Chiropractic Techniques for Chronic Back Pain Relief Q&A

For chronic back pain relief, the following chiropractic techniques are often effective:

● Spinal manipulation: Manual manipulation of the spine to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and restore function.

● Trigger point therapy: Targeted massage and pressure to release knots and adhesions in muscles, reducing pain and inflammation.

● Myofascial release: Gentle stretching and pressure to release tension in connective tissue, improving range of motion and reducing pain.

● Cervicothoracic manipulation: Techniques targeting the upper back and thoracic spine to address common referral patterns of pain.

● Sacroiliac joint mobilization: Mobilization of the sacroiliac joint to address pelvis-related pain and dysfunction.

● Pelvic adjustments: Adjustments to the pelvis to address alignment, mobility, and stability issues.

● Therapeutic exercises: Prescribed exercises to strengthen core muscles, improve posture, and reduce strain on the back.

● Dry needling: Insertion of thin needles into specific areas to stimulate healing and reduce muscle tension.

These techniques can be done by themselves or all together to provide some pretty good relief for chronic back pain. A licensed chiropractor will assess the individual’s condition and come up with a personalized treatment plan that’s based on your specific needs.

Spinal adjustments, also known as spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), help alleviate chronic back pain in several ways:

● Relaxes muscle tension: Adjustments can release tension in the muscles that are around the spine, which limits muscle spasms and stiffness.

● Improves joint mobility: Adjustments restore joint mobility and flexibility, allowing for normal range of motion and reducing stiffness.

● Reduces joint inflammation: Adjustments can reduce inflammation and swelling in the joints, which can contribute to chronic pain.

● Releases pressure on nerves: Adjustments can relieve pressure on compressed or irritated nerves, reducing referred pain and discomfort.

● Improves spinal alignment: Adjustments correct misalignments and imbalances in the spine, reducing strain on surrounding muscles and joints.

● Activates natural pain-relieving mechanisms: Adjustments stimulate the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins and opioids, which can help reduce chronic pain.

● Breaks up adhesions and scar tissue: Adjustments can break up adhesions and scar tissue that can form in response to injury or trauma, which can contribute to chronic pain.

● Enhances proprioception: Adjustments improve proprioception (awareness of body position and movement), allowing for better posture, reduced strain on the spine, and reduced pain.

By addressing these factors, spinal adjustments can help alleviate chronic back pain by reducing muscle tension, improving joint mobility, reducing inflammation, and promoting proper spinal alignment.

During a chiropractic session for back pain, you can expect:

● A thorough exam and consultation
● Palpation (feeling) of your spine to identify areas of tension
● Gentle adjustments to bring back the correct alignment and mobility
● Massage or soft tissue work to relax muscles
● Education on proper posture, body mechanics, and self-care techniques
● A personalized treatment plan

You may experience a popping or cracking sound during adjustments, temporary discomfort during the session, and relief after. Communicate with your chiropractor throughout the session if you have any concerns.

The frequency of chiropractic treatments for chronic back pain can be different based on personalized factors, such as the severity and complexity of the condition, as well as personal goals and preferences. Here are some general guidelines:

● Initial phase: 2-3 times per week for the first 2-4 weeks to address acute inflammation and pain.

● Maintenance phase: 1-2 times per week to maintain spinal alignment, reduce inflammation, and prevent recurrence.

● Long-term management: Every 4-6 weeks or as needed to maintain spinal health and prevent flare-ups.

It’s essential to work with your chiropractor to develop a unique treatment plan that fits your specific needs and goals. They will assess your progress, adjust the frequency and intensity of treatments as needed, and provide guidance on self-care techniques to support your recovery. For more information, contact us today or schedule an online appointment. We are conveniently located at 70 Hudson St Suite 2B, Hoboken, NJ 07030. We serve patients from Hoboken NJ, Jersey City NJ, Weehawken NJ, West New York NJ, Guttenberg NJ, Secaucus NJ, Harrison NJ, Kearny NJ, Newark NJ, Belleville NJ, North Bergen NJ and Lyndhurst NJ.