Understanding the science
The nervous system is a complex network of neurons (nerve cells) transmitting information to and from different parts of the body. The nervous system is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. The spinal cord and nerves transmit information from different parts of the body to the brain and the brain then interprets the information and sends information back out to control movements of muscle, digestion or speech. The brain and spinal cord are protected by the skull and the vertebra and so will be protected from all but the most severe of injuries. The nerves exiting the spine, however, are vulnerable to irritation by tissue injury, leading to swelling and compression by adjacent structures such discs, joints or muscles.
Tissue injury can be caused by a single traumatic event, such as improper lifting of a heavy object, or through repetitive stresses, such as sitting in an awkward position with poor spinal posture for an extended period of time. In either case, injured tissues undergo physical and chemical changes that can cause inflammation, pain, and diminished function for an individual.
When nerves exiting the spine are irritated or compressed they can alter nerve impulses creating pain, altered movement patterns, or numbness. As nerves are irritated in the low back (lumbar spine) they can create local pain near the spine, but if the nerves are severely irritated it creates pain down the leg, commonly referred to as sciatica. The same can occur in the neck (cervical spine) where mild nerve compromise can create local pain but if it gets worse it can refer pain to the head (in the form of headaches) or down the arm.
SCIENCE:
Normal Disc
Herniated Disc
Subluxated Disc
Sciatic Nerves
UNDERSTANDING CHIROPRACTIC:
Our doctors combine gentle specific chiropractic mobilization, ultrasound and soft tissue manipulation to help restore proper alignment and relax surrounding muscles to relieve swelling and pressure on nerves, soothing aches and pains.
The most common therapeutic procedures performed by our chiropractors is spinal mobilization (chiropractic adjustment). The purpose of the chiropractic adjustment is to restore joint mobility by manually applying a controlled force into joints that have become restricted in their movement as a result of a tissue injury. By encouraging movement and restoring proper alignment, muscles have the ability to relax and nerves are relieved of excess swelling and pressure that causes pain. We use a low velocity sustained chiropractic adjustment that allows the body time to adapt to a new position and movement pattern. This gentle and slow approach makes our treatments ideal for acute severe pain and chronic pain conditions that are years or decades in the making.
Ultrasound is also commonly used in our clinic. Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves (1-3 million/second) that penetrate 1 to 2 inches deep into the tissues with the objective of providing deep heating to improve blood flow, relax muscles and accelerate healing. This is done using a hand held transducer and a gel that allows the sound waves to penetrate through the skin and into the deeper tissues.
Soft tissue manipulation is an integral part of the therapy, with the goal of stretching and massaging; painful, swollen or injured soft tissue, such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules. The effect is to stretch the muscles, increase strength and improve flexibility, which allows for maintaining proper joint movement and relieves pressure on the nerves so that pain relief is sustained.
Exercises and Rehab
Individualized exercises, stretches, and postural training to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and most importantly prevent future pain.
Nutritional Counseling
Dietary advice for overall health and pain management.
Lifestyle Modifications
Advice on sleep, ergonomics, and other lifestyle factors that can impact musculoskeletal health
SERVICES:
Spinal mobilization
Although manipulation is the the most well-known chiropractic technique we know many patients find the snap, crackle and pop stressful and uncomfortable. This is why we use gentle spinal mobilization using controlled force to adjust misaligned joints, primarily in the spine, to improve mobility and function.
Massage
Techniques involving stretching, applying pressure, and massage to loosen tight muscles and improve joint flexibility.
Radiology
Expert interpretation of x-rays, MRI and CT scans by a board certified
Chiropractic Radiologist
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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When seeing one of our Chiropractors for the first time, you should expect that you will receive a comprehensive examination and the doctor will review past medical history. They will also take time to explain how chiropractic works and why it helps. You will be given time to have your questions answered and provide explanations about chiropractic techniques. If it is reasonable and necessary, you should expect to undergo treatment during this visit. If it is determined that additional visits would be appropriate, a plan of care would be discussed, as well as what to expect at follow-up visits.
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Your first visit may last up to one hour and 2o minutes, and follow-up appointments generally last about 40 minutes. Our doctors take time with each patient to connect with them on a personal level and help guide patients to a state of overall wellness. Time spent with our doctors is never hurried or rushed.
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This test will only be ordered if it is necessary to help our doctors diagnose your problem, or if your treatment has not progressed as anticipated. X-rays are generally not needed in order to receive care.