The good news: most March flare-ups are predictable and very treatable with the right mix of chiropractic care, physical therapy, massage therapy, and smart at-home habits.

Why March Triggers More Back and Neck Pain

Even if you didn’t “hurt yourself,” March has a few common patterns that lead to pain:

• Sudden activity jumps: weekend projects after a winter lull load your joints and tissues fast
• Cold, tight muscles: your body still moves like it’s winter, even if your schedule says spring
• More sitting plus more doing: desk posture during the week, then lifting and moving on weekends
• Old injuries wake up: previous car accidents, sports strains, or “I tweaked it years ago” issues can flare when activity changes

Back pain is extremely common and often shows up with everyday activities like bending, lifting, and prolonged sitting, which is why these seasonal shifts hit so hard. Source: NIH (NIAMS) back pain overview.

The Most Common March Pain Patterns We See

1) Low back pain after lifting, yard work, or spring cleaning

A classic setup is bending plus twisting plus lifting (bags of soil, storage bins, laundry baskets, kids). Your spine and hips can usually handle load, but they don’t love awkward angles or sudden volume.

Quick at-home reset:

• Use a hip hinge when you lift (push hips back like closing a car door)
• Keep the item close to your body
• Exhale during the effort (avoid holding your breath and straining)

If low back pain keeps returning, a combined approach often works best:

• Chiropractic care can help restore motion in stiff segments and reduce “locked up” feeling
• Physical therapy can retrain safer lifting mechanics and core control
• Massage therapy can reduce muscle guarding so you move more naturally

2) Neck stiffness and headaches from desk posture

If your head drifts forward, neck and upper-back muscles work overtime. Many people don’t realize how much screen height, chair setup, and keyboard/mouse position matter until symptoms start.

Two simple fixes:

• Raise your screen so the top third is closer to eye level
• Do gentle chin tucks (like a small double-chin) for 5 reps, 2–3 times per day

For a simple, credible workstation posture guide, OSHA’s computer workstation eTool is a great reference:

3) Shoulder pain from spring projects and sports

Painting, raking, cleaning, and returning to golf or tennis can irritate the shoulder, especially if the upper back is stiff or the rotator cuff is overloaded. The shoulder is complex, so repetitive overhead work can trigger multiple common issues. Source: AAOS OrthoInfo shoulder pain overview.

Helpful habit:
Before activity, do 30–60 seconds of arm circles plus shoulder blade squeezes. Warm tissue handles load better.

Why Chiropractic, PT, and Massage Often Work Better Together

If you’re searching for an Everett chiropractor but also want lasting results, it helps to think in roles:

Chiropractic care

Best for improving joint motion and reducing stiffness in the neck, mid-back, low back, and pelvis.

Physical therapy

Best for building strength, stability, balance, and movement habits so symptoms don’t keep returning, especially for recurring back pain, shoulder issues, and post-injury recovery.

Massage therapy

Best for relieving tight muscles, improving comfort, supporting recovery, and reducing stress-related tension that can keep pain “stuck.”

This lines up well with mainstream ergonomics and musculoskeletal injury prevention guidance from CDC/NIOSH, which emphasizes reducing strain and improving how the body handles repetitive or heavy demands:

A Simple March Movement Plan (5–10 minutes)

Do this 4–5 days per week to keep your back and neck happier:

• 1 minute: brisk walk around the house (warm-up)
• 1 minute: cat-cow stretch (easy spinal motion)
• 1 minute: hip hinge practice (10 slow reps)
• 1 minute: doorway chest stretch (opens shoulders)
• 1 minute: chin tucks plus shoulder blade squeezes
• 1–2 minutes: gentle glute bridges (10 reps)

Consistency matters more than intensity.

