• Written by Eddy Family Chiropractic

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What's causing my back pain?

There are many factors that can cause or contribute to back pain including issues affecting the muscles, bones, joints or nerves. Many types of back pain are caused by strain on the muscles and ligaments that support the spine, including repeated bending, heavy lifting, and long periods of standing and sitting. Other types of pain can be caused by conditions like arthritis, herniated discs or other conditions affecting the spine, or from traumatic events like car accidents and slip-and-fall accidents. Lifestyle factors like being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle or even having poor posture often act to exacerbate pain or make the back more prone to developing conditions that can result in local and radiating pain.

Having a thorough, hands-on evaluation of the back is the best way to determine the underlying cause of pain so treatment can be more effective.

How is the cause of back pain diagnosed?

Back pain diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history and their symptoms, followed by an evaluation of the back and the spine. Hands-on techniques will be used to locate areas of tenderness and to assess the function of the back when performing active and passive movements like bending, reaching and twisting. In some patients, diagnostic imaging may be recommended to obtain more in-depth information about the source of pain and other symptoms.

How can Eddy Family Chiropractic help relieve my back pain?

Chiropractors are skilled in treating musculoskeletal conditions involving the back, so they can be especially effective in providing immediate and long-term relief for back pain. Treatment options can include:

• Spinal adjustments to gently coax the spine bones (vertebrae) back into their correct positions to relieve uneven strain and reduce irritation and inflammation associated with herniated discs
• Therapeutic massage to help reduce strain and stimulate circulation for better healing
• Custom programs of exercise and stretching to strengthen the spine and provide greater flexibility
• Lifestyle guidance to help patients maintain better back health

Having routine chiropractic exams and spinal adjustments is the best way to prevent pain from becoming worse or from recurring.