Low Back Pain and Balance

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Low Back Pain and Balance

Low Back Pain and Balance


Statistically, most people (estimated to be about 90%) will seek care for Low Back Pain (LBP) at some point in their lifetime.  Last month, we discussed the role of foot orthotics play in the management of LBP by improving balance, and it seems appropriate to discuss other ways we can improve our balance.

Balance is a skill that is learned as we develop.  Initially, as infants, we have not developed the “neuromotor pathways” or, sequence of signals between the brain and our toes, feet, ankles, knees, hips, and so on.  The constant flow of sensory information received and processed by the brain prompts motor messages to be sent back to our limbs and allows us to move in a progressively more coordinated manner as we develop.  This natural progression of developing motor control starts with crude, rather uncontrolled movement of the fingers, hands, arms, legs and feet, and soon, we learn to hold up our head, scoot, roll over, crawl, stand, and eventually walk (usually during the first 12 months of life).  The learning process of recognizing sounds, voice quality and inflections, and words occurs simultaneously.  This bombardment of sensory information to the brain leads to the ability to gradually perform highly integrated functions including walking, running, jumping, and dancing.  As part of that learning process falling frequently occurs.  We all recall the challenges of learning how to ride a bike, swim, do a somersault, climb a tree, swing, dance, do gymnastics, ski, and on and on.  As time passes and we enter middle age, we become less steady, leading to more frequent balance loss and falls.  Eventually, we have to hold on to hand railings or the wall in order to keep our balance and falling occurs more frequently.  Couple this gradual loss of balance with bone demineralization (osteoporosis) and the risk of a fracture, such as a hip or vertebra, increases as well.

So the question arises, what can we do to slow down this process and maybe even reverse it?  The answer is, A LOT!!!  Just like muscles shrink and atrophy if they are not used, so does our ability to maintain our balance.  We have to keep challenging our balance in order to keep those neuromotor pathways open.  That need doesn’t stop after childhood, in fact, becomes more important as we age.

We realize you have a choice in who you choose to provide your healthcare services.  If you, a friend or family member requires care for low back pain, we sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence shown by choosing our services and look forward to serving you and your family presently and, in the future.

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL!!
ONLY $89.00!!

Includes an exam, any necessary x-rays, report of findings, and 2 adjustments (Normally over $600.00)

Please call (925) 829-8484 to schedule your appointment!


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