February 2023

What Is Low Back Pain?

What Is Low Back Pain?

Do you suffer from low back pain? You are not alone. Low back pain is one of the most common reasons for missed work in the U.S., but there is good news! In many cases, it gets better on its own and your doctor may be able to help with several effective treatments. 

Here’s what you need to know if you’re a low back pain sufferer:

– Understand what causes low back pain

– Discover ways to relieve your symptoms at home

– Learn when it’s time to see a chiropractor for further treatment

By knowing more about low back pain causes, you can take steps towards finding pain relief and getting your life back on track.

Low Back Pain Symptoms

Whether it’s a dull ache, stabbing sensation or shooting discomfort, chronic back pain can be debilitating and limit your ability to move freely. If you’ve been dealing with ongoing lower back pain/chronic pain for months, then it’s time to take action and get the relief you deserve. 

Symptoms That May Require Urgent Care

Here are some of the symptoms that should prompt a visit to your doctor:

  • Back pain after a fall or injury
  • Severe pain without a precipitating event
  • Bowel or bladder control problems
  • Leg weakness
  • Fever
  • Pain when coughing or urinating

Don’t wait until it’s too late – if any of these symptoms sound familiar, make an appointment with your primary care physician right away.

Sciatica: Intense Radiating Pain Down One Leg

Are you suffering from back pain that just won’t go away? It could be due to something as simple as a muscle strain. But it could also be caused by an underlying issue with the small, jelly-filled discs between your vertebrae.

A herniated, bulging, or ruptured disc can push on the sciatic nerve, causing intense pain that radiates from your lower back to one leg, along the sciatic nerve. This type of pain is called sciatica and requires medical attention in order to treat it.

If you are experiencing persistent back pain that radiates down one leg, it’s important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, not just seek temporary pain relief without proper medical attention.

Your physician may suggest simple at-home treatments like rest and applying cold or hot packs to reduce inflammation. Physical therapy can also help strengthen the muscles in your back and legs in order to prevent future injury. If these treatments don’t work, visiting a chiropractor for a treatment plan which includes spinal manipulation may alleviate your symptoms without having to do something more invasive, like surgery.
Who’s at Risk for Low Back Pain?

Low back pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages, but it tends to become more frequent as we grow older. Generally, you may notice the first lower back pain issues in your 30’s, and then experience these pain more often and in greater intensity as you grow older.

In addition to age, there are other factors such as not maintaining a healthy weight or being inactive, and doing heavy lifting at work that can contribute to lower back pain. Read on for some tips on how to relieve your lower back pain and get your life back.

Diagnosing Low Back Pain

If you’re suffering from low back pain, there are several steps you can take to find relief. Here are some tips for getting started:

• Describe your pain in detail to your doctor. Include the type of pain, when it started, and any related symptoms. This will help your doctor to diagnose the source of your pain.

• Share your medical history, including any chronic conditions you may have.

• In most cases, your doctor will not need to order X-rays, CT or MRI scans before starting treatment.

• Take advantage of non-invasive treatments such as physical therapy and stretching exercises to help manage your pain.

• Consider visiting a physical therapist who specializes in low back pain to create an exercise plan tailored to your condition. This type of therapy can be beneficial in providing relief from back pain and restoring mobility.

• Explore other therapeutic treatments such as acupuncture, massage and chiropractic care. These can help to reduce tension in the muscles of your lower back and improve mobility.

• Talk to your doctor about medications that might be appropriate for managing your pain. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, they may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants.

By following these tips, you can take steps towards finding relief from your back pain. With the right combination of treatments and therapies you can manage your condition and find a way to live comfortably with it.

Home Care for Low Back Pain

You do not always have to run to the doctor’s office when you are experiencing chronic low back pain, especially if it is not an acute onset due to a fall, a sudden movement, or a specific event. Often you will find that chronic low back pain due to something minor like a muscle strain will get better all by itself, but you can definitely take measured steps to help the healing process. Here are some tips for taking care of your low back pain at home:

• Apply a heating pad or cold compress to the affected area. This will help reduce inflammation and muscle spasms.

