What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Lifting heavy objects improperly or with poor form can lead to various types of back injuries. Here are some common back injuries associated with lifting.

1. Muscle strains or sprains – over stretching or tearing of muscles or ligaments in the back, symptoms may include pain, swelling, muscle spasms and limited range of motion. The use of proper technique, strengthening of core muscles and warming up of muscles can help to prevent this.
2. Herniated discs – The soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tough exterior, irritating nearby nerves. Symptoms may include sharp pain, numbness, tingling and weakness. The use of proper technique and posture, as well as core strengthening can help prevent this.
3. Bulging discs – Similar to a herniated disc, but the disc does not rupture, instead it bulges outward. Symptoms may include pain, numbness and weakness. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and using proper technique can help prevent this.
4. Compression fracture – This is a break in one of the vertebrae in the spine. Symptoms may include a sudden onset of back pain and limited spinal mobility. Proper form and avoid lift heavy if you have a bone condition like osteoporosis.
5. Facet joint injury – This is damage to the joints connecting the vertebrae in the spine. Symptoms may include pain, stiffness and a reduced range of motion. Strengthening the core muscles and maintaining a healthy weight, as well as practicing good posture can help prevent this.
6. Lumbar pain – Over stretching or tearing of the muscles in the lower back. Symptoms may include pain, muscle spasms and difficulty moving. Proper lifting technique, strengthening core muscles and avoid overexertion can help prevent this.
7. Spondylolisthesis – This is when one vertebra slips forward over another, often in the lower spine. Symptoms may include lower back pain, stiffness and leg pain. Strengthening the core and back muscles and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent this.
8. Spinal stenosis – This is the narrowing of the spinal canal, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Symptoms can include pain, numbness, weakness and difficulty walking. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and practicing good posture can help prevent this.

How can Biokinetics help with any of the following above mentioned conditions:

Once you have a clear diagnose of one or more of the above mentioned conditions, your general practitioner or specialist may refer you to a biokineticist. In a initial assessment your strength, flexibility and mobility will be assessed. Thereafter depending on the result, your biokineticist will prescribe and individualized exercise and movement program, to help you recover by means of strength and mobility training. It is also important to be educated in your daily movements and exercise movement, working with a biokineticist will help you understand how you are moving and help prevent further injury.