One of the most common conditions and one of the leading reasons to visit a Doctor is low back pain. At least four out of five adults will experience some form of low back pain in their life.
A thorough examination of the low back to include the lumbar spine, pelvis, and lower extremities will take approximately 20-30 minutes in most Chiropractic Clinics. The causes of low back pain can be very complex, and there are many anatomical structures in the low back that can cause pain. These maybe as follows:
- Muscles
- Facet joints, Sacroiliac joints, and/or Vertebral joints
- Intervertebral discs
- Nerves and their nerve roots
- Bones
- Tendons & Ligaments
It is important to mention that the severity of the pain is often unrelated to the degree of physical damage. A muscle spasm as a result of a simple back strain can be excruciating and debilitating whereas a disc herniation or degenerated disc can be completely painless.
Many forms of low back pain may be treated with conservative treatments. One of the most effective treatments is Chiropractic manipulation performed by a Doctor of Chiropractic. Every low back problem is unique and the amount of treatment required should be discussed with your Chiropractor. It is important to note that there are a few symptoms that indicate immediate Medical attention and they are:
- Sudden bladder and bowel incontinence (cauda equine syndrome)
- Progressive weakness in the legs
- Severe, constant abdominal and low back pain. (abdominal aortic aneurysm)
- Fever and Chills
- Recent weight loss
- History of Cancer
- Recent severe trauma.
It has been my experience in practice that spinal manipulation is the most scientific proven method in the treatment of both chronic and acute low back pain. We also must mention the importance of daily exercise and proper nutrition to maintain a healthy back. At times strength exercises for specific muscles to maintain a strong back are required with your treatments.
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