If you have back pain, mid or lower, do not ignore the pain in hope it will go away. Chiropractors are trained to correctly assess the problem and provide safe, effective treatment.  There are numerous causes of back pain including:

• Poor Posture - ligaments can be overstretched, muscles get tired and joints or nerves are put under pressure.
• Muscle Strains - Minor back muscle strains can improve on their own, however more severe strains will need Chiropractic treatment to relieve pain and encourage healing.
• Disc Problems – Discs can 'slip' out of place, wear down with age,  bulge, herniate or even rupture, a common cause of discs problems are injuries.
• Sciatica - The sciatic nerves starts in the lower back and runs through the buttocks and down the back of your legs. Irritation anywhere along this pathway will cause pain often in the form of pins and needles, numbness or constant aching in the back and legs.
• Arthritis – Vertebrae or joints can be affected by arthritis which in turn can cause degeneration along with inflammation within the joint and the growths on the edge of the vertebrae.

 

Preventing Back Pain

 There are several things that you can do on a day to day basis to increase your chance of preventing back pain. 

• Lifting – Whilst standing with your feet about shoulder-width apart, bend at the hips and knees, NOT from your back. Use your stomach muscles and legs to left whilst keeping your back straight as possible and avoid twisting unless by using your feet.
• Posture - Think tall: chest lifted, stomach in, shoulders relaxed and back, chin tucked in and head level.
• Sitting - Don't stay seated for too long - stand up, stretch and walk around. If you work on a computer, it is advised to get up and walk around at least every 30 minutes.
• Exercise – Excess body weight for your body shape and height increases strain on your back. Your Chiropractor can show you exercises and stretches to increase back flexible and strong and core abdominal strength.
• Sleeping - Your mattress and pillow should both be firm enough to support your natural shape.
• Chiropractic Care – Regular Chiropractic care can assist in preventing back pain by keeping the back healthy and increasing strength and mobility.