Chronic back pain is a common issue that significantly impacts many individuals' quality of life.
Unlike acute pain, chronic back pain persists for 12 weeks or longer, often despite attempts at various treatments. Understanding the symptoms and underlying causes is crucial for effective management and achieving long-term relief.
This article explores the symptoms and common causes of chronic back pain, and how chiropractic care can be a potential solution for lasting relief.
Relieve your back pain without prescription medications
Those with back pain may be suffering from numerous conditions, and with all the pressure we put on our backs, it’s not a surprise. In fact, experts estimate that as many as 80% of the population will experience back pain or a back problem at some time in their lives.
The spine is an intricate structure that enhances several of our everyday movements and gives us stability and balance.
Without the proper function of the back, many of our movements would be challenging, if not impossible.
Chiropractors are well-versed in the nature of the back and spine, drawing from proven techniques that heal soft tissue and joint injuries and alleviate back pain using safe, effective methods.
Chiropractic reduces symptoms at the source without the need for pain medication. Combined with other natural and holistic therapies, you can take control of your back pain and live your life in comfort.
Symptoms of Chronic Back Pain
Recognizing the symptoms of chronic back pain is the first step toward addressing it. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent pain lasting more than 12 weeks
- Dull, aching pain or sharp, stabbing sensations
- Pain radiating to the legs, buttocks, or feet
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion in the back
- Muscle spasms or tension in the back muscles
- Worsening pain with prolonged sitting, standing, or certain movements
- Difficulty sleeping due to back discomfort
Common Causes of Chronic Back Pain
1. Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is a common cause of chronic back pain. As we age, the spinal discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae, lose their water content and become less flexible.
This natural aging process can lead to chronic pain as the discs deteriorate. Symptoms include pain that worsens with movement, stiffness, and possible numbness or tingling in the extremities.
Some risk factors include genetics, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle.
2. Herniated or Bulging Discs
A herniated or bulging disc occurs when the inner gel-like substance of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer, putting pressure on nearby nerves. This can cause significant pain, numbness, and weakness in the back and legs.
Herniated discs are often the result of heavy lifting, twisting movements, or degenerative changes. Bulging discs, while less severe, can still cause similar symptoms if they press on nerves.
3. Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord and nerves. This condition can lead to chronic back pain, as well as numbness, weakness, and cramping in the legs.
There are different types of spinal stenosis, including cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back).
Some causes can include aging, arthritis, and congenital spinal defects.
4. Facet Joint Dysfunction
Facet joints are small stabilizing joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae. When these joints become arthritic or injured, they can cause significant back pain.
Facet joint dysfunction is often characterized by localized pain and stiffness, particularly in the lower back.
Some factors contributing to this condition include age-related wear and tear, injury, and repetitive stress on the spine.
5. Muscular Imbalances and Tension
Muscular imbalances and chronic tension can lead to persistent back pain. Poor posture, sedentary lifestyles, and repetitive movements can cause certain muscles to become overactive while others weaken.
This imbalance creates tension and discomfort in the back.
A few common postural issues, such as slouching or sitting for extended periods, can exacerbate these imbalances.
6. Sciatica and Radicular Pain
Sciatica and radicular pain occur when nerve roots in the lower back are compressed or irritated.
Sciatica specifically refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. Radicular pain can affect other nerves and result in pain radiating to different parts of the body.
Some causes include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis.
The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Back Pain
Visiting a chiropractor to eliminate your back pain is effective and trusted. Not only are the solutions safe, non-invasive, and natural, but they serve to fix the condition, not the symptom, and never take a one-size-fits-all approach.
Our Franklin chiropractic clinic will help aid in a heightened recovery process by strengthening the soft tissues and spine for organic, beneficial healing. We find the best wellness plan for you based on your injury and needs.
Some life-changing benefits of chiropractic care include:
- Increased comfort
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved flexibility
- Improved range of motion
- Improved sleep quality
- Increased activity level and energy
- Increased focus
- Improved performance
- Less stress
- Stronger immune system
- Improved and shorter recovery process
After chiropractic services, complications are highly unlikely, and there is little to no downtime like there is with surgery.
If you’re suffering from back pain, help is at your fingertips. Get the pain-free, active life you’re yearning for.
What to Know About Getting Chiropractic Care for Your Back Pain
Back pain can make it difficult for you to carry out your daily activities. If this is the case for you, a chiropractor may be able to provide the relief you need. Rather than simply prescribing drugs to mask the source of your back pain, we will diagnose the root cause of the pain and give you non-invasive, safe treatments.
Chiropractic care does not involve surgery or drugs; instead, we manipulate and adjust your spine and affected body parts so your body can align itself properly, reducing back pain and restoring function.
Your chiropractor-suggested treatment plan may use spinal manipulation therapy instruments and therapeutic exercises to further enhance your recovery. Before treatment begins, our team will perform a thorough exam to determine and diagnose the specific cause of your discomfort.
Once the condition is diagnosed, you’ll get a customized care plan that will lead you toward good health, a strong body, and comfort.
Conclusion
Understanding the symptoms and causes of chronic back pain is essential for finding effective relief. Chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to treating chronic back pain by addressing its underlying causes.
At Crist Chiropractic, we are committed to providing personalized care to help our patients achieve long-term relief and improved well-being. Our comprehensive treatment plans not only alleviate pain but also enhance overall health, allowing you to enjoy a more active and fulfilling life.
If you're struggling with chronic back pain, take the first step towards lasting relief by scheduling an appointment with us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can you tell if back pain is muscular or something else?
Muscular pain often feels like a constant, dull ache and may be associated with stiffness or spasms. Pain from other sources, like herniated discs, may involve sharp, shooting pain and numbness or tingling.
2. Can chronic back pain affect every part of your life?
Yes, chronic back pain can impact sleep, work, social activities, and overall quality of life.
3. Does chronic back pain ever go away?
With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many people can achieve significant relief and improved function.
4. What not to do with chronic back pain?
Avoid prolonged inactivity, poor posture, heavy lifting, and high-impact activities without proper support.
5. Why does my back hurt worse when I lay down?
Lying down can increase pressure on certain areas of the spine, especially if you have a mattress that doesn't provide adequate support.
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