Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain
Sacroiliac Joint pain
Cliff Russell is a Registered East Grinstead Osteopath with years of experience helping people with Sacroiliac Pain.
The sacroiliac joint (SI joint) is a joint located in the pelvis, connecting the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the ilium (the uppermost part of the pelvic bone). It is a synovial joint, meaning it is surrounded by a joint capsule that contains synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint and reduces friction between the bones.
The SI joint is responsible for transmitting the weight of the upper body to the lower limbs and allowing for movement of the pelvis during walking and other activities. It is a relatively immobile joint, with only a small amount of movement in normal healthy individuals. The joint is supported by a number of ligaments, including the sacroiliac ligament, the interosseous sacroiliac ligament, and the posterior sacroiliac ligament.
Problems with the SI joint can cause pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips, and legs.
There are several different causes of sacroiliac pain, including:
Trauma or injury: A sudden impact or twisting motion can cause injury to the SI joint, resulting in pain and inflammation. This can be caused by a fall, car accident, or other traumatic event.
Degenerative arthritis: Over time, wear and tear on the SI joint can lead to degenerative arthritis, causing pain and stiffness in the joint. This is more common in older adults.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, hormonal changes can cause the ligaments that support the SI joint to loosen, leading to instability and pain. This is more common in the later stages of pregnancy.
Anatomical anomalies: Some people are born with abnormalities in the structure of the SI joint, which can cause pain and discomfort. Anatomical anomalies of the sacroiliac joint refer to abnormalities in the shape or structure of the joint that can cause pain and discomfort. These anomalies can be congenital, meaning they are present at birth, or they can develop later in life.
Some common anatomical anomalies of the sacroiliac joint include:
Sacralization of the fifth lumbar vertebra: This is a condition where the fifth lumbar vertebra fuses with the sacrum, resulting in a single bone structure instead of two separate bones. This can cause pain and instability in the lower back and hips.
Transitional vertebra: This is a condition where there is an extra vertebra in the spine, or one of the existing vertebrae has an abnormal shape. This can cause misalignment and instability in the spine, leading to pain in the sacroiliac joint.
Hip dysplasia: This is a condition where the hip joint is abnormally shaped, causing instability and pain in the hip and lower back.
Congenital fusion: This is a rare condition where the sacrum and ilium fail to separate during development, resulting in a fused joint. This can cause pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips.
Inflammatory conditions: Conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis or psoriatic arthritis can cause inflammation in the SI joint, leading to pain and stiffness.
Infection: In rare cases, infection can occur in the SI joint, causing pain and inflammation.
Diagnosis of SI joint pain involves a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Treatment options depend on the cause of the pain and may include rest, physical therapy, medication, injections, or in severe cases, surgery.
Come and see me, Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath about your Sacroiliac Joint problem at Osteostudio in Ashurst Wood, East Grinstead.
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Pinched Nerves
A pinched nerve is also commonly referred to as a compressed nerve or a trapped nerve. It can also be known as nerve entrapment, nerve impingement, or radiculopathy, depending on the location and cause of the compression, e.g a cervical radiculopathy if it’s in the neck.
Cliff Russell is a Registered East Grinstead Osteopath with years of experience helping people with Pinchd Nerves. A pinched nerve is also commonly referred to as a compressed nerve or a trapped nerve. It can also be known as nerve entrapment, nerve impingement, or radiculopathy, depending on the location and cause of the compression, e.g cervical radiculopathy if it’s in the neck.
Nerves can become pinched or compressed in various ways. I have experience in treating Pinched Nerves.
Some common causes of nerve compression include:
Herniated or bulging discs: The discs in the spine act as shock absorbers and provide cushioning between the vertebrae. When one of these discs herniates or bulges out of its normal position, it can put pressure on nearby nerves.
Bone spurs: Osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions can cause the growth of bony protrusions, called bone spurs, which can compress nerves.
Spinal stenosis: Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves that exit the spinal cord.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: This condition occurs when the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers.
Repetitive strain injuries: Repeating the same motions over and over can lead to inflammation and compression of nerves, as can maintaining the same posture for extended periods of time.
