QuestionHello. I just turned 27 yrs old and have had back pain since I was around age 15. My back hurts all the time. When I sit, when I stand, bend over, lay down. All the time. My back goes out on me I would say about once a year where I have to crawl on the floor. If I stand, I am standing crooked. I was told once I had scoliosis, a torn ligament, and now I had x-rays done and was told today that they found that I have on my lumbar 4 that I have spina bifida occulta. The Dr. said I have had it my whole life but it is not the worrisome kind. The Dr. says that all I can do is pain management. I do not want to be on pain pills and muscle relaxers the rest of my life. Can this become a serious condition? Will I be able to work again? My back in in chronic, constant pain. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I am a hypochondriac so I am really freaking out
AnswerSpina Bifida Occulta, staten island spina bifida, back pain, low back pain, staten island back pain, staten island scoliosis,
Hello Nicole,
I am sorry to hear of your back pain.
Your overall description brings me to say- how is your Doctor of Chiropratic treating you? This sounds 'right up chiropractic's alley'! and should be easily, conservatively, chiropractically treated.
"....have had back pain since I was around age 15....", a dozen years of back pain is a long time, I would certainly re-evaluate the doctors that were treating me; perhaps it is time for a new doctor!
"....I was told once I had scoliosis, a torn ligament, and now I had x-rays done and was told today that they found that I have on my lumbar 4 that I have spina bifida occulta....", I also have spina bida occulta. Spina Bifida Occulta (SBO) is fairly insignificant. It is a birth 'defect'. I was born with it, and still have it half a century later. It does not hurt, it does not predispose me to hurt.
You were told once you have a scoliosis. Well,,,,, do you have scoliosis or not? Twelve years of back pain, how many Xrays, MRIs, CT scans have you had? Twelve years of back pain, and now suddenly they discover SBO ? TIME FOR NEW DIFFERENT DOCTORS. Your back pain is caused by scoliosis ? - TIME FOR A NEW DOCTOR. Your back pain is caused by SBO ? - TIME FOR A NEW DOCTOR.
Scoliosis is serious, but usually painless. Twelve years of back pain?- What was your scoliosis curve rated at 12 years ago?, 10 yrs ago?, 5 yrs ago?, last year?, this year? Scoliosis, unless quite progressed is not likely to be causing your pain. The Doctor of Chiropractic sees many people with scoliosis. I give the following handout information to my Staten Island Scoliosis patients :
Scoliosis
Everyone's spine has a natural front-to-back curve -- that's what produces the normal rounding of the shoulders and the sway of the lower back. However, some people suffer from "Scoliosis" ?an abnormal curvature of the spine, especially one characterized by a rotational side-to-side deformity.
In simple terms, what this means is that the spine is twisted side-to-side, often taking on an "S" shaped appearance and even resembling a corkscrew in some cases.
Almost three out of every 100 people have some degree of abnormal spinal curvature, and for some it never becomes a serious problem. But for many others, the curve gets worse over time and can cause considerable pain, frustration, and limitations on normal activities. Severe scoliosis can even complicate breathing and circulation.
The current medical approach to scoliosis is to react to symptoms of curve progression, not to prevent potential progression. It is mainly a "wait and see" attitude - yes, you have it, but we'll just watch it for a while and when it starts to get worse, we'll do something!" However, according to the Journal of American Family Physicians, 1999, underarm thoroco-lumbar-sacral orthosis (TLSO) braces have a 74 percent success rate in slowing curve progression.
According to the AAOS figures, almost all cases of juvenile scoliosis (in children ages 3-10) progress. This group accounts for 15 percent of the scoliosis cases. Fifty percent of the cases progress to a point of surgical intervention. Adolescence scoliosis (in children older than age 10) comprises 80 percent of scoliosis in children, and 5 percent to 25 percent of these cases progress. The AAOS further states that if the curve is greater than 20 degrees at 10-12 years of age, there is a 68 percent chance it will progress. The AOS also concurs that even after bone maturity, especially in curves greater than 30 degrees, some progression occurs.
Who suffers from scoliosis?
The most common form of scoliosis is called idiopathic scoliosis, which basically means that the cause is unknown. Anyone can suffer from scoliosis; the condition usually begins in childhood, although too often it is not identified until the teenage years or later.
