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Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons our patients seek out chiropractic treatment. We know that backaches can be debilitating and reduce your quality of life, so we want to help you resolve your symptoms and feel your best. In this blog, we look at prevention and chiropractic treatment of lower back pain.
What are the symptoms of lower back pain?
As chiropractors, we understand that every patient is unique and so are their symptoms. Your symptoms could range in intensity from moderate discomfort, to severe, persistent aching that impacts your daily activities. Lower back pain that lasts a few days or weeks is acute, while pain that lasts 3 months or longer is considered chronic.
Some of the common symptoms include:
Dull aching
Sharp pain
Tightness that radiates down your glutes and thigh
Discomfort worsens during activity or movement
Discomfort worsens when sitting in the same position for extended periods
Decreased range of motion and/or stiffness
Postural issues
Muscle spasms
What causes lower back pain?
Whether your symptoms have appeared abruptly, or built up gradually, there are some common conditions and diseases that cause lower back pain. Sprains and strains are the most common cause of lower back aches.
Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction, when the SI joints are inflamed, contributes to around 15-30% of back pain. Disc injuries, including ‘slipped’ or herniated discs and sciatica (which occurs when a herniated disc presses on the sciatic nerve) may also be to blame. Osteoarthritis or inflammation of the joints that causes pain and stiffness is another common cause of lower back pain.
As chiros who are experienced in matters of the spine, we aim to help you get to the root cause of your symptoms.
How can I prevent lower back pain?
The old saying that prevention is better than cure applies to back pain as well! There are some ways to reduce your risk of experiencing back aches, including keeping up with your fitness and being active regularly. It is a good idea to focus on core strengthening exercises to support your back, and practice correct form and posture. Reaching or maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the pressure on your back.
Regularly stretching your back is also another way to reduce your risk of injury. If you need help with this, we can provide advice and guidance on stretching and the proper techniques. If you sit for a living, it’s also a good idea to review the ergonomic setup of your desk (or other work space) and maintain good posture while sitting or standing for long periods. We may be able to help correct any postural issues you are having, so come and see us if you need advice.
How can chiropractic treatment help?
Chiropractic treatment aims to get to the root cause of your symptoms.
During your initial appointment, we will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and examine your spine to ensure we correctly diagnose and treat your body. This may involve checking where your pain is located, your posture, and range of motion.
We will then come up with a treatment plan that is specific to your needs. This may include managing your pain and reducing inflammation with ice/heat therapy, if necessary. We’ll focus on improving mobility and restoring function, which may involve a range of techniques, including chiropractic manipulation of the lumbar spine using high-velocity thrust manipulation, joint mobilisation, and soft tissue massage to release any tightness.
Your treatment plan may include a home program of stretches to release tight muscles and strength work for your glutes and core muscles to support your spine and get you back to your best.
If you are experiencing lower back pain and need help managing your symptoms, then give us a call at (905) 265-0006 or email drmerogi@bodycure.ca to book your appointment!