Around 3.7 million Australians reported experiencing back pain in 2014-2015 and with many more ‘suffering in silence’ or managing with over the counter pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications, the true figure may be much higher!
The good news for sufferers is that, at Chiropractic and Allied Health, our team of Chiropractors and Osteopaths are able to treat the biomechanical problems that are responsible for lower back pain in the majority of cases.
Is lower back pain preventing you from enjoying life to the full?
Whether your pain involves vertebrae, discs, nerves or soft tissues, the holistic care we offer and the variety of treatment techniques available, including adjustments, soft tissue therapies, Myofascial release and massage therapy can so often be the answer.
Are you worried about the future with worsening bouts of recurrent lower back pain?
Our aim is to improve the quality of life for lower back pain sufferers who often find that everyday tasks are impossible and that they have had to take time off work.
Whether you are suffering from your first attack of low back pain or whether your pain is a chronic or recurrent problem, please call your local Chiropractic and Allied Health centre today to arrange an initial appointment.
What Causes Lower Back Pain?
The lower back has five lumbar vertebrae, each separated by a disc and with spinal nerves exiting between them. The lumbar spine is supported by a girdle of strong muscles and ligaments and articulates with the pelvis at the sacroiliac joint.
When everything is in alignment and working as it should, these structures are strong and stable, providing flexible support that allows for a full range of pain-free movement while protecting the spinal cord.
Lower back pain usually begins with joint strain, spinal degeneration, misalignment or abnormal function. If spinal nerves are irritated or compressed, pain can radiate into the buttocks and legs (sciatica).
Low back pain can be worsened by a number of lifestyle factors including –
- Poor workplace ergonomics that can cause postural problems
- Injuries from excessive strain caused by heavy lifting or incorrect lifting techniques
- Poor muscle tone and a weak core caused by lack of exercise and/or obesity
Other causes can include injuries such as sprains, strains and disc injuries, degenerative conditions such as arthritis, joint problems with the sacroiliac joint and, for women, pregnancy.
How can Chiropractic care help my back pain?
One of the biggest problems with lower back pain is that the symptoms can present as very similar regardless of the cause. This is why an accurate diagnosis is so important and why we always conduct a comprehensive physical examination as well as taking a full medical history at the initial appointment.
GP prescribed painkillers or anti-inflammatory medicines may help with the symptoms, but at Chiropractic and Allied Health, our aim is to identify and treat the cause.
In some circumstances, for example for patients with a joint or bone infection, a fracture or severe osteoporosis, Chiropractic is not suitable. However, in most cases, lower back pain has a biomechanical cause and responds well to the holistic care we provide.
What should I expect from my treatment?
There is no ‘one size fits all’ treatment for back pain. Treatment needs to be specific to each patient. We may use a combination of techniques including gentle chiropractic and osteopathic adjustments and mobilisations, soft tissue therapy, trigger point and/or massage therapy in order to relieve pain and address the cause.
Treatment may also include a prescription of rehabilitation exercises, advice on workplace ergonomics, lifting techniques and lifestyle. All of which are designed to restore balance and function, and to strengthen and protect the lower back, promoting full and complete healing and reducing the risk of a recurrence.
Move Well, Eat Well, Think Well. The three most important things we need to be healthy.
Book Online or Call your local Chiropractic & Allied Health Clinic to make your appointment today!