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Tendonitis appears when your tendons get inflamed, making it difficult to move comfortably. Your shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels are common locations because those are the areas of your body that move and generate a lot of force. If you are looking for treatment possibilities, then chiropractic can come as a natural and effective option. In this article, we’ll explore how can chiropractic help tendonitis and make the sufferer feel better.

Chiropractors are experts who utilize specialized techniques to make your muscles and bones feel better without needing medication or surgery. They make minor modifications and movements to improve joint function and aid in the healing process. This treats the underlying cause of the tendonitis in addition to relieving the pain related to it. Let’s explore more!

Understanding the Tendonitis

The diagnosis of tendinitis is also known as overuse tendinopathy. It is usually discovered by physical examination. In order to identify tendon thickness, dislocations, and tears, if you exhibit signs of overuse tendinopathy, your doctor might prescribe an MRI or ultrasound scan. Also, your physician can determine whether you have comparable issues like bursitis, which is an inflammation of the fluid “cushion” around the joints.

The Symptoms of Tendonitis

Every part of your body is covered in tendons. They serve as a link between the muscles and the bones of your joints, such as the knees, elbows, and shoulders. Here are some tendonitis symptoms.

• Pain

Pain in the area of the injured tendon and surrounding tissues is the most prevalent and noticeable sign of tendonitis. When moving the afflicted limb or joint, this pain usually gets worse. For example, pain from a condition called tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow may spread to the wrist and forearm.

• Swelling

Inflammation of the tendon may cause the affected area to bulge visibly. This swelling may occur suddenly or gradually following an intense exercise that puts an excessive amount of strain on the tendon.

• Tenderness

It is common for the area surrounding the inflamed tendon to become tender and touch-sensitive. This soreness is usually restricted to the precise location where the tendon joins the bone.

• Stiffness

People who have tendinitis report feeling stiff in the affected zone. This happens especially in the morning or after being inactive for extended periods of time. This rigidity can restrict the range of motion and make it uncomfortable to carry out specific actions.

• Warmth and Redness

The afflicted area may occasionally feel warm to the touch or exhibit redness. This is because the body is trying to mend the inflamed tendon by increasing the blood supply to the area.

• Crepitus

When manipulating the afflicted joint or tendon, some people may experience a crunching sensation or sound. The tendon rubs against the surrounding tissue as it moves, causing the sensation known as crepitus.

• Weakness

Chronic tendinitis might result in a weakening of the tendon and the corresponding muscle. In Achilles tendonitis, this weakening may manifest as a decreased capacity to carry out tasks. That puts stress on the affected tendon, such as carrying objects or ascending stairs.

The Causes of Tendonitis

Unexpected injuries might result in tendinitis. The same movement repeated over time is a far more likely cause, though. The majority of people get tendinitis as a result of repetitive actions from their work or hobbies. Here are some common causes:

• Repetitive Motion

Repeating the same exercises might lead to tendonitis since it stresses and inflames your tendons. Tendonitis is more common in jobs involving repetitive motions, such as typing or assembly line labor. The same is true for sports where you repeatedly employ the same body components, like tennis, golf, or jogging.

• Age

Those between the ages of 40 and 60 are more susceptible to tendon issues. This is because the tendons of older individuals are more prone to injury and are less elastic than those of a younger person.

• Injury or Sudden Increase in Activity

Strain overloading can result in direct injury and swelling to the tendons. This happens particularly when there is a sudden violent movement or a large increase in the intensity or length of an activity.

• Poor Posture or Technique

Tendons are overstressed by improper alignment or movement patterns. Especially when performing repetitive duties. This is seen in those who work at computers in poor posture or athletes with improper swing mechanics.

• Arthritis and Other Medical Conditions

Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and lupus are a few illnesses that can cause inflammation in the tendons as well as other parts of the body. Diabetes can also affect blood flow and repair, which increases the susceptibility of tendons to damage.

• Physical Stressors

Prolonged gripping, rapid motions, or vibration are among the occupations and activities. It can cause tendons to become chronically stressed, which raises the risk of tendinitis. Carpentry, building, and playing specific musical instruments are a few examples.

Types of Tendonitis Conditions

Any tendon in the body can get tendinitis. But here are some varieties that are more common than others.

• Tennis Elbow

Tendinosis, a disorder characterized by tiny tears in the tendon, is commonly seen in patients with tennis elbow. Six physical therapy exercises that focus on strengthening can be beneficial, but the most crucial part of treatment is undoubtedly avoiding activities that aggravate the condition. Although they are sometimes used for treatment, tennis elbow injections are controversial.

• Golfer’s Elbow

The painful area where the tendons of your forearm muscles connect to the bony protrusion on the inside of your elbow is known as the golfer’s elbow. You may get wrist and forearm pain. It develops on the outside of the elbow and is comparable to a golfer’s elbow. It’s not only for golfers, either. It can also occur to tennis players and other people who clench their fingers or use their wrists excessively.

• Jumper’s Knee

Patellar tendinopathy, another name for “jumper’s knee,” is a painful knee condition mostly associated with exercise that is brought on by tiny rips in the patellar tendon. It primarily affects athletes who play sports that require intense jumping and causes localized patellar tendon soreness.

• Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon is a thick group of tissue that helps to join the heel to the calf muscle. Although it remains under a lot of strain, this tendon is necessary for sprinting, jumping, and walking. Because of this, Achilles tendinitis is a common sports injury. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are also more prone to develop this serious issue.

How Can Chiropractic Help Tendonitis

Chiropractic adjustments and therapeutic exercises can correct musculoskeletal abnormalities. It also promotes healing, which may reduce the symptoms of tendonitis without requiring invasive procedures. Chiropractic treatment for tendonitis focuses on a few crucial methods:

• Spinal Adjustments

A fundamental component of chiropractic care is spinal adjustments. They entail adjusting the vertebrae in order to-

• Realign the spine
• Release pressure on the nerves, and
• Improve the nervous system’s general performance.

Despite the fact that tendinitis affects the tendons rather than the spine, spinal manipulation is a valuable treatment for tendonitis-related back and neck pain. Achieving the right spinal alignment can help the body recover itself more effectively and improve biomechanics, which lessens the load on injured tendons. For patients with tendinitis, this unintended advantage may be very important to their total healing.

• Shockwave Therapy

Seeking advice from a sports medicine professional or physiotherapist can also be helpful in determining whether shockwave therapy is a feasible treatment option for your tendonitis. Shockwave therapy offers an alternate treatment option. It can be part of a comprehensive recovery plan, ensuring tendinitis doesn’t disrupt quality of life.

• Graston Technique

The Graston technique is a form of manual treatment. It involves massaging and rubbing the skin with specialized stainless-steel implements. Beveled implements are commonly used. Light to moderate pressure is delivered directly into the skin in sweeping strokes. This strategy is best utilized by professionals with specialized training in the Graston technique. Chiropractors are one of them. Others include sports trainers, osteopathic physicians, and physical therapists.

