Back Pain

What is back pain?

Back pain refers to any aching, stiffness, or general discomfort that affects your spine. It’s a common complaint and the number one cause of disability worldwide.

Back pain affects everyone differently. In some cases, it’s dull and achy, radiating into your buttocks, legs, and feet. Other times, it triggers sharp, electric sensations, making it difficult to stand up, walk, or lift objects.

Regardless of your symptoms or the underlying cause, it’s important to seek professional medical help. When left untreated, back pain can result in more serious health problems, including disability.

What are some common causes of back pain?

At Lynnwood Chiropractic & Injury Center, the team treats back pain caused by various ailments, including:

• Osteoporosis
• Arthritis
• Bulging or ruptured discs
• Muscle and ligament strains
• Sports injuries
• Auto injuries
• Sciatica

In addition, the team provides treatment for other types of musculoskeletal pain, including:

Shoulder pain

Shoulder pain refers to any physical discomfort that affects your shoulder joints. Some common causes of shoulder pain include rotator cuff tendonitis, bursitis, and arthritis. Overuse, general wear-and-tear, and sleeping on your side can also play a role.

Neck pain

Neck pain refers to any discomfort that affects your cervical spine. Common triggers include poor posture, auto injuries, and chronic illnesses like osteoarthritis.

Back pain is often associated with neck and shoulder pain as well. If you are experiencing pain in any of these areas, schedule an appointment at Lynnwood Chiropractic & Injury Center.

Who is at risk of experiencing back pain?

Back pain affects all types of people, regardless of age or sex. Certain factors may increase your risk, including being overweight, living a primarily sedentary lifestyle, and being middle-aged or older.

Other factors that can trigger back pain include medical conditions like osteoarthritis, smoking, and practicing improper lifting techniques. When picking up objects, lift with your legs, not your back.

How is back pain diagnosed?

The team at Lynnwood Chiropractic & Injury Center diagnoses back pain by reviewing your medical history, asking about your lifestyle and symptoms, and conducting a thorough physical exam. 

During the exam, your provider assesses your ability to walk, stand, and lift your legs. They have you rate your pain on a scale and perform a series of easy exercises to pinpoint the source of your discomfort.

If a visual observation isn’t enough to make a diagnosis, the team takes a series of X-rays using the in-house X-ray machine. X-rays use small amounts of radiation to provide detailed pictures of your bones and joints.

How is back pain treated?

At Lynnwood Chiropractic & Injury Center, the team treats back pain using conservative, integrative treatments. Depending on the intensity of your symptoms and their effect on your quality of life, your provider might recommend chiropractic manipulation, massage therapy, or therapeutic exercises.  

Ultimately, the goal of treatment is to ease pain, encourage mobility, and restore function.  

To receive all-inclusive care for back pain, schedule an appointment at Lynnwood Chiropractic & Injury Center. Book a consultation online or call the office to speak with a caring administrative staff member today.