Dynamic Physiotherapy and Wellness Center Physiotherapist Felix Onyango (standing) does a Scapula Strengthening exercise on a client at their facility located in Paresia Centre in Nairobi on May 10, 2024.
Just a stone’s throw from the customer care desk, a symphony of distressing sounds reverberates from the adjacent room. A cacophony of grunts, groans, and occasional moans pierces the air, painting a vivid picture of discomfort and pain.
“He has one of his discs out of place,” the woman at the reception desk explains, her smile tinged with understanding as she notices our concerned expressions.
It’s evident she’s become accustomed to these unsettling sounds from clients seeking relief for their muscle spasms.
For the next half-hour, these sounds dominate the room, finally subsiding only when Felix Onyango emerges from the cubicle.
“Apologies for the wait,” Felix, the physiotherapist, says, his expression a mix of concern and professionalism.
“We had to attend to a patient who sustained a nasty injury at the gym while lifting weights. One of his spinal discs popped out, causing considerable pain and discomfort.”
This marked the seventh physiotherapy session for the injured client.
“His condition has improved, but it was one of the most challenging injuries I’ve encountered,” Felix shares.
“During his first visit, he could barely perform simple tasks like putting on shorts or standing without excruciating pain.”
To alleviate the initial agony, Felix had to numb the weightlifter before proceeding.
“We administered analgesics to dull the pain and then employed ice therapy to relax the muscles surrounding the affected disc,” he explains.
Dynamic Physiotherapy and Wellness Center Physiotherapist Felix Onyango (standing) does Hip Stretch exercise on a client at their facility located in Paresia Centre in Nairobi on May 10, 2024.
Photo credit: Bonface Bogita | Nation Media Group
“Gradually, through multiple sessions, we were able to realign the disc and alleviate his discomfort.”
Spinal health complexity
Providing insight into the complexity of spinal health, Felix elaborates, “The spine, with its 33 bones and intervertebral discs, functions much like a car’s shock absorber. Any misalignment can result in severe pain and limited mobility.”
A significant portion of Felix’s clientele comprises gym enthusiasts grappling with spine-related issues, particularly lower back pain caused by strenuous exercises like deadlifts and lunges.
“Many of these injuries stem from improper lifting techniques and ego lifting, where individuals push beyond their limits,” Felix observes.
“Men, in particular, unlike women who are very inquisitive, are prone to disregarding proper form and instructions, leading to avoidable injuries. There is also the issue of ego lifting where one ends up lifting more weight than they can. That coupled with a bad form and we have a situation.”
Optimal bodily function
Even with correct form, repetitive workouts can cause muscle stiffness and nodules, necessitating regular realignment for optimal bodily function.
“Because workouts especially lifting weights are always repetitive, muscles tend to crump, at some point the fibres become stiff and need to be aligned to function diligently.”
Dynamic Physiotherapy and Wellness Center Physiotherapist Felix Onyango (standing) does back muscle tightness exercise on a client at their facility located in Paresia Centre in Nairobi on May 10, 2024.
Photo credit: Bonface Bogita | Nation Media Group
Before gym rats began swamping his facility situated at Paresia Centre on Ngong Road, Nairobi, his biggest clientele were those in white-collar jobs.
“Previously, my practice catered mainly to white-collar workers dealing with posture-related issues from prolonged sitting,” Felix reflects.
“But with the surge in gym memberships and the wellness trend, we’re seeing more clients seeking relief from exercise-induced injuries.”
Offering practical advice, Felix emphasises the importance of staying active and avoiding prolonged periods of sitting.
Regular movement
“Regular movement and stretching are crucial for maintaining spinal health and preventing back spasms.”
Mr Felix highly discourages sitting for long hours.
Dynamic Physiotherapy and Wellness Center Physiotherapist, Felix Onyango (standing) does a back adjustment exercise on a client at their facility located in Paresia Centre in Nairobi on May 10, 2024.
Photo credit: Bonface Bogita | Nation Media Group
“If you are working a job that requires you to be seated for extended periods, then at least don’t sit longer than two hours. Remember, your body isn’t designed for prolonged sitting. This will go a long way in ensuring you avoid back spasms.”
A back spasm is a sudden involuntary contraction of the back muscles that can feel like a twitch or a debilitating contraction.
“Sometimes back spasm radiates to other parts of the body like the hips and legs and you may feel some tingling and numbness,” says Felix.
Orthopaedic chairs
Orthopaedic chairs and proper sitting posture are also recommended to minimise strain on the spine and reduce the risk of discomfort.
Felix reminds us, “Incorporate breaks, go get some water, do stretches and ergonomic seating into your routine to keep your spine happy and healthy.”
He continues, “Besides a good chair, ensure when working while seated you keep your upper body straight and upright. Your elbows should be close to your body and bent at least 90 degrees, you don’t lean forward. The spine is s-shaped and by leaning forward you will be forcing it out of position and that may result to neck spasms because of too much pressure. ”
