Lower back pain beset Americans to the extent that 80% will suffer from it at some time in their lives. It is one of the most common reasons people visit the doctor. For many, the problem is more than a passing incident; they need physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy of different types can be used to treat lower back pain. Acupuncture is fast becoming an important method for the relief of such pain. The doctor has the patient lie face-down and inserts the acupuncture needles across specific areas at the back. The doctor then finishes the procedure for lower back pain. Pain relief after a series of treatments usually lasts months.
Massage is also used for lower back pain. The massage used must be done by a person well-versed in the treatment of lower back pain. A massage done by an untrained person may do more harm than good.
These methods are called passive therapies, or modalities. They are administered to the patient and not by the patient. There are other modalities that are also commonly used. Heat and ice packs are a well-known form of passive physiotherapy. They can be used separately, or they can be used alternately by a person who is suffering from acute lower back pain.
There is also the so called transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulater of TENS which can also be used to ease lower back pain. This works by stimulating specific areas in the back and in effect the patients mind will be focused on the sensations and less feeling of pain will follow. The patient can do this at home if he acquires a TENS unit.0
An effective passive therapy that can relieve acute lower back pain is the ultrasound. It works by delivering heat deep into the muscles of the lower back. This method can efficiently ease pain as well as speed up the healing process.
Back exercises may be assigned by a physiotherapist. These exercises will help to relieve lower back pain if one does them correctly and faithfully. The only exception is if the back is in an acute condition requiring emergency care or surgery.
The exercises that will help with lower back pain the most will be assigned and supervised by a physiotherapist. They may be done at home, but it will be necessary to follow instructions and check in with your physiotherapist frequently.
The exercises for lower back pain aims to stretch or extend the back and then strengthen it. An example exercise is to let the patient lie prone and moves as if the person is swimming. This effectively protects the back while giving the surrounding muscles a workout.
A lower back pain exercise is making the midsection stronger thereby supporting the back area, it is called flexion. This can be accomplished by performing a knee-to-chest exercise.
Aerobic exercise such as walking is excellent for reducing and preventing lower back pain as well. Modalities such as massage and acupuncture can be counted on to relieve pain for most patients. Exercises can make the back stronger and can relieve and prevent lower back pain. Any physiotherapy that can help relieve lower back pain will help millions of people.
