Pain in the back is one of the most distressing concerns for many of our patients whether it’s in the middle or upper region. The number of people that have chronic upper back pain is 15 to 19% according to a global survey. The amount of adolescents and children that will suffer from middle back pain is as much as 45%. Here at Vital Wellness Center, our skilled and experienced back pain chiropractor, Dr. David Foss, is hopeful that the following guide on back pain and what we can do to provide relief is helpful.
Common Causes of Back Pain
Osteoporosis, gallbladder issues, or a wide range of other conditions can cause pain in the back. Lifestyle factors, muscular issues, and spinal issues are some of the most common causes we see at Vital Wellness Center.
Sprains and Strains
When the ligaments in the back twist, tear or stretch a back sprain can happen. When muscles and tendons are injured in this way it is called a back strain. Repetitive motion, heavy lifting, or suddenly twisting the back beyond its typical range of motion are the most common causes of both injuries.
Accidents
Painful vertebral fractures can be caused by sporting mishaps, falls, and auto accidents. Since the spine is made up of vertebrae, broken bones can easily puncture or compress a nerve or even the spinal cord itself.
Herniated Disc
Between each of the vertebrae are discs that function as shock absorbers for the spine. Unfortunately, sometimes the material inside of these discs can bulge out from the spine and compress the surrounding nerves. Pain, tingling, and numbness along the pathway of the pinched nerve can be caused by this so-called ruptured or slipped disc.
Poor Posture
Poor posture can sometimes cause spinal subluxation or misalignment. A subluxation of the spine can often place pressure on the nerves and spinal cord. This results in pain and other sensory signals not being accurately delivered to the brain. Since the back muscles must help to compensate for any misalignment, poor posture can also overwork these muscles.
Obesity
Additional weight increases pain and puts more stress on the back. As a matter of fact, a link between pain in the back and obesity was revealed in a survey of 95 studies. Some of the physical burden carried by the back can be relieved by shedding some pounds.
Stress
A cascade of powerful neurochemicals can be caused by feeling stressed. It is this fight-flight-or-freeze reaction that involves getting people prepared to run away, remain still in terror, or defend home interests. Some of the body’s responses that can exacerbate pain in the back are sweating, tightened back muscles, and increased heart rate.
Symptoms of Back Pain
Loss of function and aches are the main symptoms of this condition. Pain in the back can vary significantly. Some patients tell our chiropractor for back pain that they feel like they are being stabbed in the back or they feel like it is on fire, while others only report a dull ache. Everyday tasks can feel like major ordeals with a stiff and painful back.
How Chiropractic Works to Alleviate or Eliminate Back Pain
A wide range of choices will come up when searching the internet for a back pain chiropractor near me; however, these choices will not share much about the dedication of our back pain chiropractor. When patients come to Vital Wellness Center with a painful back, they receive a thorough assessment including scans and a physical examination. We also question our patients about goals for their health and a wide range of lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, and sleep. Following are some therapies we often use to eliminate or alleviate a painful back.
Chiropractic Adjustment
At the heart of chiropractic care is spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustment. During this therapy at Vital Wellness Center, we use our hands or specially designed tools to gently restore proper spinal alignment. Any pressure exerted on the nerves is removed by this treatment and optimal nerve function is restored including the accurate processing of pain.
Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression can be done manually and stretches the spine. This therapy also focuses on reducing compression of the nerves; however, a spinal decompression machine can also be used for this treatment.
Massage Therapy
Pain and inflammation can be reduced by using massage therapy. Massage therapy works by providing soothing warmth and increased circulation. According to our patients at Vital Wellness Center, it provides pampering relaxation and fast relief. On a cellular level, it pushes lactic acid and additional waste products from the muscles which can cause pain when they build up. Massage therapy also ushers in muscle-building nutrients and healing oxygen-rich blood.
Therapeutic Hot and Cold
Some of the same benefits obtained from massage are provided by applying hot or cold packs. Therapeutic ultrasound is also offered at Vital Wellness Center which penetrates the back with gentle warmth and sound waves.
Prescribed Back Stretches and Exercises
Although these therapies are all helpful, they cannot help our patients with recovery long-term unless our lifestyle recommendations are followed. Prescribed movement such as exercise and stretching help to build healthy muscle and maintain healthy alignment.
PNF or Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation is a strategic series of stretching exercises that combine relaxation and muscle contraction. Vital Wellness Center prescribes personalized PNF stretching programs to promote relaxation and reduce muscle spasms.
Patients are also analyzed as they sit, stand, and walk so that targeted exercises can be developed for them. These exercises increase agility and build strength. The spine is allowed to move gracefully with less or no pain when muscles are strong and joints are supple.
You Can Live With Less (Or No) Back Pain
You may not think you can ever be free of the unrelenting grip of this condition, and if you have developed a chronic pain issue, this is particularly true; however, our chiropractor for back pain is waiting to move you towards no or less back stiffness and pain. If you want a comprehensive back pain consultation or answers to your questions, please call us today.
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