Injuries can strike anyone, from professional athletes to desk workers, making physiotherapy an essential tool for recovery and rehabilitation. But among the various injuries treated in physiotherapy, certain types stand out as more frequent. At Next Step Physiotherapy Edmonton, we’ve observed that lower back pain and associated injuries are among the most common reasons people seek physiotherapy care. Let’s explore why this type of injury is so prevalent, its impact, and how physiotherapy can help.
Why is Lower Back Pain So Common?
Lower back pain is often classified as a musculoskeletal injury and can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. It’s a leading cause of disability worldwide and accounts for a significant number of physiotherapy visits. Several factors contribute to its prevalence:
Sedentary Lifestyles
Modern life involves prolonged periods of sitting—whether at desks, in cars, or on couches. This inactivity leads to poor posture, weakened core muscles, and stress on the lumbar spine.
Workplace Strain
Jobs that require heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or prolonged standing can put strain on the lower back, leading to overuse injuries or acute strains.
Sports and Physical Activities
Athletes and active individuals are also susceptible to lower back injuries, often from improper form, overtraining, or accidents.
Aging Process
Degenerative changes in the spine, such as herniated discs or arthritis, become more common with age, leading to chronic lower back pain.
Other Common Injuries Treated in Physiotherapy
While lower back injuries are the most common, other injuries frequently treated at Next Step Physiotherapy include:
Shoulder Injuries
Conditions like rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, and impingement syndromes are often seen in patients ranging from athletes to those with sedentary jobs.
Knee Pain and Injuries
Issues such as patellofemoral pain syndrome, ligament tears (e.g., ACL), and osteoarthritis frequently bring patients to physiotherapy clinics.
Neck Pain
Caused by poor posture, whiplash, or tension, neck pain is another common complaint addressed by physiotherapists.
Ankle Sprains
This injury is particularly common in active individuals and athletes, requiring targeted rehabilitation to restore mobility and prevent recurrence.
Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow
Overuse injuries affecting the elbow are common in sports enthusiasts and manual laborers.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Injury Management
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing these injuries by focusing on pain relief, restoring function, and preventing future issues. Here’s how:
Comprehensive Assessment
At Next Step Physiotherapy, our approach begins with a detailed evaluation of your condition, including physical tests and a review of your medical history. This helps us pinpoint the exact cause of your pain or dysfunction.
Pain Management
Treatment often includes modalities like heat therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
Restoring Mobility and Strength
Targeted exercises and manual therapy are used to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles supporting the injured area.
Education and Prevention
Physiotherapists provide guidance on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle changes to help patients avoid re-injury. For athletes, we focus on proper techniques and training routines.
Tips for Preventing Common Injuries
While physiotherapy is effective for treating injuries, prevention is always better.
Stay Active: Regular exercise, particularly core-strengthening workouts, helps support your spine and joints.
Use Proper Techniques: When lifting heavy objects or playing sports, ensure you’re using the correct form.
Take Breaks: Avoid sitting or standing for long periods without a break to stretch and move.
Lower back injuries may be the most common issue treated in physiotherapy, but they’re far from the only ones. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an accident, or looking to improve your physical function, physiotherapy can help. At Next Step Physiotherapy in Edmonton, our experienced team is here to provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs.
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