Frequently Asked Questions
Rendez-vous
- How do I get an appointment at the TAGMED clinic?
To obtain an appointment at the TAGMED clinic, you can call the center directly, either in Montreal at +1 (877) 672-9060 or in Terrebonne at (450) 704-4447.
You can also visit our website for more information and book your appointment online here .
- How long does it take to get an appointment?
Most appointments at the TAGMED clinic, for a person who is already a patient of our clinic, can be made on the same day or the next day. Patients requesting an emergency appointment can be seen the same day, if they are willing to travel to the Montreal or Terrebonne clinic, depending on where the clinic is open that day. We are in Terrebonne on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and in Montreal on Tuesday and Thursday. Appointments for new patients are usually made within 3 days.
- What happens during your first visit?
The first visit to the TAGMED clinic will be as follows:
- A staff member will greet you and ask you to fill out a health history form, which includes information such as your medical history, allergies or current health problems. You will be asked to sign an informed consent form. The purpose of informed consent is to ensure that the patient fully understands the implications and risks associated with a treatment, so that they can make informed and educated decisions about how they wish to proceed.
- Waiting time in the waiting room is minimal and you will be seen by our health care professional at the time of your appointment, if you are not late, of course.
- In this regard, complete the Health History Form (download here ) before you arrive for your appointment. If you are unable to do so, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to allow time to complete it before meeting with our therapist.
- Afterwards, you will meet with one of the qualified practitioners to discuss your condition and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
- Your practitioner may also perform a physical examination and/or suggest a variety of other tests (e.g., x-ray), if deemed necessary.
- If your treatment requires a physician's referral for medical imaging, it will be discussed with the practitioner and the appropriate information will be provided to obtain this request.
- Finally, your practitioner will discuss with you the steps to take regarding your treatment or care plan and can answer any other questions you may have about it so that you can make an informed decision.
- In most cases, we will be able to start the first treatment unless your condition requires further investigation to exclude underlying pathology.
- Calculate that you will be at our clinic for about 1 hour in total.
- At the end of the treatment, you should pay the fee, as you do at each visit.
- We accept cash, debit, Visa or Mastercard.
- We will print or email you a claim form for your insurance.
- You will need to schedule your next appointment with the receptionist, if suggested by your therapist.
- If your condition requires more than one treatment, we will explain how many treatments you will need and how often. Since every patient is different, and we do not know the severity or nature of your condition at the time of reading this, we are not able to provide you with more information in this regard. All of this will be discussed at your first visit. However, you will be able to get a general idea of the course of treatment for your particular condition by consulting our section on conditions and their treatment here
- How long will my first visit take?
The length of your first visit to the TAGMED clinic will depend on your reason for coming. However, in general, it will be between 30 minutes and 60 minutes.
You can help us reduce the time you spend in our clinic by completing the health history form which you can download here
Finally, if you have not been able to fill out our form, as mentioned above, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to ensure that you have enough time to complete your form, properly discuss your condition, do the evaluation and your treatment.
- What forms do I need to fill out?
If you are a new patient, you can download the necessary forms before your first visit here .
If you are an existing patient, your therapist may ask you to fill out a re-evaluation form: if you have a new condition or if you are coming for a re-evaluation of your condition after several visits.
- Will I be able to start my treatment at the first visit?
In general, you may be able to start your treatment during your first visit to the TAGMED clinic.
However, this will depend on the reasons you made the appointment and the type and level of care you need. The staff will review each case individually and make a decision on the spot at the end of the initial examination.
If you have already had X-rays, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), SCAN (computed tomography or CT scan) or ultrasound examinations and have the written reports, please make sure you have them with you on your first visit to our clinic: this will allow us to begin your treatment without delay.
Therefore, you may be able to begin treatment on your first visit to the TAGMED clinic, but this will depend on the nature of your visit and the severity of your condition: a simple back pain with no worrisome neurological symptoms can usually be treated on the first visit, whereas a herniated disc with severe numbness in the legs or arms requires medical imaging studies before starting any treatment, to ensure that there are no contraindications to treatment and that we can safely begin treatment.
. Medical management and examinations will be performed at your appointment and a personalized treatment plan will be developed to meet your specific needs.
Prix
- What are the fees for your treatments?
Fees for treatment at TAGMED vary depending on the type of treatment and services provided. We will provide you with an insurance receipt if needed and our rates are competitive. The best way to know the exact price is to consult our "prices" section. here
In general, the first visit will cost you between $100 and $130Depending on the treatment that will be required for your condition.
- Is there a consultation or examination fee?
Yes and no: TAGMED only charges a consultation fee if the patient does not wish to start treatment on the same day as the first visit and if the consultation took more than 15 minutes. However, if you have a treatment on the day of your first visit, we will not charge you a consultation fee: you will only pay the fee for the treatment you received. See the price list of treatments here. Otherwise, the fee for an initial consultation will be $85.
Similarly, there will be no charge for your initial exam if you have your treatment that same day.
For those of you who are unsure of the difference between a treatment, a consultation and a review, here is a short summary:
A consultation is a discussion between a therapist and a patient during which the therapist asks questions about your health and the condition for which you are seeing him or her, gives advice, and suggests different tests to evaluate you.
