Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek treatment — and it can have a significant impact on how you work, sleep, exercise and move through everyday life.
Also known as lumbar spine pain, lower back pain (LBP) can affect people of all ages. It may make simple movements such as sitting, standing, bending, lifting or walking uncomfortable, and in some cases, symptoms can extend into the hips, buttocks or legs.
What causes lower back pain?
Lower back pain can develop for many different reasons. It may be related to muscles, joints, ligaments, connective tissues or nerves, or a combination of several factors.
Common triggers can include:
• Muscle or ligament strain
• Repetitive movements or overuse
• Poor or prolonged postures
• Lifting or sudden movements
• Sporting injuries
• Reduced strength or mobility
• Changes within the joints or spine
• Previous injuries or surgery
• Stress and lifestyle factors
Symptoms can vary considerably. You may experience anything from a mild, persistent ache or stiffness to sharper, more intense pain.
Some people experience occasional flare-ups, while others find their symptoms become persistent or recurrent.
At Twin Rivers Osteopathy, we look beyond the location of your pain.
Your lower back doesn't work in isolation. The hips, pelvis, upper back, muscles, joints and the way you move can all influence how your lower back feels and functions.
Your osteopath will take the time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle, movement patterns and individual needs.
We then develop a personalised approach designed to help you:
Treatment may include hands-on osteopathic techniques, soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, dry needling, movement advice and personalised exercises, depending on what is appropriate for you.
For ongoing or recurrent back pain, we may also incorporate Clinical Reformer Pilates to help improve strength, control, mobility and confidence in movement.
Whether your pain has come on suddenly or you've been managing it for months or even years, understanding what's contributing to your symptoms is an important first step.
If your lower back pain isn't improving, keeps returning, or is starting to interfere with the things you enjoy, we're here to help.
Book an appointment with Twin Rivers Osteopathy or call (03) 4135 2701 to discuss your symptoms and find the right approach for you.
Move slowly and comfortably. You should not force into pain. If an exercise significantly increases your symptoms, stop and speak with your osteopath or healthcare professional.
Helps: Improve lower back mobility and awareness.
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
Gently tighten your abdominal muscles and tilt your pelvis so your lower back gently presses towards the floor. Hold for a few seconds, then relax and return to your starting position.
Try: 10–15 repetitions.
Helps: Gently stretch the lower back and hips.
Lie on your back with both knees bent. Slowly bring one knee towards your chest, holding behind the thigh if comfortable. Hold for 15–20 seconds before returning the foot to the floor. Repeat on the other side.
Try: 2–3 times each side.
Helps: Strengthen the glutes, hips and core to support your lower back.
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart. Engage your abdominal muscles and squeeze your glutes as you slowly lift your hips from the floor. Pause at the top, then lower with control.
Try: 8–12 repetitions.
Helps: Improve core strength, balance and control through the spine.
Start on your hands and knees with your hands under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Gently brace your core and slowly extend one arm and the opposite leg. Hold for a few seconds, then return to the starting position. Repeat on the opposite side.
Try: 6–10 repetitions each side.
When you're experiencing lower back pain, complete rest isn't always the answer. Gentle, appropriate movement can help maintain mobility and gradually rebuild strength and confidence.
Everyone's back pain is different, so exercises should be tailored to your individual symptoms and abilities.
Not sure which exercises are right for you? Our osteopaths at Twin Rivers Osteopathy can assess your movement and create a personalised exercise and rehabilitation plan to help you move with greater confidence.
Book your appointment today or call (03) 4135 2701.