Chris, a 46-year-old former personal trainer, came to us after several years of persistent lower back pain that affected his daily life and forced him to step back from his career as a group fitness instructor. He had previously sought help from various osteopaths, orthopedic surgeons, and physiotherapists but saw little improvement. At times, he needed a walking stick and prescription medication to manage his pain, struggling to stand for extended periods.
When Chris arrived at the Luton Osteopathic and Sports Injury Clinic (LOSIC), we performed a comprehensive assessment. One of the key findings was a noticeable 1-inch leg length discrepancy, which was genetic rather than muscular. This imbalance placed extra strain on his back and affected his posture and movement. We also found significant tension in his psoas muscles, which are deeply connected to lower back issues.
Treatment Approach:
Myofascial Release – We used myofascial release techniques to ease the tension in the muscles and connective tissue around Chris’s lower back, helping to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Leg Length and Pelvic Alignment – We worked to correct his pelvic alignment using a combination of osteopathic manipulation and soft tissue work. We also inserted a heel lift to compensate for the 1-inch leg length difference, allowing for better balance and reduced strain on his back.
Psoas Muscle Work – Targeting the tension in his psoas muscles was crucial for relieving pressure on his lower back and improving his overall posture.
Results:
To Chris’s amazement, within 24 hours of treatment, he experienced a 90% improvement in his pain. His need for prescription medication reduced, and he was able to stand and move more comfortably, regaining much of his previous mobility.
Chris shared his transformative experience in his own words:
“I cannot begin to explain the difference this made to my life. After 10 years of chronic pain, where I often had to self-medicate and would be crying in agony, this has transformed the future for me. I’m back in the gym, can go hiking, and I’m able to sleep through the night—something I wasn’t able to do for years. I cannot express enough gratitude for the team at LOSIC.”
This case highlights the importance of a holistic approach, addressing not just the site of pain but also the broader musculoskeletal imbalances that contribute to the condition.
