Back pain can dramatically affect every day life, restricting normal activities and movements. Without proper care and treatment back pain can turn from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. In the worse case scenarios, back pain can result in total immobilization. If you have problems with pain in your back then consulting a chiropractor can help the issue before it gets much worse. Even if your back pain is already chronic, a chiropractor can help. Chiropractors ease back pain by manipulating the musculoskeletal and nervous system, which offer a sufferer much relief. Read on for information on chiropractic treatments for back pain.
The Initial consultation
Your first appointment with a chiropractor will include an interview. This interview helps the chiropractor understand where exactly the pain is being experience, and will include questions such as whether or not the pain is the result of an injury. This will then help the chiropractor work out where the problem lies, and which area to concentrate on when performing a physical exam. In the physical exam your chiropractor will perform tests such as checking your pulse, blood pressure, reflexes and respiration. The doctor will then move onto more specific orthopedic and neurological tests, which include checking the range of motion in the affected area, checking muscle strength and muscle tone test, and will normally include a neurological integrity test. Following these tests the Chiropractor will be able work out the best treatment approach. If the back pain experience is chronic, the chiropractor may suggest further tests such as an X-ray examination, an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan, and other laboratory tests. These diagnostic results can help in identifying structural abnormalities and pathologies.
Diagnosis and treatment
Once the examination and any diagnostic studies have been performed, the Chiropractor will base the diagnosis on the results. From that the chiropractor can work out a treatment plan, which generally includes soft tissue manipulation, stretching and strengthening exercises, and adjustments to key joint dysfunctions. In more unusual cases, cold laser therapy, active release techniques, massage, heat or cold applications, may be introduced. At each session the chiropractor will gauge the results and tailor the treatment ongoing based on the progress and outcome. This may take some time, depending on the severity of the problem and on each individual.
Results
In all cases a chiropractor can only gauge and suggest what the results will be, and how long it will take to start feeling the benefits of the treatment. In general most patients experience reduction of pain in the short term and then, over the long term, begin to experience normal range of motion and tolerance. Progress and results depend not only on the technique the chiropractor uses and length of time of the treatment, but also how committed the patient is with regards to following the treatment guidelines given. This includes attending all appointments and following the Chiropractor’s instructions diligently. The downfall for most patients is trying to do too much too soon, or no longer attending appointments when the pain improves. However, for long term benefits it is important to continue attending all appointments and the chiropractor’s instructions. In this way, you will heal correctly, strengthen the problem area and help prevent the area from becoming a problem again.
To find qualified professional chiropractic services contact your doctor, or search online or via your local directory.