05/09/2025
Following on from our post last week it’s clear that our ideas on back pain are shifting. Chronic low back pain isn’t just about “wear and tear” in your spine. Research from the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) and Professor Peter O’Sullivan shows that pain is shaped by multiple factors — not simply structural damage.
Here are some of the key influences:
🧬 Biological: genetics, physical health, exercise, previous injuries
🧠 Psychological: stress, worry, fear of movement, low mood
🌍 Social & Lifestyle: poor sleep, high work demands, inactivity, limited support
👉 As Peter O’Sullivan’s work highlights:
• Pain does not always equal harm.
• Scans often show “changes” that are normal with age.
• Avoiding movement can actually make pain worse — gentle activity is usually safe and helpful.
• Addressing lifestyle, mindset, and movement can reduce pain and restore confidence.
💡 The big picture? Pain is real, but it’s also complex and manageable. With the right support, most people can get moving again and improve their quality of life.
💜 At Brookmans Park Osteopaths, we take a whole-body, evidence-based approach to help you move with less pain and more confidence.
📍 Brookmans Park | Book your appointment today
