It's Time to See the Chiropractor
By Sara Butler
Back pain is common. According to the American Chiropractic Association, you have a pretty good chance -- about 80 percent -- of experiencing back pain at some point in your long life. Sometimes the pain is only temporary such as when you pull a muscle or have an accident. Yet sometimes pain can occur and just keep on going. That begs the question: When should you see a chiropractor for pain? Here's when you shouldn't try to ignore your pain, but instead get to The Joint Chiropractic for an evaluation.
The Pain is Chronic
When you experience back pain, you may think that you simply need to give it time to go away. Taking over-the-counter medications only mask the symptoms; they don't resolve them. If you notice pain going on for longer than a few weeks, then it's time to get to the chiropractor for an evaluation. They can do an exam to help determine the underlying cause of your pain and create a treatment plan to target it and help you find relief.
The Pain Radiates
When you experience pain that seems to radiate to different parts of your body, then it's definitely time to seek help from a chiropractor. Pain in the neck or back that travels down the extremities may be an indication of something going on with the nerves. If the nerves are irritated for one reason or another, damage may be done that you won't be able to fix later -- so get to the chiropractor as soon as you can to ensure it doesn't get worse.
The Pain Keeps You Up at Night
It's not normal to experience pain or discomfort that keeps you up at night or seems to flare up and get worse when you're trying to sleep. If that happens, a serious issue may be causing your back pain and it's important to get to The Joint as soon as you can for an evaluation. Hopefully, you'll be sleeping through the night soon.
The Pain Alters Your Gait
If you're adjusting the way you walk in order to reduce the pain you feel, then it's time to see the chiropractor. Also, problems walking any distance and altering the way you walk to avoid pain is an issue that needs attention.
Don't wait to see if the pain simply goes away on its own. Instead, get a professional opinion from the chiropractors at The Joint to help you start the road to recovery!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Jose, Calif.