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Chiropractic Examination

Back Clinic Chiropractic Examination. An initial chiropractic examination for musculoskeletal disorders will typically have four parts: a consultation, case history, and physical examination. Laboratory analysis and X-ray examination may be performed. Our office provides additional Functional and Integrative Wellness Assessments in order to bring greater insight into a patient’s physiological presentations.

Consultation:
The patient will meet the chiropractor which will assess and question a brief synopsis of his or her lower back pain, such as:
Duration and frequency of symptoms
Description of the symptoms (e.g. burning, throbbing)
Areas of pain
What makes the pain feel better (e.g. sitting, stretching)
What makes the pain feel worse (e.g. standing, lifting).
Case history. The chiropractor identifies the area(s) of complaint and the nature of the back pain by asking questions and learning more about different areas of the patient’s history, including:
Family history
Dietary habits
Past history of other treatments (chiropractic, osteopathic, medical and other)
Occupational history
Psychosocial history
Other areas to probe, often based on responses to the above questions.

Physical examination:
We will utilize a variety of methods to determine the spinal segments that require chiropractic treatments, including but not limited to static and motion palpation techniques determining spinal segments that are hypo mobile (restricted in their movement) or fixated. Depending on the results of the above examination, a chiropractor may use additional diagnostic tests, such as:
X-ray to locate subluxations (the altered position of the vertebra)
A device that detects the temperature of the skin in the paraspinal region to identify spinal areas with a significant temperature variance that requires manipulation.

Laboratory Diagnostics:
If needed we also use a variety of lab diagnostic protocols in order to determine a complete clinical picture of the patient. We have teamed up with the top labs in the city in order to give our patients the optimal clinical picture and appropriate treatments.

Achieve Health Goals With Chiropractic, and Nutritional Coaching

Achieve Health Goals With Chiropractic, and Nutritional Coaching

by | Chiropractic, Chiropractic Examination

The new year offers a blank slate to better our lives and try new things that will help us achieve our life goals. Health goals can be achieved through chiropractic treatment and nutritional coaching. Improving one’s health is one of the quickest ways to boost the body and mind’s quality of life.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Achieve Health Goals With Chiropractic, and Nutritional Coaching
 

Health Goals and A New Year

Individuals set health goals only to forget about them after a few weeks or months. When setting goals that don�t stick, the biggest issue is the focus is on the wrong process to achieve these goals. Individuals tend to aim for goals that are doable but too advanced to jump right into. Much like someone that has never worked on home renovation, but decides they can knock out a kitchen, or bathroom remodel in two weeks. This is where training comes in to learn how to go about achieving these goals properly and in a healthy fashion. Common goals include:
  • Weight loss
  • Maintaining a healthy diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Increased energy
  • Stress management skills improvement
  • More time with the family
  • Quitting smoking
 

Chiropractic Motivation

If there are health goals that have been a struggle to maintain then it is time to get expert professional help. Chiropractic and health coaching could be a practical option. Chiropractic addresses whole-body health with sustainable changes/adjustments to achieve optimal health. Chiropractic is a specialized branch of medicine dedicated to addressing body dysfunction through non-invasive spinal realignment. A misaligned spine leads to poor nerve and blood circulation that affects the body’s functional health at every level. Treatment with a chiropractic provider can help achieve health goals from the ground up. Once spinal alignment has been achieved and the body is ready, then guidance and recommendations with lifestyle changes, like exercise and stress management can be addressed to reach full health potential.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Achieve Health Goals With Chiropractic, and Nutritional Coaching
 

Stop Waiting

There is no better time than now to start working toward health goals that can actually be controlled. We can control how we perceive our lives, treat our bodies and minds. A chiropractor and health coach will help set small attainable goals that can be kept, contact Injury Medical and Chiropractic Clinic today.

The Body’s Composition

 

Invest In Your Body

It is easy to think of your body as healthy and invincible. This is true when young, but age will catch up. The muscles will begin to plateau in strength in an individual’s 30s, which can lead to less physical activity. Being aware of the body’s fat percentage and keeping track is a great way to determine if body composition is declining. If weight has not changed over a couple of years but body fat percentage seems to have increased, this is a red flag that could indicate age-related muscle loss is taking place.

Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Maiers, Michele et al. �Chiropractic in Global Health and wellbeing: a white paper describing the public health agenda of the World Federation of Chiropractic.��Chiropractic & manual therapies�vol. 26 26. 17 Jul. 2018, doi:10.1186/s12998-018-0194-y
Post-Injury Chiropractic Health and Wellness

Post-Injury Chiropractic Health and Wellness

by | Chiropractic, Chiropractic Examination

Post-Injury: We push ourselves throughout our lives, and accidents that result in injuries are just part of the process. The top causes of injury include:
  • Falls
  • Automobile accidents
  • Sports injuries
  • Work injuries
Many of them lead to prolonged injury to the spine, knees, hands, and feet. The objective after an injury is to make sure the body heals properly. Without proper treatment, disability, chronic pain, and the development of other health issues are increased.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Post-Injury Chiropractic Health and Wellness
 

Post-Injury Care

Injuries cause pain that can result in spinal misalignment, range of motion problems, and a poor quality of life. Seeking care from a spinal expert in alignment and movement will help recover quicker and sustainably. Chiropractic is a research-oriented, top-quality approach that provides natural whole-body care. A chiropractic practitioner will promote proper recovery and decrease the risk of disability and chronic suffering.  

Proper spinal alignment

Chiropractic providers are experts in spinal alignment. Here are a few of the amazing benefits that chiropractic provides. Even the most subtle misalignments affect blood and nerve circulation/energy leading to decreased overall body function, slow down the healing process, increases pain, and other health issues. Misalignment is associated frequently as a root cause for symptoms. This allows the body to restore its normal function and heal the recovery process.  

Tissue restoration and flexibility

Once alignment has been restored, the continued chiropractic adjustments will maximize the effectiveness of the treatment plan. A personalized treatment plan focuses on the most effective, optimal, non-invasive techniques. The objective is to maintain body balance/alignment allowing the body to recover and rehabilitate properly. Treatment can include:
  • Pain management with modalities
  • Soft tissue massage
  • Exercises
  • Stretching
  • Health coaching
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Post-Injury Chiropractic Health and Wellness
 

Maximize the benefits

Initial symptoms can become chronic and worsen with time if left untreated/ignored and are not medically addressed. Properly maintained recovery will minimize this risk of exacerbating or developing new injuries. Long-term issues typically stem from:
  • Improper mechanics
  • Misunderstanding of the injury
  • Scar tissue
  • Spinal misalignments
Chiropractic experts are trained to recognize subtle changes that can make differences in the long run and will help minimize all issues right from the start.

Chiropractic for injuries

After an injury has been sustained chiropractic post-injury will increase recovery potential and get the body back on track. Chiropractic post-injury will reduce pain, and get the body back at its best. Find a chiropractor to maximize the recovery process today.

Best Sports Chiropractor

 
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Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Piper, Steven et al. �The effectiveness of soft-tissue therapy for the management of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries of the upper and lower extremities: A systematic review by the Ontario Protocol for Traffic Injury Management (OPTIMa) collaboration.� Manual therapy�vol. 21 (2016): 18-34. doi:10.1016/j.math.2015.08.011
Patient Medical History Importance for Optimal Treatment

Patient Medical History Importance for Optimal Treatment

by | Chiropractic Examination

The first step in chiropractic care is getting the individual’s medical history. Many visit a chiropractor with certain expectations of how things will go. They will lay down on a table while the chiropractor adjusts the spine. There will be pops and cracks, and the tension will go away. And afterward, they�ll feel better. However, without an individual’s medical history, the treatment will not be as effective because of the lack of information. This means that a chiropractor is only able to perform general adjustments but is not able to get to the root cause and maximize the full potential of the adjustments. Patient education starts the moment someone walks into the clinic.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Patient Medical History Importance for Optimal Treatment
 

The nature of holistic medicine

Some questions a chiropractor might ask include:
  • What type of pain is presenting – shooting, burning, aching, throbbing, etc?
  • Have you had any recent surgeries?
  • Is there a history of chronic pain?
  • What medications are being taken?
Each will be explained in further detail and what they mean for the development of a treatment plan. An individual needs to understand how important their medical histories are for treatment progress. Patient history prevents executing the wrong treatment plan by having an informed understanding of the individual’s body. For example, a chiropractor can�t perform the same adjustments on a senior with osteoporosis that they do on a middle-aged athlete. And someone recovering from surgery will not have the range of motion when healthy. An adjustment can result in X, Y, or Z, depending on the factors at work. Medical history is vital as it eliminates any unknowns, so a chiropractor can solve for X, Y, or Z by being able to provide the best outcome for the individual.  
 

