QuestionI was rear ended by a tractor trailer. I am 25 yrs old, MRI findings are that I have protruded disk from t6-t12 I am almost 3 months since the accident. It feels like the pain as the day goes on drops into my mid right side of my back. I have been seeing a chiro but all they do is adjust me one time and it feels like it is doing absolutely nothing. I also just started treating at a deep massage therapy place. Is there any other suggestions on what can help my back pain go away?
Answerauto accident , disc protrusion , back pain ,
Hello Amy,
First, let me apologize,,, my home computer is dead, and the office computer has been down. The home computer is in the trash, and the office computer is on life support,,, I am sorry it has taken me so long to reply to your question.
Next, I am sorry to hear you had an auto accident, and that you sustained injury.
Staten Island auto accidents keep me very busy. Spinal injury is common in motor vehicle accidents. Every Doctor of Chiropractic treats the types of injury that car crashes cause (Sprains and strains, bumps, bruises, contusions, pinched nerves, herniated discs).
You are 25 years old, you may have serious injury, but you are young and have a tremendous capacity to heal.
"....MRI findings are that I have protruded disk from t6-t12 ..."
I interpret that to mean there are SEVERAL disc protrusions?
T6 to T12 = six disc protrusions. Does the report read disc bulge, disc protrusion, disc herniation, disc extrusion? Besides the Thoracic MRI have you also had Cervical (neck) and Lumbar (low back) MRI ? Do not hesitate to re-contact me with further info if I make incorrect assumptions or translations.
Disc Protrusion is a serious, complicated injury. You are young, you should heal. You are in the right neighborhood for treatment, Chiropractic should help. If your particular Doctor of Chiropractic is not helping- communicate- there should be progress. If the Doctor keeps doing the SAME thing time in and time out and you are not progressing,,,, it is time for a re-evaluation, a change in types of treatment.
".....seeing a chiro but all they do is adjust me one time and it feels like it is doing absolutely nothing......", are you feeling any changes? The adjustment is safe, effective and cost effective for most spinal complaints, including multiple disc herniations or protrusions. However, there are many different chiropractic treatment approaches.
There are many, many, many different approaches within Chiropractic.
Depending upon your condition, depending upon patient response, different approaches within Chiropractic can be tried. From SOT technique to Gonstead, from Activator to Kinesiology, from noninvasive
spinal decompression therapy to infrasound, ultrasound, nutrition, etc.: your doctor of chiropractic should try different techniques rather then keep 'banging away' with the same maneuvers.
Among the different techniques or approaches I utilize in my Staten Island Chiropractic office are: Infrasound, ultrasound, interferential therapy, electrical muscle stimulation, SOT blocking,
activator technique, noninvasive- nonsurgical spinal decompression, thompson technique, diversified, palmer package, kinesio taping, exercise instruction, nutritional supplementation, even manipulation under anesthesia (ambulatory surgical facility).
Different people, different conditions require different treatments at different times during the regimen of care. Your Doctor of Chiropractic should re-evaluate you periodically and change treatment periodically to assure your best response. If your Doctor is not offering you comprehensive treatment,,,, perhaps you should seek another Doctor.
Disc protrusions?, I would certainly recommend Chiropractic spinal adjustment, as well as noninvasive spinal decompression, infrasound, ultrasound, interferential, SOT and Activator. I would also recommend anti-inflammatory nutritional supplementation:
Anti- inflammatory:
Proteolytic enzymes are beneficial to counteract the inflammation. Bromelain is an example of a proteolytic enzyme.
Essential fatty acids are precursors to potent antiinflammatory substances. Essential fatty acids include fish oil, flax oil, evening primrose oil, black currant seed oil and borage oil. Essential fatty acids include omega-3 fatty acids (fish and flax oil) and omega-6 fatty acids (black currant seed oil, borage oil and evening primrose oil).
Quercetin is a potent bioflavonoid, in fact, it has been named, "the most important flavonoid" by a leading peer-reviewed journal (Nutr. Cancer 1993, 20:21-9). It is a powerful antioxidant, and Michael Murray suggests that, "quercetin appears indicated in virtually all inflammatory and allergic conditions" (Murray, M. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements, 1996, Prima Publ., Rocklin, Ca. p. 327).
Vitamin C is essential to the healing process. Bioflavonoids in general operate to stabilize cell membranes, decrease the release of inflammation mediators and inhibit the inflammatory process (Amella et al. Inhibition of mast cell histamine release by flavonoids and bioflavonoids. Planta Medica 1985;51:16-20).
Both calcium and magnesium relax the muscles. Magnesium inhibits inflammatory prostaglandin synthesis (Fontana-Klaiber, H., and Hogg, B. Therapeutic effects of magnesium in dysmenorrhea. Schweiz Rundsch Med Prax 79(16): 491-494, 1990).
Zinc promotes healing.
Boswellia serrata is reported to have strong analgesic (pain-relieving) effects (Kar, A. & Menon, M.K. Life Sci. 1969;8:1023), along with antiinflammatory and anti-arthritic activity.
Tumeric research has demonstrated excellent antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties of turmeric, and especially of curcumin, which is the active component of turmeric that is responsible for the yellow pigment (Reddy AP & Lokesh, BR. Mol Cell Biochem. 1992;111-117). The antiinflammatory properties are due to the ability of curcumin to reduce histamine levels and possibly increase
natural cortisone production by the adrenal glands (Aora RB, Basu N, Kapoor V, Jain AP. Antiinflammatory studies on Curcuma longa (turmeric). Ind.J.Med Res. 1971:59:1289-95).
