What are the main causes of back pain?

Back pain can result from muscle strain, poor posture, joint irritation, disc issues, or repetitive stress. Sometimes, it develops gradually from sedentary habits or improper lifting. Less common causes include arthritis or nerve compression. A proper evaluation from a chiropractor helps identify the root cause and best treatment.

How can a chiropractor help with back pain?

Chiropractors use hands-on treatments like spinal adjustments, myofascial release, and corrective exercises to restore alignment, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.

When should I see a doctor for back pain?

You should see a doctor or chiropractor if your back pain lasts more than a few days, limits movement, or radiates down the legs. Immediate care is needed if pain follows a fall, comes with numbness or weakness, or affects bladder or bowel control. Early diagnosis leads to faster, safer recovery.

What are the best ways to prevent back pain?

Regular movement, core strengthening, proper posture, and ergonomic habits are key. Chiropractic checkups can help maintain spinal health and catch small issues before they become painful.

Is chiropractic care safe for back pain?

Yes, chiropractic care is a safe, evidence-based approach for most people with back pain. It’s drug-free, non-invasive, and tailored to each patient. Chiropractors perform thorough assessments before treatment to ensure your safety and deliver effective, personalized results.

Back Pain Treatment in Memphis: Proven, Drug-Free Relief That Works

Back pain can begin suddenly as a sharp or intense pain, sometimes it begins with a wrong movement or sudden injury. Other times, it develops slowly as a dull ache or stiffness that comes and goes over weeks, months, or even years. Regardless of how it starts, back pain can be debilitating. About 80% of the population will experience back pain at some point in their lives (Neurol Clin). The misery and restricted mobility of pain may prevent people from going to work or school and from enjoying time with their friends and family.

In some cases, lower back symptoms result in depression, especially if the pain persists for more than six months. A global research survey found that back disorder is the single most disabling health condition (Lancet). Additionally, chronic back symptoms are on the rise as the rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyle increase. Ironically, active individuals are at a higher risk for episodic or recurrent low back pain.

At Cole Pain Therapy Group, we provide effective, evidence-based back pain treatment in Memphis, TN, helping patients restore comfort and movement through modern chiropractic care. We serve patients throughout the Memphis area, including Bartlett, Lakeland, and Arlington, TN — providing hands-on care close to home.

Back Pain Prevention

Your spine health is an important factor when it comes to pain prevention. Good nutrition, exercise, play, proper ergonomic work spaces, and better movement quality strengthens one’s spine and reduces risk factors for back pain. Prevention really does require improving one’s overall health, improving spinal durability, and reducing the risk of injury.

Still, since 80% of people will experience at least one episode of back pain, high-quality treatment from a back pain specialist in Memphis is essential for recovery.

Spine treatment has advanced significantly over the past decade. Previously, doctors used to suggest medication and rest as the main treatment for back pain. Research into healthcare quality and effectiveness now supports beginning with conservative, chiropractic care for back pain and other pain conditions.

Mechanical back problems need mechanical solutions, and chiropractic care is a high quality, drug-free option.

Additionally, research indicates that people heal better when a doctor of chiropractic assists with active treatment strategies and a quick return to full activity. Active care for back pain outperforms passive medication and rest strategies. Evidence-based treatment points to the drug-free and active pain solutions found with chiropractic care.

Modern Chiropractic Care in Memphis

In 2017, the American College of Physicians, the largest medical specialty society in the world, updated its back pain treatment guidelines. The reports recommended that non-invasive, non-drug therapies for back pain should include options such as massage, needle therapy, and chiropractic adjustments (Ann Intern Med). These treatment tools are central to chiropractic care in Memphis at Cole Pain Therapy Group. Anti-inflammatory medication may be helpful as an adjunct to primarily non-drug treatment.

Time spent in assessment will save time in treatment.

When looking for a back pain doctor, consider that time spent in assessment will save time in treatment. Meaning, it is better to seek out a back pain doctor for a thorough exam and diagnosis rather than bouncing from one type of treatment to the next. Since most low back pain causes are mechanical, movement-related problems, our doctors of chiropractic are experts in providing both a diagnosis and care plan. Every individual is different, and a back pain doctor should perform a thorough physical examination to arrive at a specific diagnosis. Sometimes x-rays and and an MRI are beneficial , yet in many cases, imaging tests are not necessary. Additionally, individuals have different goals when it comes to their spinal health. Any back pain doctor should be willing to answer all of your questions and help you to decide on a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Back Pain Causes

Since back pain is a symptom, its causes can vary. Common sources include:

Muscle strains and ligament sprains
Disc injuries and joint irritation
Arthritis or postural stress
Obesity, smoking, psychological stress, or prolonged sitting

While most causes are not serious, some — like infections, fractures, or systemic diseases — require careful evaluation. That’s why it’s important to consult a qualified chiropractor in Memphis if you experience persistent or severe pain.

Back Pain Treatment and Recovery

Before any treatment, we start with a thorough examination and discussion about your symptoms and health history. Our chiropractic physicians will outline your diagnosis and create a personalized care plan.

At Cole Pain Therapy Group, we combine hands-on chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic exercise, and massage therapy to relieve pain and support recovery. You’ll also receive guidance on nutrition and home care to help prevent future flare-ups.

If you’re ready to move better and live without pain, schedule an appointment with a Memphis chiropractor near you today. We’ll help you get back to the activities you love — without relying on medication or surgery.

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Discover how we may help!

We are the Memphis area’s top-rated chiropractic group, providing you with gentle chiropractic care, dry needle therapy, exercise therapy, and therapeutic massage.

2845 Summer Oaks Dr, Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

Life Shouldn't Hurt!

You Deserve To Feel Great. We Can Help!
Your go-to Chiropractor in Memphis, TN

Richard L. Cole, DC, DACNB, DAIPM, FIACN, FICC
Jeffrey D. Luebbe, DC, CCRD, CCSP
W. Steven Vollmer, DC, DAAPM
Bradford J. Cole, DC, MS, CSCS
J. Colby Poston, DC
Daniel H. Smith, DC
2845 Summer Oaks Dr., Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

Monday – Friday:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday :
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Walk-ins are Welcome!