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Chiropractic

It’s Not Sciatica Every Time! 

Sciatica

While sciatic nerve impingement/pain is the leading cause of lower back pain, it is not always the case of backache. Your back is a supportive structure comprising numerous bones, muscles, and soft tissues. Several times, deformity or disorder of any of this working armamentarium puts you in perpetual agony. So, in this article, we discuss conditions that are like sciatica and how you can manage them! 

Conditions Which Mimic Sciatica 

Joint Misalignment  

The sacroiliac joint (SI) is an important joint whose misalignment contributes to 10-25% of cases with low back and leg pain. Malignment of the joint mimics sciatic pain as patients experience radiating pain into the groin (or even lower extremity) with localized tenderness. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a common disorder that gives sciatica-like symptoms. Therefore, experts advise clinicians to thoroughly examine the SI joint, hips, and spine when diagnosing radiating pain in the low back.  

Iliotibial Band Syndrome 

An unusual cause of low back pain is iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS). The IT band is a tendon present in the knee, and its swelling contributes greatly to knee pain. However, in some instances, the tightness of the tendon may contribute to lower back pain as well. Iliotibial band tightness and hip adductor weakness may be weakly linked to backache. So, getting your ITBS fixed can relieve you of back and knee pain. 

Piriformis Syndrome 

One of the most common conditions mistaken for sciatica is piriformis syndrome. Therefore, it is often referred to as pseudo sciatica. The piriformis muscle is a major muscle located in the buttocks region that allows you to move your legs. Inflammation of the muscle can press on the sciatic nerve and induce pain, numbness, and tingling like what we see in sciatica. 

With advancements in diagnosis, clinicians now identify deep gluteal syndrome as a significant cause of sciatica-like pain and hip discomfort. The non-discogenic pelvic conditions (mimicking sciatica) that fall under this syndrome include: 

  • Piriformis syndrome  
  • Ishchiofemoral impingement syndrome  
  • Gemelli-obturator internus syndrome  
  • Proximal hamstring syndrome
Paraspinal Muscle Spasm 

An overlooked cause of low back discomfort is muscle spasm of the paraspinal muscles. The group of muscles runs along the back of the spine and plays a crucial role in stabilizing it. Desk workers who spend long hours sitting on a chair often experience muscle spasms, which manifest as back pain, reduced range of motion. Quick diagnosis and management with modalities like foam rolling can evidently alleviate pain. 

How To Manage Sciatica-Like Conditions? 

The answer to this question is “chiropractic management”. The realignment of your spine and muscles not only resets the anatomical structures but also improves blood flow (which is needed for quick healing). Studies show that a combination of chiropractic manipulation and exercises works best for SI joint dysfunction. Professional stretching of a tight IT band (with trigger point therapy and chiropractic manipulation) can successfully relegate low back pain. This non-invasive treatment modality is great at releasing tight paraspinal muscles, too.  

Chiropractic Treatment at The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic  

The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic has, for years, helped diagnose and treat patients with spinal problems. Our experts not only heal you but also help identify tricky conditions. This helps provide the exact, custom-tailored therapy for you. So, if conventional therapy for sciatica isn’t working for you, visit us, as it might be a disorder similar to sciatica! 

References  

  1. Thawrani, D. P., Agabegi, S. S., & Asghar, F. (2019). Diagnosing sacroiliac joint pain. JAAOS-Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 27(3), 85-93. 
  2. Visser, L. H., Nijssen, P. G. N., Tijssen, C. C., Van Middendorp, J. J., & Schieving, J. (2013). Sciatica-like symptoms and the sacroiliac joint: clinical features and differential diagnosis. European Spine Journal, 22, 1657-1664. 
  3. Arab, A. M., & Nourbakhsh, M. R. (2010). The relationship between hip abductor muscle strength and iliotibial band tightness in individuals with low back pain. Chiropractic & osteopathy, 18, 1-5. 
  4. Park, J. W., Lee, Y. K., Lee, Y. J., Shin, S., Kang, Y., & Koo, K. H. (2020). Deep gluteal syndrome as a cause of posterior hip pain and sciatica-like pain. The bone & joint journal, 102(5), 556-567. 
  5. Lankepillewar, S., Sapkale, S., & Nagulkar, J. (2024). The immediate effect of foam rolling in Paraspinal Muscle spasm, pain and range of motion in desk job workers. 
  6. Hatık, S. H., Tekin, D., & Bayram, K. B. (2022). Comparing the effectiveness of chiropractic manipulation and muscle energy technique in sacroiliac joint dysfunction treatment. International Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine Research, 3(1), 8-17. 
  7. Kasunich, N. J. (2003). Changes in low back pain in a long distance runner after stretching the iliotibial band. Journal of chiropractic medicine, 2(1), 37-40. 

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Chiropractic

Chiropractic Adjustment of Veterans in The Villages 

Chiropractic Adjustment of Veterans

We highly respect our veterans who have served the homeland with dedication and dignity. The strenuous training and hard duties make army veterans prone to injuries and body damage. According to a study, veterans are more likely to suffer from musculoskeletal disorders than non-veterans. As these retired army men age, these disorders gravely impact their performance and lower the quality of life. Thus, it is important that all veterans keep their bodies in check and regularly get chiropractic adjustments for a pain-free life! 

