for over 20 years

What Causes Low Back Pain

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Do you know these 11 causes of low back pain?

What Causes Low Back Pain?

According to statistics, if you haven’t had back pain, just wait, because chances are, you will. The following list is a list of answers as to what causes low back pain. Fix these and you can reduce your risk for a back pain episode.

  1. MATTRESS: Which type of mattress is best? The “short answer”: there is no single mattress (style or type) for all people, primarily due to body type, size, gender, and what “feels good.” TRY laying on a variety of mattresses (for several minutes on your back and sides) and check out the difference between coiled, inner springs, foam (of different densities), air, waterbeds, etc. The thickness of a mattress can vary from 7 to 18 inches (~17-45 cm) deep. Avoid mattresses that feel like you’re sleeping in a hammock! A “good” mattress should maintain your natural spinal curves when lying on your sides or back (avoid sleeping on your stomach). Try placing a pillow between the knees and “hug” a pillow when side sleeping, as it can act like a “kick stand” and prevent you from rolling onto your stomach. If your budget is tight, you can “cheat” by placing a piece of plywood between the mattress and box spring as a short-term fix.
  2. SHOES: Look at the bottom of your favorite pair of shoes and check out the “wear pattern.” If you have worn out soles or heels, you are way overdue for a new pair or a “re-sole” by your local shoe cobbler! If you work on your feet, then it’s even more important for both managing and preventing low back pain.
  3. DIET: A poor diet leads to obesity, which is a MAJOR cause of low back pain. Consider the Paleo or Mediterranean Diet and STAY AWAY from fast food! Identify the two or three “food abuses” you have embraced and eliminate them – things with empty calories like soda, ice cream, chips… you get the picture! Keeping your BMI (Body Mass Index) between 20 and 25 is the goal. Positive “side-effects” include increased longevity, better overall health, and an improved quality of life.
  4. EXERCISE: The most effective self-help approach to low back pain management is exercise. Studies show that those who exercise regularly hurt less, see doctors less, have a higher quality of life, and just feel better. Plus, exercise helps keep your weight in check. Think of hamstring stretches and core strengthening as important low back pain managers – USE PROPER TECHNIQUE AND FORM
  5. POSTURE: Another important “self-help” trick of the trade is to avoid sitting slumped over with an extreme forward head carriage positions. Remember that every inch your head pokes forward places an additional ten pounds (~4.5 kg) of load on your upper back muscles to keep your head upright, and sitting slumped increases the load on your entire back!
  6. OFFICE CHAIR: Because of vast differences between people’s height, weight, body type, and preference, it’s difficult — if not impossible — to find a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to office chairs! In the ideal world, the option to sit, stand, walk, and stretch as needed would be perfect but this simply is not reality. Low back pain from sitting is common due to the excess pressure it places on the joints and discs (the “shock-absorbers” of the spine). Here are some remedies: 1) Find a chair that FITS YOU. 2) Get up and move at least once every hour (set the timer on your smartphone as a reminder). 3) Place the computer monitor directly in front of you and keyboard/mouse so the elbows bend only 90°. 4) Keep your feet on the floor at your desk (use an upside down box if you have short legs). 5) Perform “in the chair” stretches when your timer goes off and get up, take a break and move around.
  7. BODY TYPE: We’ve discussed obesity as an obvious cause of back pain, but other factors are important as well. A very common cause of back pain for women is breast size. Here, the topic of a supportive bra is important, as carrying more weight in front of you adds additional stress on the back and shoulders.
  8. SHOULDER BAGS: Back pain can be caused and/or made worse by a heavy purse, bag, briefcase, and even a thick wallet in the back pocket! To keep your eyes level, your body has to compensate and assume a less-than-ideal posture that may place unnecessary stress on your back. So before leaving the house today, CLEAN OUT that bag and/or put your wallet in a front pocket and lessen the load on your spine.
  9. SMOKING: Smoking can reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches your cells, which can cause them to function at a less than optimal state. Maybe you’ve heard that a conscientious back surgeon will NEVER operate on a smokers’ back due to both the prolonged healing time and subsequent bad outcomes. So in addition to giving your heart, lungs, and those around you a break, if you want your lower back to heal, STOP SMOKING. Studies also show that smokers are TWICE as likely to develop low back pain compared to non-smokers… so quit. Better yet, DON’T START in the first place.
  10. STRESS & DEPRESSION: Remember, “health” is a balance between structure, chemistry, and mental factors. Stress increases muscle tightness and alters posture in a way that can lead to or worsen existing low back pain. Exercise, meditate, eat smart, and resolve your differences with family members and friends to minimize this problem… and get help when you need it.
  11. ERGONOMICS: How we “fit” into our job, lifting properly, workstation set up, work pace, and work stressors ALL play into low back pain management. Have an assessment to see if you have proper ergonomics at your job. If you notice that your back hurts at work, you may not have proper ergonomics… or you’re not taking enough breaks to relax your back… or you have a job that’s not back-friendly. One  common mistake young people make is doing manual jobs that are hard on the back. When you’re young, you feel strong and flexible, but certain jobs make you prone to back injuries… and you’ll usually feel the damage you’ve done to your back as you get older.

