Your aching back: A doctor's guide to relief

by Augustus A. White III

Three out of five adults will experience significant back pain at some point in their lives, making back pain America's number-one ailment. At last, Dr. Augustus White, one of the world's leading specialists in back pain and spine-related problems, has revised and updated his trusted and authoritative manual. This definitive edition of Your Aching Back offers the latest findings on back ailments and their treatments, giving information * basic back mechanics * the most common reasons for backache and the most likely sufferers * the most current diagnostic techniques * basic back nonsurgical and preventive techniques; home treatments * the most up-to-date technology and procedures * postoperative recuperative techniques and life-style management * controlling back pain in the elderly, including spinal stenosis and osteoporosis * alleviating back trauma in sports and dance * reducing lower back pain to increase sexual activity and enjoyment This comprehensive manual also includes a glossary of terms, answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding back pain, and predictions on the future of back care. Over 70 black-and-white line drawings illustrate various back conditions and treatments, completing this indispensable book. Written in a nonintimidating and reassuring tone, Your Aching Back is designed to help you take control of your back condition and get relief.

Genres: Nonfiction, Health

272 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1984

About the author

Augustus A. White III, MD, is Professor of Medical Education and Orthopaedic Surgery at Harvard Medical School and the first African American department chief at Harvard's teaching hospitals.

Reviews

[Denise Spicer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Positive and practical tips for this extremely common ailment written by an orthopedic surgeon. He explains basic back mechanics, why your back hurts, he discusses surgical and non-surgical treatments, basic self-care and prevention, the importance of the mind (placebos, positive attitudes, etc.). There is a short final chapter where the author gives his predictions for future tests and treatments. Especially interesting to some readers will be “control your own pain without drugs” p. 246.

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a thorough, practical and helpful book that will be of great benefit for those of us who suffer from back pain. At times, I found it too detailed and, to be candid, even with an explanation, some of the photos of a spine, discs and such left me a touch confused. This is just a small irritation, and nothing like my back irritates me on occasion.

I would have liked to see a larger section on exercises and stretches that would bring relief to one’s back.

All in all, this book will be of great interest and insight to all those of us who suffer from back issues.