Scoliosis tends to run in families, and it affects many more girls than boys. In fact, research indicates that girls are nearly eight times more likely than boys to have scoliosis and five times more likely to require some form of treatment for their condition than boys, and the curvature of their spine is more likely to worsen over time, especially if left unattended.
What are some of the symptoms of scoliosis?
Sometimes curvature of the spine is visible (the body tilts to the left or the right, or one shoulder blade is raised higher than the other. Some of the actual physical symptoms of scoliosis can include back pain, fatigue (especially postural fatigue -- feeling tired when standing, sitting, etc.), and in more severe cases, problems with circulation and breathing.
What can chiropractic do?
Doctors of chiropractic are trained to identify and manage problems relating to the spine and the back. An initial visit to the chiropractor will include a thorough physical and diagnostic examination (including range-of-motion tests and spinal x-rays) to identify any problems you may be having, including whether you or your children may be suffering from abnormal or dangerous curvature of the spine.
If you do show signs of scoliosis, your chiropractor can provide a variety of techniques to help your condition, including spinal adjustments to increase movement and biomechanical function, and advice on posture and exercise to help prevent further increase in the problem.+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Scoliosis and the Chiropractic Approach http://www.planetc1.com/chiropractic-articles/scoliosis-chiropractic.html
By Matthew Trull
Analysis of Findings
Scoliosis can be very serious. If detected early, the chances for stabilization and reduction of the curves are very good. In my family alone, we have two examples. My sister抯 Scoliosis was diagnosed when both her curves had already progressed to 45 degrees. She had Spinal Fusion surgery in Atlanta at Scottish Rites Children抯 Hospital. The surgery was successful; her curves were reduced to 20 degrees each. However, it was very dangerous, painful, expensive, and changed her life dramatically. My Scoliosis was diagnosed early, while I had only one curve that was 21 degrees. Following six months of Chiropractic care, I have been completely cured of Scoliosis. The approach was painless, inexpensive, and did not alter my life in any way. I believe Chiropractic care should be the first-line approach for all patients diagnosed with Scoliosis. My research has proven it has a very high success rate: 70% achieving stabilization and reduction, and 15% obtaining total correction!
Typical Treatment Options
Bracing: For curves 30-degrees or less, a Milwaukee brace is typically worn. It is a rigid brace that exerts pressure against the spine, in hopes of achieving stabilization. The brace is uncomfortable, unsightly, and is usually worn 20-24 hours per day, until the patient stops growing. It offers no correction, and is only marginally effective for stabilization. Surgery: An orthopedic surgeon performs Spinal Fusion surgery. The patient is placed on a spinal cord monitor to prevent paralysis. After performing an incision, the surgeon manually reduces the curves as much as possible, and inserts metal rods on each side of the spine, attaching them with special hardware. Bone splinters (either removed from the hip area, or donor bone) are applied between the vertebrae. Over time, these fragments grow together to create a solid bone. Surgery is very expensive, painful, dangerous, and requires the patient to alter their lifestyle forever. Surgery is very effective for reducing curves. Surgery should be considered a last resort.
Signs of Scoliosis
Most obvious signs of Scoliosis are: shoulders of unequal height, a 憆ib hump? which is caused by the ribcage on the back protruding more on one side than the other, and hips that appear unequal in height. Scoliosis clinics are conducted free of charge by health Departments and Chiropractors. A school or Health Department nurse or Physical Education teacher routinely screens students during the middle school years. It is extremely important to diagnosis and treat Scoliosis as early as possible.
Special Thank-You
I want to thank Dr. Marc Schnobrich, of Rincon Chiropractic, for all the many ways he has helped my family and me. He diagnosed my Scoliosis while treating me for an elbow injury. During the following months, he treated me weekly, always explaining what he was going to do. He provided excellent chiropractic care in many other areas, as well. Dr. Marc checked my spine often for progress. After six months of care, I was completely cured!
Dr. Marc has always been very kind, caring and helpful. He has been my friend as well as my doctor! During my research for this project, he loaned me books and other research materials. He patiently answered questions, and was never too busy to talk to me on the telephone between visits. He also answered my emails promptly and accurately. Thanks to Dr. Marc抯 care, I will be able to continue my normal lifestyle, which includes baseball and many other physical activities.
Thank you, Dr. Marc!
Conclusion
Spinal Fusion surgery is very painful, expensive, and will alter the lifestyle of the patient forever. Surgery should be considered the last alternative in treating Scoliosis. Wearing a Milwaukee Brace is uncomfortable, limits physical activity, offers no correction, and is mostly ineffective in stabilizing the spine. The Chiropractic approach is very effective at stabilizing the spine, preventing the curve from progressing. At least 70% of the patients achieve some degree of reduction in the size of the curves. Approximately 15% of Scoliosis patients achieve total correction, like I did! That means at least fifteen out of 100 patients will not have to face surgery, take medications, and change their lifestyle forever! All of this is done with a minimum of cost and no pain! Research and experience have proven Chiropractic care is definitely effective in the stabilization and reduction of Scoliosis! Chiropractic care should be the first-line approach for all Scoliosis patients.
Chiropractic Facts
The first Chiropractic adjustment performed on the North American Continent was in 1895, by Dr. Daniel David Palmer. His first patient experienced deafness following a back injury. Following care, the patient reported improved hearing. Dr. Palmer founded the Palmer School of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, which continues to train Chiropractors today.
Spinal manipulation has been practiced since the beginning of recorded time. Over 2700 years ago the Chinese documented this form of treatment. Records indicate that ancient Japanese, Indians, Egyptians, Babylonians, Syrians, Tibetans, and Native Americans practiced a hands on approach to health.
An estimated 19.5 million Americans visit a Chiropractor each year.
There are over 50,000 licensed Chiropractors in the United States, and another 30,000 worldwide.
Chiropractic is the world's second largest health care profession. It promotes the body抯 own ability to heal itself. Chiropractic uses no drugs or surgery, and is all-natural.
Evaluation of Work
I believe whole-heartedly in Chiropractic Care for Scoliosis. I am living proof that it works! I thoroughly enjoyed researching this project. I was eager to find if others had similar success. I was delighted to find that more than 2/3 of the Scoliosis patients seeking Chiropractic care had very good results. It was fascinating to speak with Chiropractors who treat Scoliosis on a regular basis. I found them to be very caring, dedicated professionals. I accompanied my sister to Atlanta for her Spinal Fusion surgery, and remember the excruciating pain she suffered. I see her daily life changed. I wish my parents had been aware of Chiropractic when my sister was diagnosed with Scoliosis. Maybe next year I抣l research why more health care professionals don抰 offer Chiropractic care as an option to their Scoliosis patients. More public education is definitely needed in this area!
Scoliosis- is an OBVIOUS Misalignment of the spine. The spine compensates- like dominoes - - - one falls here, and the final domino may be far distant !, Like the old song- the toe bones connected to the foot bone, the foot bone to the ankle bone, the ankle bone is connected to the leg bone, the leg bone is connected to the knee bone, etc etc etc. the body is all interconnected and interdependent. A misalignment (subluxation) in the spine can cause a compensation elsewhere contributing to an abnormal curvature- known as a SCOLIOSIS.
Scoliosis: a misalignment of the SPINE often contributed to by:
Vertebral Subluxation Complex (a.k.a. 憇ubluxation?
The vertebral subluxation complex is the underlying cause of many healthcare problems.
The kinesiopathology of the subluxation (misalignment, improper movement pattern) is often involved with scoliosis, and can sometimes be the cause of the curvature.
A subluxation interferes with the proper functioning of joints, and can cause scoliosis, osteo-arthritic degeneration, Degenerative Disk Disease, degenerative joint disease, etc.
A subluxation interferes with the proper functioning of the nervous system (the master system which controls and coordinates all function within the body- i.e.: muscles) and may cause various other conditions, symptoms and problems.
Subluxation is a serious condition identified by its five parts:
Spinal Kinesiopathology:
This is fancy way of saying the bones of the spine have lost their normal motion and position. It restricts your ability to turn and bend. It sets in motion the other four components.
