₦airaland Forum

St. Joseph's Physiotherapy Clinic is pleased to announce Hygeia HMO as our latest HMO partner.

Our new partnership now offers rehabilitation services to clients with Hygeia Health Insurance, who can now receive our topnotch rehabilitation and physiotherapy services.

Hygeia HMO, is an award-winning health insurance and medical aid provider (including physiotherapy) in Nigeria, duly regulated by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

Hygeia HMO has a 30 years history of providing affordable health care services to Nigerians.

They offer comprehensive plans for families, individuals, small businesses and large brands.

St. Joseph’s physiotherapy clinic continues to define, and set new standards for health care services in Nigeria and deploy best practices. Our partnership with Hygeia HMO will allow us, further improve health care service reach to even more Nigerians, by providing rehabilitation and physiotherapy to people with Hygeia HMO coverage.

Our services

At our Physiotherapy centre, we strive to continue to introduce and use cutting-edge technology, and rehabilitation methods, to ensure a fast, effective, and complete recovery from your injuries and elimination of their causative factors.

We create positive experiences by delivering treatment with professionalism to provide you with amazing results.

We can help you with stroke rehabilitation, neurological rehabilitation, management of arthritis and other degenerative conditions, and post-surgical rehabilitation, to prevent deformities and improve efficiency of function and movement.

Our custom treatment plan helps you get back on your feet, so you can resume all the things you love. Take the first step towards recovery with us, and request an appointment today.



Contact our Clinic if you have a Hygeia HMO cover with your enquiries, we are located at 21b Christ avenue,off Admiralty road, Lekki phase 1, or call 09060960109.

Does this posture look familiar? It is typical of contractures of the limbs that can happen after a stroke. Post-stroke contractures happen when post-stroke rehab is ignored. Contractures are recognized by muscular rigidity and tightness on the affected side.

When a stroke goes unrehabilitated, the upper extremity presents with typically a fixed flexed elbow, with the affected shoulder becoming stiff, and the hand clenched.

Contractures may also occur in the affected knee and ankle by an extension/ straightening.
These mobility restrictions almost certainly cause limitations in performing simple day- to- day tasks such as brushing, dressing up etc.


Causes of Contractures After a Stroke


Contractures are a result of spasticity, a condition where the muscles become rigid and tight due to the stroke/brain injury.
Spasticity without due rehabilitation or referral to Physiotherapy likely develops into contractures, causing the affected side of the body to present with the typical symptoms.

Rehabilitation after a stroke

Rehabilitation for contractures involves reestablishing the connection between the brain and the muscles, and retrain how these muscles respond.

Contractures are very reversible if referred early, through the following rehabilitation methods performed by a Physiotherapist.

Stretching: Soft stretching on the affected part can help to use a splint or a ball to prop your hand open. A physiotherapist can teach you routines that may help with your post-stroke spasticity.

Range of Motion Exercises: Regular exercises will help blood flow around the muscles, relieve stiffness and improve range of motion.

Massed Practice: Rewiring the brain happens through a process called neuroplasticity can help to reverse contractures. Neuroplasticity helps stroke patients regain competence and independence. Exercises by your physiotherapist have a way of triggering neurons, and bringing about improvements.
Massed Practice is based on the principle that the more you perform these specific exercises, the more your brain will regain the ability to send correct motor signals to your affected muscles, causing contractures to reverse.

Passive Exercises: Your physiotherapist carries out the routine exercise on patients who suffer from severe spasticity and stiffness. The assisted exercise activates neuroplasticity, and you’ll soon be doing it yourself.

Electrical Stimulation: Your physiotherapist uses an electrical stimulation device around the affected area to release spasticity and tightness. Combining electrical stimulation with rehabilitative exercises produces excellent results when treating contractures.

Orthoses: Your physiotherapist may recommend the use of splints and props to stretch and open the affected muscles. The splints will be adjusted to fit and support the affected part.

Botox: Botox is a nerve blocker that can reduce spasticity and contractures. Although Botox is temporary, as they usually wear off, it provides relief until you can get proper treatment.

Surgery: Surgery is usually the last resort if none of the above treatments don't provide relief from contractures. You may need to undergo surgery if the contracture remains unresolved.


