Your Aching Back

by Augustus A. White III

Now In Its Third Edition, the classic back pain manual Your Aching Back has been revised and updated to ensure that you have the latest science to speed your recovery.

Drawing on new research as well as decades of clinical experience, leading specialists Dr. Augustus White and Dr. Preston Phillips give you everything you need to know to manage this frustrating condition. To help you hone in on the source of your pain, they give a short primer on the basics of back mechanics as well as a discussion of the wide array of possible causes.

Treatment is the primary focus of the book. Emphasizing evidence-based medicine, the authors give a full account of the risks and benefits associated with treatments from acupuncture to spine surgery. You will find out when self-care makes sense, when you need to see a doctor, what questions to ask, and how to tell if you need a second opinion. Along the way, you'll learn about exciting advances in implant technology, recent studies on ergonomics, cutting-edge imaging technology, the newest forms of alternative care, and much more. And because dealing with chronic back pain can have an effect on every aspect of your life, this book offers sensible, empathic advice on everything from sex and sports to the financial and emotional consequences of long-term disability.

In its trademark conversational and unintimidating style, Your Aching Back places you back in control of your health and puts you on the path toward relief.

Genres: Nonfiction, Health

288 pages, Mass Market 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.