Are you experiencing lower back pain and not quite sure why?

Studies show us that around 80% of the U.S. population will experience back pain at some point in their life. Furthermore, between 2 and 10 percent of those people will develop chronic lower back pain that will last 3 months or longer.
Why are so many people affected by this issue?

Lower Back Pain

The lower back is one of the most common areas to experience pain, due of the amount of strain it endures. Think about it; the weight of our upper bodies and anything we carry, throw, lift, etc. is supported by our lower backs for our entire lives. With this in mind, it makes sense that studies have shown the majority of back pain being directly related to normal wear and tear occurring in the joints, discs and bones of the spine.

Some examples of normal wear-and-tear-related lower back pain issues  are:

• Sprains and strains –  Sprains are caused by overstretching or tearing ligaments. Strains are tears in tendon or muscle. Both issues occur from improper lifting, twisting or overstretching.

• Intervertebral disc degeneration – This occurs when, usually, rubbery discs lose integrity as a normal process of aging. As the discs deteriorate, they lose their ability to provide cushion.

• Herniated or ruptured discs – Can occur when the intervertebral discs become compressed and bulge outward (herniation) or rupture, causing low back pain.

• Radiculopathy – A condition caused by compression, inflammation and/or injury to a spinal nerve root. Pressure on the nerve root causes pain, numbness, or a tingling sensation.

• Sciatica – A  form of radiculopathy caused by compression of the sciatic nerve. This compression causes burning lower back pain combined with pain through the buttocks and down one leg, occasionally reaching the foot.

• Spondylolisthesis – A condition in which a vertebra of the lower spine slips out of place, pinching the nerves exiting the spinal column.

• A traumatic injury – A result of playing sports, car accidents, or a fall which injures tendons, ligaments or muscle resulting in lower back pain.

How Muscle Activation Techniques Help

Thankfully, there is a way to restore and strengthen our lower back; Pilates.

Pilates is often mistaken for a method of stretching or exercising, as you would before a session at the gym. In truth, Pilates is a complex process that can be used to relieve the body of discomfort, such as lower back pain, through Muscular Activation Techniques. This method is effective in correcting imbalances throughout the muscles of the body, as well as improving functionality and enhancing performance.

Many methods of therapy for lower back pain, as well as other discomforts, seek to treat the immediately affected area. With Muscle Activation Techniques, the core source of discomfort is the focus, making it possible for a full recovery in alignment, movement, and performance to take place.

Naples Pilates

It is important to know that a typical Pilates class is no place for a person with existing, or risk, of injury. In fact, attending a group class often leads to increased injury and high levels of pain for those with known issues.

If you are looking to Pilates as a form of rehabilitation after injury, you will need an assessment, and personalized Pilates routine. This is exactly the type of service we offer at Pilates Fitness and Therapeutic. For more information on how we can work with you to restore comfort and physical capabilities, contact us today.