Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is one of the most common spinal complaints, affecting mobility, comfort, and daily activities. It can come from muscle strain, disc issues, joint restriction, or long hours of sitting and poor posture. Symptoms often include stiffness, aching across the lumbar spine, or sharp pain with bending, lifting, or twisting. At KIRO, we focus on restoring spinal motion, reducing inflammation, and building strength so you can move freely and prevent flare-ups.
Why does lower back pain occur?
Lower back pain occurs when the structures that support the spine, such as muscles, discs, joints, or ligaments, become strained, irritated, or restricted. Common causes include poor posture, prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, sudden twisting, sports injuries, or even stress that increases muscle tension. Over time, these factors can limit spinal motion, create inflammation, and lead to recurring pain if not addressed.
What are the common symptoms of lower back pain?
Common symptoms include a dull ache or stiffness in the lumbar spine, sharp pain with bending or lifting, muscle spasms, and reduced flexibility. Some people also experience pain that radiates into the hips, buttocks, or legs, along with fatigue from struggling to stay upright during daily activities.
Who is most at risk of getting lower back pain?
People most at risk for lower back pain include desk workers who sit for long periods, manual laborers who lift or bend repeatedly, and athletes in high-impact or rotational sports. Older adults are also more vulnerable due to age-related disc and joint changes, while stress, poor posture, and weak core muscles increase the likelihood of developing lumbar pain.
How do KIRO doctors treat lower back pain?
At KIRO, care for lower back pain begins with a comprehensive exam to identify the underlying cause. After reviewing your findings, we design a personalized plan that guides you through three phases of care:
Symptomatic phase (first few weeks): 1–2 visits per week focused on reducing pain and restoring motion in the lumbar spine and surrounding joints.
Corrective phase (next 6–8 weeks): weekly adjustments supported by core stabilization, hip mobility drills, and posture training to build lasting spinal stability.
Preventive phase (ongoing): periodic care to maintain spinal health, reduce flare-ups, and keep you moving confidently.
Throughout your journey, we also coach you on safe lifting mechanics, ergonomic strategies, and daily resets to support healing. To measure progress, we perform monthly Nervous System Scans and adjust your plan as needed. In addition, our doctors rotate during care so you benefit from multiple expert perspectives and the highest level of clinical insight.
How long does treatment take for lower back pain?
Most patients with lower back pain notice meaningful relief within 4–6 weeks as symptoms settle during the symptomatic phase. The corrective phase usually takes another 6–8 weeks, focusing on building strength, posture endurance, and spinal stability. In total, about 12 weeks of consistent chiropractic care often provides lasting improvements, with many patients choosing ongoing preventive care to avoid future flare-ups.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care for lower back pain?
Benefits of chiropractic care for lower back pain:
Relieves pain, stiffness, and muscle spasms in the lumbar spine
Restores healthy spinal motion and alignment
Improves core stability and posture endurance
Reduces risk of recurring flare-ups and injuries
Enhances mobility for bending, lifting, and daily activities
Provides a safe, drug-free alternative to pain medication or surgery
Supports long-term spinal health through preventive care
FAQs
Why does my lower back hurt when I bend or lift?
Lower back pain during bending or lifting often comes from strained muscles, irritated facet joints, or added pressure on the lumbar discs. Poor lifting form, weak core support, or sudden movements can overload the spine and trigger sharp pain or stiffness.
Can poor posture cause lower back pain?
Yes, poor posture can cause lower back pain by placing uneven pressure on the lumbar spine. Slouching, leaning forward, or sitting for long periods weakens core support and strains muscles and joints, leading to stiffness and discomfort.
Is lower back pain a sign of a herniated disc?
Yes, lower back pain can be a sign of a herniated disc, especially if it’s sharp, persistent, or radiates into the hips or legs with numbness or tingling. Not all back pain comes from discs, though, a thorough exam helps confirm the cause.
Why does my lower back feel stiff in the morning?
Morning stiffness in the lower back is common because spinal discs rehydrate overnight, creating extra pressure, while muscles and joints tighten during sleep. Gentle stretching and movement after waking usually help ease the stiffness.
Can sitting too much cause lower back pain?
Yes, prolonged sitting can cause lower back pain by tightening hip flexors, weakening core muscles, and placing extra pressure on the lumbar discs and joints. Taking posture breaks and moving regularly helps prevent pain.
Can chiropractic care help with lower back pain?
Yes, chiropractic care is highly effective for lower back pain. Adjustments restore spinal motion, reduce pressure on joints and discs, and relax overworked muscles. With consistent care, most patients experience less pain, better mobility, and fewer flare-ups.
How do I know if my lower back pain is serious?
Lower back pain may be serious if it lasts more than a few weeks, is severe or worsening, or comes with symptoms like leg weakness, numbness, tingling, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever, or unexplained weight loss. In these cases, you should seek medical evaluation promptly.
What exercises are best for lower back pain relief?
Gentle, controlled movements work best for lower back pain relief. Some options include:Cat-cow stretch for spinal mobilityBridges to strengthen glutes and support the spineKnee-to-chest stretch to ease lumbar tensionBird-dog exercise for core stabilityHip flexor stretches to counter long hours of sittingThese exercises reduce stiffness, improve posture, and build support for the lower back. Ask our chiropractors how to do them on your next visit.
Can stress or anxiety cause lower back pain?
Yes, stress and anxiety can contribute to lower back pain. Stress increases muscle tension and guarding, especially in the lumbar region, which leads to stiffness and discomfort. Over time, this tension can trigger flare-ups or make existing back pain worse.
What chair and desk setup helps with lower back pain?
For lower back pain, an ergonomic setup is key. Choose a chair with lumbar support, adjustable height, and armrests so your feet rest flat and your knees stay at hip level. Pair it with a desk that keeps your monitor at eye height and close enough to avoid leaning forward. A sit-stand desk or alternating between sitting and standing, along with posture breaks every 30–45 minutes, helps reduce strain on the lumbar spine.
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