Lewis O.
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Spinal Arthritis
SYMPTOM
Spinal Arthritis
SITUATION
Lewis, a 58-year-old project manager, came to KIRO with chronic low back stiffness and intermittent mid-back pain that had gradually worsened over several years. He noticed the stiffness was most intense in the mornings and after long periods of sitting or driving. By the end of the day, his back often felt “locked up,” making it uncomfortable to stand upright or twist. Occasionally, he experienced dull aching that radiated into his hips, especially after prolonged activity.
Lewis had been told previously that his symptoms were due to age-related spinal arthritis. He had tried over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, stretching on his own, and rest, which provided short-term relief but did not address the underlying stiffness or loss of mobility. He sought chiropractic care to reduce daily pain, improve flexibility, and maintain an active lifestyle without relying on medication.
TREATMENT
Care began with a comprehensive examination performed by our team of doctors. The evaluation revealed decreased range of motion in the lumbar and thoracic spine, particularly with rotation and extension, along with joint stiffness consistent with degenerative changes. Palpation identified localized tenderness and muscle guarding around the affected spinal joints. Postural assessment showed mild forward flexion through the mid-back, commonly associated with spinal arthritis.
To further assess function, our doctors performed a nervous system scan, which demonstrated elevated tension patterns in the mid and lower back. These findings aligned with Lewis’s symptoms and supported the diagnosis of spinal arthritis affecting multiple spinal segments.
Based on these findings, our doctors developed a four-month care plan focused on improving joint mobility, reducing inflammation, and supporting long-term spinal health. Care began with twice-weekly gentle chiropractic adjustments designed to restore motion to arthritic spinal joints without overstressing them. This was paired with soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation around the affected areas.
At the five-week mark, our doctors repeated the nervous system scan and re-evaluated spinal mobility and daily stiffness levels. The scan showed a noticeable reduction in tension through the mid and lower back, and Lewis reported shorter morning stiffness and improved ease with standing and walking. With these objective and subjective improvements, care frequency was reduced to once per week.
During the remainder of the care plan, treatment shifted toward stabilization and long-term support. Our doctors introduced low-impact mobility exercises, core strengthening, and posture-focused stretches to help Lewis maintain spinal motion and reduce stress on arthritic joints. Education on daily movement habits and ergonomics was also emphasized to prevent flare-ups.
By the end of the four-month plan, a final nervous system scan showed tension levels within a normal range, indicating improved spinal function and adaptability.
RESULT
Over his initial four months with KIRO, Lewis experienced significant reductions in daily stiffness and pain, along with improved spinal flexibility and posture. Morning discomfort became minimal, and prolonged sitting or driving no longer triggered flare-ups. He returned to regular walking, light strength training, and weekend activities without hesitation. He understands that a condition like spinal arthritis will likely require maintenance care to keep under control, and is committed to bettering his health by staying consistent. Lewis now continues with care to manage spinal arthritis proactively and stay active, mobile, and comfortable long term.
DURATION
6 months