Dr. John Falkenroth, D.C. put together the above information about the causes of low back pain. To discover how to relieve your low back pain, order a FREE copy of Dr. Falkenroth’s book, “How To Relieve Back Pain Without Back Surgery.” This book will show you what back pain exercises you should do based on what position hurts your back the most. The book will also give you the other helpful advice that Dr. Falkenroth gives to his patients with low back pain. To get your free copy of the book below, click on the box below that says “FREE BACK PAIN BOOK.”

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Click Here For Patient Testimonials

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Testimonials

Please note that patients' conditions vary and therefore, results vary.

  • I had a herniated disc in my lower back. The pain was a 10. After 3 visits I could sleep, walk, and move with half the pain gone. After 1 month I was free of the pain and doing light work again.

    - Tom J., Soquel, Contractor
  • I visit Dr. Falkenroth regularly for pains, aches and for good health. I travel frequently, and he puts me back together after long plane rides. He’s a good guy, and I trust him to adjust my back, neck, shoulders and anything else that’s out of whack. I’ve stopped in with no notice and he’s accommodated me, always friendly and easy to work with.

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    - Marty F., Scotts Valley Show More
  • I first went to Dr. Falkenroth several years ago for a Sciatica issue I was having (extremely painful). After seeing one chiropractor with little to no results, I found Dr. Falkenroth in the phone book. I made my appointment with him, and immediately felt comfortable when I met him and his wife Estrella. After one visit I was feeling relief already, and with the 2nd appointment I was pain free…

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    - Phil J., Aptos, Electrical Distribution Show More
  • A year ago, I was riddled with back pain. I thought for sure my back would return once I retired and was able to give it a good rest… wrong. I found myself in tears every night praying for my life back. After costly doctor appointments, painkillers and a chiropractor that was not a match for me, I was referred to Dr. Falkenroth. Inside of a year, I am happy to report that I’m on an as needed”basis… I am pretty much pain free. I can now walk again, ride my bike, swim and take road trips!

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    - Dianne F., Aptos, Retired Show More
  • I was introduced to Dr. Falkenroth thru a co-worker. I have a history of back issues and was looking for a good chiropractor in the area. I can state absolutely that Dr. Falkenroth has helped me with not only back health, but better overall health and wellbeing. He has an excellent gentle manner and is a good listener. I have recommended him to many friends and associates.

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    - Mike W., Brookdale, Business Manager Show More
  • Ah, let me count the ways Dr. Falkenroth has improved the quality of my life!… I am pain free (upper neck, shoulders, lower back)… Dr. Falkenroth has been consistent, patient, and encouraging. He allows you to find your path to a pain free life! I am extremely grateful. I love the monthly newsletter and the office staff. Totally professional.

