This is probably the most common question I get from people who’ve never been to a chiropractor before. And it’s a fair one. We’ve all been told at some point that back pain will sort itself out. Rest up, take some ibuprofen, you’ll be fine in a few days.
Sometimes that’s true. A minor muscle strain after an awkward lift? Often, yes, it settles down on its own.
But here’s the thing – the people I tend to see are the ones who waited. And waited. And then waited a bit more. Six weeks later, the back pain that started from reaching for something on the bottom shelf is still there, and now it’s affecting their sleep, their mood and their ability to get in and out of the car without a small theatrical performance.
Here’s a rough guide. If your pain is sharp, severe, or came with any tingling or numbness down a leg, don’t wait – come in. If it’s been going on for more than a week or two without improvement, come in. If it keeps coming back every few months, come in.
Early treatment is almost always easier, quicker and cheaper than late treatment. The body is remarkably good at compensating – limping a little, favouring one side, tightening up around the problem area – but those compensations create their own problems over time.
You wouldn’t leave a small leak in the roof because it’s not that bad yet.
If you’re unsure, give us a call. We can usually tell you over the phone whether it’s something we can help with.
