Traditional Physical Therapy Is Missing The Mark…
Physical therapy traditionally approaches low back pain and dysfunction from the standpoint of mobility and abdominal strengthening. I argue that physical therapy has been missing the mark on low back pain for a long time. Yes, having someone massage the fascia in your low back and pump your intervertebral disc to ease the pain is good, and laying on your back tightening your tummy is nice… but, the second you get off of the table the forces placed on you by gravity are enough to overcome the “core strength” you have developed. So, what should individuals with low back pain be doing in physical therapy???
Weak Backs Are The Problem!
To continue with my arguments… I would argue that most individuals with low back pain have arrived at this point following attempting something that their low back was not strong enough to handle. Examples: lifting a heavy box (as pictured to the left), pulling a canoe up a hill, pulling weeds in the yard for 2 hours; However you did it, it was likely because your back was not prepared for the activity at hand.
So, it’s time to get your lower back stronger! And if you don’t believe me, just a physical therapist in Birmingham, AL, let’s take a look at some research. Welch et. Al performed a study that had 30 participants with low back pain showing various pathologies on an MRI. They were all placed on a 16 week free weight strengthening program. Following the program participants reported an average reduction of pain and disability by 72% and 76% respectively. These individuals also improved significantly in strength, meaning that these individuals have become more resilient and can perform daily tasks more easily. So, let’s get stronger!
So What’s The Solution??
Below are some of our favorite exercises to use for patients that we work with every day who have back pain!
If You Need More Guidance…
We get it, back pain can be COMPLEX – If you are in the Birmingham, AL area and you need more individualized guidance on how to deal with your low back pain, reach out to Iron Standard Physical Therapy and Performance, we would love to help you! Click the button below to schedule a free phone consultation with one of our Doctors of Physical Therapy!
