Condition
Low Back Pain
From a stiff morning ache to pain that stops you mid-workout, low back pain is one of the most common reasons active adults come to see us.
Common symptoms
- —Stiffness that's worse first thing in the morning
- —Pain with bending, lifting, or twisting
- —A dull ache that flares after long sitting or standing
- —Muscle tightness or spasm across the low back
What causes it
- —Joint restriction or muscle imbalance from repetitive movement patterns
- —Disc-related irritation
- —Deconditioning combined with a sudden increase in activity
How we diagnose it
- —A history of when and how the pain started, including any recent changes in training, work, or activity
- —A movement-based exam to see which positions and motions reproduce or relieve the pain
- —Orthopedic testing to differentiate joint, disc, and muscular sources of pain
- —A screen for red-flag signs that would warrant imaging or referral, since most low back pain doesn't require imaging up front
Our treatment approach
A movement-based exam to identify what's driving the pain
Hands-on treatment to restore motion and reduce pain
A strength and mobility plan to address the underlying cause
Guidance on returning to training or sport without setbacks
Recovery timeline
Every case is different — this is a general guide, not a guarantee.
Weeks 1–2: Reduce pain and protect the area
Early visits focus on calming pain and restoring basic movement — bending, sitting, and standing — with hands-on treatment and activity guidance.
Weeks 2–4: Rebuild movement and control
As pain settles, we introduce corrective exercise to address the muscle imbalances or movement patterns behind the flare-up.
Weeks 4–8: Return to training
Strength and load tolerance are progressed toward your normal training or work demands, with the goal of preventing the same flare-up from recurring.
What to expect at your first visit
- —A discussion of your pain, training history, and daily demands on your back
- —A hands-on and movement exam to pinpoint what's driving the pain
- —Treatment focused on the most irritated area, when appropriate, the same day
- —A realistic explanation of what to expect over the coming weeks
Self-care between visits
- —Keep moving within a pain-tolerable range rather than resting completely
- —Break up long sitting or standing periods with short walks
- —Use ice for acute flare-ups and heat for general stiffness, unless we advise otherwise
- —Avoid heavy lifting or twisting under load until you've regained pain-free mobility
FAQs
Do I need imaging before I can be treated?
Most low back pain doesn't require imaging up front — we'll recommend it if your exam points to something that warrants it.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on how long you've had the pain and what's driving it — we'll give you a realistic timeline after your first visit.
Is it safe to exercise with low back pain?
In most cases, yes — the right kind of movement supports recovery better than complete rest, though certain motions may need to be modified temporarily.
What's the difference between muscular and disc-related back pain?
Muscular pain tends to be localized and worsens with specific movements or palpation, while disc-related pain often includes leg symptoms or is aggravated by sitting and bending — our exam helps tell the two apart.
Should I use ice or heat?
Ice tends to help more with acute flare-ups and inflammation, while heat is often better for general stiffness — we'll tell you which fits your situation.
Can low back pain come from something other than the spine?
Yes — hip, pelvic, or even core stability issues can refer pain to the low back, which is why a full movement exam matters, not just a look at the spine itself.
Is chiropractic care safe for chronic low back pain?
Yes — for most chronic low back pain, conservative, hands-on care combined with a strengthening program is a well-supported first-line approach.
What should I avoid doing while my back heals?
Avoid heavy lifting, twisting under load, and prolonged static positions until you've regained pain-free mobility; we'll guide specific modifications based on your exam.
Will my low back pain come back after treatment?
Addressing the underlying cause — not just the flare-up — meaningfully reduces the chance of recurrence, which is why our plans include a strength and mobility component, not just symptom relief.
Is a stiff back in the morning something to worry about?
Occasional morning stiffness that eases with movement is common, but stiffness that persists or worsens over time is worth having evaluated.
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Book an evaluation and get a plan built around your sport, your goals, and your schedule.