Most of us will experience back pain at some point in our lives – the price we pay for our bipedal stance and the ability to use our hands freely.
Back pain is most often caused by a herniated/ruptured disc, sometimes called a “slipped” disc. It can also be caused by degenerative disc disease, common in older adults, wear of the sacroiliac joint (where the spine meets the pelvis), and arthritis of the spine or spinal stenosis – a narrowing of the spinal canal, again, fairly common in older adults. Back pain is the leading cause of disability in people younger than 45. It is also so common as to be almost normal in the third trimester of pregnancy, when the growing child puts strain on the spine.
Traditional treatment for back pain is bed rest and medication, but this does not address the root cause. In individuals who need to be on their feet and active for work, extended rest can cause financial difficulties. Pain medication has side effects, masks pain and can even be addictive. As it masks the root cause, it’s possible for the problem to only get worse.
Spinal adjustment, on the other hand, can treat the root cause. A mildly bulging disc can be slid back into place before it becomes a major herniation. Misalignments that may pinch nerves can be corrected, and a properly aligned spine reduces the symptoms of arthritis or spinal stenosis. Additionally, treatments can reduce muscle tension and spasms. Also, properly done chiropractic manipulation can be helpful during pregnancy, without drugs that risk harm to your baby, and can ease the back pain normal in the third trimester. With proper treatment, it may also be possible to avoid or delay back surgery, which can have long recovery periods and result in permanent weakness. Any surgery, as well, is a risk – avoiding surgery is always a desirable outcome.
After the office visit, a chiropractor may recommend postural adjustments, ergonomic changes or therapeutic exercise to help recovery. They might also suggest a visit to a nutritionist, especially if you are overweight – losing weight can also help take strain off the spine. They might recommend a different pillow to help sleep posture, especially for upper back or neck pain. You should, of course, also see your doctor to make sure your back pain is not caused by non-skeletal causes such as kidney stones or endometriosis. However, for skeletal or muscular causes, chiropractic care should be an important part of your treatment plan. Chiropractic also focuses on health, not just curing disease. A good chiropractor will work with you to ensure that you achieve optimum health, slow degradation and live pain free with maximum mobility, regardless of your age.
Getting back to feeling your best doesn’t have to be a hassle. Learn about available natural solutions that an Anoka MN Chiropractic office can offer to help alleviate your pain. They can help you get back on your feet faster and stay on your feet longer with preventive care and a focus on overall wellness.
If you have back pain, then talk to your Anoka, MN Chiropractor about available options. Call us to make an appointment, and be sure to provide any information you may have been given by your doctor.