Many people experience back pain at some point in their lives, but few realize that it can be linked to other, seemingly unrelated issues like digestive problems. One question we often hear at our Columbia MO chiropractic center is: "Does back pain cause constipation?" The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no, but in many cases, the two can be related. In this blog, we'll explore the connection between back pain and constipation, how they can impact each other, and how chiropractic care can offer relief for both.

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Understanding the Relationship Between Back Pain and Constipation

Back pain and constipation often seem like two unrelated issues, but they can be closely linked due to the way the nervous system and musculoskeletal system function together. Here's how they might be connected:

1. THE NERVOUS SYSTEM & SPINAL HEALTH
   The spine plays a central role in protecting your spinal cord, which is the main communication highway between your brain and the rest of your body. The nerves that control many of your body's functions, including digestion, branch out from the spinal cord. If the vertebrae in your spine are misaligned or damaged, they can compress or irritate the nerves that lead to your digestive system, potentially leading to constipation.For example, the lumbar (lower back) spine contains nerves that connect to the large intestine. If there's any interference or inflammation in this area, it can disrupt the normal function of your bowels, leading to problems like constipation.
2. MUSCLE TENSION & IMMOBILITY
   When you experience back pain, it often leads to tension and stiffness in the surrounding muscles. This tension can affect your posture, reduce your mobility, and even slow down the natural movement of your intestines (known as peristalsis), making it harder to pass stools. This is especially true for people who lead sedentary lifestyles due to chronic pain.
3. MEDICATION FOR PAIN RELIEF
   Many people with chronic back pain rely on medications like painkillers or muscle relaxants to manage their symptoms. Unfortunately, these medications can have side effects, and one common side effect is constipation. Opioids, in particular, are notorious for causing constipation, which can exacerbate discomfort for those already dealing with back pain.
4. STRESS & THE GUT-BRAIN CONNECTION
   There's also a strong link between stress and digestive health, often referred to as the gut-brain connection. Chronic pain, including back pain, can increase stress levels, which in turn affects digestion. When the body is under stress, it enters "fight or flight" mode, slowing down processes like digestion. This can result in constipation or other gastrointestinal issues.

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Chiropractic Care: A Natural Solution for Back Pain and Constipation

Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to health that focuses on the alignment of the spine and the nervous system. At Columbia Chiropractic Center, we often see patients suffering from both back pain and digestive issues like constipation. Fortunately, chiropractic care can address both problems at once by focusing on the root cause-spinal health.

1. SPINAL ADJUSTMENTS
   Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, which can interfere with the proper function of your nervous system.By restoring proper alignment, chiropractic care helps relieve pressure on the nerves, including those that connect to your digestive organs. This can improve nerve communication and allow your digestive system to function more efficiently, relieving constipation.
2. IMPROVING MOBILITY & REDUCING MUSCLE TENSION
   Chiropractic care also helps reduce muscle tension and improve mobility, which can directly affect your digestive health. When your body is more relaxed and your muscles are functioning properly, your intestines are able to move more freely, reducing the risk of constipation. Regular chiropractic care can help maintain this balance, preventing both back pain and digestive issues from becoming chronic problems.
3. POSTURAL CORRECTIONS
   Poor posture, especially from sitting for long periods, can exacerbate both back pain and digestive issues. Chiropractic care includes an evaluation of your posture and recommendations for improvement. By correcting your posture, you can relieve pressure on both your spine and your digestive system, promoting better overall health.
4. LIFESTYLE & NUTRITIONAL ADVICE
   At Columbia Chiropractic Center, we take a comprehensive approach to your health. In addition to spinal adjustments, we often provide lifestyle and nutritional advice to help our patients achieve long-term relief. Proper hydration, fiber-rich foods, and regular exercise can all contribute to better digestive health, and we can guide you through the necessary changes to improve both your back pain and your digestive function.

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Chiropractic Care for Chronic Conditions

While occasional back pain or constipation may not seem like a big deal, chronic problems can significantly impact your quality of life. For patients dealing with conditions like sciatica, herniated discs, or degenerative disc disease, constipation can often accompany back pain. Chiropractic care offers a natural, drug-free solution to address both issues simultaneously by targeting the spine and its connection to the rest of the body.

For example, patients who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation treatments may suffer from peripheral neuropathy, which can also cause digestive disturbances, including constipation. At Columbia Chiropractic Center, we specialize in treating neuropathy and other conditions that can lead to chronic back pain and digestive issues, providing relief through non-invasive treatments.

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Take Advantage of Our New Patient Special!

If you're struggling with back pain, constipation, or both, we encourage you to explore chiropractic care as a solution. At Columbia Chiropractic Center, we're currently offering a new patient special for just $39, which includes:

• A comprehensive consultation to discuss your symptoms and health goals.
• A thorough exam to assess your spinal health and pinpoint any areas of concern.
• A detailed report of findings where we explain your diagnosis and the best treatment plan for you.
• X-rays if necessary, to get a complete picture of your spine and overall health.

Our goal is to help you live pain-free and improve your overall well-being, including your digestive health.

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Conclusion: Chiropractic Care for Back Pain and Constipation

Back pain and constipation are more closely connected than many people realize, and chiropractic care offers a natural, holistic way to address both. By improving spinal alignment, reducing muscle tension, and promoting better nervous system function, chiropractic care can help relieve constipation caused by back pain. Whether your issues are recent or chronic, Columbia Chiropractic Center is here to help you find relief.

If you're experiencing back pain or constipation, or if you'd like to learn more about how chiropractic care can improve your overall health, schedule an appointment today and take advantage of our new patient special for $39. Contact us at (573) 443-7755, or visit click here to book your consultation and start feeling better today!