Low Back Pain

Why Seeing a Chiropractor Can Significantly Reduce Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is an extremely common complaint, if you’re suffering from lower back pain you’re not alone. More than 80% of North Americans will at some time in their life suffer from the disabling confines of lower back pain. Lower back pain may be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (persistent). Symptoms can include musculoskeletal pain, tingling, and burning sensations.

Causes of Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain can have a variety of causes, including injury, poor posture, and muscle strain. Common causes of lower back pain include sciatica (pressure on the sciatic nerve), herniated disc (ruptured or bulging intervertebral disc) degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis (narrowing of the vertebra).

Treatment Options for Lower Back Pain
The treatment options for lower back pain vary depending on the severity and cause of the condition. Non-surgical treatment options include spinal manipulation, physical therapy, stretching, strengthening exercises, medication to reduce inflammation or relieve pain, and lifestyle changes such as posture modification.

Spinal Manipulation
Spinal Manipulation can be beneficial for lower back pain as it helps reduce discomfort and improve range of motion. This type of treatment is performed by chiropractors, physical therapists, or doctors specializing in osteopathic medicine to help restore mobility to the joints and relieve pain. Spinal manipulation works by practitioners using their hands to apply a controlled, sudden force to specific areas of the spine to correct the back’s misalignment. Patients often hear popping noises, like when you crack your knuckles.

In addition to spinal manipulation, other treatments such as upper cervical adjustment, therapeutic exercises, massage therapy, acupuncture, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound can also help relieve lower back pain.

Summary
It is important to discuss your treatment options with your doctor and make sure that the treatment approach you choose is safe and tailored to meet your individual needs. It is also essential to consider any lifestyle factors that may be contributing to or worsening your back pain, such as poor posture, lack of exercise, smoking, or being overweight.

Making changes such as improving your posture and increasing physical activity can help reduce back pain and improve your overall health.

The most important thing to remember is that you do not have to live with chronic lower back pain. There are treatments available that can help you manage the discomfort and find relief from the symptoms, with the right combination of care.