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    - Faye M., Boulder Creek Show More
  • When I first met Dr. Falkenroth I was in constant pain, very intense pain. I took so many painkillers it scared me and my doctors. I had been to so many doctors looking for any kind of help. My life had been affected so much in so many ways and it had been affecting my family’s life in ways I have never even thought of. I was desperate for help. I hated being alive and suicide was not an option. Dr. Falkenroth was and is my salvation to at last living again in a somewhat normal life. He too

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    - Deborah R., Scotts Valley Show More
  • … I was referred to Dr. Falkenroth by 2 of my Registered Nurse clients. I was suffering from low back pain with intermittent numbness from low back down through my knee. Having also been a Registered Nurse for 28 years I knew it was probably from L4. He gave a free thorough consultation and we both agreed to the problem stemming from L4. Since that time he has solved my shoulder, back and hip issues. I have so much confidence in his abilities. I have referred many of my own clients to him much

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    - Georgia C., Aptos, Massage Therapist Show More
  • … Dr. Falkenroth was my lifesaver. I recommend him to everyone I know. I work long hours as a caregiver and love to do yard work in my spare time. After I do yard work, my body is in pain. But not even pain can stop me from doing yard work, because I know Dr. Falkenroth will be there to fix me back up. I couldn’t imagine my life without him. This is something you will have to come down here and try for yourself.

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    - Ginger R., Watsonville, Caregiver Show More
  • Fifteen years ago, my lower back was a huge problem. I would lock up or have spasms on a “daily basis. Being a fitness trainer, this was not good. I turned to Dr. Falkenroth for help. After a few weeks of treatments I began to feel better… for the past 15 years my back has not caused any problems and I have never been more active.

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    - Michael B., Santa Cruz, Personal Trainer Show More
  • I’ve gone to chiropractors my whole life. It got to a point that my condition was getting so bad that chiropractor manipulations only made my condition worse. I went online to find information on sciatic relief and found Dr. Falkenroth. I thought: I’ll try one more chiropractor. He was amazing! He was gentle and made me feel better instead of worse. He always spends a lot of time with me and I don’t feel rushed. He always gives me exercises when I ask. He knows every exercise for every par

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    - Rami H., Santa Cruz, Retired Show More
  • … I always appreciate being able to get an appointment the same day I have pain and then feeling so much better when I leave the office. I am afraid of manual adjustments so him using the Pro-Adjuster is a scare-free way of getting adjusted.

    - Cecilia K., Aptos, Program Manager
  • … I have gone to other chiropractors before and have never been helped at all. Now I feel a relief of joint pain with Dr. Falkenroth and maintain this recovery with monthly appointments. I have been relieved with this method of care. It is much better than the traditional chiro adjustments that I was previously used to.

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    - Nanette V., Boulder Creed, Retired Show More
  • … Dr. Falkenroth is always friendly, knowledgeable and professional. I look forward to my appointments, not only for the chiropractic care, but because he and his staff are always so welcoming, great conversationalists and care about the whole picture.

    - Joanne B., Capitola, Administrator
  • … I’ve always been impressed with the level of care and understanding Dr. Falkenroth brings to each visit. The computerized adjustments keep me relaxed, and are very effective. Dr. Falkenroth keeps me upright and mobile…

    - Michael M., Santa Cruz, Musician
  • I was getting to the point that I was having trouble getting out of bed in the morning. As a UPS Driver that is not a good thing for me. So my wife made me an appointment with Dr. Falkenroth. It took several visits before I started feeling better. That was three years ago. No I come in once a month for maintenance only and I am able to work without low back pain.

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    - Scott S., Watsonville, UPS Driver Show More
  • I came with severe pain, received painless treatment and immediate results. I have come back several times after being away for weeks or months and again received immediate relief.

    - Katera R., Aptos
  • The first time I came to see Dr. Falkenroth, my back was out, I was in pain, and I could not stand up straight. Twelve hours after my first treatment my situation was dramatically improved. The treatments were not uncomfortable and I have always found Dr. Falkenroth to be kind and helpful.