Chiropractic Adjustment of Veterans

All the veterans in the Villages, Tampa, Florida, can visit the Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic for professional chiropractic adjustments. This non-invasive treatment modality is beneficial for the following disturbances in veterans: 

Chiropractic Care for Veterans 

Arthritis  

Inflammation of the joints is a frequent complaint of most veterans. According to the CDC, approximately one-third of veterans are diagnosed with arthritis. Military men and women have a high propensity for osteoarthritis that can cause sufficient pain and reduced range of motion. Trauma and overuse misalign the joint structure and increase the chances of degeneration and inflammation. On the other hand, chiropractic adjustments realign the joints and curb the inflammation, leading to better joint health and life quality.  

Low Back Pain 

Another common painful disorder arising during military service is low back pain. In a study, around 30% of military personnel reported to the ER for low back pain, which continues to be a nuisance in later ages. The good thing is that chiropractic adjustments are pretty effective in alleviating unspecified back and neck pain. The realignment of the spine from the hands of a chiropractor allows quick healing and reduction in inflammation.   

Neck Pain  

Similarly, individuals who regularly take chiropractic sessions report significant improvements in their neck pain and upper body mobility. The latest research shows that chiropractic adjustment (especially spinal manipulative therapy) works great in alleviating spine pain that usually affects the neck and the lower back region. 

Knee Pain  

Veterans are no strangers to knee pain. Aches in the knee (especially the kneecap) are highly prevalent in the adult US population. A major contributor to the pain is knee osteoarthritis (knee OA). Animal studies have not only shown an improvement in symptoms with chiropractic adjustment but also the mitigation of knee osteoarthritis. So, with this therapy, you can also get rid of ailments that cause the pain! 

Chiropractic Adjustment at the Legacy Clinic  

The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic offers chiropractic adjustments for veterans in the Villages. The trained professionals at the facility are highly skilled and proud to serve our veterans. So, if your military service has induced any musculoskeletal issue, don’t delay and visit us asap! 

Conclusion 

Veterans often experience painful disorders such as low back pain, neck pain, and knee pain. These aches stem from the hard military training. During the young age, these problems are insignificant; however, with increasing age, the body aches greatly reduce life quality. So, an effective way to relax your veteran body is a chiropractic adjustment, which realigns the joints, alleviates pain, and promotes natural healing.  

References 

  1. Hinojosa, R., & Hinojosa, M. S. (2016). Activity-limiting musculoskeletal conditions in US veterans compared to non-veterans: results from the 2013 National Health Interview Survey. PLoS One, 11(12), e0167143. 
  1. Mattila, V. M., Kyröläinen, H., Santtila, M., & Pihlajamäki, H. (2017). Low back pain during military service predicts low back pain later in life. PLoS One, 12(3), e0173568. 
  1. Corp, N., Mansell, G., Stynes, S., Wynne‐Jones, G., Morsø, L., Hill, J. C., & van der Windt, D. A. (2021). Evidence‐based treatment recommendations for neck and low back pain across Europe: a systematic review of guidelines. European Journal of Pain, 25(2), 275-295. 
  1. Hawk, C., Whalen, W., Farabaugh, R. J., Daniels, C. J., Minkalis, A. L., Taylor, D. N., … & Weeks, J. (2020). Best practices for chiropractic management of patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain: a clinical practice guideline. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 26(10), 884-901. 
  1. Gevers-Montoro, C., Provencher, B., Descarreaux, M., Ortega de Mues, A., & Piché, M. (2021). Clinical effectiveness and efficacy of chiropractic spinal manipulation for spine pain. Frontiers in pain research, 2, 765921. 
  1. Conesa-Buendía, F. M., Mediero, A., Fujikawa, R., Esbrit, P., Mulero, F., Mahillo-Fernandez, I., & Mues, A. O. D. (2020). Beneficial effects of manually assisted chiropractic adjusting instrument in a rabbit model of osteoarthritis. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 13237. 
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Chiropractic

Chiropractic Treatment for Traps Pain  

Chiropractic Treatment for Traps Pain

The muscles holding your head can become inflamed and cause a significant amount of discomfort. A very important muscle present in the head and neck region is the trapezius. It stabilizes the shoulder blade and allows elevation, depression, and retraction of the shoulder. Moreover, it also assists in head movements and helps you maintain posture by supporting the upper back (and neck). 

Chiropractic Treatment for Traps Pain

Pain in the trapezius muscle is commonly referred to as “traps pain”. Patients suffering from traps experience severe pain between the shoulder blades. According to a study, 59% of patients with neck and shoulder pain suffer from some tenderness in the trapezius muscle, indicating underlying traps pain. The discomfort in the head and neck region can be effectively corrected using chiropractic treatment.

Traps Symptoms

The majority of patients report the following symptoms of traps:

  • Pain and stiffness in neck and shoulder.
  • Tenderness to touch in the upper back and neck region.
  • Difficulty in moving arms.

Traps Causes

Injury: A major cause of traps pain is injury to the muscle. Direct trauma to the neck region can damage the muscle and lead to symptoms.

Overuse: Over-the-head exercises and repeated movements increase your propensity to inflame the trapezius muscle.

Nerve Impingement: The spinal accessory nerve and cervical plexus of nerves innervate the trapezius muscle. Impingement of these nerves can also lead to pain, burning/numbness, etc.

Postural Issues: Poor posture can directly contribute to trapezius stiffness and associated chronic neck pain. Research shows that these musculoskeletal problems are highly prevalent in university students.

How Chiropractic Treatment Can Fix Traps Pain?

