Managing Lower Back Pain: Insights from Tugun Osteopathy

Lower back pain is a common and often debilitating issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Some studies have shown that up to 23% of the world’s adults suffer from chronic low back pain. At Tugun Osteopathy, we understand the significant impact that lower back pain can have on your daily life, and we are here to help.

What Causes Lower Back Pain?

Muscle Strain: One of the most frequent causes of lower back pain is muscle strain. Overexertion, poor posture, or sudden movements can lead to strained muscles in the lower back.

Herniated Disc: A herniated or slipped disc occurs when the soft inner material of the disc leaks through the tough outer layer, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain.

Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or other forms of arthritis can affect the spine, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Nerve impingement: This is a condition where a nerve becomes pinched or irritated, often causing radiating pain down the leg.

Structural Issues: Structural problems in the spine, such as scoliosis or spinal stenosis, can result in chronic lower back pain.

Lower back pain can manifest in various ways, and its severity can range from mild discomfort to excruciating pain. Common symptoms include:

·      Dull, aching pain in the lower back

·      Sharp, stabbing pain that radiates down the leg

·      Muscle stiffness and tightness

·      Reduce range of motion

·      Pain with twisting, standing or bending over

·      Difficulty in standing or walking for extended periods

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. Osteopaths are trained to identify the root causes of lower back pain and develop personalised treatment plans. Here's how osteopathy can help:

Osteopaths conduct a thorough assessment to understand the source of your pain. This often includes examining your posture, range of motion, and medical history. Understanding the source of your pain and contributing factors is essential in the management of lower back pain. Osteopathic treatment can help by utilising techniques such as soft tissue therapy, joint articulation, dry needling and more. These techniques can assist in pain management, improve joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and enhance blood flow to the affected area. Osteopaths may also recommend specific exercises and lifestyle changes to improve your posture and prevent future episodes of lower back pain. Osteopathy can provide effective pain relief, reducing the need for medication and promoting natural healing. 

Preventing Lower Back Pain:

·      Maintain Good Posture: Ensure that your posture is correct, whether sitting, standing, or lifting heavy objects.

·      Regular Physical Exercise: Strengthening your back and surrounding muscles and maintaining good mobility through exercise can help prevent lower back pain.

·      Ergonomic Considerations: Make sure your workspace and daily activities are ergonomically designed to minimise strain on your lower back.

Lower back pain can be a significant burden on your life, but it doesn't have to be a constant struggle. At Tugun Osteopathy, we offer effective, holistic approaches to alleviate and prevent lower back pain. A focus on overall musculoskeletal health, early intervention and staying active can make a world of difference. If you're experiencing lower back pain, don't hesitate to reach out to Tugun Osteopathy for personalised care and support.