ClickCease
+1-915-850-0900 spinedoctors@gmail.com
Select Page
Sciatica Chiropractic Specialist and Abdominal Aneurysm Diagnosis

Sciatica Chiropractic Specialist and Abdominal Aneurysm Diagnosis

Finding the right sciatica chiropractic specialist to diagnose the cause especially, when it is an abdominal aortic aneurysm can be a challenge. There can cause diagnostic confusion with the root cause never being discovered or identified. Fortunately, Dr. Jimenez is a sciatica specialist with over 30 years of experience in differential sciatica diagnosis, and treatment.

Sciatica Chiropractic Specialist Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tools

Abdominal aneurysms are usually discovered for another ailment like a hernia or for routine tests like an ultrasound of the heart or stomach. Diagnosis of an abdominal aneurysm depends on the condition, medical and family history, and the physical examination. If a doctor or sciatica chiropractic specialist suspects an aortic aneurysm, then specialized tests will help with a confirmation.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Sciatica Chiropractic Specialist and Abdominal Aneurysm Diagnosis

Ultrasonography

The simplest and most used diagnostic test is ultrasonography. It utilizes sound waves for diagnostic purposes that send the recorded images to a monitor. It gives an accurate assessment of the size and location of the aneurysm. The patient will lie on a table while a technician moves a wand around the abdomen.

Computed tomography CT scan

This test is often used in conjunction with ultrasonography if more data/info is needed. Usually, this is to determine the exact location of the aneurysm in relation to the visceral or renal arteries. It provides cross-sectional detail with clear images of the aorta and can detect the size and shape. The patient lies on a table inside a machine. A contrast dye could be injected into the blood vessels to make the arteries more visible on the images known as CT angiography.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging or MRI uses a magnetic field and radio wave energy pulses to record images of the body. The patient lies on a table that slides into the imaging compartment. Contrast dye can also be injected into the blood vessels to make the images more visible known as magnetic resonance angiography.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Sciatica Chiropractic Specialist and Abdominal Aneurysm Diagnosis

Emergency Symptoms

Certain symptoms can indicate an emergency. The conditions are rare, but it is very important to seek medical attention should any of these symptoms present with back pain:
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Fever out of nowhere
  • Bowel and/or bladder incontinence
  • Loss of or an unusual sensation in the groin, as well as the legs and possibly into the foot
  • If back pain presents after an injury medical care is recommended to check for damage/injury to the spine.

Abdominal Aneurysm Symptoms

Abdominal aneurysms often don�t present any symptoms, which is why individuals go through their days unaware, and when back pain does present a doctor may only focus on the back pain symptoms and not the cause, leaving the aneurysm to continue to develop and worsen. Aneurysms do occur in women but are more common in men and those ages 65 and older. The main cause is atherosclerosis which is a hardening of the arteries. But injury and infection can also cause an aneurysm. Those with symptoms can include:
  • Throbbing pain around the back or side
  • Deep pain in the back or side
  • Pain in the buttocks, groin, or legs
  • Sciatica symptoms

The Sciatic Connection

A diagnosis of the root cause of the sciatica is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan to alleviate the sciatic pain. If an aneurysm is present then referring the individual to the proper aortic aneurysm repair specialist is a top priority. If sciatica is suspected, a doctor or chiropractor will review medical history and perform a physical examination. Medical imaging tests and diagnostic nerve blocks could be used if necessary. Sciatica pain usually follows the dermatome or areas of the skin that is supplied by the sciatic nerve. The pain can also include deeper tissues called dynatomes.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Sciatica Chiropractic Specialist and Abdominal Aneurysm Diagnosis

Physical examination

During a physical examination, the sciatica chiropractic specialist will look for various responses when:
  • Straightening the leg with movements that elongate the nerve
  • Gently pressing the toes or calf area
  • Seeing if there is any type of pain associated with these movements in the low back, buttock, thigh, leg, and foot

Sciatica Clinical Tests

Two examples of clinical tests for sciatica include:

Straight leg raise – SLR

The patient lies on their back and the chiropractor lifts one leg at a time with the other leg remaining flat or bent at the knee. If pain presents while lifting the affected leg this is usually an indication of sciatica.

