I have back pain. When should I see a doctor about it?
Most cases of back pain improve in a few days with at-home treatments, like rest, ice, and taking over-the-counter medication. Contact the Woudsma Chiropractic Associates team if your back pain:
- Happens alongside unexplained weight loss
- Spreads into one or both legs
- Is severe and doesn’t improve
- Lasts more than a few weeks, even with activity modification
It’s important to get checked out, even if your symptoms seem mild. Treatment can prevent issues, like herniated discs or sciatica, from worsening.
Is back pain always a result of poor posture?
No. Although poor posture can contribute to back pain, it’s rarely the underlying cause. Injuries and disorders commonly linked to back pain include:
- Osteoporosis
- Arthritis
- Muscle and ligament strains
- Bulging or ruptured intervertebral discs
Sometimes, back pain occurs because of trauma, like a car accident or a sports-related injury.
Do only older people experience back pain?
People of all ages can experience back pain, but several factors might increase your risk, including:
- Smoking
- Improper lifting
- Lack of exercise
- Excess weight
- Lifestyle (e.g., working a demanding job)
Psychological factors can contribute to back pain. For example, people with anxiety and depression are more likely to report musculoskeletal discomfort.
How does a chiropractor diagnose back pain?
Your Woudsma Chiropractic Associates provider reviews your medical records and assesses your ability to sit, stand, walk, and lift your legs. They ask you to rate your pain on a scale from 1-10 and examine your spine, looking for redness, bruising, or swelling.
Then, your chiropractor gently presses on your back to identify sensitive areas and may order X-rays to closely examine your vertebrae and intervertebral discs. After making a diagnosis, they make personalized treatment recommendations.
How do chiropractors treat back pain?
The Woudsma Chiropractic Associates team treats back pain using a conservative and holistic approach. They might recommend:
- Chiropractic care
- Massage therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Nutritional counseling
- Stretch-exercise therapy
- Medical weight loss
Depending on the cause of your back pain, you may benefit from one or multiple treatments. Your provider monitors your progress and can adjust the care plan as necessary.
Call Woudsma Chiropractic Associates to receive treatment for back pain, or book your appointment online today.
