BACK PAIN TREATMENT IN GREENVILLE, SC

Reviewed by Dr. Michael Nelson, DC, MHRD, ATC, chiropractor and certified athletic trainer · Last updated November 2026

Low back pain is pain, stiffness or muscle tension between the bottom of the ribs and the top of the legs. Most cases are mechanical, meaning they come from the joints, muscles, ligaments or discs rather than a serious disease. At Carolina Active Health Chiropractic in downtown Greenville, SC, we find what's driving your back pain and treat it with hands-on care and rehab that keeps you moving.

A movement strategy our doctors often teach. Check with your provider before starting new exercises.

Common causes of back pain

• Muscle and ligament strain from lifting, twisting or a sudden movement
• Irritated spinal joints and stiffness, often after long periods of sitting
• Disc problems, sometimes with pain into the leg (sciatica)
• Training errors such as too much load or volume too soon
• Weak or poorly coordinated core and hip muscles
• Injuries from car accidents (see auto injury care)

How we treat back pain

We start with a thorough history and exam to understand what's irritated and why. We take X-rays in our office when they're clinically indicated and refer to other providers when needed. Depending on what we find, your plan may include:

• chiropractic adjustments to restore motion in the low back and pelvis,
• soft-tissue therapy such as Active Release Technique or dry needling,
• traction on our traction table when appropriate,
• laser therapy for pain and inflammation,
• a progressive rehab program for core and hip strength, and
• coaching on lifting, sitting and training so the problem is less likely to come back.

For most back pain, staying active within comfortable limits is better than bed rest. We'll show you what's safe to do now and progress you back to full activity.

Back pain FAQs

Should I see a chiropractor for back pain?

Chiropractic care, exercise and staying active are common first-line approaches for mechanical back pain. We examine you first, and if your symptoms point to something that needs medical care, we'll tell you and help coordinate it.

Is it better to rest or keep moving with back pain?

For most people, gentle movement and staying active help more than bed rest. Avoid what clearly makes it worse, but keep walking and moving within comfortable limits.

When should I worry about back pain?

Get medical care right away if back pain comes with bladder or bowel changes, numbness in the groin, worsening leg weakness, fever, unexplained weight loss or a recent major injury.

Do I need an X-ray for back pain?

Not always. Most back pain doesn't need imaging right away. We take X-rays in our office when your history or exam suggests they'll change your care.

Can exercise help prevent back pain from coming back?

Yes. Building strength and control in the core and hips, and keeping active, are some of the best ways to reduce the chance of future flare-ups. Your plan will include exercises for this.

Related reading

• Get lasting back pain relief with chiropractic care
• Common causes of lower back pain in women
• 4 safe ways to relieve back pain now
• Hip pain treatment

General information only, not a diagnosis. Individual results vary. Carolina Active Health Chiropractic · 800 E Washington St, Ste B, Greenville, SC.