Chiropractor Woodbury MN | Dealing With Chronic Back Pain

Author: Mike McCoy

Author: Mike McCoy

Dealing With Chronic Back Pain Chronic back pain can be a debilitating condition. Movements such as standing or sitting can become painful and difficult. For those who suffer regular back pain finding a solution can be a long process. Low back pain can be the result of any number of conditions. Common sources of pain include strains, sprains, postural peculiarities, spinal stenosis, bulging or herniated disks, fractures and more. For most patients, determining the actual cause is essential for successful treatment. Muscular Causes - Often, chronic back pain starts out with a single incident. A sprain resulting from a weekend of gardening or helping a friend move becomes a recurring problem. The muscles, never having had a chance to heal properly, become weakened as patients develop compensating techniques that create structural and postural imbalances. Even mild strains and sprains should be addressed properly. Icing and resting the affected muscles allow them to heal optimally. Beginning a stretching program, with a trainer whenever possible, and strengthening the core muscles of the trunk will help prevent additional injuries to the area. If you suspect a muscle tear rather than a strain or sprain, consult your physician immediately. The more severe the tear the more likely it is that you will need a longer recovery and a course of physical therapy to heal completely. Postural Causes - We are a nation of slouchers. When our mother's told us to sit or stand up straight, they knew what they were talking about. The spine is designed to support the upper body in a particular, optimal position. Slouching, either in a chair or while walking, places a great deal of strain upon the muscles that surround the spine, eventually leading to back pain. When you slouch in a chair and let your buttocks move forward your neck must also move forward to compensate. This creates two areas of strain, the low back and the neck. The average head weighs about 9 pounds. If you think that is a small weight, then I suggest you pick up a 10 pound bag of potatoes and hold it at arms length; that is approximately what you do when you force your neck to support your head in a "head forward" position. Sit up straight, well back in your chair. Your buttocks should make contact with the back of the chair and your feet should rest upon the floor. Your knees should make a 90 angle between your thighs and shins. Your head should be upright and in line with your spine. When you stand and walk your goal is to do so with your head held straight and your shoulders back. Tuck your bottom under your body and line up the spine as if you have a string pulling you upwards from your tailbone through the center of your head. Structural Sources of Back Pain - Things like disk disorders, spinal stenosis and arthritis can also cause back pain. Each one of these conditions requires a proper medical evaluation and a unique treatment plan. Surgery is rare, but a comprehensive approach is best and often includes exercise, medication and follow up care. Consult your physician if you suspect that a structural problem is at the root of your back pain.

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A Call to Revolutionize Chronic Pain