Life in Motion Chiropractic · Livonia, MI
Back pain that keeps coming back
means the cause hasn’t been found yet.
At Life in Motion, we don’t just manage your pain — we find the root cause and build a personalized plan to fix it for good, without medication or surgery.
What’s actually causing your back pain?
Back pain is one of the most common conditions we treat — and also one of the most misunderstood. Because it has so many possible causes, getting an accurate diagnosis is essential. The wrong treatment approach can delay your recovery by months.
That’s why, before recommending any plan, Dr. Dockery performs a thorough evaluation. This typically includes a detailed health history, orthopedic and neurological testing, advanced movement screening, and — when needed — on-site digital X-rays reviewed the same day.
Understanding the specific source of your back pain is what allows treatment to be targeted, efficient, and lasting.
Back pain conditions we treat
Not sure which applies to you? That’s exactly what your first visit is designed to answer — a thorough exam to identify the actual structural source of your pain.
Lumbar Disc Herniation
A bulging or ruptured disc pressing on nearby nerves — causing radiating pain, numbness, or weakness down the leg.
Sciatica
Shooting pain from sciatic nerve irritation — often worse with prolonged sitting and commonly mistaken for muscle pain.
Facet Syndrome
Irritation of the small joints along the spine causing localized stiffness, aching, and restriction of motion.
Lumbar Stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerves — more common in older adults, often causing leg symptoms with walking.
SI Joint Dysfunction
Imbalance in the sacroiliac joint causing low back and hip pain — one of the most commonly misdiagnosed sources of back pain.
Sprains & Muscle Strains
From sudden exertion, awkward lifting, or prolonged hours sitting at a desk — often the entry point for longer-term dysfunction.
Disc herniations are among the most common causes of back pain we treat — and one of the most successfully resolved without surgery.
“Dr. Dockery doesn’t apply a cookie-cutter adjustment and send you on your way — every patient receives a thorough diagnosis, a personalized plan with measurable goals, and take-home exercises to stay on track between visits.”
Our approach to back pain relief
Your treatment at Life in Motion is built around your specific diagnosis, lifestyle, and goals — whether that means getting back to work, sleeping through the night, or keeping up with your family.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Chiropractic adjustments are the cornerstone of our back pain treatment. Dr. Dockery uses targeted spinal manipulation to restore proper joint motion and relieve nerve pressure. He is trained in 7+ techniques — including Diversified, Thompson, Gonstead, COX Flexion-Distraction, and the gentle ArthroStim instrument — and matches the approach to your comfort level and condition.
Learn about all our techniques →
Class 4 Laser Therapy
Our LightForce Class 4 laser penetrates deep into tissues to reduce inflammation, release pain-relieving endorphins, and accelerate tissue repair. Many patients notice reduced pain and improved mobility within just a few sessions — with no medication and no downtime.
Learn about laser therapy →
Corrective Rehabilitation Exercises
Every patient receives a customized exercise plan based on the best available evidence for their condition. Exercises are taught in-office so you perform them correctly and are available to review at home through our Rehab Exercise Library. Addressing the root cause — not just the symptoms — is why our results last.
Visit the Rehab Library →
Massage Therapy
Therapeutic massage complements chiropractic care by relaxing tight muscles and reducing tension throughout surrounding soft tissue. Patients who combine massage with adjustments typically experience faster, longer-lasting relief — and our licensed therapists work directly alongside Dr. Dockery in the same office.
Learn about massage therapy →Back pain doesn’t discriminate — and neither does our care
Whether your pain started suddenly or has built up over years, we see patients from all walks of life. These are the most common people we help.
Desk workers and remote employees with postural neck and lower back pain from long hours sitting
Drivers and delivery workers who spend hours behind the wheel with chronic lumbar strain
Athletes and active adults dealing with sports-related back, hip, or SI joint injuries
Patients who’ve tried medication and want a drug-free, conservative alternative
Anyone dealing with chronic pain they’ve been told to “just live with” — without a real explanation
Patients facing surgery who want to exhaust conservative, evidence-based options first
Were you involved in an auto accident? Even when a collision seems minor, the impact can cause significant damage to the spine and surrounding muscles that doesn’t become obvious until days or weeks later. We offer same-day appointments and bill auto insurance directly.
Learn about our auto accident therapy →Is chiropractic care proven for back pain?
Yes. The American College of Physicians recommends chiropractic and spinal manipulation as a first-line treatment for both acute and chronic low back pain — specifically before turning to prescription medication or invasive procedures.
Our multi-modal approach — combining adjustments, rehab exercise, and laser therapy — aligns with the best available evidence and consistently produces better long-term outcomes than any single treatment alone.
We accept most major insurance plans, making care accessible for most patients. Check your coverage →
What patients say about their care at Life in Motion
You don’t have to live with life-limiting back pain. Dr. Dockery is knowledgeable, professional, and kind. More than once, he’s restored my freedom of movement and quality of life. I would recommend him to my own family and friends.
I’m a truck driver and spend most of my day sitting. Since starting here, I haven’t had back pain. Great people, great hours, and very reasonably priced. If you’re looking for a chiropractor in Livonia, look no further.
I came in with intense SI joint pain. From the first visit, Dr. Dockery was incredibly thorough — he explained what was going on, adjusted me with care, and gave me the right exercises. I noticed real improvement quickly.
Dr. Dockery is very thorough, patient, and enjoyable to work with. My treatment plan is tailored to my specific needs with clear, measurable goals so I can actually see my progress. I always leave with useful information.
Read more patient testimonials →Back pain FAQs
How many visits will I need?
It depends on the nature and severity of your condition. After your first visit, Dr. Dockery will outline a personalized care plan with an estimated number of visits and clear, measurable goals. Most patients notice meaningful improvement within the first few weeks. See our full FAQ →
Will I receive treatment on my very first visit?
In most cases, yes. After the consultation and examination, Dr. Dockery typically performs the first treatment during that same appointment. You’ll usually leave feeling better than when you came in. Learn what to expect →
Do you treat back pain from car accidents?
Absolutely. We have extensive experience treating whiplash and lumbar injuries resulting from auto accidents. Because these injuries often go undetected immediately after a collision, it’s important to get evaluated even if you feel fine at first. Learn about our auto accident therapy →
I’ve had chronic back pain for years. Can chiropractic still help?
Yes — many of our patients come to us after years of struggling with chronic pain. Chronic conditions often respond well to our combination of spinal adjustments, laser therapy, and corrective exercise. The most important step is accurately identifying the underlying structural issue that has been driving the pain.
Does treating back pain also help with neck pain and headaches?
Often, yes. Back pain, neck pain, and headaches or migraines are frequently connected through spinal alignment. Many patients find that addressing one area improves all three at once.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, we accept most major insurance plans. Check your coverage here →
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke — Low Back Pain Fact Sheet
- Annals of Internal Medicine — Noninvasive Treatments for Acute, Subacute, and Chronic Low Back Pain: A Clinical Practice Guideline (ACP, 2017)
- American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons — The Burden of Musculoskeletal Disease in the United States
Ready to stop living with your back pain?
Same-day and Saturday appointments available. Your new patient exam and first treatment are waiting.
27620 Five Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48154 · Mon–Thu & Saturday by Appointment