    - Laura L., Aromas
  • Having researched “wellness” thoroughly, I can speak very clearly of the benefit my family and I receive via this clinic. As a family, we rarely visit the MD (except for the occasional stitches or poison oak treatment), and have enjoyed the freedom of movement even as we get older. I recommend this clinic all of the time with satisfactory results from all.

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    - Greg K., Aptos Show More
  • After seeing a massage therapist several times for a sore neck, she explained that she couldn’t get to the core issue. She said that Dr. Falkenroth has some advanced techniques that could help me out. I was very skeptical at first, but after 3-4 weeks, the pain has subsided and the visits are less and less frequent.

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    - Ken P., Capitola Show More
  • My experience in using the decompression therapy for the past 6 weeks has been good. At first it was hard to get used to, but I had no choice. Doing the therapy was great. I would recommend in the future to anybody I know that has back problems to come to Dr. Falkenroth for treatment. They won’t be disappointed.

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    - Alfonso P., Watsonville Show More
  • I was skeptical about the Pro-Adjuster because I had never heard of it before. However, I have enjoyed the painless treatments and like the fact that I can visually track progress after each session. Dr. Falkenroth has been fantastic. He is friendly and very professional.

    - Leona C., Santa Cruz
  • I was having back pain for several weeks. After a few days of sweating from pain I called Dr. Falkenroth and he was able to see me within a few hours. I was able to sleep after that night. Over the next few visits my back and neck pain were all but gone. I was skeptical of his approach with the new technology but am now sold on his procedures.

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    - Jerry H., Santa Cruz Show More
  • I have had a lot of pain in my lower back and neck. Dr. Falkenroth has worked wonders for me over the last couple of months. I recommend people that have back problems to him all the time. I went to see about five other doctors before finding Dr. Falkenroth, all with some results, but not with the results that Dr. Falkenroth has given me. I am very happy that I found him when I did. He’s very very good at what he does. He’s also a person who really cares about his patients. I am able to do s

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    - Mark W., Aptos Show More
  • I was referred by a co-worker. I have been suffering from low back pain due to an injury sustained at home, making it difficult for me to move without pain. Coming here to Dr. Falkenroth was a breath of fresh air! My first visit was great. I left here with less pain in my back, but still not sure about how his adjustments were going to help. About 4-6 weeks into the adjustments/treatments I noticed a very significant difference in my pain level. 5-9/10 down to 0-1/10 pain level. It is so nice to

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    - Martel D., Aptos Show More
  • I met Dr. Falkenroth 4 years ago in Aptos. Dr. Falkenroth has been treating me and greatly helping me in my strenuous training. I have referred over the years my students and all of them have had a great experience.

    - Brice C., Aptos
  • At first I was skeptical about the effectiveness of the adjusting machine he uses, but I am now a huge fan. It instantly shows areas of my spine that are slightly out of whack that I might otherwise have simply written off as stress or tension. When something is out of whack, Dr. Falkenroth can pinpoint the area and treat it accordingly. I no longer suffer from chronic headaches and my back has never been stronger.

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    - Brooklyn T., Santa Cruz Show More
  • Service is courteous, friendly, prompt – in a nice clean environment. Back pain was severe at beginning and has subsided substantially.

    - Byron G., Santa Cruz
  • My experience has always been positive. I was referred by a number of colleagues at Cabrillo College. My very first time seeing Dr. Falkenroth was very positive. He started seeing me because I got in a position of a work comp situation. Severe neck & back pain & tingling on the tips of hands & numbing. My condition has really improved… Staff has always been exceptional.

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    - Rose C., Santa Cruz Show More
  • Dr. Falkenroth has helped me with my back & foot pain that has helped me to be more productive at my job. The experience has been excellent…

    - Curt N., Santa Cruz
  • When I started coming to Dr. Falkenroth my back pain was causing me to lose sleep; I was in pain most of the time. I followed the plan set out by Dr. Falkenroth, and I have noticed a huge difference. I’m not consistently in a bad mood anymore from back pain.

    - Kristy T., Santa Cruz
  • My injuries have subsided quite a bit. I don’t pull muscle as much and feel stronger. Overall I have had great results here.

