Best Rolex Replica Watches
Offer: Consult, Exam & First Treatment $150
Book Appointment

Author: adminpost

How Can A Chiropractor Help Spinal Stenosis: Finding The Answer

Posted on by adminpost

Are you suffering from chronic or worsening back pain? If yes, it may be possible that you have spinal stenosis. This is a serious problem, and one must get treatment on time. The narrowing of the spinal cord canal or the nerve root canal is called spinal stenosis.

The condition may result in back pain, leg pain, and much more. It can also give tingling or numbness sensations. There might also be chances of paralysis in extreme cases. A majority of folks who seek conventional treatment might need surgery later.

If your diagnosis report says you have spinal stenosis, you can visit a chiropractor for therapy. The write-up is everything about how can a chiropractor help with spinal stenosis. But before jumping onto that, let us learn more about spinal stenosis.

Spinal Stenosis In Detail

Our spine is made of 24 bones (vertebrae) supporting the body. These bones also house the spinal cord in a channel (spinal canal). Either side of the spine has openings that let the spinal nerves exit the spinal canal.

Spinal stenosis is a condition wherein these spaces become narrow and put a strain on the spinal cord as well as nerve roots. When these spaces become narrow, it results in irritation and inflammation. Not receiving proper treatment may cause scarring and a permanent loss of function.

Signs Of Spinal Stenosis

Below are the signs that one may feel because of spinal stenosis:

  • Numbness in the lower back and legs
  • Pain and numbness in the back and neck
  • Having trouble while moving
  • Problems with stability and balance
  • Loss of sexual function
  • Pain in legs while running
  • Leg cramps
  • Abnormal bladder or bowel function

 

You may feel all these signs in either your lower or upper back. However, this depends on the area of the spine where the stenosis has happened.

Why Does Spinal Stenosis Happen?

Spinal stenosis is likely to happen due to certain degenerative conditions. These include degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, and ligament thickening or buckling. Here is a breakdown:

Degenerative Disc Disease

The spaces between bones turn narrow when the disc between vertebrae breaks or becomes dehydrated. This results in a strain on nerves when they go out of the spinal canal. This disease may also be responsible for bulging discs. While a disc bulges into the spinal canal, it creates pressure on the spine.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis has a significant impact on your spine’s cartilage. The vertebrae can strain the spine and nerve roots when they become thin and weaken. In the place where the cartilage has become extremely thin, the bones might rub together, leading to the development of osteophytes.

Ligament Thickening or Buckling

Many connective tissues are around the spinal cord, passing through the spinal canal. These tissues may become thick or hard into the bone in certain conditions.

As these ligaments become hard or thick, it lessens the spacing in the spinal canal. It compresses the spinal cord and nerve roots. These connective tissues loosen and might buckle due to some genetic diseases. A narrow point may also crop up in the spinal canal.

Tumors, scoliosis, and other spinal deformities also create narrow points in the spinal canal.

Who Is A Chiropractor?

A chiropractor is a doctor who offers a cure for any bone, muscle, joint, or dysfunction. He is well-versed in treating strains, aches, and creaks. If you are suffering from any musculoskeletal system problem, reach out to a chiropractor immediately. You can receive alternative therapies that do not entail any prescription medications.

Spinal Stenosis Diagnosis

A chiropractor can take a physical test to diagnose spinal stenosis. He will also discuss your symptoms and observe movements like walking. With diagnostic imaging tools, the chiropractor can diagnose spinal stenosis in the spine or neck.

A computed tomography (CT) scan or X-ray can also give a detailed picture of your spinal cord. It lets your chiropractor spot the site where the spinal column has narrowed.

Chiropractic Treatment

Conventional treatments or medication might give symptomatic respite. However, they don’t always lessen the pressure applied to the nerves. Also, they do not even prevent the development of the degenerative process.

Chiropractic care can aid in lessening the pressure on the nerves when reviving your range of motion and alleviating pain. It is a clinically proven treatment that a patient can choose for curing spinal stenosis. It is among the best alternatives and natural methods.

The techniques used in chiropractic care include spinal decompression therapy, spinal adjustments, traction methods, and more. All of these help alleviate the symptoms without the side effects of medicines or surgery complications.

Chiropractic Care Types

Age and general wearing of the spine are interconnected with spinal stenosis. Some medical experts can prescribe surgical procedures for its treatment, while others may ask to get chiropractic care. Here are a few types of chiropractic care that can help people suffering from spinal stenosis:

Flexion Distraction

Flexion distraction is a kind of spinal decompression intended to pull apart the spine’s vertebrae. It reduces the pressure from the spinal discs between vertebrae and makes more space within the spine. Thus, it leads to alleviation of the spinal cord’s narrowing.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Narrowing of the space within the spine can result from poor spinal alignment. It raises the odds of spinal stenosis. With chiropractic adjustments, one can improve the alignment. To execute this method, a chiropractor exerts a controlled force on the joints using their hands or specialized equipment.

Percussor Therapy

Percussor therapy has its roots in the massage sciences. This technique can stimulate blood circulation and ease muscle strain. Besides, it can help raise your range of motion and lessen pain.

Top Reasons to Opt for Chiropractic Care For Spinal Stenosis

According to research, chiropractic care successfully eases symptoms of spinal stenosis. It can also help the patients suffering from Arthritis. So, if your spinal stenosis is interconnected with Arthritis, chiropractic care can provide relief in both conditions.