How to Prevent Contractures in People with Stroke

You can prevent contractures from happening by executing the treatment methods above following a stroke. Using splints, stretches, exercise, etc. can help prevent contractures from happening.

Above all, it is essential to see a physiotherapist early after a stroke to address it early on, and prevent contractures and other consequences. Stroke rehab may take a while, and may cost a bit, therefore having a dependable health insurance cover such as Axa Mansard hmo, Hygeia hmo, Reliance hmo, or Bastion Hmo.

Suffering from post stroke contractures? You can contact St. Joseph’s Physiotherapy clinic to begin your stroke rehabilitation. If you need to consult with a Physiotherapist in Lagos, we are located at 21b Christ avenue, off Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1, and can be reached via THIS LINK or call 09060960109, the phone lines are open 24/7, with quick responses to your emails

Who do you contact when you have problems resulting in musculoskeletal injury, pain, loss of range of motion, or strength? Your primary point of contact is most likely your medical doctor. The doctor then refers you to physiotherapy (although you can also see one directly).
Physiotherapists are movement experts who are charged with managing the above conditions.

How do you go about finding a qualified physiotherapist in Lagos, Nigeria?

If you have a condition that requires a physiotherapist, there are several ways to find one. Undoubtedly, the[b] last method[/b] is the quickest way to find qualified physiotherapists in Lagos specifically.

Referral from your doctor: One of the easiest ways to get a physiotherapist is through your doctor’s recommendations. Your health care provider should be able to refer you to an expert who is most suitable for your condition.

Contact the Medical Rehabilitation Therapy (Reg) Board Nigeria (MRTB): The MRTB is the licensing/regulatory body of the physiotherapy profession in Nigeria. You can contact them to locate an accredited physiotherapy clinic near you.

Go Online: You can find one by using Google by searching for "physiotherapist near me". Many physiotherapy clinics have listed websites. Find one that has experience treating your condition such as St. Joseph's Physiotherapy Clinic. Get their contact online; check their work hours, location and schedule an appointment with them after you verify their credibility.

Check with your health insurance provider: If you are subscribed to a HMO or health insurance provider (such as AXA Mansard, Reliance, Bastion, or Leadway Health), you may ask to be referred to a physiotherapy clinic such as ours with partnership agreements with them.

Ask a friend: Put the word out to friends and family that you need a physiotherapist. They might have experienced similar problems and had physical therapy. You will get satisfactory feedback from the experience of friends and family contacts.

Call your nearby hospital: Hospitals often have physiotherapy clinics or departments. Call or visit the hospital and ask for the physiotherapy department. This method is usually the quickest way to find a physiotherapist in Lagos.

Contact St. Joseph's physiotherapy Clinic Now :
We are located at 21b Christ avenue,of Admiralty road, Lekki phase 1, or call 09060960109, the phone lines are open 24/7, with quick responses to your emails.

Finding the right physiotherapist is the first step to getting back on your feet. They ensure you receive optimal guidance into full recovery.

If you have questions about physical therapy, don’t be afraid to ask. Ensure that you are contacting a physical therapist you can trust to rehabilitate you to recovery.

Many of us (unavoidably) took a break from our regular routines this past holiday season, to celebrate the holidays by having good meals with family and friends. This indulgence may have included all things sweet and savoury… Would you like to know how sugar, and your diet affects living with Arthritis?

Arthritis is a degenerative disease that affects the bones and joints, causing pain and inflammation in these joints.
Arthritis is common in ageing adults, however, it can occur in people of any age and includes children. This chronic condition is primarily managed conservatively by Physiotherapists like us at St Joseph’s Physiotherapy Clinic

How does my diet affect my arthritis?

You are what you eat literally, as a patient suffering from arthritis, consuming everything and anything will increase inflammation. Once you have been diagnosed with arthritis, or are at an age that puts you at risk of arthritis, it is essential to control your diet. Many foods and beverages have processed sugar in them. It is important to review boxes, cans, and labels before consuming any items. This can reduce the risk, and the negative effects arthritis has on your health.

