Sad but true I'm out of the toughguy race which is on the 32nd of Jan 2010 (as per the entry form) check it out!. The reason being a injury to my right knee which was picked up at Judo with initial assessment indicating medial collateral ligament damge and possible meniscii tear, once the swelling has reduced a full assessment will be carried out and a referrral for MRI if indicated.
I have to say though I won't miss the weekend runs in all weather and especially the jumps into water and mud which formed part of the training.
I'll book my place onto the summer and the next winter toughguy.
If you require treatment or training for the run and need any tips call/email we'll be more than happy to assist.
Kind Regards
Francis Connor
www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk
Wednesday, 16 December 2009
Thursday, 26 November 2009
manchester osteopath meets Kosei Inoue
One of our osteopaths Francis Connor who has practised judo for many years and currently at Swinton Judo Club, Salford, and yes often popular because of his skills as an osteopath attended a master class with Kosei Inoue a true champion of Judo.Kosei is married to a famous Japanese TV presenter, Aki Higashihara, both were very friendly and the course was excellent and it reminds you there is always things to learn.
Kosie is three times world champion, three times all japan champion and olympic gold medalist 2000
Picture showing Francis with Kosei:
Picture with members of Swinton Judo Club with Kosei Inoue, also pictured is George Kerr, President of the British Judo Association, back row 2nd from the right who himself an excellent judoka.
One of the throws Kosei Inuoe is know for is Uchi Mata which can been seen below as he practised with one of our top judo players Matthew Clempner.
If you have any injuries from judo or looking for help with rehabilitation email manchester osteopaths and we'll try and help you.
Sunday, 25 October 2009
osteopath in training
2nd run into the tough guy training and so far so good, no jumping into water yet though in preparation for the cold plunges on the tough guy run, just about rehabilitated from a groin strain which has been a bit of a drag, required lots of stretching, mobility and rehabilitation exercise plus treament. The run on saturday was around 3.5 miles with no ill pains.
My plan is to run 2x a week with cross training at judo and cycling.
If your training have fun Francis Connor - osteopath
My plan is to run 2x a week with cross training at judo and cycling.
If your training have fun Francis Connor - osteopath
Tuesday, 20 October 2009
manchester osteopath francis connor is in training
Francis has taken the plunge and decided to sign up for the 2010 tough guy run, check it out!
Thursday, 24 September 2009
Whats the crack or pop with a osteopathic manipulation
When a osteopath manipulates the vertebra of the body it makes a noise which is very distinct and a common question that often arises is:
What causes the pop or crack when a manipulation is performed?
A simple description could be as follows;
The spine consists of vertebras separated by discs and enclosed in a membrane that contains fluid, when a manipulation is performed by an osteopath there is a mobilizing of the joint creating a cavitation, the gases within the joint change with the pressure which gives a popping sound relieving a lot of pressure in the joint and restoring its movement.
Now a detailed description reference the Department of Biomechanics, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824, USAA extract from the service of the US National Library of Medicine and the National Institute of Healthhttp://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/40748.php
The audible release is caused by a cavitation process whereby a sudden decrease in intracapsular pressure causes dissolved gasses in the synovial fluid to be released into the joint cavity. Once a joint undergoes cavitation, the force-displacement curve changes and the range of motion of the joint increases. The gasses released from the synovial fluid make up about 15% of the joint volume and consist of approximately 80% carbon dioxide.
Habitual joint cracking does not correlate with arthritic changes, but does correlate with loss of grip strength and soft-tissue swelling.
During the "crack" associated with a joint manipulation, there is a sudden joint distraction that occurs in less time than that required to complete the stretch reflexes of periarticular muscles. Theories on the cavitation mechanism were reviewed and new information on the cavitation process is introduced. In this paper, it is proposed that the cavitation process is generated by an elastic recoil of the synovial capsule as it "snaps back" from the capsule/synovial fluid interface. CONCLUSIONS: Because the sudden joint distraction during a manipulation occurs in a shorter time period than that required to complete the stretch reflexes of the periarticular muscles, there is likely to be a high impulse acting on the ligaments and muscles associated with the joint. This is an important conclusion, because others have proposed that reflex actions from high threshold periarticular receptors are associated with the many beneficial results of manipulation. This suggests that the cavitation process provides a simple means for initiating the reflex actions and that without the cavitation process, it would be difficult to generate the forces in the appropriate tissue without causing muscular damage.
