Common Treatments Used by Chiropractors

Back pain can interfere with every aspect of your life--from your ability to work, to your ability to sit up straight. But sometimes excruciating pain is not enough to convince people that pill-popping is the way to go. For this reason, some back pain sufferers appreciate the drug-free treatments a licensed chiropractor can offer.

A chiropractor is trained to understand exactly how the nervous system and spine work. So this type of healthcare professional is not only able to address the pain associated with a messed up back, but the underlying issue as well.

Some of the most common reasons for back pain include:

muscle strains and sprains
herniated discs
muscle spasms
poor posture
weak muscles in the midsection
injuries
osteoarthritis
fibromyalgia

A chiropractor can identify the cause of back pain by assessing your medical history and evaluating the type of pain involved. If deemed necessary, a chiropractor can also do x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs.  

Here are some common methods chiropractors use to treat back pain in patients.

Spine Manipulation
Spine manipulation is a common practice among chiropractors. This procedure requires the use of gentle pressure to realign the spine to reduce nerve irritation, improve mobility, and improve the range of motion in the back.

Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is commonly practiced by chiropractors to ease back pain. This treatment relieves tightness in the muscles, increases blood flow to speed up tissue repair, improves circulation to flush out waste, and improves flexibility in the back.

Tell your chiropractor if you are pregnant or have serious health conditions such as cancer or blood clots; he may recommend you consult with a medical doctor before getting a massage to relieve your back pain.

Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy uses water to treat pain and relax muscles. Soaking in a warm bathtub for 20 minutes relieves stiffness, increases blood flow, loosens the muscles, improves pliability, and relaxes spasms in the back.

Soaking in a cool bath for 20 minutes can help reduce inflammation to soothe back pain. Hydrotherapy can also include the application of ice packs or hot and cold compresses.

Ultrasound
A chiropractor can use ultrasound waves to penetrate the tissues to provide warmth, and reduce swelling and stiffness in the back.

Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal decompression is used by chiropractors to treat chronic low back pain caused by herniated discs, and degenerative disc disease. Spinal decompression uses a split table that's programmed with a computer to create vacuum pressure in the spinal discs. This technique is believed to promote healing by allowing fluids and vital nutrients to enter the disc.

In addition to spinal manipulation, hydrotherapy, massage, ultrasound, and spinal decompression, a chiropractor will offer patients the educational guidance they need to maintain the health of the spine and back. Some of this information may include dietary changes, exercise, and tips to improve posture.

A chiropractor cannot prescribe medications nor can he perform surgery. So if your chiropractor feels you need more extensive treatments, he can point you in the direction of a doctor who can help.