How Does a Chiropractor Treat Chronic Pain?

Roger Ward • Dec 12, 2017

If you suffer from chronic pain in your neck, back, arms or other parts of your body, you’ve probably tried suppressing it with medications, stretches, physical therapy and you may have even considered surgery in order to get the relief you so desperately want. Fortunately you have another option. Skilled chiropractors are able to treat many different types of pain without the need for pain pills or surgical procedures. But how are they able to do so? That depends upon an initial diagnosis.

Initial Exam

Many times pain issues that occur within your extremities or in your head can be attributed to referred pain from the back. This means that there is an issue in your spine that is radiating to other parts of your body and is not actually associated with a problem where the pain is being experienced. Depending on where the pain is being felt a chiropractor can determine if the pain is actually coming from the spine and where in the spine the pain is originating.

Chiropractic Treatment

Depending on the type of pain that you’re having your chiropractor will develop a treatment plan that will involve different types of therapies. These can involve spinal manipulation, at home exercises and other adjustments as necessary. The amount of treatment required will depend on the severity of your condition and the effectiveness of the therapy.

What Types of Chronic Pain can be Treated?

There are many different types of conditions that can be treated by chiropractic care. These include issues such as a herniated disc, sciatica, whiplash, pain in your arms and legs, kyphosis, spinal arthritis and many more.


If you suffer from chronic pain remember that you have options. Don’t rely on addicting pain medication or think that you will need major surgery. For pain management in Kirkland, Redmond, or the surrounding communities, visit Better Back and Body. Our team of professional massage therapists and chiropractors will work with you to create a treatment plan that heals you of your pain. Give us a call at 425-629-0326 to learn more about our services or to schedule an initial exam with a chiropractor in Kirkland today.

