Podcast PTA FUNK: Einfach Englisch lernen – Backache

Dialogue

Customer: Good afternoon, I’d like something for backache and stiffness, please.

PTA: How long have you had it?

Customer: About a week.

PTA: Where does it hurt?

Customer: The lower back, the lumbar region I believe it’s called.

PTA: Is there any tingling or numbness?

Customer: No.

PTA: Have you ever injured your back?

Customer: Not that I can remember.

PTA: Have you done anything recently that might have caused it, such as heavy lifting or awkward movements?

Customer: No – it just appeared from nowhere.

PTA: Do you have a job that requires physical strength?

Customer: No, I work in an office.

PTA: Ah so, your job is mainly sedentary! What have you done so far against the pain?

Customer: Basically, I’ve tried to rest and I’ve had a couple of hot baths. The pain disappears while I’m in the water but comes back as soon as I get out.

PTA: I’m afraid resting is usually contra-productive. Gentle movement and specific exercises are often the best therapy.

Customer: But movement is painful!

PTA: I’m sure it is and because of that it is better to take a painkiller in order to alleviate the discomfort. I can recommend some pain-relieving medication. There are a variety of oral and topical products available but in order to determine the best options for you, I need to know whether you have any other diseases.
Have you had any trouble concerning the heart, stomach, liver or kidneys?

Customer: I occasionally get heartburn and indigestion.

PTA: Then we need to take that into consideration. The best intake time is at mealtimes and perhaps you will also need an acid blocker. Painkillers will definitely help to make movement easier. If, however, the pain continues for another three to five weeks, you should make an appointment with your healthcare provider.

Customer: What will he do?

PTA: After a thorough examination, your doctor will check your medical history and your discomfort in more detail. If the origin of your pain remains unclear, you might be sent for an X-ray, a computed tomography or an MRI scan to reveal problems with bones, muscles, tendons etc.

Customer: Do you think I might need surgery? My neighbour thinks that might be the case.

PTA: That’s very unlikely. If the pain is intense, you might get a cortisone injection. Once the cause of your back pain is clear, you will probably be referred to a specialist for physiotherapy. These people can show you how to strengthen your back and improve your posture. Many people also find yoga helpful.

Customer: I can’t see myself doing yoga.

PTA: Then maybe you could sign up with a gym. There are special programmes to strengthen the muscles in the back. It’s certainly worth trying it out. Would you like me to look for a suitable pain reliever for you?

Customer: Yes, please.

Hier finden Sie den kompletten Heftarchivartikel Backache: Often Harmless, Always Painful aus unserer Serie English for PTA.