Lower Back Pain
Low back pain can have various causes. Here are some common causes of low back pain and the corresponding ways chiropractic can help:
Mechanical Low Back Pain: This type of low back pain is often caused by issues with the spine's mechanics such as muscle strains, ligament sprains, or joint dysfunction. Chiropractic care is well-suited to treat mechanical low back pain through techniques like spinal adjustments, mobilizations, and soft tissue therapy. These interventions can restore joint function, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
Herniated Discs: A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the outer layer irritating nearby nerves and causing low back pain. Gentle spinal adjustments/mobilizations, spinal decompression therapy and other techniques aim to relieve pressure on the affected disc, reduce symptoms and facilitate the healing process.
Sciatica: Sciatica refers to the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve which runs from the lower back down through the legs. It often causes radiating pain, numbness, or tingling sensations. Through spinal adjustments/mobilizations, traction and therapeutic exercises chiropractors aim to alleviate sciatic nerve pressure and reduce associated symptoms.
Facet Joint Dysfunction: The facet joints located on the back of the spine can become irritated or inflamed leading to low back pain. Chiropractic adjustments can restore function and movement to the facet joints relieving pain and promoting optimal joint function.
Muscle Imbalances and Postural Issues: Imbalances in the muscles supporting the low back or poor posture can lead to chronic low back pain. Corrective exercises, stretches and guidance on posture and ergonomics may help to address these issues and alleviate pain.
Scoliosis: Scoliosis is a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. Chiropractic care can help manage scoliosis-related low back pain however chiropractic care cannot fully correct the curvature, it can improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance the overall functioning of the spine.
