What is Dry Needling? How to Accelerate Recovery
Introduction: What is Dry Needling Therapy?
If you’ve ever searched for effective treatments for muscle pain, stiffness, or sports injuries, you may have come across the term “dry needling.” Highly sought-after in physiotherapy circles, dry needling has seen a surge in popularity. But what is dry needling, and how can it help accelerate injury recovery? Let’s explore this in-depth.
What is Dry Needling? A Brief Overview
Dry needling is a specialised treatment performed by skilled physical therapists. Unlike acupuncture—which has its roots in traditional Chinese medicine—dry needling is grounded in Western medical research. This technique involves inserting a fine, sterile needle into myofascial trigger points, or “muscle knots,” to relieve pain and improve mobility.
How Does Dry Needling Work?
Dry needling targets specific areas known as myofascial trigger points. These are tense, knotted areas within muscle tissue that can cause pain and limit mobility. The insertion of the needle often results in a local twitch response, relaxing the muscle and improving blood flow.
The Science Behind Dry Needling:
- Mechanical Effect: Disrupts muscle knots to improve blood circulation.
- Neurological Effect: Stimulates nerve fibres to block pain signals.
- Biochemical Effect: Releases endorphins, acting as natural painkillers.
Who Should Consider Dry Needling?
This therapy can offer relief for various musculoskeletal conditions, such as:
- Sports injuries
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Tendonitis
- Chronic back pain
- Migraines and tension headaches
- Sciatica
How Can Dry Needling Aid in Injury Recovery?
Advantages of Dry Needling for Injury Recovery:
- Immediate Pain Relief: One of the primary benefits is the rapid reduction of localised pain.
- Enhanced Mobility: Experience improved range of motion, facilitating better rehabilitation exercises.
- Improved Muscle Function: With reduced muscle tension, your overall function and performance can significantly improve.
- Speeds Up Healing: Increased blood flow can fast-track your body’s natural healing mechanisms.
Conclusion: Is Dry Needling Right for You?
Dry needling is a potent tool in the toolkit of modern physiotherapy. However, it’s essential to consult a certified physiotherapist for a personalised treatment plan. When performed correctly, dry needling can offer significant benefits in pain reduction and accelerated injury recovery.
If you would like to try Dry Needling book here
How to manage achilles tendinopathy the best way?
Achilles tendinopathy is a common condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It can cause pain and stiffness in the affected area, making it difficult to walk or perform daily activities. Fortunately, physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for Achilles tendinopathy.
What is Achilles Tendinopathy?
Achilles tendinopathy is a condition that results from overuse or repetitive stress to the Achilles tendon. This can cause the tendon to become inflamed, swollen, and painful. It can also lead to the development of microtears in the tendon, which can further exacerbate the condition.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendinopathy
The most common symptom of Achilles tendinopathy is pain in the Achilles tendon. This pain can range from mild to severe and may be felt in the heel, ankle, or calf. Other symptoms may include stiffness in the affected area, swelling, and a feeling of weakness in the leg.
Treatment for Achilles Tendinopathy
There are several treatment options available for Achilles tendinopathy, including physiotherapy. Your physiotherapist will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan based on your specific needs and symptoms. Some of the most common physiotherapy treatments for Achilles tendinopathy include:
- Eccentric exercises: These exercises involve lowering the heel slowly while standing on the edge of a step. This can help to strengthen the Achilles tendon and reduce pain.
- Massage therapy: Massage therapy can help to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation.
- Stretching: Stretching exercises can help to improve flexibility in the calf muscles and reduce tension on the Achilles tendon.
- Rest and ice: Rest and ice can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.
In some cases, surgery may be required to treat severe cases of Achilles tendinopathy. Your physiotherapist will work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
Conclusion
Achilles tendinopathy can be a painful and debilitating condition, but with the right treatment, it can be effectively managed. Physiotherapy is an excellent treatment option for Achilles tendinopathy, and can help to improve your symptoms and overall quality of life.
If you are experiencing pain or stiffness in your Achilles tendon, don’t hesitate to seek our help with one of our qualified physiotherapists or call 9815 2555 .
Whats the best way to treat tendon pain?
