Back Pain

Back Pain

What is Back Pain?

According to the Australian Government 16% of the Australian population experience back pain. Back pain can contribute to psychological distress, chronic pain other comorbidities such as arthritis (AIHW, 2023). Back pain is reported at an increased rate as you age and can interfere with activities of daily living (AIHW, 2023).

Common conditions that may cause back pain include sprains and strains, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, joint degeneration, inflammatory back pain and osteoporosis (Casiano et. al., 2023).

Causes of low back pain can include heavy physical work, frequent twisting, bending or lifting, weak musculature and more. It is important to see your doctor if there are any changed to bowl and bladder movements or incontinence, no improvement or worsening in pain levels as well as numbness, tingling or weakness in the lower limb or groin (Casiano et. al., 2023).

Osteopathy is targeted towards the improvement of physiological function and support of homeostasis when altered by impaired somatic dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system (TFLBPCG, 2016). The American Osteopathic Association analysed studies on both acute and chronic non-specific low back pain and found that osteopathic manipulative treatment was effective at reducing pain and increasing functional status.

A study by Rehman et. al. (2020) found significant evidence that OMT was effective in reducing pain and disability. It focused not only on muscular treatment but also visceral osteopathy – a more indirect modality. It showed that 8 weeks of osteopathic treatment when compared to standard care was shown to have significant improvement in return to work.

Another study by Licciardone et. al. (2014) investigated osteopathic manual therapy in regard to pain reduction and biomechanical dysfunction. The study looked at 230 patients receiving treatment for 15 minutes every week. In the study a low back pain response was considered a decrease of pain of 30% or greater between the initial appointment and the 12 week follow up. The study focused on various anatomical landmarks and their position to determine biomechanical dysfunction and used 3 different outcome measures to assess results.

A range of techniques were found to be effective in decreasing pain including HVLA manipulation (High Velocity Low Amplitude), soft tissue, myofascial release, positional release, muscle energy technique. In addition, the study highlighted the importance of the psoas muscle due and its contribution to low back pain in the increased likelihood of low back pain returning if the psoas was not focused on.

Economically, Verhaeghe et. al. (2018) found OMT (Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment) to be a cost-effective treatment option for low back pain with improved health outcomes (measured as quality adjusted life years) when compared with usual care.

While osteopathy is a manual therapy there are also aspects that patients can do at home to improve their health. Owen et. al. (2019) used a variety of exercise types and criteria to identify the most effective form of exercise. Pain is best modified through exercise such a pilates, aerobic exercise and stabilisation/control exercise.

Physical  function an capability is best improved using stabilisation/control exercise and resistance training. These were followed by water exercise, pilates and yoga. Mental health greatly contributes to physical health and healing and as such is an important fact to consider in both hands on and exercise therapy. Resistance and aerobic training were most beneficial for mental health and muscle strength.

 

In addition to strengthening you can also stretch to relieve muscle tension. Some stretches that you may find helpful include the “Cat Cow”, “Thread the Needle” and “Lumbar rotation”.

Instructions for Cat Cow:

Start on your hands and knees with your back in a neutral position. Make sure your hands are under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Arch your back while lifting your head up and tailbone out. This will make a dish like shape with your spine. Hold this position for 5 seconds. Bend your back, tuck your head and tail bone making a sad face shape with your spine. HINT: pull your bellybutton to the ceiling. Hold this position for 5 seconds and then repeat.

Instructions for Lumbar Rotation:

Start lying on your back with arms outstretched palms facing the floor. Keeping one leg flat on the floor bring the other to 90 degrees. Roll the bent leg over the straight as far as is comfortable. You will feel a stretch in your back and opposite armpit. Repeat on both sides. This can be done as a static stretch or as a fluid side to side movement.

Instructions for Thread the Needle:

Start facing the floor with hands and knees equal distance apart, hands under shoulders and knees under hips. Bring one hand off the floor and reach between your other hand and leg. Follow with your shoulder and head moving towards the floor taking the hand towards the opposite wall and allowing your back to twist and stabilising elbow to bend. A stretch should be felt down the side, shoulder blade and neck. Hold and then return to the starting position. Repeat.

