So I went to a chiropractor for the first time for a back analysis because I have been have some constant back pain and didn't know what else to do. He took X-rays and hooked me up to some electrodes and did all these tests "does this hurt?" balance on one foot type of things.
So the verdict is in and I have one messed up back. He says I have developed scoliosis that has developed because of misalignments in my lower back and pelvis or something like that (he said it is not because of genetic reasons. I wasn't born this way). He also says that my neck looks like I've been in a car accident. I haven't. And I know that he isn't just saying this stuff because I saw the x-ray and my back LOOKS messed up. It curves significantly to the right and because it does this I have a few ribs that are out of place (that is where I feel most of the pain).
the picture on the right is pretty much what my spine looks like except it curves in the other direction
Problem is that Matt's insurance doesn't cover chiropratic. That is where I was hoping I could get some input. Do you know of any thing that helps this type of problem? Have any of you been to a chiropractor? Is is worth it? I know that some people label them in the realm of psudoscience, but there does seem to be some truth to alignment. I'm just trying to figure out if I should pay all this money or if there is an alternative way to fix my back.
7 comments:
Hey Ash! I totally have scoliosis & mine is bad. I go to Dr. Scott Frogley who is a chiropractor but his practice is very different. He combines chiropractic techniques with physical therapy. He works on correcting the curves in your back & neck. Some doctors just adjust you but really that's not what will work. You should really look into him. I have known him since I was 13, when we lived in Sandy, his wife was my young woman leader so I totally trust him & it all makes sense. I have improved 62% & I'm not feeling pain anymore. We are working on "correcting" my back now. It's awesome & it really works. He is in South Jordan & his practice is Integrated Wellness. The website is www.thewellgroup.com. If you make any appointment to go see him, tell him that I referred you. Well let me know if you have any questions!
I believe in adjustments. After my car accident I had horrible headaches and going to the chiropractor helped them go away. But it seemed like it was never ending treatment. I know going to the chiropractor helps but it needs to be integrated with physical therapy because if the muscles aren't strengthened to help maintain the alignment you'll have to go forever. It is expensive but I don't know an alternative. And if you don't take care of yourself you will suffer when trying to take care of your family. I hope you get feeling better.
I've been to the chiropractor, and my back isn't TOO bad. But regardless, they want to continue seeing you for life it seems like. It's like breaking up with someone, you have to tell them that you aren't interested, and that you know your back could go back, and it's not them it's you(r wallet). However, if your back IS really bad, I think it would be worth it. I know that if not aligned, etc, your bones could start to fuse and whatever else. If you do end up paying for it, ask to get some sort of package because they will generally give you a better deal if you say you'll come into visit for at least 3 months, or so. Also, ask them to have you pay the customer-out of pocket price, and not what they would charge insurances for this service. Good luck!
Ash,
You should really look into seeing a physical therapist! (Not that I'm biased at all, since I am one...) They are covered by medical insurance, but some insurance companies do require a perscription from a doctor for payment. They can adjust your back similar to a chiropractor and will give you exercises to correct the functional curves in your spine. There are several good ones in the Salt Lake Valley. Look into Hand and orthopedic rehab specialists or a spine specialist at TOSH. Or check with your list of preferred providers on your insurance.
My sister-in-law has it and she goes to physical therapy and does back exercises at home. It seems to really help.
But I am sure getting your back adjusted here and there would also be beneficial.
Hey I love these little info gathering posts you do Ashley! Such a good idea.
So I have been dealing with back pain for the past two and a half years, and have seen 5 different chiropractors, who all say the same thing, that I have "scoliosis" and that they may or may not be able to correct it. I went to a doctor at TOSH who gave me the first shred of hope. He took a very clear X-Ray, and measured my curve which turns out to only be an Asymmetry (like a 6% to 8% curve) and they don't even consider it slight scoliosis until it is 10%.
I was sent to get physical therapy from Dr. Dave Taggart at the IHC Center on Bangerter and 4700 S, who put me on a stretching and massaging plan that has done amazingly more than any of the 5 chiropractors. I stretch first thing in the morning and just before I go to bed, and twice a week I roll out the problem area on the wall using a tennis ball in a pillowcase.
With chiropractors you just gotta find the right one, the kind that really want you to get better and be independent from them. Reading the first comment on this post sounds like one of them, but I myself have never found one. (I may just go see that Dr. Frogley guy too if things get worse again).
I am interested to know if your friend Bryan and Jess actually saw a 62% correction meaning their back is straighter?? Some doctors will have you believe that that is impossible...
I hope you find the right doctor and that you feel better, back pain is such a pain!
Alex
I can't believe you do all you do with back pain. I have to admit I am a skeptic when it comes to chiropractors. I do think they help but have you ever known anyone who stops going? It seems like you somehow become dependent sometimes. Of course I'm sure they are not all that way, but the physical therapy route seems worth looking into. I hope you get a resolution!
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