Chiropractors use a variety of techniques and therapies to manage musculoskeletal conditions, including low back pain (LBP). Studies have found that a common contributory cause of LBP is dysfunction of the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF). The purpose of the TLF is to allow various muscle groups between the lower rib cage and the pelvic brim on both sides of the low back to smoothly slide independently between each other during normal movement. When adhesions form in the fascia, they can restrict the ability of the muscles to move independently. It can also increase the risk for pain and injury in the low back and other areas of the body.
One treatment option to address issues in the TLF that can cause pain and disability is myofascial release (MFR). Myofascial release is a hands-on treatment in which chiropractors apply pressure with their hands, elbow, or a tool. This is to stretch the muscles, knead out trigger points, or adhesions that may inhibit the muscles to slide against one another during normal movements.
Recent Fascia Study
In a 2021 study, 36 patients with non-specific chronic LBP received either a single 40-minute session of MFR or a sham treatment. The patients in the MFR group experienced improved muscle activity in the lower back as well as a reduction in both self-reported pain and disability.
Another study included 109 patients with chronic LBP. Researchers observed that those who received a single 40-minute session of MFR experienced improved muscle activity in the lower back immediately following treatment. These improvements persisted up to one month later at a follow-up visit. No such improvements were recorded among participants who did not receive any treatment.
Conclusion
A low back condition may have several underlying causes that need to be addressed altogether. Chiropractors will often adopt a multimodal approach to achieve the best outcome for the patient. In addition to MFR, a chiropractor may also employ various therapies. These include spinal manipulative therapy, mobilization therapy, soft-tissue therapy, exercise training, activity modification, physiotherapy modalities, nutritional counseling, and more. It all depends on the patient’s unique case, as well as their doctor’s training and treatment preferences. Consider Woodward Chiropractic & Massage in North Dallas to help address your low back pain.
