Is Your Job a Pain?

Backaches and sciatica image.

Did it ever occur to you that your job could be causing that pain in your back? And it doesn’t have to be a job that involves a lot of physical labor, such as heavy lifting, bending etc., either. In fact, chronic back pain is often far more related to psychological, rather than physical, causes.

Chronic back pain is the number one problem experienced in the workplace today. To illustrate:

  • The leading cause of disability in workers aged 19 – 45 is low back pain

  • Billions are spent each year because of back pain symptoms

  • Eight out of 10 people will experience low back pain in their lifetime

  • Low back pain is most likely to occur between the ages of 30 and 50

Studies have found that many people have feelings of anxiety or depression prior to experiencing low back pain. Other psychological work-related factors, such as job dissatisfaction, problems with a boss or co-worker, boredom and stress, have an impact on the way the body responds to the everyday demands of the workplace.

Workers sometimes feel that they have been wronged in some way, maybe they have been passed over for a promotion or they haven’t received the praise they deserve for a job well done. The resentment can show up as chronic low back pain.

A recent survey, conducted by the American Chiropractic Association, concluded that 80% of those suffering from chronic back pain would prefer a non-drug approach to treatment. However, most surveyed were taking pain medication to alleviate chronic pain symptoms. The survey also showed that over 64% would consider chiropractic care for their symptoms, yet only 13.8% were under active chiropractic care.

If you or someone you know is experiencing the debilitating effects of chronic low back pain, call our practice to schedule a consultation. Our drug-free approach to healthcare has proven successful with many patients with low back pain.

Dr. Tracy Asks some important questions of interest to Akron residents - Chiropractor Akron Dr. Tracy Asks...

If you have a fever, are you sick or healthy?
Chiropractors love asking this question because it gets to the root of the chiropractic difference. Turns out fevers, vomiting, coughing and even sneezing are all healthy responses. It means your body is working correctly. Taking medications to suppress these natural processes can actually prolong your recovery.
How long does it take to form a bone spur?
Many who begin chiropractic care think their problem happened "last week when you bent over funny." But pictures of the spine tell a different story. Chiropractors know it can take your body years to deposit the calcium necessary to form a bone spur. It's your body's response to stress due to gravity or joint malfunction. And chiropractic care can help.