Chiropractic care is based on the theory that your body can heal itself without the need for treatment or surgery. Chiropractors diagnose and treat neuromuscular conditions by manipulating the spine and aligning the musculoskeletal muscles. The professionals also recommend proper diet and exercise as part of the treatment.
Back pain is among the top reasons why you may need to see a chiropractor. The strain on your lower back can be as a result of several factors, including lifting heavy loads, improper lifting, and particular illnesses. Sitting for long hours or incorrect sitting posture may also result in lower back pain. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective method of relieving pain.
What to Expect When You Visit A Chiropractor
On your first visit to a chiropractic clinic, a chiropractor will conduct a thorough examination of your body. The examination begins by documenting your history and symptoms.
Next, the chiropractor will perform a comprehensive body exam. The exam includes a neurological test to assess aspects such as muscle tone and strength. Other tests that will help to determine your blood pressure, reflexes, and respiration will also be done.
Finally, the chiropractor may also perform diagnostic exams, including X-rays and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), if he/she deems them necessary to diagnose your condition accurately.
Treatments for Lower Back Pain
When searching for chiropractic care, it is vital to choose a qualified chiropractor such as David Lipman, DC. The initials DC mean that a chiropractor has attained an undergraduate degree and also studied in a chiropractic college for four years.
The following are some of the treatments you can expect for lower back pain.
1. Chiropractic Adjustment
This treatment is also known as spinal, chiropractic, or manual manipulation, and involves high-velocity, low-amplitude spine manipulation. Chiropractors perform the procedure to treat abnormal movements in the spine or to restore its proper functionality.
A successful chiropractic adjustment will increase your range of motion, reduce the irritability of your nerves, and improve the functioning of your spine.
What To Expect During A Chiropractic Adjustment Procedure
Chiropractic adjustments involve joint cavitation, which is the audible popping of gases. When the procedure is being done, you will hear sounds as a result of the forceful exit of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen. The exit of these gases relieves joint pressure.
If the pop does not occur, either because of a muscle splint or you were tense during the treatment, the chiropractor may need to use adjunctive therapy. Adjunctive therapy may involve carrying out electric stimulation before the procedure, or applying ice and letting you rest first.
You may either experience a sense of relief or a short-lived discomfort after the treatment. The discomfort maybe because you were tense during the treatment or as a result of the involuntary contraction of muscles. Your muscles and joints may also feel sore. However, the feeling will not persist for longer than 24 hours. A chiropractor can relieve the soreness by applying an ice pack.
2. Spine Mobilization
Spine mobilization involves more stretching, and less forceful manipulation of the muscles and joints to increase the range of motion and enhance or restore joint function.
There are various reasons why you may prefer this gentler treatment. For example, if your nervous system is sensitive and a vigorous treatment may result in muscle spasms, then you can go for spine mobilization. The gentle chiropractic treatment may also be recommended when you are in severe pain, or your condition is critical. Finally, if you are suffering from illnesses such as arthritis, low bone density, and deterioration of bone tissue, this treatment is likely to be recommended for you.
After examination, a chiropractor will determine whether you should go for gentle over-vigorous chiropractic care.
Methods of Spine Mobilization
One of the popular techniques of spine mobilization is the Activator Method. With this method, the chiropractor will use a spring-loaded tool held by hand to provide a quick, low-force impulse on specific points. The activator tool provides localized treatment, preventing bending movement on the joints. The Activator Method is an effective mode of treatment that has a very low possibility of muscle resistance.
There is also the toggle drop method, which makes use of a drop table. With this method, the chiropractor applies pressure on a specific part of the spine using crossed hands. Finally, there is the cox flexion-distraction method, which involves gently stretching the spine in a series of slow, repetitive movements in a bid to adjust it.
If you suffer from chronic low back pain, you may need regular treatment after an initial spine therapy to obtain long-term results. A chiropractor will advise you on how to prevent the lower back pain from reoccurring.