Common Causes of Low Back Pain Treated by Physiotherapy

1. Herniated Disc-Related Pain:

   Herniated discs and degenerative disc disease are common causes of low back pain. The discs in the spine serve as cushions between the vertebrae, allowing for mobility. Degenerative disc disease typically occurs as part of the aging process, as discs lose hydration, elasticity, and height. This type of pain is often triggered by prolonged sitting, bending forward, or lifting heavy objects. Physiotherapy can help by providing a personalized treatment plan that includes manual therapy (joint mobilizations and spinal manipulations), core stability exercises, and patient education, helping you return to your normal activities.

   Disc herniation, on the other hand, can result from trauma, aging, repetitive movements, or congenital disorders. It is often more painful and severe than degenerative disc disease, leading to symptoms like sciatica, where pain radiates from the lower back down the leg. This pain can feel burning, stinging, or tingling, and walking may become slow and difficult.

2. Muscle Strain & Ligament Sprain:

   Muscle strains and ligament sprains commonly occur due to heavy lifting or sudden twisting movements. The pain tends to be episodic and worsens with twisting, standing, or stretching the affected muscles. Physiotherapy can help by using manual therapy, stretching, strengthening exercises, ergonomic and postural adjustments, and education on prevention techniques. Acupuncture may also be used to manage pain.

3. Arthritis:

   Low back arthritis involves inflammation and degenerative changes in the joints, a natural part of aging that can become debilitating. It often presents with stiffness, limited movement, and pain that may radiate to the lower body, including the buttocks, thighs, and knees. Physiotherapy can help manage arthritis through manual therapy (joint mobilization to improve range of motion), core stability exercises, strengthening, mobility training, and education on how to minimize flare-ups.

4. Osteoporosis:

   Osteoporosis weakens the bones, making them fragile and more susceptible to fractures. This condition is most common in older adults but can also be hereditary. Symptoms include episodic back pain, general weakness, reduced functional activity, kyphosis (rounded shoulders), frequent fractures, and decreased height. Physiotherapy can assist with weight-bearing exercises, flexibility and strengthening programs, postural and balance exercises, agility training, and education on managing osteoporosis and preventing falls.

5. Postural Abnormalities:

   Postural abnormalities, such as kyphosis, lumbar lordosis, and scoliosis, can also contribute to low back pain. These conditions may be congenital (present from birth) or develop due to poor posture or trauma. In addition to pain, individuals with postural abnormalities may experience uneven shoulders, hips, legs, and difficulty walking or breathing. Physiotherapy can address these issues through exercise therapy, postural correction, bracing, and education on maintaining proper posture.

Physiotherapy Treatment Options:

Physiotherapy is highly effective in treating low back pain, helping to alleviate symptoms and restore function. A customized exercise program designed to improve mobility, build strength, and reduce pain is essential for recovery. If you experience low back pain due to any of the above conditions, we encourage you to reach out to our clinic for a consultation with a registered physiotherapist.

Written by:
Anjali Patel, Registered Physiotherapist Resident, Orthopaedic Physiotherapist, Concussion Management Specialist

References:

• Mayo Clinic: Back Pain Causes

• Physio-Pedia: Low Back Pain

• Orthopaedic Division, Canadian Physiotherapy Association