Three Common Spine Problems and How We Can Help
Back pain is a big deal in America. Actually, it’s a big deal all over the world. Global health statistics suggest that most people (something like 80%) will experience troublesome back pain at some stage in life, whether it lasts a couple of days or several years.
Naturally, with a problem of this magnitude, people want solutions and answers. But before a osteopath, chiropractor, or any other medical professional can offer treatment, the nature of the problem needs to be determined. People often feel better when they find out what specifically has been causing their back pain. It enables them to “put a name and face” on a problem which has, until now, been largely a mystery.
Here are three of the most common spinal problems. There are, of course, many other possibilities. But this list gives you a broad idea of the different spinal problems that do exist — and how people might be able to get relief.
Arthritis
This is a very common condition. As with every joint in the body, your vertebrae are separated by cartilage. This enables smooth movement, and it’s part of what makes the human body so amazing. When this cartilage begins to degenerate, it’s called Arthritis or Osteoarthritis. Solutions range from creams and internal drugs to surgery. Chiropractic is also a useful option for people who suffer from this condition.
Degenerative Disc Disease
When the discs in the spine (particularly the lower or lumbar spine) begin a process of degeneration, you may be diagnosed with Degenerative Disc Disease. This is basically Osteoarthritis, and involves the thinning or wearing away of cartilage between vertebrae. Sometimes it results from slight imbalances in the spine that build up over time. By catching them early with chiropractic or other medical treatment, it’s possible to minimize or avoid these painful symptoms.
Sciatica
The Sciatic nerve is the largest single nerve in the body. There are actually two Sciatic nerves, running from the lower back all the way down each leg and into the feet. When the lumbar spine is out of alignment, it can put pressure on this nerve, sending painful nerve signals all the way down the legs. Sciatica is a common and painful condition that is very effectively treated by reputable chiropractors.
What about back pain with undetermined causes?
These are just three of the most common spine conditions with painful symptoms; a comprehensive list would be much longer. But it’s also true that much of the back pain that does exist, doesn’t clearly fall within any of these categories. There are plenty of people out there who have been living with back pain for years, have seen many specialists, and haven’t been able to get any answers. For these people, visiting a reputable chiropractor is a worthwhile step, especially if they’ve never considered chiropractic before. By making gentle adjustments to the neck and spine, and putting the body back into proper alignment, a whole litany of symptoms can be cleared up without the use of drugs or invasive surgery. But if you really want results, it’s important to only seek help from the most upstanding and reputable practitioners.