May 17 2012
Chronic pain is terrifying. Sciatica and stenosis are two of the most common causes of persistent, debilitating back pain. Chicago resident Pedro Estrada suffered from extreme back pain that compromised his livelihood and soured his outlook on life. After taking time off from his job and consulting many doctors, he finally found relief with non-surgical treatment at the Illinois Back Institute.
The situation started when Estrada began experiencing stiffness and lower back pain. As his condition worsened, the pain from his sciatic nerve began radiating down both legs. The pain was so severe and persistent that he was barely able to move. He was forced to take a leave of absence. When the pain was at its worst, Estrada was unable to walk more than 50 yards, and he couldn't stand for even short periods. Standing, sitting, and tiny movements caused excruciating pain, tingling, numbness and weakness.
Estrada's inability to perform even simply everyday activities in conjunction with his inability to bring home a steady paycheck caused him to spiral into depression. He worried constantly and wondered if his health would ever improve. After trying many different therapies and visiting specialists, Estrada scheduled an appointment at the Illinois Back Institute.
During Estrada's initial exam, physicians ordered an MRI. Images of his spine revealed severe lumbar stenosis, the narrowing of nerve passageways, between the L3, L4 and L5 vertebrae. Using this image, doctors were able to identify affected areas and pinpoint the cause, which included degenerative disc disease and spondylolisthesis, the displacement of a vertebra. With regular treatment at the Illinois Back Institute, Estrada was able to beat the stenosis and sciatica that were causing the debilitating pain and he did it without surgery, spinal infusion, high-risk procedures or medication. Thanks to this innovative treatment, Estrada resumed his daily activities, went back to work and now enjoys a pain-free life.