Stabbing Back Pain and Leg Pain with Herniated Disc Helped by Chiropractic

The second quarter 2025 issue of the Asian-Pacific Chiropractic Journal published the results of a case study documenting the resolution of symptoms under chiropractic care of a patient who suffered a fall resulting in stabbing back pain, leg pain, and side pain.

This case involved a 36-year-old woman who suffered a fall while hiking. Within 24 hours of her fall, she began having symptoms which continued to get worse for the next 14 months before she decided to visit a chiropractor.

At the time of her chiropractic visit, the woman reported that she was suffering with severe, constant, bilateral heaviness and squeezing pain in both her legs. She had visible swelling in both lower legs with the right leg being significantly worse. The woman also reported sharp low back pain and right lower leg pain between her knee and ankle. The severity of her symptoms was affecting her ability to stand, walk, exercise, sleep and work as a teacher. She rated her pains as a 7 out of 10.

Prior to seeking chiropractic care, the woman was seen by a general practitioner and a neurologist who ordered an MRI. The results of the MRI revealed two herniated discs between her fourth and fifth lumbar vertebrae, and the fifth lumbar and her sacrum. Physical therapy and a compression sock did not help the woman as her symptoms continued to get worse.

Upon her very first visit to a chiropractor, a consultation and examination were performed. The examination included a posture analysis, spinal palpation, a spinal range of motion analysis, as well as some orthopedic and neurological testing.

Specific forms of chiropractic adjustments were started to address the subluxation complexes that were determined to be present. On the second visit, the woman reported that she was able to move more comfortably and had less pressure in her right lower leg. She also reported that her leg swelling had started to decrease.

On the third chiropractic visit, the woman stated that she was able start recreational cycling again. On the forth visit, she reported that she was able to sleep through the night without difficulty. On her fifth visit, she said that she felt a sense of stability while standing and walking. The woman steadily improved as chiropractic care continued. After eight months of care, the woman reported that all activities of her daily life had returned to normal.