Lower back pain

There are a large variety of therapies, techniques and self-care options for people with back pain. This is because there are so many different types of pain and people react and respond uniquely to treatment.

While there is little strong evidence to show that these therapies work for acute pain, there is more evidence to indicate they work for chronic back pain. Strategies for dealing with pain in the lower back include a broad spectrum from bed rest and a limitation of activities, through to continuing as normal or undertaking extra exercise programs.

Categories for dealing with back pain include:

• exercise, rest, encouraging or restricting movement and relaxation techniques (including methods to improve muscle strength or posture)
• pain relief (including medicines, massage, TENS machines, acupuncture and heat)
• physical methods of trying to fix problems (such as manipulation, mobilisation, chiropractic and traction)
• training and education in back care and injury prevention
• programs to help people cope with back pain
• aids to help make life more comfortable (such as wedge cushion supports for chairs, and specially designed chairs, workstations, or beds)
• surgery for particular problems

For a tailored version of lower back pain management, talk to your doctor first, and for additional information visit Informed Health Online.

For a highly comprehensive A to Z of traditional and non traditional back pain therapies visit the Bad Back website directory.