Carmen Wong, Physiotherapist, Vancouver, BC
How Can Spinal Traction Help Treat Back Pain
- Radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness can suggest nerve involvement, such as from a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially if symptoms are severe, worsening, or persistent.
- Common causes of back pain injuries do include muscle strains, ligament sprains, and disc-related injuries. Improper lifting, repetitive movements, poor ergonomics, sudden twisting, sports injuries, falls, and other trauma are frequent contributors.
- Most acute muscle strains and ligament sprains improve substantially within a few days to several weeks with appropriate activity modification and conservative care.
Dr Beverley Steinhoff Chiropractor, Vancouver, BC
Educational video on Causes and treament of Back Pain.
- Sleep is a key mediator. Stress and pain can both disrupt sleep, and poor sleep is associated with increased pain sensitivity and poorer emotional well-being, reinforcing the cycle.
- Behavioral changes can perpetuate symptoms. Fear of movement, reduced physical activity, avoidance of social engagement, and increased focus on pain can contribute to physical deconditioning and greater disability, which may further worsen both pain and mental health.
This relationship does not mean that back pain is “all in someone’s head.” Rather, physical, psychological, and social factors interact to influence both the experience of pain and recovery outcomes.
- Psychological stress, anxiety, and depression can increase pain. Stress activates the body’s stress-response systems, which can lead to increased muscle tension, inflammation, heightened vigilance to bodily sensations, and changes in how the nervous system processes pain signals.
- Chronic back pain can worsen mental health. Persistent pain often interferes with sleep, work, exercise, and social activities. Over time, these disruptions can contribute to anxiety, depression, irritability, feelings of helplessness, and social isolation.
- Pain and mood share neural pathways. Brain regions involved in emotional regulation—such as the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and anterior cingulate cortex—also participate in pain processing. This overlap helps explain why emotional distress can amplify pain and why pain can affect mood.
Jackson Sayers, kinesiologist, Vancouver BC
Isometric Strenght educational video.
Jackson Sayers, kinesiologist, Vancouver BC
Exercise Tubing and Isometric Strenght training.
Dr. Jas Chahal, Orthopedic Surgeon, Toronto
Educational video describes how can prp help with osteoarthritis.
Andy De Santis RD, M.S Registered Dietitian.
Educational videos discusses the importance of soy products and nutrition.
Foods to Focus On for Spine and Joint Health
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3s can help reduce inflammatory processes in the body and may be beneficial for people with inflammatory joint conditions.
Good sources:
- Salmon
- Sardines
- Chia seeds
- Walnuts
Vitamin D and Calcium
These nutrients are essential for bone health and maintaining bone mineral density. Vitamin D also helps the body absorb calcium.
- Food does not directly fix structural causes of back pain such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, fractures, or significant joint degeneration.
- However, a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, fish, and whole grains) may help reduce systemic inflammation, which can contribute to pain and slow recovery.
- Good nutrition supports tissue repair by providing adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals needed for muscle, ligament, tendon, and bone health.
- Nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and protein play important roles in maintaining bone strength.
- Maintaining a healthy body weight can reduce the mechanical load on the spine. Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, can alter posture and increase stress on the lower back.
Dr John Wade Rheumatologist, Vancouver BC
Educational video describing what is calcium.
RD Andy Desantis, Toronto, Ontario
Educational video describing almonds and tree nuts.
RD Andy Desantis, Toronto, Ontario
Educational video describing milk and nutrition.
Dr Beverly, Steinoff Chiropractor , Vancouver , BC
Diagnosing the Cause of Lower Back Pain
Many cases of acute low back pain.
- Muscle strains and ligament sprains are common causes of back pain, especially after lifting, awkward movements, poor posture, or prolonged sitting.
- Most episodes of uncomplicated acute low back pain improve within a few weeks, often with conservative care.
- Staying gently active is generally recommended; prolonged bed rest can delay recovery. Heat, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage symptoms.
However, not all back pain comes from strains or sprains. Other causes can include:
- Disc problems (such as a herniated disc)
- Arthritis and degenerative changes
- Spinal stenosis
- Fractures
- Inflammatory conditions
- Less commonly, infections, cancer, or other serious disorders.
Medical evaluation is especially important if back pain is accompanied by:
- Significant leg weakness or numbness
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness in the groin/saddle area
- Fever, unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer
- Severe trauma
Danielle Langford Physiotherapist, Vancouver , BC
How Pilates Can Help With Back Pain
Dr Andre Belanger MD Quebec City.
Fibromyalgie and back pain.
Dr Maziar Badii, MD, Rheumatologist , Vancouver, BC
Diagnosing the Cause of Back Pain During Pregnancy
Dr Maziar Badii, MD, Rheumatologist , Vancouver, BC
How to Avoid Back Pain When Pregnant
Jackson Sayers, kinesiologist, Vancouver BC
Low Back Strenght ball assited educational video.