Podcast

Back Pain Solutions Podcast

with Ben James & Jacob Steyn

Weekly advice, strategy, and interviews for to help you to build a better back the smart way.

LATEST EPISODES

  • Empowered Recovery: Mental Health Insights for Back Pain Relief
    In this episode, Ben James and Jacob Steyn delve into the intricate relationship between back pain and mental health. They highlight the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of back rehabilitation, emphasising the need to foster a belief in recovery among patients. By educating patients about their spine and effective pain management techniques, Ben and Jacob aim to empower individuals to take control of their health.
  • Beyond Back Pain: Strategies for Long-Term Relief
    In this episode we discuss the importance of the quality and timing of WHAT is said to athletes/clients/patients, adapting the approach to an individual’s personal communication and learning styles, and directing attention to the right things at the right time. This ensures we can drastically reduce the confusion, frustration and overwhelm that can be experienced by patients. If you feel that you don’t understand what is being said in the clinic room, or in the gym, don’t shy away from asking for clarity so you can get the input you deserve.
  • Decoding Back Pain: A Case Study Revealed
    Back pain is a common challenge that plagues many individuals, affecting their daily lives and hindering their ability to engage in activities they enjoy. In our latest podcast episode, we delve into a fascinating case study that sheds light on the complexities of back pain and the importance of personalised treatment approaches. Join us as we unravel the mystery behind chronic back pain and explore the journey of a client seeking long term relief.
  • Enhancing Back Pain Rehabilitation: The Role of Effective Communication with Nick Winkelman
    In this episode we discuss the importance of the quality and timing of WHAT is said to athletes/clients/patients, adapting the approach to an individual’s personal communication and learning styles, and directing attention to the right things at the right time. This ensures we can drastically reduce the confusion, frustration and overwhelm that can be experienced by patients. If you feel that you don’t understand what is being said in the clinic room, or in the gym, don’t shy away from asking for clarity so you can get the input you deserve.
  • Understanding The Importance Of Nutrition In The Management Of Chronic Inflammation With Special Guest Dr David Seaman
    Today we interviewed Dr David Seaman, who has gone a long way in finding out exactly how important it is to take care of the foundation of our healing capabilities in understanding the role of nutrition. On top of his Chiropractic degree he completed a masters in Nutrition and teaches nutrition at more than one chiropractic school, otherwise he attends conferences worldwide.
  • Sit Better, Live Better: Can Active Sitting Improve Your Back Health With Dr Osler
    In this episode we discuss the negative impact of passive sitting and how Dr Osler partnered with his son to invent a solution himself. We discuss the journey of invention and how ‘active sitting’ has created a movement movement! We discuss the commitment that active sitting requires and the best way to introduce active sitting to your daily routine.
  • How Nutrition And Supplementation Play An Important Role In Your Recovery With Special Guest Simon Billings
    In this episode we discuss the need for proper nutrition and supplementation where needed alongside physical therapies as a way to help patients, otherwise often not helped, towards recovery of their complaints. Quite often the ability of the body to heal is overlooked when only applying physical, hands-on therapies and so in the words of Simon Billings “you are flogging a dead horse”. If the body is not ready to heal, for whatever reason, it will not heal. Stimulating the body from a point where you enable the healing ability by correcting for deficiencies or toxicities becomes the goal and so we set the body up towards getting better.
  • The Importance Of Cardiovascular Fitness For Your Back Health
    In this episode we talk about the things you can do to safely ensure that you maintain, and even increase, your physical fitness levels. We explain why this is so important and how it affects the injury in a positive way. We also discuss which cardiovascular training exercises will help you increase your cardiovascular capacity safely.
  • How Do You Lose Weight When Suffering From Back Pain? Nutrition Versus Exercise!
    In this episode we answer one of our listeners questions related to losing weight when suffering from back pain. They were concerned that the pain their experiencing is stopping them participating in exercise which was preventing them from losing weight. We discuss the importance of introducing nutritional strategies over exercise if you’re to safely lose weight whilst supporting tissue recovery.
