Which Physio should I see in Sudbury, Suffolk?
Mike Tuck is a Spinal and Chronic Pain Specialist Physiotherapist with over 40,000 hours of clinical experience in treating back pain. MT Physio Clinic is based on Alexandra Road in Sudbury.
What is Back Pain?
Back pain is a very common problem in the UK. It is estimated that over 80% of the population will experience at least one episode of back pain. It is classified as pain situated anywhere along the spine but is most commonly seen in the lower back. Pain can range in intensity and duration. Reassuringly, most back is not serious and resolves by itself.
Are there any risk factors for developing back pain?
Yes. Although anyone can experience back pain.
Some Risk Factors include:
- Age – back pain is more common with advancing age and could be a result of decreased strength and muscle density. In fact, all the structures of the spine change in response to age. This is normal.
- Job related reasons – Heavy, manual jobs can put our spines under more pressure for prolonged periods of time which could lead to pain as can sedentary jobs which could lead to weakening of the muscles and the spine in general.
- Smoking – This causes reduced blood flow to the spine and it is believed that this leads to a faster rate of degenerative changes and slower healing times.
- Fitness – People that are unfit are at risk of developing back pain, as are those people that start exercise regimes and start out by pushing themselves too hard and too soon.
- Psychological Factors – Stress, depression and low mood can influence and increase the likelihood of developing back pain.
- Weight Gain – A significant risk factor for developing back pain is being overweight
What to do if you develop back pain
Don’t panic! Most back pain episodes resolve if you follow the following advice:
- Try and stay mobile. Bed rest for back pain has not been recommended since the 80’s!
- Try some heat or ice over the sore area. 10 minutes at a time if using ice. Heat can be held on the affected side for longer. You could use a heat pack or hot water bottle for example.
- Consider taking some over the counter medication such as ibuprofen if you have no medical reasons that would preclude you from having it.
- Stress and anxiety can affect and amplify pain. Do your best to stay relaxed and distract yourself by reading a book, watching a TV show or going for a walk if your pain allows.
- Do some gentle stretching. See what your body can tolerate and work into this.
When to see Mike at MT Physio Clinic
You can of course choose to see Mike whenever you would like to be assessed and in order to obtain a formal diagnosis and some treatment but as a rule of thumb, if you are struggling with back pain that is not referring into your legs, you should consider booking an appointment if any of the following applies:
- If your pain is not settling after a week or two.
- If your pain changes in intensity (for the worse) or changes in location.
- If you are concerned about your pain.
- Your pain is stopping you from sleeping.
- You suddenly develop pain which radiates into your legs or symptoms of pins and needles, weakness or numbness in the legs or arms.
When should I seek immediate medical advice?
The NHS recommends that you should seek medical advice if you have back pain and:
- Numbness or tingling around your genitals or buttocks
- Difficulty peeing
- Loss of bladder or bowel control – peeing or pooing yourself
- Chest Pain
- A high temperature
- Unintentional weight loss
- A swelling or deformity in your back
- Severe, worsening night pain
- It started as a result of a serious accident
- The pain is so bad you are having problems sleeping
- The pain is worse when sneezing, coughing or pooing
- The pain is coming from the top of your shoulders, rather than your lower back
These problems could be the sign of something more serious and need to be checked urgently.
Is there anything I can do to prevent back pain?
Although ultimately there is nothing that you can do to stop ALL back pain and pain episodes. You should look to try the following in order to keep your spine and muscles strong and supple and look after your general health and well-being.
- Do regular back strengthening and mobility exercises
- Stay active generally – meaning cardiovascular exercise
- Try not to sit for prolonged periods of time
- Be careful when lifting and carrying heavy or awkward items
- Lose weight if you are overweight
- STOP SMOKING
Why Mike?
With over 40,000 hours of clinical experience in specialist musculoskeletal physiotherapy (and counting) and over 10 years’ experience of working as a spinal specialist, he has worked with and trained under some of the country’s best Orthopaedic Surgeons and Consultants. He uses best evidence based practices in order to diagnose and treat all aspects of spinal pain and dysfunction. He receives referrals direct from spinal surgeons and pain management consultants and also doctors and insurance companies. You can also self refer to see him in Sudbury, Suffolk. Book here: www.mtphysioclinic.co.uk
What can I expect from my first appointment?
Your first appointment will last approximately 45 minutes. A full history and thorough assessment will take place. It’s important to wear some loose-fitting clothing and you may be asked to remove some top layers in order for Mike to be able to see your spine and hips.
Following the assessment and with a working diagnosis obtained, you will have the opportunity to ask any questions that you have. A treatment plan will be discussed and once agreed upon will start in the initial session.
Treatments for back pain might include manual therapy (including manipulation, mobilisation) acupuncture, soft tissue work and exercise prescription.
If you are unsure if physiotherapy is for you, or if you’d like to have a chat before you book an appointment, please email Mike on info@mtphysioclinic.co.uk
