Patrick’s been battling arthritis for what feels like forever. He’s been searching high and low for ways to relieve his achy joints, and guess what? He just stumbled upon the magic of chiropractic care!
Excited to give it a shot, Patrick’s ready to team up with Dr. Greg Doerr from Bergen Chiropractic to tackle his symptoms. With Dr. Doerr’s expertise and a personalized care plan, Patrick’s looking forward to a brighter, pain-free future!
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is basically an inflammatory disease of the joints. It’s a pretty common condition that leads to pain, stiffness, and active swelling of the joints. There are actually many types of arthritis, with the two most common ones are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is usually caused by wear and tear, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the immune system starts attacking the joints. This degenerative joint disease can be a real pain (literally!), but there are effective treatment modalities available to help manage the symptoms and keep you moving!
What are the Different Types of Arthritis?
You’ll be surprised to hear that there are actually over a hundred different types of arthritis! However, not all of them are significantly common forms of this disease, which is why we’ll cover a handful of them.
Osteoarthritis
This is the most common type, usually caused by wear and tear on your joints. It tends to affect older people and can cause pain and stiffness in the knees, hips, and hands.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
When dealing with this disease, the body’s immune system attacks your joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly in the hands, feet, and wrists.
Psoriatic Arthritis
This type is associated with a skin condition called psoriasis. It causes joint pain and swelling, often in the fingers, toes, and spine.
Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body. It can lead to sudden, severe pain and swelling, usually in the big toe.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
This is a type of inflammatory arthritis that mainly affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness. Over time, the vertebrae can fuse together, limiting flexibility.
Reactive Arthritis
This type occurs after an infection, like food poisoning or a sexually transmitted infection. It can cause pain in the joints and swelling, along with other symptoms, such as eye inflammation and urinary problems.
Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can cause arthritis-like symptoms in various parts of the body, including the joints, skin, kidneys, and heart.
What are the Main Arthritis Symptoms?
Symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type of disease you have, but there are some common ones that many people experience. One of the main symptoms is joint pain, which can be anything from a mild ache to a sharp, intense arthritic pain. It might get worse when you’re moving around or after a period of inactivity.
Another common symptom is stiffness in your joints. You might find it difficult to move a certain joint or feel like it’s not as flexible as it used to be. This stiffness can be particularly noticeable when you wake up in the morning or after you’ve been sitting still for a while.
Swelling is also a typical symptom. You might notice that one or more of your joints look puffy and feel warm to the touch. This happens because the inflammation in the joint is causing extra fluid to build up.
Patients with arthritic joint pain might also notice redness around the affected joints, as well as a decreased range of motion, making it harder to perform certain tasks. In some cases, arthritis can cause joint deformities, like crooked fingers or a change in the shape of a joint.
Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that arthritis can sometimes cause general feelings of tiredness or fatigue, as your body is dealing with the inflammation and trying to repair any damage.
Keep in mind that symptoms can be different for everyone, so if you’re experiencing any of these, it’s important to talk to your health professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Can a Chiropractor Diagnose Arthritis?
You bet! Chiropractors are trained to diagnose various musculoskeletal issues, including arthritis. They go through years of education and hands-on training, so they’re pretty knowledgeable when it comes to identifying joint problems and determining whether arthritis might be the cause!
During your appointment, Dr. Doerr will ask you about your detailed medical history, any symptoms you’re experiencing, and how they’re affecting your daily life. He’ll also perform a physical examination, checking out your joints and looking for any signs of inflammation, swelling, or decreased range of motion.
In some cases, Dr. Doerr might need more information to confirm an arthritis diagnosis. He could refer you for imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI, which can show any joint damage or inflammation. He might also suggest you see a rheumatologist, a specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating arthritis and other rheumatic conditions.
Is Chiropractic Care Helpful for Arthritis?
Absolutely! Chiropractic care can be super helpful for managing symptoms of arthritis and improving your quality of life. Chiropractors focus on non-invasive techniques to reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation — some of the main issues people with arthritis deal with.
One thing chiropractors are known for is spinal manipulation, which involves applying controlled force to a joint in the spine to improve its function and relieve pain. Chiropractic adjustments help reduce joint restrictions and misalignments — a big help for spine arthritis patients!
But don’t worry, they don’t just focus on your back! Chiropractors can also work on other joints in your body, such as your knees, hips, or shoulders. They use joint mobilizations, soft tissue techniques, and other complementary therapies to increase your joint range of motion, decrease inflammation, and alleviate pain.
