Responding to Back Pain: Momentum Health Puts First Responders First
By Alisha Mohamed-Kassam
Every day, Calgary’s first responders step into demanding roles that keep our city safe. Police officers, firefighters, and paramedics shoulder the physical and mental weight of protecting others, often at the expense of their own health. Among the most common challenges they face? Back pain.
Back pain is one of the leading reasons Canadians miss work, and for first responders, it can be career-limiting. Their jobs involve lifting, twisting, crouching, awkward positions, long hours on their feet, and extended time in vehicles—all while wearing heavy and bulky gear. Add in the constant adrenaline of urgent calls, and it’s easy to see why spinal health takes a toll.
Why This Matters for First Responders
For those in emergency services, back pain is more than an inconvenience. A firefighter who can’t lift properly, a paramedic restricted by mobility, or a police officer struggling to sit for long patrols risks both personal safety and the ability to serve effectively. Yet many push through the pain, waiting until the issue worsens.
Left untreated, back problems can progress into long-term conditions that affect not only work performance, but also quality of life outside the job.
How Momentum Health Helps
At Momentum Health, our purpose is clear: Work, Sport, Life; we are dedicated to keeping people active. That includes Calgary’s first responders. Our physiotherapists, athletic therapists, chiropractors, and massage therapists work collaboratively to provide evidence-based treatments designed to resolve pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence.
We tailor care to the demands of each role:
- Police officers managing long patrol shifts with heavy equipment.
- Firefighters handling unpredictable lifting and strain.
- Paramedics performing awkward patient transfers in tight spaces.
By combining education, manual therapy, exercise, ergonomic coaching, and recovery planning, we give first responders the tools to stay strong and mobile in the face of demanding careers.
And Here’s Where You Come In
You may not be running into burning buildings or responding to emergencies, but the truth is, many of us put similar stress on our backs. Office workers spend long hours sitting at computers. Parents strain themselves lifting children or groceries. Students carry overloaded backpacks. Weekend athletes push their limits on the field or in the gym.
If Momentum Health can help Calgary’s first responders manage the most intense physical challenges, imagine what we can do for you.
Our clinics treat a wide range of conditions beyond back pain, including neck, shoulder, hip, knee, and joint injuries, headaches, arthritis, sports injuries, pre- and post-surgical rehab, and more. No matter your age, lifestyle, or activity level, our evidence-based approach is designed to meet you where you are.
Prevention for Everyone
The same strategies that keep first responders moving are ones that benefit us all:
- Strengthening and mobility programs to stabilize the spine.
- Posture training for long hours at desks, in vehicles, or standing.
- Lifting techniques that reduce everyday strain.
- Stress and recovery planning to address the mind-body connection.
By taking proactive steps, you can prevent pain before it limits your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy life.
A Shared Commitment to Health
Momentum Health is proud to serve Calgary’s first responders, but our mission extends to the entire community. Our core values—simplicity, independence, compassion, communication, and fun—guide every patient interaction. We believe in making healthcare straightforward, supportive, and tailored to your goals.
So whether you’re carrying medical equipment, hockey gear, or your toddler, remember: if we can help first responders recover, move well, and stay active, we can help you too.
Take the first step toward better spinal health today. Contact Momentum Health and let us help you return to what matters most: living your life without limits.
Staff Spotlight:
Alisha Mohamed-Kassam (Clinic Director, MPT, IMS Certified)
With over twelve years of experience at Momentum Health and over eight years working directly with the Calgary Police, Alisha is one of the most experienced physiotherapists at Momentum Health. Alisha has helped hundreds of police officers and recruits through WCB claims and workplace ergonomic challenges, finding solutions for everything from back pain to elbow injuries.
Alisha is certified to practice biomedical dry needling, traditional acupuncture, and spinal and peripheral manipulations. Before beginning her physical therapy training, Alisha worked as an Exercise Therapist, as well as a trainer and coach for multiple men’s, women’s, and youth ball hockey teams. Alisha enjoys working as Clinic Director and Physiotherapist in the Ogden/Lynnwood/Millican community, providing guided exercise and targeted rehabilitation solutions for WCB cases, MVA claims, sporting injuries, and life in general.
Back Pain Relief That Works: A Calgary PT’s Tactical Approach
Back pain doesn’t just hit first responders—it impacts anyone who spends long hours on their feet, behind the wheel, or at a desk. In this video, Alisha Mohamed-Kassam, PT, shares how her 8 years working with the Calgary Police Service shaped her unique, tactical approach to back pain care. From adapting duty belts and prescribing recovery strategies to building personalized exercise plans, Alisha shows how small, targeted changes can make a big difference. We’ll show you two simple exercises you can try today to ease stiffness and support your back. Whether you’re patrolling the streets, sitting at a desk, or chasing kids at home—you don’t have to live with back pain. Momentum Health is here to help you move better, feel stronger, and get back to what matters most.
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
At Momentum Health, we understand the toll back pain can take on first responders, which is why we make your recovery our priority. Schedule an appointment today and let our expert team help you stay strong, healthy, and ready to serve.
