Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 4/7/2008

Question
lower back..left hand side keeps needing adjustment.  This happens every couple of years,but right now I can't keep it adjusted.  I have the Dr. adjust it, but it won't stay.  I can even adjust it myself (at least make it pop).  It does give me some relief, even when I do it myself...in bed..in the adjusting position, and pull my leg down over the bed until it pops.  Anything I can do to help stabalize it so it won't pop out as much? Thank you.

Answer
Hello Mark,

   First, do not try to adjust yourself.  Your doctor of Chiropractic adjusts the joint into position without stretching the tendons or ligaments by adjusting in the direction of the joint. When people try to adjust them selves (even though you feel a release) You are often going against the joint causing plastic deformation (stretching of the ligaments) causing the joint to loosen and displace more frequently.  To resolve this only let the doctor of Chiropractic adjust you and start strengthening the musculature around the affected joint to help stabilize.  The ligaments may take several months to tighten around the joints.  Your doctor can show you exercise to help with the lumbar spine.

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.