Ever been sidelined with an annoying injury when you’re just starting to hit your stride?
Yep, it’s the worst.
But, worry not, because when sports injuries strike, experts like Dr. Doerr from Bergen Chiropractic have got your back … and your knees, and your shoulders! With extensive knowledge of sports-related injuries and a comprehensive arsenal of treatment techniques, Dr. Doerr is just the person you need to get you off the bench and back in the game.
So, stick around as we dive deeper into some of the most common sports injuries, their causes, symptoms, and most importantly, how sports chiropractors come to the rescue!
Am I Susceptible to a Sports Injury?
Anybody is susceptible to a sports injury, whether you’re a pro athlete, a weekend warrior, or just someone trying out a new physical activity. Certain risk factors increase your predisposition to both minor and more serious injuries, including:
Activity Type: High-intensity sports like football, basketball, or rugby often come with a higher risk of injury. But even lower-impact activities like jogging or swimming can lead to acute injuries.
Training and Preparation: Skipping warm-ups or cool-downs, not using proper gear, or not following good form or technique can all put you in the injury zone.
Fitness Level: Your body will protest if you’re out of shape and jump into an intense activity. It’s important to build up your fitness level gradually.
Age: Kids and teens are more prone to certain injuries because their bodies are still growing. Older adults may also have a higher risk due to decreased bone density and muscle flexibility.
Previous Injuries: Repeated injuries and partial recovery make you more susceptible to recurring issues.
6 Causes of Sports Injuries
Sports injuries are a common occurrence, whether you’re casually shooting hoops in the backyard or you’re running a marathon. While accidents can happen anytime, certain factors increase the likelihood of sports injuries:
Poor Training Practices: If you don’t warm up/cool down properly, if your form is off, or if you’re not using the right equipment, you’re setting yourself up for potential injuries.
Overdoing It: Going too hard, too fast, or too long can lead to overuse injuries. Your body needs time to recover and adapt to new levels of physical stress.
Being Out of Shape: Couch potatoes are never ready for intense physical activity. Start off with baby steps, slowly allowing your body to prepare for the upcoming physical stress.
Environment: Slippery or uneven surfaces, poor lighting, extreme weather conditions — they can all lead to injuries if you’re not careful.
Not Using Proper Gear: Whether it’s the right footwear, protective padding, or equipment suited to your size and ability level, appropriate gear is essential to preventing injuries.
Ignoring Fatigue or Pain: Not heeding your body’s signals is a risky move. If you’re feeling worn out or you’re in pain, it’s best to take a break. Playing through pain will only worsen an injury.
8 Common Symptoms of Sports Injuries
Getting sidelined is every athlete’s worst nightmare. That’s why you must learn to recognize the signs of an impending injury.
Here are some of the most common symptoms of sports injuries:
Pain: Sharp, persistent pain — anything different from the typical “feeling the burn” sensation — is a sign that something might be off.
Swelling: It’s normal to experience swelling right after an injury, but if it doesn’t recede after a few days or gets worse, it’s time to see a physician.
Limited Mobility: The inability to move a joint as far as usual might be a sign of an injury.
Weakness: Feeling unusually weak or unstable in a specific area, like your knee giving out when you’re running, can be a sign of an injury.
Visible Deformities: If something looks out of place (like a bone or joint), immediately seek out medical attention.
Numbness or Tingling: These can be signs of nerve damage.
Changes in Skin Color: If the skin around an area is red, blue, or looks different than usual, you might have an injury.
Tenderness: If an area is particularly sensitive to touch or pressure, it could be injured.
15 Most Common Sports Injuries
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis occurs when your Achilles tendon — the tough band of tissue connecting your calf muscle to your heel bone — gets irritated from too much running, jumping, or even walking. It’s like a nagging pain or stiffness in the back of your leg or just above your heel.
Runners experience Achilles tendinitis most often, especially if they exert themselves too hard or too quickly. Also, weekend athletes who suddenly want to relive their high school glory days can get hit with it.
The key is to gradually increase your activity level, warm up before you start, and listen to your body when it’s telling you it’s time to chill!
Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain is like the classic misstep of the sports world. It’s when you roll, twist or awkwardly land on your ankle causing the ligaments (those elastic bands of tissue that hold your ankle bones together) to stretch or tear.
You know you’re dealing with an ankle sprain when you get that sudden sharp pain, swelling, bruising, or even trouble walking.
Athletes are prone to it, especially if they play sports that involve jumping, running, or any quick change in direction. The good news is, most of the time, with a bit of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (for example, the RICE treatment), you’ll be back on your feet in no time.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is the superstar of sports injuries.
The ACL is one of the four main ligaments in your knee, playing a big role in keeping your knee stable. So, hearing about an ACL injury is about as fun as stepping on a Lego barefoot.
It often occurs when you’re making a sudden change in direction or landing a jump — think basketball or soccer. It feels like your knee just can’t hold you up anymore.
These injuries range from mild (a small tear) to severe (the ligament is torn completely or detached from the bone).
