Question
I have been having lower back pain for years now and all my Dr. has ever done is x-ray it and say it is sciatic and all that ever been done is prescribed me darvocet and soma.  That is all he has ever done about my back. I HAVE been seeing this physician for about 10 years now and its just the same treatment, same scrips every month.  But I still have the lower backpain sometimes it is severe and it radiates down my right leg and I cant sit for a long period of time because of my back and leg pain and now most of the time if my back and leg goes to hurting real bad,  My leg has started going to sleep or numb.  Can you tell me why or what you think is going on and what do you think I need to do.  Because Darvocet doesnt help with the pain no more, the soma helps with the spasms but sometimes the pain is so bad,  There ought to be something out there that can help me with this pain.  And to be able get off of pain pills all together.  I just want to know what is causing this pain, and how go get rid of it,  and flush the pills away and not need anything.  Because I am only 39 yrs old now and I feel like a 70 yr old with my back the way it is.  can you tell me what I should do first of all where do i start and which way to go to get on the right path and where to go.    thanks for your insights and help.  God Bless  

Answer
There is a natural pain killer out there, it is called chiropractic.  I treat people with your same symptoms everyday with great success.  There are more than one reason for sciatic pains, 2 of the major culprits being muscle spasms and misalignment of the vertebrae.  
Not all chiropractors are the same, nor do they do the same treatments.  I am a member of a group of chiropractors that treat these symptoms with gentle techniques.  It is easier to discuss your treatment options in person.  If you are interested, I suggest going to www.sorsi.com to locate a doctor near you.  I know most of these doctors and would trust any one of them with my own family.  I am located in St. Paul, Minnesota and would be more than happy to see you.  If you have any other questions or concerns or need help locating a doctor, email me, or go to my website at www.healinghandschiro.com.

Dr. Starbuck