Back Pain Treatment Brisbane
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Back Pain is exceptionally common amongst office workers in Brisbane today. Sitting in a chair for long periods of time weakens the muscles and joints around the back, causing pressure to be placed on the lower back muscles.
What is Back Pain?
Back pain Brisbane is often caused by a musculoskeletal dysfunction. People injure their backs as part of their work duties, especially if they work in blue-collar industries. Back muscles can also be strained over time and this is very common for white-collar workers who spend most of their day sitting down.
How Common Is Back Pain?
Interestingly, back pain is the 3rd most common reason why people choose to consult with their local GP and the most common injury that physiotherapists and chiropractors address. It is also the most common cause of disability for people in Australia. Some estimates suggest that up to 80% of the Brisbane population will experience significant back pain at some point in their lives.
It will usually take individuals an average of 8 weeks to recover from an episode of back pain. However, a large number of patients choose to suffer in silence with back pain and never get it properly treated.
When Should I Seek Treatment?
It is important to know the difference between short-term back soreness and back pain that requires a trip to the doctor’s or physio’s office to treat. If back pain persists for more than 3 days it is recommended that you do something about it! Research suggests that if you seek treatment within 8 weeks of symptom onset then you have the best chance of recovery and treatment.
What About Sciatica?
The sciatic nerve runs from the back, pelvis, buttock and into the top section of the thigh. This back condition is usually caused by an irritation of the nerve. Pain is usually felt in the lower back and lumbar disc. Causes are:
- Compression of the spine
- Compression of pelvis
- Tightness of upper hamstring
- Chemical inflammation
Sciatica will often occur after lifting weights with incorrect technique. Your physio or chiropractor will do a complete assessment to make sure that you are in fact suffering sciatica. Usually, a physical examination is all that is required. However, CT and MRI scanning are also used from time to time if required.
Most cases will settle over a 2-4 month period without any direct intervention. Treatment will involve a combination of physical therapy and exercises. Low-level pain medication or anti-inflammatories may also be prescribed by your GP as a way of managing to pain in the short-medium term.
Want to know more? Why not call our office on 3857 3777 to speak with one of our GPs and/ or chiropractors today.
At Ubuntu Medical, we also specialise in treating Chronic Pain.