How A Chiropractor Treats Low Back Pain

By Thommas M Tommas


Each year, approximately 22 million Americans pay at least one visit to a chiropractor. More than one-third of these individuals are seeking relief from pain in different sections of their back. Low back pain is a particularly common complaint and may be caused by stress, muscle strain, accidents, or sports injuries. As medical professionals, chiropractors are qualified to perform spinal manipulations that adjust spinal structures and restore mobility to the back.

Hands-on spinal adjustments align a portion of the musculoskeletal structure of the body. The goal is to allow the body to heal itself without any need for medication or surgery. Spinal manipulation restores mobility to joints that have been restricted by tissue injury. It is an alternative form of pain relief and may be used in tandem with traditional medical treatment provided by another healthcare practitioner.

Before beginning treatment, the chiropractor gathers patient medical history by discussing the problem with the patient and conducts a physical examination. In certain cases, diagnostic imaging, such as x-rays, may be used to determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate for the lower back pain being experienced. Absent any contradictory signs, the chiropractor will then make one or more manual adjustments to the joints of the spine and pelvis.

The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics provides a brief lesson regarding the biochemistry of discs in the spinal system. Proper joint motion helps to remove fluid and waste from spinal discs and improves nutrient flow into these discs. Motion is required to keep spinal discs healthy because these do not receive a direct supply of blood. When motion decreases, so do sulfates, glucose, proteoglycan, and oxygen content. These substances are essential for healthy spinal discs.

Spinal manipulation is characterized by a sudden and controlled force that improves the quality and range of motion of the spine. The process is safe and particularly effective for acute pain in the lower back. Some chiropractors supplement spinal adjustments with recommendations regarding exercise, rehabilitation, and nutrition. Diet and exercise affect overall health, which can have an impact on spinal health.

In addition to the obvious discomfort, low back pain can be frustrating because it may limit daily activities. Getting treatment as soon as possible will provide much-needed relief and ongoing treatment can prevent a one-time occurrence from becoming a chronic situation. Chiropractic treatment is based on the correct diagnosis of the back pain and requires an understanding of patient medical history and if possible, knowledge of what caused the pain.




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