What Kinds Of Therapies Does A Chiropractor Offer
During a treatment session, a chiropractor may administer the following manual or hands-on techniques.
- Spinal manipulation : Adjustment of the spine by moving it through its range of motion and applying forces to improve joint function
- Stretches: to help increase flexibility in the spine and lower extremities
- Soft tissue release techniques
- Flexion distraction: A form of spinal traction that is used to treat disorders of the small joints in the lower back, known as facet joints
- Stay active: Aerobic exercise five days a week at least 20 minutes a session. Walking is a great way to keep the back healthy and helps with managing stress.
- Improve your posture: Dont slouch or sit in one position for too long without a break.
- Exercises and stretches: Perform regular exercises to strengthen the core and muscles in the back and lower extremities.
- Ergonomics: If you sit for long periods of time, get up every 30 minutes and walk. For more information on how to create an ergonomic workstation, see this article.
- Lift safely: Bend your legs and keep your back straight.
- Weight management: Being overweightespecially having excess abdominal fatstrains the lower back. Manage your weight through exercise and a healthy diet.
- Stress reduction: Stress can aggravate back problems, so find ways to relax, and consider trying an eight-week Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction course, which has been scientifically proven to help with anxiety, depression and pain syndromes.
Can A Chiropractor Help With Sciatica
Sciatica is an ailment that manifests as pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back, legs, and feet.
Its caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve.
The sciatic nerve runs down the legs from the lumbar spine. Sciatica can be induced by a range of factors, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and pregnancy.
Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment for sciatica. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce pain. These techniques may include spinal manipulation, massage, and stretching exercises.
Chiropractic care is often combined with other forms of treatment, such as physical therapy and medication to treat sciatic pain.
Ways To Tell That It Is Time To See A Chiropractor
If you are dealing with Back Pain, you may think that it is not serious enough to see a chiropractor about it.
However, it could be.
It is important to seek medical attention as soon as you can in order to prevent permanent pain or damage to your body.
In this blog, we highlight 12 signs of back pain that tell you it is time to visit your local back pain doctor.
There are many sources of pain and dysfunction in the back, and if one of the muscles or joints is injured or inflamed, it can create pain that may be difficult to treat.
The spine is made up of 24 bones that are connected to muscles and ligaments that create the spinal column. This gives the body its form, function, and also holds and protects the spinal cord.
If the spine becomes injured, it can cause chronic back pain.
Some symptoms of back pain will scream at you to see a Chiropractor for treatment.
If you are ever in doubt about the severity and symptoms of pain that you are experiencing, it is always important to see a Chiropractor immediately for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.
Below, we highlight twelve signs that signal an immediate visit to the chiropractor’s office.
You May Like: How To Help Severe Back Pain
What Type Of Back Pain Do I Have
Your lower back is meant to give flexibility, strength, and support to your upper body. Its no surprise that your lower back is so susceptible to injury and pain from everyday life. There are two main types of lower back pain:
- Acute lower back pain is short-term, often lasting for just a few days up to a few weeks. It is usually connected to an accident or injury. When acute back pain disappears, there is no permanent effect.
- Chronic lower back pain describes the type of back pain that continues for three months or more. In many cases, it begins without a clear connection to an injury.
Low back pain that starts as acute can become chronic. Around 20% of acute low back pain cases become chronic.
Curious To Know If Chiropractic Is For You
Millions of people around the world have found relief from pain and mobility issues by getting a lower back adjustment from a chiropractor. Here in the U.S., most insurance policies cover this treatment, so theres no reason not to give it a try. And who knows you might soon find yourself starring in one of those YouTube videos!
Ready to give chiropractic a try? Contact our office to schedule an appointment!
Also Check: Is Epsom Salt Good For Lower Back Pain
Why Would I See A Chiropractor For Back Pain
If you have lower back pain thats causing significant problems or isnt getting better, it could be worth trying manual therapy. Manual therapy is a treatment where your practitioner uses skilled hand movements to manipulate and move your joints and soft tissues.
A chiropractor can offer this type of treatment for short- or long-term general lower back pain. They can also help with sciatica pain that spreads from your back down your legs. Most people arrange treatment with a chiropractor themselves, by booking a private appointment. Chiropractic is rarely available on the NHS, but if chiropractic is available in your area, your GP may refer you. For more information on this, see our section: Finding a chiropractor in your area below.
Get Treated Today And Feel Great
Read Also: Are Back Pains A Sign Of Pregnancy
Tips For Naturally Treating Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is a widespread problem and one of the top reasons for missed workdays. Thats because the lower back bears the upper bodys weight and is subject to a lot of strain and stressespecially while performing everyday actions like twisting and lifting.
One of two things usually causes low back pain: Either aging and arthritis or an injury. No matter the cause of your low back pain, here are some suggestions that can help relieve your pain and prevent future problems.
