Low back pain plagues many of us and, as we age, our susceptibility increases.

Many of our patients present with low back pain. Although caused by numerous different reasons, we find it is mostly due to musculo-ligamentous strain, the term used for soft tissue (muscles, nerves, ligaments, tendons) injuries of the lumbar spine.  Some other conditions which cause low back pain are facet joint problems in the spine, sacroiliac joint disease, piriformis syndrome. Spinal changes can also lead to disk herniation causing low back pain, shooting leg pain. The changes can also cause narrowing around the spinal cord (called spinal stenosis) or narrowing around nerve roots (called lateral foraminal stenosis).

Unless you have defined lesion, a defined problem that can be corrected surgically in the low back, it’s helpful to try everything else beforehand – that’s what we advise patients.  Nerve blocks are often helpful, as are medications and a program of physical therapy, spinal cord stimulation, and/or chiropractic therapy. We believe in a multi-discipline approach to pain relief and try these avenues before we recommend surgery. In many cases, patients find relief without the risk and extended recuperation of a surgical procedure.

As we age, we need to be mindful of our movements. This area bears most of your body weight, which means that sudden movements, improper posture, or repetitive strenuous activity can cause pain.  Of course, physical activity and even a minimum amount of exercise on a regular basis can help decrease lower back pain. But sometimes just minor movements seem to aggravate the condition. So what do we do?

• Chiropractic manipulation can help realign the spine and offer some relief to the site of the pain.
• Physical therapy can help improve your range of motion and expand your tolerance for increased physical activity and stretching.
• Acupuncture and acupressure have also proven to be effective pain relieving treatments.
• Massage therapy helps to relax the muscles that often cause the discomfort as does reflexology.
• It’s important to visit a Pain Management Specialist to map out a clear treatment program developed especially for you and your lifestyle.

Call us today for an appointment or ask your doctor for a referral and start feeling relief from your debilitating pain.