Chiropractic Care for Spine Pain: A Holistic Approach

Spinal pain in the lower back and neck can occur for many reasons, such as bulging discs, sciatica, and arthritis. Chiropractic care offers an effective, holistic approach to addressing spine pain without medications or surgery.

The Anatomy of the Spine

The spine has many movable parts. Vertebrae are the bones of the spine. Each bone is shaped differently to allow for specific ranges of movement. Facet joints connect the vertebrae within the spine. Additionally, there are intervertebral discs that act as shock absorbers.

The spinal cord is housed and protected by the vertebrae. Spinal nerves extend from the spinal cord and transmit sensory information from the discs, facet joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These nerves send and receive messages from our brain and interpret information such as balance, touch, pressure, and temperature. When part of the spine is injured, it can limit movement and cause discomfort.

Causes of Spine Pain

Common causes of spine pain include:

• Bulging discs: When the spongy center of a disc in the spine pushes out through a tear in the outer portion of the disc.
• Facet joint syndrome: When facet joints become swollen due to injury or arthritis
• Sciatica: When the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated.
• Spondylosis: When degeneration occurs along the spinal column due to aging.
• Radiculitis: When inflammation or irritation occurs in the nerve roots where they connect to the spinal column.
• Radiculopathy: When spinal nerve roots are compressed in the neck or back.
• Osteoarthritis: When the protective cartilage at the ends of bones wears down over time, usually due to aging.

Chiropractic Approaches to Spine Pain

Chiropractors take a holistic approach to wellness by focusing on the relationship between the body's structure and its overall function, emphasizing natural healing and pain relief without the use of drugs or surgery. Chiropractic treatment options include:

• Adjustments: During an adjustment, the chiropractor uses their hands or special equipment to apply a controlled, sudden force to a joint, decreasing pain and improving range of motion.
• Soft-tissue therapy: This technique relaxes muscles, alleviates spasms, and releases tension in the connective tissues surrounding each muscle.
• Exercises and stretches: Chiropractors recommend exercises and stretches to help restore and maintain joint stability and mobility.
• Joint bracing and taping: Bracing and taping are used to support joints or muscles as they heal.

Start Chiropractic Treatment for Spine Pain Today

Spinal pain is common and treatable. If you’re experiencing back or neck pain, a chiropractor can help reduce pain and improve your range of motion without medication or surgery, while also promoting overall wellness. Contact The Spine & Sports Health Center today for more information or to make an appointment.