LOW BACK PAIN MANAGEMENT

Pain in the lower part of the back is a common problem which affects nearly everybody at some point in their lives. Most often it comes on as an ache, tension or stiffness between the bottom of the ribcage and the top of the legs, with the pain often being triggered by bad posture while sitting or standing, bending awkwardly, or lifting incorrectly.

Back pain that lasts for more than twelve weeks and/or is recurring (which doctors describe as chronic) affects a large number of people in the UK, most of which (80%) is termed as being non-specific. Even when a direct cause cannot be identified, the pain can often leave you feeling isolated, frustrated and afraid to move for fear of making the pain worse. This inevitably has a detrimental effect on your family life, work life and ultimately your wellbeing.

So what can you do if you are a sufferer? One solution is to pay a visit to a specialist who is trained in the management of low back pain.

A specialist would initially most likely perform a full postural assessment of you followed by some muscle testing. The specialist would then be in a position to offer you support and reassurance, and would also be able to give you specific advice on exercises to restore functional activities and spinal mobilisation. You would also be taught how to manage your pain with a personal programme of stabilisation, strengthening and stretching exercises. If followed closely this should lead to improved posture whilst addressing any muscular imbalances or restrictions that may be have caused the pain.

To gain long term relief it is essential to keep yourself mobile. Bed rest and immobilisation, as was often prescribed in the old days has been proven to be counter-productive. Instead, safe, gentle, effective and regular exercise has been shown to be one of the best interventions for helping you to return to normal everyday function. Continuation of the exercise regime after the pain has lessened will also greatly reduce the risk of you suffering recurrences, and thus lead to a major improvement in your quality of life.

So, what are you waiting for? If you suffer from recurrent back pain, and have consulted your doctor to rule out more serious conditions, get in touch with a specialist such as Sue Lloyd now and start feeling the benefits as soon as possible!

Sue is on the Register of Exercise Professionals as a trained Level 4 Specialist Instructor in the management of low back pain. Level 4 courses for fitness professionals are approved by Skills Active and is the highest qualification for fitness professionals. Sue is qualified to work in the GP referral process and with other health professionals such as Osteopaths, Chiropractors and Physiotherapists. Sue is already a highly qualified Pilates instructor.