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In Virginia, medical professionals are cautioning individuals against the practice of self-manipulating or “cracking” their spines. According to William Kimmo, a neurosurgeon at the Virginia Spine Institute, people often crack their backs or necks to relieve tension or stiffness. However, this action, which can trigger a release of gas bubbles and produce an audible pop, fails to address the underlying cause of discomfort. Chiropractors, such as Tori Hartline of Sunlife Chiropractic in Frisco, Texas, point out that while the cracking might lead to temporary endorphin release, it can also cause injury. Untrained individuals may inadvertently cause hypermobility in the joints or create more significant issues by moving the spine outside of its correct range of motion. Such risks include joint sprains, strains, and potentially fractures if excessive pressure is applied. Attempting to crack one’s own back can result in unnecessary wear on the spine, potentially straining muscles and ligaments and exacerbating pre-existing conditions. Instead of self-manipulation, Kimmo suggests incorporating daily stretching routines and core muscle exercises, as these can help maintain spinal integrity and prevent stiffness. Attention to one’s daily habits, such as poor posture while sitting or looking at devices, is also crucial. A sedentary lifestyle, improper seating in a car, or even sustained sleeping positions can all contribute to stiffness and tension. Source: Ruetir

In a recent medical overview it was clarified that while upper back pain is commonly experienced, it can occasionally be indicative of more severe issues, such as certain types of cancer. Specifically, thoracic spine pain, located in the mid-upper back, can be a symptom associated with bone metastasis from lung cancer, particularly when the disease has spread to the spine. Lung cancers usually remain asymptomatic until they have reached an advanced stage with metastasis. Once lung cancer has metastasized to the bones, one of the frequent sites affected is the spine, potentially causing significant back pain. Around 30% of individuals diagnosed with cancer will develop spinal metastasis, with the majority of these cases impacting the thoracic spine. Spinal cancer presents itself in two forms: primary spinal cancer, where the disease originates in the cells of the spine or surrounding areas, and metastatic spinal cancer — also known as spinal metastasis or secondary spinal tumors — which occurs when cancer has spread to the spine from another area of the body. Although primary spinal cancer is relatively rare and often benign, the pain it causes can mimic that of more common conditions. Seeking timely medical evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management. Source: Medical News Today

Medical experts highlight a concerning issue for the estimated 8% of American adults who suffer from persistent or chronic back pain — the harmful impact of simultaneous bending, lifting, and twisting movements. This prevalent health concern challenges daily activities and calls for caution to prevent further damage, especially considering the risks of disk herniation. Disk herniation, a condition where the cushioning disks between vertebrae tear or rupture, can result from these combined motions, particularly when preexisting back damage is present. It has been observed that engaging in activities such as shoveling snow, lifting a child’s car seat, or maneuvering luggage while traveling can exacerbate back pain and increase the risk of disk herniation. These common tasks often require bending, lifting, and twisting in tandem, potentially causing unexpected stress on the spine. The weight and awkward posture involved in such tasks can put individuals with back pain at a higher risk. Dr. Arthur Jenkins, a neurosurgeon affiliated with the NFL, underscores the severity of this issue by noting the increased pressure on the spine during these movements. To mitigate this risk, Jenkins advocates for conscious engagement of core muscles. The core functions in concert with back muscles to stabilize the spine, and maintaining strength in both the abdominal and back muscles is essential for reducing the likelihood of injury. Source: BuzzFeed

