When it comes to chronic pain, back problems are among the most common sources of symptoms. Often, this discomfort is connected to issues that affect the joints, muscles, and nerves that support that spinal column. However, the causes behind these issues can vary, producing different levels of neck and back pain. If you’re trying to figure out what’s the source of your back pain—and how to address it—here are a few common causes to consider.

5 Common Sources of Back Pain

1. Traumatic Injury

Auto accidents, improper lifting, falls, and sports injuries are all events that can cause traumatic injury to the back. In some cases, these injuries involve a sudden force that shifts vertebral joints out of alignment—a painful condition that is often corrected through chiropractic adjustment. In other cases, these injuries may harm nerves or muscle tissues, requiring the need for physical therapy, massage, and other therapeutic treatments.

2.  Poor Posture

Back problems don’t necessarily have to happen right away, as some can occur gradually due to poor posture. When you don’t sit, stand, or walk in a way that supports the natural curve of your spine, you can experience misalignment and muscle tension that contributes to neck and back pain. Fortunately, stretching, chiropractic adjustment, and posture correction can help offer relief.

3. Sciatica

Sciatica is a term used to describe a series of uncomfortable symptoms that occur when the sciatic nerve is pinched. Running through the length of the spine to the leg, the sciatic nerve is one of the largest in the body. When it becomes pinched, it can send pain signals to the brain that result in aches, tingling, or numbness throughout the back and lower leg. To release the nerve, pain management specialists will use a variety of non-invasive techniques, including adjustment, massage, and physical therapy.

4. Arthritis  

When arthritis causes spinal joints to become inflamed, the resulting pressure can make it difficult to move, as well as place pressure on nerves that trigger neck and back pain. Depending on the extent of the condition, arthritis pain may be minimized by strengthening muscles, hot/cold therapy, nutritional changes, and adjustment.

5. Herniated Discs    

In between each vertebra is a jelly-like disc that absorbs shock and promotes flexibility. Injury, degenerative disc disease, and other conditions can sometimes cause these discs to bulge out of their natural position, placing pressure on sensitive nerves.  After identifying the problematic disc, a chiropractor can apply gentle force to help manipulate the disc back into the proper position.

When neck and back pain are affecting the quality of your life, Evergreen Pain Management & Rehabilitation Center is equipped to provide you with relief. Providing chiropractic and physical therapy services in Sheffield, OH, this clinic will carefully identify the source of your pain and offer a customized treatment plan to promote recovery and boost future wellness. To learn more about these services, visit this pain management provider online. For appointments, call (440) 240-9111 to speak with a friendly team member.