Expert: Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP - 9/9/2008

Question
I'm 28 y/o I have scoliosis and have had it since birth.I've always suffered from back pain, and recently started seeing a chiropractor, he insists on popping my back and every time leaves me in more pain than what I went in with, and tells me to ice it every hour for as long as I can tolorate it. Is this a way of straightening the spine? I've never heard of this and he insists that He can straighten it.

Answer
Dear Sonia,

I'm glad you took the initiative to question your treatment.  First, my recommendation is to get out of that office ASAP.  There is no way at all he will straighten your scoliosis and shame on him for suggesting it.   There is absolutely no evidence that manual methods ever could do so and there are many folks researching this.  Secondly: Ice serves no purpose other than to dull your perception of pain.  It has no other clinical benefit. In some circles, e.g. Chinese Medicine, it is considered a bad thing.  It has absolutely no value to you and is absolutely will not straighten your spine.  Lastly, and most importantly, your treatment should be comfortable and you should not be suffering with worse pain from the joint manipulation.  I've written on this in previous AllExperts.com posts.    I suggest you find a chiropractor that has an evidence-based practice, and one that is certified in Graston Technique as well as hands-on soft tissue release methods.  The goal for you is to feel better and function better.  It is not to get your spine straightened.  If you cannot feel and function better with about six treatment sessions that inlcudes carefully performed and comfortable joint manipulation, manual soft tissue work including Graston Technique, and, maybe, a little heat application to sooth any soreness (if that's even necessary), then I would be surprised.  Don't give up on the profession of chiropractic, just find another chiropractor.  See if your PCP works with anyone. Check www.grastontechnique.com; Check around and ask questions if need be, but surely go to someone else.

I hope this helps!

Dr. G