Back pain is the leading cause of absenteeism from work in the UK. It has become something of an epidemic, costing society time and money and shows no signs of reducing any time soon. Back pain can range from a mild aching which comes and goes, to excruciating, debilitating pain on every movement. In this blog I will focus of lower back pain, the most common type of back pain. The most effected age range for this kind of back ache is between 30-55 but this is by no means a hard and fast rule.

The pain can be originating from several different tissues in your back. Muscle spasm is a common cause of lower back pain, the muscles around the spine contract and are unable to relax again. Ligament strain, usually caused by an injury or repetitive movement. The ligaments between the vertebra of the spine are stretched and damaged. Disc prolapse or disruption. When the spongy disc that sits between the vertebra is damaged or changes shape it can disrupt the nerves around it. Bony disruption, arthritis of the joint surfaces can lead to the joint being unable to move freely.

Back pain at the base of the spine largely affects people who lead a sedentary lifestyle, desk-based work and a low level of exercise will increase your chances. It is also more common in women, and can be linked to pregnancy or carrying infants. With that being said, a very physically demanding job which involves long hours on your feet or repetitive lifting can also lead to lower back pain.

As an Osteopath, I see cases of back pain every day. I treat it by first identifying which tissues are causing the pain and then working to take the pressure away from those tissues in order to allow them to heal. This usually involves a combination of moving the joints around the area, stretching and working into the muscles to ensure that they are able to function correctly. After treatment you will be advised on changes that can be made to your daily life, for example; how you sit, exercise, fluid intake etc. You will also be given some basic exercises to improve your mobility and flexibility and to help speed up your healing process.

If you or someone you know is suffering from lower back pain then get in touch with us at West Berkshire Injury Clinic for treatment and advice, or take a look at our latest Facebook live video here.