Where Does Back Pain Come From?
This site is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for a thorough history, examination and recommendations of your physician or healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat disease. If you have or think you have a medical condition, consult your hearlthcare provider.
Most of us start out with relatively healthy and strong backs. When we are young our backs work well, carrying us where we need to go and doing most everything we ask. As we age, some of us develop back aches and pains. No one can turn back the clock and undo the damage of the past. However, making just a few simple changes can make a big difference.
STRESS: We all have worries, responsibilities and daily demands that can result in stress and fatigue. These factors can build, irritating your nervous system, causing muscle tension and eventually spasm. Relaxation techniques may help prevent your daily stresses from becoming a more serious back problem.
POOR POSTURE: "Slouching", or poor posture, can alter your back's natural curves, making your spine more susceptible to injury. Practicing good posture will ensure that the weight of your body is supported more evenly by your neck, mid back and low back. This prevents one area of your body from being overloaded.
INACTIVITY: The muscles of your back, abdomen, pelvis and legs all help to support and move your spine. Inactivity causes these muscles to weaken and get stiff. Weak, stiff muscles make movement more difficult and painful. When that happens, we are even less active, resulting in a cycle of inactivity and pain. Increasing your activity level can break this cycle.
ARTHRITIS: Most commonly osteoarthritis, results in a "wearing out" of the joints in our backs. As the height of the discs decreases, bone spurs can form and bone begins to rub on bone. Exercise, good posture and proper treatment of injuries can help prevent or slow the progression of osteoarthritis. Consult your healthcare provider for recommendations about diet changes, nutritional supplements or other treatments.
DISC PROBLEMS: Discs are the "shock absorbing" cushions that separate our vertebrae. Poor posture, inadequate nutrition and injury can cause the discs to wear out early. If the discs tear or bulge, they are less able to absorb shock. Sometimes the discs can put pressure directly or indirectly on nerve roots, resulting in pain, stiffness and/or numbness.
SPRAINS AND STRAINS: Improper movements such as bending, twisting or lifting can result in strained muscles or sprained ligaments. Sports involving sudden changes in direction, or awkward movements like slipping on ice, can also cause sprains or strains. Minor sprains and strains can be treated at home with cold. More severe injuries may require additional treatment. Consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions.
Chiropractors are specially trained and skilled in the techniques of spinal adjustment. Spinal adjustments can reduce muscle tension, restore joint mobility and function, and relieve pressure on nerves and other pain sensitive structures. Chiropractors stress the importance of overall body wellness in maintaining a healthy back. Your Doctor of Chiropractic may also recommend good back habits, exercises, diet changes and in some cases, nutritional supplements. If chiropractic treatment is not appropriate for your problem, your chiropractor will refer you to another health specialist.
