Low back pain is very common and can be debilitating. In fact, it is one of the most common reasons why people visit the doctor. Whether your back pain is work-related, due to an accident, caused by athletics, or the result of a degenerative condition, a chiropractor may provide the pain relief you desperately need.
Just What Is Low Back Pain?
Characterized by stabbing, shooting, or burning discomfort in the lumbar region of the spine (sometimes called the “small of the back”), low back pain is one of the leading causes of disability across the world. Often treated by occupational medicine specialists, low back pain may spread to other parts of the body, such as down one or both legs, as you stand up from a sitting position, bend at the waist, or twist your torso.
What Is Causing My Low Back Pain?
Back pain in any region of the spine–cervical, thoracic, lumbar, or sacral–may originate from a disease, traumatic injury, overuse, or congenital malformations. Low back pain most commonly begins with:
- Overuse of back muscles due to poor back mechanics when lifting heavy objects
- Deterioration of vertebrae and intervertebral discs related to arthritis and/or age
- Carrying too much body weight (obesity)
- Occupations that require a lot of sitting or standing
- Pinched nerves (sciatica pain as an example)
- Osteoporosis and other skeletal diseases
When Should I See a Chiropractor for My Low Back Pain?
Sadly, some back pain is so severe it does not improve with reduced activity, over-the-counter pain medications, heat therapy, or any tried and true home remedies. Stiffness, decreased range of motion, muscle spasms, and the inability to do simple daily activities signal a serious problem. That’s where chiropractic care from WorkPartners Occupational Health can help. If you experience symptoms and conservative treatments are just not working, it is a good time to see a chiropractor.
What Will My Chiropractor Do for Me?
Your chiropractor will do a complete spinal examination and take X-rays and other imaging tests, as needed. They will also review your symptoms, so be detailed in your description and always explain the duration and severity. Based on this information, your doctor will diagnose the problem and recommend treatments that could help you.
Your doctor will outline a treatment plan that may include:
- Rest
- Reduction or modification of work-related activities
- Hands-on spinal adjustments (manipulation) to re-align the vertebrae
- Acupuncture
- Acupressure (manipulation of pressure points) to relieve muscular tension and nerve pain and to speed up healing
- Physical therapy, including stretching and exercises to increase core muscle strength
- Heat or cold therapy
- Electrical stimulation (TENS)
- Massage therapy to relax tight muscles
Fortunately, back surgery usually is the last resort for correction of pain anywhere along the spine. Chiropractors are experts in minimally invasive techniques, which will help your body heal without the need for surgery, if possible.
Can I Prevent Low Back Pain?
Low back pain can be prevented with some common sense strategies incorporated into your daily life. These include:
- Daily exercise, such as walking or swimming
- Routine stretching
- Using a desk chair that is ergonomically correct to support your lumbar spine
- Losing weight
- Smoking cessation
- Getting regular chiropractic adjustments
- Carefully lifting heavy objects
This last strategy is very important. When picking up something heavy, use your legs to do the lifting, not your back. Never twist your back, and whenever possible, get a co-worker or a hand truck to assist you.
Chiropractic Care in Grand Junction, CO
In Grand Junction, CO, WorkPartners Occupational Health provides comprehensive on-site care for work-related injuries. This includes treatment of low back pain by our chiropractor, Dr. Christopher Angello. He’ll help you maintain your back health and avoid injuries at home or on the job.
So, come see us if your back hurts or if you simply wish to feel your very best. Call today for a chiropractic evaluation at (970) 241-5585, or request an appointment online.