 

References:

Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (December 14, 2023). Back Problems. Chronic musculoskeletal conditions : Back problems – Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (aihw.gov.au)

Casiano, V.E., Sarwan, G., Dydyk, A.M., Varacallo, M. (2023). Baack Pain. StatPearls. Back Pain – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

Licciardone, J.C., Kearns, C.M., Crow, W.T. (2014). Changes in biomechanical dysfunction and low back pain reduction with osteopathic manual treatment: Results from the osteopathic trial. Manual Therapy 19 (4), 324-330. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.math.2014.03.004

Owen, P.J., Miller, C.T., Mundell, N.L., Verswijveren, S.J.J.M., Tagliaferri, S.D., Brisby, H., Bowe, S.J., Belavy, D.L. (2019). Which specific modes of exercise training are most effective for treating low back pain? Netwrk meta-analysis. British Medical Journal, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2019-100886

Rehman, Y., Ferguson, H., Bozek, A., Blair, J., Allison, A., Johnston, R. (2020). Osteopathic manual treatment for pain severity, functional improvement, and return to work in patients with chronic pain. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine 120 (12). https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2020.128

Task Force on the Low Back Pain Clinical Practice Guidelines. (2016). American Osteopathic Association Guidelines for Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) for Patients With Low Back Pain. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine 116 (8), 536-549. https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2016.107

Vergaeghe, N., Schepers, J., Van Dun, P., Annemans, L. (2018). Osteopathic care for low back pain and neck pain: A cost-utility analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine 40 207-213. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2018.06.001

 

 

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Things to Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease

Things to Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease

What to Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease is a common condition that affects the spinal discs as we age. It can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the spine, making everyday activities difficult. If you have been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, there are certain things you should avoid to prevent worsening of your symptoms. Here are some key things to steer clear of:

Avoiding High-Impact Activities

High-impact activities such as running, jumping, or heavy lifting can put excessive strain on the spinal discs, worsening the degeneration process. It is important to avoid these activities as much as possible to prevent further damage to your spine.

Avoiding Prolonged Sitting or Standing

Prolonged sitting or standing can also exacerbate symptoms of degenerative disc disease. It is important to take regular breaks to stretch and move around to relieve pressure on the spinal discs. Using ergonomic chairs and desks can also help reduce strain on your spine.

Avoiding Poor Posture

Poor posture can put additional stress on the spinal discs, leading to increased pain and stiffness. It is important to maintain good posture at all times, whether sitting, standing, or walking. Avoid slouching or hunching over, and use proper body mechanics when lifting objects to protect your spine.

What Is Helpful for Degenerative Disc Disease

While there are certain things to avoid with degenerative disc disease, there are also several helpful strategies to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Here are some key things that can be beneficial:

Regular Exercise

Regular exercise can help strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce pain associated with degenerative disc disease. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, yoga, or Pilates can be particularly beneficial for maintaining spinal health.

Healthy Eating Habits

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce inflammation in the body and support overall spine health. Avoiding processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol can also benefit your spinal health.

Properly Managing Stress

Chronic stress can exacerbate symptoms of degenerative disc disease and increase inflammation and pain levels. It is important to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practicing mindfulness, meditation, or relaxation techniques. Seeking support from a therapist or counsellor can also be helpful in coping with stress.

How Osteopathy Can Help

Osteopathy is a holistic healthcare approach that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders, including degenerative disc disease. Osteopaths use hands-on techniques such as manual manipulation, stretching, and massage to relieve pain, improve mobility, and promote healing in the body.

During an osteopathic treatment session, the osteopath will assess your spinal alignment, mobility, and muscle strength to identify any areas of dysfunction or imbalance. They will then use multiple techniques to release tension, improve joint mobility, and restore normal function to the spine.

Osteopathy may help alleviate symptoms of degenerative disc disease by:

  • Relieving pain and stiffness in the spine
  • Improving spinal alignment and mobility
  • Reducing muscle tension and inflammation
  • Preventing further degeneration of the spinal discs

Many people with degenerative disc disease find relief from their symptoms and improved quality of life through osteopathic treatment. Osteopathy is a  complementary therapy that can be used in conjunction with other medical treatments to manage your condition.

Degenerative disc disease can be a challenging condition to live with, but with the right strategies and support, you can effectively manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. By avoiding high-impact activities, maintaining good posture, and practicing healthy habits, you can help prevent further damage to your spine.

In addition to these lifestyle changes, osteopathy can be a valuable treatment option for relieving pain, improving mobility, and promoting healing in the body. If you are struggling to manage your symptoms of degenerative disc disease, consider seeking the help of an osteopath to guide you on your journey to better spinal health.

Our Osteopaths are also here to support you to continue doing what you love. If this is something that may be impacting your degenerative changes, we will educate you and help to improve what you are doing to decrease the damage occurring. We are here to support you through your health journey and one of our aims is to help you continue doing activities that bring you joy.

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How Can Arthritis In The Lumbar Spine Be Treated?

How Can Arthritis In The Lumbar Spine Be Treated?

Treating Lumbar Spine Arthritis with Osteopathy

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Lumbar spine arthritis, specifically, can be particularly debilitating as it causes pain and stiffness in the lower back. Luckily, there are treatment options available, including osteopathy.

