Posts Tagged ‘chiropractic care’
How Proper Posture Can Relieve Neck Pain and Headaches According to Chiropractors
Our pillow, bed, or sleep position is not always responsible for our stiff and painful neck when we get up in the morning. We also attempt to figure out what is happening when we move our neck suddenly and feel a sharp pain that feels as if something has suddenly slipped out of position or is pinching a “nerve.” It is important to understand that most neck problems are seldom caused by a single incident, but usually by the cumulative effects of unsuitable sitting posture, poor work and living habits, lack of suitable exercise and flexibility, and other lifestyle-related factors. Of course, some neck problems are due to traumatic events such as a whiplash accident, a fall, or a sports injury.
To understand neck pain, it is necessary to be aware of the anatomy of the spine. The movement of the spine is piloted by neck vertebrae that are composed of posterior joints, called facets, that attach vertebrae to one another. The inter-vertebral discs connect the bodies of the vertebrae and are made of a form of strong cartilage that surrounds a soft material in the center, called the nucleus. The discs act as shock absorbers and spacers between the vertebrae. In a canal positioned between the body and the facets of the vertebrae is the spinal cord. Spinal nerves exit the spine between the vertebrae and supply energy to muscles and organs of the body. Additionally, they carry sensory impulses, including pain information, from the body to the brain. The nerves that exit from the neck are in charge of the entire upper extremity including the shoulder, elbow and hand, as well as structures of the head and neck. The natural forward curve of the neck balances the weight of the head and decreases stress on neck vertebrae. For more information please feel free to visit your Chiropractor.
Risk Factors: Neck Pain and Computer Use
More and more people are now employed to sit at a desk in front of a computer. The use of computers has risen dramatically, and many individuals spend eight to ten hours a day slumped over the keyboard and staring at the monitor. When we sit with our head in a forward bent position-the posture that most desk workers adopt-the ligaments that hold the facets together and the muscles in the neck are put under tremendous strain. Furthermore, the normal forward curve of the neck may become reversed and create more stress on the surrounding tissue of the neck. All of this can lead to spinal problems including disc herniation and subluxations, which are the primary causes of spinal nerve irritation. In addition to general pain, spinal nerve irritation in the neck can generate symptoms including headaches, eye problems, giddiness, arm and hand pain (and paraesthesia), as well as shoulder pain.
Headaches and Chiropractic Care
Headaches or migraines are frequently associated with disorders of the cervical spine. When the cervical vertebrae lose their essential position or motion, sensitive nerves and blood vessels that are connected with structures in the head are stretched or agitated thus creating symptoms from a dull ache to throbbing pain. In many instances the tight knots in the muscles of the neck, called trigger points, can also refer pain to the head. Many other factors are related to headaches such as toxic fumes, certain foods, additives such as MSG, alcohol, caffeine, and stress. Nevertheless one must always look at the tissues and alignment of the neck when contemplating the basis for headaches and migraines. Chiropractic manipulation and management have proved to be very effective in the treatment of headaches. Ask your Chiropractor about the benefits of Chiropractic care.
Whiplash and Chiropractic Care
Unfortunately, many people are involved in car accidents. Rear-end collisions are the most common. During such an accident, the passenger in the front automobile gets his or her head forcefully jerked backward and then forward causing injury to the structures of the back and front of the neck. This kind of injury is often called a whiplash. Even at low speeds, the amount of force generated by such an accident is very intense and can cause damage to the ligaments, muscles, facet joints, discs, and spinal nerves. Whiplash injury includes neck pain and immobility, and other symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vertigo, arm and should pain, tingling in the hands and fingers, and weakness of the arms and hand. Immediate evaluation and x-rays are crucial in order to rule out a fracture. Usually in many cases, the injuries are primarily to the soft tissues and joints. Proper care is essential in rehabilitation from the pain and symptoms of whiplash, and also to prevent future disability. Your Chiropractor is extremely knowledgeable in the area of whiplash injury, and is more than capable of managing the case from start to finish.
How Can Chiropractic Help Foot Pain?
Introduction
In general, we, humans, take 3,000-5,000 steps everyday. Add to that activities such as running and aerobic exercise, and we add not only more steps, but stress, to our already overly-worked feet. Is it any wonder then why plenty of people have aches and pains in their feet? Several components influence whether or not a person will get foot and ankle pain, such as flat or over-pronated feet, individual walking and running style, and the type of shoe a person wears. However these factors can also affect the health of a person’s back, knees and legs. Listed below are a few of the most prevalent conditions that affect the feet and ankle.