The more information, the better the treatment plan

When an individual has neck pain, a doctor is not going to prescribe immediate surgery, unless it is an emergency. Rather, they will perform a full examination, ask questions, try to find the cause, and analyze the intensity of the pain. A chiropractor is no different, and individual medical history is vital. Obtaining as much information as possible can help a chiropractor reach a proper diagnosis and ensures the right course of action is taken. Individuals often do not realize but for example,
  • An automobile accident that happened last year could be manifesting symptoms now.
  • Shoulder surgery five years ago could be limiting the range of motion, affecting the musculature around the cervical spine.
  • Chronic plantar fasciitis and self-medicating for a while can cause instability in the lumbar spine affecting the cervical spine.
Every little bit of information can help put the puzzle together to get a clear picture of what is going on. The biggest contributor of information is patient medical history, formally documented and informally spoken.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Patient Medical History Importance for Optimal Treatment
 

Informed care

A visit to Injury Medical Chiropractic Clinic is a collaboration between patient and chiropractor that leads to informed and the best treatment possible. Medical history informs optimal care. For more information or for more tips on chiropractic care, contact us today.

New Patient Chiropractic Care

 

Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Hunter, J. �Medical history and chronic pain.��The Clinical journal of pain�vol. 17,4 Suppl (2001): S20-5. doi:10.1097/00002508-200112001-00007
Consistent Chiropractic Care, How Many Follow-Ups Are Necessary?

Consistent Chiropractic Care, How Many Follow-Ups Are Necessary?

by | Chiropractic, Chiropractic Examination

Consistency is what makes chiropractic care work. A common misunderstanding about chiropractic medicine is the number of follow-up treatments necessary after the initial adjustment. Every individual requires a unique customized treatment plan. There are a few general guidelines chiropractors use to determine how they schedule follow-ups. Here is some insight into the nature of corrective chiropractic adjustments.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Consistent Chiropractic Care, How Many Follow-Ups Are Necessary?
 

Consistent Chiropractic

The critical nature of follow-up visits is that a single chiropractic adjustment is not an instant cure. It is an ongoing corrective process. Follow-up appointments are to ensure that the adjustments are on the right track and that whole-body wellness is maintained. Consistent chiropractic treatments maximize effectiveness and ensure proper functionality.  

Types of Care

The need for consistent care can be placed in types or phases. Types of care are:
  • Urgent
  • Reparative
  • Preventive
  • Rehabilitative

Urgent

Individuals go to a medical clinic because they are experiencing discomforting symptoms, pain, etc. A chiropractor’s responsibility is to alleviate those symptoms and address the root cause. Until the symptoms stop and no longer present an individual is in the urgent phase. During this phase, because the injury/condition is new to the chiropractor, they need to get it stabilized first, which consists of several adjustments that focus on various areas. In order to bring proper balance, each of those areas is worked on at follow-up treatment sessions.  
 

Reparative/Rehabilitative

Reparative care does not require the need to see the individual as often. Instead, the treatment is now focused on the root cause of the symptoms, and getting back range of motion. Regular appointments are still important, but they are not as frequent as initial treatment.

Preventive

The preventive care phase is when the main issues have been addressed and can now work on strengthening the immune system through regular adjustments along with stretches, exercises, and diet recommendations that will optimize overall health. This phase includes regularly scheduled but more infrequent adjustment appointments.  

Chiropractic Supplementation

 
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Consistent Chiropractic Care, How Many Follow-Ups Are Necessary?
 
A properly maintained regimen of treatment is going beyond the physical manipulation of the spine. Chiropractic clinics offer many other benefits that include: Consistent chiropractic treatment approaches require time, patience, and energy. All of these help to deliver superior care that leads to optimal health.

