Lower Back Pain

A dull ache and tiredness in the lower back, especially after standing for a while.

Back pain is a very common complaint with Kiwis. Unfortunately most of us simply put up with with back pain! 

What causes low back pain?

Lower Back Pain Posture

There are many different causes for back pain, however the main cause is simply poor body posture.  Poor posture when sitting in front of a computer or watching TV on the couch are very common. Also, many of us have poor posture when standing and walking, gradually worsening over longer periods of standing or walking. Most people are not aware of their poor body posture, so addressing it is not easy.

Interestingly, bad body posture can often be contributed to problems at the feet! When the feet overpronate (roll inwards), it can put the entire body out of balance!

Typically, overpronation causes the legs to rotate inwards and the pelvis to tilt forward. The result is increased spinal curvature and continuous tension on the muscles in the lower back causing pain and discomfort.

Therefore, most people who suffer from low back pain, especially after standing for longer periods, or walking long distances, should consider their feet as a possible cause of their back pain.

Treatment and relief

Orthotics realign the body

A recent study in the United States identified the nature of a person's walk as a source of chronic lower back pain. The subjects who all suffered from low back pain reported experiencing a 68% improvement in pain reduction after being fitted with foot orthotics.

Footlogics orthotics reduce overpronation, thereby limiting internal rotation of the legs and forward pelvic tilt. The body posture greatly improves and the tension on the lower back muscles is reduced, therefore relieving associated pain and tiredness.

 

Recommended Products

Footlogics - Casual

 

Space saving orthotics to provide foot comfort.  The Footlogics Casual is a 3/4 length orthotic developed by Podiatrists.  It provides relief for Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain) and other common foot complaints.  The Casual fits in all types of flat or low-heeled slip-on shoes without laces.  More about Footlogics Casual here.

 

Footlogics - Comfort

Footlogics Comfort Orthotic 

Orthotics designed to provide foot comfort while standing or walking on your feet all day.  The Footlogics Comfort is a full-length orthotic developed by Podiatrists.  The Comfort provides relief for Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain), Ball of Foot pain, and other common foot complaints.  It fits in all types of lace-up shoes including joggers and also suitable for work boots.  More about Footlogics Comfort here.

 

Footlogics - Sports

                          

Orthotics to provides relief for sports injuries.  Footlogics Sports are high quality full-length sports orthotics developed by Podiatrists.  The Sports provides relief for sports injuries like Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain), Achilles Tendonitis, Shin Splints and Runner’s knee.  It corrects overpronation, fallen arches and flat feet.  The Footlogics Sport is designed to fit in running and walking shoes, cross-trainers, tennis and basketball shoes. It is also suitable for hiking shoes and boots.  More about Footlogics Sports here.

Stretching Exercises

In addition to wearing orthotics, it is also recommended to do some daily stretching and strengthening exercises. For instance, stretching the hamstrings will help relieve the tension in the lower back.

Hamstring Stretch


Hamstring stretch
The hamstring stretch is done while lying on your back. Gently pull your knee towards your chest and keep your foot up in the air. The leg that is being stretched should only be partially bent. Hold the stretch until the tension in the muscle group is relaxed, this may take approximately 20 to 45 seconds. Relax and repeat 2 or 3 times. Switch legs.

‘The Cobra’ – Back Strengthening

Cobra stretch
Lay flat on stomach, forehead to ground, with arms beside the body. Lift the head up off the ground as you raise your upper torso and arch your back. Hold for 3 full breaths before slowly bringing the upper torso and forehead back down to the ground. Repeat 4-5 times.