Low Back Pain Treatments



Chiropractic Holistic Care

Chiropractors are holistic doctors (Complimentary Alternative Medical providers, abbreviated CAM) and even specific conditions, such as a herniated, or ruptured discs, can be treated in a whole body context. The chiropractor considers stress and nutritional and lifestyle factors, especially as they relate to pain perception and reduction of inflammation. Conditioning and exercise, stress management, and improved nutrition and eating habits are all considered when the acute phase of pain and inflammation has been resolved. In addition to addressing low back, the chiropractor addresses possible spinal joint restrictions in the neck, mid back, and extremities that may need correction. Manual adjusting techniques can be used successfully in the neck and mid back, while the low back is addressed with low force techniques.

Chiropractic "Pelvic Blocking" Techniques

Chiropractors use pelvic blocking techniques (SOT blocks) as part of another low back disc protocol. Under blocking technique, disc patients are categorized according to a set of findings including traditional orthopedic and neurological testing. Treatments using pelvic blocking techniques include the use of cushioned wedges, which are placed under each side of the pelvis along with gentle maneuvers. This allows gravity and changes in mechanics to draw the disc away from the nerve. Disc injuries are treated in a series of non-force treatments with monitoring and evaluation. If subjective signs and symptoms are not improving, referral for imaging and spine specialist referral are standard of care.

TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator)

A TENS unit uses electrical stimulation to modulate the sensation of low back pain by overriding the painful signals that are sent to the brain. A trial of electrotherapy with the TENS unit is usually done first, and if the patient experiences substantial pain relief, a TENS unit may be used at home for low back pain relief on a long-term basis.

Traction

Traction treatments use systems of weights, cables, and pulleys in an attempt to reduce pressure on the disks and the joints between the vertebrae. It was thought that such traction as well as stretching muscles and connective tissues of the back might have a beneficial effect. It has proved effective in relieving long-term pain or in making bouts of acute low back pain shorter.

Orthotics

Some people with chronic low back pain may not limp because they hurt; rather, they may hurt because they limp. A small study examined the gait of 32 patients with low back pain who had not experienced significant pain relief with previous treatment. The results indicated that all the patients had gait abnormalities. Each patient was then fitted with a custom made orthotic, which was designed to correct these imbalances. Average follow-up time for study participants was nearly 14 months. Of the 32 patients, 27 (84%) experienced less back pain than before. The average reduction in pain symptoms was 66%.  Check out more information on orthotics.

Physical Activity and Exercise

Your chiropractor may recommend that you make some changes in your physical activities when you are experiencing back pain. In general, when pain is severe, you should avoid the following: 

  • heavy lifting
  • twisting, bending forward, or reaching while lifting
  • sitting or standing for long period

A gradual return to normal activities, including exercise, is recommended. Your doctor can help you decide what level of activity is safe for you. You may want to discuss your chiropractor’s recommendations with your employer or supervisor. Exercising when you have back pain can help you feel better faster and prevent more back problems. Even if you have mild to moderate low back pain, you can do the following without putting much stress on your back:

  • Walk short distances.
  • Stretch and do flexibility exercises.
  • Use a stationary bicycle.
  • Swim.

It is important to start slowly and to gradually build up the speed and length of time that you do the exercise. At first, your symptoms may get a little worse when you exercise or become more active. Usually, this worsening is nothing to worry about. However, if your pain becomes severe, ensure that you speak with your chiropractor right away. Once you can return to normal activities comfortably, your chiropractor may recommend additional aerobic and back exercises.

Supplements

Often supplements can provide inflammatory relief and aid in encouraging support of connective tissue.

Surgery

People whose back pain is associated with certain nerve problems or conditions such as fractures or dislocations have the best chance of being helped by surgery. Although some conditions are emergencies, decisions about surgery do not have to be made right away in most cases. Most back surgery can be delayed for several weeks without making the condition worse. It is also a good idea to get a second opinion. For some people, surgery may cause more problems, which are most likely to occur if the only symptom is back pain. If your medical doctor or other healthcare professional recommends surgery, be sure to ask about the following:

  • the reason for the proposed surgery
  • the risks involved in the surgery
  • the benefits you might expect

Preventing General Low Back Pain

Steps you can take to prevent back pain include the following: 

  • Maintenance chiropractic visits
  • Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes.
  • Consider having your gait evaluated and corrected, if appropriate, with fitted shoe inserts (orthotics).
  • Make sure your work surface is at a comfortable height for you.
  • Use a chair with good lower back support that may recline slightly.
  • If you must sit for long periods, rest your feet on the floor or on a low stool, whichever is more comfortable.
  • If you must stand for long periods, rest one foot on a low stool.
  • If you must drive long distances, use a pillow or a rolled-up towel behind the small of your back. Also, be sure to stop often and walk around for a few minutes.
  • Attempt to sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees or sleep on your side with your knees bent and a pillow between your knees.