By Better Back and Body 14 Mar, 2024
While chiropractic care is best-known for alleviating back pain, it offers a host of additional benefits. At Better Back and Body, we provide expert chiropractic care in the greater Kirkland, WA area. We’ll listen to your specific concerns and tailor the treatment accordingly to optimize the benefits of the care. Here’s a look at four advantages of seeing a chiropractor. Pain Relief and Improved Mobility One of the primary reasons individuals seek chiropractic care is to address musculoskeletal pain, especially in the back and neck. Chiropractors use manual adjustments to realign the spine, promoting better posture and reducing pressure on nerves. This aids in pain relief and can also enhance overall mobility. Patients often gain increased flexibility and a greater range of motion after chiropractic sessions, making it an effective way to improve your quality of life. Better Posture and Preventive Care Modern lifestyles often involve prolonged periods of sitting, leading to poor posture and related health issues. Chiropractors not only treat existing problems, but also focus on preventive care. Through spinal adjustments and posture correction techniques, chiropractic care helps individuals maintain better alignment and prevent future issues. This proactive approach is particularly beneficial for those who spend long hours at desks or engage in repetitive activities that can contribute to musculoskeletal problems. Stress Reduction and Mental Well-Being Beyond physical ailments, chiropractic care has been linked to stress reduction and improved mental well-being. The spine plays a crucial role in housing the central nervous system, which regulates various bodily functions, including stress responses. Misalignments in the spine can negatively impact this system. Chiropractors work to restore proper alignment, helping to alleviate tension and promote a more balanced nervous system. This could potentially help you with reducing stress. Drug-Free Pain Management Chiropractic care provides a drug-free alternative for pain management. Rather than relying on medication to mask symptoms, chiropractors target the root cause of pain by addressing spinal misalignments and promoting natural healing. And in an era where pain medication has wreaked havoc on countless lives, drug-free pain management has become an increasingly appealing way to avoid the risk of addiction. Chiropractor in Kirkland, WA For a chiropractor in Kirkland and the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at  425-629-0326  . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an evaluation!
By Better Back and Body 15 Feb, 2024
Car accidents can have a profound impact on your physical well-being, often leading to a range of musculoskeletal injuries. While seeking emergency medical attention is crucial in many instances, people often overlook the benefits of chiropractic care in the aftermath of a collision. Chiropractors specialize in addressing injuries related to the spine and nervous system, offering holistic and non-invasive approaches to healing. At Better Back and Body, our local chiropractor’s office provides expert auto injury therapy in the greater Kirkland, WA area. Here are four benefits of going to a chiropractor following a car accident. Early Detection and Treatment of Injuries After a car accident, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash, can take hours or even days to present symptoms. By consulting a chiropractor promptly, you increase the chances of early detection and intervention. Chiropractors are trained to assess the spine and musculoskeletal system, identifying subtle injuries that might go unnoticed by other healthcare providers. Pain Relief Without Medication Chiropractic care focuses on natural healing methods, emphasizing manual adjustments to correct misalignments in the spine. This approach can provide effective pain relief without the need for medications that may have side effects or lead to dependency. Chiropractors use targeted adjustments to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote the body's natural healing processes. Restoration of Range of Motion Injuries sustained in a car accident can restrict your range of motion and lead to stiffness in the joints. Chiropractors employ various techniques to restore flexibility and mobility. By addressing misalignments and improving joint function, chiropractic care can help you regain your range of motion and enhance overall physical performance. Prevent Long-Term Complications Ignoring injuries after a car accident may result in long-term complications such as chronic pain, reduced mobility, and increased susceptibility to future injuries. Chiropractors not only focus on relieving immediate pain but also work towards preventing long-term issues. By addressing the root cause of injuries and promoting proper spinal alignment, chiropractic care contributes to overall well-being and decreases the risk of ongoing problems. Auto Injury Therapy in Kirkland For auto injury therapy in Kirkland and the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at  425-629-0326  . At our local chiropractor’s office, we specialize in treating patients who’ve recently been in auto accidents. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an evaluation!
By Better Back and Body 13 Jan, 2024
