Musculoskeletal conditions, such as back pain, cause significant morbidity in our community. With our ageing society joint degeneration and osteoarthritis is increasing. Obesity also increases joint degeneration and osteoarthritis.
Acute injuries are common and can be from sports, accidents or just wear and tear. Keeping fit, avoiding being overweight, wearing good footwear and doing regular stretching can help reduce the risk of injury.
The GPs can assess and manage your musculoskeletal or sports injury issues with referral for imaging if appropriate and to Allied Health Professionals, Sports Medicine Physicians, Rheumatologists and Orthopedic Surgeons.
Many conditions settle with conservative management such as rest, ice, elevation and short term anti-inflammatory medication either topically or orally if required.
Back pain is often helped by early mobilisation, such as walking and recovery from joint surgery is also helped by early mobilisation.