Up to 90% of the population will experience lower back pain at least once in their lifetime. It is the leading cause of disability in adults aged 30 to 50 years.
CAUSES OF BACK PAIN
The spine is comprise of a column of 24 bones called vertebrae. Together they create a bony canal that
surrounds and protects the spinal cord. Small nerves enter and exit the spinal cord through spaces in the
vertebrae. These nerves transmit messages between your brain and the rest of your body.
Pain is often generated when the nerves are irritated or compressed. Nerve irritation in many instances
occurs due to disk damage. This is commonly referred to as a herniated, protruding or slipped disk.
Another possible source of back pain is the facet joints of the spine. These joints allow for smooth
spinal motion when they are properly aligned. If their position is compromised, symptoms occur which
manifest as pain.
It has been shown that chronic back pain sufferers learn to compensate for their physical by engaging
muscles not normally utilized in the specific activity. If the spine is not restored to its optimal position,
daily activities can accelerate spinal degeneration leading to pronounced wear and tear.
SIGNS OF POTENTIAL CONCERN
- Pain during racquet sports and activities involving throwing
- Pain when bending the arm and rotating it outwards against resistance
- Pain on the outside of the shoulder and at times radiating down the arm
- Shoulder pain that worsens at night
- Stiffness in the shoulder joint
If you have any of these symptoms or related concerns, please schedule a visit to a KKT Centre near you for a thorough assessment.
RISK FACTORS
The following factors may increase your risk of having a rotator cuff injury
- Working conditions – long hours of computer usage or sitting at a desk puts undue stress on the neck and shoulders
- Age – as you get older, your risk of suffering a rotator cuff injury increases, rotator cuff tears are most common in people over 40
- Exercise – Athlete who regularly use repetitive motions, such as racquetball players, hockey players, etc. are at greater risk of having a rotator cuff injury.
- Working in construction – Carpenters and painters, who also use repetitive motions, have an increased risk of injury.
- Poor posture – Poor posture over many years can allow nerves, muscles or tendons to become pinched in your shoulder region.
- Previous injuries – Previous injuries irritate the surrounding joints, nerves and ligaments making them susceptible to pain or restricted movement.
If you have any of these symptoms or related concerns, please schedule a visit to a KKT Centre near you for a thorough assessment.