10:17) The latter is the umbrella term which describes a condition wherein the shape of the spine is leading to a problem. Scoliosis, on the other hand, is a type of deformity where the spine shows an S or C-shaped curve. They examine the causes of pediatric spinal deformities and urge parents to be mindful of their child’s posture as they grow. (13:20) Indicators of pediatric scoliosis include a visible curve in the spine, a curve that worsens over time, and whether or not the spinal deformity is causing symptoms like pain or neurological symptoms. The goal of treatment is to keep the curve from getting worse, usually through minimally invasive methods like bracing and physical therapy. (16:32) And, as with many medical conditions, early intervention is the key to more successful outcomes. (21:21) Scoliotic curves get worse during periods of active growth, so a brace can help stabilize and control the growth of the curve. (21:55) Early intervention is important here because once the curve reaches a certain severity the problem is likely to continue getting worse into adulthood. If bracing is ineffective and the curvature is becoming more sever, spinal surgery may be an option. However, in a pediatric patient, smaller, less invasive surgeries are performed to manage the curve and not impede the child’s growth. (25:10)  Candidates for surgery include curves greater than fifty degrees and curves that are rapidly progressing and not adequately responding to a brace. Dr. Bohl stresses that while surgical outcomes are overwhelmingly positive, non-surgical treatment options remain a priority for treating pediatric spinal deformities. For more information on Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia and Back Talk Doc visit https://backtalkdoc.com/ (BackTalkDoc.com).   Back Talk Doc is brought to you by Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, with offices in North and South Carolina. To learn more about Dr. Lakhia and treatment options for back and spine issues, go to backtalkdoc.com. To schedule an appointment with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, you can call us at 1-800-344-6716 or visit our website at carolinaneurosurgery.com.

Uncovering Pediatric Spinal Deformities with Dr. Michael Bohl

We have addressed numerous aspects of low back pain from surgical angles to medications, nutrition, and injections on the podcast, but an increasing number of patients are also suffering from mid-back pain or “thoracic pain.” On this episode of Back Talk Doc, Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia is joined by https://www.cnsa.com/providers/scott-m-otis-md (Dr. Scott Otis), a physiatrist at the Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates, to discuss thoracic back pain. Dr. Otis attended medical school at The Ohio State University College of Medicine and completed his internship at Riverside Hospital in Columbus. Dr. Otis is currently affiliated with the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehab. An expert in electro-diagnostic medicine and interventional spine care, Dr. Otis works out of the main office in Charlotte. Dr. Otis reveals why thoracic back pain is so challenging to diagnose, any pain experienced in that area of the body are often compensatory issues from neck or low back issues or referral pain from neck and low back issues that present as thoracic spine pain. (4:45) He also discusses non-spinal issues that cause pain and abnormalities, including GI issues, pulmonary and heart ailments, and liver disease. (07:34) The Doctors also cover other ailments including “White Collar Disease” (09:35), poor body posture, and how poor ergonomics in furniture lead to upper back pain. (09:18) Dr. Otis also examines the methods physiatrists employ to evaluate back pain and stress the importance of ruling out non-spinal causes before arriving at a proper diagnosis. (10:30) Thoracic back pain treatment includes self-care, physical therapy, and in a few extreme cases, surgical intervention. (13:05)  More topics discussed on this episode include: The effects of Scoliosis and osteoporosis (15:03) How to prevent osteoporotic fractures (16:33) The role of physical therapy in treating upper back pain (18:33) If you enjoyed this episode of Back Talk Doc, check out our recent episode https://www.backtalkdoc.com/a-pain-in-the-neck-and-back-how-technology-stress-and-genetics-are-leading-to-aches-and-pains-with-dr-sameer-vemuri---back-talk-doc-podcast-episode-29.html (A Pain in the Neck (and Back!): How Technology, Stress, and Genetics are Leading to Aches and Pains With Dr. Sameer Vemuri) For more information on Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia and the podcast visit https://www.backtalkdoc.com/ (BackTalkDoc.com).  https://pod.link/1486857278 (Subscribe) in your favorite podcast app.  Back Talk Doc is brought to you by Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, with offices in North and South Carolina. To learn more about Dr. Lakhia and treatment options for back and spine issues, go to backtalkdoc.com. To schedule an appointment with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, you can call us at 1-800-344-6716 or visit our website at https://www.cnsa.com/ (carolinaneurosurgery.com).

