Getting Help for Low Back Pain
Low back pain is something that afflicts millions of people, to include children and teenagers, as well as adults. When it comes to this type of pain, there are a number of challenges. For one thing, back pain can be caused by many different things and on reach several levels of intensity. In addition, the back is used to perform multiple daily tasks such as bending, twisting, lifting, coughing, sneezing, and much more
To treat all the different problems that involve the lower back, an individual has multiple possibilities for treatment. However, the only way to get relief from pain and address the underlying cause is with a firm diagnosis but to avoid aggregating the problem, it would be essential to undergo the right treatment.
Along with treatment, there are things an individual could do to prevent injury and reduce risk of developing certain health conditions. We wanted to take the opportunity to address some of the causes of low back pain but also safe and effective treatment options available today.
Onset of Back Pain
Although pain can develop in virtually any part of the body, it is most common in the lower region of the back because of an intricate structure that consists of tendons, muscles, soft tissue, and extremely sensitive nerves and nerve roots. The lower back is also comprised of both small and complex joints, along with spinal discs filled with a gel-like fluid
If at any time one or more of these components becomes irritated or damaged, pain would ensue. Of course, the type and level of pain would depend on the part of the structure involved but also the exact cause, which would dictate the proper treatment. Pain can develop from strain associated with overuse, as well as twisting, bending, or lifting incorrectly. However, pain can also be the result of a car accident, bad fall, or some other trauma.
Some of the underlying health issues that lead to lower back pain include the following
Degenerative Disc Disease
Herniated Disc
Lumbar Radiculopathy
Osteoarthritis
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Sciatica
Spinal Stenosis
Spondylolisthesis
Subluxation
In addition to the above, there are certain risk factors for back pain. For instance, age, obesity, and poor posture would increase risk of experiencing pain and but also decrease mobility. By making healthy lifestyle choices and going through special exercises, a person can often overcome pain without any further assistance but for persistent or worsening pain, it would be essential to get proper treatment.
We also wanted to point out that if any of the following symptoms were to accompany pain, immediate medical attention would be warranted
Medium to high fever
Chills
Significant weight loss
Leg weakness
Incontinence
Severe abdominal pain
Appropriate Treatment Options
As mentioned, the exact treatment would depend largely on actual cause or health risk involved although there are many problems that can be prevented. While conventional medicine is one option, chiropractic care should also be considered for many back issues.
When taking a more conventional approach, medication to reduce both pain and inflammation would likely be prescribed. In addition, physical therapy, cognitive/behavioral therapy, and biofeedback are often used. Now, for more serious conditions, the solution could involve a minor surgical procedure or full-blown surgery.
As an alternative, chiropractic care comes highly recommended. According to the latest statistics, approximately 22 million people in the United States see a chiropractor to achieve pain relief. Chiropractic care takes two very distinct approaches to include regular visits as a means of preventing back trouble and going through specialized treatments to produce relief form pain and inflammation.
Using hands-on spinal adjusting alone or coupled with other treatments as part of chiropractic care, the body's musculoskeletal structure can be perfectly aligned. With the spinal column and components in proper balance, the body has the ability to heal on its own. However, spinal adjusting is also used to restore mobility and function. On a final note, there are patients with low back pain that get the best results from a combination of chiropractic care and conventional medicine.
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