Back Clinic Chiropractic Spine Care Team. The spine is designed with three natural curves; the neck curvature or cervical spine, the upper back curvature or thoracic spine, and the lower back curvature or lumbar spine, all of which come together to form a slight shape when viewed from the side. The spine is an essential structure as it helps support the upright posture of humans, it provides the body with the flexibility to move and it plays the crucial role of protecting the spinal cord. Spinal health is important in order to ensure the body is functioning to its fullest capacity. Dr. Alex Jimenez strongly indicates across his collection of articles on spine care, how to properly support a healthy spine. For more information, please feel free to contact us at (915) 850-0900 or text to call Dr. Jimenez personally at (915) 540-8444.
Nothing had really worked until I started seeing Dr. Alex Jimenez. The way he cares about his patients, that is what keeps on bringing me back. He does a great job and he really cares about his patients. – Araceli Pizana
Arthritis is considered to be quite a common health issue, however, it’s still not very well understood by many healthcare professionals today. As a matter of fact, arthritis isn’t a single disorder, but rather, it is an informal way of referring to joint pain or a joint disorder. There are approximately more than 100 distinct kinds of arthritis and associated problems. People of all ages, sexes and races can develop arthritis as it is the chief cause of disability in the United States. Over 50 million adults and 300,000 children have some type of arthritis while it often happens and is most common among women.
Common arthritis joint symptoms include pain, swelling and inflammation, stiffness and decreased range of movement. Symptoms of arthritis may come and go where these can range from mild, moderate or severe. They may also remain about the exact same for many years or it might advance and become worse over time. Arthritis may result in chronic pain which can make it difficult to perform tasks. Arthritis can additionally cause joint alterations. Frequently, although these modifications may be visible, such as knobbly finger joints, the extent of the health issue can be observed on x-rays. Some kinds of arthritis have an effect on skin, eyes, lungs, kidneys and the heart as well as the joints.
Common Types of Arthritis
The two most common types of arthritis which result in pain are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis generally occurs in people over the age of 60, however, it may also be a consequence of trauma from an injury, overuse and improper body movement mechanics. This sort of arthritis is characterized by the loss of cartilage that’s responsible for lubricating joints and distributing forces of motion. When you don’t have enough of it, the bones can begin to rub together and cause pain. Moreover, bone fragments may break away and may cause bone spurs to grow.�The hands, knees, hips and back are the most common sites for osteoarthritis.
Being the most common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis is considered to be one of the most prevalent causes for chronic pain symptoms. Common causes which can ultimately increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis�include: excess weight, family history, age and previous injury, such as an anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, tear, for instance. Osteoarthritis can be prevented by avoiding injury and repetitive movements, maintaining a healthy weight and remaining active.
Rheumatoid arthritis generally occurs when the human body’s own immune system strikes; in other words, it’s an autoimmune disease.�A healthy immune system functions by protecting the human body from intruders that can cause disease.�Researchers believe that a combination of environmental factors and genetics can cause autoimmunity. Smoking is an illustration of an ecological risk factor that can cause arthritis in people with specific genes.
Nevertheless, in the case of an autoimmune disease, the immune system may go mistakenly attacking the joints, causing uncontrolled inflammation and potentially causing erosion of the cartilage in the bones.�With this kind of arthritis, the lining of the joints become irritated and inflamed. Moreover, rheumatoid arthritis might damage other parts of the human body, including the eyes and internal organs. Symptoms include pain, swelling and soreness, inflammation, stiffness, and tenderness. Rheumatoid arthritis is found in the hands, wrists and toes, even in the hips and knees, if not treated properly. Other symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include: fever, weight loss, diminished appetite and continual exhaustion.
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, a variety of treatment approaches can help people manage the symptoms of those afflictions. As a matter of fact, research studies have shown that chiropractic care can help manage arthritis. Chiropractic care consists of both passive and active treatment modalities. With these common types of arthritis, early diagnosis and treatment are fundamental. Slowing down the progress of the disease can help decrease and prevent permanent damage.�Remission is the goal and it might be accomplished via the utilization of a combination of therapies. The objective of treatment is to decrease pain, improve functioning, and prevent joint damage.
Through chiropractic care, a doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, will review goals together with the patient as well as perform a full assessment of their condition to develop a specific treatment plan to meet their individual requirements and needs. A specialized treatment program for arthritis will help manage pain and improve strength, flexibility and mobility. Below, we will discuss the types of chiropractic treatment modalities and how these can help with arthritis.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
Before, arthritis was considered to be a natural consequence of aging, however, patients today can find a variety of treatment options to help manage the symptoms associated with this painful disease. Arthritis is simply defined as the swelling or inflammation of the joints. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and it is most prevalent in older patients. Rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common type of arthritis, characterized as an autoimmune disease where the patient’s own immune system attacks the joints. This type of arthritis is most prevalent in younger patients. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective, alternative treatment option which can help manage the symptoms associated with arthritis.
Chiropractic Care for Arthritis Pain
Chiropractic care is a great treatment approach to manage and relieve pain caused by arthritis. Chiropractic care is a well-known, alternative treatment option which focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a variety of injuries and conditions associated with the musculoskeletal and nervous system, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Routine chiropractic care offers arthritis patients a safe and effective, non-invasive, non-addictive alternative treatment option to prescription opioids or over-the-counter pain drugs, or OTCs, that are generally given to patients to help them manage their own arthritis pain.
Chiropractic care utilizes spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, among other treatment approaches. Chiropractic spinal adjustments and manual manipulations reduce misalignments of the spine, also referred to as subluxations, as well as joint restrictions in the spinal column and other joints, improving the functioning of the bones, joints and nervous system. By enhancing your nervous system function, spinal health and increasing mobility, your body gets the ability to better manage symptoms caused by arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, chiropractic care may use passive treatment methods to help manage symptoms associated with arthritis.�The passive treatment methods for arthritis are:
Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS)
Electrical stimulation
Ultrasound
Superficial heat
Cryotherapy or ice packs
TENS can considerably help reduce pain from arthritis, tricking the brain into believing there’s no pain. Pain, muscle spasms, inflammation and soft tissue edema is reduced by electric stimulation. Ultrasound is a deep heating modality which helps deep joint tissues. It assists with swelling and inflammation as well as improving the structure of connective tissue. Heat reduces inflammation and swelling. Ice or cryotherapy packs will also be effective for arthritic pain. It’s useful for swelling and decreasing local inflammation. These passive treatment methods may be used alongside other alternative treatment options.