Broken Bones
A bone fracture is basically when the load on a bone is way heavier than what it can handle. It’s like if you pile too many books on a thin shelf, eventually, it will crack or break.
Bone fractures manifest themselves either as stress fractures (tiny cracks in the bone from overuse, like running marathons or dancing ballet on repeat) or as traumatic fractures (think about crashing on your bike or getting tackled hard during football practice).
Either way, it’s a bummer because it means rest and healing time, but it’s also your body’s sign that it needs a break!
Concussions
A concussion is essentially your brain getting shaken up inside your skull, often due to a hard hit or sudden jolt.
Think of your brain as a soft organ floating in fluid inside your hard skull. A blow to the head or even a swift whiplash-like movement can cause the brain to smack into the skull, resulting in a concussion.
Symptoms can range from headaches, dizziness, and confusion, to even loss of consciousness.
But here’s the kicker — symptoms might not show up immediately. So if you or a teammate takes a hard knock, it’s super important to immediately get checked out by a physician ASAP, even if you feel fine at first. After all, we’re talking about the brain here! Safety first, and playing sports comes second.
Golfer’s Elbow
A golfer’s elbow occurs when the tendons on the inside of your elbow get irritated or damaged, usually from overuse. Imagine the strain on your forearm when you’re doing a golf swing, throwing a baseball, or even just lifting weights — that’s the spot.
Despite its name, you don’t have to be a golfer to get it. It can be a real pain, literally, causing discomfort on the inner side of your elbow and sometimes even down your forearm. You might also notice weakness in your hand and wrist.
If you’ve got it, rest and ice are your best friends. Don’t forget to stretch and strengthen those muscles to prevent it from happening again!
Groin Pull
Groin pull is a sports injury you definitely want to dodge. Imagine the muscles of your inner thigh having a major disagreement with a sudden move you make, like a quick side-step, twist, or intense sprint. That’s what we call a groin pull or a groin strain.
This type of injury happens when those inner thigh muscles get stretched beyond their comfort zone. It may range from mild discomfort or an acute injury. If you feel a sudden sharp pain, weakness, or even a popping feeling in the groin area during your workout or game, you may have pulled your groin.
Rest and ice the area right after the injury, and if the pain sticks around, see a healthcare professional to get it sorted.
Hamstring Strain
Hamstring strains occur when you overstretch or tear the muscles along the back of your thigh. It’s a common sports injury, especially in activities that involve sprinting or jumping.
Ever seen a soccer or basketball player suddenly pull up and grab the back of their leg? Probably a hamstring strain.
You will typically feel a sudden sharp pain, and might even hear or feel a “pop”. It can put you on the bench for a bit, but with some rest, ice, and physical therapy, most people can get back in the game before too long!
Knee Sprain
A knee sprain occurs when one or more of the ligaments in your knee gets overstretched or torn. In sports, this can happen with a hard hit, a bad landing, or a sudden twist.
You might experience pain, swelling, maybe even a popping sound at the time of the injury. Not to forget the instability — it might feel like your knee could give way when you put weight on it.
Don’t push through it, though! Rest up, put some ice on it, and see a physician if it doesn’t get better. They will recommend physical therapy or, in severe cases, surgery.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, or runner’s knee, is a fancy name for pain in the front of your knee and around your kneecap. It’s pretty common in people who love to run, jump, or squat a lot.
This condition often occurs because your kneecap is not sliding smoothly in the groove at the end of your thigh bone. The knee pain worsens when going up or down stairs, kneeling, or sitting with your knee bent for a long time.
Fortunately, with rest, physiotherapy and a few tweaks to your workout, athletes can effectively manage this condition!
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Rotator cuff injuries occur when any of the four muscles and tendons that make up your rotator cuff are injured — the part of your shoulder that helps you lift and rotate your arm.
Athletes who do a lot of overhead action, like swimmers or baseball pitchers, are the ones who usually get hit with such injuries.
They can feel like a dull ache deep in your shoulder and might disturb your sleep, especially if you lie on the affected side. Even everyday things like combing your hair or putting on a shirt might even feel like you’re trying to win an Olympic gold medal.
It’s a real drag, but with some rest and the right treatment, it’s something you can bounce back from!
Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries in athletes often happen due to a lot of repetitive, overhead motions. Think swimming, tennis, pitching in baseball — all of these can lead to shoulder issues. These injuries usually involve the muscles, ligaments, and tendons, rather than the bones.
Athletes are at risk for shoulder injuries like strains, sprains, dislocations, and conditions like rotator cuff injury or bursitis.
Symptoms include pain (especially when moving the shoulder), stiffness, swelling, and loss of mobility.
Sciatica
Sciatica is basically a pain party that your body throws, starting from your lower back and shooting down through your butt and legs. It’s caused by irritation or compression of your sciatic nerve, which runs all the way from your lower spine to your feet.
Athletes experience sciatica pain from heavy lifting, bending, or direct impact injuries. The pain can be quite sharp and even cause numbness or tingling.