Tendinopathies are a common problem among athletes, particularly in sports that involve repetitive overuse of a specific joint or muscle group. Tendinopathies can be divided into two categories: insertional tendinopathies and mid-substance tendinopathies. Insertional tendinopathies involve the attachment of the tendon to the bone, while mid-substance tendinopathies occur within the body of the tendon.
Although both types of tendinopathies share many similarities, they have some important differences that require different treatment approaches. In this article, we will compare the evidence-based treatments for insertional tendinopathies and mid-substance tendinopathies.
Insertional Tendinopathies
Insertional tendinopathies are often associated with calcific tendinitis and are typically characterized by pain and tenderness at the tendon’s attachment site. These types of tendinopathies often occur in the shoulder (rotator cuff), elbow (tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow), hip (gluteal tendinopathy), and ankle (Achilles tendinopathy).
Evidence-based treatments for insertional tendinopathies include:
Rest and Modification of Activity
Resting the affected joint or muscle group and modifying the activity that caused the tendinopathy is essential for healing. Avoiding the activity that caused the tendinopathy may be necessary for a short period, and then gradually returning to activity with proper technique and equipment may prevent recurrence.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy for insertional tendinopathies often includes eccentric strengthening exercises to stimulate collagen repair, improve blood flow, and strengthen the tendon. Additionally, manual therapy, dry needling, and extracorporeal shockwave therapy have shown promising results in reducing pain and improving function.
Steroid Injections
Steroid injections can be effective in reducing pain and inflammation in the short term. However, use of steroid injections is not recommended because they can weaken the tendon and increase the risk of rupture. Think short term gain for long term pain.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
PRP injections involve using the patient’s own blood, which is then centrifuged to concentrate the platelets, which contain growth factors that stimulate healing. PRP injections have shown promising results in reducing pain and improving function in patients with insertional tendinopathies.
Surgery
Surgery is rarely necessary for insertional tendinopathies. However, in severe cases where conservative treatments have failed, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the calcific deposit or reattach the tendon to the bone.
Mid-Substance Tendinopathies
Mid-substance tendinopathies occur within the body of the tendon and are characterized by pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion. These types of tendinopathies often occur in the knee (patellar tendinopathy), Achilles tendon, and rotator cuff.
Evidence-based treatments for mid-substance tendinopathies include:
Rest and Modification of Activity
Resting the affected joint or muscle group and modifying the activity that caused the tendinopathy is essential for healing.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy for mid-substance tendinopathies often includes eccentric strengthening exercises, which have been shown to be effective in stimulating collagen repair, improving blood flow, and strengthening the tendon. Additionally, manual therapy, dry needling, and extracorporeal shockwave therapy have shown promising results in reducing pain and improving function.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
PRP injections have shown promising results in reducing pain and improving function in patients with mid-substance tendinopathies. PRP injections have been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis and angiogenesis, leading to tendon healing.
Surgery
Surgery is rarely necessary
If you would like an appointment to have your knee pain assessed, call us on 9815 2555 or book online here
The Top Five Ways to Manage Your Knee Pain
If you are suffering with knee arthritis, you are not alone. Knee arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joint. In the case of knee arthritis, the pain and stiffness are usually located around the knee joint.
Physiotherapy can be a helpful treatment option for individuals with knee arthritis. Physiotherapists can provide targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to help manage pain and improve mobility. Here are some things to keep in mind as you begin your journey with physiotherapy.
- Understand Your Condition
It’s essential to have a good understanding of your knee arthritis and how it affects your body. Speak with your doctor and physiotherapist to learn more about the type and severity of your arthritis. This knowledge will help you to understand the treatments available and the goals of your physiotherapy program.
- Follow Your Physiotherapy Plan
Your physiotherapist will develop an individualized plan for your knee arthritis. It’s important to follow this plan closely to get the most benefit from your treatment. Your physiotherapist may recommend exercises to improve your strength, flexibility, and balance. They may also use manual therapy techniques to help reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Be Patient
Knee arthritis is a chronic condition, and it may take some time to see improvements in your symptoms. Be patient and persistent with your physiotherapy program. Over time, you may notice a decrease in pain, improved mobility, and increased strength.
