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What is Mechanical Low Back Pain?

What Causes Mechanical Low Back Pain?

Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit an osteopath. When it isn't linked to a serious underlying disease or nerve compression, it's often called mechanical low back pain, meaning the pain arises from the way muscles, joint, discs and ligaments of the spine move and interact, and this accounts for 90-95% of all cases of low back pain.


What Does Mechanical Mean?

This refers to pain that is associated with movement, posture or load rather than disease or infection. It typically worsens with certain positions or activities, and eases with rest and heat. This form of back pain can stem from how the spine is used day-to-day, such as sitting for long periods, repetitive bending, lifting or poor ergonomic habits.


Common Structures Involved

  • Facet joints: small joints between the vertebrae that can become stiff or irritated.

  • Intervertebral discs: the cushions between bones that may develop strain or small tears without necessarily causing a herniation

  • Muscles and fascia: tension, spasm or fatigue due to awkward postures or repetitive overuse.

  • Ligaments: overstretching or sprains can cause ligaments to become painful.


Typical Triggers

  • Long periods of sitting or standing

  • Lifting or twisting repetitively

  • Sudden increases in physical activity

  • Weakness or poor endurance of spinal muscles

  • Stress, poor sleep and fatigue which can raise muscle tension


How Osteopathy Can Help

An osteopath assesses the entire body to identify muscle imbalances, joint restriction and muscle tension that may contribute to low back pain.

Treatment may include:

  • Hands-on techniques to improve mobility and reduce tension

  • Dry needling

  • Manipulation

  • Targeted exercises for strength and flexibility

  • Postural and ergonomic advice

  • Education to help you understand your condition and self-manage effectively


Bottom Line

90-95% of cases of low back pain results from how the spine and its supporting tissues move and are loaded - it is not related to structural damage. With early movement and treatment, most people can recover well.


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