Now, lumbar spine back and hip muscles keep the spine working well. They also are of great significance in chronic non-specific low back pain. Their strength or lack thereof affects the way the spine works. (1)  Hip abductor weakness is common in Richmond patients with low back pain, particularly in chronic low back pain patients. (2)  The gluteus medius specifically is very telling! When testing the pain pressure thresholds, the highest correlation of pain was at the gluteus medius. (1) Other researchers agree that the gluteus medius is weaker in low back pain sufferers. Low back pain sufferers report more pain and tenderness when their gluteals, greater trochanter and paraspinal muscles are palpated. This finding leads researchers to state that gluteus medius weakness and gluteal muscle tenderness are common symptoms in people with chronic non-specific LBP. (2) Is this a surprise to your Richmond chiropractor? Not at all. In fact, nearly all of our Richmond low back pain patients are encouraged to do some simple low back exercises starting usually on day one. (Don’t start without direction as Johnson Chiropractic will decide which ones are best for you.) Johnson Chiropractic wants you involved in your care, and your doing these exercises will help you along much more quickly!

Finally and not surprisingly, new research reveals that lumbar spine segmental stabilization exercise PLUS exercise to strengthen the gluteus muscles brings about a greater decrease in low back disability and an increase in lumbar muscle strength and balance in chronic low back pain patients. (3)  Just what Johnson Chiropractic would expect! So consider working with the recommended back exercises as part of your overall Richmond chiropractic treatment plan. See how well you do!

Contact Johnson Chiropractic today to discuss your back pain and your gluteus strength. Both can be improved for a better quality of life.