Low back Pain
Low back pain is a common cause of disability in the UK. Versus Arthritis, a registered Charity for Arthritis in the UK, lists lower back pain as the leading cause of Years lost due to disability along muscle pain. Low back pain can also prevent us from participating in activities we enjoy doing, such as running and playing sports, which can be an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Low back pain has a variety of origins, from disc herniations, muscle tension and arthritis, down to stress, postural fatigue and poor sleep. An Osteopathic assessment aims to identify the cause of your back pain, as without identifying the causes, a rehabilitation program has little chance of success. Your Osteopath may also look at areas further afield, and will ask questions around any changes in sensation or power loss in your legs. This is an entirely normal line of inquisition, to ensure that the more serious pathologies can be screened safely. An open and honest conversation around your back pain can help improve the chances of a quicker diagnosis, and allow you to get the help you need.
Treating lower back pain is often multi-factoral. This means that a variety of methods may be used to aid your road to recovery.
Exercise: Specific exercises may be prescribed to address any weaknesses which may be causing excess strain on the back. This will vary on assessment and your ability to perform exercises. A mixture of resistance based exercises, stretches or cardiovascular exercise can be applied.
Manual Therapy/Manipulation: The NICE guidelines, the clinical excellence framework in the UK recommendations manual therapy for back pain with or without sciatica symptoms. This can include manipulations of the spine as well as soft tissue work.
Psychological support: Can be employed to understand further the psychological effects of the back pain and steps in which this may be resolved.
Patient Education: Your Osteopath is fully equipped to provide a broad range of education around your back pain. This can range from discussing chronic pain, to occupational work arounds to ensure you can make the most of your every day activities.
An effective program will likely involve elements of all four of the above areas in varying degrees. Your Osteopath will discuss these options with you, and allow you to make an informed decision around your treatment plan.