FAQs

Will Tendonitis Heal on its Own?

Tendonitis sufferers need to understand that their illness will not go away on its own. Intentional rest and refraining from tendon use are necessary for proper recovery. The good news is that there is no need for invasive surgeries because the tendon will repair itself. Rest, physical treatment, and the right chiropractic might be sufficient to heal the injured area.

Can You Ever Fully Recover from Tendonitis?

The majority of tendinopathy patients recover entirely on their own without the assistance of a doctor. However, if ever happens, a severe tendinopathy left untreated can result in tendon rupture.

How Long Does It Take for Tendonitis to Heal?

After receiving therapy for tendonitis, the healing process of your tendon may take two to three weeks. In the event that your tendonitis is severe, it may take several months. Resting is the best approach to hasten the healing process. Avoid physically demanding activities or workouts that can strain your mending tendon. After your tendon recovers, your healthcare practitioner will tell you when it’s safe to resume your favorite sports and activities.

What Happens If You Don’t Treat Tendonitis?

Tendonitis is the result of inflamed tendons brought on by injury or repeated use. Tendonitis most frequently affects the elbow, ankle, shoulder, or neck. People who experience it are aware of how excruciating and incapacitating it may be. Most of you, we know, would prefer to ignore dull pain in the hopes that it will go away with ibuprofen or acetaminophen. What occurs, though, if tendinitis is not treated? Tendinosis, a much more severe and painful condition, can result from it. A ruptured tendon is known as tendinosis, and it can cause aberrant blood vessel formation and more tendon deterioration.

In The End

Many people look for solutions outside of medical treatments to relieve their tendonitis. A holistic approach, like chiropractic, holds the key to healing from such an issue. At The Brost Clinic, we are familiar with the significant impact of chiropractic adjustments. Chiropractic adjustments can improve general musculoskeletal function. It can also lessen inflammation and promote healing by correcting misaligned spines. Chiropractic adjustments and lifestyle modifications provide a natural approach to managing tendonitis. With chiropractic care, enjoy the possibility of living a pain-free life. It’s a path worth pursuing for maximum wellness and health.

If you have ever had a rotator cuff injury, you know how much it can affect your day-to-day activities. A rotator cuff injury can make performing routine tasks painful or even unbearable due to the pain, stiffness, and inflammation it causes in your shoulder.

There are a lot of suggestions and therapies for rotator cuff injuries that do not involve surgery, but sometimes it is necessary. Thankfully, people who hurt their rotator cuff can get better with expert chiropractic care instead of surgery or prescription drugs. But how can chiropractic help rotator cuff injuries?

In this article, we will give you a clear answer to this question. We will also discuss the reasons and symptoms of an injured rotator cuff and when you should seek help. Keep reading before deciding on any particular treatment plan for your rotator cuff.

What Is a Rotator Cuff?

The rotator cuff is an array of connective tissues that help keep the shoulder joint stable and allow it to move freely. Every time the arm is raised, rotated, or lifted, the rotator cuff is involved. When it comes to rotation and range of motion, the shoulder joint is unmatched. The tendons and muscles that make up the rotator cuff are what allow for all that mobility.

The rotator cuff’s four muscles and tendons further stabilize the arm in the shoulder socket. This is important because the shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint. It should have a snug fit for the top of the arm bone.

How Is the Rotator Cuff Injured?

The rotator cuff can move in a lot of different ways. If one or more of its tissues get hurt, it can cause muscles or ligaments to become overstretched or torn or even the shoulder to become dislocated. So, it’s a grave mistake to ignore the potential reasons for the rotator cuff injury.

The rotator cuff can be injured in several ways. Let’s look at them:

• One of the most common causes of damage to the rotator cuff is repetitive movement. If you do the same motion over and over again, like in carpentry, tennis, or baseball, you might hurt your rotator cuff. Over time, this repeated action may cause the tendon tissue to progressively deteriorate.
• Accidents, falls, and heavy lifting are other common causes of torn rotator cuff, along with recurring motion injuries. In most of these acute injury situations, the tendon starts to fray and can eventually lead to complete rotator cuff tear.

Apart from the above reasons, there are some risk factors that make rotator cuff injuries more probable, including

• Aging (it happens more often to people over 60)
• Having certain medical conditions, such as tendonitis, bursitis, or arthritis
• Being involved in a job that requires repetitive overhead movements
• Having a history of the injury in your family

What Are the Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Syndrome?

Every rotator cuff injury is different. Still, there are some common signs and symptoms that you might have injured your rotator cuff, including:

• Soreness or clicking in the shoulder when the arm is at shoulder height or above the head
• Experiencing discomfort in the shoulder that travels all the way to the elbow
• A nagging ache that gets worse when you raise your arm above shoulder height
• Resting shoulder pain (common in cases of serious rotator cuff tears)
• Weakness or discomfort in the shoulder muscles while lifting or reaching
• Trouble placing a hand behind the back or head due to shoulder pain
• Shoulder pain while trying to get a seat belt on

When to Seek Treatment for Rotator Cuff Injury?

The symptoms we just mentioned can be indicators of something serious, but not always. When you have worked out too hard, your shoulder may hurt. Usually, all you need is some time to rest and heal. However, if the pain worsens and does not improve with rest, ice, and pain relievers, it is time to seek medical attention.

It is also important to see a doctor right away if you suddenly feel a lot of pain or lose the ability to move. These injuries can get worse over time. So, you should get medical help right away to keep the damage from getting worse or to avoid getting hurt again in a way that is worse than the first injury.

To figure out what kind of injury it is, doctors may ask about the person’s job-related physical activities. They may also check the patient’s strength and range of motion to make sure the patient does not have pinched nerves or arthritis. Image scans, such as x-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds, can show a number of different causes of chronic pain and inflammation. These scans can also point out damage to rotator cuff tendons and muscles.

How Can Chiropractic Help Rotator Cuff Injuries?

After the reason for the pain has been found, the next step is to go for the sustainable and right kind of treatment option. If a rotator cuff injury is suspected, chiropractic therapy may be more effective than other invasive options. Here’s what you can expect from chiropractic treatment for rotator cuff injury:

• Resolve Symptoms

Chiropractors try to get rid of your symptoms as quickly and safely as possible so you can get back to your normal activities and routines. Stiff muscles can be soothed and relaxed with chiropractic care. A chiropractor can use ultrasound therapy, electrostimulation therapy, and chiropractic adjustments for this purpose.

• Pain Management

If you have a rotator cuff injury, chiropractic care will also focus on giving you natural ways to manage your pain that work well. Chiropractors can help improve your body’s natural ways of relieving pain and discomfort after an injury. Their gentle manipulations can reduce inflammation in the area of concern and alleviate pain. You won’t have to endure the unpleasant side effects of medication.

