LOW BACK PAIN

Nearly 80% of our population complains of low back pain at some time in their life. Let's have a little discussion about the spine and how chiropractic may be able to help this pain the back. The spine is made up of 24 segment called vertebra. There are 7 cervicle (neck) vertebra, 12 thoracic (mid back) vertebra and 5 lumber (low back) vertebra along with the sacrum and pelvic bones. The spinal cord runs from the brain through the vertebra and the spinal nerves exit between the vertebra to ALL BODY PARTS. Between each vertebra is a disc pad that helps give strength and cushion to the spine. The vertebra are held together with ligaments. These soft tissue structures are the portion of the spine that are susceptible to injury. A snapping back and forth of the neck (whiplash) can damage the ligaments in this area. A twisting and bending motion along with lifting can damage the ligaments or disc of the low back. With the injury there will be swelling and muscle spasm. Of course this will be painful. The vertebra can actually twist out of alignment. This is called a vertebral subluxation. The swelling and spasm can "pinch" or irritate the nerves. Of course this is also painful! This pain can be localized right in the region of the injury or can be radiating into an arm or leg or even cause a headache. Most of the time most people want to treat only the pain. "Give me a muscle relaxant, anti-inflammatory and a pain reliever". You know what? These will help the discomfort decrease. NONE of these will help correct or stabilize the problem. As chiropractors we will do a complete evaluation, take X-rays if needed and make a determination if we can help or if a referral for further study is necessary. Most people respond to conservative chiropractic care, but there are times when the damage is more than the body can repair. It's conditions like this that may require medication and or surgery. All we ask is to just give us a chance.