New Dean Spine Clinic Takes Back Care to the Next Level
 Back pain is almost as common as the common cold, ranking second only to upper-respiratory infections when it comes to doctor visits.
"About 80 percent of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives," confirms Richard (Lee) Carter, MD, a neurosurgeon at Dean's Neurological Institute & Spine Center in Madison.
Jeff Mackey, DC, of Luedtke-Storm-Mackey, provides chiropractic care at Dean's Spine Clinic. "We weren't designed to sit at a desk for eight hours a day and then come home and sit in front of the TV. Spinal joints want movement."
If you're experiencing back pain from basic overuse (or underuse, as the case may be), both doctors recommend the following:
- Avoid bed rest beyond 24 hours. Extended inactivity can worsen symptoms.
- Be active in a smart way. Mild stretching and gentle activity, such as walking on land or in chest-deep water, will help.
- Take ibuprofen or naproxen sodium to reduce inflammation.
- Use ice for at least the first 72 hours or until the inflammation is gone (whichever is longer). Heat may feel good while it's on the muscle, but you will feel worse once it's off a few hours.
You may get some immediate relief by seeing a chiropractor and/or physical therapist, as well. While studies show that most back problems eventually resolve without any invasive treatment, research also makes the case for early intervention. In addition to the obvious benefit of helping a person feel better faster, research proves that the sooner a back problem is addressed, the better the chances of preventing long-term, chronic, and even debilitating problems.
Of course, prevention is the best medicine, if possible. Dr. Carter and Dr. Mackey share these tips for treating your back right:
- Quit smoking (or never start). Smoking impairs blood flow, which can cause nerve damage, pain, and can actually accelerate degeneration of disks in your spine.
- Stretch. Flexibility is so important to overall body mechanics. Consider setting a timer every 30 minutes or so to stretch and counteract your body posture at your desk.
- Exercise. This will provide the movement your muscles and joints need to work properly.
- Lose weight. "Our bodies fight gravity our entire lives," says Dr. Mackey. "We don't need to help it along by adding weight."
- Practice proper body mechanics. Equipment wears out from misalignment and friction. So does your body.
If all else fails, get help. On March 1st, Dean's Neurological Institute & Spine Center opened a new Spine Clinic, which brings all the specialties that treat back pain together under one roof.
The Spine Clinic currently houses neurology/neurosurgery, physical therapy, and chiropractic care. Dr. Mackey provides the chiropractic care and is part of the Luedtke-Storm-Mackey (LSM) chiropractic team. LSM is located within Dean's Spine Clinic, and can be reached at (608) 260-3435.
Over time, the Clinic plans to include occupational therapy, physiatry, sports medicine, and pain management. The goal is to make it a true one-stop shopping experience for patients, improving efficiency, convenience, and outcomes. Collaboration among all types of providers is key.
"The ultimate goal is to measure how well different treatments work and in what combination," shares Dr. Carter.
Dr. Mackey agrees. "We're drawing upon the strengths of all the various professionals to provide the best back care possible."
For more information about Dean's new Spine Clinic, talk to your Dean primary care provider or call the Neurological Institute & Spine Center at (608) 260-3425.
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