Back pain, lumbago and sciatica
We are committed to helping you understand what is causing your discomfort or pain
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people see an osteopath, and most people have back pain at some point in their lives. NICE guidelines for low back pain recommend manual therapy, such as osteopathy, only as part of a treatment package that includes exercise. Our osteopaths will assess you, explain what’s going on and agree a plan with you. If you’d like it, we can also include acupuncture, which may provide short-term relief of chronic low back pain.
Below is general information about some common problems in this area. It isn’t a full list. If you’re not sure whether we can help, get in touch and we’ll talk it through.
You don’t need a referral to see an osteopath. You can book an assessment with us directly. At your first visit we’ll examine you, explain what we find and talk through your options. If osteopathy isn’t the right fit for you, we’ll tell you and suggest who can help.
Some problems do need your GP, for example if you need blood tests, scans or medication, or if your symptoms suggest an inflammatory condition such as rheumatoid arthritis. If we find this, we’ll refer you to your GP or another healthcare professional.
Disc Herniation
A disc herniation, often referred to as a ‘slipped disc,’ occurs in the spine, where shock-absorbing discs sit between the vertebrae. These discs consist of a soft, jelly-like centre surrounded by tougher, fibrous cartilage rings. A herniation happens when the soft centre pushes outward against the outer rings, causing a bulge.
While the herniation itself isn’t typically painful, the bulge can press on nearby structures, such as nerves in the lower back, leading to irritation, inflammation, and pain. In fact, many people have disc herniations without experiencing any symptoms, and they are often discovered incidentally during MRI scans.
It’s commonly believed that discs are mostly injured by poor lifting techniques, but while this can be a factor, disc injuries can also result from less significant movements and are often a result of age-related wear and tear over time.
Sciatica
Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, typically caused by irritation, inflammation, or compression of the nerve.
The pain associated with sciatica can be felt in the lower back, buttocks, down the back of the leg, and into the foot. It is often described as sharp, shooting, or stabbing pain. Additionally, you may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg.
Osteopathy can help shorten the recovery period for sciatica and alleviate discomfort, especially during the acute phase. We can also provide advice on how to reduce the risk of future sciatica flare-ups.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it's important to seek immediate medical attention:
Severe or worsening pain or numbness in both legs
Pins and needles or numbness in the genital area
Loss of bowel or bladder control
Facet Joint Irritation
The vertebrae are the bones that make up our spine, and the connections between them are known as facet joints.
Facet joints can become painful for various reasons, with degeneration being the most common cause. These joints absorb a significant amount of force and bear considerable weight relative to their size, which makes them more vulnerable to wear and injury over time.
Acute facet joint injuries can occur due to sudden trauma, such as from a sports injury, car accident, or a fall. They can also become irritated from repetitive or minor actions, like twisting awkwardly in bed or looking over your shoulder while driving. Physical activities that involve lifting and twisting, or sports like gymnastics with frequent backward bends and twists, can also strain the facet joints. In some cases, facet joint pain can develop without an obvious cause.
The primary symptom of facet joint pain is back discomfort, but it may also lead to muscle spasms or sciatica due to nerve irritation.
Osteopathic treatment, together with exercise and advice, may help ease facet joint pain.
Muscle Strain
When soft tissues in the body are stretched beyond their limit or torn, inflammation occurs in the affected area. A muscle strain typically causes pain in the injured area, which may also be red, warm, or bruised. Movement can worsen the pain, and muscle spasms may occur with certain motions.
Muscle strains in the lower back usually settle more quickly than other types of lower back injury, and osteopathic care may help ease the pain while they heal. However, the muscles involved in lower back movement are some of the body’s strongest, making it unlikely to strain them without also affecting other spinal structures. For example, a muscle strain may occur alongside a disc herniation, often from improper lifting techniques.
The good news is that osteopathy can help ease the initial pain from muscle strains and spasms. Once the acute pain subsides, we can address any underlying injuries, such as a disc herniation. Additionally, we can provide rehabilitation exercises to reduce the risk of future injuries.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis refers to an abnormal curve in the spine. If you have scoliosis, you may notice a visible twist or curve in your spine, or one shoulder blade may seem higher or more pronounced than the other.
If a healthcare professional has previously diagnosed you with scoliosis, there’s no need to worry. In most cases, scoliosis itself doesn’t cause pain, and the curvature is usually mild and often goes unnoticed. However, it can sometimes contribute to lower back pain due to the body’s compensatory adjustments to the curve.
Any plan we agree will be tailored to you and may include advice and exercises you can do at home.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is a widespread condition that leads to pain and inflammation in the joints. Often referred to as 'wear and tear,' it can develop at any age, typically following an injury, but it is more common in individuals over 45.
As osteoarthritis progresses, the cartilage in the affected joint thins, which increases friction. While osteoarthritis is a natural part of the ageing process and many people experience no symptoms, those who do may report stiffness, reduced mobility, and pain during activity.
Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, osteopathy alongside exercise may help manage arthritic pain and stiffness. For individuals awaiting joint replacement, we can also provide "pre-hab" to help prepare the body for surgery.
Postural Pain and Occupational Health
While not technically a formal diagnosis, "postural pain" is very common. At A1 Bodyworks Clinic, we see many people experiencing pain related to their work, daily routines, and hobbies. Whether it’s sitting in one position for long periods, doing manual labour on a construction site, or carrying a heavy backpack to school, these activities can lead to discomfort in the body over time.
Postural pain most often affects the upper back, neck, and shoulders, but it can also impact the lower back, pelvis, and even cause headaches.
Our osteopaths can offer treatment to address the physical demands of your daily activities, as well as recommend specific exercises and lifestyle changes to improve and maintain your strength, mobility, and flexibility.
Osteopathy for back pain in Runcorn, Frodsham & Widnes
We understand how much pain or discomfort can disrupt your daily life, and we’re here to help you move forward. By listening to your concerns and tailoring a treatment plan to your needs, our team is dedicated to improving your comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. At A1 Bodyworks Clinic, your wellbeing is always our priority.
