As a physician specializing in disorders of the spine (physiatrist), I have tired virtually every treatment for low back pain known to man. I have seen virtually EVERY “treatment” from strict bedrest to surgery with medication, manipulation, injections, and acupuncture in between FAIL. There is NO reproducible scientific evidence that any particular course of care is the best treatment.
My PERSONAL experience tells me that the sooner one returns to full VIGOROUS activity, the better the out come…even in a case of a herniated disc with sciatica. Heavy weight lifting (deadlifts and squats)/core strengthening and conditioning…FUNCTIONAL exercises, not “low back exercises”) have actually been my own best avenue for relieving and avoiding low back pain.

Unless you’ve received a direct trauma, e.g. motor vehicle accident, fall etc.. Cumulative stresses from activities over a period of time such as bad posture, poor lifting, can lead to tissue break down and eventually pain. I agree that being aware of your posture and ergonomics can go along way to helping back pain as well as more importantly avoiding it in the first place.

The Pro-Relief is a revolutionary new training device designed to help people overcome their own musculoskeletal problems and pain. From the stay-at-home mom to the competitive athlete, it is instrumental in correcting muscle dysfunction which is the main cause of stress, pain and problems with movement. Active people can use the Pro-Relief to increase the benefits of their work-outs and training. The competitive or professional athlete can use it before, during and after competition to improve their performance and prevent injuries. Even the chronic problems brought on by constant overuse (repetitive motion), accidents or invasive surgery (what surgery is non-invasive?) can be eliminated with the Pro-Relief.

Great article. Most people don’t realise what is causing thier back pain and most of the time it is obvious! I believe there is benefit in getting your workplace assesed by an experienced physical or occupational therapist to ensure your workstation is set up correctly. Even something like desk, chair or computer screen hieght can affect your posture and cause back pain. Having a workplace assesment is even more important if you work in a factory etc and are doing repetative movements or lifting. It may be a little expensive to get done, but the long term benefits outweight the costs.