Greetings! If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve experienced the discomfort of low back pain. Turns out, low back pain is the biggest cause of years lived with disability across the world, including here in Victoria. As osteopaths, we have worked with countless individuals grappling with this issue. Let’s dive into what low back pain entails and how we can navigate it together.
Understanding Those Sneaky Onsets: 
Have you ever found yourself suddenly dealing with low back pain without any clear reason? You’re not alone. It’s a scenario we encounter frequently, especially among those of us leading predominantly sedentary lives. The pain doesn’t discriminate; it can spread across the lower back, affecting various regions. or be very specific in one spot.
Our Thorough low back Examination:
When you step into Equilibrium Sports and Spinal Clinic in Glen Iris, we embark on a careful examination. We start by ruling out any potential red flags through detailed conversations and specialised tests. we’re attentive to any signs of numbness or tingling, particularly in the saddle region, and vigilant for changes in bowel or bladder function. Then, we move on to a movement assessment, identifying which motions your back finds challenging – be it flexion, extension, side-bending, rotation, or squatting. Then we get stuck into helping you with your pain.
Demystifying Pain and Damage:
Let’s talk about an important concept: the difference between pain and actual tissue damage. It’s a crucial distinction. Many assume that if there’s pain, there must be damage. However, the reality is more complex. Pain can be a signal from your body that something needs attention, but it doesn’t always mean there’s structural damage. In fact, studies have shown that pain can persist even when no specific tissue is injured. Understanding this can be liberating – it means we have a wide range of tools and approaches to help manage and alleviate your low back pain.
Taking a Holistic Approach:
Allow me to share a story of a 40-year-old client. He led a dynamic life, but a combination of demanding work, home renovations, and family stressors led to a stiff, fearful back. We worked together not just on the physical aspect, but delved into the emotional and psychological components that contributed to his low back pain. He is now back running and exercising the way he wants. He still gets some low back discomfort, but the reframing of his pain (pain v damage) has been instrumental in his recovery.
Embracing Movement and Courage:
We often emphasise the importance of bravery in movement. It’s not about waiting until you feel perfect to start moving; it’s about using movement as a tool to feel better. Remember, it’s okay to take it one step at a time. The risk of having a little bit more pain after exercise/movement should not outweigh the benefits of movement, and the potential to get out of pain. We work together with our clients to empower them to be brave, move and feel better
Embracing the Ebb and Flow of Recovery:
It’s essential to acknowledge that the path to recovery is rarely a straight line. There will be good days when you feel progress, and not-so-good days when the discomfort may seem more pronounced. This natural ebb and flow is entirely normal. It’s a testament to the dynamic nature of healing. On days when you might experience setbacks, remember that it’s just a part of the process. Your body is adapting and responding, even if it doesn’t always feel that way. By staying patient and consistent in your approach, you’re building a foundation for long-term relief.
Proving the Power of Movement:
We have witnessed the incredible impact of movement firsthand. Sometimes, all it takes is showing your nervous system that movement is beneficial. In those
moments, clients experience remarkable improvements in just a few minutes, even without hands-on therapy. When you engage in purposeful movements, especially under the guidance of a trained professional, you’re essentially tapping into a natural mechanism within your brain that can help alleviate pain. This is one of the reasons why exercise and movement therapies play a pivotal role in managing low back pain.
Conclusion:
Low back pain can be a complex journey, but you’re not alone. As your Glen Iris osteopath, we’re here to guide you through every step. Together, we’ll tap into the science, movement, and holistic support needed for relief and recovery.
