How Chiropractic Treatment Helps With Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is extremely common – 80% of Australians will experience back pain at some point in their life. Furthermore, almost two thirds of people will experience a flare up within the first year after an episode.
Lower back pain can be due to a number of causes, such as irritation to muscles, discs, joints and nerves. It is important to diagnose back pain effectively, in order to identify what treatment is best for you.
Lower back pain causes & treatments
Some of the major causes of lower back pain and how we treat them at our Chatswood chiropractic clinic:
Muscular Tension
There are a number muscles that surround the spinal column, which are important for both posture and movement.
Like any muscle in the body, if overworked or if under sustained tension, can become irritated, leading to inflammation, spasm and pain.
Treatment at the clinic reduces the underlying tension and strengthens the spine to reduce the likelihood of these muscles becoming injured in the future.
Facet Joint Sprain
The spinal column is made up of a number of spinal vertebrae. The main attachment point is through a portion of the bone called the facet joints. These joints are surrounded by ligaments and have fluid within in to allow for smooth movement of the spine. Like any joint in the body they can become irritated and inflamed due to an injury, such as a fall or sustained microtrauma from poor posture. This causes the joints to become stiff and the muscles surrounding to spasm, leading to pain.
Treatment at the clinic identifies which joints are affected, reduces the inflammation and restores the mobility back into the spine.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
The sacroiliac joint is the bony connection between the spinal column and pelvis. It is surrounded by ligaments which are pain sensitive and can become inflamed if irritated.
Treatment at the clinic reduces the inflammation at the joint and restores function to the pelvis.
Discogenic Pain
The spinal discs are a common source of lower back pain. Discs play an important role in movement of the spine and like any structure are prone to irritation over time. Irritation to the disc can come in a number of forms, from simple micro tears to larger herniations which may impact the surrounding spinal nerves.
It is important to assess the integrity of the discs and provide treatment to strengthen and support the spine.
Get help for lower back pain
FAQ – Chiropractic Treatment for Lower Back Pain
Yes, chiropractic care is highly effective for lower back pain. Spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercises help restore proper alignment, reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and strengthen supporting muscles to provide both immediate relief and long-term improvement.
Chiropractors treat lower back pain from muscle strains, disc problems, joint dysfunction, poor posture, sciatica, and sacroiliac joint issues. Most mechanical lower back pain responds well to chiropractic treatment, especially when caused by lifestyle factors or minor injuries.
Acute lower back pain often improves within 3-6 visits over 2-3 weeks. Chronic conditions typically require 8-12 sessions over 6-8 weeks for significant improvement. Maintenance care may be recommended to prevent recurrence and maintain spinal health long-term.
Yes, chiropractors are trained to provide gentle, appropriate treatment even during acute pain episodes. Techniques are modified based on your comfort level and condition severity. Many patients experience immediate relief after their first adjustment, even with severe symptoms.
Your first visit includes a detailed health history, physical examination, movement assessment, and possibly X-rays. Treatment typically begins the same day with gentle adjustments and soft tissue therapy. You’ll also receive home care advice and exercises.
For an up to date summary of the literature surrounding lower back pain, please see this recent series commissioned by the Lancet Medical journal:
https://www.thelancet.com/series/low-back-pain
Get in touch
Location
Level 1, 171 Victoria Avenue
Chatswood NSW 2067
By appointment only.
Enter via Royal St.