Low Back Pain And Spinal Manipulation
Low back pain (LBP) is such a common problem that if you haven’t suffered from it yet, you probably will eventually. Consider these facts:
1) LBP affects men and women equally;
2) It is most common between the ages of 30-50;
3) Sedentary (non-active) lifestyles contribute a lot to causation;
4) Too much or too little exercise can result in LBP;
5) A BMI around 25 is “ideal” for weight management, which helps prevent LBP;
6) Causes of LBP include lifestyle (activity level), genetics – including, but not limited to, weight and osteoarthritis;
7) Occupation;
8) Exercise habits,
and the list can go on and on.
Most studies show that when there is back pain, there is inflammation. In fact, inflammation is found in most disease processes that occur both within and outside the musculoskeletal system. We know that when we control inflammation, pain usually subsides. That is why the use of “PRICE” (Protect, Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate) works well for most muscle/joint painful conditions. We have also learned that IF we can avoid cortisone and non-steroidal drugs (like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.), tissues heal quicker and better, so these SHOULD BE AVOIDED!
There is Help!
Different things can and do occur physiologically during a spinal adjustment or manipulation. We know that the mechanical receptors located in muscles, muscle tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules are stimulated and this results in muscle relaxation (reduced spasm or tightness), increased measurable range of motion, and a decrease in pain. A recent study also reported that inflammatory markers (CRP and interleukin-6) measured in a blood test, NORMALIZED after a series of nine chiropractic low back manipulations! So, NOT ONLY do spinal adjustments give immediate improvements in pain, flexibility, and muscle relaxation, they also REDUCE INFLAMMATION without the use of pharmaceuticals!
So, let’s review what manipulation does for your low back pain:
1) Pain reduction;
2) Improved flexibility – now you can put on your socks with less pain and strain;
3) Improved functions and activities of daily living like sitting more comfortably, getting in and out of your car, bending over to feed the cat, etc.;
4) Improved sleep quality; and
5) Faster healing time by actually reducing the inflammatory markers in the blood!
If you, a friend or family member requires care for Low Back Pain, we sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence shown by choosing Synergy Chiropractic.