Treatment often involves rest, physical therapy, and sometimes pain management. Most athletes feel better over time, but severe cases require more intensive care. Always good to get it checked out if you’re hurting!
Shin Splints
Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, occur when your shins throw a fit after you’ve been running or jumping a lot. It’s this nagging pain along the inner part of your shinbone (the big bone on the front of your lower leg).
Shin splints are common, especially among runners, dancers, or folks in military training. Usually, it’s a sign that you’ve been overdoing it and your muscles, tendons, and bone tissue are under too much stress.
Giving your legs some well-deserved rest, icing the area, and doing some specific exercises often help calm things down. If the pain keeps hanging around, it’s best to get it checked out by a healthcare professional.
Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common injury among athletes. It’s basically a muscle strain injury usually caused by damage to the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the elbow joint, leading to pain around the outside of the elbow.
Despite its name, it’s not just tennis players who get it. Anyone performing a lot of repetitive gripping activities, especially if they use the thumb and first two fingers, can develop tennis elbow.
How to Prevent Sports Injuries
Sports injuries can really put a damper on your fun, so it’s essential to take steps to avoid them.
Here’s what you can do to stay safe during games or practice:
Warm up before you start: Don’t go from 0 to 100 in a second! Your body needs a heads-up that you’re about to get active. A good warm-up includes light jogging, jumping jacks, or dynamic stretches.
Don’t skimp on the cool down: Just like you need to gear up before you start, it’s equally important to wind down when you finish.
Stretch, stretch, stretch: Flexibility is crucial in preventing injuries. Regularly stretching keeps your muscles loose and ready for action.
Gear up: Always use the right equipment for your sport. Whether it’s a helmet, shin guards, or the right shoes, every bit of equipment plays a role in keeping you safe.
Mix it up: Don’t overuse one set of muscles. Cross-training will keep all your muscles in shape and prevent overuse injuries.
Know your limits: Listen to your body! If something hurts, take a break.
Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water keeps your muscles hydrated and less prone to injury.
Get a physical: Regular check-ups can spot potential red flags before they become serious.
Learn the right technique: Especially for activities like lifting weights, proper form is critical to sports injury prevention.
Learn More About Sports Injury Prevention With Dr. Doerr!
At Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, under the leadership of 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 in a comfortable, healing atmosphere.
Access our contact form or call us at (201) 945-4075 to learn more about our chiropractic care services! Our 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 the areas of New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, PA, and Baltimore, MD. Also, feel free to access our blog, Facebook, and Instagram pages for more information on chiropractic adjustments!
References
“Rice Method for Injuries (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/first-aid/rice-method-injuries. Accessed 30 July 2023.
If you’re dealing with a funky pelvic tilt and feeling like you’re out of alignment, check in with a pelvic tilt chiropractor. These skilled professionals can help get your hips back in the groove.
How, exactly?
Let’s explore the world of chiropractic care for pelvic tilt, as well as other DIY physical therapy approaches to bring everything back in alignment!
What is a Pelvic Tilt?
You know that bony structure sitting at the base of your spine, the one you’re probably sitting on right now? That’s your pelvis.
The term “pelvic tilt” refers to the orientation or alignment of the pelvic region in relation to the thigh bones.
Imagine your pelvis is a bowl of soup. In a perfect world, that bowl is nice and level, right? But sometimes, the front of your “bowl” dips forward, backward, or to one side, causing the 3 types of pelvic tilt.
The 3 Types of Pelvic Tilts
Anterior Pelvic Tilt
When dealing with an anterior pelvic tilt, the front of your pelvis drops, and the back of it lifts up. It’s like spilling the soup out the front of your bowl.
This misalignment can lead to a pronounced curve in your lower back (imagine a duck’s posture). Common signs of anterior pelvic tilt include tight hip flexors and a slightly bulging belly.
Posterior Pelvic Tilt
When dealing with a posterior pelvic tilt, the front of your pelvis rises, and the back drops. It’s like you’re trying not to spill your soup as you lean back in your chair.
Posterior pelvic tilts can result in a flattened lower back, as well as tight hamstrings and glutes.
Lateral Pelvic Tilt
Due to a lateral pelvic tilt, one hip is higher than the other, causing your pelvis to tilt sideways. Imagine tilting your soup bowl to one side.
This tilt can result in one leg appearing shorter than the other, throwing your whole body’s alignment off.
8 Most Common Causes of Pelvic Tilt
Poor Posture
Slouching isn’t just bad for your back — it can throw your pelvis out of whack, too. Spending a long time sitting or standing with poor posture can lead to a muscle imbalance and, voila, a tilted pelvis.
Sedentary Lifestyle
If your favorite position is couch potato, then your body might not be getting the movement it needs to preserve muscle balance. Inactive muscles can get tight or weak, causing an anterior or posterior pelvic tilt.
Exercise Imbalance
On the flip side, too much of a good thing can also lead to problems. If you’re overworking certain muscles while neglecting others during your workouts, you could end up with a muscle imbalance leading to a tilted pelvis.
