In December 2023, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) released its first-ever guidelines on chronic back pain management. For the record, the said condition is the leading cause of disability across the globe. As a matter of fact, in 2020, about 1 in 13 people of 619 million globally experienced lower back pain.

In the Philippines, according to a report by Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), back pain was the most common type of occupational ailment from 2011 to 2018. 

Putting the said factors into consideration, it can be said that a holistic approach such as chiropractic in Manila can be handy for those who want to address lower back pain. However, it is not the preferred choice of treatment for many and they would rather stretch their back in an effort to alleviate the pain and discomfort that are associated with the said condition. Is this a worthwhile move? Read on to find out.

Can Stretching Treat Back Pain?

The quick answer is yes. According to Harvard Health, regular stretching within the spine’s range of motion can relieve lower back pain since it promotes harmony among the surrounding muscles of the spine. With stronger, more stable muscles, the back can ward off the said ailment. 

The article added that regular stretching is essential for those who sit a lot. That is because the back muscles may become too tight due to prolonged sitting; they may get shorter and less flexible. All these won’t work well together and may trigger a number of conditions that may lead to back pain. 

Stretching plays a key role in alleviating back pain by loosening up tight muscles. According to the National Spine Health Foundation, tight muscles in the back, hip, and leg regions can put inappropriate pressure on the spine. Regular stretching can extend and expand the said muscles and cut down the compressive tension on the spine. Consequently, this can alleviate the pain as well as discomfort that are associated with degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and so forth. 

Chiropractic in Manila and Stretching: A Synergistic Approach?

Chiropractic in Manila can complement stretching by effectively, safely, and addressing the, say, root or fundamental causes of lower back pain. Doctors of chiropractic use spinal adjustments as well as spinal manipulations, together with other holistic approaches to: 

• Restore Spinal Alignment 

A chiropractic doctor is going to use pressure to manipulate the body’s joints and later on, realign the spine–reducing pain and discomfort–along the way. This is according to an article that was published in the official website of Cleveland Clinic. 

The write-up added that the mentioned procedure may not only correct the body’s alignment; it can also enhance how the body functions physically. With this in mind, one does not have to wonder why chiro procedures are used as complementary methods for conventional care that back pain patients receive. 

• Address Muscle Imbalance 

Muscle imbalance that is caused by poor posture, repetitive movements, and overtraining can lead to the said condition. If not addressed, it may lead to back pain as well as limited mobility. In addition to these, muscle imbalance can also lead to muscle instability that may increase the injury risk on the ligaments, joints, tendons, connective tissues, etc. 

The good news is that thanks to regular sessions of chiropractic in Manila, muscle imbalance can be fixed in a timely manner. This is achieved through holistic as well as drug-free techniques such as soft tissue massage and myofascial release. If properly performed by a doctor of chiropractic, they can restore muscle imbalance and, at the same time, alleviate muscle tension and restore muscle imbalance. 

• Do Chiropractors Recommend Stretching?

A significant number of chiropractic in Manila patients seek treatment to get rid of nagging back pains. Rightfully so, a chiropractic doctor performs procedures that are specifically designed to eradicate restrictions from the vertebrae of the spine and the joints. This, in turn, eases pain and discomfort throughout the body. On top of these, he or she can also incorporate stretches that can be done at thome. 

Such an approach is essential due to the fact that maintaining a doctor-approved stretching routine can help eliminate pain, and so forth. This is because as one stretches, the muscles as well as ligaments in the body get warmed up and improve blood flow throughout the body. 

That being said, it can be said that chiropractic care, if properly combined with a chiro-approved stretching routine can help manage back pain and leave patients feeling better than ever. 

What Precautions Should be Taken When Stretching for Back Pain? 

While the benefits of stretching when it comes to managing back pain cannot be denied, it should be noted that it should be done properly so as to ensure that its benefits are going to be enjoyed to the fullest. On top of this, it should be noted that failure to practice caution may do more harm than good. That said, it is best to take note of the following: 

• Seek Professional Advice 

Yes. Stretching may seem like a simple routine. However, there are do’s and don’ts to it: stretching beyond the body’s range of motion, bouncing (may cause muscle strain), overdoing it with weights, and so forth. Therefore, it is always best to seek advice from a qualified doctor of chiropractic to ensure that the stretches that are going to be performed are appropriate for one’s specific condition. 

• Be Consistent

When it comes to managing back pain with stretches, consistency is key. In order for it to work, individuals who experience the said condition need to incorporate stretching to their lifestyle and daily routine. By doing so, they can alleviate back pain, build strength, and so forth. 

• Listen to the Body 

If any stretch or workout routine leads to pain, it is best to stop. In one way or another, it is the body telling the patient is doing it wrong. It is best to stop the soonest and seek consultation from a doctor of chiro or general physician. 

Summing Up

Back pain–whether chronic or acute–can have a negative impact on daily living. Fortunately, affected individuals do not have to fuss. That is because there is always a chiropractic in Manila out there that can help them achieve long-lasting pain relief. 

Visiting a reputable one is the way to go since they can perform holistic procedures that include but are not limited to chiropractic massage, soft tissue therapy, spinal manipulation, and so forth. In addition to all these, they can also advise personalized stretching routines that can alleviate the symptoms of back pain and, at the same time, improve overall health and well-being. 

Are you looking for a chiro in Manila that can help you with your back pain? Book an appointment now and visit us at Posture Perfect Chiropractic. Our highly trained doctors can help treat your pain as well as discomfort. They can also play a key role in allowing you to live a more fulfilling life.