Hi. Dr. Chris Tomshack with another HealthSource tip for your aching back—and in a minute, we’ll also talk about, “What everyone wants to know about back pain, but is afraid to ask.”
 Today’s strategy is so simple it’s ridiculous—and it’s especially important since there’s no “one-size-fits-all” for back pain relief.
 That’s another reason I’m giving you more than one tip—because our bodies are so complex, it usually takes more than one thing to get you better and KEEP you in great shape. So don’t be discouraged if you’re not perfect after trying the ice and the pelvic rock from the last 2 letters.
 You see, if “one thing” would fix you, if just getting “cracked” at the chiropractor would do the trick…or doing a little stretching would bring instant relief…or if taking a Pilates class would make you shout for joy…
 It would be great! But in real life, it doesn’t work that way. Your back is way too complex. That’s why it’s especially dangerous to cover up the pain with ibuprofen, aspirin and Tylenol—you’re not taking care of WHY this marvelous machine of yours is having problems.
 Anyway, here’s another simple but amazing little trick.
 First, find an ordinary TENNIS BALL. It doesn’t have to be new—but it should still have a little bounce. The one the dog chewed to a pulp may NOT do the trick.
 Now lie on your back on the floor—preferably on a carpet.
 Take the ball and place it under your hip—right in the middle of you gluteus maximus. No reason to be shy here—we’re talking about the “butt” muscle.
 Now gradually lower some of your weight onto the ball—so it’s a little uncomfortable—but NOT killing you.
 And wait. Let the ball slowly push into those tight muscles—because if your back is sore, it’s almost certain your “butt” muscles are tight—and they may have caused the whole problem in the first place.
 Give it about 10 seconds—and do it for 5 or 6 sore spots. One size does NOT fit all so you may have to check around a bit to find where you’re sore. Then do the other side. And see how you feel when you get up and move around. The interaction between your muscles and the spine is CRITICALLY important and without dealing with both spine and muscles, you just don’t get better and stay that way.
 Do this today, then skip a day and do it again on the 3rd day. If you’re not feeling better, call us!
 And finally, to answer, “What everyone wants to know about back pain, but is afraid to ask.” The questions are: #1: “Do I need surgery?” and #2: “Why do I hurt so bad? I didn’t DO anything?”
 More about these questions next time and also another muscle, “Your Tenderloin—the Master Back Muscle.”
See you then. Dr. Chris Tomshack for HealthSource Chiropractic and Progressive RehabTM
 P.S. If the pain just isn’t getting better, is click this link xxxxxxx to take advantage of our complimentary Community Service Screening—where we check out the balance between muscles, joints, spine, range of motion, ligaments, nerves. We look at all these areas because we don’t want you to get “half-fixed”.