Transformations in Skeletal Structure Due to Chiropractic Adjustments

Q: Transformations in Skeletal Structure Due to Chiropractic Adjustments

Hello： If there is no instability, severe deformity, nerve compression, or bone lesions in the spine, surgical intervention may not resolve your issues. <br>Problems related to soft tissues (such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments) are often managed through rehabilitation. <br>St

Changes in skeletal structure caused by spinal manipulation?

Hello Dr.
Wang! I have been suffering from spinal issues for the past two years.
I have seen all the orthopedic doctors in the southern region, but none have been able to help me.
I had a fall, underwent spinal manipulation (to straighten my back), and had pelvic and sacroiliac adjustments.
I also wore a rigid corrective brace.
As a result, my lumbar curvature has changed (almost straightened), and the size and shape of my pelvis, as well as its anterior-posterior tilt, have altered, leading to weakness in my back and gluteal muscles.
I have lost muscle tone and feel like a sponge, swaying in different directions, accompanied by dizziness.
No matter how I try to engage my muscles, they won't tighten.
The change in my lumbar curvature has also made my first rib visible under my clavicle, causing compression, scapular winging, and shoulder and neck pain.
I fear I might become paralyzed.
I really want to live, and I wonder if you have any treatment options or suggestions for someone like me, whose skeletal structure has been altered due to spinal manipulation.
I have tried muscle training, but I can't engage any muscle because the skeletal structure has changed.
Without muscle tension, I twist and turn, and my ribs often cramp, accompanied by nausea.
My pelvis and upper body are misaligned, and I have mild scoliosis, making me feel like I'm twisting a towel.
In the south, I have truly seen doctors for two years, being referred from one specialty to another, with no conclusions or methods provided.
They dismiss me by saying there are no fractures or severe nerve compressions, and that my slight curvature and unique case do not warrant further action.
Do I really have to intentionally go out and get hit by a car to have surgery for reconstruction? Please, I beg you to help me! I would be immensely grateful.

Miss Zhou, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/07

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello: If there is no instability, severe deformity, nerve compression, or bone lesions in the spine, surgical intervention may not resolve your issues.
Problems related to soft tissues (such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments) are often managed through rehabilitation.
Strength training, similar to fitness routines, requires at least several months of training to see results.
Moreover, spinal surgeries often lead to spinal stiffness, which can hinder muscle training, so it is not recommended.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2016/04/07

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex and distressing situation with your skeletal structure and overall musculoskeletal health. Your symptoms, including significant changes in your spinal alignment, muscle weakness, and discomfort, are understandably concerning. Let’s break down your situation and explore potential avenues for treatment and management.

Understanding Your Condition
From your description, it appears that you have undergone various chiropractic adjustments and treatments aimed at correcting spinal alignment and pelvic positioning. While chiropractic care can be beneficial for many individuals, it is essential to recognize that not all cases respond positively, especially when there are underlying structural issues or when adjustments lead to unintended consequences.

The changes in your lumbar spine curvature, pelvic tilt, and overall skeletal alignment can indeed affect muscle function and strength. When the spine is misaligned, it can lead to compensatory patterns in muscle use, which may result in weakness or atrophy of certain muscle groups. This is particularly concerning in your case, as you mention a loss of muscle tension and strength, which can lead to instability and further discomfort.

Potential Treatment Options
1. Comprehensive Evaluation: It is crucial to have a thorough evaluation by a multidisciplinary team, including an orthopedic specialist, a physical therapist, and possibly a neurologist. This team can assess your skeletal structure, muscle function, and any neurological implications of your symptoms.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a tailored physical therapy program could be beneficial. A physical therapist can help you develop a regimen that focuses on strengthening weak muscles, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall stability. They may also use modalities such as electrical stimulation or ultrasound to help with muscle activation.

3. Strengthening Exercises: Given your description of muscle weakness, it may be necessary to start with very gentle strengthening exercises that focus on core stability and postural alignment. Gradually increasing the intensity and complexity of these exercises can help rebuild muscle strength and improve function.

4. Chiropractic Re-evaluation: If chiropractic adjustments have led to adverse effects, it may be worth seeking a different chiropractor who specializes in a more holistic or gentle approach. Some practitioners focus on soft tissue techniques or may incorporate other modalities such as acupuncture or massage therapy to alleviate muscle tension and improve alignment without aggressive adjustments.

5. Pain Management: If you are experiencing significant pain, discussing pain management options with your healthcare provider is essential. This could include medications, injections, or alternative therapies like acupuncture or biofeedback.

6. Surgical Consultation: If conservative measures do not yield improvement, and if your quality of life continues to decline, it may be worth consulting with an orthopedic surgeon about potential surgical options. While surgery is often considered a last resort, it can be necessary in cases where structural abnormalities are causing significant dysfunction.

Psychological Support
Given the emotional toll that chronic pain and physical limitations can take, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective for individuals dealing with chronic pain, helping to develop coping strategies and improve overall mental well-being.

Conclusion
Your situation is undoubtedly complex, and it is essential to approach it from multiple angles. A comprehensive evaluation and a tailored treatment plan involving physical therapy, potential re-evaluation of chiropractic care, and possibly surgical consultation could provide you with the relief and improvement you seek. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are healthcare professionals who can help guide you toward recovery. It’s crucial to advocate for yourself and seek out the care that addresses your unique needs.

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