articles

Trigger point therapy revolves around applying pressure to 'trigger points' to alleviate pain and restore normal muscle function. This therapeutic approach is gaining increasing recognition in the world of chiropractic for its capacity to provide long-term pain relief.

How Does Trigger Point Therapy Work?

Trigger point therapy works by applying pressure to the painful muscle area, prompting the muscle to relax and relieve tension. The chiropractor locates the trigger point by palpating the muscle and looking for areas of tightness or sensitivity.

When the trigger point is compressed, it can sometimes cause referred pain, meaning the pain is felt in another part of the body. Once the chiropractor has located the trigger point, they will apply pressure using their hand or a special tool.

The pressure applied helps to increase the blood flow to the area, which aids in the removal of waste products and encourages the muscle to operate more efficiently. The relaxation of the muscle can alleviate pain and increase mobility, leading to an overall improved quality of life.

Applications for Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger point therapy can be used to treat a wide variety of physical conditions. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with muscular pain, and conditions such as headaches, temporomandibular joint pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, back pain, and sports injuries.

Trigger point therapy can also be used to treat skeletal issues. Patients with conditions like plantar fasciitis, sciatica, and shin splints have found relief through trigger point therapy.

This versatile approach to pain management is also used in the treatment of fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread muscle and joint pain, and fatigue.

Muscle stimulation (E-Stim) is a type of treatment often used in chiropractic care. It involves sending mild electric currents to specific areas of the body, causing the muscles to contract. These contractions are intended to mimic the natural way our bodies move, assisting in muscle movement and growth. This technology has been used for a variety of purposes, ranging from treating muscle spasms and pain to enhancing athletic performance.

How Muscle Stimulation (E-Stim) Works

Understanding the functionality of muscle stimulation (E-Stim) begins with a basic comprehension of how our muscles work. In simple terms, our muscles contract in response to signals from our brain. These signals are sent via nerves and are essentially electrical impulses. E-Stim mimics these natural impulses, causing the muscles to contract without the need for conscious thought.

The equipment used for E-Stim comprises an E-Stim machine, electrodes, and leads. The machine generates electrical impulses, which are delivered to the target muscles through the electrodes via the leads. The intensity and frequency of these impulses can be adjusted, allowing for customization based on individual needs and goals.

E-Stim has the ability to target both superficial and deep muscles, making it a versatile tool in the field of chiropractic care. By adjusting the frequency of the current, professionals can decide which muscle groups to target. High-frequency currents target superficial muscles, while low-frequency currents penetrate deeper, affecting the muscles beneath the surface. This ability to customize the treatment makes E-Stim an effective tool for a variety of conditions and goals.

Applications for Muscle Stimulation (E-Stim)

There are numerous applications for muscle stimulation (E-Stim), ranging from sports and fitness to rehabilitation and pain management. In the realm of fitness and sports, E-Stim can be used to enhance muscle strength and endurance. Athletes may use E-Stim as part of their training regimen to improve performance and reduce the risk of injuries.

In rehabilitation, E-Stim has proven to be an effective tool in treating a variety of conditions. It can be used to restore muscle function in individuals recovering from stroke, spinal cord injury, or surgery. Additionally, it can help manage symptoms of conditions such as multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy by improving muscle tone and coordination.

In the field of pain management, E-Stim is often used to provide relief from chronic pain. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy. Additionally, it can assist in the management of acute pain, such as post-operative pain or pain resulting from an injury.

In the world of medical treatments and therapies, ultrasound therapy is playing an increasingly prominent role. It can be used to help manage a variety of health conditions and ailments, proving to be a game-changer in the world of chiropractic.

What is Ultrasound Therapy?

Ultrasound therapy is a treatment modality used by chiropractors to treat pain and to promote tissue healing. It is not to be confused with diagnostic ultrasound, which is used to visualize the interior of the body, such as during pregnancy or to diagnose certain diseases. Ultrasound therapy is used purely for therapeutic purposes, harnessing the power of sound waves to offer relief and recovery.