- Stay Active
Staying active is crucial for individuals with knee arthritis. Inactivity can cause your muscles to weaken and your joints to stiffen, which can worsen your symptoms. Your physiotherapist will work with you to find safe and effective exercises that you enjoy. Consider activities such as swimming, cycling, or walking, which are low-impact and can be easier on your knees.
- Manage Your Weight
Excess weight can put extra strain on your knees, which can worsen arthritis symptoms. Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist about ways to manage your weight, such as through diet and exercise. A healthy weight can help reduce pain and improve mobility.In summary, physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for individuals with knee arthritis. By understanding your condition, following your physiotherapy plan, being patient, staying active, and managing your weight, you can help manage your arthritis symptoms and improve your quality of life. Speak with your doctor or physiotherapist to learn more about how physiotherapy can help you. If you would like an appointment to have your knee pain assessed, call us on 9815 2555 or book online here
How to Best Treat Biceps Pain
Biceps tendinopathy is a common condition that affects the tendons of the biceps muscle. It is often caused by overuse or repetitive strain and can lead to pain and weakness in the affected area. As a physiotherapy patient, it’s essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for biceps tendinopathy.
Causes of Biceps Tendinopathy:
Biceps tendinopathy can be caused by several factors, including:
- Overuse: Repeated or prolonged use of the biceps muscle, such as lifting heavy weights or performing excessive amounts of pull-ups, can cause damage to the tendons.
- Aging: As we age, our tendons become less elastic and more prone to injury.
- Trauma: A sudden injury, such as a fall or direct blow to the arm, can damage the biceps tendon.
- Poor posture: Poor posture, especially when working at a desk, can cause tension in the shoulders and neck, leading to biceps tendinopathy.
Symptoms of Biceps Tendinopathy:
The most common symptoms of biceps tendinopathy include:
- Pain: Pain in the front of the shoulder or upper arm is a common symptom of biceps tendinopathy. The pain may be sharp or dull and may worsen with movement or activity.
- Weakness: Weakness in the affected arm is another common symptom. This may make it difficult to lift or carry objects.
- Stiffness: Stiffness in the shoulder or arm may also be present, making it challenging to move the arm or shoulder.
Treatment Options for Biceps Tendinopathy:
If you have been diagnosed with biceps tendinopathy, there are several treatment options available. These may include:
- Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy is a non-invasive treatment that can help alleviate pain and improve function. A physiotherapist can help you develop an exercise program tailored to your specific needs, which can help to strengthen the muscles around the affected area.
- Rest: Rest is essential for allowing the tendons to heal. This may involve avoiding activities that aggravate the condition, such as heavy lifting or overhead work.
- Ice and Heat: Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen can be helpful in reducing pain and inflammation.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the damaged tendons.
Preventing Biceps Tendinopathy:
Prevention is always better than cure, and there are several steps you can take to prevent biceps tendinopathy, including:
- Gradually increasing exercise: When starting a new exercise program, it’s essential to start slowly and gradually increase intensity over time.
- Maintaining good posture: Good posture can help to prevent tension in the shoulders and neck.
- Using proper technique: Using proper technique when lifting weights or performing other activities can help to prevent injury.
- Rest and recovery: Giving your body time to rest and recover between workouts is essential for preventing overuse injuries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, biceps tendinopathy is a common condition that can be caused by overuse, trauma, aging, or poor posture. Symptoms include pain, weakness, and stiffness in the affected area. Treatment options include physiotherapy, rest, ice and heat, medication, and surgery. Taking preventative measures, such as gradually increasing exercise, maintaining good posture, using proper technique, and allowing for rest and recovery, can help to prevent biceps tendinopathy from occurring in the first place. If you experience symptoms of biceps tendinopathy, seek the advice of a physiotherapist or other healthcare professional to determine. If you would like an appointment to have your shoulder pain assessed, call us on 9815 2555 or book online here
What’s the best way to manage my plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects the feet, causing pain and discomfort in the heel or arch of the foot. It is estimated that up to 10% of the population will experience plantar fasciitis at some point in their lives. Fortunately, physiotherapy is an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis.