If you have any question or worries about the noise just ask you osteopath during your consultation and they will go into detail as required.
What causes the pop or crack when a manipulation is performed?
A simple description could be as follows;
The spine consists of vertebras separated by discs and enclosed in a membrane that contains fluid, when a manipulation is performed by an osteopath there is a mobilizing of the joint creating a cavitation, the gases within the joint change with the pressure which gives a popping sound relieving a lot of pressure in the joint and restoring its movement.
Now a detailed description reference the Department of Biomechanics, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824, USAA extract from the service of the US National Library of Medicine and the National Institute of Healthhttp://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/40748.php
The audible release is caused by a cavitation process whereby a sudden decrease in intracapsular pressure causes dissolved gasses in the synovial fluid to be released into the joint cavity. Once a joint undergoes cavitation, the force-displacement curve changes and the range of motion of the joint increases. The gasses released from the synovial fluid make up about 15% of the joint volume and consist of approximately 80% carbon dioxide.
Habitual joint cracking does not correlate with arthritic changes, but does correlate with loss of grip strength and soft-tissue swelling.
During the "crack" associated with a joint manipulation, there is a sudden joint distraction that occurs in less time than that required to complete the stretch reflexes of periarticular muscles. Theories on the cavitation mechanism were reviewed and new information on the cavitation process is introduced. In this paper, it is proposed that the cavitation process is generated by an elastic recoil of the synovial capsule as it "snaps back" from the capsule/synovial fluid interface. CONCLUSIONS: Because the sudden joint distraction during a manipulation occurs in a shorter time period than that required to complete the stretch reflexes of the periarticular muscles, there is likely to be a high impulse acting on the ligaments and muscles associated with the joint. This is an important conclusion, because others have proposed that reflex actions from high threshold periarticular receptors are associated with the many beneficial results of manipulation. This suggests that the cavitation process provides a simple means for initiating the reflex actions and that without the cavitation process, it would be difficult to generate the forces in the appropriate tissue without causing muscular damage.
If you have any question or worries about the noise just ask you osteopath during your consultation and they will go into detail as required.
Sunday, 20 September 2009
Manchester acupuncturist Kate
Congradulations to Kate our acupuncturists who has just qualified as a peadiatric nurse, and will be started a new job as a school nurse, she will still be practising acupuncture though not as much. If you have any queries give us a call.
regards
francis
regards
francis
Thursday, 3 September 2009
What is Sciatica
This question was asked prior and after treatment to our patient Jane 29yrs who is an admin worker in the centre of Manchester.
Answer before treatment
Sciatica is a nerve trapped between the vertebra, causing a lot pain in the legs and bum, its makes it difficult to walk long distances and driving for long periods of time.
Answer after treatment
The sciatic nerve root stems off from the spinal cord providing feeling to the buttocks, legs and feet, sciatica is caused by a disc in the vertebra rupturing or when the disc weakens causing the bones to touch therefore pinching the sciatic nerve root, the pain of sciatica can vary from sharp pains or pins and needle sensation.
Jane was right on both occasions however after the first treatment and consultation went into more detail.
As you can see there is a lot more to sciatica than a pain in the leg so if you have any questions or have been diagnosed with sciatica give a call to discuss.
regards
francis connor
http://www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk/
Answer before treatment
Sciatica is a nerve trapped between the vertebra, causing a lot pain in the legs and bum, its makes it difficult to walk long distances and driving for long periods of time.
Answer after treatment
The sciatic nerve root stems off from the spinal cord providing feeling to the buttocks, legs and feet, sciatica is caused by a disc in the vertebra rupturing or when the disc weakens causing the bones to touch therefore pinching the sciatic nerve root, the pain of sciatica can vary from sharp pains or pins and needle sensation.
Jane was right on both occasions however after the first treatment and consultation went into more detail.
As you can see there is a lot more to sciatica than a pain in the leg so if you have any questions or have been diagnosed with sciatica give a call to discuss.
regards
francis connor
http://www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk/
Tuesday, 25 August 2009
Manchester osteopaths now have a homeopath
The manchester clinic is continuing to grow as we welcome a registered homeopath to our clinic, Rachel foy. Rachel will also be working from our Bolton clinic Deansgate Osteopath Clinic.