Power and Rehab Chiropractic Care

Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Liebenson, C. �Rehabilitation and chiropractic practice.��Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics�vol. 19,2 (1996): 134-40.
Transverse Myelitis Rare Spinal Cord Disorder Possible Cause Covid-19

Transverse Myelitis Rare Spinal Cord Disorder Possible Cause Covid-19

by | Chiropractic Examination, Spine Care

Covid-19 has impacted everyone in so many ways. There is a possible connection between Covid-19 and a rare spinal disorder known as transverse myelitis. There have been three known cases of acute transverse myelitis brought on from covid-19. Although these case reports are not enough to prove that covid is the cause for transverse myelitis, researchers are delving into the possibility of a connection between the virus and this spinal condition.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Transverse Myelitis Rare Spinal Cord Disorder Possible Cause Covid-19
 

Transverse Myelitis

Transverse myelitis causes inflammation of the spinal cord. It can be caused by
  • Infections
  • Immune system disorders
  • Disorders that damage/destroy myelin
Myelin is the layer that forms around nerve cell axons or the wiring of the nervous system and insulates them. It consists of protein, fatty substances, and acts as a defensive sheath that allows electrical impulses to transmit properly. The insulation properties are essential for:
  • Proper motor function
  • Sensory function
  • Cognition
 
Without the insulation, the electrical impulses traveling through the spinal cord dissipate or weaken. The messages don’t reach the nerves and can lead to:
  • Muscle spasms
  • Twitching
  • Numbness
The most common disorder that destroys the myelin known as demyelination is multiple sclerosis. Transverse myelitis can affect individuals of:
  • Any race
  • Gender
  • Age
There are treatments, but there is no cure. Treatments consist of corticosteroids and other therapies to suppress the immune system. However, their focus is on preventing and minimizing permanent neurological damage.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Transverse Myelitis Rare Spinal Cord Disorder Possible Cause Covid-19
 

Recognizing and Identifying

Symptoms of transverse myelitis can include:
  • Pain that usually starts in the lower back and causes shooting pain/sensations down the legs, arm, and torso
  • Leg/s and arm/s weakness
  • Sensory changes in the legs, torso, and genital area
  • Bladder and Bowel dysfunction
  • Muscle spasms
  • General discomfort
  • Headaches
  • Fever
  • Loss of appetite
Depending on the segment of the spine where the damage is occurring will determine which parts of the body are affected. Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical evaluation. A doctor will utilize various methods. A thorough neurological exam will be performed to rule out any issues that require emergency intervention. If a doctor suspects transverse myelitis they will order diagnostic tests like:
  • Magnetic resonance imaging or an MRI
  • Blood tests
  • Lumbar puncture

Treatment

As previously stated, there is no cure for transverse myelitis, and treatment focuses on managing complications. Treatments can include:
  • Pain medication
  • Antiviral medications
  • Intravenous corticosteroids
  • Immunomodulating agents
  • Plasma exchange therapy
  • Intravenous immunoglobin treatment
The hard facts are that while most people with transverse myelitis have at least a partial recovery, for some, however, recovery can continue for up to two years and longer. A combination of medications, chiropractic, and physical therapy can help improve physical symptoms. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is working to understand the process, as to how the immune system destroys or attacks myelin. Hopefully, this will lead to answers, improved treatment, and prevention. It is well-documented that Multiple sclerosis, bacterial infections, and other viruses can cause transverse myelitis, research must continue to see if there is a connection to covid-19.

Chiropractic Lower Back Pain Treatment

Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Chakraborty, Uddalak et al. �COVID-19-associated acute transverse myelitis: a rare entity.��BMJ case reports�vol. 13,8 e238668. 25 Aug. 2020, doi:10.1136/bcr-2020-238668
Anterior/Posterior Pelvic Tilt Prevention with Chiropractic Foot Orthotics

Anterior/Posterior Pelvic Tilt Prevention with Chiropractic Foot Orthotics

by | Chiropractic Examination, Foot Orthotics

Few individuals realize they have problems with their feet. Flat feet can cause anterior or posterior pelvic tilt. This is a condition where the pelvis tilts too far forward or too far backward. Individuals can go through their entire life without realizing they have some type of foot issue. This can cause poor support in the lumbar spine generating back problems and chronic illness. The problem with foot issues is that it can set-up a chain of physiological deficiencies. This can include:
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Anterior/Posterior Pelvic Tilt Prevention with Chiropractic Foot Orthotics
 
