153 episodes

This podcast is dedicated to providing you with the help you need to fix your lower back pain and sciatica. From specific diagnoses, myths and injuries to the low back, to strategies to recover, we're here to help get your Back In Shape. This podcast is an extension of the Back In Shape Program, an online back rehabilitation program that helps members from all over the world. Created by the founders of The Mayfair Clinic, a specialist back and neck pain clinic in central London and winner of the prestigious Queens Award For Enterprise Innovation In 2020.

Back In Shape Podcast Back In Shape

    • Health & Fitness

This podcast is dedicated to providing you with the help you need to fix your lower back pain and sciatica. From specific diagnoses, myths and injuries to the low back, to strategies to recover, we're here to help get your Back In Shape. This podcast is an extension of the Back In Shape Program, an online back rehabilitation program that helps members from all over the world. Created by the founders of The Mayfair Clinic, a specialist back and neck pain clinic in central London and winner of the prestigious Queens Award For Enterprise Innovation In 2020.

    Pilates For Back Pain: Avoid Making It Worse

    Pilates For Back Pain: Avoid Making It Worse

    🔥 Pilates for Back Pain: Avoid Making It Worse🔥


    💡 Why Pilates?
    Pilates is a popular choice for those with lower back pain due to its gentle, strengthening approach. However, two major issues often lead to worsening back pain if not addressed correctly.

    🚫 Common Mistakes:
    Posture and Alignment:
    - Issue: Many Pilates instructors aren't trained in spinal alignment.
    - Problem: Exercises like pelvic tucks flatten the already reduced curve in the lower back, aggravating issues like sciatica.
    - Solution: Avoid repeated pelvic tucks; maintain a neutral spine.


    Core Strengthening:
    - Issue: Pilates often focuses on muscle activation but neglects spine strengthening.
    - Problem: Floor exercises alone don’t build the whole core.
    - Solution: Incorporate load-bearing exercises like squats and hip hinges for complete core strengthening.

    🌟 How to Modify Your Pilates Practice:


    Step 1: Learn and Support a Neutral Spine
    Neutral Spine: Maintain the natural curve in your lower back.
    Exercise Example: Instead of tucking the pelvis during dead bugs, brace your core and keep the spine neutral.

    Step 2: Remove Exercises That Imitate Pelvic Tilt
    Avoid: Movements like child's pose and knee hugs that flatten the lumbar spine.
    Focus: Exercises that promote a neutral spine and stability.

    Step 3: Introduce Load to the Spine Carefully
    Why: To rebuild strength and resilience in your spine.
    How: Start with bodyweight exercises like squats and hip hinges, gradually adding resistance.

    Step 4: Build Trunk Stability and Limb Mobility
    Goal: Maintain trunk stability while improving hip mobility.
    Exercise Example: Modify Pilates movements to keep a neutral spine and build flexibility in the hips.

    💪Advanced Tips:
    Gradual Progression: Incorporate resistance bands or weights to increase difficulty.
    Integrated Approach: Combine Pilates with other exercises to fully rehabilitate and strengthen your back.

    ✨ Conclusion:
    Pilates can be a powerful tool for back pain relief when modified correctly. Focus on maintaining a neutral spine, gradually introducing load, and balancing flexibility with stability for effective, long-term back health.

    📚 Resources:
    📖 https://backinshapeprogram.com/2024/05/pilates-for-back-pain-avoid-making-it-worse/

    #PilatesForBackPain #BackHealth #ExerciseModification #CoreStrengthening #NeutralSpine

    Chapters:
    0:00 Introduction
    0:48 Mistake 1: Posture
    3:48 Anterior Pelvic Tilt
    5:02 Mistake 2: Weak Spine
    6:46 Understand Pilates
    7:26 Moving Forwards With Pilates
    11:45 Long-Term Back Health
    12:47 Overview: Final Thoughts

    • 14 min
    Low Back Pain Eliminated For Good: Real Strategies That Work

    Low Back Pain Eliminated For Good: Real Strategies That Work

    🚀 Eliminate Low Back Pain for Good: Proven Strategies🏋️‍♂️

    🔍 Understanding Lower Back Pain:
    Back pain can be more challenging than other injuries, but with the right approach, lasting relief is achievable.

    📚 Diagnosing Back Pain:
    Pseudo-diagnoses: Terms like "Chronic Low Back Pain" don’t specify the cause.
    Real Diagnoses: Conditions like "Lumbar disc herniation" pinpoint the injured structure.

    🚫 The Muscle Spasm Myth:
    Muscles are rarely the main issue in back pain. Misdiagnoses and incorrect treatments often hinder healing.

