Managing Low Back Pain

13/11/2019

Low back pain is one of the most common conditions treated by physiotherapists around the world. Whilst it is generally not serious in nature, the persistent pain and discomfort can limit employment and leisure opportunities in the short term. It’s not all bad news though, as clients suffering from low back pain respond favourably to treatment in the vast majority of cases.

In this blog post, Brunswick Heads Physio will be filling you in on all you need to know about low back pain – including causes, diagnosis and treatment options available.

Why Does Low Back Pain Occur?

Low back pain is usually felt at the base of the lumbar spine, but it may also cause pain around the buttocks, groin, thighs, leg and feet. Pain sensations can range from dull to throbbing, aching, sharp, shooting and burning.

There are many different causes of low back pain, both natural and physically induced. Older people usually experience back pain due to spinal degeneration, herniated discs, sciatica and osteoporosis. Younger people and those who are physically active might sustain an injury or muscle sprain during sport, in the workplace or whilst lifting heavy objects. If you work in an office and are prone to slumping in your chair, you too may experience back pain.

This is only a short list of possible causes for low back pain. The most important thing to remember is that every case is that every human being is unique. Pain may subside within a few days, but if symptoms persist you should consult with your physiotherapist for an accurate diagnosis and management plan.

Tips for Avoiding Low Back Pain

It is not possible to prevent low back pain entirely, but there are a few things you can do to reduce your risk.

  • Maintain good posture
  • Take regular breaks away from your desk – get up and stretch + walk around every hour.
  • Follow WHS Guidelines when lifting heavy items
  • Exercise regularly
  • Maintain a healthy weight

How Physiotherapy can Help

If your pain has not subsided after a few weeks, physiotherapy treatment will be necessary. If left untreated, back muscles will continue to weaken and become more inflamed leading to ongoing pain and discomfort.

Physiotherapy treatment is aimed at reducing pain, and it mainly encompasses exercise-based therapy in conjunction with techniques such as dry needling, manual therapy, massage and professional advice relating to ergonomics/posture etc.

At Brunswick Heads Physio, we work in close collaboration with our clients to support you on your recovery journey. The first step towards recovery will involve a physiotherapist examining your back. For most patients a visual examination will provide sufficient insight into your condition, but in severe cases we may refer you for medical imaging. Once we have determined the cause of your low back pain, we will begin formulating a treatment plan.

Physio treatment for low back pain is aimed at:

  • Improving spinal stability
  • Preventing recurring pain
  • Improving circulation, flexibility and bone density
  • Building muscle strength

A regular walking program can do wonders for lower back pain, especially when done alongside physio exercises such as back extensions, knee-to-chest stretch, piriformis stretch, side plank, pelvic tilt and the bird-dog pose. We take a tailored approach towards condition management, creating an exercise and recovery program which works around your unique condition and life circumstances.

Experiencing back pain? Book a session with Brunswick Heads Physio Today

If you have recently suffered a back injury or are experiencing ongoing back pain, it’s time to take the first step towards recovery. The friendly team of fully qualified physiotherapists at Brunswick Heads Physio have extensive knowledge in treatment for back pain, and we’ll have you back up and running in no time.

Ready to regain mobility and live pain free? Call us now on 0419 629 333 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to assisting you.