Here are some evidence-based tips to help you get the most out of your physiotherapy sessions:
- Attend all of your scheduled appointments
A systematic review of the literature found that physiotherapy is effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis. However, attending all of your scheduled physiotherapy appointments is crucial for your recovery. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that patients who attended all of their scheduled physiotherapy appointments had better outcomes than those who missed appointments.
- Wear appropriate footwear
Wearing appropriate footwear is essential for people with plantar fasciitis. A randomized controlled trial found that wearing shoes with a cushioned heel and arch support reduced pain and improved function in patients with plantar fasciitis. Choose shoes that provide ample support and cushioning for your feet. Avoid wearing shoes with high heels or flat soles.
- Stretch regularly
Stretching is an important part of plantar fasciitis treatment. A randomized controlled trial found that stretching exercises reduced pain and improved function in patients with plantar fasciitis. Your physiotherapist can teach you stretching exercises to do at home that will help improve your flexibility and reduce your pain.
- Follow your physiotherapist’s instructions
Your physiotherapist will provide you with instructions on how to perform exercises and activities safely and effectively. A randomized controlled trial found that patients who received individualized physiotherapy treatment had better outcomes than those who received a standard treatment protocol. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to avoid causing further damage to your foot.
- Consider orthotics
Orthotics are special shoe inserts that can provide additional support and cushioning to your feet. A systematic review of the literature found that orthotics can reduce pain and improve function in patients with plantar fasciitis. Your physiotherapist can recommend the right type of orthotics for your specific needs.
- Rest your feet
Rest is an important part of the recovery process for plantar fasciitis. A randomized controlled trial found that patients who rested their feet had better outcomes than those who did not. Your physiotherapist may recommend rest as part of your treatment plan, so be sure to follow their instructions.
- Stay active
While rest is important, it is also important to stay active during your recovery. A randomized controlled trial found that low-impact exercises, such as walking and cycling, can improve function and reduce pain in patients with plantar fasciitis. Your physiotherapist can recommend exercises that are appropriate for your specific needs.In conclusion, if you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, seeking the help of a physiotherapist is crucial for your recovery. By following the above evidence-based tips, you can get the most out of your physiotherapy sessions and start feeling better soon. If you would like an appointment to have your foot pain assessed, call us on 9815 2555 or book online here
Whats the best way to treat tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects people who frequently use their forearms, wrists, and hands. It causes pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, and can limit a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks or participate in sports activities.
At our physiotherapy clinic, we understand the impact that tennis elbow can have on a person’s quality of life. That’s why we offer personalized treatment plans that are designed to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent future injuries.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for tennis elbow, and provide some tips on how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, a bony bump on the outer part of the elbow. The repeated stress on these tissues can lead to microtears, inflammation, and pain.
Some of the activities that can lead to tennis elbow include:
- Playing racquet sports like tennis, squash, or badminton
- Lifting weights or doing other repetitive arm motions in the gym
- Using power tools or gardening equipment
- Typing or using a computer mouse for extended periods of time
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. The pain may radiate down the forearm and be aggravated by gripping or twisting motions. Other symptoms may include:
- Weakness in the affected arm
- Stiffness in the elbow joint
- Difficulty with fine motor tasks like writing or buttoning clothes
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
There are several treatment options for tennis elbow, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s individual needs. Some of the most common treatments include:
- Rest and ice: Resting the affected arm and applying ice to the elbow can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Physical therapy: A physiotherapist can prescribe exercises and stretches to help strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility.
- Brace or splint: Wearing a brace or splint can help support the elbow and reduce stress on the affected tissues.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Injections: In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be recommended to reduce inflammation and pain.
Preventing Tennis Elbow
Preventing tennis elbow involves reducing the risk of overuse injuries to the forearm muscles and tendons. Some tips for preventing tennis elbow include:
- Using proper technique: When playing sports or lifting weights, use proper form and technique to reduce stress on the forearm muscles and tendons.
- Strengthening exercises: Incorporating forearm strengthening exercises into your workout routine can help improve muscle endurance and reduce the risk of injury.
- Taking breaks: If you do activities that involve repetitive arm motions, take frequent breaks to rest your muscles and avoid overuse injuries.
- Using proper equipment: Using the correct size and weight of sports equipment, like tennis racquets or golf clubs, can help reduce stress on the forearm muscles and tendons.
