The Importance of a Proper Diagnosis
By Genevieve Smith
Suffering from chronic pain? Sometimes a misdiagnosis is what leads to chronic recurrence. Chiropractic is a branch of medicine concerned with restrictions of the joints, particularly in the spinal column, and their effect on the rest of the body. Because doctors in this area focus largely on the back (which encases the all-important central nervous system), they are often best prepared to offer a diagnosis determining where your spinal-related pain symptoms are coming from. A misdiagnosis can lead to worsened symptoms, and a delay in proper treatment. If you’ve been living with chronic pain, consider why a doctor of chiropractic may be best suited to diagnose you.
How a Misdiagnosis Can Be a Problem
Consider a diagnosis by a general practitioner that leads to physical therapy and medication. It seems like a sound prescription, but unfortunately, the pain doesn’t lighten up over time. You may have been misdiagnosed, and meanwhile are relying on medication to get through the discomfort. Misdiagnoses happen, and all the while, the problem is only worsening. Damaged ligaments, misalignments, a slipped vertebrae, a pinched nerve and more will all cause more problems over time if not treated properly. Misdiagnoses can happen when there is an unusual or unexpected cause for your pain. Consider a case study in which the patient had swelling, pain and discoloration in her lower left leg. She also had trouble sitting due to a tightness in her left glute. Prescribed painkillers and physical therapy by a general practitioner, her symptoms didn’t let up. As a last resort, she tried a chiropractor and found her answer. Specializing in issues of the spinal column and joints, the chiropractor looked to her spinal column and discovered swelling and pressure between her lower vertebrae, which was affecting the muscles down her leg and limiting blood flow. His "prescription" was immediate surgery and follow up visits with his office to work on posture and rehabilitation.
How Chiropractic Can Help with Chronic Pain
Chiropractic specializes in:
- Misalignments of the joints
- Manipulative treatment
- The effect of misalignments on nerves, muscles, and organs
Chronic pain comes out of untreated damage to the musculoskeletal system. Allow a chiropractor, well-versed in this area, to take a look and diagnose you.
Consider allowing one of the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic to take a look and see what path they recommend for your recovery. The Joint operates without appointments, so walk in any time. Take advantage of affordable pricing options and a knowledgeable staff. May you find pain relief just around the corner!
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Webster, Tex.