Back Pain Conditions

A Team Of Back Pain Doctors, Experts In Discovering The Cause, Diagnosing And Treating Back Issues.

Understanding Back Pain Conditions

Back pain is a very common issue experienced by people of all ages and backgrounds, affecting millions around the globe. It can arise from various factors, ranging from sedentary lifestyles to repetitive physical activities. Many people experience back pain in different forms, such as dull aches or sharp, stabbing sensations that can disrupt daily activities. As a fundamental part of the body's structure, the back supports a multitude of functions and movements, making even minor discomfort a noticeable hindrance. The complexity of the human back means that discomfort can manifest from multiple areas, such as the muscles, ligaments, nerves, or the spinal column itself. This complexity often adds a layer of challenge when it comes to understanding the root causes of back pain. In some cases, back pain is temporary and subsides with time, while for others, it can be a persistent issue. Various environmental and lifestyle influences, such as long periods of sitting or improper lifting techniques, contribute significantly to back-related discomfort. The impact of back pain goes beyond just physical discomfort; it can significantly influence daily activities. People who experience chronic back pain are generally unable to perform normal duties, which is extremely debilitating. This emphasises the importance of being aware of one's body mechanics and maintaining an active lifestyle to help mitigate potential issues related to back health.

On this page we have listed out an extensive range of back conditions our Doctors deal with, accompanied by some detailed information about them. Read on to learn if any seem like the issue you may be facing and get a better understanding about what you can expect from us.

Lower Back Pain (Lumbar Pain)

Lower back pain is a common experience that many individuals face at some point in their lives. It can arise due to a variety of factors, including lifestyle choices and natural aging processes. An office lifestyle for instance, might contribute to discomfort in the lower back due to prolonged periods of sitting, which can put undue stress on the lumbar region. On the other hand, activities that involve heavy lifting or sudden movements might also strain the muscles supporting the back, leading to pain. Being a known weak point of the human body, the lower back is prone to a range of issues, which is why a balance in peoples lifestyle is important. Not being active enough (sitting) can weaken the muscles around the lower back and on the other hand, being too active (labour, heavy lifting), especially using improper lifting technique, can trigger a more serious, painful condition.

The impact of lower back pain on daily life can be significant. It limits mobility and hampers the ability to perform everyday tasks such as bending or even walking. People experiencing lower back pain find it challenging to engage in work or leisure activities, which can affect their overall quality of life. This discomfort can also interfere with sleep, as finding a comfortable position may become difficult, leading to a decline in restful sleep and overall fatigue, exacerbating the issue. We find that a lot of people are unaware of how treatable lower back pain is, with many letting their discomfort lay dormant for years. If you’re experiencing any pain in the lower back, this is your body telling you something is wrong! The earlier conditions are dealt with, the better your body may respond to the treatment.

Causes For Lower Back Pain

Here are a few of the main causes for lower back pain, with most conditions listed out throughout this page also being possible factors:

Sedentary Lifestyle: As mentioned earlier, an office type lifestyle can contribute significantly to lower back pain. Lack of physical activity weakens the muscles supporting the back, making them more susceptible to injury and strain.
Poor Posture: Slouching or sitting in an incorrect posture for prolonged periods can also lead to lower back pain. This puts unnecessary stress on the spine and its supporting muscles, leading to discomfort.
Aging: As we age, our bodies go through natural wear and tear, including in the spine and its surrounding muscles. This can result in degenerative changes that may cause lower back pain.
Injuries: Accidents or injuries that affect the back can lead to lower back pain, either immediately or over time. These injuries can range from sprains and strains to fractures and herniated discs.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as arthritis, spinal stenosis, and sciatica can also cause lower back pain. These conditions affect the spine and its surrounding structures, leading to discomfort in the lower back.

