Physiotherapy and Low Back Pain
Low back pain and physiotherapy
Low back pain is one of the most common ailments affecting people worldwide. Around 70% of people will experience low back pain at some point. The good news is that most people recover with the right help.
Causes of Low Back Pain
Many factors can contribute to low back pain, with the most common listed below:
Muscle or Ligament Strain – most common after sport or physical activity
Disc bulge – can occur as a result of poor posture, repeated movements under load or from a sudden movement such as twisting and bending over
Joint Stiffness or inflammation – the facet joints which support the spine from behind can become stiff or inflamed due to compression, ageing or poor posture
Core weakness – the deep spinal and abdominal muscles play an important role in supporting the structures of the spine. If they become weakened, which can occur after injury, pregnancy or simply from lack of use, this can lead to excessive load on the other spinal structures
Arthritis – over time, our joints naturally wear, just like the parts in a car. When this wear reaches a certain point, we refer to it as osteoarthritis. This process cannot be reversed, but studies show symptoms can effectively be reduced through physiotherapy management and appropriate exercise
Posture and Lifestyle – our bodies were not designed to sit at a computer all day, or sit on a couch watching Netflix! To avoid low back pain, it is important to engage in these activities for short periods at a time and with proper support for the spine (supportive chairs, correct desk set up and props such as cushions if appropriate)
Other Causes – occasionally, low back pain can occur as a result of a disease or illness. Your physiotherapist will advise you if they feel a medical review should be undertaken. If in doubt, always consult your GP.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy is extremely effective in managing low back pain. It focuses on reducing pain, improving function, and increasing mobility through personalised treatment plans. Here's how physiotherapy can help:
1. Pain Relief
Physiotherapists use various techniques to relieve pain, such as:
Manual Therapy: Includes techniques like joint mobilisation and soft tissue massage to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Heat and Cold Therapy: Helps to reduce inflammation and ease muscle tension.
Taping: Helps immobilise the back to support healing in the acute phase.
Advice: on which movements and activities to avoid.
2. Exercise Programs
A tailored exercise program is crucial for strengthening the back muscles and improving flexibility. Physiotherapists design these programs to include:
Stretching Exercises: To enhance flexibility and range of motion.
Strengthening Exercises: To target specific muscles supporting the spine.
Core Stability: Focusing on strengthening the deep abdominal and back muscles to provide better support for the spine.
3. Posture and Ergonomics
Physiotherapists educate patients on maintaining good posture and ergonomics, which are essential for preventing and managing low back pain. This includes:
Workstation Setup: Advice on chair height, desk layout, and monitor position to promote a neutral spine position.
Lifting Techniques: Training on proper techniques to reduce strain on the back during activities.
4. Education and Prevention
Education is a vital component of physiotherapy. Patients learn about the causes of their pain and ways to manage it effectively. Prevention strategies may include simple lifestyle modifications and tips on how to avoid common triggers.
5. Rehabilitation and injury prevention
For those recovering from low back pain, comprehensive rehabilitation is essential to avoid re-injury. Targeted exercise programs, such as our restorative exercise groups, have been shown to speed up recovery and return to normal function. Research also shows regular strengthening exercise will significantly reduce chances of an injury recurring.
If you're experiencing low back pain, consulting a physiotherapist will ensure a quicker and more complete recovery, whilst minimising the risk of re-injury.