Pregnancy
Carrying around a growing baby for nine months can put a lot of pressure on the pelvis. The added weight and shift in the body’s center of gravity can lead to an anterior pelvic tilt.
Obesity
Carrying around extra weight, especially in the belly area, pulls the pelvis forward, leading to an anterior tilt.
Injury or Surgery
Any injury or surgery affecting your range of motion can change the alignment of your pelvis.
Hip replacement surgery may indeed affect your pelvic alignment, at least temporarily.
During a hip replacement, the surgeon installs an artificial joint that may not exactly match the length or angle of your original hip. The new joint leads to a change in your body’s biomechanics, potentially leading to a tilted pelvis.
After a hip replacement, you’ll be taking it easy for a while, during which time certain muscles weaken from disuse, potentially causing a tilted pelvis. Furthermore, you might start favoring your non-operated leg while moving around, throwing your pelvis off-kilter.
7 Symptoms of a Tilted Pelvis
Lower back pain: The most noticeable symptom of pelvic instability. Your lower back will feel tense or sore, especially after a long day of standing or sitting.
Hip or knee pain: Your hips or knees will start acting up, too, because a tilted pelvis puts extra strain on these areas.
A noticeable difference in leg length: When your pelvis tilts, it can make one leg seem shorter than the other.
Stiffness or restricted movement: You might find it hard, awkward, or uncomfortable to move around as freely as before.
Changes in your posture: Anything from a protruding belly (even if you’re otherwise slim) to an overly curved or flat lower back.
Difficulty with certain activities: Things like running, squatting, or climbing stairs might become more challenging.
Weak or tight muscles: Depending on the type of tilt, some of your muscles (for example, your hip flexors or lower back muscles) may feel unusually tight, while others (your abdominal muscles or glutes) may seem weak or hard to engage.
How Do Chiropractors Correct a Pelvic Tilt?
Chiropractors are experts at manipulating the body to improve alignment, reduce pain, and increase function — all issues related to pelvic tilts.
First, your chiropractor will start with a thorough evaluation. They’ll check your posture and gait to figure out your sort of pelvic tilt, as well as what’s causing it.
Next, they’ll use an array of techniques to help correct the tilt:
One of the main chiropractic techniques is spinal adjustments or manipulations. These are quick, controlled movements aimed at realigning your spine and pelvis.
Your chiropractor will also teach you DIY exercises and stretches to strengthen weak muscles and stretch tight ones — the key for maintaining proper alignment.
3 Exercises to Correct Anterior Pelvic Tilt
Exercise is an awesome way to strengthen and stretch the muscles behind an anterior pelvic tilt:
1. Bridges: Lie flat on your back, bend your knees, and keep your feet flat on the floor. Then, lift your hips off the floor while keeping your back straight. Hold for a few seconds, then lower back down. Start with a few reps, and work your way up.
2. Planks: Everyone’s favorite! They’re tough, but excellent for core strength. Make sure you’re keeping your body straight like a plank of wood. No sagging or lifting your butt too high.
3. Hip flexor stretches: Your hip flexors are often tight if you have an anterior pelvic tilt. To stretch them, kneel on one knee, and push your hips forward. You should feel a stretch in the front of your hip. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides.
2. Hamstring stretches: You can do these stretches while standing or sitting. Just reach for your toes and keep your legs straight. You’ll feel a nice stretch in the back of your legs.
Dr. Doerr’s Chiropractic Adjustments Will Help Correct Your Pelvic Tilt!
At Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, under the leadership of 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 in a comfortable, healing atmosphere.
Access our contact form or call us at (201) 945-4075 to learn more about our chiropractic care services! Our 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 the areas of New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, PA, and Baltimore, MD. Also, feel free to access our blog, Facebook, and Instagram pages for more information on chiropractic adjustments!
Today’s article is a comprehensive guide of the ways to address your text neck pain.
Study after study has proved that experiencing neck pain is a prevalent condition among the general population, targeting:
University students
People working from home
Fortunately, your text neck discomfort will vanish as soon as you address its causes and symptoms through physical therapy, lifestyle improvements, and light exercise.
Let’s learn more about how your text neck ties in with other medical conditions and how a chiropractic approach will help your neck and shoulder muscles feel like new!
“Take a few minutes every day to stretch your text neck pain away!”
What is a Text Neck?
Text neck — or “tech neck” — is a modern-day condition caused by spending too much time hunched over our phones and other electronic devices.
When we tilt our heads down toward our screens, we put extra stress on our neck and spine.
Imagine your head as a bowling ball. Normally, it’s balanced nicely on top of your spine. But when you tilt your head forward to look at your phone, it’s like you’re holding that bowling ball out in front of you. This puts a whole lot of pressure on the muscles in your neck that are trying to hold it up — way more than they’re designed to handle.
Because of this extra strain, we start to feel symptoms like neck pain, soreness, and stiffness. This condition can even lead to headaches and shoulder pain.
Even worse text neck causes a real change in the natural curve of our necks, leading to:
Disc herniation
Pinched nerves
Early onset of neck arthritis
Why Do I Have a Text Neck?