  • Post Partum Back Pain: How To Assess Your Diastasis Recti And Improve Post Pregnancy Back Health With Dr Alli Cain
    In this episode we talk with Dr Alli Cain about post partum rehabilitation and discuss why so little focus is placed on advising women about their musculoskeletal health following birth. As Dr Alli states, the traditional healthcare system provides a better rehab protocol for sprained ankles than mothers after birth!
  • We’re Back!!! Welcome Back To The Back Pain Solutions Podcast In 2021!!
    In this episode we discuss updates from our respective locations and how this could be affecting the management of back health. We talk about remaining positive and being patient when overcoming back pain as well as how to re-think the pain you’re experiencing. We discuss how pain doesn’t necessarily mean harm and how important it is to keep moving and focus on your own goal with respect to your back recovery so you can work towards getting back to the activities you love in 2021.
  • 2020 Review: How Our Training Has Changed Following the Pandemic & What Equipment Should You Consider For Home Exercise
    In this episode we discuss our own adaptations to training following the lockdown environment that most of us have faced. We discuss the benefits of exercising in a gym environment, not just from a physical viewpoint but also due to the social benefits. We delve into some of the equipment that is worth consideration for you to exercise effectively at home as well as other benefits to working outside of the gym environment.
  • Back Pain Treatment & Opening A Back pain Clinic During The COVID-19 Pandemic!
    In this episode we discuss a new clinic that we have recently opened and the ambitions we have for the patients that come for our support. We discuss the importance of active rehabilitation, and collaboration, in ensuring patients get the best from their care. Empowering people to become a better version of themselves physically should be the aim for all practitioners and we discuss the motivations behind this approach. We talk about putting systems in place to develop healthy habits to support your back health and why you should feel safe visiting a chiropractic clinic during the current pandemic.
  • COVID-19: Will You Be A Better Version Of Yourself Post Pandemic?
    In this episode we’re checking in to see if you’re taking a proactive approach to the strange circumstances, we find ourselves in. do you have a healthy routine, are you eating a health diet, are you staying hydrated throughout the day? We hope to make you think, and to make you take some action on the back of podcast because you’re worth looking after.
  • Sensible Training Guidance & And Avoiding The Pitfalls Of Training
    In this episode Jacob discusses aspects of training that he wishes someone had brought to his attention when he was younger. Aspects which would have helped him to understand his body better and what it needed as a young guy going all out numerous times a week in the gym or field. In doing so, we hope to help listeners to avoid pitfalls in their own training and be more resilient to injury.
  • Facet Joint Syndrome; Facet joint Pain & Facet Joint Treatment
    In this episode we discuss lumbar facet syndrome following inappropriate lifting technique, which resulted in significant pain. Lumbar facet syndrome is a painful irritation in the posterior structures of the spine and is most commonly caused by repetitive microtrauma, resulting in chronic degeneration over time. Swelling in local tissues can cause irritation of surrounding nerves leading to discomfort. Acute events can also result in small capsular tears of the involved facet joints such was the likely cause of acute pain in this case.
  • Understanding Lumbar Spinal Stenosis; Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Treatment & Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Exercises
    In this episode, we discuss lumbar spinal stenosis and the common presenting symptoms that we find associated with this condition. We identify some of the common patterns related to the problem, such as patients leaning forward to alleviate their symptoms, which helps to identify the problem. In addition, we discuss some of the diagnostic tests used to diagnose the condition as well as the treatment options that will likely be considered to help manage symptoms.
  • The Science of Back Injury: Some Inspiration Behind The Smartstrong Approach To Back Recovery
    In this episode, we discuss some of the inspiration behind Smartstrong and the back-pain Solutions podcast. We detail one of the seminars we attended back in 2019, out in Eindhoven, where we spent several days with world renowned back expert professor Stuart McGill where we learnt some of the fundamental principles he takes in the management of back health with his clients, following years of research over in Canada.
