That Pain in the Neck

Dealing with Back and Neck Pain

One night of sleeping the wrong way and that pain in your neck follows you all day like a bad dream. One moment of straining to lift something heavy can sideline you for weeks. Stretched or strained muscles are one of the most common causes of neck and back pain. Other causes include pinched nerves, herniated (slipped) discs, disc degeneration and spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal) among others. But no matter the cause, one thing is for sure, neck and back pain can be debilitating. Lower back pain affects as many as 80 percent of adults at some time during their lives. 

Join Dr. Blake Berman, a neurological surgeon at Desert Regional Medical Center, for a discussion on what causes neck and back pain, when you should see a doctor, and what treatment options are available.

Here are a few helpful tips to prevent recurrent back problems:

~ Exercise regularly to keep the muscles in your back strong and flexible.

~ Stretch before exercising to help warm up your muscles.

~ Avoid standing or being in one position for too long.

~ Maintain your proper body weight since excess weight strains back muscles.

~ Use proper lifting and moving techniques.

~ Get help if an object is heavy or an awkward size.

~ Don’t twist when lifting.

~ Avoid smoking.

~ Remember to maintain proper posture when sitting and standing.

To learn more, click here to register online for this free seminar or call (800) 491-4990 to RSVP.

You’re Invited
Seminar: That Pain in the Neck: Dealing with Neck and Back Pain
Date: Thursday, February 16
Time: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Speaker: Blake Berman, DO, Neurological Surgeon
Location: Mizell Senior Center, 480. S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs
RSVP: (800) 491-4990 

Dr. Berman is an independent contractor and is not an employee, agent or representative of Desert Regional Medical Center. He is solely responsible for the provision of his medical services to his patients.