Back Pain & Sciatica
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people see a healthcare provider. Here is how it is assessed at River City and when chiropractic care may be an appropriate option.
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people see any healthcare provider. Most cases are mechanical, meaning they come from the joints, muscles and connective tissue of the back rather than from a serious underlying disease.
Sciatica describes pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, down the back of the buttock and leg. It is a description of symptoms rather than a diagnosis on its own.
Common symptoms
- An ache or stiffness across the lower back, often worse after sitting or first thing in the morning.
- Pain provoked by a specific movement, such as bending forward or standing up from a chair.
- Muscle tightness or spasm on one side.
- Pain, numbness or tingling that travels into the buttock or down the leg.
How chiropractic care may help
Spinal manipulation is one of the non-drug options recommended for low back pain, and it may reduce pain and make movement more comfortable. The benefit is generally modest, and it is one part of conservative care rather than a complete answer on its own.
What care may include
Care begins with a history and a physical examination to reach a working diagnosis. Depending on what that finds, conservative care can include manual treatment, mobilization, and advice on activity, movement and self-care. Staying active within your tolerance is usually more helpful than prolonged rest.
When to seek medical care first
Some back symptoms need medical assessment rather than an appointment here. Call 911 or go to an emergency department if back pain comes with any of the following:
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around the groin, buttocks or inner thighs.
- New, progressive or severe weakness in a leg.
- Significant trauma, such as a fall from height or a serious collision.
- Back pain alongside fever, unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer.
If you are unsure, being evaluated medically first is the safe choice.
What to expect at River City
Your first visit starts with a conversation about your symptoms, health history and the activities you want to get back to, followed by an examination appropriate to what you describe. Dr. Davis explains what he finds and what the options are. If your symptoms would be better managed by a physician or another provider, he will tell you and recommend the next step.
River City Chiropractic Center is on Sabrina Drive in East Peoria, serving patients from across the Greater Peoria area.
Sources & further reading
- American Chiropractic Association — Back Pain Facts and Statistics — patient information on low back pain
- American Chiropractic Association — Choosing Wisely recommendations — includes avoiding routine spinal imaging for acute low back pain without clear clinical indicators, and not repeating imaging to monitor progress