Rheumatoid Arthritis:

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease that impacts the hands, wrist, and knees. It also affects the lungs, hearts, and eyes and, in this capacity, affects the whole body.
Studies show that certain patients who eat foods such as blueberries, spinach, desserts, and sweetened soda can increase the inflammation of arthritis, especially in women.


Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most commonly occurring form of arthritis. It occurs when tissues within the joints break down. It affects the knee, hips, and spine and can cause severe pain.
People with osteoarthritis must refrain from consuming sugary foods. Diets with sugar cause obesity and increase inflammation.
Consumption of oxidant-rich foods, vegetables, vitamins A, E, and C, whole grains, can help control arthritis.


Gout

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when there are higher levels of uric acid in the bloodstream than normal. Gout affects one joint at a time.
Consuming foods containing sugar and fructose, such as soda and orange juice contributes to an increase in uric acid levels in the body.


Why should I avoid certain foods if I have an arthritis condition?

What you ingest can aggravate the inflammation. Certain foods are best avoided or if you must have them, they must be a minimum quantity.

Studies have shown that some individuals suffering from arthritis react to certain foods.
Some foods that should be avoided/ minimized are:

Alcohol and soda
Beverages or foods with added Sugar
Trans fat
Omega-6
Saturated fat
Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
Refined carbohydrates


Healthy Dietary Alternatives for People with Arthritis

There are healthy alternatives you can use as a replacement for sugar, cooking oil, and other foods. If you must add a sweetener to your tea, raw honey is a suitable alternative. Replace desserts with fruits like watermelon, pawpaw, etc. Use oils such as corn and sunflower oil, canola oil, olive oil, and coconut oil for cooking. Eat lots and lots of vegetables and minimize alcohol intake.
Before you change your diet, speak with your health care provider to discuss the options.

Always bear in mind that the key to a good diet and healthy living is moderation. Minimizing what you consume can drastically alleviate inflammation.
If you already have a diagnosis, and would want to reduce your pain, increase your range of motion, and strengthen your joints, then stop by at 21B Christ Avenue off Admiralty Road lekki to see a licensed physiotherapist.

St. Joseph's Physiotherapy Clinic Ltd is happy to tell you of our just concluded partnership agreement with one of the pioneer insurance providers in West Africa; Leadway Health HMO, as we make a commitment to offer premium physiotherapy and rehabilitation services to Leadway Health enrollees.


Leadway Health has a sole purpose of giving Nigerian families, and small/ medium/large business owners, who are unduly made to bear huge and unbudgeted sums of money access to excellent healthcare in due time.


Leadway Health HMO is a subsidiary of Leadway Assurance Ltd, one of Nigeria’s pioneer and biggest insurers. Leadway Assurance was founded in 1960, with more than 50 years of insurance experience. This established experience and its reputation for efficiency and customer reliability, has now been extended into its Health insurance offerings to Nigerians.

Our partnership with Leadway Health HMO will give their enrollees access to our premium physiotherapy and rehabilitation services to individuals, companies, and families who have LeadwayHealth HMO coverage.


Our Services

St. Joseph physiotherapy clinic offers a range of specialist services. We treat all sorts of musculoskeletal conditions, that may have resulted from sitting for long durations at the office, or in Lagos traffic.
We also offer stroke rehabilitation, neurological rehabilitation, management of arthritis and other degenerative conditions, and post-surgical rehabilitation, to prevent disabilities. We aim to improve your function, and eliminate your pain.

We can be reached on 09060960109, and we're at 21B Christ Avenue, Off Admiralty Road, lekki phase 1 Lagos Nigeria. Visit us today.

Gone are the days when working out was just about keeping a healthy weight. Now everyone wants a beach body, or six packs. The more muscle mass you want, the more effort you put into your workout. You may end up spraining your muscle, and when the pain persists, it may be felt constantly during a workout.

What are the ways, you can prevent workout injuries

Master your form: If you must lift heavy weights, make sure you take proper body form. Knowing how to position your body during a workout will not only prevent you from injuries but also help achieve maximum results
Know when to stop: [/b]Many fitness trainers will say don't stop when you are tired, stop when you are done. To be able to build up muscles, you have to push yourself to the limit but you can overdo it. If you notice that a routine wears you out, then it's time to stop. Do not push through the pain and even if you must, be careful with your every move. To avoid being tired, make sure you get enough rest after every workout, and eat a nutritious meal.

