Low back pain is a condition that affects approximately 70 percent of the population, with the vast majority of people experiencing significant discomfort at some point in their lives. When a patient presents with low back pain, our primary goal is to determine the exact location of the source, identifying the specific mechanical movements that flare up the pain and the factors that provide ease.

It is also critical to monitor any referred signs of pain that radiate into the buttocks or down the legs, a hallmark of sciatic involvement. This radiation often occurs when the intervertebral discs or surrounding soft tissues encroach upon the nerve space, sending shooting pains or tingling sensations along the nerve's pathway. The physical signs of low back pain usually manifest as acute spasms or myofascial tightness directly adjacent to the spinal vertebral segments, spanning from the thoracic level down to the lumbosacral region. Additional symptoms include increased tone and protective muscle guarding in the buttocks and hamstring muscles.

This heightened tension can trap and compress the sciatic or spinal nerves, significantly reducing nerve impulses to the muscles. This compression causes the muscles to become hypersensitive and exceptionally tender to digital pressure. Over time, this lack of proper neural flow can lead to muscle weakness and a further decline in mobility.

The KC-Physio Treatment Strategy:
Low back pain and sciatica respond extremely well to IMS (Intramuscular Stimulation). By inserting the dry needle into the painful, tender bands of the associated muscles—such as the erector spinae, quadratus lumborum, and gluteus medius—we can reset the neuromuscular system and alleviate the "clutching" sensation of the spine.

In addition to IMS, and depending on the client’s comfort threshold, we utilize deep tissue release to separate unwanted adhered muscle and fascial tissue. This manual release clears the way for the vertebral segments of the spine to undergo effective mobilisation and, if indicated, manipulation to restore joint play. Following these interventions, we implement an active and passive stretching programme to help restore structural alignment and normalise muscle tone.

At KC-Physio, clients typically experience tangible pain relief and an increased range of motion within the very first session. Subsequent sessions build upon this foundation, giving rise to further pain relief and restored function. When this clinical intervention is combined with a simple, targeted home exercise programme, most patients achieve amazing results within only a handful of sessions.