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Back Pain
Chiropractors treat the entire neuromusculoskeletal system, but they are especially helpful in treating back pain. Chiropractors do not actually target pain relief itself so much as they attempt to treat the underlying conditions responsible for pain. Instead of merely masking a pain with over-the-counter or prescription medications, many patients who see chiropractors for back pain can achieve relief with simple spinal adjustments and lifestyle changes. Even the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research recommends that people with chronic back pain seek out conservative treatment options first, including safe and effective spinal manipulation.
Did you know...
The leading cause of disability around the world is lower back pain? In the U.S. alone, an estimated 31 million people are suffering from some type of back pain – many of them chronically. Although inflammatory diseases and other conditions can be a source of back pain, the vast majority of symptoms are caused by mechanical discrepancies in the spine.
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I was in an accident. Should I seek chiropractic treatment?Yes. A car accident can leave you writhing in pain, or it could leave you with little to no discomfort at all. Regardless of how mild or severe, your symptoms may be, it is important to seek out chiropractic treatment immediately following an auto collision. Chiropractic treatment is effective for relieving pain, muscle stiffness, whiplash, and misalignment caused by collisions. Furthermore, early treatment typically yields the fastest recovery time, because treatment is administered before the body has the opportunity to isolate injuries or accumulate scar tissue.
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What should I expect at my chiropractic appointment?Your initial chiropractic appointment will consist of an examination and a review of your medical history – including any injuries you may have sustained in your accident. You may then be x-rayed to check for spinal subluxations or neck injuries that may or may not have begun causing pain or muscle stiffness. Your chiropractor will develop a treatment plan for you based on the results of your exam. It is likely to include frequent spinal adjustments and possibly some physical therapy or spinal decompression.
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Is there anything I can do to accelerate the healing process?In the first 24 hours following your accident, it may help to apply ice to injuries in order to minimize swelling and inflammation. Visit your chiropractor as soon as possible, and take care not to physically exert yourself – regardless of how good you feel. Often, musculoskeletal pain doesn’t set in until days or even weeks after an accident. So slow down, take it easy, and get to your chiropractor’s office as soon as possible. You will be informed if there is anything you can do to better facilitate the healing process.