[b]Take a rest
Exercising can be addictive, especially when you start to see results. Take one or two days to let your muscles heal. If you are a fitness junkie and want to cheat on a rest day, try low impact routines. It's advisable to just take a break on a rest day to prevent injuries and repair worn-out muscles.

Find what works for you
With trainers everywhere online and offline with different routines, it's easy to get confused on how many reps to do per exercise or what equipment is best to achieve the desired result, or the number of times to work out per week. How then can you decide what's best for you? You can tell when your body is experiencing a breakdown, you should reduce your workout days and routine till you get it right. Ignoring your body warning is the fastest way to get an injury.

Have a self-care ritual.
Stretching and Warm-ups are a great way to prevent injuries. It helps to prepare the muscles by easing tightness and promoting blood flow throughout the joints, increasing heart rate and temperature before exercise. After exercise, it's important to bring your heart rate back to normal, so ensure to do cooling-off exercise. Always begin your workout routines with a Stretch and end in a stretch.

What to do if you already have workout injuries that won't go?

Physiotherapy consultant Osahon Okodugha of St. Joseph's physiotherapy clinic Lekki, emphasizes the effects physiotherapy has on workout injuries. "Ignoring the pain and hoping it will go away can lead to long-term degenerative conditions such as arthritis", he said.
You should visit a physiotherapist if you notice that your injuries have persisted for quite some time.

How can physical therapy help with my workout injuries?

St. Joseph physiotherapy Clinic is experienced in the treatment of workout-related injuries. Whether the injuries are chronic or new, they have the best approaches to helping with your condition which include; conditioned exercise for sprain and muscles release, joint tissue mobilization, cervical and lumbar traction, ultrasound therapy, TENS and shockwave therapy.
If you are a fitness enthusiast around Lekki, Ikoyi, VI and its environs, and would like to see a physiotherapist about your work out injury, feel free to visit our clinic we are at 21B Christ Avenue, Off Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1. Lagos Nigeria.

https://stjosephsphysio.com/physio-blog/f/5-ways-to-prevent-workoutgym-injuries

In Nigeria, only a few universities are known to offer physiotherapy courses. 13 universities in Nigeria currently admit physiotherapy as an entry-level course, out of which only 4 universities offer postgraduate programs. A few private universities have recently (as at July 2021) been accredited by the NUC and the MRTB for the entry level physiotherapy program, such as Bowen University, and Evangel University.
The Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) program has only just commenced in the country, and is only being currently offered by the University of Lagos.


A qualified physiotherapist is expected to have undergone a 5-year bachelor's degree education in a university and a 1-year internship program in an accredited clinic/hospital. On completion, potential physiotherapists are eligible to apply to the for a license to get into the practice fully.


The Business of Physiotherapy.

All licensed physiotherapists in Nigeria are to be registered under a governing body called The Medical Rehabilitation Therapists Board of Nigeria (MRTB). They regulate clinical practices of physiotherapy and other rehabilitation practices, academic and internship programs.

Access to physiotherapy.

Most private hospitals in the country have either a physiotherapy department, unit or a visiting/ consulting Physiotherapist. There also a few private Physiotherapy Clinics such as ours (St. Joseph's physiotherapy clinic). All health insurance companies offer services and reimbursements for physiotherapy services, some of which are AXA Mansard HMO, Reliance HMO, MetroHealth HMO, Bastion HMO etc

Before physiotherapy became known as autonomous practice in Nigeria, physicians would usually have to act as the middlemen between a patient and a physiotherapist. If a patient will require the specialty of a physiotherapist, a physician will have to determine if the patient needs a physical therapist by accessing and diagnosing them before referring the patient to a physiotherapist, practicing within the tertiary and secondary hospitals.
Now, however, a simple google search allows you direct access to a qualified physiotherapist within your area. You can consult with a physiotherapist about your condition as they can be accessed directly and possess clinical autonomy.

