Back pain is one of the most common reasons that patients visit chiropractors. About 31 million Americans suffer from back pain at a given time. It's estimated that up to 80% of the population will experience back pain at some time in their lives and it can affect people of all ages from adolescents to the elderly.
Some Common Causes
The back is composed of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles. The bones of the back can misalign which chiropractors call subluxation. You can also sprain ligaments, strain muscles, rupture disks, and irritate joints.
Some common causes include:
Tips to Prevent Back Pain
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Remain active—under the supervision of your chiropractor.
- Avoid prolonged inactivity or bed rest.
- Maintain proper posture.
- Wear comfortable and supportive low-heeled shoes.
- Sleep on a firm mattress.
- Avoid bending and twisting of the back at the same time.
- Make sure that your workstation is ergonomically correct. We can help if you need advice.
You may feel that you can just live with the pain. Most times the pain comes and goes or is mild in nature and you may think "it's not that bad." This "living with the pain" may be the biggest mistake you make. The pain may not be that bad, but the long term health concerns are. This mild chronic pain may actually lead to neurological problems later in your life.