Stop looking for a one size fits all program

Are you looking for a package or product that’s going to fix your lower back pain? A specific exercise perhaps? A few rules to follow? A magic wand to wave?

There are plenty of people around who will try to give you the answer. “Do this stretch,” they’ll say. “Try that technique.” And while these may be things that have worked from some people in some circumstances, and while they may be science-backed, to some extent at least, the suggested exercises will often be generalised. And just because a certain technique is better for lower back pain than another, does not necessarily mean that it’s the right thing to do for your lower back pain.

How to know what will work for you?

As there are so many different suggestions floating around, it can be hard to really set up a routine that works over time. Simply trying different things here and there is unlikely to help. And even if it does seem to, it will be near impossible to unpick what’s actually working.

Let’s say someone advises you to do three exercises, or two exercises and a stretch, for example. There’s a chance that one of those exercises may be absolutely perfect for you. But maybe the two others are not so good. The trouble is trial and error rarely works. You need to start with an assessment.  

Find a method that is specific to you

You can identify whether a method or package you come across is “one-size-fits-all” with just a few questions. Are suggestions being made to you that are the same as those made to others? Do they seem generic? Is there a questionnaire and assessment before you get started. Does it feel like they care about who you are and what your specific problem is?

If you see a ‘click here to download your plan’ without any prior assessment, be suspicious. Of course there is a chance that you’re one of the lucky ones and it does help to make a difference. But for most people it's probably not going to be that advantageous. It may reduce the pain a little bit, of course. But if what you’re looking for (and it should be by the way!) is a specific, individualized lower back pain solution, then that one-size-fits-all programme will be ineffective.

How can we help?

The best solution could mean changes to posture, stretches and/or exercises. But in order to work that out, we first need to identify your specific low back pain triggers. That’s why we start from there. We ask about your everyday habits and routines, and really get to the bottom of the problem you have. We then take you through a tailored program that focuses on the areas you need, offers the best science-backed methods selected specifically for you. With regular reviews and check-ins to make sure everything is progressing as it should be.  

Want to know more? You can access our online programmes at LBP Consultation & Coaching (christopherholetraining.com).

Or work with me face to face click here: https://www.christopherholetraining.com/low-back-pain-rehab