Have you tried almost everything to fix your back pain? If so, you may benefit from seeing a chiropractor.
The chiropractic profession has gone through quite the revolution since its inception back in the late 1800s. Today, it is seen as a legitimate form of medical care, with over 22 million visits to a chiropractor every year in the U.S.
Role of a Chiropractor
A chiropractor is a healthcare professional that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders. Specifically, they focus on physical adjustments and manipulations to the spine itself rather than medicines or exercises.
Their main goal is to reduce pain and increase your mobility and functionality. Chiropractors mainly treat neck pain, lower back pain, sciatica, headaches, sports injuries, arthritic pain, and car accident injuries. However, chiropractors often make suggestions of different exercises and ergonomics you can do to keep your back in shape on your own time. It may be helpful to think of chiropractors as a supplement to therapy and your own workouts. In most cases, they should not be the only treatment for your back pain.
Many studies have shown that chiropractic treatment is good for lower back pain, lumbar herniated disks, and neck pain. However, if your pain continues for six weeks or more, you should contact a specialist physician to see if there are other treatment options for you to add to your chiropractic regiment. You do not want to seek chiropractic help if you have severe osteoporosis, cancer in your spine, numbness in a limb, have an unstable spine or are at an increased risk for a stroke.
Chiropractic Treatment
Spinal Manipulation: Chiropractors believe that the biomechanics of one’s spine can affect the nervous system if it feels “out of whack”. Spinal manipulation, also known as chiropractic adjustment, is the treatment for this type of mechanical issue, consisting of relatively strong arm thrusts applied to your abnormal vertebrae. It works to promote self-healing and de-stresses your body.
Mobilization: This type of treatment focuses on moving and stretching specific muscles and joints, using your own power as opposed to the chiropractor’s. The goal of the mobilization process is to increase the range of motion for the treated areas. (Click here to learn more about chiropractic mobilization.)
Exercise Can Help
Cardio and strength workouts are vital supplements to chiropractic treatment and maintaining a healthy back in general. Developing a strong core is one of the best ways to strengthen a weak back.
Exercise and any kind of physical activity promotes self-healing, and when paired with chiropractic work, can reduce back pain, prevent future injuries, and improve your quality of life. These workouts do not even have to include “hardcore” gym time. Something as simple as a brisk walk around the block every day can keep your blood pumping and your energy up! If you worry about injuring yourself further during exercise, look into a ActivAided shirt to help you maintain the proper posture while working out and make your daily routine that much more comfortable.