    - Andrew V., Aptos
  • I’ve had problems for years and never dealt with them. After two visits, I could feel myself gradually begin to get healthier. It was good.

    - Jordan F., Santa Cruz
  • Dr. Falkenroth is very knowledgeable & his treatment is effective. Treatment is painless and has helped me very much.

    - Julia D., Aptos
  • First of all I would definitely recommend the clinic to my friends. As for being skeptical, Yes, I was, but then I’ve been going thru this pain for many years. I admire Dr. John’s honesty in explaining every move he makes. I know it has taken many years of abuse to get my body in this condition, but I’m like everyone else – looking for the sure cure like overnight.

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    - Nancy S., Santa Cruz Show More
  • Dr. Falkenroth is wonderful! He is very knowledgeable, very accurate, he takes the time to understand the situation. I am very confident in his abilities. He is very kind and caring. His treatments are very gentle and don’t hurt. I have frequent severe migraines. I have just started treatment with Dr. Falkenroth and feel some real relief in my neck after the treatments.

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    - Judith J., Marina Show More
  • I woke up one morning with a terrible pain that started in the back of my neck and ran all the way down my right arm. Not one to immediately see the doctor, I lived with this intense pain for several months. A friend told me about John, her D.C. and how he had helped her with pain so I made an appointment. He evaluated and treated me on the first visit and the pain soon went away after a few more visits.

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    - Norma P., Soquel Show More
  • Treatments are really good and I love that they’re personalized.

    - Jennifer G., Freedom
  • When I began receiving adjustments from Dr. Falkenroth’s office using the Pro-adjuster, I not only began to feel much better, but there was no discomfort at all.

    - Vickie B., Scotts Valley
  • Dr. Falkenroth has treated my chronic pain as well as a more recent disc injury. The treatment is excellent, gentle and painless. This treatment allows me to function with less pain and has alleviated much of my back pain. I highly recommend this clinic above any other treatment.

    - Laura K., Scotts Valley
  • I came to the office with severe neck and shoulder pain. The treatments were painless and immediately effective. The massage chairs are so relaxing before each adjustment and the water massager after adjustments is wonderful. The office staff is friendly & organized. I look forward to each of my treatments.

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    - Vicki S., Capitola Show More
  • I woke up with intense and aggravating low back pain that kept me from focusing on anything. I called in the morning and they had an opening that afternoon, thankfully. After the Pro-Adjuster, which helped relax my muscles and remind my spine how to be in correct alignment, I appreciated the additional expertise of Dr. John.

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    - Dr. Krista A., D.C., Santa Cruz Show More
  • While massage is good for the person I’m working on, it can sometimes take its toll on my body. Dr. Falkenroth keeps my lower back, shoulders and hands working freely so I can do my best for my clients. For fun I dance, it keeps me fit. Sometimes I overdo it and the massage table helps with that.

    - Courtney B., Santa Cruz
  • Four years ago I was I a car accident where my neck and back were severely knocked out of line. After experiencing a year of pain I decided to come to Dr. Falkenroth. Since the beginning of my therapy my neck and back have become more in line and I am not experiencing any more pain. Dr. Falkenroth has been very accommodating, kind and helpful though my therapy and his great service will keep me coming back for years to come. I believe in Dr. Falkenroth and refer people to him as much as possible

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    - Jeff D., Aptos Show More
  • …If I had put off any longer getting the help I needed I probably wouldn’t be enjoying my life, grandkids, or dog walks at all. I would say give it a try!! It is not invasive like surgery or shots and if it helps, you will be healthier, happier, more content and understand your body better.

    - Sharon E., Aptos
  • Since I began seeing Dr. Falkenroth for chronic (3 1/2 years) lower back pain, the pain has reduced. I am now able to do some of the activities I avoided due to the increase in discomfort the next day. He listens well and targets the right areas for maximum relief. The treatments were never painful and I always felt better after I left the office.

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    - Christopher G., Aptos Show More
  • I am feeling much better since my car accident. I also noticed my neck isn’t cracking and popping like it used to. I am not taking Vicodin anymore since the pain has diminished to a manageable level.

