Low back pain is something many of us have experienced at some point in our lives. Whether it's a dull ache after a long day at work or a sharp pain that stops you in your tracks, low back pain can be debilitating and affect your daily activities.
If you're reading this, chances are you're familiar with the discomfort and frustration it brings. But what exactly causes low back pain?
At E3 Chiropractic + Wellness, your trusted Saskatoon Chiropractor, we see a wide variety of cases, and while each person's situation is unique, there are four common culprits behind most cases of low back pain: lumbar joint irritation, lumbar disc injuries, lumbar sprain/strain, and lumbar stenosis.
Let's dive into each of these causes to better understand what might be behind your pain and how chiropractic care can help.
1. Lumbar Joint Irritation
Your lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae, each connected by facet joints. These joints allow for flexibility and movement, but they can also become irritated, leading to pain. Lumbar joint irritation, often referred to as facet syndrome, is a common cause of low back pain.
When these joints are overused or become stiff due to poor posture, repetitive movements, or sudden injuries, they can become inflamed. This inflammation can lead to sharp, localized pain that often worsens with certain movements or after prolonged periods of inactivity, like sleeping or sitting for long hours.
At E3 Chiropractic + Wellness, we see many patients with lumbar joint irritation. Through careful assessment and personalized treatment plans, we can help reduce inflammation, improve joint mobility, and alleviate your pain.
Chiropractic adjustments are particularly effective in restoring proper motion to these joints, helping you move more freely and comfortably.
2. Lumbar Disc Injuries
Another frequent cause of low back pain is a lumbar disc injury. Your spine’s discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, absorbing shock and allowing for smooth movement. However, these discs are vulnerable to injury, particularly in the lower back.
Lumbar disc injuries typically occur due to a herniation or bulging of the disc. This happens when the soft inner material of the disc pushes through a tear in the tougher outer layer. The result can be pressure on nearby nerves, leading to pain that radiates down your leg (sciatica), numbness, or tingling.
Disc injuries can be caused by lifting heavy objects incorrectly, sudden trauma, or even degenerative changes as we age. The pain from a disc injury can be intense and may worsen with activities like bending, lifting, or even coughing.
At E3 Chiropractic + Wellness, our approach to lumbar disc injuries includes chiropractic adjustments, decompression therapy, and rehabilitative exercises designed to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine.
By addressing the root cause of the injury, we can help you find relief and prevent future episodes of pain.
3. Lumbar Sprain/Strain
One of the most common causes of low back pain is a lumbar sprain or strain. A sprain occurs when the ligaments that connect the bones of the spine are overstretched or torn, while a strain involves the muscles or tendons. Both can happen suddenly during activities that involve heavy lifting, twisting, or a sudden, awkward movement.
Lumbar sprains and strains often result in muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain that can range from mild to severe. Unlike joint irritation or disc injuries, the pain from a sprain or strain is usually more diffuse, meaning it may be harder to pinpoint a specific location of discomfort.
The good news is that most lumbar sprains and strains are treatable with conservative care. At E3 Chiropractic + Wellness, we provide treatments such as chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and personalized exercise programs to help you recover quickly and prevent re-injury.
By addressing the underlying factors contributing to your injury, such as poor posture or weak core muscles, we can help you build a stronger, more resilient back.
4. Lumbar Stenosis
Lumbar stenosis is a condition that typically affects older adults, but it can occur at any age. It involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the nerves in your lower back, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in your legs.
The narrowing can be caused by a variety of factors, including degenerative changes (like arthritis), thickened ligaments, or herniated discs. People with lumbar stenosis often experience pain that worsens with walking or standing and may find relief when sitting or leaning forward.
Managing lumbar stenosis can be challenging, but chiropractic care offers a non-invasive solution that can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. At E3 Chiropractic + Wellness, we focus on reducing inflammation, improving spinal mobility, and strengthening the muscles around your spine to support your lower back. Our goal is to help you maintain an active lifestyle without the constant burden of pain.
Finding Relief with E3 Chiropractic + Wellness
If you’re struggling with low back pain, it’s essential to understand that you don’t have to live with it. The causes of your pain might be complex, but the team at E3 Chiropractic + Wellness is here to help.
As your trusted Saskatoon Chiropractor, we have the experience and expertise to diagnose and treat the underlying causes of your discomfort.
We believe in a holistic approach to health, focusing not just on alleviating your symptoms but also on preventing future pain.
Our personalized treatment plans are designed to address your specific needs, whether you’re dealing with lumbar joint irritation, a disc injury, a sprain or strain, or lumbar stenosis.
Don’t let low back pain control your life.
Click HERE to schedule a FREE DISCOVERY CALL and take the first step toward a pain-free future.
Your spine will thank you!