Conclusion
Tennis elbow can be a painful and frustrating condition, but with the right treatment and prevention strategies, it can be managed effectively. At our physiotherapy clinic, we offer personalized treatment plans that are tailored to each patient’s individual needs. If you’re experiencing pain or stiffness in your elbow, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a consultation. If you would like an appointment to have your elbow assessed, call us on 9815 2555 or book online here
Whats the best way to treat a hamstring?
Hamstring Tears: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Hamstring tears are a common injury among athletes and individuals who participate in physical activities that require intense muscle movements. A hamstring tear refers to the partial or complete rupture of one or more of the three muscles located in the back of the thigh: the biceps femoris, semimembranosus, and semitendinosus. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and evidence-based treatments for hamstring tears.
Causes of Hamstring Tears
Hamstring tears can occur from sudden or repetitive strain on the muscles. Some of the most common causes of hamstring tears include:
- Overuse: Overexertion of the hamstring muscles can lead to small tears in the muscle fibers, which can accumulate and lead to a larger tear over time.
- Muscle Imbalance: Muscle imbalances in the leg, such as weak quadriceps or tight hip flexors, can increase the risk of a hamstring tear.
- Poor Flexibility: Limited flexibility in the hamstring muscles can cause them to be more susceptible to tears, especially during physical activities that require sudden movements.
- Fatigue: When the hamstring muscles are tired, they are more likely to tear during physical activity.
- Previous Injury: A history of hamstring injuries can increase the likelihood of future hamstring tears.
Symptoms of Hamstring Tears
The symptoms of a hamstring tear can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the tear. Some of the most common symptoms of hamstring tears include:
- Sudden and severe pain in the back of the thigh during physical activity.
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness in the affected area.
- Inability to bear weight on the affected leg.
- Muscle weakness or loss of function in the affected leg.
- A popping or snapping sensation in the back of the thigh at the time of injury.
Treatments for Hamstring Tears
The treatment for a hamstring tear depends on the severity of the injury. Mild hamstring tears can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). More severe tears may require medical intervention, such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, or surgery.
Here are some evidence-based treatments for hamstring tears:
- Physioherapy: A physiotherapist can create a rehabilitation plan that includes stretching, strengthening, and functional exercises to help reduce pain and improve muscle function.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy involves injecting platelets from the patient’s blood into the injured area, which can help stimulate healing.
- Dry Needling: Dry needling involves inserting a thin needle into the affected muscle to relieve pain and improve function.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a complete tear of the hamstring muscles.
Conclusion
Hamstring tears can be a painful and debilitating injury, but with proper treatment, most individuals can make a full recovery. To prevent hamstring tears, it is essential to maintain good flexibility, proper muscle balance, and avoid overuse or fatigue of the hamstring muscles. If you suspect you have a hamstring tear, it is important to seek physiotherapy attention promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. If you would like an appointment to have your hamstring assessed, call us on 9815 2555 or book online here
What is Bio-psychosocial therapy (BPS)?
Bio-psychosocial therapy (BPS) is a holistic approach to pain management that considers the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to a person’s pain experience. Unlike traditional treatments that solely focus on physical aspects, BPS looks at the whole person and aims to reduce pain and improve quality of life. In this blog post, we’ll explore how BPS works, the benefits it offers to people with pain, and how to determine if it’s a good fit for you.
What is BPS Therapy?
BPS therapy is a type of pain management that addresses the physical, psychological, and social factors that contribute to pain. It’s a comprehensive approach that uses a combination of physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), social support, and medication management to manage pain.
How Does BPS Therapy Work?
BPS therapy involves a combination of treatments to address all aspects of a person’s pain experience. Physical therapy improves strength, flexibility, and range of motion, while CBT helps people identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. MBSR uses mindfulness techniques to manage stress, and social support is important for pain management. Medication management is also used in some cases, and a healthcare provider will work with the patient to find the right medication regimen.
What are the Benefits of BPS Therapy?
BPS therapy offers several benefits for people living with pain. It improves pain management and quality of life, reduces side effects, and increases self-efficacy. BPS therapy also improves mental health by addressing the psychological factors that contribute to pain.
Is BPS Therapy Right for You?
