Manage Back Pain

Back Pain Exercises

Sally Ann Quirke

My advice on what to consider if you have back pain and are back pain and are looking for exercises and stretches to alleviate pain. Some sample exercises too!

Chronic Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Are you looking for Chronic Back Pain relief? Let’s first step back and look at just what we mean by “chronic back pain”.

Spinal Fusion Surgery

Sally Ann Quirke

Spinal fusion surgery is a technique used to combine two or more vertebrae in the spine. Please read on to find out more

5 main causes of back pain

Sally Ann Quirke

If you are complaining of back pain, then you need to understand what might be causing that pain. This article describes the five general causes of back pain I typically treat as a physiotherapist.

Yoga for Sciatica

Sally Ann Quirke

Yoga for Sciatica. Expert advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist as to when Yoga is good for sciatica.

Causes of Upper Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Upper back pain can result from a variety of reasons, but in my experience, Poor Posture is one of the most common causes.

main symptoms of back pain

Sally Ann Quirke

This article introduces the common symptoms of back pain that people typically get. It is important that you understand and can describe the symptoms of back pain to help get a diagnosis and get to the cause of the problem.

Avoid Back Injury by lifting properly

Sally Ann Quirke

Learn how to lift a load properly. These simple points of advice will help prevent a back pain injury and a visit to my clinic!

Lumbar Support Belt

Sally Ann Quirke

Lumbar Support Belt - advice on when to use them.

Posture Support Products - an overview

Sally Ann Quirke

Posture Support Products - what to consider and what to look out for when buying products that help improve your posture.

Sciatica Stretches

Sally Ann Quirke

Clients often want to learn to stretch their sciatic nerve and give themselves some relief to their discomfort, but there are a number of steps to complete before you safely carry out stretches for your Sciatica.

your managebackpain ebook download

Sally Ann Quirke

Thank you - here is the download for the manage back pain ebook.

Health Related Fitness

Sally Ann Quirke

So you might ask what is the ideal fitness programme for the prevention of neck and back pain? Of course, there is no one answer. Here are some components of a fitness programme that I share with my own clients:

Hip Pain Causes

Let’s have a have a look at different aspects of hip pain causes and treatments:

Mid-Back Pain Causes

Sally Ann Quirke

Pain in the Middle part of the back s a common complaint where the ligaments, joints and muscles are put under excess pressure, often due to a poor sitting posture or lifting technique.

Back Pain While Sleeping

Sally Ann Quirke

An introduction as to the main considerations of why Back Pain and Sleep are linked.

Symptoms of Lower Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

What are the symptoms of Lower Back Pain? Here we describe some of the symptoms which can help lead to diagnosing the underlying cause.

Back Pain Muscle Spasms

Sally Ann Quirke

Back Pain Muscle Spasms: Why do Muscle Spasms occur - and how to treat them!

Health Benefits of running

Sally Ann Quirke

There are so many running health benefits. As I work with clients on back pain prevention and management, I see those benefits both in myself and my clients on a daily basis.

Sciatica Home Treatment

Sally Ann Quirke

Home treatment for Sciatica is effective. This article presents some general exercises to help manage Sciatica at home. However, you should get an accurate diagnosis from a Physio before preforming any specific exercises.

Sciatica during Pregnancy

Sally Ann Quirke

One of the most painful types back pain experienced in pregnancy is when you have lower back pain and leg pain - sciatica. This is where your sciatic nerve is compressed or trapped due to postural changes or displaced joints.

Tendonitis Treatment

Sally Ann Quirke

What is Tendonitis? What causes it? Where does it occur in the body? Find out about the underlying causes of tendonitis and how to treat it.

Treatment for Sciatica

Sally Ann Quirke

Sciatica treatment focuses on addressing the symptoms and the underlying cause of the pain. Often, combination of non-surgical treatments and a structured exercise program may be needed to relieve the pain.

What is Whiplash

Sally Ann Quirke

Whiplash - an injury where your neck over-extends in flexion and extension in an accident. This results in overstretching and compression of the muscles, joints, ligaments and nerves in the neck and upper back - resulting in pain!

Spine Anatomy

Sally Ann Quirke

Explaining the anatomy of the spine can be simple or difficult. I’m opting to make it as simple as possible - so here goes!!

