Back Pain
Targeted chiropractic care for chronic back pain, disc irritation, muscle strain, and recurring stiffness that makes daily movement harder.
Back Pain Treatment
If you are living with chronic back pain then chiropractic care with Chiro 1st might be a good treatment option. Almost everyone will experience some form of back pain, ranging from slightly irritating to completely crippling, in their lifetime.
Whatever the degree of pain you are experiencing and whether it is acute or has become chronic, at the very least you would probably rather live without it. In the most extreme cases it can be difficult to go on living with it.
Back Pain
The back is a broad term that covers a large area of the body. It is made up of many tendons, ligaments, discs, muscles, and bones. Without a solid understanding of these different parts, it can be complicated to locate and address the source of the pain.
Disc Bulges and Herniations
Disc bulges and herniations are conditions in which the outer edges of the discs, located between the vertebrae, are damaged. This causes the jelly-like center to bulge or be pushed out.
This is a surprisingly common issue and it is often, but not always, very painful. If the damaged disc is irritating a surrounding nerve, shooting or stabbing pain along with weakness in the legs is often severe.
Subluxations
Subluxation is a medical term describing a misalignment in the vertebral column. There are a wide variety of causes, including physical stress, trauma, and toxins.
Subluxations are often quite painful and can disrupt normal movement. Chiropractors are trained to identify and correct this issue using non-invasive adjustment techniques.
Muscular Sprains and Tendon or Ligament Strains
Strains and sprains most typically occur when we engage in tasks that our body is not accustomed to, or when we are involved in an accident. Lifting while twisting, or stretching past one’s limits are common causes of strains and sprains of the back.
These can be extremely painful and are often accompanied by swelling and bruising of the surrounding area. Strains and sprains in the back tend to involve changes to the alignment of the spine and typically respond well to chiropractic care.
Stress and Back Pain
Chronic stress wreaks havoc on the body, and can eventually lead to hyper-tension and chronic back pain. Back pain is a result of tension and muscle spasms that occur when stress hormones are released.
The tension will often accumulate in trigger points. Chiropractors have the knowledge and tools to relieve stress from trigger points and address nervous system imbalances that may be keeping your body locked in patterns of stress and pain.
Signs Your Back Pain Needs Attention
Most back pain eases within a few days. When it lingers, keeps coming back, or starts to change how you move, it is time to get it checked. Common signs include:
- Pain that lasts longer than a week or two
- Stiffness when you get out of bed or stand up from a chair
- Pain that spreads into the hip, buttock, or leg
- Back pain that returns every few months
- Trouble sleeping, sitting, or lifting because of pain
If back pain comes with loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin, fever, or follows a serious fall, go to the emergency room first.
Your First Visit
What to Expect When You Come In for Back Pain
Your first visit is about finding the cause, not just treating the sore spot.
History and Exam
We ask how the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your work, sleep, and activity.
Clear Diagnosis
Orthopedic, neurological, and movement tests, plus digital X-rays when needed, show us what is driving the pain.
Treatment and Home Plan
Adjustments and soft tissue work to restore motion, then simple exercises from our rehab and exercise program to keep you moving.
Keeping Back Pain From Coming Back
Getting out of pain is the first goal. Staying out of pain is the second. Your chiropractor will show you small changes that protect your back between visits and after your care plan ends.
- Core and hip exercises that support the low back
- Lifting technique for work and home
- Desk and car seat setup that takes pressure off the spine
- Short movement breaks if you sit for long periods
- Sleep positions that ease morning stiffness
If your back pain comes from a disc problem, spinal decompression may also be part of your plan.
Related Conditions
Other Conditions We Treat
Back pain often shows up alongside other problems. These are related conditions our chiropractors treat every day.
Sciatica
Pain, tingling, or numbness that travels from the low back into the hip and leg.
Learn About Sciatica
Disc Injury
Bulging and herniated discs that cause back or neck pain and nerve symptoms.
Learn About Disc Injury
Scoliosis
Sideways curves of the spine and the muscle tension and pain that come with them.
Learn About ScoliosisWhy Chiro 1st
Why Patients Choose Chiro 1st for Back Pain
With more than 3,500 patient reviews and a 4.9 star average, patients across western Washington trust Chiro 1st for clear answers and steady progress. Here is what they tell us matters most.
Licensed chiropractors
Experienced doctors at every clinic. Meet the team.
Exam before treatment
Every plan starts with an exam, and digital X-rays when they are needed.
Seven clinics
Locations from Everett to Federal Way, with same-week visits at many clinics.
Non-surgical care
A drug-free option to try before injections or surgery. See insurance and payment options.
Back Pain Chiropractor Near You
Every Chiro 1st clinic treats back pain, and you do not need a referral. Pick the location closest to home or work. Hurt your back on the job? See our work injury care page.
Back Pain FAQs
Can a chiropractor help with lower back pain?
Yes. Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a chiropractor. Care focuses on restoring normal joint motion, easing muscle tension, and teaching you how to protect your back.
Should I see a chiropractor or a doctor for back pain?
For most mechanical back pain, a chiropractor is a good first stop. If your exam shows signs of a more serious problem, we will refer you to your doctor or a specialist.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on how long you have had the pain and what is causing it. Many patients feel a difference within the first few visits. Your chiropractor will give you a clear plan after your exam.
Do I need X-rays?
Not always. We take X-rays when your history or exam suggests they will change your treatment, such as after an injury or when pain has lasted a long time.
Is it safe to exercise with back pain?
Gentle movement usually helps more than bed rest. Your chiropractor will tell you which activities to keep doing and which to pause while you recover.
When is back pain an emergency?
Go to the ER if back pain comes with loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, sudden leg weakness, fever, or a recent serious fall.
Ready to Fix Your Pain?
Choose a nearby clinic, schedule your first visit, and get a plan built around real progress.
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