• Take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen or acetaminophen to ease discomfort.

• Keep active and maintain normal activities as much as possible. This will help keep the muscles of your back strong and healthy.

• Practice good posture while sitting, standing or lying down to avoid putting strain on your lower back.

• Avoid strenuous activities that may strain the muscles in your low back.

• Sleep on a mattress that provides good support for your back.

• Take regular breaks from sitting, especially if it is a task you do often throughout the day.

If home care is not working, see a licensed chiropractic doctor

These home care tips should help you manage your low back pain and keep it from getting worse. If these don’t seem to be helping, or if your pain is getting worse, it may be time to see a licensed chiropractic doctor. Your chiropractic doctor can diagnose the source of your back pain and offer more specific treatments that will help you find relief.

Remember, low back pain can often improve with simple home care measures. Taking these steps can help you reduce your discomfort and get back to your normal activities. If your back pain persists, it is important to seek professional help so you can find the right treatment plan for you.

Will my back pain improve if I stay in bed?

When it comes to back pain, the old saying “no pain, no gain” definitely applies. While it can be tempting to stay in bed for days on end when your back is hurting, studies suggest that getting up and moving around is actually the best course of action. Extensive bed rest for more than a day or two can actually make the pain worse, reducing muscle tone and flexibility. If your back is in pain, it’s better to get up and move around than to stay in bed for extended periods of time. Doing light exercises or stretches can help relieve muscular tension and alleviate the discomfort. With some patience and perseverance, you can find relief from back pain.

Strengthening the Back

Back pain can be a debilitating and frustrating condition, but fortunately there are ways to help relieve the discomfort. Strengthening the back is one such way that can be effective in helping to reduce pain. Here are some tips for those seeking relief:

• Flexion exercises: This type of exercise involves bending forward to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the back and hips.

• Extension exercises: This type of exercise involves bending backward to develop the muscles that support the spine.

• Talk to your doctor or physical therapist: Before beginning any type of exercise program, make sure you speak with your doctor or physical therapist about which exercises are safe for you to do.

By incorporating these exercises into your daily routine, you can help relieve some of the pain associated with back pain and strengthen your back muscles. However, it is important to remember that everyone’s body is different and what may work for one person may not be suitable for another. Therefore, always consult your physician, chiropractic doctor, or physical therapist before beginning any exercise program.

Important lifestyle changes: a Holistic Approach

It is important to remember that taking care of low back pain requires a holistic approach. A combination of lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy weight, physical therapy, medication and chiropractic care may be needed in order to find relief. Talk to your chiropractic doctor about what options are best for you and don’t be afraid to ask questions. With the right care, you can reduce your discomfort and take steps towards better health.

Good luck!

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Chiropractic treatment for back pain

Chiropractic Care for Back Pain

Chiropractic is a trusted and time-tested practice that focuses on the noninvasive treatment of neurological disorders in the human body. Using manual therapy, chiropractors seek to manipulate spinal alignment and treat adjacent tissues for medical conditions such as lower back pain– often finding success from these treatments in countless studies!

Should I see a chiropractor for chronic back pain?

Chiropractic care is an effective way for those suffering from chronic or acute back pain to find relief without relying on medications or surgery. Through manual manipulation techniques along with ultrasound therapy or electrical stimulation treatments, amongst others, chiropractic doctors can help realign misaligned joints and reduce inflammation which can lead to improved quality of life for those suffering from back pain issues. By addressing structural imbalances and misalignments, chiropractic care can help to reduce pain, improve flexibility, and increase range-of-motion.

Non surgical approach to back pain relief

Chiropractic treatments are noninvasive and drug free, so there is no risk of serious side effects associated with long term use. This makes chiropractic care an attractive option for those who are seeking to avoid the use of prescription medications or surgery.

Chiropractic care treats the underlying issues of back pain

Overall, chiropractic care can be beneficial for those suffering from back pain as it seeks to correct the underlying cause of the problem and restore proper function, rather than just masking the symptoms. By addressing any misalignments or imbalances in the spine and joints, chiropractic care can help to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote overall health.

Does a Chiropractor treat all back pain?

