Physiotherapists in Burnley treat many different conditions including the issues profiled below.

Lumbar Facet Joint Syndrome

The lumbar spine is a very complex structure made up of a large number of different anatomical structures, many of which can be sources of pain in different situations. One structure which is known to contribute to low back pain is the facet joint, the small synovial joint placed at each side of each disc level. The facet joints are made up of one facet from the vertebra above and one from the vertebra below, with a joint capsule lined with synovial membrane. The joint capsule is well supplied with nerve endings which could transmit pain. In normal backs the facet joints serve to control the movements permitted at the particular part of the spine in which they lie, but do not take large amounts of weight.

With degeneration of the discs the facet joints are pushed together more strongly and forced to take larger amounts of weight, leading to degenerative changes developing within them and then the transmission of pain. The facets are forced to take more weight than they are designed for. Patients with this syndrome particularly dislike extension of the spine which forces the facet joints together and elicits pain. Mobilisations and regular exercises can be helpful from a physio.

Hand Injuries - Prevention

Many hand injuries can be prevented by taking sensible precautions or by avoiding obviously risky behaviours. One of the most common behaviours, especially amongst young men in social situations, is to damage their hands by punching each other or punching objects in anger such as doors or walls. This commonly results in fractures to the metacarpals or fingers, injuries which need careful management for the best functional outcome. The use of knives should be carefully regulated with training and supervision for those who work with them routinely. Separating frozen objects with a pointed knife whilst holding the object is a relatively common reason for stabbing a knife through the palm.

Health and safety regulations should be closely observed when operating machinery or dealing with electrical equipment. Injuries to the hands are almost always preventable with a little planning and forethought. Machinery with moving parts, especially rotational ones, requires operators to avoid wearing gloves or jewellery or loose clothing especially around the cuffs. In other situations gloves of the appropriate type should be used. Hands should not be placed in dangerous positions, so push sticks for saws or brushes to clean away machine debris should be employed.