Treating Back Pain With The Assistance Of A Chiropractor
When searching for relief from chronic and exhausting pain, contact our Rockville, MD back pain doctor. We have helped countless people by treating the source of pain in their head, neck, shoulder, back, sciatic nerve, and other areas of the body, all without the need for potentially harmful drugs. In addition to providing complete spinal care, we also specialize in the treatment of sports injuries, including but not limited to ankles, knees, elbows, and other joints.
Back injuries can range from mild to severe and can often have a debilitating impact on patients. There can be a range of injuries and a variety of reasons that you may experience such pain. At AmeriWell Clinics, our back pain doctor can offer you treatments that may relieve pain and recovery from what ails you. Keep in mind that, at times, certain lifestyle choices may contribute to the pain you may be experiencing. Our team is committed to carefully accessing your situation to provide treatment options that mitigate your symptoms and assist with recovery. Contact us today to learn how we can help. We have dedicated and friendly staff and customer support who speak both English and Español.
Table of Contents
- Treating Back Pain With The Assistance Of A Chiropractor
- Ways To Treat Back Pain
- Common Causes Of Back Pain
- Back Pain Statistics
- FAQs
- AmeriWell Clinics, Rockville Back Pain Doctor
- Contact Our Back Pain Doctor Today
Reasons To Seek Medical Care
Back pain can occur in several ways. Whether a person is experiencing chronic back pain or suffering from an injury, back injuries can take on many forms, including: herniated discs, bulging discs, arthritis, and more. For those suffering from pain, treatments from our practitioners can focus on recovery to improve your quality of life. Our Rockville back pain doctor is dedicated to seeing that patients receive the remedies for the back pain they require.
Our team can provide services such as:
- Chiropractic Adjustment
- Cryotherapy
- Cold Laser Therapy
- Cupping Therapy
- Disc Decompression
- Dry Needling
- Electrotherapy
- Flexion Distraction
- Intersegmental Traction
- Moist Heat Therapy
- Neuromuscular Re-Education
- Physical Therapy
- Posture Correction
- Rehabilitation
- Soft Tissue / Manual Therapy
- Therapeutic Exercise
- Therapeutic Modalities
- Ultrasound Therapy
Common Causes Of Back Pain
Back pain often develops in a way that your doctor is going to have to test for. In most cases, these tests are easy to do and not invasive at all. Here are some of the most common conditions linked to back pain:
- Muscle Or Ligament Strain: When you repeatedly are lifting heavy objects or if you move suddenly and awkwardly this can cause strain on your back muscles or ligaments. The longer you do this, the more likely the constant strain will lead to more painful muscle spasms.
- Bulging Or Ruptured Disks: The disks in your spine act as cushions between the vertebrae. When the soft material inside a disk is bulging or ruptured then it presses on the nerve causing back pain. The easiest way to know if a disk is ruptured is to have x-rays done. Most commonly they are found on accident when you have other x-rays done.
- Arthritis: Most commonly this is found in the lower back. As you get older the cushions in the spine start to deteriorate. Not only that but in some cases this can lead to narrowing of the space around the spinal cord, which ends up causing the spinal cord to become restricted.
- Osteoporosis: If you are someone who suffers from osteoporosis then it means your bones are more porous and brittle. When this happens to the spine small fractures can happen.
Risk Factors
Anyone can develop back pain regardless of their age. Here are some of the most common risk factors:
- Age: Back pain is more common as you get older. It typically starts around 30 or 40 but it can start at any time.
- Lack of Exercise: Weak and unused muscles in your back and abdomen could lead to back pain.
- Excess Weight: Excess body weight puts extra stress on your back and joints.
- Diseases: Arthritis and cancer are contributors to back pain as well as many other illnesses.
- Improper Lifting: Using your back instead of your legs is a leading cause of back pain in all ages.
Common Myths About Back Pain
Back pain is a common ailment among adults and can make it more difficult to perform everyday activities. However, there is a lot of misinformation about back pain that can prevent some people from getting the proper treatment. Here are some common myths about back pain that you shouldn’t believe.
- “Back pain always results from an injury.” It is true that some people develop back pain after trauma from a vehicle crash or other accident. However, many cases of back pain result from poor posture, sitting for too long and improper lifting techniques.
- “Rest is the best thing for back pain.” If your back hurts, it might seem logical to avoid physical activity and get plenty of rest. However, your back pain doctor in Rockville, MD will actually want you to remain active. Too much bed rest can cause your back muscles to stiffen up, increasing your pain. Staying active may help you heal faster. While you might not be able to perform strenuous exercises, your doctor may suggest simple activities, like short walks and gentle stretches.
