Dr. Jennifer Sheppard is our Oklahoma City sciatica chiropractor who has touched the lives of many patients with back pain. Being an expert in spinal health, she’s familiar with the different conditions that may arise if the spine gets out of whack. Today, she’s going to answer some frequently asked questions about back pain.

You might be wondering, “What has the upper cervical spine got to do with back pain?” The upper cervical spine is a region in the neck that houses the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2). Both of these vertebrae play a vital role in making the head straight and steady and supporting its movements. 

When it comes to spine health, it’s no secret that pain in one part of the spine can lead to a domino effect on the other regions. Upper cervical misalignments are more common than we think. They happen for so many reasons and they can disrupt the function of the spine and even the entire body. Hence, misalignments in the neck can result in issues in the spine, such as back pain and sciatica.

We gathered some of the most asked questions about back pain, and Dr. Jennifer Sheppard gladly answers them. Our very own Oklahoma City sciatica chiropractor will enlighten you about the different aspects of back pain.

 

Who Are More Prone to Getting Back Pain?

Back pain does not choose its victims. Every person can experience some type of back pain at least once in their lives. However, age and genetic factors are contributors to a higher risk of back pain. People with underlying conditions that affect the spinal column, such as degenerative disc disease, autoimmune disorders, and upper neck misalignments, are more vulnerable to back pain.

People suffering from sciatica are also vulnerable to lower back pain that may stretch down to the buttocks as well as the legs. Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve (runs from the lumbar spine to the legs) swell or get pinched or compressed. Aside from lower back pain, sciatica patients might also deal with poor bowel and bladder control as well as a lingering ache in the affected areas of the body.

 

What Can Cause Back Pain?

Aside from existing health conditions affecting the spine, other factors that might lead to back pain are:

  • Poor posture
  • Lack of exercise
  • Repetitive movements in the back
  • Excessive weight
  • Pregnancy
  • Smoking cigarettes
  • Dehydration
  • Trauma to the head, neck, or back

 

What Are the Common Back Pain Remedies?

Doctors often recommend prescription pain medications to ease or get rid of the aching sensations within the spine. You can purchase these anti-inflammatories and other pain-relievers at your local pharmacy if prescribed by your health provider. Although these medications take effect quickly, the relief that comes from them might disappear the same way since these pills do not address the main cause of back pain.

People with scoliosis are also prone to getting back pain. In milder cases of scoliosis, back braces are usually used to train the spine. Depending on the severity of this condition (measured in degrees), doctors might also recommend surgical intervention.

Shifting to a healthier lifestyle is another way to take care of your spine. Try doing exercises that can help strengthen your back. Paying attention to proper posture is a part of this method. Make sure that you keep your back straight when standing, walking, or sitting. Keeping yourself hydrated and eating fresh fruits and vegetables can also positively impact your spine’s health.

 

Where Do I Get a Long-Lasting Natural Relief from Back Pain?

As we’ve mentioned at the beginning of this article, misalignments in the upper cervical spine can lead to back pain and other related conditions. Hence, this is the root cause that needs to be addressed for long-lasting relief from back pain and other associated disorders.

Our Oklahoma City sciatica chiropractor, Dr. Sheppard, recommends upper cervical care to anyone suffering from back pain. It can help resolve the underlying cause of most back pains.

Upper cervical chiropractic care is a practice that involves precise and extremely gentle techniques to realign the neck back to its original form. Upper cervical care targets the two topmost bones in the spine, where misalignments often happen. Correcting the neck misalignment can offer you a more sustainable and long-lasting relief not only from back pain but also from other conditions, like vertigo, migraines, and sciatica.

Upper cervical chiropractic care allows better healing and faster recovery that costs less than other methods for back pain relief. Many individuals with back pain that has come to us here at Precision Chiropractic report experiencing significant relief after one to two visits.

So, if you or someone you know is suffering from back pain, do not hesitate to contact us for a consult. We offer back pain solutions that are catered to your needs. Reach out to us by calling us at 405-378-3100. You can also book an appointment online by filling out this form.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Sheppard, call our Oklahoma City office at 405-378-3100. You can also click the button below.

If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.