Displaying items by tag: back pain

How a Chiropractor can help with lower back pain caused by sciatica

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, including lower back pain caused by sciatica. Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs, is compressed or irritated.

Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to treat sciatica, including spinal adjustments, mobilization, stretching, and soft tissue therapies. These techniques are designed to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce inflammation in the affected area.

During a chiropractic session for lower back pain caused by sciatica, your chiropractor will first conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain. They will then develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs, which may include a combination of techniques such as:

1. Spinal adjustments: This involves the use of gentle, targeted force to realign the vertebrae in your spine, reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve.
2. Mobilization: This technique involves gentle, repetitive movements to help loosen tight muscles and joints, which can relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
3. Stretching: Your chiropractor may recommend specific stretches to help alleviate your symptoms and prevent further injury.
4. Soft tissue therapy: This involves the use of manual pressure to release tension in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the affected area.

In addition to these techniques, your chiropractor may also provide advice on lifestyle changes, such as exercise and nutrition, to help manage your lower back pain caused by sciatica.

It's important to note that chiropractic care is generally considered safe and effective for most people with lower back pain caused by sciatica. However, as with any medical treatment, there are some risks associated with chiropractic care, such as temporary soreness or discomfort. It's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment for your lower back pain.

‘Tis the season when the temperature starts to drop causing muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the spine to contract and become stiff. For those with bone and joint related issues, winter weather causes an increase in pain, stiffness, muscle fatigue and inflammation that are harder to control if not treated.

Most common causes of winter back pain?

Decreased activity. Cold weather often mean less exercise and movement that lead to tight muscles, muscle weakness and poor posture.

Winter-related injuries. Such as slip and falls and strenuous tasks as snow shoveling, holiday preparations and winter sports injuries.

Shivering- the body’s natural response to cold that cause muscles to tense up in the cold causing muscle tension in the back leading to pain.

Beat Winter Back Pain with these exercises:

Bird Dog

Click link for the Video Bird Dog Exercise

Side Plank Click

link for the Video Side Plank Exercise

McGill Curl up 

link for the Video McGill Curl Up Exercise

If you find that your winter back pain does not go away, various modalities such as hot and cold therapy, warm Epson salt baths, massage therapy and physiotherapy can help relieve your pain.

A physiotherapist plays a significant role in the management of lower back pain, designing a personalised exercise program to improve flexibility, strengthening, improve range of motion and strengthening the core: to maintain your body’s stability and prevent injuries.

If these tip do not help, contact us for a free consultation to determine what treatment would be best beneficial for you.