Many accept these health issues as part of their normal physiology. However, flat-feet and other related musculoskeletal issues can be identified and corrected with proper support. Custom Foot Orthotics for the foot issue/s and chiropractic alignment for the whole-body. Based on the assessment of the spinal curvature and posture of the individual, a chiropractor will be able to determine to what degree the pelvic tilt and foot problem/s need to be corrected.

Foot Orthotic Support

How orthotics function to promote proper posture and alleviate back pain works like this.
  • First, immediate support to the feet that are weakened, unbalanced, and lack physiological strength is provided. This generates proper posture and balance all the way up the spine.
  • Second, the feet are able to remodel themselves over time as they become accustomed to the new support.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Anterior/Posterior Pelvic Tilt Prevention with Chiropractic Foot Orthotics
 

Pelvic Tilt Identification

Chiropractors utilize orthotics when correcting anterior or posterior pelvic tilt. This is because the conditions are the direct result of a poor/weakened foundation. When there is little or no natural arch of the foot there is no support for the: The lower body needs this support from these various muscle groups with many in the lower back. This causes strain on these muscles and causes pelvic and potential spinal misalignment. Depending on the progress of the tilt/misalignment and posture, will aid a chiropractor to determine the best treatment approach.  
 

Rebuilding

Chiropractic adjustments will be able to restore the lumbar support that was weakened or lost from foot issues. A chiropractor will go to the source or root of the problem. Foot orthotics can be a primary tool for re-training the feet for proper support. These orthotics are custom modeled to an individual�s feet. This promotes spinal and pelvic wellness combined with the right amount of support required for each foot. Over time, and as the feet remodel themselves the custom orthotics can also be remodeled allowing for continuous improvement. With time it�s possible for many to accomplish the restoration of the body’s musculoskeletal health. These include:
  • Strengthened foot arches
  • Stress and muscle tension alleviation
  • A re-trained proper lower back support
  • Restoration of proper spinal curvature
  • Correct and retrain anterior/posterior pelvic tilting habits

Custom Foot Orthotics

Foot orthotics require no effort. An individual just puts them in their footwear and done. The orthotics do the work for the individual when standing, walking, or running. If diagnosed with a pelvic tilt condition or are unsure if there is a tilt, contact a chiropractor about the benefits of foot orthotics.

Benefits of Functional Foot Orthotics

 
 

Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Betsch, Marcel, et al. �Influence of foot positions on the spine and pelvis.� Arthritis care & research�vol. 63,12 (2011): 1758-65. doi:10.1002/acr.20601
Sciatica or Aneurysm, A Fatal Misdiagnosis

Sciatica or Aneurysm, A Fatal Misdiagnosis

by | Chiropractic Examination, Sciatica Nerve Pain

Sciatica or Aneurysm? Knowing how a missed diagnosis could be potentially fatal if not diagnosed accurately could be a deadly mistake! Doctors must not fall for a sciatica diagnosis when a possibly fatal iliac artery aneurysm lies looming and progressing.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Sciatica or Aneurysm, A Fatal Misdiagnosis

Sciatica or Aneurysm

An example is a patient who visited an emergency clinic after a few weeks for a non-painful pulsing mass on the buttock. There was no:
  • Trauma
  • Injury
  • Back pain
  • Leg pain
  • Prior presentations of pain or sciatica issues
A physical examination found a small pulsing mass on the right buttock. Palpation around the site found no issues with the sensory and motor nerves.
An ultrasound scan of the affected area revealed a developing aneurysm. This was followed by a CT scan of the abdomen along with the pelvis using a contrast dye found the aneurysm developing from the left internal iliac artery. If the mass was not present a doctor could easily diagnose sciatica or persistent sciatic artery. If the iliac artery presents with pulsating lesions is a tip-off that a vascular issue could be impinging on the sciatic nerve. Vascular surgery was discussed with the patient. Surgery was necessary, and the patient underwent sciatic aneurysm repair. The patient was discharged without any complications.

