Back pain is one of the most common complaints you hear from people these days. Sitting at a desk all day, poor posture, heavy lifting and age-related degeneration are just a few things that could contribute to back pain. However not every type of back pain requires surgery or medications. In this post, we will discuss the importance of seeing a physiotherapist and chiropractor, what to expect during your visit and how they can help you fix your back pain.
Physiotherapy is a great option for individuals who experience back pain due to a specific injury, or if it is the result of poor posture or weak muscles. Physiotherapists are medical professionals who specialize in helping individuals recover from injury and restore function to their bodies. They use a combination of manual therapy, such as massage and mobilization, and exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility. Your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. They will work with you to improve your posture, strengthen your core muscles, and alleviate pain.
On the other hand, chiropractors use hands-on spinal manipulation and other alternative treatments to treat musculoskeletal conditions, such as back pain. They believe that proper alignment of the body’s musculoskeletal structure helps the body to heal itself without surgery or medications. Chiropractic treatment can help improve spinal joint mobility, reduce inflammation, and restore range of motion. During your first visit, the chiropractor will conduct a physical examination, evaluate your medical history, and perform a spinal adjustment that will help relieve your pain.
Before choosing between a physiotherapist and a chiropractor, note that they both have different approaches to treating back pain. A chiropractor can provide quick relief, while physiotherapy is more focused on long-term healing. Depending on your specific case, you may need to visit both specialists.
Some of the things you can do on your own to alleviate back pain symptoms include adopting a correct posture, exercising regularly, reducing stress, and incorporating good nutrition into your diet. Stretching exercises can do wonders particularly when flexibility and mobility are concerns. For example, hamstring, hip, and thoracic spine stretching exercise once or twice a day may help. Brace yourself in the doorway and lean forward, feeling the stretch in your chest, and open up your upper back. But it is always important to get a correct diagnosis before starting treatment.
While back pain can be a pain in the neck, there are ways to alleviate the discomfort and find relief. If you are experiencing back pain, consider getting a diagnosis and treatment from a physiotherapist or chiropractor. These healthcare providers can help relieve your pain, improve your posture, and prevent future injuries. If your doctor suggests surgery and you’re unsure, seek a second opinion before undergoing any procedures. Remember, prevention is always ideal, so make sure you stretch, exercise, eat healthy, and practice good posture to reduce your risk of developing back pain in the first place.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