When You Should Get Checked Out

Book an evaluation if you notice:

• Pain lasting more than 7–10 days
• Pain that keeps returning with the same triggers
• Numbness, tingling, or radiating pain into the arm/hand or leg/foot
• Weakness, balance changes, or pain that’s getting worse
• You’re avoiding activity because you don’t trust your back/neck

For another solid non-chiropractic overview of ongoing low back pain symptoms and when to seek care, MedlinePlus is a helpful reference: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007422.htm

FAQ: Chiropractic, PT, and Massage in Everett, WA

Can a chiropractor help with back pain and sciatica?

Chiropractic care often helps by improving joint motion and reducing stiffness that can aggravate back pain. If symptoms include sciatica, many patients do best with a combined plan that also includes physical therapy to improve strength and movement patterns.

Do I need physical therapy for whiplash after a car accident?

Whiplash commonly benefits from guided rehabilitation, especially when symptoms linger beyond a few days. PT focuses on restoring normal range of motion, improving stability, and gradually returning you to normal activity. Many patients also benefit from chiropractic care and massage therapy for mobility and soft-tissue tension.

How long should I wait before coming in for neck or back pain?

If pain is mild and improving, a few days of gentle movement may be enough. If pain lasts more than 7–10 days, keeps returning, or affects sleep/work/activities, it’s smart to get evaluated sooner.

What’s the difference between massage therapy and physical therapy?

Massage therapy focuses on soft tissue tension, soreness, and recovery support. Physical therapy focuses on correcting movement, building strength/stability, and reducing recurrence. They often complement each other well.

Can you help with work injuries and occupational injuries?

Yes. Many work injuries involve repetitive strain, lifting mechanics, posture demands, and overuse. A coordinated plan can address pain relief plus movement training so you can return to work with more confidence and fewer flare-ups.

Does chiropractic care help with headaches from tension?

Many tension-type headaches are linked to neck and upper-back stiffness plus muscle tightness. Chiropractic care may help mobility, while massage therapy can reduce muscular tension, and PT can address posture and endurance for long-term prevention.

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture?

They’re different approaches. Dry needling is commonly used in rehab settings to target muscle trigger points and reduce tension. If you’re considering it, ask what it’s being used for and how it fits into your overall plan.

What areas do you serve near Everett?

Many patients come from Everett, Lynnwood, Mukilteo, Mill Creek, and nearby Snohomish County communities for chiropractic care, physical therapy, and massage therapy—especially for auto injury and work injury rehab.

The Importance of Preventative Care

Preventative care is the proactive approach to health and wellness, focusing on preventing injuries and ailments before they occur rather than treating them after the fact. For athletes, this means taking measures to ensure their bodies remain resilient and capable of handling the rigors of their sport. Incorporating routine chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy into an athlete’s training regimen can significantly contribute to this goal.

According to data from the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), chiropractors treat more than 35 million Americans annually, including a significant number of athletes. Chiropractic care is integrated into the health teams of every NFL team, every NBA franchise, 28 MLB teams, and many professional soccer teams worldwide. This widespread adoption underscores the value placed on chiropractic care for maintaining peak physical condition and preventing injuries​

Chiropractic Adjustments: Aligning the Path to Peak Performance

Chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues, particularly those related to the spine. Misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can lead to a variety of problems, including pain, reduced mobility, and decreased performance. Chiropractors use specific adjustments to correct these misalignments, restoring proper function and alignment to the spine and other joints.

For athletes, routine chiropractic adjustments offer several benefits:

Enhanced Performance: Proper spinal alignment ensures optimal nervous system function, which can improve muscle coordination, strength, and overall performance. Athletes often report feeling more balanced and agile after adjustments.

Studies on the central nervous system’s control of posture and locomotion demonstrate that maintaining proper spinal alignment is essential for efficient movement and balance. Proper alignment facilitates the appropriate activation of postural and locomotor muscles, which is critical for coordinated and smooth movements​.

Injury Prevention: Misalignments can increase the risk of injuries by placing undue stress on certain parts of the body. Regular chiropractic care helps maintain proper alignment, reducing the likelihood of strains, sprains, and other injuries.

