Question
QUESTION: six days ago I  pinched a nerve in my lower back and have been experiencing the sciatic nerve pain down my leg--  (I've had a fusion in my lower back)   two days ago I started experiencing extreme pain the back of my upper right arm and one spot on my lower arm-  wasn't sure if these were related-  I went to the chiropractor and he said I抳e dislocated a rib-- he tried to put it back but it wouldn't move  (I also have cervical stenosis)  
what can I do for the pain-- they have me on muscle relaxants, anti inflammatories and morphine--- nothing is working--  HELP

ANSWER: Linda,

I am sorry to hear of your situation. First and foremost I am assuming that you are asking about the pain down your arm.

The chiropractor should have taken x-rays and I also opine that you should have a MRI studies done of your Cervical spine (Neck) immediately because of your history of spinal stenosis. You more than likely have a Subluxation in the neck area that  is causing the pain down your arm. In defense of your Chiropractor a rib out of position would make this worse but more than likely is not the main cause of the symptoms you are experiencing down your arm.

Cervical spinal stenosis is a situation whereas the diameter of the hole/tube in the spinal column where the spinal cord goes through is smaller in size than normal. This smaller size can be a difficult area to do a chiropractic manipulation without causing a flare up such as you describe. I always treat very lightly in an area of stenosis. I prefer adjusting with an adjusting tool such as the Activator and or the Proadjuster system that does not require or utilise as much force as a chiropractic manipulation done by hand. It's just the nature of the beast.

i would inquire if the chiropractor you are seeing now has either of htese systems and if not could he refer you toa chiropractor who does. One your pain is under control and there is not as much inflammation you more than likely will be able to withstand a chiropractic manipulation by hand but until them instrument adjusting is the way to go!

As to the medications not working please be careful with that stuff because more is not necessarily better. You absolutely should contact your MD and let them know about your situation as far as the meds not working and see how the MD directs you.

I hope this information helps you on your journey and medical decision making.

Sincerely,



Dr John Quackenbush
www.drqdc.com

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thank you for your email.  I am still experiencing extreme pain in two locations on my right arm only.  On my upper arm at the back and my forearm on the top--   I keep this arm tightly wrapped and this seems to help with the pain.  I have gone to my family doctor and she has no suggestions.  The chiropractor uses both hand manipulation and also the instrument that looks like a gun-  After a dozen visits he is still unable to get the rib back in place.  I have booked an appointment with the surgeon who did my fusion-  but that's not for a couple weeks.  What harm would I do if I just leave this rib out of place?

Answer
Linda,

I really can't give you an exact definitive answer on this one but if your breathing is hindered you may develop pneumonia. Remember I said you may develop pneumonia.I am happy to hear you are returning to your surgeon so he can see if there is anything he can do for you.

I dont think leaving the rib out of place is a wise choice and w/o a physical examination I really can't be more specific.


Dr John Quackenbush