Navigating Back Pain: Insights on Medical Literacy

This chapter explores the intricacies of medical literacy concerning orthopedic issues, specifically low back pain and musculoskeletal imaging. It emphasizes the importance of individualized assessments, touching on the variability of pain experiences among different populations, and the need for comprehensive evaluations beyond mere radiological interpretations. The discussion highlights factors influencing pain, from psychosocial elements to movement patterns, advocating for a holistic approach to treatment.

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Eric Cressey (@EricCressey), MA, CSCS, is president and co-founder of Cressey Sports Performance, with facilities in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and Hudson, Massachusetts. He has worked with clients from youth sports to the professional and Olympic ranks but is best known for his extensive work with baseball players; more than 100 professional players train at CSP each offseason. He also serves as Director of Player Health and Performance for the New York Yankees.

Eric double-majored in exercise science and sports and fitness management at the University of New England and then received his master’s degree in kinesiology with a concentration in exercise science at the University of Connecticut. He has published books and video resources that have been sold in more than 60 countries. He regularly lectures both nationally and internationally, and his research has been published in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. He serves as a consultant to New Balance, Proteus Motion, and Athletic Greens.

Eric has a free blog and a free newsletter on his website, EricCressey.com, and has a podcast at EliteBaseballPodcast.com.

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[06:08] The email responsible for this conversation.

[09:19] Why pinpointing the cause of lower back pain can be so challenging.

[20:22] Initial diagnosis through movement.

[22:59] How seemingly unrelated meds can exacerbate pain.

[24:38] Posture considerations.

[26:55] Addressing and correcting suboptimal patterns of movement.

[28:55] Resources for understanding movement screens.

[30:00] Ingredients that make up a lower back pain cocktail.

[34:42] Even with the greatest care, wear and tear over time is normal.

[40:19] Improving thoracic mobility.

[43:56] Conquering Quasimodo.

[45:14] Defusing deskbound damage.