How to treat back pain with Online Physiotherapy

If you've been dealing with persistent low back pain, you may have heard that weak core muscles could be a contributing factor. In an effort to strengthen your core, you might have turned to online workouts and started doing sit-ups. But is this the most effective approach? Let’s explore how online physiotherapy can help you manage low back pain more effectively by addressing core strength and stability. A good physiotherapist could help you online!

Understanding Core Muscles

Your core is more than just visible abs—it’s a group of muscles that work together to support your spine and maintain stability. The key muscles involved include:

Primary Core Muscles:

• Transverse Abdominis
• Multifidus
• Diaphragm
• Pelvic Floor

Each of these muscles plays a role in maintaining posture, facilitating movement, and stabilizing the lower back during various activities.

The Role of Core Strength in Back Pain

Your core muscles function as a stabilizing system that surrounds the spine, providing crucial support for daily movements such as walking, sitting, and bending. Unlike larger muscles designed for power, core muscles activate subtly and sustain engagement over long periods to maintain spinal alignment.

Studies indicate that individuals with chronic low back pain often experience delayed core muscle activation, resulting in instability and discomfort. This improper activation pattern can contribute to ongoing pain. Physiotherapy aims to retrain core muscle function, helping improve stability and alleviate symptoms. Virtual Manual therapy  is also helpful

Are Abs the Same as the Core?

Not exactly. While abdominal muscles contribute to movement, they don’t attach directly to the spine and therefore don’t offer the same level of stabilization. The primary role of the abdominal muscles is to generate movement, while the deeper core muscles provide essential support and control. Simply strengthening the abs with exercises like sit-ups won’t necessarily relieve back pain unless core stability is also addressed.

Properly Activating Your Core

Engaging your core is different from simply tensing your abs. Here’s a simple method to activate your core

effectively:

1. Sit or lie down in a relaxed position.
2. Gently pull your belly button inward without holding your breath.
3. Maintain a light contraction—ensure you can still breathe comfortably.

A physiotherapist can guide you in refining this technique to ensure proper muscle engagement and prevent strain.

How Online Physiotherapy Can Help

If you struggle with back pain or core weakness, online physiotherapy offers a convenient and effective solution. A physiotherapist can assess your movement, design personalized exercise programs, and monitor your progress—all from the comfort of your home. Virtual care ensures that you perform the right exercises safely and effectively, preventing further injury while optimizing recovery.

If you’re located in Ontario, Virtualis Physiotherapy provides expert online physiotherapy services to help you strengthen your core, reduce pain, and achieve your health goals.