Low Back Pain - Simple or not so simple?

Thousands of people suffer with low back pain every day, some may think it simple, and some may not. People complain of strong pain around the small of the low back which sometimes results in a compressed or locked up feeling. 

Often there is an ache that comes and goes but it can feel like it is constant.  Bending forward to put on shoes for example is difficult, turning over in bed isn’t easy, and feeling low back stiffness in the mornings are all examples of simple low back pain.  Relief can be gained by moving around, perhaps by stretching and often by activities such as walking.

For many people the small joints of the lumbar spine are involved in causing these symptoms. These facet joints link the vertebrae to each other and allow the spine to bend forward, lean backwards and provide a little amount of rotation.

If these joints tighten up then movement is restricted, tenderness and pain may result. This is an example of mechanical back pain, so called because mechanically speaking the facet joints do not move as fully and smoothly as they should do. Mechanical back pain is often defined as ‘simple’ because it is benign, commonly occurring and does not lead to further symptoms, such as sharp leg pain often called sciatica.

Sometimes leg ache may occur with simple back pain and occurs when the problem in the facet joints is actually felt in the leg.  Simple low back pain can be caused by minor injuries such as lifting something whilst in the wrong position, perhaps by poor posture, or even by sitting incorrectly for long periods of time.

When this problem does occur it can be difficult for most people to carry on doing the simple things of daily life like getting in and out of the car, tying shoe laces or even spending long times standing. Restoring movement to the small facet joints is one way of returning the mechanical status of the low back to its most functional state. Consequently the smooth and fluid movement of these joints returns and often results in pain free movements

Gentle chiropractic manipulation of the facet joints often restores movement simply, and may result in a low back with good mechanical function. If you think that chiropractic care may help you and you wish to discuss this then please contact Henfield Chiropractic Clinic.

John Pursglove.  MSc (Chiropractic), BSc(Hons), DC, MCC, Chiropractor.

For more information please contact the Henfield Chiropractic Clinic, Furners Lane,  Henfield, West Sussex BN5 9HS, or call 01273 494680.  www.henfieldchiroclinic.co.uk

Return To News Page