Linking Signs of Depression with Poor Spine Health

Even though depression is a disease rooted in the chemical makeup of the brain, it has close connections with the physical health of the rest of the body – including the back. Things like chronic pain and poor spine health can take a toll on mental health, potentially causing depression.

But what many people don’t realize is that the reverse can also be true. Depression may be able to create problems within the body.

The chiropractic experts at Ideal Spine teach the treatment methods of Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP), a holistic approach to patient care. Part of this holistic course of treatment involves considering more than the physical when it comes to the spine – looking for signs of mental illness that may impact the health and healing process of patients with spinal conditions.

Chronic pain and depression

People who suffer from chronic conditions of the spine and nervous system may be more likely to develop depression. Suffering from chronic pain can be extremely isolating, which is also linked to depression. Additionally, living in consistent pain can create feelings of worthlessness and misery, as well as persistent irritability.

Chiropractors should be aware of this when speaking with their patients and creating treatment plans. Part of a holistic treatment plan may include therapy for the mind as well as the body.

Depression leading to back pain

Studies have also indicated people with existing depression may be up to four times as likely to develop back and neck pain as people without. It is not completely known why this occurs. There are many causes of depression, as well as many causes of back pain, and the combination of multiple factors may heighten feelings of pain over time.

Some signs of depression may contribute to or perpetuate back pain. One is lethargy or fatigue, which may lead to a decrease in physical activity and stretching. This can weaken the muscles surrounding the spine, potentially leading to subluxations or misalignments. It may also result in stiffness and tension in the muscles and joints of the spine, causing pain.

The link between the brain and body may also result in heightened sensations of pain due to inflammation. When the brain does not feel good, the body is unlikely to, as well, possibly worsening pain symptoms and causing depression patients to complain of back problems.

Helping patients with back pain and depression

Although chiropractors are not trained in the inner workings of the mind, they may be able to provide help to patients who display signs of combined back pain and depression.

Patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain may be interested in learning more about the link between chronic pain and depression. Consider providing resources for therapy or support groups to help your patients cope with their conditions outside of your office.

Discussions and questionnaires may also help you identify an existing link between depression and back pain in patients.

A combination treatment plan can potentially improve your patient’s quality of life and may even put them on a more likely path toward healing. For more information regarding holistic treatment of depression and poor spine health, contact Ideal Spine and learn from our spinal experts.

Chiropractic BioPhysics® corrective care trained Chiropractors are located throughout the United States and in several international locations. CBP providers have helped thousands of people throughout the world realign their spine back to health, and eliminate a source of chronic back pain, chronic neck pain, chronic headaches and migraines, fibromyalgia, and a wide range of other health conditions. If you are serious about your health and the health of your loved ones, contact a CBP trained provider today to see if you qualify for care. The exam and consultation are often FREE. See www.CBPpatient.com for providers in your area.