Expert Physiotherapy for Back Conditions in Zurich

Back issues are among the most common reasons for medical visits in Switzerland. At PhysioWelt in Zurich, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of all forms of spinal pain, from sudden, acute lumbago (often called Hexenschuss locally) to chronic lower back pain.

We understand that back pain isn’t just physical. It affects your work, hobbies, and overall quality of life. That is why our physiotherapy specialists in Zurich create a scientifically grounded, personalized treatment plan to help you move pain-free and with confidence again.

Understanding Your Back Pain: Causes & Symptoms

Back pain, particularly low back pain, often originates in the lumbar spine (LWS). This is a highly complex structure made up of vertebrae, shock-absorbing discs, nerves, and muscles. While this structure allows for incredible mobility, it also makes the area susceptible to injury, overuse, and degenerative changes.

Common Causes of Back Conditions

Our therapists specialize in evidence-based manual therapy techniques to treat a wide variety of back issues. Below are the most common causes we treat:

• Non-Specific Low Back Pain: This is the most frequent cause of back pain. "Non-specific" means the pain is not linked to a specific pathology or disease. Instead, it arises from mechanical stress, such as muscle strains, ligament sprains, or prolonged poor posture. This responds very well to targeted manual therapy.
• Lumbago (Acute Low Back Pain): Often referred to as Hexenschuss in German, this is not a specific diagnosis but a description of symptoms. Lumbago presents as sudden, severe pain in the lower back accompanied by muscle spasms that restrict movement. This is often triggered by minor movements like bending or twisting.
• Disc-Related Pain & Sciatica: A herniated disc in the lower back occurs when the inner material of a spinal disc leaks out and compresses nerve roots. This can cause sciatica symptoms, such as radiating pain down the leg, numbness, or weakness. This is a recognized cause of back pain and radiculopathy.
• Degenerative Conditions: As we age, conditions like osteoarthritis of the facet joints or degenerative disc disease can lead to chronic pain and stiffness. Symptoms often include morning stiffness and diffuse lower back ache. Manual mobilization and proprioceptive training can slow progression and improve function.‍
• Spinal Stenosis: This involves a narrowing of the spinal canal, which can exert pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Typically, it causes pain, cramping, or numbness in the legs that worsens when standing or walking and improves when sitting.

Our Evidence-Based Treatment Approach

Your recovery at PhysioWelt begins with a comprehensive diagnostic assessment to identify the exact cause of your back condition. Based on this diagnosis, we create a personalized therapy plan that combines manual techniques, active rehabilitation, and patient education.

1. Pain & Inflammation Management

‍n the acute phase, our priority is to relieve your pain and calm irritated tissue. We use gentle manual therapy techniques and provide expert advice on activity modification and positioning to reduce stress on your spine.

2. Manual Therapy

‍Specific hands-on techniques are applied to mobilize stiff spinal joints, release tight muscles, and improve the overall mechanics of your lumbar spine. This plays a vital supportive role in reducing discomfort, especially when combined with active movement.

3. Therapeutic Exercises (Including Core Stability)

‍The most critical component for long-term success is a targeted exercise program. We guide you through specific exercises to strengthen your deep core muscles, improve flexibility, and restore normal movement patterns. An active approach is clinically proven to be highly effective in preventing relapse.

4. Patient Education

‍We empower you with knowledge about your condition. We teach you correct posture, lifting techniques, and ergonomic strategies for your workspace and daily life to protect your back from future strain.