Neuropathophysiology:
Improper spinal function can choke, stretch, or irritate delicate nerve tissue. The resulting nerve system dysfunction can cause symptoms elsewhere in the body.
Myopathology:
Muscles supporting the spine can weaken, atrophy, or become tight and go into spasm. The resulting scar tissue changes muscle tone, requiring repeated spinal adjustments.
Histopathology:
A rise in temperature from an increase in blood and lymph supplies result in swelling and inflammation. Inflammed Discs can easily bulge, herniate, tear, or degenerate. Other soft tissues may also suffer permanent damage.
Pathophysiology:
The VSC contributes to OsteoArthritic degeneration. Bone spurs and other abnormal bony growths attempt to fuse malfunctioning spinal joints. This spinal decay, scar tissue, and long-term nerve dysfunction can cause other systems of the body to malfunction.
The Vertebral Subluxation Complex describes what happens when spinal bones lose their normal movement patterns and position. When subluxated, joints are in a stressed, vulnerable, compromised condition. Vertebral Subluxation may cause Spinal Scoliosis, Arthritis, Disk Herniation, Disk Degeneration, or aggravate such conditions.
Vertebral Subluxation cannot be corrected through chemicals (medicine), stretching, yoga, vitamins or physical therapy alone. Subluxation- a neuro/skeletal/muscular- mechanical- problem requires a mechanical correction- - - a manipulation, best performed with the chiropractic adjustment by Doctor of Chiropractic. Scoliosis??- nothing better then the CHIROPRACTIC Adjustment. Plus- do your at home exercise (ie 慼anging? as instructed.
Dr. Victor E. Dolan, Doctor of Chiropractic; Diplomat, American Chiropractic Board of Sport Physicians; Diplomat, American Academy of Pain Management; Certified Clinical Nutritionist (IAACN); FIRST Chief of Chiropractic in a Hospital in New York State (DHSI); As Seen in PREVENTION Magazine
"....The Dr. says that all I can do is pain management.....", if this is your chiropractic doctor, get a different doctor; if this is your medical doctor- did this doctor inform you of ALL of your back treatment oprions- including Chiropractic ? Twelve years of back pain in a young lady. From your sparse testing results, it does not sound as if you have serious conditions. From your description, you should respond to conservative, noninvasive, safe Chiropractic care.
Before taking pain medications- some information you should also be aware of; information I give to my Staten Island Back Pain patients:
PAIN
Pain is a 憆ed light on the dashboard?
Pain is your body telling you that something is wrong.
That RED LIGHT on the dashboard of your car-
-- do you ignore it until the car breaks down,
or do you get it checked and correct the problem?
Pain, pain in your body-
-- do you ignore it until your body breaks down,
or do you get it checked and correct the problem?
Pain,
do you cover up the pain by taking a painkiller?
Take a painkiller,
mask the pain,
and allow a problem to progress in your body?
NOTICE ON PAIN RELIEVERS:
Label changes ORDERED by FDA; the FDA announced proposed label changes for OTC over-the-counter pain relievers to include the potential for stomach bleeding and liver damage (FDA news 206- 207; 12-9-06) ;
The American Heart Association issued a scientific statement recommending medical doctors change the way they prescribe OTC pain relievers from a first choice to an alternate of recommending non-pharmacologic treatment (AHA statement 2-26-07).
NSAID Acceleration of ARTHRITIS; an important side effect of Aspirin and other NSAIDS is that it will inhibit cartilage repair and accelerate cartilage destruction ( Journal of Rheumatology, 1982; 9: 3- 5 ). Many times people take NSAIDS for the pain of Arthritis, not realizing these drugs may make the underlying condition worse. These medications cover up the pain, and cause the problem to worsen.
Pain can often be the result of the Vertebral Subluxation Complex.
Vertebral Subluxation ( 慥SC?, 憇ubluxation? )
Vertebral Subluxation is actually a quite common condition. Doctors of Chiropractic look for pathological conditions which may require referral to other specialties, and also look for 慡ubluxation? Other disciplines look for pathology, but overlook the importance of alignment and movement in the spine which affects our nervous system (the master control system- ALL health disciplines learn this). VSC- 慡ubluxation??can be the cause of many symptoms and conditions.
