Why is Consistency important in Lower Back Pain Therapy?
I usually recommend my clients to receive a massage once a month for preventative maintenance and an overall sense of well-being, after all, one can never have enough of a good thing and everyone (including us therapists) needs to be loved and cared for.
For clients suffering from chronic back pain, either during and/or after the massage, I often incorporate stretching techniques to enhance their active and passive range of motion, optimize motor performance and rehabilitation.
Clients with chronic conditions such as cervical spondylosis may benefit from chest expander positions coupled with slow deep breathing, and clients suffering from sciatica may find knee and thigh stretches to be very helpful. It is important to note that the stretches should be done carefully within the client's comfort zone in consultation with the client’s primary health practioner to avoid further trauma. The results are often positive and brings tremendous relief if done properly, slowly that is.
Depending on the client situation, I may also give them simple stretches to do at home. When recommending stretches for the client to do at home, always demonstrate the stretch and explain how many, for how long, and how often to stretch. This is important otherwise it will take much longer to achieve results.
Consistency
Folks, I cannot overemphasize the importance of consistency by adhering to a treatment plan, stretching often, or near to a daily basis, to achieve results and keep the body and mind flexible. Stretches not only improve mobility, they also help correct bad posture defects.
Another important key when recommending stretches is not to overwhelm clients with too many stretches because most will not follow a 20 minutes regimen, instead, just make it simple with one or two stretches that take no longer than 5 minutes to do. You will find that your client will generally comply and you can always incorporate additional stretches at follow up appointments.
The Stretches
I have shared what, in my opinion, is a helpful back care program we review with clients when applicable, it includes important do’s and don’ts as well as helpful stretches many clients are encouraged to do at home.
CLICK HERE to download.
Additional Help
If you suffer from lower back pain, you may also want to consider integrating Chiropractic care for optimal results. Depending on where you live, I’ll be happy to recommend reliable Chiropractors who specialize in treating lower back pain and achieve good results by private message.
Wishing you good health,