Do you suffer from back pain?

Do you regularly experience back pain? Do you feel it when you get up in the morning or at the end of the day; after sitting or standing for a long time, or after physical effort

Take the time to educate yourself

Lumbar sprains (or lumbago) can be caused by making a sudden, forceful or awkward movement or by performing a repetitive task with your back in an inappropriate position. The result can be injured muscles, ligaments or spinal discs. It is very important not to ignore this type of pain. If the problem re-occurs or if the injury is serious, it could result in a herniated disc.

Back problems can cause radiating pain in the legs (referred pain), such as sciatica, as well as numbness or weakness. Although symptoms may be felt in the leg, the treatment must still take into account the site where the problem originated, in the lumbar area.

Osteoarthritis is wear and tear of the spine, and is accompanied by pain and stiffness. These symptoms can be relieved and controlled with treatment and appropriate exercises.

Possible Causes

Back problems are complex. There are various possible causes, such as:

• Poor sitting and/or standing posture
• Inappropriate work practices
• A fall or accident
• A degenerative disease

Evaluation and Treatment

After conducting an evaluation, your physiotherapist will be able to explain any problems detected and establish with you the goals and duration of treatment. The physiotherapist will select the treatments best suited to your condition: heat or ice, stretching and strengthening exercises, massage, traction, manual therapy or electrotherapy.

Once the acute phase is over, you may need to consult an occupational therapist to set-up a work hardening program and work task simulation, and to learn about proper posture.

Do you have persistent acute pain, or do you suffer from regularly occurring pain that is gradually getting stronger? Prevent it from getting worse or becoming chronic: ask your physiotherapist or occupational therapist about appropriate exercises and treatment.

Consult your physiotherapist or occupational therapist

They can:

• Inform you about your condition;
• Teach you an exercise program you can do at home;
• Provide you with suitable treatment.

Don’t forget the basic rules:

• Do stretching exercises.
• Get regular physical exercise.
• Watch your posture.
• Place your work within easy reach.
• Observe good work practices.