This is a question asked by many people, especially if they are suffering from back pain. How did it happen they wonder, and why? Are there any low back pain cures that work? Most people have probably experienced the single most common cause of lower back pain—a torn or pulled muscle and/or ligament. It can happen suddenly from an activity or it can develop gradually from repetitive movements over a period of time. Some movements or activities that can lead to injury include:

• Lifting a heavy object, or twisting the spine while lifting
• Sudden movements that place too much stress on the low back, such as a fall
• Poor posture over an extended period of time
• Sports injuries, especially those that involve twisting or large forces of impact

Strains can happen when a muscle is stretched too far and then tears. A sprain happens when over-stretching and tearing affect ligaments, which connect the bones together. While sprains and strains typically heal themselves without long-lasting pain, the immediate pain can be quite acute.

Pain becomes chronic when it lasts for more than several weeks or months and the body is unable to heal itself naturally. Chronic pain in the lower back often involves a disc or joint problem, and/or an irritated nerve root. Common causes of chronic pain may include:

• Lumbar herniated disc.
• Degenerative disc disease.
• Facet joint dysfunction.
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
• Spinal stenosis.
• Spondylolisthesis.
• Osteoarthritis.
• Deformity.
• Trauma.
• Compression fracture.

Some people may not be experiencing pain from any of the conditions listed above, but it is wise to seek treatment to prevent chronic pain from making an appearance later in life. If you are not familiar with any of these conditions, be sure to ask your doctor for more information.

The chiropractors at McKim Chiropractic offer the DRS Protocol™, a safe, non-surgical treatment for back pain associated with spinal and disc problems. Call McKim Chiropractic today for more information about low back pain cures and to schedule a consultation. Our licensed and certified staff is happy to help the residents of Nampa, ID achieve a pain-free life!