‘NICE’ recommendation

The Government sponsored body the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)recommends the use of both physiotherapy and acupuncture as treatment options for low back pain.

 

Low back pain, with or without leg pain (sciatica)

There are many causes of low back pain.

It is important to assess what body structures are injured before beginning an exercise routine.

Manipulation, mobilisations, stretching and strengthening exercises, as well as acupuncture are used in the treatment of this condition.

 

Neck pain ( often associated with headaches, less frequently associated with arm pain)

Can be caused by whiplash injuries, poor posture (especially at the computer) or be stress related.

This condition responds well to posture correction, mobilisations, exercises and acupuncture. Acupuncture is particularly effective for the relief of headaches.

 

Shoulder pain

Can be caused by an acute injury, repetitive loading, especially overhead arm movements, or be of an unknown cause e.g. frozen shoulder.

Early intervention can speed recovery.

Physiotherapy may include mobilisations, electrotherapy, exercises and posture re-education combined with acupuncture, and advice on avoidance of the provoking activity,

 

Tennis elbow, golfers elbow, and wrist pain

These conditions are not restricted to tennis / golf players.

Often occurs as a repetitive strain type injury at the keyboard. These conditions respond well to exercises, acupuncture, and soft tissue techniques, together with ergonomic advice.

 

Hip and Knee pain

Can occur as a result of degenerative changes (osteoarthritis), an acute injury e.g. ligament damage or due to muscle strain, or structural anomalies, e.g. dropped arches.

 

Hamstring injuries  and groin injuries

These injuries are common in sports involving rapid acceleration/ deceleration e.g. football.

They commonly re-occur if not rehabilitated fully.

A full assessment is necessary to rule out an alternative diagnosis of referred pain from a lumbar spine condition.

Treatment includes ice, stretches, core stability training, strengthening, and agility training based on the specific sport.

 

Calf Injuries, achilles strain, heel pain

These are often sports related, but may also be caused by biomechanical faults.

These conditions are treated with exercises, orthotics, electrotherapy and adjustment of training program for sports related problems.

 

Sports injuries

Respond well to early treatment to prevent further damage and ensure full recovery.

They are treated by accurate diagnosis followed by treatment involving manual therapy, electrotherapy, taping, and carefully phased individual exercise programs leading to a full return to sport.