Understanding Back Pain and Schmorl’s Nodes | Effective Back Pain Management Through Physiotherapy | Blog by CB Physiotherapy, Active Healing for Pain Free Life.

 

Schmorl’s Nodes, though often overlooked, can be a significant factor in the experience of back pain for many individuals. Understanding the relationship between Schmorl’s Nodes and back pain is crucial for effective management and treatment. In this blog, we’ll explore how and why Schmorl’s Nodes can contribute to back pain and discuss the invaluable role of physiotherapy in addressing this issue.

Understanding Schmorl’s Nodes

What are Schmorl’s Nodes? Schmorl’s Nodes are herniations of intervertebral disc material into the vertebral body itself. Unlike traditional disc herniations that protrude outward, Schmorl’s Nodes involve the displacement of disc material into the spongy bone of the vertebrae. These nodes can occur at any level of the spine and are often detected incidentally in imaging studies.

Why Do Schmorl’s Nodes Cause Back Pain?
Schmorl’s Nodes can be a source of back pain due to several factors:

1: Compression of Nerves: When a Schmorl’s Node protrudes into the vertebral body, it can compress nearby nerves, leading to pain that radiates from the spine to other areas of the body.

2: Inflammation: A Schmorl’s Node can trigger an inflammatory response in the surrounding tissues, resulting in localized pain and discomfort.

3: Altered Spinal Mechanics: The displacement of disc material into the vertebral body can disrupt the normal biomechanics of the spine, leading to increased stress on surrounding structures and contributing to pain.

4: Degenerative Changes: Schmorl’s Nodes are often associated with degenerative changes in the spine, such as osteoarthritis and disc degeneration, which can further exacerbate pain symptoms.

Role of Physiotherapy

How Physiotherapy Can Help?
Physiotherapy is crucial in managing back pain caused by Schmorl’s Nodes. Here’s how physiotherapy interventions can effectively address this issue:

1: Pain Management: Physiotherapists employ various modalities, such as heat therapy, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound therapy, manual therapy, and dry needling, to alleviate pain associated with Schmorl’s Nodes.

2: Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises targeting the muscles surrounding the spine can improve stability and support, reducing the strain on affected vertebrae and alleviating pain.

3: Core Stability Training: Strengthening the core muscles helps improve spinal alignment and stability, reducing the likelihood of exacerbating symptoms.

4: Postural Correction: Physiotherapists guide maintaining proper posture during daily activities to alleviate strain on the spine and prevent further complications.

5: Flexibility and Range of Motion Exercises: Stretching and mobilization techniques help improve flexibility and range of motion in the spine, reducing stiffness and discomfort associated with Schmorl’s Nodes.

6: Education and Lifestyle Modification: Physiotherapists educate patients about lifestyle modifications, ergonomic principles, and proper body mechanics to minimize strain on the spine and prevent the recurrence of symptoms.

Schmorl’s Nodes can indeed be a source of back pain, impacting the quality of life for those affected. However, through a comprehensive approach that includes physiotherapy interventions, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and improve spinal health. By understanding the connection between Schmorl’s Nodes and back pain and recognizing the vital role of physiotherapy in addressing this issue, individuals can take proactive steps toward recovery and long-term well-being.

Stressed Spine, Stiff Movements? Relieve Ligamentum Flavum Hypertrophy with the Help of Physiotherapy | Blog by CB Physiotherapy, Active Healing for Pain Free Life.

 

Ligamentum Flavum Hypertrophy might sound like a mouthful, but for those experiencing its effects, it’s much more than just a medical term-it’s a source of discomfort, back pain, and limited mobility. This condition, characterized by the thickening of the ligamentum flavum in the spinal canal, can significantly impact one’s quality of life. However, amidst the challenges it presents, there lies hope in the form of Physiotherapy-a multifaceted approach that offers relief and restoration. Let’s delve into the intricacies of ligamentum flavum hypertrophy and explore the pivotal role physiotherapy plays in managing this condition.

What is Ligamentum Flavum Hypertrophy?

Before delving into the specifics, let’s unravel the anatomy behind ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. The ligamentum flavum, situated within the spinal column, serves as a crucial stabilizer. Composed of elastic fibers, it connects adjacent vertebrae while allowing flexibility and resilience. However, various factors such as aging, repetitive stress, or spinal degeneration can trigger hypertrophy-a process where the ligament thickens and compresses the spinal canal.

