Low Back
Almost everyone will experience low back pain at some point in their lives. This pain can vary from mild to severe. It can also last for a short or long term period. However it happens, lower back pain can make everyday activities difficult to do. It can pose a frustrating dilemma.
Due to the complex structure of the spine, there are various causes of low back pain. The spine is made up of small bones, called vertebrae, which are piled up on top of each other. Muscles, ligaments, nerves and invertebrate disks are additional parts of the spine, intertwining and attaching and various points.
Yet, back pain can be different from one person to another. The pain can come and go slowly or appear constantly in a severe case. Back pain can also go away on its own within a few weeks.
There are many causes why lower back pain occurs — and one of those factors can be due to specific movements, such as lifting or bending. As we age too, our spines age with us.
Aging causes degenerative changes in the spine. These changes can start in our 30s, or even younger — especially if we delay doing any sort of physical activity.
At ADM Ottawa Physiotherapy, our team consists of experienced and registered orthopedic physios. Orthopedic physiotherapy specializes in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries or disorders. This specialty further covers pre- and post-surgery rehabilitation, such as a hip replacement or tendon repair.
Have you recently undergone hip, knee, or back surgery? Or are you struggling to heal from a recent musculoskeletal injury? This is where orthopedic physiotherapy comes in.
Conditions Orthopedic Physio Can Help
Orthopedic physiotherapy treats a variety of conditions and disorders. These include:
- Ligament Sprains
- Muscle Strains
- Fracture Rehab
- Tendonitis or Bursitis
- Arthritis
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Scoliosis
- Pre and Post Hip or Knee Replacement Rehab
- Spondylyosis
- Shoulder Injuries
- And more!
The goal of any treatment in orthopedic physio is to restore function and reduce pain. Before treating any condition or injury, an orthopedic physiotherapist conducts a thorough assessment. This helps determine the appropriate treatment necessary.
Read more about your initial assessment and first visit below.
Your First Orthopedic Visit: What to Expect
At your first appointment, you are required to fill out forms relating to your condition, medical history and current health. After completing our patient intake forms, your assessment with your physiotherapist will begin.
During your initial assessment, your orthopedic physio will ask questions about your condition and/or complaints. They will then perform various physical tests and specialized tests to diagnose and rule out any other causes. These tests also show your current range of motion and strength. These factors, along with your pain levels, are used as measurements to determine whether or not a certain treatment trajectory is working.
Your first appointment typically lasts 45-60 minutes. From this appointment, your physiotherapist will come up with a treatment plan suited to you and your situation. Depending on your situation, the number of sessions required after your initial assessment may vary.
For instance, a sprain may take only 6 weeks to heal. Yet, a full recovery from hip or knee surgery may take 6 months to a year. But again, this may vary from person to person. Some may heal faster and others may take longer, depending on your movement goals.
Your treatment may include manual therapy, modalities such as acupuncture, ultrasound, or neuromuscular stimulation, massage techniques, taping and prescribed exercises. Exercises are key parts of your treatment and often involve completion daily or a few times a week.
Manual therapy is performed by your physiotherapist. This may involve joint manipulation and mobilization and stretches. These techniques help to stretch and elongate muscles, as well as to create space within the affected joints. In turn, this decreases your pain and discomfort.
Kneading or other massage techniques may also be used to increase blood flow and promote healing.
Book Your Orthopedic Physio Appointment Today!
ADM Ottawa Physiotherapy is thrilled to provide Ottawa residents with high quality and reliable orthopedic physiotherapy. Our registered physios offer a friendly, comfortable and supportive environment.
Our patients are our top priority. Nothing makes us happier than happy patients. With each patient’s health and well-being top of mind, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands.
Contact Us: (613) 820-8765
If you’re injured or in pain, don’t hesitate to get in touch with ADM Ottawa Physiotherapy today. Contact us and schedule your initial assessment. We’re ready to help you get the most out of your life!