How We Helped a Client Overcome Chronic Lower Back Pain and Return to Climbing & Running Pain-Free (Preston Case Study)

Lower back pain is one of the most common issues we see at JH Injury & Performance in Preston, particularly in active individuals who want to continue training without setbacks.

In this case study, we break down how we helped a client overcome recurring lower back pain that had progressed to the point of disrupting sleep, and return to climbing and running pain-free.

The Problem: Recurring Back Pain That Was Getting Worse

The client presented with:

• A long history of recurring lower back pain

• A recent flare-up that had significantly worsened

• Inability to climb or run

• Pain severe enough to disrupt sleep

This wasn’t just a minor issue anymore, it was: affecting performance, recovery, and day-to-day life

Like many people, the problem wasn’t new, but it had reached a point where it needed properly addressing.

What Was Actually Going On

With long-standing back pain, the issue is rarely just the back itself.

In this case, the key factors included:

• Reduced tolerance to load

• Recurring flare-ups due to lack of long-term structure

• Inconsistent or ineffective previous management

This is a common cycle: Pain settles → activity resumes → pain returns

The missing piece is usually: a structured plan that builds long-term resilience, not just short-term relief.

The Plan: Structured Rehabilitation for Long-Term Results

The focus wasn’t just to reduce pain but to break the cycle of recurring flare-ups.

1. Symptom Management

• Settling the flare-up

• Maintaining movement where possible

2. Progressive Strength & Control

• Building strength through the lower back and surrounding areas

• Improving tolerance to movement and load

3. Structured Exercise Programme

• Clear, progressive exercises delivered via Rehab Guru

• Simple, easy-to-follow plan to ensure consistency

4. Return to Sport Strategy

• Gradual reintroduction to climbing and running

• Monitoring response and progressing accordingly

The key was: clarity, structure, and progression

The Result: Pain-Free and Back to Full Activity

The outcome:

• Lower back pain resolved

• Sleep no longer disrupted

• Full return to climbing and running

• Training consistently without fear of flare-ups

Key Takeaway

If your lower back pain:

• Keeps coming back

• Is starting to affect your sleep

• Or is limiting your training

It’s not something to just “manage” short-term.

You need a plan that:

• Builds strength

• Improves load tolerance

• Prevents future flare-ups

How We Can Help

At JH Injury & Performance, we specialise in:

• Diagnosing the root cause of lower back pain

• Creating structured rehab plans

• Helping you return to training with long-term confidence

Based in Penwortham, Preston, Book your initial consultation here