Chiropractic Care for Lower Back Pain

Using chiropractic care for lower back pain helps you improve your range of motion and enjoy life to its fullest, even during flare-ups.

How Chiropractors Can Help with Lower Back Pain

Chiropractors use many types of treatments, but they all aim to improve the function of the musculoskeletal system and relieve pain. Chiropractors use many techniques, including spinal manipulation, massages, and exercises.

Spinal manipulation is the most common type of chiropractic treatment option. This technique involves using the hands to apply pressure to the spine to realign the vertebrae and can help relieve pain and improve the range of motion in the spine.

Massages are another common type of lower back pain treatment that chiropractors use. Massages can help to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation. Exercises are also often used to strengthen the muscles around the spine and improve the range of motion.

If you’re experiencing lower back pain, a chiropractor can help you in different ways.

Common Causes of Lower Back Pain

Several different things can cause lower back pain. Some of the most common causes include:

• Muscle or ligament strain. Muscle or ligament strain is often caused by lifting something heavy or sudden, awkward movements. The pain usually results from overstretching or tearing the muscles and ligaments in the lower back.

• Bulging or herniated discs. Your spine is a series of bones (vertebrae) separated by discs. These discs act as cushions between the vertebrae and help the spine move smoothly. Sometimes, the discs can become bulging or herniated, putting pressure on the nerves in the lower back and causing pain.

• Arthritis. Arthritis is a common cause of pain generally, and it also causes lower back pain. Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints and can occur in the spine just as it does in other joints in the body. This can lead to stiffness, pain, and limited mobility.

• Spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal. This narrowing puts pressure on the nerves and spinal cord and causes pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs and lower back.

Symptoms of Lower Back Pain

There are many different symptoms associated with lower back pain. Some people may experience a dull ache, while others may feel a sharp, shooting pain. Others may have difficulty standing or sitting for long periods or moving their legs or feet.

Some common symptoms of lower back pain include:

• Pain that radiates from the lower back to the buttocks, legs, or feet
• Difficulty standing or sitting for long periods
• Difficulty moving the legs or feet
• Weakness in the legs or feet
• Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
• Dull ache in the lower back
• Sharp, shooting pain in the lower back
• Stiffness or tightness in the lower back

Chiropractic Examination and Diagnosis

A chiropractic examination and diagnosis for lower back pain may include a variety of tests and evaluations. The specific tests and assessments performed depend on the symptoms and medical history. However, some common tests that may be conducted during a chiropractic examination for lower back pain include:

• A thorough medical history review: This will help the chiropractor better understand the individual's overall health and any potential risk factors for developing lower back pain.
• A physical examination: This will assess the individual's range of motion, strength, flexibility, and reflexes.
• Orthopedic tests: These tests may evaluate the spine, muscles, and joints for any potential sources of pain.
• Neurological tests: These tests evaluate the function of the nervous system.
• X-rays or other imaging studies: These tests may rule out other potential causes of pain, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis.

How Does a Chiropractor Treat Lower Back Pain?

A chiropractor will usually treat lower back pain by realigning the spine, which helps take the pressure off the nerves and allows the body to heal itself. 

Chiropractors also develop lower back pain treatment plans custom-made for the patient's specific needs. These plans might include: 

• Ongoing adjustments
• Massage therapy
• Rehabilitation or physical therapy
• Electrical stimulation
• Lifestyle changes

Chiropractic Treatments for Lower Back Pain

Many different chiropractic treatments treat lower back pain. The most common treatment is spinal manipulation, a gentle chiropractic adjustment of the spine that can help relieve pain and improve range of motion. Other common treatments include massage, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain

The benefits of chiropractic care for treating lower back pain include:

• Improve your range of motion
• Reduce inflammation
• Release endorphins
• Reduce nerve irritation
• Relax your muscles
• Strengthen your muscles and ligaments
• Improve your posture
• Relieve pressure on your discs and nerves

Conclusion

If you live with lower back pain, seeing a chiropractor may be a good option. Chiropractors can provide relief from pain and improve the function of the musculoskeletal system.

Dr. Darren Faherty D.C.

In 2004, Dr. Darren Faherty graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from UWEC - University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Dr. Darren continued education at the highly esteemed University of Western States (formerly Western States Chiropractic College) where he obtained his chiropractic degree in 2007. He has been helping people recover from injuries and return to their normal lifestyles ever since.