For athletes who seek peak performance, maintaining optimal physical health is crucial. While regular training and proper nutrition play key roles, chiropractic care is another valuable tool for athletes who are looking to enhance their performance and prevent injuries. At Better Back and Body, our local chiropractic office can help athletes achieve their goals. Here are four benefits of chiropractic care for athletes. Improved Joint Mobility and Flexibility Chiropractic care assesses and addresses issues related to the musculoskeletal system, with a primary focus on the spine. Through adjustments, chiropractic care helps improve joint mobility and flexibility. Athletes who engage in repetitive motions or high-impact activities can benefit greatly from a well-aligned spine and improved joint function. Enhanced flexibility can reduce the risk of injuries, while also enhancing agility. Injury Prevention By identifying and addressing misalignments and imbalances in the musculoskeletal system, chiropractors can help prevent injuries before they occur. Regular chiropractic adjustments help to ensure that the spine is in optimal condition, reducing the risk of strains, sprains, and other common sports-related injuries. Enhanced Nervous System Function The nervous system plays a pivotal role in athletic performance, as it controls and coordinates muscle movements, reflexes, and overall body function. Chiropractic care focuses on optimizing nervous system function by ensuring that the spine is free of subluxations or misalignments that may impede the flow of nerve signals. A well-functioning nervous system contributes to improved reaction times and better coordination, helping you achieve athletic success. Promote Performance Optimization Chiropractic care is not just about addressing issues or injuries—it's also about unlocking an athlete's full potential. When the spine is properly aligned, and the nervous system is functioning optimally, athletes may experience a noticeable improvement in their overall performance. This can manifest as increased strength and endurance, enabling athletes to push their limits and reach new heights. Chiropractor in Kirkland For a chiropractor in Kirkland and the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at  425-629-0326  . At our local chiropractor’s office, we specialize in spinal decompression. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an evaluation!
By Better Back and Body 13 Dec, 2023
Chiropractic care has emerged as a popular choice for those seeking natural solutions to various health concerns. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, looking to improve your posture, or simply aiming to enhance your overall wellness, a visit to the chiropractor might be just what you need. At Better Back and Body, we provide expert chiropractic care in the greater Kirkland, WA area. Here are four benefits of going to a chiropractor. Pain Relief Without Medication or Surgery One of the primary reasons individuals seek chiropractic care is to alleviate pain without relying on medication or surgery. Chiropractors use hands-on spinal adjustments to address misalignments or subluxations in the spine. This can relieve pressure on nerves, reduce inflammation, and promote natural healing. Chiropractic adjustments offer a drug-free and surgery-free approach to managing and reducing pain. Improved Posture and Alignment Modern lifestyles often contribute to poor posture, which can lead to a variety of health issues. Chiropractors focus on aligning the spine to improve posture and alleviate the strain on muscles and joints. Regular adjustments can help correct imbalances, allowing the body to maintain a more natural and healthier alignment. Improved posture not only reduces the risk of musculoskeletal problems but can also enhance self-confidence. Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility Chiropractic care is not just about addressing pain, it's also about improving the body's overall functionality. By restoring proper alignment, chiropractors help enhance joint mobility and flexibility. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes or individuals looking to maintain an active lifestyle. Increased mobility can also contribute to better range of motion, making daily activities more comfortable and enjoyable. Stress Reduction Chiropractic adjustments don't just target physical symptoms—they can also have a positive impact on mental well-being. The nervous system plays a crucial role in how the body responds to stress. Misalignments in the spine can affect nerve function, potentially leading to increased stress levels. Chiropractic care can help to restore the balance of the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the overall impact of stress on the body. Chiropractor in Kirkland, WA For a chiropractor in Kirkland and the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at  425-629-0326  . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an evaluation!
By Better Back and Body 14 Nov, 2023
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical, non-invasive therapy designed to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with various lower back problems, such as sciatica. At our Kirkland chiropractic office, we specialize in spinal decompression, which is a treatment method that uses state-of-the-art technology to apply a distraction force and relieve nerve compression. Here are five benefits of spinal decompression. Pain Relief One of the most significant benefits of spinal decompression therapy is the immediate and long-term relief from chronic back pain. The treatment gently stretches the spine, which helps to alleviate pressure on spinal discs and nerves. By creating space between the vertebrae, spinal decompression promotes the body's natural healing process, reducing pain and discomfort. Non-Surgical Alternative Traditionally, severe spinal issues required surgical interventions, which often came with significant risks, lengthy recovery periods, and no guarantee of success. Spinal decompression offers a non-surgical alternative that can address many of the same issues, eliminating the risks associated with surgery. Minimizes Medication Dependency Chronic back pain often leads to a reliance on pain medications, which can have adverse side effects and the potential