Lower Back Pain Causes -The Correct Diagnosis:

Lower back pain has a multitude of causes. Lower back pain causes can be explained in terms of diagnosis or in terms of the events and factors that actually lead to pain and dysfunction.

The first step to treat lower back pain is to arrive at a diagnosis so that treatment can target the tissues that are causing pain. Call for help (647) 444-4909 It is important to determine where the pain radiates and what activities cause increased or diminished pain. It is important for patients to understand that the area of pain is not always the area where the pain is actually coming from.

Research shows that the exact tissues causing low back pain cannot be specifically singled-out in some individuals. However, we are usually able to narrow down the general location of the pain.

Areas of Spinal Dysfunction:

Doctors of Chiropractic specialize in palpating (feeling) for the normal motions found between vertebrae of the joints of the spine and detect and when this motion is lost at specific segments (spinal dysfunction/restriction). Chiropractors study for years to be able to develop the sensitivity needed for this specialized skill.

When motion is lost segmentally, the overall flexibility of the spine is negatively affected. People feel varying intensities and types of pain and/ stiffness. Activities of daily living are affected, and people feel frustrated that no matter how much they stretch or massage the muscles, there still seems to be something that isn’t quite right or seems “out of place” in their spines.

Additionally, Dr. Horowitz has training in using the patented PulstarTM, a computerized software program that scans the spine and gives objective information about segmental areas of restriction in each area of the spine.

Common Causes of Lower Back Pain include:

  • poor postural habits
  • prolonged sitting
  • Improper computer workstation setup
  • exposure to vibratory forces (truck drivers, jackhammer operators)
  • inadequate calcium, vitamin D
  • physical inactivity and inadequate and weight-bearing exercise
  • trauma due to sports, motor vehicle accidents and falls
  • incomplete rehabilitation of past injuries
  • improper lifting techniques
  • repetitive body motions
  • scoliosis (lateral deviation of the spine)
  • fallen foot arches and other foot abnormalities
  • smoking (which affects tissue blood supply and nutrition)

Tissue sources of lower back pain may include:

Many tissues in the spine are pain-sensitive and when damaged can lead to pain, For example:

  • large nerve roots that go to the legs and arms
  • smaller nerves that supply the bones and joints of the spine itself may be irritated
  • large paired back muscles (Erector Spinae)
  • spinal bones, ligaments, synovial membranes, capsules and cartilage of joints
  • discs found in between the vertebrae
  • sacroiliac joints

If your back pain has lasted more than 16 weeks, continues no matter what position you are in (sitting, standing, lying) or is accompanied by other symptoms like loss of appetite, fevers or chills, Dr. Horowitz will immediately refer you to your medical doctor, to first rule out more serious causes. If you have other risk factors such as having a history of cancer, Dr. Horowitz may send you for x-rays and possibly referral for other imaging.

We are here to help!

At My Toronto Chiropractor, Dr. Horowitz is aware of the many lower back pain causes.  Chiropractic treatments focus primarily on the causes of your back problems and not just the symptoms. This leads to more rapid and lasting pain relief and even most importantly, minimizes the chance of future back problems.

By Dr. Horowitz educating patients about their specific condition and prescribing specific exercises at the right time, patients feel more empowered to carry through with self-care. This reduces their fear of re-injuring themselves and helps prevent future reoccurrences.

Pain is a signal, telling us that something is wrong. Rather than ignoring it, we are wise to take heed of it. If you are experiencing neurological/nerve type problems such as leg weakness, leg pain, numbness or tingling it is wise to seek professional care as soon as possible.

You don’t need to suffer in silence!

Call My Toronto Chiropractor Health Clinic at (647) 349-4909 for an appointment or ask Dr. Horowitz a question by submitting the form below:



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