Below are some of the reasons to choose chiropractic care for spinal stenosis:

  • It is safe, and there is no involvement of any cuts or anesthesia.
  • Unlike surgery, chiropractic treatment offers quicker relief.
  • The patients can use chiropractic interventions for a longer period.

Treating Spinal Stenosis With Surgery Vs. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic Care for the treatment of spinal stenosis is a non-invasive procedure. The patient first undergoes a complete diagnosis. Later, the chiropractor detects the affected areas of the spine and directs manual/machine-assisted spinal manipulations onto those areas.

Since it is non-invasive, chiropractic treatment is highly preferable. Also, patients take less time to recover following the treatment, and the cost is also not very expensive.

On the contrary, surgery for spinal stenosis might involve the removal of a part of your vertebrae. It will take away all the strain from your nerves. Moreover, the surgeon might have to expand the spinal spaces where the nerves exit. All these can be done in various parts of your spinal cord. Bone grafts or metal implants might also be used afterward to connect the affected areas of your spine. Surgical procedures can pose a risk sometimes due to their invasive nature. The producer or the internal alteration can go wrong, which may result in post-surgery complications. These are quite costly, and patients take a longer time to recover.

Treating Spinal Stenosis With Medications Vs. Chiropractic Care

The main intent of chiropractic care is to cure spinal stenosis without any prescription medicine. This is achievable with manual spine adjustment, stretches, and other therapies. With chiropractic care, you can also deal with pain through massage.

Chiropractic care aims to go straight to the root problem and address it. This is a lasting solution with no adverse effects of continual abuse of medications.

Also Read: How Good Is A Chiropractor For Slipped Disc Treatment?

Medicines For Spinal Stenosis

Mostly, OTC (over-the-counter) and prescription medicines are used to treat spinal stenosis. A few examples are as follows:

Antidepressants

Some kinds of these can aid with chronic pain. One of the most common types of antidepressants is Amitriptyline.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs aid in lowering pain and inflammation. Some of the most common over-the-counter NSAIDs are Naproxen, Aspirin, and Ibuprofen.

Anti-Seizure Drugs

Your doctor might recommend you take anti-seizure drugs to ease pain caused by damaged nerves.

Analgesics

Analgesics can help in easing pain. However, these are not effective in inflammation. The most common Analgesic is Acetaminophen, which is used to treat spinal stenosis.

If you feel no benefits from these medications, your doctor might recommend something more potent- for example, Opiate. It is a drug that is effective in giving temporary respite from pain. However, the drug can be harmful if you overdose. This is addictive and might bring lots of health effects.

Injections For Spinal Stenosis

Medical experts may prescribe the following injections for spinal stenosis:

Nerve Blocks

These are anesthetics that the doctors use around the damaged nerves. The reactions to these injections vary from patient to patient. There can be possibilities for long-term relief, short-term relief, or no relief.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids, also known as epidural injection, can be injected into the area near your spine cord. This type of injection is given under the supervision of an anesthesiologist or other specialist.

What Are The Alternative Treatments For Spinal Stenosis?

Many patients go for alternative therapies for spinal stenosis. The most common ones are:

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been in existence for ages. There is a strong belief that the human body has specific energy points, each associated with specific parts. The practice is carried out by applying pressure using needles for activating the points. This aids in easing pain and health complications.

Acupuncture is not effective in reversing spinal stenosis. But it can lessen the back pain that you feel due to it.

Cell-Based Therapies

Cell-based therapies are a wonderful gift of modern science. In these techniques, there is a replacement of damaged or dead cells with stem cells, which can produce healthy tissue.

A majority of stem cells are used during the developmental stage. However, some remain in the body for a lifetime, primarily concentrated in bone marrow and adipose tissue. The body’s capability to naturally renew dead cells is usually diminished due to spinal stenosis. So, a patient’s own stem cells are taken from fat tissue via MMAT (Minimally Manipulated Adipose Tissue Transplant) or bone marrow via BMAC (Bone Marrow Concentrate).

Implanting these autologous cells aids in treating spinal stenosis and many other ailments. With this treatment, the patient can feel relief from pain and other symptoms.

PRP

PRP (Platelet-rich plasma therapy) is another effective treatment for curing spinal stenosis. In this procedure, the patient’s plasma is isolated for their blood and injected back into the damaged spine area.

Platelets are a vital component of blood, acting as a defense mechanism. They are also effective against pathological processes. These are no less than regenerative medicine that activates the discharge of natural growth elements to repair damaged tissue and replace dead cells.

Overall, the whole platelet-rich plasma therapy takes around 45 minutes to finish.

Herbs

Herbs are widely known for their therapeutic effects, and you cannot ignore their usage in pain and inflammation. Spinal stenosis can make you feel symptoms like pain, weakness, and swelling. Herbs like cannabidiol, turmeric, citrullus colocynthis, or ginkgo biloba can help manage these symptoms.

Exercises For Spinal Stenosis 

Incorporating a healthy diet plan and exercise regime can aid in shedding pounds for the obese. This can also result in relieving pressure from your spine. Even though you decide to go for surgery, exercising afterward can raise your recovery time. But, you must start gradually. Consult a doctor or a physiotherapist regarding the exercises that can be beneficial. Here are some of them:

Stabilization Training

It is a series of exercises that can aid in building muscles that support the neck and give a good balance. You can perform these exercises simply at home without needing any special equipment.

Stretching Exercises

These exercises can aid in reducing pain and making it easier for you to move your neck and spine.

Aerobic Exercises

Aerobic exercises are perfect for raising your breathing and heart rates. These can also release “endorphins” that can aid in relieving pain. Swimming and bicycling are a few examples of such exercises.

Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist to learn the proper ways of exercising with spinal stenosis.

Conclusion

The narrowing of your spinal canal is the primary reason for spinal stenosis. As the contraction rises, the nerves passing through the spin will feel more pressure.

A chiropractor can offer natural treatment to ease your spinal stenosis. No more living in pain and stress. Go to the best chiropractor and receive the most worthy chiropractic care.

How Good Is A Chiropractor For Slipped Disc Treatment?

Posted on by adminpost

A slipped disc is often considered to be natural as people age. It usually causes pain and reduces the movement of the person suffering. It is common among the population that engages in a lot of physical activity. Athletes are one such example.

The most common occurrence of a slipped disc is at the neck or lower back region. However, it can also occur on other parts of the spine and is quite common.

There are different treatment options available for this condition. One such option is chiropractic care. And in this blog, we are going to cover the different aspects of slipped discs and discuss in what ways a chiropractor can treat slipped discs.

What Is A Slipped Disc? How Is It Caused?

disc-herniation

Discs are the essential parts of the body that act as cushions for the spine. It is impossible for the spine to function in the absence of discs.

A slipped disc which is also known as a herniated disc is one such condition where the spine is not able to function properly. And in this condition, there is no actual slipping of discs. Instead, the material that is inside the disc starts coming out when there is a crack in the exterior of the disc.

The material inside the disc consists of

  • Annulus fibrosus – The tough layer on the outside
  • Nucleus pulposus – It contains the soft center, which feels like a gelatin

 

anulus_nucleus_herniation_spinal_canal_compressed_nerve_root

As you age, the breakdown of discs starts naturally. And excessive weight or bad posture exerts even more stress and speeds up the breakdown. Some other causes of slipped discs include:

  • Repetition of movements can impact an area that is already vulnerable, putting stress on the spine, lower back, etc.
  • Lifting weight in the wrong manner can also lead to slipped disc.
  • Injuries may also cause high-impact trauma to the discs causing them to tear or bulge.
  • There are studies that indicate that certain genes are common in individuals with disc degeneration.

 

You can have a look at the image below to understand the different stages of disc herniation that take place.

disc_herniation_stages

Slipped Disc Symptoms

The common symptoms which help in identifying slipped discs include the following.

  • Sharp or dull pain
  • Cramps or muscle spasms
  • Weakness
  • Referred pain
  • Tingling
  • Low back pain

 

However, there can also be cases of asymptomatic slipped discs as well. It means that it is not necessary for the condition to have such symptoms. The situation occurs when the bulging does not press on the spinal nerve or spinal cord.

How Is Slipped Disc Diagnosed?

The doctor will ask you to go through certain tests for an accurate diagnosis. There will also be a reflection on your physical capabilities, assessment of pain, muscle strength, and reflexes. The diagnosis may include the following tests:

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • X-rays
  • Myelogram
  • Computed Tomography (CT) scan
  • Electromyogram (EMG)

 

Surgical Vs. Non-Surgical Treatment Options: Which Is Better?

After a thorough diagnosis, the doctor will recommend a suitable treatment option. The available treatment options are as follows:

  • Medication
  • Physical therapy
  • Spinal injections
  • Surgery

 

Now, know that about 90% of the cases do not require the use of surgery. It comes into play only when the other treatment options fail to relieve the symptoms. And that is why chiropractic care has become a preferred choice in many cases. Also, it is a non-invasive option that allows the body to heal naturally.

Choosing between surgery and chiropractor may get you to think of certain factors, such as:

  • Whether you want an invasive treatment or not. A chiropractor is a good option for a non-invasive treatment.
  • If you are looking for fast relief, then surgery would be a better option than any traditional method of treatment.
  • Also, when the pain is severe and can not be controlled by chiropractic care, surgery would serve better.
  • A chiropractor may help in relieving the symptoms, but it will not treat the underlying symptoms.

 
Also, it would be better to let your healthcare provider choose the most suitable treatment for you as they would have a better understanding of your condition and will provide the best possible solution. And as you have seen already, there is no better treatment option. It all depends on which one is the best for you, which can differ for different individuals.

Also Read: How Helpful Is A Chiropractor For Headaches? Know The Truth

Ways To Prevent Slipped Disc

It is better to prevent a health condition from happening than to treat it. There are many ways to prevent the chance of a slipped disc.

  • Make sure to rest your feet and relieve the pressure on your back frequently.
  • Do not stress your back to lift heavy weights.
  • Pay heed to your posture and strengthen the core.
  • Try to maintain a healthy weight as it will help you avoid many other diseases as well.

 

You should know that while the condition is more common in older individuals, even youngsters can suffer from it. So make sure to follow a healthy lifestyle.

How Good Is Chiropractic Care For Treating Slipped Disc?

We saw the different treatment options available for a slipped disc. Now, let’s dive into the use of chiropractic care and how effective it is.

When you visit a chiropractor for the first time, they will have a look at your medical history and conduct physical, neurological, and orthopedic tests. It is a necessary protocol for symptoms of a herniated disc. Based on the examination, the chiropractor will be able to tell

  • Whether your reflexes are intact
  • Or there is some loss of strength or wasting muscles
  • Or if you can feel the sensation along the nerve path

 

The chiropractor may also ask you to get diagnostic tests for the identification of problems. Once the review of all the necessary information is complete, the chiropractor will determine the most suitable course of action. They may even recommend surgery if it is needed. However, if the situation can be controlled with chiropractic care, then they will try to make you recover as naturally as possible. It ensures that there are no side effects and your body can get back to the way it used to be.

