Two factors embody the foundation of pain relief - finding the correct diagnosis and pinpointing any deficiencies in the body that led to the diagnosis. While the cause of some injuries is obvious (i.e., a sprain from twisting an ankle), there are other times when pain occurs without having been related to a specific injury or event. The end goal of any injury? Pain relief, and better yet, natural pain relief. In this article, we share a case study about one of our patients who sought relief from pain utilizing our chiropractic services.  

The Case Study

This study is based on a 66-year-old female pickleball player with right hip and lateral leg pain (reporting a 4-8/10 pain scale) without the presence of a known injury. The patient had previously received pain medication (anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxers, and Gabapentin) and “physical therapy” at another office and was also seen by an orthopedic doctor – both were able to diagnose her but they did not get a resolution or an ideal outcome from care or a solution for her pain.

The Exam

During the patient’s examination at Burghealth Chiropractic and Wellness, we utilized a variety of tests that included the SFMA (Selective Functional Movement Assessment), orthopedic and neurological exams, active and passive palpation, and range of motion testing – all of which were performed by Dr. Sam Richards, St. Pete’s leading chiropractor. In addition to the assessments, we performed a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history that included low back pain and restless leg syndrome.

The Findings

The findings from the examination revealed shocking results and a slew of issues - all of which were unknown to the patient. These findings included:

• Reduced internal and external range of motion
• Notable swelling on the lateral aspect of her hip
• Compensation by walking with a limp and antalgic lean to take pressure off the leg
• Dysfunctional multi-segmental extension and flexion
• Hip hiking gait
• Dysfunctional squat
• Abnormal balance
• Spinal restrictions in the thoracic, lumbosacral area, and pelvis
• Weak right hip flexor
• Limited dorsiflexion of both feet

The Diagnosis

Our St. Petersburg, FLchiropractic office diagnosed the patient with Trochanteric Bursitis, Iliotibial Band Syndrome, Spinal Segmental Dysfunction, and contracture of muscle at multiple sites.

The Treatment

Based on the patient’s diagnosis, Dr. Sam Richards created a customized treatment plan that began with conservative care utilizing Class IV Deep Tissue Laser on her bursitis, ART (Active Release Therapy) on contracted muscles of the hip and thigh, and adjustments for the segmental dysfunction.

Next, we slowly introduced rehab as well as corrective exercises and stretches to help stabilize her new increased her range of motion. In addition, we worked with the patient on her stance and posture position during pickleball to help prevent further flare-ups and increase performance.

The patient routinely took Magnesium at night and Bio Allay (White Willow Bark, Devil’s Claw, and Boswellia). Once the swelling reduced, we stopped laser therapy and incorporated Normatec Vasopneumatic Dynamic Compression therapy for the legs which helped with her overall recovery as well as her restless leg syndrome.

The Results 

We are very happy to report that the patient has stabilized her pain after Phase I and II of her treatment plan. In addition, she has increased range of motion, plays her favorite sport better than ever before, and has discontinued all medications for pain management!

Get natural pain relief with Burghealth Chiropractic & Wellness! 

Are you tired of living with chronic pain? Burghealth Chiropractic and Wellness can help with our advanced chiropractic care services! To learn more about our St. Petersburg, FL chiropractic and wellness center, please call us today at (727) 289-9148.