Physiotherapy iQ Sports Clinic
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Spine Injuries

Physical therapist explaining spine to senior woman.

Understanding Spine Injuries

Spine injuries occur when the joints, discs, ligaments, muscles, or nerves in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid‑back), or lumbar (lower back) regions become irritated or damaged. Because the spine is the body’s central support structure, even minor dysfunction can create significant pain, stiffness, or nerve symptoms.

Spine injuries often develop from poor posture, repetitive strain, sudden trauma, or age‑related changes. Physiotherapy plays a critical role in restoring healthy movement, reducing pain, and preventing long‑term degeneration.

Cervical Spine (Neck) Injuries

Common Issues

  • Joint irritation from posture or sudden movement
  • Disc bulges causing arm pain or numbness
  • Muscle spasm or tension headaches
  • Whiplash from motor vehicle accidents
  • Nerve root compression causing radiating symptoms

Typical Symptoms

  • Neck stiffness
  • Pain into the shoulders or arms
  • Headaches or dizziness
  • Tingling or numbness in the hands
  • Difficulty turning the head

Thoracic Spine (Mid‑Back) Injuries

Common Issues

  • Joint stiffness from prolonged sitting
  • Rib joint dysfunction
  • Postural strain
  • Muscle tightness affecting breathing mechanics
  • Thoracic disc irritation (less common but possible)

Typical Symptoms

  • Mid‑back tightness or burning
  • Pain with deep breathing
  • Difficulty maintaining upright posture
  • Radiating pain around the ribs

Lumbar Spine (Lower Back) Injuries

Common Issues

  • Disc bulges or herniations
  • Facet joint irritation
  • Muscle strain or spasm
  • Sciatica from nerve compression
  • Mechanical low back pain from lifting or bending

Typical Symptoms

  • Sharp or aching low back pain
  • Pain into the hips or legs
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Difficulty bending or lifting
  • Morning stiffness

How Physiotherapy Helps

Your physiotherapist identifies the exact structure causing your symptoms: joint, disc, ligament, muscle, or nerve, and designs a targeted plan to restore healthy movement.

Treatment Focus

  • Manual therapy to restore joint mobility and reduce muscle guarding
  • Joint mobilization for stiffness and restricted movement
  • Biomechanics analysis to correct posture and movement faults
  • Rehab protocol prescription tailored to the injured spinal region
  • Neuromuscular training to improve spinal stability
  • Ergonomics assessment for work‑related strain
  • Dry needling for deep muscle tension
  • Education on posture, load management, and prevention

What to Expect During Your Assessment

Your physiotherapist will perform:

  • Detailed cervical, thoracic, and lumbar mobility testing
  • Strength and stability evaluation
  • Nerve tension and neurological screening
  • Posture and movement analysis
  • Palpation to identify joint or disc involvement
  • Review of imaging (if available)
  • A personalized treatment plan based on your goals and lifestyle

When to Seek Help

Book an assessment if you experience:

  • Persistent neck or back pain
  • Pain radiating into the arms or legs
  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness
  • Difficulty sitting, standing, or sleeping
  • Pain after lifting, twisting, or sudden movement
  • Symptoms following a car accident

Prompt treatment prevents small issues from becoming long‑term spinal problems.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Contact info:

📞 (613) 235-3043 

📧 info@physiotherapyiq.ca 

📍 117 Glebe Ave. unit2, Ottawa 

Physiotherapy iQ Sports Clinic - Ottawa

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