Non-Specific Low Back Pain

/ Embody Health Centre/

Low back pain (LBP) without a known cause (fracture, infection, cauda equina syndrome, malignancy) is referred to as non-specific LBP, which accounts for about 90% of all patients with LBP. Sources of pain in the low back can include the intervertebral disc, muscle strains, ligament sprains and the facet joints.

Physiotherapy treatment approach for back pain:

  • Exercises focusing on stretching and strength training

  • Spinal mobilization and/or manipulation

  • Acupuncture

  • Taping

  • Soft tissue/trigger point release

  • Dry needling

  • Modalities, such as IFC/TENs, heat and/or ice as needed

Exercises to treat back pain:

  • Stretching exercises to relieve muscle tension and pain

  • Strengthening exercises with specific focus on the abdominals, gluteals, pelvic floor and back extensors

  • Cardiovascular exercises such as walking, biking, swimming, running

  • Pilates for strengthening

  • Yoga for flexibility, strengthening and reducing stress and anxiety

Education on back pain:

Pain does not mean injury

  • Pain does not mean there is tissue damage, pain is the brain’s way of protecting the tissue.

  • Continue to be physically active and resume normal activities, within pain tolerance. Avoid bed rest as sedentary behaviors can make pain worse due to increased stiffness, muscle tension and weakness of musculature.

Imaging for low back pain:

  • Research has shown that imaging of the lumbar spine does not correlate with severity of LBP.

  • For example: one study found 32% of asymptomatic patients had “abnormal” lumbar spine findings.

Possible causes of low back pain:

  • Occupational risk factors: lifting or moving heavy loads, bending and twisting, and whole body vibrations

Prognosis of non-specific low back pain:

  • 90% of patients with low back pain will recover in 3-4 months.

Risk factors for low back pain:

  • Smoking, obesity, and sedentary occupations

Research has shown very little benefit to back braces and insoles, so what can you do to improve your condition?

  • Proper lifting techniques:

    • Bending from the knees and keeping your low back straight when lifting objects off the ground, and holding objects close to your body and not with your arms extended. 

  • Self Management:

    • Maintaining an active lifestyle and continuing with a home exercise program focusing on stretching and strengthening exercises to prevent recurrence.

    • 60% of patients will have recurrence of LBP

  • Posture focused exercises

  • Stress management:

    • Walking, running, journaling and yoga to help with stress relief

If you’re suffering from lower back pain, please reach out at 519-208-0333, or book an appointment online.