Service Spotlight: Fit for Duty: Why Compression Socks Matter for Our Frontline First Responders
For Calgary’s first responders, every shift brings long hours on their feet or long hours sitting in vehicles, mixed with quick bursts of intense physical activity, and the constant pressure of being ready for anything. While most people think of fitness training or protective gear as essentials, there’s another tool that can make a big difference in both comfort and performance: compression socks.
The Hidden Strain of the Job
Police officers, firefighters, and paramedics spend extended time standing, sitting, walking, or moving in heavy equipment. This can lead to swelling in the legs, fatigue, and even increased risk of varicose veins or blood pooling in the lower limbs. Over time, these issues don’t just cause discomfort—they can impact mobility and endurance, increasing the risk of injury and potentially slowing down recovery timelines.
How Compression Socks Help
Compression socks are designed to gently squeeze the legs, improving blood flow back toward the heart. This circulation boost helps reduce swelling, decrease muscle soreness, and lower the risk of venous problems. For first responders, this means:
- Less swelling and discomfort during long shifts.
- Improved endurance and recovery, allowing them to stay active longer.
- Support against injury and strain, especially when combined with proper footwear and movement strategies.
Not Just for First Responders
Although compression socks provide frontline workers with an important advantage, their benefits extend far beyond emergency services. Office workers who sit for long hours, teachers who spend their days standing, frequent travellers, athletes, and even pregnant women can all benefit from the improved circulation, reduced fatigue, and post-workout recovery support that compression socks provide.
At Momentum Health, we carry high-quality compression socks and can help you determine the right fit for your needs. If compression therapy can support Calgary’s first responders through the toughest shifts, imagine what it can do for your daily comfort and performance.
From Teacher’s Desk to Student’s Chair: How Everyone at School Can Improve Spinal Health
As September begins, classrooms across Calgary are buzzing with energy. Students, teachers, and staff are settling into routines that demand long hours of sitting, standing, and carrying heavy bags or supplies. These daily habits can quietly add up, leading to back or neck pain that affects focus, productivity, and overall well-being.
For Students
Students often spend hours hunched over desks or laptops. Add a heavy backpack, and their spines are under even more stress. A few simple changes can make a big difference:
- Choose backpacks with two wide, padded straps and keep loads under 10–15% of body weight.
- Encourage movement breaks to offset long sitting periods.
- Maintain good posture at desks and while using devices.
For Teachers and Staff
Teachers are on their feet for much of the day, often leaning over desks or standing in one spot for long stretches. Office staff may sit for hours at computers. To protect their backs, they can:
- Wear supportive footwear and/or custom orthotics and use cushioned mats when standing.
- Adjust desk and screen height to promote neutral posture.
- Stretch between classes or meetings to release tension.
What This Means for You
You don’t need to be in a classroom to benefit from these strategies. Many of us sit at desks, commute in cars, or carry loads at home and work. The same spinal health tips that keep teachers and students moving comfortably apply to all of us.
At Momentum Health, our team provides evidence-based care for back, neck, and joint issues for Calgarians of all ages. If you or your family are dealing with aches that just won’t go away, we’re here to help you get back to work, sport, and life—pain-free.
Community Corner:
Kidney March
At Momentum Health, we’re proud to continue our tradition of supporting Kidney March participants as they take on this year’s reimagined challenge. Although the 2025 March has shifted to a single-day 15km event—with participants encouraged to complete their remaining distance in the weeks prior—the physical demands are still real. Whether you’re training steadily or ramping up for the final day at the Millarville Racetrack, our team is here to help. Dr. Josip Batinić, Clinic Director at Momentum Health National Spine & Wellness, and Dr. Lisa Scott, DC, will once again be offering guidance and chiropractic care to help Marchers move comfortably and safely. Whether it’s training advice, injury prevention tips, or help with muscle tension, we’re proud to walk alongside you on every step of your journey.
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Seasonal Recipe: Power Up with No-Bake Protein Balls
Back-to-school season can mean busy mornings and snack-time struggles. Whether you’re packing lunches or refueling after a workout, these no-bake protein balls are a quick, nutritious solution. They’re packed with fiber, healthy fats, and just the right amount of sweetness to keep energy levels up and cravings down!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed
- ¼ cup mini dark chocolate chips
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Tip: Customize with dried fruit, chia seeds, shredded coconut, or swap the nut butter to suit allergies. Great for grab-and-go snacks, lunchboxes, or post-therapy fuel!
Join Us at the Calgary Police Classic!
Momentum Health is proud to sponsor the 2025 Calgary Police Classic, taking place on Saturday, September 20 at Cowboys Park (formerly Shaw Millennium Park). This iconic fall road race, produced by Run Calgary, celebrates its 45th year and welcomes runners and walkers of all levels.
Join us on Saturday, September 20 for the 45th edition of Calgary’s iconic fall road race, now reimagined as the Calgary Police Classic, produced by Run Calgary.
We will be offering pre-race taping and post-race rehabilitation from our team of physiotherapists, kinesiologists, chiropractors, and massage therapists. See us at the big Momentum Health tent from 6:30am-12pm.