Experiencing lower back pain is very common. In fact, approximately 31 million Americans suffer from discomfort in this lumbar region of the spine. From young athletes to active seniors, the impact of back pain can be far-reaching, affecting every aspect of daily life. If you’re considering chiropractic care to address this issue, here is what to expect during your first visit to your spine health specialist.
Why People Suffer with Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain doesn’t discriminate. It affects people across different walks of life, ages and activity levels.
Often, lower back pain begins following a specific incident. Examples are a car accident, a fall or an injury during sports or work activities.
Improper techniques during heavy lifting—especially when twisting is involved—can overload the spinal vertebrae. This results in muscle strain and undue pressure on spinal nerves.
Chronic health conditions also contribute to lower back pain. Issues such as poor posture, degenerative disc disease, osteoporosis, and arthritis are particularly prevalent among seniors.
Congenital and acquired deformities such as scoliosis, ruptured discs and fractures lead to significant lower back pain. Understanding these causes is essential in developing an effective lower back pain treatment plan.
What Chiropractic Care Aims to Achieve
Doctors of chiropractic assert that proper alignment of the musculoskeletal system–particularly the spine–enables the body to heal itself naturally. This means no surgery or heavy pain medications.
For individuals with lower back pain, chiropractic care can improve posture, restore mobility and alleviate pain. Because of its holistic, or whole person, approach to care, chiropractic enhances overall quality of life. By addressing the root causes of discomfort, chiropractors help patients achieve lasting relief from pain and dysfunction and prevent future back issues as well.
What to Expect During Your First Chiropractic Visit
Your initial chiropractic appointment is the first step in regaining your mobility and comfort. Here’s a breakdown of what you can anticipate as you visit our chiropractic clinic in Dallas.
Consultation and Assessment with Your Chiropractor
During your first to Reagan Integrated Sports Medicine, you will discuss your back pain symptoms, medical history, and circumstances surrounding the onset of your pain. This comprehensive discussion helps your chiropractor understand your unique situation and health needs.
Also, your chiropractor will examine your back and watch how you walk. He or she will assess your muscular strength, balance, coordination and reflexes.
Imaging Studies
If necessary, your chiropractor will do X-rays or MRI scans to get a detailed view of your spinal structure. These images provide invaluable insights into the condition of your spine, helping to develop your back pain care plan correctly.
Customized Back Pain Treatment Plan
Based on your assessment results, your doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan. This often includes hands-on adjustments to correct spinal alignment (subluxations). These manipulations can improve movement and mobility, as well as manage or even eliminate lower back pain.
Additional Lower Back Pain Therapies
Your chiropractor may recommend supplemental treatments, such as active release techniques or spinal decompression. These therapies further alleviate pressure on discs, blood vessels, nerves, and muscles. They promote the body’s ability to heal and increase comfort in the lower back.
Your provider also may say you need physical therapy and assistive devices, such as a cane or a back brace. Again, the focus is on supporting your weaker areas and increasing overall strength and function.
Additionally, your daily habits and how you move impact lower back pain. For instance, your chiropractor may ask you to:
- Work on better posture
- Avoid strenuous activities, such as heavy lifting
- Get regular aerobic exercise, such as swimming, walking, or running
- Lose excess body weight
- Stop smoking
- Get regular spinal adjustments at your chiropractic clinic in Dallas
Remember, even pro and amateur athletes get lower back pain. So, your chiropractor can advise you on the safest, most efficient ways to train and stay in shape.
Lower Back Pain Treatment in Dallas, TX
If you’re ready to take control of your lower back pain, Reagan Integrated Sports Medicine in Dallas is here to support you. Led by Dr. Camille Reagan, our experienced team is dedicated to helping patients of all ages find relief from back pain and related movement problems.
We have a team of highly trained sports medicine professionals, including chiropractic sports practitioners, who can help you find relief from back pain. We have helped many athletes, amateurs, and professionals get back into the games revitalized and performing better than ever.
We understand how back pain can keep you on the sidelines, and we are committed to your recovery. You will find compassionate and expert care in our sports medicine facility. Don’t wait another day to start your recovery. Contact Reagan Integrated Sports Medicine at (972) 503-7272 to schedule your consultation or fill out our appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