for addiction. Spinal decompression can reduce the need for these medications, enabling patients to manage their pain more naturally and reduce the risk of dependency. Promotes Healing Spinal decompression creates a negative pressure in the affected disc, which promotes the inflow of nutrient-rich fluids to help repair and regenerate damaged disc material. This process can accelerate the healing of herniated and degenerated discs, ultimately restoring spine health. Improved Mobility Chronic back pain can severely limit one's mobility and quality of life. Spinal decompression can lead to improved mobility, allowing individuals to return to their daily routines with greater ease and make favorite activities more enjoyable to do. Spinal Decompression in Kirkland, WA If you’re experiencing back pain and need a chiropractor in Kirkland or the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at  425-629-0326  . At our local chiropractor’s office, we specialize in spinal decompression for treating back pain. Feel free to give us a call today to arrange an evaluation!
By Better Back and Body 12 Oct, 2023
By improving your posture, you can alleviate strain on muscles and ligaments. In turn you may be able to experience a noticeable reduction in pain in your back, as well as other parts of your body. However, if your back pain persists, you’ll want to visit a highly-rated chiropractor. At Better Back and Body, we provide expert chiropractic care in the greater Kirkland, WA area. Dr. Paul Krause can alleviate your back pain and is also happy to discuss ways to have better posture. Here are some basic tips for improving your posture and reducing your pain. Stand Up Straight and Avoid Slouching For healthy standing posture, you should tuck in your stomach, straighten your knees, and hold your head high. This is important because slouching puts stress on your spine and nearby muscles. Regular slouching may even create breathing issues by compressing your lungs. Use an Adequately Firm Mattress You might be used to your old squishy mattress, but it’s unlikely to be doing your back any favors. By switching it out for a firmer mattress, your spine will be held in a position that is better for your sleeping posture. Drive Closer to the Steering Wheel If you’re on a road trip or other long drive, you might feel inclined to lean your seat back and stretch out your legs as you cruise along. But sitting this way can be bad for your back. Rather, you should remain close to the steering wheel so that your back remains straighter. To help you get in the habit of proper driving posture, you could put a pillow between the seat and your back. Do Ab Workouts Because excessive stomach fat can encourage poor posture that stresses the spine, you could consider doing ab workouts as a way to improve posture and reduce back pain. Low-impact exercises that can strengthen abs and improve posture include pilates and yoga. Chiropractor in Kirkland, WA If you’re experiencing back pain and need a chiropractor in Kirkland or the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at  425-629-0326  . At our local chiropractor’s office, we specialize in spinal decompression for treating back pain. Feel free to give us a call today to arrange an evaluation!
By Better Back and Body 14 Sep, 2023
When back pain is intense and persistent, it can make it incredibly difficult to go about your daily routine. If you’re experiencing back pain, it’s best to be proactive about addressing it. While many people try to tough it out, this can lead to the problem worsening, and further decreasing your quality of life. By seeking professional assistance, you can get on the road to recovery and get back to enjoying life’s pleasures. At Better Back and Body, our local chiropractor’s office provides expert back pain treatment in the greater Kirkland, WA area. Here are five common sources of back pain. Bulging Discs In your back, discs provide cushioning between vertebrae. When discs bulge or rupture, a lot of pressure can be put on a nerve. This can cause significant pain, although in some cases, pain may not be especially noticeable when a disc is bulging. Common causes of bulging discs include heavy lifting, auto accidents, poor posture, and age-related wear and tear. Osteoporosis With osteoporosis, tissue loss causes bones to become brittle. As bones become more fragile, there is greater susceptibility to compression fractures in the vertebrae. Arthritis Arthritis can cause significant back pain, especially in the lower back. Common risk factors for osteoarthritis include old age and obesity. Also, there is a correlation between arthritis and spinal stenosis, which is a condition that causes the space around the spinal cord to shrink. Scoliosis With scoliosis, the spine has an abnormal curvature. Scoliosis can lead to back pain and discomfort, though this may not be felt until around middle age. Muscle Strain Heavy lifting is a common cause of muscle and ligament strains. Although it’s almost cliche to say, it’s worth repeating that you should lift with your knees and not with your back. Chiropractor in Kirkland, WA If you’re experiencing back pain and need a chiropractor in Kirkland or the surrounding area, contact Better Back and Body at  425-629-0326  . At our nearby chiropractor’s office, we specialize in spinal decompression for treating back pain. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an evaluation!
By Better Back and Body 22 Aug, 2023
