Millions of people in the United States suffer from back and neck pain. Although this problem is common, traditional medicine offers very few safe and effective treatments. However, chiropractic pain is a source of relief and hope for many people living with chronic pain. Neck and back pain can be not just painful, but debilitating. Many people are unable to work at their jobs, care for their families, and participate in their favorite activities because of the constant pain. This can lead to less mobility, which in turn contributes to additional pain. The causes of back and neck pain are diverse. These can include:
- Injuries and traumas, such as from motor vehicle accidents or sports
- Muscle strain and spasms
- Repetitive motion
- Arthritis
- Spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spaces between vertebrae
- Bone spurs and other bony abnormalities
- Pinched or strained nerves
- Age-related wear and tear on joints
- Poor posture or sleeping habits
- Systemic diseases such as diabetes
Chronic neck and back pain is often caused by a combination of these injuries, making it difficult to pinpoint an exact cause. Chiropractors are experts at evaluating and treating complex issues of the musculoskeletal system. Until recently, many doctors used popular pain medications such as opiates to relieve chronic neck and spine pain. However, we now know that these medications are not a good long-term solution. They only relieve pain effectively for a short period of time, have serious side effects, and can be addictive even when used in the amounts typically prescribed. As a result, many doctors are avoiding prescribing pain medication. However, they often do not have other answers for chronic pain.
Addressing the core imbalances in the musculoskeletal system offers a long term solution to pain issues. Regardless of the source of your chronic neck and back issues, gently aligning the spine and the tissues that attach to it can help to relieve the root cause of pain. Chiropractic care has been proven in several studies to reduce neck and spinal pain while improving mobility. A growing number of people are turning to chiropractic care as a way of dealing with and healing chronic pain. In addition, medical doctors are beginning to recognize the important role of spinal manipulation in relieving pain and promoting whole-body health. Chiropractic care offers solutions to a common and painful problem.
Chiropractic Solutions to Musculoskeletal Pain
Your neck and spine are made up of a column of connected vertebrae and discs. Your spinal cord runs in this column, with nerves exiting from the sides. Muscles and fascia help to support the spine while connecting it to the rest of the body. When any one of these parts is awry, either because of chronic strain or because of an acute injury, the entire system is thrown off-balance. Chiropractors specialize in realigning this complex system so it can function without discomfort or pain. Your chiropractor first will thoroughly evaluate the health of your neck and spine. This includes a thorough physical exam but also can require imaging. This will give your chiropractor the information that they need to develop a personalized treatment plan. Chiropractors are specialists in spinal manipulation.
This means that they use their hands to manipulate your neck and spine as well as the muscles and fascia that attach to them. They gentle bring bones into a healthy positive, relax your muscles, and reduce the pressure on your spinal column and nerves. Having a well-aligned spine also can contribute to your whole-body wellbeing by allowing your musculoskeletal system to function as it was intended. Chiropractic alignment can not just relieve pain, but improve your mobility and balance, allowing you to live a healthier life. In addition to offering spinal manipulation, chiropractors can help advise you on lifestyle changes that will help you to heal completely from your pain. They may advise home exercises, stretching, massage, and other adjuncts to chiropractic treatment. If you live in the Birmingham, AL area are suffering from neck or back pain, contact Huntsville chiropractor Dr. Ryan Russell today. Chiropractic care may be the first step to a healthier and pain-free life. Call us today at 205-637-1363.