Only a Doctor of Chiropractic will evaluate and treat for VSC, as well as other pathology.
The course of VSC is highly variable. Some patients with VSC literally cannot walk, yet other patients with similar test findings may be able to run marathons or lift heavy weights. Some patients immediately develop symptoms related to the VSC, some patients take years to develop symptoms. Some people suffer for only a few days with pain and symptoms, some people suffer for months. Some people recover in days, some take months or years, depending upon severity of the condition.
A subluxation interferes with the proper functioning of the nervous system (the master system which controls and coordinates all function within the body) and may cause various other conditions, symptoms and problems.
The Vertebral Subluxation Complex describes what happens when spinal bones lose their normal movement patterns and position. When subluxated, joints are in a stressed, vulnerable, compromised condition. Subluxation may cause Arthritis, Disk Herniation, or aggravate such conditions.
Vertebral Subluxation cannot be corrected through chemicals (medicine), stretching, yoga, vitamins or physical therapy alone. Subluxation- a neuro/skeletal/muscular- mechanical- problem requires a mechanical correction- - - a manipulation, best performed with the chiropractic adjustment.
++++++++++++++++++++
Beware of the more invasive approaches:
"Death by Medicine" (1) is an eye-opening paper published as a Web exclusive in the March 2004 issue of Life Extension, a monthly magazine dedicated to "up-to-date coverage of the latest scientific and medical breakthroughs from around the world." As the grim title suggests, the paper explores the hazards of conventional medicine in the United States, analyzing and combining the complete published literature to date regarding injuries and deaths attributable to medicine.
In their introduction, the authors note: "Never before have the complete statistics on the multiple causes of iatrogenesis been combined in one paper. Medical science amasses tens of thousands of papers annually - each one a tiny fragment of the whole picture. ... Each specialty, each division of medicine, keeps their own records and data on morbidity and mortality like pieces of a puzzle. But the numbers and statistics were always hiding in plain sight. We have now completed the painstaking work of reviewing thousands and thousands of studies. Finally putting the puzzle together, we came up with some disturbing answers."
The "disturbing answers" the five researchers uncover are an indictment of the entire American medical system:
* "The total number of deaths caused by
conventional medicine is an astounding
783,936 per year."
* "The number of people having inhospital, adverse drug reactions (ADR) to
prescribed medicine is 2.2 million."
* "Richard Besser, of the CDC, in 1995, said the number of unnecessary antibiotics
prescribed annually for viral infections was 20 million. Dr. Besser, in 2003, now
refers to tens of millions . of unnecessary antibiotics."
"The number of unnecessary medical and surgical procedures performed
Annually is 7.5 million."
* "The number of people exposed to unnecessary hospitalization annually is 8.9
million."
* "It is evident that the American medical system is the leading cause of death and
injury in the United States."
The authors are especially concerned that "(a)s few as 5% and only up to 20% of iatrogenic acts are ever reported." (It must be noted that these reports on MEDICAL failure are compiled by MEDICAL personnel, and therefore these statistics a probably BIASED in favor of medicine, with poor outcomes being omitted or dismissed from the research. The statistics are probably LOWER than the reality.)
They also project that the costs associated with deaths caused by medical interventions total approximately $282 billion per year, and estimate that the costs for unnecessary hospitalization and medical procedures total $16.4 billion per year.
As if this information isn't startling enough, the paper goes on to review the drug industry world. The authors discuss the dangers of many types of drugs and how their overuse is affecting our health and our environment, Next, they discuss the dangers of surgical procedures, the lack of error reporting and unnecessary hospitalization. The paper concludes with a discussion of how women are mistreated by medicine, and the dangers awaiting the unsuspecting elderly: "A total of 20% of all deaths from all causes occur in nursing homes."
The complete text of "Death by Medicine" can be found online at www.lef.org/magazine/mag2004/" mar2004_awsi_death_01.html.
More than 150 references and an extensive appendix support the discussions and conclusions presented in this paper. While many will find it quite disturbing, every health care provider and every patient should read this paper.
Reference
1). Gary Null, PhD, Carolyn Dean, MD ND, Martin Feldman, MD, Debora Rasio, MD, Dorothy Smith, PhD. "Death by Medicine." Life Extension March 2004 (Web exclusive).