If you’re living with pain, BPS therapy may be a good fit for you. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if BPS therapy is a good option. By addressing the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to pain, BPS therapy can help reduce pain, improve quality of life, and promote overall well-being.
There’s this snapping in my hip, and it’s bothering me!
Well, it is likely that you have snapping hip syndrome, otherwise also known as Coxa Saltans.
What is snapping hip syndrome?
Snapping hip syndrome (SHS) is when there is a flicking sensation and/or audible “snap” or “click” noise in or around the hip with movement. For some people it is just annoying. But for others it may limit function due to pain or weakness with hip movements.
Snapping hip syndrome affects up to 10% of the general population. This occurs in a higher incidence in activities that involve repetitive hip movements such as dance, soccer, gymnastics and running.
What causes snapping hip syndrome?
In most cases, snapping hip syndrome has a gradual onset. Most commonly,SHS is caused by the iliotibial band (ITB) snapping over the outer side of the hip (greater trochanter of the femur). This may feel like the hip is dislocating. It can also be caused by the hip flexor (iliopsoas) tendon snapping over bony prominences near the hip joint.
When snapping hip syndrome is the result of an injury or traumatic event, it may be due to loose bodies in the hip joint or a torn labrum.
What should I do about it?
In most cases, conservative management strategies such as physiotherapy and exercise are effective. Your management plan will likely include stretching and release of tight muscles. Also strengthening exercises for weak muscles around the hip. The Physiotherapists at GSSC are experienced in the management of hips and snapping hip syndrome. For an appointment call 03 9815 2555 or book online here
If you have pain with specific hip movements, it is best to avoid those aggravating movements to allow the hip to settle. When significant pain presents that is limiting your participation in rehabilitation, a corticosteroid injection may be considered as an adjunct treatment.
Surgery should only be used as a last resort if a structured conservative management plan has failed.
All you need to know about Spondylolisthesis in 2 minutes?
After consulting with your GP on that persistent back pain that’s been driving your crazy for ages, you’ve been given the diagnosis of “Spondylolisthesis”- or Spondy for short.
If all you understand about this condition is that it’s a mouthful, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this 2-minute read we’ll give you a snapshot into what it is, why it happened, and where to go next.
What is a Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolysthesis is most commonly diagnosed via X-Ray, where it presents as a forward displacement of a vertebra to the one beneath it. This is often located in (but not limited to) your low back, where you have a bit of a natural curve. Having a spondylolysthesis can result in a feeling of instability, pain, or other neurological symptoms. However it could also be completely asymptomatic and an “incidental finding” on a scan.
Why did I get a spondylolisthesis?
Sometimes this condition can be congenital. This means you are born with it. Or it can result from overuse or micro trauma from sports that involve a lot of hyperextension and rotation. Think- gymnastics, rowing, tennis, cricket. A simple explanation for the symptoms that you may be feeling, is that the vertebral slippage can irritate the central spinal cord or nerve roots exiting from the sides of each spinal level. This causes pain, weakness, or changes in sensation.
How do I manage it?
The good thing is, prognosis for a low grade Spondy is very good. Management strategies such as physiotherapy and exercise are very effective. Your healthcare professional should generally recommend at least 3-6 months of dedicated rehab, unless you are experiencing severe and worsening symptoms. The goals of the rehab should be to manage your pain and build up the motor control in your trunk. You’ll also need to progress the global strengthening of the core, back, and legs.
Fun Fact
Spondylolysis and Spondylolysthesis are two different things!
The first one is actually a stress fracture, and looks like a “Scotty Dog” on X-Ray. The latter is usually a progression of this – resulting in a shift of the entire vertebrae.
If you have low back pain, give us a call on 03 9815 2555. Or book online here for an appointment.
Have you just had elbow surgery?
Download our post surgery handbook for all pre and post surgery information.
Section 1: Pre-Operative Information
Section 2: Basic Elbow Anatomy: Which tissues may be involved?
Section 3: Indications for elbow surgery: Why operate?
Section 4: Elbow Surgery: What does it involve?
Section 5: Elbow Arthroscopy and CPM
Section 6: Post Operative Recovery & Rehabilitation
Contact us if you have any further questions on 03 9815 2555.