TMJ Tinnitus

Sally Ann Quirke

Patients that refer themselves to my clinic with tinnitus (ringing of the ears) have associated jaw or neck pain combined. So, tinnitus may occur alone or with any of the below symptoms.

Spinal Stenosis Symptoms

Sally Ann Quirke

Spinal Stenosis Symptoms - an easy to understand article that takes a detailed look at some of the symptoms experienced from Spinal Stenosis. Expert advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist.

Spinal Stenosis Treatment

Sally Ann Quirke

Spinal Stenosis Treatment - This articles highlights some of the treatment options available to Spinal Stenosis cases. Expert advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist.

TMJ Exercises

Sally Ann Quirke

TMJ dysfunction can be a very painful condition that affects the jaw. These severe symptoms can be relieved with specific TMJ exercises. It just takes the right exercises and a continued effort over time.

What is a Herniated Disc

Sally Ann Quirke

Also known as a slipped disc, the medical term is a herniated disc. This article provides a simple explanation of what a herniated disc and introduces how it is diagnosed, the symptoms and treatments available for a herniated disc.

Useful Resources

Sally Ann Quirke

Resources

Scoliosis and Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Back pain is often associated with scoliosis. This is due to the movement and weight transference of pressure through your spine being altered by scoliosis. Tissues and bones can get over stressed in scoliosis causing pain and disability.

Scoliosis in Children

Sally Ann Quirke

Scoliosis in children is the most common form of idiopathic scoliosis. Early detection and intervention will help the overall management of the condition.

Scoliosis Treatment

Sally Ann Quirke

Scoliosis treatments - what are they and how do they work? (or DO they work, even!).

Signs and Symptoms of TMJ

Sally Ann Quirke

The structures TMJ problems affect are muscles, ligaments, capsule and the joint itself. I frequently see problems with teeth, neck pain and back pain associated with TMJ movement problems. The most important first step is to recognise the primary cause of TMJ problems.

Soccer Injuries

Sally Ann Quirke

Soccer is one of the most common and widely played sports in the world. As with all sports it has specific injuries associated with it. These injuries are related to the movement patterns involved in soccer and the muscles and joints that are strained in this process

Spinal Stenosis Surgery

Sally Ann Quirke

Spinal Stenosis is more common in older age groups. Surgery for Spinal Stenosis relief should only be considered if your quality of life has been severely affected. Expert advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist.

Symptoms of Whiplash

Sally Ann Quirke

Understanding the causes and variations in the symptoms of whiplash will help you in your recovery as the treatments and exercise for whiplash your physiotherapist gives you will be enhanced by your understanding.

TMJ Surgery

Sally Ann Quirke

TMJ Surgery should be considered once there is a clear diagnosis and other treatment options have been tried. This article introduces the typical surgical procedures to treat TMJ pain.

TMJ Treatment Options

Sally Ann Quirke

TMJ Treatment Options

Travel Neck Pillows

Sally Ann Quirke

Tips to help back and neck pain when travelling. This article looks at Travel Neck Pillows and how to fit them properly to get the best results.

Treatment for Whiplash

Sally Ann Quirke

Treatment for Whiplash - although treatment for whiplash varies from person to person and from accident to accident, there are some principles which are the same throughout every condition and treatment.

What is Sciatica

Sally Ann Quirke

In summary, sciatica is where your sciatic nerve is pinched, damaged or inflamed - resulting in leg pain radiating from your buttock, often down the back of your thigh. Understanding and diagnosing the cause of your sciatica is the key!

What is Scoliosis

Sally Ann Quirke

Scoliosis is a deviation in the spine that should not be there. It can be temporary or permanent. It can be treated both surgically and/or manually. Ultimately each case requires individual detailed assessment to ensure the correct scoliosis treatment.

Yoga for Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Yoga taught and performed effectively can enhance and help cure your back pain - but when taught or performed inappropriately it can cause more harm than good. You need to discover the cause of your back pain before deciding is Yoga good for back pain.

Yoga for Scoliosis

Sally Ann Quirke

Advice on whether Yoga can help with Scoliosis. In short, yoga can help, but it is more important to seek out an expert who can properly diagnose your condition and prescribe specific exercises as part of an overall management program.

