Acute low back pain is a common reason for emergency department visits. Patients often present with discomfort and seek immediate relief. Traditional approaches have often involved the use of pain medications, including opioids. However, the opioid epidemic has prompted a shift towards non-pharmacological interventions that are safe, effective, and evidence-based.
FlexEze Heat Wraps have emerged as a reliable solution in the management of acute low back pain. Trusted by major Australian hospitals, these heat wraps offer a non-invasive, drug-free option that aligns with the evidence-based guidelines outlined in Australia's clinical care standard for low back pain.
Developed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, The Clinical Care Standard for Low Back Pain serves as a guide for healthcare practitioners, offering a clear pathway to assist patients in the early management of low back pain episodes, thereby minimising the risk of persistent issues. Widely endorsed, this standard is supported by numerous clinical groups advocating for a unified, evidence-based approach to addressing low back pain.
The standard recognises the benefits of Heat Wraps and physical activity, with continuous low-level heat wrap therapy standing out as the most researched and evidence-based form of heat delivery.
The key advantage of Heat Wraps lies in their lightweight and flexible design, allowing users to stay active and promote movement. Additionally, the convenience of removing and reapplying without disrupting heat production further underscores the advantages of Heat Wraps.
FlexEze Heat Wraps leverage the therapeutic benefits of heat therapy, a well-established method for alleviating muscle tension and promoting blood circulation. Applied directly to the affected area, heat wraps provide targeted warmth that helps relax muscles, reduce stiffness, and ease the discomfort associated with acute low back pain.
One of the critical advantages of incorporating Heat Wraps in emergency departments is the potential to reduce the reliance on prescription pain medications. With some prescription pain killers having devastating impacts in the community, healthcare providers are seeking alternative, non-addictive solutions. FlexEze offers a safe and effective option, allowing patients to manage their pain without the risk of complications.
At the core of FlexEze's success is its unique identity as 100% Australian-owned and operated. Founded and managed by healthcare professionals with decades of experience in treating low back pain, FlexEze Heat Wraps embody a commitment to excellence in pain management. The company's roots in the Australian healthcare landscape ensure that the products are designed with a deep understanding of the needs of patients and the demands of healthcare providers.
FlexEze not only prioritizes effective pain relief but also demonstrates a commitment to broader health initiatives. In support of the Australian Physiotherapy Research Foundation, FlexEze contributes to the advancement of research and advocacy in the field of musculoskeletal health. This commitment reflects FlexEze's dedication to improving the lives of individuals dealing with musculoskeletal conditions and emphasising a holistic approach to wellbeing.
Crucially, FlexEze Heat Wrap's status as a TGA registered medical device (ARTG #209075) underscores its compliance with rigorous Australian standards for safety and efficacy. This designation provides both healthcare professionals and consumers with confidence in the product's reliability and its adherence to the highest regulatory standards.
The first step in effectively managing low back pain through exercise is to create a program tailored to your specific needs. This program should consider your physical activity preferences, beliefs, and functional impairments. One size does not fit all, so consulting with a healthcare professional can help you design a program that works best for you.
A comprehensive exercise program for low back pain should include three key components: stretching, strengthening, and aerobic exercises. These exercises should be functionally oriented, meaning they mimic the movements and activities you perform in daily life.
Begin your exercise regimen with gentle movements that encourage your spine to move within its normal range. Water-based walking, land-based walking, gentle swimming, and floor stretches are excellent choices. These low-impact activities help you ease into your routine.
When exercising with low back pain, it's crucial to focus on the duration of your activity rather than the pain experienced. Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase your exercise time as your tolerance improves. This approach allows your body to adapt at its own pace.
Functional exercises, such as squats, lunges, and step-ups, are introduced to encourage the activation of large muscle groups. These movements help improve your core strength and stability, alleviating low back pain.
Incorporating exercises you enjoy is essential for long-term adherence. Activities like yoga, Pilates, walking, and cycling can be gradually introduced into your routine. Begin with 15-20 minute sessions and progressively increase the duration as your fitness level improves.
