Most people associate chiropractors with back pain and indeed majority of the patients we see come in with back complaints. Many of us will experience at least one episode of back pain at some point during our lifetime.

For some, these are minor episodes resolving quickly. However, for many others, the pain can be more severe, persistent and long term (chronic). It can affect normal daily activities, quality of life and lead to time off work.

If you are suffering from back pain or back discomfort, having a consultation with a chiropractor can help identify the cause of your problem.

Pain is usually an indication that your back is not moving or working as it should.

As chiropractors, we deal with mechanical related spinal problems, so we can help get your back moving and working properly again. We do this by using a variety of treatment techniques, mainly manual, including manipulation (adjustment), mobilisation, soft tissue therapies and exercise and lifestyle advice. We also give specific advice on how to minimise or prevent recurrences of your back complaint.

Many back problems are due to mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system and not due to serious diseases. We refer to this as Mechanical Back Pain, which means that your back pain is stemming from your spine and/or the muscles around it.

Your back is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves and discs. Any of these structures can be involved. You can sprain ligaments, strain muscles, irritate joints and nerves, all of which can lead to back pain.

You can get back pain from everyday activities at home or work. A simple movement like picking up a pen from the floor can trigger back pain. You can also get back pain as a result of a fall, an accident or sports. Arthritis, poor posture, being overweight and stress can cause or complicate back pain.

Your chiropractor is highly trained to find out the cause of your back pain. If your complaint is not a chiropractic case, you will then be referred to your GP or appropriate healthcare specialist.

When we are talking about the back, we are in fact referring to the spine and the surrounding muscles.

Your pelvis is at the base of your spine and is made up of the sacrum (tailbone), coccyx and iliac bones. The pelvis provides support for your spine and upper body and is where your hip attaches.

There are three regions in your spine: The cervical (neck), thoracic (upper/middle back) and the lumbar.

The lumbar region is the lower part of your back and it is made up of five vertebrae: L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5.

The lumbosacral region supports the entire weight of your upper body. It is under constant pressure, particularly when you are bending, twisting and lifting. This is why most cases of back pain develop in the lower back.

Preventing back pain is all about looking after and taking care of your back at home and work. Making sure your back is strong and fit, reducing excess stresses and strains on your back and avoiding bad habits go a long way in preventing problems.