Expert: Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP - 10/13/2011

Question
Hi Doc G,

I’ve read some other similar posts & your responses to them but alas!  Still my brain persists.  Thank you in advance for offering me your opinion.  

I’m taken Chiropractic care on and off through most of my adult life.  I’m 39 and overall, I am healthy and feel great most of the time.   I do have a pars defect on my lowest vertebrae; I’m a little overweight and carry a bit too much on my belly and have been told by my past DC that I really should get a little thinner and stronger to help control this.  He’s right and I’ve started a diet and fitness program.  

Here’s my question: This past June, right before we moved to a new state, I jumped on a trampoline for about an hour at one of those trampoline gyms.  Afterward, I was very stiff and sore in my thoracic area and thought it was just sore muscles or possibly a rib out, as I’ve had that happen before.  A few Chiropractic visits with my regular chiropractor didn’t give me relief, and then, we moved to Idaho.  Fast forward to now, I’ve finally taken the time to locate a new Chiropractor in our new town and after digital xrays, he’s informed me that I have a reverse curve in my neck which is causing excessive muscle tightness in my area of complaint.  His recommendation?  While handing over many laminated sheets telling all about subluxations & showing me the bowling ball trick and scary xray examples of the progression on-screen.  He tells me that the path ahead is terrible, but they can help me to the tune of about 40 adjustments (just to correct) and many more for training and maintenance.  I’ve since read a lot online and some DCs say yes, it can correct and others say no way.  I’ve gone for a second opinion to a DC whom says, no it cannot be reversed, only managed with strength and flexibility exercises, regular adjustments and releasing some weight couldn’t hurt.    

Couple more pieces of information:  discs look really good in the xrays and bones are smooth, intact and free of any degeneration, arthritis or spurs.  

Can you give me your opinion based on this information?  I appreciate your time,
Jess

Answer
Jess,

My response to you is the same as the response to others that encountered this pathetic scary x-ray scheme.    Your curve is not likely to change very much, and even if it did we have no data to support that you would feel any better.   It's a shame you got an unnecessary dose of x-ray radiation all with the purpose of selling you on the "terrible subluxation" scheme.    The DC should just go ahead and work on your neck and thoracic spine regardless of the x-rays.    If you have a "soft tissue" injury, then adjusting your bones is only half the equation.   You need soft tissue therapy, e.g. Active myofascial release or Graston Technique.   These, with exercise, often make the best formula for getting better;

Dr. G'