Hallux Valgus and Bunions
Hallux Valgus, a slow-developing affliction, is noticeable when the big toe or hallux deviates towards the outside of the foot, often practically overlapping or bumping into the adjacent toe. In addition, a bump, called a bunion, many times occurs on the inside of the big toe. The pain associated with Hallux Valgus is normally experienced during weight-bearing activities such as walking or prolonged standing.However, if someone has developed a bunion, the pain can be present at rest and is frequently described as a “numbing” or “burning” sensation in the big toes.
To be clear, the true challenge is not in the bone, itself, but in the joint between the big toe and the first metatarsal bone, i.e., the first metatarsal-phalangeal. The pain and deformity associated with Hallux Valgus is due to damage to this joint. The challenge is normally the result of wear and tear over a long period of time from factors such as over-pronation that creates undue pressure on the big toe and first metatarsal during walking. A further cause of Hallux Valgus is inflammatory arthritis that can harm the joint and produce degenerative changes. A broken toe that does not heal properly can also predispose a person to Hallux Valgus. But, one of the more common causes of the affliction is the high-heeled and pointed shoes that women often wear. These shoes not only put extra stress on the joint, but also aid in pushing the big toe to the outside.
If you think you may have Hallux Valgus, your chiropractor can examine your foot to determine which factors are contributing to your challenge, and then use a range of chiropractic techniques and modalities to decrease pain and improve the function of your foot.
Plantar Fascitis ( Heel Pain )
Heel pain, known as Plantar Fascitis, is a well known foot ailment caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia, a band of connective tissue that encases the muscles on the bottom of the foot, connects the heel bone to the ball of the foot. It supports the arch, protects the foot, and absorbs shock.
People with Plantar Fascitis frequently complain of pain in the morning after first standing when they get out of bed and also when they stand up after having sat for a while. The pain originates just in front of the heel bone, but can spread over the entire bottom of the foot.
If left untreated, aggravation associated with the condition can lead to the development of scar tissue, calcium deposits and eventually heel spurs. Heel spurs, a bony growth on the front part of the calcaneus of the heel bone where the plantar fascia attaches, can cause a severe stabbing pain with walking.
There are many factors that are instrumental in the development of Plantar Fascitis although people who have other foot conditions, especially Pes Planus (flat feet) and over-pronation are most susceptible. One of the most crucial contributing factors is muscle imbalances between the calf muscles and the muscles on the bottom of the foot, both of which attach to the calcaneus or heel bone. Frequently the calf muscles get short and tight exerting a strong pull upon the back of the calcaneus. This creates too much stress on the smaller and weaker plantar muscles and its fascia that adhere to the other side of the calcaneus. In addition to running and jumping activities, wearing high heels can also produce a shortening and tightening of the calf muscles. Other factors that stress the plantar fascia include: sudden strenuous activity after a period of long-term inactivity, abnormal walking patterns, unsuitable footwear, walking on hard or uneven surfaces especially barefooted, and obesity.
Nurses, teachers, and waiters who are required to be regularly on their feet, and those whose activities include aerobic, volleyball, running, basketball, and tennis are more susceptible to Plantar Fascitis.
It is often difficult to manage Plantar Fascitis once it has developed, and the ailment can become extremely painful and ceaseless. A chiropractor will be able to determine the cause of your problem and what care is most fitting. Management might include ultrasound therapy, laser, joint manipulation, muscle stretching and strengthening exercises, special taping and, in some cases, orthotics.
Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon (the heel cord), is a large tendon that is an extension of the two largest calf muscles. It travels down the back of the lower leg and attaches to the heel bone. Achilles Tendonitis is an extremely painful, and often debilitating aggravation of the tendon. Harm to this valuable tendon can make it hard or even impossible to walk. Most frequently, a debilitating injury to the tendon is the result of an accumulation of smaller stresses that cause small tears over time, although a sudden, single incident, such as jumping, can also be the cause of a serious problem. Generally, the appearance of symptoms is gradual. The pain may be relatively minor at first, but continuously worsens if the individual tries to “work through” the pain. Many Achilles tendonitis sufferers associate their initial discomfort to the aches and pains that have to do with age or fatigue. In severe cases, a total rupture of the tendon can arise, resulting in traumatic injury and intense pain that makes walking virtually impossible and may even require corrective surgery.
Athletes and performers, such as dancers, whose activities contain not only running and jumping, but sudden starts and stops, are especially vulnerable to Achilles tendonitis. Also at risk are women who regularly wear high-heeled shoes then switch to sport shoes for exercise because the tendon and muscles have gradually conformed to the shortened position caused by wearing high-heels. When this occurs, the change to exercise or flat shoes forces the Achilles tendon to stretch further than it is accustomed to, hence producing stress and inflammation. If possible, high-heels should not be worn everyday. But, if it is not possible, then stretching every morning and night can help to keep the Achilles tendon lengthened.