For the treatment, a chiropractor will use spinal manipulation to ease the symptoms. Some techniques used for treatment include:

Flexion-Distraction Technique

It is a common chiropractic technique that can also help with slipped disc treatment. The technique helps in moving the disc to distance it from the nerve. However, it also involves many series of treatments alongside other stimulation therapies and diet. Of course, the chiropractor will be the one suggesting the routine activities.

Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA)

MUA is used for the treatment of many spine-related problems. It requires a specific location, such as a hospital. The type of anesthesia used in this treatment method lasts for about six minutes. The chiropractor performs spinal manipulation while you are in a sedated state. It usually requires an interval of about 2 to 4 weeks for approx. 1-3 sessions.

Pelvic Blocking Techniques

Pelvic block techniques are also used to treat the symptoms of a slipped disc. The treatment makes use of placing the cushioned wedges under both sides of the pelvis. Gentle exercises are also a part of the treatment. It allows mechanical changes that draw away the disc from the nerve if it is near any.

Can A Chiropractor Pop A Slipped Disc Back In Place?

You might have heard of people saying that a chiropractor can pop the disc back into place. While it may be common, it is only a misconception. No matter the techniques used, a chiropractor can not pop back the disc. The popping sound comes because of the release of gas that is within the joint. Under pressure, the gas releases and makes a popping sound.

Also, understand that a chiropractor does not fix the disc. It can only treat the symptoms using spinal manipulation, which we already talked about.

How To Manage The Side Effects Of Slipped Disc After Treatment?

While chiropractic care is well received and is safe and effective, there can be rare chances of side effects. These side effects usually get resolved within a few days. However, you should still have knowledge of them. They are:

  • Stiff back or neck
  • Neck pain
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Radiating pain

 

There can also be severe side effects which are even rare but require more care as well. These include:

    • The state of the current slipped disc worsens
    • Cervical arterial stroke due to the blood blockage in the brain
    • Spinal cord injury
    • Nerve root compression in the spine is called cauda equina syndrome.

     

    To prevent these extremely rare side effects, you should only consult an experienced and professional chiropractor.

    After recovering from the condition, there are many ways to manage the side effects. The ways include:

    • Pain medications to help with the pain after a surgery
    • Icing and heating can help with chronic pain and acute neck or back pain.
    • It is important to walk around and do bits of physical activity to ensure a fast recovery and reduce the chance of any side effects.
    • Make sure to stay away from heavy lifting, especially after surgery. Also, avoid sitting in a place for a long time.
    • Some exercise and stretching is sometimes recommended to regain strength and make the spine stable.

    Can A Slipped Disc Be Fully Cured (Naturally)?

    You might be surprised to know, but in 8 out of 10 cases, a slipped disc heals itself naturally. It has even been stated by a professor of the Neurological Surgery Department. According to the professor, what’s important is to get treatment while allowing the body to recover naturally, which is true in most cases.

How Helpful Is A Chiropractor For Headaches? Know The Truth

Posted on by adminpost

Almost everyone experiences a headache once in a while. It is a very common problem that can become bigger if you keep ignoring it. What seems to be a simple headache can easily become a nightmare. That is why it is essential to tend to that pain as early as possible to avoid any complications. And one of the best ways to treat that pain is to receive chiropractic care. While medicines are certainly helpful, prolonged consumption can lead to side effects. That is not something you would want in your life in the long run.

But then one question comes to mind, “Is Chiropractic care really effective for headaches?”. If yes, then how effective is it? And this is what we will try to answer in this blog. So, keep on reading!

The Most Common Types Of Headaches

While headache is very common, there are many types that may not be as common as the others. However, we will only focus on some of the common headaches for which people visit a chiropractor. This does not mean that chiropractic care will not be effective for other types. It’s just that it is not as common a sight as the ones we are going to mention.

The types are as follows:

  • Cluster Headache
  • Migraine Headache
  • Cervicogenic Headache
  • Tension Headache


Cluster Headache

cluster-headache
A common characteristic of cluster headaches is painful burning and piercing. The pain usually occurs beneath one of the eyes or around it. The symptoms of a cluster headache include

Swelling, redness, sweating, etc., on the side of the face, which is affected by the headache
Stuffy nose and watery eyes on that same side

A series of headaches lasting from about 15 minutes to over 3 hours is quite common. While there is no specific time period for the headache, the range can be from one occasional headache to 7-8 headaches every day.

Cluster headaches are more common in the season of spring and fall. As for the period between these seasons, the people are usually free of symptoms. Also, these headaches are more common in males than in females. However, the reason for their occurrence is still not clear.

Migraine Headache

migraine-headache

Migraine is another common type of headache that causes intense pain on either side of your head. One thing to note about migraines is that the pain gets worse with more physical activity. The pain can make you sensitive to light and sound and may even make you feel nauseating. Some people suffering from migraine may even experience these symptoms to an extreme level.

It is more of a neurological condition which is usually very difficult for the one suffering. And this condition is more common in females, contrary to clusters. The triggers for migraine are as follows:

  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Dehydration
  • Skipped meals


Cervicogenic Headache

cervicogenic-headache

The pain from a cervicogenic headache is one-sided and starts from the neck. Even though it originates there, the person can feel it up to the head. Also, it is very common to confuse this headache with a migraine or tension headache. However, the one notable difference is that cervicogenic headaches are secondary. It means that the source of the pain is another condition which can be a neck injury, infection, or extreme levels of blood pressure.