• Joint Mobility

It’s common to experience a lack of mobility and flexibility following a rotator cuff incident. After managing pain, your chiropractor may help you regain a normal range of motion and mobility in your injured shoulder. You can expect to receive recommendations for stretches, exercises, and soft tissue mobilization from the chiropractor.

Besides, chiropractic treatment may also keep scar tissue from building up. If left untreated, this can cause long-term pain and stiffness.

• Rehabilitation

Chiropractic care won’t stop at treating your symptoms and mobility. When you go to the chiropractor for an injured rotator cuff, they will also help you through rehabilitation. To ensure they meet your unique requirements for a full recovery, chiropractors design an individualized care plan. You can expect to be guided on the following:

• Exercises that you will have to practice regularly at home
• Modifying your routine to prevent actions that could worsen your shoulder pain
• Education about your injury’s nature to help you manage your expectations and stay motivated

Conclusion

Rotator cuff injuries can result from age-related degeneration, accidents, or repetitive motion. The symptoms of this injury include soreness in the shoulder, weakness, and limited range of motion. If you think you might have an injured rotator cuff, you should see a doctor right away. However, invasive options do come with their share of side-effects.

The good news is that chiropractic care helps you avoid the need of getting something invasive done. Chiropractors treat people who have hurt their rotator cuff by reducing swelling and stiffness. They aim to make joints more mobile again and plan rehabilitation exercises that are unique to each person. Their goal is to help people fully recover and avoid getting hurt again.

However, not everyone who claims to be a chiropractor should be blindly trusted to treat an injured rotator cuff. You should only rely on trusted chiropractors for the job. At The Brost Clinic, we have won many awards and have a strong reputation for being the best in the business, thanks to our trained chiropractors. So, we confidently invite you to trust us to heal your injured rotator cuff.

Achilles tendonitis is common, particularly in people with heel pain. It impacts both athletes and non-athletes. Nonetheless, reduction is possible with chiropractic adjustments and associated therapy. People with this disease can quickly restore their mobility and get adequate relief from their pain by combining chiropractic care with Active Release therapy. This will enable them to resume their regular activities without difficulty.

In this guide, we will let you know how can chiropractic help Achilles Tendonitis. So, continue reading to understand how chiropractic care is helpful for Achilles tendonitis.

What is Achilles Tendonitis?

The tendon that links the back of your leg to your tilt might become inflamed and painful in the area closest to the bottom of your foot when you have Achilles tendonitis. The calf contains two large muscles. These generate the force required to elevate oneself on the toes or push off with the foot. You can press your foot down because of the long Achilles tendon that joins these muscles to the heel.

While running, jumping, and walking, your Achilles tendon is used. Overuse-related tendinitis is especially common in younger individuals. It can happen to runners, walkers, and other sportspeople.

Types of Achilles Tendonitis

The afflicted part of your tendon is described by the two forms of Achilles tendinitis:

• Noninsertional Achilles Tendonitis

The disorder is known as non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy, which is also referred to as tendinosis, tendonitis, and paratendonitis. It is characterized by the gradual degeneration or breakdown of the Achilles tendon. The structure runs along the back of your leg and resembles a cord connecting your calf muscle. Your heel bone (calcaneus) is called the Achilles tendon. Pain at the back of your leg is a result of a chronic overuse injury called Achilles tendinopathy.

The onset of symptoms is slow and unplanned. Aching and burning pain is possible, especially in the morning, and it gets worse when you move. The tendon frequently enlarges. A painful-to-touch lump can develop inside the tendon. Walking may cause a weakness in your push-off strength. Those who have recently increased the intensity of their running or jumping activities. Those are more likely to develop non-insertional Achilles tendinopathy. Running on sloped terrain, flatfoot or high-arched feet, and repeated activities can all be linked to it. Other risk factors include age, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

• Insertional Achilles Tendonitis

At the location where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. But, there is inflammation known as insertional tendonitis. Individuals who have this condition experience soreness over the Achilles tendon’s insertion point. This is linked to the production of calcium or a bone spur that forms above the insertion point. Together with Haglund’s deformity (also called a “pump bump”), which is a bony growth of the heel bone. This disease can also result in retrocalcaneal bursitis, as discussed below. Because the skates rub on the back of the heel, ladies wear high-heeled shoes, and men play hockey. These are reasons more likely to get Haglund’s deformity.

Understanding Achilles Tendonitis: Symptoms and Causes

The dense fibrous cords that connect muscle to bone are called tendons. And tendonitis is a disorder characterized by inflammation or irritation of these cords. Depending on the location and degree of the illness. This excitation can cause a variety of signs, and each comes with a different level of intensity. Comprehending the indications of tendinitis is essential for prompt diagnosis and management.

The Symptoms

The term “arthritis” refers to a broad range of joint-related disorders. There are more than 100 distinct kinds of arthritis, and each one can have a unique set of symptoms. The following are the most typical signs of arthritis:

• Pain: The most typical sign of arthritis is pain. The discomfort might be intermittent or persistent, moderate or severe, and come and go.
• Swelling: Swelling may be brought on by joint inflammation. The joint may feel swollen and appear larger as a result of the swelling.
• Tenderness: Even in the absence of swelling, the joint may feel sensitive to the touch.
• Stiffness: Especially in the morning or following periods of inactivity, this is frequent. For at least thirty minutes, the stiffness can persist.
• Warmth and Redness: The skin surrounding the injured joint may appear red and feel warm to the touch.
• Crepitus: When a joint is manipulated, it causes a grinding or crackling sound to be heard or felt. Air bubbles shifting in the joint fluid or the rubbing of the bones against one another can induce crepitus.
• Weakness: There’s a chance that the muscles around the hurt joint will weaken. This could make it harder to move the joint.

Causes of Pain in the Achilles Tendon

The strong band of tissue that joins your heel bone to your calf muscles is called the Achilles tendon. For exercises like sprinting, leaping, and walking, it is necessary.  Yet, because of its frequent use, it is prone to some painful ailments and injuries. Some causes of pain are as follows:

• Micro-tears: Tiny tears can occur within the tendon fibers as a result of repeated stress. The tendon is not ruptured by these microtears. Yet, they may cause pain and discomfort by irritating and inflaming the surrounding tissue. People with low flexibility or those who increase their level of activity exhibit this.
• Tendonitis: Achilles tendon pain is most frequently caused by tendinitis. It’s an overwork-related tendon irritation. Running, jumping, and working on hard surfaces all involve prolonged standing. All of those have the potential to overstress the tendon and result in tendonitis. Pain, stiffness, and tenderness are some of the symptoms, particularly in the morning or right after an exercise.
• Tendinosis: This is a degenerative condition as opposed to tendonitis, which is an inflammatory one. Microtears may break down the tendon fibers due to improper healing. This may result in the tendon becoming generally weaker and stiffer, causing persistent pain. Those who are older or have experienced recurrent tendinitis are more likely to experience it.
• Rupture: An Achilles tendon tear is a dangerous injury. This can occur unexpectedly during intense exercise. It has a popping sound or the sensation of being “kicked” in the back of the leg as an accompanying sensation. The inability to walk gets worse, and there is severe pain, bruising, and swelling.

