Tag Archive West Yorkshire

Physiotherapist or Sports Rehabilitator: Not The Same!

By Chris Liversidge In Armitage Bridge, Berry Brow, Chris Liversidge, Expertise, HCPC, HD1, HD2, HD3, HD4, HD5, HD6, HD7, HD8, HD9, Holme Valley, Holmfirth, Honley, Huddersfield, Injury, Medical, Musculoskeletal, Netherthong, Netherton, North Light, North Light Physio, Physio, Physiotherapy, Rehabilitator, Sports Rehab, UK, Upperthong, West Yorkshire

With the advent of Sports Rehabilitation as an Undergraduate Degree, and Sports Rehabilitators appearing in the marketplace, I’m often asked what the difference is ~ and whether someone should seek help from a Physiotherapist or Sports Rehabilitator for a musculoskeletal condition.

What is a Physiotherapist?

The term “Physiotherapist” describes a professional who uses physical and manual methods to restore function, and rehabilitate ‘patients’ with physical conditions
Both “Physiotherapist” and “Physio” are legally protected titles. This prevents anyone without a certified degree in Physiotherapy from
- using the title of Physiotherapist
- or describing their role as that of a Physiotherapist
Physiotherapists are, alongside all other Professions Allied to Medicine (PAMs), required to have registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), a regulatory body requiring members to demonstrate appropriate continuing professional development, to maintain their registration. Without this, a Physio is not entitled to practice

To complete the undergraduate degree, a Physiotherapist must study and demonstrate competence in the care of a range of conditions – not only musculoskeletal in nature, but also neurological conditions, respiratory disease, general surgical and orthopaedic surgical conditions and more.

The qualified Physiotherapist is then armed (as most do initially) to take up a post in the NHS or other medical institution, to continue to develop their practice. It is during the initial 2-3 years that the Physio will work across all fields of the profession, and also begin to develop a special interest in a specific area (e.g. musculoskeletal, neurology, etc.). As experience and depth of knowledge is gained, there is too much ongoing learning required to maintain expertise in more than one area.

Having said that, the early broad learning in the Physiotherapist’s career is essential, as there is a great deal of overlap in some areas. For example, some neurological knowledge is key to musculoskeletal rehabilitation, as the two systems are not mutually exclusive.

What is a Sports Rehabilitator?

Having completed an undergraduate degree in Sports Rehabilitation, this practitioner has knowledge specifically in the assessment and rehabilitation of sporting/musculoskeletal complaints
As the title suggests, the emphasis is often on returning a ‘patient’ to a specified level of sporting capacity. Manual/hands-on therapies are also used by a Sports Rehabilitator
However
- There is no training offered in a broader systems rehabilitation approach (e.g. neurological rehab)
- This practitioner is currently not a “Professional Allied to Medicine”
- The qualification is not currently regulated by the HCPC, and practitioners are therefore not required to meet their standards to practice
There is also currently no avenue for the Sports Rehab practitioner to work in the NHS or medical institutions, nor to register with health insurance providers such as BUPA, AXA, etc.

Overlap
There is a great deal of overlap. Both practitioners are able to provide hands on treatments and exercise prescription, to improve symptoms. Technically and literally, a Physiotherapist practicing in the musculoskeletal specialism, rehabilitating patients back to sport, is a sports rehabilitator.

However at the time of writing this blog, the lack of HCPC registration means the Sports Rehabilitator is not found working in the field of elite sport, because of the extent of medical overlap often required in musculoskeletal roles within professional sport.

Extended Scope
It is also worth noting that, critically, a large number of medical conditions can masquerade as musculoskeletal problems. The key here, is to have a practitioner who has the correct experience to differentially diagnose whether your condition is truly musculoskeletal, or is masquerading for an underlying medical problem.

Physiotherapists with this level of expertise are highly experienced, usually having worked in a hospital/medical setting in musculoskeletal care, for at least 8, or up to 10 years, and have seen a very large volume of differing conditions over many years. They are referred to as Extended Scope Physiotherapists (ESPs).

