Back Pain - Physiotherapy
Last Updated on Monday, 07 November 2011 07:59
Physiotherapy and Back Pain
The number of people with disability due to back pain has risen dramatically in the last 50 years. Back pain is the largest single cause of sickness and absence from work, with 80% of britons suffering from back pain at one point in their lives. All age groups are affected but the most likely to suffer are aged thirty-five to fifty-five.
Recent studies show that patients who receive physiotherapy intervention have signifant reduction in pain and disability and significant increase in range of movement (Lewis and Co 2005, Goldby 2006).
Where Can I Find A Physiotherapist?
Your GP can refer you to an NHS physio, alternatively you can go to a private clinic. Physiotherapists should be registered to the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP) and the Health Professions Council (HPC). The qualifications of your therapist can be checked on the CSP and HPC websites.
What Does Physiotherapy Involve?
Physiotherapists are trained to diagnose problems in joints and soft tissue of the body. They carry out a comprehensive verbal and physical assessment before compiling a specific back pain treatment plan for your condition.
Physiotherapy intervention can help with the following types of back pain; Muscle strains or spasm, acute and chronic low back pain, whiplash, neck pain, headaches, sciatic pain, postural problems, facet joint dysfunction and pelvic dysfunctions.
Physiotherapy intervention for back pain may include; Heat or Ice therapy, hydrotherapy, massage, manipulation, mobilisations, muscle energy techniques, aerobic exercise and specific strengthening exercises including core stability exercises. Electrotherapy including ultrasound and LASER treatment may also be used.
What Does the Research Say?
In a study by Lewis and Co (2005), it was shown that a combination of mobilisations to the spine and stabilization exercises significantly reduced pain and disability and increased range of movement. Similarly Goldby (2006) and Hicks (2007) concluded that patients who received core stability exercises and spinal manipulations or mobilisations whilst returning to normal activities showed the best overall results in pain reduction, improved function and improved quality of life.Â
Amy Williams mcsp, hpc Berkshire Physiotherapy Centre.
www.berkshirephysio.co.uk
