Low Back Pain and Acupuncture as part of Naturopathic care ask OntarioNaturopathicClinic for help in Grimsby serving Hamilton

What is low back pain?

It is a common medical problem caused by damage to the muscles, nerves, bones, or joints in the back.

How do people present with low back pain?

Usually, patients present with either acute pain (that happens within minutes or hours), or chronic pains (which continue for days or weeks). Pain can be dull aching, sharp, or shooting pain. Usually, pain is limited to the back only. However, sometimes, pain can spread to other areas (such as the buttocks, legs or feet).

How to identify the reason for low back pain?

Proper history taking by your physician, or health care provider is crucial to know the reason for back pain. Also, proper physical examination includes but is not limited to examining the vertebral column bones, muscles, joints, and muscles. Special tests may be needed such as straight leg elevation tests and dermatome testing may be needed.

Do we need to do imaging (such as X-ray, CT scans, or MRI) of the spine to reach the diagnosis?

The answer to this question is no, as in many cases, the reason for low back pain can be known from simply history taking and a proper physical examination. However, sometimes a radiology examination may be needed if your doctor is not sure about the diagnosis and in some clinical situations.

Is there a danger of doing an X-ray for diagnosis of low back pain?

Usually, a single exposure to X-rays does not cause any problems, however, repeated exposure in a short period can be serious.

How can naturopathic medicine help manage low back pain?

Naturopathic doctors can treat your lower back pain in many ways such as using acupuncture, cupping, massage, joint adjustment (or manipulation), heat therapy, and herbal supplements. The use of proper physical exercises as advised by your naturopathic doctor is of paramount significance in keeping your muscle strength and activity. The use of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF) is very helpful in relieving lower back pain and It works by improving the blood supply to the deep tissues and muscles which accelerates the healing process and helps recovery.

Low back pain