Sciatica Symptoms

Sally Ann Quirke

What does it feel like to have sciatica? The short answer is that the symptoms can vary. However, sciatica is always associated with some form of pain and looking at the symptoms can help identify the cause.

Neck Roll Pillows

Sally Ann Quirke

Neck roll pillows are an amazing product. However, the quality of the pillow is very important and remember - price does not always indicate the quality!

Pilates Sample Exercises

Sally Ann Quirke

This article gives some Pilates sample exercises to help strengthen your back - especially as you recover from back pain. They are ones that we would frequently use in the clinic to help strengthen and maintain a healthy back.

Massage For Sciatica

Sally Ann Quirke

Massage may be appropriate where sciatica is caused by specific muscle tightness, and may relieve you of your sciatica symptoms. However, if muscle tightness is secondary to another cause of the sciatica then massage can often cause more pain.

Mild Scoliosis

Sally Ann Quirke

A mild scoliosis is a small deviation or twist in your spine at some level - often so small it is only visible to a trained eye or x-ray examination. The good news is they are usually not a serious problem once addressed early (especially with scoliosis in children) with effective treatment techniques.

Flat feet - Orthotics

Sally Ann Quirke

From a medical perspective, ‘Fallen arches’ or ‘flat feet’ often disrupt normal knee function and hip alignment. This can also cause strain on muscles in the lower limbs and back, leading to a wide range of common complaints

Pilates Class

Sally Ann Quirke

Are you considering a Pilates Class for conditioning, health and fitness? Or maybe to strengthen your body to minimise conditions like back pain? If so - do read on - and I will step you through some key considerations when choosing the RIGHT Pilates class for your needs and goals.

Pilates During Pregnancy

Sally Ann Quirke

Doing Pilates during your pregnancy helps to enhance your understanding of good posture and how you can unload your tired spine using simple pilates exercises, postures and positions.

Pilates Equipment

Sally Ann Quirke

Beyond the Pilates Exercise Mat - there are many types of Pilates equipment used within the Pilates community today. I am going to share with you the pilates equipment which I am familiar with and inform you of the pros and cons on all equipment discussed.

Posture Brace

Sally Ann Quirke

A Posture brace can be a help in the management of back pain and regaining a good posture. However, they must be used with care! Expert advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist.

Memory Foam Pillow for neck pain

Sally Ann Quirke

You spend a lot of your life in bed so you should aim to get the quality of your sleep right. Using correct pillows and mattresses can help this greatly.

Back Pain Relief - Product Review

Sally Ann Quirke

This section will contain reviews of back pain relief products.

Back Stretching Exercises

Sally Ann Quirke

Back stretches are a critical part of managing - and preventing - your back pain. Similar to your back strengthening exercises, stretching exercises need to be specific to each persons back problem.

Back Support Chair

Sally Ann Quirke

Too often, I have seen a back support chair which does not help people with their back pain.

Difference Between Yoga and Pilates

Sally Ann Quirke

Yoga or Pilates to relieve back pain? What is the difference between Yoga and Pilates when it comes to this sensitive subject? I am asked this question daily in my Physiotherapy/Pilates practice.

Herniated Cervical Disc

Sally Ann Quirke

Treatment of a herniated cervical disc will depend on the severity of the herniation as well as the degree of pain and symptoms that you are experiencing. Most cervical disc herniations can be treated effectively with mobilisation and strength therapy.

Lumbar Support for Office Chairs

Sally Ann Quirke

There are many types of lumbar support office chair available today. The quality of a lumbar support chair is very important, and in my experience, price does not always reflect quality.

Lumbar Support Pillow

Sally Ann Quirke

My preferred choice is that all my clients learn how to support their lumbar spine actively. This involves learning where your lumbar spine should be when you sit and stand, and secondly doing specific strengthening exercises to make this lumbar-supported position automatic.

Epidural for Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

have seen numerous people who are about to go, or who have just been, for epidural treatments for their back pain. Ultimately, they frequently relieve you of your back pain in the short term, but overall I generally see a re-occurrence of back pain following the epidural treatment.

