(b) on the other hand, a minor twist or sprain in the lumbar spine can
also go little noticed for a long time. However, irritation in the strained
muscles or sprained joints can cause a reflex contraction of major pelvic
muscles (e.g. the gluteus maximus). The result is a distortion of the pelvis
(as above) adding another stress to the lumbar spine.
In the long term, these stresses can cause torsion & weakening of the lumbar
discs, and this mechanism is thought to be one of the main causes of
disc degeneration, with resultant sciatic pain. Whichever came first, the
lumbar problem or the sacroiliac, the important thing is to get your back
and pelvis lined up correctly and working properly as soon as possible. Left
for a long time full recovery becomes less and less likely…...that`s a fact
all experts agree on.
Low back pain can be a vicious circle. Pain leads to immobility, frustration,
and decreased fitness... which tend to make things worse. Using
an SI support can help with getting back to walking and gentle exercise,
which in turn improves local circulation which then helps with the repair
process.
Q. “Won`t wearing a belt make me dependent on it. And lead to muscles wasting?”
A. Just the opposite. When muscles spasm around a joint (splinting) they quickly fatigue and decondition.
(rather like us if we overwork and never take a break). Supporting the muscles and ligaments
allows them a chance to recover before fibrosis or further injury can take place. |
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(a) if the pelvis becomes distorted, due to a fall or postural stress, the “foundation” of the spine can become tilted. The spine has to compensate,
in order for the upper body to be carried upright. Clearly, some
of the lumbar muscles have to do extra work, and some of the joints
have to take extra loading.
The result is extra wear & tear. Sooner or later something has to give.
Although an attack of back pain may occur suddenly, for no apparent
reason, usually there have been minor niggles or aches for some time
