Published March 20, 2017

Researchers analyzed patients with documented herniated lumbar (low back) discs. They analyzed the level of their pain, their physical function, nerve symptoms, such as numbness and weakness, and overall quality of life. Some of the patients went on to have the discs surgically removed. The others preferred conservative measures, such as rest and physical therapy. The patients were evaluated at six weeks, three months, one year, and two years. The surgical patients did better in the short term. There were no differences in any of the other measurements at any time, including reduction in numbness and weakness and quality of life.  And at the two-year mark, there was no difference in any of the measurements.

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Published March 17, 2017

Scientists found 107 new gene regions that can cause high blood pressure. The discovery gives doctors hope that they can identify at-risk patients earlier and target treatments to prevent high blood pressure.

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Published March 15, 2017

A review study reported that peppermint oil works more effectively than a placebo at easing the symptoms of IBS. One study even found that it worked better than the pharmaceutical treatment 1-hyoscyamine.

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