I began using orthotics some months back to relieve severe foot pain - the result of two toes that are not in alignment. I found some relief, but I've recently experienced sharp, stabbing pain in my lower back and upper thigh. I am trying to find the connection, but the doctors I've seen either focus on the foot problem or the back problem. How do I deal with the overall issue? Do I keep wearing the orthotics?

Have you seen an orthopedic surgeon? What doctors have you seen about this?

I've seen an orthopedist, orthopedic surgeon, our own GP and a podiatrist. As you might expect, the MDs warned me about treatment from the podiatrist, who has recommended surgery on my foot, and the podiatrist is not engaging the back issue. So I'm not getting the complete picture.

Yeesh! You've had the royal run around with the specialists, I see... is any one of them an Osteopathic orthopedic surgeon, or at least one who practices osteopathy? Somehow you've got to get at least one of them to treat you as a whole, not as a bunion or a back strain, but as a whole unit that has one part affecting the other.

Is an osteopathic orthopedic surgeon someone who could do that? I live in Los Angeles, so I have to think there are docs out there who specialize in this sort of thing...

Thanks so much... appreciate the input