Overview

Pain is the body’s warning system, just like the oil pressure warning light in your car.  We don’t want to merely “cover up the light and keep on driving” with medication (so to speak) without knowing the cause and exploring solutions to that cause—many of which relate to lifestyle choices. Make no mistake—we are a nation in pain with billions spent each month on over-the-counter pain relievers in an attempt to mask our discomfort---while the underlying problem continues.  Medication of pain does not equal resolution of the cause.

Sciatica, limb pain, etc

Limb pain can be very debilitating and is more common with each birthday.

Patterns of activity, injury history, ergonomics, and anatomy are all important factors in how we develop the pain. These factors can provide important diagnostic clues. Most often, with steady attention and a change in how we sit, stand, and use our muscles we can reduce or eliminate the pain and disability that comes with it. It is important to realize that many cases of limb pain or sciatica are not due to herniated discs.

Issues to address

Be sure of the diagnosis – what is the exact source of the pain?

Review medications and supplements – often less medicine can work better.

Review possible side effects of the medications.

Review your ergonomics of sitting, standing, working.

Treat the pain – to increase exercise and core stability.

Attend to the basics: food, exercise, stress, quality sleep.

Are there restrictions or hyper-mobile areas contributing to your pain? 

Some common questions IMC can address

How much pain medication should I be taking?

Is the medicine I am on safe? Are there any natural alternatives?

What kind of exercise should I do or avoid? 

IMC Providers with special interest in limb pain

All IMC providers treat pain- Navigation may be a good option.

Ray Wilbur, DC – Chiropractic

Amy Schiff LAc, Kim Ledesma LAc – Acupuncture

Cynthia Calmenson – Feldenkrais®-based Movement Therapy

Deanna Pardue, CMT – Medical Massage

Ellen Barnett, MD