A doctor of chiropractor, or chiropractor, may even recommend a series of lifestyle changes to help promote healing and speed up the recovery process. If you are afflicted with pain, an exercise or physical activity program will address any impairments that could be contributing to the patient’s painful symptoms. Moreover, a chiropractor may also recommend nutritional advice. Research studies have found that some types of foods may cause pain and inflammation in arthritis patients.
Nobody should be living with pain. If you are experiencing challenges when performing daily tasks due to your arthritis pain, make sure to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified and experienced chiropractor, to achieve relief from your symptoms.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
It’s going very, very well. I do feel a lot of relief. What I like about here is that he genuinely cares about his patients and he educates you. He’s constantly talking to you about why he’s doing what he’s doing. He’s very good as a doctor, he’s awesome. – Araceli Norte
Low back pain is a common health issue for many people. Nearly everybody will experience lower back pain at any moment in their own lives. This pain can differ from mild to severe and it might be short-term or long-term. When it happens, low back pain can make many everyday tasks difficult to participate and engage in. That all too familiar annoyance, however, can tremendously limit time spent relaxing, working, and even that of relationships.
Moreover, low back pain might also lead to irritability as well as a whole onslaught of additional medical health issues if not treated appropriately. The prevalence of low back pain has become a common problem, amounting to one of the most common reasons for doctor office visits each year. Before considering what type of treatment approach to follow for your back pain, it’s important to understand the anatomy of the spine and how low back pain occurs.
Understanding the Spine
The World Health Organization estimates that in the United States alone, approximately 149 million days of work are lost as a consequence of low back pain. Back pain is considered to be one of the main sources of disability and shortage of work, and it appears in 60 to 70 percent of people in industrialized nations. Understanding your spine and the way it works can help you know some of the problems which exist from aging or injury, including spinal conditions.
Many demands are placed on your own spine. It holds up your head, shoulders, and upper body. It supplies you with the necessary components to help the human body stand up right, and provides flexibility and mobility to bend and twist. Furthermore, it protects your spinal cord. Back pain differs from one person to another. The pain might have a slow beginning or come on suddenly. The pain may be continuous or irregular. Usually, back pain resolves on its own in a few weeks. However, if you’re experiencing persistent low back pain, then you may have already realized how important it is to look for treatment. Chiropractic care is a well-known treatment option which can help offer relief from your low back pain.
What is Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care is a popular, alternative treatment approach which primarily focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a variety of injuries and/or conditions, associated with the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Through the use of specific treatment modalities, including spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, among others, a qualified and experienced chiropractor can help relieve low back pain by carefully correcting spinal misalignments, or subluxations.
By realigning the spine, chiropractic care can help promote the human body’s natural healing capabilities, without the need for drugs and/or medications as well as surgical interventions. Although low back pain can happen due to a variety of causes, chiropractic care can include various treatment modalities which are devoted to the management of numerous injuries and disabilities or conditions, including low back pain.
A chiropractor will perform specific treatments based on the individual’s needs, treating the body as a whole rather than simply reducing the symptoms. Many healthcare professionals recommend seeking chiropractic care for low back pain first before considering other, more aggressive treatment approaches. There are two components for chiropractic care techniques and methods: passive treatments to lower the patient’s pain in sequence to it becoming more manageable, and active treatments that the patient participates in independently.
Passive Treatment
If you’re experiencing low back pain, then it could be debilitating, making it difficult for you to go about your day normally. For that reason, it’s very important to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified and experienced healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor or physical therapist, to reduce your pain as much as possible so that you can actively participate in your treatment. These tools are often referred to as passive treatment because they are performed to a patient by the healthcare professional, including:
Electrical stimulation, such as TENS Units
Heat/ice packs
Ultrasound
Iontophoresis
Dry needling
Manual remedies
Massage
Hydrotherapy
Healthcare professionals use some of the methods, such as hot/cold packs and massage therapy, to improve blood flow to the affected area, thus reducing swelling and stiffness. Additionally, a chiropractor may utilize electric stimulation therapy, a painless remedy that gives miniature electric waves through your nervous system to relieve pain, reduce muscle strain, and encourage your body to create hormones which are anabolic. A variety of patients may also benefit from hydrotherapy. This involves executing low-intensity moves in water which alleviates strain on muscles while allowing you to move your joints without any distress.
Active Treatment
Active treatment involves exercises performed by the person and are often utilized at the following phases of chiropractic and passive treatments following the very low back pain has subsided enough so that the patient may perform them without any excessive distress. There are numerous different kinds of exercises that a chiropractor or professional physical therapist may recommend, like extending, balance training, and strength training. A variety of them can assist you with your strength, flexibility, mobility and range of motion, but a few help build the muscles around the painful region to provide those regions of the human body collectively with support to reduce low back pain.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
A doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, will make sure to properly evaluate a patient before making any form of diagnosis or developing a treatment plan. An assessment can include analyzing the patient’s health history, a physical examination, including orthopedic and neurological tests, as well as advanced diagnostic tests. A chiropractor, or doctor of chiropractic, will then perform a variety of treatment modalities to treat a patient’s low back pain, depending on the specific cause of their symptoms.
What to Expect During a Chiropractor Visit
After you initially visit a chiropractor’s office, your doctor may ask you a couple of questions concerning your health, history, and lower back pain particularly. With this information, you will help your chiropractor provide you with the best treatment plan possible so that you see long-term results for your low back pain as quickly as possible.
Your doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, can also offer you an extensive examination. Depending upon your symptoms, your chiropractor may assess your own strength, coordination, flexibility, balance, posture, blood pressure, and heart and respiration rates. This may include using their hands to palpate your spine and surrounding area, along with a visual analysis of your movements.
