Low back pain is one of the most common health complaints, affecting millions of people worldwide. Whether caused by poor posture, muscle strain, or underlying conditions, back pain can significantly impact quality of life. Many individuals turn to chiropractic care as a treatment option, but how effective are chiropractic adjustments in addressing low back pain? In this post, we’ll explore common causes of low back pain, what a chiropractic adjustment is, and how spinal adjustments may provide relief.
Common Causes of Low Back Pain
Low back pain can stem from a variety of sources, including acute injuries, chronic conditions, and lifestyle factors. Below are some of the most common causes of low back pain:
- Muscle strain or ligament sprain
One of the most common causes of low back pain is muscle strain, often caused by improper lifting, overexertion, or sudden movements. Ligament sprains, which occur when the connective tissues that stabilize the spine are overstretched or torn, can also lead to pain and stiffness. - Poor posture and sedentary lifestyle
Long periods of sitting, especially with poor posture, can put strain on the muscles and ligaments of the lower back. Lack of physical activity can contribute to muscle weakness and stiffness, further exacerbating back pain. - Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
The sacroiliac (SI) joints, located at the base of the spine, can become inflamed or misaligned, causing pain in the lower back and glutes. SI joint dysfunction can result from injury, pregnancy, or overuse. - Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis in the spine involves the wear and tear of cartilage in the facet joints, which can lead to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. This condition is more common in older adults but can affect people of all ages. - Herniated or bulging discs
The discs in the spine act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a disc pushes through a tear in its outer layer, often causing nerve compression. This can lead to sharp, localized pain and radiating discomfort down the legs. - Degenerative disc disease
As we age, the intervertebral discs may lose hydration and elasticity, which can lead to a decrease in disc height and function. This condition can cause chronic low back pain, stiffness, and discomfort, especially with activity.
How Chiropractic Adjustments May Benefit Low Back Pain Sufferers
While the causes of low back pain vary, chiropractic care is often used to address the pain and discomfort associated with spinal issues.
A chiropractic adjustment, or spinal manipulation, involves applying controlled force to specific areas of the spine to restore alignment and mobility to the spinal joints. This helps address restricted movement (called subluxations) and supports the body’s natural alignment, which can reduce discomfort and improve overall function. Since the spine houses the central nervous system, chiropractic care can also have a broader impact on body function, with many patients seeking treatment not just for pain relief but also to enhance mobility and support the body’s self-healing abilities.
Chiropractic can support:
- Improved spinal alignment and mobility
Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct misalignments in the spine, which can relieve pressure on the nerves and surrounding tissues. By restoring proper spinal alignment, adjustments may help reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the lower back. - Reduction of muscle tension and spasms
Low back pain is often accompanied by muscle tension or spasms, which can further limit movement and cause discomfort. Chiropractic care may help reduce muscle tightness and improve overall flexibility, leading to better mobility and less pain. - Decreased inflammation
Spinal misalignments can sometimes contribute to inflammation in the surrounding tissues. By restoring normal movement to the affected areas, chiropractic adjustments may help reduce this inflammation and promote healing. This can be particularly beneficial in cases of conditions like herniated discs or sacroiliac joint dysfunction. - Enhanced nervous system function
The spine houses the central nervous system, which controls all of the body’s functions. Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate pressure on the nerves that run through the spine, leading to improved nerve function and potentially reducing pain signals in the affected areas. This effect may help with both acute pain and chronic pain conditions. - Support for long-term back health
In addition to addressing immediate pain relief, chiropractic adjustments may help prevent future episodes of low back pain by improving spinal health and increasing mobility. Chiropractors often provide recommendations for posture correction, stretching, and strengthening exercises to support the spine over time.
Chiropractic care can be an effective option for managing low back pain, especially for individuals dealing with issues related to spinal alignment, muscle tension, or joint dysfunction, as well as discomfort during pregnancy. By focusing on improving spinal health, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall nervous system function, chiropractic adjustments offer a holistic approach to addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of low back pain.
At Live Well, we also offer a variety of complementary therapies in tandem with adjustments. Learn more about muscle work, as well as cold laser therapy and acupuncture. Looking for more information or have questions? Give us a call and see how chiropractic care may benefit you!
