Back Pain A Clinical Perspective ~ Mary McCance MSc MCSP Ullswater Physiotherapy & Sports Injuries Clinic Skirsgill Business Park Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0FA
What is Back Pain?
Understanding Back Pain It’s the most common presentation in my clinical practice and it’s rarely just about the spine…. Factors Include: Biological Social / Environmental Psychological
Biological Factors in Back Pain Variations from the ‘norm’ are actually quite normal MRI findings do not always correlate with back pain Pain is created 100% of the time in the brain, not in the ‘damaged’ muscles / discs / joints etc.
Psychological Factors in Back Pain “Pain = Damage” Withdrawal from activity = Disability “No Pain = No Gain” Push on with activity = Maintenance of fitness and function Fear / pain / movement / disability / chronic cycle
Social / Environmental Factors Exercise & activity levels General health Family history Smoking Prolonged sitting Prolonged working in confined / awkward spaces Medico-legal influences “Where there’s blame there’s a claim”
How Can Back Pain be Treated? Encourage activity Understand reoccurrence is common Multiple treatment & management strategies Individualised approach for best prognosis Thorough assessment, examination & and evaluation of bio-psycho-social factors Clinical evidence is clear SIT LESS MOVE MORE!!!!! Education regarding fear of pain – “Effective reassurance is a bloody good pain killer “ Louis Gifford
Self-care & Practical Management Keep moving and continue with daily tasks as able Avoid prolonged sitting get up and move frequently Visit your Pharmacist / GP to discuss pain medication Heat can help to ease pain and stiffness Use back exercises to ease symptoms as illustrated If symptoms don’t settle within a few days of self- care consider seeing a Chartered Physiotherapist for a detailed and individualised assessment & treatment
Useful exercises in the prevention and management of back pain, stiffness & soreness The best treatment for stiffness is movement Exercise & education Normal movement
Any Questions?
Ullswater Physiotherapy & Sports Injuries Clinic Skirsgill Business Park Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0FA Instagram: Ullswater_Physiotherapy