The key skill of an ESP is knowing what is a rehabilitation problem, what isn’t a rehabilitation problem, and for the latter, who is the correct professional to refer to.

Summary

The key thing to remember, whichever practitioner you choose, is experience
A Sports Rehabilitator has a good depth of training, and many offer a good service in managing the recreational athlete
However, one must bear in mind the breadth of training in Physiotherapy, and the advantage of the medical training incorporated in the Physiotherapy degree

Of course, the extent of experience of your chosen clinician is vital too. For me, the choice to open a Clinic was one I gave a lot of consideration to. I felt this choice was realistic after I had accumulated 10 years of experience, knowing I felt confident to assess whoever walked in through our front door – but I also continue to humbly accept that I have, by no means, learnt all there is to know!

Best Wishes,
Chris

Chris Liversidge (MSc, BSc (Hons) 1998,2001, MCSP) is an Extended Scope Physiotherapist (Musculoskeletal/Orthopaedics) and Practice Prinicpal at North Light Physiotherapy Associates, UK.

To book an appointment with the experts at North Light Physiotherapy, PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE A COMMENT HERE!

Call us on 01484 660663, or click on our Contact page

Neurological Rehab at North Light Physiotherapy

By Chris Liversidge In Balance, Berry Brow, Brain Injury, Chris Shorter, Elderly, HD1, HD2, HD3, HD4, HD5, HD6, HD7, HD8, HD9, Holmfirth, Honley, Huddersfield, Lockwood, Meltham, Motor Neurone Disease, Multiple Sclerocis, Multiple Sclerosis, Netherton, Neurological, Neurological physio, Newsome, North Light Physio, North Light Physiotherapy, Parkinsons Disease, Rehab, Rehabilitation, South Crosland, Stroke, West Yorkshire

For our latest blog, Chris Shorter, our Neurological Rehab specialist at North Light Physiotherapy discusses the specifics on offer

“Physiotherapy is strongly recommended in the national guidelines for rehab and management of neurological conditions”, he says.

Experience
From working in the field of neuro-rehab for over 14 years now, Chris has seen its effectiveness first hand in many ways. Conditions treated include, but aren’t limited to Parkinsons Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Stroke. Neurological disorders and disease are vast. Chris relishes the variety, and the challenge this variety presents, and takes an enormous amount of satisfaction in patient outcomes.

Chris says: “We are now very happy to offer assessments and treatments at North Light Physiotherapy, either in our clinic or in our spacious gym setting, which has level access. We know that in some cases mobility can be severely limited, so we can also offer the option of home visits. *” (* – within a maximum range of 3 miles from the Clinic)

Expectation

“Physiotherapy begins with a thorough assessment: gaining information on the patients’ goals and targets for rehab / condition management. A typical physical assessment may include assessment of movement, strength, muscle tone, balance and gait pattern. There are also more condition-specific assessments that we would include, depending on the presentation.”

“Treatment may entail work on improving movement and strength through a combination of exercise, hands on therapy and movement re-education. Advice on orthotics or walking equipment is also considered. Balance rehab and specific feedback on how to improve gait (walking) pattern is also a common approach. ”

Whether your problem is pain caused by your condition or balance problems, maybe even falls, we would provide treatment or advice for this. A goal for many of our patients is to improve mobility levels. This can be broken down into more specific steps, and advice can be provided on the areas to work on along with education on what may be causing the current problems.

Treatment Specificity

As an example, one persons problem may be due to weakness around a specific joint or more than one joint, for another it may be due to higher level balance problems; the role of the physiotherapist is to identify the contributing factors causing the problem and to provide specific advice on how to work on this.

Living with a neurological condition that can often be for the long term can be a strain on our resources and motivation. However a therapeutic alliance between physio and patient is key. We give our patients the time they need to discuss how their conditions impacts on their wellbeing, because an empathic listening approach is therapy in itself and helps the rehab process.

