Pain
TMJ Disorder
The most common cause of facial pain is TMJ disorder. This often painful and nagging condition refers to any dysfunction or pain in the TMJ or temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles which can be found in the jaw. The symptoms of TMJ disorder usually consist of clicking, snapping, popping or grating sounds while opening the jaw for chewing, pain in the jaw joint area, pain in the side of the head, inability to open the jaw fully, and headaches. These symptoms can affect the ability to speak, eat, chew, swallow, make facial expressions, and even breathe.TMJ disorder can be categorized into three different types. The first and most common refers to simply the pain in the muscles that control jaw function. The second type refers to disc displacement or dislocation of the jaw due to an injury. The third type is arthritis in the TMJ. Many people suffer from one or all types of the disorder. TMJ disorder can be caused by several different things such as indirect or direct trauma to the head or neck, whiplash, a blow to the chin, teeth disorders which can drive the jaw rearward and upward that can interfere with normal jaw movement.
Because TMJ disorder is a progressive condition that gets worse over time without treatment, it is imperative to get help as soon as possible. By realigning the jaw, chiropractic adjustments have an over 80% success rate in eliminating the symptoms. It is also important to get plenty of rest to let the body heal. Eating a soft diet and avoiding foods like raw carrots, apples, large sandwiches, tough meats, chewy breads, etc. can help speed up the recovery process. Using a contrast of ice and heat always ending with ice can also help ease the pain. Focus on keeping good posture to help keep the muscles in the head, neck and back balanced to avoid any further injuries. A normal exercise routine is always a good idea.
If you or someone you know suffer from these symptoms call and make an appointment today. We can help.
Fibromyalgia
Do you or someone you know suffer from chronic pain all over your body, muscle weakness and stiffness and fatigue that seems to come and go on a regular basis? You may be one of the 3-6 million people that suffer from Fibromyalgia. This complicated and often misleading condition is characterized by pain in the muscles and soft tissues fibers of the body. Because most lab tests show up normal, it can be very difficult to diagnose. The usual symptoms of this painful disorder range from becoming tired easily, urinary urgency, anxiety, lack of restorative sleep and tingling or numbness just to name a few. Although the actual cause of Fibromyalgia is not known, stress, irritated nerves, nutritional deficiencies, toxicity, and lack of exercise can all increase the symptoms. There is no cure for Fibromyalgia, but there are very effective treatment options available. Studies show that patients have had a very high success rate with Chiropractic care. Trigger point massage can also help relieve pain in the tender points of the neck, elbows and knees often experienced by people with Fibromyalgia. A regular exercise routine, especially cardio, is a great way to strengthen the muscles and increase the range of motion which will decrease the tension and pain. Proper nutrition also plays a vital role in the relief of symptoms. Any kind of stress to the body needs to be reduced as much as possible.Stop the Vicious Headache Cycle
More than likely you have experienced a headache at one time in your life. We often minimize this problem or simply pop some more over the counter medications and wait for the pain to go away. If we understand the true complexity of headaches and the options that are available to fix this common problem, we may be more likely to actually do something about it. Some theories suggest that there are several types of headaches including tension, stress, cluster, migraines, caffeine withdrawal, cervicogenic (neck related), and sinus just to name a few. Other theories suggest that these are all merely different degrees of the same headache. There is truth to both theories. All types of headaches share some of the same characteristics. One of the most overlooked treatment options for headaches is Chiropractic care. According to a recent study six Chiropractic adjustments preformed over a three week period, decreased the number of headache hours by 69% and overall headache intensity by 36%. Other studies show that 78% of all headaches including migraines can be related to problems in the neck and can be corrected with Chiropractic care. The adjustment to the neck or spine relieves pressure to the nerves releasing tension and getting rid of the headache.Spinal Decompression
Did you know that problems with the discs are the main cause for back, neck, leg and arm pain? Most people think that drugs or surgery are the only option. Spinal decompression is one option that is very safe and effective. This inexpensive treatment can be used to treat a number of conditions such as disc herniation, slipped disc, degenerative disc disease, whiplash, arthritis, some failed back surgeries, and spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal) just to name a few. Problems with the disc do not allow the blood supply needed for proper function. Over time you will begin to loose strength in the abdominal and tiny back muscles known as core muscles. This loss of strength in addition to poor posture, or any trauma to the back will increase compression on the discs causing pain. By safely stretching the spine, decompression therapy opens the space between the discs allowing proper blood flow and decreasing pressure. This will decrease pain and allow the area to heal properly. Studies show that 86% of back pain was relieved in as little as six to eight weeks with some immediate relief after one treatment. While this treatment is perfectly safe, it is not recommended for pregnant women, people with severe osteoporosis, obesity or nerve damage, or people that have had a surgery involving metal plates, screws, or cages. Despite the recent attention to high tech decompression therapy, this treatment has been around for over 20 years. A treatment plan with chiropractic adjustments, rehab to strengthen those core muscles, and decompression therapy will have the highest success rate.Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
With computers, video games, text messaging, and all the other activities we do on a daily basis that require repetitive hand motion, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is becoming more and more common. In fact, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (or CTS) results in the highest number of days missed at work among all other work related injuries.The carpal tunnel is a tunnel for the tendons and nerves that can be found at the base of the hand. Symptoms of CTS usually include tingling, numbness, pain, lack of coordination, weakness, stiffness in the hands, and inability to hold objects. Although direct trauma to the area can start the problems associated with CTS, it is usually repetitive micro-trauma that does the most damage. CTS can be caused by repetitive use of the hands without rest, awkward or abnormal posture of the neck, arm, or wrists, B vitamin imbalances, etc.
