Persistent or recurring aches in the lower back and limbs may suggest a possible mechanical cause. This often requires a structural correction in order to relieve the condition. The doctor of chiropractic has studied conditions related to the spine and nervous system. They seek to not only locate the problem and give relief from symptoms, but also to correct the fundamental causes.
A 2 year study showed chiropractic was twice as effective for lower back pain as traditional treatments.
FACTS RELATING TO LOWER BACK PAIN
Approximately 75% of population will have lower back pain at some time in their lives
Most common cause of disability for people under 45 years of age
Each year, 15-20% of population will have back pain or related injury
1% of AUS population is permanently disabled from BP
Second most common reason for a visit to a health practitioner
A 2 year study showed chiropractic was twice as effective for lower back pain as traditional treatments
Low back pain is extremely common amongst the general population; in fact it is unusual for someone not to have suffered an episode of lower back pain at some time during their lives. Research tells us that between 60 to 80% of society will suffer lower back pain someday and that at any given time 20 to 30% of the population is experiencing pain in their lower back.
Studies into back pain have identified risk factors for developing lower back complaints. Age is important with lower back complaints tending to begin in the third decade of our life and reaching its greatest frequency in the middle years. Interestingly it is less common in the elderly. There is no difference in the rate at which the sexes develop lower back pain although men are twice as likely to develop disc problems as women.
Some research suggests a link between lower back pain and stress, anxiety, tension, fatigue and depression. There are stronger links shown between smokers and the development of lower back complaints. With smokers not only more likely to develop back pain but has a slower recovery rate.
One of the greatest risk factors for developing lower back pain is genetics. If there is a familial history of lower back complaints or conditions then any direct descendants have an increased risk of developing lower back pain in their lives. So make sure you choose your parents carefully.