On the other hand, a review is a procedure that allows the practitioner to gather more information about the patient's health and may include physical tests (range of motion, orthopedic or neurological tests) or an evaluation based on your x-ray, MRI, SCAN or ultrasound test report.
Finally, a treatment is an intervention plan designed by a therapist to treat or alleviate the symptoms of a health condition (e.g. herniated disc) or injury (e.g. lumbar sprain). Treatment may include manual therapy, traction and/or therapies such as laser or shockwave, as appropriate. See the list of treatments offered at the TAGMED clinic here .
- How much will the first visit cost me?
The first consultation at TAGMED can cost between $75 and $185, depending on the type of treatment provided. Additional fees may apply for complementary therapies. For example, if you are seeing us for treatment of one or more herniated discs in your lower back, you will pay $130 for neuro spinal decompression treatment for one area of your spine. On the other hand, if you would rather have one neurovertebral decompression treatment for a herniated disc (or discs) in your lower back and a second treatment for a herniated disc (or discs) in your neck, it will cost $185, as these are two treatments for two different areas (the neurovertebral decompression table cannot do traction of your back and neck at the same time: it can only do one area (lower back or neck) at a time. See the complete price list by clicking here
Traitements
- What kind of patients come to us?
The TAGMED clinic is a fascinating place. It serves a wide range of patients from around the world, from athletes to people with chronic pain. Its services attract people of all ages, genders and lifestyles who are looking for state-of-the-art health care from experts in the field. Patients come to the clinic for treatments that may not be available in their area, as well as for access to specialists who can provide complex therapies. Everyone is always treated with respect and kindness, while benefiting from the latest technological and medical advances. So, if you need specialized care or want to be seen more by top professionals, TAGMED is the place to go!
- What is specific osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a manual therapy technique that consists of manipulating the body to reduce pain, discover dysfunctions and restore joint mechanics. Two very distinct osteopathic approaches are specific osteopathy and classical osteopathy. Specific osteopathy is a more modern approach that uses evidence-based findings and current technologies, while classical osteopathy returns to the original form and uses deeper manipulation of the body while relying on the osteopath's intuition and experience.
Specific osteopathy is different from classical osteopathy: it is a unique form of manual medicine focused on the precise treatment of musculoskeletal dysfunctions through evidence-based scientific treatments. This technique aims to reduce aches and pains, while providing many patients with increased mobility. Osteopaths also place importance on overall health, taking into account lifestyle and emotional states before choosing an appropriate treatment plan. It is particularly suitable for those who prefer natural alternatives to medical treatment, as osteopathy not only provides relief, but also promotes long-term well-being.
Specific osteopaths are highly skilled practitioners who not only use their hands to evaluate and treat various physical dysfunctions of the body, but also use medical imaging (X-rays, MRI, SCAN or ultrasound) and complementary high-tech therapy. These treatments are very specific to the patient's condition and therefore much more effective and safe.
For example, a herniated disc will not be treated with classical structural osteopathy mobilizations. Although this technique may provide some short-term relief, it will have no medium or long-term benefit. On the other hand, numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of neurovertebral decompression treatment for herniated discs. See some published scientific articles on neurovertebral decompression here
- Should I use ice or heat to relieve my pain?
One of the most persistent difficulties many people face is finding pain relief. Unfortunately, there is no single answer to the question of whether ice or heat is the best solution to relieve your pain. It all depends on the nature and location of the pain. If you have a muscle strain or sprain, applying ice will help reduce inflammation in the area and generally make you more comfortable. For joint problems such as arthritis that cause stiffness, heat will generally be more beneficial in soothing the area and increasing flexibility. If you are not sure which method to use, consult us for more information. See our simplified guide in French here or in English here .
- Do I need to have x-rays to receive care at TAGMED?
At TAGMED, we strive to provide the best care for all of our patients. The safety and health of our patients is our top priority, so in some cases, x-rays may be necessary in order to receive the best care possible. Our team of professionals will determine whether or not x-rays are necessary and will explain the reasons for any x-ray request. Understanding why a particular test or procedure is needed can help ease discomfort and help you make informed decisions about your care.
We all need to be careful about the frequency of our x-rays, as excessive exposure to ionizing radiation can pose a significant health risk. Physicians should only order x-rays for truly necessary examinations, ensuring that these examinations are performed in the safest possible manner, using specialized shielding and techniques. Patients also play an important role in limiting their own exposure by asking tough questions about every x-ray they may need and understanding why it is medically necessary in order to assess their own risks. By taking these steps, we can ensure that exposure to ionizing radiation is kept to an absolute minimum while providing health care professionals with the diagnostic images needed to make informed decisions.
Rest assured that if X-rays are recommended, it is because they are necessary to provide you with the most appropriate care for your health condition!
- How do I prepare for the first visit to the TAGMED clinic?
To be prepared for your first visit to the TAGMED clinic, we recommend that you:
- Prepare a list of questions and find out your current medical history (including medications you are taking).
- Take any relevant information such as the results of examinations or laboratory tests performed by a previous health care professional.
- If you have a ticket to another specialist's referral, please bring it with you.
- If you have developed any new or unusual symptoms between the time your appointment was scheduled and the time you arrive at the clinic, please report them to the health care professional who will evaluate you.