The symptoms of this headache are:

  • Light and noise sensitivity
  • Pain around the eyes and in the shoulders, neck, or one side of the arm
  • Pain from the movement of the neck or certain positions
  • Nausea
  • Blurry sight


The major cause for this headache type is the structural issues in and around the neck. And the most common place where it occurs is the C1-3 vertebrae which ultimately results in this headache. Other common causes are:

  • Strain in the neck
  • Whiplash
  • Fracture
  • Tumor
  • Upper spine arthritis
  • Infection


Tension Headache

tension-headache

Tension headache is the most common type of headache. People usually experience this pain in the form of episodes, once or twice on average. However, they can also be chronic. The pain can either be mild, moderate or sometimes even intense, occurring below the eyes or in the head and neck.

The cause of these headaches is still unknown, despite it being the most common form of headache. One possible reason is the muscle tension around the head and neck or due to problems in posture.

Being more sensitive to pain may also be one of the triggers. While there is also a belief that genes may have some sort of influence on the effect of this headache, there is not enough clinical evidence to prove that.

Some common triggers of tension headaches are as follows:

  • High consumption of alcohol
  • Daily stress
  • Strain in the eyes
  • Dental problems
  • Habitual smoking
  • Exhaustion
  • Bad posture
  • Cold or flu
  • Sinus infection
  • Dehydration
  • Not getting enough sleep
  • Increased intake of caffeine


Mild or moderate pain in the head is quite common. The other symptoms of the headache are

  • Dull pain in the head
  • Difficulty in maintaining focus
  • Getting easily irritated
  • Feeling nauseating or vomiting
  • A feeling of pressure around the forehead


Can A Chiropractor Really Help With Relief From Headaches? (Based On Research)

While the medicines do offer relief from the pain, the relief is just temporary. And that is one of the main reasons for visiting a chiropractor for headaches. They target the root of the pain and not the pain itself, which is beneficial in the long run.

But then a question comes up, “Is chiropractic care really effective for headaches?”. Let’s try to find out.

As per the American Chiropractic Association, chiropractors can be effective in treating headaches. There are also studies indicating that appropriate spinal adjustment may help treat different types of headaches.

There was one such report in 2014 which was published in the Journal Of Manipulative And Physiological Therapeutics (JMPT). According to that report, there was a significant improvement in the results of acute and chronic neck pain treatment. It led to the belief that chiropractic care may be helpful in the treatment of cervicogenic headaches. Another 2011 study in JMPT also indicates that chiropractic care may be capable of treating migraine and cervicogenic headaches.

Now, while the studies show the usefulness of chiropractors, there is not enough definite evidence to claim that. That is because there are also instances of associated risks/side effects.

Also Read: Top 4 Cervical Disc Herniation Exercises That Help Relieve Pain

How Can A Chiropractor Help With Different Types Of Headaches?

Even though the effectiveness of chiropractors is in question, the results state otherwise. And with a professionally trained & certified Chiropractor, the chances of a treatment going wrong also reduces.

You can also check out Dr. Michael Shaub (Realign Spine), who is a certified Chiropractor with over 26 years of experience.

Now, coming back to how a chiropractor can help with headaches. In case of a primary headache, the doctor may

Use spinal adjustment or manipulation to relieve the stress on your body and improve overall functioning.
Suggest you a dietary routine to meet your needs
Offer advice on maintaining posture, exercising, etc.

While these guidelines are helpful, they are very general and may not be appropriate for every headache. Let us have a look at the detailed treatment for specific types of headaches.

NOTE: While Chiropractic care may be effective in relieving pain, it may not treat the condition. The focus of chiropractic care is more on the symptoms than the condition itself.

Cervicogenic Headache

The techniques that a chiropractor uses for this type of headache include the following:

Spinal Manipulation: The Chiropractor may use hands or a device to control the flow of pressure to any specific joint of the spine. There is usually a popping sound when the Chiropractor applies the force.

The cervical spine is the focus of the manipulation when cervicogenic headache is concerned.

There may also be adverse effects of the treatment. However, most of them are mild and do not live long. In rare cases, there can be associated risks as well, such as

  • Stroke
  • Disc Herniation
  • Bleeding
  • Dissection
  • Nerve Compression


Joint Mobilization: The other method of treatment is joint mobilization, in which there is passive movement of joints. The motive of the Chiropractor behind this is to improve movement and reduce pain. This method also targets the cervical spine to provide relief from headaches.

Deep Neck Flexion Exercises:  In these exercises, there is involvement of joint and muscle movement. Of course, the exercises are performed under the guidance of an experienced and trained chiropractor.

Some examples of deep neck flexion exercises are:

  • Stretching neck muscles
  • Neck retraction
  • Bed hangs
  • Neck rotation


The supervision of an expert is really important as you can get involved in some injury due to the exercises. It may even worsen the pain.

The main goal of these exercises is to improve the movement and functioning of the deep neck muscles, which are crucial in supporting the neck. It also helps in improving the posture.

Migraine Headache

As migraines are usually associated with neck pain, chiropractic care may just be the right thing. The treatment options that a chiropractor uses for migraines are as follows:

Neuromuscular massage: This massage is also called trigger point therapy. That is because it focuses on the trigger points on the neck, shoulder, head, and back. The massage helps in improving the flow of blood and also relieves stress on the body. As the pressure from the nerves that send pain signals to the brain releases, the symptoms may ease.

