Alistair Roland
12 August 2013
“Mike’s treatments are invaluable, and delivered real results. I noticed a significant improvement in my health and energy levels. He is truly the king of backs.”
We are pleased to announce the Mike Squirrell Physiotherapy and Sports Injury clinic is now offering Sports Massage therapy at both of our clinics in London City and Mayfair W1.
Sports Massage Therapy 30 Minutes £45
To arrange a sports massage at our London City clinic please call to book an appointment
Sports Massage Therapy 60 Minutes £70
To arrange a sports massage at our London City clinic please call to book an appointment
Low back pain or lumbago is a common musculoskeletal disorder affecting 40% of people worldwide at some point in their lives. Low back pain (often abbreviated as LBP) may be classified by duration as acute (generally pain lasting less than six weeks), sub-chronic (six to 12 weeks), or chronic (more than 12 weeks). The condition may be further classified by the underlying cause as either mechanical, non-mechanical, or referred pain. For most episodes of low back pain, a specific underlying cause is never identified or even sought, and the pain is attributed generally to mechanical problems such as muscle strain or joint sprain. The management of low back pain typically includes the use of medications for the duration that they are beneficial, and expert groups recommend the use of acetaminophen as the first thing to try. With conservative measures, the symptoms of low back pain typically show improvement within a few weeks from onset.
In Australia. July/August, is called Christmas in July. The reason we call it Christmas in July is because it is cold, Australians can drink egg nog and really enjoy what christmas should really feel like in the northern hemisphere. In England, August is the month to travel, where Londoners pretty much “evacuate” this town.
When we travel we often make the most of the “carry on” only option as airfares are cheaper.
Patients can often come into the clinic with acute lower back pain or feeling that their body “feels twisted” from carrying bags on one side. Or patients can often experience neck and shoulder pain after two weeks of carrying a massive 15 – 20 kg backpack.
In my opinion and from my experience traveling, the worst thing one person can do is to carry a duffel bag (10kgs) on the shoulder, throught the tube from the house to the airport to the hotel. Second worst option is to carry a backpack constantly for 2 hours, without rest breaks.
My tips on traveling over the summer:
If you are carry 10 – 12kgs – invest in a wheelie suitcase, especially ones with 4 wheels. (Yes you have to carry them up and down stairs, or even better, use the lift), but your shoulders and neck will thank you for it. Make sure you brace your abdominals when lifting the suitcase.
If carry a backpack – make sure you set it down regularly (beware of thieves)
If you carry a duffel bag, regularly swap sides. A heavy duffel bag can place stress on your shoulder joint and the neck if carried on one side for a prolonged period.
These are my tips and pointers as a physiotherapist from traveling across europe. I hope you enjoy your August break y’all!
SAM LING – PHYSIOTHERAPIST – WIMPOLE ST