Can Chiropractic Help Achilles Tendonitis

An effective treatment for Achilles tendinitis may involve chiropractic adjustments. It’s critical to set reasonable expectations. Even so, it won’t offer total and immediate relief from discomfort. However, it can support a therapy strategy that addresses the stiffness and discomfort brought on by the illness. For Achilles tendonitis, try these chiropractic treatments:

• Quickly Stops the Pain: While chiropractic adjustments may provide some pain relief. But it’s unlikely to be a complete and immediate solution. Achilles tendonitis often requires a multifaceted approach that includes 3 things. Those are rest, physical therapy exercises, and medications. Chiropractic care can be a matching part of this approach. But it’s not a magic bullet for instant pain relief.
• Relieves Pain and Stiffness: Through manual adjustments of the ankle, foot, and even the lower back. A chiropractor can aim to improve joint function and mobility in the affected area. This can help lower inflammation and muscle tension, leading to a decrease in pain and stiffness.
• Improves Range of Motion: Chiropractic adjustments may address joint misalignments. That could be contributing to tightness or restricted movement in the ankle and calf complex. By improving joint mobility, a chiropractor can help you regain a greater range of motion in the affected leg.

How a Chiropractor Help to Treat Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendinitis can be treated with chiropractic care. To lessen discomfort and increase mobility, chiropractors can check the condition.  Also, it can determine what care is required. The calf, ankle, and foot muscles are adjusted and manipulated as part of treatment. This may assist in easing tendon tension and lowering localized inflammation.

• Active Release Therapy (ART)

When it comes to reducing scar tissue and addressing soft tissue problems, ART is successful. To prevent further difficulties, treatment can improve the condition of your tendons. It will also aid in the relief of your current discomfort.

• Diversified Chiropractic Adjustments

These are applied to the feet and spine as needed. The most popular adjustment that chiropractors make using their understanding of the connection. Which is found between pain in various body areas and the spine is spinal manipulation. Chiropractors manipulate the spine with controlled, rapid thrusts using their hands or tools. This can ease pain, stiffness, and swelling and enhance nerve function.

• Suction Cupping

The goal of this is to reduce pain. It uses a sliding motion along the sore area using many static cups or a single cup. The sliding position, cup size, and suction strength are all dependent on the patient’s tolerance. The painful area is covered with cocoa butter, and pressure is administered for ten to fifteen seconds.

• Shockwave Therapy

A more modern approach to treating musculoskeletal diseases like tendinitis is shockwave therapy. It promotes tissue healing in wounded areas by using high-energy sound waves. This procedure is non-invasive, stimulating tendon and tissue regeneration. It promotes natural repair processes within the body. Shockwave therapy is renowned for its success in reducing pain. It’s often sought when conventional treatments haven’t yielded results.

• Graston Technique

When treating Achilles tendinitis, the Graston Technique targets scar tissue using devices. By increasing blood flow, this may lessen pain and inflammation and hasten the healing process. Although unpleasant, it can be a useful adjunct to other treatments for the healing of Achilles tendinitis.

• Muscle Strengthening Exercises and Recommendations

The key to recovering from Achilles tendinitis is strengthening workouts. They strengthen the calf muscles’ resistance, promoting recovery and averting further problems. Take your time and put the correct form before speed. Exercises like towel calf raises and seated calf raises target the soleus muscle. Eccentric calf raises with slow lowering also contribute to its strengthening. To improve proprioception, do daily stretches and include balance exercises. Maintaining consistency is essential for building muscle and encouraging a quick recovery.

Conclusion

Can chiropractic help Achilles tendonitis? Without a doubt, the answer is yes. The Brost Clinic’s chiropractic care provides a potential cure for this frequent condition through precise adjustments and complete methods. Chiropractic adjustments correct misalignments and imbalances in the body, which helps relieve pain. It also brings the damaged area back to normal function.

Our clinic offers the best care possible to patients of all ages, focusing on natural health care. Chiropractic care at The Brost Clinic can relieve Achilles tendonitis and increase mobility and general wellness.

Sciatic nerve discomfort is common and can result from a number of factors, including bad posture or an old injury. If sciatica is not treated, it can cause chronic pain and muscular weakness; however some cases go away on their own. By providing pain relief without the need for medication or surgery, chiropractic care is a successful, non-invasive way to manage sciatica symptoms.

 

1. Understanding Sciatica

The term “sciatica” describes pain that comes from the sciatic nerve, which is the biggest nerve in the body and runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. The disorder is usually brought on by spinal stenosis, bone spurs, herniated discs, or other spinal problems that put pressure on the nerve. The symptoms, which typically affect one side of the body, can range from little discomfort to severe, incapacitating pain. Typical symptoms consist of:

• Tingling or numbness in the toes, foot, or legs
• Lower back discomfort that may go down the leg
• Severe, shooting leg pain
• Discomfort from burning in the leg or lower back
• Inability to stand or sit because of pain

 

2. Causes of Sciatica

The most frequent causes of sciatica are:

• Herniated Disc: The sciatic nerve may be compressed by a slipped or ruptured disc in the spine.
• Spinal Stenosis: Nerves are compressed as the spinal column narrows.
• Bone Spurs: The nerve may be compressed by the growth of bone on the spine.
• Pregnancy: The growing uterus may put more strain on the sciatic nerve, which could result in symptoms similar to sciatica.

Sciatica risk may also be raised by other variables like bad posture, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, or prior injuries.

The lower back of a patient being examined by a chiropractor at a contemporary clinic.

 

3. How Can Chiropractic Treatment Help?

Numerous methods are available to relieve sciatic nerve pain through chiropractic care, which emphasizes spine health. For those with sciatica, chiropractic care can dramatically reduce pain, increase mobility, and improve overall function, according to research and clinical practices.

• Spinal Modifications

Spinal manipulation, or adjustments, is a typical treatment for sciatica by chiropractors. By realigning the spine and joints, this technique seeks to release strain on the sciatic nerve. By restoring the spine’s natural alignment, adjustments enhance function and mobility while lowering inflammation.

According to recent research, sciatica can be significantly relieved by chiropractic adjustments. By lowering pressure on the nerve and enhancing spinal function, spine manipulation can effectively reduce sciatica symptoms, according to a 2023 systematic study.

