Musculoskeletal issues are the most common problems affecting Swedes when summer vacation finally arrives. Here are some helpful tips.
Most of us experience back pain at some point in our lives. Back pain often goes away on its own and is rarely serious. Here is the doctor’s best advice for those suffering from back pain.
60–70 percent of the population will experience back pain one or more times during their lifetime. We believe that the primary causes of lower back pain are overstretching or overloading of muscle groups or ligaments in the lower back.
“In most cases, acute pain and stiffness occur in connection with lifting or twisting. For many of those suffering from long-term issues, there have been previous injuries or strains,” says Theresa Franck, a specialist in general medicine at Eyr.
Don’t Stay in Bed
Bed rest should be avoided as much as possible. The absolute maximum is 1–2 days during the period of most intense pain. Bed rest weakens the muscles and delays healing. Heat therapy can reduce pain and improve function for some people, says Theresa Franck.
She emphasizes that it is very important to get your body moving if you are suffering from back pain.
“Early activity is important. You should resume your normal activities as soon as possible, even if your back still hurts. In this context, the pain is a sign that you are using the injured part of your back, and it is important to prevent it from becoming stiff. Studies clearly show that the sooner you become active, the faster you will recover.”
Start Exercising
Exercise is important once the acute symptoms have passed. Your routine should consist of general cardiovascular training and exercises to strengthen your abdominal and back muscles. Exercise leads to improved blood flow in the muscles and tendons and strengthens the body’s ability to repair itself. “Even for someone with chronic back pain, this is helpful, but it takes time and requires perseverance and courage,” says Theresa Franck.
For some, there may be a need for painkillers during the acute phase and during periods of severe pain.
– Paracetamol is often used on its own or in combination with anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Ibux. For patients who experience multiple acute episodes, regular exercise when you are feeling well can help prevent new episodes.
What all practitioners seem to agree on is that self-directed exercise and activity are the most important components of any form of treatment for patients with chronic back pain.
The doctors at Eyr can provide advice on this
- Eyr can assess which condition you are most likely suffering from
- Eyr can provide advice and guidance regarding the condition
- Eyr can provide advice on self-directed exercise
- Eyr can refer you to physiotherapy and chiropractic care
- Eyr can refer you for X-rays if necessary
- Eyr can prescribe painkillers and renew common medications
- Eyr can provide referrals for specialist assessment if necessary
- Eyr can conduct support calls
- Eyr can assess children’s musculoskeletal problems, provide guidance, and offer reassurance for the future
- Eyr can, in exceptional cases, issue short-term sick leave certificates for 1–2 days
- Eyr can assist with medical certificates
- Eyr can discuss imaging findings from X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans