Question
My wife is 75 and has suffered with back discomfort for decades. A first and recent X ray of the spine (4th or
Fifth vertebrae ?) clearly shows a slipped vertebrae which at this point appears to be affecting the vertebral
artery for there is some reduction of blood circulation to the legs (an ultrasound test is scheduled). We are
concerned that some corrective treatment with/or without surgery could be catastrophic; we are wondering
about the possible effects on the artery, and what complications could result from a possible half-century-old
slipped vertebrae (she had large babies) if efforts were made to slip it back (she does not want surgery or the
screw etc.). Mobility is limited but recently she has been on pain medication which makes for longer walking
mobility etc. but my concern is that the euphoric relief might lead to over exertion and more damage.

I am no professional, but it seems to me that muscle relaxants and traction could be part of the treatment. What
do you think. Thanks  

Answer
Sorry to hear about your wife's back discomfort. As far as the pain pills I agree with you completely. Taking pills to cover up a problem can definitely lead to overexertion and further damage. If your wife's vertebra has been "out" for years then putting it back in, in the figurative sense of the word, is likely out of the question. Without being able to examine her it is impossible for me to say what is wrong, but if she has a chiropractic problem, then likely she will receive adjustments, traction, and or therapies. As far as traction goes it might be a good thing, as for the muscle relaxers I would try to address the problem with out them if at all possible. Muscles spasm to protect from damage, so taking a muscle relaxer may feel good in the short term but may lead to more issues down the road.

My recommendation is to consult a local chiropractor and see what is going on for sure.

All the best,

Dr. Russ