Lower Back
Lower Back
Your lower back is a vulnerable area, constantly under the strain of supporting your upper body. Poor posture, injuries, wear and tear, hereditary weakness, or excess weight can cause a variety of painful low back problems.
Your lower back forms one of the three natural curves of your spine. If that area lacks strength or flexibility, your entire back loses support. This can put pressure on joints, nerves, and discs.
Understanding the Problem
Dr. Waddell looks at your overall health - focusing not only on your low back, but also on your lifestyle. This integrated approach helps determine the best treatment for your problem.
To help identify the cause of your problem, you and Dr. Waddell will discuss your symptoms and previous injuries, your family's health history and your lifestyle, including recreational and work related physical activities.
Physical Exams & X-rays
Physical, orthopedic, and neurological tests can reveal the condition of your low back and the rest of your spine. Static and motion palpation tests check for tenderness, muscle spasms, and your back's range of motion. This gives your chiropractor clues to the cause and extent of your low back problem.
As "blueprints" of your spine, x-rays can reveal misalignments, fractures, arthritis, hereditary malformation or other problems. Additional tests will be done, if necessary.
Diagnosis
Based on the examination and findings, Dr. Waddell may recommend an individualized treatment program to realign your low back, relieve muscle spasms, restore motion and reduce pain. If needed, Dr. Waddell will also consult with other medical specialists about your condition.
Treatment
Dr. Waddell is uniquely qualified to restore the health of your spine. Special chiropractic techniques may relieve the pressure that is causing your low back pain.
After locating the misaligned vertebrae in your back, Dr. Waddell manually applies gentle pressure and repositions the vertebrae. These adjustments can help restore alignment, improve mobility and relieve pain and stiffness.
Dr. Waddell may recommend other types of treatment for strengthening your low back muscles and relieving tension and pain. Those treatments may include moist heat, ice packs, traction or stretching and strengthening exercises.
Painful Problems
1) Vertebrae are bones that protect your spinal cord. They can be forced or locked out of their proper positions (misaligned).
2) Ligaments and muscles are supportive tissues that can be stretched, torn or weakened.
3) Discs are shock absorbers that can bulge, rupture or wear down.
4) Nerves, which carry the body's messages, can get stretched, pinched or irritated.