Back pain

What is it?

Back pain is one of the most frequent reasons for seeking physiotherapy and can affect any region of the spine: cervical, thoracic, or lumbar. Although many people believe it stems solely from a "back problem," it is actually typically the result of an interaction between muscles, joints, tissues, movement, and the nervous system.

The spine is designed to provide stability, mobility, and protection to the nervous system. To function correctly, it must work in coordination with the pelvis, hips, legs, neck, and shoulders.

Most Common Symptoms

• Localized or radiating pain.

• Back stiffness.

• Difficulty moving.

• Sensation of joint locking.

• Muscle spasms.

• Pain when sitting or standing for prolonged periods.

• Discomfort when lifting weights.

• Loss of mobility.

Why does it occur?

Back pain can be associated with several factors:

• Muscle overload.

• Deficits in strength or motor control.

• Lack of mobility.

• Biomechanical alterations.

• Repetitive movements.

• Sedentary lifestyle.

• Injuries to muscles, ligaments, or discs.

• Physical and emotional stress.

In many cases, findings on an MRI or X-ray do not explain the pain on their own. Nervous system sensitivity and the body's capacity to adapt to loads also play a fundamental role.

The importance of movement and the nervous system

The spine functions as part of a kinetic chain that involves the feet, knees, pelvis, hips, trunk, shoulders, and neck.

When one of these structures loses mobility or stability, another may assume a greater load and begin to generate discomfort. Furthermore, conditions such as prolonged stress, lack of rest, or fear of movement can cause the nervous system to increase muscle tension and prolong pain.

Because of this, treatment does not focus solely on the back, but rather on understanding which factors are causing the overload and how to restore more efficient movement to the body.

Therapeutic approach

Treatment is tailored to the individual needs of each patient and may include:

• Manual therapy.

• Myofascial release.

• Dry needling, when indicated.

• Therapeutic exercise.

• Movement re-education.

• Core stability training.

• Improving pelvic and hip mobility.

• Pain and movement education.

Treatment Goals

• Alleviate pain.

• Restore mobility.

• Improve strength and stability.

• Reduce muscle tension.

• Optimize movement patterns.

• Minimize the risk of recurrence.