Low Back Pain and You
June 3, 2021Lower back pain (LBP) is a very common occurrence and four out of five or 80% of people experience an episode of this condition at one point in their lifetime in the United States. According to statistics, back pain is the number one cause of disability worldwide and $50 Billion is spent annually by Americans on treatment.
As commonly thought, yes, back pain does become more common as you get older. As we age, patients over thirty do experience more back pain because their disc spacing weakens and wears down causing more pain and stiffness. Other factors like stress, gender, occupation, genetics and leisurely activities all contribute. How does low back pain arise? Injury to muscle or tendon, lack of vertebrae disc spacing due to arthritis or stenosis and chronic strenuous force activities such as gardening or golf can cause issues for a patient. Heavy lifting or bending also are risks for back injuries. Patients with diseases like osteoarthritis, certain cancers and even their mental health impact back pain.
Low Back Pain and You
What is the symptomatology of lower back pain?
It can occur suddenly or have a slow and gradual onset that builds over time. Low back pain can also be brought on by a random occurrence and not anything done specifically when a patient tries to recall causation. Patients often complain of stiffness, achiness or sharp pain that sometimes radiates from their leg down to their thigh or even their foot. Certain body positions can also provoke pain and a release of Nitrogen gas called a “cavitation” can be heard with certain motions impacting a person’s range of motion. Patients often say that it is hard for them to get up from a seated position or stand up straight and that walking helps “loosen” their backs. Muscle spasms can also intensify pain and make it harder for patients to continue on with their normal activities of daily living.
How is back pain diagnosed?
After a thorough examination by a medical practitioner, an x-ray of the spine is commonly taken to analyze disc spacing and to look for signs of arthritis. Breaks and fractures to the spinal column are also assessed. In more complicated cases an MRI or CT scan may be ordered to further help with diagnosis purposes.
How is low back treated?
Having a person rest, plenty of ice and avoiding soft, cushy chairs are a start. Chiropractic manipulation is the go to method for a natural non medicated and non surgical approach. Patients are often asked to stay consistent with care when they are first injured and a proper treatment plan is devised to help provide direction. In cases where a patient is beyond chiropractic care then a surgical approach is advised to help a patient get better.
Can you prevent lower back pain completely?
If it is a structural or disease cause no you can stop lower back pain from occurring but you can heal faster after an episode with chiropractic care. You can also do things to help strengthen back and increase your range of motion with treatment. You can not predict the future and when it comes to back pain, you can do your part to stay active and proactive with your health.
The Van Ness Chiropractic Difference
At Van Ness Chiropractic, we realize that managing lower back pain is not one size fits all. We have the clinical knowledge and expert staff to offer targeted treatment and patient education that is effective and empowering. Call us today at 847-842-8070 to set up your appointment for a comprehensive examination and get on the road to health today. You can also contact us on our contact page to find out more.
References:
https://www.thegoodbody.com/back-pain-statistics/
