Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints and the number one reason people seek chiropractic treatment. When treating low back pain, chiropractors often recommend self-care strategies designed to help patients recover from their current episode and reduce the risk of future episodes. These may include spinal stabilization exercises and general exercise recommendations aimed at strengthening the muscles that support the spine and improving its overall function. However, research suggests that factors beyond the spine itself—including physical, psychological, and lifestyle stressors—may also influence the risk of recurring low back pain.
One potential contributor is systemic inflammation, a persistent, body-wide inflammatory response that can occur when the immune system remains activated by factors such as chronic stress, excess body fat, poor diet, inactivity, ongoing infections, or chronic disease. In the short term, inflammation plays an important role in the body’s response to injury. However, when inflammation persists, it can interfere with normal tissue function and recovery, potentially contributing to ongoing or recurring discomfort. Systemic inflammation may also heighten pain sensitivity, making everyday movements or activities more uncomfortable than they would otherwise be. Following a healthy, anti-inflammatory eating pattern, exercising regularly, reducing sitting time, managing stress, and keeping chronic health conditions under control may help reduce systemic inflammation.
Psychological factors, including anxiety, are also linked to low back pain recurrence. The relationship between emotional well-being and physical discomfort is complex, with each potentially influencing the other. Anxiety can increase muscle tension, disrupt sleep, and affect how the nervous system interprets pain signals. Individuals experiencing persistent worry or stress may also find it more difficult to maintain regular physical activity or other healthy routines. Fortunately, regular exercise, mindfulness practices, social interaction, and professional support when needed can all play a role in managing anxiety and improving emotional well-being.
Work-related factors may also increase the risk of another low back pain episode. Long workdays can involve extended sitting, repetitive movements, physically demanding tasks, or limited opportunities for rest. Depending on the nature of the work, these conditions may place additional demands on the muscles and joints while limiting opportunities for physical activity, rest, and recovery. Work-related stress and fatigue may also contribute to discomfort. While working fewer hours may not be an option, taking short breaks to stretch, walk around, and relax can help interrupt prolonged sitting, reduce muscle fatigue, and provide relief from repetitive physical demands.
In addition to the strategies mentioned above, research has found that patients who receive ongoing chiropractic maintenance or wellness care experience fewer days of bothersome low back pain over time. These visits also give your chiropractor an opportunity to assess how your lower back is functioning, address emerging concerns, and recommend additional self-care strategies to help you stay active and better manage your spinal health. If your chiropractor suspects a health issue that requires attention beyond their scope of practice, they can also refer you to another healthcare provider for further evaluation.