I was just with a patient and they asked me, “Why do so many people suffer from lower back pain?”
Lower back pain affects a significant portion of the population, often hindering daily activities and reducing quality of life. If left unaddressed, niggles can turn into bigger problems down the track. This leads to chronic discomfort, limited mobility, and impacting your mental well-being. Lower back pain can impact your career aspirations, your relationships and your social life.
So here is what I want to share with you today:
Understanding the Root Causes
Lower back pain is like a puzzle with many pieces. It can stem from various factors such as prolonged sitting, inactivity, reduced movement in the mid back and hips, and a lack of key strength in critical areas to support the back. Imagine your body as a finely tuned machine; if one part is out of alignment, it can throw off the entire system. Identifying these root causes is crucial because, as time goes on, these niggles can escalate into bigger issues, impacting your ability to enjoy life to the fullest.
The Impact of Prolonged Sitting
We live in a world where sitting has become the new smoking. Many of us spend hours glued to desks or screens, and our lower backs pay the price. Think of your lower back as a neglected garden; without regular care and attention, weeds (pain and discomfort) start to take over. But fear not! By incorporating small, mindful movements throughout your day, you can cultivate a healthier, happier spine.
Combatting Inactivity
Your body is designed to move, not to remain stagnant. Yet, in today’s sedentary world, inactivity has become the norm. Picture your muscles as eager participants in a dance—they crave movement and rhythm. When we deny them this, they rebel, causing stiffness, aches, and, you guessed it, lower back pain.
Building Key Strength to Support the Back
3 key areas support your lower back. Your core, hip and legs muscles are like the loyal guardians of your spine—they provide stability, support, and protection. Yet, many of us neglect these crucial muscles, leading to imbalances and vulnerabilities. It’s time to give these areas the love and attention they deserve. By incorporating targeted exercises that strengthen not just your abs, but also your back and hips, you can build a solid foundation for a pain-free life.
Addressing Reduced Movement in the Mid Back and Hips
Imagine your body as a symphony, with each part playing its unique role in harmony. Yet, when certain sections—like the mid back and hips—fall silent, the entire composition suffers. Restricted movement in these areas can cause a ripple effect, leading to compensatory movements in the lower back and, ultimately, pain. But fear not! By incorporating gentle stretches and mobility exercises, you can restore balance to your body and reclaim your freedom of movement.
Remember, the lower back tends to whisper to you, then talk to you, then scream at you if you do not address the root causes over time.
I hope this was helpful.
P.S: Want to learn more about how we can help you address lower back pain and improve your overall well-being? Click here to book a time for a personalised consultation.
Ross Kinsella
