Acute and Persistent Back Pain in Lethbridge
Recent literature documents that low back pain is the leading cause of disability as people grow older. At Achieve Health and Wellness, we’re seeing a growing trend towards younger patients with a history of back pain having more frequent episodes that last longer.
Dr. Haitsma had two patients in their 30s come into the practice recently complaining of back pain. Both have experienced pain that comes and goes for years, but it has now become an issue, preventing them from doing the things they like to do.
How We Can Help You
Chiropractic assesses the body for the underlying structural misalignment and corrects it. Whether located in the low back, sacroiliac joint or lumbar spine, we help get those vertebrae in the proper alignment and motion patterns. Irritation of the nerve is reduced, releasing muscle tension, and improving mobility allowing things to work as they should.
Back pain may originate from an injury or accident, falls, improper work positions, and other trauma, even as far back as birth. Childhood injuries that never received chiropractic care often grow into adult-sized pain and dysfunction. And, of course, physical injuries as an adult may worsen the problem.
Patients report pain getting in and out of bed, bending over to tie their shoes or put on socks, getting in and out of a car, standing up from a chair, spasms, pain in the buttocks and down the leg, and more. Many experience a reduction in pain levels, and less stiffness and soreness once they start moving and loosening up.
Stress can come in several forms—physical, chemical, environmental, emotional; some people believe technology is one too! When it comes to pain, most people look for a physical stressor to blame, because they’re easy to see; sports injuries, auto accidents, falls, etc. Others, such as depression, are not so clear. Most would agree that depression is a very stressful condition, but few would connect it with back pain.
Dr. Haitsma also uses the example of having the grandchildren stay with you for a week. Enjoyable? Yes, but it’s also stressful with all that energy in your space. Most people are unaware of how these stressors may contribute to their pain. Studies are ongoing regarding the effects of stress on the human body.
Tips For Less Pain
Here are a few tips to help keep pain levels low,
- Don’t sit at your desk too long. Get up and walk around the area more frequently to keep your body moving and prevent stiffness.
- Do some simple stretching to increase suppleness in the muscles of your back and legs.
- Don’t stand with your feet evenly lined up or too long in one posture. One foot should be slightly in front of the other to keep from swaying your back. Using a small box, alternate placing one foot on it at a time, so you don’t overload your back.
- Visit our practice to learn targeted exercises.
- Be proactive; seek care before the pain starts.
Don’t Wait Any Longer
The earlier you seek chiropractic care, the sooner you can get pain relief, better movement, function, and flexibility. Get back to living the life you want and deserve. Contact us today and schedule an appointment to get started.
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