Low Back Pain
Understanding Low Back Pain
Low back pain isn’t just a common issue that affects our community in Phoenix. According to the Who Health Organization, in 2020 Low Back Pain (LBP) affected 619 million people globally and it is estimated the the number of cases will increase to 843 million by 2050. It is so prevalent that it is the single leading cause of disability worldwide and the condition for which the greatest number of people may benefit from rehabilitation.
What makes up the low back
The low back region or Lumbar spine is an area often afflicted by pain. It consists of Five Vertebrae, L1 at the top and L5 near the bottom. These vertebrae are connected in part by facet joints which contain nociceptors or pain receptors and when inflamed can be a frequent cause of local pain in the back. The lumbar spine is supported by large muscles that allow your daily movement. Just below the lower back is your sacrum which sits between your hip bones and connects to the pelvis.
Causes of Low Back Pain
Back pain arises from a broad range of causes in adults and children, and 90% of the time the cause is mechanical in nature (joint related) and does not have a specific origin.
Some of these common causes of Low Back Pain include:
- Poor Posture: Sitting or standing improperly can strain the lower back.
- Injuries: Sports injuries, car accidents, falls and lifting something heavy can lead to acute or chronic back pain.
- Herniated Discs: Discs that have slipped or ruptured can press on nerves, causing pain.
- Muscle Strain: Overuse or sudden movements can strain the muscles in the lower back. It should be noted that low back pain is rarely caused by just muscle, often when we pull a muscle it will also affect the mechanics of the nearby joints.
- Chronic Conditions: Conditions like arthritis or sciatica can lead to ongoing back pain.
Symptoms of Low Back Pain
- Persistent aching or stiffness along the spine
- A decrease in mobility that may include pain simply bending over to put on your socks
- Sharp, localized pain in the lower back
- Pain that radiates from the lower back to the buttocks, legs, and feet
- Difficulty standing up straight or maintaining a normal posture
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain
Chiropractic care can be a highly effective natural approach to managing mechanical causes of low back pain, and many patients report:
- Pain Relief: Chiropractic adjustments can significantly reduce pain and discomfort.
- Improved Mobility: Restoring joint mobility and promoting proper alignment helps improve your range of motion.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: By alleviating pain and improving joint mobility you can enjoy daily activities without restrictions.
Beyond Chiropractic care
In addition to Activator Methods chiropractic adjustments, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating low back pain that may include additional therapies tailored to your specific needs.
- Electric muscle stimulation (EMS) is a therapeutic technique used to reduce muscle spasms, improve circulation, and promote healing in the affected area. This non-invasive treatment involves the application of gentle electrical impulses to targeted muscles, helping to alleviate tension and discomfort.
- Stretching and traction – Stretching the muscles and “opening” the joints of the low back is often necessary to alleviate the pressure on the spine.
- Core strengthening for low back stability: We may perform in-office rehabilitation designed to enhance the strength of your core to provide more stability to your low back. In addition to in office rehab, we can provide you with a series of specific exercises to perform at home.
Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain in Phoenix
We all lead hectic lives, and no one wants to be slowed down because of low back pain. Whether you are hitting the links at Moon Valley Country Club, or hiking near North Mountain Desert Valley Chiropractic wants you at your best. Contact us at 602-439-1515 or visit to schedule your appointment today. Let us help you feel better, move better, and live better.
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