Back care for the do-it-yourselfer
Gone are the days when fixing a leaky pipe meant placing a call to your local plumber. Now, you can do it yourself. Resources like the Internet and home improvement super stores make it easier than ever to get the information and tools you need to take on any household job.
Watch your back
If you're a do-it-yourselfer, you know that doing these household jobs can be physically exhausting and, for some, downright painful. Each year thousands of people are injured doing home projects. "Back injuries are the most common," says Joan O'Shea, MD, Virtua Health neurosurgeon. "The back is a complex structure made of bones, discs, muscles, ligaments and nerves. All of these parts work together to provide control and strength for nearly all activities. However, injuries can occur when they are not working together properly or are overexerted."
Common causes of back pain
Athletes know the importance of stretching before doing any physical activity and how this can help to avoid injuries. However, many do-it-yourselfers do not realize that it's equally important to stretch before doing household projects.
The most common back injuries are strains and sprains. A strain occurs when the muscles in the back are overstretched or torn. A sprain occurs when the ligaments, which are thick bands that hold the bones together, are overstretched or detached from the bone. Activities that put a person at risk for these injuries include lifting heavy objects, reaching, slipping and falling.
Treatment and prevention
Back sprains and strains can be painful and put you out of commission for days. "These types of injuries usually heal on their own and symptoms can be managed with anti-inflammatory medication, rest and heat and cold packs," says Dr. O'Shea. A more serious injury like a slipped or herniated disc — where the disc slides forward and compresses the nerves — may require more aggressive treatment. This may include physical therapy, steroid injections or surgery. "If you have weakness in your arms or legs or symptoms that persist for more than a week, talk to your physician," says Dr. O'Shea.
Plan ahead, take your time and enjoy working on your dream home. Taking simple steps, such as using proper lifting techniques and safety equipment, along with knowing your limits and when to stop, will allow you to work on the house without the need to recover in it.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 1-888-Virtua-3.
Physician Profile
Joan O'Shea, MD, is board certified in neurosurgery. She received her medical degree from the State University of New York School of Medicine. She completed a neurosurgical residency at the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, where she also served as chief resident in neurosurgery. Dr. O'Shea is trained in both neurosurgery and orthopaedic spine surgery. She completed fellowships in orthopaedic spinal surgery at New York University Hospital for Joint Diseases and at Beth Israel Medical Center Spine Institute. In 2005, Dr. O'Shea was recognized in South Jersey Magazine as a "Top Doc" in neurosurgery.