- Download, print and complete our health history form here
- Familiarize yourself with the different treatments offered by our clinic and know what you can expect.
- Also, make sure you are aware of the different risks and possible side effects associated with the treatment offered by the Tagmed clinic.
- You should also take any necessary steps (e.g., apply ice to the inflamed area) to ensure that your body is ready for further treatment.
- Finally, if you were unable to complete our form, as mentioned above, arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time to ensure you have enough time to discuss your condition, make the assessment and your treatment.
- Do your treatments at TAGMED require a doctor's referral?
Most of the treatments offered at the TAGMED clinic can be taken without a medical recommendation or prescriptionfor an initial consultation.
That being said, if your condition requires treatment for a specific condition such as a herniated disc, your general practitioner may recommend an appropriate medical imaging test (X-ray, MRI, SCAN) tailored to your needs.
If you have already had these tests done, please obtain the results and have them available at your first visit to our clinic.
- What health conditions do you treat at the TAGMED clinic?
Our experienced therapists have the expertise to assess and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including chronic back pain, neck pain and headaches. Using highly specialized treatments, they can help relieve referred pain away from the areas that were originally injured - improving their patients' overall quality of life.
More specifically, the TAGMED clinic treats a variety of health conditions including:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (joint and muscle pain)
- Sports and/or professional injuries
- Chronic and/or acute pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Herniated disc
- Heel Spur
And many other conditions. To see the complete list and more details about each condition click here
- Are your treatments covered by my group insurance?
Treatments offered at the TAGMED clinic may be covered by your group insurance. The amount of reimbursement will depend on the terms of your insurance policy and the services that are provided. We recommend that you contact your insurance company for more information and to clarify the amount you will receive in reimbursement.
Be aware that insurance covers for care provided by professionals (e.g. osteopath or naturopath) rather than for a specific treatment, such as robotic traction (neurovertebral decompression).
Furthermore, even though we are a member of several associations, insurers can at any time include or exclude an association in a very random way, without us being informed.
- What treatments are offered at the TAGMED clinic?
TAGMED Clinic offers a variety of treatments, including osteopathy, neurovertebral decompression, laser therapy and shockwave therapy. Each of these treatments is designed to help relieve pain and improve body function. Treatments may include specific manual movements, specialized stretches or pulls, mobilizations and complementary therapies that are designed to address your condition in a very specific way with the goal of achieving quick and lasting relief.
Our forward-thinking approach to health care means we use the most reliable and well-documented technologies, backed by substantial scientific research. Get ready for an unparalleled level of care!
You can get more details about our treatments here
- Do your osteopathic treatments at TAGMED include massage?
No, the osteopathic treatments offered at TAGMED are evidence-based structural osteopathic treatments and do NOT include massage. The osteopathic techniques used may vary depending on your condition and the treatment recommended by the treating staff.
The main difference between massage therapy and osteopathy is that massage therapy is only focused on relaxation and the treatment of muscular tension, while osteopathy offers a more holistic approach to correcting structural dysfunctions and restoring normal body movement. Massage therapy will not be able to directly correct these structural dysfunctions, whereas osteopathy focuses on understanding the underlying cause of the problem and resolving it through various manual techniques.
- How long will my treatment last?
The length of each visit to the TAGMED clinic will depend on your initial treatment plan and the type of treatment used in your case. Care may vary depending on your diagnosis and may take time for more complex procedures. Nevertheless, most appointments are intended to be short and to the point, to ensure that you get the best treatment possible.
In this regard, a shockwave treatment may take 5 minutes for certain conditions while a neuro spinal decompression treatment for a herniated disc requires a combined treatment of 30 minutes in total. As for osteopathic treatments, here is our WARNING Contrary to most osteopathic clinics, we do not believe that a general treatment of a fixed duration (e.g. 60 minutes) is the most efficient way to solve the health problems for which you consult us: specific osteopathy is more precise and efficient than traditional osteopathy because the treatment is more specific and personalized to the exact condition of the patient. Therefore, the treatment in specific osteopathy generally takes from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the condition to be treated and the level of pain and/or inflammation. Generally speaking, the more pain the person is in, the less time the procedure will take since we need to relieve the pain quickly without further irritating the structure where the inflammation is occurring. Obviously, if you are looking for a long term relaxation treatment, you are not in the right place. However, if you are looking for a specific treatment, personalized to your condition, and effective, you have found the clinic that can help you.
- How much treatment will I need?
It is difficult to predict how many treatments will be required at the TAGMED clinic as this will depend on the specific needs of the patient and the treatment plan developed by the treating staff.
In addition, the amount of treatment you need at TAGMED will depend on your condition, its chronicity, severity and the therapist's recommendations. Treatments can range from a simple examination to a series of visits to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
For example, a simple recent backache may require only one treatment, while a herniated disc may need several weeks of care.
With over 30 years of experience in this field and our evidence-based clinical judgment and your imaging exams, we will be able to answer this question accurately after meeting with you.
We cannot answer such a question over the phone: this would be a demonstration of a blatant lack of competence and judgment...
"Good osteopaths do everything in their power to help their patients feel better as quickly as possible with as little treatment as necessary, ultimately reducing care to a follow-up plan as needed. They also give advice on how to avoid future problems by evaluating lifestyle activities, ergonomics, posture and orthotics."
