Chiropractors specialize in the diagnosis and prevention of musculoskeletal conditions, including back pain.
A chiropractor performs manual adjustments to the spine or other affected areas of the body. The goal is to improve spinal alignment, reduce pain, and enhance the body's natural healing abilities.
Studies have shown that chiropractic care can be beneficial for acute lower back pain, particularly when combined with exercise.
If you are considering chiropractic care for your back pain, contact Vitality Chiropractic in
Highlands Ranch, CO.
Causes of Lower Back Pain
Many things can cause lower back pain; however, here are some common causes of low back pain:
- Trauma from slips and falls or auto accidents
- Herniated or slipped disc: The spine is composed of vertebrae with intervertebral discs between them. A herniated or slipped disc occurs when the soft inner material of a disc protrudes or leaks out, irritating nearby nerves and causing pain.
- Degenerative disc disease: As we age, the intervertebral discs in the spine can gradually break down, losing their cushioning ability. This degeneration can lead to chronic lower back pain.
- Spinal stenosis: This refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It can cause lower back pain along with leg pain and numbness.
- Scoliosis: Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine, which can lead to lower back pain, especially if the curvature becomes severe or progresses.
- Osteoarthritis: Also known as degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis can affect the joints in the lower back, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Strained or spasming muscles: Overuse or excessive strain on the muscles in the lower back can result in pain and muscle spasms.
Signs of Lower Back Pain
Some common signs associated with lower back pain are:
- Dull or aching pain: Many people experience a persistent, dull ache in the lower back region. The pain can range from mild to severe and may become worse with movement.
- Muscle stiffness and tightness: Lower back pain often causes muscle stiffness and tightness, making it difficult to move or maintain normal posture.
- Sharp, shooting pain: In some cases, lower back pain may be sharp and shooting, causing sudden and intense pain that radiates down the leg. This type of pain is often associated with
- sciatica, which occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated.
- Limited range of motion: Lower back pain can restrict your ability to move freely. You may find it challenging to bend, twist, or perform everyday activities that involve the lower back.
- Muscle spasms: Back pain can trigger muscle spasms in the lower back region. These spasms can be painful and cause involuntary contractions of the muscles.
- Pain worsens with certain activities: Activities like lifting heavy objects, bending forward, or prolonged sitting or standing may exacerbate lower back pain.
- Numbness or tingling: If a nerve is compressed or irritated, you may experience sensations of numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" feeling in the lower back, buttocks, or legs.
- Pain after prolonged inactivity: Some people may experience increased lower back pain after long periods of inactivity, such as waking up in the morning or sitting for extended periods.
Managing Lower Back Pain
Here are some ways in which a chiropractor may help with lower back pain:
- Evaluation: This helps the doctor understand the cause and nature of your lower back pain.
- Spinal adjustments: Chiropractors commonly use spinal adjustments or manipulations to care for lower back pain. These manual techniques involve applying controlled force to specific joints in the spine to improve alignment, mobility, and alleviate pain.
- Posture and lifestyle recommendations: Chiropractors may provide guidance on maintaining proper posture and ergonomics to prevent further strain on the lower back. They can also suggest exercises, stretches, and lifestyle modifications that can support your recovery and prevent future episodes of pain.
Contact Vitality Chiropractic in Highlands Ranch, CO
If you or your loved one is experiencing lower back pain, contact Vitality Chiropractic today at
(303) 346-7095 to schedule an appointment.