Faster Recovery: Chiropractic adjustments can enhance the body’s natural healing processes by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. This can lead to quicker recovery times from injuries and intense training sessions.

Pain Relief: By addressing the root causes of pain rather than just the symptoms, chiropractic care can provide long-term relief from chronic pain issues, allowing athletes to train and compete more effectively.

Massage Therapy: Relax, Recover, and Rejuvenate

Massage therapy is another critical component of preventative care for athletes. It involves manipulating the muscles and soft tissues of the body to relieve tension, reduce pain, and promote relaxation. Different types of massage, such as deep tissue, sports massage, and myofascial release, can be tailored to meet the specific needs of athletes.

The benefits of routine massage therapy for athletes include:

Improved Flexibility: Regular massage helps keep muscles flexible and pliable, which can enhance an athlete’s range of motion and reduce the risk of injuries related to tight or stiff muscles.

Reduced Muscle Soreness: Intense training can lead to muscle soreness and stiffness. Massage therapy increases blood flow to the affected areas, promoting the removal of metabolic waste products and reducing soreness.

Stress Reduction: The physical and mental demands of athletic competition can be stressful. Massage therapy promotes relaxation and helps reduce stress levels, contributing to better overall mental health and focus.

Enhanced Circulation: Studies have shown that massage therapy can significantly increase muscle blood flow. This enhanced blood flow helps deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, which is crucial for recovery and performance. For instance, research published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports demonstrated that massage increases blood flow in skeletal muscle, which facilitates better oxygen and nutrient delivery to muscle tissues​.

Integrating Chiropractic and Massage Therapy

The combination of chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy provides a comprehensive approach to preventative care for athletes. While chiropractic care focuses on alignment and joint health, massage therapy addresses muscle health and relaxation. Together, they create a synergistic effect that can help athletes maintain peak physical condition.

To maximize the benefits of chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy, athletes should incorporate these treatments into their regular training routines. Depending on the sport and individual needs, this might mean weekly or bi-weekly sessions with a chiropractor and regular massage therapy appointments.

Conclusion

Preventative care is essential for athletes who want to stay at the top of their game. Routine chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy offer a powerful combination of benefits, from improved performance and injury prevention to faster recovery and pain relief. By integrating these therapies into their training regimen, athletes can ensure they are taking proactive steps to maintain their health, optimize their performance, and achieve their goals.

Everett Spine and Rehab: PNW;s One-Stop Solution for Optimal Health and Performance

At our all-in-one clinic, we offer comprehensive chiropractic care, massage therapy, and physical therapy services tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance your performance, someone recovering from an injury, or just seeking to improve your overall well-being, our team of experienced professionals is here to help.

Experience the benefits of integrated care that combines the best of chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic massage, and personalized physical therapy.

Come to us for a complete solution to your health and wellness needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Sources:

Biomedcentral.com
frontiersin.org
acatoday.org
Springer.com
openai.com

Back pain affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly hinder daily activities and quality of life. The World Health Organization found that in 2020, low back pain affected 619 million worldwide. While various factors contribute to back pain, including injuries, poor posture, and sedentary lifestyles, diet plays a crucial role in managing inflammation and supporting musculoskeletal health. As we explore the connection between nutrition and back pain, we’ll uncover a range of foods known for their anti-inflammatory properties, vitamins, and minerals that may offer relief and support in alleviating discomfort.

Foods that May Help with Back Pain

Certain foods can potentially help alleviate back pain through various mechanisms, including reducing inflammation, supporting muscle and bone health, and providing nutrients essential for overall well-being.

Here are some foods and how they may help with back pain:

Fatty Fish (Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines):

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is often associated with pain, including back pain. Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially alleviating back pain.

Tart Cherries:

Contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids. These compounds may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to back pain.