How Ultrasound Therapy Works

Ultrasound therapy relies on the principles of sound wave propagation and absorption to deliver its therapeutic effects. When the sound waves produced by the ultrasound machine enter the body, they cause microscopic vibrations in the tissues. This vibration causes friction, which in turn produces heat. This heat increases the blood flow to the area, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissues and facilitating their repair and regeneration.

In addition to this thermal effect, ultrasound therapy also has a non-thermal effect. The sound waves can help to break down scar tissue and adhesions, improving the flexibility and mobility of the tissues. They can also stimulate the cells to produce more collagen, a protein that is essential for tissue repair and regeneration.

Applications for Ultrasound Therapy

When it comes to the application of ultrasound therapy, its versatility is truly remarkable. It can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, from musculoskeletal problems like arthritis and tendonitis to wound healing and pain management.

Musculoskeletal conditions, such as osteoarthritis or plantar fasciitis, can greatly benefit from ultrasound therapy. The sound waves can penetrate deep into the tissues, reducing inflammation and stimulating healing. This can help to alleviate pain and stiffness, improving the patient's quality of life.

IV Therapy is a treatment modality that involves the direct delivery of fluids and nutrients into a patient's bloodstream via an intravenous route. This method bypasses the digestive system, ensuring that the substances administered are 100% absorbed and utilized by the body.

How IV Therapy Works

The process begins with the insertion of a small, thin tube called a catheter into a vein, usually in the arm or hand. This catheter is connected to a bag containing the chosen fluid solution, and the fluid is controlled to drip slowly into the bloodstream.

When we consume substances orally, they have to pass through our digestive system where they are broken down, and only a portion is absorbed into the bloodstream. With IV Therapy, the administered substances go straight into the bloodstream, leading to immediate and 100% absorption.

Additionally, IV Therapy allows for the administration of higher doses of nutrients than would be possible orally. This can be particularly beneficial for those with certain medical conditions, nutrient deficiencies, or those who are not able to consume enough nutrients through their diet.

Applications for IV Therapy

IV Therapy's versatility is one of its most appealing features. It can be used for a broad range of applications, from managing chronic diseases, supporting recovery from surgeries and illnesses, to enhancing overall wellness.

For instance, IV Therapy can be used in cases of dehydration, where the administration of fluids can quickly restore the body's water balance. Similarly, in patients suffering from nutrient absorption issues, IV Therapy can provide the required nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the faulty digestive system.

Additionally, IV Therapy is used in preventive care as well. A well-formulated IV drip can boost the immune system, helping to ward off infections. In the field of aesthetics and wellness, IV Therapy is used for detoxification, anti-aging, and even enhancing athletic performance.

Spinal decompression is a non-surgical therapy that can reduce or eliminate this discomfort and improve the quality of life for many people. This procedure is considered safe, with a low risk of side effects. It is a non-invasive, outpatient treatment that does not require any incisions or anesthesia.

How Spinal Decompression Works

The spine is made up of vertebrae separated by discs that act as shock absorbers. When these discs become compressed due to injury or wear and tear, it can result in pain, numbness, or weakness in the back and legs.

Spinal decompression works by gently stretching the spine. This change in force and position of the spine takes pressure off the spinal discs, in particular bulging or herniated discs, by creating negative pressure in the disc. As a result, the disc is pulled back into position, and the flow of nutrients and other substances necessary for healing is facilitated.

Applications for Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression has a wide range of applications and can benefit a variety of individuals. Those suffering from chronic lower back pain, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, sciatica, spinal stenosis, or a relapse or failure following surgery, with no apparent cause, can find relief through this non-invasive therapy.

Spinal decompression can also be beneficial for those who have been involved in an accident or suffered a sports injury. The therapy may help in the recovery process by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

If you are a little confused about what chiropractic care actually entails, you are most certainly not alone. Many people are confused about the nature of chiropractic treatment and the somewhat poor reputation associated with chiropractic care. 

Let's find out more about this highly successful form of alternative medicine that offers relief to millions of Americans every year. 
 

What is chiropractic care?

Various forms of manipulation have been used therapeutically for centuries. However, it wasn’t until the 1800s that scientific basis for the practice was instituted, and the word ‘chiropractic’, a translated form of the Greek words cheir and praktos, which essentially mean ‘done by hand’, was established. 

