Introduction
Is glancing over your shoulder before changing lanes becoming a challenge? Fear not – we’re here to steer you in the right direction (pun absolutely intended). The physiotherapists at Philip Wood Physiotherapy, your local Hills area clinic are here to help with insights as to why this is happening, helping you to smoother, safer travels.
The Challenge of Checking Your Blind Spot
Imagine you’re cruising down the motorway, wind in your hair (or maybe just a gentle breeze through the window, or perhaps the pumping AC), when your maps lets you know you need to “prepare to turn left” and suddenly, you need to change lanes. You check your mirrors, signal your intentions, and begin to turn your head to check your blind spot—only to be met with resistance, stiffness – maybe even pain. It’s concerning. Difficulty checking your blind spot is a common complaint among drivers and it can have a variety of causes, from muscle overload and strain to facet joint syndrome.
Understanding the Culprits
Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of what might be causing your driving discomfort. Muscle overload and strain occur when the muscles responsible for turning your head (neck and the upper back) are overworked or tense. Poor posture, prolonged periods of sitting, or sudden movements, like jerking your head to avoid a collision can trigger this.
On the other hand, facet joint syndrome—which sounds like something straight out of a sci-fi novel but is actually quite common—is caused by inflammation and irritation of the facet joints in the spine. These tiny joints, located at the back of each vertebra, help guide and restrict the movement of the spine. When they become inflamed or seized up, as is often the case with age or injury, turning your head can feel like trying to turn a rusty old door hinge.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Now, let’s talk solutions. Physiotherapy isn’t just about treating injuries; it’s about restoring function, improving mobility, and enhancing overall quality of life. A skilled physiotherapist will assess your range of motion, identify any areas of weakness or tension, and develop a tailored treatment plan to address your specific needs.
For muscle overload and strain, this might involve gentle stretching exercises, manual therapy techniques, and postural correction to relieve tension and improve flexibility. For facet joint syndrome, treatment may focus on reducing inflammation, restoring joint mobility, and strengthening the surrounding muscles to support the spine.
Conclusion
So, if you’re struggling to shoulder check with ease, why not reach out to Philip Wood Physiotherapy? Our team of experienced physiotherapists is here to help you get back in the driver’s seat – literally. Give us a call at 02 9838 3030 to schedule an appointment.