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Back pain

Common causes and natural solutions

Different types of back pain

Back pain is one of the most common reasons for consultation. It can appear in various forms depending on the affected area. Low back pain (lumbago) involves the lower back and is often linked to poor posture, repeated physical strain, or a lack of muscle strengthening. Mid-back pain (dorsalgia) affects the area between the shoulder blades and may be worsened by stress or poor postural habits.

Neck pain (cervicalgia), on the other hand, affects the neck and can cause radiating pain toward the shoulders, arms, or trigger migraines. Lastly, more diffuse pain may be inflammatory in nature or result from an overall imbalance in the body. An appropriate osteopathic approach helps identify the exact cause and offers targeted treatment for lasting relief.

Low back pain

Pain localized in the lower back, often linked to sudden movements, intense physical exertion, or prolonged poor posture.

Symptoms:​

  • Sharp or dull pain in the lower back

  • Stiffness in the lower back, especially in the morning

  • Difficulty bending or straightening up

  • Pain worsened by effort or certain prolonged positions

Low back pain

Dorsalgia

Pain located between the shoulder blades, sometimes caused by prolonged postures or muscle tension in the upper back.

Symptoms:

  • Pain or discomfort between the shoulder blades

  • Tension in the upper back

  • Discomfort with deep breathing

  • Pain worsened by prolonged sitting or after stress

Dorsalgia

Sciatica

Pain radiating from the lower back to the buttock and leg, typically caused by compression of the sciatic nerve.

Symptoms:​

  • Shooting pain along the path of the sciatic nerve

  • Numbness or tingling in the leg

  • Reduced muscle strength in the lower limb

  • Pain worsened by prolonged sitting

Sciatalgia

Relieve back pain with osteopathy

Back pain—whether in the lower back, upper back, or neck—can significantly impact your daily quality of life. Your osteopath in Cannes offers a personalized approach to relieve this pain by directly addressing mechanical tension and postural imbalances.

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In addition to any necessary medical treatments, the osteopath conducts a full-body assessment to identify mobility restrictions and areas of tension, particularly in the spine, pelvis, and limbs.

The goal is to restore joint mobility, rebalance muscle chains, and promote better local circulation, thereby helping to reduce inflammation and improve posture.

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Depending on each person’s needs, osteopathy may also include targeted work on other contributing or aggravating factors, such as:

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  • Respiratory function

  • Pelvic mobility

  • Standing and sitting posture

  • Visceral tensions (intestines, stomach)

  • Stress and emotional tension

Practical tips

🧘‍♂️ Adopt an ergonomic posture

Prolonged sitting or standing posture can worsen back pain. Adjusting your chair, desk, and screen helps distribute tension more evenly and reduces strain on the spine.

💧 Stay properly hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for the health of the intervertebral discs and muscle tissues. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps maintain their elasticity and strength.

🏃‍♂️ Move regularly

Immobilization promotes muscle tension and joint stiffness. Standing up, walking, or doing some stretches every hour helps maintain mobility and prevent back stiffness.

💤 Improve sleep quality

Restorative sleep promotes muscle recovery and reduces the intensity of chronic pain. Using proper bedding and sleeping in a comfortable position helps minimize nocturnal tension on the spine.

🧠 Manage stress

Chronic stress increases muscle tension, particularly in the back. Incorporating breathing exercises, meditation, or relaxation into your daily routine helps better manage these effects.

Frequently asked questions

  • back pain

    Back pain can be caused by poor posture, lack of physical activity, muscle tension, injuries, or stress-related issues. Some cases may also have a joint, visceral, or neurological origin.

  • Hip pain

    Yes, osteopathy is recognized for helping relieve back pain by working on joint mobility, muscle relaxation, and overall body rebalancing. It offers a holistic approach tailored to the source of the pain.

  • ache

    It is advised to consult as soon as persistent pain appears, after a wrong movement, a fall, or when discomfort limits daily activities. A preventive consultation can also help avoid chronic pain.

  • Relief exercises

    Adopting good posture, engaging in regular physical activity, doing gentle stretches, managing stress, and ensuring proper bedding are simple actions that help prevent back pain.

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