Ginger is an herb known mostly for its therapeutic effect in nausea. Ginger also has powerful abilities to combat inflammation, and these antiinflammatory effects are well-backed by scientific studies. Ginger contains phenolic compounds that inhibit the enzymes responsible for generating important mediators of pain and inflammation in more than one pathway (Kiuchi et. al.
Inhibition of prostaglandin and leukotriene biosynthesis by gingerols and diarylheptanoids. Chem Pharm Bull. 1992;40:387-91).
Milk thistle has always had a strong reputation for supporting liver function and pathways of detoxification. Removal of wastes and toxins is crucial in decreasing inflammation. Silymarin, which is one of the main ingredients in milk thistle, has an antiinflammatory effect on blood platelets (Altorjay I et
al. Acta Physiol Hung 1992;80:375-80), and the ability to inhibit free radical production and leukotriene synthesis means that it prevents the powerful, inflammatory leukotrienes from wreaking havoc in the body (Alarcon de la Lastra, C. et al. Planta Medica 1995;61:116-119; Fiebrich F and Kock H. Experientia
1979;35:148-150).
Herbs to aid in muscle relaxation include valerian, passion flower, kava kava, and scullcap. Do not use kava kava if liver disease is suspect.
White willow is an antiinflammatory and analgesic agent. White willow was used as far back as the Middle Ages to reduce pain and fevers. The salicylates found in the white willow bark are responsible for the anti-inflammatory and anti-fever effects. Acetylsalicylic acid, otherwise known as aspirin, is chemically similar to the salicylates.
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from another handout I use in my office , for disc herniation healing support:
The healing process may be supported by using those nutrients known to improve the integrity of connective tissue including:
As a well-known orally-effective building block for connective tissue, glucosamine sulfate is indicated even though most of the research has focused on the restoration of joint cartilage tissue. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are key components of connective tissue throughout the body, and glucosamine sulfate has the best track record for supporting the integrity of these compounds.
Bromelain has demonstrated significant antiinflammatory activity in numerous studies. Patients using proteolytic enzymes have demonstrated significant reductions in pain and inflammation and faster recovery rates than placebo groups.
Fish oil or flax oil supplementation is very beneficial for the management of inflammation. Black currant seed oil, evening primrose oil or borage oil are omega-6 fatty acids that also aid in inflammation.
Research suggests bioflavonoids may possess pain and inflammation reducing activity by inhibiting cyclooxygenase, lipooxygenase, and phospholipase. Quercetin is a potent bioflavonoid. Vitamin C works synergistically with bioflavonoids.
A multi-vitamin and mineral is essential for comprehensive support.
Numerous studies have demonstrated significant antiinflammatory activity with the following herbs: boswellia, feverfew, ginger and turmeric (curcumin).
Valerian, passion flower, kava kava and scullcap are known muscle relaxants. Do not use kava kava if liver disease is suspect.
Most patients recover from nerve root pain without surgery within three months.
Traction techniques may or may not be of much help, according to the specific needs of the patient. RE-EVALUATE
Eat fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and herring as a source of omega 3's (found in fish oils).
Eat unprocessed, unrefined foods with emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, lean meats, nuts, seeds and essential fatty acids from cod liver oil, flax seed oil, olive oil, walnut oil, etc.
Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of filtered water daily. AT LEAST.
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My Staten Island Chiropactic practice utilizes the following as patient information:
Disk Herniation
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 LBP (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.
Sometimes LBP is caused by a Herniated disc: Herniated disk is actually a quite common condition. However, the course of the condition is highly variable. Some patients with a herniated disk literally cannot walk, yet other patients with similar MRI findings may be able to run marathons or lift heavy weights. Some people suffer for only a few days with pain and symptoms, some people suffer for months. Although the course is highly variable, there are certain steps that are always helpful to follow: Ice the area when painful- 10/ 15minutes on, 30/ 45 minutes off; avoid certain postures and movements; bend the knees when coughing or sneezing; bend the knees when lifting anything; do not extend legs straight out when sitting, laying down, lifting, or driving. Avoiding certain movements and postures will prevent aggravation of the condition. Practicing good postures and movement patterns will help the condition heal and be less painful. Disk Herniation is often caused by, or often concurrent with the Vertebral Subluxation Complex.
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.
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. Discs can bulge, herniate, tear, or degenerate. Other soft tissues may 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. 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.
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
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I hope all of this information helps you.
My recommendations:
Re-evaluate every couple of weeks, change treatment based upon patient response and the re-evaluation. Include chiropractic spinal adjustment, nutrition, infrasound, ultrasound, interferential, and certainly noninvasive nonsurgical spinal decompression as indicated, alter adjustive techniques as needed- SOT, activator, diversified.
Again, sorry for the delay in reply.
I know I have given you a lot of information. I believe most problems, most conditions need a multi-faceted approach for treatment and resolution.
I hope the above helps. If further info is needed, 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, your Staten Island Chiropractor friend signing off,
Dr. Victor Dolan, DC
http://drvictordolan.chiroweb.com (email newsletter)
P.S.-
Do not rely upon pain medications--- beware side effects:
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.
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