Rachel Foy studied homeopathy at The Lakeland College of Homeopathy in Ambleside and uses a modern approach to homeopathy often prescribing remedy combinations with other treatments as needed such as herbal tinctures & flower essences.
Homeopathy is a gentle and holistic alternative therapy which stimulates the body to heal itself. Homeopahty can be used effectively by everyone, from babies & children to adults, including women during pregnancy. When prescribed appropriately, homeopathic remedies are safe, non-toxic & non-addictive.
If you require any additional informaion contact http://www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk/
best wishes
francis
Rachel Foy studied homeopathy at The Lakeland College of Homeopathy in Ambleside and uses a modern approach to homeopathy often prescribing remedy combinations with other treatments as needed such as herbal tinctures & flower essences.
Homeopathy is a gentle and holistic alternative therapy which stimulates the body to heal itself. Homeopahty can be used effectively by everyone, from babies & children to adults, including women during pregnancy. When prescribed appropriately, homeopathic remedies are safe, non-toxic & non-addictive.
If you require any additional informaion contact http://www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk/
best wishes
francis
Saturday, 8 August 2009
Lower Back Pain - Anatomy and Common Conditions
The Structure of the back
What is a slipped disc?
Sciatica
Cauda equina syndrome
The structure of the back
The back is a complex structure consisting of:
24 small bones (vertebrae), that support the weight of your upper body and form a protective canal for the spinal cord.
Shock-absorbing discs (intervertebral discs) that cushion the bones and allow the spine to bend.
Ligaments that hold the vertebrae and discs together.
Tendons to connect muscles to vertebrae.
A spinal cord, which carries nerve signals from the brain to the rest of the body.
Nerves.
Muscles.
The lower part of your back is known as the lumbar region, which is made up of five vertebrae, known as L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5. The lumbar supports the entire weight of your upper body (plus any extra weight that you are carrying), and it is under constant pressure, particularly when you are bending, twisting and lifting.
Slipped disc is the common name for the medical terms 'prolapsed' or 'herniated' disc.
A slipped disc most commonly occurs in people who are between 30 and 50 years of age. The condition affects twice as many men than women. Although back pain is a common problem for adults over the age of 30, a slipped disc is the cause of less than one in 20 cases of sudden back pain. Most back pain is the result of a muscle or ligament strain.
What are discs?
The discs you have in your back are protective, circular pads of cartilage (connective tissue) that lie in between the bones of your spine (vertebrae). The discs are responsible for cushioning the vertebrae when you jump or run. The discs are made from a tough, fibrous case, which contains a softer, gel-like substance.
The spinal cord is a collection of nerve fibres that are attached to the brain, and are protected by the spine. Nerve fibres from the spinal cord pass between the vertebrae, and take and receive messages to and from different parts of the body.
What is a slipped disc?
A slipped disc occurs when the outer part of your disc ruptures, allowing the gel inside to bulge and protrude outwards from in between your vertebrae. The damaged disc can put pressure on your whole spinal cord or on a single nerve fibre. This means that a slipped disc can cause pain both in the area of the protruding disc and in any part of your body that is controlled by the nerve the disc is pressing on.
A slipped disc occurs most frequently in your lower back, but any disc can rupture, including those in your upper back and neck.
Some people who have a slipped disc experience no obvious symptoms. This is usually because the part of the disc which bulges out is only small, or it may not be pressing on the nerves or spinal cord.
However, many people who have a slipped disc do experience pain. Most will begin by experiencing pain in their lower back. The pain can then sometimes spread to other parts of the body.
It is not always clear what causes the tissue to break down. A lot of slipped discs are the result of increasing age. As you get older your spinal discs start to lose their water content, which makes them less flexible and more likely to rupture.
There are a number of other factors which can put increased pressure and strain on your spine. Some of these factors are outlined below:
bending awkwardly,
having a job that involves heavy, or awkward, lifting,
having a job that involves lots of sitting (particularly driving),
smoking,
being overweight,
participating in a weight-bearing sport, such as weight lifting, and
having a traumatic injury to your back, such as a fall or car accident.
Factors such as these can weaken the disc tissue, and trigger a slipped disc.