On top of hands-on treatments, chiropractors can be a great resource for advice on physical therapy you can do at home to strengthen your muscles and maintain joint flexibility. They might also recommend lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, to help you manage your arthritis symptoms better.
One important thing to remember is that every patient with arthritis is unique, and chiropractic care should be tailored to your specific needs. Be sure to communicate openly with your chiropractor about your symptoms, concerns, and treatment goals, so they can develop the best care plan for you.
Are You Considering Chiropractic Care for Arthritis? Dr. Doerr is Here to Help!
At Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, led by Dr. Gregory Doerr, adheres to the highest and most professional medical standards to provide superior chiropractic help. Our mission is to provide unparalleled patient care and services in a comfortable healing atmosphere. Access our contact form or call us at (201) 945-4075 to learn more about our chiropractic treatment services! Our chiropractic offices at 532 Anderson Avenue, Cliffside Park, NJ 07010, and 62 Summit Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601, are ready to welcome you as we proudly serve New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, PA, and Baltimore, MD, areas. Also, feel free to access our blog, Facebook, and Instagram pages for more information on chiropractic treatments!
References
“Arthritis.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350772. Accessed 6 May 2023.
“Arthritis Types.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 20 Feb. 2019, www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/types.html. Accessed 6 May 2023.
Have you ever dealt with the pesky problem of a pulled muscle? It’s a real pain, right? But fear not, because chiropractors are here to save the day!
Chiropractic care is not just about cracking backs – it can also help with pulled muscles, easing your discomfort, providing pain relief, and getting you back on your feet in no time!
And who better to guide you on this journey to recovery than our very own Dr. Greg Doerr from Bergen Chiropractic? He’s got the knowledge, the skills, and the passion to get you back to feeling your best.
So, sit tight and read on to learn how chiropractors can help with pulled muscles and how Dr. Doerr is ready to assist you in your path to recovery!
How Do We Define a Pulled Muscle?
A pulled muscle, also known as a muscle strain, basically occurs when your muscle gets overstretched or torn. It’s like when you stretch a rubber band too far and it snaps — though not quite as dramatic.
You know that feeling when you’re lifting something heavy or running really fast, and suddenly you feel a sharp pain that makes you stop in your tracks? That’s probably a pulled muscle. It happens because your muscle gets overloaded or it’s been used too much without enough rest.
Our muscles are pretty sturdy and can take significant amounts of wear and tear. However, sometimes we push them a bit too hard, and that’s when a muscle strain happens.
If you think you’re dealing with a strained muscle, the best thing to do is rest — no heavy lifting or intense workouts for a while. Apply ice to the affected area to reduce swelling and take over-the-counter pain relievers if it’s really bothering you.
If the muscle pain doesn’t get better after a few days, have it checked out by a doctor. They can make sure it’s nothing more serious and give you advice on how to heal faster.
What is the Root Cause of Pulled Muscles?
Pulled muscles usually occur when you’re asking a bit too much of your body. Imagine you’re lifting something way heavier than you’re used to or you suddenly dash off to catch the bus without warming up. Your muscles are like, “Whoa, what’s happening here?” and they can’t handle the sudden muscle strain, resulting in those little tears in your muscle fibers.
Slacking off on your training and then suddenly you jump back in full force is another recipe for pulled muscles. It’s like showing up for a marathon when you’ve only been training for a 5K. Your muscles need time to adapt to the level of activity you’re asking of them.
Also, let’s not forget about muscle fatigue. If your muscles are tired, they’re less able to properly support and protect your joints, increasing your risk of injury, including muscle strain. So, while it’s awesome to give it your all during a workout, it’s equally important to know when to rest and let your muscles recover.
Finally, the aging process increases your risk of muscle strains. As we age, our muscles lose flexibility and strength, making them more prone to injuries — an integral part of aging. That’s why it’s essential to stay active and keep those muscles strong and flexible, no matter your age.
To sum it up, pulled muscles often come down to a mix of overexertion, insufficient training, muscle fatigue, and sometimes just the natural process of aging. It’s all about listening to your body and not pushing it past its limits.
What are the Muscle Strain Symptoms?
How do you know if you’ve actually pulled a muscle or if you’re just really sore from that killer workout you did? Here’s the lowdown:
Pain and tenderness. If you’re pulling a muscle, you’ll feel a sharp pain right away. The area might also be tender to the touch. Think of it as your muscle’s SOS signal!