Tumors or cysts: Tumors or cysts that develop near nerves can compress them and cause symptoms.
Trauma or injury: Nerves can become pinched or compressed as a result of physical trauma or injury, such as a car accident or sports injury.
It is important to note that nerve compression can occur anywhere in the body where nerves exist. Therefore, the location, severity, and underlying cause of nerve compression can vary greatly. Treatment options may depend on the specific cause and location of the compression, as well as the individual's symptoms and medical history.
The most common nerves that get pinched depend on the location of the compression, but here are some of the most commonly affected nerves in decreasing order:
Sciatic nerve: The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and runs from the lower back down to the feet. Sciatica, a condition where the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, is a common cause of lower back and leg pain.
Median nerve: The median nerve runs from the forearm into the hand and controls sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition where the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, is a common cause of hand pain and numbness.
Ulnar nerve: The ulnar nerve runs from the neck down to the hand and controls sensation in the pinky finger and part of the ring finger. Cubital tunnel syndrome, a condition where the ulnar nerve is compressed at the elbow, is a common cause of elbow and hand pain and numbness.
Radial nerve: The radial nerve runs from the upper arm down to the hand and controls sensation in the back of the hand and fingers. Radial nerve compression can cause pain, weakness, and numbness in the forearm, wrist, and hand.
Common peroneal nerve: The common peroneal nerve runs from the hip down to the foot and controls sensation in the lower leg and foot. Compression of this nerve can cause foot drop, a condition where the foot is unable to be lifted properly.
Osteopathy may be effective for pinched nerves, depending on the underlying cause and location of the nerve compression. Osteopathic treatment techniques such as soft tissue massage, mobilization, and manipulation may help to alleviate nerve compression and improve range of motion and function.
The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association in 2018 found that osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) was associated with improvements in pain and function in patients with neck pain, including those with cervical radiculopathy.
There is also evidence that certain supplements can help with recovering from nerve injuries, and other natural products like willow bark and devil’s claw can assist with pain.
Come and see me, Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath with your pinched nerve problems at Osteostudio in Ashurst Wood, East Grinstead.
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Thoracic Spine Pain
Thoracic spine pain is discomfort or pain that is felt in the middle of the back, around the area of the ribs. Common causes of thoracic spine pain can include:
Poor posture, Injury, Arthritis , Herniated disc, Osteoporosis,Stress and tension, Scoliosis, Thoracic outlet syndrome, Ankylosing spondylitis, Facet joint irritation, Scheuermann's disease
Cliff Russell is a Registered East Grinstead Osteopath with years of experience helping people with Thoracic Spine Pain. Thoracic spine pain is discomfort or pain that is felt in the middle of the back, around the area of the ribs. It's important to speak with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing thoracic spine pain to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. I am experienced in treating all manner of Thoracic spine pain.
Some of the causes of Thoracic Spine Pain can include:
Poor posture: Sitting or standing for long periods with poor posture can put strain on the muscles and ligaments of the thoracic spine, leading to pain. Having a ‘forward head’ posture is a big contributor to neck and middle back pain. See my blog here which discusses the problem and offers some solutions.
Injury: A fall, car accident, or other trauma can cause damage to the bones, muscles, or other tissues of the thoracic spine, resulting in pain.
Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition where the joints become inflamed and painful. Arthritis can occur in the thoracic spine, leading to discomfort.
Herniated disc: A herniated disc occurs when the soft tissue inside the spinal disc bulges or ruptures, putting pressure on the nerves and causing pain.
Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become weak and brittle, making them more prone to fractures. Fractures in the thoracic spine can cause pain.
Stress and tension: Emotional stress and tension can cause muscle tension and spasm in the thoracic spine, leading to discomfort.
Scoliosis: Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine that can affect the thoracic spine. It can cause pain, limited mobility, and breathing difficulties.
Thoracic outlet syndrome: Thoracic outlet syndrome is a condition in which nerves or blood vessels in the thoracic outlet (the area between the collarbone and first rib) become compressed. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms and hands.
Ankylosing spondylitis: Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the thoracic spine and other areas of the spine.
