Low Back Pain
What it feels like
- Dull ache across the belt line, or sharp pain on one side
- Stiffness getting out of bed or the car
- Pain bending, lifting, or sitting through a workday
- Spasms that make you "stuck" leaning to one side
Common causes
- Joint irritation (facet and SI joints)
- Disc irritation or bulge
- Muscle strain from lifting, yard work, or a new workout
- Long sitting, desk jobs, and weak hip and core muscles
What we check at your first visit
- Health history: how it started, what makes it better or worse
- Regional exam of the low back, hips, and pelvis, including orthopedic and neurological testing
- Posture and movement check
- Review of any imaging you bring
How we treat it at Revival Chiropractic
- Full Spine Diversified adjustments, or Drop Table, Activator, or Arthrostim for a lighter touch
- Soft tissue work for spasm and guarding
- Flexion-distraction or McKenzie-style extension work when a disc is involved
- Home exercise plan (core, hip mobility) and lifting and sitting tips
What to expect
- Acute flare: many patients feel noticeably better within 2 to 4 weeks
- Chronic or recurring pain: 6 to 12 weeks, then a maintenance plan if it suits your goals
- Re-exam every 8 to 12 visits so you can see progress
When we refer out
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin (emergency)
- Progressive leg weakness or foot drop
- Fever, unexplained weight loss, history of cancer, or major trauma
- No meaningful change after a fair trial of care (referral for imaging or a specialist)
FAQs
Should I use ice or heat for low back pain? Either is fine for comfort; research doesn't strongly favor one. Many people like ice in the first day or two of a fresh strain and heat for stiffness after that. Use whichever helps you move more, 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
Do I need an X-ray or MRI first? Usually not. Guidelines recommend against routine imaging for low back pain unless there are red flags like major trauma, progressive weakness, or signs of a serious condition. Your exam tells us whether imaging would change your care, and we refer for it when it would.
Can a chiropractor help with a herniated disc? Yes, for many people. Most disc herniations improve without surgery. Gentle techniques like flexion-distraction, positions that ease the nerve, and a graded exercise plan can reduce pain while the disc settles. We refer out if weakness progresses or you aren't improving.
How do I keep low back pain from coming back? Stay active. Exercise is the best-supported way to prevent repeat episodes. Build hip and core strength, take movement breaks from sitting, and lift with your hips and legs. Some patients also like periodic check-ins once they feel good.
Suggested sources: American College of Physicians low back pain guideline (Qaseem et al., Annals of Internal Medicine, 2017); The Lancet Low Back Pain Series (2018)
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new healthcare regimen. Never delay seeking treatment or disregard medical advice based on information provided here. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.