Low back pain treatments often address the structural issues caused by posture and movement dysfunctions, including sitting for long periods of time. Low back pain is one of the most common health issues, and integrative treatment is especially effective. Low back pain is especially common among people who spend a lot of time sitting down. Sitting tightens the hamstrings, which then pull the pelvis out of alignment, causing it to tilt. This tilt then puts extra stress on the structures of the low back and hips. Muscle tightens and fascia gets thicker and shorter, adapting in ways that seem to hold the shape of sitting down even when standing, walking, and running. Bodywork treats low back pain by releasing tension and lengthening fascia. Working with the hamstrings, hips, psoas, and other related structures, it addresses the imbalances that cause pain. It also helps nourish tissues, bringing blood and nutrient flow to oxygen starved nerves and muscles. Acupuncture treats low back pain by resetting the nervous system and correcting imbalances. This is especially helpful when the pain has become chronic, because the nervous system gets more and more sensitive to persistent problems, sending louder and louder pain signals to the brain. Acupuncture is effective for helping to turn these alarms back down, resetting the pain signalling to a lower level or helping turn it off entirely. Counseling also treats chronic low back pain. When pain has become chronic, it changes the way the brain works. Working through the resulting emotional dysregulation and learning mindfulness and awareness techniques helps clear the effects of long term pain on the brain and nervous system. It also works with other integrative treatments to boost effectiveness. Somatics treats low back pain, helping to address dysfunction and maintain positive results from other treatments. Somatics builds awareness of the body and how it moves, so that posture and alignment issues are able to be addressed. Classes and a regular practice are able to stretch and lengthen tight tissues, calm the nervous system and its pain signalling, and teach the body how to move in ways that are more sustainable for long term health. Low back pain treatments work with soft tissues and the nervous system to correct imbalances and address dysfunction. Bodywork, acupuncture, counseling, and somatics are all effective, and can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to address the specific causes of your low back pain.
