Chiropractic care at Bloor and Spadina
Back pain and sciatica care in the Annex
When back pain gets in the way of everyday life.
Getting out of the car. Sleeping through the night. Picking up your child. When back pain starts interfering with everyday life, even simple things can become frustrating.
Many people come to Annex Family Chiropractic with lower back pain, sciatica or symptoms that keep returning. Before I recommend anything, I want to understand what you're experiencing, how it's affecting you and what your examination findings tell us.
What people often tell me
Back pain and sciatica can show up in different ways, including:
- A dull ache or sharp pain in the lower back
- Pain, tingling or numbness that travels into the buttock or down the leg
- Stiffness first thing in the morning or after sitting
- Pain that flares when bending, lifting or twisting
- Discomfort that makes work, exercise or family activities more difficult
These symptoms can have different causes. Pain travelling down the leg, in particular, deserves careful assessment rather than assumptions about what's causing it.
How I assess back pain and sciatica
Every initial evaluation starts with a conversation and a thorough examination. I want to understand your history, what makes your symptoms better or worse, and what you're hoping to get back to doing.
Depending on your circumstances, the assessment may include:
- Posture, movement and range-of-motion assessment
- Appropriate orthopedic and neurological tests
- A hands-on examination of the spine and related areas
- Balance and weight-distribution assessment
- Computerized Insight scans, as an additional source of information
For back pain and sciatica, I pay particular attention to lower-back and pelvic movement, as well as signs that may suggest nerve involvement. If your symptoms or examination indicate that further medical assessment or imaging is needed, I'll explain that and help guide the next step.
What care can involve
At your second visit, I'll explain what I found, discuss my recommendations and review the costs. If chiropractic care is appropriate and you choose to proceed, care generally begins then.
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Spinal traction, when appropriate
- Practical guidance for everyday movement, work and home
There isn't one care plan for everyone. I'll explain what I'm recommending and why, and we'll review how you're responding rather than simply following a predetermined schedule.
There isn't one care plan for everyone
Early care may focus on improving comfort and making movement easier. As you progress, we may also consider how your spine moves, your everyday demands and your longer-term goals.
Your recommendations depend on what we find, your circumstances and how you respond. I want you to understand your options and feel confident about the decisions you're making.
What patients say
In their own words
My neck and back was so bad it made daily living feel impossible. After the first month I was already doing yoga again!… It's easy to get to, plenty of parking, and hours are so flexible.
For several years I have been battling a series of painful back and hip issues… Dr Gelber was able to identify and explain why I was in so much pain after performing a thorough assessment. He listened to my issues, concerns, and questions then created an action plan on how we would address my back issues in the near-term and long-term.
I sought Dr. Gelber's expertise due to my persistent lower and mid-back pain that made it challenging for me to walk for even short durations without discomfort… Dr. Gelber has a holistic approach through a combination of adjustments, exercises, and insightful guidance.
Individual results may vary. Every patient's experience is their own.
Questions
Common questions about back pain and sciatica
Can chiropractic help with sciatica?
Some people with sciatica may benefit from chiropractic care, but the right approach depends on what's causing the symptoms and what the examination reveals. I'll assess your situation first, explain what I find and discuss whether chiropractic care is appropriate. Some cases need medical assessment or another type of care.
Will I need an X-ray for my back pain?
Not necessarily. X-rays are often used because they can provide valuable insight, but the need for X-rays or other imaging is discussed on a case-by-case basis. In some situations, alternate imaging or recent images you've already had taken may be appropriate. I'll explain the recommendation and answer your questions before proceeding.
How is care tailored to me?
Care is based on your history, examination findings, comfort and goals. I adapt the techniques used to your individual circumstances. The aim isn't to use the most force; it's to choose an appropriate approach for you.
How long does it take to improve?
That depends on the nature of the problem, how long you've been experiencing it and how you respond. I won't promise a particular timeline. We'll review your progress and discuss whether the care plan remains appropriate.
When should I seek urgent medical attention?
Back pain with new loss of bladder or bowel control, difficulty passing urine, numbness around the groin or saddle area, or significant or rapidly worsening leg weakness can indicate a serious problem. Seek emergency medical assessment rather than waiting for a chiropractic appointment.
Have another question? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact our team. We’re happy to help you understand what to expect.
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If back pain or sciatica is limiting what you can do, you don't have to start by guessing at the cause or choosing a care plan before you understand your options. Let's start with an evaluation. I'll listen to your concerns, assess your situation, explain what I find and help you decide whether chiropractic care makes sense for you.
Questions before booking? Call 416-967-4466.