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FDA Approves Cervical Disc Implant Treatment Story

FDA Approves Cervical Disc Implant Treatment

The Food and Drug Administration has approved the Prestige disc implant device to treat degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine. Medtronic has created the first artificial disc for insertion into the neck to allow a larger degree of movement than the traditional spinal fusion treatment. Medtronic has agreed to conduct a seven year study as part of the FDA approval agreement.

The company performed a clinical trial observing 541 patients receiving treatment for cervical degenerative disc disease comparing Prestige Cervical Disc to spinal fusion. The results found Prestige to have a greater degree of neurological success as well as fewer revision surgeries. The device is made of a stainless steel two-piece ball-and-trough configuration that functions like a joint and offers the greatest potential for neck mobility. (Read more about FDA Approves Cervical Disc Implant Treatment)

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Power Plate Technology Can Aid Physical Therapy Story

Power Plate Technology Can Aid Physical Therapy

For physical therapists who treat patients suffering from back pain and weakened core muscles, the Power Plate is a beneficial piece of technology. The machine vibrates to stimulate reflexive muscle contractions 25-50 times per second. The Power Plate increases blood circulation to core spinal and abdominal muscles that have weakened over time due to sedentary lifestyle habits.

For people who are lacking in their level of fitness, the Power Plate is designed to ease the difficult transition from an inactive to an healthy lifestyle. While it remains unclear whether this vibration technology can replace other forms of exercise, some physicians believe it can greatly complement any exercise or physical therapy regimen. (Read more about Power Plate Technology Can Aid Physical Therapy)

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The Cause of Chronic Tension Headaches Story

The Cause of Chronic Tension Headaches

Poor posture is at the root of chronic tension headaches.

An article written by holistic care author Doug Fogel explains how having a tight neck, shoulders, and upper back contribute to chronic tension headaches. He says the tension is caused by poor posture and/or accident-related trauma. Conventional treatments like pain medication have little effect on long term relief. The only way to relieve symptoms is to treat the cause of the tension and address instances of poor posture. (Read more about The Cause of Chronic Tension Headaches)

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An Alternative to Back Surgery Is Waiting Story

An Alternative to Back Surgery Is Waiting

Though back surgery may provide relief, studies reveal waiting may be best alternative.

Several studies show that although back surgery may be effective for those suffering from a slipped or misaligned disk, it may not be necessary. Around 1.5 million back surgeries are performed worldwide to relieve spinal nerve pressure that causes sciatica. This condition is extremely painful and can affect daily activities and overall quality of life for those afflicted. However, researchers say that 75% of these cases will improve over time without medical attention. (Read more about An Alternative to Back Surgery Is Waiting)

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Spine Force Machine for Herniated Discs Story

Spine Force Machine for Herniated Discs

The Spine Force machine is the only device capable of stimulating the deep muscles of the spine.

A groundbreaking device called the Spine Force has the potential to transform how we care for the muscles and structures in the lower back. LPG
Systems is a France based company that has developed this machine to stimulate the deep connective tissue within the spine that can break down with sedentary lifestyle habits. With the advent of the Spine Force, health practitioners who specialize in treating spinal diseases and disorders may now have a resource to ensure that patients don't have recurring spinal problems. (Read more about Spine Force Machine for Herniated Discs)

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Spinal Decompression for Lower Back Pain Story

Spinal Decompression for Lower Back Pain

Spinal Decompression provides an alternative to surgery in many cases of lower back pain caused by herniated discs.

A herniated disc is a condition of the disc. The disc a jelly-like material between two bones in your spine. There is a middle section called a nucleus and an outer band called an annulus. As we age the outer band, or the annulus, which is a collagen based tissue, begins to break down. The nucleus, which is in the middle, migrates outside and puts pressure on the spinal nerve causing either pain or dysfunction. (Read more about Spinal Decompression for Lower Back Pain)

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