Acute back pain


Back pain is probably the most widespread, common, and potentially disabling injury in modern society.

It is also one of the most misunderstood.

It is commonly thought that prompt diagnosis and treatment of sudden onset (often called acute) back pain by well qualified physiotherapists gives those suffering from acute back pain, the best chance to resolve this problem quickly and avoid longer term problems and re-occurrence.

What you may feel:

You may have:

How does it happen?

Often back injuries happen when you least expect it and with any movements:

What is the cause?

The joints in your back have ligaments, cartilage and a capsule just like any other joint in your body.

And just like you can sprain your ankle or thumb, you can also sprain your back joints.

This causes the same response, as if you had sprained your ankle – pain and swelling etc

What should you do?

Initially you should perform:

Make an appointment with your physiotherapist for assessment, treatment and advice

You should avoid:

Research has shown that X-rays provide little or no help in diagnosis acute back pain, and in many cases can provide false and misleading causes of the pain.

How long before you have recovered?

It depends on the severity of the injury. A back sprain can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Usually with physiotherapy and a home exercise program you will feel a lot better within a week.

You may not be completely free of pain but you will be able to function a lot better and with decreased pain

Click here to find your closest Lifecare clinic.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT A LIFECARE CLINIC NEAR YOU.

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