- “If you have back pain, you will eventually need surgery.” This is not true. Surgery for back pain is a last resort. Many people who suffer from back pain won’t require back surgery. Your doctor will want you to try non-invasive treatments, such as physical therapy and exercise, before considering surgery.
- “Back pain isn’t genetic.” Just like many other health conditions, back pain can be genetic. If one of your close family members had lumbar degenerative disc disease or osteoarthritis of the spine, for example, you have a higher chance of developing it.
- “If you lift too heavy, you will suffer back pain.” Lifting heavy items won’t necessarily cause back pain. On the other hand, if you lift with poor form, you can suffer back pain. To avoid hurting your back, keep your back straight and close the object you’re lifting close to your body.
- “Heat will alleviate back pain.” Some people use a heating pad or take a hot bath to relieve back pain. However, if the back pain is acute, heat can actually increase inflammation, making the pain worse. That is why it is better to use ice for back pain. Try placing an ice pack on your back for 15 minutes.
Back pain is a constant problem that many people experience, whether due to age, health conditions or work. If you have been suffering from back pain for a long time, you do not want to do anything and ignore it. It may not go away without getting the proper treatment. Your condition may get worse, which can be costly to treat. The best thing you can do is to reach out to our experienced back pain doctor at AmeriWell Clinics to provide you lasting relief.
Ways To Treat Back Pain
Back pain can be life-altering, and you’d do almost anything to stop it. There are many methods for managing pain, so consult your Maryland back pain doctor to build a plan that works for you.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy or targeted exercise is often key in lessening or stopping back pain altogether. Physical therapists are highly trained and licensed, and can help you find the best motions for rebuilding strength and flexibility. Often, you will have an exercise plan that you must complete each day to improve your condition. Ameriwell can help you plan your recovery.
Meditation
Chronic back pain can cause depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues. Meditation can help quiet the mind and stop some of the psychological pain that comes with back pain. Breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, and yoga can all be part of the treatment plan that you create with your back pain doctor in Rockville MD.
Electrical Nerve Stimulation
This relatively recent technology helps with pain by sending electrical impulses into the tissues through electric diodes and interfering with pain receptors. The user wears the small battery-powered machine on their body and activates it whenever needed. There is no risk for overdose and it is entirely regulated by the user, which are two major benefits to this treatment.
Massage
Some back pain issues are a result of uncontrollable muscle tension. In this case, deep tissue or shiatsu massage can be beneficial. It can be intimidating to let someone else touch your body – especially a stranger – but if you can push past the initial fear, the positive feelings can be incredible. Massage releases serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine – a flood of good-feeling chemicals. Ameriwell can help you create a comprehensive pain management plan which includes massage.
Medication
There are many options for pain medication. Some medicines like morphine, oxycodone and fentanyl are used as a last resort in managing extreme pain. These drugs effectively interfere with how the brain processes pain, which basically makes the pain disappear. The reason these drugs are a last resort is because they are easy to become physically dependent on and they are expensive, a combination which sends many people into a spiral of addiction, poverty, and homelessness. Your back pain doctor in Rockville MD can help you with your acute or chronic pain needs and help you decide if medication is right for you.
Common Causes Of Back Pain
Back pain is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While some cases may resolve on their own, chronic or severe back pain can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Chiropractors are healthcare professionals specialized in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues, particularly those related to the spine. In this listicle, we’ll explore six common causes of back pain that chiropractors can effectively treat, providing relief and promoting overall well-being.
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Poor Posture
One of the leading culprits behind back pain is poor posture, especially in our modern sedentary lifestyles. Slouching or sitting hunched over a desk for prolonged periods can strain the muscles, ligaments, and discs in the back. Chiropractors can assess and correct postural imbalances, using targeted adjustments to realign the spine and improve posture. Additionally, they offer advice on ergonomic modifications and exercises to prevent future issues.
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Muscle Strain and Sprains
Muscle strain and sprains can result from sudden movements, lifting heavy objects, or engaging in physically demanding activities without proper warm-up. Chiropractors employ various techniques like soft tissue manipulation, massage, and stretching exercises to alleviate muscle tension and promote healing. By restoring proper alignment, they can also reduce the likelihood of recurring injuries.
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Herniated Discs
A herniated disc occurs when the gel-like center of a spinal disc protrudes through its tough outer layer, putting pressure on nearby nerves. This condition can lead to intense back pain, as well as radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs. Chiropractors use gentle spinal adjustments to relieve pressure on the affected disc, reducing inflammation and facilitating the body’s natural healing process.
