By Dr. Kelly Herta, DC

It’s that time of year again the kids are out of school, and you are in need of a much deserved break from your everyday work routine. It’s time for a vacation! You decide to break out the boat for the first time this summer and go camping, or you even get your bike out and decide to ride it daily with your kids.

Next thing you know you wake up and your “back has gone out”. You are in pain! At this point you have a few choices- you can either just leave it alone since you figure it’ll go away on its own, see your MD, or see your chiropractor. Most people do just what I said in that order. First, they figure it’ll go away, but after a few days they realize it’s not better. Consequently, they decide to go to see their MD. They go to the doctor and are prescribed some type of medication; usually either a muscle relaxant, an anti-inflammatory or even a pain killer. You go home and take the pills. The pain somewhat subsides so you stop taking them. A few days later you make a “funny movement” and the pain quickly returns. Now what?

Is it time to see a chiropractor? Besides, you’ve heard from friends that they can help. But, can a chiropractor really help with your back pain? The answer is yes! At your first appointment you will learn that chiropractic will not only help to relieve your symptoms but chiropractic can also help to keep your body in alignment so that you don’t cause a re-injury. In fact instead of masking the problem with medication, the chiropractor actually works to solve the problem so your pain doesn’t become chronic. The chiropractor will offer you suggestions for stretches and exercises to help you to prevent the injury and increase your core stability and fitness level. Chiropractic is both safe and effective and has shown greater improvements and satisfaction at one month than patients that were treated by their MD for chronic low-back pain. So, when you are out enjoying your summertime vacation and you over do it or hurt yourself give chiropractic a try. I bet you will be greatly surprised at the results!

For more information, Dr. Kelly Herta, DC at Aligned Health Chiropractic & Wellness Center. 27875 Smyth Dr. # 100, (661)295-5200.

Read more articles from Dr. Herta’s Body Wellness series by clicking here.