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How can lifting injure your back?
The complex nature of the spine means that stresses placed on it may injure many different structures.
The discs which separate the vertebrae (bones) or the ligaments which hold them together can be damaged.
The disc is composed of a jelly-like core surrounded by a strong fibrous ring.
Lifting incorrectly, with the spine bent forward, causes this fluid to be pushed backwards and pressure in the disc increases.
If this pressure is great enough, the fibrous ring or its supporting ligaments may tear or rupture.
Twisting or jarring while lifting or carrying may injure the small (apophyseal) joints, ligaments and discs which guide movement of the back.
HOW CAN PHYSIOTHERAPY HELP?
A physiotherapist is an expert in human movement. Physiotherapists understand how your muscles, bones, joints and ligaments work and how injuries happen.
They can:
analyse the workplace and show you how to reduce the likelihood of injury;
teach you how to lift;
assess your physical ability. The physiotherapist can assess your muscle strength and fitness and advise an appropriate exercise and fitness program;
Treat muscle, joint and ligament injuries using electrotherapy, mobilisation/manipulation, stretching, strengthening exercise programs and other treatments to ensure a speedy recovery from injury.
As we get older or are in different work or sporting environments it is very helpful to be able to go to a physio like Sally and work on some Pilates excercises to help cure or prevent injury.