Low Back Tension Investigation

A new client was referred to me to explore low back tension on the right side. The client was doing Physical Therapy exercises daily, lifting weights and running. Checking all the fitness boxes. Yet, no one had looked at the bottom of his shoes. Which is common. The feet are a huge part of the pain and inflammation puzzle.

Don’t Forget Your Feet

Your feet could be the key to what is ailing you and limiting your body from functioning the way it was designed. When you work with me, we will be checking your feet! They are the first part of your body to contact the ground when you stand up, walk and run. They send information from the ground, the bike pedal and your ski boot up the chain of movement.

Shoe Wear Patterns

These sneakers revealed an asymmetrical wear pattern. This is not all of the information I need, but it is part of the puzzle. There is a gait pattern present in this person that demonstrates why one side of the lower back is more symptomatic than other places in his body. Maybe the pattern began at his feet or perhaps it started in his spine, or somewhere else. Either way we can support all of the links in the chain.

Biomechanics Assessment

We all have compensation patterns that develop across our lives. They are easier to find and remedy before the pain starts. Young athletes are the best in this regard! Prevention is golden - but it’s always beneficial to have your biomechanics investigated by a specialist like me.

It’s true that people often come see me AFTER they've been in discomfort for awhile and tried different methods that did not address biomechanics. Methods that haven't identified the root biomechanical issue(s).

With this particular client we found the adduction muscles on one leg to need strengthening. We we found it, he felt it! That one side was not as strong as the other. Another piece to the puzzle. We also found one side of his back to be limited in it’s motion and strength.

Another client that week with similar shoe wear patterns needed hip abduction and lateral spinal flexion attention. Each body generates it’s own compensation patterns.

Strength is Relative

Even though this client could run hills, hold planks and perform plyometric drills, he had weaknesses hiding in his muscular system. We all do. His body and yours have 600 muscles to choose from to do all the activities you want to participate in. Your body uses the strong parts when challenge arises. Those stronger positions can eventually become tired, inflamed and painful.

Reversing the patterns doesn’t happen overnight, but it is powerful work that can prevent injury, surgery and pain.

Take Home Message: When in pain, the body is expressing the need for restoration. It's gotten wound up doing what you've asked it to do without enough re-balancing.

You can begin the process of exploring your muscular system’s greatest needs by scheduling a private session with me or attending one of my integrative anatomy experiences.

Meet Your Feet is coming up on 9/25/26.

Not sure where to start? Schedule a free 20 minute consult.