In this case, the back pain was chronic/intermittent, meaning that he has experienced severe pain on and off for decades. This episode was not clearing up like it normally does, and each episode was becoming more painful and lasting longer.
Treatment
His examination revealed that his back was very stiff and had very limited movement in the direction of extension. Working on this, using progressively more force each visit, eliminated his pain and allowed him to go back to lifting, bending, and squatting without problems. I also addressed basic core strength training and the flexibility of the muscles surrounding his hips, which can contribute to back pain.
Outcome
He’s now out of pain and ready to do basic troubleshooting to reduce or eliminate his pain quickly, before calling for medical attention, if/when it comes back.