- Are all patients treated the same way?
No, not all patients are treated the same at TAGMED. Therapists and staff take into account each patient and their unique condition to develop a personalized treatment plan that works best for each individual patient.
In short, no two treatments are the same because you are unique!
References
Introduction à la sciatique
La sciatique est une affection neurologique qui suscite un intérêt croissant dans le domaine médical en raison de son incidence élevée et de son impact significatif sur la qualité de vie. Cette condition est caractérisée par une douleur intense qui irradie le long du nerf sciatique, le plus grand nerf du corps humain. Le nerf sciatique prend naissance dans la région lombaire de la colonne vertébrale et s’étend jusqu’aux jambes. La douleur associée à la sciatique peut être déclenchée par diverses causes, notamment une hernie discale, une sténose spinale, ou même des facteurs liés au mode de vie comme la sédentarité ou l’obésité. Il est crucial de comprendre que la sciatique n’est pas un diagnostic en soi, mais plutôt un symptôme d’un problème sous-jacent qui nécessite une évaluation médicale approfondie pour un diagnostic précis. L’identification de la cause exacte est essentielle pour élaborer un plan de traitement efficace, qui peut varier de l’ostéopathie à l’injection, en passant par des méthodes non invasives comme la décompression neurovertébrale.
L’importance d’une approche multidisciplinaire dans le traitement de la sciatique ne peut être sous-estimée. En raison de la complexité des symptômes et des multiples facteurs qui peuvent contribuer à cette condition, une évaluation complète par des professionnels de la santé expérimentés est souvent nécessaire. Cela peut inclure des tests d’imagerie médicale tels que des radiographies ou des IRM, ainsi que des évaluations fonctionnelles et neurologiques. Le traitement de la sciatique est souvent un processus à long terme qui nécessite une combinaison de thérapies et de modifications du mode de vie. La décompression neurovertébrale, par exemple, est une méthode non invasive qui a montré des résultats prometteurs dans le soulagement des symptômes de la sciatique. Cette technique utilise des forces de traction pour réduire la pression sur les disques vertébraux, ce qui peut à son tour réduire l’irritation ou la compression du nerf sciatique. En somme, la sciatique est une condition complexe qui nécessite une prise en charge médicale complète pour un traitement réussi.
Treatment of sciatica with spinal decompression
Sciatica is intense pain that affects the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back to the legs. This condition can be caused by several factors, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. Spinal decompression is a non-invasive method that can help reduce the symptoms of sciatica.
The treatment of sciatica is complex as the signs and symptoms of this condition associated with sciatic nerve irritation can be caused by a variety of causes. In most cases, an experienced health care professional will recognize the signs and symptoms of sciatica and recommend medical imaging (X-ray and/or MRI) which is necessary to establish a clear diagnosis and to treat the exact cause of the sciatica.
What is sciatica?
La sciatique décrit les symptômes associés à une douleur qui origine dans le bas du dos et irradient à l’arrière de la jambe. Ce n’est pas un diagnostic en soi, mais plutôt un symptôme d’un problème sous-jacent au bas du dos, comme une herniated disc, bombement discal, maladie dégénérative du disque (ex. Disc pinch), spondylolisthésis, ou sténose spinale.
Sciatica usually accompanies lower back pain, but can be more severe and can occur alone. So, a hip or knee pain does not necessarily mean that there is a condition causing the pain there: this pain may indeed be caused by a pinching or irritation of the sciatic nerve that causes this pain to radiate away from its point of origin.
What is the sciatic nerve?
The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and is made up of nerve roots that originate in the lumbar region of the spine and combine further down to form the "sciatic nerve". Symptoms occur when the great sciatic nerve is irritated or compressed at or near its point of origin.
What is the path of the sciatic nerve?
- The pain or symptoms (numbness, tension, heaviness, burning, weakness) follow the path of the sciatic nerve which originates in the lumbar region of the spine (e.g. L5-S1) and descends into the leg through:
- The middle part of the buttock,
- The posterior aspect of the thigh,
- The back of the leg (calf),
- The heel and sole of the foot and toes.
- The pathway may be incomplete, meaning that you may experience pain or symptoms all along the sciatic nerve or only in one area (e.g. pain only in the calf). This will depend on how the nerve is pinched or irritated.
How does sciatica manifest itself?
- Sciatica rarely occurs before the age of 20 and becomes more common in middle age: It is most likely to develop around the age of 40 or 50.
- Perhaps because the term sciatica is often used to loosely describe leg pain, estimates of its prevalence vary widely. Some researchers have estimated that it will affect up to 43% of the population at any given time.
- Sciatica is often not caused by an event or injury but rather tends to develop over time.
- La grande majorité des personnes qui souffrent de la sciatique se sentiront mieux dans quelques semaines ou quelques mois et obtiendront un soulagement de leur douleur grâce à des traitements non chirurgicaux comme les manipulations ou la Spinal decompression therapy. Pour d’autres, cependant, la douleur sciatique peut être grave et débilitante.
- Il est conseillé de consulter un docteur si vous souffrez d’une douleur sciatique, d’une part pour apprendre à soulager cette douleur mais surtout afin de vérifier la possibilité d’un problème médical plus grave telle la herniated disc.