• Therapy using Soft Tissue

To alleviate muscular tension surrounding the sciatic nerve, chiropractors may employ soft tissue therapies like electrical stimulation, myofascial release, and massage. These therapies promote blood flow, reduce inflammation, and quicken muscle repair. According to research, soft tissue treatment can help people with sciatica heal more quickly and increase circulation.

• Exercises for Rehabilitation

To increase flexibility and strengthen the muscles that support the spine, a chiropractor could suggest particular stretches and exercises. By lowering pressure on the sciatic nerve, these exercises help to avoid recurrent flare-ups and are crucial for long-term pain alleviation. Rehabilitative activities and spinal manipulation have been shown in studies to greatly enhance sciatica patients’ pain management.

• Technique of Flexion-Distraction

By gradually stretching the spine, the Flexion-Distraction Technique lessens the strain on the discs. In order to relieve sciatic nerve pain and relieve spinal disc compression, chiropractors apply regulated pressure using a specialized table. According to clinical data, this method works especially well for sciatica caused by herniated discs.

• Modalities of Physical Therapy

To treat sciatica, chiropractic offices frequently incorporate additional physical therapy methods like electrical stimulation, heat/cold therapy, and ultrasound. These techniques encourage nerve repair, increase blood flow, and lessen inflammation. Their application in enhancing the function of impacted muscles and lessening sciatica pain is supported by research.

 

4. Is Chiropractic Treatment for Sciatica Effective?

Chiropractic therapy is beneficial for sciatica, according to recent research.

• Report from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for 2023

Chiropractic therapy is still recommended by the NIH as a secure and efficient way to treat sciatica pain. According to their 2023 study, spinal manipulation in particular has been demonstrated to help release pressure on the sciatic nerve, which lowers discomfort and increases mobility. Chiropractic care offers a practical, drug-free option for people looking for alternatives to intrusive therapies or chronic opioid addiction.

• 2022 Research on Sciatica Spinal Manipulation

Spinal manipulation is a viable treatment for sciatica pain, especially when paired with exercise therapy, according to a 2022 systematic review that was published in The Lancet Neurology. According to the study’s findings, many sciatica patients experienced moderate to severe pain alleviation from chiropractic adjustments, allowing them to resume their regular daily activities with little danger.

• A 2019 study published in the Journal of Physiological and Manipulative Therapeutics

This study evaluated the efficacy of chiropractic care for patients with sciatica and discovered that, when it came to treating both acute and chronic sciatica symptoms, spinal manipulation in conjunction with therapeutic exercises was superior to more conventional treatments (such as physical therapy or painkillers). According to the study’s findings, receiving chiropractic care improved mobility, lessened the severity of pain, and helped avoid flare-ups in the future.

• A thorough analysis published in the American Journal of Pain Management in 2023

According to a 2023 review of several research that was published in the American Journal of Pain Management, chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue therapy can successfully reduce nerve root irritation, which is a primary cause of sciatica. Additionally, the analysis found that chiropractic patients expressed greater levels of satisfaction than those receiving additional therapies, such steroid injections or traditional pain management.

• The National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) provided evidence in 2021.

According to a 2021 report by the NIH’s NCCIH, chiropractic spinal manipulation is a very successful non-invasive treatment for musculoskeletal pain, including sciatica, when compared to pharmaceuticals. According to the report, chiropractic care is one of the most thoroughly studied non-pharmacological treatments for sciatica and back pain, with data demonstrating both its effectiveness and safety in reducing nerve pain.

• Trial of Randomised Control (RCT) in 2020

In contrast to patients who received only standard medical treatments, those who received spinal manipulation and therapeutic exercises saw significant improvements in both pain relief and functional recovery, according to a 2020 randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Care. According to the study’s findings, those with persistent or recurrent sciatic nerve pain may find that chiropractic adjustments are a very good alternative.

 

5. When to Get Sciatica Chiropractic Care

For sciatica, you might want to think about receiving chiropractic care if:

• Despite previous therapies, your discomfort does not go away or gets worse.
• You have trouble carrying out daily duties or have restricted mobility.
• You want to stay away from drugs and intrusive procedures.

However, it is imperative that you get emergency medical help if you have severe symptoms like losing control over your bowels or bladder.

 

6. Organic Treatments for Sciatica

Sciatica pain can be reduced with a number of natural therapies in addition to chiropractic care:

• Regular movement: Take regular breaks and avoid prolonged sitting.
• Exercises for strengthening: To increase back and core strength, concentrate on low-impact activities.
• Stretching: To release tension, stretch your hamstrings and hips.
• Ice and heat therapy: To control pain and inflammation, switch between ice packs and heat.
• Yoga: Regular yoga practice helps strengthen muscles and increase flexibility, which can help lessen the pain of sciatica.

 

Conclusion

Sciatica can be effectively managed and related discomfort can be reduced with non-invasive chiropractic care. The underlying reasons of sciatic nerve irritation can be addressed by chiropractors using spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, targeted exercises, and specialized techniques like flexion-distraction. These approaches can also reduce inflammation and increase mobility. Chiropractic adjustments can effectively relieve both acute and chronic sciatic pain without the need for medication or surgery, according to a number of studies. Chiropractic therapy may be a great choice for people looking for a drug-free alternative or who are dealing with chronic pain in order to manage their pain over the long term and enhance their quality of life. However, to choose the best course of therapy based on personal needs, it is imperative to speak with a healthcare practitioner.

 

FAQs

• What is sciatica?

Sciatica is the term for pain that travels along the sciatic nerve’s course, usually affecting the legs, hips, and lower back.

• Can sciatica pain be relieved by chiropractic care?

Yes, chiropractors treat sciatic nerve pain using non-invasive methods like stretches, spinal adjustments, and therapeutic exercises.

• How does sciatica benefit from spinal adjustments?

Targeting the underlying cause of sciatic pain, spinal adjustments straighten the spine, lessen nerve compression, and increase general mobility.

• Can sciatica be safely treated with chiropractic care?

Sciatica may usually be managed safely and effectively with chiropractic care, but it is crucial to see a qualified chiropractor to have your situation evaluated.

• In order to observe results, how many sessions are required?

Many patients experience alleviation after a few visits, while the number of sessions varies according on the severity of the condition.

• Can chiropractors suggest sciatica exercises?

Indeed, in order to strengthen supporting muscles and avoid sciatic pain in the future, chiropractors frequently recommend stretches and exercises.

• Are chiropractic adjustments a long-term fix?

Even though chiropractic adjustments can offer a great deal of comfort, long-term effects depend on keeping a healthy lifestyle and posture.

• For whom should chiropractic therapy for sciatica be avoided?

Before obtaining chiropractic care, patients with serious illnesses such infections, tumors, or fractures should speak with their doctor.

