I was just reading about types of low back pain, and it got me thinking about some of the advice that people tell us they have received from other therapists or medically trained persons and it drives me crazy. So, I’ve decided to get it straightened out!
The worst thing you can do if you have suffered an acute back injury is lie down and rest. Do not lie down and do nothing for days. This will just prolong your misery. It will take you longer to get better.
When we say rest – this is relative rest. We do expect you to stop sport, running, lifting, repetitive bending. And certainly sitting on the couch in a slumped position should also be avoided. BUT… backs love movement. Movement decreases the pain by pain gating (ties the pain receptors up with movement messages so they can’t pass on messages of pain – like shaking your hand after you burn yourself). Movement decreases muscle spasm (and therefore also reduces pain). Movement helps to normalize the nerve input, desensitizing the central nervous system (decreasing pain sensation). Movement helps to use the muscle pump system to move swelling fluid away from the injury and to increase the blood supply into the area. By movement, I mean gentle walking, getting up regularly from sitting, changing positions, doing your prescribed exercises.
The exercises we give you are like first aid for your back. We will progress your treatment and your exercises as you improve. This is the best and fastest way to recovery.
So…. Pleeeeaaaase don’t lay down to recover from your back injury. instead, come see one of our expertly trained physiotherapists as soon as you can, and we will get you back on your feet.
So, if you are experiencing this come see us a Miami and Lakelands Physiotherapy and we can help you get on top of it.
Miami Ph: 9534 4111
Lakelands Ph: 9542 9999