Exercise for Sciatica

Sally Ann Quirke

The type of exercises you should do to relieve sciatica are very much dependent on the underlying cause. My recommendation is not to do exercises off the internet, without first knowing the cause of your sciatica.

Cause of Chronic Hip Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Chronic hip pain is a pain in your hip that has lasted longer than six weeks. I find that this definition is the most useful starting point - as six weeks is generally the transition point between an acute and a chronic pain presentation

Herniated Disc Surgery Recovery

Sally Ann Quirke

Lets have a look at whats involved in recovering from herniated disc surgery. Firstly, it will depend on what type of disc surgery you had. It will depend on the extent of tissue removed and the condition of the remaining discs and joints in your lower back and pelvis

Herniated Disc Symptoms

Sally Ann Quirke

There are many potential symptoms that you can expect if you have a herniated disc. The symptoms and the degree of the symptoms will depend on a number of factors, including where the herniated disc is and is it impinging on a nerve.

Becoming a Pilates Instructor

Sally Ann Quirke

Are you considering becoming a Pilates Instructor? Then read on, as I have found that the following are the essential things to consider as you search for the right Pilates School, certification and instructor.

Alexander Technique for Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

The Alexander Technique an help in back pain, and I have referred clients for Alexander therapy when stress is the key aggravating factor in their presentation. A good chartered physiotherapist will give you the direction you require, in order to receive the best therapy for your back pain.

Ankylosing spondylitis

Sally Ann Quirke

Ankylosing spondylosis (often referred to as cervical or lumbar spondylosis - depending on it’s location) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis and autoimmune disease. It mainly affects the joints of your spine and pelvis and as it progresses may result in fusion in your spine.

Back Pain Medication

Sally Ann Quirke

What is the Best Back Pain Medicine? You have decided that medication is the next step to help with Back pain Relief. So, which Back Pain medication should you take?

Back Pain Specialist

Sally Ann Quirke

How do you choose the right pain support specialist for your condition? Let’s start with an overview of the therapies containing back pain specialists. What should you look out for when picking the correct professional person for you!!

Back Strengthening Exercises

Sally Ann Quirke

If you are looking for good exercises for back pain, then read this article first. It doesn’t contain any exercises! Here’s why.

Bursitis Symptoms

Sally Ann Quirke

The symptoms of bursitis always involve pain around the affected joint. It can be acute during exercise and can cause a burning dull ache after exercise. Night time aching is common and morning stiffness around the affected bursa is usual!

Bursitis Treatment

Sally Ann Quirke

Generally, rest and ice will be sufficient to reduce the inflammation, but if there is no noticeable progress then further investigation is required.

Causes of Sciatica

Sally Ann Quirke

Before we look at the causes of sciatica, I’d like to say that many clients I see with sciatica have been treating their pain symptoms instead of identifying, and addressing, what brought about the condition in the first place.

Cervical Spine Surgery

Sally Ann Quirke

At all times seek professional advice for the neck pain symptoms you are experiencing, as some signs and symptoms may require urgent attention either surgically or conservatively. However, Cervical Spine Surgery should only be undertaken when other forms of therapy have been considered.

Core Strength Training

Sally Ann Quirke

This article discusses what things you should consider before you download core strength exercises from the web and start following them, particularly if you have back pain.

Elbow Bursitis

Sally Ann Quirke

Elbow bursitis is very common and very painful! Read on to find out more.

Exercise for Whiplash

Sally Ann Quirke

“When should I exercise following my painful whiplash injury?”is a frequently asked question in my physiotherapy practice.

Herniated Disc Treatment

Sally Ann Quirke

Your symptoms will dictate the treatment required for your disc herniation. As a physiotherapist working daily with herniated disc clients, I can tell you that there are many options of treatment for your herniated disc.

Herniated Disc Exercise

Sally Ann Quirke

Diagnosis is the key and although self treatment is often a good thing, when dealing with disc injuries I strongly advise seeing a professional and getting their help before you start exercises.

Herniated Lumbar Disc

Sally Ann Quirke

The most common area in your spine for herniation of a disc is in the lumbar spine. It is most common at the level of L5/S1, which is low down in your lumbar spine.

