What causes back pain?
You may experience back pain for any number of reasons. Some of the most common causes of back pain include:
- Arthritis: inflammation of the joints from osteoarthritis or narrowing of the space in between the joints causing spinal stenosis
- Muscle or ligament strain: caused by heavy lifting or poor body mechanics.
- Skeletal irregularities: such as scoliosis
- Osteoporosis: weakening of the bones that causes compression of the spine
- Bulging or ruptured disc: causing nerve pain
In addition to the specific medical conditions that can lead to back pain, carrying excess weight, not being physically active, and aging increase your risk of developing back pain. People who suffer from depression and anxiety are also more prone to experience pain in their back.
When should I see a chiropractor for back pain?
You should come in to see the chiropractic professionals at Whole Body Healthcare if your back pain doesn’t resolve within a few days of self-care at home or if the pain is so great it’s affecting your quality of life.
You should also come in for an evaluation if:
- You have a fever with your back pain
- Your toes or legs feel numb or tingly
- You’re experiencing bowel or bladder incontinence
What can I expect during chiropractic treatment for back pain?
The team at Whole Body Healthcare use gentle spinal manipulation to improve alignment and alleviate both joint and muscle pain.
The team also may provide specific therapies:
- Myofascial trigger point therapy: applying pressure to the knot in your muscle that’s causing pain
- Chiropractic mobilization: gentle stretching to improve muscle and joint movement
How can I care for my back pain at home?
In addition to the treatment you receive at Whole Body Healthcare, the team also provides recommendations for how to manage your back pain at home, including:
- Use of over-the-counter pain medication
- Stretching exercises
- Proper body mechanics while standing, sitting, and lifting
- Abdominal exercises to improve back support
The team at Whole Body Healthcare also includes nurse practitioners who can prescribe additional medications such as muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and other pain relievers to reduce your symptoms.
If you’re struggling with back pain and need relief, call the office or book an appointment online today.