As already mentioned, injury and overuse of the muscle can cause it to become tender and painful. The underlying problem with activities like over-the-head exercises and falls with the hand in the out right position is subluxation of the first rib. These activities cause the trap muscle to tighten up and can result in brachial plexus impingement and consequent radiating pain down the arm. Joint-based manual therapy targets the 1st rib and corrects its position, thereby, bringing pain relief.

Chiropractors adopt different types of treatment modalities for traps including ultrasound therapy, myofascial band therapy, activator trigger point therapy, etc. Clinical studies reveal that activator trigger point therapy is the most effective in treating patients with non-specific neck pain and upper trapezius discomfort. However, your chiropractor can best identify the treatment type suited for you!

Get Rid of Traps: Visit The Legacy Clinic

The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic offers multiple solutions for traps pain. If you suffer from neck and shoulder pain, we advise you to visit the Legacy clinic and get your shoulder/neck mobility back. You can click here for a new appointment.

References

  1. Brandt, M., Sundstrup, E., Jakobsen, M. D., Jay, K., Colado, J. C., Wang, Y., … & Andersen, L. L. (2014). Association between neck/shoulder pain and trapezius muscle tenderness in office workers. Pain research and treatment, 2014(1), 352735.
  2. Wang, D. M., Li, C., Hatchard, N., Chang Chien, G. C., & Alm, J. (2023). Lower trapezius muscle function in people with and without shoulder and neck pain: A systematic review. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 123(2), 73-89.
  3. Najeeb, M., Habib, S., Mahmood, N., Kamal, M., Awajid, M., Aslam, H., & Hussain, I. (2022). Prevalence of Upper Trapezius Tightness Due to Chronic Neck Pain and Poor Posture in University going Students. Pakistan Journal of Medical & Health Sciences, 16(10), 119-119.
  4. Trager, R. J. (2021). Chiropractic and nontraditional treatment of NTOS. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, 229-240.
  5. Blikstad, A., & Gemmell, H. (2008). Immediate effect of activator trigger point therapy and myofascial band therapy on non-specific neck pain in patients with upper trapezius trigger points compared to sham ultrasound: a randomised controlled trial. Clinical Chiropractic, 11(1), 23-29.
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Chiropractic

Chiropractic Care Helps Improve Posture

Chiropractic Care Helps Improve Posture
Chiropractic Care Helps Improve Posture

The humans of the present era are sedentary, thanks to the widespread use of IoT devices, gadgets, smartphones, etc. Nowadays, every person owns a smartphone and wants to get everything done without leaving the comfort of the couch. This lifestyle has led to a high prevalence of bad posture and associated musculoskeletal disorders. As per reports, bad posture (mainly slouching) is highly prevalent globally and leads to issues like:

  • Neck pain
  • Lower back aches
  • Discomfort in the shoulder (right and left).

Chiropractic care is an effective way to cure mankind of this curse without burning the guts. It is a non-invasive procedure that relieves the pressure on your joints and muscles. So, today, we walk you through the benefits of posture correction with chiropractic treatment and how it helps!

How Chiropractic Treatment Corrects Posture?

Chiropractors are trained professionals who quickly identify the cause of your bad posture. Generally,common causes include slouching while using your smartphone or computer. Text neck is another disorder linked to excessive phone usage. By identifying the muscles under strain, your chiropractor will diagnose the underlying problem leading to these consequences.

After a quick diagnosis, a chiropractor can choose from the following treatment modalities as per your needs:

Spinal manipulation: The professional uses hands or specialized devices to deliver controlled forces that correct spinal misalignments.

Chiropractic adjustment: These allow the chiropractor to correct your slouching and forward head translation by realigning the vertebrae.

Spinal decompression: This is used in conditions where posture-induced spinal abnormalities apply pressure on the spinal nerves.

Manual therapy (soft tissue): Soft tissue manual therapy releases trigger points and improves the flexibility of muscles.

Benefits Of Posture Correction With Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic procedures are non-invasive so they do not require any pharmacological or surgical intervention. You can notice the following advantages of chiropractic posture improvement:

Pain Alleviation: Chiropractic care aids in lowering back pain and improving posture and gait in patients with Parkinson’s disease. According to a study, chiropractic therapy reduces slouchy posture and provides significant relief of neck and back pains.

Increased Mobility And Flexibility: Investigations have revealed that forward bending of the head (while using a smartphone) can lead to a whopping force of 27kg on the neck and back that impairs joint mobility. The majority of patients report evident improvements in joint mobility and overall body flexibility with chiropractic care.

Improved Resistance Against Injuries: By aligning the spine to its natural position, chiropractors release the excess burden on your muscles. This step paired with stretching and strength training makes the body robust and more resistant to injuries.

Where Can I Find The Best Chiropractic Care?

The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic is the ideal place to get your posture corrected. The trained professionals at the facility quickly diagnose your problems and provide custom-tailored treatment options! New patients click here to book an appointment.

Final Word

With the widespread overuse of gadgets and consequent bad postures, chiropractic care is a dire need of the hour. The minimally invasive procedure alleviates pain, improves mobility, and corrects issues like slouching, text neck, and spinal compression.