One on one rehab can be a very motivating experience and achievement of goals is rewarding no matter how small…and when our patients takes control of their condition, that’s our favourite outcome!

For details of how we can help with your Neurological condition, get in touch!

To book an appointment with Chris Shorter or any of our expert Team at North Light Physiotherapy Associates, PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE A COMMENT HERE ~ Use our Contact form, or call us on 01484 660663.

Sports Massage at North Light Physiotherapy

By Chris Liversidge In Armitage Bridge, Elite Sport, Expert, HD1, HD2, HD3, HD4, HD5, HD6, HD7, HD8, HD9, Holmfirth, Honley, Huddersfield, Injury, Lockwood, Meltham, Neck, Netherton, North Light Physio, North Light Physiotherapy, pain, Physio, Physiotherapy, Shoulder, South Crosland, Sports Injury, Sports Massage, Wellbeing, West Yorkshire

Who can benefit from Sports Massage?

Sports Massage at North Light Physiotherapy

Sports Massage is useful for various problems, not just in a sports context. Often muscles can feel tight or stiff after heavy or repeated physical activity this can be sporting, occupational or recreational. Muscular tightness and restriction can be reduced, and pain alleviated as part of a more broad based management strategy that may form part of a regular training programme, or a course of Physiotherapy or rehabilitation.

Expertise

Our team have a wealth of experience and expertise. We have worked with professional sports people, and this experience is invaluable in working with athletes at all levels and abilities. We can support you, whether in preparation for athletic events, such as endurance running, cycling sportives, or if you only take part in your favourite activities for fun and wellbeing.

To book your Sports Massage, call North Light Physiotherapy on 01484 660663 or head over to our Contact page – looking forward to seeing you!

Dizziness: Life in A Spin…?

By Chris Liversidge In Armitage Bridge, Balance, Berry Brow, Chris Shorter, Dizziness, Dizzy, HD1, HD2, HD3, HD4, HD5, HD6, HD7, HD8, HD9, Holmfirth, Honley, Huddersfield, Meltham, Newsome, North Light, North Light Physio, Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation, South Crosland, VBI, Vertigo, Vestibular, West Yorkshire, Yorkshire

Physiotherapy is highly effective for the diagnosis and treatment of dizziness, and for balance rehabilitation. In this piece we look at Vestibular Rehabilitation at North Light Physiotherapy, with Chris Shorter

Dizziness can be very limiting on our lives, impacting our ability to move normally and has a huge impact on our emotional wellbeing. It often leads to falls and causes anxiety and avoidance of many activities. Many people live very restricted lives with this condition.

If dizziness is related to the inner ear (a problem with our peripheral vestibular system), Physiotherapy can be highly effective. For example: the Epley technique is a postural movement technique than can reverse dizziness. Specific eye and head exercises are often used to challenge the balance system in order to improve it. A graded exposure to dizziness is also recommended, the system will only reset itself if we expose ourselves to dizziness, and this is carried out gradually at a rate the patient can handle.

Some medical causes of dizziness can be ruled out during Physiotherapy assessment, such as postural hypotension (blood pressure drop that occurs during a change in posture) or VBI – vertebrobasilar insufficiency- where the blood supply to the brain gets temporarily blocked by neck movements. A key role of the Physiotherapist is ascertaining what isn’t manageable with Physiotherapy, and in these cases, referring on to the correct specialist.
Postural hypotension and VBI can be medically managed, and if these problems are found during screening we would provide advice and then refer to your GP for further assessment.

Factors such as stress and anxiety are also considered in the holistic process of assessment and treatment, as in my clinical experience dizziness is often linked with times of stress, poor health or even bereavement. Addressing these factors or even making the links to your dizziness symptoms can also play a big part in recovery.

If your life is limited by dizziness, you have a problem with your balance, or you are prone to falls, Physiotherapy may well be the solution!

Call North Light Physiotherapy Associates on 01484 660663, or send a message on our Contact page.