Multidisciplinary care intervention: This method has been found to be very effective when it is used in combination with physical therapy exercises, stress management, a healthy diet, and relaxation techniques. It helps in reducing the pain due to migraine, its duration, frequency, as well as disability.

Tension Headache

Since episodes are common in tension headaches, chiropractors try to use spinal manipulation to relieve the stress on the body. The parts of the body which are stressed in the method include the neck, shoulders, and head.

Note that chiropractic care may not be as helpful as you might think. However, it certainly helps with relieving chronic pain.

Low-load craniocervical mobilization: It is the other form of treatment for tension headaches. The force used in this method is much lesser than spinal manipulation. In case of tension headaches, force may be applied to the neck joints. Stretching is also a part of this method which allows a flowing movement in the cervical segments.

Cluster Headache

As we already saw that cluster headaches are extremely painful, and that is also the reason why they are called “suicide headaches.” There are studies that say that chiropractors may be very effective in the treatment of cluster headaches. The reason for that may be because of the natural healing that chiropractic care offers.

While there is no certain cure, improving the overall healing and functioning of the body seems to be more effective. And that is what chiropractors offer.

Spinal manipulation is a technique that a chiropractor may use. But, to make it more effective, the Chiropractor may recommend the following:

  • Diet plan
  • Breathing exercises
  • Creating a healthy sleep schedule
  • Avoiding alcohol
  • Easy to do exercises


Is Chiropractic Care Safe For Children And Pregnant Women?

Taking the help of a chiropractor for headaches may be effective from a general perspective. But is it safe for vulnerable groups such as children or pregnant women? Let’s find out!

For Children

The common form of headache among children is migraine. And while the doctors may prescribe medicines, constant exposure to them may harm the children. The parents may also feel hesitant to provide their kids with medications.

In that scenario, chiropractors become an available option for treatment. In fact, there was a report by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners that about 20 percent of the population visiting a chiropractor was young and below 18.

Even though the number of children getting chiropractic care is sufficient, the quality of evidence is very low. Also, the American Chiropractic Association has evidence of adverse effects on children due to chiropractic care.

While the number of children with adverse effects was low, you should still be careful. If you are keen on seeking a chiropractor, ensure that the Chiropractor has experience in treating children.

For Pregnant Women

There are many experts that believe in the side effects of preventive medications. It can even lead to poor health for the mother and the unborn child. In this case, chiropractic care becomes an available alternative as well.

There is not much research on this specific scenario. However, there is an older study that suggests the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic care.

The study was conducted in 2009, involving a 24-year-old pregnant female. She had been suffering from chronic migraine for 12 years. Her treatment included many therapies and drugs, but none was able to provide her relief.

Later on, when she received chiropractic care through spinal manipulation, her symptoms improved. The need for medication also stopped after that.

This study suggests that chiropractic care may be helpful in relieving pain from migraine in pregnant women. However, there is a need for more research to say that with certainty.

6 Lifestyle Changes To Support Chiropractic Care

There is certainly a lack of research on the benefits of chiropractors for headaches. However, we can also not deny that it is effective for many.

You can also go for lifestyle changes which will serve as a support to chiropractic care. It will not only help with headaches but will also improve your quality of life. That is why we bring you some important lifestyle changes to support chiropractic care.

  • Drinking A Sufficient Amount Of Water
  • Move Towards A Healthy Diet
  • Try To Get 7-8 Hours Of Sleep
  • Go Out With Your Friends/Family To Relieve The Stress
  • Avoid Smoking & Drinking Alcohol
  • Exercise Regularly


It may be hard to believe, but your lifestyle can impact the intensity and frequency of headaches. All these activities also reduce the triggers for many types of headaches.

And if you still experience pain, contact a healthcare expert asap.

Is Chiropractic Care Really Effective For Neck Pains?

Posted on by adminpost

If you’re experiencing neck pain, you’re not alone! In fact, around 80% of individuals deal with various neck pains during their lifetime. According to the National Center For Biotechnology Information, neck pain symptoms affect one in three people yearly. But, as in most cases, the symptoms go away with time. However, they may come back later again. So, if you feel your neck is stiff occasionally, it’s generally not serious.

But, as one age, the symptoms can become more apparent, and the neck pain can even turn into chronic pain. These symptoms are more common in individuals with slipped disk or back pain. So, before the problem worsens, you should visit your doctor to know the best possible treatment options for your neck pain. You’ll find it reassuring that there are various treatment approaches proven to be effective for neck pain.

Based on the seriousness of your problem, your healthcare provider can recommend chiropractic care, warm compresses, therapeutic massage, and pain medications. However, they may even recommend surgery if your neck pain is extremely severe. But, most doctors focus on recommending pain management therapies to help your neck pain.

Pain medications may give you temporary relief from your symptoms. However, if you need long-term relief, chiropractic care is one of the best treatment options for neck pain that you can consider. But can a chiropractor really help with neck pain? Is this treatment option safe, or does it have any side effects? Well, get answers to all your chiropractor-related concerns for neck pain in this post!

What Are The Common Symptoms And Causes Of Neck Pain?

Now, before understanding the role of a chiropractor in helping with various neck pains, you must first know how neck pain works, its symptoms, and what leads to this complication.

