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Understanding
Back Problems
Specific questions on your back problem? Schedule a free
consultation in our office by calling 920.233.8739 or
click here.
What causes low back pain?
The spine is a complex series of vertebrae which are like
building blocks stacked on each other. Between the vertebrae
is a specialized ligament called the intervertebral disk.
The disk helps to absorb shock and allows the spine to
move. There are ligaments on the outside of the spine
and two small joints (facet joints) for each vertebrae
that help guide spinal movement. Movement is produced
by numerous muscles that pull on the spine. Any of these
spinal structures can produce pain. These structures are
present at every level of the spine so there are many
potential problem areas. Considering the movement of the
spine and the weight the spine carries it is surprising
that more people don’t have back pain. |
Potential
causes of back pain
• Excessive or repeated stress on back with lifting
and moving
• Weakness and tightness in leg muscles
• Poor core muscle strength in abdominal and trunk
muscles
• Poor posture or body mechanics that increase spinal
stress
• Restricted movement of the vertebrae
• Excessive motion of vertebrae (hypermobility)
• Spinal problems caused by spinal stress or injury
and aging
--Degenerative and herniated and bulging disks
--Spinal Stenosis
--Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis
--Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction
--Arthritis and Spondylosis |
How
is back pain treated?
Because there are so many causes of back pain there is
no single treatment that works for every back pain. Our
therapists perform a careful evaluation of the structure
of the spine, arms, and legs to determine the problems
that are causing your back pain. Even when the cause of
the pain is obvious, such as a traumatic injury, there
are factors that can make the pain and limitations worse.
Not addressing problems of the back and legs can make
a minor problem more severe over time, leading to degenerative
changes and weakness. Minor injuries or strains of the
low back usually do not require any treatment at all.
Pain relievers as needed and application of an ice pack
to the strained muscles 1-3 times per day for 2-3 days
is all that is needed. Exercise after a back injury is
frequently helpful to strengthen the spine. Severe or
persistent back pain and moderate pain that occurs more
than two times per year may indicate that some type of
treatment is needed. Even if your pain is mild, doing
a simple exercise may be all that is needed to eliminate
your pain and reduce long term wear and tear on your spine.
Excel Physical Therapy provides non-surgical treatment
of spinal disorders and dysfunction. Treatment starts
with a thorough biomechanical evaluation of the spine
to determine how the back and limbs are moving, assessing
how certain areas of the back are being stressed. Looking
at posture, lifestyles and job duties are also considered
as overall spinal stress is evaluated. There are a variety
of treatments that may be used to improve your mobility,
strength and decrease pain. Here are few treatment types
that may be used in spinal treatment: |
•
Spinal mobilization and manipulation – restores
movement in spine
• Soft tissue mobilization, massage
• Flexibility exercise in arms legs and trunk
• Leg strengthening exercise
• Trunk stabilization and strengthening exercise
(including abdominal and back muscles)
• Biofeedback to teach effective muscle use and
proper posture
• Modalities including ultrasound, ice, heat, electrical
stimulation to decrease pain
• Cardiovascular and endurance exercise |
Tips
for a Healthy Spine
Exercise regularly – This includes cardiovascular
or endurance training such as walking, running, or biking.
None of these activities is a complete exercise and
they usually involve movement of one area of the body.
Activities or exercises that improve or maintain strength
and flexibility are very important. Usually one activity
or sport is not enough for total fitness which is why
a balanced exercise program is needed. Improper exercise
can lead to increased stress on the spine and joints.
If you are unsure if you are doing a balanced exercise
program, some instruction may be needed.
Maintain safe and effective posture – There
is no one ideal posture for every activity. Keep the
natural curves in your back while you move, particularly
if you are doing a forceful or resisted activity. When
people talk about maintaining good posture or body mechanics,
they frequently say things like “lift with your
legs not your back” but are actually unsure of
how to do that properly. Changes in posture occur slowly
with time and can cause increased strain on your spine
and joints. Some of those changes can be avoided if
good posture and the proper balance of muscle strength
and flexibility are maintained. These are areas where
instruction by an experienced physical therapist can
be very helpful.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle – Proper
nutrition, exercise and adequate sleep are important
for a healthy spine. Quit smoking. Smoking is not only
bad for your lungs, it also slows and prevents normal
healing after in injury or surgery.
If
you have ongoing back pain, seek medical attention.
Click here to get
started. |
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