History and Benefits of Pilates

Sally Ann Quirke

Pilates was originally developed by Joseph Pilates who was of Greek extraction - born in Germany in 1883. He developed Pilates exercises in the early 20th century as a result of suffering from back pain himself. .

Isthmic spondylolisthesis

Sally Ann Quirke

When one vertebra moves forwards out of that alignment it is referred to as spondylolisthesis - “spondylo” meaning spine and “listhesis” meaning slippage. The ithmic part tells us what type of spondylolisthesis it is.

Knee Bursitis

Sally Ann Quirke

Knee Bursitis is a common condition that usually occurs at the top of your knee. Caused by inflammation of a fluid-filled sacs (bursae), the symptoms include pain, swelling, tenderness and redness. Expert treatment advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist.

Kyphosis

Sally Ann Quirke

Kyphosis is a term we use to describe the curve in the middle of your back. Viewed from the side it is the area in your back that curves outwards.

Lumbar Scoliosis

Sally Ann Quirke

Lumbar Scoliosis is either congenital or idiopathic. This article looks at the two causes and what can be done to improve the condition. Expert advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist.

Causes of TMJ

Sally Ann Quirke

So, what are the primary causes of TMJ? A better understanding of the causes of TMJ can result in choosing the most appropriate treatment option.

Back Pain Between Shoulder Blades

Sally Ann Quirke

Back pain between shoulder blades is a type of pain I find very satisfying to work with … and it is a condition for which manual treatment really gets results!

Ergonomic Workstation

Sally Ann Quirke

Are you looking to create an ergonomic workstation space in your office? Do you want to avoid repetitive stress injury, or neck and back pain?

Lumbar Lordosis

Sally Ann Quirke

Sometimes your lumbar lordosis may be out of alignment. However this does not always mean that you will have or get back pain, but it does require a Chartered Physiotherapist’s opinion in my view.

Back Arthritis

Sally Ann Quirke

Back Arthritis is one of the most common causes of back pain that I see in my practice. In this section, we will examine some of the different types of spine arthritis and where it occurs.

Osteoarthritis of the Spine.

Sally Ann Quirke

Osteoarthritis of the spine is very common. It is so common, in fact, that we all have some degree of osteoarthritis of the spine as we get older.

Cervical Spine Arthritis.

Sally Ann Quirke

Cervical Spine Arthritis - a introductory article that highlights what causes neck arthritis, what you need to do to get it diagnoses, and discusses treatment options.

Buttocks Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Buttocks Pain? “I have a pain in my bottom” is a frequent complaint I hear on a day to day basis in my Physiotherapy Clinic! I am proud to say that I continue to have great success in the treatment of buttock pain!

Low Back Pain Exercises

Sally Ann Quirke

Lower back pain exercises need to be specific to your condition - otherwise injury may result - and are a necessity for the long term resolution of your symptoms.

Lower Back Stretches - some basic tips

Sally Ann Quirke

I frequently see with my own clients that our lower backs are often forgotten about when it comes to conscious stretching. Most of us are aware that we have to stretch the muscles of our legs and arms if we are involved in exercise, but many of us don’t stretch our backs. I am frequently asked how important is it to stretch my back?

Lower Back and Groin Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Lower back pain is often associated with groin pain. This article identifies four main reasons as to why back pain and groin pain are linked, and where treatment needs to be directed to provide pain relief.

Coccyx Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Coccyx pain - a painful condition caused by a trauma to the coccyx bone and can take a long time to heal. However, if the pain does not ease over time, visit a chartered physiotherapist - here’s why…

Hip Surgery Recovery

Effective Recovery from Hip Surgery requires a number of factors such as the type of surgery undertaken; The condition of your hip before surgery; Physical exercises carried both before and after surgery; Your age and general health and your attitude are considered.

Lateral Hip Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Lateral hip pain can be very confusing for people as it can be associated with hip movement, leg movement or back movement. It has, in my experience, one of three main sources.

Arthritis Hip Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Arthritis is the most common cause of hip pain that I see on a daily basis. Once a diagnosis has been made at an early stage most clients do very well. Usually a full resolution of pain and stiffness can be reached and maintained by simple exercises.

Hip and Leg Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Hip and leg pain are also seen quite frequently in my clients. There can be a number of causes to this and they may not be directly associated with the hip or legs at all!