A visit to the chiropractor may help alleviate back pain for many sufferers, as they are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.

Low back pain can often occur and can be treated through chiropractic care. But not every lower back injury can be treated through chiropractic treatment. For example, pain in the lower back can indicate kidney problems and the chiropractor can’t provide much help.

Pain caused by muscle tissues is usually treated better through massage therapy.

Techniques used to treat back pain

Chiropractors are specially trained to assess and diagnose musculoskeletal problems. After taking your medical history, they will perform a physical examination that includes assessing your posture, range-of-motion, and spinal alignment. If they find any misalignments in your spine or joints, they may use manual manipulation techniques called adjustments to realign them. These techniques involve applying precise force to specific areas in order to restore proper function and mobility.

In their treatment plan, they may also recommend lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet modifications, and stretching routines to help improve overall health and reduce pain levels.

In addition to these adjustment techniques, chiropractor may also use other treatments such as ultrasound therapy or electrical stimulation to reduce muscle tension and inflammation.

Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to penetrate deep into tissues in order to stimulate healing and reduce swelling or discomfort.

Electrical stimulation involves using low-voltage electrical current applied directly onto the skin over the affected area in order to reduce muscle spasms or increase circulation. Both treatments have been shown to be effective ways of alleviating back pain.

However, there are many other types of techniques used by chiropractors in treating back pain, such as is listed below.

Manual Manipulation- Chiropractor technique used to treat back pain

Manual manipulations are a reliable technique used to treat musculoskeletal disorders and conditions caused by physical trauma or repetitive activities that disrupt normal function.

An adjustment, performed by an experienced practitioner, is designed to realign the joints and surrounding tissues in order to restore balance, improve movement and reduce pain. This is achieved with specific manual techniques such as mobilization, pressure, stretching and massage applied to the affected area.

Regular visits to a chiropractor carrying out manual adjustments can help provide a long-term solution from chronic pain and long term improvements in overall musculoskeletal health.

Can Spinal Manipulation cause pain?

Spinal manipulation is generally considered a safe technique used by an authorized doctor to treat chiropractic back pain, amongst other ailments.  However, it is possible for mild discomfort to occur during the spinal manipulation procedure. This is usually due to pressure being placed on soft tissues and joints in order to realign them. The patient may also experience soreness after the treatment as they adjust to the changes affected by the spinal manipulation. The soreness should subside within 24-48 hours, however if it persists the patient should contact their chiropractor.

Acupuncture & Acuneedling- Chiropractor techniques used to treat back pain

Acupuncture and Acuneedling are two powerful techniques that have been used for centuries to treat a variety of musculoskeletal issues. These pain reduction methods target pain, stiffness, and tension by stimulating certain areas of the body through small needle insertions. By activating pain pathways back to the brain, acupuncture and acuneedling ( a more recent technique derived from acupuncture that uses both smaller and filiform needles to stimulate specific pain points) reduce pain while improving overall health. Indeed, these treatments have been long revered as a safe and effective solution with potential improvement in many other aspects of health such as increased energy levels and enhanced bodily function.

Ultrasound Therapy- a Chiropractor technique used to treat pain

Ultrasound therapy is a chiropractic technique used to treat pain. This pain-relieving treatment method focuses on the musculoskeletal system using sound waves to penetrate through the affected tissues and reduce tension in targeted areas. These sound waves vibrate through the affected areas, creating heat where the pain and tension is being experienced. By doing so, pain may be reduced and muscles relaxed, allowing for easier movement and overall improvement in the patient’s pain levels.

Non invasive Treatments using Ultrasound

Patients can expect notable improvement in pain levels after the ultrasound therapy treatment session guided by an experienced chiropractor. With regular sessions, pain can be alleviated for lengthy periods of time due to the stimulation of endorphin’s during ultrasound therapy treatments.  If you’re looking for a non-invasive solution to treat pain, ultrasound therapy could make all the difference in your life.