What is Lumbar Spine Arthritis?

Lumbar spine arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis of the spine, is a degenerative condition that affects the joints and discs in the lower back. It is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Common symptoms include pain in the lower back, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and difficulty standing or walking for long periods of time.

Osteopathic Treatment for Lumbar Spine Arthritis

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the body’s musculoskeletal system. Osteopathic treatment for lumbar spine arthritis aims to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function.

The Osteopaths at Eclipse Health and Osteopathy see many patients with arthritis in the lower back, these patients often report feeling they have more mobility and less pain after treatment. As an osteopath we don’t just look at the area affected. Often an Osteopath will look at surrounding areas and their tissues. This may include the hips and lower limbs including feet and ankles, upper back and any other area that may be causing tension and reducing function.

Here are some common techniques used by osteopaths to treat lumbar spine arthritis:

Spinal Manipulation

One of the techniques used in osteopathy is spinal manipulation. This involves the gentle manipulation of the spine to mobilise vertebrae, reduce pain, and improve mobility. Spinal manipulation may help relieve pressure on the affected joints and discs in the lower back, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Spinal manipulation may or may not be used in patients with arthritis depending on the degree of joint damage,

Soft Tissue Massage

Soft tissue massage is another commonly used technique in osteopathy for treating lumbar spine arthritis. This involves the manipulation of soft tissues, such as muscles and tendons, to reduce tension, improve circulation, and promote healing. Soft tissue massage can help alleviate pain and stiffness in the lower back, while also improving range of motion.

Exercise Prescription

Exercise is an important component of osteopathic treatment for lumbar spine arthritis. Osteopaths often prescribe specific exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and overall function in the lower back. These exercises can help stabilize the spine, reduce pain, and prevent further degeneration of the affected joints.

Postural Correction

Correcting posture is essential for managing lumbar spine arthritis. Poor posture can put additional strain on the lower back, exacerbating pain and stiffness. Osteopaths work with patients to improve posture, teaching proper body mechanics and ergonomics to reduce stress on the spine and prevent further damage.

Diet and Nutrition

Good nutrition is integral to managing lumbar spine arthritis. Osteopaths may recommend dietary changes and supplements to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and support overall joint health. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals can help reduce pain and improve mobility in the lower back.

Lumbar spine arthritis can be a challenging condition to manage, but with the right treatment approach, it is possible to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function. Osteopathy offers a holistic treatment option for lumbar spine arthritis, focusing on reducing inflammation, improving joint function, and promoting healing. If you are suffering from lumbar spine arthritis, consider consulting with an osteopath to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.

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Severe Lower Back Pain Treatment

Understanding Severe Lower Back Pain

Severe lower back pain is a common issue that many people face at some point in their lives. The pain can range from mild discomfort to intense agony, and can significantly impact a person’s daily activities and quality of life. There are many potential causes of severe lower back pain, including muscle strains, herniated discs, arthritis, and spinal stenosis.

Traditional Treatments for Severe Lower Back Pain

When it comes to treating severe lower back pain, there are a variety of traditional treatment options available. These can include over-the-counter pain medications, hot and cold therapy, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. While these treatments can be effective for some individuals, they may not always provide long-term relief and can come with potential side effects.

The Role of an Osteopath in Treating Severe Lower Back Pain

An osteopath is a healthcare professional who is highly trained in treating musculoskeletal issues, including severe lower back pain. Osteopaths take a holistic approach to treatment, focusing on the body as a whole rather than just the symptoms. They use a variety of hands-on techniques, such as spinal manipulation, soft tissue massage, and stretching exercises, to help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Osteopaths also work with their patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address the root cause of the pain, rather than just masking the symptoms. This can involve identifying and correcting imbalances in the body, improving posture and body mechanics, and providing guidance on lifestyle changes that can help prevent future episodes of pain.

How an Osteopath Can Help with Severe Lower Back Pain

Diagnosis and Assessment: One of the first steps an osteopath will take when treating severe lower back pain is to conduct a thorough assessment to identify the underlying cause of the pain. This can involve a physical examination, review of medical history, and possibly imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. By pinpointing the root cause of the pain, an osteopath can develop an effective treatment plan tailored to the individual.

Hands-On Treatment: Osteopaths use a variety of hands-on techniques to help alleviate severe lower back pain. This can include spinal manipulation, in which the osteopath applies controlled pressure to the spine to improve alignment and mobility. Soft tissue massage can help reduce tension in the muscles and improve circulation, while stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and range of motion.

