Chiropractic Treatment Options for Low Back Pain: What You Need to Know

Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems, affecting people of all ages and lifestyles. Whether it’s caused by poor posture, repetitive strain, injury, or age‑related changes, chiropractic care offers several effective treatment options to help relieve discomfort and restore healthy movement.

Below is an overview of the main chiropractic techniques often used to treat low back pain, including what they are, how they work, and who may benefit from them.

1. Spinal Manipulation

What it is:
Spinal manipulation is one of the most well‑known chiropractic treatments. It involves applying a controlled, high‑velocity, low‑amplitude thrust to a spinal joint that is restricted in movement.

How it helps:

• Restores normal joint mobility

• Reduces pain and muscle tension

• Improves function in the affected and surrounding area

  Who benefits:
  People with acute or chronic low back pain, mechanical back pain, and mobility restrictions often find significant relief with spinal manipulation.

2. Joint Mobilisation

What it is:
Joint mobilisation uses slow, gentle, repetitive movements within the joint’s normal range of motion instead of the quick thrust used in manipulation.

How it helps:

• Reduces stiffness in the spine and surrounding joints

• Improves flexibility and range of motion

• Helps relax tight muscles

• Encourages normal movement patterns without forceful techniques

  Who benefits:
  This is ideal for individuals who prefer a gentler approach or have conditions where high‑velocity adjustments may not be suitable.

3. Flexion‑Distraction Therapy

What it is:
Flexion‑distraction is a specialised technique performed on a specialised chiropractic table that gently stretches and flexes the spine.

How it helps:

• Reduces pressure on spinal discs

• Relieves nerve compression (such as sciatica)

• Improves spinal mobility while minimising strain

  Who benefits:
  People with disc‑related low back pain, facet joint pain, spinal stenosis, and chronic tightness often respond well to this technique.

4. Muscle Stretching and Soft Tissue Techniques

What it is:
Chiropractors often use targeted stretching and soft tissue work to support joint treatments. These may include passive stretching, active muscle release, and myofascial techniques.

How it helps:

• Reduces muscle tightness and spasms

• Improves flexibility

• Enhances the results of spinal adjustments

• Helps restore balanced movement patterns

  Who benefits:
  Anyone experiencing muscular tension associated with low back pain—from sports injuries to work‑related postural problems—can benefit from these techniques.

Why a Combined Approach Works Best

Chiropractic care is rarely a one‑size‑fits‑all solution. Most patients experience the best results when multiple techniques are combined based on their condition, mobility, pain levels, and overall health.

A personalised care plan may include:

• A mix of manipulation and mobilisations

• Flexion‑distraction for disc‑related issues

• Muscle stretching or soft tissue therapy

• Home exercises and posture advice

• Lifestyle or ergonomic recommendations

This approach aims not only to reduce pain but also to improve long‑term spinal health, prevent recurrence, and support daily function.

Final Thoughts

Low back pain can be frustrating and disruptive, but effective, non‑invasive treatment options are available. Chiropractic care offers a variety of techniques- from traditional spinal manipulation to gentle mobilisations and soft tissue therapy- designed to relieve pain, restore movement, and help you get back to the activities you enjoy.

If you're unsure which technique is right for you, our chiropractors at Vale Chiropractic can assess your condition and build a tailored plan that supports your specific needs.