As you progress in your rehabilitation, consider incorporating more dynamic and higher-load exercises into your routine. These advanced exercises can help you regain strength, stability, and flexibility in your lower back.
Throughout your journey to recovery, heat wraps can play a pivotal role. Heat wraps encourage you to stay mobile by lowering the pain threshold that may hinder your daily activities. The continuous, low-level heat promotes movement and accelerates the low back pain recovery process.
In conclusion, exercising with low back pain is not only possible but can also be highly beneficial. By individualising your exercise program, focusing on gentle and progressive movements, and incorporating enjoyable activities, you can manage your low back pain effectively and work towards a pain-free, active life.
Remember, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
]]>Heat therapy is a simple yet effective method for managing low back pain. By applying heat to the affected area, you can experience a range of benefits that contribute to your overall comfort and mobility. Here's how it works:
FlexEze Heat Wraps offer a convenient and hassle-free way to enjoy the benefits of heat therapy. Here are some valuable tips to maximise your experience:
If you're tired of letting back pain control your life, it's time to consider the wonders of heat therapy. With FlexEze Heat Wraps, you have a reliable companion to help you manage pain, improve blood flow, and enhance muscle relaxation.
However, if your pain persists beyond six weeks or you have any concerns, don't hesitate to consult your doctor. For effective and convenient heat therapy, explore the benefits of FlexEze Heat Wraps and experience the comfort and relief they provide. Your journey to a pain-free life starts here.
]]>Low back pain is a common complaint during pregnancy, and it can be caused by the baby’s weight and changes in posture. Heat therapy can help alleviate low back pain by increasing blood flow and reducing muscle tension. A study published in the International Journal of Nursing Practice found that heat therapy effectively reduced pain during labour, including back pain. (source: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ijn.12368)
Pregnancy and labour can be stressful, leading to muscle tension and pain. Heat therapy can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. When the body is relaxed, it can better manage pain and discomfort, making the pregnancy and labour experience more comfortable. A review published in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing found that heat therapy was a safe and effective method for managing pain during pregnancy. (source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4012949/)
Cramps are a common complaint during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Heat therapy can help ease cramps by increasing blood flow to the affected area and reducing muscle tension. Remember to talk to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing cramps during pregnancy, especially if they are severe or occur at regular intervals.
Heat therapy can also be beneficial during labour. It can help promote relaxation and reduce discomfort, making it easier for women to manage their labour. Heat therapy can also relax the pelvis muscles, making it easier for the baby to move down the birth canal. A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Perinatal Education found that heat therapy effectively reduced back pain during pregnancy, making it a safe, non-invasive, and effective pain relief method. (source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5792604/)
Staying active and in optimal birthing positions during labour are crucial for a positive experience. This is where the FlexEze Heat Wrap stands out, as its lightweight and flexible design allows for continuous heat therapy while promoting movement.
Unlike other heat delivery methods, such as wheat bags, gel packs, or hot blankets that require constant reheating and limit movement due to their bulkiness, the FlexEze Heat Wrap's continuous low-level heat for up to 12 hours offers a practical and effective solution for birthing women seeking to stay active and be in optimal positions during labour.
Being in optimal birthing positions, such as squatting or standing, has been shown to aid in the progression of labour by opening the pelvis, utilising gravity, and encouraging the baby's descent. The FlexEze Heat Wrap's ability to provide continuous heat therapy while allowing for movement and optimal positioning can help facilitate a smoother and more comfortable birthing experience.
Furthermore, the convenience of removing and reapplying the FlexEze Heat Wrap as needed without disrupting heat production is also an advantage. This allows for quick adjustments and modifications to support the movement and fast, easy removal as required, e.g., when using the shower or bathroom or medically necessary.
Remember, consulting with a healthcare provider before using heat therapy during pregnancy and labour is essential. If you want to try the FlexEze Heat Wrap, speak to your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.