Limited movement. Having trouble moving that part of your body with a muscle strain? That’s another sign. Your muscle’s not in the mood to work right now, so it might feel stiff or weak.
Swelling. If the area starts puffing up, it’s probably because of increased blood flow as your body tries to heal the injury. It’s like your body’s own little repair team rushing to the site!
Bruising. Sometimes, a pulled muscle can cause bruising. This occurs when those tiny blood vessels (capillaries) in your muscle break and leak blood into the area.
Muscle spasms. Ever had a charley horse? Then you know what a muscle spasm feels like. If you’ve pulled a muscle, you might feel these sudden, involuntary muscle contractions.
Can a Chiropractor Help With Pulled Muscles?
When pulling a muscle, it’s not just the muscle itself that gets affected. The injury can also mess up your body’s alignment and the way you move. This is where chiropractic care comes into play!
Chiropractors are the body’s maintenance experts, keeping all the parts moving smoothly and in sync. If a pulled muscle is throwing you off balance, a chiropractor will help get things back in order. They provide adjustments to realign your spine and joints to reduce pain, relieve stress, and help the pulled muscle heal faster.
But that’s not all! Part of chiropractic treatment involves therapeutic exercises that strengthen the muscles and prevent future injuries. They also offer advice on posture and ergonomics to make sure you’re not putting unnecessary strain on your body during day-to-day activities.
Chiropractors often use techniques like massage or soft tissue therapy on the affected muscle. These techniques improve blood flow to the area, speed up the healing process, and reduce the risk of scar tissue formation.
What works best for you will depend on your medical history, specific injury, and overall health. But in general, chiropractic care will play a great role in your pulled muscle recovery!
How to Prevent Pulled Muscles in the Future
Preventing pulled muscles in the future comes down to taking care of your body. Warm up before you do any intense physical activity, so your muscles are ready to go. Take things slow, gradually increasing the intensity or duration of your workouts — no need to go from zero to sixty overnight!
Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to keep your body in tip-top shape. And don’t forget about rest! Giving your body time to recover after a workout is super important to prevent injuries.
Finally, pay attention to your body. If something feels off, take a break. Pushing through the pain isn’t worth pulling a muscle. It’s better to take it easy than to be sidelined with an injury.
Dealing With a Pulled Muscle? Dr. Doerr is Here to Help!
At Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, led by Dr. Gregory Doerr, adheres to the highest and most professional medical standards to provide superior chiropractic help. Our mission is to provide unparalleled patient care and services in a comfortable healing atmosphere. Access our contact form or call us at (201) 945-4075 to learn more about our chiropractic treatment services! Our chiropractic offices at 532 Anderson Avenue, Cliffside Park, NJ 07010, and 62 Summit Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601, are ready to welcome you as we proudly serve New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, PA, and Baltimore, MD, areas. Also, feel free to access our blog, Facebook, and Instagram pages for more information on chiropractic treatments!
References
Wan, Jing-Jing, et al. “Muscle Fatigue: General Understanding and Treatment.” Experimental & Molecular Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 6 Oct. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5668469/. Accessed 11 May 2023.
Pietrangelo, Ann. “Muscle Strains: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 20 Apr. 2023, www.healthline.com/health/strains. Accessed 11 May 2023.
Let’s talk about something that can be quite a pain in … well, just about anywhere, really. That’s right, we’re diving into the world of neuropathy pain!
Neuropathic pain can make you feel like you’re walking on a bed of nails or wearing an invisible cloak made of electric shocks. But, here’s the thing, you don’t have to just grin and bear it. There’s a hero in this story, and it goes by the name of chiropractic therapy!
Now, you might be thinking, aren’t chiropractors only supposed to crack backs? Well, they do a whole lot more than that. They’re like detectives of the body, and they’ve got the skills to hunt down the culprits behind your neuropathy pain!
Once they’ve figured out what’s causing your discomfort, these vertebrae virtuosos get to work to relieve pain in ways that might just make you want to do a happy dance (or at least a pain-free walk around the block). So, if you’re ready to take the next step towards a more comfortable life, let’s explore how chiropractic therapy can help kick your neuropathy pain to the curb!
What is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a medical term that might sound a bit complicated, but in reality, it’s not that bad. “Neuro” relates to your nerve cells, and “pathy” comes from the Greek word for experience or suffering. It’s essentially when your nerves aren’t feeling too great.
Your body’s nervous system is divided into two main parts:
The central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord).
The peripheral nervous system (pretty much all the other nerves in your body).
Neuropathy often refers to peripheral neuropathy, meaning the nerves outside of your brain and spinal cord are causing some trouble.