Diagnosing and Treating Upper Back/Thoracic Pain with Dr. Scott Otis

By the numbers, a solid percentage of you are listening to this 29th episode of Back Talk Doc on your mobile device or in front of your computer. You may be hunched over peeping at the show notes on the screen, a noticeable strain rippling down your back. Whether you’re experiencing back or neck pain as you’re reading these words, this episode is here to help. On today's episode of Back Talk Doc, our host Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia is accompanied by Dr. Sameer Vemuri, a partner at Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates. Dr. Vemuri works at the Ballantyne and Mathews offices. Board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, Dr. Vermuri received his medical training at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, then went on to intern at Providence Hospital and Medical Center in Michigan. (2:27) Dr. Lakhia and Dr. Vemuri discuss the burden of spine care in the United States. Both men care for a tremendous number of patients suffering from neck and back pain, with many patients suffering from both. Dr. Vemuri reveals four common factors leading to back pain: (1) genetics, (2) day-to-day stresses, (3) acute injuries, and (4) a big factor both doctors see: the use and overuse of technology devices. (8:59) "Technology and our phones and our devices has really taken over our life and forced all of us to be looking down constantly and promoting somewhat of a rounded posture." (9:31) Dr. Vemuri explains that these postures place strain on the structural cervical spine in the neck region. "Eventually, you're going to have some changes in the structural anatomy of that spine, and afterwards, you're going to have more chances of irritation of some of these nerves that come through that spinal area." (10:27)   More topics discussed on this episode include: Providing patients with realistic expectations during the healing process (23:43) The importance of mind-body connections when discussing back and neck pains. (26:36) When a headache is more than just a headache: how to know when back and neck problems are leading to headaches. (31:36)   For more information on Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia and the podcast visit BackTalkDoc.com. Back Talk Doc is brought to you by Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, with offices in North and South Carolina. To learn more about Dr. Lakhia and treatment options for back and spine issues, go to backtalkdoc.com. To schedule an appointment with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, you can call us at 1-800-344-6716 or visit our website at carolinaneurosurgery.com.

A Pain in the Neck (and Back!): How Technology, Stress, and Genetics are Leading to Aches and Pains With Dr. Sameer Vemuri

While COVID-19 has the headlines, for many, 2020 has also become synonymous with back pain. Working from home has cast many people from their ergonomic office chairs to couches, spare bedrooms, and dining room chairs.  On this episode, our Back Talk Doc, Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia, explores the benefits of utilizing electrical stimulation to combat those work-from-home back pains. Electrical stimulation, a form of neuromodulation, is essentially applying different types of electrical or electricity-based products and magnetic-based products to influence the physiology of your nervous system, that is, the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nervous system. (3:46) Dr. Lakhia identifies and briefly reviews three of the most common electrical stimulation devices. https://www.amazon.com/TENS-7000-Digital-Unit-Accessories/dp/B00NCRE4GO (TENS unit) (4:50): TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and is available at any local pharmacy. The cost ranges from $50 to a couple of hundred dollars. The TENS unit stimulates the sensory nerves to block pain signals and generate endorphins. It is often used for the treatment of acute post-operative pain and chronic intractable pain. The downside to TENS is that it provides very short-term relief, sometimes providing relief only while being used, with a maximum relief window of 3-4 hours. https://www.alpha-stim.com/ (Alpha-Stim) (8:45): Alpha-Stim waveform electrotherapy is FDA approved for the treatment of chronic pain, anxiety, and depression and is one of the more well-researched neuromodulation devices for pain. The Alpha-Stim works with small electrodes that clip to your earlobe and send a low microcurrent 0.5-hertz frequency wave through cranial nerve connections from the ear into the deep pain centers of the brain. This can stimulate the brainstem as well as the cortex and affect serotonin, norepinephrine, other neurotransmitter levels. The Alpha-Stim can also be used with wand-like electrode probes that can be applied to each side of an affected area. The probes send quick electrical pulses to the area. The Alpha-Stim may also provide relief to patients suffering from insomnia and other back pain-related sleep problems. https://www.h-wave.com/ (H-Wave) (15:42): H-Wave is a multi-functional electrical stimulation device intended to speed recovery, restore function, and manage chronic, acute, or post-operative pain. The H-Wave delivers a low voltage current that promotes injury recovery and rehabilitation by stimulating muscles and can help prevent disuse atrophy. The H-Wave can provide significant relief, and, like the Alpha-Stim, it appears that the benefits of H-Wave are cumulative and lasting. So, over time, you get better and better results the more you use it. And it's an alternative to the use of prescription pain medication. The typical session lasts around 30 to 60 minutes. H-Wave is available both by prescription and offered as an OTC model. For more information on Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia's practice, visit https://www.backtalkdoc.com/ (BackTalkDoc.com) Back Talk Doc is brought to you by Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, with offices in North and South Carolina. To learn more about Dr. Lakhia and treatment options for back and spine issues, go to backtalkdoc.com. To schedule an appointment with Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, you can call us at 1-800-344-6716 or visit our website at https://www.cnsa.com/ (carolinaneurosurgery.com).

