Test Your Knowledge: Spine Health Quiz

Spine health quiz graphic from Nebraska Spine Hospital

There is so much misinformation circulating about spine health and back pain that we decided to create a spine health quiz. Try to guess whether the statements below are true or false before continuing to read for the answer. Most people will experience back pain in their life. True. Nearly 80% of people will experience […]

Back Pain Relief At Home

Person holding lower back in pain while sitting on couch at home

Some of the most common questions we get asked are regarding back pain relief. And that makes sense – back pain is the second most common reason for doctor’s visits, only outnumbered by upper respiratory infections. Luckily though, most cases of back pain aren’t caused by serious conditions. So, how can you get back pain […]

Women: Increased Risk Of Osteoporosis

Older woman holding her lower back, illustrating increased osteoporosis risk in women

Last week, we covered who has an increased risk of osteoporosis along with the basics of the condition. As a refresher, osteoporosis is a condition marked by low bone mass. Low bone mass leads to the weakening of your bones and an increased risk of fractures. Among other risk factors, women are more at risk […]

Osteoporosis: The Basics

Illustration comparing healthy bone density to bone affected by osteoporosis

May is National Osteoporosis Month, meaning it’s the perfect time to learn more about this incredibly common condition. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, “about 54 million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis.” Keep reading to learn more about this common condition and what the various risk […]

Healthy Weight, Healthier Spine

Healthy weight helps support a healthier spine and reduces back pain risk.

Did you know that on average, an obese person in the US spends $1,429 more annually on medical bills? This may be in part due to the fact that obesity puts you at a much higher risk for heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes, among other things. Unfortunately, obesity rates in the US keep […]

Eating For Spine Health

Plate of colorful vegetables, fruits, and healthy foods that support spine health.

Consuming a balanced and varied diet is beneficial for your entire body, including your spine. Nourishing your spine with the proper nutrients can help prevent back pain and improve your body’s ability to heal itself. Would you say that your diet is healthy and you probably meet the recommendations for most micronutrients? If you answered […]

How Stress Affects Back Pain

Illustration showing how stress contributes to and worsens back pain

April is National Stress Awareness Month, meaning it’s the perfect time for us to talk about how stress affects back pain. Stress is incredibly common among working adults in the US. A recent study found that on average over 60% of working adults feel stressed three or more workdays each week. This finding means that […]

Sleeping With Back Pain

Person lying in bed clutching lower back in pain while trying to sleep

Many of our patients complain of difficulty sleeping with back pain. This fact alone is to be expected. Many studies have found that back pain not only interferes with falling asleep, but staying asleep as well. What many of our patients don’t realize is that lack of quality sleep can actually contribute to their pain. […]

Sciatica And Your Posture

Illustration of poor posture causing sciatic nerve pain radiating down the lower back and leg.

If you have sciatica, your posture may be to blame for exacerbating the condition. Sciatica and your posture, especially while walking, are linked due to the alignment of the rest of your body and your sciatic nerve. Depending on your posture, various areas of your body can place stress on the nerve, causing pain. You […]

Tips to Stay Active Indoors

Person doing indoor stretching exercise on a yoga mat at home to stay active

During Nebraska winters, it’s no surprise that most people prefer to stay active indoors. With snow, slush, and salt or sand covering most sidewalks, outdoor exercise is out of the question most days anyway. But don’t use winter weather conditions as an excuse to not get your exercise.  Staying active is essential to keeping that […]