Overview
What is acute or chronic back pain or neck pain?
Generally, pain that comes on quickly is called acute back pain/neck pain. It is usually caused by a simple muscle/tendon or ligament strain and typically settles within a few weeks. For others, the pain may persist for several weeks, months or even years – this is called chronic back pain. Usually, spinal pain is due to a range of factors – which makes treating this type of pain an exciting challenge for our physiotherapists.
How can physiotherapy help back pain?
For most people with back pain or neck pain, 75-90% recover within a few weeks. Sometimes, however, back pain or neck pain can become more persistent, and symptoms may include more than just pain and stiffness. Attending a physiotherapist can often prevent this and help you to have a happier, healthier back in the future!
Physiotherapists are trained to treat all back pain and neck pain. Treatment may involve:
- education on the cause of your back pain
- exercise for your back, such as Pilates
- manipulations/mobilisations to move the joints of the spine
- acupuncture
- taping
- soft tissue techniques
- advice on postures while at work and school, and correct lifting techniques
Our specialist physiotherapists are hands-on in using the most up-to-date treatment techniques. We place a strong emphasis on rehab through exercise and Pilates to reduce your risk of re-injury.
Will I need to see my GP or a consultant?
If needed, our physiotherapy team can discuss outstanding issues with your GP and/or appropriate consultant. We can offer a prompt referral service to our team of Consultants and Pain Specialists. At Bon Secours Health System, we have consultants who specialise in different areas of the body, e.g., the spine, shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle/foot. Should x-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds, or Dexa scans be required, these can be arranged in our radiology department in liaison with your GP or consultant. Joint injection under ultrasound guidance may be beneficial to some patients for pain relief, allowing further rehabilitation with their physiotherapy.