Is Back Pain Keeping Your From Enjoying Life?

La vita è bella! That’s Italiano for life is beautiful! But really in any language, life is meant to  be a pleasure, an adventure, a journey that you enjoy. But if you are one of the millions of Americans with back pain, then enjoying life may be easier said than done. Just getting through a day at work or running errands can be challenging and stressful. Fortunately, a chiropractor can help relieve the pain. Call today to schedule an appointment! 

Why Does Your Back Hurt?

Your back and spine are made up of a perfect balance of muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons and discs. These discs are cartilage-like pads positioned between your vertebrae. They are similar to shock absorbers, helping to prevent injury when you move. Each one of these components has an integral role to play in your mobility and posture. With so many moving parts—no pun intended—is it any wonder so many people have back pain?

Muscles and ligaments are susceptible to injury, whether because of an awkward movement or muscle spasm. Remember to always use your leg muscles instead of your back when you need to lift something heavy. 

Pain may also be the result of a structural problem of the spine. A ruptured or bulging disc puts pressure on the nearby nerve. This can lead to debilitating back pain.

Nerve pressure can also cause sciatica. The pain originates in your lower back and then tends to run down one or both legs along the sciatic nerve. Osteoporosis, arthritis and a curvature of the spine can also be a reason for back pain. 

And don’t forget how normal living can lead to back pain. Bending or twisting too far, sitting for too long, a forceful cough or sneeze and poor posture can all end up causing back pain. 

Treatment Options for Back Pain

A chiropractor can use one or a combination of modalities to treat back pain. There are chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, spinal decompression and strength training and exercise. A comprehensive treatment of your pain is the goal. 

If back pain is the result of a bulging or herniated disc, then your chiropractor may recommend spinal decompression therapy. This treatment relieves pressure on the nerve and encourages the gel-like substance inside the disc to reposition. 

In case of muscle or ligament injury, a specific plan for physical therapy will likely be devised. Exercises to promote muscle strength as well as flexibility will be incorporated. Chiropractic adjustmentsmay also be necessary to ensure proper alignment of your spine.

Don’t let back interfere with your life. Contact a chiropractor today and you’ll be enjoying life every day again soon!

Meet the Doctor

Dr. Wills is a chiropractor in Naples, FL. He helps patients suffering from back pain and offers strengthening and rehabilitation along with soft tissue laser therapy, chiropractic treatments, and therapeutic exercise. To contact Dr. Wills, click here.