Low back pain results in millions of dollars of lost work and untold suffering every day. Improper sitting or lifting, over-exertion, trauma, or inherited spinal abnormalities can be the cause. Many of the pain-sensing nerves of the spine are in the facet joints, the two interlocking “fingers” at the back of each spinal bone. The normally smooth surfaces on which these joints glide, can become rough, irritated, and inflamed. Surgical treatment often involves removing the facet joints, exposing the spinal cord!
Another cause of lower back pain can be a bulging disc putting pressure on the spinal cord or a nearby nerve root. The result is often numbness, tingling, or pain down the leg. Cutting away the bulging disc tissue can permanently alter its ability to separate and cushion the adjacent bones. This rarely addresses the underlying structural cause(s) of the problem.
The chiropractic approach is to help restore a more normal motion and position of affected spinal bones by specific chiropractic adjustments. The simplicity and success of this approach have been documented in numerous research projects and has helped may patient avoid risky surgery.
Low Back Pain Prevention
POSTURE
Maintaining good posture is very important. Keep the ears, shoulders, and hips in a straight line, with the head up and stomach pulled in.
STANDING
It is best not to stand for long periods of time but, if you must, walk as frequently as possible and wear shoes with cushioned soles and low or no heels.
SITTING
Sitting puts a great deal of pressure on the back. Chairs should have straight backs or low back support. Chairs should swivel to avoid twisting, have armrests and adjustable backs. While sitting, the knees should be a little higher than the hips, so rest your feet on a low stool.
RIDING
Riding and driving for a long period of time increases back stress. Move the seat as far forward as possible to avoid bending forward. The seat should be reclined not more than 30 degrees and the seat bottom tilted slightly up in front. For long rides, you should stop and walk about every hour and avoid lifting heavy objects immediately thereafter.
Find out if yours is a chiropractic case and enjoy the positive results that millions of patients have discovered.