Slump

The patient sits upright with their hands behind their back. The patient then bends/slumps forward at the hips. The neck bends down with the chin touching the chest and one knee is extended as far as possible. If pain occurs in this position, sciatica could be present.
These tests could possibly be positive only when the nerve is mechanically compressed. Other causes like inflammation or chemical irritation of the nerve might not cause pain when performing these tests. This test could also help reveal a possible abdominal aneurysm as abdominal pain could present.

Chiropractic Sciatica Treatment

Manual manipulation improves the alignment of the spine. This technique helps address the underlying condition/s that can cause sciatic nerve pain, like herniated discs or spinal stenosis. Manual manipulation also creates an optimal healing environment. An aortic aneurysm specialist could work with a sciatica chiropractic specialist to help with spinal realignment if the aneurysm caused any kind of shifting or slipping of the discs along with releasing the sciatic nerve if it is compressed.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy like deep tissue massage can also have benefits. Massage:
  • Improves blood circulation, which also creates an optimal healing response in the body
  • Releases toxins in the low back muscles that spasmed or knotted up
  • Relaxes tight muscles that could be contributing to the pain
  • Releases endorphins or the hormones that function as the body’s natural pain relievers

 

Sciatica Pain Chiropractor

 
 

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*
Treatment Procedures Surgical and Non-Surgical For Abdominal Aneurysm

Treatment Procedures Surgical and Non-Surgical For Abdominal Aneurysm

An abdominal aortic aneurysm refers to an enlargement of the abdominal aorta. If the blood vessel is enlarged and starts to leak blood or rupture, it will cause severe abdominal and lower back pain. This is a serious medical emergency that necessitates emergency surgery. Unfortunately, there is no way to reverse the damage. A prominent symptom from a rupture is severe, persistent low back pain, and pain in and around the abdomen. Treatment for an abdominal aortic aneurysm depends on the possible complications that could develop. Approaches for treatment:
  • Nonsurgical treatments like anti-biotics calcium channel blockers and exercise along with monitoring are used for individuals that have a low risk of rupture.
  • If an aneurysm is not found until it becomes an emergency, then surgery to repair the ruptured artery is absolutely necessary. If ruptured or there is a high risk of rupturing is considered an emergency.
  • If a rupturing aneurysm has been diagnosed, some treatment/management will be implemented to prevent severe/fatal bleeding.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Treatment Procedures Surgical and Non-Surgical For Abdominal Aneurysm

Cardiac

For low-risk cases, lifestyle changes and possible medication/s may be recommended to slow the development. Small aneurysms are monitored using ultrasound. This can be every 6 to 12 months depending on the size and growth rate of the artery. Medications for lowering blood pressure and cholesterol could be prescribed. This is to limit the amount of plaque buildup in the aorta and reduce any pressure on the arterial walls. Quitting smoking and removing tobacco altogether whether dip, chew, vape is a significant action an individual can do to minimize the risk of aortic rupture. Other lifestyle changes involve maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise will help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels decreasing the chance of rupture.

Surgery

Surgical treatment when necessary is to stop a rupture if leaking blood or to prevent a rupture. Surgery requires replacing the damaged portion of the aorta with a stent-graft. This is an artificial artery made from a high-tech mesh/fabric. There are two standard surgical treatments:

Open Repair

Open repair is the most common surgical treatment. It takes the enlarged portion of the aorta removes it and replaces it with a stent-graft. Open surgery repair consists of the following:
  • The incision is made in the abdomen at the site of the aneurysm.
  • The aorta gets clamped with the blood temporarily blocked from flowing through the damaged portion.
  • The damaged part is removed.
  • A tube graft is placed where the damaged portion was.
If the damage was not severe and does not require the removal and complete replacement, then less invasive options will be offered.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Treatment Procedures Surgical and Non-Surgical For Abdominal Aneurysm

Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair

EVAR endovascular aneurysm repair surgery is a minimally invasive procedure. There is no need for a large abdominal incision or removal of the damaged portion of the artery. This procedure does not require blood flow stoppage, which places less stress on the heart. Endovascular surgery involves:
  • A fluoroscopy or live X-ray is used. This is so the surgeon can look at the repair, and guide the stent into place.
  • 2 small incisions are made in the groin.
  • A catheter is inserted into the femoral artery in the groin and guided to the abdominal aorta.
  • Through the catheter, the stent is guided to the aneurysm.
  • Once it reaches the aneurysm, it is compressed and closed.
  • The stent is placed in position, and the wireframe is expanded to fit the artery.
  • The stent is sewn/secured into place at both ends.
  • Once in place, the blood gets redirected from the enlarged area and flows only through the stent-graft. This takes the pressure off the artery’s walls and allows for size reduction over time, and decreases the risk of rupture.
The procedure is not an option for individuals with an aorta that cannot be accessed safely through the femoral arteries. Or if the artery is severely damaged that the aneurysm portion needs to be replaced. And if the aneurysm is too big or complex where an open repair is a more favorable option.

Follow Up

Follow-up monitoring is necessary after any aortic aneurysm surgical procedure. This is to ensure the stent works and the aorta is functioning without a high risk of rupture. Individuals will be advised to maintain a healthier heart and cardiovascular system. A surgeon/doctor will suggest:
  • Diet adjustments
  • Regular exercise
  • Quitting smoking/tobacco intake
  • Taking cholesterol and blood pressure medication
  • Chiropractic/Physical therapy for any spinal misalignment, herniation, sciatic nerve compression back pain relief.

Lower Back 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*
Abdominal Aneurysm Sciatica and Low Back Pain

Abdominal Aneurysm Sciatica and Low Back Pain

An abdominal aortic aneurysm is an enlarging of the lower portion of the aortic artery that resides in the abdomen. The aorta is the body�s main artery that supplies blood to the body and stretches from the heart down into and through the abdomen. The abdominal aorta is the part that sits within the abdomen. It is below the kidneys and in close proximity to the front of the spine. Because of this closeness sudden intense pain can be felt in the lower back along with sciatica symptoms.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Abdominal Aneurysm Sciatica and Low Back Pain

Abdominal Aorta Function

Its function is to deliver blood from the heart throughout the body. It circulates blood down through the chest and abdomen. Smaller arteries branch off the artery to the different organs and systems of the body.

Enlargement/Weakening

If it becomes weak or expands in size, the condition is known as an aortic aneurysm. This condition can cause severe abdominal pain, back pain, sciatica and can lead to artery leakage or rupture. This is when it becomes an emergency. Being the largest blood vessel in the body means that a rupture can cause life-threatening bleeding. Aneurysms can develop anywhere on the artery, but most occur in the abdomen portion. Depending on the size and growth rate, treatment/therapies can vary from observation to emergency surgery. Abdominal aneurysms usually progress slowly without symptoms, making them difficult to detect. However, some abdominal aneurysms never rupture. They can start small and remain the same size while others can expand over time, and others faster.

Rupture

A weakened aorta can develop a leak known as a rupture. Blood can also begin to accumulate and pool up between layers in the arterial walls can also lead to rupture known as a dissection. Internal bleeding is the primary complication of an abdominal aneurysm. Loss of blood is considered a potentially fatal medical emergency. Mortality rates increase when the artery leaks. The risk for rupture depends on the:

Size

Aneurysms that are smaller than 5 cm in diameter are considered a low risk for rupture. Aneurysms larger than 5 cm are considered high risk. The size is often the best predictor for predicting the chance of rupture.

