By Principle Four Osteopathy

05/31/2011
It has been reported that 80% of us at some stage in our lifetime will be affected by back pain. Acute back pain is generally not life threatening and will usually resolve within a couple of weeks. This however does not take away from how debilitating it can be during those acute stages and often we wonder why it occurred.

The causes of back pain are multi-factorial and some of the risk factors for back pain include:

· Previous history of back pain
· Heredity
· Occupation
· Age
· Fitness levels
· Smoking

The majority of back pain that is diagnosed is generally non—specific mechanical lower back pain. This means that without further invasive testing and expensive imaging, it is difficult to determine what has exactly resulted in this injury and pain.

When one suffers from an acute episode, the musculoskeletal structures typically involved include the surrounding muscles, ligaments, tendons, facet joints and discs. As an Osteopath we look to try and reduce pain, improve mobility and then look to prescribe a treatment and management plan that will help prevent further recurrence of the injury.

Stretching the lower back is one method that many clients benefit from in regards to preventing back pain. Stretching should be done gently and without any lower back pain or discomfort. It is advised that the following rules be observed when stretching:

· Move into the stretch gently and hold the stretch in a comfortable position
· Focus on breathing during the stretch to help you further relax
· Avoid bouncing or ballistic stretching
· Do not push into pain when stretching. Pain is the body’s way of telling you something. So listen to it. Stop stretching if pain develops
· Hold stretches for 15—20 seconds
· Repeat the stretch 2—3 times

Note: If you are unsure of whether you are stretching correctly or pain develops. Please see your general practitioner or osteopath for further advice and assessment.

We have included a range of the most commonly prescribed lower back stretches and mobility exercises for the lower back. Please make sure you see your GP or osteopath before trying any of these exercises and be sure to be shown how to perform them correctly.