Chiropractic for Back Pain: What You Need To Know
Back pain is the most common cause of disability in England.
The reality is that one in six people are suffering with back pain in England according to Arthritis Research Uk.
Even more staggering is that 9 million people live with back pain and in 5.5 million it is severe. Severe back pain is defined as a high level of pain and severe limitation as a result of the pain.
Later in this article I will discuss the role of chiropractic for back pain but first let us understand more about it.
Who Gets Back Pain?
Back pain is associated with some medical conditions but for many sufferers there is no obvious cause. This is termed non-specific back pain.
However, there are risk factors associated with back pain such as
- Obesity (most common and one that can be addressed)
- Smoking
- Female
- Heavy Lifting
- Increasing Age
The Effects of Back Pain
The effects of back pain extend beyond physical pain to socioeconomic ones. Suffers may experience financial difficulties due to loss of income and not being able to participate in the normal activities of daily life may lead to anxiety and depression.
What Can I Do About Back Pain?
It’s important to note that back pain isn’t a condition itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue affecting the musculoskeletal system which can often respond to some simple and affordable self help measures.
Back Pain – Low
Back pain is commonly experienced in the low back, the area from the bottom rib to the pelvis. In 90-95% of cases the cause is unknown – it is not related to anything in particular. NICE
Self help is based on keeping active and returning to work with appropriate support as soon as possible as outlined in the charity Backcare’s leaflet (see here).
If symptoms fail to improve with self help measures, you should consider seeing a chiropractor.
Chiropractic for Back Pain
Chiropractos are trained to diagnose and treat problems relating to the back. Accordingly, you will be assessed to establish whether chiropractic for back pain is an appropriate method of treatment for you.
Spinal Adjustments
Chiropractors use spinal manipulations (adjustments) to correct misalignments in the vertebrae of the spine, particularly in the lower back. These adjustments can help relieve nerve compression, improve spinal function, and reduce pain.
Mobilisation
In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may use gentle mobilisation techniques to increase the range of motion in the spine and reduce stiffness, which can provide relief from pain.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Chiropractors may also work on soft tissue techniques like massage or myofascial release to address muscle spasms and tightness that could be contributing to back pain.
Posture and Lifestyle Advice
Since bad posture, prolonged sitting, or improper lifting can be a factor in back pain, chiropractors often offer advice on improving posture, ergonomic adjustments, and exercises that can strengthen the muscles supporting the spine.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Chiropractors may recommend specific exercises to stretch tight muscles and strengthen weak ones, especially in the lower back, abdomen, and legs, which can support long-term relief and prevent recurrence.
Take Action
Now that you have considered chiropractic for back pain, it is time to take the next step either with a free advisory consultation or start your recovery with a first visit.
Looking forward to connecting
Vanessa