Jaw pain is a typical problem affecting the temporomandibular joints on either side of the head, in front of the ears. It can become a persistent and unpleasant problem if left untreated. It might be challenging to get the proper treatment for jaw pain because people have misconceptions about jaw pain, and these are confusing terms.

This blog will help you to know how can a chiropractor help with jaw pain. Also, we will remove myths and explore complementary therapies that claim to relieve pain. Together, we will explore the realities and complete solutions to enlighten your route to comfort.

What is Jaw Pain or TMJ?

Millions of Americans suffer from TMJ (Temporomandibular joint and Muscle Disorders). Jaw pain can appear as an irritation, tenseness, or discomfort in the region surrounding your ears or jawbones. Jaw pain, whether mild or severe, can negatively impact your quality of life. Gum disease, teeth grinding, toothaches, and other conditions can all contribute to jaw pain. However, jaw pain can sometimes indicate a more severe problem, such as a dislocated or fractured jaw or a heart attack.

What Does Jaw Pain Feel Like?

Your face may feel rigid if you have jaw pain, particularly in the joints before your ears. These joints facilitate jaw movement by joining your lower jaw to your skull. Your jaw may ache or throb occasionally, particularly following an injury.

An acute pain in your jaw joint that radiates to your shoulders or chest may indicate a heart attack, which is extremely dangerous and necessitates prompt medical attention. Trismus, or the inability to open your mouth quickly, is another symptom of jaw pain. You must consult a physician if you encounter any of these symptoms.

What Causes Jaw Pain?

Misalignment of the spine can cause jaw pain, but there are other potential causes as well. Let’s discuss the jaw pain below.

• Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can harm the TMJ joint and produce jaw pain. Unknowingly grinding their teeth is a typical behavior among Des Moines residents that significantly causes jaw pain and tense muscles. Chiropractic treatments are essential for treating the underlying issues that lead to tooth grinding and offering relief and prophylactic care.

Bruxism can be caused by any number of factors, including food intolerances. Because they care about the whole picture, our doctors at The Brost Clinic will try to identify the essential cause of your condition and offer the best available care.

• Posture

Check your posture right now. Are you scrolling in bed, at a desk, or in a car? Take a look at your neck. It is not nice if it is bent down. It’s a significant contributing factor to neck issues like discomfort and arthritis. This neck issue may also be causing jaw pain.

Given the connection between your jaw and spine, an extended time of staring down might cause tension in your neck. It can also affect your jaw. This may result in persistent headaches. Correct posture is essential to feeling healthier. In our Brost Clinic, we treat patients who suffer from poor posture. We modify their necks to help with headaches, neck pain, and posture and use a specific gadget.

The Risk of Ignoring Jaw Pain

You shouldn’t wait while your jaw pain worsens, even though giving it time to decrease on its own is acceptable. Ignoring jaw pain can have serious consequences, including substantial damage and loss of function. In addition, it might cause headaches, shoulder and neck discomfort, and disruptions to regular tasks. It can also cause trouble speaking and eating and mental distress.

How Can a Chiropractor Help With Jaw Pain

A chiropractor can help relieve jaw pain in different ways. Let’s discuss some primary therapies a chiropractor provides to reduce jaw pain.

• Trigger Point Therapy

Professionals with extensive training in treating various jaw pain conditions, such as joint discomfort, tense muscles, and spasms in the muscles, are chiropractors. They achieve this by employing trigger point therapy to try and relax the stiff muscles surrounding the jaw and spine. Trigger points are the highly tight muscles that result in aches and pains in the jaw.

This type of treatment helps to rebalance the TMJ muscles when the jaw muscles are too tight or unbalanced. Additionally, this therapy assists patients in regaining appropriate neck posture and lowering their general stress levels. Chiropractors are very knowledgeable about diseases of the TMJ. They are skilled in the precise manipulation of muscles to induce relaxation. Additionally, this exercise can help relieve neck, shoulders, back, legs, and hip pain.

• Soft Tissue Therapy

A chiropractor can manipulate the soft tissues surrounding the jaw to relieve pinched nerves and impulses and restore normal function. The corrections will release tension in the masseter, temporalis, and pterygoid muscles, as well as realign misaligned jaws.

Soft tissue injuries from trauma, repetitive stress, and other sources are the focus of a chiropractor’s practice. Restoring function, accelerating healing, and relieving TMJ pain are among the services that most chiropractors specialize in.

• Easing Stress and Tension

Overstress on the body and mind can cause pain in certain instances, which is known as TMJ. A skilled chiropractor can provide adjustments and massage therapy to ease tense muscles and stressed nerves. Any muscles and nerves in the area of the jaw, face, neck, shoulders, and back are the focus of the treatment.

Chiropractors can treat neck and spine disorders, reduce muscle tension, and release pinched nerves. The therapy also reduces stiffness and increases blood flow to the jaw muscles. Pain and pressure in the jaw and neck region should go away after the prescribed treatment course is completed.

• Chiropractic Adjustment

Chiropractic adjustments are recognized to be just as effective as medical treatments. However, most people with TMJ difficulties seek therapy from doctors and dentists. The goal of this exercise is to release the muscles that surround the joint. Reducing TMJ pain may involve loosening the muscles, ligaments, and nerves surrounding the joint.

Our team of skilled chiropractors can realign your spine and nerve system if they are misaligned. They can also make minor adjustments to help address spinal abnormalities, restore the spine to its proper position, and finally reduce TMD discomfort.

FAQ

When Should I See a Chiropractor for Jaw Pain?

Chiropractic care can often help people manage their symptoms of TMJ pain, while there isn’t one treatment that works for everyone. However, the most crucial thing to remember is to contact a chiropractor as soon as possible for assistance. This will help decrease the chance of long-term harm and help relieve symptoms.

Is It Dangerous to Adjust the Jaw?

It’s critical to remember that only a licensed, skilled healthcare practitioner, such as a doctor of chiropractic, should make safe, regulated adjustments to the jaw. They should also be aware of any underlying medical issues that could worsen following the modification.

Conclusion

Many people ask, “Can a chiropractor help with jaw pain?” when trying to relieve jaw pain. Practitioners like those at The Brost Clinic provide a holistic approach, which holds the key to the solution.

Chiropractors treat misalignments that might lead to jaw pain using gentle adjustments and specialized techniques. They seek to improve general well-being and reduce pain by assisting the spine and its supporting tissues to operate correctly. Thus, if you’re looking for all-natural jaw pain solutions, call The Brost Clinic’s chiropractors today. Say goodbye to suffering and hello to a healthier, happier version of yourself.

Lower back pain is one of the conditions that chiropractors specialize in identifying and treating. Almost everyone experiences back pain at some point. According to research, spinal adjustment can help patients with acute low-back pain. Spinal adjustment is one of the most typical forms of back pain.

To address these issues, a medical professional known as a chiropractor primarily applies force to your spine using their hands, though they may also employ other methods. In this article, we will discuss how can a chiropractor help with back pain.