Maintaining good health often involves a collaborative approach that brings together various healthcare professionals to address different aspects of your well-being. If you're considering chiropractic care as part of your health journey, you might be wondering when it's appropriate to ask for a chiropractor referral from your primary care physician. At Better Back and Body, we receive referrals to our Kirkland chiropractor's office for a number of different reasons, including the following. Persistent Pain or Discomfort If you've been dealing with persistent pain, particularly in your back, neck, joints, or muscles, and conventional treatments haven't provided the relief you need, it might be time to consult a chiropractor. Limited Range of Motion Difficulty moving a certain body part or experiencing limited range of motion could be indicative of musculoskeletal issues. A chiropractor specializes in identifying and addressing such problems, helping you regain your mobility and improve overall function. Integrative Approach If you're already receiving treatments for certain health conditions and are interested in a more holistic approach to your well-being, chiropractic care can complement your existing treatments. Discussing this with your primary care physician can lead to a well-rounded care plan that addresses multiple aspects of your health. Prevention and Wellness Chiropractic care isn't just about addressing existing issues; it's also about maintaining good health and preventing future problems. If you're interested in proactive wellness strategies, such as maintaining proper spinal alignment and posture, a chiropractor can provide guidance. Sports and Physical Activity Engaging in sports or physical activities can sometimes lead to injuries or strains. If you're an athlete or an active individual, your primary care physician might recommend chiropractic care to help you recover from injuries, enhance performance, and prevent future problems. Chronic Conditions Chiropractic care isn't limited to musculoskeletal issues; it can also play a role in managing certain chronic conditions, like migraines, tension headaches, and fibromyalgia. If you're seeking non-invasive, drug-free approaches to managing chronic symptoms, chiropractic care ought to be considered. Recovery from Injuries After an auto accident, fall, or other injury, chiropractic care can aid in the recovery process. By addressing misalignments and promoting proper healing, a chiropractor can help you regain functionality and minimize the risk of long-term complications. If you believe that you could benefit from the care of a chiropractor in Kirkland, be sure to talk to your doctor about receiving a referral. At Better Back and Body, our goal is to provide hollistic healthcare that solves ailments without drugs or surgeries. We would be happy to tell you more about our local chiropractic services or offer out of pocket prices for seeing a chiropractor in Kirkland, Juanita, Totem Lake or the surrounding areas. To get started, give us a call at (425) 629-0326 . We look forward to helping you feel your very best.
By Better Back and Body 15 Aug, 2023
For more about a month now WashingtonState and most other states have been under stay at home orders dueto COVID-19. This sudden and jarring change in lifestyle has leftmany people aching to get outside, to the gym or even to freely roamthe aisles of their local grocery store. While it is important tocontinue to practice social distancing as long as these orders are inplace, it is also necessary to keep yourself and your family healthy.Here are a few tips to follow to help ease the social, mental andphysical hardships of quarantine. Diet First and foremost, be safe whenacquiring food. Utilizing grocery delivery services is smart, but ifyou must go to the store, follow government recommended guidelines.In either case, be sure you’re still purchasing healthy options foryourself and your loved ones. It is easy to easy to slip into poordietary habits when you’re essentially confined. This is especiallytrue for solo quarantiners. A healthy diet will help your physicaland mental self. Besides, one way to use this time is to learn, orpractice, culinary skills! Stay Hydrated There are plenty of memes floatingaround about how easy it is to reach for a beer or mix a cocktail atany hour of the day, any day of the week now that time seems to standstill. Don’t fall into this trap! With routines all out of whack,simply be sure you’re drinking plenty of water. Stay Active While gyms are closed and grouprecreational activities are difficult or impossible to participate inlive, you can still get your exercise fix. There are plenty of freeclasses online that include workout routines that utilize equipmentfound at home, yoga and other means. You are also still allowed to gooutside for walks and runs, or simply to enjoy your own yard, just doyour best to avoid coming into contact with others. Remaining activeis critical during quarantine to prevent weight gain caused bysedentariness. Let Your Mind Relax These times are nothing short ofextraordinary. It is easy to let worry settle in, and rightfully so,but when possible, take some time to breathe. Even if you can’tparticipate in your normal passions, there are plenty of activitiesyou can do. Reading, diving into a new docu-series, puzzles, anddrawing are just a couple quick ideas. Stay in Touch with Loved Ones Finally, be sure to stay connected withyour loved ones. Whether through a normal phone call or through useof video chatting, having human interaction is a great way to boostspirits! During this unprecedented event, ourteam at Better Back & Body wants you to know we are here for youwhen you need us. If you need chiropractic care in Kirkland, or would like to inquire about our other healthservices , don’t hesitate to call us at  425-629-0326  .
By Better Back and Body 17 Apr, 2020
While it is important to continue to practice social distancing as long as these orders are in place, it is also necessary to keep yourself and your family healthy. Here are a few tips to follow to help ease the social, mental and physical hardships of quarantine.
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