So, No More Aching Back...Maybe

This past week I found something that could possibly rid me of years of nagging lower back pain and periodic sciatica:  the Thompson Maneuver.  Developed by orthopedist Alec Thompson, M.D., the exercise works to properly align the sacroiliac joints that lie between the sacrum and the hipbones, or ilia (see diagram).  Supporting the weight of the entire torso, an injury to or misalignment in these joints can cause widespread back pain.  In my case, I fell hard on my lower back while roller skating in college.  I am also quite flexible, so there is some speculation among my health care practitioners that too much movement in the joint (say, during a yoga session) is causing cramping and follow-on pain.

The relief brought about by the Thompson Maneuver has been profound.  The first time I performed it, I could feel the joint relax.  Over the course of the first two days, when I was executing the maneuver every one or two hours, I did experience some dull achy pain in the area of the joint.  The more I exercised, however, the more comfortable the joint became and the less pain I experienced.  Now I try to do the maneuver several times a day as my schedule permits.  The key to success, according to the experts, is to perform it properly and often.  Don't misunderstand, I do still have some pain and stiffness (if I sit too long in an easy chair, for example), but much less than before.

I am no physician.  All I can share is that the maneuver has worked well for me.  If you would like to try it, please consult your physician or chiropractor first and then click on the link below.

How To Do the Thompson Maneuver