People suffering from neck pain can experience a wide range of symptoms. If you have this condition, you can have minor discomfort or severe burning pain. There are multiple possibilities for why you’ll experience these symptoms, where most commonly, it’s either because of an injury or poor posture. The common symptoms of neck pain include:

  • Muscle spasm
  • Nerve pain
  • Stiffness
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Muscle ache
  • Headaches

Now, talking about the leading causes of neck pain, this includes:

  • Continuous poor posture
  • Complications like degeneration of the discs or arthritis
  • Injury or trauma, including whiplash
  • Muscle tightness and spasms

After knowing these common symptoms and causes of neck pain, it’s time to explore various types of neck pains.

Understanding Types Of Neck Pains

Basically, neck pains are of two types, including:

  • Acute Pain

During this condition, you experience strong and sudden pain in your neck.

  • Chronic Neck Pain

During this condition, the pain lasts for months and years.

A chiropractor can help by providing relief for different types of neck conditions, including:

  • Cervical sprain injuries
  • Whiplash
  • Degenerative joining syndrome of the neck
  • Cervical sprain injuries
  • Facet joint sprain

The treatment approaches can vary based on the pain type and its severity.

When Should You Be Concerned About Your Neck Pin?

Well, a slight pain in your neck isn’t that concerning. However, you must consult your doctor if the pain interferes with your daily life. Suppose you see your pain worsening or traveling down your arm and experiencing weakness. In that case, you must discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider.

This pain may indicate complications, such as a cervical disc bulge, spinal stenosis, or herniated disc. So, diagnosing is necessary before coming up with a treatment approach.

Other than that, if you’ve recently experienced a neck or head injury, can’t lift your head, or are facing blurred vision or dizziness, it’s high time you consult your healthcare provider or a medical center.

What Role Do Chiropractors Play In Helping With Your Neck Pain?

Now comes the main question, should you visit a chiropractor for neck pain? Well, you’ll be surprised that millions of patients take chiropractors’ help to relieve their neck pain. According to the reports by PubMed Central, chiropractic care may be the best pain management therapy for acute and chronic neck pain. A chiropractor generally performs neck adjustments to relieve neck pain without using an invasive approach. Since this is a non-invasive therapy with no medications needed, it’s considered safe.

In chiropractic neck adjustment, a chiropractor uses gentle force to correct your spine misalignment and improve your joint movements. This therapy helps reduce inflammation and enhance the affected joint functionality as well as the associated nerve. So, a chiropractor aims to improve your body mechanics, which helps relieve pain in your neck. Furthermore, this manipulation also enhances your overall function as well as the mobility of your upper back and neck.

Overall, there are several advantages of neck adjustment, including:

  • Increased connecting muscles flexibility.
  • Relieve pressure and tension
  • Enhances the cervical spine mobility
  • Removes neck muscles restriction
  • Toxin release
  • Recovering range of motion

Now, you may ask when is the right time to visit a chiropractor and for what conditions chiropractic care can help. Well, check the following scenarios where a chiropractic neck adjustment can help:

Accidents

Anyone who has recently gone through an accident and is experiencing pain in their neck can be the right candidate for a chiropractic adjustment. This is especially true for those who want to naturally recover from neck pain without using medications and undergoing surgery. Many times, accidents can even lead to misalignment of the spine. In those cases, chiropractic care is the best way to adjust your spine to its original position.

You Have A Sitting Job

If you’re part of the corporate world, most of the time, you may need to sit in one position for many hours to complete your work. While this may not harm you in the short term, the situation can become grave if you don’t take proper precautions. Sitting for long hours in one position puts a lot of pressure on your vertebrae. Due to this, you can end up with mild or severe neck pain. So, if you have a sitting job, taking the help of a chiropractor may not be a bad idea.

Also Read:  Tinnitus And Chiropractic Care: Is It A Viable Treatment?

Whiplash

One can suffer from whiplash, a type of neck injury because of forceful and rapid movement of the neck. This condition can cause your neck muscles to strain or sprain. In this situation, your chiropractor can give you the proper treatment for your neck pain.

Aging

Neck pain occurrence becomes more common as you age. You can suffer from degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis and spinal stenosis, leading to neck pain. However, worry not, as chiropractic neck adjustment can relieve such neck pains. 

Swelling

You can experience swelling in your neck due to an infection, injury, or fluid buildup. If swelling occurs in your neck, you can consult your chiropractor to treat the neck pain properly.

Constant Headaches

A chiropractor can help with migraines and frequent headaches with their various chiropractic procedures.

Indeed, a chiropractor can help you in many situations where you suffer from different types of neck pains. However, how exactly does a chiropractor help with neck pain? What techniques do chiropractors use to help relieve neck pain symptoms? Well, a chiropractor uses a combination of manual therapy, spinal manipulation, and other methods to treat your neck pain.

Here are a few spinal manipulation techniques used by chiropractors:

Flexion-Distraction Technique

It is a gentle, hands-on manipulation in which chiropractors use a pumping action instead of direct force on your intervertebral disc.

Specific Spinal Manipulation

This therapy involves using a gentle thrust to restore your joint movement.

Instrument-Assisted Manipulation

Your healthcare provider will use a hand-held instrument to apply force without thrusting into your spine.

Moreover, your chiropractor can also use manual therapies to relieve your neck pain. This includes:

Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy

This therapy aims to diagnose the condition and treat muscle tension.

Therapeutic Massage

Your doctor will use it to offer muscle relaxation.

Resistance Techniques And Manual Joint Stretching

The chiropractor uses it to manage your neck pain and other symptoms.

Trigger Point Therapy

You may go through this therapy to relieve painful and tight points in your muscle.

