Can acupoint stimulation and lavender oil acupressure relieve low back pain?

In a recent randomized controlled trial conducted at the Women Workers Association in Hong Kong, researchers aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a combination therapy involving relaxation acupoint stimulation and acupressure with lavender essential oil for individuals suffering from sub-acute or chronic non-specific low back pain (LBP). Led by Y.B. Yip and S.H.M. Tse, (2004) the study recruited adult participants experiencing non-specific LBP and divided … Continue reading Can acupoint stimulation and lavender oil acupressure relieve low back pain?

Speed’s Test

Purpose of Speed’s Test: To detect inflammation or lesions in the biceps/labral complex (1). Patient position: Sitting or Standing upright with the affected arm relaxed by the side. Examiner position: Standing beside the patient’s affected side. Procedure: First, position the affected shoulder in 90 degree-flexion and full external rotation (1). Next, place the elbow in extension and the forearm in supination (1). Ask the patient … Continue reading Speed’s Test

Therapist experience and certifications: Key determinants of low back pain therapy success?

In 2004, Whitman, et. al., investigate the influence of therapist-related factors on clinical outcomes for low back pain patients remains scarce. Although it is commonly assumed that therapists with greater experience or specialty certifications would yield better results, empirical evidence supporting this hypothesis is limited. This study aimed to assess the effects of therapist experience and specialty certification on clinical outcomes among patients with low … Continue reading Therapist experience and certifications: Key determinants of low back pain therapy success?

Energy Restoration After Exercise: Principles of Muscle Recovery

Originally published on HVMN by Nate Martins. Prolonged exercise causes muscle glycogen depletion and inhibition of muscle protein synthesis requiring restoration of muscle glycogen stores after exercise. Post exercise nutrition improves recovery and the composition of meal after exercise affects the rate of recovery. Muscle recovery should be a part of every training plan (specifically post-workout). But there are multiple strategies athletes can employ that … Continue reading Energy Restoration After Exercise: Principles of Muscle Recovery

What is the cost-effectiveness of spinal manipulation for low back pain? Insights from the UK BEAM trial

In a pioneering endeavor to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of incorporating spinal manipulation and exercise interventions into primary care for individuals seeking relief from low back pain, the UK BEAM Trial Team (2004) conducted a rigorous analysis. Their objective was to determine the economic viability of adding spinal manipulation, exercise classes, or a combination of both to the standard “best care” protocol in general practice settings … Continue reading What is the cost-effectiveness of spinal manipulation for low back pain? Insights from the UK BEAM trial