Hip and Lower Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Hip and lower back pain are a common combination of pain associated with disorders I see on a daily basis. The lower back is complex and can refer pain to the hip joint and leg.

Hip Bursitis

Sally Ann Quirke

Hip bursitis involves a bursa in the hip region. The most common location for hip bursitis is over the outside of your upper thigh. It is also one of the most painful bursitis presentations that I see in my physiotherapy clinic.

Hip Flexor Injury

Sally Ann Quirke

The most common type of hip flexor injury that I see happens as a result of them being too tight. When your hip flexors become too tight they can pull your pelvis forward into an anteriorly tilted position. This, in turn, places excess pressure on your lower back often resulting in lower back pain.

Hip Exercises

Sally Ann Quirke

Hip exercises and stretches are essential when for injury recovery and prevention.

Hip Tendonitis

Sally Ann Quirke

When tendons in your hip are working well they glide perfectly as their related muscle contracts. When a tendon is inflamed the action of their contracting muscle pulling on them irritates them further and more inflammation and pain results.

Lower Back Surgery

Sally Ann Quirke

Expert advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist on some common questions about Spinal Surgery, such as the more common forms of Lower back Surgery? Is surgery right for me? Things to consider before having surgery, and what about recovery following surgery?

Lower Right vs Left Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

One sided lower back pain (either the left or right side) is very common. This is due to repetitive movements favouring one side of your body as well as poor postural habits. About 80% of the one-sided back pain clients I see have lower right back pain - which reflects the side that the majority of people use.

Causes of Lower Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Here we have a look at some of the more common causes of lower back pain (road traffic accident, poor lifting technique, poor posture) - and then an approach to repair the damaged structures through mobilisation, stretching and posture correction.

Shoulder Surgery Recovery

Sally Ann Quirke

The aim of rehabilitation is to recover as much of the position, movement, strength, and ultimate function of your shoulder joint and girdle as can be achieved. Here we will have a look at the different aspects you need to take into consideration for the best Shoulder Surgery Recovery:

Pregnancy and upper back pain

Sally Ann Quirke

This can occur as a result of the postural changes associated with pregnancy, or as a result of the “ligamentus laxity” that pregnancy hormones can cause - which results in strain on your upper back.

4 main causes of shoulder pain

Sally Ann Quirke

There can be many causes of shoulder pain - each one often requires a different approach to treatment and relief. However, I think it’s worthwhile going through the four main causes that I see at my clinic.

Frozen Shoulder Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Are you looking for the best Frozen Shoulder Treatment approach? Frozen shoulder pain is so nasty!! My own mother recently had a frozen shoulder so I have heard all about it!!

Shoulder Bursitis

Sally Ann Quirke

Shoulder bursitis is where there is inflammation of a bursa around the shoulder. However, it can often be confused with an inflammation of the rotor cuff, which is a tendon structure around the shoulder joint.

Shoulder Tendonitis

Sally Ann Quirke

Shoulder tendonitis is an inflammation of a tendon attaching to your shoulder. Although there are many tendons involved in your shoulder the most common tendonitis’s that I see in my physiotherapy practice relate to the rotator cuff complex.

Arthritis in Shoulder

Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the shoulder. In both types of arthritis the health of the bones and soft tissues of your shoulder joint are affected. The degree and extent of damage will depend on the severity of your arthritis as well as the way that you manage it!

Chronic Shoulder Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Chronic shoulder pain refers to a pain or movement problem that has been present for more than six weeks. There are various degrees of “chronic” associated with shoulder pain.

Exercises for Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Although manual therapy from your physiotherapist is an important part of the treatment of your upper back pain, exercises that you will carry out yourself are a necessity for the management and long term resolution of your symptoms.

Left vs. Right Shoulder Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Shoulder pain presented on either the left or right side ONLY is a common complaint - mostly results from repetitive movement patterns or poor posture. Expert advice on the causes and treatments from a Chartered Physiotherapist.

Shoulder Anatomy

Sally Ann Quirke

The shoulder is known as the “floppy” joint of the body! It is a ball and socket joint. However, it is a loose packed ball and socket joint which means it is relying on its ligaments and muscles to hold it in place.

