Lower Back Pain
Anatomy of the lower back
The lower back extends from the bottom of the ribs to the hips and is made up of 5 freely moveable vertebrae with discs in between them. The 5 bones of the lower back are supported by strong muscles and ligaments with spinal nerves exiting between each pair of bones. Supporting the lower back is the pelvis. It consists of 2 main components the hips (or the ileum), and the sacrum directly below the last lumbar vertebra.
The pelvis provides balance and support for the lower back. Together the components of the lower back and pelvis form the foundation for the flexible column of the rest of the spine, a bony conduit housing and protecting the spinal cord and its contents.
What causes low back pain?
Typical causative factors are lifting and twisting strains leading to swelling of the disks and inflammation of the spinal nerves.Lower back pain generally starts as a dull ache and can worsen to a severe crippling pain. Most patients think “it is just a muscle strain, and maybe it will go away?” Please note, 5 of the most dangerous words heard in a Chiropractor’s office are “Maybe it will go away?” Any abnormal movement or disturbance with spinal function can contribute to back pain.
Other contributing factors could include poor posture, prolonged sitting, lack of exercise, obesity, strain / sprain injuries, and poor workplace and home ergonomics. We can help you in the diagnosis and treatment of lower back pain: In many studies Chiropractic with a rehabilitative exercise program and remedial massage therapy, has been recognised as being effective and safe in the treatment of lower back pain.
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