Threw my back out after visit to chiropractor...

[coastalchickie]

I am a healthy 32 year old female with no history of back problems or pain.   I went to a chiropractor yesterday for the first time in 21 years.  (The only other time I have been treated by one was for a few weeks after a car accident when I was in elementary school...nothing major).  I did not go in for any specific reason and had no pain.  I only went yesterday because the chiropractor is a friend of my husband's and suggested we come by to get checked.  I had x-rays taken and an adjustment done.  Today, I threw my back out doing simple routine things I normally do...nothing strenuous at all.  I have never had pain like this before and can barely walk (need help from my husband to get up/down, etc).  The only thing I did differently was go to the chiropractor.  Could a routine adjustment trigger me to throw out my back?  I like the guy, so I don't want to make him feel bad or anything, but I am scheduled to go back on Friday and now I'm a bit unsure if I want to do any routine adjustments.  I am currently in bed and unsure if I'll be able to walk tomorrow.  I'm hoping it heals overnight?  Can a chiropractic adjustment loosen things to the point where things may be more vulnerable to slipping out of place?  I really don't want to ask him...like I said..he's a friend, so I don't want him to think I am distrustful of chiropractic techniques.  What would cause my back to give out without warning otherwise?

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, I am not really well versed with the chiropractor practice, though if it was because of the ‘adjustments’, the symptoms are likely to have occurred the same day and unlikely on the following day. Backache could be related to spinal issues such as degenerations, inflammations; neuro-muscular causes, growths/ masses referred pain from other regions such as in renal issues etc. It would be best to consult an internist for a detailed evaluation at this time. After a cause is identified it can be managed accordingly or specialist care may be sought. Meanwhile you could try bed rest, ice-packs/ warm compresses and OTC tylenol/ NSAIDS for pain relief and see if these seem to help.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!

[coastalchickie]

P.S.  

I forgot to ask what is the best thing to do for the pain.  Horrible pain...left lower back.  If I move at all it hurts.  I have to jab my fist into that part of my back with one hand and hold my husband's hand with the other in order to move/walk/sit/stand...otherwise it is unbearable.  Any advice is appreciated!