Osteoarthritis is part of the normal aging process. Like wrinkles,
it is a
sign
of mileage on the frame. Also known as wear & tear arthritis,
this
condition
affects the discs and bones of the back in varied forms and
degrees.
It causes a narrowing or compressing of the disc that can
irritate
the surrounding tissues and nerves. However, many people
afflicted
with osteoarthritis have no pain or discomfort at all.
Accurate
Diagnosis
Surveys of orthopedic specialists and chiropractors show that the most
common back problems affecting groomers and kennel operators are back
sprains
and slipped discs.
If you are continually experiencing lower back pain, do not put off seeing
your
doctor! Accurate diagnosis requires a complete medical history, a
physical
examination and, usually, laboratory and X-ray studies.
Your physician will probably ask you the following questions:
-
1
How did your back pain first start? When?
-
2
Were you injured?
-
3
What is the exact location of the pain?
-
4
Does it stay in one place or travel?
-
5
Does coughing or sneezing make it worse?
-
6
What, if anything, makes it feel better?
-
7
What kind of work do you do?
-
8
Does the pain interfere with your work?
-
9
Have you ever had previous treatment for the same symptoms?
-
10
What is your daily routine at home?
-
11
What are your recreational and social activities and habits?
-
12
What is your general state of mind?
One of the major problems, of course, is that we do not exercise
enough.
Working
hard all day, be it in the kennel or grooming area, is not proper
exercise.
You need a well balanced fitness program.
Most people leave work and engage in only minor amounts of activity in
their
homes -- cooking dinner, washing dishes, etc. Many of us simply
retire
to our favorite chairs to read or watch television. Unfortunately,
it
is an effort to do more than is absolutely necessary, even when we are
aware
that as little as a 30 minute walk will do wonders, aiding the digestive
process
while burning calories, and gradually raising our energy levels.
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