You are likely dealing with text neck if you’re:
Spending Too Much Time With Your Head Tilted Forward
It’s not just texting; it could be browsing, reading, or playing games. When you’re in this position, the weight of your head puts extra stress on your neck, leading to pain or discomfort.
Not Taking Enough Breaks
If you’re glued to your computer screen for hours without looking up or changing position, you’re not giving your neck a chance to rest.
Having Poor Posture Overall
When you work long hours on a laptop or desktop and don’t maintain good posture, bad ergonomics can lead to a whole bunch of problems, including text neck.
What Medical Issues Can a Text Neck Cause?
Text neck can lead to various medical issues over time, including:
Chronic neck and shoulder pain: Regular pain in your neck and shoulders is the most common symptom of text neck.
Headaches: A strained neck can cause tension headaches.
Reduced neck mobility: Your neck isn’t as flexible as it used to be, or it hurts when you try to turn your head.
Early onset of neck arthritis: Over time, text neck can cause wear and tear on the structures of your neck, leading to the early onset of arthritis.
Disc herniation: This condition occurs when one of the discs in your spine gets compressed so much that it bulges or ruptures.
Pinched nerve: If a disc in your spine bulges enough from the pressure, it can start to press on one of your nerves, causing symptoms ranging from pain and numbness to weakness in your arms or hands.
Shall I See My Chiropractor for Text Neck Treatment?
Absolutely! If you’ve got a case of text neck, it’s a great idea to see a chiropractor.
Chiropractors are all about making sure your spine is properly aligned, and they have a bunch of techniques up their sleeves to help alleviate pain and improve function in your neck and spine!
When it comes to text neck, your chiropractor will assess your posture, the severity of your symptoms, and your neck’s range of motion. Then, they can provide you with treatment that may involve spinal adjustments to correct any misalignments. Plus, they can guide you on exercises and stretches that will help strengthen your neck muscles and improve your posture.
A chiropractor will also give you advice on how to prevent text neck in the future, such as:
Ergonomic tips for your workstation
Proper phone handling
Reminders to take regular breaks from screen time
15 Exercises and Stretches to Reduce Text Neck Pain
Behind-the-Back Drill
This stretch is a total champ at opening up the chest and shoulders!
Stand up straight with your feet hip-width apart. Keep your knees a little soft, so you’re not locking them.
Interlace your fingers behind your back. You can hold onto a towel or a strap between your hands to make it easier.
Gently straighten your arms and lift them up away from your back. Only go as far as feels comfortable.
As you lift your arms, be careful not to let your ribs pop forward. Keep them down and your core slightly engaged.
Hold this position for about 20 to 30 seconds. Remember to keep breathing!
To release the stretch, slowly lower your arms back down and unclasp your hands.
Bow Pose
The Bow Pose is a backbend that really opens up the chest, tones the abdominal muscles, and gives a nice stretch to your whole body.
Lie down flat on your stomach. Bend your knees and bring your feet towards your butt.
Reach back with your hands and grab hold of your ankles. If you can’t quite reach them, no worries! Just go as far as you can.
As you inhale, lift your chest off the floor and pull your legs up and back.
Look straight ahead and try to keep your neck relaxed. You’re aiming to get your body to look like a bow, with your arms as the string.
Hold the pose for 15-20 seconds, or however long feels good for you. Remember to breathe!
Exhale and slowly lower your chest and legs back to the floor. Let go of your ankles and relax.
Cat-Cow
The Cat-Cow stretch is super for your back and neck, and guess what? It’s super easy, too!
Start by getting on all fours on a comfortable surface. Make sure your hands are under your shoulders and your knees are under your hips.
Slowly drop your belly towards the mat, lift your chin and chest, and gaze up toward the ceiling. Take a nice deep breath in as you do this.
As you exhale, draw your belly to your spine and round your back toward the ceiling. The head comes down to look towards your navel, but don’t force it, just let it drop comfortably.
And there you have it, that’s one rep!
Chin Tuck
This simple exercise can be done anywhere — at your desk, while watching TV, or even when waiting for your coffee to brew!
Get yourself in a comfortable position. You can either be standing up or sitting down.
Look straight ahead while keeping your spine straight. Pretend there’s an invisible string pulling the crown of your head towards the ceiling.
Without tilting your head in any direction or rounding your shoulders, slowly draw your chin back towards your throat.
You should feel a gentle stretch along the back of your neck and maybe even down into your shoulders.
Hold that position for about 5 seconds, then relax. Aim for about 10 reps in total.
Downward-Facing Dog
This stretch is awesome for your back, shoulders, hamstrings, calves — pretty much everything!
Start on your hands and knees, with your wrists under your shoulders, and your knees under your hips. Tuck your toes under.
Take a deep breath, and as you exhale, lift your knees off the floor. You’re gonna push your butt up towards the ceiling.
Push the floor away with your hands and feet.
Keep those arms straight, but don’t lock your elbows. Your ears should be in line with your arms, so you’re not straining your neck.
