A Pain in the Back.. - Physio FIT
15851
post-template-default,single,single-post,postid-15851,single-format-standard,ajax_fade,page_not_loaded,,qode_grid_1200,qode-content-sidebar-responsive,qode-theme-ver-11.1,qode-theme-bridge,wpb-js-composer js-comp-ver-5.1.1,vc_responsive
 

A Pain in the Back..

A Pain in the Back..

Do you suffer from low back pain?

It is unsurprising if you do, as studies have shown that nearly 80% of Australians will experience low back pain at some stage in their lifetime. Here at PhysioFit it is the most commonly treated condition we see and we pride ourselves on getting most of our acute low back pain patients back to their pre-injury state. Chronic back pain is also a common problem that can be eased with physiotherapy. Read on to learn more…

Pain in the lower back usually arises from structures which are either too tight (hypomobile) or too loose (hypermobile). In most cases, a combination of both contributes to the problem, except in pregnancy where hypermobility is the main issue.

Low back pain can arise from the lower spinal segments and/or the sacroiliac joints, which are at the back of the pelvis. A spinal segment is made up of the vertebra, disc and two facet joints, as well as many ligaments, nerves and muscles. Any of these structures are able to produce pain.

The facet joints are small joints that run down either side of the spine, connecting the vertebrae. The disc is a pad of ligamentous tissue that contains a gel-like substance. It sits in-between each vertebra and acts as a shock-absorber for the jarring that normal back movements create.

Jarring leads to wearing of the disc, ligaments and joint capsules, and sometimes also the nerves that exit the spine to travel down the legs. This is why it is not uncommon to have leg pain accompanying a back problem. The most common ways of injuring the discs in the lower back are bending, twisting and lifting.

 

Usual symptoms include

  • Pain in the back, and occasionally the legs
  • Difficulty with everyday activities, such as dressing
  • Pain/discomfort sitting, particularly in slumped positions like that in a car or couch
  • Pain with coughing and sneezing
  • Difficulty sleeping

What PhysioFit can do to help

  • Massage and gentle joint mobilisation to help relieve pain and restore movement
  • Posture re-education (and lifting technique if necessary)
  • Specific abdominal exercises strengthen the muscles that support the back
  • Graduated return to daily and sporting activities
  • Advice  and exercises to prevent recurrence
  • Tailor a Pilates program to provide ongoing pain relief

 

Will I have back pain for life?

Acute back pain does not necessarily mean a life of ongoing debilitating pain. It is important that you work with your physiotherapist and doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. All too often a generic diagnosis of a ‘back strain’ is given. Without a specific diagnosis, treatment administered may not be optimal.

Once a diagnosis is given ensure you have a basic understanding of what the implications are for you and your lifestyle. Your physiotherapist can work with you to tailor a specific rehabilitation program and, just as importantly, set in a place a longer-term management plan to minimise acute episodes of pain in the future…