Does back pain have you side-lined, making it difficult to enjoy your favorite activities? Dr. Michelle Oz at Momentum Chiropractic in Kennesaw, serving both Kennesaw and Acworth, is proud to offer extensive back pain treatment options, including chiropractic care and corrective exercises. Call or schedule an appointment online today for a consultation.
What causes back pain?
It may not come as a surprise to hear that back pain is one of the most common medical issues in the United States. Abnormalities, inflammation, or strains in the joints, muscles, and discs of your spine can cause back pain.
Certain medical conditions can also cause back pain, including:
- Herniated discs
- Bulging discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Osteoarthritis
Back pain can also result from accidents and injuries suffered through car crashes, contact sports, and improper exercise form.
At Momentum Chiropractic, Dr. Michelle focuses on finding the cause of your back pain so that she can provide the proper diagnosis and treatment plan for your condition.
What is the difference between middle and lower back pain?
Back pain typically occurs in one of two areas:
Middle back pain
Middle back pain occurs in the area between the base of your neck and the bottom of your rib cage. Symptoms of middle back pain include:
- Dull, burning, or sharp pain
- Muscle stiffness
- Tingling or numbness in your arms, chest, stomach, or legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
Middle back pain is less common than lower back pain because this area of your back is not as engaged with movement as the vertebrae in your lower back.
Lower back pain
Lower back pain occurs in the area below your ribs and above your legs. Symptoms of lower back pain include:
- Muscle spasms
- Buttock pain
- Leg pain
- Sensitivity to touch and pressure
- Constant dull or sharp pain
Back pain is most commonly associated with the lower back because it bears most of your body’s weight and provides the most motion.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis affects nearly 27 million Americans and is the most common chronic condition of the joints. It affects your joints by breaking down the cartilage that acts as a cushion between your bones. The breakdown of this cartilage can cause severe pain, swelling, and movement problems.
Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint but is common in the shoulders, hips, and ankles.
How are osteoarthritis and back pain treated?
Dr. Michelle offers numerous treatment options for osteoarthritis and back pain, including:
- Corrective exercises
- Chiropractic care
- Therapeutic ultrasound
- Myofascial release therapy
- Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization
- Cryotherapy
If you have any questions about our services, call or schedule an appointment online today.