Portland, Oregon chiropractic, nutrition, functional medicine, functional movement and clinical hypnosis

Low back pain is incredibly common and, at times, is incredibly disabling. In Scandinavia, non-specific low back pain (low back pain that can not be explained by one distinct injury, disease or problem) is the largest cause for sick leave. As such, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence published a guideline for dealing with non-specific low back pain.

Here are the recommendations:

• Offer a tailored exercise program lasting 12 weeks with an 8 session maximum
• Offer Spinal Manipulation (chiropractic adjusting) lasting 12 weeks with a 9 session maximum
• Offer acupuncture lasting for 12 weeks with a 10 session maximum
• Do NOT offer injections in the back
• Consider referral for physical and psychological treatment comprised of 100 hours lasting 8 weeks
• Do NOT offer x-ray for non-specific low back pain
• Offer MRI only in context of referral for spinal fusion

As a chiropractor in Portland, Oregon, many patients come to Optimum Function with back pain. Some have mild pain, and others very severe and they are in a great deal of pain. On a clinical and experiential level, I whole-heartedly agree with the recommendations put forth by the authors of this paper.
Often, chiropractic adjustments work immediately to help the patients with back pain function on a pain-free level. When adjusting is not the “magic bullet”, I often combine it with cold laser, the Graston Technique, kinesiotape, Arthrostim adjusting and Vibracussor percussion-assisted soft-tissue work. These treatments are often referred to as “passive care” because you (the patient) are having “stuff” done to you; even if you may be somewhat active in the treatments.

Exercise, stability and rehabilitation activities will be incorporated as soon as indicated (often when your pain is reduced to the point where you can function). At my chiropractic and nutrition clinic in Portland, Oregon, I utilize the TRX suspension system, kettlebells , body weight exercises, active stretching and mobilization and band work to help you low back heal healthy and strong.
Lastly, I will talk with you about certain nutritional avenues in which to help support your healing process and create health and wellness long-term.

If you are experiencing low back pain, I encourage you to give chiropractic manipulation a trial therapy. Manipulation is very safe, and very cost effective.

Share on Facebook