Facet joint irritation: Facet joint irritation, also known as facet joint syndrome, is a condition that affects the small joints located between the vertebrae in the spine. These joints are responsible for providing stability and allowing movement in the spine. When they become irritated, usually due to injury, degeneration or inflammation, they can cause pain and stiffness in the back, neck, and sometimes the arms or legs. This pain is typically localized to the affected joint and may worsen with certain movements or positions. Treatment may involve rest, physical therapy, medication, and in some cases, injection or surgery.
Scheuermann's disease: Scheuermann's disease is a condition that affects the spine, causing the vertebrae to grow unevenly. This uneven growth can lead to a curved or hunched back, known as kyphosis. It usually develops during adolescence and can cause back pain and stiffness. In severe cases, it may affect breathing and heart function. Treatment options include physical therapy, bracing, and surgery in rare cases.
It's important to speak with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing thoracic spine pain to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. I have found that thoracic spine pain is one of the hardest problems to treat yourself and one of the easiest problems to treat with osteopathy.
Come and see me, Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath, with your thoracic pain problem at Osteostudio in Ashurst Wood, East Grinstead.
You can follow my blog here.
Childhood Back Problems
Common causes of childhood back problems and back pain.
Cliff Russell is a Registered East Grinstead Osteopath with years of experience helping people with Childhood back problems. Childhood back problems are relatively rare, but they can occur due to various reasons. I have treated a wide range of pack issues in children.
Here are some common causes of childhood back problems:
Scoliosis: This is a condition in which the spine curves to the side, often causing back pain and discomfort. Scoliosis can be caused by genetics, neuromuscular conditions, or unknown reasons. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, scoliosis affects 2-3% of the population, with most cases occurring in adolescents.
Reference: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/scoliosis/
Kyphosis: This is a condition in which the upper back is excessively rounded, causing a hunchback appearance. Kyphosis can be caused by poor posture, degenerative diseases, or congenital disorders. According to the Cleveland Clinic, kyphosis affects 20-40% of adolescents.
Scheuermann's disease, also known as juvenile kyphosis, is a condition that affects the spine, specifically the thoracic spine or the middle part of the back. It typically occurs during adolescence and is more common in boys than girls. Schuermann's disease is also known as juvenile osteochondrosis of the spine.
In Scheuermann's disease, during growth spurts, the front of the vertebrae (known as the vertebral endplate) may become compressed, resulting in a wedge-shaped deformity. This can cause a rounding or hump in the upper or middle back, known as kyphosis.
The exact cause of Schuermann's disease is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as poor posture or a lack of physical activity.
Symptoms may include back pain, stiffness, and a noticeable hump or rounding of the upper or middle back. Treatment options include physical therapy, pain management, and, in severe cases, surgery.
Schuermann's disease can often be managed effectively with appropriate treatment, and most individuals are able to lead normal, active lives. However, it is important to see a doctor if you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your spine health.
Reference: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17476-kyphosis
Herniated disc: This is a condition in which the soft material inside a spinal disc protrudes through the outer layer, causing pressure on nearby nerves. Herniated discs can be caused by injury or degenerative changes in the spine. While rare in children, it can occur in children who participate in sports.
Reference: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/herniated-disk/symptoms-causes/syc-20354095
Back strain: This is a common cause of back pain in children and is often caused by overuse or poor lifting techniques. Back strain can also occur due to sudden movements or trauma, such as a fall or car accident.
Reference: https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions-and-treatments/conditions/b/back-strain
Computer use: Using a computer for extended periods of time can affect young people's thoracic spine in several ways.
One of the main issues is poor posture. When using a computer, it is common for people to hunch forward, crane their necks forward, and round their shoulders. This can put a significant amount of strain on the thoracic spine and the surrounding muscles, leading to pain, stiffness, and even spinal deformities such as kyphosis or Schuermann's disease.
Another issue is a lack of movement. When sitting in front of a computer for long periods of time, young people may not be getting enough exercise and movement to keep their spines healthy. This can lead to muscle weakness, stiffness, and reduced flexibility, all of which can contribute to spinal issues over time.
