Researches and studies demonstrated the effectiveness of Bowen in treating or ameliorating back pain. One in particular aims to quantify this effectiveness and measures it at 85% (click on the link for details).
The most common causes of back pain include:
Herniated discs: The vertebrae that form the spine in the back are cushioned by discs. These discs are round, like small pillows, with a tough, outer layer (annulus) that surrounds the nucleus. Located between each of the vertebra in the spine, discs act as shock absorbers for the vertebrae.
A herniated disc (also called bulged, slipped or ruptured) is a displacement of the disc nucleus, beyond the intervertebral disc space through a tear or rupture in the annulus.
Sciatica: is a condition that can lead to pain in the back and legs. It occurs when pain travels along the path of the sciatic nerve. It is usually caused when a herniated disc or bone spur in the spine presses on the nerve.
Arthritis: is a disorder featuring the inflammation of one or more joints. Osteoarthritis is one type of arthritis that affects the whole joint, including bone, cartilage, ligaments and muscles. Osteoarthritis often affects the hips and lower back, causing pain and stiffness in the affected joint. In some cases, the space around the spinal cord narrows. This is known as spinal stenosis.
Abnormal curvature of the spine: If the spine curves in an unusual way, back pain can result. Examples are scoliosis in which the spine curves to the side and kyphosis which is an excessive outward curve of the spine.
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction. The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum at the bottom of the spine to each side of the pelvis. It is a strong, low-motion joint that primarily absorbs shock and tension between the upper body and the lower body. When it is inflamed, or if there is too much or too little motion of the joint, it can become painful (sacroiliitis).
Muscle spasm: The condition ranges from infrequent spasms with mild discomfort to chronic spasms with severe pain that makes it difficult to move.
Stress which creates muscle tension.
Kidney stones, menstruation, infections and other complications within the body, are also very common causes of back pain.
Bowen procedures combined with the Basic Relaxation Moves have been found to be highly effective in the treatment of above listed conditions. Most clients report immediate relief from back pain after the first session. Many only require a few treatments to fully release the pain, while complex cases need more sessions depending on the severity of the condition.
Back pain can also result from some everyday activities or poor posture:
- standing or sitting for long periods
- straining the neck forward, such as when driving or using a computer
- long driving sessions without a break
- sleeping on a mattress that does not support the body and keep the spine straight
- pushing, pulling, lifting, or carrying something
- being overweight
Using Bowen Therapy for such issues seems to produce immediate relief, as the treatment reduces the pressure around the area as it relaxes the surrounding soft tissue.