What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain is the single most common reason adults visit a chiropractor. It can originate from muscles, ligaments, discs, vertebrae, or nerves anywhere along the spine. In Arlington, we see patients whose back pain stems from auto accidents, lifting injuries at work, degenerative disc disease, and sedentary desk jobs.
The lumbar spine (lower back) bears the majority of your body weight and is especially vulnerable to strain and herniation. The thoracic spine (mid-back) is less mobile but can develop painful dysfunction from poor posture or trauma. Understanding exactly where and why your pain occurs is the first step toward effective treatment.
Without proper care, acute back pain can become chronic — lasting months or years and progressively limiting your ability to work, exercise, and enjoy daily life.
Symptoms Our Patients Present With
Common Causes of Back Pain
Auto Accidents
Rear-end collisions and side impacts force the spine into unnatural positions, causing disc herniations, sprains, and muscle tears that may not produce symptoms for days.
Workplace Injuries
Repetitive lifting, prolonged sitting, and physically demanding jobs put constant stress on the lumbar spine, leading to cumulative injury over time.
Degenerative Disc Disease
As discs lose hydration and height with age, they become less effective shock absorbers, leading to stiffness, nerve compression, and chronic pain.
Poor Posture
Hours of desk work, phone use, and improper ergonomics create imbalances that gradually strain the muscles and ligaments supporting your spine.
Sports & Physical Activity
Contact sports, running, weightlifting, and even yoga can cause acute back injuries when form breaks down or the body is overloaded.
How Chiropractic Care Treats Back Pain
At DFW Accident & Injury Centers, Dr. Crifase uses a combination of evidence-based techniques tailored to your specific diagnosis:
Spinal Adjustments
Manual and instrument-assisted adjustments restore proper alignment, reduce nerve compression, and improve range of motion.
Flexion-Distraction Therapy
A gentle, non-thrusting technique especially effective for herniated discs and spinal stenosis in the lumbar spine.
Therapeutic Rehabilitation
Targeted exercises strengthen the muscles that support your spine, preventing re-injury and building long-term resilience.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Myofascial release and trigger point therapy address muscle spasms, adhesions, and chronic tightness contributing to your pain.
Imaging Coordination
When needed, we refer for MRI or X-ray through our network to identify disc herniations, fractures, or other structural issues.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first visit takes approximately 45–60 minutes. Dr. Crifase will conduct a thorough orthopedic and neurological examination, assess your range of motion, review any existing imaging, and discuss your pain history and goals.
Based on findings, you'll receive a personalized treatment plan that may include same-day adjustment if appropriate. For accident and injury patients, every finding is documented to support your insurance claim or legal case.
We accept most major insurance plans, PIP, MedPay, workers' compensation, and Letters of Protection for attorney-represented patients.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
While most back pain responds well to chiropractic care, certain symptoms require urgent evaluation:
- ⚠ Loss of bladder or bowel control
- ⚠ Progressive weakness in both legs
- ⚠ Numbness in the groin or inner thighs (saddle anesthesia)
- ⚠ Severe pain after a high-impact trauma
- ⚠ Unexplained weight loss with back pain
If you experience any of these, go to the nearest emergency room. For all other back pain — including post-accident pain — call our office for a same-week appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many visits will I need for back pain?
Most patients experience meaningful improvement within 6–12 visits. Your treatment plan depends on the severity, cause, and duration of your pain.
Is chiropractic safe for back pain?
Yes. Spinal manipulation is recognized by the American College of Physicians as a first-line treatment for acute and chronic low back pain, before medication or surgery.
Can you treat back pain from a car accident?
Absolutely. Post-accident back pain is one of our primary specialties. We document your injuries for insurance and legal purposes.
Do I need an X-ray or MRI first?
Not necessarily. Dr. Crifase will determine during your exam whether imaging is needed and can refer you through our network if so.
Will my insurance cover chiropractic for back pain?
Most major insurance plans cover chiropractic care. We also accept PIP, MedPay, workers' comp, and Letters of Protection.