Now, other than the abovementioned therapies, your chiropractor may also provide you with the following treatments to ease your neck pain symptoms:

Inferential Electrical Stimulation

In this, the chiropractor may use a low-frequency electrical current to stimulate your neck muscles.

Ultrasound

This involves sending sound waves into the muscle tissue, which offers relief from neck pain and helps reduce stiffness.

Your chiropractor may also recommend some therapeutic exercises to help manage your neck pain and prevent it from progressing. You can know what types of treatments your chiropractor may offer from the above treatments. However, your actual treatment will depend on what your chiropractor thinks is best for you. They will come up with your treatment plan after they finish diagnosing your condition. Ask your doctor about the possible treatments you’re getting into.

What Is The General Approach Of A Chiropractor When You Visit Them For Your Neck Pain?

Well, if you’re considering getting chiropractic care for your neck pain, you may want to know how the entire process will run. Mostly, it all starts with a general consultation with your chiropractor. During this consultation, your chiropractor will ask about your current health status and what type of pain you’re experiencing. You can tell them about all your pains, whether chronic neck pain, lower back pain, shoulder pain, an injury, or a stiff neck.

They may also ask for your health history and even perform a physical exam focusing on your spinal health. Furthermore, your chiropractor may ask you to get an X-ray to diagnose your neck pain better. Now, once your healthcare provider has your reports, they can start providing you with proper treatment.

During the chiropractic neck adjustment, your doctor will ask you to lie on a table in specific positions so the treatment can target the affected areas. This is basically a specialized table where you mostly lay face down. Afterward, the chiropractor will use hand manipulation techniques to apply a gentle, controlled force to your joints. This force will push your joint beyond their regular range of motion. You may typically hear cracking or popping sounds as your healthcare provider moves your joints during the session.

Now, after the procedure, you may experience a few minor side effects, which can last for some days, such as fatigue, headaches, or pain in the treated areas.

Is Chiropractic Care Really Safe For Neck Pain?

We lack data regarding whether chiropractic care is actually effective for neck pain. However, several studies indicate that manual adjustment, in general, is safe. A chiropractor uses non-invasive hands-on therapies to promote your body’s natural healing capabilities. Also, there are multiple clinical trials that suggest chiropractic care is effective and safe for treating chronic neck pain.

Since chiropractic care is all about natural healing and not using medications and invasive methods, we can say this treatment is safe for neck pain and may even help relieve the symptoms of the complication. 

Should You Be Concerned If You’re Experiencing Neck Pain After Neck Adjustment?

Well, in any chiropractic adjustment, the primary goal is to offer relief from pain. But, sometimes, you can still experience pain after the procedure. However, you must not worry as this is totally a normal situation.

The possible reason why your neck may hurt is that your chiropractor has realigned your vertebrae that moved away from its original position. In such cases, you may have sore joints or muscles, indicating the alignment has finished successfully. However, suppose the pain starts to increase rapidly to unbearable levels. In that case, you must contact your chiropractor to check whether something is actually wrong.

If your pain is at normal levels, there are a few ways that may help reduce pain after a chiropractic neck adjustment. Consider following these tips as they can help manage your neck pain effectively:

  • Drink sufficient water before and after the chiropractor’s neck pain adjustment. This helps maintain the hydration and lubrication levels of your joints and muscles. Furthermore, it promotes toxin removal.
  • You must follow the care plan provided by your chiropractor positively. Your chiropractor has the actual knowledge of your current condition, and they can give you the best advice.
  • Consume healthy and nutritious food. This way, your body can get the nutrients it requires to heal quickly.
  • Make sure to have proper rest and night sleep after the neck manipulation. Let your body heal itself naturally by giving it time to recover.

Follow all these above tips, and you may find significant relief in your neck pain after the procedure.

How Often Would You Need To Visit Your Chiropractor For Neck Pain?

Well, there is no fixed answer for how often you’ll need to see your chiropractor for neck pain. The number of visits you’ll need to make can vary from individual to individual. Your chiropractor will conduct an examination where they will perform a physical assessment, palpation, consultation, and x-rays. This way, your healthcare provider can know the underlying cause of your neck pain. Furthermore, they can come up with the best treatment plan when they have this data.

The cause of the pain will be a significant deciding factor in whether your number of visits will be for the short term or the long term. However, you’ll mostly start experiencing relief in your neck pain after visiting your chiropractor 5 to 10 times. But, if you suffer from a severe condition or chronic neck pain, you may need to see your chiropractor for a longer period.

In general, chiropractic care can give relief to your neck pain symptoms. However, there is no guarantee that this treatment will provide permanent or long-term relief. Hence, you must consult your chiropractor if you don’t feel any improvement in your condition or symptoms after receiving chiropractic care. They may suggest some other effective treatment options and can even refer you to some other healthcare provider that can help with your neck pain.

Let The Best Chiropractor From Jackson Heights Help Your Back Pain!

So, can a chiropractor help with neck pain? Although there isn’t any guarantee you’ll get relief from your neck pain after receiving chiropractic care, there are some studies about the effectiveness of this treatment. A chiropractor can use spinal manipulation techniques, manual therapies, and other therapy types to relieve neck pain. Dr. Michael Shaub is an experienced chiropractor with over 26 years of experience at Realign Spine who offers the best therapies and chiropractic care for neck pain, whether acute or chronic.

Visit us today to know your best possible treatment options for neck pain through our chiropractor’s guidance.

Accepted Insurances
In-network provider
  • Aetna
Soon to be in-network
  • BCBS
  • Cigna
  • Oxford
  • UHC
Book Appointment

sadfasdf