Chiropractic services are one of the most common remedies for individuals seeking lower back pain relief. Although back pain stems from a number of different causes (e.g. athletic injuries, accidents, muscle strains, etc.) tension can be alleviated with the aid of professional chiropractor.

Back pain is often the result of some kind of spinal stress or misalignment. Extreme lordosis (excess spinal curvature in the lower back,) fixed or “subluxated” vertebrae, sciatica or a herniated disc are potential causes. Many of these issues can be diagnosed and some treated with an experienced chiropractor.

The Role of Chiropractors in Pain Relief

Chiropractors are specialists in holistic pain relief remedies for many areas of the body, including bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Most chiropractors apply hands-on spinal manipulation, active stretching, and other alternative methods for treatment.

The primary scope and theory of chiropractic is that proper alignment of one’s musculoskeletal structure will enable the body to heal itself. Chiropractic services help to restore alignment and optimal mobility to joints that may restricted. This can stem from inflamed tissue caused by a traumatic injury or repetitive/prolonged stress, such as sitting without proper back support or exercising with poor form and posture.

Because certain limitations, behaviors, and habits may diminish the long-term effect of chiropractic treatment, some individuals may need to make lifestyle modifications.

Chiropractic Care for Back Pain Treatment

Chiropractic care is widely accepted and considered a safe treatment for back pain. Spinal manipulation is typically most effective for acute injuries (resulting from a sudden traumatic event.) Acute back pain, which is more prevalent than chronic back pain, can feel alleviated sooner with the help of chiropractor. Chronic lower back pain may require more extensive, long-term treatment programs and behavioral changes.

In most scenarios, a chiropractor will begin with a medical history assessment and physical examination. Some chiropractors go as far as conducting lab tests or diagnostic imaging to assess whether or not spinal manipulation is appropriate.

Individuals who have been diagnosed with osteoporosis, inflammatory arthritis, or spinal cord compression may be advised not to undergo spinal manipulation or chiropractic care. Some patients who are recovering from serious illnesses such as cancer should first be approved by their primary physician before visiting a chiropractor.

Complete alleviation of back pain may require more than just one visit to the chiropractor. In addition, some treatment programs may benefit from incorporate stretching, exercise/rehabilitation, and nutritional counseling. The primary goal of chiropractic care is to restore the physical functioning of an individual and while preventing pain and injury. However, a full recovery may demand more extensive lifestyle changes.

About the author: Dr. Adam Rechtman is a chiropractor in Atlanta, GA. Dr. Rechtman has been licensed to practice chiropractic care since 1996 and specializes in sports chiropractic, headaches and back pain. Feel free to connect with Dr. Rechtman on Google+.