Why Is He Such A Headbanger?

Aug 31 2008 Dr Gareth Smith

Mum's Agony Over Her Little Lad's Tantrum

Q WHEN my little boy is upset he hits his head on the wall or floor. Is this normal or should I have him checked out?

A OCCASIONAL headbanging helps some children relieve stress and frustration but it can be upsetting for parents to see their little ones inflicting pain on themselves.

Lift him when he starts and try to talk through what is upsetting him. Giving him an "angry pillow" he can hit may help avoid injury. Rarely, persistent headbanging can be a sign of a learning difficulty so if it continues have your GP check him out.

Q I HAVE arthritis and my GP told me that exercise will help the condition. But how can I when my joints are sore?

A EXERCISE can free up stiff joints and relieve pain in the long run. The trick is to have good pain management. It is also vital to look after your weight because any excess will further strain your joints.

Try swimming which will relieve pressure on the joints while allowing you to exercise.

Q MY dad swears by Anadin and went mad when I bought him normal paracetamol that was a fraction of the price. Is there any difference?

A THERE is no difference in the active ingredient, paracetamol.

Some brand name drugs claim to work faster or be gentler on the stomach due to the coating on the surface of the tablet.

Others contain additional medicines such as caffeine or an anti inflammatory.

None of these differences justifies the huge price differences between generic paracetamol and a brand name.

Q I HAVE had lower back pain for years and sessions with a chiropractor did not work. Am I doomed to take painkillers all my life as I really hate pills?

A A RECENT study in the BMJ showed back pain was significantly reduced in patients who were given lessons in the Alexander Technique.

The treatment is designed to improve posture when sitting and standing and has been popular for years among actors and dancers.

It helps to strengthen the back muscles and relieves strain on the spine.

The study showed that as few as six sessions could lead to a significant improvement.

Go online and search for a teacher in your area. It will certainly be cheaper than a chiropractor.