Back & Spine Care

Treating Your Back Pain

If you’ve experienced a back injury, have a long-term back or spine condition or are living with the realities of normal wear and tear, Desert Care Network can help. We provide convenient access to a comprehensive range of orthopedic techniques and procedures to help treat conditions like herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spine or back fractures and more.

Back Pain Expertise

Back pain is incredibly common, but sufferers often having difficulty finding a treatment that works. Our team of specialists will work with you to provide personalized treatment focused on your needs, exploring all your nonsurgical options first. Treatments such as anti-inflammatory medicine, ice, heat and massage are often successful in healing back pain and helping patients return to their daily activities.

Find an Orthopedic Specialist

Request one of our specialists to get a second opinion, or a really good first one.

Request an Orthopedic Specialist Referral Today

How Weight Affects Your Joints

When extra weight slows you down, it’s time to look at what’s happening on the inside. If you’re experiencing pain and swelling, your joints might be affected by osteoarthritis, and obesity is one of its primary risk factors.

What is osteoarthritis?

As the most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between your bones breaks down. The more weight you have on your body, the more pressure you place on your joints, causing the cartilage to erode. If this continues, it could cause disability and keep you from walking and performing other daily activities you enjoy.

Where does osteoarthritis commonly occur?

Knees
Hips
Neck
Lower back
Hands

What are the signs of osteoarthritis?

Pain
Inflammation or swelling
Lack of flexibility
Cracking sound when bending
Limited range of motion
Weak muscles

How is osteoarthritis diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis may be done through a review of medical history, lab tests and x-ray. There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications, physical therapy, surgery (if needed) and weight loss.

How can I lose weight?

In addition to osteoarthritis, obesity can lead to other chronic conditions, including heart disease and diabetes, especially if your mobility is limited. It can also increase your risk for falls due to muscle weakness. Take the pressure off by following these seven tips for losing weight:

Eat more protein, fruits and veggies
Drink enough water (At least eight, eight-ounce glasses)
Exercise (150 minutes per week)
Limit sugars, starches and carbohydrates
Control portion size
Chew slowly
Add fiber to your diet (25 grams of fiber each day for a 2,000 calorie diet)

Losing weight isn’t always easy, but taking even a small step toward a healthier lifestyle can make a difference down the road. But you’re not on this journey alone. If you have questions or would like to learn about other weight loss options, talk with your doctor.

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Sources:
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Arthritis Foundation
American Heart Association
Harvard Health Publishing
Healthline