When should back pain be treated as an emergency?

Back pain should be treated as an emergency if it is accompanied by a loss of strength in the arms or legs, or reduced sensitivity in the legs, as this may mean the nerves are compressed and could cause irreversible damage if not treated quickly. Back pain combined with a fever and red or swollen areas on the back may indicate an infection. In all these situations, medical attention should be sought as soon as possible.

Is sudden, acute back pain a sign of something serious?

Acute back pain is not serious in most cases and is often a lumbago, where very tight muscles block the proper functioning of the spine. Although a blocked back can be very painful, it usually settles within a few days with rest and warmth. It is generally not a cause for alarm.

Should you see an osteopath or a physiotherapist for back pain?

For acute pain such as lumbago, an osteopath may help, as their techniques can be somewhat more direct and provide a quicker result. For chronic complaints that are not serious conditions, a physiotherapist is strongly recommended, as their role is to find where the pain comes from and to strengthen the back through mobility and strengthening exercises. The choice depends on whether the pain is acute or chronic.

What is the difference between a physiotherapist and an osteopath?

Physiotherapy and osteopathy are similar professions, both considered complementary and manual medicine. A practical difference is insurance cover, as physiotherapy is reimbursed only when prescribed by the attending physician, while osteopathy is reimbursed through supplementary insurance. Osteopathic techniques can sometimes help a little faster, whereas physiotherapy focuses more on working on the underlying problem through mobility and strengthening.

When should you see a physiotherapist?

Whether you should see a physiotherapist depends on your problem, but common reasons include healing an injury such as a sprain, recovering from an operation such as cruciate knee ligament surgery, or relieving and treating chronic pain. For an injury or after surgery, a general practitioner usually prescribes physiotherapy. For chronic pain, you should contact your doctor yourself, who may carry out more detailed tests before prescribing sessions.

What is the correct posture for working at a computer?

Good posture at the computer helps prevent neck pain. Keep your feet on the floor and your back against the chair, and work on a monitor rather than a laptop, which forces you to bend over. Hold your head in a neutral position with the top of the screen at eye level, and position your keyboard close enough that your elbows are bent at 90 degrees, with the mouse at the same level as the keyboard.

How can taking breaks help prevent neck and back pain at work?

Taking breaks is very important when working at a computer all day. It helps to get up after 45 to 60 minutes — for example to make a coffee, drink some water or take a short walk. If your job involves a lot of computer time, a sit-stand desk is ideal, allowing you to stand for 15 to 20 minutes after about an hour of sitting to take the strain off your back and neck.

Why is walking used in physiotherapy and rehabilitation?

Walking is often prescribed in rehabilitation programmes run by physiotherapists because it is a low-impact activity. It strengthens muscles, improves joint flexibility and promotes blood circulation, which makes it well suited to recovering from injury or surgery. Incorporated into treatment, it helps restore musculoskeletal function, reduce pain and improve mobility.

Physiotherapy in Switzerland: book an appointment online

Ms Mélissa Castang

Physiotherapist

Activ Santé Lausanne
Rue Étraz 4
1003 Lausanne

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Physiotherapy in Switzerland: book an appointment online today

When should back pain be treated as an emergency?

Is sudden, acute back pain a sign of something serious?

Should you see an osteopath or a physiotherapist for back pain?

What is the difference between a physiotherapist and an osteopath?

When should you see a physiotherapist?

What is the correct posture for working at a computer?

How can taking breaks help prevent neck and back pain at work?

Why is walking used in physiotherapy and rehabilitation?

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