Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor or chiropractor. While most cases of back pain resolve on their own, some require immediate attention. But how do you know if your back pain is serious or just a temporary issue?
At Victory Spinal Care in Cape Girardeau, we help patients determine whether their back pain is a minor discomfort or a sign of a deeper issue. In this guide, we’ll break down the warning signs of serious back pain, when to seek care, and why Upper Cervical Chiropractic might be the solution you need.
Signs Your Back Pain Might Be Serious
While mild or occasional back pain is common, certain symptoms indicate a more serious issue.
🚩 Red Flags That Require Immediate Attention:
✔ Pain that doesn’t improve after a few weeks – If your pain persists longer than 2-3 weeks, it may be a deeper structural issue.
✔ Sharp, shooting, or radiating pain – Pain that spreads down the legs or arms can indicate nerve compression or a herniated disc.
✔ Numbness, tingling, or weakness – These symptoms suggest nerve damage and should never be ignored.
✔ Pain that worsens at night or while resting – If your pain increases even when lying down, it could be a sign of inflammation or an underlying condition.
✔ Loss of bladder or bowel control – This is a medical emergency and could indicate cauda equina syndrome, requiring immediate attention.
✔ A recent injury or accident – If you’ve recently had a fall, car accident, or sports injury, seeking evaluation ASAP is critical.
If you experience any of these serious symptoms, you should seek immediate medical or chiropractic care.
Common Causes of Persistent Back Pain
Spinal Misalignment
One of the most overlooked causes of chronic back pain is spinal misalignment, particularly in the Upper Cervical spine (neck region). When the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae are out of position, it can lead to:
🔹 Poor posture and increased stress on the lower back
🔹 Nerve irritation that causes pain to radiate
🔹 Muscle imbalances that worsen over time
» Solution: Upper Cervical Chiropractic helps restore spinal alignment, reducing pain and improving function.
Herniated Discs & Nerve Compression
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes out, pressing on nerves. This can cause:
✔ Sciatica – Pain radiating down the leg
✔ Numbness & tingling – A sign of nerve involvement
✔ Weakness in the legs or feet
» Solution: Chiropractic adjustments relieve pressure on nerves, helping discs heal naturally.
Muscle Strain & Poor Posture
Cape Girardeau residents spend hours working at desks, driving, and using phones, which can cause:
✔ Lower back tightness
✔ Neck and shoulder pain
✔ Postural imbalances leading to chronic pain
» Solution: Regular chiropractic care can correct posture and alleviate muscle tension.
When to See a Chiropractor for Back Pain in Cape Girardeau
If your back pain is interfering with your daily activities, work, or sleep, it’s time to seek care. Chiropractic care is a safe, non-invasive option that can help restore function without drugs or surgery.
You should see a chiropractor if you have:
✔ Pain that lasts more than two weeks
✔ Pain that worsens with movement or certain positions
✔ Frequent headaches, stiffness, or reduced mobility
✔ Previous injuries that seem to be getting worse over time
At Victory Spinal Care, we specialize in Upper Cervical Chiropractic, using a gentle, precise approach to correct misalignments and relieve chronic pain at its source.
What to Expect at Victory Spinal Care
At your first visit, we will:
- Perform a detailed spinal evaluation
- Use advanced scans & X-rays to identify misalignments
- Develop a customized care plan for your specific needs
Unlike traditional chiropractors, our Upper Cervical adjustments are extremely gentle—no cracking, twisting, or forceful movements.
Find Lasting Relief at Victory Spinal Care
If you’re searching for a chiropractor in Cape Girardeau to help with back pain, we’re here for you.
📍 Victory Spinal Care – Cape Girardeau, MO
📞 Call us at 573-334-0100