  • Why Sleep is a Skill and How To Improve It With Mollie McGlocklin
    In this episode we talk about the importance of sleep with Mollie McGlocklin. Mollie is the creator of Sleep Is A Skill, a company that optimizes how people sleep through a unique blend of technology, accountability, and behavioral change. Mollie’s obsession with sleep came after her own experiences when her lifelong poor sleep habits progressed to a challenging bout of insomnia. With a background in psychology & human behavior, she went deep down the rabbit hole herself to solve her sleep disturbances.
  • The Benefits of Walking On Back Health: Is Walking Good For Sciatica & Other Back Conditions?
    In this episode we highlight the benefits of walking in the recovery process and just how it benefits the spine. We highlight how walking activates the muscles that support spine stability. We also cover off the potential prescription of walking in terms of frequency and duration to provide a guide for implementing walking into your recovery plans.
  • Omega 3 Benefits & Omega 3 Supplements: What Are The Health Benefits Of Omega 3
    In this episode we introduce, and discuss, some of the benefits of omega-3 fats. We discuss some of the health benefits of omega-3 fats and discuss the physiological issues that arise from a poor balance of omega-3 versus omega-6 fats. We highlight the competition that is faced between omega-3 and omega-6 fats which demonstrates why increasing omega-3 fats in the diet is not the only strategy to consider. Finally, we discuss fish oils which have become increasingly popular in the last ten years, but that people don’t understand that not all fish oils are created equal.
  • Lumbar Disc Herniation & Herniated Disc Recovery: A Patient Success Story With Vincent Hulk
    In this episode we’re joined by a special guest as we talk with Vincent Hulk about his back injury and the steps, he took to manage his disc herniation, which was preventing him from taking part in the sporting activities he loves. We discuss the onset of the injury and the initial approach he took to manage the pain before continued discomfort led him to seek out professional help in his native South Africa. We talk around the rehabilitation process and the things that led to him experiencing a further episode of pain which brought him in to see the Smartstrong team!
  • Ankylosing Spondylitis; Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms & Ankylosing Spondylitis Treatment
    In this episode we discuss the aetiology of ankylosing spondylitis and the common symptoms that are experienced by those suffering from this condition. We highlight the common investigations involved in diagnosing AS as well as the long-term prognosis of the disease. In addition, we discuss a pro-active approach to managing AS which includes the use of exercise as well as diet in the management of disease progression. Whilst there is limited scientific support for the dietary management of AS, improving gut health, and nutrition are proving increasingly important in the management of chronic inflammatory conditions.
  • Lower Back Pain Exercise: Is All Movement Equal?
    In this episode we ask if all movement is equal when taking an active approach to recovery and identify some fundamental considerations you should take when returning to activity. We demonstrate some of the mistakes people make when they’re recovering from injury and what you can do to avoid them. We discuss some key exercises that you should consider as part of your rehabilitation program as well as some key exercises to avoid. Furthermore, we discuss how important it is to optimise your environment to support your recovery and need you to tune in to your back pain to guide your recovery.
  • Microdiscectomy, Microdiscectomy Recovery Times & Life After Microdiscectomy
    In this episode we discuss the microdiscectomy and briefly outline the surgical approach to this treatment. We discuss the tissues that can be affected by the surgery and the potential collateral damage that can occur as a result of this procedure. We highlight why this approach is not a quick fix to the underlying problem such that an effective rehabilitation program post-surgery is fundamentally important to the long-term prognosis of your back health and the risk of recurrence of injury.
  • Why Losing Weight Could Increase Your Lower Back Pain & How You Should Lose Weight Safely For Back Health
    In this episode we discuss the impact that excess weight has on back health and why losing weight quickly could be having a negative impact on the back pain experienced by some. We highlight how some weightlifters can take advantage of their weight to support the low back during exercise whilst establishing the long-term benefits of weight loss in supporting low back health. Finally, we discuss the nutritional implications of health dietary choices on overall health and on back health so that you can start to make some changes that will support your recovery.