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]]>Australia has a new clinical care standard for low back pain, a condition which affects one in six Australians and is a leading cause of lost work productivity and early retirement.
Developed by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care, the Low Back Pain Clinical Care Standard recommends active approaches and individualised care to support the millions of Australians with low back pain.
The new standard provides a road map for healthcare practitioners to help patients manage low back pain episodes early and reduce their chance of ongoing problems.
Most people will experience low back pain at some point in their life. Back problems are one of the most common reasons Australians visit their GP or present to the emergency department.
While back pain can sometimes have a serious cause, the vast majority of people can improve their pain with simple measures. Interventions such as imaging and high-risk medicines can usually be avoided.
The Low Back Pain Clinical Care Standard will improve the early assessment and management of patients with low back pain, so that people receive the most appropriate treatment for their individual circumstances.
The main advantage of Heat Wraps is that they allow you to stay active and promote movement due to their lightweight and flexible design. The convenience to remove and reapply when required without disrupting heat production is a further advantage of Heat Wraps.
FlexEze Heat Wraps deliver a low level of continuous heat for up to 12 hours which differentiates from other heat delivery such as wheat bags which are high temperatures for a shorter time and require constant reheating. Unlike Heat Wraps, these are not practical to use without sitting or lying, which the guideline evidence recommends against.
FlexEze Heat Wraps combine evidence-based low-level continuous heat and movement to promote faster recovery from low back pain as recommended in the Low Back Pain Clinical Care Standard.
To find out more about the standard, view the expert panel discussion and download resources, visit: safetyandquality.gov.au/lowbackpain-ccs
Get in touch with us today to arrange for a Free FlexEze Sample Pack.
]]>Following a successful trial in their emergency department, The Royal Melbourne Hospital is now using FlexEze Heat Wraps.
Latest research demonstrates the use of heat wraps, movement, education, reassurance and simple analgesia can significantly reduce the prescription of strong pain medication in back pain patients presenting to emergency departments.
Health practitioners are aware of the impact back pain has upon their patients, the disability and suffering it causes and the issues surrounding pain management. Low back pain is one of the most common presentations seen by physiotherapists and osteopaths.
Treatment guidelines published by the World Health Organisation, American College of Physicians (ACP) and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) all reflect a shift towards non-pharmacological interventions as a first line treatment in low back pain.
As the evidence-base supporting the use of heat grows, an awareness of guidelines and how to best use non-pharmacological interventions for back pain is important to improve clinical outcomes. Heat is now recommended in multiple guidelines and widely used by physiotherapists and osteopaths, often as an adjunct to manual therapies.
A major advantage of heat wraps is they enable patients to keep moving, a fundamental principle in physiotherapy to promote recovery.
FlexEze heat wraps are now regularly used in major Australian hospitals such as the Royal Prince Alfred, Austin, Cabrini, Concord, Canterbury among many others.
We are committed to contributing to research as partners to the Australian Physiotherapy Association - Physiotherapy Research Foundation and are currently engaged in three clinical research projects.
FlexEze Heat Wraps and Hand Warmers are an APA endorsed product - the natural evidence-based choice for physiotherapists.
For training materials, research literature and information please email peter@flexeze.com.au
If you are a health professional, click here for FREE Clinic Sample Pack
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For more information and to read the entire research paper please visit https://qualitysafety.bmj.com/content/early/2021/03/08/bmjqs-2020-012337
Latest treatment guidelines around the world now recommend non-pharmacological approaches for low back pain. Evidence demonstrating the lack of efficacy for use of paracetamol and prescription pain killers in the treatment of acute and chronic low back pain has shifted the focus toward physical therapies, such as spinal manipulation, massage and heat wrap therapy as first line defences in low back pain treatment.
The World Health Organisation recently published an article on policy and practices for low back pain. Guideline recommendations from around the world focused upon non-pharmacological evidence based interventions which included Heat wrap therapy as a recommendation in step 2.
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