When one experiences lower back pain, he will try anything to find a way to alleviate it. Approximately 8 out of every 10 Americans will have a bout of back pain at one time or another. This is according to the US National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes. In addition, 1 in every 5 will have chronic lower back pain (lasting 3 or more months) – a primary cause of job-related disability.

People are leaning more and more toward natural solutions for pain. Mindfulness and meditation are proving to be a popular source to turn to. These therapies spring from a Buddhist spiritual tradition and a method to alleviate pain. Does it really work?

Seven studies were conducted, observing 900 patients who complained of lower back pain. Some received standard care – physical therapy and exercise to strengthen the back, over-the-counter and prescription medications, ice and heat packs, and general chiropractic care. Others took part in mindfulness programs to provide stress relief. Doctors recommended they engage in up to 45 minutes of meditation at home, 6 days of the week. The results? Mindfulness decreased pain on a short-term basis, but not long-term. Is there a long-lasting solution to back pain?

Upper Cervical Chiropractic and Lower Back Pain Relief

A connection exists between a misalignment in the bones of the upper neck and pain in the lower back. When a misalignment is present in the neck, the entire spine has to compensate by shifting and moving so as to keep the eyes level with the horizon line. This process can cause a number of problems throughout the spine, affecting posture and throwing the shoulders and hips out of alignment.

Upper cervical chiropractors use a gentle method that encourages the bones of the neck to move back into place naturally. This gentle adjustment has a domino effect on the rest of the spine and may correct issues in the middle and lower back as a result. Often this brings some relief or even resolution of lower back pain.

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