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 SYMPTOMS: Pain in the low back that does not go away within twenty-four hours. The pain may be achey, sore, stiff, dull, tight, throbbing or any combination of the above. You may experience an increase in pain when sitting or standing for a prolonged period. The pain may include a deep dull ache, and/or soreness in the back of the buttock. At times, it may be sharp and severe. Pain may be on one side or both sides of the low back. Simple tasks such as putting your socks on in the morning seem monumental. Sleep may be disturbed. Pain increases when arising from a seated position making it very difficult or even impossible to straighten up. Leg pain may be present with or without back pain. Low back is very stiff when awakening first thing in the morning. Pain increases as the day goes on. Other symptoms may be present.
CAUSES: Altered relationships between adjacent vertebrae in the spine causes increased pressure and strain as well as loss of motion between the gliding joints of the spine. These gliding joints are found in pairs, along the entire spine and their function is to allow for movement and flexibility of the spine. When these gliding joints (facet joints) are affected by repeated trauma from excessive strenuous athletic activities, heredity, weakened or de-conditioned muscles, and the inevitable aging process, low back and/or leg pain is commonly experienced.
TREATMENT: Conservative treatment for a lumbar sprain/strain utilizing chiropractic adjustments is highly effective for correcting the proper spinal mechanics of the vertebrae. Taking over the counter medications simply mask the pain without actually resolving the structural problem, joint mis-alignment. In fact, taking medications may actually make the overall problem worse, by masking your body's natural defense mechanism. Your body is sending pain signals to your brain in order to prevent you from moving certain ways that could potentially further injury the back. If that defense mechanism is eliminated through the use of pain pills, further insult to the body is much more likely.
After performing a thorough history and physical exam, your chiropractor will determine if you have "lumbar sprain/strain" or something else. Once you are told that you have a lumbar sprain/strain, the chiropractor will begin the use of conservative chiropractic adjustments to restore structure and function to the spine. Treatment may also include adjunctive therapies such as ice and electrical stimulation. Home care might include an aggressive home icing program, stretching and possibly bracing. Modification of certain activities while at home may be recommended, such as avoiding prolonged sitting. If deemed medically necessary, x-rays will be ordered.
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