Back Pain

Lower back pain is a problem which can range from mild and occasional to severe and frequent. In its severe form it can cause serious restriction of movement. Even when it’s milder, lower back pain can be stressful and uncomfortable, especially when the condition is chronic.

The problem is a common one, with more than 30 million Americans suffering at any one time. There are several different causes for this type of pain, and a process of rehabilitation which many sufferers require.

Why do people suffer from lower back pain?

It’s often hard to establish the exact cause for lower back pain. In some cases, a person may experience pain that exists for more than one reason. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Activity that is too strenuous, or where correct movements are not used.
  • Trauma to the body as the result of an accident.
  • The effect that aging has on vertebrae and muscles.
  • The presence of an infection.
  • The presence of tumors.
  • The pressure of too much weight, caused by obesity.
  • Tension in the muscles.
  • A strain injury.
  • Ligament problems.
  • Conditions such as osteoarthritis and spondylitis.

The stages of rehabilitation from lower back pain

No matter what has caused the back pain, there are usually three parts of the rehabilitation process. The process starts with a diagnosis of the actual condition, so that a treatment plan can be produced. The diagnosis can be made by examining a patient’s notes and asking relevant questions. It may also be necessary to carry our further tests and procedures such as:

  • X-rays
  • Computed tomography (CAT) scans
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
  • Bone scans
  • Electromyogram (EMG)

Once the cause of the pain is known it’s possible to start managing it, and the next part of rehabilitation can begin.

This part involves helping the person suffering from the pain to begin functioning normally again. This could be as simple as encouraging the patient to resume normal daily activity; with the help of pain management. It may also involve the planning of a specific exercise regime for the patient. The introduction of specialised equipment, such as a massage chair, is often recommended at this stage. According to the experts at massagechaircompare.com;

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This introduction of new practices and equipment for the patient is followed by part three of the rehabilitation process. This involves helping the individual to try and avoid experiencing the same problems in the future. Advice is provided, about such factors as how to exercise safely and how to manage a healthy diet, to reduce the pressure of weight.

Managing rehabilitation from lower back pain requires careful consideration of the needs of the individual as well as a concerted effort, on the patient’s part, to deal with the pain and get their mobility back.