low back pain (Jenna)

Back pain is a general umbrella term that includes pain in the lower, middle, or upper back (often in the lumbar, thoracic, or even cervical regions of the spine). Low back pain specifically is experienced by most individuals at one point or another, and may result from a variety of conditions, including nerve and muscular problems, degenerative disc disease, sports injury, or arthritis. The symptoms of back pain and their persistence also varies inter-individually. However, physiotherapy can help treat the symptoms of back pain and, in most cases, minimize the recurrence of back pain over time by addressing the underlying cause. 

symptoms

  • Pain in the upper, middle, or lower back
    • Pain may be acute, subacute, or chronic
    • Pain may be alleviated by switching postural positions (i.e. sitting to lying down, etc.)

causes

Back pain can occur due to a variety of reasons, including (but not limited to):
  • Muscle or ligament sprain/strain
  • Disc herniation
  • Joint dysfunction 
  • Arthritis
  • Trauma
  • Compression fracture
  • Muscle imbalances or postural issues

treatment

  • Heat/Ice therapy
  • Short rest period
  • Activity modification
  • Pain medication 
  • Physiotherapy
    • Stretching and strengthening exercises
    • Manual therapy
  • Massage therapy

how does physiotherapy help?

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  • The physical adjustments made with manual therapy may help to improve mobility, reduce muscle stiffness, and minimize discomfort and pain 
  • Intramuscular stimulation (IMS) induces local inflammation to improve blood flow, aid in healing, and reduce pain 
    • Promotes relaxation of the injured and surrounding muscles, reducing any pain due to spinal nerve impingement or joint compression
  • Ice/heat therapy improves blood flow and reduces pain
  • Exercise prescription and modification will help in strengthening adjacent supporting muscles to relieve pain stemming from muscle imbalances or postural issues
    • Certain stretching and strengthening exercises can also help improve general function and reduce the risk of injury or further pain
  • Posture assessment and adjustment is often necessary to target back pain associated with misaligned joints and muscle imbalances