Most cases of a slipped disc will not require further testing as symptoms will usually settle down particularly with osteopathy or physiotherapy treatment aimed at mobilising the joint, relaxing muscles which will take the pressure of the disc. However, if your symptoms do not ease after four to six weeks, then your GP may have to refer you for a series of tests to help rule out other conditions or to investigate the size and position of the slipped disc.
Sciatica
With most slipped discs, pain is caused when part of the disc starts to press on one of the nerves that run along the spine. The sciatic nerve is the most commonly affected nerve. This large nerve is made up of several smaller nerves that pass from your spinal cord in your lower back. The nerve travels deep inside your buttocks and down the back of each leg.
If you have pressure on the sciatic nerve it can cause: a lasting, aching pain, numbness, and a tingling sensation in one, or both, of your legs.
These symptoms often start in your lower back and then travel down your buttocks and into either of the legs.
Other nerves
If the slipped disc presses on any of the other nerves that run down your spinal cord, your symptoms may include:
muscle paralysis, muscle spasms, and a loss of bladder control.
Muscle spasms and paralysis tend to occur in your arms, legs and buttocks. The pain you experience when a disc presses on a nerve is often worse when you cough or sneeze. This is because these sudden movements can put more pressure on the nerve. The pain can also be worse when you go to sit down because, again, pressure is put on the spine and nerves.
Cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome is a serious condition where the nerves at the very bottom of the spinal cord become compressed. The symptoms of the syndrome include:
lower back pain,
numbness in your groin,
paralysis of one or both legs,
rectum pain(pain in the lower bowel and anus),
bowel disturbance,
being unable to pass urine, and
pain in the inside of your thighs.
If you develop any of these symptoms, you should contact your GP immediately. If cauda equina syndrome is not promptly treated, the nerves to your bladder and bowel can become permanently damaged.
If you have any additional questions check our site www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk or send an email to info@manchester-osteopaths.co.uk.
The Structure of the back
What is a slipped disc?
Sciatica
Cauda equina syndrome
The structure of the back
The back is a complex structure consisting of:
24 small bones (vertebrae), that support the weight of your upper body and form a protective canal for the spinal cord.
Shock-absorbing discs (intervertebral discs) that cushion the bones and allow the spine to bend.
Ligaments that hold the vertebrae and discs together.
Tendons to connect muscles to vertebrae.
A spinal cord, which carries nerve signals from the brain to the rest of the body.
Nerves.
Muscles.
The lower part of your back is known as the lumbar region, which is made up of five vertebrae, known as L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5. The lumbar supports the entire weight of your upper body (plus any extra weight that you are carrying), and it is under constant pressure, particularly when you are bending, twisting and lifting.
Slipped disc is the common name for the medical terms 'prolapsed' or 'herniated' disc.
A slipped disc most commonly occurs in people who are between 30 and 50 years of age. The condition affects twice as many men than women. Although back pain is a common problem for adults over the age of 30, a slipped disc is the cause of less than one in 20 cases of sudden back pain. Most back pain is the result of a muscle or ligament strain.
What are discs?
The discs you have in your back are protective, circular pads of cartilage (connective tissue) that lie in between the bones of your spine (vertebrae). The discs are responsible for cushioning the vertebrae when you jump or run. The discs are made from a tough, fibrous case, which contains a softer, gel-like substance.
The spinal cord is a collection of nerve fibres that are attached to the brain, and are protected by the spine. Nerve fibres from the spinal cord pass between the vertebrae, and take and receive messages to and from different parts of the body.
What is a slipped disc?
A slipped disc occurs when the outer part of your disc ruptures, allowing the gel inside to bulge and protrude outwards from in between your vertebrae. The damaged disc can put pressure on your whole spinal cord or on a single nerve fibre. This means that a slipped disc can cause pain both in the area of the protruding disc and in any part of your body that is controlled by the nerve the disc is pressing on.
A slipped disc occurs most frequently in your lower back, but any disc can rupture, including those in your upper back and neck.
Some people who have a slipped disc experience no obvious symptoms. This is usually because the part of the disc which bulges out is only small, or it may not be pressing on the nerves or spinal cord.
However, many people who have a slipped disc do experience pain. Most will begin by experiencing pain in their lower back. The pain can then sometimes spread to other parts of the body.