Yes! Physiotherapy Has Clinical Autonomy

A licensed physiotherapist is authorized to offer private services to patients. A physiotherapist can evaluate, assess, diagnose, treat, prevent, manage several conditions in patients and refer patients to other rehabilitation specialists or back to their physician if the need arises.

Physiotherapy Specialization Overview

Currently, Physiotherapists based on post graduate education and specialization, may be specialised in any of the following subgroups.

Community Physiotherapy
Ergonomics and Industrial Physiotherapy
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Paediatric Physiotherapy
Exercise and Sports Physiotherapy
Palliative Care Physiotherapy
Paediatric Physiotherapy
Neurological Physiotherapy
Cardio-Pulmonary Physiotherapy
Women's Health

Visit St. Joseph's physiotherapy clinic today to get acquainted with a physiotherapist and access our services, we are at 21B Christ Avenue, Off Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1. Lagos Nigeria

As a doting New Nigerian parent, I'm sure you are excited to experience your baby's every milestone and look forward to telling friends and family about your baby's new development. When a baby experiences developmental delays, parents become anxious with the thoughts their babies may not be developing like other babies.

Children develop at different paces, because your baby isn't rolling over, crawling, or walking isn't an indicator that something is wrong with your baby, however, the St. Joseph's Physiotherapy team is glad to educate you about the signs you shouldn't ignore concerning your baby's development.

Paediatrician Dr. Oladunni Okodugha, a Resident Paediatrician at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), and Clinical Direcror at Shepherd Medical Centre has taken the liberty to furnish us with signs to look out for if you have concerns about your child's development.

Dr. Okodugha says early intervention is key to averting any possible developmental problems. A baby or toddler's motor skills can affect other functionality. Motor skills can affect the cognitive, perceptual, and social development of a child.

On that note If you're seeing any of these five signs in your child, you'll want to visit a physiotherapist.



Baby not trying to lift the head up

Dr. Okodugha says that one sign that could raise an eyebrow, is if your baby is not lifting or trying to lift its head. A typical newborn will lift and turns its head from 1 to 3 months, it's expected that a baby should not find it difficult to turn their head side to side. She says, an inability to do this, indicates a sign of torticollis, a condition in which the baby's neck muscle is too stiff to move properly.



They are not meeting their milestone

Other than being able to lift their heads, there are milestones a baby should achieve from the time of conception to 15 months. Dr. Okodugha points out that although a baby's development can be influenced by several factors and all babies develop at different paces, your baby should be able to accomplish the following within this range; if otherwise, the baby might be experiencing such problems such as low muscle tone and should immediately see a physiotherapist

Rollover within 4-6 months
Sitting unaided without cushions within 5-7 months
Sitting up on their own without assistance between 8-9 month
Crawling; somewhere around 8-10 months
Stand up using an object within 10-12 months
Take the first step within 10-15 months



They can't prop themselves up.

Babies can have core weaknesses. If at 6-9 months, you observe that your baby doesn't like to lie on their belly with an extended arm prone prop position, it could be an indication of core weakness, Says Dr. Okodugha Physical therapy can help strengthen the baby's core.



Lack of proper coordination.

By the time your child is 3, they should be able to stand balanced on one foot, be able to catch a ball, and jump up and down Dr. Okodugha says that if you notice your child being clumsy, avoiding some playground equipment, then they should be taken for an evaluation



Born Premature

Some babies born too early might be at risk of experiencing developmental delays. As early as a few days old, enroll your premature baby into physical therapy. A physiotherapist can help the baby early on with lifting their heads, sitting, crawling, walking,and feeding.

Is your baby behind on developmental milestones and you are not sure if it's something to worry about? Feel free to consult with us. We are at 21B Christ Avenue, Off Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1. Lagos Nigeria

[url][/url]St. Joseph's Physiotherapy Clinic is pleased to announce our partnership with AXA Mansard Health Limited HMO, to offer exceptional physiotherapy and rehabilitation services to their enrollees.

At St. Joseph's Physiotherapy Clinic we provide the best Physiotherapy rehabilitation treatments available. We are specialists at Stroke Rehabilitation, we offer wholesome post-surgical rehabilitation and we treat acute to chronic back pain due to poor posture and spinal immobility.

