Chiropractic and Pelvis or Hip Pain

In an adult there are 8 bones that make up the Pelvis and tail bone. In children there are 13 bones (5 sacral bones fuse together at maturity to form the sacrum). The pelvis is the base and support of the entire spine. It is the job of the pelvis to transmit the forces from the ground up though the rest of the spine. They bones of the pelvis are supposed to be able to move slightly and allow movement during standing, walking and running. This requires the pelvis to support the rest of the spine while still being able to be flexible and allow movements of the hips.

There are many reasons that pain can be produced in the pelvis. The most universal reason is that at least one of the joints in the pelvis are being restricted or irritated. These restrictions can be caused by any number of daily traumas the most common being chronic poor posture (sleeping, working, sitting at the computer, driving, exercising) and are especially irritated by extended periods of sitting and inactivity.

The body has an unbelievable ability to adapt so in the beginning one can usually continue to function without too much discomfort. The problem is that over time this restriction in the spine causes other joints to have to work harder, thus creating irritation throughout the pelvis and low back area. Also this irritation causes a disruption in the normal movement of the pelvis and may cause other symptoms like sore muscles, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and pain. Depending on how long the restriction/restrictions are left untreated they usually cause increased symptoms. This is due the fact that the original joint has irritated the spine to the point where it can no longer move on its own and now moves together with the bone above or below. This is a more serious problem and is usually when pelvic and low back pain can become a constant issue.

If the back pain is not dealt with at this point the body will continue to deteriorate and restrict itself from movement. This is when symptoms like numbness and tingling in the hip, leg, feet and toes may begin.

However, there is a solution to this problem that is simple and effective. The solution is to adjust the area of the restriction, allowing the bone to move more freely. To identify the correct adjustment the Chiropractor will begin with a physical exam of the area. Once the location has been determined they will inform the client about the condition of their pelvis and give them the option of adjusting the area.

At Preston Health Collective the Chiropractors not only address the bony structure but also they work on the surrounding soft tissue (muscles, ligaments). This creates the most effective adjustment for the area. Following this adjustment, the doctor may also use the low level laser to help decrease the inflammation in the area as well as speed up the healing of the irritated tissues.

This is the most direct and gentle solution to these types of restrictions in the pelvis. The adjustment will also decrease pain and begin to improve the overall function of this region of the spine. If you experience low back pain call your chiropractor today! 613.235.5433

Anatomy

22 Nerves effected- 5th Lumbar nerves (2), 1st - 5th Sacral (10) , 1st -5th Coccygeal nerves(10)

Function

Nerves in this area control and coordinate all functions of the pelvis, legs, calves feet and toes:(Some examples of the major functions are listed below)

Function and maintenance of all reproductive organs
Function and maintenance of the bladder, descending colon and rectum
Function and Maintenance of all muscles and ligaments
All conscious and unconscious sensation (hot, cold, pain, touch, position, vibration, pain etc.) in the lower extremity (pelvis, legs, calves, feet, toes)
Increased or decreased blood flow.
All movements of the lower extremity are controlled by these nerves.