Chiropractic care refers to the manual manipulation of the body with the purpose of alleviating problems with the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system is comprised of the bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, joints and other connective tissues that provide shape, support, stability and movement in the body. When there are problems within the musculoskeletal system, it can cause mild, chronic or extreme pain, limited mobility, and difficulty in carrying out our usual day to day tasks.

A chiropractor can treat a variety of spinal conditions and their side effects by manipulating the spine by hand – a process that sounds much more intense and painful than it really is. In fact, spinal manipulation is a precise, swift adjustment that aims to release the pressure on the nerves in your back in order to allow the body to begin to heal itself. 
 

What issues can chiropractic care help address?

Chiropractic care has been successfully used to treat a wide range of spinal conditions with most problems occurring either in the lower back (lumbar) or neck (cervical spine). Some of the most commonly seen conditions treated by chiropractors include:

• Arthritis in the spine

• Herniated disc

• Pinched nerves

• Sciatica

• Scoliosis

• Spinal stenosis

• Whiplash, usually as a result of an automobile accident

With more vehicles on the road than ever before, automobile accidents have unfortunately become a common occurrence. Even the most confident and experienced driver can make mistakes that sometimes have catastrophic results. Estimates suggest that there are around 2.35 million auto injuries in the United States every year – more than 6,000 every single day – and while some injuries may be minor, others can have debilitating and sometimes permanent consequences. 

Neck and back damage is among the most common type of injury sustained during automobile accidents. This is because the force of the impact overextends and strains the ligaments and muscles in the back, causing injuries including:
 

Compression fractures

These occur when the upper part of the body is thrown forward while the lower body is restrained by a seat belt. When this happens, the vertebrae can be pulled apart, causing them to fracture. In severe cases, the spinal cord may also become damaged by fractured pieces of bone.
 

Disc herniation

The intervertebral discs are sponge-like circular pads that sit in-between the vertebrae. They have several functions, including enabling the spine to absorb impacts without becoming damaged. However, if the outer layer of a disc becomes damaged, the soft, inner gel can seep out and irritate the surrounding nerves.
 

Spondylolisthesis 

This condition occurs when a vertebra moves out of place due to force or a fracture in the bone. The displaced bone may then press on the surrounding nerves, causing pain and other neurological symptoms.
 

Whiplash

Whiplash is most common in rear-end collisions as the impact of the secondary car forces your head to ‘whip’ backward and forwards in quick succession and as a result, the muscles in the neck are overextended. 
 

Lower back pain is an exceptionally common complaint and it is estimated that 80% of Americans will suffer from it at some point during their lifetime. Lower back pain is also a leading cause of absence from work due to ill health, even though more than half of all cases are believed to be a direct result of the patient doing a job that involves continual sitting.

In many cases, the back pain is either not severe enough for the patient to seek professional intervention or it resolves itself within a few days. However, there is a percentage of individuals who suffer from chronic, recurrent back pain and are reliant on pain medication to help keep them comfortable day today. 

Fortunately, there is no longer any need to suffer from ongoing lower back pain. Chiropractic care from a trained and experienced professional can help relieve your discomfort and enable you to work, sleep and enjoy life without worrying about back pain. 
 

What causes lower back pain?

The lower back, also known as the lumbar, works with the bones of the pelvis to help support the weight of our body as well as to stabilize, rotate, flex and bend the spinal column.

Lower back pain has been attributed to many different things, but experts tend to agree that a sedentary lifestyle, combined with the growing obesity problem, has definitely contributed to the increasing number of people experiencing lower back pain. Posture is also a significant cause of lower back pain. Sitting at laptops and computers for hours on end as well as sitting too long while driving and when watching television are all associated with this type of discomfort.

Occasionally, back pain can be attributed to a medical condition such as sciatica, irritation of the nerve that runs from the pelvis to the feet, or a slipped/herniated disc. Nevertheless, it is often impossible to pinpoint an exact cause of lower back pain and is therefore often referred to as ‘non-specific back pain’ by doctors. 

