Back Pain and Chiropractic Back Pain Relief

Back pain affects nearly 80 percent of people at some time in their lives.     In fact, it is estimated that nearly half of working people experience back pain each year.     One of the most common reasons for absenteeism is back pain.

Back pain relief is the basis for most visits to a chiropractor.     The list of possible causes of back pain explains why this is so.    

Back pain can be brought on by:

• Sprained ligaments
• Slipped discs
• Irritated joints
• Strained muscles
• Sports injuries
• Scoliosis
  
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Arthritis
• Obesity
• Poor posture
• Kidney stones or infections
• Blood clots
• Bone density loss

This is by no means a complete list.     Back pain is as individual as people are.     What may cause back pain in one person, such as lifting an item, may not effect another.

There are different theories on techniques for back pain relief.

Subluxation Theory

The subluxation theory is based on the belief that nerves impulses can travel without restriction when the spinal column is aligned properly.     A subluxation is when there is a misalignment of the spinal column preventing the nerve impulse from transmitting unhindered, thereby causing back pain.

A subluxation is corrected by spinal manipulation, also known as an adjustment.   The chiropractor performs the adjustment with his or her hands after massaging and stretching the muscles .     The adjustment may be a quick movement.

Flexion-Distraction Technique

The flexion-distraction techniques involves stretching of the spine on a specialized table while the chiropractor gently flexes the spine.     It is a pain-free technique.    This technique is meant to move a disc away from an irritated nerve to reduce inflammation and back pain.  

Pelvic Blocking Technique

Back pain is treated by insertion of cushioned wedges underneath each side of the pelvis.   The chiropractor then performs gentle maneuvers to allow gravity to move the disc away from the nerve causing the back pain.   There is no force used in this technique.

People suffering back pain are advised to seek conservative treatment before more aggressive procedures are performed.

Chiropractic care is holistic, meaning that it is drug-free and non-invasive.    A chiropractor will introduce specific exercises and stretches, review ergonomics and proper body posture along with adjustments.    This is to assist you in keeping  your spine in alignment to prevent back pain.   In addition, nutrition, stress management and lifestyle factors may be considered by the chiropractor when giving advice on back pain relief.

In some cases, chiropractors work together with massage therapists to provide back pain relief.    Many physicians refer patients to chiropractors for back pain relief, although a referral is not required prior to visiting a chiropractor for back pain.

Chiropractors in Australia undertake a five year program at Macquarie University, RMIT University or Murdoch University.   These  indepth programs focus on anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, x-ray and spinal adjustment techniques.    The primary purpose of chiropractic care is to promote a healthier lifestyle without drugs or surgery.   After graduation, chiropractors must enroll in professional development courses and seminars on an ongoing basis.

Chiropractic treatment for back pain relief is a safe method.   Back pain may be reduced and mobility increased without passive treatment, such as bed rest.