Have you been suffering from back pain or back stiffness that just won’t go away?

As almost everybody movement involves our back, pain in the lower, middle or upper back can get in the way of even the most basic daily tasks. Back pain can start as a result of an injury or accident, or can be a symptom of a genetic disease, or a side effect of another health problem, but many times, the cause of back pain is not clear.

In the beginning, when feeling discomfort, it is common to try to self-manage the pain with pain medication like aspirin, ibuprofen or Tylenol. Medication can eliminate some inflammation and pain in the short term, it shouldn’t be used longer than 2-3 days. Also, these medications do not address the root cause of the pain and stiffness, they only mask the symptoms. When you see a chiropractor for back pain, they will run a series of tests (like X-Rays) and symptom assessments to determine the source or the root cause of the pain.

With the information gained from a thorough physical exam, your chiropractor can put together an individual treatment plan that not only reduces your pain but also helps to build your strength and movement to prevent it from happening again.

Which chiropractic back pain treatment method is right for you?

Manual chiropractic adjustment

A chiropractic adjustment involves manipulation and realignment of the spine and neck vertebrates. During your initial examination, the doctor may notice areas where your spine is out of alignment, called a subluxation. These misalignments can be caused by minor or major injuries or can develop over time with improper posture or muscle strain. The doctor will use chiropractic techniques to remedy the subluxation. This may result in a popping or cracking sound as the joint is realigned. Using manual therapy, the doctor will use his or her hands to move your body and bring the bones in a joint back to their normal position. This process may take several visits until the adjustment is effective. In some cases, this may cause tenderness or soreness in the hours immediately following the treatment, which is normal. Applying ice may help relieve the soreness.

Low-level laser therapy

Your doctor may utilize low-level laser therapy to help in your recovery and healing. In this process, low levels of laser light are applied to the patient’s skin to promote healthy tissue production and reduce pain. It is effective in reducing inflammation and pain in localized areas, making it a useful tool for pain relief. Unlike high powered lasers that are used for surgery, the low-level lasers encourage cell functions like regeneration and reproduction. Due to the low power of the lasers, this treatment method is most useful for surface level pain and injury.

Graston technique

Another form of manual therapy that may be used in your treatment program is the Graston Technique. Using stainless-steel tools, the doctor will use specialized massage to mobilize muscles. The doctor will locate scar tissue that may be reducing your ability to move and causing pain. In most cases, this scar tissue developed as a result of trauma to the muscles or soft tissues. The tools will then be used to break up the scar tissue in an attempt to restore mobility. This process helps to create an environment where the soft tissue can heal and be restored while eliminating the pain associated with the injury.

Spinal rejuvenation

This treatment process is traction-based therapy. A non-surgical approach, it focuses on the treatment of discs that have bulged or slipped. Creating negative pressure, the spine is relaxed and the area of the disc that is protruding is able to be returned to its normal position. This treatment program is highly effective and is particularly useful with neck and arm pain or back and leg pain. The body is put through directed, programmed phases to allow the body time to use healthy nutrients to increase healing.

Spinal decompression

By stretching the spine, it alleviates the pressure off of the pinched nerve that is causing pain. Whether the injury is caused by a bulging, herniated or injured disc, the cushion between the discs can compress and pinch the nerve. Taking the pressure off of the spine gives the discs the opportunity to restore health to the spine. This can give your body the chance to promote a healthy environment for your spine. Decompression treatments can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Your specific treatment will depend on your injury and the needs of your body.

If you need help and relief from back pain contact our office to schedule an appointment. Our team of caring doctors will design a treatment plan that will help you.