Do You Suffer from a 'Bad Back'?
Well, you’re not alone. 80% of adults in the UK will suffer from back pain during their lifetime, and it is the leading reason for having time off work!
What causes lower back pain?
It can stem from various sources, such as injuries due to falls, lifting heavy objects incorrectly, or during physical activity (this is not exclusive to sports but also everyday tasks which are physical). Poor posture, including slouching or sitting twisted, can also strain the spine. Additionally, structural issues like herniated discs, arthritis, or osteoporosis can contribute to back pain.
Understanding the lower back
Your spine is a complex structure composed of 24 vertebrae separated by discs that act as shock absorbers. Ligaments hold these vertebrae together, while muscles support and allow movement, aiding in flexibility, balance, and posture maintenance.
Who is prone to back pain?
Back pain can affect people of all ages, but certain factors may increase the risk, including smoking, excess weight, lack of physical fitness, overexertion, genetics, and certain medical conditions.
Diagnosing your back pain
You may have heard of herniated discs or sciatica, but muscle strains, ligament sprains, or joint irritation in the spine are more common causes. Back pain can also be associated with gynaecological or gastrointestinal conditions. These can include endometriosis, fibroids, crones, IBS, IBD, and kidney stones.
Is back pain hereditary?
While some spinal conditions have a genetic component, lifestyle factors play a significant role in spine health management. Some patients feel that their back pain is hereditary and therefore they just have to put up with it as part of their life. Whether it is or isn’t genetic-related, there are many ways to manage your back pain.
Managing back pain
Treatment options include painkillers, heat and cold therapy, stretching, and manual therapies such as osteopathy. Understanding the underlying cause of your pain is crucial for effective management and recovery.
How can osteopathy help?
Osteopaths diagnose and treat back pain by assessing posture, mobility and overall body function. They use hands-on techniques to relive tension, improve joint mobility, and enhance the body’s natural healing process. The aim is to use various techniques to get your body talking and working together as a unit.
Techniques may include joint articulation, manipulation, and soft tissue which increase joint mobility, relieve muscle tension, enhance blood flow, and nerve supply to tissues and aids the body’s own healing mechanisms.
A detail explanation of the finding and diagnosis will always be given before providing treatment or advice.
Osteopaths also provide self-management advice and referral to other healthcare professionals if needed.
Preventing lower back pain
Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, proper posture, hydration, and early treatment of back pain can significantly reduce the risk of spinal issues and injuries.