Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care. While it can range from a mild ache to debilitating pain, understanding the underlying cause is the first step toward lasting relief. Four common types of low back pain seen in chiropractic practice are facet syndrome, disc injury, spinal stenosis, and muscle strain/sprain.
- Facet Syndrome
What it is: Facet joints are small joints at the back of your spine that allow movement and provide stability. When these joints become irritated or inflamed, they can cause localized pain, stiffness, and sometimes pain that radiates into the buttocks or thighs. 
Common causes:
- Sudden twisting or extension movements
- Prolonged sitting or poor posture
- Degenerative changes over time
How chiropractic can help: Gentle spinal adjustments, mobilization, and posture retraining can reduce joint irritation, restore movement, and improve comfort.
- Disc Injury
What it is: The discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When injured, a disc can bulge, herniate, or tear, leading to inflammation and nerve irritation. This can cause localized pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs (sciatica). 
Common causes:
- Heavy lifting with poor mechanics
- Repetitive bending or twisting
- Sudden trauma, such as a fall
How chiropractic can help: Specific adjustments, spinal decompression therapy, and core stabilization exercises can help relieve pressure on the disc and support healing.
- Spinal Stenosis
What it is: Stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This often results in pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back and legs, especially when standing or walking. 
Common causes:
- Age-related degenerative changes
- Bone spurs from arthritis
- Thickening of spinal ligaments
How chiropractic can help: Chiropractic care can improve spinal alignment, mobility, and posture to reduce nerve irritation. Flexion-distraction therapy and gentle stretching can also relieve pressure in many cases.
- Muscle Strain/Sprain
What it is: A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon, while a sprain affects the ligaments. Both can cause significant pain, swelling, and reduced movement. 
Common causes:
- Overexertion during lifting or sports
- Sudden awkward movements
- Poor conditioning or flexibility
How chiropractic can help: Soft tissue therapy, targeted adjustments, and rehabilitative exercises can speed recovery, restore flexibility, and help prevent future injury. 
Chiropractic Approach to Low Back Pain At its core, chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper movement, reducing nerve irritation, and supporting the body’s natural healing process. Treatment is tailored to the individual, often combining:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Therapeutic exercises
- Posture and ergonomics training
- Lifestyle recommendation
Video Library of Commonly Prescribed Low Back Exercises
If you’re experiencing low back pain, early evaluation can make a big difference in recovery. Dr. Sturges can help identify the cause and create a personalized care plan to get you moving again—without relying solely on medication or invasive procedures.