You are going to learn excellent exercises to perform in your home so you may decrease your low back pain, stop re-injury, decrease strain, and accelerate your healing period. Your chiropractor will recommend specific equipment and will devote a good deal of time educating you about your source of pain and pain management plans. They’ll also implement hands-on exercises to supply you immediate relief.
When you’re well prepared to alleviate or remove your own pain, then seek immediate medical attention, so that a qualified and experienced chiropractor or professional physical therapist can help you live a pain-free life. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
My treatment with Dr. Alex Jimenez has been helping me by simply making me less tired. I’m not experiencing as many headaches. The headaches are going down dramatically and my back feels much better. I would highly recommend Dr. Alex Jimenez. He’s very friendly, his staff is very friendly and everybody goes well beyond what they can do to help you. –Shane Scott
Neck pain can develop due to a variety of reasons, and it can vary tremendously from mild to severe. Most of the population has suffered from this well-known nagging health issue; however, did you know that headaches can sometimes be caused by neck pain? While these headaches are commonly referred to as cervicogenic headaches, other types, such as cluster headaches and migraines, have also been determined to be caused by neck pain.
Therefore, it’s fundamental to seek a proper diagnosis if you’ve experienced headaches or neck pain to determine the root cause of your symptoms and decide which treatment option will be best for your specific health issue. Healthcare professionals will assess your upper back, or the cervical spine, including your neck, the base of the skull and cranium, and all the surrounding muscles and nerves to find the source of your symptoms. Before seeking help from a doctor, it’s essential to understand how neck pain can cause headaches. Below, we will discuss the anatomy of the cervical spine or neck and demonstrate how neck pain is connected to headaches.
How Neck Pain Causes Headaches
The muscles between the shoulder blades, the upper portion of the shoulders, and those surrounding the neck, or cervical spine, may all cause neck pain if they become too tight or stiff. This can generally occur due to trauma or damage from an injury, as well as in consequence of bad posture or poor sitting, lifting, or work habits. The tight muscles will make your neck joints feel stiff or compressed, and it can even radiate pain toward your shoulders. Over time, the balance of the neck muscles changes, and those specific muscles that support the neck become weak. They can ultimately begin to make the head feel heavy, increasing the risk of experiencing neck pain as well as headaches.
The trigeminal nerve is the primary sensory nerve that carries messages from the face to your brain. Furthermore, the roots of the upper three cervical spinal nerves, found at C1, C2, and C3, share a pain nucleus, which routes pain signals to the brain and the trigeminal nerve. Because of the shared nerve tracts, pain is misunderstood and thus “felt” by the brain as being located in the head. Fortunately, many healthcare professionals are experienced in assessing and correcting muscular imbalances, which may lead to neck pain and headaches. Moreover, they can help to relieve muscle tension, enhance muscle length and joint mobility, and retrain correct posture.
What Causes Neck Pain and Headaches?
Cervicogenic headaches, otherwise known as “neck headaches,” are caused by painful neck joints, tendons, or other structures surrounding the neck, or cervical spine, which may refer to pain to the bottom of the skull, to your face or head. Researchers believe that neck headaches, or cervicogenic headaches, account for approximately 20 percent of all headaches diagnosed clinically. Cervicogenic headaches and neck pain are closely associated, although other types of headaches can also cause neck pain.
This type of head pain generally starts because of an injury, stiffness, or lack of proper functioning of the joints found at the top of your neck, as well as tight neck muscles or swollen nerves, which could trigger pain signals that the brain then interprets as neck pain. The usual cause of neck headaches is dysfunction in the upper three neck joints, or 0/C1, C1/C2, C2/C3, including added tension in the sub-occipital muscles. Other causes for cervicogenic headaches and neck pain can include:
Cranial tension or trauma
TMJ (JAW) tension or altered bite
Stress
Migraine headaches
Eye strain
The Link Between Migraines and Neck Pain
Neck pain and migraines also have an intricate connection with each other. While in some cases, severe trauma, damage, or injury to the neck can lead to severe headaches like migraines; neck pain might result from a migraine headache in different situations. However, it’s never a good idea to assume that one results from the other. Seeking treatment for neck pain when the reason for your concern is a migraine often will not lead to effective pain management or pain relief. The best thing you can do if you’re experiencing neck pain and headaches is to seek immediate medical attention from specialized healthcare professional to determine your pain’s cause and the symptoms’ root cause.
Unfortunately, neck pain, as well as a variety of headaches, are commonly misdiagnosed or even sometimes go undiagnosed for an extended period. One of the top reasons neck pain may be so challenging to treat primarily because it takes a long time for people to take this health issue seriously and seek a proper diagnosis. When a patient seeks a diagnosis for neck pain, it may already have been a persistent problem. Waiting an extended amount of time to take care of your neck pain, especially after an injury, may lead to acute pain and even make the symptoms more difficult to control, turning them into chronic pain. Also, the most frequent reasons people seek treatment for neck pain, and headaches include the following:
Chronic migraines and headaches
Restricted neck function, including difficulties moving the head
Soreness in the neck, upper back, and shoulders
Stabbing pain and other symptoms, particularly in the neck
Pain radiating from the neck and shoulders to the fingertips
Aside from the symptoms mentioned above, individuals with neck pain and headaches can also experience additional symptoms, including nausea, diminished eyesight, difficulty concentrating, severe fatigue, and even difficulty sleeping. While there are circumstances in which the cause of your headaches or neck pain may be apparent, such as being in a recent automobile accident or suffering from sport-related trauma, damage, or injuries, in several instances, the cause may not be quite as obvious.
Because neck pain and headaches can also develop as a result of bad posture or even nutritional problems, it’s fundamental to find the origin of the pain to increase the success of treatment, in addition to enabling you to prevent the health issue from happening again in the future. It’s common for healthcare professionals to devote their time working with you to ascertain what could have caused the pain in the first place.
A Health Issue You Can’t Ignore
Neck pain is typically not a problem that should be ignored. You may think that you’re only experiencing minor neck discomfort and that it’s irrelevant to any other health issues you may be having. Still, you can’t know for sure more frequently than not until you receive a proper diagnosis for your symptoms. Patients seeking immediate medical attention and treatment for their neck-centered problems are surprised to learn that some of the other health issues they may be experiencing may be correlated, such as neck pain and headaches. Thus, even if you think you can “live with” not being able to turn your neck completely, other health issues can develop, and these problems might be more challenging to deal with.
