Discovering Your Directional Preference for Low Back Pain Relief

Low back pain affects millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort and limiting daily activities. Conditions like spinal stenosis and disc herniations can make simple tasks challenging. However, targeted exercise programs can provide relief for most people. One of the most effective approaches for treating low back pain is called directional preference.

What is Directional Preference?

Directional preference refers to the movement direction that makes your back pain feel better. When you move in a certain way that aligns with your back’s “preferred” direction, the exercises become more comfortable and effective in reducing pain. By identifying this preference, therapists can develop a treatment plan that works best for your specific condition.

Why is Directional Preference Important?

Knowing your directional preference is important because it helps your therapist create an exercise program specifically for you. Back pain can be caused by many different conditions, and even people with the same diagnosis may respond differently to exercises. Instead of giving everyone the same exercises, our therapists tailor the program to fit your body’s needs.

For example, many people with spinal stenosis feel better when bending forward (flexion), but some may find more relief by bending backward (extension). Similarly, with disc-related back pain, some patients benefit from forward bending, while others feel better with backward bending. By finding your directional preference, we can help you exercise safely and effectively to relieve pain and improve your mobility.

Types of Directional Preferences

1. Flexion Preference (Bending Forward)

– If sitting or bending forward relieves your pain, you likely have a flexion preference. This movement happens when you sit, bend over to tie your shoes, or pick something up off the floor.

2. Extension Preference (Bending Backward)

– If standing, walking, or arching your back feels better, you likely have an extension preference. This movement occurs when you walk, stand, or lie on your stomach.

3. Neutral Preference

– If you find that neither forward nor backward movements help, your best option may be to keep your spine in a neutral position. This means avoiding extreme bending and focusing on exercises that maintain a straight posture.

How Our Therapists Can Help You

Our team of physiotherapists, massage therapists, kinesiologists, and chiropractors use the concept of directional preference to create customized treatment plans for each patient. By identifying your directional preference, we can help you relieve pain and get back to your daily activities faster and more effectively.

Whether you’re dealing with spinal stenosis, disc herniations, or nonspecific low back pain, knowing your directional preference is key to improving your mobility and reducing discomfort. With our expertise, we can guide you through the right exercises to match your specific needs.

Ready to Find Relief?

If you’re not sure what your directional preference is or you need guidance on which exercises will help relieve your low back pain, our experienced therapists are here to help. Call us at 416-925-4687 or email us at physio@orthophysio.com to schedule an appointment today. Let us help you find the right treatment plan so you can feel better and move freely again.  You can also book with us online through our website!