Try to bring your heels down towards the ground.
Take deep breaths and chill here for a few seconds.
To come out of it, slowly lower your knees back to the floor.
Exaggerated Nod
This easy stretch can help relieve tension in your neck, especially if you’ve been stuck in that text neck position.
Stand or sit up straight, with your shoulders relaxed.
Slowly lower your chin down towards your chest, as if you’re nodding in slow motion. You should feel a gentle stretch along the back of your neck.
Hold this position for about 5 seconds.
Slowly lift your chin up towards the ceiling, extending your neck backward.
Hold this position for another 5 seconds.
Return to the starting position. Aim for about 10 reps in total.
Padahastasana
Also known as the Standing Forward Bend, this yoga pose is fantastic for giving your back, legs, and even your mind a healthy stretch.
Stand straight, with your feet hip-width apart. Let your arms hang loose at your sides.
Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, bend forward from your hips. You’re aiming to bring your head towards your knees.
Try to place your hands beside your feet on the floor. If you can’t reach the floor, no worries! Just go as far as you can.
Hold the position for a few seconds or even a minute if you can. Remember to breathe.
Bend your knees slightly, and then slowly roll your spine up until you’re standing straight again.
Quadruped Thoracic Rotation Stretch
This is an amazing stretch for increasing mobility in your upper back and improving your posture.
Get on all fours on a mat. Your hands should be right under your shoulders, with your knees under your hips.
Place your right hand behind your head to keep it aligned.
Rotate your right elbow and shoulder towards your left elbow. Only your upper back should be rotating.
Go as far as your flexibility allows, then pause for a moment.
From there, rotate your right elbow up towards the ceiling, following the movement with your eyes.
Hold for a moment at the top, really feeling the stretch through your back and spine.
Bring your right hand back behind your head. Repeat 5-10 times before switching to your left side.
Reverse Shoulder Stretch
This one’s a winner if you’re looking to loosen up those tight shoulders, especially after a long day of typing away or doing any work that has your arms out in front of you.
Stand up straight with your feet hip-width apart. Keep your knees slightly bent.
Extend your arms out behind you and clasp your hands together. If you can’t quite reach, that’s alright! You can use a towel or a strap to help bridge the gap.
Slowly lift your hands upwards. You’re aiming to feel a good stretch across your chest muscles and shoulders.
Keep your back straight and your gaze forward at all times.
Hold the stretch for about 20 to 30 seconds.
Gently lower your arms, unclasp your hands and give them a little shake.
Seated Heart Opener
This stretch is fantastic for opening up your chest, stretching your shoulders, and counteracting forward slouching.
Find yourself a comfy seat. It could be a chair, the edge of your bed, or even a yoga block if you’ve got one.
Sit close to the edge of your seat with your feet firmly planted on the ground. This will help you maintain balance during the stretch.
Reach your hands behind you and place them on the edge of your seat. Your fingers should be pointing away from your body.
Lift your chest towards the ceiling, letting your head drop back gently if it feels okay for your neck.
You should feel a wonderful stretch across your chest and front shoulders. Remember to keep breathing and enjoy the stretch.
Hold this pose for 30 seconds.
Slowly lift your head back up and release your hands.
Seated Neck Release
The Seated Neck Release is a simple yet effective stretch for relieving tension in your neck and shoulders. You can do it pretty much anywhere you can sit down, so it’s perfect for a quick break during your workday.
Start off by finding a comfy seat. You could use a chair, a bench, or even the floor. Make sure your back is straight.
Sit up nice and tall while relaxing your shoulders.
Gently tilt your head to the right, aiming to bring your ear towards your shoulder. You should feel a nice stretch down the left side of your neck and into your shoulder.
Hold this position for about 30 seconds, then slowly lift your head back up.
Repeat the same steps while tilting your head to the left.
You can do this stretch as often as you need to throughout the day. It’s a great way to break up long periods of sitting or standing.
Thoracic Extension
The Thoracic Extension stretch is an effective way to loosen up the thoracic spine and combat a slouchy posture.
Start by sitting on the edge of a chair, with your feet flat on the ground. Make sure your knees are bent at a comfortable, 90-degree angle.
Interlace your fingers and put your hands behind your head.
Lean back over the edge of the chair while keeping your lower back and hips steady.
As you lean back, take a nice, deep breath. You should feel a stretch in your chest and a nice extension in your upper back.
Hold the stretch for a few seconds. Remember to keep breathing!
Exhale and return to the starting position. Aim for about 10 reps in total.
Thread the Needle
This yoga practice staple a fantastic pose to release tension and increase flexibility in your shoulders, upper back, and neck.
Start by getting on all fours — hands under your shoulders and knees under your hips.
Take your right hand and slide it, palm facing up, under your left arm.
Keep sliding that right hand over to the left until your right shoulder and the right side of your face gently rest on the floor. Your gaze should naturally be towards the left.
Your left hand can stay where it is, or for a deeper stretch, you can extend it out in front of you on the floor.
Hold this position a few deep breaths. Enjoy the twist and the stretch across your shoulder and upper back.