Spinal Decompression- A Chiropractor technique to treat back pain

Spinal Decompression is an effective spinal manipulative therapy technique used to treat back pain and tension. Through slow stretching and spinal realignment, Spinal Decompression helps alleviate pain symptoms caused by herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica. In particular, the technique reduces the pressure on targeted discs in the spine through a series of gentle movements that bring about significant pain reduction and great improvement over time.

Through this pain-free procedure, many individuals living with debilitating pain are able to find long-term relief instead of relying on constant medication for relief.

Spinal Decompression offers a viable pain solution without surgery – making it an effective option for those seeking natural pain treatment. By utilizing this cutting edge technique, patients have reported less pain over extended periods of time with improved mobility and increased quality of life both physically and mentally. As one of the leading chiropractic treatments available on the market today, spinal decompression has become a key player in relieving chronic low back pain.

Other Effective leading Chiropractic Techniques

  1. Electrical Stimulation
  2. Graston Technique
  3. Massage Therapy
  4. DTS Therapy
  5. Cold Laser Therapy
  6. ART or Active Release Techniques

Expert Advice for avoiding back pain in the future

Finally, chiropractors are experts at providing advice on how best to avoid back injury in the future by improving posture, strengthening core muscles, and learning proper ergonomic techniques when sitting at a desk or lifting heavy objects. By following these tips regularly you can help prevent future episodes of back pain from occurring again.  Furthermore, chiropractic care can help keep your joints functioning correctly by providing regular adjustments that improve flexibility, range-of-motion, and strength. A healthy back means a healthier you – so don’t hesitate to contact your chiropractor if you’re suffering from any type of back pain. With their expertise and knowledge, they can help you get back to living your best life.

Conclusion:

Chiropractors provide valuable advice on how best to avoid further injury through lifestyle changes such as exercises and ergonomic practices which can all contribute towards long-term relief from back pain. For anyone looking for an alternative way of dealing with their back pain issues it is definitely worth considering visiting a chiropractor for assessment and treatment options tailored specifically for you!

Anew Chiro Chiropractor in The Woodlands, Texas

If you are experiencing back pain, don’t wait any longer to get relief. Contact a Anew Chiro chiropractor today and find out how they can help you live a life free of pain. With professional advice and the right treatments tailored to your needs, you could be on your way to a healthier, happier lifestyle!

Chiropractic treatment for back pain Read More »

Some Root Causes Of  Back Pain

Root Causes of Back Pain: Your Job

I know you’ve heard it before,my job is a pain in the neck! But, in this case it literally could be a pain in your back. If you are experiencing back pain that is affecting your day-to-day life, your job may be to blame. Although there are many potential root causes of your back pain, one of them could be related to your job.

Here are some common workplace issues that might be contributing to your discomfort:

• Lifting heavy objects (Although, simply twisting sideways in your chair to move a book, or picking something up off the floor while seated is enough to precipitate an acute pain.)

• Pulling or pushing items

• Twisting movements with the spine

• Sitting at a desk for long periods in an uncomfortable chair

• Slouching while sitting at a desk

If any of these above sound familiar, it’s time to seek out professional help from a chiropractor who can assess the source of your pain and provide targeted chiropractic treatments.

Root Causes of Back Pain: Your Bag

Did you know that the cause of your back pain could be something as simple as the bag you carry around every day? 

Here are 3 key reasons why your bag might be causing your back pain:

* Your lower back supports the upper body – including any extra weight from an overstuffed bag. This can strain the lower back when carried day after day.

* An overloaded or heavy purse, backpack, or briefcase can put added stress on muscles in your neck and shoulders leading to tension headaches and other issues.

* Carrying a heavy load all day long may lead to posture problems due to uneven distribution of weight which causes muscle imbalances that affect how we move.

Root Causes of Back Pain: Your Workout

Your workout routine, or rather how you approach your workout, may help you get to the root of your back pain. It’s important to look at how your workout routine might be contributing to the pain you are experiencing in your back. Here are some common causes of overextended muscles leading to low back pain:

– Overdoing it at the gym or golf course

– Being inactive during the work week and then doing intense physical activity on the weekend

– Not stretching before or after exercising

– Doing exercises that put too much strain on your lower back muscles

– Using incorrect form when lifting weights or doing other exercises

If you are experiencing back pain that is related to your workout, it may be beneficial to visit a chiropractor. A chiropractor can assess the source of your pain and provide targeted treatments such as spinal manipulation, massage therapy, and/or physical therapy in order to help.

