Osteopathy for low back pain
Low back pain is one of the most common health issues affecting people globally. Research indicates that approximately 80% of adults will experience low back pain at some point in their lives, making it a leading cause of disability and a significant concern for quality of life.
Patients commonly experience sharp pain, burning, stiffness or an achy feeling at the bottom of their spines. Whilst the pain can be severe, it is the impediment to doing daily activities or work that causes many people to seek relief from their aches and pains.
Early diagnosis and effective treatment are essential for managing this condition and maintaining mobility.
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Common causes of low back pain
Muscle or Ligament Strain: Heavy lifting, sudden awkward movements, or repetitive stress can lead to strains or sprains of the low back.
Herniated Discs: Discs that bulge or rupture can compress spinal nerves, causing pain and discomfort.
Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear on the discs can lead to chronic pain and stiffness.
Arthritis: Conditions such as osteoarthritis can affect the lower back, causing inflammation and pain.
Skeletal Irregularities: Conditions like scoliosis can lead to uneven stress on the back, contributing to pain.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can stiffen joints and decrease tissue tolerance, making the back more susceptible to injury.
Common symptoms for low back pain
Individuals suffering from low back pain may experience a range of symptoms, including:
Persistent or intermittent pain in the lower back
Stiffness or tightness in the back muscles
Pain that radiates down the legs or into the hips
Difficulty standing up straight or bending forward
Numbness or tingling sensations in the legs or feet
Increased discomfort after prolonged sitting or standing
3 Osteopathic tips for low back pain
Going for short walks has been shown to be an effective way to treat low back pain. Start of with short walks within your pain limits and build this up as your low back pain gets better (Lang et al., 2021).
When rehabbing your low back pain, it is important to also address the thoracic spine (found above) and the hips (found below the low back). This is because these two areas are very mobile. When they do not move optimally, they place more load on the lower back.
Despite the severe pain, understand that most low back pain will get better with time. Ensure you are sleeping/recovering well and avoiding provocative positions and movements to give yourself the best chance of a speedy recovery.
Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to treating low back pain pain by addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes. Treatment may include:
Manual Therapy: Osteopathic manipulation techniques help improve mobility, reduce tension, and alleviate pain in the lower back and surrounding areas.
Exercise Rehabilitation: Customized exercise programs strengthen the core muscles and improve flexibility, supporting recovery and preventing future issues.
Postural Assessment: Evaluating posture and biomechanics can help identify contributing factors to low back pain, allowing for targeted interventions.
Lifestyle Guidance: Osteopaths provide advice on ergonomic adjustments and activity modifications to prevent strain and promote overall spinal health.
If you’re suffering from low back pain, our clinic is here to help. Our skilled osteopaths will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan aimed at relieving pain and restoring function. Don’t let low back pain hinder your daily activities— Book online today to schedule an appointment!