  • Lower Back Pain Referring To The Hip; Hip Pain & Buttock Pain & Hip Exercises
    In this episode we talk about the differences between hip and low back pain. We discuss the anatomy and where you should expect to feel pain in a true hip injury. We also discuss the reasons why true hip pain is uncommon and how we can take advantage of this joint to support our low back due to the stability, as well as the power, of this joint. Furthermore, we describe the importance of conditioning the muscles around the hip which reduce stresses on the low back by removing reliance on the lower back extensors during movement.
  • Taking An Active Approach To Injury; What To Do For Back Pain & Taking Ownership Of Your Back Health
    Evidence increasingly demonstrates that the repetitive nature of the lives we lead, inactivity and the resultant de-conditioning are impacting back health. Unfortunately, without a proactive approach to preventing back injury, or without taking an active based approach to rehabilitation, the numbers will only rise. In this episode of the back pain solutions podcast we’re joined by Dr Meghan Braun as we discuss the importance of taking ownership of your injury, why the symptom-based approach of traditional medicine is failing, and how there is not enough focus on preventative medicine in todays healthcare environment.
  • Morning Routine: Morning Miracle Savers for Back Health and Daily Routine Examples for Optimal back Health
    In this episode we talk about the risks to back health during the first 30 minutes of the day and discuss why people often suffer from discomfort during this time. We discuss the key considerations to be aware of during the early part of the day so you can limit your risk. Furthermore, we highlight the risks of employing stretching exercises to the low back and help to identify some powerful exercises that can set you up for the day ahead. We also demystify the time input required to take some conscious action during the start of the day and challenge you to implement some of these concepts over the next few days so you can take control of your back pain and get back to the activities you love.
  • Back Injury: Understanding The Importance of Stabilization And The Role It Plays In Back Rehabilitation
    In this fourth episode of this four-part series we introduce the concept of spinal stabilisation and the role this plays in back recovery. We discuss a progressive approach to building safe movement before applying key principles to more complex exercises! You will learn that only a small amount of time is required to implement key principles each day but how repetition is important to rehabilitation success. You will learn how micro movement in the low back needs to be controlled by recruiting key muscles whilst understanding that these muscles must be recruited safely!
  • Back Injury: Understanding The Importance Of Spinal Hygiene & Why It’s Fundamental To Your Recovery From Back Pain
    In this third episode of the four-part series we introduce the importance of spinal hygiene and why this is fundamental in the recovery process. We discuss the concept of spinal hygiene and the active role you need to play in your recovery! You will learn some of the fundamental movements you need to be aware of, and the ‘back saving’ things you can do in order to avoid aggravating damaged tissue. You will be empowered to take control of the discomfort you are experiencing and start to feel in control of your recovery, which will give you the confidence that you can overcome your injury.
  • Back Injury: Understanding Desensitisation & Why You Should Take Care Of The Sensitisation Of Your Low Back First
    In this second episode of the four-part series we introduce the concept of desensitization and why this is the first step in the recovery process. We discuss how this can be managed, and why you as the patient play a fundamental role in this process! You will learn the difference between nociceptive pain and neuropathic pain and how chronic pain occurs. You will also learn how to ‘tune in’ to your back health so you can analyze the actions you take throughout the day to identify the things that are aggravating your back pain so you can start to find ways to avoid them.
  • Back Injury: Why Building Tolerance Is So Important To Overcoming Low Back Injury
    In this first episode we introduce the concept of how to approach your injury through the lens of building tolerance, which sets you on the path to recovery. Being aware of these principles will provide the key to optimal recovery and like with many things in life provides the start of a plan for successful rehabilitation. You need a strategy and here we explain what is needed to consider in your personalised strategy.