Root Causes of Back Pain: Your Posture

Is your posture to blame for some of the lower back pain or spine pain that you are experiencing? Here are some of the root causes of back pain that can be addressed with a few simple changes:

 

    • Maintaining good posture, including sitting with proper lumbar support for your lower back, shoulders back, and feet resting on a low stool.

 

    • Keeping weight evenly balanced when standing on both feet.

 

    • Making sure to move around frequently throughout the day to avoid long periods of inactivity.

By addressing these root causes through chiropractic care, you may find yourself feeling more comfortable and less anxious about living life without chronic or acute pains from specific areas like your neck or spine!

Root Causes of Back Pain: Herniated Disc

Are you experiencing back pain and looking for relief? You’re not alone. Back pain is one of the most common ailments in America, affecting 8 out of 10 people at some point in their lives. While there are many potential causes of back pain, one of the most frequently encountered is a herniated disc.

This occurs when one or more vertebrae discs become weakened and rupture or bulge, putting pressure on the spinal nerve roots and causing intense discomfort. 

If you’re suffering from back pain that won’t go away with rest or over-the-counter medications, it may be time to see a medical professional to determine if you have a herniated disc and explore options for treatment.

Root Causes of Back Pain: Chronic Conditions

Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints among adults today, and it can have a variety of causes. Many people seek help from chiropractors or medical professionals to find relief from musculoskeletal and skin diseases.

Chronic Conditions:  spinal stenosis, ankylosing spondylitis, & fibromyalgia

One possible cause of your discomfort could be a chronic condition such as spinal stenosis, ankylosing spondylitis, or fibromyalgia.

Spinal stenosis

A condition known as spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can cause pain in the lower back. It occurs most commonly in people aged 50 and older, though it can occur at any age. Symptoms include persistent pain that radiates from the lower back into one or both legs, numbness and tingling in the legs, difficulty walking and balancing, and muscle weakness.

Ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a long-term inflammatory disorder that affects the spine and other body parts, such as the eyes. It is an autoimmune condition that can cause pain and stiffness in the lower back and neck that is worse at night or when getting up from a seated position. Symptoms generally start before the age of 45 with episodes of acute pain in the lower back or hips.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain throughout the body, including the lower back. Other symptoms include fatigue, muscle stiffness, headaches, sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety and cognitive dysfunction. Treatment for this condition often includes medications to reduce inflammation and manage pain, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Each of these conditions can lead to low back pain that may require specialized treatment in order to ease the symptoms and provide lasting relief. If you are struggling with persistent back pain, consulting with a medical professional may be able to help you identify potential root causes so that you can take steps towards finding long-term solutions.

Root Causes of Back Pain: Your Wallet

It may surprise you to hear, but one of the most common causes of back pain is an overloaded wallet being carried in your back pocket. Carrying a large and heavy wallet in your back pocket can cause excess strain on your lower back muscles, resulting in discomfort that may be hard to ignore. 

The slight difference in the height of each buttock while sitting, with one side slightly elevated due to the wallet in your back pocket, can cause spinal misalignment over time.

If you’re experiencing ongoing back pain and carry a large wallet, it may be time to lighten your load and switch to a smaller, lighter option. Or better yet, start carrying a small wallet in your front pocket. Doing so can help you alleviate the strain on your back and help you find relief from your pain.

It’s important to remember that there are many causes of back pain, and it’s not always easy to determine what is causing yours. If you are having trouble finding relief, talking to your doctor or a chiropractor may help you identify the root cause of your pain so that you can take steps towards recovery

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Top Reasons to Visit a Chiropractor

Top 9 Reasons to Visit a Chiropractr 

Pain Relief

Pain relief is one of the top reasons why people visit a chiropractor. Chiropractic care is an effective and natural way to treat many physical ailments, including back pain, neck and shoulder pain, headaches, sciatica, as well as joint and muscle problems. As chiropractors approach pain as part of an overall physical imbalance that needs to be addressed in order to achieve long-term health benefits, they can help alleviate discomfort quickly and effectively.