    - Robert M., Aptos
  • Dr. Falkenroth has helped me in so many ways. My shoulder, back and hip were in bad shape due to my job as a hair stylist & salon owner. I got instant relief & have had steady results…

    - Donna P., Aptos
  • I had a bike accident. I felt pain in my back and other parts of my body especially my left foot. This treatment helped me a lot to recover, to walk normal again and to ease the pain that I am suffering. It took me like more than 2 months in my treatment and I hope even after many years will pass everything will be fine to me. Their treatment is remarkable especially the water massage.

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    - Rowena R., Capitola Show More
  • It has been a very great experience to be treated by Dr. Falkenroth. His treatment is gentle, painless and beneficial to my whole body. Even though I haven’t been coming for very long, I’ve found that I feel better, my neck is stronger and has more mobility. In addition, my lower back has less recurring aches & pain. I’ve recommended Dr. Falkenroth to many of my friends already.

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    - Kristin M., Santa Cruz Show More
  • Had consistent headaches from stress in neck which have disappeared. Also was ready to have knee surgery from pain caused by misaligned cartilage which has also lessened considerately.

    - Gigi P., Aptos
  • I was having terrible neck and shoulder pain limiting my being able to turn my head. I now have great flexibility with no pain.

    - Charlene H., Aptos
  • Dr. Falkenroth has made my back 100% better since I’ve been coming to him. I have no lower back problem near as much as I did. I would recommend him to anyone with back problems!!

    - Jim H., Capitola
  • Suffering from Carpal Tunnel is very painful. Through my treatments with Dr. Falkenroth I have a decrease in pain immediately & on an ongoing basis I have increased mobility in my arm and hand. I highly recommend Dr. Falkenroth. The treatments really work and the patient care is exceptional.

    - Laura R., Scotts Valley
  • Since seeing Dr. Falkenroth I have been able to cut down and even exclude allergy medications on a seasonal & year round basis. I also have less migraines eliminating dependence on preventative drugs and emergency medications. I sleep better and have lost weight now that I have more energy to put into my workouts.

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    - Sarah K., Aptos Show More
  • I first came to Dr. Falkenroth for help in recovering from a broken bone in my foot. The result of the treatments was that not only did my foot heal quickly, but both my feet became more flexible than they had been in years. I was responding so well that I had my husband begin treatments for low back pain. Then my teenage daughter, who is a dancer, tore a muscle in her groin. Dr. Falkenroth helped her to get back to performing very quickly. I certainly recommend him for his painless and effectiv

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    - Karen M., Watsonville Show More
  • I get adjustments by Dr. Falkenroth when my neck and back feel out of alignment or when I have muscle spasms. He can quickly and gently get things back into place. He is kind, efficient, gentle and funny. I love the massage chair and the Aquamassage – and the nature videos of beaches.

    - Carol W., Aptos
  • I hurt my lower back months ago. My neighbor recommended Dr. Falkenroth. The treatment is great. Pain is gone. I’m back to normal.

    - Joseph M., Capitola
  • Noticed a big improvement with my neck and back pain after about 3-4 treatments. I like the gentle adjustments – I would highly recommend it.

    - Diane S., Santa Cruz
  • I was rear ended in a car accident and was sent to a general practitioner and was given drugs to mask my pain. But I knew I wasn’t healing. Dr. Falkenroth’s approach was new to me. I decided to give this method a try and I have been very impressed. I feel like my body is healing properly and my pain has decreased significantly.

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    - Robert A., Los Gatos Show More
  • My experience with Dr. Falkenroth and staff has been very positive from the beginning. His explanation of the treatment was easy to understand and the results have been very good…

    - Dale O., Soquel
  • I came with a pinched nerve in my neck. I got instant pain relief within three visits. I felt great with more energy no headaches and with full mobility of my neck.

    - Dennis J., Felton
  • It took about 5 weeks but definitely I could tell the difference. Treatments did not hurt. I would definitely recommend him to others.

    - Mark H., Santa Cruz

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