References

  1. Susilowati, I. H., Kurniawidjaja, L. M., Nugraha, S., Nasri, S. M., Pujiriani, I., & Hasiholan, B. P. (2022). The prevalence of bad posture and musculoskeletal symptoms originating from the use of gadgets as an impact of the work from home program of the university community. Heliyon, 8(10).
  2. Chu, E. C. P., Wong, A. Y. L., & Lee, L. Y. K. (2021). Chiropractic care for low back pain, gait and posture in a patient with Parkinson’s disease: a case report and brief review. AME Case Reports, 5, 34.
  3. Fortner, M. O., Oakley, P. A., & Harrison, D. E. (2017). Treating ‘slouchy’(hyperkyphosis) posture with chiropractic biophysics®: a case report utilizing a multimodal mirror image® rehabilitation program. Journal of physical therapy science, 29(8), 1475-1480.
  4. Farhat, A. A., Elnawasra, H. M., & Brakat, M. A. (2020). Rehabilitation program using the chiropractic and its effect on the posture and mobility of the neck of the mobile phone. Journal of Applied Sports Science, 10(1), 46-54.
  5. Chen, A. W. (2015). Effects of chiropractic adjustment on malalignment of posture and lumbosacral complex pain.
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Chiropractic

Where the Pros Go: Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic

legacy clinic in the villages

Founded in 2010, Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic in The Villages, FL, has swiftly risen to become the premier destination for athletes seeking experienced skeletal muscle care. From elite PGA golfers to NBA stars, NFL players, college athletes, and the cherished senior Olympians of The Villages, Legacy Clinic’s reputation as a haven for healing and performance enhancement continues to flourish.

At the heart of this remarkable clinic is Dr. John Theeck. Discovering The Villages in 1987 when his grandparents relocated here, Dr. Theeck’s vision of serving the people of central Florida formed early in his childhood. Little did he know that Legacy Clinic would evolve into one of the largest and most prestigious clinics, staffed with a team of experienced practitioners committed to excellence. While training at the Palm Beach Health Center in south Florida, he worked on Olympic athletes.

When he decided to move to this area, he brought those connections and his respected reputation with him. In 2010, he immediately met Richard Pettus, the athletic director and head football coach at The Villages High School. Dr. John became the team doctor at the high school, and everything took off from there. “I am honored and blessed to be in this area,” he said.

Dr. John has always been passionate about helping people. He believes there are so many functional ways to help somebody who is dealing with pain, and he likes the challenge of figuring it out. He strongly believes that what sets he and his talented staff apart is their passion, commitment to patient care, and having an overall culture aimed at helping people. That selfless drive led Dr. John to take nearly 10 humanitarian trips to the Dominican Republic and Haiti since 2008. He was accompanied by his staff on these trips, as well. “It was about helping people there but we all grew from this experience.”


With the growth of pickleball and treating top-level players, Dr. John also published, “Stretch Your Legacy,” a pickleball injury prevention book. The term legacy is meaningful to him. He included it in the name of his business as he is carrying on his grandparents’ legacy in this community. He also believes your health should be your legacy.

Dr. Theeck humbly shares, “I am blessed to work with such an amazing team of experienced doctors. If your needs are not structural-related, then we have some of the best soft tissue therapists.” His admiration for his team underscores the clinic’s collaborative ethos, where expertise and compassion converge to provide unmatched care.

Legacy Clinic’s multifaceted approach to health and wellness is key to its success. For those seeking cutting-edge solutions beyond traditional chiropractic care, the clinic offers regenerative medicine modalities, including injections and shockwave therapy. These advanced treatments are designed to rejuvenate and restore, offering patients new avenues towards healing and pain relief.

For those who call The Villages home, or for visitors seeking top-tier skeletal muscle care, Legacy Clinic represents more than a place of healing; it’s a community pillar, driven by a profound commitment to enhancing the lives of those it serves.

Embrace a legacy of wellness. Discover where the pros go. Discover Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic.

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Chiropractic

Chiropractic Treatment in The Villages: Testimony from A Dragon Boater

Chiropractic Treatment in The Villages
Chiropractic Treatment in The Villages

For years, the Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic has been providing relief to distressed patients of the Villages. At the facility, we strive to provide comfort to the patients by adopting all the means possible. Over the years, we have seen various types of patients. However, the greatest satisfaction is achieved when skeptic patients are satisfied with the treatment outcomes. One such patient who not only accepts our treatment type but also recommends it to others is Kathryn. Her experience at the Legacy clinic is a testimony to the high-quality services and the bravura of Dr.John Theeck!

Kathryn: A Dragon Boater with Shoulder and Back Pain

Dragon boating is a water sport that requires a team of participants to propel the boat using single-blade paddles. The nature of the sport requires players to train their upper bodies, especially the arms. Thus, overuse injuries are common in dragon boat players.

Kathryn is an enthusiastic dragon boater who started feeling discomfort in her left shoulder. Later, she started noticing that she was unable to sleep on the left side due to excruciating pain. However, she passed it off thinking it was an overuse injury (that had caused a rotator cuff injury), and waited for the symptoms to go away with time (and rest). But, things didn’t go as she expected and soon Kathryn was losing flexibility. She was unable to touch her toes on the left side (which alarmed her!). Moreover, the pain now also popped up on the right side of the body too. A significant ache in the rib cage and the right hip bone interfered with her daily activities.

Plagued with pain, Kathryn went for conventional medicinal therapy for some time. She was hesitant to try out chiropractic therapy as she was skeptical of the treatment’s safety and prognosis. On her visit to a licensed massage therapist, it was pointed out to her that her body was out of alignment.

So, though skeptical, she made an appointment with Dr.John Theeck at the suggestion of a friend. Here is how she felt during her treatment.

Appointment With Dr.John Theeck

According to Kathryn the staff at the facility was very friendly and welcoming. The nurse took a thorough history of her pain and disability.

Then Dr.John Theeck came into the room. The specialist looked professional and listened to every detail she provided. “I was impressed by the amount of time he gave to me and how calmly he listened to my problems”, she added. Dr.John accurately understood her symptoms.

