Back Pain Specialist

What is back pain?

Your back is a complex structure that consists of bones (vertebrae), spinal discs, ligaments, and muscles. Back pain can result from damage or injury to any one of these tissues. Most of the time, back pain is biomechanical in nature and not related to a serious medical condition.

What causes back pain?

Dr. Hancock offers conservative care for a wide range of conditions that cause back pain, including:

Strains and sprains

Strained muscles and sprained ligaments cause most cases of short-term (acute) back pain. Both injuries can occur during common activities, like lifting heavy objects or twisting your back.

Herniated or bulging discs

Small, rubbery discs cushion the space between each of your vertebrae. These discs contain a gel-like material that can bulge through the tough outer layer. The bulging disc can cause back pain if it presses on a nearby nerve.

Sciatica

Sciatica happens when something squeezes the sciatic nerve, such as a herniated disc in your lower back. Pain from sciatica may radiate from your lower back into your hip and buttock and down one leg.

Traumatic injuries

Back pain can result from many types of trauma, such as car accidents, trips and falls, and sports injuries. Traumatic injuries can also cause discs to herniate or rupture, resulting in compressed spinal nerves.

When should I see a chiropractor for back pain?

Many cases of back pain improve with home treatments, such as ice, heat, and over-the-counter medication. If your back pain continues or worsens despite self-care measures, call Dr. Hancock at Smoky Hill Chiropractic to set up an appointment. 

How is back pain diagnosed and treated?

First, Dr. Hancock thoroughly reviews your symptoms and medical history. He asks about when your back pain started and whether anything makes it better or worse. He performs a comprehensive chiropractic evaluation that may include an X-ray motion study to identify biomechanical problems in your spine. 

Then, Dr. Hancock develops a personalized treatment plan. Depending on the cause of your back pain, treatment may include:

• Manual chiropractic adjustments
• Spinal decompression 
• Flexion distraction
• Interferential current therapy
• Ultrasound therapy

Dr. Hancock may also teach you therapeutic exercises to do at home for ongoing relief and pain prevention. 

For conservative, drug-free treatment of back pain, call Dr. Hancock at Smoky Hill Chiropractic or book an appointment online today.