As mentioned above, Achilles tendonitis is often age-related, especially in men who are athletes. As a person ages, the arch tends to flatten causing over-pronation and increased stress on the Achilles tendon, as well as the calf and foot muscles. Achilles tendon conditions are also prevalent in those who exercise infrequently, such as the “weekend warrior” and in those who are just novices at exercise. In both cases, muscles and tendons have little flexility due to inactivity. Therefore, people who are just commencing to exercise after a long layoff should stretch properly, start slowly, and increase gradually.
Despite the origin, if you are experiencing Achilles tendonitis symptoms, it is vital for you to see a qualified professional. Your chiropractor is a highly-skilled professional who can help you to manage the ailment before it becomes severe.
Pes Planus ( Flat Feet )
Flat Feet, or Pes Planus as it is called by the medical community, is quite prevalent. It is approximated that at least one quarter of humans have flat feet. Newborns have flat feet, but somewhere between the ages 3-10 we develop an arch. However in certain people this development never occurs. There are a number of factors, along with genetic disposion that can produce flat feet, or predispose a person to the problem. A person’s job, level of activity, and lifestyle can create a previously-developed arch to collapse later in life. Age and weight also are implicated in the development of the problem. Middle-aged people who have been working on their feet for years often experience flat feet, as do overweight sufferers who are placing added stress on their feet and legs.
Some people have flat feet and never feel any annoyance, while others experience pain in the feet and knees, and sometimes in the hips and lower back as well. If you think you have flat feet and are experiencing discomfort, you might want to see your chiropractor to determine a plan of care that can relieve your pain and prevent more symptoms from developing. Chiropractic treatment includes joint adjustments to improve foot function and eliminate painful symptoms. Your chiropractor may also prescribe arch-supporting insoles, called orthotics, for additional support and stability.
Metatarsalgia ( Pain in the ball of the foot )
Metatarsalgia is occasionally called “ball-of-foot pain,” as it is a pain on the sole of the foot just behind the toes where the foot bends during walking. The pain is caused by a dyfunction in one or more of the five metatarsal bones that extend from about halfway up the foot to the toes.
The feeling of pain can be limited to where the metatarsal bones attach the toe bones or it can extend along the entire length of the metatarsals, and likely between them. Challenges vary from stiffness upon movement to a burning or stinging sensation. The degree of discomfort depends upon whether the affliction is due to a dysfunction in the joints or an aggravation to the nerves as they travel along the metatarsals.
The reason for the condition can be either structural or functional. When a structural problem takes palce, such as when the metacarpal bones are either too long or too short, it creates abnormal mechanics in the feet and undue stress on the entire area. Flat feet or too much arch can also alter the stresses on the metatarsals causing similar symptoms.
There are other factors that can affect these bones that are many times in the control of the sufferer. These include excess body weight, tight or high-heeled shoes, and excessive or poor running or athletic training. Surplus weight and the wearing high-heeled shoes both increase stress upon the metatarsal, which leads to joint pain and nerve irritation. Repetitive foot activities, like running, directly stress the metatarsals by exposing them to constant trauma.
A chiropractor is able to effectively treat metatarsalgia, no matter what the cause may be. After analyzing the underlying factors, you will receive a number of non-invasive therapies, inluding orthotics when necessary, and you will be advised on how you can avoid future pain.
See your chiropractor as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of the foot problems mentioned above.
Chiropractic Adjustments Help Back Pain
Low Back Pain
Low back pain is a common health complication that often affects more than 80% of the population, making it second in commonality only to the common cold. However, unlike the common cold, back pain is often perplexing to most of its sufferers. Your Fort Worth Chiropractor is an expert at solving the puzzle.
Anatomy
To understand back pain, it is important to understand the anatomy of the spine. The spinal bones or vertebrae of the lower back consist of posterior joints called facets that link vertebrae to one another and serve to guide the action of the spine. Inter-vertebral discs, composed of tough cartilage, join the bodies of the vertebrae. This tough cartilage covers the nucleus, a soft material in the center of the inter-vertebral discs. The primary function of the disc is as a shock absorber and spacer between the vertebrae. Ligaments and muscles also connect the vertebrae. The wedge-shaped bone at the bottom of the spine is the sacrum and is joined to the two pelvic bones at the sacroiliac joint. The spinal cord is positioned between the facets of the vertebrae. The spinal nerves exit the spine between the vertebrae.