Dislocated Shoulder

Sally Ann Quirke

The frequent mistake people make is not having a dislocated shoulder assessed and rehabilitated by a physiotherapist after the first dislocation - which can lead to more complications! Let me explain.

Shoulder pain exercise

Sally Ann Quirke

Shoulder Rehab Exercises are very important in the overall management of shoulder pain. I see as many shoulder problems which have worsened from lack of movement as I do from injury to the shoulder alone.

Shoulder Joint Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

In my experience, shoulder joint pain is presented by one of four reasons: Frozen Shoulder, Osteoarthritis, Tendonitis or a Pinched nerve in your neck.

Upper Left vs Upper Right Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

This can occur if we favour the right arm more than the left arm - or vice-versa - repetitively over time. However, there are many other causes of one-sided upper back pain.

Causes of Headaches

Sally Ann Quirke

Sometimes a Headache may be caused in by dysfunction in the neck or upper upper back. This article looks at some of the causes of headaches and why they happen.

Neck Massagers

Sally Ann Quirke

Neck massagers can help in treating neck pain, but use with care - I have seen many damaged muscles and ligaments arising from inappropriate use of neck massagers.

Neck Stretches

Sally Ann Quirke

Neck stretches are many and varied. However, I am going to share with you neck stretching approaches that I find most useful on a daily basis in my physiotherapy clinic.

Herniated Disc in Neck

Sally Ann Quirke

A herniated disc is a very painful condition, particularly when it happens in your neck. This article, looks at what tends to cause them, and how recognising the signs and treating them can prevent it.

Arthritis of the Neck

Sally Ann Quirke

Arthritis of the neck may be as a result of one of two types of arthritis: Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid arthritis. This article discusses how to manage neck pain from Arthritis and gives an example. Expert advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist.

TMJ neck pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Why do clients with TMJ pain often have associated neck pain? It’s because the TMJ is closely related to the neck both anatomically and functionally. Let’s explore this a little more.

Neck Pain Behind Ear

Sally Ann Quirke

Neck pain behind your ear can be quite common. The causes of neck pain behind the ear are many. The most common causes of this condition that I see are …

Neck Pain Exercises

Sally Ann Quirke

Depending on the nature of the trauma you have had - it may be possible to do some gentle neck exercises. However, it is usually important to see a professional for an opinion beforehand. The treatment for your neck pain will involve some exercises that you will need to carry out at home.

Pillows to Help Neck Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

You spend up to a third of your life sleeping, so investing in a Pillow to help neck pain is well worth the effort! Choose carefully and get a fitted one if buying, or try a home made option!

Possible Causes of Neck Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

There are many possible causes of neck pain - that is, there are many incidents and conditions that can trigger neck pain. This article highlights the main types and causes of neck pain.

Pinched Nerve in Neck

Sally Ann Quirke

Some patients come to see me when they suffered for some time with severe pain resulting from a trapped nerve, and have found that pain medication is not necessarily helping them. That is understandable - while the medication may mask the severity of the effect of the problem, it is not really a cure as it does not address the underlying cause of the pain.

Neck Pain Headache

Sally Ann Quirke

Neck-related headaches can trick you! Sometimes, a client can present to my clinic with a severe headache and with a history of neck pain or neck stiffness. But have they linked the two before arriving at my clinic?

Neck Spasm

Sally Ann Quirke

Neck spasm can be a very painful symptom of many neck injuries and conditions, and Physiotherapy is effective treatment in most common cases. Diagnosis is the key - and once the cause of the spasm is removed the spasm will usually disappear within 24-72 hours. If it does not resolve fully in this time then seek medical advice immediately.

Neck Shoulder Arm Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Have you got pain in your neck, shoulder and arm? This may be due to the nerves in your neck being damaged or trapped, resulting in a referral of pain into your arm.

Neck Anatomy

Sally Ann Quirke

A better understanding of neck anatomy always helps a client and myself to work more effectively together in treating neck pain. In this article I attempt to provide a simple explanation as to how the neck is built and fits together.

Severe Neck Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Are you suffering with severe neck pain? I have seen many clients walk through my clinic doors absolutely crippled with neck pain. A really painful condition, it is most commonly caused by muscle spasms and mal-alignment of the joints.

