In weighing the different types of treatment for pain, you have probably considered chiropractic. For many types of discomfort, this natural therapy can provide gentle, effective relief.

Chiropractors are health care professionals who focus on the spine and other joints connected to the nervous system. They use a variety of different techniques to achieve pain relief and align your body to its proper muscular structure. It is an all-natural alternative to medications and even surgery for many types of pain and discomfort.

Here are the 5 signs it’s time to consider seeing a chiropractor:

Chronic lower back pain — This common condition affects 80 percent of people at some point in their lives, and it is effectively treated by chiropractic adjustments. Possible causes of lower back pain include spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), herniated discs and congenital conditions like scoliosis. Other common causes are improper, repetitive movements, and wear and tear due to aging. Lower back pain becomes chronic when it has remained consistent for about three months.

Tension headaches — This is another painful condition with several causes, including misalignment of the spine. Possible causes of headaches can be stress related, hormonal fluctuations, physical exertion and even a change in sleeping pattern. Chiropractic care offers a gentle pathway out of headache pain.

Neck pain — This is a common sign of spinal misalignment. When your neck has shifted, it causes stress on your spine because the muscles are unbalanced. Causes can be related to muscle strain, a herniated disc or a pinched nerve in the neck. Chiropractic can help relieve that neck pain by loosening the cervical (upper spine) joints.

Sciatica — This condition causes a sharp pain to run along the sciatic nerve, which radiates from your lower spine past your hips and into the legs. Often concentrated on one side of the body, it is usually a symptom of another spine ailment such as herniated discs and spinal stenosis. Chiropractic treatment can help relieve that pain during spinal readjustment.

Neuropathy — Basically damaged nerves, this condition is very painful and can cause weakness and loss of mobility. Neuropathy has many different causes such as muscle cramping, diabetes, misaligned joints, degenerative disc and poor circulation. The condition typically responds well to such nonsurgical treatments as physical therapy, massage therapy, spinal decompression and acupuncture.

Whether you’re experiencing pain in your head, neck, back or legs, it is vital to know what signs to look for and seek help early. A consultation with an experienced chiropractor can help answer many of your questions about your treatment options.