What causes back pain?
Back pain is one of the most common causes of disability and prescriptions for pain medication, affecting millions of Americans every day. Dr. Key offers effective, drug-free structural chiropractic treatment to relieve acute or chronic back pain. Acute back pain occurs suddenly, typically following an accident or injury, which goes away as your body heals. For example, you might experience back pain after a car accident, slipping and falling, or after a sports injury. Chronic back pain can last for weeks, months, or even years. Chronic back pain may be linked to an injury but it also may be caused by degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis and/or untreated spinal alignment problems. Another contributing factor to back pain is obesity. Your spine is the central connection for your entire body, so not only does it bear your weight, but it bears the strain of every step you take.
How is the cause of back pain diagnosed?
When you attend an appointment with Dr. Key because your back hurts, the first thing he does is determine the issue causing your pain. He asks questions about your overall health and medical history as well as questions about your back pain, like:
- How long has your back hurt?
- Did you sustain an injury?
- What were you doing when your back started to hurt?
- Does your back hurt all the time?
- If the pain comes and goes, is there a trigger?
- Has your back pain stopped you from any movements or activities?
- Can you describe the pain: sharp, dull, aching, stabbing, etc.?
Dr. Key also performs a physical exam in which he guides you through movements while feeling your spine. He checks for any swelling or deformity while monitoring your mobility. In some cases, he might order x-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to see the spine. Typically, exams include:
- Digital Structural Radiographs
- Comprehensive 3D Structural Analysis
- Digital Photographic Structural Evaluation
- Orthopedic & Neurological Testing
How does Dr. Key treat back pain?
Dr. Key provides each patient a customized treatment plan that may include chiropractic adjustments, some massage treatments, and stretches or exercises for you to practice at home to keep the supporting muscles supple and strong. Dr. Key’s treatment plan is built to treat the underlying issue responsible for your pain while also providing you with effective pain relief.
