Lower back pain, along with other forms of back pain, is one of the most common reasons we take time off work. You can suffer from back pain for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common factors for any kind of back pain is a sedentary lifestyle.
Your family doctor is likely to recommend some kind of anti-inflammatory treatment, but that is not always the best solution. In years past, most family doctors may have frowned on chiropractic treatments, however, this has changed.
Thanks to positive research studies in reputable journals, medical opinion is generally well-disposed towards chiropractic treatments.
A Brief Insight Into Chiropractic Theory
If you suffer from any kind of back pain, you will probably have come to appreciate the spine is the body’s most important support structure. But, there is a lot more to the spine than just a skeletal structure.
In fact, the spine is the highway of communication between the brain and the body. Any spinal misalignments, known to chiropractors as “subluxations” or “fixations”, may not only cause pain but can affect the whole body.
Chiropractic treatment focuses on joint manipulation to reduce pain which is associated with both the nervous system and skeletal structure.
Back Pain Treatment
Back pain is one of the most commonly encountered health problems, and one which chiropractic treatment has demonstrated particular success.
“Unlocking” a joint by chiropractic treatment is usually painless. It can bring immediate relief from pain and an increased range of movement. Patients are often concerned about the "click” which can be heard during treatment sessions. This is caused by a tiny gas bubble created by the change in pressure when the joint is suddenly stretched.
Chiropractic Techniques Used When Treating Back Pain
There are many different techniques which can be used when treating back pain. One of the most common ones which you may have seen photos of is the Lumbar Roll In this treatment, the practitioner works directly on the lumbar region of the spine. She moves the relevant spinal joint as far as it will go, and then, with a rapid measured thrust on the vertebra, she moves it slightly further.
The Bonyun adjustment is another popular treatment option. The chiropractor adjusts the spine with traction, separating the vertebrae gently with her fingers.
The Toggle Drop is a treatment option which improves mobility in the vertebral joints between the sacrum and pelvis. With hands crossed, the practitioner presses down swiftly to adjust a specific vertebra.
Listen to Advice
Your chiropractor will give you the best advice to follow for your lower back pain. More than likely, you will need several treatments to make sure changes remain in place.
It is worth pointing out you may be asked to refrain from certain physical activities in between treatments and until your condition has stabilised.
It is also likely a chiropractor will recommend lifestyle changes. These lifestyle changes can include postural changes and weightloss.
A plethora of factors plays a role when it comes to both urgent and chronic back pain. Above all, it is important to have your problem diagnosed. Common problems include sciatica, herniated and bulging discs and chronic back pain
A medical doctor will often rely on a range of inflammatory drugs. Although these may ease any inflammation and pain, they will not deal with the underlying problem. This is what chiropractors conditioners are so good at diagnosing and treating.
The Importance of Medical History
Your chiropractor will have taken a detailed medical history including both current and past problems. He or she will ask about your lifestyle and work. Former injuries may contribute to current back pain problems. This is very important to bear in mind when it comes to Sciatica and chronic back pain.
Any treatment plan will include diagnostic tests. Don’t be surprised if your practitioner asks you to go for an X-ray.
Expect to undress to your underwear, but if you are uncomfortable, a gown is provided. The practitioner will use her hands to find out spinal joints move freely or are locked. This happens on the first visit and allows the practitioner to locate a problem.
Is chiropractic treatment safe? It is very safe and effective when it comes to treating chronic back pain and other back pain such as Sciatica. Once you have finished treatment, it is a good idea to go for regulars check-ups to make sure positive changes stay in place and problems do not return.