Chronic Back Pain Conditions
One of the largest structures in the human body, the spine is responsible for controlling movement, balance, reflexes, and more. However, despite its major role within the body, the structures of the spine are susceptible to chronic conditions, which can cause pain, inflammation, spasms, limited range of motion, and more.
The spine runs from the base of the skull down into the hips. Composed of 31 vertebrae stacked on top of each other, these bones are each separated by jelly-like shock-absorbing discs. Within the spine runs the spinal cord, which is responsible for half of the central nervous system. Furthermore, a wide network of connective tissue, muscles, and tendons attach to the spine at various points.
A wide variety of chronic conditions can plague the spine, causing us to miss out on work, play, and rest. These conditions can be the result of genetics, age, sex, and lifestyle, including weight and occupation. Common back pain conditions include:
- Sciatica
- Osteoporosis
- Osteoarthritis
- Spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Facet joint syndrome
- Kyphosis (rounded back)
- Spinal tumors (chordoma)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Scoliosis (curvature of the spine)
Common Back Injuries after an Accident
While back pain is frequently the result of an underlying condition, accident trauma plays a large role in the shocking statistic of just how many people will suffer back pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, auto and motorcycle accidents account for about 35 percent of all new spinal cord injuries. Others might suffer from sprains, strains and injuries that may not be noticeable until you complete an MRI or CT scan. These injuries, the ones that cannot be seen with the naked eye, are those that can lead to the most discomfort.
The spinal column, which includes vertebrae, discs, soft tissue, and the spinal cord, can all be damaged in an accident. The force and type of impact can influence the injuries a person might suffer. However, no matter how minor an accident might seem, victims can experience a range of injuries that can cause pain and suffering.
Some of the most common back injuries include:
- Fractures
- Bulging discs
- Herniated discs
- Sprains and strains
- Soft tissue bruising
- Spinal compression
Symptoms of a Back Injury
If you’ve been involved in a traumatic accident such as an auto accident, slip and fall, or contact sports incident, it’s important to recognize any symptoms of a back injury, including:
- Pain
- Muscle spasms
- Muscle weakness
- Aching or stiffness along the spine
- Numbness in the lower extremities
- Difficulty standing for long periods of time
A comprehensive medical examination and x-rays, CT scan or an MRI can help a back doctor determine what injuries you have suffered. At ChiroCare of Florida, our treatment plans always begin with a thorough examination and diagnosis of injuries, so that we can most effectively treat the issue at hand.
Back Pain Treatment
Back pain can interfere with all your day-to-day activities, including working, exercising, and even playing with your children. Though you might find back pain relief through the use of over-the-counter pain relievers and products, if you do not get the right treatment, pain will persist.
Furthermore, failing to get treatment can lead to further complications years after the accident, including financial and emotional stressors. Some back pain treatment plans can include:
- Physical therapy
- Hot/cold therapy
- Massage therapy
- Ultrasound therapy
- Electrical stimulation
- Exercises to improve back strength
A back doctor can create a back pain treatment plan that is specific to your injuries and lifestyle. If you were previously active, your chiropractor may recommend certain exercises that will help strengthen your back. Those who were not active before may benefit more from physical therapy.
ChiroCare of Florida’s physicians are dedicated to helping you return to your everyday life without back pain. Even if you require prolonged chiropractic care, the experienced and knowledgeable chiropractors at ChiroCare of Florida are there to help you every step of the way.
Don’t wait to find back pain relief, contact ChiroCare of Florida to schedule a consultation today and start treatment as soon as possible.