All of us at some stage in our lives have experienced a build-up of muscular tension in our bodies. It is commonly felt in the neck and shoulders but can actually be experienced anywhere in the body. If muscular tension persists it can develop into a source of pain. Why do muscles become tense? Muscular…

World Spine Day is a great opportunity to shine light on spinal disorders and encourage you to take steps to better health. This year the theme is ‘Your Back in Action’, emphasising the importance of physical activity and improving posture as part of good spinal health and prevention of injury. Millions of people worldwide suffer…

There are many myths and misconceptions about core stability which has become a popular concept in both the rehabilitation and fitness industries in recent years. Everywhere you look, social media, TV, online, emails and even women’s magazines now implore you to ‘train your core’. Physiotherapists are seeing an increasing number of people who have fallen…

It can be confronting to be struck with a sudden onset of acute low back pain. The disabling pain and immobility often generates catasrophising thoughts about permanent damage and the requirement of surgery. Fear not, low back pain is extremely common, affecting up to 85% of people at some stage in their life. The good…

This gentle stretch can help alleviate the aches associated with tight muscles around the neck and upper back. This can be done first thing in the morning, as well as during breaks at work to help minimise tightness and decrease the potential of tension related headaches. Gently bend your head forwards with one hand whilst…

While seated or standing, rotate your shoulders backward and down in the largest circle you can make. This opens the chest, counteracting the rounded shoulders that are common among pregnant women, office workers, teenagers and students.

Stretching your shoulders can feel good, especially for those of us who spend long hours hunched over a computer. Roll the shoulders down and back, starting with small circles and working up to larger circles. Do 10 circles backwards and then repeat forward circles.

While in a seated position, cross your right leg over your straightened left leg. Hug your right knee with your left arm, making sure to keep your back straight. Hold this stretch for 30-60 seconds, and then repeat on the opposite side.

Lie facedown on the floor with thumbs directly under shoulders, legs extended with the tops of your feet on the floor. Tighten your pelvic floor, and tuck hips downward as you squeeze your glutes. Press shoulders down and away from ears. Push through your thumbs and index fingers as you raise your chest toward the…

Australia is today ranked as one of the fattest nations in the developed world. The prevalence of obesity in Australia has more than doubled in the past 20 years. Australia has become accustomed to sitting down – at work, on the couch, in the car – and it’s taking a major toll on the health…