Hidden Cause of Low Back Pain

Injuring a major muscle , such as a hamstring, is no picnic; however, aggravating a small muscle - such as the piriformis- can sometimes pack an equally excruciating wallop.

People with piriformis syndrome typically suffer from low-back pain. Dr. Nelson notes that patients may also experience shooting pain and numbness in the buttocks, thighs or legs.

Exactly where is the piriformis?
The piriformis muscle extends along both sides of the lower buttocks. This small muscle attaches to the front of the middle pelvic bone (sacrum), passes through a hole in the pelvic bone (greater sciatic foramen) and connects to the top of the thigh bone (femur).

What is Piriformis Syndrome?
Sciatic nerves travel beneath the piriformis muscle- much like a highway underpass- on their way from the spine to the back of each leg.

Dr. Nelson describes to patients that piriformis syndrome occurs when the muscle becomes inflamed, forcing pressure on the sciatic nerve and entrapping it against the bones of the pelvis.

Along with compression of the sciatic nerve, the piriformis muscle itself is often tender and painful. Posture is also affected, with the pelvis bones (sacrum and iliac bones) moving slightly out of place. This misalignment is known as a sacroiliac subluxation.

The spinal bones of the lower back, known as the lumbar vertebrae, also tend to move slightly out of place - a condition termed vertebral subluxation.

In addition to aggravating piriformis inflammation, sacroiliac and vertebral subluxation may trigger a vast array of maladies, including back pain, leg pain, headaches, intestinal problems and infertility, explains Dr. Nelson.

Signs of Piriformis Syndrome

• Back pain
• Pain down the back of the thigh or leg
• Numbness in the leg or foot
• Aching or numbness in the buttock
• Aching or numbness in the thigh
• Pain made worse by sitting, squatting or walking
• Pain after driving long distances
• One foot that rolls in more than the other
• Pain aggravated by sports activities

Dr. Curtis Nelson,

Nelson Chiropractic Office      (425-)867-1119

www.nelsonchiro.com

16250 NE 80th Street , Redmond WA 98052

Chiropractic: The Right Care?

Approximately 80-85% of the population experience at least one episode of disabling back pain in their lives.  Most of these people report disturbances in their daily lives for a week or longer, and the vast majority of back pain sufferers say their back pain is a recurring problem.  Unfortunately most people go to their doctor to fix their problems, but most MDs can only provide explanations for your symptoms or provide medication to relieve inflammation or pain, only offering temporary relief.

The other option is for your MD to refer you to someone who specializes in the treatment of back pain such as an orthopedic surgeon, chiropractor, physiotherapist, massage therapsit, or acupuncturist.  Chiropractic is listed consistently in scholarly publications as an effective tool for back pain.  It has also been shown to be a relatively safe option for those seeking treatments with less side effects.  When compared to other options, consultation with a chiropractor was found to be just as effective as one with an MD or DO while costing 20-40% less.  Studies have also shown that among the most popular therapists to consult for back pain (family physician, chiropractor, physical therapist, and acupuncturist), chiropractors most often received the highest rating of satisfaction among all other professionals in the group.

From this, it is clear that chiropractic is the best choice for back pain.  Overall chiropractic has shown to be more therapeutically effective, cost-effective, and satisfying to the patient.