Cherries, particularly tart cherry juice, have shown promise in alleviating post-run muscle soreness and joint pain. A study conducted by Oregon Health & Science University involved 54 long-distance runners who consumed tart cherry juice or a placebo leading up to a race. While neither group finished the race without experiencing pain, those who drank cherry juice reported a notably smaller increase in pain during and after the race. Additionally, research published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage found that cherry juice reduced joint pain in 58 patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis, attributed to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Turmeric:

Contains curcumin, a compound with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin may help reduce inflammation in the body, which could contribute to alleviating back pain.

Ginger:

Possesses anti-inflammatory properties similar to turmeric. Ginger may help reduce inflammation and pain in conditions such as osteoarthritis, which can affect the spine and contribute to back pain.

Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries):

Rich in antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and vitamin C, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. By reducing inflammation, berries could potentially alleviate back pain.

Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Swiss Chard):

High in vitamins and minerals, including calcium and magnesium, which are essential for bone health and muscle function. Strong bones and muscles can support the spine and help prevent or alleviate back pain.

Nuts and Seeds (Almonds, Walnuts, Flaxseeds, Chia Seeds):

Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients that can help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health. Almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts are rich sources of fiber, calcium, magnesium, zinc, Vitamin E, and Omega-3 fats.

Pineapple:

Contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.

Chiropractic Care in Everett

In closing, while certain foods show promise in alleviating back pain, it’s crucial to remember that chronic or persistent back pain warrants professional evaluation and treatment. While dietary adjustments and nutritional interventions can complement overall back health, they are not standalone solutions for chronic conditions. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor, for a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plan. If you’re in the Snohomish County area, please consider a consultation by a chiropractor at Everett Spine and Rehab to learn more about any chronic back pain you may have.

Sources:

pennmedicine.org
prevention.com
msn.com
pcrm.org
arthritis.org
who.int
openai.com

Chiropractic care proves beneficial across a spectrum of sports injuries. Athletes seeking chiropractic care participate in a wide range of sports, including but not limited to football, basketball, soccer, tennis, running, gymnastics, and various high-impact or repetitive-motion activities where musculoskeletal strain and injury risk are prevalent.

Chiro Care for Injury Prevention

As a means of prevention, chiropractors often focus on addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and optimizing joint function to reduce the likelihood of injuries such as strains, sprains, and overuse injuries.

Musculoskeletal Alignment: Chiropractors focus on optimizing the alignment of the spine and other joints. Proper alignment reduces stress on muscles, ligaments, and tendons, decreasing the risk of strains and sprains during physical activities.

Improved Range of Motion: Chiropractic adjustments enhance joint flexibility and range of motion. Athletes with improved mobility are less prone to injuries related to restricted movement and are better equipped to perform dynamic movements required in sports.

Balanced Muscle Function: Chiropractors identify and address imbalances in muscle function. By ensuring that muscles are working harmoniously, the risk of overuse injuries or compensatory strains is minimized, contributing to overall musculoskeletal health.

Neuromuscular Function: Chiropractic care positively influences the communication between the nervous system and muscles. This optimization of neuromuscular function improves coordination, reflexes, and reaction times, essential elements in preventing injuries during sports activities.

Preventing Overuse Injuries: Athletes engaged in repetitive motions or high-impact activities are susceptible to overuse injuries. Chiropractors can help identify areas of the body prone to overuse and provide preventive care to reduce the likelihood of chronic injuries over time.

Education and Exercise: Chiropractors often educate athletes on proper body mechanics, posture, and ergonomics tailored to their specific sports. They may also recommend exercises to strengthen core muscles and stabilize joints, further reducing injury risk.

Regular chiropractic adjustments can enhance flexibility, improve biomechanics, and maintain proper spinal alignment, thereby minimizing the risk of injuries commonly associated with sports participation.