What impressed Kathryn the most was that Dr.John immediately noticed her nervousness and anxiousness about the chiropractic adjustments. Therefore, the good doctor made her comfortable by dealing with her with utmost compassion and care. This ultimately led her to feel more confident and relaxed about the treatment.

Very professionally, Dr.John started chiropractic adjustments of Kathryn”s of the back. And straight away she could feel the body fixing. Then, as Dr.John fixed her neck, a loud noise cracking sound startled her. But, as soon as she rose from the table there was no discomfort in her back or in her shoulder!

Due to Dr.John’s compassionate treatment and guidance, the chiropractic session was relaxing and comforting.

After The Adjustments

The treatment changed her life! She can now sleep on her side pain-free and she has successfully regained her lost flexibility.

She returned to the clinic after a week for a follow-up checkup.

Unlike common money-making chiropractors, Dr.John didn’t force her into another session because her body maintained alignment well. This honest approach of Dr.John further impressed her. Now, she advises all people with pain/discomfort to visit Dr.John.

Kathryn’s Advice To Others

Kathryn exclaimed and we quote:

“Dr.John Theeck was awesome! I highly recommend him for his excellent communication skills. He is patient, kind, respectful, and inspired me with confidence, demonstrating understanding and compassion”.

So, if you have a pain that is keeping you from doing your favorite activities, please visit the Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic ASAP!

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Chiropractic

Why Are Chiropractic Adjustments Important for Preventing Spinal Damage?

Chiropractic Adjustments Important for Preventing Spinal Damage
Chiropractic Adjustments Important for Preventing Spinal Damage

Injury or trauma to the spine warrants the use of non-invasive procedures like chiropractic therapy, which is gaining rapid popularity in the US. The fact that US adults are seeking chiropractic treatment (especially for spinal problems) can be attributed to the multiple benefits of this therapy.

Improved recovery, enhanced blood flow, increased range of motion, and pain alleviation are the benefits of chiropractic treatment (to name a few). In addition to the boost in healing potential, chiropractic treatment prevents future spinal damage. Patients suffering from chronic degenerative spinal disorders or trauma/injury to the spine are prone to undergoing further spinal damage. However, precise chiropractic adjustments can save you from the grave consequences.

Causes of Spine Damage

A major cause of continuous spinal damage is injuries. Direct trauma to the spine can misalign the structures leading to severe symptoms and potential for further complications. Chronic inflammatory conditions also contribute to long-term obliteration of the spinal joints. The most common causes of spinal damage include:

  • Roadside accidents RSA (Auto-mobile accidents)
  • Falls (mainly in senile patients)
  • Sports injuries
  • Chronic disorders such as arthritis, spinal stenosis, and cancer

Injuries such as direct blows or gunshot wounds can also impact the spinal cord. All such patients can get help from a chiropractor.

Chiropractic Treatment Prevents Consequences

There are multiple ways in which a chiropractor can help save you from spinal damage. The most frequently adopted treatment modalities include:

Manual Adjustments

Most chiropractors perform manual, hands-on spinal adjustments on the affected part of the spine. Disc bulges and protrusions put pressure on the nearby nerves and vessels, leading to back pain. A constricted blood supply (due to disc slippage) leads to delayed healing and greater chances of muscle weakness. Thus, to boost recovery, patients seek chiropractic treatment as soon as possible. Depending on your condition, your chiropractor may opt for instrument-aided spinal adjustment. Activator adjusting instruments have shown promising results in spinal injuries.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

Another method of managing symptoms and limiting spinal damage is transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). In this non-invasive procedure, the health professional applies an electrode to the affected area which releases low-intensity electric waves. The main aim of this step is to reduce spasticity and minimize muscle cramps. Studies show that it is effective in reducing pain and enhancing the natural healing potential of the body.

Diathermy

Many patients use alternating hot and cold therapy to rid their soft tissues of inflammation and tightness. Diathermy generates deep heat within the body via electromagnetic waves which enhances mobility and accelerates tissue repair. Clinical studies show that microwave diathermy is effective in short-term management of musculoskeletal injuries. It strengthens soft tissues and prevents damage.

Ultrasound Therapy

Therapeutic ultrasound is helping many patients regain their lost joint mobility and muscle strength. The heat generated by ultrasound waves increases the “stretchiness of the spinal muscles” and boosts blood flow to the tissues. The stretchy muscle is less likely to get injured and thus, it prevents spinal damage.

Other effective techniques to protect the spine from disintegration include:

Spinal Damage Prevention at The Legacy Clinic

The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic is dedicated to ridding you of your pains and incapabilities. If you have sustained a spine injury (or suffering from a chronic inflammatory disorder) and fear that it might further damage your spine, visit the Legacy clinic ASAP!

The experienced professionals at the facility not only provide custom-tailored treatment (spinal adjustment, massage, acupuncture, etc.)  but also take necessary steps to strengthen the body from within. This prevents further spine damage and improves generalized health.

Final Word

Injuries to the spine and chronic painful conditions increase your chances of spinal damage. Timely chiropractic treatment helps realign spinal misalignments, strengthens joints, and improves muscular stretchiness. Therapies like manual adjustment, diathermy, TENS, and ultrasound therapy, etc. have shown good results in preventing spinal damage.

