Chronic Lower Back Pain
A combined manual therapy and graded exercise approach reduced long-standing lower back pain and helped the patient return to work and exercise.
The patient had experienced lower back pain for over three years, with pain limiting sitting tolerance, sleep and her ability to work at a desk. Previous treatments had given only short-term relief.
Treatment combined manual therapy, education on pain and pacing, a graded core and hip strengthening programme, and ergonomic advice for her workstation.
Pain and sitting tolerance improved gradually as strength and confidence built. By week 5 she was exercising regularly and sleeping through the night.
The patient reported a major reduction in daily pain, returned to full-time desk work without flare-ups, and resumed regular gym sessions.
| Measure | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Pain (NPRS) | 7/10 | 2/10 |
| Sitting tolerance | 20 min | 2+ hours |
| Oswestry (ODI) | 42% | 12% |
