Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP)

Have You Considered This?

One of the leading causes of pain and disability in the U.S. is chronic low back pain (pain that is continuous for over 3 months).  Just as in other causes of chronic pain , knowing the mechanism (the actual cause and way in which the pain is generated) is essential to achieving relief.  Most people with chronic pain have not had the correct mechanism for their pain identified (click here to see my article on “Chronic Back Pain From Degenerative Disc Disease”).

What Are The Mechanisms Of Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP)?

Chronic low back pain is usually due to one or more of 3 different mechanisms:  1) a muscular problem and/or 2) a skeletal problem and/or 3)  a neural (nerve) problem.  It really isn’t more complicated than that.  

The problem that usually arises is that a proper history, physical, or diagnostic workup has not been done before assigning a diagnosis. Once you have the correct diagnosis there are usually many effective treatments that can employed.

When the cause for the chronic low back pain seems to mysteriously elude the doctor it is usually something simple that has not been done.  Your body makes sense and follows certain general rules.

There Is Hope…

Once an accurate diagnosis has been established, the treatments are usually very straightforward.  A muscular problem needs to have the blood flow to the muscle enhanced so as to promote healing.  A skeletal problem needs to have the spine aligned (straightened) and stretched.  A neural problem needs to facilitate healing of the nerve and reduce any traction or pressure on the nerve.

Remember…you need to establish the correct diagnosis with your primary care practitioner (PCP) before you begin your therapy.  Do not try to start therapy before doing this.

If your “PCP” does not give an accurate diagnosis (WITH MECHANISM) then ask for a referral to a specialist.

If you have further questions please comment. I would love to be of service to you.

To your health.