Back pain is the most common problem many people face today. We can freely call it the condition of the modern age. You’ve probably asked yourself, can a physio fix back Pain?
Since the pandemic started, more and more people have started working from home. People have stopped moving and exercising. They’ve gotten used to sitting in their comfy chairs and not doing anything that requires moving and being active.
And back pain has become more and more prevalent.
Back pain can be caused by inflammation, stress, pulled tendons or muscles, osteoporosis, and arthritis. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be a terminal condition and a life-long problem. And there are ways to get rid of the annoying pain that gives you a hard time working out, bending over, or even walking.
If you’re wondering how physiotherapy helps with lower back treatment, you’re in the right place. We’re going to explain everything you need to know about this topic.
Physiotherapy and Low Back Pain
Low back pain is typically the primary cause of most physical disabilities, especially in people who sit constantly. Research shows that almost 70% of the worldwide population is likely to experience problems caused by lower back pain at least once in their life.
Physio is probably one of the most popular and effective forms of treatment that relieves almost all types of lower back problems. This type of therapy has two different modes. The first mode is a classical physical therapy treatment. The second is physiotherapy combined with various treatments, such as traction, short wave diathermy, massage, ultrasound, or heat.
The human back consists of the nerves, spine, ligaments, spinal cord, and muscles. It is a pretty complex part of our bodies and requires constant maintenance. Such a complex structure cannot sustain itself, but neither can it heal itself – especially when it comes to problematic episodes of back pain.
So, physiotherapy is the best way to keep your back healthy and continue with a normal life. Here are the leading conditions causing back pain that you can successfully treat with physical therapy.
Arthritis
Arthritis is the most common cause of lower back pain. Feelings of swelling and stiffness usually follow back pain caused by arthritis. This chronic condition usually lasts until a person gets the proper medical help.
Lower back pain caused by arthritis is called spinal arthritis. It occurs due to the inflammation of sacroiliac joints or facet joints, and you can treat it with physiotherapy even in an advanced stage.
Ligament or Muscle Strain
Almost everybody strains their muscles or ligaments once in their lives – especially people who are constantly active. For example, athletes are exposed to such injuries due to intense exercise. But people who are not so often active are more likely to suffer from muscle and ligament injuries.
Physiotherapy is a very successful way to recover your ligaments and muscles. At times, it can even eliminate the causes of back pain due to those injuries.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a chronic condition that can also cause severe back pain. Back pain problems caused by osteoporosis are usually very intense and exhausting, with symptoms often manifesting when walking or standing.
Osteoporosis causes compression fractures and can severely damage your spine, resulting in excruciating back pain. Physiotherapy is one way to reduce the progression of osteoporosis and relieve the lower back pain that it causes.
Ruptured or Bulging Spinal Discs
Spinal discs have a soft material that can sometimes rupture and press the nerves in your spine. This condition can usually pass without lower back pain. But in most cases, this type of pain is the tell-tale sign you have ruptured or bulging spinal discs.
If you sustain a spinal disc injury, your doctor will certainly suggest you go to a physiotherapist in addition to the necessary medical therapy.
Why Would You Need Physiotherapy for Backache?
You do not need a doctor’s recommendation to visit physiotherapists. So, you can go at any time and seek advice from an expert.
It’s best to get expert advice early on to help fix the problem and stop it from returning.
Types Of Physical Therapies Involved In Back Pain
The physical therapy plan is determined by the level of injury and the ability to move. The physiotherapist first performs a detailed check to determine if the problem requires therapy, and which therapy would suit your quick recovery.
However, there are two main types of physical therapy: active and passive. Let’s see what they include.
Active Physiotherapy
Active physical therapy is a good option for treating lower back pain. It includes stretching and exercising. These are the most common models and techniques of active physical therapy:
- Overall rehabilitation exercising (therapeutic)
- Strength training with stretching
- Low-impact aerobic conditioning
Passive Physiotherapy
Passive physical therapy is generally recommended for people with severe injuries and limited mobility. Here’s what passive physical therapy includes:
- Occasional electrotherapy (TENS)
- Sports massage
- Cold and hot muscle and specific area treatment
- Ultrasound
- Iontophoresis
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing back pain, don’t ignore it. You can contact One Body LDN – London pain clinic, ask for expert medical advice, and start with the treatment immediately. The longer you avoid physiotherapy, the longer it will take you to eliminate the pain affecting your quality of life.
FAQs
Which physiotherapy is best for back pain?
It depends on the cause of the injury and the condition causing the back pain. However, physiotherapists will recommend the most suitable type of therapy based on your current situation and ability to move.
Does physio make back pain worse?
Physiotherapy usually doesn’t hurt and won’t worsen back pain. Physical therapy might cause significant discomfort in some cases, and your body may be sore after some tense stretching exercise or massage. Overall, you will undoubtedly feel minor discomfort, but that’s the price you need to pay to get rid of the back pain for good.
Is physical therapy worth it for back pain?
Physical therapy is probably the most effective treatment for back pain issues. It can help you uncover and treat the cause of back pain problems. Even if it seems to you that physical therapy lasts too long, you will see that it was worth waiting.
