What Causes Lower Back Pain?
Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care. Nearly everyone will experience some form of lower back pain at some point in their life. The good news is that identifying the cause of the pain is the first step toward finding relief.
At Gould Chiropractic in Chatsworth, we evaluate patients with lower back pain every day. While some cases are simple muscle strains, others may involve discs, joints, nerves, or other structures of the spine.
Muscle Strain and Tightness
One of the most common causes of lower back pain is muscle tightness or strain.
Tight muscles can lead to:
- Stiffness
- Difficulty bending
- Problems sleeping
- Reduced mobility
- Changes in posture
Even everyday activities such as gardening, household chores, or sitting for long periods can contribute to muscle tension and discomfort.
Lifting Injuries
Improper lifting techniques can place significant stress on the lower back.
Lifting heavy objects, especially while bending and twisting at the same time, can strain muscles, ligaments, and spinal discs. Many patients report sudden lower back pain after lifting a heavy object at work, during exercise, or while performing routine household tasks.
Disc Injuries
The spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae.
Over time, or as the result of an injury, discs can become damaged and begin to bulge or herniate. When this occurs, nearby nerves may become irritated, leading to pain in the lower back and sometimes symptoms traveling into the buttocks or legs.
Facet Joint Irritation
The facet joints are small joints located at the back of the spine that help guide movement.
Excessive arching of the back, repetitive movements, arthritis, or injury can cause irritation of these joints and lead to lower back pain and stiffness.
Poor Posture
Poor posture places additional stress on the spine and supporting muscles.
Long hours spent sitting, working at a computer, driving, or looking down at a phone can contribute to chronic lower back discomfort.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
If your lower back pain:
- Persists for more than a few days
- Interferes with sleep
- Limits your daily activities
- Causes numbness, tingling, or weakness
It may be time to seek a professional evaluation.
How Chiropractic Care May Help
At Gould Chiropractic, treatment may include:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Soft tissue therapy
- IASTM treatments
- Corrective exercises
- Postural recommendations
- Spinal decompression therapy when appropriate
Every patient receives an individualized evaluation to determine the underlying cause of their pain and the most appropriate treatment plan.
Schedule an Evaluation
If you’re suffering from lower back pain, don’t wait for the problem to become chronic. Early evaluation and treatment often lead to better outcomes and faster recovery.
Contact Gould Chiropractic in Chatsworth today to schedule an evaluation and begin your path toward relief.