Post Sports Injury

Post-injury, chiropractic care becomes instrumental in the recovery process. Athletes grappling with conditions like muscle strains, ligament sprains, or joint misalignments can benefit from targeted adjustments that facilitate healing and restore optimal function. The integration of physical therapy into chiropractic treatment plans adds a comprehensive dimension, incorporating exercises and stretches to strengthen weakened areas, improve range of motion, and expedite the rehabilitation process. This collaborative approach aims to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying issues contributing to the injury.

Massage Therapy

Furthermore, the inclusion of massage therapy complements chiropractic care by addressing soft tissue injuries and promoting relaxation. Massage benefits include alleviation of muscle tension, reducing inflammation, and enhancing blood circulation, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the treatment regimen.

The synergy between chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy exercises, and massage therapy creates a holistic approach to sports injury management, fostering a quicker and more sustainable recovery for athletes.

Everett Spine & Rehab: Sports, Work and Auto Injury Rehabilitation

At our sports injury rehabilitation clinic in Everett, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive care that integrates chiropractic, physical therapy, and massage therapy to address the unique needs of athletes. Our dedicated team understands the demands of various sports and is committed to optimizing your physical well-being. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or seeking preventive measures, our approach aims to enhance your performance, promote long-term musculoskeletal health, and support your journey to peak athletic condition.

Sources:

espinozachiropractic.com
Americansportsandfitness.com
Mayoclinichealthsystem.org
Openai.com

Preventing sports and outdoor activity injuries is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Warm-up and Stretching:

Prior to engaging in any sports or outdoor activities, it’s essential to warm up your body and stretch your muscles. A proper warm-up increases blood flow to the muscles, making them more flexible and less prone to injury. Start with light aerobic exercises like jogging or jumping jacks, followed by dynamic stretches that mimic the movements you’ll be performing. Focus on stretching all major muscle groups, paying extra attention to areas specific to your activity. Remember to hold each stretch for 15 to 30 seconds without bouncing, as bouncing can cause muscle strain.

Use Proper Technique and Protective Equipment:

Another vital aspect of injury prevention is using proper technique and wearing appropriate protective equipment. Whether you’re playing a team sport, cycling, or engaging in other activities, learning and practicing correct techniques significantly reduces the risk of injury. Seek guidance from experienced coaches or instructors who can teach you the right form and technique for your chosen activity. Additionally, always wear the necessary protective gear such as helmets, mouthguards, goggles, knee pads, or appropriate footwear. The equipment should fit well and be in good condition to provide adequate protection.

Remember that these preventive measures are general guidelines, and it’s important to consider individual factors such as age, fitness level, and any pre-existing conditions. If you have specific concerns or questions about injury prevention for a particular activity, it’s advisable to consult with a sports medicine professional or a qualified instructor who can provide tailored advice and recommendations.

Chiro Care for Sports Injuries in Everett, Wa

Chiropractic care can be beneficial for various sports injuries, especially those that involve the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat conditions related to the spine, joints, muscles, and nerves. While they primarily focus on the spine, chiropractors can also provide care for other parts of the body including back pain, neck pain and whiplash, sprains and strains and shoulder injuries.

Those in the Snohomish County area can stop by Everett Spine and Rehab for a chiropractic consultation.

Causes of Sciatica:

Sciatica is usually caused by a herniated or slipped disc in the spine, which puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. Other causes of sciatica include spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal, spondylolisthesis, which is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over another, and degenerative disc disease, which is the gradual deterioration of the discs in the spine. Additionally, pregnancy can also lead to sciatica due to the pressure on the sciatic nerve from the growing uterus.

A physical exam by your healthcare provider can help you determine if you have sciatica.

Treatment of Sciatica:

Treatment for sciatica depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. Most cases of sciatica can be treated with non-surgical methods such as:

1. Rest and Activity Modification: Resting the affected area and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can help alleviate symptoms.
2. Exercise and Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises and stretches can help improve flexibility and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.
3. Medications: Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. In severe cases, prescription medications such as muscle relaxants or opioids may be needed.
4. Hot or Cold Compresses: Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
5. Injections: Steroid injections into the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

In rare cases where non-surgical methods are not effective, surgery may be required to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Physical Therapy in Everett, Snohomish County

Having a sciatica diagnoses doesn’t have to be scary or painful. At Everett Spine and Rehab, we will develop a treatment plan specifically for your condition which may include physical therapy or chiropractic care. If you think you might have sciatica, please schedule an appointment with us: 425-347-8614.