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
"....Can this become a serious condition? Will I be able to work again? My back in in chronic, constant pain. Thank you for taking the time to read this. I am a hypochondriac so I am really freaking out....."
Can this become serious?- the longer you wait for proper evaluation and treatment- certainly, anything can become serious.
Will I be able to work again?- given your description, I do not see why not.
I am a hypochondriac so I am really freaking out - Given the RISKS of certain treatments, I would be very concerned myself!
Another explanatory sheet I utilize:
Back Pain (BP):
Back Pain can be caused by many different things.
Big, BAD, catastrophic things like a tumor or a cancer can cause back pain (only a proper exam by a licensed doctor, like your Doctor of Chiropractic, or your family Doctor of Medicine, can evaluate your signs and symptoms, and perhaps refer for testing).
Big, bad things like a Herniated Disc, sciatica, possible fracture or dislocation can cause BP (again, best evaluated by your DC or MD, and perhaps referral).
Bad things, like - Sprains, Strains, contusion, or Vertebral Subluxation Complex (all very efficiently diagnosed and treated by your Doctor Of Chiropractic).
BP can come from a motor vehicle accident, sport injury, slip, trip, fall, arthritis, lifting improperly, or even bad posture in standing, sitting or sleeping. All of these things often have a Vertebral Subluxation involved.
Vertebral Subluxation Complex (a.k.a. 憇ubluxation?
The vertebral subluxation complex is the underlying cause of many healthcare problems.
A subluxation interferes with the proper functioning of the nervous system (the master system which controls and coordinates all function within the body) and may cause various other conditions, symptoms and problems.
This is a serious condition identified by its five parts:
Spinal Kinesiopathology:
This is fancy way of saying the bones of the spine have lost their normal motion and position. It restricts your ability to turn and bend. It sets in motion the other four components.
Neuropathophysiology:
Improper spinal function can choke, stretch, or irritate delicate nerve tissue. The resulting nerve system dysfunction can cause symptoms elsewhere in the body.
Myopathology:
Muscles supporting the spine can weaken, atrophy, or become tight and go into spasm. The resulting scar tissue changes muscle tone, requiring repeated spinal adjustments.
Histopathology:
A rise in temperature from an increase in blood and lymph supplies result in swelling and inflammation. Discs can bulge, herniate, tear, or degenerate. Other soft tissues may suffer permanent damage.
Pathophysiology:
Bone spurs and other abnormal bony growths attempt to fuse malfunctioning spinal joints. This spinal decay, scar tissue, and long-term nerve dysfunction can cause other systems of the body to malfunction.
The Vertebral Subluxation Complex describes what happens when spinal bones lose their normal movement patterns and position.
Automobile accidents, improper lifting, improper posture, alcohol, emotional stress, chemical imbalances, and long periods of sitting can cause the Vertebral Subluxation Complex.
Vertebral Subluxation cannot be corrected through chemicals (medicine), stretching, yoga, vitamins or physical therapy alone. Subluxation- a neuro/skeletal/muscular- mechanical- problem requires a mechanical correction- - - a manipulation, best performed with the chiropractic adjustment.
Dr. Victor E. Dolan, Doctor of Chiropractic; Diplomat, American Chiropractic Board of Sport Physicians; Diplomat, American Academy of Pain Management;Certified Clinical Nutritionist (IAACN); FIRST Chief of Chiropractic in a Hospital in New York State (DHSI); As Seen in PREVENTION Magazine
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
My recommendation based upon reading your question:
1) see a different Doctor of Chiropractic, or go to a chiropractor for an evaluation
2) twelve years of pain??? few tests, no definitive diagnosis- see new doctors
3) twelve years of pain?? no effective treatments- see a new doctor
I hope this all helps.
If you need further information, do not hesitate to RE-contact me here at
AllExperts.com
http://allexperts.com/ep/965-100794/Chiropractors/Victor-Dolan-DC-DACBSP.htm
Thank you for your question,
I wish you luck in returning to good health,
your Staten Island Chiropractic expert,
Dr. Victor Dolan, DC, DACBSP
Email newsletter: . . . . . http://drvictordolan.chiroweb.com