Our services, while adhering to best practices, are not limited by conventional approaches. We incorporate TelePhysio Consultations for those that are very busy and would rather have a consultation with one of our specialists over an interactive video call. It also makes consultations efficient for those with difficulty in getting to our clinic due to major surgery or are at a high risk of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

In more critical conditions or for your convenience, we will bring rehabilitation to you at home or at work, with tailor made and individualized rehabilitation regimen, to improve your functional abilities, reduce pain and prevent disability.

Our strategic alliance with AXA Mansard Health Limited, the leading HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) in Nigeria, significantly increases our reach and our ability to provide quality physiotherapy rehabilitation services across many individuals and organizations with the AXA Mansard health coverage in Lagos State.

Our partnership with AXA Mansard HMO brings us closer to corporate organizations that care about the well being of their employees, and makes affordable convenient rehabilitation services accessible across their entire organization. We are pleased to be associated with AXA Mansard Health Limited in this regard.

AXA Mansard HMO is an award winning health insurance service provider that insures flexible and quality healthcare plans with the best service delivery.

Find out from your Human resource, or medical unit, if you are enrolled with an AXA Mansard plan. We are glad to offer our Physiotherapy rehabilitation services to you and your loved ones at our clinic situated at 21B Christ Avenue, Off Admiralty road, lekki phase 1 Lagos Nigeria.

Stroke recovery and rehabilitation is a necessity after a stroke, this is done by a physiotherapist who aims to improve function of affected limbs, improve independence, and societal reintegration. Physiotherapists at St. Joseph's physiotherapy clinic ar lekki phase 1, Lagos have a lot of experience with stroke rehab patients, and have a reputation for providing tailored rehab plans with premium care and service.

The first action a stroke patient should consider towards regaining full function is physiotherapy. It has been proven that stroke patients greatly improve their chances of gaining functional independence after undergoing physical therapy.

What a survivor does post-stroke, plays a very essential role in the recovery process. The first 3 months after surviving a stroke is a strong determinant for the rest of the recovery process.
Continue Reading This Post Here


If you are in Lagos recovering from a stroke, you can visit us today at St Joseph’s Physiotherapy Clinic. We are at 21B Christ Avenue, off Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria. Schedule an appointment with us today.

Are you torn between seeing a Physiotherapist or a Chiropractor while seeking help for your musculoskeletal condition in Lagos?

A chiropractor and a physiotherapist have one thing in common, which is to care for people in pain, and treat conditions relating to movement and function. Both practices require that the practitioners are trained health professionals licensed by the Board MRTB, nevertheless, each treatment has its benefits and share some similarities, but they also have distinct differences.




We have highlighted the similarities and differences between both practices, and why we think physiotherapy might be a better option.

Some similarities between both disciplines include:

They both adopt a non-invasive non-surgical method for treatment.
They both employ a hands-on treatment method.
They both treat conditions related to joints, bones, backaches, etc
They are both therapists with licenses and educational training.
They both treat similar conditions.
They are both certified healthcare professionals.



What then are the differences between a physiotherapist and a chiropractor?



Physiotherapy takes on a holistic approach to rehabilitation

Chiropractic treatment focuses on musculoskeletal disorders




Physiotherapy covers a more holistic approach of the human body such as musculoskeletal, brain, and nervous systems, cardiovascular conditions, injury rehabilitation and uses various techniques and modalities to treat a wide range of conditions.

A chiropractor focuses on the musculoskeletal system, and the joints in the body that enable movement. They mostly treat conditions connected to the bones. Such as shoulder pain, back pains, backaches, knee pain, Sacroiliac Pain.






Physiotherapy attempts to fully treat patients, and return patients to their former state prior to the patient's injury, hence we are particular about treating the source of the pain or discomfort.

Chiropractic treatment focuses on using its traditional methods and could overlook the source of the patient's discomfort.






Physiotherapists are trained to perform everything a chiropractor can do and more. After proper evaluation, We can perform acupuncture, acupressure, accompanied by a tailored exercise routine, and technological innovations guaranteed to nurse patients back to health.

A Chiropractor relies on manual adjustments of the bones and muscle for treatment. They focus on the patient's muscles, spine, and skeleton as a primary core for treating injuries.




