Treatment
Evaluation
A careful history will be taken to see what kind of problem exists. It will also help to raise any other health issues that may be relevant.
Examination is done to determine what type of problem is present. It is important that the chiropractor see how you stand (posture), move (mobility), and what condition your joints and soft tissues are in (strength, flexibility, co-ordination).
In many cases, back pain can occur as compensation for problems elsewhere. Dr Doody has training in foot/gait analysis as well as orthopedics, neurology, x-ray evaluation and nutrition.
If needed, imaging may be requested and this is done off-site. If you have recently had xray or MRI imaging done, it is advisable to bring these with you on your first visit. If you do not have the originals, copies may be requested by the Chiropractor with your consent.
Treatment
Chiropractic procedures are unique to the profession. They are what differentiate us from other physical therapists. Our 5 year training in hands-on techniques means that the Doctor of Chiropractic is highly skilled in delivering safe and effective treatment to people of all ages.
Treatment consists largely of gentle spinal adjustment or manipulation. Our modern, top of the range facilities mean that adjustments are made in private comfortable surroundings to maximize benefit.
Occasionally other physical therapies of soft tissue treatments are also including massage, stretching, traction, dry needling etc.
Lower Back Pain Treatment
Although Chiropractors treat more than just spinal problems, the most common reason that people present to us is lower back pain.
Chiropractic spinal manipulation is a safe and effective lower back pain treatment. It reduces pain, decreases medication, rapidly advances physical therapy, and requires very few passive forms of treatment, such as bed rest.
Some interesting facts about Back Pain
• Low back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the Global Burden of Disease 2010.
• Back pain is one of the most common reasons for missed work. In fact, back pain is the second most common reason for visits to the doctor’s office, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections.
• Most cases of back pain are mechanical or non-organic—meaning they are not caused by serious conditions, such as inflammatory arthritis, infection, fracture or cancer.
• Experts estimate that as many as 80% of the population will experience a back problem at some time in our lives.