Back pain occurs in up to 80% of adults at some point in their lives and is one of the leading causes of visits to physicians. Americans spend at least $50 billion each year on low back pain, the most common cause of job-related disability and a leading contributor to missed work. Spinal adjustment is the most common conservative treatment for low back pain. Spinal adjustment has been used for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints for centuries. This has been described by Hippocrates, Galen, and other Western physicians. Many prominent physicians of the 19th century practiced spinal adjustment and in the 1895 D.D. Palmer formulated the theory of spinal subluxation.

Acute vs Chronic Low Back Pain

Acute low back pain generally lasts from a few days to less than 3 weeks. Most acute low back pain results from a trauma to the neuromusculoskeletal system which supports the low back. Symptoms include muscle ache to a sharp/stabbing pain, limited range of motion, or the inability to stand up straight.
Chronic low back pain is pain that lasts for more than 3 months. It is often progressive and the cause can be difficult to determine.

What structures make up the back?

The center of the back is called the spinal column which supports the upper body’s weight and also protects the spinal cord. The spinal cord is composed of the nervous system structure that carries signals that control the body’s movements and convey its sensations. The spine consists of 26 vertebra/spinal bones. Each of these bones contains a hole that when stacked they communicate with one another and create a channel which surrounds the spinal cord. The spinal cord descends from the base of the brain and extends to just below the rib cage and extends to form the cauda equina. From within the spinal cord spinal nerves extend between the vertebra and communicate to different organs. Between each vertebra lays an intervertebral disc that allows for the flexibility in the low back and acts as a shock absorber. Bands of ligaments, tendons, and muscle attach to the spinal column. The lumbar region of the back is where most of the back pain is felt supports the weight of the upper body.

How does chiropractic adjustment help low back pain?

Chiropractors use hands on spinal adjustment and other alternative therapies to restore proper alignment of the nervous system. When the nervous system is in proper alignment this allow the organs of the body to work properly. When the body is allowed to heal without interference this relieves pain, restores mobility to joints, and relieves patient’s symptoms. Dr. Fred Schofield has been practicing for 30 years, is a Palmer graduate, and has given over a million adjustments. Call today for a complimentary consultation and exam to see if Dr. Fred can help you 602-938-8868.