Adam Rufa - 10/11/2006

Question
I have been having problems.  From about my left knee down to my ankle I have a numbness on the top/shin area.  If reminds me of how my legs felt when I had a spinal for my c-section, and how my belly felt around the incision after my c-section, it just doesn't feel right, I can feel it, it just isn't right.
My ankle is sore, and my hip/buttock/low back is sore, so I am thinking a pinched nerve. I also have a cramp in my foot at times.
I went to a chiropractor today, he didn't seem to worried, he adjusted me and for a minute or two it did get a little less numb feeling.
My question to you is, does this sound serious or would you agree that a few adjustments can probably fix me up? (That is basically what the chiropractor I seen told me)
If it isn't from my hip or ankle what else could it  be?
I am 28 female caucasion, otherwise healthy.  I have been aching.
Thanks for all your help!

P.S. No known injury, I do sit on that leg, and have pretty poor posture, I sit at a computer, and sleep on my stomach which makes it worse.  I have been having a shoulder problem long before this started, I don't think it is related, but thought I would put it out there just in case.

Answer
Spinal manipulation may be helpful in your case however, without examining you it is difficult for me to know for sure. There is evidence that if symptoms from low back problems refer below the knee, manipulation (adjustments) are usually less effective.

Your symptoms do sound like a nerve impingement however this can be caused by many different things. Compression can occur at the low back for varying reasons as well as at the hip, knee or ankle.

Bilateral symptoms, numbness in the groin, difficulty walking, and changes in bowl/bladder function are rare but serious symptoms that can sometimes occur. Unless you have symptoms like this, seeing a chiro is reasonable.

If your symptoms do not improve in 2-3 wks see your MD.


Adam