Does My Back Need Chiropractic Care?

Back pain plagues virtually everyone if they live long enough and most people seek pain relief using various methods. If you live in Denver, finding a Denver chiropractic care  facility might be your best chance of pain relief. 

Among the people suffering from back pain, about 22 million Americans visit chiropractors annually. 7.7 million, or 35% are seeking back pain from various causes such as accidents, sports injuries, and muscle strains. Other complaints include neck, arm, and leg pain combined with headaches. 

If you suffer from back pain, you’ve likely asked what can be done to help you alleviate the pain. In this article, we’re looking at how chiropractic care can help you eliminate some of the problems with back pain that you deal with on a daily basis. We answer what chiropractic care is and how you can use it to your advantage. We also dispel some of the myths about chiropractic therapy and tell you 

What Is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care describes a therapy technique in which chiropractors use hands-on spinal manipulation and other manipulative treatments to properly align the body’s musculoskeletal system, in particular, the spine. In theory, this could help the body heal itself without surgery or medication. Manipulation is used to restore mobility to the joints restricted by tissue injury and trauma. Falling, repeated stress, or getting into an accident can result in the misalignment of the spine and chiropractic therapy can potentially help these ailments. 

Chiropractic treatment is a common pain relief alternative to drugs and it can relieve pain in muscles, joints, bones, and connective tissue, such as cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. Sometimes chiropractic therapy is used in conjunction with conventional medical treatments, such as surgery or medication. 

Licensed chiropractors typically have an undergraduate degree plus four years of chiropractic college. 

What Does Chiropractic Treatment for Back Pain Involve?

A chiropractor first takes a medical history exam then the physical exam. He may also use lab tests or diagnostic imaging to determine if the treatment is appropriate for your back pain. Depending on the diagnosis, the treatment plan will involve one or more manual adjustments where the doctor can manipulate the joint using controlled force. Chiropractors can also incorporate nutritional counseling and exercise into your rehabilitation to restore function and prevent injuries. 

What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Chiropractic Care?

Spinal manipulation and chiropractic care are generally safe treatments for acute and chronic back pain. It can also be helpful in treating neck pain and headaches. Additionally, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia can respond to chiropractic therapy. Both chiropractors and deep tissue massage therapists can help their patients experience pain relief by using these techniques. 

Studies have not definitively confirmed the efficacy of prolotherapy or sclerotherapy for pain relief. The type of therapy this holistic style of therapy treats can come on suddenly and last longer than three months. The therapy involves injections of sugar water or other anesthetics to try and strengthen the ligaments.  

Those suffering from osteoporosis, spinal cord compression, or inflammatory arthritis should not undergo spinal manipulation. Additionally, patients with a cancer history should obtain clearance from their doctor before undergoing spinal manipulation. 

All chiropractic treatments are based on an accurate diagnosis of your back pain. You should make sure the chiropractor is well informed regarding your medical history, including ongoing medical conditions, current medications, traumatic surgery history, and lifestyle factors. In rare cases, treatment has worsened back pain and even herniated a disc. That is why it’s imperative for you to check with your doctor before undergoing surgery. They will be able to determine whether you are a safe candidate for chiropractic treatment.  

What Types of Chiropractic Care Are There?

Chiropractors primarily work with patients by using spinal manipulation therapy. This means they can use their hands to try and improve movement within the spine. Doing so can reduce muscle tightness and relieve the irritation of nerves that travel down the arm or leg. These nerves can cause changes in strength, tingling, and pain.

However, most of the time, there are other forms of therapy included in chiropractic care. These therapies include physical therapy and nutritional consulting. 

Is Chiropractic Care Just Spinal Manipulation?

Some of the other factors that go into chiropractic care include consultations with patients about flexibility, strength-building, and balance. The goal is to focus on returning patients to the activities that are important in their everyday lives. Whether those are job-related, family or socially-related, chiropractic therapy can make people feel happier and healthier.

What Should You Expect At Your First Chiropractic Visit?

Your first chiropractic visit won’t be very different from what you’re used to with other medical providers. The doctor will gather relevant information by asking probing questions about your medical history and symptoms. They will ask how your pain began, what type of effects it has on your body, and the pain level you have. Then they will perform an exam assessing the mechanics of your back pain. They will look at alignment, muscle tone, nerve function, and how your body moves. 

After the exam, the doctor should sit down with you and discuss the next steps for your treatment. They will let you know they found certain problem areas with your alignment and what they recommend based on their findings. You will also be able to ask them any questions you have during this time. 

Conclusion- Does My Back Need Chiropractic Care?

Because so many people suffer from back pain, chiropractic care can be a useful therapy that brings relief. However, whether a chiropractor helps your situation must be assessed on an individual basis. We need more research to determine its precise effectiveness on the spine. 

Despite there not being substantial evidence to make definitive claims about chiropractic therapy, the evidence that does exist is promising. If you have back pain, seeking treatment from a chiropractic care facility might be your best bet.