Chiropractic Care For The Post-Lumbar Fusion Patient Explained By Dr. Tim Harcourt Of Coast Chiropractic Centers In Fort Myers
Jan 6, 2022 -- Posted by :Between 1993 and 2013, the number of lumbar fusion surgeries for low back pain and related spinal conditions increased significantly from 61,000 per year to 450,000 per year! Unfortunately, up to 61% of patients who undergo back surgery will continue to experience chronic low back pain. Many of these patients will opt for non-surgical care to address their ongoing pain, which may lead them to consult with a doctor of chiropractic.
In fact, a survey of 62 chiropractors in the Veterans Administration healthcare system revealed that nearly 90% treated at least one post-fusion patient in the previous month and two-thirds treated between one to five such patients. Most often, these patients came from a referral from their medical physician, physical therapist, or orthopedic and neurological surgeon.
So, what can the post-fusion patient expect when he or she visits a chiropractor? In addition to taking a patient history and a physical examination, when the post-fusion patient presents for care, the chiropractor will often take x-rays, which may include weight-bearing (standing), neutral AP (front), and lateral (side) views, as well as x-rays taken in full flexion (forward bending) and extension (backward bending) positions. The importance of the x-ray assessment is to evaluate for fusion stability (i.e., fusion failure) and to look for broken screws and other hardware malfunction that may require a referral back to their surgeon. Additionally, the x-rays will allow the doctor of chiropractic to assess the levels above and below the fused segments because it’s common for these joints to become hypermobile, which can lead to injury and pain. Depending on the individual case, a CT and/or MRI may be appropriate as these can offer further diagnostic information such as the presence of spondyloarthopathies, a tumor, infection, intervertebral disk herniation, postoperative scar or fibrosis formation, and more.
Though large-scale, randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy and safety of chiropractic care for the post-fusion patient have not been completed, there are several case reports and series that have shown that the techniques often used for the general low back pain population are similarly as effective. These include high-velocity, low amplitude manipulation, mobilization, and soft tissue techniques, as well as specific exercises targeted to the core muscle groups and even nutrition instruction. Perhaps most important, in all the papers published to date regarding chiropractic treatment of the post-fusion low back pain patient population, no serious adverse effects have been reported and no patients have required surgical intervention following chiropractic care.
So, if you are experiencing back pain, lower back pain, or pain in the coccyx and type in pain management near me, you may find Coast Chiropractic Centers with Dr. Timothy Harcourt, me, comes up.
You may wonder, “Do I need an MRI scan of my back.”
Also, if you feel leg pain it may indicate things are getting worse and may indicate a bulge on the disc or worse yet a herniated disc in your back. Some people will try stretching the lower back first to see if they get relief from their back pain. Pain very low in the lower back may be originating from the coccyx or tailbone. A pulled muscle in the back generally will get better with rest. Persistent or worsening pain intensity and/or frequency necessitates a visit to see a professional.
Call me, Dr. Tim Harcourt, at (239) 278-3344 or stop by on your day off for a walk in visit and mention this article for an awesome discounted first visit to include history, exam, and adjustment or Class IV high-intensity laser treatment. So if you find yourself experiencing lower back pain while running or doing physical activities.
If you are suffering from back pain that is affecting your quality of life and allowing you to enjoy Fort Myers Beach. Come see us at Coast Chiropractic Centers located on 7270 College Parkway.
If you would like to avoid getting back pain in the first place or to take a proactive approach to your health and wellness, our membership program called Club C may be just the thing for you with great cost savings, convenience, and even more importantly, a plan to get your health back and keep it.
Don't let back pain stop you from enjoying the beautiful SWFL! Dr. Tim Harcourt is here to give you the relief you need.