It is not always clear what causes the tissue to break down. A lot of slipped discs are the result of increasing age. As you get older your spinal discs start to lose their water content, which makes them less flexible and more likely to rupture.
There are a number of other factors which can put increased pressure and strain on your spine. Some of these factors are outlined below:
bending awkwardly,
having a job that involves heavy, or awkward, lifting,
having a job that involves lots of sitting (particularly driving),
smoking,
being overweight,
participating in a weight-bearing sport, such as weight lifting, and
having a traumatic injury to your back, such as a fall or car accident.
Factors such as these can weaken the disc tissue, and trigger a slipped disc.
Most cases of a slipped disc will not require further testing as symptoms will usually settle down particularly with osteopathy or physiotherapy treatment aimed at mobilising the joint, relaxing muscles which will take the pressure of the disc. However, if your symptoms do not ease after four to six weeks, then your GP may have to refer you for a series of tests to help rule out other conditions or to investigate the size and position of the slipped disc.
Sciatica
With most slipped discs, pain is caused when part of the disc starts to press on one of the nerves that run along the spine. The sciatic nerve is the most commonly affected nerve. This large nerve is made up of several smaller nerves that pass from your spinal cord in your lower back. The nerve travels deep inside your buttocks and down the back of each leg.
If you have pressure on the sciatic nerve it can cause: a lasting, aching pain, numbness, and a tingling sensation in one, or both, of your legs.
These symptoms often start in your lower back and then travel down your buttocks and into either of the legs.
Other nerves
If the slipped disc presses on any of the other nerves that run down your spinal cord, your symptoms may include:
muscle paralysis, muscle spasms, and a loss of bladder control.
Muscle spasms and paralysis tend to occur in your arms, legs and buttocks. The pain you experience when a disc presses on a nerve is often worse when you cough or sneeze. This is because these sudden movements can put more pressure on the nerve. The pain can also be worse when you go to sit down because, again, pressure is put on the spine and nerves.
Cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome is a serious condition where the nerves at the very bottom of the spinal cord become compressed. The symptoms of the syndrome include:
lower back pain,
numbness in your groin,
paralysis of one or both legs,
rectum pain(pain in the lower bowel and anus),
bowel disturbance,
being unable to pass urine, and
pain in the inside of your thighs.
If you develop any of these symptoms, you should contact your GP immediately. If cauda equina syndrome is not promptly treated, the nerves to your bladder and bowel can become permanently damaged.
If you have any additional questions check our site www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk or send an email to info@manchester-osteopaths.co.uk.
Sunday, 19 July 2009
Good luck to Karl in Preswich, at the end of july he will be taking part in the summer Toughguy race which is tough on the easy bits and then some for the rest, having taken part in this my self (Francis Connor) three times and know only to well what he's in for. We at Manchester Osteopaths have helped to keep him in top condition ready for the race. If you want to see previous race events check it out on you tube and if your tempted to enter then we can help you with the basics of survival and after looking at the race on you tube it is survival especially the winter race.
It you need treatment call us www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk
have fun!!
It you need treatment call us www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk
have fun!!
Thursday, 9 July 2009
Back Pain - a common condition presented to Manchester Osteopaths
Back Pain - Assessment, Diagnosis & Treatment
Back Pain particularly lower back pain is a common condition and in the UK, it is one of the largest cause of work-related absence. Lower Back pain is also one off the main reasons of pain presented to our clinics in Manchester and Bolton for Osteopathy, Physiotherapy, Deep Tissue Massage and Rehabilitation, it can be very uncomfortable and painful , Most back pain is not usually serious and is managable with changes in activities and exercise.
What is back pain
Back pain is any ache experienced within the back, it can involve various structures of the the back (see Back Anatomy) and usually defined as non specific lower back pain.
Lower back pain can come on suddenly or gradually, and maybe from direct trauma or a conitinual repetitive action. The complex structure of your Lower back means that even small injuries to the spine can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.
Generally pain in your lower back is usually a symptom of stress or damage to your ligaments, muscles, tendons or discs. In most cases of back pain your back will heal itself, and staying active and continuing with your usual activities will normally promote healing. Back pain will usually last from a few days to a few weeks. Persistent pain however, in severe and persistent cases of back pain, it is important to seek advice so that a correct diagnosis can be reached and appropriate treatment given. Treatment for back pain can vary and will depend on the underlying cause of the condition.