A misconception is that CTS is just in the wrist, but it can start anywhere along the nerve between the neck and the hand. 90% of the time it starts in the neck. CTS can be treated with adjustments to the neck, arm, and wrist, massage, wearing a wrist brace for just the wrist during the day and a brace that covers the wrist and hand (like a bowling brace) at night.
The "Microsoft Natural" is a keyboard and mouse that keep your wrist at the correct position to prevent CTS.
Supplements such as Cataplex B or G and Folic Acid B12 can also help balance the B vitamin deficiencies that can lead to CTS. We also have a series of specific exercises that provide stretches that can help ease symptoms and prevent future damage. A nerve conduction study can also be performed to see the amount of damage and track the progress of healing.
Try to remember to maintain the normal curve of your neck and low back at all times, relax your shoulders, keep your wrists straight, and keep your computer monitor at eye level. These simple tips can make a huge difference.
CTS can be painful, but it can be successfully treated without drugs or surgery. Take action today!
Natural Arthritis Relief
For centuries now the Indians have been using an extract of the Frankincense herb known as Boswellia in their system of traditional medicine. Recent studies are now proving the effectiveness of this herb in the relief of osteoarthritis. This common form of arthritis affects the weight-bearing joints such as the hips, knees, feet, hands wrists, and spine. The most common symptoms for this condition include stiffness, pain and limited range of motion in those joints. The study found that people taking the herbal remedy showed improvement with their symptoms in as few as seven days. The study also found that this herb is not only effective, but safe to use for long periods of time with little to no side effects. We carry two products that include this herb that can help with these symptoms as well. The Medi-Herb brand of Standard Process has a Boswellia Complex. They also have Glucosamine Synergy that combines Boswellia with Glucosamine. Make an appointment for a scan and we can help you find the best treatment option for your symptoms.What Exactly is Sciatica
Sciatica is a term used to describe the pain, numbness, burning, weakness and tingling that is associated with an irritation to the sciatic nerve. Because this nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in the human body, there are several possible causes to the impairment of the nerve. The sciatic nerve starts at the root of the nerve endings in the lower spine and goes over the buttocks and down into the lower legs. Pain associated with this condition typically stems from the low back, down the buttocks and back of the leg and into the feet. These painful, sometimes debilitating symptoms have been affecting people for centuries.Studies show that nearly 40% of all adults will be affected by sciatica at some point in their lives. Sciatica is most often caused by a subluxation or pinched nerve in the spine. It can also be caused by a herniated disc, degenerative disc disease which is the break down of the discs over time, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal column), pregnancy, or a trauma or fall to the spine such as a car accident. Because sciatica generally occurs due to the wear and tear of the spine over time, it mostly affects people form the ages of 30-50. However, people of all ages can be affected by the symptoms so early treatment is the key to recovery.
Chiropractic care can be a very effective way to relieve these nagging symptoms. Adjusting the spine alone has been shown to improve or treat 80% of all sciatic cases. With the addition of massage, rehab, disc decompression, nutritional support, electrical stimulation and ice, the results can be improved to over 90%. For the month of June, we are offering a free consult and exam to screen for sciatica. If you or someone you know suffer from these symptoms, call and schedule your appointment today. The sooner you get started on the treatment the better the results will be.
