Certain types of pain, such as arthritis pain and orthopedic pain, may prevent you from getting comfortable at night ~ Reena Mehra, MD, of University Hospitals Case Medical Center in Cleveland.

It is important to get a good nights rest. Sleep positions can create discomfort. For example, people who sleep on their stomachs can flatten the natural curve of their spine. This then would put some additional strain on your back muscles. Purchasing a contoured pillow can help with neck pain. These positions can help alleviate your back pain.

• If you sleep on your back: Try placing a pillow underneath your knees. This will recreate the natural curve in your spine.
• If you sleep on your stomach: Try placing a pillow underneath your lower abdomen and pelvis. This can help take the strain off your back.
• If you sleep on your side: Place a pillow between your legs and knees. Curl your legs towards your chest.

If the changes in your sleep position do not help with your pain and lack of sleep, you may need professional help. Call and make an appointment today (323) 264-7600.

Standing during an average 5 hour shift can cause fatigue and pain. Cramps and back pain are a common factor. Standing can reduce blood flow to muscles and stop the regular muscle movements that return blood from the feet and legs to the heart. When blood and other fluids do not circulate properly,  your veins can become enflamed. This causes your ankles, legs, and feet to swell causing discomfort.

The study authors pointed out that almost half of all workers worldwide spend more than three-quarters of their workday standing. ~webmd.com

Workers commonly spend four hours or more of each day standing. Early signs can be swelling, back pain, neck and shoulder stiffness, swollen feet and legs, and varicose veins.  Standing can lead to bunions, pressure on hips and ankle joints, and aching muscles.

There are ways to prevent or ease this pain.

1. Alternate standing with sitting: It’s important to take breaks from standing for long periods of time.
2.  Change your positions frequently: You can  walk around, stretch and stand in different positions to shift your weight around.
3. Wear comfortable and supportive shoes: Supportive shoes or soles can reduce shock absorbed by your knees.

If you suffer from severe pain and wish to seek help make an appointment today call (323) 264-7600.

Treadmills like any machine at the gym, can be dangerous if used improperly. You can have the most expensive or tech savvy treadmill, you can go from a productive workout to a serious injury. Always remember to turn off your treadmill while not using to prevent injury to animals and children. Here are some Standard Tips to use while using one and a video showing you what NOT to do.

Almost 450,000 people, were sent to the ER or hospital in the year 2012 for injuries related to exercise equipment ~ usatoday.com

Tips

1. Look Forward! If not, you have more chances of losing your balance and falling.

2. Don’t lean on handrails! This can strain shoulders and elbows.

3. Monitor speed and incline when raising! Incline should be adjusted before raising the speed. Sometimes the incline is too steep, combining that with faster speed is a recipe for disaster.

4. Don’t step off a moving treadmill! Things like pieces of clothing can get caught which increases chances of injury.

5. Always wear shoes!  Shoes help absorb the shock of movement and take stress off of your joints while using the treadmill. You are more prone to scrapes, burns, and blisters if you’re barefoot.

Although the link below is funny, he is more prone to serious injury! He has already broken a couple of rules! Stay Safe! Do not try this at home!