  • Bone Broth Benefits, Bone Broth Nutrition & How It Can Relate To Back Health
    In this episode, we introduce some of the bone broth benefits and discuss how those benefits can relate to back health. We discuss bone broth for drinking, and some of the scientific proof for bone broth. We also outline a simple process for preparing your own bone broth, highlighting some of the key steps to making it taste great, whilst making it quick and simple to prepare. In order to make anything sustainable, it’s important to make it achievable and the steps outlined in this episode should do that. As a result, introducing bone broth, or bouillon, into your diet can become part of a wider approach to improving your overall health and supporting your back-pain recovery.
  • Deadlift: How To Deadlift; Deadlift Muscles & Back Injury Risks From Poor Deadlift Technique
    In this episode we break down the deadlift into its component parts and discuss the technical skill required to execute this exercise safely. We discuss some of the muscles the deadlift targets and identify the steps you can take to improve your overall deadlift technique. We also introduce the important role that foot stability plays in the deadlift exercise as well as discussing the role of the hips, and how many people make the mistake of lifting the weight from the floor when they shouldn’t.
  • Barefoot Strong: Foot To Core Sequencing, Barefoot Shoes, & How Barefoot Training Can Enhance Movement Longevity.
    In this episode Dr Splichal and I discuss movement from the ground up. We dig into the growing barefoot movement, discuss the different foot types such as flat feet, and identify how foot health can influence back pain. From barefoot activation exercises and barefoot shoes to nutritional advice to support the protection of peripheral nerves this episode will give you insights, and actions, to improve foot health and enhance your movement longevity.
  • Squat: Squat Benefits, How To Squat & Back Injury Risks From Poor Squat Technique.
    In this episode we discuss some of the common activities of daily living that we perform that require a squatting movement pattern whilst identifying common mistakes that people make when performing the squat. We break down the squat into all of the different components, which need to be performed correctly to execute this exercise safely and efficiently.
  • Back Pain Pregnancy 2: Biomechanics, Diastasis Recti & Pregnancy Yoga.
    When does back pain start in pregnancy? In our previous episode we discussed how many women experience back pain during the early stages of pregnancy as a result of physiological changes that can impact soft tissues resulting in an increase in the risk of low back pain and low back injury. As pregnancy develops there are physical changes that influence the biomechanics of the lower back, as well as the muscles of the abdominal wall. So how do these changes increase the risk of low back pain and what can be done to manage it?
  • Back Pain Pregnancy 1: Back Pain During Pregnancy & Strategies To Prevent It.
    In this episode we discuss some of the physiological reasons why back pain commonly occurs during pregnancy and highlight the best practices that can be employed to help to avoid pain. We give considerations to the tissues that are often the source of pain and discuss preventative measures to minimise risk, as well as highlighting why some people suffer more than others.
  • Back Pain Exercises – When to Exercise When in Pain
    Bed rest has been well documented to have a negative impact on the recovery from back injury and indeed the research demonstrates that this approach can worsen the underlying issue. But should we be resting as part of our recovery? Is exercise always beneficial, and should we be doing exercise at all? What is the difference between doing exercise and taking an active approach to managing back pain?
  • Lower Back Pain Relief Products
    In this episode we discuss a number of different back pain relief products and how they may, or may not, help with the management of your lower back pain. Not only do we give consideration for lower back supports but also some of the more modern technologies that are focussed on providing feedback regarding posture to your phone!
  • Back Brace – Should You Consider One?
    In this episode we discuss the use of the back brace, and more specifically here, the back back belt, in support of lower back pain. We discuss some of the evidence around the use of back belts, and highlight when they could be considered but importantly those people that should avoid them altogether. We discuss the use of back belts in the gym and how they can alter lifting mechanics which could negatively impact performance as well as increase the severity of injury. More than that, we discuss a better approach to the management of lower back pain.
  • Stretches for Lower Back Pain
    In this episode we discuss the research regarding stretches for lower back pain and why flexibility exercises are so often advised. We discuss some of the exercises we simply should be avoiding if we want to avoid aggravating a back problem whilst discussing the importance of introducing flexibility exercises for the hip. Whilst flexibility exercises may be beneficial for certain areas of the body they’re not necessarily helpful for the lower back.
