top of page
Back pain 2.jpeg

BACK PAIN

Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. According to the American Chiropractic Association, about 31 million Americans experience low back pain at any given time and most people will experience back pain at least once in their life. Back pain is also the most common reason people seek chiropractic care.

What Causes Back Pain?

Back pain can occur for many different reasons.  Accidents, sports injuries, improper lifting, falls, muscle strains, poor posture, herniated or bulging discs, arthritis, pinched nerves, and spinal misalignments are some of the more common reasons for back pain.  Stress also plays a role in the cause and perception of pain.  Other, less common reasons for back pain are diseases of the internal organs, kidney stones, infections, fractures, and bone loss.  Getting the proper diagnosis from your chiropractor is essential in determining the cause and treatment of your back pain.​

Symptoms Associated With Back Pain

Back pain is a general term that people use to describe symptoms occurring in the upper back, mid back, and/or low back.  These symptoms can range in quality and intensity depending on many different factors.  These factors include the source of the pain, how long you have had the pain, other pre-existing or concomitant health issues, level of stress, and much more.  Below is a list of some of the sensations that can be used to more accurately describe your back pain.  It is important to tell your chiropractor exactly how your back pain feels, as it will help to determine an accurate diagnosis.

​

  • Sharp

  • Stabbing

  • Shock like

  • Achy

  • Stiff

  • Burning

  • Sore

  • Deep/Boring

  • Pinching

  • Radiating

  • Numb

  • Tingling/pins and needles

 

It is also important to note when the pain occurs (Is it constant, does it only occur with certain activities, does it only occur at night, etc.).

Diagnosing Your Back Pain

Identifying the underlying cause of your back pain will help your chiropractor to determine the best treatment plan for you.  A thorough consultation and examination will provide much of the information necessary for your chiropractor to do this.  Your accurate description of the pain will help.  
Depending on your consultation and exam findings, your chiropractor may order diagnostic studies.  These studies will provide valuable information in helping to determine your diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.  Below is a list of some of the possible diagnostic studies for determining the cause of back pain.

 

  • X-ray

  • CT Scan

  • Diagnostic Ultrasound

  • MRI

  • Blood work

Chiropractic Care for Back Pain: A drug free, non-surgical approach

Chiropractors have extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of neuro-musculoskeletal conditions (conditions that affect the nerves, muscles and/or bones).  This expertise gives chiropractors a wide range of treatment options to address the cause of their patient’s back pain.

 
Although chiropractors do not prescribe drugs or perform surgical procedures, what sets them apart from all other healthcare disciplines (including physical therapists, acupuncturists, and medical doctors) is their particular focus on restoring normal function to the spine, muscles, and nervous system.  This approach serves to address many of the common causes of back pain.  


Below is a list of several treatment options that a chiropractor may use to treat back pain.

 

  • Spinal manipulation

  • Spinal mobilization

  • Non-force spinal alignment techniques

  • Myofacial release

  • Massage

  • Stretching

  • Core strengthening exercises

  • Electric Stimulation

  • Therapeutic Ultrasound

  • Cryotherapy

  • Thermotherapy


Based on your diagnosis, level of pain, and outcome goals, your chiropractor may use one or a combination of these treatment options to heal your back and resolve your pain.


Making sure your spine is functioning properly is essential for treating back pain and ultimately the health of your spine, muscles, and nervous system.  Chiropractors are the only healthcare providers who specialized in this approach.  With today's growing emphasis on quality care, research and clinical outcomes, cost effectiveness, and need for alternatives to drugs and surgery, chiropractic care is one of the best and most recommended treatment options for back pain.

To Schedule an Appointment Call: (973) 564-7676

bottom of page