Chris Shorter of North Light Physiotherapy Associates, Huddersfield, UK, qualified as a Physiotherapist in 2003. He has a special interest in balance and vestibular issues, which he comes across daily in his clinical practice.

Shockwave Therapy at North Light Physiotherapy

By Chris Liversidge In Achilles, Achilles Tendinopathy, Armitage Bridge, Athlete, Berry Brow, Chris Liversidge, CrossFit, ESWT, HD1, HD2, HD3, HD4, HD5, HD6, HD7, HD8, HD9, Holmfirth, Honley, Huddersfield, Lockwood, Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, Meltham, MTSS, Musculoskeletal, Netherton, Newsome, North Light Physio, North Light Physiotherapy, pain, Patellar Tendinopathy, Physiotherapy, Plantar Faciitis, Plantar Fasciopathy, Running, Shockwave, Shockwave Therapy, Shoulder, South Crosland, Tendonitis, Ultrasound, West Yorkshire

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Musculoskeletal Conditions

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) has been successfully used for the management of a variety of musculoskeletal conditions for over 20 years. It is now available at North Light Physiotherapy!

In Urology, shockwaves are used to disintegrate kidney stones, whereas in Musculoskeletal medicine, its use is to induce tissue repair and regeneration on a cellular level. The mechanism by which this takes place is not fully understood, despite many studies showing positive outcomes in a variety of conditions.

Principle of Treatment

Shockwave patterns differ from Ultrasound waves, in that ESWT generates significantly higher pressure. Primarily, this generates a mechanical force focussed on the target tissue. This generates a response within the target cells, and in areas around the target tissue. Many patients we treat with ESWT present with tendon pain- commonly in the Achilles, knee-cap (Patellar) tendon, the Plantar Fascia, and at the elbow (so called “tennis elbow”, or lateral epicondylitis), or shoulder.

Problems with tendons seem to occur more frequently with a big and relatively sudden increase in physical workload. Examples include suddenly running much further than usual, suddenly lifting more heavily in the gym or other physical activity, such as CrossFit.

When people are new to physical exercise, problems can occur during the time it takes for the body to develop the robustness to tolerate more physical work. For this reason, ESWT will only ever form part of the overall treatment, because sensible management of physical workload, in view of individual physical capacity, is the key to success.

If you believe ESWT may be appropriate to help manage your problem, we will always consider this as a management option as part of a comprehensive assessment. ESWT as a standalone treatment, is likely to be less effective than when combined with comprehensive Physiotherapy care.

Plantar Fasciopathy (Fasciitis)

Many studies have shown ESWT to be effective in the treatment of Plantar Fasciopathy. Success rates vary between 34% to 88%. This may depend on severity of the problem, and how long the condition has been present before treatment. Good quality evidence suggests that treatment must incorporate a suitable loading programme (Physiotherapy-type exercise). This ensures the Plantar Fascia retains/improves its ability to tolerate the force required for exercise.

Achilles Tendinopathy (Tendonitis)

A common problem with runners, the Achilles tendon may generate symptoms in the mid-portion (half way up), or at its insertion into the heel bone (calcaneus). The insertional Achilles pains tend to be more stubborn to settle. However, studies have shown that both insertional and mid-portion Achilles problems are responsive to ESWT. In many cases, runners will present to our specialist running clinic, during which we may discuss and suggest modifications to running gait, and recommend modifications to running workload (distance, intensity).

Patellar Tendinopathy (Tendonitis)

Another frequent problem with running athletes, powerlifters and CrossFit-ers. Success rates have been reported to be as high as 74-88% with ESWT. Commonly, knee and hip control issues can play a part in the onset of problems, and will need addressing as part of a comprehensive treatment regime. Our specialist Running Clinic often identifies related areas to improve on, to modify and improve on pain and control of the knee.

Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome- MTSS)

Often seen in running athletes, and more frequently in females- sufferers will experience pain at the inner side of the shin. Particularly evident on landing, during running. Modifications can often be made to the ankle and foot, in respect of strength and control of the rear part of the foot during landing. Sometimes orthoses (in-soles in the trainers) can make a difference. ESWT has been shown in some studies to make a positive contribution to symptoms of MTSS, and others not so much. Again, ESWT will be considered as part of a course of Physiotherapy, which will address any contributing factors.

(Calcifying) Tendonitis of the Shoulder

Success rates for treatment with ESWT have been reported in the 78-91% range, in studies, with ongoing relief beyond 2 years. The benefits include improved joint movement, and therefore improved ability to use the arm, particularly in overhead activities. Swimmers and other overhead athletes, such as racket-sport players, and bowlers (cricket) can tend to be affected. The effectiveness of ESWT is again supplemented by a good course of Physiotherapy rehab, and workload modification principles.

If you are affected by a problem for which ESWT may be useful, please do get in touch – North Light Physiotherapy will be pleased to support you. You can get in touch via our Contact page, or on 01484 660663. See you soon!

Chris Liversidge (MSc, BSc (Hons) MCSP, SRP) is Practice Principal at North Light Physiotherapy Associates, Huddersfield HD4 7NR. Visit www.northlightphysio.co.uk or call 01484 660663

Ante Natal & Post Natal Pilates

By Chris Liversidge In Antenatal, Armitage Bridge, Becky Walker, Expert, Expertise, HD1, HD2, HD3, HD4, HD5, HD6, HD7, HD8, HD9, Holme Valley, Holmfirth, Honley, Huddersfield, Joint Pain, Meltham, National Childbirth Trust, NCT, Netmums, North Light, North Light Physiotherapy, Obstetric, Obstetric Physio, pain, Pelvic, Pelvic Girdle Pain, Pelvic Partnership, Pelvis, PGP, Physio, Physiotherapy, Pilates, Postnatal, Pregnancy, SPD, Specialist, Therapy, West Yorkshire, Women, Womens Health

North Light Physiotherapy’s specialist Obstetric Physiotherapist Becky Walker tells us more about the benefits of Ante Natal & Post Natal Pilates

“I run the Pilates Classes here at North Light Physiotherapy. My specialist Ante Natal / Post Natal Pilates classes are suitable from early pregnancy onwards – then once your baby is born, we’ll be ready to welcome you back after your 6 week postnatal check.

The class is a small group, so exercises can be tailored to suit each individual. All the exercises are safe for you and your baby, and will help your body to cope with the many changes it experiences throughout pregnancy and beyond. The main focus of the classes are to:

Strengthen the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles
Maintain spinal flexibility/movement
Help reduce alterations in posture as the bump increases.

Pilates breathing techniques can also be very useful during labour.”

Pilates is highly recommended by physiotherapists for those experiencing Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP).

Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)

PGP (previously known as SPD – Symphsis Pubis Dysfunction) can occur at any stage during or after pregnancy and birth. PGP is caused by an asymmetry of movement within the joints of the pelvis and lower back, this causes pain and difficulty moving. Find out more at The Pelvic Partnership’s website.

Symptoms of PGP:

Pain and stiffness in pelvic joints
Difficulty walking, climbing stairs and turning over in bed
Pain and dysfunction can last for months or years without treatment

Treatment of PGP:

Manual therapy is the most effective treatment
PGP is treatable at any stage during pregnancy and postnatal – Hormone levels can’t be altered, but joint asymmetry can!
Manual therapy treatment of the pelvic joints and soft tissue is safe and effective, both during and after pregnancy
Breastfeeding can have a positive effect in recovery
You can resolve your symptoms with early diagnosis and treatment
Research* has shown that women who don’t have manual therapy can experience pain for months or years after the birth of their baby

For more information about pre or post-natal Obstetric Physiotherapy, or to book a Pilates Class with Becky, click our Contact page or call 01484 660663

North Light Physiotherapy Associates Ltd are registered with all major healthcare insurers

*Research: Pelvic girdle pain: The Stickmum project 3 years forward. British Journal of Midwifery, Nov.2018, Vol.26 No.11

North Light Physiotherapy and Heart Yorkshire

We’re supporting Heart Yorkshire’s “Coast to Coast” Challenge

By Chris Liversidge In Chris Liversidge, Cost To Coast, Emma Lenney, Heart Yorkshire, Huddersfield, North Light Physiotherapy, Physiotherapy, West Yorkshire

Heart Yorkshire Breakfast Show presenter Emma Lenney is taking on an epic challenge this week – and North Light Physiotherapy will be there to help her on her way!

