Chiropractic and Non-Specific Low Back Pain

​Low back pain is a common complaint that affects millions of people worldwide. Australian Bureau of Statistics 2017–18 National Health estimates about 4.0 million Australians (16% of the population) have back problems. It is estimated that 70–90% of people will suffer from lower back pain in some form at some point in their lives. (1)
 
Among its various forms, non-specific low back pain is particularly common. Unlike pain resulting from identifiable causes like herniated discs or fractures, non-specific low back pain lacks a specific origin, making it challenging to treat. However, chiropractic care can be an option for managing this pervasive condition.
 
Understanding Non-Specific Low Back Pain
 
Non-specific low back pain is defined as pain in the lower back that isn’t attributed to a specific disease or injury. It’s often a result of poor posture, muscle strain, or lifestyle factors such as prolonged sitting. Symptoms can range from a dull ache to sharp, incapacitating pain, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life.
 
Can chiropractic help?
 
Chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to alleviate pain and improve function, with spinal manipulation (or adjustment) being the most common. Many chiropractors also utilise soft tissue technique as well as providing exercise and lifestyle advice to best help back pain sufferers to strengthen their back muscles, improve posture, and prevent future episodes of pain.
 
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain
 
1. Pain Relief: Numerous studies have shown that spinal manipulation can provide significant pain relief for those suffering from non-specific low back pain.(2) By addressing spinal restrictions and improving joint function, chiropractic care can reduce pain and discomfort.
 
2. Improved Mobility: Chiropractic adjustments can help restore normal range of motion in the spine, making it easier to move and perform daily activities.
           
3. Reduced Dependency on Medication: Chiropractic care offers a drug-free approach to managing low back pain. A study suggested a greater reduction in back pain symptoms when managing with spinal manipulation method over usual medication.(3) This can be particularly beneficial for those looking to avoid the side effects of pain medications.
 
 
Non-specific low back pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but chiropractic care offers a holistic and effective approach to relief. If you’re struggling with low back pain, have a chat with one of our chiropractors and it could be a step towards unlocking relief and reclaiming your well-being.

Reference

1.         Health AIo, Welfare. Back problems. Canberra: AIHW; 2019.
2.         Gevers-Montoro C, Provencher B, Descarreaux M, Ortega de Mues A, Piché M. Clinical effectiveness and efficacy of chiropractic spinal manipulation for spine pain. Frontiers in pain research. 2021;2:765921.
3.         Schneider M, Haas M, Glick R, Stevans J, Landsittel D. Comparison of spinal manipulation methods and usual medical care for acute and subacute low back pain: a randomized clinical trial. LWW; 2015.