Low Back Pain / Sciatica

Impingement and Spinal Stenosis

This condition is caused by the narrowing of the foramen or canal in which the nerves in the low back travel. This could happen as a result of an injury, degenerative changes, inflammation or even be a congenital predisposition. The pain can be debilitating and result in weakness in the legs, time off work, troubles sleeping and in some cases loss of bladder or bowel control. Physiotherapists often employ joint mobilization techniques, low back traction and exercises to help improve mobility. The idea is to help free up the nervous tissue, restore mobility and improve overall function.

Muscle strain

You do not need to be involved in heavy lifting or extreme sports to have a muscle strain. In fact, it could be quite easy to strain your low back muscles with just your everyday activities. It is because our low back muscles do not get much of a break. They are constantly active throughout the day. Our physiotherapists can help by providing much needed pain relief with acupuncture, laser or other modalities. Your back and core muscle would also need strengthening and our therapists will guide you through an exercise program that is just right for you.

Poor posture and ergonomics 

One of the most common issues we see in our clinic is symptoms related to poor posture and ergonomics. Whether your work is performed in sitting, standing, transitioning, or sedentary you are not immune to this problem. Please note that symptoms related to poor posture can affect areas other than your neck and low back. Pain in the elbow, wrist, shoulder and hip can also be related to poor posture. Therefore, it is important to have a formal assessment of your posture. Speak to a physiotherapist and see if your work station is set up correctly for YOU!

Low Back Disc Irritation

The “rubbery” type substance in between the vertebrae (bone of your spine), commonly referred to as the “disc” can become irritated as a result of injury or pressure from surrounding structures. On occasion a trivial movement like bending over can trigger changes to the disc. As the disc lies very close in approximation to the spinal nerve, injury to the disc can affect the nerve. When the nerve is affected there may be significant pain, numbness, weakness that is often referred to as sciatica. This problem can occur suddenly and be very debilitating. Physiotherapy can help! By means of a thorough assessment, your physiotherapist can devise a program to alleviate your pain, restore mobility and improve function.