Low Back Pain & Spinal Stability

When it comes to managing a low back condition, the goal of Osteopathic treatment is for the patient to return as soon as possible, to their normal daily activities. It involves not only treating low back pain but also low back weakness, including diminished postural coordination and decreased spinal flexibility, which can result in reduced position sense, increased postural motion, and diminished balance.

Deep muscles, superficial muscles and the nervous system which sends information to and from the brain are regulated by movement control and spinal stabilisation. Dysfunction of each of these will lead to inflammation of the lumbar spine.

To complicate matters, the body can change its neuromotor habits as a defence measure when there is an injury present. It may also cause some muscles to become overworked while others can become deconditioned. If unaddressed, additional musculoskeletal conditions may result in nearby parts of the body which explains why patients often have multiple apparently unrelated complaints.

In addition to physical therapy such as massage and mobilisation to regain correct joint mobility, low back pain care can include core stabilisation / strengthening exercises and balance exercises as well.

One movement that works well for abdominal strengthening is a spine-sparing sit-up. Place the hands behind the lower back to avoid the lumbar curve from flattening and raise the head and chest a few inches off the floor, keep for ten seconds and repeat resistance (five to ten reps to start).

Try a side-bridge or side-plank (from feet or knees) to strengthen your sides, hold for 10 seconds and repeat as tolerable.

Use the front plank to reinforce the back. Rest in a push-up stance on your forearms for 10 seconds, and repeat as tolerable. Another pleasant practise is the bird-dog. Kneel on your hands and knees and, without bending the head, lift the opposite arm and leg and hold for ten seconds, repeat on the other arm / leg.

For improved balance, stand on one leg as long as you can with your eyes open or closed (if possible). This stimulates the neuromotor system. Be careful, and do this in one corner to avoid slipping!

Give a routine of such workouts. Consistency will help improve low back function and you will lower your risk of a future low back pain episode!

If you are suffering back pain or any conditions you need to seek help ASAP to prevent worsening conditions. Book Online at www.cramosteopaths.co.uk/book-online/