Sources:

1. Chat GPT https://openai.com/
2. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Sciatica. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435
3. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Sciatica. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/sciatica/

Is having back pain after a workout ever ok?

Lower back pain is normal and, in some cases, needed as the muscle grows in strength. Leada Malek, C.S.C.S, a board-certified sports specialist and physical therapist, told Shape that you could expect to feel tightness in the back after exercises solely focused on building muscles, such as weightlifting, kettlebell swings, and barbell squats.

Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness or DOMS usually causes back pain. DOMS causes pain within the muscle that doesn’t occur until a workout commences.

Symptoms of DOMS are:

• Decrease in mobility from the pain
• Tenderness when the muscle is touched
• Inflammation
• Decrease in muscle strength

Pain caused by DOMS should last no longer than three days after the workout, with interval spikes of pain throughout those three days. Also, symptoms may not present immediately after an exercise, lasting 12 to 24 hours.

When Should You Be Concerned About Back Pain?

You need to visit a chiropractor if your back pain doesn’t disappear within 72 hours after the workout. By this time, any discomfort or pain should have subsided. However, if the pain remains, that would indicate a more severe problem than delayed onset muscle soreness.

Another way to recognize if a doctor visit is needed is by assessing how the back soreness affects your sleep and other everyday activities. Both are huge red flags that the discomfort in your back is abnormal and needs a chiropractor to evaluate it.

If you’re in the Seattle/Snohomish County, be sure to visit Everett Spine and Rehab—we offer chiropractic care as well as physical therapy and massage therapy.

How To Prevent & Treat Back Injuries From Workouts

The best way to prevent back injuries is to have a good recovery plan after the workout. Incorporating a recovery exercise after all your workouts, such as light yoga poses, aids in a healthy workout recovery.

Passive And Active Recovery Methods

Using slower movements to recover after a highly intensive workout might seem right. But, passive ways of recovering after a workout have not shown a difference from active ones in improving or preventing DOMS. Athletes have to work through muscle soreness, as a study of active recovery showed in female soccer players. Don’t think your recovery workout has to be slow and drawn out.

Both active and passive workout recovery methods provide the muscle with the same benefits as the others.

Foam Rollers

Another way is to use a foam roller, especially if you return to exercise after a more sedentary lifestyle. Foam rollers reduce pain and can help prevent DOMS. Also, it could improve your performance as it did in this study.

If you experience DOMS, you don’t have to quit exercising altogether. You should, however, refrain from a more harsh workout until your back is fully recovered. Instead, remember to pace yourself and ease back into your workouts slowly.

Causes of Middle Back Pain

A person’s poor posture, such as slouching or hunching over to look at a computer or phone screen for long periods, is often the cause of pain in the mid-back.

Also, if a person has repetitive activities that involve twisting or overextending the spine, muscle spasms in the mid-back area can lead to discomfort and pain.

Gallbladder issues can cause pain between the should blades or right shoulder.

Other possible causes of pain in the middle back include disc herniations, osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, rheumatoid arthritis, scoliosis, or degenerative disc disease. A professional specializing in back pain can determine the exact cause of your middle back pain before proceeding with any treatment plan.

Treatments for Middle Back Pain

Once a specialist identifies the underlying cause of your middle back pain, several treatment plans are available.

The most common treatments include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cold/heat therapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, exercise programs, and lifestyle changes. Surgery may be necessary if other treatments do not relieve symptoms.

