Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is the second most common reason why Americans see their doctor each year - second only to colds and the flu. There are many causes to lower back pain which are dependent on age and can range from acute to chronic. The following is a list of only some of the causes to lower back pain and is not a substitute for a visit to a doctor. Treatment for any back condition is recommended as soon as possible to minimize danger of further aggravation.
1. Lumbar Sprain/Strains: One of the most common causes of acute low back pain is due to a muscle strain. Also known as a “pulled muscle”, the muscle fibers becomes over-stretched or torn causing damage and inflammation. Similarly, a lumbar sprain occurs when the ligaments (structures that connect bones to bones) in the lower back become overstretched or torn creating inflammation. When either of these structures becomes inflamed, muscle spasm and misalignments of the spine can occur. Though
these conditions may not sound like serious injuries, the person may feel severe pain, spasm and an inability to move or walk. In addition to rest and ice to reduce inflammation, chiropractic treatment is helpful in treating lumbar sprain/strains because it decreases muscles spasm and corrects any spinal misalignments to aid in recovery and healing.
2. Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: The sacroiliac joint, or SI joint, is the joint between the pelvis and sacrum. Though this joint is supported by strong ligaments a little movement occurs here, a disruption in normal motion (either too little or
too much movement) can create low back and/or leg pain, similar to what is felt with sciatica. SI joint dysfunction is most often seen in young and middle aged women and can be treated conservatively with chiropractic care. Using diversified or drop technique, the pelvic bones are properly aligned and normal motion is restored. Additionally, stretches and exercises may be implicated to restore SI joint stability.
3. Degenerative Disc Disease: Click to read more.
4. Disc Herniations: Click to read more.
5. Spinal Stenosis: Click to read more.
6. Non-Spinal Causes: Internal problems such as appendicitis, kidney disease, uterine disorders and urinary tract infections are just a few examples that can imitate a lower back injury and refer pain to the back.
