Introduction

Lower Back Recovery — Mark T.

Mark came to Meridian Health after 8 years of chronic lower back pain that had progressively worsened. Previous treatments at other clinics had provided only temporary relief. His goal was simple: to be able to play with his kids without pain.

Patient Goals

1. Reduce daily pain levels from 7/10 to manageable levels.
2. Return to recreational sport (weekend football with friends).
3. Develop a sustainable home exercise routine to prevent recurrence.
4. Understand the underlying causes of his chronic pain.

Treatment Process

1. Initial Assessment
   • Comprehensive spinal and movement assessment identified several contributing factors including weak deep core stabilisers, hip stiffness, and poor workplace ergonomics.
   • A 12-week treatment plan was developed combining manual therapy, dry needling, and progressive exercise rehabilitation.
2. Treatment Phase (Weeks 1-6)
   • Twice-weekly physiotherapy sessions focusing on manual therapy and pain-relieving modalities.
   • Introduction of basic core stability exercises and hip mobility work.
   • Workplace ergonomic assessment and modifications implemented.
3. Rehabilitation Phase (Weeks 7-12)
   • Transition to exercise-focused sessions with graduated loading.
   • Return-to-sport drills introduced progressively.
   • Home exercise program refined and self-management strategies reinforced.

Results

1. Pain Reduction Daily pain levels dropped from 7/10 to 1/10 by week 10. Mark reported the first pain-free week in nearly a decade.
2. Functional Improvement Full return to weekend football by week 11. Able to play with his children without limitation.
3. Long-Term Management Mark continues a maintenance exercise program independently, with quarterly check-ins at Meridian Health.

Mark’s story demonstrates how a structured, evidence-based approach to chronic back pain can deliver lasting results when the underlying causes are properly identified and addressed.