Your journey at Restore Physiotherapy: Managing disc-related
back and leg pain
Scenario
A 50-year-old avid road cyclist visited our clinic with a 6-month history of lower back pain, pain radiating into the back of the thigh, and intermittent foot numbness. He was riding up to 180 km per week, and wanted to continue doing what he loved.
An MRI confirmed a lumbar spine disc bulge with nerve root impingement.
Solution
Our initial cycling physio treatment focused on reducing symptoms and nerve irritation. This included manual therapy such as thoracic and lumbar spine mobilisations, gluteal and hamstring soft tissue massage, and dry needling. We also introduced nerve mobilisation techniques and a personalised home mobility exercise program.
As his symptoms improved, we developed a tailored clinical exercise program, focusing on strengthening the lumbar spine and abdominal muscles and improving his pelvic stability. These sessions were held twice a week in a small group (1:3) using our Clinical Pilates equipment.
Results
The client’s posterior thigh pain and foot numbness resolved completely within 6 weeks, and his lower back pain fully resolved by week 12. Throughout rehabilitation, he was able to maintain 100 km of cycling per week, and returned to his full training load of 180 km per week by week 12. He still continues with his clinical exercise program to maintain spinal strength and prevent recurrence.