Lastly, using a computer for prolonged periods can lead to eye strain, headaches, and fatigue, which can cause young people to adopt postures that are even more detrimental to their spinal health.
Importantly, most back problems in children are temporary and resolve on their own, but where they persist, in my experience, they respond very well and very quickly to osteopathic treatments.
Come and see me, Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath with your children’s back problems at Osteostudio in Ashurst Wood, East Grinstead.
Types of Hip Pain
Hip pain can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are some common causes explained in simple terms: Hip Arthritis, Hip Fracture, Hip Bursitis, Tendinitis, Muscle Strain, Hip Labral Tear, Osteonecrosis, Piriformis Syndrome, Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).
Cliff Russell is a Registered East Grinstead Osteopath with years of experience helping people with Hip Pain. Hip pain can be caused by a variety of factors. I have treated many types of hip conditions over the years.
Here are some common causes of hip pain, explained in simple terms:
Hip Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints. In the hip joint, it can cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving.
Hip Fracture: A hip fracture is a break in the hip bone, usually caused by a fall or other injury. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the leg.
Hip Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. In the hip, it can cause pain and swelling in the hip area. E.g. Trochanteric Bursitis
Tendinitis: Tendinitis is inflammation of the tendons, which connect muscles to bones. In the hip, it can cause pain and stiffness in the hip joint. E.g. Gluteus Medius Tendinopathty
Muscle Strain: A muscle strain is a tear in a muscle or tendon. In the hip, it can cause pain and difficulty moving the leg.
Hip Labral Tear: The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint where the head of the femur (thigh bone) fits into the acetabulum (socket) of the pelvis. The labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines the rim of the acetabulum and helps to keep the femur securely in place. A hip labral tear occurs when there is damage to the labrum.
Hip labral tears can occur for a variety of reasons, including injury or trauma to the hip joint, repetitive motion, hip dysplasia, or femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), a condition where the bones of the hip joint rub against each other abnormally. Athletes, dancers, and people who perform repetitive activities that involve the hip joint are at an increased risk for developing labral tears.
Symptoms of a hip labral tear can include:
Pain in the hip or groin area, especially during activity
A locking or catching sensation in the hip joint
Stiffness or limited range of motion in the hip
A feeling of instability in the hip joint
Diagnosis of a hip labral tear typically involves a physical exam, imaging tests (such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans), and possibly an arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a small camera is inserted into the hip joint to visualize and repair the labrum.
Osteonecrosis: Osteonecrosis, also known as avascular necrosis, is a condition that occurs when bone tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply. This can lead to pain, limited range of motion, and in severe cases, collapse of the affected bone. It commonly affects the hip joint, but can also occur in other bones. Osteonecrosis can be caused by various factors, such as trauma, long-term use of corticosteroids, and certain medical conditions.
Piriformis Syndrome: Piriformis syndrome is a condition where the piriformis muscle in the buttocks irritates or compresses the sciatic nerve, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in the buttocks and legs. It can be caused by overuse, injury, or compression of the muscle, and is often seen in athletes and people who sit for long periods of time.
Femoroacetabular impingement: (FAI) is a condition that occurs when there is abnormal contact between the bones of the hip joint, specifically the femur and the acetabulum. This can cause pain and limited range of motion in the hip, and if left untreated, can lead to hip arthritis. FAI can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, repetitive motions, or structural abnormalities in the bones of the hip.
Come and see me, Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath with your hip pain problem at Osteostudio in Ashurst Wood, East Grinstead.
You can follow my blog here.
Types of Elbow Pain
Elbow pain can have many different causes, but some of the most common ones include:
Overuse Injuries, Arthritis, Bursitis, Tendinitis, Tennis elbow, Golfer's elbow, nerve compression.
Cliff Russell is a Registered East Grinstead Osteopath with years of experience helping people with Elbow Pain. Elbow pain can have many different causes. Over the years I have successfully helped people with all of the elbow problems listed below.
Some of the most common elbow complaints include:
Overuse: Activities that involve repetitive motions, such as playing tennis or typing on a computer, can cause strain on the elbow joint and lead to pain.
