Back pain is the most common medical complaint in the world, and it can have many causes. It may be caused by a sprain or injury, or it can be a symptom of a chronic condition like osteoporosis or fibromyalgia. The most common triggers of back pain include spondylolisthesis (slippage of one vertebral body on another), herniated discs (the shock absorbers that act as cushions between the bones of the spine can bulge and press against the spinal cord or nerve roots), arthritic joints, and scoliosis (curvature of the spine). Some people may experience back pain after surgery. Surgery should only be considered for a small percentage of people, if it is necessary to treat a life-threatening problem such as cauda equina syndrome or severe weakness due to spinal stenosis or compression of a nerve root.
The first step in reducing back pain is to start physical therapy. This may involve light exercise, heat or ice application, and stretching exercises. It may also include education in how to lift and move around properly, as well as techniques to help relieve stress on the back and hips. Psychological and mind-body therapies are also helpful for people with chronic back pain. These therapies can help patients cope with their pain and learn to live with it, and may involve techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or “mindfulness-based stress reduction.”
Most of the time, back pain is not caused by a serious condition that requires surgery, but it can be very disabling. While back pain is more common in men than in women, it can occur at any age and it does affect both the young and old.
Wellness chiropractic care is designed to keep your spine aligned properly, so that pressure is not put on the nervous system, and signals are passed correctly throughout the body. Misalignments in the spine, called subluxations, can happen a lot, especially during everyday activity, and they can cause a wide range of symptoms including pain, swelling, numbness, and loss of function. Regular treatment prevents these issues from developing and keeps the body functioning at peak performance.
A holistic approach to health considers the mind, body, and spirit as being interconnected rather than treating each separately. The goal of Christ centered holistic healthcare is to provide healing in all three areas and to restore the balance that God intended.
When seeking an Atlanta family chiropractor, it’s important to look for a practitioner or clinic that meets certain criteria. Remember to schedule an initial consultation with the chiropractor to discuss your condition, treatment options, and any questions or concerns you may have. This will give you a better sense of whether the chiropractor aligns with your expectations for quality care.