Although Back Awareness week was in September, it is never too late to learn how to take care of your back. Viranna and Bodha Physiotherapists share some of their knowledge and expertise with us. Physiotherapy is a health care profession that assesses, diagnoses, treats and works to prevent disease and disability through physical means. Physiotherapists are skilled professionals that use a variety of techniques to help your muscles and joints work to their full potential. They are first-line practitioners who are clinically trained according to scientific evidence to assess, diagnose and treat back pain using modalities such as electrotherapy, dry needling, spinal mobilisations and exercise programmes, taking into consideration your lifestyle and capabilities. “Patients are still able to come directly to us; however we still work in close collaboration with our medical colleagues namely GPs, spinal orthopaedic surgeons and neurologist etc.,” explains Eddie Bodha. Their assessment and clinical diagnosis is often supported by further investigations such as x-rays and MRI scans.
Some of the frequent causes of back pain include:
• Strained muscles or ligaments • A muscle spasm • Muscle tension • Damaged or prolapsed disks.
During Back Awareness Week, Physiotherapists aim towards promoting the prevention of back injury through proper biomechanics, ergonomics, posture and exercises. In promoting back care among our youth, especially scholars, proper carrying techniques of their heavy school bags forms an integral part of maintaining good posture and alignment of the spine.
Five tips to remember:
• Don’t sit for more than 30 minutes. • Change your position frequently • Bend your knees and not your back when lifting objects • Regular core strengthening exercises • Good ergonomics in the workplace = good posture = no pain!
Source: Viranna and Bodha Physiotherapists