A Physiotherapist is Not Immune to Low Back Pain

As a practicing physiotherapist with decades of experience in treating stubborn lower back pain (LBP), it may be surprising to know I personally have struggled with this very same thing. The good thing is that this experience has brought me closer to my clients. I can truly relate with their struggles. This is my story of how I recovered from LBP.

One day while exercising at home I was performing deadlifts, and as I was strapped for time, I rushed through my routine. Ladies and gentlemen this is where the nightmare began. In my rush, my technique was poor and all of a sudden I felt a debilitating pain in my lower back.

This pain was like none I had ever experienced. I was on the floor frozen with fear. Fear that if I even moved an inch I would be paralysed for life. After a torturous ten minutes my wife hears my cries for help and assists me to the bed. This pain continued relentlessly for the next two days with over the counter medications and numerous ice pack applications to the back providing little to no relief.

Up to this point I had total amnesia that I treat this kind of thing on a day to day basis. I was a “patient” now and it dawned on me how truly powerless my patients must feel when hit by this affliction. But in this moment of despair there was hope. I thought…”If my patients can recover, then I can too!” I then put into practice the same techniques I used in my practice.

Periodic application of pain-relieving modalities (like ultrasound, TENS, moist heat and ice packs) to my lower back coupled with trunk mobilization maneuvers and avoidance of aggravating movements like lifting activities and bending forward from the waist while keeping my knees straight. After a few days of this I found it was easier to walk, drive and sleep more comfortably.

I kept doing my exercises routinely twice a day and within a month the pain was minimal. I was able to resume the fun stuff like exercising, riding the roller coaster and playing football. Since then, I pay extra attention to ensure proper lifting technique (squat while keeping the back straight and bending at the knees). Life is good again!

In closing, I want all those suffering from LBP to know there is hope but it may take some time so just be patient. Remember to follow the instructions of your therapist for he might know much more about it than you think..    

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