Back pain can have many causes, and many times, back pain will resolve itself in two to four weeks with rest, ice and heat. In fact, 80 percent of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives, making back pain one of the most common reasons people visit back pain clinics or miss work.  Back pain that lasts longer than a few weeks is not normal.Causes of Back PainMuscle Strains-Did you know that muscle-related pain is one of the most common reasons for overall back pain? It is true. Muscle related pain can be caused by improper lifting techniques, overuse, poor posture or a sudden awkward movement or fall.Spinal or Disc Problems-Bulging or Herniated Discs: Spinal discs are soft cushions between vertebra. Sometimes, the soft jelly-like substance inside the disc can bulge out of place or rupture, putting pressure on the surrounding nerves causing back pain. Disc related back pain can be caused by an injury. Interestingly, some people who have bulging or herniated discs will never experience any back pain.Sciatica-Sciatica refers to pain that stems from the sciatic nerve, a large nerve extending from the lower back down the back of each leg. Sciatica is not a disorder, but a symptom of another underlying problem, such as spinal stenosis, a pinched/irritated nerve in the lower back or a herniated disc.Other Painful Conditions-If you have spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, compression fractures, arthritis or osteoporosis you may also experience pain in the back. These back pain conditions can be treated with conservative, minimally invasiveRisk Factors for Back Pain-There are a few factors that can increase your risk of developing back pain, such as: smoking, obesity, age, physical labor, sedentary work and depression.Diagnostic Testing-To help determine the cause of your back pain, there are several diagnostic tests that can be performed by a back pain doctor or back pain specialist. These may include Xrays, MRI, CT Scan and an Electromyography (EMG). An X-ray shows the alignment of the bones in your spine and whether you have any broken or arthritic bones that may be causing back pain. MRI and CT Scan tests show images of bone, muscle, tissue, nerves, blood vessels, tendons and ligaments. These tests can show disc herniation, muscle tears, ligament problems and can help your clinic doctor or back pain specialist understand your back pain. Electromyography (EMG) is a test used to study nerve and muscle function.Back Pain Treatment Options-At Nura, our clinic doctors and back pain specialists value the importance of an interdisciplinary approach. There are a number of treatment options that help reduce back pain, which include:Physical TherapyEpidural Steroid InjectionDiscographyFacet Joint InjectionTrigger Point InjectionRadiofrequency AblationSacroiliac Joint InjectionIntracept Proceduremild Procedure (Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression)Minuteman Procedure (Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion)Preparing for Your Doctor Appointment-Before your back pain appointment with your clinic doctor or back pain clinic specialist, take note of some important facts.Is your back pain the result of an injury?What movements increase or decrease your back pain?What are the symptoms you have been feeling?How long have you had this back pain?What does your back pain feel like? Dull, aching, stabbing or shooting?What type of work do you do?What treatments or medications have you already tried to resolve your back pain?Call Nura Pain Clinics for further information at 763-537-6000 or visit www.nuraclinics.com

Dementia is often viewed as a progressive, incurable, and ultimately fatal disease, with care created based on decline and disability. At Homewatch CareGivers, we will develop a unique plan of care that focuses on abilities and not decline; one that focuses on living as full of a life as possible. The goal of in-home dementia care is to strengthen overall well-being that can be altered as the condition progresses.How Dementia Affects a PersonAffecting about 50 million people worldwide with nearly 10 million new diagnoses every year, dementia impacts every aspect of a persons life. Dementia is an umbrella term for a collection of symptoms that can come from different diseases. All forms of dementia involve changes in the thinking process that are significant enough to interfere with ones daily life. Over time, the affected person can experience changes in how they react to environmental stimuli, changes in executive function, as well as physical decline.If you or a loved one lives with dementia, contact us today for a complimentary consultation so that we may begin customizing an appropriate plan of care.  Get Care Today.Types of DementiaDementia is caused by diseases such as Vascular, Huntingtons, Parkinsons, Frontotemporal (FTD), Creutzfeldt-Jakob, and more. Two of the most common causes of dementia are Alzheimers and Lewy body dementia (LBD).Alzheimers DiseaseAlzheimers disease is the most common cause of dementia, affecting more than five million Americans. Typically, memory and executive function gradually decline over time due to degenerating brain cells. Unless the individual has other diseases or illnesses, physical deterioration does not usually occur until the disease has significantly progressed and caused impairment in basic function and motor skills necessary to physical health.Lewy Body DementiaLewy body dementia is another common cause of progressive dementia. Initially, individuals may experience symptoms similar to Alzheimers or Parkinsons, while others may have vivid visual hallucinations. Lewy body dementia may also cause unusual sleepiness during the day and blanking out, as well as problems with movement like trembling.How Dementia Home Care Services Can HelpIf you or someone you care for is diagnosed with dementia, it is important to work with a trained home care professional who understands the underlying diseases and their progression. With Homewatch CareGivers, quality in-home dementia care is not one-size-fits-all, but is instead redefined in a way that is more holistic and without over-emphasis of disease or deficits.Completing a home audit is essential in providing supportive dementia care services focused on:Safety in and around the homePromoting independence by modifying steps to an activityAllowing time for the person to participate in their careEngagement at the right time and the right amountArranging closets and drawers to promote successful independenceLooking for reactions to the environment, like temperature or noiseKnowing when it is time for quiet and restStaying engaged in physical activity to promote circulation and muscle strengthWe truly care for the whole person, not just their condition. Get in touch to see how you or someone you care for can benefit from dementia home care. Call us today at (952) 260-6223 to learn more.

When it comes to making important decisions about senior care, having access to the right information and guidance is crucial. This is where a senior care advisor can make a significant difference. Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh is an organization that specializes in providing professional senior care advisory services. Let's explore the role of a senior care advisor and how Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh can help families in need.1. Expertise and KnowledgeA senior care advisor is a professional with extensive expertise and knowledge in the field of senior care. They are well-versed in various types of senior living options, including assisted living communities, memory care facilities, and nursing homes. Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh has a team of experienced advisors who understand the unique needs and challenges of seniors and their families.2. Personalized Assessment and RecommendationsEvery individual has different needs, preferences, and circumstances. A senior care advisor takes the time to conduct a personalized assessment of the senior's situation. They consider factors such as health conditions, level of independence, social needs, and budgetary constraints. Based on this assessment, the advisor provides tailored recommendations and options for senior living arrangements.3. Access to a Network of Care ProvidersAssisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh has an extensive network of trusted care providers in the region. This network includes assisted living communities, memory care facilities, and other senior care resources. A senior care advisor can tap into this network to find suitable options that meet the specific needs and preferences of the senior and their family.4. Assistance with Touring and EvaluationVisiting and evaluating different senior care facilities can be overwhelming and time-consuming for families. A senior care advisor from Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh can accompany families on tours of the recommended communities. They help families navigate the process, ask the right questions, and provide insights into the quality of care, amenities, and staff. This assistance simplifies the decision-making process and allows families to make informed choices.5. Ongoing Support and AdvocacyThe support of a senior care advisor doesn't end once a decision is made. Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh continues to provide ongoing support and advocacy for families. They can assist with paperwork, negotiation of contracts, and smooth transitions. Furthermore, the advisor remains available to address any concerns or questions that may arise after the move, ensuring the well-being and satisfaction of the senior and their family.In conclusion, a senior care advisor plays a vital role in guiding families through the complex landscape of senior care options. Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh offers the expertise, personalized assessment, access to care providers, assistance with touring and evaluation, as well as ongoing support. Their services alleviate the stress and uncertainty associated with finding the right senior care solution and enable families to make informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of their loved ones.