Glenn Ruscoe, FACP
Walking three times a week to ease back pain almost halves the risk of its recurrence, according to new research published in the Lancet With back pain it is instinctive not do anything, because even taking a step can send a jolt or spasm up your back. But research is showing that exercise is a path […]
Manipulation is short, sharp thrust given to the spine used to remove restrictions of movement. For some back and neck pain conditions, and where contraindications are not present, spinal manipulation is supported by the scientific literature as an appropriate intervention. Nevertheless, there are risks associated with the manoeuvre, particularly in the neck. Cases of stroke, […]
Despite the prevalence and impact of low back pain on society the treatments offered vary widely, which suggests poor understanding of the evidence. Subsequently the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care today (1st September 2022) released their Low Back Pain Clinical Standard. It describes the care that anyone over the age of […]
Posture is a frequent topic of discussion for patients, clinicians, the media, and society. A common belief is that back and/or neck pain is caused by sitting, standing or bending “incorrectly.” Despite the absence of strong evidence to support these common beliefs, a large posture industry has flourished, with many interventions and products claiming to […]
The ABC 7.30’s recent report on back pain identified the poor results produced by lumbar fusion surgery. The 7-minute story is a must watch for anyone with severe and chronic back pain who is contemplating surgery. The report stated that in 2017-18, close to 18,000 fusions were carried out in Australia. It’s one of the […]
Disc degeneration, bulging and protrusions do not sound good, and if they were reported in an investigative image of your low back it would likely be cause for concern. However a recent study is showing that disc bulges and degeneration are just a normal part of ageing, like wrinkles, and are not necessarily the cause […]