In Birmingham, groundbreaking research led by Professor Zubair Ahmed and his team at the University of Birmingham has unveiled promising results in treating spinal cord injuries (SCI) using red and near-infrared light. This innovative therapy may offer hope for functional recovery to those afflicted with such devastating injuries. The team’s study, published in the renowned journal Bioengineering & Translational Medicine, outlines a precise ‘dose’ of light therapy that can produce significant therapeutic advancements. Notably, this includes the substantial restoration of sensation, movement, and nerve cell regeneration. This finding comes after meticulous examination of cell models to assess the adequacy of frequency and duration of light exposure for maximum rehabilitation and nerve cell regrowth. Research indicates that utilizing red light with a wavelength of 660nm for just one minute daily can enhance cell viability by 45% across a five-day treatment period. The effectiveness of this treatment is twofold as it protects and promotes the survival of nerve cells while also encouraging their growth. Professor Ahmed and his team extended their examination to preclinical models of SCI, employing two methods of light therapy delivery—an implantable device and a non-invasive technique called transcutaneous delivery. Both techniques yielded similar outcomes, significantly reducing tissue scarring and substantially enhancing function post-injury. Furthermore, they observed notable reductions in scarring and cavities at the injury site, augmented levels of proteins linked with nerve regeneration, and improved connections between spinal cells. Source: Medical Xpress

In a groundbreaking development, British scientists from the University of Birmingham have announced a new laser treatment that has the potential to repair spinal damage in individuals who have suffered paralysis. The innovative therapy, which involves delivering near-infrared light to the affected area, is anticipated to not only prevent but possibly reverse nerve cell death after a spinal cord injury. The treatment could mark an unprecedented turning point for patient rehabilitation post-injury, with human trials expected within the next couple of years. Research, led by Professor Zubair Ahmed, suggests that employing this technique quickly after an injury—ideally within four hours—could significantly improve the odds of recovery, enabling patients to regain locomotion and sensation. The therapy, called photobiomodulation, has been shown to restore function in paralyzed rats, paving the way for human application. The cost-effective nature of the treatment, estimated at under £100 per patient, makes it a viable option for widespread rollout by the National Health Service (NHS) pending approval by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). According to current statistics, the United Kingdom sees an estimated 2,500 new spinal cord injuries each year, predominantly due to vehicular accidents and falls. With 50,000 individuals living with such injuries, which often lead to permanent paralysis, the introduction of this therapy could transform the standard of care and quality of life for many patients. Source: The Mirror

A concertgoer suffered a serious spinal cord injury during a performance by the Australian punk band Trophy Eyes at Mohawk Place in Buffalo, NY. The incident occurred Tuesday when Trophy Eyes’ lead singer, John Floreani, dove into the audience to crowd surf, resulting in the injury to a fan in the crowd. As the band’s set progressed, an unexpected stage dive by Floreani led to harrowing moments for the attendee, identified as Bird Piché. Piché was amongst the concertgoers when the crowd surfing began. During the act, it is reported that she became immobile, signaling a severe injury had occurred. The concert was abruptly halted as emergency services were called to the scene. Piché was swiftly transported to a local hospital, where she was subjected to substantial surgical intervention to address her injuries. The specifics of her condition post-surgery have not been released. In support of Piché’s recovery and the related expenses, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched. The initiative aims to provide financial support for medical bills and other necessities that may arise due to the impact of her injury on day-to-day life. The fundraising team conveyed that Piché’s convalescence would be a prolonged process, and any assistance would be vital during a period when she will be unable to work. Source: Music Times

In a statement released to the public, legendary rock artist Ozzy Osbourne disclosed his latest medical treatment, aimed at tackling health challenges. At 75, the iconic musician is undergoing stem cell therapy in an effort to address a tumor discovered on his spine, alongside his broader health struggles. Osbourne, revered in the music industry and affectionately known as the “Prince of Darkness,” shared details of his treatment during a segment of his “Ozzy Speaks” SiriusXM radio show. The Grammy-winning artist has revealed that after his fourth spinal surgery last year, a tumor was detected on his vertebrae – a development which prompted this innovative therapy. The treatments, according to Osbourne, are a more advanced form of stem cell procedure, hailed by him as a sort of “supercharged” therapy, though he also noted the high cost associated with it. Despite the price, Osbourne has scheduled a return for a follow-up session in approximately six months’ time. Osbourne’s co-host, Billy Morrison, also divulged his own experience with stem cell treatments. Morrison sought relief for hip problems that hindered his mobility, finding success after five targeted injections, which he reported remedied his issues. Osbourne’s health has been a point of concern for some time, leading to significant changes in his career. Last July, he withdrew as headliner from the Power Trip Festival in Indio, California. Source: New York Daily News