The Heart Yorkshire Coast to Coast Challenge will see Radio star Emma kayaking and cycling 163 miles across the country from Liverpool to Goole. It’s going to be tough – so North Light Physiotherapy’s Chris Liversidge is going to be there to provide expert care, and keep Emma in tip-top condition as she completes her journey.

Follow Emma’s progress on Heart’s Facebook page, and Chris will be keeping us up to date on our North Light Facebook, Twitter and Instagram feeds.

Good luck Emma, from all the team at North Light Physiotherapy!

Extended Scope Physiotherapy at North Light

By Chris Liversidge In Ankle, Arm, Back Pain, Chris Liversidge, Elbow, Expert, Expertise, Extended Scope Physiotherapy, Foot, Hand, Hip, Huddersfield, Injury, Joint Pain, Knee, Musculoskeletal, Neck, North Light Physio, North Light Physiotherapy, pain, Physiotherapy, Shoulder, Sports Injury, West Yorkshire

North Light Physiotherapy Associates’ Practice Principal, Chris Liversidge, is an Extended Scope Physiotherapist (ESP)

What does Chris’s expertise mean for you?

In a nutshell, being treated by an Extended Scope Physiotherapst often means faster differential diagnosis of acute physical injuries, and many other longer term musculo-skeletal conditions.

ESPs are able to work beyond what is usually recognised as standard Physiotherapy practice.

However, many people will suffer an injury or acute muscular problem (for example, following a fall or accident, an episode of back pain or a sporting injury) and assume their GP is the best place to go.

Waiting times can be long, and GPs don’t always have the depth of up-to-date developments in physical medicine – so whilst they may usefully prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatories, combining this with a course of immediate Physiotherapy treatment may actually be far more successful than pain relief alone.

When you are suffering acute pain, an Extended Scope Physiotherapist (ESP) often provides:

a faster differential diagnosis of the injury/problem
more specific treatment
a faster recovery and return to normal function
If tests or other medical investigations are required, an Extended Scope Physiotherapist can recommend which is most suitable to request, and in many cases, directly order investigations.

A faster solution to pain – that’s got to be a winner!

What does the term “Extended Scope Physiotherapy” actually mean?

Extended Scope Physiotherapy (ESP) practice is growing in prominence, both in private medicine and in the NHS. On their website, Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust describe an ESP as:

“A Clinical Physiotherapy Specialist with an extended scope of practice. This implies working beyond the recognised scope of Physiotherapy practice, for example requesting investigations (ultrasound scans/nerve conduction studies), using the results of investigations to assist clinical diagnosis and appropriate management of patients; listing for surgery, and referring to other professionals. ESP’s hold post-graduate qualifications (eg. MSc), Society of Orthopaedic Medicine (SOM) membership or equivalent, and most have a Diploma in Injection Therapy.”

You can also find out more about the work of Extended Scope Physiotherapists at www.CSP.org.uk

To work at this level requires a number of years of experience, with a wide variety of conditions. Critically, this involves identifying conditions which are not suitable for Physiotherapy, as quicly as possible, and referring on to the correct specialist, as soon as possible.

To make an appointment with Chris Liversidge or any of our expert Team at North Light Physiotherapy, use our Contact form or call 0845 177 0780

Physiotherapist in Low Back Pain Shock!