Lower Back Pain Treatment

Chiropractic treatment is the goto option for lower back pain relief, and for good reason. Using the Gonstead approach, we focus on a highly accurate analysis and diagnosis before any manual adjustment of musculoskeletal misalignments. The goal is to understand exactly what vertebrae are affected, how they’re affected and precisely make the necessary adjustment. This reduces pain and increases mobility, enabling individuals to return to their daily activities with greater ease. Here at Pinewood Chiropractic, we have built our reputation on getting people back to full health quickly in the fewest visitations possible. Patients often experience noticeable relief after just a few treatments, though the duration and frequency of care can vary depending on the severity of the condition. We are always available for any questions or concerns you may have and you can call us any time during office hours.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis is a condition where there is narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. This narrowing most commonly occurs in the lower back and the neck. The condition is often the result of age related changes in the spine, and it tends to develop slowly over time. In addition to ageing, factors such as osteoarthritis, herniated discs, and overgrowth of bone can contribute to spinal stenosis. Individuals with spinal stenosis may experience a variety of symptoms, depending on the location and severity of the narrowing. Commonly reported symptoms include pain or cramping in the legs, especially when standing or walking. This discomfort often eases when sitting down or leaning forward. In the neck region, spinal stenosis can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms and hands. Some people also experience problems with balance and coordination, which can impact their ability to move freely and perform tasks that require precision.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be a significant factor in managing the impact of spinal stenosis on everyday life. Engaging in regular physical activity tailored to one's abilities promotes flexibility and strength, which can alleviate some symptoms. Equally important is maintaining a healthy weight to reduce the stress on the spine. Ergonomic practices, such as proper posture and supportive furniture, also plays a role in reducing strain on the spine during daily activities. All combined these practices help significantly, however spinal alignment is the most important aspect of them all.

Treatment For Spinal Stenosis

Spinal Stenosis treatment from a Gonstead Chiropractor is a nonsurgical approach that can be beneficial for individuals with spinal stenosis. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and manage spine related conditions through manual adjustments and various therapies aimed at relieving pain and improving function. For those with spinal stenosis, chiropractic care often includes spinal manipulation to increase spinal mobility and reduce nerve irritation. It's important for patients to communicate openly with their chiropractor about their symptoms and treatment goals to ensure a personalised and effective care plan. While chiropractic care can be an integral part of managing spinal stenosis, it is often most effective when combined with other treatments and lifestyle modifications, providing a comprehensive approach to improving quality of life.

Bulging Disc

A bulging disc, also referred to as a disc protrusion, is a common condition that occurs when one of the intervertebral discs extends beyond the natural boundary of the spine. These discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, providing flexibility and shock absorption during movement. Over time, due to ageing or repetitive stress, the outer layer of the disc can weaken or become compromised, causing the inner core to bulge outward. This protrusion can place pressure on the surrounding nerves and spinal cord, resulting in varying degrees of pain. Although a bulging disc can occur in any part of the spine, it is most prevalent in the lumbar region, which is the lower back. The lumbar spine supports much of the body’s weight and is involved in numerous movements, making it more susceptible to wear and stress. However, bulging discs can also be found in the cervical spine, which affects the neck, and the thoracic spine, located in the upper back. The symptoms associated with a bulging disc may vary based on its location, size, and the amount of pressure it exerts on nearby structures.

The factors contributing to the development of a bulging disc include age related degeneration, repetitive stress from certain activities or occupations, and lifestyle choices such as poor posture or prolonged periods of inactivity. Genetic predisposition and preexisting spinal conditions can also play a role in susceptibility. While some of these causes are unavoidable, adopting healthy habits, such as regular physical activity and mindful ergonomic practices, may help maintain spinal health and minimise the impact of natural ageing on the discs.

Learn More About Bulging Discs

Back Pain Diagnosis

The process of diagnosing back issues as a Gonstead chiropractor involves a systematic and thorough approach to ensure accurate identification of the underlying problems. Initially, your chiropractor conducts a detailed review of your medical history to understand any past injuries or recurring patterns that might contribute to the current condition. This step is crucial as it provides insight into the patient's health status and helps in focusing the diagnosis on potential problem areas. It allows us to consider any other medical factors that could influence the diagnosis, ensuring accurate assessment of your back health.