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Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition where the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down the legs, becomes compressed or irritated. This can cause shooting pain, tingling, and numbness along the nerve pathway. Chiropractors are skilled in locating the source of sciatica and addressing the underlying issues through manual adjustments and specialized stretches. By alleviating pressure on the nerve, they can bring relief and restore mobility.
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Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a spinal curvature that often develops during childhood or adolescence. It can lead to back pain and discomfort as the spine’s abnormal alignment puts strain on surrounding muscles. Chiropractors can employ a combination of spinal adjustments, corrective exercises, and bracing to manage scoliosis-related pain. While they may not cure scoliosis, they can significantly improve the patient’s quality of life and prevent further progression of the condition.
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Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects the spine, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Chiropractors can develop personalized treatment plans that include gentle joint mobilization and therapeutic exercises to enhance joint function and reduce pain. They may also suggest lifestyle modifications and nutritional support to manage inflammation and slow down the progression of the disease.
Back pain can have a profound impact on daily life, hindering mobility and causing discomfort. Chiropractors are highly trained professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues, particularly those related to the spine. By addressing the root causes of back pain through various non-invasive techniques, they can provide relief, improve spinal health, and enhance overall well-being. If you’re experiencing back pain, consulting a chiropractor might be the key to getting back on the path to a pain-free life.
Back Pain Statistics
According to the National Institute for Health, 25.3 million Americans suffer daily pain — and back pain certainly contributes to that number. With so many treatment options for back pain available, a doctor can find the right treatment for you that effectively targets the source of your pain. Treatments are personalized to your needs and particular condition. Don’t wait to find a treatment that will improve your quality of life. Talk to a skilled back pain doctor now to get relief.
Rockville Back Pain Doctor Infographic
FAQs
How do spinal adjustments work?
One of the most well-known types of chiropractic treatments are spinal adjustments or spinal manipulation. This form of treatment involves releasing built-up gas inside the joints to realign the spine. In some cases, back pain is caused by issues along the spine. By realigning the spine, it can provide significant relief because it relieves pressure on the joints.
What are different types of chiropractic treatment methods?
People who suffer from back pain can benefit from receiving adjustments done at a table. The patient lies on a specially designed chiropractic table that can be adjusted, and the doctor performs the various treatments. Common types of treatments that a back pain doctor will recommend for patients include the Thompson method, Gonstead technique, and flexion distraction.
What are chiropractic instruments for?
For patients who need gentler treatment options, assistive chiropractic instruments are effective in relieving pain. Assistive chiropractic devices allow a chiropractor to apply more or less force than with just using their hands alone. Chiropractic instruments help to personalize a treatment plan so that the patient is comfortable and receives the best treatment appropriate for their condition.
Do chiropractic treatments include physical therapy?
A physical therapy program is a simple, non-invasive method of addressing back pain, muscle soreness, and mobility issues. Physical therapy programs often include a combination of dynamic stretches, strength training, and exercises that help to improve mobility, range of motion and strengthen muscles in the body. A back pain doctor may incorporate exercises that use tools such as bands and cables.
A qualified and trained doctor such as one from AmeriWell Clinics will take your preferences into account as well to find the most suitable treatment to eliminate your back pain.
AmeriWell Clinics, Rockville Back Pain Doctor
Contact Our Back Pain Doctor Today
Our team at AmeriWell Clinics is dedicated to putting our patients first. We will work closely with you by listening to your needs and developing a treatment plan to manage your pain and reduce your overall quality of life. To learn more about how to relieve your pain, contact our Rockville, Maryland, back pain doctor today.
If you are one of the many people out there that suffer from back pain then finding a back pain doctor in Rockville, MD shouldn’t be a chore. Considering that back pain is one of the most common reasons for people to miss work or see a doctor, it’s important you find help as soon as possible. Our team at AmeriWell Clinics is dedicated to putting you first and finding a treatment plan to help you manage your pain and increase your quality of life.
Client Review
“5 stars across the board. The staff is amazing. Especially Cynthia, who has helped me from the beginning of my recovery and sought through to the end. Thank you so much!”
Jose Benitez
Take The First Step
If you’ve been injured in an accident as a result of recklessness, negligence, a defective product or other fault, you should be diagnosed and treated by an experienced chiropractor as soon as possible so that your health does not deteriorate, and you have the proof that you need to seek deserved monetary compensation.
Many times injuries are hidden, or are underestimated, so please call AmeriWell Clinics today for a free consultation at (301) 576-0500, or email us. We also provide free legal referrals to our patients who are suffering from accident-related injuries.