Neck Pain and Whiplash
Neck pain is a common problem that affects about 50-70% of all Americans at some point in their lives. Our neck contains 7 small vertebrae that are responsible for holding the entire weight of our heads which is on average about 12 pounds. It also protects the nerves that carry information from the brain to the rest of the body. Because the neck has to be so flexible to allow the head to turn in all directions, it can be fairly easy to injure the neck.One of the most common causes of neck pain is whiplash, also known as a neck strain or sprain. This refers to any soft tissue injury due to a sudden flexion or extension of the neck. Most cases of whiplash occur because of car accidents, but the condition can be caused by any, trauma to the neck like a fall or a sports injury. Symptoms form whiplash and most neck injuries include neck stiffness and soreness, headaches, dizziness, burning sensation, and pain into the shoulder, arms and back. It may take several hours or days for symptoms to occur with a neck injury.
It is imperative to seek chiropractic treatment as soon as possible after the injury occurs to avoid chronic problems. Other causes of neck pain include poor posture and repetitive strain. Changing the way your workstation is set up at the office and at home can help prevent neck pain. Make sure your computer screen is at eye level and your chair is at the right height for your desk to avoid extra strain. Also, try using a headset whenever talking on the phone to keep from tilting your head. Age and overall wear and tear on the body also are factors to neck pain. Getting regular chiropractic checkups, maintaining an exercise routine, and avoiding excess stress can all help to maintain a healthy body and neck.
Can Your Diet Be Adding to Your Pain?
When most people are in pain, they reach for anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil or pain relievers like Tylenol and wait for some temporary relief. Some may even turn to supplements to avoid the harmful side effects of the common drugs and expect that alone to solve all of their problems.While natural whole food supplements can play a vital role in optimal health, there is a larger underlying problem to pain and inflammation. The foods we eat can significantly add to the inflammation in our body which ultimately leads to pain. When inflammation builds up in the body, it often affects the muscles and joints and causes pain. We can take all the supplements or pain medications in the world, but if we continue to eat the same foods we are creating a vicious cycle. Refined sugar, grain fed meats, trans-fats, refined grains such as those found in white flour products like bread and pasta and refined oils actually increase the inflammation levels in the body. These foods currently make up about 80% of the average American's calorie intake and 30-40% is still too high.
In order to prevent inflammation, our diet needs to consist of anti-inflammatory foods such as a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, raw nuts, healthy proteins like grass-fed meats, pasture-raised chicken, fresh wild fish, omega 3 fatty acids like those found in pasture raised eggs, dark chocolate in moderation, olive oil, coconut oil, unsalted organic butter, and fish oil. Most of these foods are rich in alkaline minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium that are anti-inflammatory. Spices can also have a very effective anti-inflammatory affect. Spice your food up with ginger, turmeric, rosemary, oregano, garlic, and coriander just to name a few.
It is also important to avoid as much stress as possible because stress causes the adrenal glands to produce hormones which cause inflammation. Exercise has an anti-inflammatory effect so start and stick to a normal routine. Some supplements can also have an anti-inflammatory affect like Black Currant Seed Oil and Tuna Oil.
When we are trying to achieve optimal health it is important to look at the big picture. Our diet is one of the easiest things to control and change to increase our health so start your change today.
Get Back to Health with Chiropractic
In celebration of National Chiropractic month we are encouraging everyone to get back to health with Chiropractic care. Chiropractic is a unique branch of health care that encompasses all aspects of health such as structural, biological, mental, physical, nutritional, and physiological. By using the body's innate ability to heal itself, chiropractic has been shown to be effective in helping with a number of health issues without the use of dangerous medications or surgery. If you or someone you know suffers from back pain, headaches, neck pain, knee pain, hip pain, shoulder pain, Sciatica, allergies, indigestion, sleep disorders, depression, fatigue, or any other symptom that just doesn't seem to be going away, pass on your knowledge of Chiropractic care. To give that extra incentive that is sometimes needed to take care of yourself, we are offering a special. For the month of October, any new patient can get a FREE exam, consultation, x-rays if needed, and 50% off a one hour massage ($30 value). Help us spread the word on Chiropractic care or try it for yourself and lets get back to health.Click for more chiropractic health articles.
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Chiropractic Health • Massage Therapy • Nutrition • Rehab • Acupuncture • Homeopathy
