Chiropractic Care for Back Pain

Lower and upper back pain may be a sign that you strained your back or it may indicate that there is an issue in your musculoskeletal system. Back pain can be placed into three distinct categories:

  • Discomfort that lasts less than three to six months is known as โ€œacute back painโ€
  • Discomfort that lasts more than three to six months is known as โ€œchronic back painโ€
  • Chronic back pain with no identified cause is known as โ€œneuropathic back painโ€

Acute back pain is typically caused by trauma to the tissues and will likely resolve when the tissues heal. This can take a few days or longer. If you continue to experience lower or upper back pain after the tissues heal, you may be diagnosed with chronic back pain.

What Causes Chronic Back Pain?

Lower and upper chronic back pain is caused by several factors. Certain medical conditions, such as fibromyalgia, affect the nerves in the back which leads to a persistent discomfort. Surgery and excessive trauma may result in scarring and other tissue irregularities that can cause chronic back pain. A persona may also have chronic back pain without an identifiable cause.

Is My Back Pain Caused by My Posture?

The modern world requires that we sit at our desks and use mobile devices throughout the day. If you have poor posture, you may be at greater risk for developing chronic pain in the lower and upper back. Good posture and ergonomics ensure that your body remains in a natural alignment. If you do not practice optimum body positioning during these activities, your musculoskeletal system may become unaligned. Standing for long periods causes similar problems. You may find that you slouch or jut out a hip to relieve pressure on your feet and legs. Using poor body mechanics while lifting may also cause misalignments.

Do I Need Surgery for My Back Pain?

We recommend that patients with chronic back pain be evaluated by their physicians. You may have a medical condition that causes the pain, or you may have severe tissue damage. This general health evaluation can be performed before or after your consultation at our office.

How Can Chiropractic Therapies Help with Back Pain?

Chiropractic therapies realign the spine and discs to alleviate the severity and frequency of your back pain. Spinal manipulation and other recommendations are proven to reduce inflammation and tension in the muscles that may place pressure on the nerves.

Can I Stop Taking My Pain Medications?

You should not stop taking your pain medications before speaking with your primary care physician. Some medications carry risks of withdrawal symptoms that can be detrimental to your health. Pain medications can also mask the discomfort, and you may experience a heightened level of discomfort if your back is not fully healed.

What Can I Do at Home to Alleviate Back Pain?

One of the best ways to alleviate back pain at home is to practice good body mechanics and posture. We may also recommend stretches and exercises to strengthen your back muscles.

Chronic back pain is a limiting condition that can last for years without proper treatment. If you have lower or upper back pain that lasts three months or longer, contact us for a personal consultation to find out if you are a good candidate for chiropractic care.

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