Tips For Relieving Chronic Lower Back Pain

Chronic low back pain is a common and costly condition affecting the lives of millions of people worldwide. It is the leading cause of disability, and is associated with considerable economic and psychological burden. The long-term prognosis for chronic low back pain is largely unknown, but there are a few key factors that can help to predict how a person’s condition will progress over time.

First, the cause of the pain must be identified. Many people with chronic low back pain have symptomatic conditions such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica. While these conditions may be the underlying cause of the pain, it is also possible that the pain is caused by other factors such as muscle tension, poor posture, or even psychological issues. Identifying the cause of the pain is important for finding the right treatment and improving the long-term prognosis.

Second, the severity of the pain must be assessed. People with chronic low back pain may experience a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. The severity of the pain will determine the types of treatments that are most effective. Mild to moderate pain may be managed with physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications, while more severe pain may require more aggressive treatments such as injections, surgery, or medications.

Third, lifestyle factors must be taken into account. Factors such as smoking, obesity, and lack of physical activity can have a major impact on a person’s prognosis. Smoking has been linked to increased risk of developing chronic back pain, and can also worsen existing symptoms. Similarly, being overweight or obese can put additional strain on the back and exacerbate pain. Regular physical activity, on the other hand, can help to reduce pain and improve overall health.

Finally, psychological factors should be considered. People with chronic low back pain often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. These can make managing the pain more difficult, as they can lead to increased levels of pain sensitivity and make it harder to cope with the pain. A comprehensive treatment plan should include psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioural therapy and relaxation techniques, in addition to physical treatments.

Overall, the long-term prognosis for chronic low back pain is largely unpredictable. However, there are a few key factors that can help to inform prognosis and guide treatment decisions. Identifying the cause of the pain, assessing the severity of the pain, taking lifestyle factors into account, and considering psychological factors can all help to improve the prognosis for chronic low back pain.

Chronic back pain courtesy Equilibrium (Read the caption)

How physiotherapy can help you get rid of chronic low back pain

A physiotherapist can play an important role in helping people manage chronic low back pain. Physiotherapy is a type of treatment that can help to reduce pain and improve movement. It is based on a holistic approach, focusing on the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of a person’s health. A physiotherapist can help to identify the cause of the pain, assess the severity of the pain, and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the individual’s needs.

The first step in a physiotherapy treatment plan is to assess the cause of the pain. The physiotherapist will talk to the patient about their symptoms and medical history, and may also use imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to detect any underlying conditions. This information can help the physiotherapist to identify the cause of the pain and determine the best course of treatment.

The next step is to develop a treatment plan. The physiotherapist will take into account the patient’s lifestyle, physical activity level, and overall health. They may recommend certain exercises to strengthen and stretch the back muscles, as well as lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight. Other treatments such as massage, heat therapy, and ultrasound may also be recommended.

The physiotherapist will also work with the patient to develop strategies for managing pain. They may recommend relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises or guided imagery, as well as cognitive behavioural therapy to help the patient cope with pain and stress. The physiotherapist may also recommend medications or other treatments such as injections or surgery if necessary.

Finally, the physiotherapist will help to monitor the patient’s progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. The goal is to help the patient manage their pain and improve their quality of life. With the right treatment plan, many people with chronic low back pain are able to live healthy, active lives.

A physiotherapist can be a valuable partner in helping people manage chronic low back pain. By assessing the cause of the pain, developing a tailored treatment plan, and helping the patient to manage their pain, a physiotherapist can help to improve the long-term prognosis for chronic low back pain.

Back pain courtesy Equilibrium (Read the caption)

Book Your BACK NECK SHOULDER KNEE ELBOW HIP WRIST FOOT Pain Consult

This appointment is your opportunity to tell us what hurts and discover whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care is a good fit for you! During this session, you will talk with a physiotherapist or chiropractor on a phone call (or online) and create the right care plan specifically for your pain. There is no obligation on this session is to find out whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care can help you getting back to doing the things you love in life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Exercises that involve bending, lifting, twisting, or jerking motions should be avoided if you have lower back pain. Additionally, activities that cause additional stress or strain on the lower back, such as running and jumping, should also be avoided. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which exercises may be safe for you to perform.

Chronic back pain is defined as pain that lasts longer than three months. If you have been experiencing pain in your lower back for more than three months, it is likely that your pain is chronic and you should consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment. 

The length of time that physiotherapy takes to work for lower back pain varies from person to person. Generally, physiotherapy can take several weeks or months to begin providing relief from back pain. Additionally, physical therapy may need to be continued over an extended period of time to ensure lasting results. It is best to consult with a physiotherapist to determine an individualized treatment plan for your condition.

About Brenda Beattie

Equilibrium Victoria Bc Physiotherapy Brenda

Brenda has 29 years of experience as a Registered Massage Therapist and is a co-owner of Equilibrium.

She was introduced to Massage Therapy while involved in Varsity Volleyball and Basketball at University. After receiving her Bachelor of Science, she entered into Massage Therapy School and graduated in 1993. Brenda enjoys blending all of the many Massage modalities that she has studied in her 20+ years of practice, but has a focus in Therapeutic Deep Tissue Massage and Myofascial techniques.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information presented in this blog post is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, treatment or a diagnosis, consult with a medical professional such as one suggested on this website. The Clinic Accelerator Inc. and the author of this page are not liable for the associated risks of using or acting upon the information contained in this article.

Book Your Free Consult

Or Fill Out This Form & Get A Call Back

By submitting this form you are consenting to receiving appointment reminders, exercise plans, plans of care, and any relevant services from Integra Health Centre and painhero.ca. Your email will never be sold and you can unsubscribe at any time.