If you are suffering from back pain, you aren't alone. Studies show the 8 out of 10 Americans will eventually suffer from some type of low back pain. Studies also show that Chiropractic treatment is the most effective form of treatment for low back pain.
There can be several causes of structural low back pain, but the two most common causes are: traumatic injuries and degenerative changes. People can injure their low backs by lifting something that is too heavy or overstretching their low back. Occasionally, these types of injuries can even cause the spinal discs to bulge or rupture. A disc is a tough rubber-like pad that acts as a shock absorber for the spine. It sits between each bone of the spine and allows room for the nerves to exit through the spine into the rest of the body. If a low back disc becomes bulged or ruptured, it can lead to nerve pressure and cause pain, numbness or weakness into the hips and legs. On rare occasion, bowel and bladder function may even become affected. In these cases, it is extremely important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, sometimes the spine simply wears out. These degenerative changes can be caused by extended poor posture, the effects of prior injuries, obesity, stress, certain diseases and even smoking has been linked to spinal osteoarthritis. From a chiropractic standpoint, treatment should be focused on reducing symptoms associated with this type of condition and limiting the progress of the degeneration.
Low back pain does not play favorites. Women and men are equal sufferers of low back pain. It is more common in people over the age of 30, but younger people can and do experience low back pain. People that lead more sedentary lifestyles are more likely to develop low back pain. People that have been involved in automobile accidents or falls are also more likely to experience a higher probability of low back pain. In fact, studies have shown that untreated traumatic injuries are much more likely to develop long term permanent degenerative changes to the spine.
Typically when a patient enters our office for the first time, we start with a thorough medical history and physical examination. We will ask a myriad of questions to target the exact cause of the low back pain. It is imperative to know the exact location, severity, any radiation, onset, duration of the symptoms associated with low back pain.
If necessary, we will take x-rays. X-rays can show use the biomechanical structure of the spine as well as let u determine if there is any underlying pathology or trauma.
Occasionally, we will refer a patient for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) study, An MRI allows us to evaluate areas that are not readily seen on regular x-rays. Discs and other soft tissues like ligaments are better visualized through the use of MRI evaluations.
We offer several treatment options. The most effective form of treatment we use is spinal adjustments. A chiropractic adjustment is made by using gentle pressure to realign the spine back into its proper balanced alignment. A majority of the time, our patients feel some immediate relief. We also use different forms of physical therapy and massage therapy to help assist and quicken the healing process. Additionally, we design specific exercise programs to not only reduce symptoms but to also strengthen the spine resulting in decreased future episodes of low back pain.
In some cases of severe injury, we may refer a patient to a neurologist, orthopedic surgeon or a physical medicine specialist. Having practiced locally in Jacksonville for over 20 years, we have strong relationships with the best specialists in our area. Because of this our patients are able to get the immediate care they need.