Chiropractic care or physical therapy can tailor specific exercise and lifestyle changes to relieve middle back pain. Chiropractors and physical therapists can help you develop posture and desk ergonomics when sitting at a workstation or using electronic devices, which can be a tremendous help.

Chiropractors may also use spinal manipulation to relieve a patient’s pain. During a spinal manipulation technique, a chiropractor will use their hands or a device to apply a controlled thrust to the joint or joints in your spine that may be causing the patient’s discomfort.

The theory of spinal manipulation is to properly align the body’s musculoskeletal structure so the body can heal itself. Patients often use chiropractic care along with conventional medical treatment.

Many chiropractors also incorporate nutritional counseling with an exercise treatment plan to relieve a patient’s pain. Using a more holistic approach to healing, a chiropractor will assess many different forms of pain relief for the patient.

Who is More Likely to Get Mid-Back Pain?

A patient at higher risk of suffering from middle-back pain is likely to be older, out-of-shape, overweight, have underlying conditions, and possibly a smoker. Increased coughing associated with smoking can sometimes misalign the middle back area.

Suppose you are experiencing any type of middle back pain. In that case, it is vital to seek advice from a qualified specialist to determine which treatment option would be best for your individual needs.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can find relief from your symptoms and get on with life without the discomfort associated with middle back pain.

Everett Chiropractic Care in Snohomish County, Wa

Wherever your back pain may be, we are happy to help! Contact us here or call for an appointment at Everett Spine and Rehab.

Chronic pain has always been an apparent reason for poor sleep, but what makes this study unique is showing that a person’s poor sleep may cause low back pain. Specialists may improve a person’s chronic low back pain by treating the causes of poor sleep.

Significance of the Study

Specialists have previously treated chronic low back pain without asking questions or understanding a patient’s sleeping patterns. People have used prescribed and over-the-counter pain relievers to treat their low back pain without knowing that they perhaps just needed a better night’s sleep.

Treatable Reasons for Lack of Sleep

There are many reasons for lack of sleep, like too much stimulation before bedtime. This reason could include a person watching too much television before bed, having too much caffeine and exercising, or playing video games, which are under the person’s complete control to change.

In other cases, a person may be experiencing a great deal of stress, noise disturbances, or a work schedule that is detrimental to their sleep. Depression, other mental health issues, and restless legs syndrome should include a physician’s advice.

If a person has no physical reasons or disorder causing their low back pain, they may be relieved by changing their sleep positions or mattress.

There are cases where some people are genetically predisposed to poor sleep. This group of people need less than six and a half hours of sleep at night but feel well-rested and without pain in the morning.

A person can keep a sleep diary that notes any low back pain they may be experiencing. This notetaking is extremely helpful in a specialist’s challenge to define the best overall treatment.

The diary should also include the day’s activities, naps, bed, and waking times. The analysis can be all-inclusive if the journaling provides food, drinks, moods, and medications. With the diary information, a physician may order a sleep study test.

Treatments for Poor Sleep to Lessen Low Back Pain

The most uncomplicated treatment for poor sleep may be for the patient to create a better sleep environment in their rooms. Darkening curtains, cool temperatures, and a noise-free place to call it a day are always the first place to create change.

The next area for a patient to explore is avoiding napping, stimulating activities before bed, listening to music, or taking a hot bath to provide the extra care needed for a good night’s sleep. These lifestyle choices are healthy even if a person isn’t experiencing low back pain.

A physician may prescribe an appropriate sleep aid or medication for any anxiety disorders or depression the patient’ may be experiencing. These prescriptions may help with any worry, stress, or mental health issues interfering with their sleep.

A sleep diary will be helpful to you and your physician when taking these medications to document if symptoms, sleep, and low back pain is relieved. Patients who work closely with specialists and provide adequate information will achieve more accurate diagnoses, treatment, and the fastest relief from their low back pain.

Low Back Pain: Chiropractic Help in Everett, Wa

If your back pain is chronic, it’s a good idea to visit your local chiropractor. Those in the Snohomish County area can go to Everett Spine and Rehab to examine your condition and find the right treatment for you, which may include spinal manipulation. Please book your appointment by calling us at 425-347-8614.