Following this first step, a comprehensive physical examination is performed to pinpoint regions of discomfort or dysfunction. This examination includes a thorough palpation of the spine to detect any abnormalities in alignment or movement. We use various techniques to assess the integrity of the vertebrae, looking for signs of subluxation or other issues that might be causing pain or limited mobility. By using our hands to feel for these problems, the chiropractor relies on a highly developed sense of touch to identify issues that might not be immediately apparent through other diagnostic means.

Visual analysis and instrumentation further supplement the diagnostic process. We often use tools such as a nervo-scope, a device that measures heat differences along the spine, which can indicate areas of nerve dysfunction. Observational analysis also plays a role, as we look for any asymmetry or postural deviations that could signal back problems. These visual and instrument based assessments are vital components in the Gonstead diagnostic methodology, helping in cross-verifying palpatory findings and ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's back condition. Through these rigorous diagnostic steps, we gain a clear and detailed understanding of your spinal health without rushing into treatment.

Read all about the Gonstead process.

Back Pain Treatment And Spinal Adjustments

Once the diagnosis is complete, your Gonstead chiropractor carefully crafts a personalised treatment plan aimed at correcting identified spinal misalignments and aiming for instant back pain relief. This treatment approach primarily involves specific, targeted adjustments designed to restore proper alignment and function to the spine. The Gonstead technique is distinctive for its emphasis on precision; each adjustment is tailored to the individual patient's needs, focusing on the specific vertebrae identified as problematic during the diagnostic process.

In addition to spinal adjustments, we may recommend supportive therapies such as stretching or strengthening exercises to aid in recovery and prevent future issues. Education is also a key component of the treatment plan, we want our patients to feel they know what steps are required for the best results.

By educating patients on proper posture, ergonomic best practices, and lifestyle modifications, Gonstead chiropractic empowers individuals to take an active role in managing their back health. This comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate discomfort but also supports long term wellness, highlighting the commitment to achieving and maintaining optimal spinal health for each patient.

Patient Progress And Follow Up

Effective treatment of back pain using the Gonstead method doesn't end with the initial adjustments. Regular follow up sessions are part of the healing journey, allowing your Doctor to monitor progress and refine treatments as necessary. These follow-ups are an opportunity to reassess the spine, review the patient's response to adjustments, and make any necessary modifications to the treatment plan. During these sessions, patient feedback is invaluable, providing insights into which adjustments have been most beneficial and highlighting any ongoing concerns. As the patient's condition improves, the frequency of visits will be adjusted accordingly, becoming less frequent as stability and health are restored. Throughout the process, the focus remains on achieving sustainable, long term improvement rather than simply offering temporary relief.

By adopting this proactive approach, we can ensure that the patient not only recovers from back pain but is also equipped with the knowledge and strategies to maintain a healthy spine in the future. For a trusted, experienced Chiropractor for back pain relief, contact us.

Spondylolisthesis (Slipped Disc)

Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one of the vertebrae in the spine slips forward over the bone beneath it. This misalignment can occur in any part of the spine, but it most commonly affects the lower back. The degree of slippage varies from mild to severe and can impact the overall structure and function of the spine. Individuals with spondylolisthesis may experience discomfort, as the condition can contribute to changes in the alignment and mechanics of the spinal column.

Among the different types of spondylolisthesis, isthmic and degenerative are the most prevalent. Isthmic spondylolisthesis generally develops from a defect in a specific region of a vertebra, often seen in athletes who engage in activities putting repeated stress on the back, such as gymnastics or football. On the other hand, degenerative spondylolisthesis results from ageing and wear and tear on the spine's joints and vertebrae. This type is more common in adults over 50, especially in women, due to the deterioration of the spinal structures over time.

The symptomatology of spondylolisthesis can vary widely depending on the individual and the degree of vertebral slippage. Some people may not experience noticeable symptoms, while others might feel stiffness, discomfort, or pain in the lower back, thighs, or legs. In certain cases, the alignment shift may contribute to nerve problems, as the vertebrae can impinge on nerves that extend from the spinal column. This can result in a sensation of numbness, tingling, or weakness, particularly in the lower extremities, which can affect daily activities and mobility.