    🔑 Real Cause of Low Back Pain:
    Back pain often results from the spine's inability to handle body load, leading to stiffness and muscle spasms.

    💡 Four-Part Strategy for Lasting Relief:

    Part 1: Immediate Pain Reduction
    Control Your Core: Engage your core muscles to stabilize the spine.
    Mobilize Your Hips: Perform a 10-minute hip mobility routine to relieve lower back strain.
    Decompress Your Spine: Use safe decompression stretches a few times daily.
    Hot and Cold Therapy: Alternate between heat and cold packs on the lower back.

    Part 2: Building a Strong Foundation
    Learn Essential Movements: Master squats, hip hinges, and reverse lunges with proper form.
    Apply Lessons to Daily Life: Maintain proper posture and movement throughout the day.

    Part 3: Strengthening Your Back
    Gradual Load Exposure: Use resistance bands to add safe load to key exercises.
    Long-Term Strength Building: Progress with weights using dumbbells, kettlebells, and barbells.

    Part 4: Specialist Treatments
    Basic Natural Treatments: Use treatments like osteopathy, physiotherapy, and massage to improve mobility.
    Advanced Therapies: IDD Therapy: Applies spinal decompression to relieve disc pressure.
    Class IV Laser Therapy: Targets injured tissues to optimize healing.

    🛠️ Start Your Recovery Today:
    Follow these strategies for immediate relief and long-term back health.
    Utilize available resources like the "Fixing Back Pain Masterclass."
    📈 With dedication to these steps, you can eliminate lower back pain for good and enjoy a pain-free life.

    📚 Resources:
    📖 https://backinshapeprogram.com/2024/05/low-back-pain-eliminated-for-good-real-strategies-that-work/

    #BackPainRelief #SpineHealth #CoreStrength #LongTermRecovery

    Chapters:
    0:00 Introduction
    1:01 Diagnosis: Incomplete VS Complete
    2:10 A Real Diagnosis
    3:09 Back Pain: The Big Myth
    4:58 Failed Spinal Loading
    7:55 Fix Back Pain In 4 Steps
    8:27 Part 1: Control Your Core
    9:42 Part 1: Demo Core Engagement
    11:31 Part 1: Mobilising Your Hips
    12:47 Part 1: Decompress Your Back
    15:04 Part 1: Review
    15:55 Part 2: Build A Healthy Spine
    17:11 Part 2: Demo Squat
    18:06 Mistakes: Squat
    18:33 Part 2: Demo Hip Hinge
    19:19 Mistakes: Hip Hinge
    19:40 Part 2: Demo Reverse Lunge
    20:19 Mistakes: Reverse Lunge
    21:05 Part 2: Extra Tips
    22:42 Part 3: Building Strength
    25:02 Part 4: Long-Term Results
    27:28 Stretching For Flexibility
    28:39 Support Treatment Options
    29:04 Therapy: Type 1
    31:00 Therapy: Type 2
    31:57 Overview: Final Thoughts

    • 32 min
    Gut Inflammation & Lower Back Pain: The Missing Link

    Gut Inflammation & Lower Back Pain: The Missing Link

    🔗 Poor Gut Health & Lower Back Pain: The Surprising Connection 🤕🌀

    We explored the one thing you're probably missing that's linking the two issues.

    🧐 Ever wondered why gut health issues like Crohn's Disease or IBS worsen your lower back pain? Today, we explore a vital but often overlooked link between your digestive system's health and your back discomfort.

    👀 Key Insights:
    The majority of lower back pain originates from the lower lumbar spine, particularly at the L4-L5 and L5-S1 segments, influenced by modern lifestyle habits.
    Symptoms can vary from aching in the lower back to sciatica, affecting leg sensations due to nerve compression.
    Common movements like pelvic tucks or yoga poses can unintentionally aggravate these conditions by flattening the natural curve of the lumbar spine.

    🧬 Why Gut Health Matters:
    Gut flare-ups often lead to postures that exacerbate back pain, like curling over in discomfort or frequent trips to the bathroom, which replicate harmful spinal movements.
    Those with chronic gut issues may find that these episodes intensify the mechanics that lead to back pain.

    🔄 Managing the Link:
    Understanding this connection is crucial for managing both gut health and back pain effectively.
    Appropriate rehabilitation and mindful management of gut symptoms can mitigate the impact on the back, helping in longer-term recovery and comfort.

    👉 Take Action: Being aware of how gut health affects your back can guide more effective treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Remember, managing one can help alleviate the other.