A physiotherapist employs the use of equipment such as an ultrasound, electrical stimulation, traction, shockwave therapy, infrared therapy etc and examination for injuries, weakness, and sore spots. Thanks to technological advancement, physiotherapist are properly equipped and trained to ensure a patient is not just cured, but prevents a recurrence



Because of the chiropractor's strategies, the possibility of making a patient's condition aggravated is high. They stick to one technique for every condition which could be detrimental to a patient's total recovery






A Physiotherapist's goal is to prevent your conditions from reoccurring. With physiotherapy, patients will reach full recovery.

Chiropractic care might require continuous mediation of the chiropractor.




Are you in Lagos Nigeria suffering from conditions requiring a therapist, you might want to consider consulting a physiotherapist. We are centrally located, and accessible from Ikoyi, VI, and Lekki.

St. Joseph's Physiotherapy Clinic will be happy to help you with your treatment. Do visit us at 21B Christ Avenue, off Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria. Schedule an appointment with us today.



The author of this article is a Physiotherapist. The views expressed are entirely those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect our organisation's professional relationship with other healthcare professionals.

A Musculoskeletal Disorder is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a condition affecting a person's locomotive system, comprising of joints, muscles, bones, and related tissues such as ligaments and tendons. Musculoskeletal disorders affects one's mobility, dexterity, and flexibility.

The workplace accounts for 30% of injuries related to Musculoskeletal Disorders.


The most common musculoskeletal disorders that can occur from workplace injury includes;

Degenerative disc disease
muscle or tendon strain
Rotator cuff tendonitis
Ligament sprain
Tension neck syndrome
Herniated disc
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Epicondylitis
Tendonitis


Reducing the Risk of Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Workplace

1. Identifying Causes

People who work in places where heavy lifting is involved are susceptible to MSD. Muscle sprain can occur when objects to be lifted weighs disproportionately more than the person lifting.

We advise that employers provide alternative means of lifting such as employing equipment like, wheeled vehicles, dollies, and trollies, to make lifting easier. The best person to identify causes of work related musculoskeletal disorders, is a trained Physiotherapist in ergonomics. Our trained experts at St. Joseph's physiotherapy clinic perform a total evaluation to ascertain the cause, effects, and proffer solutions to individual conditions.

2. Creating An Active Environment

Workplace exercise is not common in Nigeria, but we recommend that training and exercise sessions be introduced in workplaces at least 3 times a week to prevent and reduce musculoskeletal disorders.

Workplace exercise may include;

Walking or standing meetings
Using mini-stepper devices in workplaces
Weekly training by a physiotherapist; our experts at St. Joseph's clinic can prescribe exercises and physical activity programs to engage the muscles.

3.Training and Education

Employers can invite a physiotherapist to Impart practical knowledge and provide necessary information on cautionary measures in the workspace area.
As physiotherapists, we are not only inclined to treat musculoskeletal conditions etc, but also perform health related education and training. This is aimed at preventing the occurrence of these potentially chronic conditions in the first place.

We will train staff in the following areas;
The best posture to assume In workspace or when using office devices
Information on the common risks associated with daily office tasks including reducing risk from common disorders,such as back and neck pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome
How to reduce risk of injury when handling office equipment

4. Break Schedules

Taking breaks in between work can also help prevent MSDs, we urge employers to create breaks in between work hours to reduce the risk of MSD. With frequent timed breaks (1.5-2 mins), musculoskeletal pain would decrease drastically.

5. Eliminate Monotonous Task By Making New Organizational Changes

Monotonous tasks can increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. For people who work as retail cashiers, heavy-duty lifters, the repetitiveness of such tasks strains the muscle which can lead to irreparable damage.

Employers can make significant changes in routine by;


Alternating workers through job rotation. This means workers can rotate shifts frequently.
Job Diversification; training staff on different organizational tasks can help prevent repetitiveness. Roles can be interchanged from time to time between employees.

6. An Early Report Of Symptoms To a Physiotherapist

Report cases of Musculoskeletal Disorders to your physiotherapist. Early symptoms of MSDs Include;

Numbness
Muscle tightness
Redness and inflammation of the affected area
Decreased sweating hands
Joint stiffness

Observing and reporting early signs is vital for preventing the long-term effect of musculoskeletal disorders.

