Chiropractors/SI joint problem

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Expert: - 11/24/2008


Question
I have been having a problem with my hips for a few months now, and would like some advice on wether chiropractic treatments my be making the problem worse. After assessing my pelvis, my chiropractor gave me a 7mm heel lift. About two months later I started having problems where my hip would suddenly start aching, my right foot would flare out and I would get numbness in my leg down to my foot. I would get an adjustment and it would go back into place and start to feel better after a day or so. This has been happening more lately, and after my last episode (and a rather painful adjustment) the hip pain is not going away. My physiatrist does not see a leg length discrepancy and we are starting to wonder if the heel lift is making my si joint more unstable? Is this possible? My chiropractor does not seem to believe it could be a factor, but I am thinking about getting a second opinion? Also, will thse episodes go on forever or is there a way of stopping them?
Thanks so much for any advice  

Answer
Jaci,

This is a no-brainer! Take out the heel lift!   First, a doctor better be real sure before using a heel lift or else it will cause a host of problems, like knee and hip pain, or worsening back pain.  Also, if gross observation indicates a short leg, and manual or other methods don't alleviate the back pain, then it's prudent to use a very small lift to start with.  It it's indicated, symptoms should improve, not worsen.  It is very difficult to know exactly how short a leg is, and it's best to have an idea if the discrepancy is from a short femur, short tibia, or both.  Just standing and oberving a low hip or pelvis is surely not the way to determine if a lift should be used.  

'Hope this helps.

Dr. G

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21 Years in practice: I can answer any question regarding chiropractic and sports medicine treatment. Mostly, I can help the unknowing public understand what is safe, valid, reasonable and evidence-based, and what kinds of unscrupulous chiropractors and fraudulent methods to stay away from. I have an advanced specialty degree in Chiropractic Sports Medicine. I have experience treating elite and Olympic athletes.

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