Walking, sitting and laying down are basic activities that we take part in every day. When these activities are hindered due to back and neck pain, every day life can be much more frustrating and painful than it should be. Luckily, your Chula Vista chiropractor can help you beat back and neck pain and get back to a normal, pain-free life.

What causes neck and back pain? 

The most typical causes of neck and back pain include:

• Trauma: Auto accidents are the most common cause of whiplash, a condition which occurs when the neck is “whipped” back and forth, causing strain on the muscles and strain on the ligaments. Injury from lifting too much weight can also be the underlying cause of back or neck pain.
• Aging: Conditions that commonly occur in older patients, such as spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease can all attribute to back or neck pain.
• Everyday life: Obesity, sleeping habits, poor posture and weak supporting muscles in the abdomen are common culprits in neck and back pain.

How does chiropractic care work? 
While treating patients, chiropractors focus on using hands-on methods to manipulate and align the musculoskeletal structure, specifically the spine. This correction of alignment reduces pain. Functionality and mobility of muscles and joints are also addressed during chiropractic adjustments.

What can I expect at a chiropractic appointment?
Before any adjustments are made, a consultation takes place to determine problem areas, the severity of the pain and potential treatments. It is important to let your chiropractor know how long the pain has lasted and what eases or worsens it. Medical history such as prior injuries or illnesses are also used to help pinpoint issues and causes. X-rays and a physical examination aid in creating a specialized treatment plan. Finally, adjustments are made, sometimes in conjunction with treatments like:

While treatment plans are created on a patient by patient basis, several adjustments over a few weeks are usually sufficient in treating and correcting most conditions which cause neck and back pain.

Are you experiencing back or neck pain? Let Dr. Steven Wachs, DC and the staff at Wachs Chiropractic Health Center in Chula Vista, CA help you get back on your feet. Call (619) 427-4747 to schedule an appointment today!