Question
Help! I'm scheduled for lumbar spinal fusion in a week. After talking to a Chiropractor friend i'm reconsidering surgery. He mentioned Cox Technic and flextion distraction. Is it worth trying? Surgeon says the only thing that will "fix"the problem is a fusion of L4-L5-S1. Says Chiro might help with the pain for now but the bones are to unstable for it to stay that way. Do i try the Chiropractor or go for surgery. If so, could you give me a few names in my area, Flemington NJ 08822.
thank you
Denice

Answer
Hi Denice,

Not knowing anything at all about your back condition, all I can say is that if you have not tried a decompressive type of manipulation such as Cox technique or flexion-distraction technique, then it's worthwhile trying.   The worst that can happen is that you do not make progress and you end up again at the surgery point.   The chiropractor also should be able to assess if you are a good candidate to try the methods.   You'll know within a few weeks if it's working or not.   Check: www.westhartfordgroup.com to see if there is a provider in your area.   If not, contact someone from that list and see if they have any connections.  I don't know anyone in Flemmington NJ.  

'Good luck!

Dr. G