In a harrowing incident in Alice Springs, trainer Rene Taylor, 45, endured a severe spinal injury following a fall from a horse during a training exercise. Taylor, a mother of two teenagers, was working with an unraced three-year-old gelding named Midnight Hustle along the Todd River behind the Pioneer Park racecourse when the accident occurred. According to Taylor, the fall wasn’t dramatic, yet the impact caused her spine to compress significantly. She immediately realized the gravity of her injury, citing extreme pain and an inability to stand up. Fellow trainers, jockeys, and stable-hands commenced a search upon noticing the riderless horse, Midnight Hustle, wandering near the stables. Taylor was found about 10-15 minutes later, prompting an urgent call for an ambulance. Taylor recounted being located by Josh Gardner, another trainer’s son, and mentioned the swift medical response following the accident. Post-accident examinations at Alice Springs Hospital necessitated her urgent transfer to Adelaide. There, she underwent surgery at the Royal Adelaide Hospital that involved the insertion of screws and rods into her vertebrae to stabilize the spine. The surgery led to an arduous recovery process, including immediate post-operative therapy encouraging standing and walking within a short time frame. Taylor’s rehabilitation has enabled her to walk, albeit with discomfort during certain movements such as leaning or bending over. Source: Horse Betting

A renowned professional wrestler, Braun Strowman, opened up about a severe injury he sustained during a wrestling match in 2023 that sidelined him for a year. The former Universal Champion required neck fusion surgery after an in-ring incident that compromised his spinal column. The injury occurred when Strowman was wrongfully struck, causing his head to snap back and momentarily paralyze his arms due to the severe spinal stenosis between his C4 and C5 vertebrae. Upon sustaining the injury, Strowman described the immediate aftermath where his arms fell to his side, he lost his balance, and intense pain akin to boiling water poured down his limbs. The uncertainty of his future, both in wrestling and in everyday functionality, weighed heavily on him during the subsequent weeks. Seeking support, Strowman reached out to fellow wrestler Steve Austin, who reassured him after having experienced a similar medical crisis. Austin’s encouragement played a significant role in Strowman’s recovery process. Strowman spoke highly of the support he received from the WWE, emphasizing the company’s dedication to the well-being of its talent. Triple H, an executive at WWE, reinforced the importance of placing future health above the present, offering Strowman a sense of security regarding his career and the medical care he would receive. Strowman highlighted the comprehensive care provided by WWE, including access to top-notch surgical options and rehabilitation facilities. Source: Inside The Ropes

In Toronto, the Blue Jays are grappling with a growing injury list as right-handed pitcher Yariel Rodríguez lands on the 15-day injured list. Rodríguez, 27, is suffering from thoracic spine inflammation, a significant setback for the team, which has already been enduring injuries within its pitching staff. In response to the loss, reliever Zach Pop has been called up to bolster the bullpen. The Blue Jays have hence adapted their roster to accommodate nine relievers and four starters, attempting to manage the strain on their rotation resources. Since signing with the Blue Jays as an international free agent, Rodríguez has pitched with a 4.11 ERA over four games. Now, Rodríguez joins two other starting pitchers on the team’s major league injured list, raising concerns over the depth and resilience of the rotation. Moreover, their top prospect is sidelined as well, adding to the list of unavailable talent. The current schedule provides some respite for the Blue Jays with off-days on the immediate horizon. The absence of Rodríguez isn’t expected to pose an immediate problem due to forthcoming breaks in the playing schedule, hence postponing the need for a fifth starter until mid-May. This gap allows the team some breathing room to evaluate their options for filling the void left by Rodríguez’s injury. Source: CBS Sports