Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain in Markham: What to Know

Chiropractic care may be one option for adults with some types of low-back pain. Spinal manipulation can produce modest short-term improvements for some people, but results vary and mild temporary discomfort can occur.[1][2] A person-centred plan may combine education, exercise, and other appropriate care rather than relying on one treatment alone.[3]

Why might someone consider chiropractic care for low-back pain?

Chiropractic care may include an assessment of movement, symptoms, health history, and goals, followed by a discussion of options.[1] Spinal manipulation is a hands-on or device-assisted controlled thrust to a spinal joint; it is different from spinal mobilization, which does not use a thrust.[1]

For acute low-back pain, a review of 15 studies involving 1,699 participants found moderate-quality evidence of modest pain improvement up to six weeks with spinal manipulation.[1] Evidence is not a guarantee of benefit, and the most suitable approach depends on the individual and the cause of symptoms.[1]

What can an assessment involve?

A qualified practitioner may ask about these safety and function details:[1]

• when symptoms started and what activities affect them.[1]
• pain location, movement, strength, and daily function.[1]
• health conditions, medications, prior injuries, and treatment goals.[2]
• symptoms that may require medical assessment before hands-on care.[2]

Depending on the findings, care may include education, movement advice, exercise, manual techniques, or coordination with another healthcare professional.[3] WHO describes chronic primary low-back-pain care as holistic and person-centred, noting that a suite of interventions may be needed instead of one intervention in isolation.[3]

Is spinal manipulation safe for everyone?

No treatment is risk-free for every person.[2] Mild, temporary discomfort, increased pain, stiffness, or headache can occur after spinal manipulation; serious side effects are very rare, but have been reported.[2] Tell the practitioner about relevant health conditions, medications, recent injuries, pregnancy, or new neurological symptoms before treatment.[2]

Seek urgent medical care for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, rapidly worsening weakness, major trauma, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or other emergency symptoms.[2] Do not delay urgent assessment to arrange a chiropractic appointment.

Is chiropractic care available at Markham Pain Clinic?

Markham Pain Clinic lists Chiropractic Care among its services in Markham. Learn more about the service here: https://www.markhampain.com/services/chiropractic

The clinic is located at 8312 McCowan Rd Suite #206, Markham ON L3P 8E1. To ask about an assessment, call +1 905-470-2626, visit: https://www.markhampain.com/contact

You can also request an appointment here: https://markhampainclinic.janeapp.com/

Frequently asked questions

Can chiropractic care guarantee relief from low-back pain?

No. Evidence suggests spinal manipulation may provide modest improvements for some people, but outcomes vary and no treatment can guarantee relief.[1][2]

What should I bring to a chiropractic assessment?

Bring a list of relevant medications and health conditions, information about prior injuries or imaging, and a clear description of what activities are difficult.[2] Share any new or worsening symptoms before treatment.[2]

Is chiropractic care a replacement for emergency medical care?

No. Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms need urgent medical assessment.[2] Chiropractic care should be considered only after appropriate screening and discussion of your individual situation.[2]

Sources:

[1] https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/low-back-pain-and-complementary-health-approaches-what-you-need-to-know [2] https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/spinal-manipulation-what-you-need-to-know [3] https://who.int/news/item/07-12-2023-who-releases-guidelines-on-chronic-low-back-pain

Medical disclaimer: This article is for general education and does not diagnose or treat any condition. It is not a substitute for urgent or individualized medical care. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your situation; call emergency services for urgent or life-threatening symptoms.