References

  1. Adams, J., Peng, W., Cramer, H., Sundberg, T., Moore, C., Amorin-Woods, L., … & Lauche, R. (2017). The prevalence, patterns, and predictors of chiropractic use among US adults: Results from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey. Spine, 42(23), 1810-1816.
  2. Huggins, T., Boras, A. L., Gleberzon, B. J., Popescu, M., & Bahry, L. A. (2012). Clinical effectiveness of the activator adjusting instrument in the management of musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review of the literature. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 56(1), 49.
  3. Vance, C. G., Dailey, D. L., Chimenti, R. L., Van Gorp, B. J., Crofford, L. J., & Sluka, K. A. (2022). Using TENS for pain control: update on the state of the evidence. Medicina, 58(10), 1332.
  4. Giombini, A., Giovannini, V., Cesare, A. D., Pacetti, P., Ichinoseki-Sekine, N., Shiraishi, M., … & Maffulli, N. (2007). Hyperthermia induced by microwave diathermy in the management of muscle and tendon injuries. British medical bulletin, 83(1), 379-396.
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Chiropractic

Chiropractic Treatment and Decompression for Spinal Degeneration

Chiropractic Treatment and Decompression for Spinal Degeneration

Degenerative disc disease is the most common type of spinal degeneration. The condition is characterized by a loss of function of vertebral bones (and discs). Multiple underlying conditions lead to degeneration of your spine. The most prevalent causes of spinal degeneration include:

  • Aging: With progressing age, there is wear and tear in all the joints, including vertebral joints. 
  • Arthritis: A major contributor to spinal bone breakdown is osteoarthritis. Another type of arthritis i.e., rheumatoid arthritis can also lead to degeneration. 
  • Disc Herniations: Spinal degeneration resulting from a slipped disc is seen in numerous cases. 
  • Spinal stenosis: Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis is the most frequent cause of low back pain in old patients. It is commonly associated with spinal stenosis.

Spinal degenerative disorders frequently cause lower back pain and neuropathic symptoms like burning, tingling, and paresthesias, etc. Patients suffer from reduced mobility and range of motion. This reduces the quality of life and further worsens the condition. Mostly older patients encounter these problems, therefore, healing is slow and disease progression leads to loss of function and mobility.

One of the most potent treatment strategies for managing all such disorders is chiropractic treatment. This is because a chiropractic adjustment is non-invasive and shows promising results in alleviating symptoms.

How Chiropractic Adjustment Helps Spinal Degeneration Conditions?

Chiropractors can improve the life quality of a spinal degeneration patient in multiple ways. Most chiropractors opt for joint stretching to realign the spine (bones and the muscles). The equal distribution of forces on your back eliminates many problems. Sometimes, chiropractors may choose instrument-aided spinal correction such as the flexion-distraction technique. Studies show that flexion-distraction decreases pain and improves function in degenerative disc disease patients.

Going to the chiropractor has numerous benefits, some of which are mentioned below:

Relieves Pressure from Vertebrae

As spinal degeneration may be triggered by a herniated disc, repositioning the intervertebal disc takes away the source of damage. Chiropractic adjustment effectively regresses lumbar disc herniation and improves symptoms of degeneration.

Improves Mobility and Flexibility

Spinal manipulation and decompression strategies not only minimize pain and neuropathic symptoms but also improve joint mobility. A clinical trial revealed that spinal manipulation enhanced spinal mobility and hip flexion, and improved self-perceived pain in degenerative disc disease patients.

Halts The Progress of Disease

Chiropractic sessions improve the blood supply of the spine. This promotes natural healing of the body. Patients report significant improvements in the condition and enjoy a boost in generalized well-being. This strengthens the mind and body and thus, halts the further progression of the disease.

Spinal Degeneration Management at The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic

The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic offers highly effective treatment modalities to manage and halt the progression of spinal degeneration. So, you can enjoy a pain-free, active life with the right chiropractic treatment.  

Conclusion

Multiple conditions like trauma, aging, arthritis, and disc slippage can cause spinal bones to degenerate. This leads to radiating pain, burning/tingling sensations, and muscle weakness, etc. Chiropractic treatment strategies (like joint stretching, and flexion distraction techniques) and decompression help relieve symptoms. This non-invasive procedure realigns the herniated disc, improves spinal mobility, and halts the progression of the disease. This leads to significant relief and enhanced quality of life.

References

  1. Siemionow, K., An, H., Masuda, K., Andersson, G., & Cs-Szabo, G. (2011). The effects of age, sex, ethnicity, and spinal level on the rate of intervertebral disc degeneration: a review of 1712 intervertebral discs. Spine, 36(17), 1333-1339.
  2. Fine, N., Lively, S., Séguin, C. A., Perruccio, A. V., Kapoor, M., & Rampersaud, R. (2023). Intervertebral disc degeneration and osteoarthritis: a common molecular disease spectrum. Nature Reviews Rheumatology, 19(3), 136-152.
  3. Koban, O., Öğrenci, A., Akar, E. A., Uyanık, A. S., Yılmaz, M., & Dalbayrak, S. (2021). Radiological and clinical comparisons of the patients with rheumatoid arthritis operated with rigid and dynamic instrumentation systems due to lumbar degenerative spinal diseases. Journal of Orthopaedic Science, 26(3), 369-374.
  4. Kirnaz, S., Capadona, C., Wong, T., Goldberg, J. L., Medary, B., Sommer, F., … & Härtl, R. (2022). Fundamentals of intervertebral disc degeneration. World neurosurgery, 157, 264-273.
  5. Hennemann, S., & Abreu, M. R. D. (2021). Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. Revista brasileira de ortopedia, 56(1), 9-17.
  6. Buser, Z., Ortega, B., D’Oro, A., Pannell, W., Cohen, J. R., Wang, J., … & Wang, J. C. (2018). Spine degenerative conditions and their treatments: national trends in the United States of America. Global spine journal, 8(1), 57-67.
  7. Pi, T., & Chung, Y. (2021). Immediate effect of flexion-distraction spinal manipulation on intervertebral height, pain, and spine mobility in patients with lumbar degenerative disc disease. Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Science, 10(2), 235-243.
  8. Chu, E. C., Chakkaravarthy, D. M., Lo, F. S., & Bhaumik, A. (2020). Regression of lumbar disc herniation following non-surgical treatment. European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine, 7(1), 27-79.
  9. Vieira-Pellenz, F., Oliva-Pascual-Vaca, Á., Rodriguez-Blanco, C., Heredia-Rizo, A. M., Ricard, F., & Almazán-Campos, G. (2014). Short-term effect of spinal manipulation on pain perception, spinal mobility, and full height recovery in male subjects with degenerative disk disease: a randomized controlled trial. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 95(9), 1613-1619.

