In this case study, we explore the proper techniques and protocols for treating lumbar spine issues, specifically focusing on a patient experiencing discomfort in their lower back. As a musician, this individual spends a lot of time sitting, which has led to significant compression in the lumbar spine. This compression, combined with an abnormal posture, is contributing to their ongoing back pain. We’ll break down what we observed, the treatments we recommended, and how chiropractic care can help improve spinal health and function.
Observing the Postural Abnormality
A few key things stand out when we examine this patient’s lumbar spine from the side view. The lines that should align with the natural curve of the spine are not flush with one another. This misalignment indicates that the patient is sitting posterior to the green line, which shows an abnormality in their postural alignment. This misalignment often leads to undue stress on the spine, particularly in the lumbar area.
Given that this patient is a musician, they spend significant time sitting while playing their instrument. Over time, this position can contribute to chronic compression at the lower lumbar, which ultimately places pressure on the posterior aspect of the intervertebral discs. This compression is one of the main causes of the discomfort the patient is experiencing. It’s a reminder of how prolonged sitting and poor posture can impact spinal health.
Nerve impingement and Lower Back Discomfort
In addition to the postural abnormality, we noticed a narrowing around the foraminal spaces where the nerves exit the spine. These openings, which are already smaller than usual in this area, are further compressed, contributing to nerve impingement. When the nerves are compressed or pinched, it can lead to pain, numbness, or tingling in the lower back or down the legs (commonly called sciatica).
This narrowing of the spaces where nerves exit the spine is one of the primary reasons the patient is experiencing lower back discomfort. When these nerves are pinched, it disrupts the normal function of the spine, causing discomfort and sometimes limiting movement.
Chiropractic Adjustments and Lumbar Spine Decompression
We’ll implement key chiropractic techniques to address this patient’s lumbar spine issue properly. The first is chiropractic adjustments, which are designed to help realign the spine and restore proper function. By adjusting the lumbar spine, we can alleviate some of the compression and help improve the patient’s overall posture.
Additionally, we’re using lumbar spine decompression to help relieve pressure on the discs and the nerves. This technique involves gentle stretching of the lumbar spine to create more space between the vertebrae. Opening up the spine can reduce the compression on the discs and nerves, which should help alleviate pain and improve overall mobility.
Flexion Distraction and Muscle Relief
We’ll also incorporate flexion distraction therapy to focus on the lower lumbar spine. This technique involves a gentle, controlled movement to help relieve pressure on the discs and nerves while stretching the muscles in the lower back. This is especially beneficial for patients like this one, who are also experiencing muscular discomfort in addition to spinal misalignment.
Correcting the Posture and Aligning the Spine
Finally, we’ll work to drive the affected part of the spine more interior to try to bring the two areas of the lumbar spine into better alignment. We aim to relieve the patient’s symptoms and improve their overall function by encouraging a more natural spine alignment.
Visit Our Office for Lumbar Spine Pain Relief
If you’re experiencing lumbar spine pain, sciatica, or improper function, chiropractic care at Sams Chiropractic can help. If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your lower back pain, visit our office, call (858) 569-6959, or request an appointment to see how we can help.
Check out the full video of this case study to learn more about the treatments we provided and see the results for yourself.