If you are a new chiropractic patient, there are several initial tests that you can expect your chiropractor to perform. In addition to collecting a detailed family and personal medical history, you will likely receive a detailed physical exam to identify any potential issues which should include a spinal and postural screening.

Spinal and postural screening is a test conducted by your chiropractor that can help identify neuromusculoskeletal disorders before any serious issues arise. This test can find spinal alignment and postural positioning that hasn't presented with an actual problem yet, but if left untreated, may cause chronic conditions in the neck or back.
 

Screening

Our bodies are meant to have all portions of the torso balanced. This means that our heads, necks, shoulders, rib cage, spine, abdominal cavity, and pelvis must all be in proper alignment to function at our highest level. When one of these systems is out of alignment, it can have a cascading effect on the rest of our body. When we aren’t in proper alignment, it’s generally the spine that compensates and bends to accommodate our positioning which places additional stress on the spine and surrounding tissues. Over time, poor positioning can lead to spinal injuries or disease. Some of these diseases include:

• Scoliosis

• Herniated disc

• Strained, sprained, or pulled muscles

• Sports injuries

• Chronic headaches

• Neck or back pain

• Shoulder injuries

Furthermore, poor positioning in our adolescent years has a correlation with the progression of arthritis and chronic pain in adulthood. This means that young adults or children may also benefit from receiving a spinal and postural screening from a licensed chiropractor.

The actual screening process occurs in two parts. The first part is the static screening which looks at potential issues while the patient is not moving. The chiropractor will assess several factors including pelvic tilt, elevation posture, and rotation posture.

The second part is the dynamic screening which looks for alignment issues while the patient is moving. This helps to identify how the body compensates for weight in the body while it shifts positions. Improper positioning or poor posture can be determined if a patient favors one leg over the other or if the patient is holding their body in an unnatural position.  Maintaining this poor positioning can lead to issues over time.

The dynamic screening has patients perform several moves for the evaluation. These moves include:

• Standing on one leg

• Attempting a push-up

• Standing up from a seated position and then returning to the seat.

• Raising your hands above your head

Your chiropractor will also measure your legs and arms to ensure that they are the same length or to identify the reason for any differences. Your head position will also be evaluated. Poor head position often causes neck and upper back or shoulder issues.

Chiropractors are often thought of as the medical field that specifically deals with issues surrounding your back, or more specifically, your spine. While they certainly focus on your spine, chiropractors are essentially joint and nerve specialists. And since all your nerves travel from your brain and through the spinal column, if there is a disruption in any part of the spine, it can significantly affect your ability to function normally.

With all the messages that your brain sends through the spinal cord, it should not be a surprise that chiropractic care can offer benefits to several aspects of your life. Below, we have compiled a list of just some of the benefits of chiropractic care.
 

Blood Pressure

If you’re faced with high blood pressure, it can be overwhelming to think about adding a medication that has several serious side effects into your daily routine. These side effects include fatigue, nausea, dizziness, anxiety, and weight loss. Recently, a study has found that just one chiropractic adjustment could result in the same benefits as medications that are specifically designed to lower your blood pressure, and that the effects of that adjustment could last for as long as six months.

If an adjustment can offer the same results as the medications, but without the daunting side effects,  it may be the right time to book an appointment with your chiropractor.
 

Neck and Lower Back Pain

It probably isn’t a surprise that chiropractic care helps with pain in the neck and back. However, some studies suggest that 80% of Americans experience some sort of lower back pain in their lives. With costly surgeries, addictive pain medications, and mixed levels of relief, chiropractic is another option that many people just don’t consider. Chiropractic care can help to correct any issues without invasive procedures or prescription medications and may be a viable alternative for your neck and back issues.
 

Headaches – Even Migraines

Both tension and migraine headaches can often be traced to your back. Spinal issues or back misalignment can create a strain on your muscles as they attempt to compensate. This additional strain can trigger tension and migraine headaches. Chiropractic adjustments can help to align the back and in turn, the muscles can relax, and prevent future headaches from arriving. In fact, there are over 200 studies that confirm these results!