Osteopathic approach to managing chronic back pain

Osteopathic approach to managing chronic back pain

January 11th

Back pain is prevalent, affecting millions worldwide, including 3.7 million Australians. It often disrupts daily routines and can diminish overall well-being, especially as its prevalence increases with age, contributing to significant personal and societal burdens. The good news? Most cases of lower back pain are not caused by serious underlying conditions and can be managed effectively with the right approach.

Lower back pain can arise from various causes, including muscle strain, ligament sprains, disc injuries, or even stress. Often, there’s a complex interplay of multiple factors, making a definitive diagnosis challenging—even with imaging. Clinical guidelines from organisations such as the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Healthcare emphasise active management. This includes encouraging movement, addressing psychosocial factors, and avoiding prolonged bed rest.

Osteopathy aligns closely with these recommendations while incorporating its own unique principles, making it a valuable option for those looking for a holistic approach.

The Osteopathic Philosophy  

Osteopathy is founded on the idea that the body is an interconnected system capable of self-healing. This means it has the intrinsic ability to recover from injury and restore balance when given the right conditions. Recognising the close relationship between structure and function, osteopaths consider not only the affected area but also the surrounding regions, lifestyle habits, and emotional well-being. This holistic approach aims to treat the whole person rather than just the symptoms.

Osteopathic Principles in Practice  

When managing lower back pain, osteopaths use a combination of manual therapy, movement education, and lifestyle guidance. Here’s how these elements come together:

Thorough Assessment

Every journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Osteopaths will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and carry out movement screenings to identify the source of pain as well as any contributing factors from across all domains of health.

Manual Therapy

Osteopathic treatment often involves hands-on techniques to improve mobility, reduce muscle tension, and support the body’s natural healing processes. These techniques are generally divided into:

Direct Techniques: Applying a measured force directly to joints or muscles to restore joint mobility and relieve muscle tension.

Indirect Techniques: Employing gentle, subtle movements that help stimulate and restore the body’s natural state.

Movement and Exercise: Movement is a cornerstone of osteopathic care. Patients may receive tailored exercises to strengthen key areas, improve flexibility, and enhance overall movement patterns. Osteopaths often use principles of habituation and adaptability, encouraging gradual exposure to activities that may have previously caused discomfort.

Lifestyle Advice

Beyond the treatment room, osteopaths offer guidance on daily activities, mindfulness practices, task-specific modifications, and environmental adjustments. At Kinematics, Osteopaths collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive and cohesive support.

The Patient Experience  

One of the most valued aspects of osteopathic care is patient education and empowerment. Osteopaths work closely with you (and other healthcare professionals) to develop realistic, sustainable strategies for managing lower back pain. This approach aims to build confidence, promote independence, and foster long-term resilience.

A Holistic Path to Recovery  

Lower back pain can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to dictate your life. The osteopathic approach offers a compassionate, evidence-informed path to recovery, blending hands-on care with practical strategies to support your overall health. By addressing the whole person and promoting adaptability, osteopathy empowers you to move beyond pain and embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle.

If you’re navigating lower back pain, consider consulting with one of our osteopaths to see how this integrative approach can support your journey. Remember, every step forward—no matter how small—is a step closer to recovery.

You can book online here.

By Michael Ioppolo

Osteopath