top of page

Understanding Lumbar Instability: Causes, Treatment, and Chiropractic Care

Writer's picture: Saanichton Chiropractic GroupSaanichton Chiropractic Group

Updated: Sep 6, 2024


men and women planking
Low Back Rehabilitation

Lumbar instability is a condition characterized by the improper movement of vertebrae in the lower spine, leading to pain, discomfort, and impaired function. Often, individuals with lumbar instability experience recurrent episodes of lower back pain that worsen with activity or prolonged sitting. At Saanichton Chiropractic Group, we take a comprehensive approach to understanding and treating lumbar instability, offering a range of non-invasive, evidence-based therapies to help patients restore function and reduce pain.


What is Lumbar Instability?

Lumbar instability refers to excessive or abnormal movement between two or more vertebrae in the lumbar spine. This condition often results from weakened or damaged muscles, ligaments, or spinal discs, which are responsible for stabilizing the spine during movement. When these structures fail to provide proper support, the vertebrae can shift out of place, causing pain and a loss of stability in the lower back.

Causes of Lumbar Instability

There are several factors that can contribute to lumbar instability, including:

  • Degenerative Disc Disease: As we age, the discs in our spine lose moisture and elasticity, making them less effective at absorbing shock and maintaining stability.

  • Injury or Trauma: Accidents or injuries, such as falls or car accidents, can damage the muscles, ligaments, and discs that support the spine, leading to instability.

  • Overuse and Repetitive Movements: Repeated bending, twisting, or lifting can strain the structures in the lumbar spine, eventually leading to instability.

  • Surgery: Some patients may experience lumbar instability following spinal surgery, particularly if vertebrae were removed or altered.



Symptoms of Lumbar Instability

Common symptoms of lumbar instability include:

  • Recurrent lower back pain that worsens with movement or prolonged sitting

  • A feeling of weakness or instability in the lower back

  • Muscle spasms or stiffness in the lower back

  • Difficulty with certain activities, such as bending, lifting, or standing for long periods

  • Pain that radiates into the hips, buttocks, or legs

Diagnosing Lumbar Instability

To accurately diagnose lumbar instability, chiropractors or healthcare providers will perform a physical examination to assess the range of motion and identify any abnormal movements in the spine. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may also be used to evaluate the condition of the vertebrae, discs, and ligaments.


Treatment Options for Lumbar Instability

At Saanichton Chiropractic Group, we offer a variety of treatment options to help patients with lumbar instability regain stability and reduce pain. Our holistic approach includes chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, osteopathy, athletic therapy, and shockwave therapy. Below, we explore each of these treatments.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is highly effective in treating lumbar instability by focusing on spinal adjustments and mobility. Through gentle manipulation, chiropractors can restore proper mobility to the lumbar vertebrae, reducing the abnormal movement that contributes to pain and instability. Chiropractic adjustments help relieve pressure on the nerves and improve the body’s ability to heal itself naturally.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy complements chiropractic care by addressing muscle imbalances and tension in the lower back. Therapeutic massage improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and promotes muscle relaxation, helping to stabilize the lumbar spine and alleviate pain. Regular massage therapy sessions can also improve overall flexibility and prevent further episodes of instability.

Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a hands-on, holistic approach that focuses on the body’s musculoskeletal system. It includes techniques such as soft tissue manipulation and stretching to improve mobility and relieve pain in patients with lumbar instability. Osteopathy encourages the body’s natural healing process by restoring balance and alignment to the spine.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, an ancient practice from Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been shown to relieve pain and improve function in individuals with lumbar instability. By stimulating specific points on the body with thin needles, acupuncture reduces inflammation, increases circulation, and encourages the release of endorphins—natural pain-relieving chemicals.

Athletic Therapy

Athletic therapy focuses on rehabilitating and strengthening the muscles that support the spine. By engaging in targeted exercises, patients can improve core strength, stability, and flexibility, which are crucial in preventing further episodes of lumbar instability. Athletic therapy helps patients regain mobility and return to daily activities with confidence.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate tissue regeneration and repair. This therapy is particularly effective for chronic lumbar instability cases, as it promotes the healing of damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the lower back.

Internal Link:


Preventing Lumbar Instability

Preventing lumbar instability involves maintaining a strong and flexible spine. Here are some tips to reduce your risk:

  • Stay Active: Regular exercise strengthens the muscles that support your spine and improves flexibility.

  • Practice Good Posture: Maintain proper posture while sitting, standing, and lifting to avoid putting unnecessary stress on your lower back.

  • Use Proper Lifting Techniques: When lifting heavy objects, use your legs and avoid twisting your back.

  • Stretch Regularly: Stretching helps improve flexibility and reduce tension in the muscles surrounding the spine.



Conclusion

Lumbar instability can significantly impact your daily life, but with the right approach to treatment, you can regain control over your pain and improve your quality of life. At Saanichton Chiropractic Group, we offer a range of therapies—including chiropractic care, massage, osteopathy, acupuncture, athletic therapy, and shockwave therapy—to help you manage lumbar instability and get back to doing the things you love.

For more information on how we can help you recover from lumbar instability, visit our services page or contact us to schedule a consultation.


--------------------------------

Dr. Mike Hadbavny

Saanichton Sports Chiropractor FRCCSS(C), ICSC


If you are interested in learning more about how chiropractic care in Saanichton can be effective for your particular condition or health goals, contact Dr. Mike Hadbavny at 250-223 -0200 today to make an appointment and discover the many benefits of seeing a  chiropractor in Saanichton BC. Contact us today.

8 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page