Health Topics

Find information on many health topics, listed A to Z.

Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common health complaints in the U.S. In fact, nine out of 10 Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives.

Classes & Events

Speaking of Health: Chronic Pain

Community Education

Mankato, MN
05/15/2020
11 a.m.-noon

From The Blog

How to strengthen your core

Learn how to strengthen your core — abdominal, pelvic, diaphragm and back muscles — to help prevent back pain.

Denise Grabowski MS PT By Denise Grabowski January 20, 2020

Back surgery gets 'Santa' back on the job

Even Santa Claus can use a little help. After two years of problems, Santa aka Ben Nolt got answers and healing from his expert neurosurgery team. Now, Santa is back in action and bringing joy to thousands of children this holiday season.

December 20, 2019

Back pain basics

The good news: back pain rarely is a sign of something serious. The bad news: Most of us will have back pain at some point. Learn the basics of back pain, how to get relief and when its time to worry.

October 1, 2019

Surgery leads to a happy back, retirement

Jennifer Van Berkum is enjoying retirement and feeling 100% better after her back surgeries. Read about this nurse's path to surgery and how the care team exceeded her high expectations.

September 25, 2019

Do you have good posture?

Good posture can affect how you feel and move throughout your life. Get tips on how to improve your posture today.

September 21, 2019

Exercises for a happy back

Don't let back pain slow you down. Learn how to stretch and strengthen your back properly to keep you moving.

May 21, 2019

When should I see a doctor about back pain?

About 80% of adults experience back pain at some time in their lives. For most people, it will go away on its own in four to six weeks with self-care. So, how do you know when to see your doctor about your back pain? Here's a few causes or symptoms that indicate it's time to schedule that appointment.

T.K. Schiefer, M.D. By T.K. Schiefer May 8, 2019

Doctor becomes patient: What he learned

Andrew Calvin, M.D., spends plenty of time in a doctor’s office — his own. But he says his eyes were opened when the tables were turned recently, and he became the patient.

July 6, 2018

6 tips for managing back pain

If you experience back pain, you should know there are tips and tricks for easing the pain rather than making it worse. Don’t let back pain slow you down.

May 23, 2018

Calming your pain: Is it possible?

When you hurt your back it’s common to assume the pain is stemming from your back, but did you know the pain could be caused by any part of your body that is compressed, stretched, or has reduced blood flow? Learn how you can calm pain.

Carol Gardner PT By Carol Gardner April 2, 2018

After back surgery, marathoner helps friend cross the finish line

Anyone who’s ever run competitively knows how rewarding it is to cross the finish line. Jacob Nash knows that thrilling feeling well. However, unlike other competitors, the 41-year-old marathoner crossed his last finish line within six months of having back surgery.

October 10, 2017

4 steps for back pain relief

Back pain is a common ailment for many adults. According to the National Institutes of Health, 8 out of 10 adults experience pain in their back at some point in their lives.

July 19, 2017