There are circumstances in which a pinched nerve in the neck is the main reason for chronic tension headaches, where a previous sports injury that was not adequately addressed before is now the cause of the individual’s limited neck mobility and in which a bruised vertebrae at the base of the neck induces throbbing sensations throughout the spine, which radiates through the shoulders into the arms, hands, and fingers. You might also blame your chronic migraines on a hectic schedule and stressful conditions. However, it might be a consequence of poor posture and the hours you spend hunched over a computer screen. Untreated neck pain might lead to problems you never expect, such as balance problems or trouble gripping objects. This is because all the neural roots located on the upper ligaments of the cervical spine or neck are connected to other parts of the human body, from your biceps to each of your tiny fingers.
Working with a healthcare professional to relieve the root cause of your neck pain and headaches may significantly enhance your quality of life. It may be able to eliminate other symptoms from turning into a significant problems. While another health issue or nutritional deficiency generally causes the most common causes of chronic migraines, you might also be amazed to learn how often the outcome may be resolved with concentrated exercises and stretches recommended by a healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor. Additionally, you may understand that the health issues you’ve been having often develop from compressed, pinched, irritated, or inflamed nerves in your upper cervical nerves.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
Although it may be difficult to distinguish the various types of headaches, neck pain is generally considered to be a common symptom associated with head pain. Cervicogenic headaches are very similar to migraines, however, the primary difference between these two types of head pain is that a migraine occurs in the brain while a cervicogenic headache occurs in the base of the skull or in the cervical spine, or neck. Furthermore, some headaches may be caused by stress, tiredness, eyestrain and/or trauma or injury along the complex structures of the cervical spine, or neck. If you are experiencing neck pain and headaches, it’s important to seek help from a healthcare professional in order to determine the true cause of your symptoms.
Treatment for Neck Pain and Headaches
Foremost, a healthcare professional must determine the cause of an individual’s symptoms through the use of appropriate diagnostic tools as well as to make sure they have the utmost success in relieving the headache and neck pain without prolonging the duration of the symptoms and extra cost of incorrect therapy. Once an individual’s source of neck pain and headaches has been diagnosed, the kind of treatment a patient receives should depend on the type of headache. As a rule of thumb, treatment starts once the diagnosis has been made. A healthcare professional will work with you to create a treatment plan appropriate for your specific health issues. You’ll be taken through procedures that help build flexibility and strength in your sessions.
Chiropractic care is a well-known alternative treatment option focusing on diagnosing, treating, and preventing various musculoskeletal and nervous system injuries and conditions. A chiropractic doctor or chiropractor can help treat neck pain and headache symptoms by carefully correcting any spinal misalignments, or subluxations, in the cervical spine or neck, through spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, among other therapeutic techniques. Chiropractors and physical therapists may also utilize a combination of gentle Muscle Energy Techniques, muscle building, joint slides, Cranio-sacral therapy, and specific posture and muscle re-education to lower the strain being placed on the structures surrounding the cervical spine. The staff will also help you understand how to better position yourself during your daily life to prevent relapses, like ergonomic and posture tips. Contact a healthcare professional for them to be able to assist you immediately.
In cases where alternative treatment options have been utilized without any results or sometimes used together with other complementary treatment approaches, pain drugs and medications may be contemplated, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and anti-seizure agents such as gabapentin, tricyclic anti-depressants, or migraine prescriptions. If pain medications prove ineffective, injections may be contemplated, including peripheral nerve blocks, atlantoaxial joint blocks administered at C1-C2, or aspect joint blocks administered in C2-C3. Surgical interventions may also be other treatment options. However, healthcare professionals suggest attempting all other treatment options before considering surgery. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once. The spine is a complex structure of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, eventually lead to back pain symptoms. Sports or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain; however, sometimes, the simplest movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Chiropractic care is a drug-free, nonsurgical treatment for many types of conditions and to help manage pain. As more and more medical professionals are recognizing its effectiveness and viability for treating many issues in the body, chiropractic is gaining popularity and becoming the treatment of choice for many patients with chronic pain, back problems and other issues. In particular, it has been found to be a very effective treatment for spondylolisthesis. It can not only relieve the pain, but often return the patient�s mobility as well.
What Is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one vertebra slides forward over the vertebra that is below it. It is typically confined to the lumbosacral, or lower back area. It can become painful, causing lower back pain and weakness or numbness in one or both legs, when it causes the nerve roots or spinal cord to be squeezed. In severe cases, a patient can lose control of their bowel or bladder function, but this is fairly rare. However, any patient who begins to lose bowel or bladder control should contact their doctor immediately.
In some cases, a person�s vertebra can slip out of place without any symptoms being present. Sometimes the symptoms don�t show up until months or even years later. Symptoms of spondylolisthesis may include:
Low back pain
Pain in the buttock area
Pain that radiates from the lower back down one or both legs
Spondylolisthesis is diagnosed by a doctor or chiropractor who may conduct several diagnostic tests. Typically, the doctor will take X-rays of the patient�s back to rule out certain conditions, especially if they suspect spondylolisthesis.
The X-ray will allow the doctor to see if any of the patient�s vertebrae have slipped out of place, or are cracked or fractured. An MRI or CT scan may also be ordered to better view the spine and see the extent of the damage.
What Are The Treatments For Spondylolisthesis?
The treatment for spondylolisthesis is based on the actual damage identified by the doctor, the pain and mobility problems that the patient is experiencing, and the overall severity of the condition. Rest is the first course of treatment as well as ceasing the physical activities that may have caused the damage in the first place.
Pain may be managed by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as naproxen and ibuprofen. Acetaminophen may also be administered for pain.
Other treatments for spondylolisthesis include:
Bracing
Weight loss (if the person is obese or overweight)
Physical therapy to strengthen the core
Epidural steroid injections
Surgery (in severe cases such as damage to the spinal cord or nerve root)
There are several types of surgery that may be used to treat spondylolisthesis. The surgeon may remove tissue or bone in order to relieve pressure on the nerves or spinal cord. Sometimes the doctor may opt for fusing the damaged bones into place so they can no longer slip. In some cases, both procedures are done. This type of treatment is usually a last resort because recovery can be lengthy and the patient will have to wear a back brace or cast while their back is healing.
