Back pain is a common musculoskeletal problem, affecting 80% of Americans at some time during their life. At Illinois Spinal Care in Elmhurst and Palatine, Illinois, experienced chiropractor Travis Bertke, DC, and the team offer conservative, minimally invasive treatments for back pain, including therapeutic massage therapy and spinal decompression therapy. A series of outpatient treatments can provide lasting relief and improve your quality of life. Call Illinois Spinal Care today to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online.

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Should I see a chiropractor about back pain?

Yes. Make an appointment with the Illinois Spinal Care team if you have back pain lasting over a week that doesn’t improve with ice, rest, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. That’s particularly true if the pain is severe, extends into your legs, or keeps you from work and other routine activities.

What are the symptoms of back pain?

Back pain symptoms include:

  • A persistent, dull ache
  • Sharp stabbing, burning, or shooting pain
  • Pain that comes and goes
  • Stiffness in the morning or after resting
  • Pain that worsens during sitting or lying down
  • Difficulty lifting and bending

You might have pain that extends into your buttocks, legs, or feet, depending on the underlying cause.

What causes back pain?

Back pain occurs for various reasons, including general wear-and-tear and aging. Sometimes it’s the result of a traumatic injury, like a car accident or a fall. Other times, it’s due to an underlying musculoskeletal problem, like a herniated disc or a pinched nerve (like sciatica).

Regardless of the cause, long-term back pain isn’t normal. Treatment can prevent it from worsening and speed up your body’s healing process.

How does a doctor of chiropractic diagnose back pain?

Your Illinois Spinal Care provider reviews your medical records and asks about your pain, including where it occurs, what it feels like, and if certain activities (like standing or walking) worsen it.

Next, your provider examines your back and checks your ability to stand, sit, and lift your legs. This helps pinpoint the source of your discomfort and helps identify the underlying cause. Your provider orders X-rays if they suspect a structural problem, like a herniated disc or a vertebral fracture.

How does a chiropractor treat back pain?

The Illinois Spinal Care team uses a conservative and minimally invasive approach to treat back pain. They might suggest:

  • Chiropractic adjustments
  • Spinal decompression therapy
  • Sciatica management
  • Therapeutic massage therapy
  • Trigger point therapy
  • Myofascial release
  • Physical therapy
  • Ice and rest

It typically takes a combination of several treatments to provide lasting relief. Follow your chiropractor’s instructions and listen to your body. Recovery takes time, so it’s important you don’t rush back into activity.

Call the nearest Illinois Spinal Care office today to schedule back pain treatment, or book your visit online.