Low back pain, commonly known as lower back pain, is a condition that almost everyone has experienced at least once in their life. It is estimated that 85% of the population has faced an episode of acute low back pain. But what are the causes, and how can osteopathy help prevent and treat it? Let's find out together.
Causes and risk factors of low back pain
The risk factors that lead to episodes of low back pain are numerous and often related to lifestyle or work activity. Among the main ones we find:
- Repetitive movements: jobs that involve twisting and bending of the spine.
- Exposure to vibrations: typical for those who drive heavy vehicles or operate machinery.
- Poor posture: long hours sitting at a desk or behind the wheel.
- Physical and psychological stress: both can affect muscular and joint well-being.
Although it is the leading disorder among people under 45 and represents a huge cost for healthcare systems (around 40 billion dollars a year in the USA alone), low back pain is often overlooked and not treated properly.
Osteopathy: a valid aid against low back pain
Osteopathy proves to be an effective solution for relieving low back pain and preventing recurrences, thanks to a holistic approach aimed at rebalancing the body and correcting harmful compensations.
An osteopath intervenes through:
- Comprehensive assessment: identifies dysfunctions not only in the lumbar area but also in related areas such as the sacrum, sacroiliac joint, hips, and lower limbs.
- Manual therapy: uses specific techniques to restore the spine to its optimal position, reducing strain and improving the management of daily movements.
- Prevention: thanks to regular treatments, the risks of new painful episodes can be significantly reduced.
Benefits of osteopathy for those suffering from low back pain
The benefits of osteopathy in managing low back pain are numerous:
- Pain reduction: relieves muscle tension and improves mobility.
- Prevention of recurrences: corrects dysfunctions that could lead to new episodes.
- Posture improvement: helps the body maintain correct alignment.
- General well-being: reduces stress and promotes better body balance.
Low back pain does not have to be an inevitable fate. With a personalized osteopathic approach, it is possible to reduce pain, prevent new episodes, and improve quality of life.