Injuries: Falls, fractures, dislocations, and sprains can cause damage to the elbow joint and surrounding tissues.
Arthritis: Various forms of arthritis can affect the elbow joint and cause pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Bursitis: This is a condition where the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) around the elbow joint become inflamed, often due to overuse or injury.
Tendinitis: This is a condition where the tendons that connect the muscles to the bones become inflamed, often due to overuse or repetitive motions.
Tennis Elbow: Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, tennis elbow can affect anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm muscles, not just tennis players.
The condition is typically caused by repetitive motion and overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm that attach to the lateral epicondyle, the bony bump on the outer part of the elbow. This can lead to small tears in the tendons and inflammation of the surrounding tissue.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow can include:
Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow
Weakness in the forearm
Difficulty gripping or lifting objects
Stiffness in the elbow joint
Pain that worsens with activity or gripping
Diagnosis of tennis elbow usually involves a physical exam and a review of the individual's medical history and symptoms. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, may be used to rule out other conditions.
Treatment for tennis elbow typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy (E.g. Osteopathy), and pain management. In some cases, a brace or splint may be used to immobilise the elbow and reduce stress on the affected tendons. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may also be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
Golfer's Elbow: Golfer's elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the inner part of the elbow. Despite its name, golfer's elbow can affect anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm muscles, not just golfers.
The condition is typically caused by repetitive motion and overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm that attach to the medial epicondyle, the bony bump on the inner part of the elbow. This can lead to small tears in the tendons and inflammation of the surrounding tissue.
Symptoms of Golfer's Elbow can include:
Pain and tenderness on the inner part of the elbow
Weakness in the forearm
Difficulty gripping or lifting objects
Stiffness in the elbow joint
Pain that worsens with activity or gripping
Compressed nerves: Several nerves can get compressed near the elbow, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm, forearm, wrist, or hand. Some of the most common nerves that can get compressed near the elbow include:
Ulnar nerve: This nerve travels along the inside of the elbow and can get compressed at the cubital tunnel, which is a narrow passage of tissue behind the elbow. Cubital tunnel syndrome can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the ring and little fingers.
Radial nerve: This nerve runs along the outside of the elbow and can get compressed at the radial tunnel, which is a narrow passage of tissue near the elbow joint. Radial tunnel syndrome can cause pain, weakness, or numbness in the forearm and hand.
Median nerve: This nerve runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, but can also get compressed at the elbow in some cases. Pronator teres syndrome can cause pain, weakness, or numbness in the forearm and hand, similar to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Musculocutaneous nerve: This nerve travels along the front of the upper arm and can get compressed near the elbow. This can cause weakness in the biceps muscle and numbness or tingling in the forearm.
Over the years I have successfully helped people with all of the elbow problems listed above.
If you are looking for an Osteopath in East Grinstead, please get in touch with:
Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath
You can follow my blog here.
Types of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain: Rotator cuff injury, Frozen shoulder, Bursitis, Arthritis, Tendinitis, and Shoulder impingement.
Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of factors. Over the years, I have successfully helped people with all of the shoulder problems listed below. If you’re looking for an Osteopath in East Grinstead, this article may prove useful to you.
Here are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain:
Rotator cuff injury: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help to stabilize and move the shoulder. Rotator cuff injuries are common and can range from mild inflammation or strain to a complete tear of one or more of the tendons.
Causes of rotator cuff injuries can include:
Repetitive overhead motions, such as throwing a ball or lifting weights
Trauma or injury to the shoulder, such as a fall or direct blow
Degeneration of the tendons due to ageing or wear and tear
Symptoms of a rotator cuff injury can include:
Pain and tenderness in the shoulder, especially when reaching overhead or behind the back
Weakness in the shoulder or arm
Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm
Clicking or popping sounds when moving the shoulder
Loss of range of motion in the shoulder
Diagnosis of a rotator cuff injury usually involves a physical exam and imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, to determine the extent of the injury.Treatment for a rotator cuff injury typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and pain management. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a complete tear of the tendon.
