According to a SingHealth report, approximately 80% of Singaporean adults suffer from some form of back pain.
The most common symptoms of back pain are muscle sprains caused by overexertion, poor posture, or injuries. In other cases, back pain can be related to issues related to the discs that separate the spinal vertebrae.
Understanding the Difference Between Disc Issues and Muscle Issues
Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand the fundamental differences between disc and muscle issues, as each type of problem affects the body in distinct ways.
By recognising these differences, you can better identify the source of your back pain and take the appropriate steps toward effective treatment.
What is a Disc Issue?
Discs act as cushions for the individual bones (or vertebrae) in the body's spine. They have a tough, rubbery exterior known as an annulus, which surrounds a soft, jelly-like interior known as the nucleus.
A disc issue, such as a herniated or slipped disc, occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the outer layer. This can compress nearby nerves, leading to sharp, radiating pain, often down the leg, and possible numbness, tingling, or weakness.
Disc issues are often the result of wear and tear, injury, or degenerative conditions.
What is a Muscle Issue?
On the other hand, muscle issues refer to strains or sprains involving the back muscles or ligaments. Overexertion, sudden movements, or chronic poor posture are the main causes of muscle-related back pain.
Disc issues are different from muscle pain because the pain is usually localised. For example, back pain caused by muscle aches will generally not present symptoms such as numbness or tingling in other parts of the body.
Also, back pain brought upon by muscle issues is often worsened by movement or pressure on the affected area.
Comparing Disc and Muscle-Related Back Pain Symptoms
Aspect | Disc Issues | Muscle Issues |
Pain Location and Type | Sharp, intense pain, often radiating from the lower back down the legs; described as electric or burning. | Dull, localised ache or tightness in one specific area of the back; may worsen with movement or pressure. |
Associated Symptoms | Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or feet. | Muscle spasms, stiffness, and limited range of motion; pain often triggered by physical activity or poor posture. |
When to Seek Treatment | Persistent or worsening back pain, especially with numbness or tingling, should be evaluated by a chiropractor. If loss of bladder or bowel control is evident seek medical assistance immediately. | If muscle pain persists despite rest, or significantly limits mobility, consider seeing a chiropractor for back pain treatment. |
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnostic Methods
Fortunately, back pain is a very treatable condition. In most cases, surgical or pharmaceutical treatment is not required, as the body can heal over time.
However, given the sometimes debilitating pain, some may choose to seek out chiropractic treatment for relief and to speed up the healing process.
When opting for chiropractic care, you must work with an experienced chiropractor who understands your needs to ensure that you receive the best possible care.
Clinical Evaluation
During your first appointment, the chiropractor will work with you to determine the source of your back pain. They will ask about your medical history and conduct a physical examination.
In addition, the chiropractor may perform specific tests to pinpoint the source of the pain,
such as checking your range of motion, muscle strength, and reflexes. This hands-on evaluation is crucial for forming an initial diagnosis and deciding the next steps.
Imaging and Tests
In cases where the cause of back pain isn’t clear from a clinical evaluation alone, additional diagnostic tools may be required. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), or CT scans are often used to examine the spine and surrounding tissues more closely.
MRIs, in particular, are useful for identifying disc issues, as they provide detailed images of soft tissues, including the spinal discs. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide the development of an effective treatment plan.
Chiropractic Treatment for Back Pain
Chiropractic care has become a popular and safe option for treating back pain, offering relief and correcting spinal misalignments. Its appeal lies in the non-invasive techniques used by chiropractors, which effectively address pain without needing surgery or medication.
Chiropractic Adjustments
The foundation of chiropractic treatment is spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustments.
This technique involves applying controlled force to specific spine joints to relieve nerve pressure, reduce inflammation, and correct spinal alignment, ultimately alleviating pain.
For those with disc issues, such as herniated or slipped discs, chiropractic adjustments can be particularly effective in restoring alignment and reducing nerve compression, providing significant relief.
Soft Tissue Therapy
For muscle-related back pain, chiropractors may use soft tissue therapies such as massage, stretching, and trigger point therapy. These techniques help to relax tense muscles, improve circulation, and promote healing. By addressing the muscle imbalances, chiropractors can reduce pain and improve mobility.
Personalised Care Plans
Chiropractors provide personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. These plans may include a combination of spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and recommendations for exercises or lifestyle changes to prevent future episodes of back pain.
Total Health Chiro - Providing Relief from Chronic Back Pain
Chiropractic care takes a holistic approach to health, considering how the spine and nervous system interact with the rest of the body. By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of back pain, chiropractic treatment provides relief and supports overall well-being.
Chiropractic care offers a natural and effective solution for managing back pain. It helps patients return to their normal activities with reduced pain and improved function.
Comments