See an end to low back pain

Do you suffer from tension, soreness or stiffness in your lower back? Low back pain is very common and can come on suddenly or gradually, and is sometimes the result of a fall or injury. The complex structure of your lower back means that even a small amount of damage to any part of the lumbar region can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.

There are things you can do to help yourself - staying active, taking painkillers such as paracetamol and changing lifestyle factors such as stress, posture whilst working or driving or long periods of sitting.

Fortunately, most people find that their back pain will subside after a few days or weeks, but if you are still suffering after 6 weeks your GP may discuss possible treatments with you.

NICE (The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) is the independent body that advises NHS doctors on best clinical practice has recently officially endorsed complimentary therapies for the first time by recommending acupuncture and manual therapy (such as chiropractic) as the first line treatments for those with persistent non-specific low back pain.

Your GP can now recommend a course of up to 10 sessions of acupuncture over a period of up to 12 weeks.

So just how does acupuncture help? Acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of hair-fine needles in appropriate acupoints which will move the Qi (energy) and blood to expel pathogenic factors where necessary and strengthen Qi. Pain is dispersed by removing obstructions in the channels and activating Qi, as well as stimulating the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers.  For more information on acupuncture and low back pain click here.

Your GP can now recommend a course of chiropractic treatment to help relieve your low back pain. 

So how will a chiropractor help with low back pain?  Chiropractic treatment is based on the concept that restricted movement in the spine may lead to pain and reduced function.  Spinal adjustment (manipulation) is one form of therapy chiropractors use to treat restricted spinal mobility.  The goal is to restore spinal movement and, as a result, improve function and decrease back pain.  During an adjustment, chiropractors use their hands to apply a controlled, sudden force to a joint - pushing it beyond its normal range of motion.  The joint's movement may be accompanied by a popping or cracking sounds, this is just a release of gas bubbles in the joint, and is much like opening a can of fizzy drink!

Chiropractors may also use massage and stretching to relax muscles that are shortened or in spasm.  Many use additional treatments as well, such as ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation and exercises.  It is recommended that chiropractic care is continued after the pain has subsided to ensure optimum functioning of the spine and to prevent future recurrence of the problem.

TIPS FOR AVOIDING LOW BACK PAIN

A little care and attention can help you keep back pain at bay. Maintain a healthy weight.  Exercise regularly. Sit up straight.  When you lift something heavy let your legs do the work.  Avoid activities that involve repetitive bending or twisting.  If you sit or stand for long periods of time, take frequent breaks to walk around.

Pain is a warning signal indicating underlying damage.  Don't let pain become part of your everyday life, call the clinic today on 01202 725090 to discuss how Lilliput Health's acupuncturist and chiropractors can help you.