At northlondonosteopaths Alan Nevies and his colleagues are abreast of latest developments and advice regarding back and other pain related to the muscular skeletal system. Professor Stuart McGill, professor of spine bio mechanics at the University of Waterloo in Canada questions the validity of blanket approaches and treatments including yoga and Pilates as being the solutions to all problems for all people. He also has reservations about the use of OTC pain relief. According to Professor McGill there a broadly two types of spines: flexible and rigid. Exercises that benefit people with flexible spines include yoga type movements, Pilates and stretching exercises. However people with rigid spines should avoid these types of movements as they are liable to damage rather than help the back, especially if followed by long periods of sitting.

Alan Nevies and associates at northlondonosteopaths certainly agree that the treatment plan and any exercise regime must be individualized, so that somebody with a rigid spine should not be given the inappropriate advice because of the popularity of any one kind of treatment or exercise. Our patient care is patient focused and Alan Nevies and associates carefully assess each patient who is then given a specific treatment plan.

For people with rigid spines suffering from chronic back pain Professor McGill recommends fast walking once the pain eases. He suggests three specific core strengthening exercises for daily repetition: the modified curl up, the half side plank and the bird dog quadruped. Sit ups are not a good idea for people suffering from chronic back pain as too much strain is put on the discs. The exercises that the Prof suggests are good for building a strong core and Alan Nevies and associates are happy to show you how to do them properly, while giving you very personalized care and attention. So walk fast to 44 Hoop Lane towards a pain free back.