What to avoid with Physio?

[Jane424]

Several people have recently written about pitfalls with physio and PMR. Have you any specific advice? Or articles you can refer me to. I haven’t had much luck looking. I have recently fractured my sacrum and my GP suggested physio, also for balance. My back flares easily, so am cautious. I have chronic long term back pain and a fusion as well as PMR. many thanks. Jane

[PMRpro Ambassador]

In relation to PMR you need to avoid repetitive exercises - or at least start with a VERY low level and few reps, building up very slowly, literally 1 at a time and stopping when you dicover you can feel it next day - at first a rest day is as important as the exercise day although that doesn't mean do nothing, it means use a different set of muscles. Don't agree to do things that hurt you.

[Seacat30]

I would beware of doing many repeats and doing the exercises frequently even if the physio seems to understand PMR. I felt fine for the first week or two but things got worse after that. I think the pred conceals some of the damage you may be doing to yourself. You may need significantly more rest days between exercising certain muscles groups than the physio presumes.

[piglette]

The first thing I would ask is does the physio know anything about PMR and has she any patients with it? If so how many?

[Jane424 in reply to piglette]

Are there any things she should avoid. My last physio said she had experience with PMR, but she made it worse. Thanks.

[piglette in reply to Jane424]

Basically they should not be too “rough” and be aware that they need to be much more careful of what they do. Did you ask your last physio how many people with PMR she had had? ( My physio used to talk about the requirements of her PMR patients.) I think if they say have had dozens of patients with PMR they are probably lying!

[Jane424 in reply to piglette]

Thanks, do much. Am thinking of cancelling. Jane

[piglette in reply to Jane424]

I actually went to an osteopath originally and she was brilliant. She then moved to Canada with her husband, so I then started using physios who were never as good. One thing that annoyed me was they used to use a sort of TENS machine and just leave me lying there while the machine massaged me. So I bought a TENS machine and gave up the physio.

[Jane424 in reply to piglette]

Where in Canada? I am in Kingston, Ontario.

[piglette in reply to Jane424]

I am not sure. He was with the army. I don’t think she is working there as she was pregnant.

[Jane424 in reply to piglette]

I cancelled. She said she knew about PMR and was comfortable to treat me. I asked if she had treated any patients. She said it was more knowledge of than experience, so I let it go. Thanks for the advice. Jane

[piglette in reply to Jane424]

Very sensible, I would have done the same!

[Sharitone in reply to piglette]

Much cheaper!

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to piglette]

... and not too insistent on pushing through pain ...

[Viv54]

HI, i feel your pain ! i am in a similar state to you .I asked about Physio but was told i am now not suitable for it as it could only make matters worse. I did have it in the early days of my illness, but now because my back / spine etc is worse best to leave well alone. I do my own very gentle exercise that i found on { You Tube ] it really helps my stiffness . Good Luck . Viv🌷

[Longtimer in reply to Viv54]

Is it pushing the back gently into the floor..with knees bent?.....

[Viv54 in reply to Longtimer]

No it's gentle stretching movements all seated in a chair, I have a stretch band. Rather like a big elastic one . I can't remember the lady's name , I will try and find the link for you, it gently builds the strength in your arms and legs.I couldn't believe how weak my muscles had become !

[Viv54 in reply to Longtimer]

I don't know how to share from You Tube.Put in Senior resistance work out with Meridith .It's the one seated on a chair with the band, it helps me so much, very gentle 😊

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to Viv54]

Do you mean this one - youtu.be/3kNepwU1MBc(Not working as expected?)

[Viv54 in reply to DorsetLady]

Yes that's the one , it really helps me .😊

[Viv54 in reply to Longtimer]

Longtimer, Dorset Lady has put on the video, have a look and see if you like it 😊

[Wales20]

Have you been tested for arthritis and osteoporosis? These would both have a bearing on what exercises would be best for you.

[Maxgate2]

I too have back problems. Backintelligence.com has helped me. Do try it!