13/06/2025
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for lower back pain, especially when it's due to muscle strain, poor posture, herniated discs, or degenerative conditions. Here's an overview of common physiotherapy treatments used:
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🔍 Assessment
Before treatment, a physiotherapist will:
Take a history of your symptoms.
Perform a physical exam to assess posture, mobility, and pain level.
Identify the cause (e.g., disc issue, muscular strain, posture, nerve involvement).
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🏃♂️ Core Components of Physiotherapy for Lower Back Pain
1. Pain Relief Techniques
These aim to reduce inflammation and pain:
Heat therapy – improves blood flow and relaxes muscles.
Cold packs – reduce inflammation and numb pain.
Ultrasound therapy – promotes tissue healing.
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) – reduces nerve-related pain.
Manual therapy – soft tissue massage, joint mobilization.
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2. Stretching and Flexibility
To relieve tension and improve mobility:
Hamstring stretch
Piriformis stretch
Child’s pose
Cat-cow stretch
Pelvic tilts
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3. Strengthening Exercises
Focus on core stability and spinal support:
Bridge exercise
Bird-dog
Planks
Abdominal bracing
Superman exercise
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4. Posture and Ergonomics Training
Training to maintain correct posture during sitting, standing, and lifting.
Advice on workplace and home ergonomics.
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5. Education and Activity Modification
Avoid prolonged bed rest.
Learn to move and lift properly.
Maintain an active lifestyle within limits.
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6. Progressive Functional Training
As pain decreases:
Gradual return to daily activities.
Functional movement training (e.g., squatting, bending safely).
Sport-specific or job-specific exercises if needed.
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⏱️ Frequency & Duration
Acute pain: 2–3 sessions/week for 2–4 weeks.
Chronic pain: May need a longer program with more emphasis on education and self-management.
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🚨 When to See a Doctor First
If your lower back pain is accompanied by:
Numbness/tingling in legs
Loss of bladder/bowel control
Severe pain that doesn't improve
Trauma or recent injury Seek medical attention before starting physiotherapy.
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Dr Qasim Ali