These nerves fulfill all sorts of different jobs, like helping you feel things with your skin, telling your muscles when and how to move, and keeping your heart rate and digestion on track. When these nerves start to suffer, a wide range of symptoms will kick in. Some patients report chronic pain or a constant feeling of numbness in their hands and feet. Others feel weak or have trouble moving. It can even mess with your blood pressure or cause digestive problems!
The Different Types of Neuropathy
Each type of neuropathy affects your body in different ways, but they all come down to the same thing: your nerves are having a bit of a rough time. If you think you’re dealing with neuropathy, definitely get in touch with a healthcare provider. They’ll help you figure out what’s going on and how to deal with it!
First up, you’ve got peripheral neuropathy, the most common type. It usually starts off with a bit of tingling or numbness in your hands or feet, spreading over time to your arms or legs. Sometimes, peripheral neuropathy can feel like you’re wearing a glove or a sock when you’re not!
Next is proximal neuropathy, also known as diabetic amyotrophy. This type of neuropathy causes pain in your hips, thighs, or buttocks, usually on one side of the body. It can also lead to muscle weakness, making it hard to stand up from a sitting position. It’s more common in older people and patients with type 2 diabetes.
Then there’s autonomic neuropathy. This type’s a bit different because it’s about the nerves that control your internal organs (that is, your heart, bladder, stomach, intestines, reproductive organs, and eyes). Autonomic neuropathy messes with a bunch of things, like your blood pressure, digestion, bladder control, and sexual function.
Focal neuropathy has a sudden onset, affecting a single nerve, typically in your wrist, thigh, or foot. It also attacks nerves in your face and eyes, which may cause some serious pain levels.
Last but not least, there’s mononeuropathy, which is basically when only one of your peripheral nerves is having a hard time. You might feel it in your hand, like carpal tunnel syndrome, or it could cause issues with your eye or facial muscles.
What are the Underlying Causes of Neuropathy?
Right off the bat, there can be lots of reasons why your nerves might start acting up!
Diabetes
One of the most common culprits is diabetes. Experiencing high blood sugar levels for too long can cause damage to your nerves over time. That’s why it’s so important to manage this disease accordingly.
Vitamin Deficiencies
Your nerves need certain vitamins to function properly, especially B vitamins, vitamin E, and niacin. So if you’re not getting enough of these, your nerves might start to protest.
Medical Conditions
Some infections and immune system disorders can also cause neuropathy. Things like Lyme disease, shingles, or HIV can mess with your nerves. Also, autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, where your immune system mistakenly attacks your own tissues, can lead to nerve damage.
Then there are inherited disorders like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. If you’ve got one of these conditions, your genes make you more susceptible to developing neuropathy.
Chemical Exposure
Exposure to toxins is another biggie. Being regularly in contact with heavy metals (like lead and mercury) or industrial chemicals can lead to neuropathy. This is also why long-term alcohol abuse can cause nerve damage — alcohol is a toxin, and too much of it over time can hurt your nerves.
Idiopathic Neuropathy
Sometimes, the cause of neuropathy can be a bit of a mystery. That’s called idiopathic neuropathy, which is a fancy way of saying, “We’re not sure why this is happening.”
What are the Manifestations of Neuropathic Pain?
Neuropathic pain can become apparent anywhere in your body! However, that doesn’t mean your entire body will succumb to unending aches. Here’s a rundown of some symptoms you might experience due to neuropathy:
Sharp, stabbing pain: This isn’t your typical dull ache. It can feel like sudden jabs of pain, like you’re being pricked with needles.
Burning pain: Some people describe this as a feeling of being on fire, or a hot or cold sensation.
Tingling or numbness: It’s that pins-and-needles feeling you get when your foot falls asleep, but it doesn’t go away.
Increased sensitivity: You might find that even the lightest touch or the feeling of your clothes against your skin can cause discomfort or pain (also called allodynia).
Shooting pain: This pain might travel along the path of the affected nerve, like an electric shock.
Loss of balance or coordination: If the nerves in your legs are affected, it might be harder to keep your balance.
How is Neuropathy Diagnosed?
It all starts when you go into your doctor’s office and tell them about the symptoms you’ve been having. They will ask you a bunch of questions about your symptoms, like:
When they started
What they feel like
If anything makes them better or worse
They’ll also want to know about your medical history and whether you have any neuropathy-causing conditions.