How Common is Lower Back Pain
Back Pain is common, very common, it’s the number one reason for days of work and second only to the common cold for presentation to the doctors.
Back pain can affect anyone, regardless of age, but it is more common in people who are between 35 and 55 years of age.
Lower back pain is often known as lumbago, affects seven out of 10 people at some time in their lives.
What Causes Lower Back Pain
Most cases of lower back pain known as 'non-specific' are not caused by serious damage or disease, but by sprains, muscle strains, minor injuries or a pinched or irritated nerve.
Back pain can also be triggered by everyday activities at home or work, and by poor posture. For example, back pain may be triggered by:
bending awkwardly, lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling incorrectly,
slouching in chairs, standing or bending down for long periods,
muscle tension, over-stretching,
driving in hunched positions, or driving for long periods without taking a break.
Sometimes, you may wake up with back pain and have no idea what has caused it, this is because it can be so multifactorial, with any activity affecting your strength, flexibility, mobility and posture, even your diet, nutrition and fluid can have an influence on your back.
Some common causes of back pain include:
pregnancy, gynaecological problems in women, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID),
different types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis,
stress-related tension,
viral infections,
bone disorders,
bladder and kidney infections,
osteoporosis (weak and brittle bones),
a trip or fall,
a trauma or injury, such as a fracture,
lack of exercise,
obesity
this is what you osteopath, physiotherapist will discuss to help you manage and where possible improve you back function, the better you back will be.
The Need for Back Pain Assessment
Back pain is often categorised as:
Acute - where your back pain occurs suddenly and lasts for less than three months, and
Chronic - where your back pain develops gradually, over time, lasts for more than 12 weeks, and causes long-term problems.
Most back pain is not serious and can ease with a simple changes in activities however, occasionally back pain can be serious, such as the bulging or rupture of one or more of the intervertebral discs, this can cause serious back pain. This results in the inner jelly-like material (nucleus pulposus) pressing on the spinal cord or nerve roots, which run next to the disc. This is commonly known as a 'slipped disc', but is more accurately described as a 'prolapsed' (bulging) or 'herniated' (ruptured) disc.
Intervertebral discs tend to dry out and weaken with age, or following an injury. This results in the discs becoming less flexible, which means they do not cushion the vertebrae as well as they did before. This is a common cause of stiffness and pain, particularly in the elderly. It also tends to be worse early in the morning.
Persistent lower back pain can also be caused by a number of rare conditions, such as:
congenital (inherited) spinal defects, bone diseases, shingles (an infection that affects the nerves), fibromyalgia, or cancer that has spread to the spine.
However, most people with lower back pain experience mild pain and have occasional bouts of pain that are more severe. This can make it difficult to determine whether their back pain is acute or chronic.
When you have a chronic condition of back pain or have a cycle which may follow a pattern such as;
You experience a gradual increase in back pain and general aches which can be sharp on activity, you reduce your activity, maybe time off work which allows the sypmtoms to ease, you then go back to work and resume activities, shortly after a period of time your symtoms return only this time they linger for longer with stronger sensations, initially it may be once a year then it maybecome 2 – 3 times a year.
This is all too common and the reason a full physical assessment is required to understand the underlying conditions or make the decision for additonal investigations.
Methods for Lower Back Pain Assessment an treatment
There are various methods for assessing muscular skeletal conditions particular lower back pain, our clinics offer:
Osteopathy
Physiotherapy
Rehabilitation
Deep Tissue Massage
These therapists have a long history of treating the public, athletes and also providing advice and assistance to industry.
Osteopathy
Both clinics provide osteopathic treatment with all our osteopaths registered with the General Osteopathic. Back pain and its treatment is something osteopaths have built a strong reputation in treating and work with various health professional for its management.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is availalble at both clinics with each physiotherapist (physio’s) registered with the Health Professional Council and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists. All our physiotherapists are experienced practitioners
Rehabilitation
One of the main important issues with lower back pain is the management and recovery, this is one of the strenghts of a rehabilitation therapist who can put in place a excellent programme working along physiotherapists and osteopaths for optimum response to treatment.
Deep Tissue Massage
This is an excellent way to help maintain health and complements treatment, improving function and recovery by relaxing muscles taking the pressure of the joints allowing rehabilitation , massage is recommended by most health professional to assist treatment.