To come out of the stretch, push gently into your left hand, slide your right hand back to its starting position, and return to all fours.
Repeat the same steps, but this time thread your left hand under your right arm.
You can do this stretch a few times on each side, or as often as needed throughout the day.
Trap Stretching
This stretch is perfect for relieving tension in your upper back and shoulders, specifically targeting your trapezius muscles.
Start by standing or sitting up tall, ensuring your back is straight.
Take your right arm, reach it over your head and place your hand on your left ear.
Gently pull your head to the right, tilting it towards your right shoulder.
Hold that position for about 15-30 seconds. You should feel a nice stretch on the left of your neck and into your shoulder.
Release slowly, bring your head back to center, and switch sides to balance it out.
Do this stretch a couple of times on each side, or until you feel your tension melting away.
T-Spine Windmill Stretch
This stretch is all about increasing mobility in your thoracic spine. Plus, it feels amazing!
Start off in a tabletop position — hands under shoulders and knees under hips.
Take your right hand and place it behind your head. Your elbow should be bent and pointing out to the side.
Rotate your right elbow towards your left elbow under your body. Follow the movement with your eyes.
Once you’ve rotated as far as you can go, reverse the movement and rotate your right elbow up towards the ceiling. Let your gaze follow the movement.
Try to keep the rest of your body still during the stretch. The movement should come from your thoracic spine, not your hips or lower back.
Repeat this windmill-like motion 10 times, then switch sides.
5 Effective Ways to Prevent Text Neck Pain
Aside from stretching, you can adopt a proactive approach to tech neck pain. Our 5 effective tips will help relieve all that pent-up stress in your neck and shoulder muscles, minimizing your text neck risk.
Hold Your Phone the Right Way
Try holding your phone at eye level as much as possible. It’ll prevent you from bending your neck and straining those tight muscles. Maybe you’ll get a bonus arm workout, too!
Take Some Time Away From Your Phone
Even if you’re mid-scroll through the funniest Twitter thread, make sure to take frequent breaks.
Lift your head up, roll your shoulders, do a quick stretch, or simply look out the window for a bit. It’ll help reset your posture and give your eyes a break too.
Invest in a High-Quality Standing Desk
If you’re spending hours a day working at a desk, it might be time to consider getting a standing desk. It helps promote better posture and reduces the risk of neck, shoulder, and back pain.
Plus, switching between sitting and standing throughout the day can keep you feeling more alert and engaged.
Keep an Eye on Your Posture
Try to keep your back straight and shoulders back when you’re standing or sitting. Imagine a string pulling you up from the top of your head. And don’t forget about your lower body — keep your feet flat on the floor when you’re sitting, and try to avoid crossing your legs.
Does Your Chair Support Proper Posture?
If a standing desk isn’t your thing, a high-quality ergonomic chair can make a world of difference. These chairs are designed to support your body properly and can be adjusted to fit you just right. It’s an investment, but your body will thank you!
Looking for a Text Neck Chiropractor? Dr. Doerr Can Help!
At Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, under the leadership of 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 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
Lambrou, Dr. Dimitrios. “11 Tips for Getting Rid of Tech Neck.” Northeast Spine and Sports Medicine, 23 Sept. 2022, www.northeastspineandsports.com/blog/11-tips-for-getting-rid-of-tech-neck-northeast-spine-and-sports-medicine/. Accessed 3 Jul. 2023.
Kassel, Gabrielle. “Fix Text Neck with These 6 Exercises and Lifestyle Tips.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 30 May 2020, www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/text-neck-treatment#prevention-tips. Accessed 3 Jul. 2023.
“Say Goodbye to Tech Neck: 5 Essential Physical Therapy Exercises to Help You Get Rid of Pain.” Kessler Rehabilitation Center, www.kesslerrehabilitationcenter.com/why-choose-us/news-blog/physical-therapy-exercises-for-tech-neck-treatment/. Accessed 3 Jul. 2023.
Haupt, Angela, et al. “‘Tech Neck’: Why It’s so Bad for Your Health and How to Beat It.” EverydayHealth.Com, www.everydayhealth.com/wellness/how-to-beat-tech-neck-and-why-its-so-bad-for-your-health/. Accessed 3 Jul. 2023.
Have you ever considered that chiropractic care may be a helpful option for those struggling with infertility?
This natural and non-invasive approach addresses the root causes of infertility, such as nervous system dysfunction and stress.
In this article, we will explore the connection between chiropractic care and infertility issues, the techniques chiropractors use to enhance fertility, and how to choose the right chiropractor for this journey!
Key Takeaways
Chiropractic care offers a safe and natural way to greatly improve fertility by alleviating stress and restoring hormonal balance.
Choosing a chiropractor with specialized training in fertility issues plus open communication with healthcare providers is essential for successful pregnancies.
Infertility and Chiropractic Care: The Connection
Studies have suggested that a chiropractic approach increases a person’s chance of conceiving by improving the entire body’s function.