Who suffers from sciatica?
Exact data on the incidence and prevalence of sciatica are not available. In general, it is estimated that 5% to 10% of patients with low back pain have sciatica, whereas the lifetime prevalence of low back pain ranges from 49% to 70%. The annual prevalence of disc-related sciatica in the general population is estimated to be 2.2%. Some personal and occupational risk factors for sciatica have been reported, including age (more common between 45 and 64 years), height (taller people suffer more), mental stress, smoking, strenuous physical activity (e.g., frequent lifting, especially in flexion and torsion) and exposure to vehicle vibration (including whole body vibration). The evidence for an association between sciatica and gender or physical condition is conflicting.
Sciatica and its 46 synonyms
Numerous synonyms (46) for sciatica; a very sharp pain which, being fixed on the path of the sciatic nerve, occupies the posterior part of the thigh and the leg; are found in the scientific literature as follows
- Osteoarthritis with sciatica
- Sciatic nerve damage
- Disc bulge avec sciatique
- Burn of the sciatic nerve
- Disc disease with sciatica
- Pain in the thigh
- Pain in the buttock
- Pain in the leg
- Sciatic nerve pain
- Pain on the bottom of the foot
- Pain in the heel
- Numbness of the sciatic nerve
- Sciatic hernia
- Herniated disc avec sciatique
- Ilio-sciatica
- Injury to the sciatic nerve
- Injury to the external popliteal nerve
- Injury to the medial popliteal sciatic nerve
- Lumbago with sciatica
- Lumbosciatica
- Lumbosciatica
- Ischiatic nerve
- Sciatic nerve
- Great sciatic nerve
- Small sciatic nerve
- External popliteal sciatic nerve
- Internal popliteal sciatic nerve
- Sciatic nerve neuropathy
- Neuropathy of the external popliteal sciatic nerve
- Neuropathy of the medial popliteal sciatic nerve
- Sciatic nerve neuralgia
- Sciatica neuralgia
- Bilateral sciatic nerve neuralgia
- Sciatic nerve neuritis
- Sciatic neuritis
- Paralysis of the sciatic nerve
- Disc pinch avec sciatique
- Pinching of the sciatic nerve
- Sacro-sciatic
- Sciatica
- Bilateral sciatica
- Bilateral Sciatica
- Sciatica with lumbago
- Sciatica due to intervertebral disc disease
- Stenosis with sciatica
- Lumbosacral root syndrome
Symptoms of sciatica
Symptoms of sciatica include shooting pain in the lower back and legs, numbness and tingling in the lower extremities. The pain may be so intense that the patient finds it difficult to stand or walk. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition.
En plus de ces symptômes classiques, d’autres manifestations peuvent également être présentes. Par exemple, certains patients peuvent ressentir une faiblesse musculaire dans la jambe affectée, ce qui peut rendre difficile la réalisation de tâches simples comme monter des escaliers. Il peut également y avoir une sensation de brûlure ou de chaleur le long du trajet du nerf sciatique, qui s’étend généralement de la fesse jusqu’au pied. Dans certains cas, les symptômes peuvent être unilatéraux, affectant une seule jambe, tandis que dans d’autres, ils peuvent être bilatéraux.
Il est également important de noter que la sciatique peut être aggravée par certains mouvements ou positions, comme s’asseoir pendant de longues périodes, se pencher ou soulever des objets lourds. De plus, des facteurs tels que le stress et le manque d’exercice peuvent contribuer à l’intensité et à la durée des symptômes.
En résumé, la sciatique est une affection complexe avec une gamme variée de symptômes qui peuvent avoir un impact significatif sur la qualité de vie du patient. Une évaluation médicale complète est donc essentielle pour un diagnostic précis et un plan de traitement efficace.
The 8 symptoms of sciatica or sciatica:
- Severe pain that can make it difficult to stand or walk
- Douleur constante dans un seul côté de la fesse ou de la jambe (rarement dans les deux jambes sauf dans le cas d’une herniated disc centrale)
- Pain that is worse when you are sitting
- Pain that radiates down the leg and sometimes into the foot and toes (rarely occurs in the foot alone)
- Leg pain that is often described as burning, tingling or tightness
- Weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving legs, feet, and/or toes
- Although the symptoms can be painful and potentially debilitating. Permanent damage to the sciatic nerve is rare and spinal cord involvement is possible but rare.
- Sciatica pain can range from rare and irritating to constant and disabling.
Muscle weakness
La faiblesse musculaire dans le contexte de la sciatique est souvent le résultat d’une compression ou d’une irritation du nerf sciatique, qui peut avoir diverses étiologies, y compris une hernie discale, une sténose spinale ou une inflammation. Cette faiblesse peut se manifester de différentes manières, allant d’une légère difficulté à lever le pied (phénomène connu sous le nom de « drop foot ») à une incapacité plus sévère à effectuer des mouvements de flexion ou d’extension. Il est crucial de noter que la faiblesse musculaire peut entraîner une atrophie musculaire si elle n’est pas traitée rapidement. L’évaluation clinique et les études d’imagerie, comme l’IRM ou la tomodensitométrie, sont souvent nécessaires pour un diagnostic précis, et la prise en charge peut inclure des interventions allant de la décompression neurovertébrale à la chirurgie, en fonction de la gravité et de la cause sous-jacente.
