Low Back Pain

 

Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a Chiropractor. It can feel like a dull ache, sharp pain, stiffness or even pain that runs down the leg (Hartvigsen et al., 2018).

 

How Low Back Pain Can Typically Present

1. Mechanical or Non-Specific Low Back Pain – The most common type, often linked to movement or posture (Qaseem et al., 2017; Foster et al., 2018).

2. Nerve-Related Pain – Sharp, shooting pain down one or both legs, sometimes with tingling or weakness (Foster et al., 2018; Oliveira et al., 2018).

3. Referred Pain – Dull ache in hips, thighs or buttocks coming from the lower back (Bogduk, 2012).

4. Posture or Movement-Related – Triggered by prolonged sitting, standing or bending (Maher et al., 2017).

5. Muscle Spasm/Tightness – Local tenderness or stiffness due to muscle tension (NICE, 2016).

 

Common Causes

• Poor posture or long periods of sitting

• Muscle or ligament strain

• Joint or disc wear and tear

• Weak or imbalanced muscles

• Stress, poor sleep or low mood
  (Hartvigsen et al., 2018; NICE, 2016)

 

How Chiropractic Can Help

Guidelines recommend starting with safe, non-drug care for most low back pain (Qaseem et al., 2017; NICE, 2016). Chiropractors use evidence-based approaches such as:

• Spinal Adjustments & Mobilisation – Improve movement and reduce pain (Rubinstein et al., 2011; Paige et al., 2017).

• Exercise & Rehabilitation – Build strength and prevent recurrence (Hayden et al., 2005).

• Soft Tissue Therapy – Ease muscle tightness and improve circulation (Furlan et al., 2015).

• Posture & Lifestyle Advice – Support long-term back health (Qaseem et al., 2017).