Is Chiropractic Effective For Treating Spondylolisthesis?
Chiropractic is a drug-free, noninvasive treatment for spondylolisthesis. It is often a preferred treatment because the patient does not have to undergo painful surgery or take medication that could have undesirable side effects. There are three primary spinal manipulation techniques that may be used by the chiropractor:
Spinal manipulation specific to the restricted or impaired joints
Flexion-distraction technique which is a slow, gentle pumping action
Instrument assisted manipulation uses an instrument to apply gentle force to the spine
Chiropractic care has been found to be very effective in treating this condition, but prevention is always the best course of action. Regular exercise, healthy weight management, and regular chiropractic visits can help ward off many spine related conditions including spondylolisthesis.
One of my friends recommended me, over and over, and just extended how good he�(Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C.) was. So I gave it a shot. I had really bad sciatica and it was killing me, I couldn’t walk, but he has been helping me out, I can walk now… I couldn’t walk more than 25 yards, it (sciatica) was really affecting me. I had to get some help. I can’t say enough about Dr. Jimenez, he’s been helping me out, I can walk.
Edgar M. Reyes
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, approximately 75 to 85 percent of individuals in the United States alone will experience some form of back pain throughout their lifetime, where 50 percent will suffer more than one episode within a year. Back pain is one of the most common complaints frequently reported among the general population and it is often a symptom which could indicate the presence of another underlying condition. Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, some due to bad habits, such as improper posture, and others due to injuries from accidents. Other health issues, such as degenerative disc disease, or DDD, and arthritis can also result in back pain.�While the causes can vary, they share the same symptoms.
Bak pain can include upper back pain, middle back pain and lower back pain, often connected to sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, a condition characterized by the compression or impingement of the sciatic nerve found in the low back. Back pain and sciatica have been closely associated with several common health issues. Often times, sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, is caused by an underlying health issue along the lumbar spine. The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body, which connects to nerve roots in the region of the lower back and runs through the buttocks, down along the hips and into the back of each leg. Further sections of this nerve then branch out from the calf to the foot and into the toes. Sciatica can be identified by the following symptoms.
Low back pain which radiates down one or both legs
Leg and/or foot pain along with tingling and burning sensations
Numbness in the leg, feet and/or toes
Persistent pain and discomfort on one or both sides of the buttocks
Intense painful symptoms in the lower extremities
Having difficulties when sitting and while getting up
It’s essential to understand that back pain and sciatica are not generally considered to be a specific health issue themselves but rather, they are usually only considered to be a collection of several symptoms associated with an underlying injury and/or condition. A proper diagnosis of the root cause of your symptoms is additionally important in order to safely and effectively treat back pain and sciatica. As mentioned above, numerous factors can cause back pain and sciatica symptoms. Below, we will discuss some of the most common spine health issues which can cause back pain and sciatica, including degenerative disc disease, lumbar spinal stenosis, lumbar herniated disc and spondylolisthesis. Approximately 90 percent of sciatica cases are due to disc herniations.
Degenerative Disc Disease
The degeneration of the intervertebral discs, found between each vertebrae of the spine, is a natural process which often occurs with age, while for some individuals, however, it can begin to develop earlier than usual. In a healthy spine, the intervertebral discs function as shock absorbers between the bones of the spine, which ultimately provide height and allow the back to remain flexible while resisting forces. As we begin to get older, these rubbery discs begin to shrink and lose integrity. Almost everyone will demonstrate signs of wear-and-tear along their spinal discs over time, but not everyone will experience degenerative disc disease, or DDD. Although not actually a disease, DDD refers to a condition in which pain with the degeneration of the intervertebral discs.
One or more degenerated discs along the length of the spine may irritate a nerve root and cause sciatica. This condition is commonly characterized when a reduced disc becomes exposed. Bone spurs can also develop with disc degeneration and can lead to sciatica. Symptoms of degenerative disc disease, or DDD, frequently occur along the lower back, however, they can also develop in the neck, depending on the location of the degenerated discs. Common symptoms of DDD include, pain and discomfort, particularly when sitting, bending, lifting or twisting, tingling sensations and/or numbness in the extremities, and lessened symptoms when walking and moving, as in with changing positions or lying down. Weakness in the leg muscles or foot drop may be a sign that there is damage to the nerve root.
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Another common cause of back pain and sciatica is lumbar spinal stenosis. The natural degeneration of the spine which occurs with age can cause a variety of changes to the spine. Lumbar spinal stenosis is brought on by a gradual narrowing of the spinal canal that is common in the aging process and it generally affects people over the age of 50. When the space around the spinal cord narrows, it can place unnecessary amounts of pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. Additionally, it can be the result of a bulging disk, enlarged aspect joints, or an overgrowth of tissue. Only a small number of individuals are born with spine health issues which can develop into lumbar spinal stenosis. This is known as congenital spinal stenosis and it is frequently diagnosed in men.
Arthritis, or the degeneration of any joint in the body, has been attributed to be the most common cause of spinal stenosis. As the intervertebral discs begin to wear-and-tear naturally begin, they can lose water content and eventually dry out, ultimately losing height and even collapsing. This can place pressure on the facet joints, the joints which provide flexibility and movement to the spine, resulting in arthritis. As a result, the ligaments around the structures of the spine can increase in size, lessening the space for the nerves. Also, the human body may respond by growing new bone, additionally narrowing the space for the nerves to pass through. Symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis may include, pain, tingling or burning sensations, numbness and weakness, as well as less painful symptoms when leaning forward or sitting.
Lumbar Herniated Disc
A herniated disc is a condition which can occur anywhere along the length of the spine, however, it most commonly affects the lower back or lumbar spine. It may also be referred to as a bulging, protruding or ruptured disc. A lumbar herniated disc is considered to be one of the most common causes of back pain in the lower back, as well as sciatica. An intervertebral disc begins to herniate when the soft, jelly-like nucleus, known as the nucleus pulposus, pushes against its outer ring, known as the annulus fibrosus, due to wear-and-tear or a sudden injury. With persistent pressure, the jelly-like nucleus may push through the disc’s outer ring or it may cause the ring to bulge, putting additional pressure on the spinal chord and its surrounding nerve roots.