1. Apply ice or heat on an injured back.
If youve suffered a lower back injury, applying ice within the first two days can reduce swelling and ease the pain. Afterward, apply heat to help relax tense muscles. Heat is also helpful for chronic lower back pain that isnt linked to an injury. To prevent skin damage, neither heat nor ice should be used for more than 20 minutes at a time.
2. Maintain proper posture during activities and when sitting.
To avoid lower back injury, its crucial to maintain the correct posture when performing physical activitiesespecially if you have a job that requires repetitive motions or play sports. When lifting, do not bend from the waist. Instead, bend and straighten from the knees. Be sure to move your hips when turning your body to the side.
3. Perform Stretches.
4. Stay active and exercise.
5. Wear supportive footwear.
6. Sleep on a quality mattress.
7. Get a back massage.
8. Visit a chiropractor near you.
What Causes Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is caused by many different factors in different people. It can be caused by an injury, like a sprain or a strain, but can also be the result of a sports injury, fall, or car accident. These types of incidents can lead to chronic back pain. Sometimes, lower back pain can be the result of your job, like those of us that work at a desk all day hunched over our computers. Sitting all day and leading a generally sedentary lifestyle can slowly cause your back muscles to weaken, leading to pain. Even lifting heavy objects incorrectly can lead to back issues. Age, excess weight and lack of exercise can all be contributing factors, and studies show that people with psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety, smokers, and people with diseases like arthritis and cancer are more prone to lumbar pain.
You May Like: Can Sitting Cause Lower Back Pain
Chiropractors Help Lower Back Strain Recovery
Chiropractors can help relieve lower back pain without surgery or drugs.
When the lower back muscles or ligaments are damaged, it causes severe lower back pain. The most common complaint of people who visit a chiropractor is lower back pain which can be acute and disabling. Without immediate treatment this damaged area can develop into chronic back pain. This is why it is important for complete recovery that you visit to a chiropractor as soon as possible.
What To Expect At The Chiropractor
Peter Ottone, DC, a chiropractor from New Jersey, said that many people are simply afraid of chiropractic care until theyve tried it. Once people become chiropractic patients, they usually call their chiropractor first for pain relief.
Patients who have already used chiropractic as part of their healthcare program will generally call their chiropractor first, Ottone said.
He pointed out that people who have never visited a chiropractor may be apprehensive and fearful.
I regularly have first-time chiropractic patients present to my office and tell me how scared they are to get adjusted, he said. Once its explained how chiropractic works and the types of treatments rendered are presented to them, I find most patients are much more at ease and comfortable with their choice to try chiropractic.
You May Like: Can Your Back Cause Hip Pain
Schedule An Appointment For Back Pain
If you experience acute or chronic back pain, you know the effects it can have on your everyday life. Seeking relief from your pain may lead you to either a chiropractor or a spine specialist. Spinal manipulation through chiropractic care could offer relief from pain, which has many benefits. It may help you rely less on painkillers, improve your posture, experience fewer headaches or migraines and build your strength. If you are generally healthy but experiencing acute back or neck pain, a chiropractor might help alleviate your pain.
If youre experiencing chronic pain caused by an issue such as joint disease, osteoporosis or osteoarthritis, you may want to see a spine specialist rather than a chiropractor. Its also best to see a spine specialist in the case of severe injury or trauma, such as a fracture or a herniated disc. If you need a spine specialist to identify and address your back pain, consider the Desert Institute for Spine Care .
At DISC, we offer treatment for various spine conditions. We strive to provide outstanding and compassionate care in the form of nonoperative or minimally invasive procedures. We utilize the most innovative and effective treatments so you can restore an active lifestyle. If youre experiencing back pain, schedule an appointment with DISC today.
When Should I See A Chiropractor For Lower Back Pain
With so many contributing factors, you may feel like having back pain is just a normal part of life. But it can be prevented in some cases, and seeing a chiropractor for treatment can help get you back on your feet. Things like regular exercise, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, quitting smoking, and being mindful of your posture while standing and sitting can help prevent or reduce your back pain. If your lumbar pain has persisted for more than a few weeks, if it is severe, and if it extends past your lower back and into your legs, it’s a good idea to seek out a chiropractor for lower back pain treatment.
Read Also: How To Ease Lower Back Pain At Home
Bad Ergonomics Are Prevalent In The Office And At Home
Ergonomics refers to the arrangement of tools, equipment, and furniture in a room with the goal of increasing efficiency. Efficient ergonomic arrangements reduce stress and discomfort while also assisting in body alignment.
Without the appropriate ergonomic setup, nerve damage can result from repetitive activity or movement that is outside of the human anatomy. Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, trigger finger, epicondylitis, and rotator cuff problems are all examples of injuries caused by poor ergonomics.