Limitations fonctionnelles
Les limitations fonctionnelles associées à la sciatique peuvent avoir un impact significatif sur la qualité de vie d’un individu. Ces limitations peuvent inclure une réduction de la mobilité, une difficulté à s’asseoir ou à se tenir debout pendant de longues périodes, et même des défis dans la réalisation des activités quotidiennes comme marcher ou monter des escaliers. Ces limitations sont souvent le résultat d’une douleur intense, d’une faiblesse musculaire ou d’une combinaison des deux. Il est essentiel d’adopter une approche multidisciplinaire pour gérer ces symptômes, qui peut inclure des médicaments anti-inflammatoires, des interventions de décompression neurovertébrale et d’ostéopathie, et dans les cas plus sévères, des interventions chirurgicales. L’objectif principal du traitement est de réduire la douleur, d’améliorer la fonction et de prévenir les complications à long terme.
Causes of sciatica
Les causes courantes de la sciatique comprennent une hernie discale, une spinal stenosis, une spondylolisthésis et une compression nerveuse due à un muscle tendu ou à un traumatisme. Les personnes souffrant d’obésité et d’un mode de vie sédentaire ont également plus de risques de développer cette affection.
The 25 causes of sciatic pain:
- Herniated disc (responsable dans 90% des cas)
- Disc bulge
- Disc pinch
- Spinal stenosis
- Root stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Piriformis syndrome
- Arthritis - Osteoarthritis
- Bad posture
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Joint dysfunction of a lumbar vertebra
- Misalignment of a lumbar vertebra
- Misalignment of the pelvis
- Sprain
- Muscle spasm
- Pregnancy
- Rapid weight gain
- Frequent wearing of high-heeled shoes
- Sitting for too long
- Sitting cross-legged
- Jogging too often on a hard surface
- Repetitive work requiring lifting heavy objects in a twisting motion
- Aging
- Diabetes
- Tumor
- Infection
- Fracture
Diagnosis of sciatica
The diagnosis of sciatica often involves a physical examination as well as a thorough medical evaluation of the patient's medical history. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
MRI
L’Imagerie par Résonance Magnétique (IRM) est souvent considérée comme l’examen de choix pour le diagnostic précis de la sciatique, surtout lorsque l’on suspecte une hernie discale ou une sténose spinale comme cause sous-jacente. L’IRM utilise des ondes magnétiques pour créer des images détaillées des structures internes du corps, y compris les disques vertébraux, les nerfs et les tissus mous environnants. Cela permet non seulement de localiser avec précision l’endroit où le nerf sciatique est comprimé ou irrité, mais aussi de déterminer la gravité de la condition. Contrairement à d’autres méthodes d’imagerie, l’IRM ne nécessite pas l’utilisation de rayons X, ce qui en fait une option plus sûre pour les patients, notamment ceux qui sont enceintes ou qui ont des implants métalliques.
Radiographie
La radiographie, communément appelée radiographie standard ou X-ray, est une autre méthode d’imagerie utilisée dans le diagnostic de la sciatique, bien qu’elle soit généralement moins précise que l’IRM pour les affections liées aux nerfs et aux disques. Les radiographies utilisent des rayons X pour créer des images des structures osseuses, ce qui peut être utile pour identifier des anomalies telles que des fractures, des tumeurs ou des signes d’arthrite qui pourraient contribuer à la sciatique. Cependant, les radiographies sont limitées dans leur capacité à visualiser les tissus mous comme les disques vertébraux ou les nerfs, ce qui peut nécessiter des examens complémentaires pour un diagnostic complet. En général, la radiographie est souvent utilisée en complément de l’IRM pour obtenir une image complète de la condition du patient.
Électromyogramme
L’électromyogramme (EMG) est une technique de diagnostic essentielle dans l’évaluation de la sciatique. Il s’agit d’un examen électrophysiologique qui mesure l’activité électrique des muscles en réponse à une stimulation nerveuse. L’EMG peut aider à localiser le site de la lésion nerveuse et à différencier une atteinte nerveuse périphérique d’une atteinte centrale. Il peut également être utile pour évaluer la gravité de la lésion et suivre la progression au fil du temps. L’examen est généralement réalisé en conjonction avec d’autres tests diagnostiques tels que l’IRM pour fournir une évaluation complète de la condition du patient.
Tests de mobilité
Les tests de mobilité sont également cruciaux dans le diagnostic de la sciatique. Ces tests évaluent la flexibilité, la force et le mouvement des articulations et des muscles du dos et des membres inférieurs. Des tests comme le test de Lasègue, qui implique une élévation passive de la jambe droite tout en gardant le genou tendu, peuvent être particulièrement révélateurs. Une douleur qui irradie le long du nerf sciatique pendant ce test est souvent un indicateur de sciatique. D’autres tests de mobilité peuvent inclure des évaluations de la flexion, de l’extension et de la rotation de la colonne vertébrale. Ces tests aident non seulement à confirmer le diagnostic mais aussi à planifier un traitement adapté.
Sciatica treatment
The Spinal decompression therapy est une méthode non invasive qui consiste en l’étirement progressif et contrôlé de la colonne vertébrale afin de réduire la pression sur les terminaisons nerveuses et les disques intervertébraux. Cette technique peut aider à soulager les symptômes de la sciatique sans avoir recours à des traitements invasifs tels que la chirurgie.
