Back Pain: How to Prevent and Cure It. Interview with Dr. Daniele Burattini.
Back pain. About 60% of the population suffers from it, it is one of the main causes of absence from work and affects the performance of simple daily actions, affecting the well-being of the person. It is a "transversal" disorder that affects at any age. The incorrect lifestyle is among the main culprits. It can be caused by pathologies of the musculoskeletal system or trauma. Reasons why it should not be underestimated. When and how to best intervene then? We talk about it with Dr. Daniele Burattini, Coordinator of the Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Center at UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital, where the team specializes in treating spinal pathologies.
Dr. Burattini, incorrect lifestyles are always harmful. Are they also for our back then?
Yes, one of the causes of chronic back pain is definitely an incorrect lifestyle. Excessive weight, sedentary lifestyle and lack of sports activity are among the main causes of what we commonly call back pain.
How much is smart working likely to contribute to the deterioration of physical well-being?
A lot, if you do not comply with certain rules of ergonomics. Equipping your workstation properly can reduce the risks of poor posture. Having a comfortable seat and a suitable work surface are fundamental elements for the prevention of back pain.
Does sport help fight back pain?
Regular physical activity is certainly essential and healthy, in order to prevent musculoskeletal problems. It is good, however, to be very careful and not to overdo it. Some more traumatic activities, such as running, may cause problems at the level of the column. In these cases, it is good to choose the right equipment / footwear and not to practice excessive and uncontrolled physical exercise.
Dr. Burattini, what services are performed at UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital for the treatment of back pain?
Physiotherapists at UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital recently earned certification from the University of Pittsburgh School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences for the management of back pain, further specializing in the treatment of neuro-musculoskeletal disorders of the spine.
From this collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh, the Spine Clinic program was born, which allows you to better manage all the problems related to the column. After an initial physiotherapy assessment of the patient's condition, our team proceeds to identify the best therapeutic path, according to the latest international guidelines.
When not to underestimate it and go to a rehabilitation specialist?
In case of acute or chronic pain, it is good to avoid self-diagnosis and DIY. Many patients, often, following the suggestions of friends and relatives, take anti-inflammatories and drugs without control before a specialist consultation. On the contrary, we always recommend contacting a specialist, who, in light of the symptoms reported, will suggest to the patient the most suitable therapeutic procedure.