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Different Types of Low Back Pain, the Prevalence, and Chiropractic Treatment Approaches
Low back pain is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide regardless of age, gender, or occupation. 85% of the human population will suffer from Low back pain at some point in their life. It can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and daily activities. However, it’s important to understand that low back pain is not a singular condition but rather an umbrella term that encompasses various types, each with distinct causes and characteristics. Below we will explore different types of low back pain, discuss their prevalence, and delve into how chiropractors approach the treatment of this common ailment.
Types of low back pain
Mechanical Low Back Pain:
Mechanical low back pain is the most common type, accounting for the majority of cases. It usually occurs due to excessive stress on the spinal structures, such as muscles, ligaments, discs, and joints. Activities like heavy lifting, poor posture, sudden twisting, or repetitive movements can contribute to this type of low back pain. The pain is often described as a dull ache or sharp and stabbing, localized to the lower back. It tends to worsen with certain movements or prolonged periods of sitting or standing. This affects a lot of manual labour workers and can affect them daily potentially meaning time off from work which can also mean not being paid.
Radicular Low Back Pain:
Radicular low back pain is caused by irritation or compression of a spinal nerve root emerging from the lumbar spine. It often originates from a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis and can result in radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that extends into the buttocks, legs, or feet. This type of pain commonly follows a specific nerve pathway and is commonly referred to as sciatica when it affects the sciatic nerve.
Degenerative Disc Disease:
Over time, the discs between the vertebrae, which provide cushioning and flexibility, can degenerate or wear down, leading to low back pain. Degenerative disc disease usually occurs with age but can also be accelerated by factors like obesity, smoking, or repeated trauma. The pain is often characterized by a dull ache or intermittent episodes of severe pain and stiffness, with symptoms worsening during certain movements or prolonged periods of sitting.
Lumbar Facet Strain or Sprain:
Strains or sprains in the lower back typically occur due to sudden movements, overstretching, or trauma to the ligaments, tendons, or muscles supporting the lumbar spine. Strains and sprains can cause localized tenderness, swelling, muscle spasms, and limited range of motion. The pain is usually acute and can be provoked by activities that involve bending, twisting, or lifting heavy objects such as picking up an object whilst on a ladder.
Get help with your low back pain
How common is lower back pain?
The prevalence of low back pain is staggering, making it a major health concern globally. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study, low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. It is estimated that approximately 85% of adults experience low back pain at some point in their lives. Furthermore, studies suggest that low back pain is the second most common reason for visits to healthcare professionals, just behind the common cold.
Chiropractic Treatment Approaches to Low Back Pain
Example of low back pain when a patient comes into the clinic:
Practitioner “Good morning, I see on your intake form that you are suffering from low back pain, how long has this been bothering you and can you show me where you are experiencing pain and/or discomfort?”
Patient A “I have low back pain across both sides of my back since yesterday”.
Practitioner “How did this happen?”
Patient A “I don’t remember, I woke up like this”
Practitioner “What makes it worse?”
Patient A “Bending forward”
Practitioner “What relieves it?”
Patient A “I have taken some Ibuprofen but not made it any better”
Practitioner “Have you had this pain before?”
Patient A “A few years ago”
Practitioner “Did you see anything for that episode and have you seen anyone else for this?”
Patient A “No it got better on its own and I haven’t seen anyone else but I have booked in with the GP in a few days time”
Practitioner “Do you smoke, drink or exercise at all?
Patient A “No to all of those”
Next Steps for low back pain
As a chiropractor, a range of non-invasive, hands-on techniques would be used to alleviate low back pain and promote overall spinal health. The following are some common chiropractic treatment approaches for low back pain:
Spinal Manipulation:
Spinal manipulation, also known as chiropractic adjustment, is a core treatment technique employed by chiropractors. It involves applying controlled, sudden force to specific spinal joints, aiming to restore proper alignment and mobility. This technique can alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall function.
Mobilisation:
Mobilisation techniques are gentler than spinal manipulation and involve slow, repetitive movements to stretch and loosen the affected areas. This hands-on approach helps to increase joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing.
Soft Tissue Therapy:
Soft tissue therapies, such as massage are great to address muscular tension, knots, and trigger points in the soft tissues of the lower back. These techniques can help relax tight muscles, improve blood circulation, and enhance overall flexibility especially within an acute episode of pain.Exercise and Rehabilitation:
You might be prescribed specific exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance overall stability of the lower back. These exercises are typically tailored to the individual’s condition and aim to prevent future episodes of low back pain.
Posture and Lifestyle Advice:
Chiropractors provide valuable advice on maintaining proper posture, body mechanics, and ergonomics to minimize stress on the lower back. I may recommend modifications to workstations, sleeping positions, and daily activities to prevent exacerbation of low back pain.
Low back pain is a widespread condition with various types, each requiring a specific approach to treatment. With chiropractic care, individuals suffering from low back pain can often find relief and improved function through a combination of spinal manipulation, mobilisation, soft tissue therapies and other treatment modalities specific to the individual.
