We’ve all heard of physician assisted suicide occurring in free democratic countries in Europe, primarily in the Netherlands. In socialized countries such as Europe, life and death matters are a concern of the state. Live patients who are sick consume valuable resources – tax moneys. Dead patients no longer are costly—they no longer consume tax dollars or Euros. Sick patients were never a legal problem until socialized medicine came into vogue.

The other day at the nursing station, I observed the ward clerk reading “Weight Watchers” as she devoured a “Babe Ruth.” … I guess that keeps the scales balanced and the economy moving. It also contributes to the epidemic in America – 50-60% of the population is overweight with 25-33% affected with obesity. We consumed 15% more calories in 1994 than we did in 1970 and today we dine out twice as often. If obesity was an infectious disease, we would call it a national crisis.

Back pain is a common complaint. Most people in the United States will experience low back pain at least once during their lives. Back pain is one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor or miss work.

On the bright side, you can take measures to prevent or lessen most back pain episodes. If prevention fails, simple home treatment and proper body mechanics will often heal your back within a few weeks and keep it functional for the long haul. Surgery is rarely needed to treat back pain.