Suffering from back pain, especially in the lumbar region, is relatively common in Memphis and across the rest of the nation. Over seven million people turn to chiropractic care for alleviation of that pain. Although all these afflictions are classified under the broad category of back pain, a Memphis chiropractor sees those who have lower back injuries most often.

Approximately one third of these people have pain resulting from a sports-related injury. The injuries of professional athletes are highlighted, but, it is the occasional athletes who are most susceptible to accidents. For one thing, they are out of condition when they participate in a game. Muscle strain or worse can result.

The spine is a complicated structure consisting of 41 vertebrae, the small, hollow bones, which encase the spinal cord. Of these, nine are fused. The five located in the lumbar region are most often injured. When one of these bones is out of place, it may put pressure on a nerve, causing the painful condition.

This condition is known as a pinched nerve. In technical chiropractic terminology, it is called a subluxation. This means one or more of the vertebrae is misaligned, or out of place. A series of gentle adjustments can be most effective in moving it back into the correct position.

However, first an evaluation must be made. This is achieved through a question and answer session to determine the exact location of the hurt and how severe it is. Next a physical exam of the spine is conducted. In some cases, an x-ray is helpful in making a determination.

The ultimate goal of your Memphis chiropractor is to achieve pain reduction, allowing the individual to resume working. Although it may take longer, some people feel the pain subsiding somewhat after only a few adjustments. As the misalignment is corrected, returning to the job and the ordinary daily routine you followed, can be accomplished.