What is it about a Tradesman and their Back?

I am yet to meet a Tradie who has not suffered with back pain some time in their working life.
Let's think about it, long days of:

• Heavy lifting, twisting, bending

• Awkward postures

• Repetitive tasks

Any of these can lead to back pain, but a combination of all, day in day out, as in the life of a tradesman - no wonder they get "tradies back". This is back pain as a result of a sprain or strain on the structures of the back, such as muscles, ligaments, discs and joints.

As August is the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) Tradies National Health Month it is a good time to reassess some work practices to help prevent back issues.

How can you help yourself?

• Consider your normal posturedoes it need correcting?

• Incorporate a 5 minute daily stretching routine to warm up the body before physical activity.

• Perform exercises to strengthen your core and hips. This will help to prevent low back pain.

• Reassess/alter/correct lifting techniques. Use pulleys and levers when possible. Get help when required.

• Think of ways to optimise and modify the work site environment to avoid prolonged working in awkward positions or decrease loading on your low back.

• Vary the manual work where possible. Try not to spend too long bent over doing a repetitive task.

• Massage regularly - use a spikey ball or a foam roller to perform self-massage to a sore area.

• Think of your posture when driving between jobs consider getting a lumbar support to maintain your spine in a neutral position.

How can a physio help?

• Assess and educate on good posture and lifting techniques.

• Administer symptomatic treatment for the back pain for example: massage, joint mobilisation, ultrasound or dry needling

• Provide a strengthening and stretching programme.

Good musculoskeletal health is a necessity to protect your livelihood. So don't ignore any little niggling or irritating pain. Early intervention is the key in addressing and resolving concerns before they become a major issue.

As part of Tradies National Health month, we are offering 20% off* an initial consultation for Tradies in August.

If you would like to book an appointment, please contact us:

Phone: 9553 8145
Website: www.eqphysio.com.au
1/45 Montgomery St, Kogarah NSW 2217.

*Please mention this offer at time of booking.