Chronic Back Pain

Pain that has been present for longer period of time, possibly even years. Sometimes just lower back pain, but sometimes leg, hip or buttock pain are involved.

Causes

• Degenerative disc disease – changes in biomechanics in the spine causes disc pain, disc bulges/herniations, facet joint loading and stenosis
• Stabilization muscle deconditioning
• Changes in gait pattern causing increased stress through the feet, knees, hips and lower back

Treatment

• Decompression – unloads facet joints, decompresses discs, reduces disc bulges and hernitations, stretches tight muscles and ligaments
• Stabilization exercise with directional bias – exercises specifically for chronic lower back pain, which can halt the degenerative process, alleviate pain and increase function
• Modalities for inflammation control
• Mobilization to improve segmental ROM and facet joint mobility

Be Wary Of