Preventing rotator cuff injuries involves proper technique and form when performing overhead activities, such as throwing a ball or lifting weights. Strengthening exercises for the shoulder muscles and tendons can also help prevent injury.
Frozen shoulder: Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this is a condition that causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. The exact cause is unknown, but it often occurs after a period of immobilization or in people with certain medical conditions.
Bursitis: The bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints in your body. Inflammation of the bursa in your shoulder can cause pain and limited range of motion.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can both affect the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
Tendinitis: Tendons are the fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones. Inflammation of the tendons in your shoulder can cause pain and limited range of motion. Several tendons in the shoulder region can cause pain when they become inflamed or injured. These tendons include:
Rotator cuff tendons: The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that attach the muscles of the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone. Rotator cuff tendinitis or tears can cause pain in the front, back, or side of the shoulder, especially when lifting or reaching overhead.
Biceps tendons: The biceps muscle has two tendons that attach to the shoulder joint. Inflammation or tearing of these tendons can cause pain in the front of the shoulder or upper arm, especially when lifting or bending the arm.
Supraspinatus tendon: The supraspinatus muscle and tendon run along the top of the shoulder blade and attach to the upper arm bone. Inflammation or tearing of this tendon can cause pain in the top of the shoulder, especially when lifting or reaching overhead.
Infraspinatus tendon: The infraspinatus muscle and tendon run along the back of the shoulder blade and attach to the upper arm bone. Inflammation or tearing of this tendon can cause pain in the back of the shoulder, especially when lifting or reaching behind the back.
Subscapularis tendon: The subscapularis muscle and tendon are located on the front of the shoulder blade and attach to the upper arm bone. Inflammation or tearing of this tendon can cause pain in the front of the shoulder, especially when lifting or reaching behind the back.
Shoulder impingement: This occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or bursa are pinched or compressed in the shoulder joint, causing pain and limited range of motion.
Over the years I have successfully helped people with all of the shoulder problems listed above.
Come and see me, Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath with your shoulder pain problem at Osteostudio in Ashurst Wood, East Grinstead.
Types of Low Back Pain
Low back pain is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are some of the most common types of low back pain: Muscle strain, Herniated disc, Sciatica, Spinal stenosis, Spondylolisthesis, osteoarthritis.
Low back pain is a common condition that a variety of factors can cause. It's important to see a healthcare provider if you're experiencing low back pain, as there can sometimes be more serious causes behind a low back problem.
East Grinstead Osteopath, Cliff Russell has created this list of the most common types of low back pain:
Muscle strain: This occurs when the muscles in your lower back are stretched or pulled beyond their limits, leading to pain and stiffness. The recovery time for a muscle strain can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the muscle group affected. In general, a mild strain may take a few days to a week to heal, while a more severe strain may take several weeks or even months.
During the initial phase of recovery, it is important to rest the affected muscle and avoid any activities that may exacerbate the injury. Applying ice or heat to the affected area, as well as taking over-the-counter pain medication, can help manage pain and inflammation.
Once the acute phase of the injury has passed, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises may be recommended to help promote healing and prevent re-injury. Physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises may also be prescribed to help restore range of motion and muscle strength.
Herniated disc: A herniated lumbar disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft centre of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior. This can cause pressure on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs and lower back.
The lumbar spine is made up of five vertebrae in the lower back, separated by discs that act as shock absorbers between the bones. A herniated disc in this region can occur due to ageing, wear and tear, or sudden injury.
Symptoms of a herniated lumbar disc may include:
Pain in the lower back, buttocks, or legs, especially on one side
Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
Weakness in the legs or feet
Difficulty standing or walking
Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases)
Diagnosis of a herniated lumbar disc may involve a physical exam, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans.
Treatment for a herniated lumbar disc typically involves conservative measures such as rest, pain medication, and physical therapy (osteopathy) to help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, epidural steroid injections may be used to help manage pain and inflammation in the affected area.
Surgery may be necessary in severe cases or if conservative measures do not provide relief. In this case, the herniated portion of the disc may be removed to relieve pressure on the affected nerve.