What Kinds of Conditions Does a Chiropractor Treat?

Pain in the neck, upper back, and lower back are just a few body regions where spine issues might appear. While some people may have experienced pain recently, others might have suffered for a long time. Sprains in the muscles and disc problems are the leading causes of back pain. Many persons additionally have pain in the arm, limb, or headache in addition to back and neck discomfort. Although their primary focus is treating disorders linked to the spine, chiropractors also assist with ailments in other body areas, such as the shoulders and knees.

3 Clear Signs You Should See a Chiropractor for Back Pain

You may be wondering when the best time to see a chiropractor is because you have many excuses for not calling one regarding your lower back pain. Guessing is no longer necessary. These three indicators will show you when to arrange that initial appointment.

• You’ve Had Any Kind of Injury Involving Your Back

Whatever the underlying reason for your lower back discomfort, a chiropractor can identify the issue and provide a precise treatment plan. Attempting to go this route by yourself will make your injury worse and increase the chance of severe harm to the surrounding and internal spinal nerves. To feel your best as soon as possible after an injury, it’s preferable to schedule a chiropractor appointment and begin therapy right away.

• The Source of the Pain Originates in the Hard Tissues

Occasionally, soft tissue injuries or muscle strains cause lower back pain. Nevertheless, the spine or joints are frequently the trustworthy source of the issue. In this case, massage therapy won’t help the injury recover.

To help release muscle tension, a chiropractor can correct the hard tissues’ alignment. For this reason, it’s crucial to consult with them. You can receive better treatment and return to normal faster if you combine massage therapy with chiropractic care.

• You Are in Huge Pain

Lower back pain should not be tolerated by anyone, particularly if it interferes with daily activities. You should consult a chiropractor immediately if doing routine chores, such as bending down to pick something up, becomes uncomfortable or more difficult. They won’t likely prescribe medicines, but they can treat the underlying source of your discomfort, which may be a bulging disc, a pinched sciatic nerve, or other lower back issues.

The benefits of chiropractic care are far greater than whatever prevents you from making the appointment. You can live a better life, become less inactive, and relieve lower back discomfort. And getting in touch with your chiropractor is the first step.

How Can a Chiropractor Help with Back Pain?

A chiropractor can assist with back pain in a variety of ways. They’ll probably ask about your medical history and symptoms at your initial visit. They will then conduct a physical examination and, if required, make an order for tests such as X-rays. Your chiropractor will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan based on their findings. The following are possible components of this plan:

• Spinal Manipulation and Adjustment

Spinal manipulation, often known as chiropractic adjustment, is one of the most popular chiropractic therapies. This manual therapy includes moving, massaging, and pressing on the joints and spine. Spinal manipulation is one technique chiropractors employ to improve the range of motion and address the underlying cause of patient discomfort.

• Manual Therapies

Chiropractors may treat back pain with several manual techniques in addition to spinal manipulation. These consist of massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy. Relieving tension in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the spine is the aim of each of these therapies.

• Rehabilitative Exercise

In order to help patients strengthen the muscles surrounding their spines, chiropractors may also recommend rehabilitative exercises. Pain relief and injury prevention are two benefits of these exercises.

• Lifestyle and Nutritional Counseling

To assist patients in managing their back pain, chiropractors may offer dietary and lifestyle counseling. They recommend adjusting your sleep patterns, nutrition, and exercise regimen. They also provide advice on how to lessen stress.

Benefits of Visiting a Chiropractor for Back Pain

Chiropractic adjustments can provide a variety of therapeutic advantages, according to research. The goal of this kind of treatment is to restore normal function to the joints and balance to the muscles. Additional benefits consist of:

• Relief from Sciatica

Sciatic nerve discomfort affects the sciatic nerve, which travels from the lower back to the back of your legs. Relief from other types of treatment is not always possible. Many patients also decide against having surgery or steroid injections. Their decision to receive chiropractic therapy is based on this.

Active manipulation during chiropractic therapy has significant advantages, according to a study. Patients who get this treatment typically have fewer days in severe or moderate pain.

• Reduced Reliance on Opioids

To help you manage your pain and discomfort if you have persistent back pain, your doctor might recommend opioid painkillers. It’s not necessary to rely on harmful and possibly addictive medication for pain, though. The use of such medicines will decrease with chiropractic care.

• Low-Risk Treatment

Rather than giving patients many prescription drugs or performing invasive surgery, chiropractors treat patients hands-on. This enables the patient to receive natural treatment with a third party’s physical assistance. Because there is usually no medicine involved and no invasive procedure, people perceive chiropractic care to be safer.

• On-Demand Treatment

In contrast to drugs or surgery, chiropractic care usually relieves a patient’s discomfort when they visit the chiropractor. It might take days, weeks, or even months for a patient to recover from surgery or medication-induced discomfort completely. On the other hand, during their visit, a patient receiving chiropractic care can get immediate relief.

While many chiropractors follow strict schedules, many others have more flexible hours. Since they know that their patients’ pain can rise at any time, chiropractic offices frequently give them plenty of space. This can be advantageous for the patient because it’s simple to come into the clinic or schedule an appointment for the same day if they suddenly have a stiff neck instead of waiting days or weeks to fix the problem.

Chiropractors specialize in back and neck pain. They employ methods that offer the patient the most significant relief at the lowest possible danger. Patients can relax knowing that although their pain may never disappear, chiropractors are always on hand to push or pull it out.

• Affordability

For back pain, chiropractic therapy could be less expensive than traditional medical care. According to one study, chiropractic care patients experienced reduced treatment costs. In addition, the course of treatment was shorter than that of traditional medicine.

FAQ

Should I Go to a Chiropractor If I Have Back Pain?

To find a non-invasive treatment for your back discomfort, you should see a chiropractor. Chiropractors may suggest therapeutic exercise, self-care routines, and spinal manipulation to lessen pain and increase mobility.

The foundation of chiropractic care, including adjustments, is the belief that the body can heal itself given the right conditions. By realigning muscles and nerves and reestablishing regular blood flow, these non-pharmacological methods can also enhance the body’s inherent healing process.

How Long Do Chiropractic Adjustments Last?

The topic of how long your chiropractic adjustment should last has a challenging solution. Since every patient reacts to chiropractic care differently, the plan and time frame are primarily determined by the patient’s age, fitness level, degree of pain, kind of injury, and length of discomfort.

The typical chiropractic treatment course is three weekly visits for two to four weeks. When you feel better, a chiropractor can recommend at-home self-care techniques using ergonomic equipment like foam rollers, elastic bands, and nutritional supplements. In 9 to 14 weeks, the average person requires anything from 18 to 24 adjustments to complete all three phases of chiropractic care.

How Often Do I Need to See a Chiropractor?

