Question
I have had a lumbar fusion about four years ago due to disc degeneration. I recently have been suffering more back pain more than usual,migraines, weakness in my limbs and A LOT of neck pain. I went to a doctor and he referred me to a chiropractor. I found out that my cervical spine is reversed, my spine is curved and my pelvis is uneven. I have been going three times a week and have seen no improvement. I am getting worried that there could be more damage to the nerves. I have also been told that my optical nerves are thin and I am a little concerned as to whether my condition is causing this. My question is, is he really able to help me or should I be seeing a orthopedic surgeon? The pain is unbearable, I am taking at least six ibuprofen a day. Pleas help!

Answer
Yes... you are doing the right thing.  Simply from the stand point that you ALWAYS EXHAUST ALL OTHER POTENTIAL TREATMENTS BEFORE YOU EVER EVER EVER CONSIDER SURGERY.  Now, that does not mean that for CERTAIN the chiropractor is going to help you... but you should give him/her all the opportunities in the world to help you.  If he/she doesn't, what have you lost... besides time and money?  Chiropractic care is extremely low-risk, high potential return.  On the other hand, if you have surgery and it doesn't help you (and believe me, this is a very common occurance)... you can NEVER go back. Irreperable damage will be done. Period.

If you are having neurological issues, perhaps you should consult a neurologist before you see an orthopedic or neurological surgeon. It sounds to me that perhaps you should start there if you desire another opinion.

To a surgeon, EVERYONE is a surgical case...

To a chiropractor, Everyone should be adjusted...

To a Family MD, Everyone can be treated with medicine...

To a Psychologist, Everyone has psychological issues.

What I am trying to tell you is that if you seek out the help of a surgeon, you very well might get surgery whether or not your condidtion really warrants it.

The good news is that you were referred to a chiropractor by your medical doctor. Your medical doctor didn't get anything out of that referral. He/she thought that you were somebody that might benefit from chiropractic care.

Give it plenty of time. You say that you have been "going three times a week and have seen no improvement." Does that mean that you have had three treatments total? 6 treatments? 9? 12? 21? or 99 treatments?

I would give the chiropractor a good 2-3 months, and then make a judgement. In the mean time, find a nuerologist to evaluate your headaches and "thinning optic nerves".

I hope that this helps you!

Keith Biggs, DC
http://www.eastmesachiropractor.com