As this thickening progresses, it narrows the spinal canal, leading to spinal stenosis-a condition characterized by the compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots. Consequently, individuals may experience symptoms ranging from localized back pain and stiffness to radiating pain, numbness, and weakness in the limbs. The severity of symptoms can vary, with some experiencing mild discomfort while others endure debilitating pain and functional limitations.

Understanding the “Yellow Ligament”

Imagine a series of stacked building blocks representing your spine. Nestled between these blocks, connecting them at the back lies the ligamentum flavum. This ligament, aptly named for its yellowish hue, is composed of elastic fibers and collagen, acting as a vital stabilizer for your spine. It restricts excessive forward bending and supports the spinal column during various movements.

Role of Physiotherapy in Managing Ligamentum Flavum Hypertrophy

Physiotherapy emerges as a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with the challenges posed by ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. Unlike invasive interventions, physiotherapy adopts a holistic approach, addressing not just the symptoms but also the underlying causes and functional deficits. Here’s how physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in managing this condition:

1: Pain Management:
Pain often serves as a primary concern for individuals with ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. Physiotherapists employ various modalities such as heat therapy, cold therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain and discomfort. Additionally, manual therapy techniques like soft tissue mobilization and joint manipulation target specific areas of tension, promoting relaxation and pain relief.

2: Strengthening and Stability:
Weakness and instability in the surrounding musculature can exacerbate the effects of ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. Physiotherapy emphasizes targeted exercises to strengthen the core muscles, including the abdominal, back, and pelvic muscles. By enhancing stability and supporting the spinal column, these exercises mitigate stress on the ligaments and promote proper alignment, reducing the risk of further complications.

3: Flexibility and Range of Motion:
Restricted mobility is a common consequence of ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. Physiotherapists employ stretching exercises and manual techniques to improve flexibility and restore range of motion in the spine and surrounding joints. These interventions aim to counteract the stiffness and rigidity associated with hypertrophy, enabling individuals to perform daily activities with greater ease and comfort.

4: Posture Correction:
Poor posture exacerbates spinal compression and contributes to discomfort and dysfunction. Physiotherapy emphasizes postural awareness and correction techniques to alleviate strain on the spine and optimize alignment. Through targeted exercises and ergonomic modifications, individuals learn to maintain proper posture during various activities, reducing the burden on the ligaments and promoting spinal health.

In conclusion, ligamentum flavum hypertrophy presents significant challenges, but with the right approach, relief and restoration are attainable. Physiotherapy stands as a cornerstone in the management of this condition, offering a comprehensive array of interventions to alleviate pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life. By embracing a holistic approach that addresses the multifaceted aspects of ligamentum flavum hypertrophy, individuals can embark on a journey toward recovery and reclaim control over their health and well-being.

Back In Action: Treating And Preventing Back Pain By Physiotherapy

 Back pain is a common ailment that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it's due to a sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, or an injury, back pain can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. While various treatment options are available, physiotherapy has emerged as an effective approach for treating and preventing back pain. In this blog, we will delve into the world of physiotherapy and explore how it can help individuals get back in action and alleviate their back pain.

Before we delve into the role of physiotherapy in treating back pain, it's essential to understand the various factors that contribute to it. Back pain can be caused by muscle strains, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, poor posture, or even stress. Moreover, factors like obesity, lack of exercise, and sedentary lifestyles can increase the risk of developing back pain. Identifying the root cause of the pain is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.

Role of Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession that focuses on using physical techniques to treat injuries, improve mobility, and relieve pain. When it comes to back pain, physiotherapists play a vital role in helping patients regain strength, flexibility, and functionality. They develop personalized treatment plans based on the individual's specific needs and goals. These plans often include a combination of exercises, manual therapy, education, and lifestyle modifications.

Exercise Therapy
One of the key components of physiotherapy for back pain is exercise therapy. Physiotherapists prescribe specific exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine, improve flexibility, and correct postural imbalances. These exercises may include stretching, core strengthening exercises, aerobic conditioning, and resistance training. Regularly performing these exercises helps to alleviate pain, prevent further injury, and promote overall spinal health.

Manual Therapy
Physiotherapists also employ manual therapy techniques to treat back pain. These techniques include joint mobilization, soft tissue manipulation, and spinal manipulation. Manual therapy helps reduce pain, restore joint mobility, and improve tissue healing. By targeting specific areas of dysfunction, physiotherapists can address underlying musculoskeletal imbalances and provide relief to individuals suffering from back pain.

