The topic of spinal health

The topic of spinal health is one that is deeply personal to me after a serious fall in my early twenties left me with chronic back pain and a deeper understanding of the benefits associated with chiropractic care. One thing that I was initially surprised to learn, is how common back pain is, affecting approximately 80 percent of individuals at some point in their lifetime. Back pain may be called either ‘acute’ or ‘chronic’ depending on how long your symptoms last. Acute back pain is most common, starts quickly, and lasts less than six weeks. This type of pain could be caused by a tackle during a football game, or lifting something heavy. Chronic back pain on the other hand, is less common. Chronic back pain usually lasts for a period longer than three months, and could be caused by bad posture, or poor physical fitness. It is often quite difficult to know what exactly causes back pain, and for most, there is not any specific underlying issue that can be identified as the primary cause of back pain. There are however, a number of factors that can increase the risk of developing back pain.

Three common ways in which people develop back problems involve injuries, mechanical problems with the spine itself, and underlying conditions. Injuries, which include sprains, fractures, accidents, or falls. Sprains and strains account for most back pain, and are typically caused by overstretching or tearing ligaments. Traumatic injuries, such as accidents or falls, may cause the spine to become overly compressed. When spinal nerves become compressed and irritated, back pain may result. Mechanical, or structural problems, with the back itself may include (but are not limited to): ruptured or herniated disks, tense muscles, or disk breakdown. Herniated or ruptured discs can occur when the intervertebral discs become compressed and bulge outward or rupture, causing lower back pain. It is Intervertebral disc degeneration however, that is the most common mechanical cause back pain, and it occurs when intervertebral discs lose integrity and ‘cushioning ability’ as a normal process of aging. Back pain can also occur with some conditions and diseases, including (but not limited to): arthritis, scoliosis, pregnancy, and fibromyalgia. 

Good back care can greatly reduce the risk of developing chronic back pain. There are three main ways in which one can do this. First, a regimen of low-impact exercises are advised in order to increase muscle and core strength and flexibility. Some experts state that aerobic exercises, those that do not strain or jerk the back, are best, however, individuals should consult a health care professional for a list of appropriate exercises that are specifically targeted to strengthening lower back and abdominal muscles. The second way in which an individual can reduce the risk of developing chronic back pain is by maintaining good posture. While standing, ensure a neutral pelvic position by standing upright with legs and back straight