Case Studies
Take a look at how we help our patients to achieve their goals, and reclaim their freedom
Case Study 02
Patient’s initial problem:
Posture-Related Neck and Back Pain
Patient’s goals:
1. Pain Relief: Reduce neck and back pain to improve daily function and comfort.
2. Postural Correction: Improve overall posture to prevent recurrence of symptoms.
3. Strength and Flexibility: Enhance strength and flexibility of key muscle groups to support good posture.
4. Ergonomic Adjustment: Educate on workplace ergonomics to sustain improvements.
Background
Jane's symptoms began approximately one year ago and had gradually worsened. She attributed the pain to prolonged periods of sitting and poor posture at her workstation. She had not sought prior treatment and managed the pain with over-the-counter painkillers, which provided only temporary relief.
Jane presented with chronic neck and upper back pain, primarily exacerbated by long hours of desk work. She reported stiffness in her neck and shoulders, occasional headaches, and lower back discomfort. The pain was affecting her productivity and overall quality of life.
Initial Assessment
- Posture Analysis: Forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and increased thoracic kyphosis.
- Range of Motion: Limited cervical and thoracic spine mobility.
- Muscle Imbalance: Tightness in the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and pectoral muscles; weakness in the deep neck flexors and lower trapezius.
- Palpation: Tenderness in the cervical and thoracic paraspinal muscles and trigger points in the upper trapezius.
Treatment Plan
-
Conducted an ergonomic assessment of Jane's workstation.
Provided guidance on optimal desk setup, including monitor height, chair support, and keyboard positioning.
Advised regular breaks and posture changes during the workday.
-
Soft tissue massage to alleviate muscle tightness.
Trigger point therapy to release knots in the upper trapezius and levator scapulae.
Joint mobilizations to improve cervical and thoracic spine mobility.
-
Stretching: Daily stretches for the pectorals, upper trapezius, and levator scapulae.
Strengthening: Exercises to target the deep neck flexors, lower trapezius, and rhomboids.
Postural Exercises: Techniques to promote scapular stabilisation and reduce forward head posture.
-
A personalised routine of stretches and strengthening exercises to be performed at home.
Use of a foam roller for self-myofascial release.
-
Regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
Periodic reassessment of posture and ergonomic setup.
Progress and Outcomes
-
Jane felt frustrated and hopeless, as her neck and back pain had persisted despite self-management attempts. The pain interfered with her work and daily activities, leading to decreased productivity and increased stress.
-
Jane reported a gradual reduction in pain and stiffness within the first few weeks of treatment. She found the manual therapy sessions particularly relieving and felt more aware of her posture and ergonomic habits. Jane appreciated the comprehensive approach, which combined immediate pain relief with long-term preventative strategies.
-
After completing her treatment program at Powerbase Physiotherapy, Jane experienced significant improvements. Her neck and back pain had decreased substantially, and she felt more comfortable and productive at work. Jane continued to practise the exercises and ergonomic adjustments learned during her sessions, which helped maintain her progress. She expressed gratitude for the support and education provided by her physiotherapist, noting a marked enhancement in her overall quality of life.
Testimonial
“Charné Olivier has an excellent training and a positive manner which makes her an outstanding physiotherapist. Results are quick as she is extremely precise in her prognosis. In addition to the sessions per se, she was able to give me additional exercices on a smart apps to do at home which sped up my recovery.”