Causes of Back Pain
Most back pain patients have not experienced any trauma, accidents or major injuries prior to the onset of their problem. The source of most back pain is the cumulative effects of improper sitting posture, poor work habits, incorrect lifting, lack of regular exercise and other poor lifestyle-related factors. All of these factors create stresses and imbalances on the spine and eventually generate pain. This is why people can often injure their back just by bending over to pick up a piece of paper. The instability of the spine makes it vulnerable to even the most simple movements, such as bending. When this occurs, the surrounding back muscles go into spasm to protect the stressed or injured tissues of the back. Chiropractors are back pain specialists. Your Chiropractor can help you to get out of pain quickly.
Disc Problems & Sciatica
Prolonged sitting, specifically in a slouched position produces increased pressure on the intervertebral discs and imbalances in the muscles encompassing the spine. After a while the lower spine loses its ability to function normally during everyday stresses. Finally, the intervertebral disc develops small fissures, or cracks, permitting the soft nucleus to protrude the disc outward. If the disc pushes on sensitive tissues, it causes the pain that is often referred to as a slipped disc. If the disc presses on the spinal nerve, one can develop sciatica, which is defined as pain, tingling, numbness, and sometimes weakness in the lower extremities. On occasion if the disc protrusion or herniation is large and the condition is not managed correctly, surgery is needed to remove the herniated disc material. With chiropractic adjustments and care, which often includes postural exercises, most disc challenges, including sciatica, can be resolved. If you are experiencing any of the problems defined above, it is crucial for you to seek chiropractic assistance.
Spondylosis
Repetitive injury to the discs, facet joints, and surrounding ligaments may produce increased erosion and weight-bearing stress on the spine. Bone spurs are formed when the cartilage around the joints is negatively affected by stress that engenders calcium to deposit in the tissues around the vertebrae. These spurs can restrict adjacent nerves, blood vessels and soft tissue resulting in symptoms ranging from minor pain and numbness to gross sensory loss and muscular atrophy. This condition – known as Spondylosis – is a type of arthritis that appears to affect almost everyone at some point in life, as it is a common part of the aging process of the spine as well. However, influences such as previous trauma, unhealthy lifestyle, and repetitive stress injury influence the time of onset in life. Regular chiropractic treatment and overall chiropractic management is very effective in slowing the aging process of the spine, as well as helping Spondylosis sufferers in managing their condition. Your Fort Worth Chiropractor has assisted many Spondylosis sufferers.
Sacroiliac Problems
Another general area of dysfunction or injury in the low back is in the sacroiliac joints. These weight-bearing joints attach the upper part of the body to the lower pelvic portion and are usually very strong and stable. However with disturbances such as falls, sports injuries, or lifting heavy objects, the joints can become unstable and relocate to an abnormal position. This condition is called a sacroiliac subluxation. Pregnancy can also cause this condition. The imbalances in the lower extremities caused by sacroiliac subluxation can create a functional long and short leg. Individuals with this condition will feel pain particularly with prolonged standing and walking, or during or after physical activity. Many complain of lack of energy and feeling tired easily. Many times this imbalance can affect structures further up the spine and people can develop neck and shoulder pain, as well as headaches. Chiropractic adjustments establish the proper alignment of the joints and are extremely affective in ameliorating sacroiliac problems. Ask your Fort Worth chiropractor how you can experience effective pain relief.
Spinal Subluxation
A prevalent disorder of the lower back, as well as the entire spine, is subluxated or misaligned facet joints. Subluxations can exist on their own or in conjunction with disc problems and Spondylosis. They not only create pain, but they can also imparel the spinal nerves as they exit the foramen or spaces between the vertebrae, and produce nerve compression, known as paraethesia. Paraesthesia is a change of sensation described as a tingling, burning or “funny feeling.” Paraesthesia in the upper extremities oftenoriginates from nerve problems in the neck, while paraesthesia in the lower extremities is commonly associated with nerve dysfunctionin the lumbar region (lower back). Visceral problems such as asthma and gastric conditions can also becorrelated with, or complicated by, spinal subluxations and nerve compression. Subluxations are best eliminated by chiropractic adjustments.
Trauma
Damage such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury can cause over-stretching or tearing of the tissues of the spine and lower back and create extreme pain and immobility. In order to avoid long term disability or the development of any of the conditions listed above, chiropractic adjustments and treatment at the onset of symptoms is very important. If you experience a trauma, call your chiropractor as soon as possible.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is often associated with low back pain. Chiropractic care offers exceptional pain relief.
When it comes to the spine, chiropractors have more education and training than medical doctors. I can provides state of the art diagnosis and highly competent treatment for any of the above-mentioned conditions of the spine and lower back.