Education and Lifestyle Modifications
Beyond exercises and manual therapy, physiotherapists educate patients on proper body mechanics, ergonomics, and posture. They provide guidance on how to prevent future episodes of back pain by making necessary modifications to daily activities and work environments. Educating individuals about their condition empowers them to take an active role in their recovery and helps them make informed choices to prevent future back problems.

Preventing Back Pain
Apart from treating back pain, physiotherapy also plays a crucial role in its prevention. Physiotherapists assess an individual's movement patterns, posture, and lifestyle factors to identify potential risk factors for back pain. Through exercise programs, education, and ergonomic advice, physiotherapy helps individuals develop healthy habits and maintain optimal spinal health. By addressing the root causes and making necessary lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of experiencing back pain.

Physiotherapy is a powerful tool in the treatment and prevention of back pain. By combining exercises, manual therapy, education, and lifestyle modifications, physiotherapists empower individuals to take control of their back health and get back in action.

 

Returning to Sports after Back Pain: What role does Physiotherapy play?

Do you suffer from back pain while bending over and standing up? And want to get back to running? Then doing the right kind of exercises without straining your back, can help you relieve your back pain. The exercises can be done under the guidance of a well-trained physiotherapist who recommends a  tailored exercise program depending on the intensity of your pain and its causes. In this blog, we will discuss the steps that should be taken,  to safely return to running when you have back pain.

 

1: Understanding the cause

Understanding the cause is the key to recovery. Your physiotherapist tries to know the cause behind your back pain and does a physical examination to find out the structures that are involved so that it is easy for him/her to plan out the exercises that should be done. A skilled physiotherapist will be able to assess and provide you with a diagnosis and treatment plan.

 

2: Treatment plan

Plenty of different structures like muscles, ligaments, tendons, joints, discs, and nerves can injure your back by different types of injuries like overuse, compression, repetitive movement, etc. The treatment plan includes pain relief, range of motion (PROM and AROM), and strengthening exercises.

 

·    Range of motion exercises

Treatment is started with pain relief modalities like TENS, Ultrasound, Laser, Shockwave, etc followed by passive range of motion and active range of motion exercises done in pain-free ranges to maintain the joint movement. Once these are achieved the therapist starts stretching exercises are started.

 

·    Strengthening exercises:

Strengthening exercises help to improve circulation and increase the strength of the muscles to support your spine. These exercises are set at the correct level for the specific type of injuries so that these exercises do not cause any pain during or after the treatment session. There is an endless list of exercises that can be done, but your physiotherapist chooses the appropriate exercises to strengthen your back.

 

·    Moving:

Movement is encouraged for the back pain sufferers to remain active. For the patient with acute pain, short walks can be recommended. But other options like a long walk, swimming or cycling. While doing these exercises the patient might feel mild discomfort which is normal.

 

3: Time

The healing process takes time as new healthy cells are produced to replace the damaged ones. Strength and flexibility also take several weeks to increase.  An average time taken for healing can be :

• Mild sprain –  5 to 6 weeks
• Severe sprain – 8 weeks or several months
• Mild disc injury –  10 to 12 weeks
• Severe disc injury – This can vary a lot but almost from 6 months to 2 years to get back to full function.
• An injury affecting one of the nerves in the leg – This can vary a lot depending on the type of injury but can take almost from 3 months to 2 years.

 

4: Walk/Run program

Walking or running is a part of the treatment program. Walking and running allow the lower back to slowly get used to the impact forces. Short-run intervals are quite short, which might cause mild discomfort that settles quickly. Whereas long continuous running can cause an intense flare-up that may take several days to settle down.

 

The level of pain does not indicate the severity of the injury. It is often found, once a person starts doing the right things, severe pain settles down to very mild levels. We can usually predict much more effectively how long an injury will take to recover by observing how a person's pain changes within the first 2 weeks of following the treatment advice.