Then comes the physical exam. Your doctor will see if they can find any physical signs of neuropathy. They might check your reflexes, your muscle strength, and your ability to feel certain sensations.
Now, if your doctor thinks you have neuropathy, they’ll probably order some tests to confirm the diagnosis and figure out what’s causing it. This means blood tests to check for things like vitamin deficiencies or signs of diabetes, or maybe a nerve conduction study (NCS), where they use electrodes to see how your nerves are functioning.
There’s also a test called electromyography (or EMG for short) that can show how well your muscles are working. And in some cases, your doctor might even want to take a small sample of your nerve tissue to look at under a microscope, which is called a nerve biopsy.
While it might seem like a lot, all these tests and exams are super important in helping your doctor figure out what’s going on and how to best help you manage your neuropathy symptoms!
Can Chiropractic Care Treat Neuropathy?
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no, because it really depends on your specific situation.
Chiropractors are experts in everything pertaining to the musculoskeletal and the nervous systems. They use a variety of treatment options, including spinal manipulation, to help improve the function of your nervous system and the alignment of your spine.
Now, when it comes to neuropathy, the most important thing is to figure out what’s causing it. If it’s due to something like a herniated disc pressing on a nerve, then a chiropractor will help by realigning the spine and taking pressure off the nerve.
But, if your neuropathy is caused by something like diabetes or a vitamin deficiency, then seeing a chiropractor alone probably won’t be enough. You’ll need to address the underlying issue, which might involve medication or lifestyle changes.
That said, chiropractic care can often complement other treatments and help manage symptoms of neuropathy like pain or muscle weakness. Many neuropathy patients find that regular chiropractic care helps them feel better overall!
But remember, every patient is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. So, if you’re considering seeing a chiropractor for neuropathy, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor first. They can help guide you on what treatments might be most effective for you!
Enjoy Excellent Chiropractic Care for Neuropathy at Bergen Chiropractic!
At Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, led by Dr. Gregory Doerr, adheres to the highest and most professional medical standards to provide superior chiropractic help. Our mission is to provide unparalleled patient care and services in a comfortable healing atmosphere. Access our contact form or call us at (201) 945-4075 to learn more about our chiropractic treatment services! Our chiropractic offices at 532 Anderson Avenue, Cliffside Park, NJ 07010, and 62 Summit Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601, are ready to welcome you as we proudly serve New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, PA, and Baltimore, MD, areas. Also, feel free to access our blog, Facebook, and Instagram pages for more information on chiropractic treatments!
References
“Neuropathic Pain: What It Is, Causes, Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15833-neuropathic-pain. Accessed 9 May 2023.
“Peripheral Neuropathy.” National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/peripheral-neuropathy. Accessed 9 May 2023.
“Peripheral Neuropathy.” JHM, 8 Aug. 2021, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/peripheral-neuropathy. Accessed 9 May 2023.
Ever found yourself nursing a sore back or a creaky knee and wondered whether to book an appointment with a chiropractor or an orthopedic doctor? It’s a common conundrum, one that can leave you scratching your head, especially when chronic pain is becoming your new not-so-welcome friend!
Understanding the difference between a chiropractor and an orthopedist is indispensable before you hit the road to recovery. Both chiropractors and orthopedic doctors have their own unique skills and specialties, and knowing which one is right for your condition will get you back on your feet faster.
Today’s article will clear up all that confusion! We’ll dive into the world of chiropractic and orthopedic medicine, shining a light on what sets these two medical professionals apart, and how to determine which one you should see for your specific condition!
What is an Orthopedist?
An orthopedist is a “specialist mechanic” for our bodies, more specifically for our bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles — all the stuff that helps you move, reach for things, or even do a little dance.
Orthopedic physicians are your go-to specialists if you’ve got a problem with your knees, back, hips, or any other part of your musculoskeletal system. They can help fix things whether the issue is congenital,has developed over time, or occurred due to an injury.
So next time you fall off your bike and break your arm, or your grandma says she needs a new hip, you’ll know exactly who to call — the orthopedist!
What are the Similarities Between Chiropractors and Orthopedists?
Chiropractors and orthopedists are like two sides of the same coin when it comes to treating issues related to our body’s structure. They both want to help you move better and relieve pain, but they go about it in different ways.
Both chiropractors and orthopedic doctors focus on your musculoskeletal issues. That means they’re looking at your bones, joints, muscles, and all the bits and pieces that help you move and groove in your daily life. They both diagnose and treat issues with these parts of the body, whether it’s a bad back, a sore knee, or a stiff neck.
