July Newsletter: Treatments for Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is a common occurrence.

According to a 2022 Harris Poll, Chronic lower back pain affects nearly three adults out of ten. And of those experiencing some chronic low back pain – about one-third describe the pain as severe to extremely severe. The CDC, in a study in 2019, revealed statistics that saw women were more likely to experience back pain than men. And as might be expected, the percentage of those individuals with back pain increases with age.

How Chiropractors Can Help Relieve Lower Back Pain Non-invasively

Chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and providing a non-invasive, drug-free approach to the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. Chiropractors, with their array of complementary therapies, can treat lower back pain using these potential techniques/therapies -

Spinal Manipulation/Adjustments

Manipulation or spinal adjustments refer to a chiropractor's technique of applying, to the joints within the spine, a controlled and sudden force. The ultimate goal is to improve the alignment of the spine's vertebrae, increase the spine's mobility, and relieve painful symptoms.

Mobilization

This technique of mobilization refers to the gentle, low-velocity motion of the muscles and joints within the lower back region. Mobilization also seeks to reduce pain, increase flexibility, and enhance the functioning of the spine without the use of controlled or sudden force.

Flexion-Distraction Technique

This technique uses a specialty table designed for chiropractic care. The table allows the chiropractor to stretch/flex the spine in a rhythmic yet gentle motion. Ultimately, this technique helps reduce spinal disc pressure, and nerve pressure/irritation, while increasing one's mobility.

Soft Tissue Therapy

In addition to spinal adjustments (what most people think of when talking about chiropractic care), most chiropractors also offer complementary soft tissue therapies to address knots/muscle tension causing pain and discomfort in the lower back. These soft tissue therapy options are effective at improving circulation, enhancing flexibility, and reducing pain –

• Myofascial Manipulation – seeks to target/manipulate connective tissue and release the restrictions caused by inflammation and other musculoskeletal conditions.
• The Graston Technique – uses specialized tools to identify/treat limitations/adhesions that form in the soft tissue that may be caused by various issues, including scar tissue.
• Massage Therapy – various massage therapy techniques are used for specific purposes. These include –
  • Deep Tissue Massage
  • Swedish Massage
  • Sports Massage
  • Shiatsu Massage
  • Prenatal Massage
  • Hot Stone Massage
• Trigger Point Therapy – often considered a type of massage therapy, chiropractors with or without specialized instruments seek to release localized areas of tenderness/muscle tightness.

Therapeutic & Stretching Exercises

Therapeutic exercises are often recommended as they help to strengthen the lower back's muscles and support the spinal column. Therapeutic exercises are effective in improving one's posture and flexibility. These exercises also reduce the risk of future injuries that cause lower back pain.

Lifestyle & Postural Guidance

Chiropractors also offer detailed guidance regarding ways you can help avoid/alleviate lower back pain. These recommendations may include options to avoid straining your lower back needlessly –

• Ergonomic modifications to work and home environments
• Proper lifting techniques – especially for those who often do strength training or lift heavy objects
• Postural adjustments

Lower Back Pain – The Take-Away

It is essential to note that lower back pain differs from person to person as well as in its intensity, mainly because the specific underlying cause of back pain varies. Through a comprehensive evaluation and exam, a chiropractor can identify the cause of the low back pain and determine the most effective and appropriate plan of treatment to address the discomfort disrupting your daily routine and life's simple pleasures.

If you or someone you love/know is experiencing lower back pain that interferes with their quality of life, it's recommended to consult with a qualified chiropractor who has the skills and tools to assess your low back issue and treat the pain.