The journey of Spinal Shifts

I love sharing my patients’ stories of recovery.

Their journeys of personal strength inspire us to trust the process of natural healing–and ultimately leap over our hurdles.

A 40-year-old patient­–male, had come to Lotus Chiropractic Care with lower back pain. He stated he had numbness and tingling in his legs, and was unable to work. This was debilitating–since his job required him to constantly lift products to be sold to the clients. And the patient was unable to bend down and lift without experiencing pain in his lower back.

In my office, I started with a thorough neurological assessment of his condition. And I found that the root of his problem was the neck–not his lower back. His neck was out of alignment, which was putting an unnatural “load” on his lower back. That is because the spine works as a unit. And when the neck is compromised, the compensations may occur further down the spine. In his case–the lower back.

As you can see in the image–his neck suffered wear & tear, and compression, and had a military neck posture (reduced curvature of the cervical spine).

I adjusted him using the NUCCA technique in his upper cervical spine. Within the first two adjustments, he noticed that the numbness and tingling in his legs had reduced. And at the 1-month re-exam–the patient reported no numbness & tingling, with very mild lower back pain. In the 1-month imaging, you can notice how the patient's neck looks more elongated than before, and the “stepping” effect of the spine has been reduced to create more stability. The elongation of the cervical spine indicates the increase in disc space brought about by realignment.

By the 3rd month of chiropractic care, the patient would solely come in for maintenance. He no longer experienced lower back or upper body pain. I did 3-month imaging to note how the patient's neck curve had been restored to a C-curve.

He understands the importance of spinal health and he was very consistent in his treatment. He neither missed an appointment, nor did he ever quit coming back after not seeing a 100% improvement in a month. The way he persevered even when the pain would creep back–was remarkable and important. He is now able to work and lift loads to the best of his ability. It warms my heart to know he is pain-free and living a healthy, happy life.

Natural healing is always a process. It may take longer, but the results are greater and more lasting. Are you dealing with pain and discomfort? Are you struggling to stay active throughout the day? Please know that there is a solution. At Lotus Chiropractic Care, I can help you start your journey to recovery.

Here’s to your health!

-Dr Tanvi Desai