Lower Back Pain

Who suffers from lower back pain?
Regardless of age or gender, 80% of the population will experience back pain. Although some people are more at risk due to predisposing condition or occupation, low back pain can strike anybody! It is the most common cause of absenteeism in the workplace.

What are the causes of Low Back Pain?

• Scoliosis
• Previous back injury
• Poor posture
• Pregnancy

What are some of the Warning Signs?

• Localised pain that can be low grade, dull and creeping, to sudden, sharp and stabbing.
• It can be constant or initiated during certain movements.
• Travelling pain deep into the buttocks and legs, such as sciatica.
• Morning stiffness.

Why Choose an Osteopath?

An Osteopath is a primary care practitioner with the appropriate skill and knowledge to assess your complaint. He can assess structural changes that may lead to immobility and dysfunction, due to

• Recurring injuries
• Poor posture and decreased flexibility
• Muscular spasm
• Secondary effects of hip, knee and foot problems

Your Osteopath decides which is the most effective course of action as he relies principally on physical examination, including observation and sharp palpatory skills to form a diagnosis.

Your Osteopath recognises the importance of the skill and technology of modern medicine. This may lead to further investigation which may include:

• Radiological, orthopaedic or neurological assessment.

How Does an Osteopath Treat Your Condition?

Osteopathic treatment involves manual techniques including soft tissue stretching and massage, combined with mobilisation and manipulation of the joints. The treatment is effective and conducted with the patient's assistance.

By designing an appropriate course of treatments, your Osteopath will also provide an ongoing management program, to prevent a recurrence of the problem. Because Osteopaths look at the 'whole' picture of human functioning, they also use a variety of techniques which acknowledges the many factors contributing to balance and health. To this end, Osteopaths provide advice on diet, exercise, posture and many other aspects of daily life. This caring and comprehensive approach to care and treatment complement the body's natural functions, helping you achieve the highest possible level of health and happiness.

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