Low Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Conservative Treatment Options
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek healthcare, and it affects individuals of all ages and activity levels. Whether pain comes on suddenly or develops over time, understanding the cause of low back pain is an important first step toward effective treatment.
At Randour Chiropractic Clinics, we regularly work with patients in the Pittsburgh area who are experiencing low back pain that interferes with daily activities, work, or sleep.
What Is Low Back Pain?
Low back pain refers to discomfort or stiffness in the lower portion of the spine. Pain may be localized to the lower back or may involve surrounding areas such as the hips or pelvis. In some cases, low back pain is associated with nerve irritation that causes symptoms to travel into the leg.
Low back pain can be acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting weeks or longer), and symptoms may range from mild soreness to sharp or limiting pain.
Common Causes of Low Back Pain
Low back pain often develops due to mechanical stress on the spine and surrounding joints, muscles, and ligaments. Common causes include:
Joint restriction or reduced spinal movement
Muscle strain or imbalance
Poor posture or repetitive stress
Disc irritation in the lumbar spine
Degenerative changes over time
Previous injuries or trauma
Identifying the underlying cause helps guide appropriate care.
Low Back Pain and Sciatica
In some cases, low back pain is linked to sciatica, a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or compressed. Sciatic pain often starts in the lower back and may travel into the buttock, thigh, or leg.
Symptoms associated with sciatica may include:
Radiating leg pain
Tingling or numbness
Weakness in the leg or foot
Because sciatica often originates in the lower back, addressing spinal movement and joint function can play an important role in relieving nerve-related symptoms.
Learn more about our approach to sciatica and pinched nerve care.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Low Back Pain
Chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal movement, joint alignment, and overall function. For patients with low back pain, care may involve:
Gentle spinal and joint adjustments
Soft-tissue techniques to reduce muscle tension
Movement and posture recommendations
Exercises to support stability and mobility
Chiropractic care is a conservative approach that aims to address the underlying contributors to pain rather than masking symptoms.
When to Seek Care for Low Back Pain
It may be time to seek care if:
Pain is persistent or worsening
Symptoms interfere with work, sleep, or daily activities
Pain returns repeatedly
There is associated leg pain, numbness, or weakness
Early evaluation can help prevent minor issues from becoming more limiting.
Conservative Care for Pittsburgh-Area Patients
Randour Chiropractic Clinics is a third-generation, family-owned practice serving the Pittsburgh area since 1942. We focus on personalized, conservative care for patients experiencing low back pain, sciatica, and other musculoskeletal conditions.
Our goal is to help patients move better, feel better, and return to activity safely.
Schedule Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain
If you’re experiencing low back pain or symptoms related to nerve irritation, chiropractic care may help.
Schedule an appointment with Randour Chiropractic Clinics to receive a personalized evaluation and care plan.
