Lower Back Pain

Back pain is a common condition, with 8 in 10 people experiencing a bout of lower back pain at some point in their lives; and we are continuing to see higher levels of chronic pain. One survey of the general population in the UK found approximately 20% of all reported spinal pain was intense, disabling, and chronic; furthermore it is a costly problem. In 1998, it was estimated the direct health care cost of back pain was £ 2 million in the UK. Back pain is a common complaint seen by GPs and has become a common cause for work absenteeism.

We may injure our backs due to a number of reasons causing damage to the surrounding joints, muscles, ligaments, discs or nerves. Sometimes a simple movement such as bending over to tie up your shoes can trigger lower back pain. However, it is usually an accumulation of multiple factors which cause this instant and sudden pain. These factors may include poor posture, psychological stress, poor diet and weak core muscles. Our low back is prone to injury because it holds a high percentage of the total body weight and is a fairly unstable part of spine. There may be restricted movement or too much movement in the lower back which can cause pain or discomfort. Sometimes there is an increased curvature in the low back causing clinical spinal instability.

Fortunately, most lower back pain is mechanical in nature; therefore chiropractic may be the key to relieving your pain. It is important to ensure there are no misalignments of the spine to prevent pain and inflammation of the joints. It was once believed rest was the best solution for back pain. The latest studies show this is not the case and spinal manipulation has been found to be effective in adults for general, acute and chronic low back pain. Also, it has been found to be cost effective.

Low back pain is also a common symptom among pregnant women. Reports have indicated 68%-85% of pregnant women do not undergo any form of treatment, as it is seen as a natural part of being pregnant. However, it has been found in one study that 68% of women continued to suffer with lower back pain post-pregnancy. Chiropractic can help!