By Chris Liversidge In Back Pain, Chris Liversidge, Holmfirth, Huddersfield, Musculoskeletal, pain, Physio, Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation, West Yorkshire, Yorkshire

Hi everyone-
Just wanted to send a quick message of encouragement to those carrying back injuries, frustrated at being unable to exercise “normally”, however that may be. There is always hope!!

Physio Develops Back Pain!

Last April, I had a sudden onset of Lower Back Pain. In the initial stages, it took me an hour to get from the bedroom to the kitchen!! Not the usual story for someone with my energy levels!

Out of Hours GP

So, I had to put my own advice into action-as it was a Saturday, with the GP closed, I had to go to the out-of hours GP at the Hospital (**Note- I didn’t go to A&E**). Armed with Naproxen and strong Co-Codamol, I was able to get my pain levels under control (this was my new 10/10 pain!). The key here, is that exercise/mechanotherapy is the critical component, but without pain relief, this would have been impossible! Don’t fall into the trap of believing that pain relief “masks” further damage- normal movement **doesn’t cause damage**!! However, even at this stage, simple tasks such as getting on/off the bed, putting shoes/socks on etc, were a major undertaking, and remained painful.

From there, I was slowly able to exercise/position myself in my direction of preference, and things started to ease. However, I was still a long way off either running or cycling- my 2 main exercise passions. This really did demoralize me, and scramble my brain.

Turning a Corner

By the time June arrived, I felt my pain was under sufficient control to begin a light jog. We were in Scarborough, and I was covering a game with Yorkshire Cricket, I had 1/10 pain, and the sun was shining.
I plodded very slowly, for a 1/2 mile, and on arriving back at the hotel, was in 6/10 pain!
“So you’ve caused more damage again” I hear you say! But how I reply? Movement is physiologically normal, and running didn’t cause me trauma or damage in the absence of back pain, so why should it cause me damage in the presence of back pain?!

At this stage, the tissues in my back were still sensitive, and so would register pain more readily- the brain has a clever way of sensitising tissues if it perceives a threat, a bit like an over-anxious parent wanting to protect their child if they try to climb a tree, for example.
The key thing was, on arrival back at the hotel, I had some Paracetamol, did my back exercises, and my pain was quickly back to 1/10!

From there, the process was repeated- I managed to slowly increase my running distances- setting off with little or no pain, returning with 3-4/10 pain, but reassured that I was progressing, each time getting a bit further, with slowly decreasing pain (at this point, remember that 2 months earlier I was in 9/10 pain just to put on my socks!!) It still took a bit of convincing for Mrs. L. to believe that although I set of running with no pain, and came home in 4/10 pain, I was not “damaging/worsening” my back!

And so it continued- and now, here I am having run two 10k races (my favourite distance), in 42 and 41 mins respectively!!

Physios are made of the same stuff

Now don’t get me wrong- there were dark times-I did doubt myself- pain messes with your head in that way-, and I did come in for some criticism too (“you’re a Physio, you shouldn’t have problems like this-what hope is there for the rest of us?”). This was hard to take, but I had to reassure myself I could sort the problem. The thing is, I’m made of the same stuff as everyone else, so there’s no reason I shouldn’t develop back pain. The measure of me was, whether I was good enough to solve the problem? The answer was a resounding yes!

Reassurance

So what can one learn from this experience? I am clearly able to empathize with sufferers of lower back pain. But I’m proof it can be managed- and the 2 keys were: pain control allowing me to then do the bit that works- rehab exercises!
Whatever happens- don’t give up- when the pain was at its worst, I did question whether I’d ever get back to running and cycling- that’s just human. The human body is extremely adaptable, resilient and robust- trust this, and with a good dose of patience, you can get there!

Send us a message, or call 0845 177 0780 to see how we can help!

Chris Liversidge is Practice Principal and Extended Scope Practitioner at North Light Physiotherapy Associates, Huddersfield, UK.

Appointments

01484 660 663

North Light Gallery, Top Row, Bankfoot Lane,

Huddersfield, HD4 7NP

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