Icy Conditions, Beware! Low Back Pain & The Slip-And-Fall Injury

Whether we like it or not, the winter has arrived along with icy conditions. As a physical therapist, we see many injuries related to a slip and fall accident. This type of accident can lead to injuries throughout the body, most notably the spine. Who is at risk? We are all at risk! Slip and… Continue Reading Icy Conditions, Beware! Low Back Pain & The Slip-And-Fall Injury

Relative Rest and Low Back Pain

I am often asked if individuals should rest their back or work through their pain. In general, relative rest has been recommended for individuals with new onset, or “acute” low back pain (LBP). What is relative rest? Basically, patients with an acute episode of LBP should avoid activities that aggravate their condition. If you were… Continue Reading Relative Rest and Low Back Pain

Your Smoking Habit Can Cause Chronic Back Pain

Can’t shake your aches? Blame the stuff you puff: Smoking can increase your risk of developing chronic back pain, says new research from Northwestern University. In the study, people with subacute back pain—soreness that lasted between 4 and 12 weeks—who smoked were three times more likely to report chronic aches a year later than those… Continue Reading Your Smoking Habit Can Cause Chronic Back Pain

Kube Named In 36 Spine Surgeons Under 40 and 240 Spine Surgeons To Know 2014

Becker’s ASC Review recently named Dr. Richard Kube one of the 36 Spine Surgeons Under 40 and 240 Spine Surgeons To Know 2014! Dr. Richard Kube, MD, is the CEO, founder and owner of Prairie Spine & Pain Institute in Peoria, Ill., which focuses on the treatment of spinal disorders, research and education. He is… Continue Reading Kube Named In 36 Spine Surgeons Under 40 and 240 Spine Surgeons To Know 2014