Chiropractic For Lower Back Pain:
At Urban Wellness Clinic, our approach to chiropractic treatment for back pain centers on aligning the spine and joints for a healthy network of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. In turn, we ease pressure on slipped discs and nerves, improve flexibility, and reduce muscle tension. Being movement specialists we also focus on what joints are not moving enough or are stuck and which joints are too mobile leading to instability.
First, we perform a physical evaluation to assess lower back pain symptoms and determine the cause of back aches or chronic back pain. Then we use chiropractic adjustments and massage, specifically Active Release Technique, to treat lower back pain.
We may use the osseous adjustment, which involves gentle manipulation of the spine to relieve muscle tension and restore range of motion of the joint. This chiropractic treatment for lower back pain addresses misaligned and contracted muscles and connective tissue. The high velocity, low amplitude adjustment gives a quick stretch to the ligaments and the joint capsule creating a neurologic reflex that helps temporarily relax the muscles in the area. We always end with rehabilitation exercises and create stability so the joints that were just treated dont get pulled out of alignment.
You May Like: Why Does Prolia Cause Back Pain
See A Licensed Professional
Seeing a licensed professional minimizes the possible risks involved with chiropractic treatment. In order to practice, a chiropractor must earn a Doctorate of Chiropractic degree as well as a state license, which means about seven to eight years of postsecondary education. Throughout their education, a chiropractic professional learns about anatomy, physiology, biology and human health. To earn their license, they must pass the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners exam.
In other words, practicing chiropractors are trained individuals with the knowledge and experience to minimize health risks.
Other Treatment Hasnt Worked
You may need to visit a chiropractor if no other treatment has worked for your lower back pain. Whether it be massage therapy, heat therapy, or any other type of treatment, you have found no relief. A chiropractor will develop a specific treatment plan on a case-by-case basis and include a comprehensive and holistic approach to treating your back pain.
Pain is usually an indication of inflammation thats going on inside the body which can be caused by joint, muscular, nerve dysfunction or misalignment. Lower back pain, specifically, can be caused by a variety of factors including improper lifting, poor posture, and poor fitness levels. While lower back pain rarely indicates something is serious, people should seek out treatment well before the lower back pain gets worse.
Read Also: What Causes Chronic Back Muscle Pain
Can Chiropractic Adjustments Make Back Pain Worse
When your spinal vertebrae are out of alignment it can lead to uncomfortable back pain. Spinal injury or a medical condition can also contribute to back pain. Thankfully, chiropractors can help treat back pain with a variety of safe and all-natural therapeutic techniques. One of the misconceptions about going to the chiropractor is that chiropractic adjustments can make back pain worse. However, nowhere can offer you a magical relief from your back pain instantly. Just like with going to the gym, your muscles need time to adjust to the experience and you might experience some soreness as they grow stronger. When you visit a back pain chiropractor for an injury or issue, they will also be addressing the root cause of your pain so you can experience treatment and healing that lasts.
What Does A Chiropractor Do For Lower Back Pain
Many, many people have sought medical attention for lower back pain at some point in their lives.
It might be a common condition but that doesnt mean the cause of the pain is always clear.
Some medical doctors recommend more rest, exercises and stretching, pain relievers, surgery or even just giving enough time for the condition to heal itself. But what about chiropractic care? After all, chiropractic doctors focus their entire careers specifically on the mechanical disorders of the spine and musculoskeletal system.
Chiropractors believe such disorders can affect your nervous system and overall health resulting in conditions like lower back pain.
Using techniques such as spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapy, prescribed exercises and healthy lifestyle changes, chiropractors have many different ways to relieve pain without using drugs or medication.
In this article, well explore in greater depth exactly what a chiropractor does for lower back pain.
Recommended Reading: How To Deal With Back Pain And Rheumatoid Joint Pain
What Are The Basics Of Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care centers around spinal manipulation and other manual therapies to help relieve pain and treat conditions.
In the United States, all chiropractors are required earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree before they can practice. They also need to earn licensure in the state where they work.
Chiropractic care is considered a holistic healthcare method. This means that it focuses on care for your whole body and not just the specific area of your pain.
A chiropractor will ask you about your pain as well as your health history at your first appointment. This helps them develop a specialized treatment plan for you.
You might also have X-rays taken, so the chiropractor can understand whats causing your pain. For example, an X-ray might show that your spine is narrowed and pinching your sciatic nerve.
Treatment involves stretching and applying controlled pressure to your joints. The chiropractor might recommend specific exercises for you to do at home to help with your pain. Some may also provide nutrition and wellness education that can help relieve your symptoms.
Youll generally need to see a chiropractor multiple times before you begin to get relief from sciatica.
