Back & Low Back Pain

Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems in the U.S.

There are dozens of different possible causes of low back pain including stress, injury, or other health problems. In this breakdown below we’ll discuss some of the most common conditions we see.

Regardless of why it hurts the research is clear: conservative care, including chiropractic therapy, will help you feel better faster, and with long-lasting results.

Common Causes Of Low Back Pain

A woman sitting on a chiropractic table pointing to her back pain while a chiropractor assesses and treats the region

Lumbar Disc Issues

When the jelly of the lumbar disc pushes out it can cause irritation on the nerve roots and can lead to sciatic-like pain, numbness, odd sensations or weakness. Some common causes of lumbar disc issues include:

  • Repetitive loaded movements, specifically into flexion
  • Trauma
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Obesity
  • Postural issues

Lumbar Muscle Strain or Ligamentous Sprain

When muscles or ligaments get overworked or overstretched it can lead to dysfunctional movements and cause instability in the spine. Most commonly these injuries, if not treated well, can lead to re-injury of the same or similar areas. Some common causes of strains and sprains include:

  • Falls
  • Poor movement mechanics
  • Poor posture
  • Heavy lifting
  • Overexertion

Lumbar Facet Syndrome

Our facet joints are responsible for much of the rotational movement in the lumbar spine and help prevent side-to-side movement of the spine. If you’re feeling the pain worst when you lean back or when you move from sitting to standing then your pain may be coming from the facet joints. Some common causes of lumbar facet syndrome include:

  • Being overweight
  • Whiplash or motor vehicle accidents
  • Lumbar joint dysfunction
  • Arthritis
  • Overuse

Lumbar Stenosis

Degeneration of the spine is normal with age and will not always lead to pressure on the spinal cord, however if you are experiencing pain, discomfort, numbness, or radiating symptoms it may be due to progressive lumbar stenosis. Some common causes of lumbar stenosis are:

  • Disc herniations
  • Osteoporosis
  • Degeneration of the lumbar spine
  • Osteoporosis
  • Arthritis

What does treatment for your low back pain look like??

Depending on how you present clinically, your age, your overall health, and how you tolerate therapies will guide and direct your treatment. In general, you can expect spinal manipulation, massage therapy, and lumbar stabilization exercises to your personal comfort and ability. We will also work with you to teach you how to protect your lower back while staying active because bed rest will generally not be recommended. If for some reason you fail to respond to our care or if you have severe neurological loss we will refer you to a trusted provider for a surgical consult.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge only and is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment.

Whether you are suffering serious or mild pain, schedule an appointment and stop living with back pain!