Overall Wellness

Chiropractic care is more than just treating pain and improving posture; it’s about achieving overall wellness. Chiropractors take a holistic approach to health, seeking to address any immediate needs as well as identifying potential problems before they start.

Advice on Lifestyle

Chiropractors understand that pain relief is only part of the solution to achieving overall wellness. Often times, they will provide advice on lifestyle changes which can help reduce symptoms associated with chronic conditions and improve quality of life. These interventions may include nutritional supplements, exercises or stretches, as well as modifications to your diet and exercise routine. Through regular follow-ups and adjustments, chiropractors are able to monitor progress in order to ensure that the recommended lifestyle changes are having a positive effect on your physical health. Additionally, chiropractic care can also be beneficial for mental health issues such as stress management or anxiety disorders by creating an environment where you feel supported and heard.

Spinal Adjustment To Restore Balance

Chiropractors can also help you improve your posture and overall spinal alignment. A chiropractor will assess your posture and design a plan for improving it through manual adjustments, stretches and exercises. This is important because poor posture, as well as poor ergonomics, can cause undue stress on the body, leading to muscular imbalances, joint dysfunction, and tightness in the muscles.

When vertebrae become out of sync with each other it can cause mobility issues and even interfere with nerve signals from the spine to various organs and body parts. By realigning these bones in their proper position, chiropractors can restore balance throughout the body and promote optimal functioning.

The Treatment of Chronic Conditions

A visit to the chiropractor may also be recommended for those suffering from chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia or arthritis that cause inflammation in joints or muscles around these areas. Through gentle manipulations performed by a trained practitioner, inflammation can often be reduced providing much needed relief.

A chiropractor is an experienced and trained medical professional who specializes in treating chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia, sciatica, arthritis, and other pain disorders, and works hand in hand with other medical professionals to develop custom tailored plans for each patient in order to bring lasting pain relief.

Improve Athletic Performance

Others might seek out a chiropractor’s services if they are looking for improved posture or better athletic performance. Many athletes use chiropractic care to gain an edge on their opponents or improve their performance during competitions; this technique has been found particularly helpful with dynamic sports like gymnastics, swimming, dancing and running where correct alignment often makes all the difference.

Improve Comfort During Pregnancy

Chiropractic care and adjustments can be highly beneficial for expecting mothers who are dealing with the additional weight of their pregnancy. During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes many changes that can cause tension in her spine, hips, and other joints as they try to accommodate the extra weight. Regular chiropractic adjustments help to maintain proper alignment throughout the body as well as reduce tension while providing pain relief. In addition, chiropractic adjustments can also help to alleviate issues like lower back pain and sciatica that are often associated with pregnancy.

Sciatica and Pregnancy

Sciatica is a common condition experienced by expecting mothers which can lead to considerable discomfort along the lower back; through adjustments aimed at improving alignment throughout the entire body mommies-to-be can experience significant relief from this distressful symptom promptly without any side effects affecting baby’s health. The gentle manipulations used by a trained practitioner can provide much needed relief without any risk of harm coming to mother or baby.

Prevent Future Injuries and to Promote Overall Health

Finally, some individuals may decide to see a chiropractor as part of a preventative effort against future injuries — whether related to sports practice or regular daily activities — to ensure that their bodies stay strong and flexible over time without succumbing more easily to strain caused by regular wear and tear.

Visit a Local Chiropractor Today!

Chiropractic care can be a powerful tool for the management of chronic conditions, pain relief, improved performance, as well as lead to a healthier lifestyle. The wide range of services offered by chiropractors make them an invaluable resource to patients seeking natural solutions to lingering health problems or ways to improve their overall wellbeing. No matter what your unique situation may be, consulting with a skilled practitioner can provide you with invaluable insight into your overall wellbeing, providing tailored holistic treatments based on your specific needs.

If you are considering utilizing chiropractic care for yourself, be sure to find a licensed practitioner who has the experience and expertise to help you achieve your health goals.

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