Dr. Kevin Brown, D. C.

All sciatic pain is not the same, so visiting a chiropractor for a clear accurate diagnosis is a good first step. There will always be benefit from massage for those suffering sciatic pain of any cause, however to correct the condition, massage and chiropractic provide an excellent combined approach. In my clinic I do massage to the muscles before the adjustment, that is just my style.

I describe an adjustment as like an update for your smartphone. When the adjustment relieves blockages in programming (reflexes) and cleans up the registry (reference data for your parts) then your nervous system can exert better control over the various parts of the body and healing can move forward. So the answer is: you are healthier and more vital after your adjustment. Of course there may be slight soreness as your muscles relearn to stand up straight, sit up straight, pull the shoulders back and hold that head up level. Some patients get a little sleepy after an adjustment, especially the first one. A short nap immediately after the adjustment is like installing a downloaded update, it is necessary to integrate the information into the brain.

The popping sound is normal for joints when moved quickly to the end range of motion. The goal of an adjustment is not the pop, it is a change in the resting length and tension of the adjacent muscles and improvement of nerve and muscle tone. So whether the chiropractor pops, cracks, stretches quickly, uses and instrument or a special table, the end result is improvement in the resting length and tension of the muscles, resulting in a change in position of bones.

I am sorry you are suffering with this problem. The good news is that yes, a chiropractor can definitely help. In fact, chiropractic is one of the best options, however a proper evaluation is necessary. Standard exam procedures and tests such as reflexes, muscle strength, sensory testing, range of motion, and orthopedic tests will reveal the location and severity of the disc herniation. It sounds like you already have a diagnosis, so probably have had an MRI as well. I like to review all the available information and remove the guess work at the beginning. Patients with demonstrated disc herniation are given a traction unit to use at home every day, sometimes as much as 3x daily to relieve the pain, reduce the herniation, and preserve the vitality of the nerve root. In addition to specific adjustments various therapies may also be used, such as heat, ice, interferential current, ultrasound, and exercise. Do this right and avoid surgery.

Pregnant patients are one of the greatest joys of being a chiropractor. Most patients when they reach the second trimester are experiencing slight discomfort to moderate back pain. Chiropractic adjustments provide relief from pain, but also support the mother to carry the baby well, to be relaxed and confident going into the third trimester. In the final three months of pregnancy some patients require more frequent adjustments especially if they needed chiropractic care before they got pregnant. In addition, I have seen regular adjustments help with conception and very much after the baby is born. Do not forget to have your newborn checked for subluxations as they often cause constipation, difficulty latching on, and colic. 

Kevin Brown, DC

Migraine headaches usually respond well to chiropractic care. In my practice, I review the history of injuries, diet, menstrual habits and other factors. Often a trigger or pattern emerges which must be addressed as well. In my experience, the upper neck and base of the spine are the important areas to assess. Please consult with a chiropractor in your area as soon as possible to help relieve your daughter's suffering. Care now will change her life.