Are you suffering from lower back pain? Know that you are not alone. It is a very common condition that several injuries and diseases can bring on. Lower back pain doesn’t affect just adults; even young kids may suffer from this condition. Lower back pain isn’t always serious and can heal on its own. However, in some patients, the condition can be debilitating. This condition should never be ignored and if the pain is severe, we recommend taking time off work or school to consult a physician. But what can you do to alleviate the pain holistically? Physiotherapy! It is very effective and uses a multi-disciplinary approach in the management of pain and treatment. If you are looking for a reliable physiotherapists in Singapore, you have come to the right place. Read on to find out more about managing your backache with physiotherapy.
Lower back pain
Lower back pain usually originates from the lumbar region (lower vertebrae – L1 to L5); this area bears the majority of the upper body weight. The muscles in the lower back support the spinal cord and are responsible for the flexion and rotation of the hips while walking. Therefore, an injury to any of these muscles or tendons (ligaments that attach muscle to bone) can result in back pain. In addition, this condition can be accompanied by muscle spasms and limited mobility.
Lower back pain usually arises due to poor posture and strain from repetitive movements. But there are other causes, and they include:
- Disc prolapse or slip disc
- Fractures
- Muscle tears
- Osteoarthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Sciatica
- Scoliosis
- Spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
What are the common symptoms and signs of lower back pain?
This pain can develop in a range of intensities from a dull, persistent ache to a sudden, sharp, or shooting pain.
Dull and aching pain
A deep and persistent pain in the back that usually doesn’t stop the patient from carrying out daily activities is referred to as a dull pain. These aches may be accompanied by muscle spasms and may even radiate to the lower part of the body.
Sharp, tingling pain
Sometimes the pain may travel to the buttocks, legs and feet and cause sharp, stinging pain, and a numbing sensation. This usually occurs in patients with sciatica (nerve pain in the leg).
Bending or picking up something may worsen the pain, and you might hear a ‘pop’ sound if there is excessive strain on the back. Sitting for extended periods of time may also worsen lower back pain as it adds extra pressure on the spinal discs. This is known as mechanical or acute back pain. This can be relieved by changing the posture or by walking and stretching. However, the pain may return if you return to a sitting position. Stiff muscles and posture issues can also contribute to lower back pain.
Physiotherapy and lower back pain
What is physiotherapy? Physiotherapy, or physical therapy, is one of the most popular forms of treatment utilised to alleviate lower back pain. Physiotherapy treatment can be applied in one of two ways: either as a single line of treatment or in conjunction with other therapies. Your physiotherapist in Singapore may use massages, exercises, heat, laser, shockwave therapy, and other techniques to treat you.
As with every other treatment approach, the end goal of physiotherapy treatment is to promote recovery and relieve pain. The establishment of goals between physical therapists and their patients is a crucial and intricate aspect of physiotherapeutic interventions. Setting goals can lead to greater client satisfaction and better recovery.
Short-term goals
Short-term targets are ideal for motivating and encouraging the patient to continue the treatment. The goals should be realistic for the individual to achieve them and avoid any unnecessary disappointment.
Long-term goals
These are set to provide the patient with an understanding of what they expect to achieve from their recovery process.
A standard method of goal-setting used in physical therapy is ‘SMART’ goals, this acronym has a few variations, but the most commonly adapted labels are:
S – Specific
M – Measurable
A – Attainable
R – Realistic
T – Time-bound
Short- and long-term goals help to reduce pain, improve lower back function, increase flexibility, and prevent recurring back issues.
Physical therapies used to manage back pain
Every physical therapy treatment plan consists of two primary components: active and passive physical therapy. You will receive a customised plan for your back pain treatment in Singapore that will be tailored according to your condition and treatment goals.
Active physical therapy
This therapy plays an integral role in the rehabilitation of the spine and will include an exercise programme with the following:
- Core-strengthening exercises
- Lumbar stabilisation exercises
- Aerobic exercises
- Postural training
Passive physical therapy
In cases where an exercise plan is not suitable – if you are not able to exercise or are in too much pain – your therapist may consider the following:
- Electrical stimulation (TENS)
- Heat or ice packs
- Iontophoresis
- Ultrasound
- Laser therapy
Pain management with River Physio
Are you searching for a good therapist for your back pain? Your search stops here. You won’t have to key in the words ‘physiotherapy near me’ anymore. Get treated by the best physiotherapists in Singapore at River Physio. You might feel a bit overwhelmed and anxious if you have never been to a physiotherapist before. This is perfectly natural, and we understand your sentiments. Don’t worry. Our dedicated and highly experienced team of professionals at River Physio has got you covered. Contact us and get access to the best back pain treatment in Singapore now!