Employers can take measures to secure their employees physical health and working years, by referring to a physiotherapist as soon as possible.
We also partner with a few HMOs such as Axa Mansard, Reliance HMO and Hygeia HMO for our clients whose workplaces subscribe to their health insurance. St. Joseph's Physiotherapy Clinic is at 21B Christ Avenue, off Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.

In Nigeria today, a survey shows that numerous people are dependent on opioids for pain management. It is logical that we feel the need to quickly get rid of the pain, as it can disrupt your sleep, decrease productivity, cause social isolation and depression, which is why the most common prescription for pain is pain relief medications.


Unfortunately, the usage of opioids and other pain relief substances has become a growing concern globally.

Research proves that people living in urban areas such as Lagos are at risk of developing problems requiring opioids and other pain relief medications.
Osahon Okodugha, a consultant Physiotherapist with St Joseph's Physiotherapy clinic, stated that as a Lagos based physiotherapy clinic, most patients have visited us with musculoskeletal conditions (such as back pain ) caused by long hours of sitting in traffic, bumps from bad roads, and especially sitting for extended periods in workplaces etc.



Senior Citizens are particularly ranked high in substance use for pain relief due to the inevitable health challenges that may arise with age.



Also, the demand for pain relief emanates from primary care doctors providing it as a source of quick relief. The availability of these medications, also make it easier and faster to prescribe. In most cases, these medications only treat the symptom, and do not address the cause of the pain.


The adverse effects of long-term use of opioids may include constipation, stomach upset, nausea, an increased risk of falling, and may only provide relief for a short period thereby leading to dependence and addiction of users.

Fortunately, the good news is that there are alternatives to pain management, depending on the type of pain and its location, and at the top of the alternatives is Physiotherapy.



Physiotherapy can help manage several conditions such as the back, knee, shoulder problems, etc. Many people who have visited a physiotherapist have confirmed that they have gained complete relief after a few sessions.
As physiotherapists, we have been trained to create personalized rehabilitation programmes, stretches, traction, postural correction, ultrasound therapy,thermotherapy, joint manipulation, improve range of motion, soothe joint and back pain for various conditions. Physiotherapy will reduce tremendously, if not eliminate the need for pain relief medications.


Massage Therapy, which can also be done by a physiotherapist is another effective method of managing pain. Massage therapy is effective for muscular pain and pain heightened by anxiety and stress.
From our observation, 40% of patients who have undergone massage therapy attest to being completely cured of muscular pain after several sessions, while only about 4% of people using pain relief medications are relieved of recurring muscular pain.



Acupuncture is also a complementary practice sometimes offered by physiotherapists, that could address conditions such as low back and knee pain, migraine, and fibromyalgia. Acupuncture needles, when inserted into the skin, stimulate nerves in the body that, in turn, override pain. Ensure that this procedure is done by an expert.

Other forms of drug-free pain relief include Yoga and Mind-body therapy. There are yoga poses that can help manage pain-related conditions. We recommend yoga as a method of combating back pain. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can also help manage how you think and react to pain.

Also, there are medical interventions that do not require pills but offer temporary relief for short-term painful ailments. For example:



Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): TENS is often used by physiotherapists to treat persistent back pain, neck, and shoulder, Fibromyalgia, Osteoarthritis, etc. The battery-operated devices deliver electrical impulses through electrodes placed on the surface of your skin. The current it disseminates disrupts the pain pathways from the nerves at trigger points.

Botox Injection: The commonly known use for botox is to eradicate wrinkles and smoother the face. But botox can also temporarily treat chronic muscle and jaw pain. The neurotoxic protein it contains can help relax muscles In some affected parts.

Pain can be very uncomfortable and can interfere with all aspects of your life, but so can the side effects of constantly consuming pain relief medications.



If you are in Lagos and experiencing muscle pains (especially in the Ikoyi,Victoria Island, and Lekki areas) you can replace your medications with Physiotherapy by scheduling an appointment with us today at St Joseph's Physiotherapy Clinic. We are at 21B Christ Avenue, off Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, Nigeria.