Electrical Stimulation Devices for Back Pain

While the holiday season is known for evoking feelings of joy and merriment, we know that back pain can dampen even the most festive of spirits. That’s why we’re devoting this episode to our Top 10 Gift Ideas to promote a healthy spine. If you have a friend or family member struggling with back issues this holiday season, consider a gift that will help them stay active and pain-free in 2021. 1.    Traditional Medicinal Tea. Medicinal teas are available at most grocery stores, and many contain ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and meadowsweet that can reduce inflammation in the body and control or modulate your immune system. Dr. Lakhia’s favorite https://www.traditionalmedicinals.com/products/turmeric-with-meadowsweet-ginger/ (Tumeric with Meadowsweet & Ginger) $5.79/box. 2.    Lumbar Support. Whether you suffer from back pain or not, we can all benefit from lumbar support. A lumbar support is a cushion intended to help create proper lordosis, or proper curvature, in your low back. You can use a lumbar in any of your chairs. Dr. Lakhia recommends the https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FZ3F20?ots=1&slotNum=5&imprToken=aebb1f23-bd42-2301-39f&ascsubtag=%5b%5dst%5bp%5dck6l7o2xs00176cy6j4w8yncu%5bi%5dwAYKKW%5bd%5dD%5bz%5dm%5bt%5dw%5br%5dgoogle.com&tag=thestrategistsite-20 (Core Products Small Inflatable Lumbar Cushion) $30. 3.    Foam Roller. A foam roller is a cylindrical tool that you can use almost as a portable massage therapist. Placing it on the ground, you use the roller to target problem areas. A quick search on YouTube will return numerous exercise options. Dr. Lakhia recommends getting two sizes, a smaller one and a longer one, to target specific areas. Foam rollers are a cheap and critical tool to have in the toolbox as you battle any sort of back issue. Try the https://www.amazon.com/Gimme-10-Massager-Myofascial-Trigger/dp/B07G2ZWLD2/ref=asc_df_B07G2ZWLD2/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312130834541&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17198902202841562862&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9060246&hvtargid=pla-583753266400&psc=1 (Gimmer 10 Foam Roller) $23. 4.    Thera Cane. A Thera Cane is a handheld tool for self-treating myofascial trigger points and tender points in your back, hip, and pelvis. The Thera Cane’s design allows you to get leverage to address your pain points if no one is around to assist you. Dr. Lakhia recommends the https://www.amazon.com/Body-Back-Massager-Handheld-Massage/dp/B005F9F5H4/ref=sr_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=theracane&qid=1607361822&sr=8-8 (Body Back Buddy Elite) $30. 5.    Trigger Point Manual. If you’re purchasing a Thera Cane, you will also want to pick up the Trigger Point Manual. It’s a patient education manual and it shows you where you can find all the trigger points. (Learn more about trigger points in our episode on https://www.backtalkdoc.com/whatrsquos-the-point-acupuncture-vs-dry-needling---back-talk-doc-podcast-episode-18.html (Acupuncture vs. Dry Needling)) https://www.amazon.com/Trigger-Point-Therapy-Workbook-Self-Treatment/dp/1608824942/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=trigger+point+manual&qid=1607361789&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyUUdRWEdLQ0tUTEw1JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMzgxNDA4MkRaVzVaVDNNTU9aRSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTUyNzgzMTRIRDQ1VklLQU9RUyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU (Trigger Point Therapy Workbook) $20. 6.    HeartMath. HeartMath is a biofeedback tool that provides you with guided breathing exercises to help you develop what’s called heart and brain coherence, where the energy of your heart center can become in tune with the energy of your brain. The HeartMath tool takes you through daily breathing exercises. Over time, it can improve your heart rate...

Top 10 Gifts for a Healthy Spine

Millions of Americans suffer from back pain every day. Chances are you, or someone you love is suffering or will suffer from back pain at some point. You do not have to suffer in silence. Help is here. Back Talk Doc is a podcast brought to you by Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, where providing personalized, highly-skilled, and compassionate spine care to the Charlotte, NC area has been our specialty for over 75 years. And now, it’s time to understand the cause of back pain and learn about options to get you back on track! On Back Talk Doc, Dr. Sanjiv Lakhia will help you find answers to some of the most common questions about back pain and spine health. As a Physiatrist at Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine Associates, Dr. Lakhia is an expert in finding non-surgical treatment options for back and spine problems. The podcast features interviews with neurosurgeons and spine specialists along with episodes where Dr. Lakhia covers an array of different issues such as back pain, neck pain, spine surgery, spine injections, and concussion testing. If you would like to know more about Dr. Lakhia and treatment options for back issues, go to BackTalkDoc.com. To make an appointment, contact Carolina Neurosurgery & Spine at 1-800-344-6716 or visit CarolinaNeuroSurgery.com.

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