Growth Rate

Expansion of more than half a centimeter over 6 months is considered accelerated growth and is a high risk. A faster growth rate has been seen in individuals that smoke or have high blood pressure. Abdominal pain, lower back pain, sciatica, or other symptoms usually do not present until the artery has ruptured. However, in a significantly expanded aneurysm, symptoms similar to a rupture can occur.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Abdominal Aneurysm Sciatica and Low Back Pain
 

Symptoms

In most cases, the aneurysm develops slowly with no symptoms or minor symptoms like a nagging/gnawing or throbbing sensation in or around the abdomen. This type of aneurysm can be detected from a standard physical exam or from the monitoring of another condition. Symptoms depend on the location and can include some combination of the following:
  • Deep, constant pain in the abdomen or on the side. It could also be a stabbing pain deep inside that is felt between the sternum and the belly button. The pain can be continuous with no relief from rest or adjusting positions. Severe pain can cause individuals to bend over and down.
  • Difficulty standing or the ability to straighten the upper body.
  • Low back pain caused by the abdominal pain radiating/spreading out into the lower spine from the aorta�s closeness to the spine. The pain can also spread to the groin, pelvis, and legs.
  • Sciatica symptoms typically come from low back pain.
  • A pulse near or around the bellybutton. Tenderness, along with a pulsing sensation can be felt. The pulse can be felt through the skin and could be sensitive to touch or pressure.
  • Blood loss will result in low blood pressure, known as hypotension. This causes lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, blurred vision, and confusion. Symptoms are exacerbated when standing generating the feeling of the need to sit or lie down.
  • Shock symptoms from the internal bleeding. This includes:
  1. Sudden and rapid heartbeat
  2. Shallow breathing
  3. Clammy skin
  4. Cold sweats
  5. General weakness
  6. Confusion
  7. Agitation
  8. Anxiety
  9. Loss of consciousness

Causes

Various causes can be involved in developing an abdominal aneurysm, including:
  • Hardening of the arteries known as atherosclerosis. It happens when fat along with other substances build up on the lining of blood vessel/s.
  • High blood pressure can damage and weaken the walls of the aorta.
  • Blood vessel diseases can cause blood vessel inflammation.
  • Aortic infection is rare but a bacterial or fungal infection could cause an abdominal aneurysm.
  • Trauma like being in an automobile accident can cause an aneurysm.

Risk Factors

The pathology principally stays asymptomatic until a rupture occurs. This pathology affects mostly men with quite a few risk factors. Risk factors include:
  • Men develop abdominal aneurysms more often than women.
  • Smoking is the strongest risk factor. It weakens the aortic walls and increases the risk of developing an aneurysm, and rupture. The longer an individual smokes or chews tobacco, the higher the chances.
  • Individuals aged 65 and older are the most targeted group for this condition.
  • A family history of abdominal aneurysms increases the risk.
  • Aneurysm in another blood vessel, like the artery behind the knee or the chest aortic region, could increase the risk.

Sciatic Nerve Compression

Sciatica is usually caused by compression on the nerve. Spinal and non-spinal disorders are known to cause pain include:
  • Low back misaligned vertebral body/s
  • Herniated/bulging/slipped discs
  • Pregnancy/childbirth
  • Spinal tumors
  • Diabetes
  • Constipation
  • Sitting too long
Sciatic nerve compression can cause a loss of feeling known as sensory loss, paralysis of a limb, or group of muscles known as monoplegia, and insomnia.

Proper Diagnosis Is Essential

Because of the many disorders that can cause sciatica, a doctor’s first step is to determine the cause. This involves forming a diagnosis based on a thorough review of an individual’s medical history, a physical and neurological examination. The sciatic nerve has several smaller nerves that branch off. These smaller nerves enable movement motor function and feeling sensory functions in the thighs, knees, calves, ankles, feet, and toes. If a chiropractor determines the patient’s disorder requires treatment by another specialist, then the individual will be referred to the proper doctor. In some cases, the chiropractor could be called upon to continue spinal therapy and help manage the individual’s treatment plan with the other specialist/s.

Sciatica 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*