Moreover, the intervertebral disc material can release chemicals and/or substances which may ultimately irritate the surrounding structures of the spine, contributing to nerve inflammation. When a nerve root becomes irritated, it can potentially lead to symptoms of pain and discomfort, numbness and weakness in one or both legs, otherwise referred to as sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain. An individual may also develop a herniated disc without ever experiencing any symptoms. A lumbar herniated disc is generally caused by the natural degeneration of the spine and discs, however, trauma and/or injury may also result in lumbar disc herniations. Symptoms of a lumbar herniated disc includes sciatica, tingling sensations, numbness, weakness, and loss of bladder or bowel control in severe cases. This last symptoms will require immediate medical attention.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is another common cause of back pain and sciatica, particularly in young athletes. Repeated stress on the lower back, or lumbar spine, can create a crack or stress fracture in one of the vertebrae. In these cases, however, the stress fracture can often weaken the bone so much, to the point where it is unable to maintain its proper position in the spine, ultimately causing the vertebra to begin to shift or slip out of place. This condition is what is commonly known as spondylolisthesis. In children and adolescents, spondylolisthesis can occur through periods of rapid growth, by way of instance, during an adolescent growth spurt. This condition frequently occurs as a result of overuse, overstretching, or hyperextension, and even due to genetics.
Many healthcare professionals characterize spondylolisthesis as either low grade or high grade, depending on how much the vertebrae have shifted or slipped out of place. A high grade slip is generally identified when more than 50 percent of the width of the fractured vertebra slips forwards onto the vertebra beneath it. Individuals with high grade cases of spondylolisthesis will commonly describe experiencing significant levels of pain and discomfort as well as nerve injury. In the majority of instances, however, individuals with spondylolisthesis will not experience any obvious symptoms, as a matter of fact, most are unaware of the condition till an x-ray is taken for an unrelated injury and/or condition. Individuals with spondylolisthesis may experience back pain and sciatica, including muscle spasms, back stiffness and tight hamstrings.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
Back pain is one of the most common reasons why individuals often miss days from work or go to the doctor, as it has also become one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. As a matter of fact, it has been statistically determined that approximately 80 percent of people will or have experienced back pain at least once throughout their life. Fortunately, a variety of treatments are available which can help ease the symptoms of back pain. It’s essential to understand back pain and sciatica, a collection of symptoms commonly associated with spine health issues along the lower back, in order to seek proper diagnosis and continue with an appropriate treatment plan in order to relieve your symptoms of back pain and sciatica.
Treatment for Back Pain and Sciatica
Chiropractic care is a well-known, alternative treatment option commonly utilized to help diagnose, treat and prevent back pain and sciatica. Since there are many factors which can contribute to symptoms of back pain and sciatic nerve pain, a doctor of chiropractic’s, or chiropractor’s, initial step would be to determine the root cause of the patient’s symptoms. Determining a diagnosis involves a thoughtful review of the patient’s health history, and a physical and neurological examination. Diagnostic testing may involve an x-ray, MRI, CT scan and/or electrodiagnostic tests, such as a nerve conduction speed evaluation or an electromyography. These examinations and tests help determine possible contraindications to treatment.
The aim of chiropractic care is to help promote the human body’s potential to heal itself. It is based on the scientific principle that limited spinal motion results in pain and reduced function and performance. Chiropractic care is non-invasive, or non-surgical, and drug-free. The type of chiropractic treatment provided is dependent upon the cause of the individual’s back pain and sciatica. A treatment program may include many distinct treatments and therapies, like ice/cold therapies, ultrasound, TENS, and spinal adjustments or manual manipulations. If the doctor of chiropractic decides that the patient’s spinal health issue requires treatment by a different kind of physician, then the individual may be referred to another healthcare professional.
Physical therapeutics for these conditions is also effective and generally has two components: active and passive. Passive physical therapeutics consist of ultrasound, electric stimulation, heat and ice packs as well as iontophoresis. Active physical therapeutics modalities include stretching exercises, back exercises and low-impact aerobic conditioning. Manual physical therapeutics, such as spinal adjustments and/or manual manipulations, might be integrated in part by a chiropractor. Physical therapists normally recommend 20 minutes of dynamic lumbar stabilization exercises every day. Core muscle strengthening is also important in treating back pain. Low-impact aerobics are also important and include water therapy, biking, and walking.
Physical therapeutics are an important element of treating spinal health issues. If you meet with a physical therapist, there will be a full assessment. Tests will be performed and an individualized treatment plan will be developed based on the patient’s goals. If you’re experiencing back pain or sciatica, don’t wait any longer for relief. Contact a healthcare professional to establish a one-on-one consultation and complete evaluation. Many chiropractors and physical therapists are certified, experienced and dedicated to helping you feel better. They have helped many others recover from spinal health issues and can help you too. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Why Chiropractic Combined With Glucosamine & Chondroitin Sulfates Are A Win-Win For Degenerative Disc Disease Sufferers.
The most effective treatments are often found in the natural ones. The human body has this incredible ability to provide its own healing. Often we can aid that process through nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes. While there are some people who do reach for medications and invasive means of pain control, the truth is the best cure is the natural one. This is also true of degenerative disc disease. There are several natural treatments that help relieve the pain and even stop the progression of the disease. Common treatments include chiropractic, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfates.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)?
In a healthy spine the discs that lie between the vertebrae and cushion them are filled with fluid. They allow the spine to move, flex, bend, and twist. Over time they may lose some of their cushion as part of the aging process.
Degenerative disc disease occurs when the discs of the spine collapse and degrade. In extreme cases, the discs can completely collapse causing the vertebrae�s facet joints to rub against each other. This leads to osteoarthritis. The condition is accompanied by pain, inflammation, and loss of mobility.
How Do Glucosamine & Chondroitin Sulfates Help Degenerative Disc Disease?