    📚 For more tips and detailed guidance on handling back pain with gut health issues, check out our resources or join our comprehensive recovery programs.

    📚 Resources:
    📖 https://backinshapeprogram.com/2024/05/gut-inflammation-lower-back-pain-the-missing-link/

    #GutHealth #BackPainRelief #WellnessConnection #HealthEducation

    Chapters:
    0:34: Understanding: Low Back Pain
    1:08: Lumbar Spine: L4-L5 & L5-S1
    2:01: What Causes Back Pain
    3:41: Gut Health: The Main Link
    5:51: Strategies To Help Your Back
    6:45: Final Thoughts

    • 7 min
    Herniated Disc Recovery: The WORST Movement Mistake You're Making

    Herniated Disc Recovery: The WORST Movement Mistake You're Making

    🚫 The #1 Movement to AVOID for Herniated Disc Recovery!🏋️‍♂️ Today's video we cover this movement leak too many people with herniated discs do, unknowingly.
    👉 Need Help With Your Back Pain? Check this full video out now "Fixing Back Pain Master Class" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIYFt7qQbJw

    📚 Resources:
    📖 https://backinshapeprogram.com/2024/04/the-worst-movement-for-herniated-disc-recovery-avoid-at-all-costs/
    https://youtu.be/vdPFeZmkvFA
    https://youtu.be/XWWvZ4AuvjU
    https://youtu.be/aqcvEh7hVGY

    👀 Ever wonder why your recovery from a herniated disc hits a snag despite regular workouts? There's one common gym movement that might be the culprit behind those frustrating relapses and flare-ups!

    📉 Why It's Missed: This risky movement often goes unnoticed because it's part of common exercises like squats and deadlifts. It happens when your pelvic tucks under at the end of these motions due to tight hamstrings and limited hip mobility. This "pelvic tuck" or "butt wink" can drastically increase stress on your lower back, aggravating your herniated disc.

    🛑 The Danger: Especially harmful if you have issues with your L4-L5 or L5-S1 discs, this movement can destabilise an already compromised area of your spine, leading to pain and setbacks in your recovery.

    🔍 Control and Focus: Learn how to maintain a neutral spine with precise muscle engagement and avoid the pitfalls of this movement. We cover practical steps to monitor and improve your technique to ensure safe training and strength-building.

    📏 The Tape Test: An invaluable method to detect when you're losing form during exercises. This simple test can help you maintain control and avoid putting undue pressure on your herniated disc.

    🏋️‍♀️ Adjust Your Training: Understand the importance of knowing your limits and avoiding heavy lifting that can exacerbate your condition. Tips on how to gradually increase weight and maintain good form are crucial.

    📚 Long-Term Strategy: Discover safer workout modifications and why avoiding certain high-risk exercises can significantly benefit your recovery process.

    🤕 Resources for Recovery: Don’t miss out on our additional tools and programs designed to aid your journey back to full health, including decompression techniques and a comprehensive recovery program.

    #HerniatedDiscRecovery #GymSafety #BackHealth #WorkoutTips

    Chapters:
    0:00 Introduction
    0:43 Why We Miss It?
    1:16 The Movement: Pelvic Tuck
    1:52 Why Flexion Is Bad?
    2:29 2 Parts Of Healing
    3:39 Control Pelvic Tuck
    5:19 The Tape Test
    6:29 Be Wary Of Relapse
    9:08 Feel The Heaviness
    10:16 Strategy 1: Add Range Of Motion
    11:21 Strategy 2: Lean On Single Leg
    14:13 Overview: Final Thoughts

    • 15 min
    Prevent Lower Back Pain Post-Marathon: Do These 5 Things

    Prevent Lower Back Pain Post-Marathon: Do These 5 Things

    🏃‍♂️ 5 Post-Marathon Tips to Avoid Back Pain🏃‍♀️



    Running a marathon is a remarkable achievement, but it can also put a significant strain on your lower back. To help you recover properly and prevent back pain after crossing the finish line, we've compiled a list of 5 essential post-marathon practices. These simple yet effective tips can make a big difference in how your back feels in the days following the race. 🎽🛌



    3 Key Exercises for Strengthening Weak Knees & Alleviating Back Pain💪🏋️‍♂️



    Weak knees aren't just a knee problem; they can significantly impact your lower back health too. Dive into our latest video for 3 essential exercises that you can do right at home to strengthen your knees and, by extension, protect your lower back from pain. 🏠



    Whether you're just starting on your journey to stronger knees or looking to escalate your routine, these exercises are scalable to your fitness level. 🌟



    Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:



