Low Back Pain

4 out of 5 people in the UK will suffer with low back pain at some point in their life. It can be a difficult symptom to diagnose and is often both non specific and multi factorial which makes navigating low back pain alone daunting, confusing and often counter productive. Osteopaths are low back specialists and in the UK are classed as primary healthcare. This makes a West-Gate osteo the ideal practitioner to diagnose and treat your low back pain.

Common Causes of Low Back Pain

Our experienced team is equipped to manage a range of conditions that cause low back pain, including but not limited to:

• Muscle Strain: Overstretching or tearing of muscles in the lower back, often due to improper lifting, sudden movements, or overuse.

• Ligament Sprain: Overstretching or tearing of ligaments in the lower back, commonly resulting from twisting injuries or heavy lifting.

• Herniated Disc: A condition where the soft inner gel of the spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior, irritating nearby nerves and causing pain.

• Degenerative Disc Disease: The gradual breakdown and dehydration of the intervertebral discs, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility in the lower back.

• Sciatica: Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, resulting in sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg.

• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain and numbness in the lower back and legs.

• Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Dysfunction or inflammation of the sacroiliac joint, which connects the lower spine to the pelvis, causing lower back pain.

• Facet Joint Pain: Inflammation or degeneration of the facet joints, which are located between each vertebra, leading to localised back pain and stiffness.

• Spondylolisthesis: A condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, causing pain and instability in the lower back.

Symptoms of Low Back Pain

The symptoms of low back pain can vary widely but often include:

• Pain: Ranging from a dull, aching sensation to sharp, stabbing pain, localised in the lower back.

• Stiffness: Reduced flexibility and difficulty moving the lower back.

• Muscle Spasms: Sudden, involuntary contractions of muscles in the lower back.

• Numbness or Tingling: Sensations of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, or legs, particularly with nerve-related conditions like sciatica.

• Pain Radiating to the Legs: Pain that travels from the lower back down the legs, often indicative of sciatica.

• Difficulty Standing or Walking: Trouble maintaining an upright posture or walking due to pain or instability.

Our Approach to Treatment

Our comprehensive approach to treating low back pain focuses on identifying the underlying cause and providing step by strep care to alleviate pain and prevent recurrence. Our treatment methods include:

• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to manipulate and mobilise the spine, muscles, and soft tissues to reduce pain and improve mobility.

• Exercise Therapy: Personalised exercise programmes to strengthen the muscles supporting the lower back, improve flexibility, and enhance overall physical function.

• Postural Education: Guidance on maintaining proper posture in daily activities to reduce strain on the lower back and prevent further injury.

• Pain Management Techniques: Methods such as heat/cold therapy, ultrasound, and electrotherapy to manage pain and inflammation.

• Core Stabilisation: Exercises designed to strengthen the core muscles, providing better support for the lower back and improving stability.

• Lifestyle and Activity Modification: Advice on modifying activities and lifestyle habits to prevent exacerbation of symptoms and promote back health.

• Rehabilitation Programmes: Comprehensive rehabilitation plans to aid recovery post-injury or post-surgery, ensuring a safe and effective return to daily activities.