In an unexpected turn of events, Russian figure skater Evgeni Plushenko withdrew from the competition just moments before he was to perform. Earlier in a warm-up, he performed a triple axle jump and seemed to be in pain as he landed. In mid-2013, he underwent surgery to replace a disc in his back. The prolific skater has had 12 surgeries in all. He decided against risking further injury and bowed out of the Sochi Olympics. Earlier in the 2014 games, he brought home Russia’s first gold medal of the Olympic season.
Whether you’re a storied athlete or a “regular Joe,” back pain is one of the most common complaints. Between 60% and 80% of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Causes of back pain are varied and can range from a traumatic injury to a simple alignment issue. Back pain can be mildly uncomfortable to downright excruciating. Although back pain can resolve on its own, repetitive discomfort in the same area is indicative of chronic issue.
Patients with back pain spend more than $90 billion annually in diagnosis and treatment of back pain. It is the second leading cause of work absences.
It tends to be recurrent and rather than simply treating the symptoms with anti-inflammatory medication and rest, it’s important to find the root cause of the pain. The first step in treatment is to see a board certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician.
Depending on the diagnosis, your physician may recommend physical therapy. The accomplished physical therapists at Cross Bay Physical Therapy in Howard Beach can assist with recovery and prevention. Through range of motion exercises, spinal mobilization therapy, iontophoresis, and spinal conditioning, Cross Bay physical therapists will help you get “back” to your life.
By Benjamin Bieber