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Chiropractic

How Chiropractic Adjustment and Spinal Decompressions Help Disc Bulges, Herniations and Protrusions?

Chiropractic Adjustment and Spinal Decompressions Help Disc Bulges

The most effective non-surgical method of managing a herniated disc is chiropractic care. Numerous patients across the globe seek chiropractic treatment for aches induced by a slipped disc. According to reports, there is a growing trend of chiropractic care in US adults. The lifetime prevalence of patients seeking chiropractic care (majorly for back and neck pain) was 24%. The numbers continue to rise because of the therapeutic advantages of chiropractic treatment.

Chiropractic Strategies for Disc Protrusions

A protruded or bulging disc exerts unnatural pressure on the nearby nerves. This nerve impingement can lead to the development of symptoms in the area innervated by the nerve. The most common issues encountered with a disc slip include:

  • Radiating pain (especially back pain radiating from the buttocks/lower back to the feet)
  • Burning 
  • Tingling
  • Numbness
  • Muscle weakness

Depending on the area, a slipped disc can present with symptoms like neck pain and lower back pain. The cervical (neck) and lumbar vertebrae are most prone to injury and protrusions.

Chiropractors are trained professionals who can relieve your debilitating symptoms. There are various techniques that a chiropractor adopts to help cut down the pain and agony. The highly effective techniques to realign a bulging disc include:

Spinal Decompression

This involves applying gentle forces on the mispositioned vertebrae. This particular treatment type significantly lowers pain and other symptoms. Therefore, it is considered a suitable option for conservative management of lumbar disc herniation.

Flexion-distraction technique

In addition to the conventional manual adjustment, chiropractors also perform specialized therapies for disc protrusions. Performed on a specialized table, the flexion-distraction technique involves gentle stretching i.e., distraction of the spine. The chiropractor flexes the spine in a rhythmic motion. This technique also improves the disc height. Studies conclude flexion-distraction to be a viable non-surgical treatment option for disc slip patients. Most individuals readily accept the treatment option and report significant improvements in symptoms.

Ultrasound Therapy

The introduction of ultrasound waves into the body produces heat which is capable of healing skeletomuscular disorders. Many chiropractors combine different therapies to achieve superior results. Ultrasound therapy and short-wave diathermy (heat application) help improve symptoms of disc bulging.

Laser Therapy

The field of therapeutic lasers is continually evolving. Therefore, now we have medical lasers for different medical conditions. The use of lasers in spinal disorders has shown promising results. According to a 2020 study, high-intensity laser therapy is highly effective in controlling lumbar disc herniation pain.

Other potent non-surgical disc herniation strategies include:

  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
  • Dry needling
  • McKenzie exercises

Disc Herniation Treatment at The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic

The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic offers multiple treatment options to manage disc protrusions under one roof. If your radicular pain is proving to be debilitating, visit the Legacy clinic and get your health back!

Conclusion

A disc herniation can be a debilitating disorder. Numerous patients avoid surgery and prefer non-surgical approaches. Chiropractic treatment is a safe, efficacious, and highly effective mode of healing for disc herniations. Most chiropractors use a combination of different techniques like spinal decompression, flexion-distraction, ultrasound, laser therapy, etc to obtain better results. Clinical studies advocate the use of these strategies in the symptomatic management of cervical/lumbar disc herniations.

References

  1. Adams, J., Peng, W., Cramer, H., Sundberg, T., Moore, C., Amorin-Woods, L., … & Lauche, R. (2017). The prevalence, patterns, and predictors of chiropractic use among US adults: Results from the 2012 National Health Interview Survey. Spine, 42(23), 1810-1816.
  2. Choi, E., Gil, H. Y., Ju, J., Han, W. K., Nahm, F. S., & Lee, P. B. (2022). Effect of Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression on Intensity of Pain and Herniated Disc Volume in Subacute Lumbar Herniated Disc. International journal of clinical practice, 2022(1), 6343837.
  3. Kruse, R. A., White, B. A., & Gudavalli, S. (2019). Management of Lumbar Radiculopathy Associated With an Extruded L4-L5 Spondylolytic Spondylolisthesis Using Flexion-Distraction Manipulation: A Case Study. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 18(4), 311-316.
  4. Ozen, S., Guzel, S., Senlikci, H. B., Cosar, S. N. S., & Selcuk, E. S. (2023). Efficacy of ultrasound versus short wave diathermy in the treatment of chronic low back pain in patients with lumbar disk herniation: a prospective randomized control study. BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation, 15(1), 157.
  5. Huang, Y., & Gao, D. (2020). The effectiveness of high intensity laser therapy in the patients with lumbar disc herniation: A protocol of randomized placebo-controlled trial. Medicine, 99(41), e22520.
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Chiropractic

