Do chiropractors really help if you have chronic back problems?

Question

I had back surgery (L5-S1 Laminectomy) about 5 years ago and have alot of lower back and left leg discomfort. I receive epidural steroid shots in my back occasionally but the relief is short-lived.

Answer 1

I have two herniated discs and bone spurs which are pinching a nerve and causing lower back and rt. leg pain down to my foot. Chiropractic treatment has helped me a lot. Try to find one who uses the "activator" method. The activator is a small trigger tool that pops you into place and there is no danger of being injured like manual adjustments. I was really skeptical when a friend recommended this but felt I had nothing to lose. The pain level is very low after an adjustment and at first I had to go a couple times a week. Now I go for a monthly tune-up whether I need it or not. Keeping things in place helps widen the nerve path and I can now tell by my discomfort level when things have slipped out. I highly recommend you at least give it a try.

Answer 2

Theres alot that can be done. Chiropractors believe in the body healing itself. Most chiropractors will begin with manual therapy, or adjustments. Subluxations are kind of like little kinks in the spinal cord. With certain force and the positioning of the hand, a chiropractor can straighten the spine. Sometimes you may need orthodicts, because pain can sometimes begin at your feet. The way you stand, sit, or walk can aggrevate the pain. Anyways some chiropractors just use manual therapy with their hands, others have devices, like rolling pin type things. It's best to consult with one first to see if chiropractic care can benefit you. Most chiropractors offer free consultations.

Answer 3

I have one friend that swears by her chiropractor....and another one that got hurt going to one.

Personally, I do have chronic back pain...but I'm not going to see one. Since you've had surgery, maybe check with your doctor & see what they say about chiropractors.

I'd personally go for occupational/physical therapy instead & that really does seem to help me. (But I've not had surgery so it might not have same results for you...still you might find that they can do something once they understand your situation.)

The other resource you might look into is pain management. Again, check with you doc...he/she could probably give you a rec there. Or, call your local hospitals & see if they have a pain management program.

Answer 4

Yes. I have had back problems since 1984 and I have been treated since then. Every time my back goes out my chiropractor brings it back in like with much relief. They are not a miracle cure, but they can help quite a bit if you have a chronic condition....KECK

Answer 5

You will have to check with a chiropractor. I'm sure a lot of them could say that they can help you, but every BODY is different. A chiro will suggest you go at least 3 times a week.

Answer 6

It depends on so many factors, but generally the relief is only temporary. I have chronic scaitca from a ruptured disc I had 12 years ago, and chiropractic adjustments only work for me 50% of the time. The other 50% of the time, they make me hurt worse.

Answer 7

well, my mom was going to a chiropractor and she had a herniated disc. the adjustments caused her disc to rupture and then she had to have surgery. so, find a good one who knows what they're doing if you do.

Answer 8

Only in the short-term. Try Feldenkrais for a cheaper and longer-lasting alternative.

Answer 9

Only good ones! get a recommendation from someone who knows a good one. Bad ones will finish you off!!

Answer 10

they can be very effective... do you go to a pain specialist? i think that you probably do... or do you have your steroid inj. at the dr. office or hospital.... if you do not go to a pain specialist you should... but you may need a referral from your reg. dr.