Persistent Sciatic Artery

This is a very rare congenital vascular condition. The sciatic artery runs along the sciatic nerve and functions as the major blood supply to the lower extremities. During human embryo development, the femoral artery begins to form while the sciatic arteries start to return to a less developed state. The process continues until the femoral artery takes over as the major blood supply, with only bits of the sciatic artery left. Persistent sciatic artery can happen either from the sciatic artery not returning to its original size or during normal development the femoral artery developing properly. Most cases of persistent sciatic artery go unknown and are usually detected from another examination for another ailment. Aneurysms often develop based on the arteries/vessel’s tendency for minor trauma/injury when sitting or some form of pressure is applied on the site. Complications include: A vascular surgeon should be consulted. Treatment options include:
  • Surgical exclusion of the aneurysm
  • Surgical excision of the aneurysm
  • Endovascular stenting
  • Endovascular coiling
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Sciatica or Aneurysm, A Fatal Misdiagnosis

Vascular Conditions In The Leg/s That Can Present As Sciatica

The legs’ blood vessels can get infected, bulged, ruptured, or blocked. This can cause sciatica symptoms, like leg pain, weakness, tingling, and numbness. Severe cases could require medical emergency surgery to save the affected limb.

Acute Limb Ischemia

This condition occurs from a decrease or loss of blood supply to the legs. If there is leg pain, it could feel similar to sciatica pain. However, symptoms can progress rapidly and become severe. That’s when it is not sciatica. Acute limb ischemia present one or more of the following symptoms:
  • Pain and/or numbness in the leg while walking and when resting
  • Severe pain at night
  • Sleep problems
  • Pain relief when sitting on a chair with the feet hanging down
  • Feet and ankles become swollen
  • A pale color and lowered skin temperature over the toes and feet when compared to the legs
Acute limb ischemia can develop from an aneurysm, blood clot, or from the thickening of the vessel walls. Treatment should be prompt in order to preserve leg function. Differentiation diagnosis between vascular and other causes like spinal problems that can cause leg pain. A doctor may perform an Ankle/Brachial Index which is a comparison of blood flow in the arms versus the legs. This can be critical in determining if there is vascular insufficiency.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Sciatica or Aneurysm, A Deadly Mistake!

Acute Compartment Syndrome

This places increased pressure in the muscle tissues of the leg. It can lead to loss of blood supply in and around the affected area. The sciatic nerve can also get compressed from the increased pressure in the buttock, thigh, or leg. The condition can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the buttock, thigh, and leg. Individuals have also reported an unusual/altered sensation in the web of the great toe. This is similar to sciatica, as well as one or both legs can be affected. Differentiating symptoms include:
  • Leg becomes swollen
  • Pain and tenderness present when touching the leg
  • A pale color and lowered skin temperature over the leg
Acute compartment syndrome is a serious condition that is considered a medical emergency. It is possible for the condition to cause complete dysfunction of the limb if not addressed in time. There are risk factors that increase the chances of developing limb ischemia or compartment syndrome. These are:
  • Diabetes
  • Heart conditions
  • High cholesterol
  • Smoking
  • History of having the condition can also cause a recurrence. This can be from an injury or poor health.
Kidney stones, renal failure, or cysts in the kidney can also cause back and leg pain. Other symptoms can include blood in the urine or difficulty urinating. Any sign of distressing symptoms that present with sciatica can indicate the need for medical attention. This is to check for the possibility of a serious underlying condition or medical emergency. Medical emergencies that are treated in time can help preserve the tissue/s, restore function, and save an individual�s life. It is essential for a chiropractor or physical therapist to be familiar with diagnosing in a way that will help identify sciatica or aneurysm in individuals presenting with musculoskeletal issues/problems. Knowledge of these risk factors, understanding how to screen for non-musculoskeletal symptoms, basic competence in palpation, and how to interpret findings will help discover sciatica or aneurysm if it is there and begin timely treatment. And if it is not there then a sciatica treatment plan can be developed before it worsens.

Sciatic Nerve Pain

 
 

Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
  1. Javdanfar A, Celentano C. Sciatic artery aneurysm. West J Emerg Med. 2010;11(5):516-517.