Upper Back Pain Lungs

Sally Ann Quirke

Careful diagnosis of Upper back and lung pain is essential - never ignore upper back pain if you have a lung condition, a history of same in your family, or if you feel short of breath.

How to Treat Neck Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

What is your best approach to treat neck pain? There really are many answers to this question. However, the success of your treatment will depend on a correct diagnosis from the outset.

Piriformis Syndrome Treatment

Sally Ann Quirke

Sometimes buttock or hip pain can be the result of Piriformis Syndrome. Let’s first take a closer what this painful condition is, why a correct diagnosis is important, and how it is normally treated.

Acupuncture for back pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Patients sometimes ask if Acupunture works in the treatment of back pain. There is no easy answer, but in this article I highlight two areas where I find it can be beneficial as part of an overall treatment program.

Neck and Upper Back Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

The most common presentation of neck and upper back pain that I see are due to stiffness in the upper back and poor neck posture, particularly from people who spend too much time looking into their phones, tablets and laptops!

Mattress Buying Guide

Sally Ann Quirke

Almost one third of your life is spent sleeping! Selecting the correct mattress for your back is crucial for your health. Expert advice from a Chartered Physiotherapist on buying a new bed or mattress to help alleviate back discomfort and pain.

Stiff Neck Pain

Sally Ann Quirke

With stiff neck pain - the stiffness often precedes the pain. However, with our busy lifestyles we do nothing to correct it until pain eventually arises - and it is only then do we go to our Doctor or Physiotherapist for help. Seeking early advice is much better!

Hip Pain at Night

Sally Ann Quirke

When suffering from hip pain at night - first determine the cause of your hip pain. Then, eliminate the cause and there is around an 80% chance that you will then be ok.

Running Posture

Sally Ann Quirke

Your Running posture may vary according to your genetic makeup as well as your postural habits, body weight and size. However, you can improve your running technique with posture awareness and posture-related techniques training.

Posture Balls - how they can help back and neck pain

Sally Ann Quirke

Posture balls are very helpful tools in the management of your back and neck pain. The ball can be used as a seat, or as a tool for exercising your lower back. They are also commonly described as Pilates or Gym Balls.

Lower back pain during pregnancy

Sally Ann Quirke

Lower back pain is the most common area in your back to suffer during your pregnancy. The most common cause of back pain that I see is in your lower back, and is related to the changes in your lower back posture that arise from the physical presence of your bump, and the laxity caused in your pelvis due to the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, often causing bones to move out of place in your pelvis. This can be very painful. Lower back pain can also be a sign of the onset of labour.

Posture Corrective Brace

Sally Ann Quirke

The Posture corrective brace can be a great tool for educating your body. However, in my experience, wearing them without absolute necessity can often lead to further neck and back problems. Caution is required!

Posture Exercises

Sally Ann Quirke

There are many posture exercises and exercise programmes that you can use to improve your posture. Here are a number of posture exercise programmes that I advise for my own clients.

Sitting Posture

Sally Ann Quirke

An “active” sitting posture is the posture that I encourage. Adopting this posture will save you a lot of money on posture chairs, ergonomic desks and other back pain relief products that you do not necessarily need.

Computer Posture

Sally Ann Quirke

Adopting a correct posture while working at your Computer is so important for sitting-related back pain treatment and prevention. It is something that you actively have to work at.

Posture Pictures

Sally Ann Quirke

Very few of us have a perfect posture. This is due to the type of posture we are born with - combined with our personalities and movement habits that shape our posture over the years. Here are some illustrations that “before” and “after” pictures of good posture and “yet to be improved” posture!

Posture Shoes

Sally Ann Quirke

Our individual postures are very different. As a result the height and heel type of the shoe that you wear will influence your posture in a very different way to the person next to you - who is often wearing exactly the same shoe!

Posture Analysis

Sally Ann Quirke

A good posture helps your balance, prevents injury or overuse problems, and reduces back pain and muscle pain. Put simply, a good posture aligns and all your body parts to work together more efficiently.

Posture Correction

Sally Ann Quirke

In all my years of experience of treating back and neck pain - I have found that if you do not first correct your posture, then you will not have a full recovery any from posture-related pain.