If you have loss of bowel or bladder control, seek emergency help at once. Paralysis of the bowel and bladder could result if not attended to promptly.

More than half of American adults seek medical treatment for back pain at some point in their lives.

Chiropractic medicine is based on the relationship between the alignment of the spine and the function of the body and the belief that the body can heal itself.

Acupuncture is the practice of puncturing the skin with needles at certain anatomical points in the body to relieve specific symptoms associated with many diseases.

The reasons for back surgery typically vary with a patient's age.

Sciatica is often painful but rarely causes serious or permanent damage.

Chronic pain is longstanding pain that persists beyond the usual recovery period or occurs along with a chronic health condition, such as arthritis.

Part of the treatment for chronic conditions involves adopting the same healthy lifestyle habits that are important for everyone.

Effective pain treatments are available. You can also take steps yourself to ease ongoing discomfort.