Back Pain particularly lower back pain is a common condition and in the UK, it is one of the largest cause of work-related absence. Lower Back pain is also one off the main reasons of pain presented to our clinics in Manchester and Bolton for Osteopathy, Physiotherapy, Deep Tissue Massage and Rehabilitation, it can be very uncomfortable and painful , Most back pain is not usually serious and is managable with changes in activities and exercise.
What is back pain
Back pain is any ache experienced within the back, it can involve various structures of the the back (see Back Anatomy) and usually defined as non specific lower back pain.
Lower back pain can come on suddenly or gradually, and maybe from direct trauma or a conitinual repetitive action. The complex structure of your Lower back means that even small injuries to the spine can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.
Generally pain in your lower back is usually a symptom of stress or damage to your ligaments, muscles, tendons or discs. In most cases of back pain your back will heal itself, and staying active and continuing with your usual activities will normally promote healing. Back pain will usually last from a few days to a few weeks. Persistent pain however, in severe and persistent cases of back pain, it is important to seek advice so that a correct diagnosis can be reached and appropriate treatment given. Treatment for back pain can vary and will depend on the underlying cause of the condition.
How Common is Lower Back Pain
Back Pain is common, very common, it’s the number one reason for days of work and second only to the common cold for presentation to the doctors.
Back pain can affect anyone, regardless of age, but it is more common in people who are between 35 and 55 years of age.
Lower back pain is often known as lumbago, affects seven out of 10 people at some time in their lives.
What Causes Lower Back Pain
Most cases of lower back pain known as 'non-specific' are not caused by serious damage or disease, but by sprains, muscle strains, minor injuries or a pinched or irritated nerve.
Back pain can also be triggered by everyday activities at home or work, and by poor posture. For example, back pain may be triggered by:
bending awkwardly, lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling incorrectly,
slouching in chairs, standing or bending down for long periods,
muscle tension, over-stretching,
driving in hunched positions, or driving for long periods without taking a break.
Sometimes, you may wake up with back pain and have no idea what has caused it, this is because it can be so multifactorial, with any activity affecting your strength, flexibility, mobility and posture, even your diet, nutrition and fluid can have an influence on your back.
Some common causes of back pain include:
pregnancy, gynaecological problems in women, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID),
different types of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis,
stress-related tension,
viral infections,
bone disorders,
bladder and kidney infections,
osteoporosis (weak and brittle bones),
a trip or fall,
a trauma or injury, such as a fracture,
lack of exercise,
obesity
this is what you osteopath, physiotherapist will discuss to help you manage and where possible improve you back function, the better you back will be.
The Need for Back Pain Assessment
Back pain is often categorised as:
Acute - where your back pain occurs suddenly and lasts for less than three months, and
Chronic - where your back pain develops gradually, over time, lasts for more than 12 weeks, and causes long-term problems.
Most back pain is not serious and can ease with a simple changes in activities however, occasionally back pain can be serious, such as the bulging or rupture of one or more of the intervertebral discs, this can cause serious back pain. This results in the inner jelly-like material (nucleus pulposus) pressing on the spinal cord or nerve roots, which run next to the disc. This is commonly known as a 'slipped disc', but is more accurately described as a 'prolapsed' (bulging) or 'herniated' (ruptured) disc.
Intervertebral discs tend to dry out and weaken with age, or following an injury. This results in the discs becoming less flexible, which means they do not cushion the vertebrae as well as they did before. This is a common cause of stiffness and pain, particularly in the elderly. It also tends to be worse early in the morning.
Persistent lower back pain can also be caused by a number of rare conditions, such as:
congenital (inherited) spinal defects, bone diseases, shingles (an infection that affects the nerves), fibromyalgia, or cancer that has spread to the spine.
However, most people with lower back pain experience mild pain and have occasional bouts of pain that are more severe. This can make it difficult to determine whether their back pain is acute or chronic.
When you have a chronic condition of back pain or have a cycle which may follow a pattern such as;
You experience a gradual increase in back pain and general aches which can be sharp on activity, you reduce your activity, maybe time off work which allows the sypmtoms to ease, you then go back to work and resume activities, shortly after a period of time your symtoms return only this time they linger for longer with stronger sensations, initially it may be once a year then it maybecome 2 – 3 times a year.