Besides this, there are also other options to effectively treat this condition such as taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and/or painkillers, or injections, as advised by your doctor, to relieve the condition. pain.
What is the best treatment for sciatica?
Il n’existe pas un seul traitement « miracle » pour un douleur sciatique mais bien plusieurs différents traitements dépendamment de la cause de la sciatique. Et pour déterminer la cause exacte de vos douleurs sciatiques, il faut dans certain cas faire des radiographies ou une résonance magnétique : ceci dépendra de votre historique, de la présentation de vos symptômes et de l’examen physique.
Le traitement optimal de la sciatique dépend d’une évaluation clinique complète, qui peut inclure des tests d’imagerie comme la radiographie ou l’IRM, ainsi que d’un examen physique minutieux et d’un historique médical détaillé. Cette approche multidimensionnelle est cruciale pour identifier la cause sous-jacente de la sciatique, qu’il s’agisse d’une hernie discale, d’une sténose spinale, d’une spondylolisthésis ou d’autres conditions médicales.
Treatment Options
- Thérapie Conservatrice: Pour les cas légers à modérés, une approche conservatrice est souvent recommandée en première ligne. Cela peut inclure des médicaments anti-inflammatoires non stéroïdiens (AINS) ou des relaxants musculaires.
- Injections de Corticostéroïdes: Pour les douleurs plus sévères ou persistantes, des injections épidurales de corticostéroïdes peuvent être envisagées. Ces injections peuvent réduire l’inflammation autour du nerf sciatique.
- Surgery: Dans les cas extrêmes où les méthodes conservatrices ont échoué ou si le patient présente des déficits neurologiques, une intervention chirurgicale comme la microdiscectomie ou la laminectomie peut être nécessaire.
- Spinal decompression therapy: Cette technique non-invasive utilise des forces de traction pour soulager la pression sur les disques vertébraux, ce qui peut être particulièrement utile pour les hernies discales.
- Médecine Complémentaire et Alternative: Des approches comme la chiropratique, l’ostéopathie et la naturopathie peuvent également être efficaces, surtout lorsqu’elles sont combinées avec d’autres formes de traitement.
- Gestion du Style de Vie: Des changements dans le mode de vie, comme la perte de poids, une bonne posture, et des exercices de renforcement peuvent également contribuer à la gestion de la sciatique à long terme.
Choix du Traitement
Le choix du traitement doit être personnalisé et basé sur plusieurs facteurs, y compris la sévérité des symptômes, la cause sous-jacente de la sciatique, et les préférences du patient. Une approche multidisciplinaire impliquant des spécialistes en orthopédie, en neurologie, et en médecine de la douleur peut souvent offrir les meilleurs résultats. Il est également crucial de suivre l’évolution des symptômes et de réévaluer le plan de traitement en conséquence, ce qui peut nécessiter des ajustements ou des changements dans les modalités de traitement.
En résumé, il n’y a pas de « meilleur » traitement universel pour la sciatique; plutôt, le traitement le plus efficace sera celui qui est le mieux adapté à la condition médicale spécifique du patient, à son niveau de douleur, et à son style de vie. Une évaluation médicale complète est donc essentielle pour élaborer un plan de traitement personnalisé et efficace.
Voici un tableau comparatif qui présente les différentes causes de la sciatique et les options de traitement disponibles, ainsi que leur efficacité générale. Il est important de noter que l’efficacité de chaque traitement peut varier en fonction de la cause spécifique de la sciatique et de l’état de santé général du patient.
Causes de la Sciatique | Surgery | Injection | Medications | Spinal decompression therapy | Osteopathy | chiropractic | Physiotherapy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Herniated Disc | Effective | Effective | Modéré | Very effective | Modéré | Effective | Effective |
Sténose Spinale | Effective | Modéré | Weak | Very effective | Weak | Modéré | Modéré |
Spondylolisthesis | Effective | Modéré | Weak | Modéré | Weak | Modéré | Modéré |
Syndrome Piriforme | Weak | Modéré | Modéré | Modéré | Effective | Effective | Effective |
Disc Bulge | Modéré | Modéré | Modéré | Very effective | Modéré | Effective | Effective |
Pincement Discal | Modéré | Modéré | Modéré | Very effective | Modéré | Effective | Effective |
Sténose Foraminale | Effective | Modéré | Weak | Very effective | Weak | Modéré | Modéré |
Legend:
- Effective: Le traitement est généralement efficace pour cette cause spécifique de sciatique.
- Modéré: Le traitement peut être efficace mais dépend souvent d’autres facteurs, tels que la sévérité de la condition.
- Weak: Le traitement est généralement moins efficace pour cette cause spécifique de sciatique.
Il est crucial de consulter un professionnel de la santé pour un diagnostic précis et un plan de traitement personnalisé. Ce tableau est destiné à servir de guide général et ne remplace pas un avis médical professionnel.
Ce tableau est une généralisation et ne remplace pas une évaluation médicale complète. Pour un diagnostic et un plan de traitement personnalisés, il est essentiel de consulter des professionnels de la santé qualifiés.
