Back pain - it is something that strikes millions of Americans. In fact, according to the American Chiropractic Association about 50% of working Americans will experience some type of back pain each year. Back pain is also one of the most cited reasons for missing work. After colds, it is the most common reason that people visit their physician. Experts have estimated that as many as 80% of the population will experience back pain at some point in their lives.

What do you have back pain?

This is a complicated answer. The back is composed of a complex structure of joints, bones, ligaments and muscles. It takes very little to strain or sprain these muscles. Or, you could rupture a disc or do something repetitively that irritates the joints. All these things can lead to back pain. Back pain can be the result of a traumatic injury or event or it can occur over years of chronic misuse. There's no simple answer. When you have it you certainly know it and want to get rid of - immediately.

When you learn that 80% of the population will at some point experience back pain, those are some pretty grim statistics. If you went to your primary care physician, the mode of treatment would be to prescribe a medication. If that did not alleviate your symptoms then the next course of action would be to see a specialist who could possibly recommend surgery. Wouldn't it be nice to know that it is not necessary have surgery in order to rid yourself of back pain?

Chiropractors have been using spinal manipulation over 100 years with great success. Chiropractic was largely ignored for many years as a viable option for those with musculoskeletal and other health conditions. However, as millions of people have found consistent relief and results from the treatments, chiropractic can no longer be ignored.

What are adjustments?

Adjustment or chiropractic spinal manipulation is a safe and non-invasive method for treating the spine and alleviating pain. When done consistently and in conjunction with a treatment plan, chiropractic manipulations have terrific results. The chiropractor will manually apply pressure directly where the adjustment is needed along the spine. This manual application of pressure restores function, mobility and health to the joints and spine. Often, the discs and joints are compressed and irritated. After an adjustment fluid and nutrients are able to return to the area to assist in regaining health.

Chiropractic has been around for over 100 years and has gained recognition and status for providing relief and results to patients. If you are looking for a drug-free and non-invasive way to treat your back pain then chiropractic is just the answer you are looking for. It's important to find a care provider with whom you trust and have a good rapport in order to maximize the health benefits in the long term.