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates are substances that occur naturally in the body. It is an essential element in cartilage maintenance and regeneration. They help to form new cartilage from within existing cartilage. They can actually help to rebuild the discs that have begun to degrade. Often they are taken as nutritional supplements.
Studies show that long term use of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate do indeed not just help arrest the development of spinal disc degeneration, they can also help to reverse the symptoms, especially if begun in the early stages of the disease. Treatment that incorporates these supplements result in decreased pain and improved range of motion. Patients may also notice strengthening of the back and increased flexibility. This is true even in patients who are older, in their 50�s and 60�s.
Patients may start noticing a decrease in pain as early as six months after beginning to take the supplement. After taking it consistently, the other benefits present over time. What is also important to note is that neither glucosamine nor chondroitin sulfate cause any adverse side effects. These supplements are safe and effective.
Chiropractic For Degenerative Disc Disease
Chiropractic is a complementary treatment to combine with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for degenerative disc disease. Chiropractic alone is very effective for many spine and neck disorders, including degenerative disc disease. It is a natural, non-invasive treatment that does not use medications but instead incorporates lifestyle changes, diet, and exercise recommendations to provide whole body wellness. While chiropractic works very well to treat pain, improve mobility, and increase flexibility, it has actually been proven to stop the progression of degenerative disc disease and even reverse its effects.
Using chiropractic for degenerative disc disease and combining it with supplements that include glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate is a very effective system for relieving the pain and other symptoms. In several studies, many patients saw improvement and decrease in symptoms faster than patients who used the supplements alone. Combining these treatments is usually the best course of action to help patients suffering from this devastating disease.
When treating any condition, it is always best to go the most natural route possible. The fewer synthetic substances and manufactured toxins that are introduced into the body, the better chance the patient has of a more thorough and faster healing or at the very least a dramatic decrease in symptoms.
Injury Medical Clinic: Herniated Disc Treatment & Recovery
It has been compared to the worst possible type of pain anyone can imagine. Other people say it’s even worse than labor because the pain doesn’t seem to have an end to it. These are some of the most common descriptions of sciatica, where a severe case of this excruciating nerve pain can bring anyone to their knees. That’s why lots of patients don’t simply say they have sciatica, they’re victims of its symptoms.
Sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, is associated with many well-known symptoms, however, is sciatica really that common? What type of treatments are available to help alleviate sciatic nerve pain?And does a person’s everyday activities play a part in whether they will develop sciatica in the first place? Dwight Tyndall, MD, FAAOS answers several of the most commonly asked questions patients need to know regarding their sciatica.�Dr. Tyndall is a pioneer in the area of outpatient spine surgery, however, he is also a strong proponent of non-surgical treatment methods, including chiropractic care, to manage back pain and sciatica. Dr. Tyndall shares his perspectives on sciatic nerve pain and discusses what may indicate a need for surgery in severe cases of sciatica.
What is Sciatica?
According to Dr. Tyndall, sciatica is both a spinal disorder and a catch-all term for a group of symptoms. Sciatic nerve pain, best referred to as sciatica, is a spinal condition characterized by nerve pain which radiates down the length of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the entire human body, and it’s made up of spinal nerves from the vertebrae level L4 in the lumbar spine down to the vertebrae level S1 in the sacrum. Anything which impacts those nerves can lead to sciatica. Moreover, sciatica’s symptoms may be grouped under the medical term dysesthesia, meaning any sort of abnormal sensation. Most patients describe sciatica as an odd feeling radiating out of their lower back into their buttocks and down to their thigh and calf, often radiating as far down into the foot.
What are the Symptoms of Sciatica?
Dr. Tyndall explains that sciatica’s hallmark symptom include pain in the low back or buttocks which radiates down one or both legs. Signs and symptoms which shouldn’t be ignored include pain which doesn’t respond to non-surgical treatment options and/or pain which greatly restricts an individuals activity level and quality of life. Some red flags which may signal the need for surgical interventions associated with sciatic nerve pain include: reduced motor function in one part of the leg, usually a drop foot at which the patient can’t lift thei foot off the ground, weakness in one or both legs and bladder or bowel changes.
Is Sciatica the Same as Lumbar Radiculopathy?
“Most people see sciatica to be more severe than lumbar radiculopathy, but radiculopathy, which comes from the Latin radix significance origin, is a condition that affects the nerve during its origin as it exits the spinal cord. Sciatica and lumbar radiculopathy can be brought on by a pinched nerve from the spinal column due to a disc herniation or stenosis, but kidney problems or a sinus issue, like endometriosis, may also pose sciatica-like symptoms,” states Dr. Dwight Tyndall.
Who’s at Risk of Developing Sciatica?
“By my clinical experience, men and women have exactly the same identical risk of developing sciatica. Obesity also doesn’t play a role, either. Concerning age classes, however, sciatica has been estimated to peak during the ages of 30 and 40, and the risk usually declines as people begin reach their 50’s,” added Dr. Tyndall.
How Common is Sciatica?
As mentioned by Dr. Dwight Tyndall, sciatica and low back pain frequently occur together, but sciatica is much less common. While 80 percent of individuals experience low back pain at any point in their lives, just 2 to 3 percent will actually develop sciatica.
When Should a Person with Sciatica See a Healthcare Professional?
According to Dr. Tyndall, an individual with symptoms of sciatic nerve pain will need to see a healthcare professional if their pain is not reacting to over-the-counter (OTC) medications, or if these create weakness in the leg. Also, a person ought to see a doctor if their pain is so severe that their well-being is affected. Should the sciatica include bladder or bowel changes, the individual must seek immediate medical attention for their health issues. Furthermore, it’s important for a person with sciatica to seek the help of a healthcare professional to rule out any possible underlying causes which may be responsible for their symptoms.
What Type of Healthcare Professional Can Help Treat Sciatica?
According to Dr. Tyndall, any healthcare professional qualified and experienced in spine health issues, such as a chiropractor, can help diagnose, treat and even prevent sciatica. A doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, is a healthcare professional who utilizes spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, among other non-invasive treatment methods, to help correct any spinal misalignments, or subluxations, which may be causing sciatic nerve pain. A chiropractor may also recommend a series of stretches and exercises, as well as lifestyle modifications, to help speed up the patient’s recovery process. Chiropractic care is often the preferred alternative treatment option to help alleviate sciatica without the need for drugs and/or medications or surgery. However, if a patient is experiencing any of the red flag symptoms mentioned above, it may be necessary to visit a spine surgeon in order to discuss the treatment options. Always make sure to consider surgical interventions as a final alternative if your sciatica doesn’t respond to non-surgical treatment methods.
