We’re officially in the throes of the holiday season. This time of year can certainly take a toll on us mentally, and also physically. Sometimes the simplest of activities or routines can cause sudden injury or pain that comes out of nowhere.
“Whether it’s putting up the Christmas tree, getting up on a ladder to put up all the decorations, the lifting, the stretching – even shoveling snow – it doesn’t take much for people to hurt their neck or back,” said Dr. Jeffrey LaVallee, rehabilitation medicine specialist and treating physician at The Hospital of Central Connecticut (HOCC) Spine Center in New Britain.
What triggers neck or back pain is different for everyone. For some, it’s due to a trauma or injury, while others may see issues from a strenuous activity, sitting for too long or sleeping in the wrong position. Dr. LaVallee says lower back pain is the second most common reason that people visit their doctor, adding that anything involving the spine should be taken seriously if it’s not getting better within a couple days.
“The first thing is the severity of the symptoms,” says Dr. LaVallee. “How bad is the pain in the neck or back that they’re experiencing? Is it so severe that it’s affecting their daily life? If so, that warrants an evaluation. Neurologic issues from an injury, such as radiating pain down the arms or legs, numbness, tingling or weakness, are sure signs that a person needs to be evaluated quickly to prevent permanent nerve damage.”
The HOCC Spine Center assesses and treats:
- Injuries.
- Sudden/sharp pain.
- Spinal stenosis.
- Degenerative discs.
- Pinched nerves.
- Bulging discs.
- Herniated discs.
- Sciatica.
- Muscle spasms.
“We’re basically a one-stop-shop where people can be referred to have a comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment under one roof,” says Dr. LaVallee. “It makes it convenient for the patient and avoids multiple visits to different doctors. Treatment options range from physical therapy, to spinal injections or surgery if necessary.
The Spine Center also offers patients access to neurologic and orthopedic surgery, emergency medicine, radiology, behavioral health and acupuncture. (To make an appointment, call 860.224.5535.)
“With most neck and back pain, evidence shows that the sooner we see a patient for an evaluation or treatment, the quicker they will get better,” says Dr. LaVallee.
Preventative measures are also key to help avoid neck or back issues in the first place. Dr. LaVallee says exercise, weight loss, getting enough sleep, eating well, posture and ergonomics at work all play a critical role in maintaining spine health.