Back pain can hijack your life. Your every movement becomes a painful reminder that something isn’t quite right. You’ve researched your treatment options. And, of course, you want to find effective relief as quickly as possible.
Many people with back pain turn to a chiropractor. But, what exactly does a chiropractor do and how does it help? More specifically, what treatment modalities are used to relieve pain? Review this simple guide to gain a better understanding of how chiropractic care can resolve your discomfort.
What is a Chiropractor?
Chiropractors specialize in treating musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. These include issues with bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues. In particular, chiropractors employ drug-free and non-invasive techniques to alleviate pain and inflammation. These professionals focus on neck and lower back pain, joint discomfort, headaches, and more.
Is a chiropractor actually a doctor? Yes. However, their education and training do not qualify them as medical doctors (MDs). Nevertheless, a chiropractor earns a Doctor of Chiropractic degree (DC).
Chiropractic Care for Back Pain
Once the chiropractor has determined your diagnosis, a treatment plan is developed. This includes both short- and long-term treatment goals. Ultimately, your chiropractic visits should decrease (if not eliminate) any painful symptoms, as well as restore functional independence. This can be achieved by several methods, including:
Spinal Adjustment
The chiropractor applies manual manipulation to an area of the vertebrae that are not functioning normally. This can include high velocity, low amplitude (HVLA) thrust techniques. HVLA techniques are some of the most frequently utilized treatments by a DC. HVLA involves using short, quick thrusts over restricted joints. Doing so helps to restore normal range of motion and reduces irritation to the nerves.
Those who undergo HVLA may hear or feel a “popping” sensation during the adjustment. This sound is caused by a release of gas as the joint moves back into position. As the combination of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen rushes out of the joints, it reduces joint pressure. A similar sensation occurs when you crack your knuckles.
HVLA manual manipulation—or realignment—techniques continue to evolve. Depending upon your condition, you may be positioned specifically in a chair or on a tabletop so that the chiropractor can effectively work the area.
Hot & Cold Therapy
Chiropractors may also apply hot or cold therapy to the lower back or joints. Cold therapy, for example, can numb the pain for a short period of time. Heat therapy, on the other hand, increases blood flow to the area, promoting accelerated healing. Combining these therapies can significantly reduce symptoms and increase overall functioning.
In addition, hydrotherapy—soaking in water at various temperatures—can be considered a form of hot and cold therapy. Hot baths, whirlpools, ice baths, or saunas can have similar effects to directly applying heat or cold to an area. In addition, water aerobics may make it easier to exercise and strengthen tender areas of the body.
Massage
A chiropractor may use massage or have a certified massage therapist on staff. Massage offers several benefits, including reduced swelling and inflammation, improved circulation, and overall muscle relaxation. In addition, massage serves to enhance endorphin levels. These naturally occurring chemicals manage pain and improve mood.
Suggesting Lifestyle Changes
The things we do every day can also contribute to back pain. A chiropractor does more than simply address your symptoms. In fact, by obtaining a comprehensive understanding of your lifestyle, a DC can make helpful suggestions for improving your overall health.
Explore the Benefits of Cupping Therapy with Rinchsachan
Cupping therapy has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. While there is limited scientific research on its effectiveness, many people report experiencing pain relief, reduced inflammation, and improved relaxation after treatment.
If you're interested in cupping therapy, seek a qualified and experienced therapist and discuss any concerns or medical conditions beforehand. While it may not suit everyone, cupping therapy can be valuable for managing chronic pain and improving overall health and well-being. So why not try it and see if it works for you?