Diagnosis and Treatment For A Slipped Disc

When diagnosing spondylolisthesis, we perform a thorough assessment that includes a detailed review of the patient's medical history and a physical examination. We look for posture issues, limitations in movement, and any points of tenderness along the spine. If necessary, your Doctor may take an X-rays, performed onsite, to gain a clearer understanding of the extent of vertebral slippage. These images provide valuable information regarding the precise location, severity, and potential impact on surrounding nerves. We also can measure to within points of millimeters the extent of the issue.

In terms of treatment, chiropractic care focuses on conservative management techniques aimed at alleviating symptoms and improving spinal function as well as enhancing spinal alignment and mobility. Chiropractic treatment plans for spondylolisthesis are individualised based on the patient's specific condition and overall health. We find that many patients experience significant relief with our precise and intentional chiropractic care. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan are essential to ensure optimal outcomes and to address any changes in symptoms over time.

Other Back Pain Conditions

As we have explained, back pain is a very common ailment we see daily that affects many individuals at some point in their lives. While lower back pain and other issues are often discussed, several other back pain conditions are equally important to recognise and understand.

Below are some of these conditions:

Upper Back Pain: Often caused by poor posture, muscle strain, or injury, upper back pain can lead to discomfort and reduced range of motion.

Mid Back Pain: Mid back pain is often a result of muscle or ligament strain, poor posture, or underlying health conditions such as osteoarthritis.

Sciatica: Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to each leg, becomes compressed or irritated. This can cause sharp pain, numbness, and tingling in the lower back and legs. Learn All About Sciatica.

Kyphosis: This excessive outward curvature of the spine results in a hunched back appearance, often leading to back pain and discomfort.

Back Arthritis And Arthrosis: Arthritis is a condition in which the joints become inflamed, causing pain and stiffness. When this occurs in the back, it can lead to discomfort and reduced mobility.

Muscle Spasms: Muscle spasms occur when the muscles contract involuntarily, causing sudden pain and stiffness in the back.

Osteoporosis: This condition causes bones to become weak and brittle over time, leading to an increased risk of fractures and back pain.

Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition that causes widespread muscle pain, fibromyalgia can also cause back pain and discomfort.

Postural Issues: Poor posture, such as slouching or hunching over a desk, can put strain on the back muscles and lead to pain and discomfort.

Postural Imbalances: Imbalances in the muscles and ligaments can also lead to back pain, as certain muscles are overworked and become tight.

Scoliosis: Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves to one side, causing back pain and discomfort. It often develops during adolescence.

Degenerative Disc Disease: This condition occurs when the discs between the vertebrae in the spine start to break down, leading to back pain and reduced mobility. Learn All About Degenerative Disc Disease.

Pregnancy Related Back Pain: As pregnancy causes changes in the body's center of gravity and places added strain on the back muscles, it can often lead to back pain for expecting mothers. Learn All About Pregnancy Related Back Pain.

Mechanical Back Pain: This is a term used to describe any back pain caused by mechanical stress, such as heavy lifting or repetitive movements.

Acute Back Pain: Acute back pain refers to sudden and severe back pain that typically lasts for a short period. This can be caused by injury or strain.

Chronic Back Pain: Chronic back pain is ongoing and persistent pain that lasts longer than three months. It can be caused by various factors, including previous injuries or underlying health conditions.

Whiplash: Whiplash is a neck injury that can also cause pain and stiffness in the upper back, often occurring after a sudden impact or collision.

Learn All About Whiplash.

Facet Joint Dysfunction: Facet joint dysfunction occurs when the joints in the spine become inflamed or irritated, causing back pain and discomfort. Learn All About Facet Joint Dysfunction.

Excessive Lumbar Lordosis: This condition, also known as swayback, occurs when there is an excessive inward curvature of the lower spine, leading to back pain and discomfort.

Your Local Chiropractor For Back Pain

Understanding these common back pain conditions can help individuals identify the cause of their discomfort and seek appropriate treatment. We are your expert, local healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and management of any back pain issues. Not only do we frequently provide instant back pain relief, but we are proud to have assisted many in restoring their mobility and in turn, allowing patients to resume a healthy active lifestyle.

For any type of back issue, please contact us at your convenience and speak to an experienced chiropractor near you.