    Gentle Decompression: Right after the marathon, perform gentle stretches to decompress your lower back. This includes the bed decompression stretch and the towel stretch, which help alleviate pressure on your spine, particularly beneficial for the L4, L5, and S1 discs.🛏️



    Lumbar Spine Priority: Immediately after finishing, focus on stretches that support lumbar recovery. This helps mitigate the impact of tens of thousands of steps taken during the marathon. 🔄



    Circulation Improvement: Utilise hot and cold therapy to manage inflammation and speed up recovery. This contrast therapy is particularly effective in reducing back pain and promoting faster healing. ❄️🔥



    Muscle Stiffness Reduction: Employ self-massage tools like massage guns to relieve muscle stiffness in your hips and legs, which can indirectly benefit your lower back. This approach is preferable to aggressive stretching, which might exacerbate any existing issues. 💆‍♂️



    Stay Active: Keep moving after the marathon to prevent stiffness and promote better muscle recovery. Gentle activities like walking or swimming can help maintain mobility without putting additional strain on your body. 🚶‍♀️🏊‍♂️



    Incorporating these practices not only aids in your immediate recovery but also sets the stage for healthier back in the long term. Whether you're an experienced marathoner or a first-timer, these tips will help ensure that your back pain doesn't overshadow your accomplishment.



    Watch our detailed guide on these practices and start implementing them to enjoy a quicker, more comfortable recovery post-marathon!



    📚 Resources:

    📖 https://backinshapeprogram.com/2024/04/5-ways-to-avoid-back-pain-after-running-the-marathon/



    #MarathonRecovery #BackPainRelief #RunningHealth



    Chapters:


    0:00 Introduction
    1:34 Strategy 1: Bed Decompression
    3:29 Strategy 2: Lordosis Support
    4:56 Strategy 3: Hot & Cold Therapy
    7:25 Strategy 4: Self Massage
    11:30 Strategy 5: Stay Active
    12:01 Overview: Final Thoughts

    • 14 min
    Relieve Low Back Pain Instantly With These 5 Stretches At Home

    Relieve Low Back Pain Instantly With These 5 Stretches At Home

    🚀🤕 Top 5 Home Stretches for Instant Lower Back Pain Relief 🤕🚀


    Struggling with lower back pain or sciatica and desperate for immediate relief? Our latest video unveils 5 essential stretches you can do right at home to alleviate your discomfort on the spot. 🏡✨ Whether it's a chronic issue or a sudden flare-up, these stretches are designed to provide relief without worsening the problem. 🛑



    Here's What You'll Discover:
    Decompression Stretches: Learn how to take immediate pressure off your lower back with simple yet effective decompression techniques. 🎈


    Towel Decompression Stretch: Utilise a rolled-up bath towel to support and gently stretch your lower back.


    Bed Decompression: A unique method to gently pump your lower back discs, promoting relief and healing.


    Side of the Bed Stretch: An alternative decompression stretch for those who might struggle to lie down.


    Muscle Release Stretches: Target the tension in your hamstring and hip flexors that contribute to lower back pain. 🧘‍♂️



    Modified Hamstring Stretch: Safely stretch the back of your thigh without compromising your lower back.


    Modified Hip Flexor Stretch: Ease the front of your hips to reduce the pull on your lower back.

    Why It's Important:

    🤯 Relieve the root cause of your back pain by regularly taking pressure off the discs and spine.
    🚫 Avoid common mistakes in stretches that can actually make your lower back worse.
    💪 Prepare your body for long-term recovery by incorporating these stretches into your routine.

    Whether you're dealing with excruciating pain or looking to manage a chronic condition, these stretches offer a beacon of hope. Dive into our video now to learn each stretch in detail, with specific points to ensure they're done correctly for maximum benefit. 🌟

    Watch Now and start your journey to a more comfortable life, free from lower back pain!

    Resources:
    📚 https://backinshapeprogram.com/2024/04/top-5-stretches-for-instant-lower-back-pain-relief-at-home/


    #LowerBackPainRelief #HomeStretches #SciaticaRelief


    Chapters:
    0:00 Introduction
    0:27 Stretch 1: Towel Decompression
    1:55 Stretch 2: Bed Decompression
    3:34 Stretch 3: Side Of The Bed Stretch
    5:42 Stretching: Release The Hips
    6:50 Stretch 4: Hamstring Stretch
    8:05 Stretch 5: Hip Flexor Stretch
    9:37 Bonus Tip: Blending The Stretches
    10:19 Bonus Tip: Finishing With Ice & Heat
    10:47 Overview: Final Thoughts

    • 12 min

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