Low back pain is a frequent issue faced by athletes, often stemming from the high physical demands of their sports. Whether it’s a result of overtraining, poor biomechanics, or insufficient recovery, athletic low back pain can hinder performance and overall well-being. Addressing this pain requires a holistic and structured assessment to understand the underlying causes. By identifying the source—be it muscular imbalances, joint dysfunction, or neural irritation—athletes can receive a targeted treatment plan that facilitates recovery and prevents recurrence. A skilled physiotherapist in Alipore plays a crucial role in guiding athletes from pain to performance. Here’s how the process unfolds.
Subjective Examination
Description of Symptoms
The initial step is understanding the athlete’s pain profile. Questions focus on the nature of the pain—sharp, dull, or radiating—and its intensity, duration, and aggravating or relieving factors. This insight helps identify whether the pain is mechanical, neural, or muscular.
Training/Sport History
Examining the athlete’s training regimen and sport-specific movements provides valuable clues about potential overuse or incorrect technique. Activities that involve repetitive bending, twisting, or loading the spine are often linked to low back pain.
Red and Yellow Flag Assessment
Recognising red flags (e.g., severe, unrelenting pain or neurological deficits) and yellow flags (e.g., psychological stress or fear-avoidance behaviours) is critical. These factors influence the treatment approach and guide referrals if necessary.
Objective Examination
Lumbar Range of Motion
A detailed assessment of lumbar spine mobility helps identify stiffness or hypermobility. Movements like flexion, extension, and rotation are tested to detect restrictions or pain points.
Neurological Examination
Testing reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength ensures the nervous system’s integrity. Issues such as sciatica or nerve compression can be ruled out or addressed accordingly.
Thoracic Spine and Hip Range of Motion
The interconnectedness of the thoracic spine, hips, and lumbar region makes this assessment crucial. Limited mobility in these areas often contributes to compensatory movements, leading to pain.
Somatosensory “Smudging”
Chronic pain can alter the brain’s sensory map, leading to distorted body perception. Specific tests help identify this phenomenon, enabling targeted therapy to restore normal function.
Conclusion
A comprehensive evaluation is key to addressing athletic low back pain effectively. A physiotherapist in Alipore can offer personalised interventions, from manual therapy to tailored exercise programs, ensuring pain relief and peak performance. For expert care, visit Kamalika’s Physiotherapy to master the pain!
