Back Pain is a very common complaint and is experienced by almost the entire population at some stage in their lives.  Mandurah Physiotherapy Clinicians treat this very common complaint.

Chronic back pain is both painful and frustrating. Recent research has shown that persistent low back pain is due to a range of factors including poor disc hydration/health, stiff spinal segments, poor muscle control, degeneration of the spine and sometimes nerve compression. This can lead to not enough or too much movement between the vertebrae segments thus causing pain. Specific exercises aimed at improving normal spinal range and function will improve the back’s function and decrease pain. These exercises involve both back muscles and abdominal muscles but play an entirely different role to the abdominal muscles we use with exercises such as sit-ups. 

There is a range of muscles that help to stabilise the spine including the lower abdominal muscles, which involve the transverse abdominus, and the internal oblique muscles. These muscles can be felt in the lower tummy area just below the front hip bones. The simplest way to exercise them is to try to gently pull in these muscles without tightening the upper abdominal muscles. This type of exercise then becomes incorporated with activities of daily living so that it becomes an unconscious action involved in posture. 

Before starting on an exercise program ensure that a full assessment of the problem has been done, as instability or weak muscles may not necessarily be the causing the pain. Posture and spinal range need to be assessed. The lower abdominal muscles need to be tested in specific positions to see how strong they are. An individually planned exercise program incorporating both strength exercises and stretches may be needed. Persist with your exercise program, progress may be slow if the problem has been there for a long time.  With most cases, a good physiotherapist can help manage your pain and symptoms.

Mandurah Physiotherapy specialise in back pain and use a variety of techniques including Acupuncture (dry needling), mobilisation, manipulation and exercise to regain range of movement in the spine and strengthen the core muscles which support the spine. Our Therapists have specific training to cater for neck and spinal pain.  We also offer Clinical Pilates, Hydrotherapy, remedial massage therapy and gym classes to combat back pain with great results.  Maintenance exercises can help maintain backs and necks to become healthy for life.