Prevention of herniated lumbar discs can include proper posture, regular exercise to strengthen the back muscles, and avoiding heavy lifting or repetitive bending and twisting motions.
Overall, with proper treatment and prevention measures, most people with a herniated lumbar disc can recover and return to their normal activities.
Regenerate response
Sciatica: This is a type of pain that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down through your legs, is compressed or irritated, causing pain, numbness, or tingling in your lower back, buttocks, legs, or feet.
Spinal stenosis: This is a condition that occurs when the spaces within your spinal column narrow, putting pressure on the nerves that run through it and causing pain, numbness, or weakness in your lower back, buttocks, legs, or feet.
Spondylolisthesis: This is a condition that occurs when a vertebra in your lower back slips out of place, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness in your lower back, buttocks, legs, or feet.
Osteoarthritis: As you age it is perfectly normal for your lower back to show wear and tear and age-related change. Your intervertebral discs will lose water and your bones will get closer together as a result. This can cause the nerves to get easily irritated as they leave the spinal cord, causing local back pain and radiation of pain/pins and needles down the legs.
Over the years I have successfully helped people with all of the problems listed above.
It's important to see a healthcare provider if you're experiencing low back pain, as there can sometimes be more serious causes behind a low back problem.
Come and see me, Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath at Osteostudio in Ashurst Wood, East Grinstead.
Types of Neck Pain
Neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors and can present in different ways. This article discusses some of the most common types of neck pain: Muscle strain, Pinched nerve, Whiplash, Osteoarthritis and Herniated discs.
Neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors and can present in different ways.
As an East Grinstead Osteopath, I can help determine the cause of your pain and give you the appropriate treatment.
Here are some of the most common types of neck pain:
Muscle strain: This occurs when the muscles in your neck are stretched or pulled beyond their limits, leading to pain and stiffness. The recovery time for a muscle strain can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the muscle group affected. In general, a mild strain may take a few days to a week to heal, while a more severe strain may take several weeks or even months.
During the initial phase of recovery, it is important to rest the affected muscle and avoid any activities that may exacerbate the injury. Applying ice or heat to the affected area, as well as taking over-the-counter pain medication, can help manage pain and inflammation.
Once the acute phase of the injury has passed, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises may be recommended to help promote healing and prevent re-injury. Physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises may also be prescribed to help restore range of motion and muscle strength.
Pinched nerve: This is when a nerve in your neck is compressed or "pinched," which can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in your neck, shoulders, arms, or hands. Several nerves in the neck can become pinched or compressed, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. The most common nerves that can become pinched in the neck include:
Cervical nerve roots: The cervical spine is made up of seven vertebrae in the neck, and each vertebra has a nerve root that extends out from the spinal cord. Compression of these nerve roots can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands.
Brachial plexus: The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that runs from the neck into the shoulder and arm. Compression of these nerves can cause pain, weakness, or numbness in the shoulder, arm, and hand.
Vagus nerve: The vagus nerve is one of the longest nerves in the body and runs from the brain through the neck and into the chest and abdomen. Compression of this nerve can cause a range of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, and heart palpitations.
Phrenic nerve: The phrenic nerve runs from the neck into the chest and controls the diaphragm, the muscle that helps you breathe. Compression of this nerve can cause difficulty breathing and shortness of breath.
Spinal accessory nerve: The spinal accessory nerve runs from the brain through the neck and into the shoulder, and controls the muscles that allow you to turn your head and shrug your shoulders. Compression of this nerve can cause weakness or limited mobility in the neck and shoulder.
Whiplash: This is a type of injury that occurs when your head is suddenly jerked forward and then backwards, causing strain to the muscles and ligaments in your neck.
Osteoarthritis: This is a type of arthritis that affects the joints in your neck, causing pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
Herniated disc: This is when a disc in your neck bulges or ruptures, putting pressure on nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness in your neck, shoulders, arms, or hands.
It's important to see a healthcare provider if you're experiencing neck pain. As an osteopath, I can help determine the cause of your pain and give you the appropriate treatment.
If you are looking for an Osteopath in East Grinstead, please get in touch with:
Cliff Russell, Registered Osteopath
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