The Role of Chiropractic Treatment and Spinal Decompression in Stenosis

Chiropractic Treatment and Spinal Decompression
Chiropractic Treatment and Spinal Decompression

Spinal stenosis is a chronic condition characterized by the narrowing of your spinal canal. This narrowing leads to compression of the nearby nerves which leads to discomfort and symptoms like radiating pain, burning aches, numbness, or tingling sensation (mostly in the legs and feet). As spinal stenosis compromises the nerve supply of the muscles, long-term disease can also cause muscle weakness. According to reports, every 5/1000 persons in the US above 50 years of age suffer from spinal stenosis. Experts predict that the prevalence of spinal stenosis will increase up to 18 million in the next decade.

Therefore, effective treatment modalities are important in managing the condition. As spinal stenosis mostly affects old adults, it is preferable to opt for non-surgical methods of treatment. Some of the most potent non-surgical treatment strategies for spinal stenosis are mentioned below:

Common Chiropractic Treatment Strategies for Spinal Stenosis

Chiropractic treatment is the go-to spinal treatment for many individuals across the globe. At a chiropractic clinic, you can get relief from your spinal stenosis pain in a number of ways.

Spinal Adjustments/Manipulation

Chiropractors perform manual spinal adjustments to realign the spine. This realignment of the vertebral bones tends to correct spine deformities. Sometimes, a herniated disc causes the spinal canal to narrow. Studies suggest that chiropractic adjustment shows promising results in managing herniation-induced spinal stenosis. Thus, this conservative approach must be considered.

Flexion-Distraction Technique

The flexion-distraction therapy is a chiropractic technique for relieving spine pain. It is performed on a special table and is characterized by gentle distraction and rhythmic spine flexion. This very technique has proven to be an effective intervention in minimizing pain and disability in lumbar spinal stenosis patients. A 2022 study concluded that spinal manipulation (flexion-distraction technique) improved objective and subjective outcomes in lumbar spinal stenosis patients.

Therapeutic Massages

Massage therapy is known to improve blood flow and promote natural healing. The professional touch of a masseuse can alleviate pain and anxiety. Therapeutic massages have shown good results in reducing back pain due to scoliosis, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis.

Ultrasound Therapy

Modern chiropractors frequently use high-frequency ultrasound waves to relegate low back pain, relax muscles, and enhance blood flow. Most of the time, ultrasound therapy is used in conjunction with other chiropractic treatments. Combined use of exercise, ultrasound therapy, and manual manipulation improves symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis.

Spinal Decompression for Spinal Stenosis

Nonsurgical spine decompression is usually done to relieve back pain. It is a motorized traction method that gently stretches the spine to decompress the impinged structures. By applying gentle forces, the chiropractor creates negative pressure on the discs leading to realignment of the spine. Such non-surgical interventions have shown promising results in improving function among lumbar spinal stenosis patients.

Spinal Stenosis Management at The Legacy Clinic

The Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic offers multiple treatment modalities to minimize your stenosis patients. So, don’t delay and get instant pain relief by booking an appointment.

Final Word

Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal column that may cause radiating pain and nerve symptoms like burning, tingling, paresthesias, and even muscle weakness. Non-surgical management is a potent treatment option. A chiropractor can effectively alleviate symptoms with spinal adjustments (flexion-distraction technique), therapeutic massages, ultrasound therapy, etc. Moreover, non-surgical spinal decompression involves gentle traction of the spine to realign it.

References

  1. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/spinal-stenosis
  2. Raja, A., Hoang, S., Patel, P., & Mesfin, F. B. (2017). Spinal stenosis.
  3. Zhang, A. S., Xu, A., Ansari, K., Hardacker, K., Anderson, G., Alsoof, D., & Daniels, A. H. (2023). Lumbar disc herniation: diagnosis and management. The American journal of medicine, 136(7), 645-651.
  4. Chu, E. C. P., & Sabourdy, E. (2023). Non-surgical restoration of L3/L4 disc herniation. Cureus, 15(6).
  5. Choi, J., Lee, S., & Jeon, C. (2015). Effects of flexion-distraction manipulation therapy on pain and disability in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. Journal of physical therapy science, 27(6), 1937-1939.
  6. Smith, D. L., Olding, K., Malaya, C. A., McCarty, M., Haworth, J., & Pohlman, K. A. (2022). The influence of flexion distraction spinal manipulation on patients with lumbar spinal stenosis: A prospective, open-label, single-arm, pilot study. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 32, 60-67.
  7. Allen, L. (2016). Case study: the use of massage therapy to relieve chronic low-back pain. International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork, 9(3), 27.
  8. Whitman, J. M., Flynn, T. W., Childs, J. D., Wainner, R. S., Gill, H. E., Ryder, M. G., … & Fritz, J. M. (2006). A comparison between two physical therapy treatment programs for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis: a randomized clinical trial.
  9. Delitto, A., Piva, S. R., Moore, C. G., Fritz, J. M., Wisniewski, S. R., Josbeno, D. A., … & Welch, W. C. (2015). Surgery versus nonsurgical treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis: a randomized trial. Annals of internal medicine, 162(7), 465-473.