Low back pain is the leading cause of activity limitation and work absence throughout much of the world. It is estimated that more than one-third of people will experience an episode of low back pain during a year, and many of those will experience a recurrent episode that same year. One comprehensive study in North Carolina found the incidence of chronic low back pain to have risen from 3.9% to 10.2% between 1992 and 2006. This serious problem can be prevented and treated to avoid injury and expedite healing to keep your workforce active and healthy.
Read more to learn about how to prevent and treat low back pain...
If your pain does not improve after several days, consider seeing your local Bon Secours physical therapist for further evaluation and consultation.
611 Watkins Centre Parkway, Suite 300 Midlothian, VA 23114 804-325-8822
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Back to School: Tips to Avoid Injuries from Wearing Heavy Backpacks
Back pain is not limited to adults! Parents and students shopping for a new school backpack this month may want to consider important safety tips to prevent back, neck and shoulder injuries.
Backpacks, the preferred choice for students to carry all of their daily school necessities, help distribute the weight of the load among some of the body's strongest muscles. However, if not worn correctly, they also can be the source of injury. In fact, more than 28,000 people were treated in hospitals and doctors' offices for injuries related to backpacks last year. More than 8,300 of those injuries were kids between the ages of 5 and 18, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
One of the best ways to avoid injuries is to lighten the load of backpacks, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA).
Use both shoulder straps to keep the weight of the backpack better distributed, and adjust the shoulder straps to keep the load close to the back. Choosing a crossbody bag can also be a good alternative. Depending on the child's commute and accessibility of school, roller bags may be an option.
Click here to view tips from the AAOS and POSNA to help eliminate discomfort and reduce the risk of backpack-related injuries...
National Immunization Awareness Month
We all need shots (also called vaccinations or immunizations) to help protect us from serious diseases. To help keep our community safe, Bon Secours Health System is proudly participating in National Immunization Awareness Month.
Shots can prevent serious diseases like the flu, measles and pneumonia. It's important to know which shots you need and when to get them. Everyone age 6 months and older needs to get a flu vaccine every year. Other shots work best when they are given at certain ages.
* If you have a child age 6 or younger, find out which shots your child needs
* Find out which shots adults and teenagers need
* Use this chart for adults to see if you are up to date on your shots
* If you are pregnant, check out this recommended immunization schedule
Talk to your doctor or nurse to make sure that everyone in your family gets the shots they need. To find a provider to meet your needs, visit www.goodhelpdocs.com or call 804-359-WELL [9355].
Exercise Video
Submitted by our sponsor:
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6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike
Suite 103
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
804-730-4690
Education:
Dr. Philip Valmores attended the University of Virginia for his undergraduate degree. He received his medical degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his pediatric residency from the Children's Hospital of Richmond at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Board Certification:
Dr. Valmores is board eligible by the American Academy of Pediatrics. In addition, Dr. Valmores was a high school science teacher and a member of Teach For America prior to starting medical school. He is also fluent in Spanish.
What do you enjoy most about being a pediatrician?
In pediatrics, there are many opportunities to see patients when they are well. This allows me to get to know my patients and their families better. It is also a great opportunity emphasize prevention to keep children well.
Why did you choose Bon Secours Health System?
I knew that Bon Secours had a good reputation in the community, but I was truly impressed when I actually got to know people who work here. The employees that I have met, from the front desk staff to those in management positions, are all forward-thinking and strive to improve patient care.
What do you enjoy outside of your work?
I do my best to stay physically active. I enjoy running, bowling, and spending time outdoors with my wife and 2 daughters.
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