When to See a Chiropractor

When to See a Chiropractor for Your Back Pain

While chiropractors treat patients suffering from a variety of painful conditions, they are particularly well-regarded for their expertise in treating back pain. Patients see chiropractors to avoid the need for more invasive treatments, such as injections or surgery, to treat chronic back pain. Unfortunately, many pain sufferers are unsure of what the signs are that indicate it is time to talk to a professional.

It's true that back pain often occurs from occasional overuse or strain. This type of pain usually goes away within a day. But, if the back pain is persistent or is accompanied by other physical ailments, it is time to seek medical attention. Some criteria for seeking a professional diagnosis for back pain include:

• pain that continues for more than 4 weeks
• constant pain that is increasing in intensity
• pain severe enough that it awakens you from sleep
• back pain after a trauma, such as a car accident or a fall
• back pain accompanied by other numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs

Naturally, the sooner a diagnosis is made, the sooner the patient can begin appropriate treatment to alleviate the pain.

At Busch Chiropractic in Fort Wayne, treatment plans are developed based on a thorough assessment of each patient. We talk extensively with each individual to completely understand their medical history, ongoing medical conditions, lifestyle, and work situation. A physical examination and diagnostic imaging help us determine the very best treatment for your condition. Our specialized chiropractic care also extends to exercise, nutritional counseling, and lifestyle or occupational modifications. Our goal at Busch Chiropractic is that every patient is quickly on the road to recovery and able to live life pain free without addictive medications, surgery or other invasive procedures.

We remind all of our patients to follow the American Chiropractic Association's Tips to Prevent Back Pain

1. Maintain a healthy diet and weight.
2. Remain active—under the supervision of your doctor of chiropractic.
3. Avoid prolonged inactivity or bed rest.
4. Warm up or stretch before exercising or other physical activities, such as gardening.
5. Maintain proper posture.
6. Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes
7. Sleep on a mattress of medium firmness to minimize any curve in your spine.
8. Lift with your knees, keep the object close to your body, and do not twist when lifting.
9. Quit smoking. Smoking impairs blood flow, resulting in oxygen and nutrient deprivation to spinal tissues.
10. Work with your doctor of chiropractic to ensure that your computer workstation is ergonomically correct.

If you or someone you know is experiencing back pain, schedule an appointment with Busch Chiropractic today.

Posted on Thursday, February 12, 2015 in General