A chiropractor might initially see a patient once or twice a week. They might start seeing the patient every day if the condition is severe. Also, they advise fewer visits as the patient gets better and gradually give them more tasks to complete at home.

Some patients require periodic follow-up visits due to ongoing issues. However, most patients have manageable problems, and after their condition has improved, revisiting them is unnecessary.

Conclusion

The answer to the question “Can a chiropractor help with back pain?” is unquestionably positive. To ensure you live a more pain-free and active life, seeking chiropractic care can be a game-changer in your health journey.

You can check The Brost Clinic for chiropractic care. Our mission is to provide the highest quality natural health and chiropractic care to individuals and families of all ages. Our services are not only intended to relieve back pain but also to improve overall health and well-being. We use an overall strategy, focusing on individualized care that targets the underlying source of pain to provide long-lasting relief.

A damaged spine can put pressure on nerves all over your body over time. As you get older, you may even develop spinal stenosis. This can jeopardize your overall health. Fortunately, surgery is not your only treatment option. Instead, you could see a spinal stenosis chiropractor. But how can a chiropractor help spinal stenosis?

Chiropractors align your spine, easing stenosis symptoms. They recommend exercises to improve posture. Non-invasive treatments like TENS might be offered alongside stretches for relief. Chiropractors can also offer spinal decompression to relieve pressure without requiring surgery. This promotes disc healing via increased nutrient flow.

In this article, we will broadly discuss the helping process of stenosis chiropractors. We will also enlighten you on the causes and symptoms of this condition. Keep reading to learn more.

What is Spinal Stenosis?

When the space in the spine gets too small, a condition called spinal stenosis can happen. The nerves and soft tissues that cover your bones and spine can hurt if you have spinal stenosis. This can make it hard to do everyday things like balance, feeling, and even moving.

Stenosis is more common in the neck and lower back, where the spaces are smaller. The spinal cord is made up of a column of smaller vertebrae in the neck and lower back. As this area shrinks, it can hurt nerves nearby by putting pressure on the nerve roots. This causes pain and other neurological symptoms, such as weakness or loss of sensation.

What Causes Spinal Stenosis?

Degenerative diseases are the most common cause of spinal stenosis. Here are some examples:

• Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis affects the spinal cartilage. The vertebrae can compress the spinal cord and nerve roots as they thin and wear down. When the cartilage becomes too thin, the bones may rub together. This results in the formation of osteophytes (bone spurs). These bone spurs also compress the nerve roots.

• Degenerative Disc Disease

The spaces between bones narrow as the discs between vertebrae dehydrate or break down. This compresses nerves as they exit the spinal canal. Degenerative disc disease also causes bulging discs. It hurts the spinal cord when a disc bulges into the spinal canal.

• Ligament Thickening or Buckling

There is a substantial layer of connective tissue surrounding the spinal canal. In certain circumstances, these tissues can thicken or harden into bone.

You can feel the spinal cord and nerve roots getting squished when these ligaments get stiff or thick. These connective tissues become loose and buckle due to genetic disease, making the spinal canal narrow in one place.

Spinal deformities like scoliosis, tumors, and cysts can all cause narrowing of the spinal canal. Injuries can also cause spinal stenosis. It is common in patients who have suffered spinal injuries from sports, car accidents, or when a vertebra is dislocated or fractured.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis

The extent to which the space has shrunk determines where and how severe your symptoms are. The symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly. Running or lifting heavy objects can aggravate symptoms. The symptoms may include:

• Pain

Spinal stenosis is most common in the cervical spine (neck and shoulders) and lumbar spine (lower back). The symptoms vary from mild to severe. It may begin as a dull, localized pain between the shoulders or in the lower back. Some people experience intense, sharp electrical pain that travels through the hips, legs, and arms. Pain may worsen with some activities and improve with others.

• Loss of Sensation or Tingling

Patients with spinal stenosis rarely experience pain. Instead, they may feel numbness and tingling in the affected areas. Numbness and tingling can accompany pain and affect many parts of the body. This usually affects both the stenosis and the limbs.

• Weakness

Your bones contribute to the body’s structure, but your muscles keep you standing and allow you to move. To maintain balance and coordination, your brain must be able to send and receive signals from those muscles.

When nerves are damaged or not working properly, the brain is unable to receive this information. This causes muscle weakness and difficulty moving or bearing weight.

There are also nerve roots in the spine that control bladder and bowel functions. Compression of these nerve roots can cause urinary or bowel incontinence.

How Can a Chiropractor Help Spinal Stenosis?

Chiropractors can use adjustments and manipulations to align your spine and neck. A misalignment could cause or worsen spinal stenosis. Getting an adjustment from a chiropractor can help relieve stress on the nerves in your spine.

• Physical Exercises

Remember that poor posture can lead to stenosis. In fact, it can raise the pain. A chiropractor can recommend exercises (e.g., chin tucks, scapular retraction) to strengthen your muscles and improve your posture. Repeating these exercises daily can help with spinal stenosis pain relief.

Your doctor may also advise you to avoid activities that could worsen your pain. Walking uphill or cycling, for example, may exacerbate your spinal stenosis.

However, your chiropractor will probably advise you to stay physically active. Exercise can help prevent further deterioration of the muscles that support your spine.

• Medication

Your chiropractor may also recommend anti-inflammatory drugs. Herbal anti-inflammatory agents include fish oil and curcumin. Most people who suffer from this condition believe that their only option is surgery. However, your chiropractor can create a treatment plan that is non-invasive, holistic, and natural.

Your chiropractor may also recommend TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), ice, or heat therapy. However, their suggestions may differ depending on your specific situation.

• Stretches

During your adjustment, your chiropractor will stretch out certain parts of your body. Stretching creates a small amount of space along your spine. This can help relieve pressure.

Most patients experience an immediate reduction in pain after their first treatment. Each visit can help to alleviate your pain. However, pain relief can vary depending on several factors.

• Spinal Decompression

If there is constant pressure on your spinal cord, you may need spinal decompression. Spinal decompression is a non-surgical procedure that can alleviate pressure on the spinal cord. If you gently stretch your spine, it will move. This will relieve pressure on your spinal nerves and discs.

Removing pressure from your spine’s structures allows water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids to flow into the discs. This allows the discs to heal.

Conclusion

Spinal stenosis can be an irritating situation. It can make your movements painful and cause numbness. Different degenerative conditions, like osteoarthritis and ligament thickening, are to blame for this condition.

The good thing is that chiropractic care can provide relief for this condition. With a focus on a non-invasive approach, a top-quality chiropractor can design a lifestyle beneficial for stenosis.

However, not all chiropractic care can meet the challenge of helping with spinal stenosis. The Brost Clinic definitely can. Contact us today for a safe alternative to back surgery or a natural and holistic way to treat spinal stenosis.