People are looking to get back into the gym, eat healthier, and just feel better. These are all great and worthwhile goals, but the gym or working out can seem unattainable for people with chronic back pain.

Back pain sufferers don’t need to fear the gym or a good workout routine though. It’s actually a good idea to start a new workout routine, especially one that involves weight lifting.

It can be difficult to start anything new, but it’s that much harder when you are unfamiliar with the process altogether. So, what is weight lifting? People can have very different ideas about what weight lifting is and isn’t, what its purpose is, and how to do it. Things can get complicated quickly.

In its simplest form, weight lifting – sometimes called weight training – is a type of strength training meant to strengthen and grow your muscles. It’s like cardio work to help strengthen your heart. A person who lifts weights is exhausting that muscle group to stimulate more muscle growth.

But weight lifting doesn’t have to mean bodybuilding or even gaining a certain amount of muscle mass. Weight lifting is all about taxing your muscles just enough without damaging the surrounding joints, tendons, or ligaments.

Weight lifting doesn’t have to be for strength or muscle gains at all. In fact, weight lifting has been proven to help improve all different areas of the body and mind. A good weight lifting routine or program has been proven to increase bone strength, help manage body weight, improve mental abilities, and manage different chronic issues and illness – including back pain.

Is Weight Lifting Good for People with Back Pain?

One of the most common questions asked about weight training is, is it okay for people with back pain to weight lift? The answer is a resounding yes!

Weight lifting, done correctly and safely, is a huge benefit to people who suffer from short or long term back pain. The number one cause of back pain is a weakness in surrounding and supporting muscle groups, like the abdominals.

The abdominals, or core muscles, are meant to keep the spine well aligned and protect it from injury. If those muscles are weak or underdeveloped, then they aren’t doing their job correctly and that means back pain. One of the best ways to strengthen the core muscles and better protect the spine is to lift weights.

This also means a person can prevent back pain with a good weight lifting program. Even if you don’t currently feel pain in your back, you can head off a lot of potential issues with a strong core and a well protected spine.

Tips for Weight Lifting

Now, starting a weight lifting journey with a bad back does mean there are some precautions to take. Any weight lifting done improperly can have serious and negative consequences for people with back pain, so it’s important to always lift safely.

Here are a few tips to keep weight lifting safe and beneficial:

#1 – Start Small

Weight lifting isn’t a competition. Remember weight lifting is not bodybuilding so you don’t need to pick up the heaviest weights and show everyone how it’s done. Start small by starting with just your bodyweight.

You carry the weight of your body around every day, so it’s a weight you should know how to carry and manipulate through your everyday life. Once you start gaining some strength you can increase the weight with different types of equipment.

#2 – Use Correct Form Every Time

This might be the most important. Whatever move you do, you must do it properly. Improper form– even one time–can cause more damage to your already aching back. Make sure you know how to do each move before lifting too much weight too quickly. Make use of a personal trainer to help you with your form.

#3 – Be Consistent

Weight lifting isn’t something you do once and everything’s fixed permanently. It is something that has to be worked at and worked at consistently. Set a schedule, find a trainer or a workout buddy, and keep working.

#4 – Listen to Your Body

Rest is not a bad thing. In fact, your body will tell you when it needs a rest day. This doesn’t mean you’ll lose all your progress. Your body will thank you. Continuing to push your body when it needs rest can, again, cause big problems.

Weight lifting is a great option for a lot of people, even those with chronic back pain. It helps many different areas of your body and life, so why not? It’s almost a new year, and it’s time to get serious!

Back Pain: See a Chiropractor in Everett

If your back pain is persistent, it is a good idea to get checked out with a chiropractor. Those in Snohomish County can stop by Everett Spine and Rehab for a consultation. It is certainly better to address any back issues before they get worse!