  • Back Doctor – Patient Expectations
    In this episode we discuss some of the things you should expect from the treatment you receive as well as outlining some things that you may want to consider before you seek professional help. Whatever back pain treatment options you consider there is no magic pill to solve the underlying issue and it is not only the responsibility of the practitioner alone to cure the problem.
  • Coronavirus – Avoiding Lower Back Pain
    The UK’s children seem to be working to keep fit with Joe Wicks, and the parks that are open are still full of runners, but for a lot of people the coronavirus lockdown has resulted in greater levels of inactivity, insomnia, alcohol consumptions and back pain according to a recent survey.
  • Back Doctor – Lower Back Pain Treatments
    In this episode we discuss the differences, and similarities, between osteopathy and chiropractic. We discuss the history, and origins, of the two professions, which may be a surprise to you. We also discuss how you should approach your treatment, and what things you should look out for whoever you seek advice from. The aim of this episode is to provide some clarity for those looking to seek advice so they can get the best help possible to help them manage their pain.
  • Building a Back Workout Routine
    In this episode we firstly discuss the time it takes to build the required foundations to be in a position to move forward. In some cases there will be movement patterns that have been conditioned over many years, incorrectly, which take time to restore. Similarly, there will be people that have never undertaken a consistent programme of exercise and who must be patient before they can consider progression. We also discuss some of the equipment considerations that are required to continue to progress towards advanced resilience, and movement mastery.
  • How to Cure Back Pain – Building Movement Resilience
    In this episode we firstly discuss the time it takes to build the required foundations to be in a position to move forward. In some cases there will be movement patterns that have been conditioned over many years, incorrectly, which take time to restore. Similarly, there will be people that have never undertaken a consistent programme of exercise and who must be patient before they can consider progression. We also discuss some of the equipment considerations that are required to continue to progress towards advanced resilience, and movement mastery.
  • How to Cure Back Pain – Introducing Movement Resilience
    In this episode we introduce the concept of movement resilience and what we mean by movement resilience. We discuss how people can take back control of their back health, and prevent future issues, by becoming resilient to movement. We highlight how people can start to build movement resilience into their daily lives, and where they can go for advice to support them on the journey to becoming a stronger version of themselves.
  • Healing Foods for Back Pain
    In this episode we introduce chronic pain and how we approach the management of chronic pain, with a particular focus on chronic low back pain. We highlight how some people seem to accept that low grade, chronic pain, is something they just have to live with. We discuss how individuals should work to identify the pain triggers that are contributing to their pain, and how removing these triggers will help to alleviate discomfort by allowing the healing process to occur. As we have discussed in the past, back pain always has a cause, and so understanding how to remove that cause will help you to remove the pain!
  • What Is Chronic Pain?
    In this episode we introduce chronic pain and how we approach the management of chronic pain, with a particular focus on chronic low back pain. We highlight how some people seem to accept that low grade, chronic pain, is something they just have to live with. We discuss how individuals should work to identify the pain triggers that are contributing to their pain, and how removing these triggers will help to alleviate discomfort by allowing the healing process to occur. As we have discussed in the past, back pain always has a cause, and so understanding how to remove that cause will help you to remove the pain!
  • What Is Pain and How Does it Relate to Tissue Damage?
    In this episode we introduce the concept of pain. How does tissue injury create a chain reaction that is ultimately interpreted by the brain as discomfort? We discuss how pain can be helpful to us and is important in preventing the progression of an injury. We also discuss what we must do to alleviate back pain and help the body to recover whilst discussing how some of the different pain medications work to prevent pain.
  • Lower Back Pain Relief – More Success Stories!
    In this episode we discuss some of the considerations that should be made when looking to start Crossfit training. We demonstrate the importance of hip screening to ensure the back is not compromised in order to perform a deep squat, and how overlooking this can result in back injury. We also discuss the importance of preparing yourself for Crossfit, with the right advice and by developing the correct movement patterns, not using it as a method to solve a back problem!