Pilates

 

Pilates: Core Strengthening Exercises for Back Pain

Are you experiencing back pain? And are afraid to do strenuous exercises as a part of the treatment? If yes, then start doing Pilates to strengthen your deep abdominal muscles and pelvic floor. Pilates is a series of exercises that train your body to move in harmony and efficiency causing a balanced muscular development. An imbalanced body can lead to muscular weaknesses, which can further prevent a joint from moving through its full range of motion. The main aim of the exercises is to train the deeper, supporting muscles of your body to improve muscle and postural strength, balance, flexibility, and coordination. Pilates can be done under the guidance of trained professionals or physiotherapist who uses an eccentric type of muscle contraction to create long and strong muscles by emphasizing on core strength and skeletal alignment. In this blog, we will discuss in detail  Pilates, its principles, and what its benefits are?

 

Types of Pilates

The two basic forms of Pilates are:

 Mat-based Pilates: Pilate's mats are thicker and larger and tend to have a slicker surface, the series of exercises are performed in or against the gravity-assisted position with or without resistance. The main aim is to strengthen the deep muscles of your body to improve posture, balance, and coordination

 Equipment-based Pilates: This includes specific equipment that works against resistance, e.g. a reformer (moveable carriage that you push and pull along its track), Pilates chair, ladder barrel, pulleys with resistance, dumbbells, resistance bands, exercise balls, foam roller, tennis ball, Pilates ring, and other types of small equipment that offers resistance to the muscle.

 Principles                 

Core (internal muscles which lie deep in the abdomen and back) strengthening exercises combined with the Pilates principles are what make it different from other exercises. These include:

 Relaxation: Relaxation is improved by proper patterns and mental concentration.

 Breathing: Breathing is important in the Pilates method. Proper full inhalation and exhalation so that the air is squeezed out of the lungs. An increase in the intake of oxygen and the circulation of this oxygenated blood to every part of the body causes body cleansing. Pilates combines breathing practice with movements or exercises.

 Concentration: Pilates emphasizes intense focus while doing the exercises. Maximum results can be yielded only when exercises are done with full attention.

 Control: All exercises are done in a deliberate and controlled manner, to lift the muscles against gravity and resistance of the springs.

Centering: The center is the focal point of the Pilates exercise, referring to the group of muscles in the center of the body i.e. the abdomen, lower and upper back, hips, buttocks, and inner thigh is known as the powerhouse. The movements should begin from the center and move towards the limbs.

 Flow: Pilate's exercises are meant to be graceful, smooth and should be done with ease so that each movement flows on its own.

Postural alignment: While performing the exercises correct posture and body alignment should be maintained by optimizing balance and coordination.

Precision: Focus on the core muscle engagement, proper alignment, and most important focus should be on placing the body parts appropriately.

Stamina: With relaxation, postural alignment, and controlled movement, motion becomes more efficient so there is less stress to perform the exercises.

How It Works

Place a mat and start doing a series of movements that will strengthen and stabilize your core. Pilates can be aerobic and non-aerobic form of exercise. The exercises are usually done in a specific order, one after the other, and do not include a lot of repetitions for each move. Though the moves look simple, they take a lot of control and precision, strong emphasis on the technique. Pilate's session approximately takes 45 minutes to an hour, even lesser time if fewer moves are done. To gain the maximum benefit, Pilates should be done at least two or three times per week and postural improvement may be noticed after 10 to 20 sessions. Pilates is a low-intensity exercise with no exertion and therefore free of sweating or straining, aimed towards the core, though you can also expect to see strength gains in your arms and legs.  After exercises are performed regularly re-evaluation is done to ensure that the exercises are appropriate for the person.

 

Health benefits of Pilates: The health benefits of Pilates include:

·         Improves strength

·         Improves flexibility

·         Increases strength of abdominal, lower back, and hip muscles.

·         Improves balance

·         Efficient movements

·         Enhances muscular control

·         Improves spine stabilization

·         Better posture

·         Prevents injuries due to muscle imbalances

·         Improves coordination and balance

·         Relaxation of your neck, shoulders, and upper back

·         Improves lung capacity and

·         Improves circulation through the body parts

·         Improves concentration

·         Increases body awareness

·         Decreases weight

·         Decreases stress.

Precautions: There are certain conditions during which Pilates should be done under the guidance of a physiotherapist

·         Aged 40 years or above

·         Recent surgery

·         High blood pressure

·         High cholesterol

·         Pregnancy

·         Diabetes

·         Multiple sclerosis

·         Medical condition such as heart disease

·         Musculoskeletal injuries or disorders

·         Obesity or overweight.

Pilates is not only used during rehabilitation but also in fitness programs. It can improve your health and fitness, so make it work for you.