Furthermore, they both believe in the power of non-invasive treatment avenues, helping you avoid going under the knife if possible. Instead, they will propose physical therapy, exercises, or other surgery-free treatments to help you heal!
But remember, an orthopedic doctor cannot replace a chiropractor, or vice versa, but they’re both indispensable in their own ways for keeping us all moving smoothly!
What are the Differences Between Chiropractors and Orthopedists?
Chiropractors and orthopedists seem like they’re in the same ballpark because they’re both dealing with issues affecting the musculoskeletal system. But, they’re actually quite different in how they approach these problems, the type of training they receive, and the treatment options they offer.
Educational Requirements
Let’s start with chiropractors. After earning a bachelor’s degree, which often emphasizes sciences like biology or chemistry, they head off to a chiropractic school for four years of specialized education.
The first couple of years often look like what medical students go through — lots of classroom and lab work in anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry. The second half is more about getting hands-on clinical experience under supervision, learning to assess patients, make diagnoses, and of course, perfect those spinal adjustments. Once all that’s done, they have to pass national board exams to get licensed and start a chiropractic practice.
Orthopedic doctors, on the other hand, follow the traditional MD route. After getting a bachelor’s degree, they spend four years in medical school: half in the classroom and labs, studying subjects like anatomy, pharmacology, and pathology, and the other half in clinical rotations.
After graduating, they’re officially medical doctors, but the journey doesn’t stop there! They have
to complete a five-year residency in orthopedics, where they really hone their skills in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions and performing surgeries. Some even opt for additional training in a fellowship to specialize further in sports medicine or spine surgery. And just like chiropractors, they have to pass licensing exams to practice.
Treatment Philosophy
Chiropractors are the gurus of spinal alignment. They believe that many health issues stem from misalignments in the spinal column, so they use their hands or special tools to perform adjustments, realigning the spine to relieve nerve pressure. They’re really into a holistic view of health, often advising on diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes along with their hands-on work. Plus, they usually work in outpatient settings, so you’ll often find them in private practices or wellness centers.
Orthopedists, on the other hand, are MDs who specialize in diagnosing and treating a broad range of issues related to the bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles. They can handle everything from fractures and dislocations to arthritis and osteoporosis.
Orthopedic doctors have the ability to perform surgery and prescribe medication, something chiropractors can’t do. They also work in a variety of settings like hospitals, specialized clinics, and private practices.
To summarize, if you have a musculoskeletal problem, a chiropractor is likely to adjust your spine and help you adopt lifestyle changes. An orthopedist, though, might suggest surgery, prescribe medication, or recommend physical therapy. It all depends on the nature and severity of your issue. And of course, they often work together, referring patients to each other when needed!
When Should I See a Chiropractor vs. an Orthopedic Surgeon?
If you’re dealing with a musculoskeletal issue like back pain, neck pain, chronic headaches, or even joint pain, a chiropractor is a solid first stop. They focus on non-invasive treatments, mainly through spinal adjustments and other techniques to help your body heal itself.
But, if your pain is severe, persistent, or associated with numbness, weakness, or changes in bowel or bladder function, it’s wiser to seek an orthopedic surgeon. They have the training to diagnose complex conditions and can provide a wider range of treatment options, including medication, physical therapy, and orthopedic surgery, if necessary.
Looking for Excellent Chiropractic Care? Dr. Doerr is Here to Help!
At Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, led by Dr. Gregory Doerr, adheres to the highest and most professional medical standards to provide superior chiropractic help. Our mission is to provide unparalleled patient care and services in a comfortable healing atmosphere. Access our contact form or call us at (201) 945-4075 to learn more about our chiropractic treatment services! Our chiropractic offices at 532 Anderson Avenue, Cliffside Park, NJ 07010, and 62 Summit Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601, are ready to welcome you as we proudly serve New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, PA, and Baltimore, MD, areas. Also, feel free to access our blog, Facebook, and Instagram pages for more information on chiropractic treatments!
References
“What Is an Orthopedic Physician? What They Do, When to See One, and What to Expect.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-is-an-orthopedic-physician. Accessed 15 May 2023.
What an Orthopedic Surgeon Does and How to Become One, www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-medical-schools/articles/2019-09-16/what-an-orthopedic-surgeon-does-and-how-to-become-one. Accessed 15 May 2023.
Kirkaldy-Willis, W H. “Orthopaedics and Chiropractic, a Close Relationship.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, U.S. National Library of Medicine, June 2004, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1840045/. Accessed 15 May 2023.
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