What are the Causes of Sciatica?
“There are many external factors, but among the greatest is your occupation. Someone who operates in a manual labor industry, like construction, has a higher likelihood of developing sciatica since they put more wear and tear on their back. Tiger Woods is an example of this. He acquired sciatica because his career as a golfer placed significant stress on his spine. There is a genetic element as well, as a few young men and women who do not operate in a strenuous job develop sciatica, however, the genetic tie is not clearly defined. Lastly, pregnancy may also result in sciatica. As the infant develops, it can put pressure on the lumbar spine, pelvis, and sciatic nerve. However, delivering the infant is usually enough to eliminate sciatica caused by pregnancy,” says Dr. Tyndall.
How Often is Sciatica Likely to Re-Occur?
“This question isn’t easy to answer because many factors contribute to whether a person will develop sciatica more than once. Sciatica is likely to re-occur if the spinal disc that led to sciatica the very first time is severely damaged. The more damaged the disk, the more likely it is to re-herniate and lead to sciatica again. Also, if the patient continues to work in a high-physical stress environment, the risk of re-ocurrence increases.
How is Sciatica Diagnosed?
“The physical examination is essential to a sciatica diagnosis. The straight-leg raise test is the traditional diagnostic tool during a physical examination. In this test, a patient be asked to lift up their leg when lying down. If that induces pain down their leg, the patient could have sciatica. Other physical tests healthcare professionals frequently utilize are knee extension tests, where the patient expands their knee to a straight position, like a straight-leg lift. Additionally, healthcare professionals will as patients to walk on their tip toes or on their heel to measure their potency. Other healthcare professionals will also observe how strong they are going down stairs or simply walking. Many doctors can determine a sciatica analysis from a physical examination, but if imaging studies are needed to learn more, the physician may recommend a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.
What Treatments are Effective for Sciatica?
As mentioned before by Dr. Dwight Tyndall, there is a variety of treatment options available to help alleviate the symptoms of sciatica. Approximately 80 percent of patients will improve with non-surgical treatment options. Several OTC medications, such as NSAIDs (eg, ibuprofen), are also effective in the management of sciatic nerve pain. If the sciatica does not subside, the doctor may prescribe a low-dose steroid pack (to be obtained over one week). If this doesn’t manage the sciatic nerve pain, then the patient may receive an epidural steroid injection (you will first need an MRI to pin-point the injection region).
Other non-surgical treatment options which are commonly utilized to help alleviate the symptoms of sciatica, include, acupuncture, chiropractic care and physical therapy, and needless to say, time normally works wonders such as pain. Chiropractic care is the most commonly used alternative treatment option for the treatment of sciatica. Chiropractic care focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a variety of injuries and/or conditions associated with the musculoskeletal and nervous system. Through spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, a doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, can help reduce unnecessary pressure in the structures surrounding the spine, improving strength, mobility and flexibility. Chiropractic care and physical therapy alike, can also help improve a patient’s overall health and wellness, aside from improving their sciatica, through physical activities and nutritional advice.
Is Surgery Ever Necessary to Treat Sciatica?
“It may certainly be so, however, the good thing is that the vast majority of people with sciatica don’t need surgery. And, your doctor may ask you to explore non-surgical treatment options, however, your tolerance for pain is the real predictor as to when you have to consider another option for treatment. Surgery may be necessary if symptoms worsen despite trying non-surgical alternatives, if you have weakness in your leg, or if you experience bladder and/or bowel changes,” explained Dr. Dwight Tyndall.
“The surgical procedure to treat sciatica is also called a lumbar microdiscectomy. It is a normal procedure with very positive individual outcomes when used accordingly. A lumbar microdiscectomy is similar to a traditional lumbar discectomy. Technological advances, like the advent of surgical microscopes, allow surgeons to create smaller incisions that are minimally traumatic to the body and result in a much quicker recovery for the patient”, added Dr. Tyndall.
Can Surgery be Performed in an Outpatient Setting?
“Yes, lumbar microdiscectomy can surely be carried out in an outpatient setting. Many patients like the cozy environment and are able to go home the exact same day of operation,” concluded�Dwight Tyndall, MD, FAAOS.
Is Sciatica Preventable?
As thoroughly explained by Dr. Dwight Tyndall, sciatica can be preventable if the individual doesn’t put significant and repeated stress in their back, which will reduce the chance of damaging or injuring a nerve. Nonetheless, in the present society, through our tasks and daily stresses of modern life, it’s difficult to accomplish that. Fortunately, with the abundance of treatment choices available, people can get relief from sciatic nerve pain with the appropriate healthcare professional’s help.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
Many people will experience symptoms of low back pain at least once throughout their lifetime, however, only a few individuals will develop true sciatica symptoms. Sciatica is medically referred to as a collection of symptoms, rather than a single condition, and it’s generally characterized by pain and discomfort, followed by tingling or burning sensations and numbness along the length of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the human body and it travels from the lower back down the buttocks and thighs into the legs and feet. Sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, has become a common health issue for many people, therefore, its important to be educated regarding this prevalent complaint in order to follow up with the most appropriate treatment.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Sciatica
Sciatica is medically referred to as a collection of symptoms, rather than a single injury and/or condition. Symptoms of sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, can vary in frequency and intensity, however, it is most commonly described as a sudden, sharp (knife-like) or electrical pain that radiates from the low back down the buttocks, hips, thighs and legs into the foot. Other symptoms of sciatica may include, tingling or burning sensations, numbness and weakness along the length of the sciatic nerve. Sciatica most frequently affects individuals between the ages of 30 and 50 years. It may often develop as a result of the degeneration of the spine due to age, however, the compression and irritation of the sciatic nerve caused by a bulging or herniated disc, among other spinal health issues, may also cause sciatic nerve pain.
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