As chiropractors, we adjust the body to improve alignment, relieve pain, and restore movement in the joints and spine. We refer to this as spinal adjustment. Spinal adjustments can be just as effective as surgery and medicine in relieving pain and discomfort, according to recent research and is much safer.
During chiropractic treatment, the patient will be given exercises to improve their posture and prevent injury. Among other things, chiropractors encourage patients to give up smoking and maintain a healthy weight.
A variety of treatments and tests are offered by our chiropractors. The American Chiropractic Association encourages all new patients to speak with their healthcare provider to ensure they receive the testing and treatment they require.
Most people who suffer from lower-back pain do not require imaging tests.
Back pain is the most common reason people visit a doctor. And while many cases of back pain are due to an injury, others are caused by a more serious condition, such as herniated discs, arthritis, or cancer. But depending on the severity, they don’t always require imaging.
But for those that require testing, different tests can be used to diagnose your specific type of back pain and determine which treatment might work best for you. These include:
X-rays: These give the definitive picture of the spine and show any potential abnormalities, including fractures or tumors.
CT scans : These use X-rays combined with a computerized process that builds a three-dimensional image of the body. They are particularly useful in showing bone structures, like vertebrae and spinal cord compression from tumors.
If passive therapies are not used in tandem with other treatments, they should be avoided.
Through passive physical therapies, such as heat, cold, and electrical stimulation, you may feel some relief from discomfort and pain. You can use these therapies to relax before and during spinal manipulation.
Long-term issues will not be prevented by these therapies. These therapies should not be used on their own.
Avoid the use of lumbar braces or supports.
Your abdominal and back muscles will be less efficient if you use these devices. If you rely too heavily on them, your muscles can become weaker. In order to relieve lower-back pain, you will need to strengthen your muscles.
There are two types of lumbar supports: soft and hard. Soft supports are made of pillows, cushions, or blankets. Hard supports are made of foam, plastic, or metal.
Lumbar support can help with a variety of issues including low back pain and sciatic nerve issues. However, they can also cause more problems than they solve.
They can put pressure on discs in the spine, compress nerves and cause numbness and tingling in the legs. This can lead to long term problems such as muscle weakness or even paralysis.
Additionally, lumbar supports can cause back pain for people without lower back issues. People who have never had back pain before may not be able to tolerate the pressure on their spine from a lumbar support.