Tuesday, March 29th, 2005
by Ponzi
Having scoliosis and knowing about it since sixth grade has made subtle consistent back pain a constant in my life. It hasn't been the kind of pain that I treat or seek help for - it's kind of just “a given.” I've never thought twice about “doing” something about it since the doctors at MUSC told me when I was fifteen that no invasive treatment was needed and that my body would “adjust” on its own. My mom took me to many doctors that year and they pretty much told us the same thing. The curvature was within 5% meaning I was on the line for treatment and since I had stopped growing only physical therapy was needed.
Fast forward to one week ago. Chris was complaining about headaches and that he needed to go in to the chiropractor. We found a great one in the area (he's been practicing for longer than we've been around) I made appointments for us both and in we went. After going through the rounds of x-rays, strength tests and counsultations I've found the following:
1) I have a curvature of 38 degrees
2.) The doctors that diagnosed me were correct in not putting long metal rods in my back… (whew) ( It's is still within 5% -which means they judged correctly I had indeed stopped growing so there was no way to change what was.)
3.) I have lost all curvature in my neck and a lot of movement on my right side.
4.) My pain can be helped with adjustments.
I'm writing all this because after the first two treatments I was WORSE. I really hurt - it felt like I had been in a car accident and I hurt all over. It's now four treatments down the road and I can totally feel more movement in my right shoulder. (That's where the majority of my pain sits) - This past weekend I didn't get out of the house because of the pain then yesterday something magical happened after my adjustment. :) Wow - I'm a believer - I'm moving much better now and the pain is going away. Have you ever had chiropractic care? What did you think of it if so?
I'll keep you updated on what happens, in a month I'm going to retest my strengths and range of motion. Who knows I may be the next Serena Williams at this rate!