Back Pain and Neck Pain
Back pain and neck pain
Most people worldwide will experience back pain or neck pain during their lifetime. It can be disabling and worrying but it is also common and rarely dangerous.
Causes of lower back pain.
There are a number of causes of lower back pain. Two of the most common causes of low back pain is poor posture and lack of appropriate exercise.
The human body is designed to move but unfortunately, for many of us we spend long periods of time sitting. This is bad news for our joints as they rely on movement to stay healthy. The joints in our spine are called Synovial joints as they produce a fluid called synovium, which both lubricates and provides nutrition for our joints. However this fluid is only produced when the joints move. If there is too little fluid produced, our joints become stiff and sore. Also, when we sit for long periods of time or lift a heavy load we put pressure on our intervertebral discs. Constant or sudden pressure can
cause bulging to the back of the disc resulting in soft tissue damage, inflammation and swelling. This can also stimulate other nerve receptors in the vertebrate, spinal nerve, ligaments and muscles causing us pain.
What should you do?
If you suffer from lower back pain, try to stay as active as possible. Scientific research indicates that prolonged rest and limited activity actually leads to higher levels of pain and greater disability.
The spine is a strong, stable structure and not easily damaged so in most instances it is a simple sprain or strain. However some people can experience repeat episodes, which can be distressing.
To relive pain, try to avoid aggravating activities. While it is normal to move differently and slowly in the first few days of having back pain, this altered movement can be unhealthy if continued in the long-term.
It is important to try and stay as active as possible. Getting your activity levels back gradually will help speed up the recovery process. Remember to start slowly and build up the intensity.
How we treat your back pain.
At Balance Physiotherapy, we will provide you with a thorough assessment in order to diagnose the cause of your low back pain. It is important that you receive the correct diagnosis in order to treat the condition successfully. At Balance Physio we use a range of techniques that will not only improve your current health and wellbeing but will also significantly reduce your chances of future episodes of pain.