Treatment of sciatica by neurovertebral decompression
Si la sciatique est causée par un problème discal (hernie discale, protrusion, bombement discal, pincement discal ou dessication) qui est possible de diagnostiquer avec une résonance magnétique (IRM) ou une tomographie axiale (scan), ou quand elle est due à une sténose ou un spondylolisthésis, le traitement de décompression neurovertébrale s’avère un des traitements le plus efficace.
However, if the neurological symptoms become too severe, such as loss of feeling or almost complete loss of mobility in the leg, these signs should not be ignored and you should seek urgent medical attention before irreversible damage occurs. Your condition may require surgery in the lumbar region of the spine.
Learn more about treating sciatica with neurovertebral decompression, click here !
Treatment of sciatica with osteopathy
In cases where sciatica is caused by poor posture, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, lumbar vertebra joint dysfunction, lumbar vertebra misalignment, pelvic misalignment, sprain, or pregnancy, treatment of osteopathy offers excellent results.
Synergie des Méthodes
La synergie entre l’ostéopathie et la décompression neurovertébrale offre une approche de traitement particulièrement puissante pour la gestion de la sciatique. Cette combinaison harmonieuse maximise les avantages de chaque méthode, créant ainsi un effet amplifié qui va au-delà de ce que chaque traitement pourrait accomplir individuellement.
- Complément Optimale: L’ostéopathie agit comme un complément optimal à la décompression neurovertébrale. En améliorant la mobilité articulaire et en réduisant la tension musculaire, l’ostéopathie crée un environnement corporel plus favorable pour la décompression, rendant cette dernière plus efficace.
- Efficacité Accrue: La décompression neurovertébrale, en ciblant spécifiquement la zone de compression nerveuse, bénéficie grandement de l’état amélioré du système musculo-squelettique préparé par l’ostéopathie. Cela permet une libération plus efficace du nerf sciatique.
- Maintien des Bénéfices: La synergie ne s’arrête pas à l’intervention initiale. Les séances d’ostéopathie en suivi peuvent aider à consolider et à maintenir les gains obtenus grâce à la décompression, assurant une récupération plus durable.
- Approche Personnalisée: La combinaison des deux traitements permet une personnalisation maximale du plan de soins. L’ostéopathie et la décompression neurovertébrale peuvent être ajustées en fonction de l’évolution du patient, offrant une réponse flexible et adaptée aux besoins spécifiques de chaque individu.
- Réduction Globale des Symptômes: La complémentarité des deux approches permet non seulement de cibler la cause sous-jacente de la sciatique, mais aussi de traiter les symptômes associés, tels que l’inflammation et la douleur, de manière plus complète et intégrée.
En somme, la synergie entre l’ostéopathie et la décompression neurovertébrale crée une dynamique de traitement qui capitalise sur les forces de chaque méthode, offrant ainsi une solution plus complète et efficace pour le traitement de la sciatique. Comme toujours, il est crucial de consulter un professionnel de la santé pour un diagnostic précis et un plan de traitement adapté.
Conclusion
The Spinal decompression therapy est une méthode sûre et efficace pour traiter les symptômes de la sciatique sans avoir recours aux traitements invasifs tels que la chirurgie. Si vous souffrez d’une douleur chronique au bas du dos ou aux jambes, il est important de consulter votre médecin pour discuter des options thérapeutiques disponibles afin d’améliorer votre qualité de vie.
En outre, l’ajout de l’ostéopathie comme complément optimal à la décompression neurovertébrale peut offrir une approche intégrative et holistique au traitement de la sciatique. Cette synergie entre les deux méthodes permet non seulement une réduction plus rapide des symptômes, mais aussi une amélioration de la fonction et de la mobilité, contribuant ainsi à une récupération plus complète et durable. Il est donc fortement recommandé d’envisager ces deux formes de traitement en tandem pour maximiser les résultats et optimiser votre bien-être général.
Published research/studies in Spinal Decompression Therapy
Download the research that has been published regarding spinal decompression therapy:
To find out more about non-surgical spinal decompression therapy, please visit our specialized websites:
Preparations for spinal decompression treatment for sciatica
- Book your appointment online or contact our staff at the TAGMED clinic to book your appointment by phone.
- Before going to the TAGMED clinic in Montreal or Terrebonne for your first treatment, there are some things you should absolutely do. First, make sure you have your medical imaging reports (X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound) available.
- Also, make sure you are aware of the various possible risks and side effects associated with treatment at Tagmed Clinic. You should also take all necessary measures (ex. Apply ice to the inflamed area to ensure that your body is ready for further treatment.
- Also, make sure you are aware of the various possible risks and side effects associated with treatment at Tagmed Clinic. You should also take all necessary measures (ex. Apply ice to the inflamed area to ensure that your body is ready for further treatment.
- Finally, if you were unable to complete our form, as mentioned above, arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time to ensure you have enough time to discuss your condition, make the assessment and your treatment.
To be completed before your consultation at TAGMED clinic
TAGMED Clinic
Terrebonne:
1150 Lévis Street, suite 200, Terrebonne, QC, J6W 5S6
(450) 704-4447
TAGMED Clinic
Montreal
1140 Beaumont Avenue, Mount Royal, QC, H3P 3E5
1-877-672-9060