Chiropractic Treatments for Lower Back Pain

Western medicine is notoriously known for addressing the symptoms of low back pain, the pain itself, without actually dealing with the problem at its roots.  In the event of low back pain, painkillers, narcotics and muscle relaxants are typically prescribed, as well as anti-inflammatory drugs, but the result is often the same, chronic back problems that never go away.  If the actual reasons for low back pain are not addressed, expecting a real cure to the problem is a long shot.

But things are changing…

A groundbreaking article, “Noninvasive Treatments for Acute, Subacute, and Chronic Low Back Pain: A Clinical Practice Guideline From the American College of Physicians,” posted in the February 2017 edition of the Annals of Internal Medicine, is looking at the problem in an entirely new way.  Instead of just focusing on symptoms, the new guideline for all M.D.’s is to treat low back pain by focusing and addressing the problem itself.  Finally, mainstream medicine has determined that non-invasive treatment options are the OPTIMAL treatment options for low back pain, demonstrated through positive clinical outcomes.

The new treatment guidelines for low back pain now include as a first line therapy:

• Massage
• Acupuncture
• Spinal Manipulation
• Exercise and Physical Rehabilitation
• Moist Heat Therapy

By focusing on nonpharmacological treatments like exercise, rehabilitation, acupuncture, mindfulness-based stress reduction, electromyography biofeedback, and spinal manipulation, among other therapies, physicians are finally looking at treating lower back pain directly, rather than resorting to medication immediately.

This new Guideline from the American College of Physicians pretty much verifies what most chiropractors have known for some time, physical therapy, spinal manipulation, acupuncture, and medical massage are optimal treatment options for dealing with lower back pain directly.

Only after nonpharmacological, noninvasive treatment options should physicians consider using NSAIDS, other anti-inflammatory drugs, or dangerous and addictive opiates, as they all come with a host of side effects.

Prevention Is The Key – Avoid Low Back Pain

Obviously, prevention is the key to avoiding lower back pain.  First and foremost, avoid sitting for extended periods of time, as sitting extensively has been shown to be as unhealthy as smoking.  Also, perform exercises that increase the strength of the lower back and the in particular core muscles to maintain proper posture.  An exercise that should be in everyone’s arsenal in the fight against lower back pain is glute bridges, as it increases strength throughout the posterior chain and core while stretching the hip flexors.   To Learn More about preventing back pain, attend our presentation “Sitting is the New Smoking” – click to find dates.

Low Back Problems?  Visit A Chiropractor

People who are suffering from lower back pain should visit with a chiropractor that works alongside other specialties such as acupuncture, massage, and physical therapy as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.  Getting a professional diagnosis and treatment plan at onset may help avoid detrimental personal treatment options like applying heat, as this can increase inflammation and result in even worse pain if used at the wrong time during treatment.

How We Focus On Treating Lower Back Pain at Ravenswood Chiropractic in Chicago

Our treatment approach consists of three components that are carefully addressed at specific points during our patient’s recovery to gain the maximum benefit.

1) Tissue Extensibility, our team focuses on attaining optimal muscle length by targeting trigger points and muscle adhesions to lengthen tight muscles through medical massage and physical therapy modalities such as assistive stretches, ultrasound therapy, and electrical muscle stimulation.

2) Joint Mobility we aim for total restoration of joint mobility through specific spinal manipulation assisted stretches and myofascial release.

3) Motor Control.  By increasing strength and improving coordination through a carefully planned and executed exercise program, we can correct imbalances that were directly responsible for lower back pain, to begin with.

When treating low back pain, targeting the initial cause is the only way to avoid chronic debilitating pain.  This is why working with a Chiropractor who incorporates Massage and Acupuncture along with Chiropractic and Physical Therapy immediately after the initial onset of pain is an optimal course of action.   A Chiropractor is specially trained to pinpoint biomechanical problems, make the necessary adjustments, and provide an exercise routine that is specifically tailored for you, all without the unnecessary use of pharmaceutical drugs.

To learn more about our programs, or schedule an appointment call us at 773.878.7330.

Dr. C.J. DeFabio, D.C.

Dr. DeFabio D.C. is a highly regarded chiropractor in Chicago who focuses on helping his patients achieve optimal health and wellness. He takes a holistic approach to care, treating symptoms and addressing underlying issues to promote long-term healing. Dr. DeFabio D.C. is passionate about empowering his patients to take control of their health and live their best lives. You can find him surfing, skateboarding, and volunteering at the Lakeview Food Pantry when he’s not in the office.