This is all too common and the reason a full physical assessment is required to understand the underlying conditions or make the decision for additonal investigations.
Methods for Lower Back Pain Assessment an treatment
There are various methods for assessing muscular skeletal conditions particular lower back pain, our clinics offer:
Osteopathy
Physiotherapy
Rehabilitation
Deep Tissue Massage
These therapists have a long history of treating the public, athletes and also providing advice and assistance to industry.
Osteopathy
Both clinics provide osteopathic treatment with all our osteopaths registered with the General Osteopathic. Back pain and its treatment is something osteopaths have built a strong reputation in treating and work with various health professional for its management.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is availalble at both clinics with each physiotherapist (physio’s) registered with the Health Professional Council and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists. All our physiotherapists are experienced practitioners
Rehabilitation
One of the main important issues with lower back pain is the management and recovery, this is one of the strenghts of a rehabilitation therapist who can put in place a excellent programme working along physiotherapists and osteopaths for optimum response to treatment.
Deep Tissue Massage
This is an excellent way to help maintain health and complements treatment, improving function and recovery by relaxing muscles taking the pressure of the joints allowing rehabilitation , massage is recommended by most health professional to assist treatment.
Sunday, 28 June 2009
togh guy competition july 09
Francis Connor - osteopath at the Manchester osteopaths clinic has took part in the last three tough guy runs, with some heavy duty training and also helped a few other runners with treatment and training ideas. The race is basically 8 gruelling miles involving serious obstacles - with mud, water (lots), crawling, fire, electric fences and hill runs which give the legs a good bashing.
However it is great to finish
If your wondering what the race is check it out on youtube!
If your looking for treatment then give us a call 0161 835 2358 or check out our services on http://www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk/
However it is great to finish
If your wondering what the race is check it out on youtube!
If your looking for treatment then give us a call 0161 835 2358 or check out our services on http://www.manchester-osteopaths.co.uk/
Thursday, 25 June 2009
patient feedback
Considering treatment and not sure?
check out some of our feedback which were posted as a reviews on Qype
Note:Manchester Osteopaths was formerly known as Soothe Osteopathic Clinic
The Soothe Osteopathic clinic in Manchester is fantastic, the staff are very friendly and helpful and the price for treatment is very competitive. I found Mr Francis Connor (Principal Osteopath) to be extremely knowledgable in his field, he treated my aches & pains with gentle manipulation, massage and stretching. He also gave me a list of stretching exercises to perform at home, the exercises were specific to my problems and worked brilliantly. Mr Connor also has excellent nutritional knowledge and by following his advice I was able to recover from injury even quicker. I am quite active and have suffered from, ankle, shin and lower back pain, but the Soother Clinic were able to get me running again in no time. In recent years I have climbed Mont Blanc, ran the New York & London marathons, completed several half marathons, completed the ToughGuy competition 3 times, rock climbed to HVS standard and completed the 200 mile coast to coast walk. At present I am training for a triathalon and half marathon in April/May. I would highly recommend the Soothe Osteopathic clinic, whether you suffered injury through work or whilst training I’m sure they will be able to help.
check out some of our feedback which were posted as a reviews on Qype
Note:Manchester Osteopaths was formerly known as Soothe Osteopathic Clinic
The Soothe Osteopathic clinic in Manchester is fantastic, the staff are very friendly and helpful and the price for treatment is very competitive. I found Mr Francis Connor (Principal Osteopath) to be extremely knowledgable in his field, he treated my aches & pains with gentle manipulation, massage and stretching. He also gave me a list of stretching exercises to perform at home, the exercises were specific to my problems and worked brilliantly. Mr Connor also has excellent nutritional knowledge and by following his advice I was able to recover from injury even quicker. I am quite active and have suffered from, ankle, shin and lower back pain, but the Soother Clinic were able to get me running again in no time. In recent years I have climbed Mont Blanc, ran the New York & London marathons, completed several half marathons, completed the ToughGuy competition 3 times, rock climbed to HVS standard and completed the 200 mile coast to coast walk. At present I am training for a triathalon and half marathon in April/May. I would highly recommend the Soothe Osteopathic clinic, whether you suffered injury through work or whilst training I’m sure they will be able to help.
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