Low back pain impacts 619 million people across the globe. The unfortunate truth is that back pain is an incredibly common problem that affects people of all ages and walks of life. Whether you’re a busy professional, a stay-at-home parent, or a retiree, chances are you’ve experienced some form of back pain at one point or another.
While the severity and duration of back pain can vary greatly from person to person, one thing remains constant: the desire for relief and a return to normal, pain-free function. So, can your Lithia chiropractor help? And what is causing your back pain in the first place? In this article, we aim to answer these questions and more, guiding you toward effective and efficient relief.
Common Causes of Back Pain
Back pain is an all-too-common compliant. Determining what is causing your back pain can help empower you to avoid or fix them problem in the future. So, with that in mind, here are the top causes of back pain:
1. Poor Posture
In today’s world of desk jobs, smartphones, and prolonged sitting, poor posture has become a leading contributor to back pain. Slouching, hunching over, or maintaining any awkward position for extended periods can place undue stress on the muscles, ligaments, and joints of the spine, leading to pain and discomfort.
2. Muscle Strains or Sprains
Overexertion, sudden movements, or improper lifting techniques can strain or sprain back muscles. These injuries can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, making performing even simple daily tasks difficult.
3. Herniated or Bulging Discs
The spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, absorbing shock and allowing for smooth, flexible movement. When a disc becomes herniated or bulges out of place, it can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back and extremities.
4. Arthritis
Conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the joints of the spine. As the protective cartilage between the vertebrae breaks down, the resulting friction and irritation can lead to chronic back pain and reduced mobility.
5. Sciatica
When the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg, becomes compressed or irritated, it can cause radiating pain, numbness, or tingling in the affected leg. Sciatica is often the result of a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other underlying spinal issue.
How Your Lithia Chiropractor Can Help
Chiropractic care offers a natural, non-invasive approach to addressing back pain and promoting optimal spinal health. By focusing on the underlying causes of your pain and dysfunction, your Lithia chiropractor can help you find lasting relief.
Whether you’re dealing with acute pain from an injury or chronic discomfort from a long-standing condition, chiropractic care can be a valuable tool in your journey toward a pain-free, active lifestyle. The At Last Chiropractic team is always here to help; book your appointment today so we can help you get on the road toward recovery!