  • Lower Back Pain Relief – Success Stories
    In this episode we introduce some case studies in order to put some of the theory discussed to date into context whilst discussing the additional benefits you can experience when taking an active based approach to back rehabilitation.
  • Back Pain – Whats The Shoulder got to Do With It?
    When thinking about spine health, and back pain, very few people would consider that the shoulder could play a role. However, the shoulder is a unique joint, and is not just the point where the upper arm is attached to the body! The upper arm attaches to the glenoid, a part of the scapula (the shoulder blade), which itself is attached to the ribs by a number of different muscles. The shoulder is inherently unstable, and the sedentary lives we lead is increasing this instability, which itself impacts spine stability.
  • Back Pain – Understanding The Role Of The Hip
    Movement should not take place through the spine but from the hip. The hip is a powerful, and very stable joint, which we must use to our advantage when performing any activity, whether that be walking to the shops, or training in the gym. If utilised effectively it should provide us with a very stable platform for movement.
  • Back Pain Exercises – Which Other Muscles Play a Role?
    There are many muscles that can contribute to spine stability but some are less well known compared to the anterior abdominal wall, and the posterior group of muscles in the back. There are a number of muscles that are unique in contributing to spine health, and stability, as well as muscles that are more familiar to us which are not often considered when discussing spinal stability. So which muscles are they, and what role do they play?
  • Back Pain Exercises – The Posterior Muscle Group
    Whilst we need to think of the core muscles as an orchestra, the posterior group of muscles plays an important role in resisting shear movement of the spine, that is the movement of one vertebrae over the top of another anteriorly. It is an important muscle group in relation to back pain, and back health.
  • Back Pain Exercises – The Anterior Abdominal Muscles
    Muscles play an important role in protecting the spine from injury by helping to RESIST movement. In most cases we think of the muscles as contributing to movement; allowing us to walk, run and execute other movements. However, when referring to spine health the muscles should be viewed as a ‘guidewire system’, that when under tension, contribute to stability of the spine by preventing movement. The ‘abs’ are considered a commonly recognised group of muscles but which muscles actually contribute to the anterior abdominal wall, and how important are they?
  • Back Pain Treatment
    Without training the muscles around the spine we do not have the resilience we need to prevent injury. We can’t rely on the passive tissues of the body to keep the spine stable. Without an appreciation for the muscles that contribute to spine stability it will be very challenging for individuals who suffer from back pain to make improvements in the long term.
  • Understanding The Herniated Disc
    The intervertebral disc is an important structure that is present between each vertebral body of the spine. There are 23 discs in total throughout the spine and whilst movement potential at each level is relatively small, the combined potential allows us great freedom to perform many activities. However, it is a structure that must be respected, as it is vulnerable to injury so it is important that we understand it so we can learn how to protect it.
  • Lower Back Pain Treatment
    Back pain is the second most common cause of complaint in GP practices and the global incidence of back pain is on the rise. It’s now estimated that 80% of the global population will experience an episode of low back pain at some point in their lives! So why is it that the incidence of back pain is on the rise? Should we be concerned about the sedentary nature of our lives? And what can we do to avoid it?
  • Slipped Disc Treatment
    In this episode we discuss the common mechanisms behind injury to the intervertebral disc, and highlight the activities that are contributing to the problem. We discuss how a single event rarely causes injury but that repetitive actions are often the culprit, and what we need to be aware of to fix the underlying issue. We discuss how a ‘passive’ based approach to disc injury management WILL NOT solve the damage, without a consideration for daily spine hygiene and active rehabilitation.
  • Introducing Back Pain Solutions
    The global incidence of back is on the rise, the number of people suffering over the longer term is increasing, and there is no single approach to curing back pain. However, back pain always has a cause, and if we can successfully teach people to understand their backs, and know the likely cause then we can help them to work their way out of pain, build strength, and get back to the activities they love.