Educational Support: In addition to hands-on treatment, an osteopath can provide educational support to help patients better understand their condition and how to manage their pain. This can include guidance on proper posture, ergonomics, and exercises that can be done at home to help strengthen the muscles supporting the lower back and prevent further injury.

Preventative Care: Osteopaths not only focus on treating the symptoms of severe lower back pain but also work to prevent future episodes from occurring. By addressing imbalances in the body, improving posture, and providing guidance on lifestyle changes, osteopaths can help patients reduce their risk of developing chronic pain and maintain long-term spinal health.

 

Severe lower back pain can be a debilitating condition that significantly impacts a person’s quality of life. Traditional treatments may provide temporary relief, but for many individuals, long-term solutions are needed. Osteopaths offer a holistic approach to treating severe lower back pain, focusing on the root cause of the pain and providing personalized treatment plans that address the individual’s unique needs.

If you are suffering from severe lower back pain, consider seeking the help of an osteopath. The Osteopaths at Eclipse Health and Osteopathy have extensive experience in treating people with severe lower back pain and are here to help. Feel free to call our clinic for more information or book an appointment.

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5 Causes of Lower Back Pain and How an Osteopath Can help

5 Causes of Lower Back Pain and How an Osteopath Can help

5 Causes of Lower Back Pain and How an Osteopath Can Help

Introduction

Lower back pain is a common issue that affects millions of people around the world. It can significantly impact one’s quality of life, making even the simplest tasks unbearable. Understanding the underlying causes of lower back pain is crucial for effective treatment. In this blog post, we will discuss five common causes of lower back pain and how an osteopath can help alleviate the discomfort.

The Osteopaths at Eclipse Health and Osteopathy have more than 20 years combined experience and have seen and helped many patients with lower back pain. It is one of the most common reasons people seek help from and Osteopath.

Cause 1: Muscle Strain

One of the primary causes of lower back pain is muscle strain. This occurs when the muscles in the lower back are overstretched or torn due to improper lifting techniques, sudden movements, or poor posture. The pain from a muscle strain can range from mild to debilitating, making it essential to seek proper treatment.

Treatment by an osteopath involves a thorough assessment of the affected muscles and surrounding tissues. The osteopath will use a combination of manual techniques, such as soft tissue manipulation, to relieve muscle tension and promote healing. In addition, they may provide tailored exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve posture, reducing the likelihood of future muscle strains.

Cause 2: Herniated Disc

A herniated disc is another common cause of lower back pain. This occurs when the soft, jelly-like center of a vertebral disc pushes through a tear in the outer layer, irritating nearby nerves. Herniated discs can be caused by age-related wear and tear, repetitive movements, or sudden injuries.

An osteopath can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with a herniated disc through various techniques. They may use gentle spinal manipulation to relieve pressure on the affected disc and nerves. Additionally, they can provide exercises to improve core strength, which helps stabilize the spine and reduce the risk of further disc issues.

Cause 3: Arthritis

Arthritis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints, can also contribute to lower back pain. Osteoarthritis, in particular, is a common form of arthritis that affects the spine. It occurs when the protective cartilage between the vertebrae wears down over time, leading to pain and stiffness.

Osteopathic treatment for arthritis involves a holistic approach to manage pain and improve mobility. An osteopath will use gentle manipulation techniques to relieve joint stiffness and restore proper alignment. They may also provide advice on lifestyle modifications, such as exercise and nutrition, to help manage arthritis symptoms effectively.

Cause 4: Poor Posture

Modern lifestyles often involve prolonged sitting or standing in improper postures, which can strain the muscles and ligaments of the lower back. Poor posture places undue stress on the spine, leading to pain and discomfort over time.

An osteopath can assess your posture and identify areas of imbalance. They will provide tailored exercises and advice to improve posture, thereby relieving strain on the lower back. Additionally, they may use manual techniques to release tension in the muscles and promote better alignment of the spine.

Cause 5: Stress and Emotional Factors

Believe it or not, emotional factors such as stress and anxiety can contribute to lower back pain. When our bodies are under stress, we tend to tense our muscles, including those in the back, leading to pain and discomfort.

Osteopaths recognize the influence of emotional factors on physical well-being. They may combine physical techniques with relaxation and breathing exercises to help reduce stress levels and alleviate lower back pain. By addressing the emotional component, osteopaths can contribute to overall pain relief and improved mental well-being.

Lower back pain can significantly impact one’s daily life, but with the help of an osteopath, relief is possible. By understanding the underlying causes of lower back pain, such as muscle strain, herniated discs, arthritis, poor posture, and emotional factors, an osteopath can provide effective treatments tailored to the individual’s needs. If you are experiencing lower back pain, don’t hesitate to consult with an osteopath and take the necessary steps to restore your comfort and quality of life.

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