Osteopathy

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Back and Neck Pain

Back pain affects 80% of Australians, and Osteopaths treat patients with a wide variety of presentations, ranging anywhere from just a bit of stiffness to a pain so severe that any movement is impossible. Back pain can be accompanied by numbness and tingling in the extremities, pain shooting down the back of the legs, or even bowel problems like constipation.

Whatever the symptoms, Osteopaths are trained specialists who are qualified to establish the likely cause of your discomfort, whether it be a disc problem or just a strain; and they can assist you on your road to recovery.

Causes of Back Pain

The most common causes are:

• Poor posture

• Work related injury

• Muscular spasm or strains

• Poor lifting techniques

• Sudden twisting

• Poor mattress and/or pillow

• Pregnancy related changes in the body

• Poor core stability of the low back

• Sports injuries

Osteopathic Treatment

Goals

In acute (recent) back injuries, the short term aim would be to reduce the inflammation and muscle spasms of the back, and improve the biomechanics of all joints in the related areas to allow better function of the body. Then, steps can be taken to ensure prevention of further injuries.

In patients with chronic back pain (longer history of problems), the aim is to reduce muscle tightness, improve movement, increase circulation and nerve supply to the area in order for better function of the body. Then the initial cause of the back pain is addressed. For example, if poor posture is to blame, steps are taken to ensure that optimal posture is returned.

Manual Treatment

Helps the soft tissues and joints of the musculoskeletal system to adjust to body stresses and return to normal. It helps prepare muscles, joints, ligaments and supporting soft tissues to better accept positive changes.

Education

It is important to learn correct lifting techniques, prevent slumping, awkward seated or standing position, and improve postural awareness.

Exercise Program

Including muscle strengthening and stretching can assist in maintaining optimal posture, and core stability exercises can prevent future relapses.

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