Back pain is a common occurrence that affects almost everyone at one point in their lives. While some people experience temporary back pain that subsides after a few days of rest, others experience pain that can persist for weeks, months, and even years.
Back pain is typically characterized by a feeling of tension, stiffness, and aches in the back. There are many factors that can contribute to back pain, including lifting something heavy, bending in the wrong direction, or being involved in an accident or sporting injury. You would think that back pain is common amongst older people, but in reality, it affects young and middle-aged adults the most.
If your back pain is getting unbearable or is interfering with your daily routine, perhaps it’s time to visit a chiropractor.
When to See Chiropractor
While sometimes you learn how to live with your back pain, other times, you struggle to manage the pain. If your back pain has suddenly started getting out of control, or has persisted over the past few weeks, you should consider seeking the advice of a medical practitioner.
When it comes to muscle and joint pains, there’s no better person than a chiropractor to seek help. A chiropractor is a highly skilled type of health provider that helps treat back pain through spinal manipulation and the mobilization of the surrounding joints and muscles.
You should visit a chiropractor for back pain if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms for over a week:
- Constant pain
- Intense pain when you lie down
- Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your back or your legs
- Pain extending down one or both of your legs
- Swelling or redness on your back
If you’re involved in a fall, car collision, or sports injury, you should visit a chiropractor after seeking emergency treatment.
What to Expect at Your First Chiropractic Appointment for Back Pain
It’s good to know what’s going to happen at your first chiropractic appointment if you’ve never been to a chiropractor before. During your first visit, your chiropractor will ask for detailed history of your back pain and general medical history. He/she will ask you about the location of the pain, the type of pain you’re feeling, and the first time you experienced the pain. They will also inquire about the medications and treatments you’ve tried in the past.
Once this phase is over, the chiropractor will conduct a physical exam, including tests such as respiration, pulse, and blood pressure. They may also ask you to get an x-ray or MRI to accurately diagnose your condition.
Once the chiropractor has thoroughly assessed your condition, they will provide you with a proper treatment plan to improve your back pain, which may include soft tissue healings, joint adjustments, massages, and strengthening exercises.
Book your appointment with one of our chiropractors at Advanced Physical Medicine and get an effective customized treatment plan to say goodbye to your back pain!