By addressing nervous system dysfunction, reducing stress, and promoting overall health, chiropractic treatment targets the source of infertility and prepares the body for a successful pregnancy.
Nervous System’s Role in Reproduction
The nervous system is the master control system of the entire body, playing a vital role in reproduction.
An optimally functioning nervous system can efficiently control the hormones regulating fertility, positively impacting the body’s ability to conceive.
A study published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research observed a positive correlation between women receiving chiropractic treatment and increased fertility, which may be beneficial for those considering in vitro fertilization (Source: Vertebral Subluxation Research).
For men, infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, such as sperm transport problems or hormonal disorders. Chiropractors employ thermal imaging and X-rays to identify any subluxations hindering proper nervous system function, thus enhancing its connection to the reproductive system.
Stress Reduction and Female Infertility
High stress levels can hinder the body’s ability to function optimally, impacting one’s ability to conceive.
Chiropractic adjustments are a safe and natural approach to reducing stress. By addressing the root causes of stress and hormonal imbalances, chiropractic care enhances fertility and supports a successful pregnancy through hormone therapy.
Improving Overall Health
Improving overall health is essential when conceiving.
A healthy body is more likely to support a pregnancy, and chiropractic care can play a significant role in achieving that goal.
Chiropractic adjustment techniques, such as spinal adjustments and pelvic alignment, can enhance your fertility levels. Additionally, lifestyle recommendations provided by chiropractors can further contribute to improved fertility.
Chiropractic Techniques for Enhancing Fertility
Spinal adjustments, pelvic alignment, and lifestyle recommendations are some of the methods chiropractors use to improve fertility.
By targeting the root causes of infertility and addressing any spine disorders or hormonal imbalances, chiropractic care can help you on your journey to conceive!
Moreover, regular chiropractic care promotes ovulation and prepares the reproductive system for conception. It also decreases physical and mental stress, positively influencing hormones and fertility.
By utilizing these techniques, chiropractic care can potentially enhance fertility and improve overall health for those trying to conceive.
Spinal Adjustments
Proper spinal alignment plays a crucial role in the overall function of the nervous system.
By targeting misalignments in the spine, chiropractic adjustments can help improve the body’s ability to function optimally and support a healthy pregnancy.
Pelvic Alignment
A twisted or misaligned pelvis can cause pressure on reproductive organs, potentially hindering the chances of conception. By addressing these misalignments, chiropractors can help reduce pressure on the pelvic floor and potentially increase fertility.
Optimally aligning the pelvis can also provide ample space for the developing baby and enhance the alignment of the pelvic floor, leading to improved efficiency, more energy, and often a smoother, less painful delivery.
Lifestyle Recommendations
In addition to addressing physical aspects of fertility, chiropractors provide guidance on healthy nutrition, exercise routines, and stress management techniques to enhance fertility.
These lifestyle changes, combined with chiropractic care, constitute a comprehensive approach to addressing infertility and supporting a healthy pregnancy.
Can Misaligned Hips Cause Infertility?
Yes, misaligned hips can cause infertility as it affects the alignment of reproductive organs and can put pressure on them, reducing the chances of pregnancy. Keeping your hips aligned may help reduce any potential infertility issues.
Can Bad Posture Cause Infertility?
Yes, bad posture can be a factor in infertility. Poor posture has been linked to health issues like pelvic floor dysfunction, which can lead to fertility problems.
Therefore, maintaining good posture and taking steps to minimize nerve compression is important for reproductive health.
Safety Considerations for Chiropractic Care and Infertility
Chiropractic care is generally safe for individuals with infertility issues, but it is essential to discuss any potential benefits and contraindications with a chiropractor before beginning treatment.
Precautions for Patients Undergoing Fertility Treatments
By discussing potential benefits, risks, and contraindications with healthcare providers, patients undergoing fertility treatments can make informed decisions about incorporating chiropractic care into their treatment plan. This collaborative approach ensures that all aspects of fertility are considered, maximizing the chances of success.
Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
Chiropractic care during pregnancy is generally considered safe and can offer numerous benefits to expecting mothers. However, it is essential to ensure that chiropractic care during pregnancy is performed by a chiropractor with specialized training in prenatal care. This additional training ensures that both the mother and baby receive the best possible care during this critical time.
How to Choose a Chiropractor for Fertility Issues
When choosing a chiropractor for fertility issues, it is important to consider their specialized training and experience. A chiropractor with additional training in fertility and maternity issues is better equipped to provide the best care possible for couples trying to conceive.
Specialized Training
Chiropractors who specialize in fertility issues have received training in women’s health, preconception, and prenatal care. By choosing a chiropractor with this additional training, you can ensure they receive care tailored to their unique fertility needs.
Communication With Healthcare Providers
Effective communication with healthcare providers is invaluable, as it enhances patients’ coping abilities and adherence to infertility treatments.
Enhanced healthcare provider-patient communication can also aid patients in understanding their medical condition and provide access to resources and referrals that could be beneficial. Furthermore, it could reduce some pregnancy-related problems and complications.
Let Dr. Doerr Help You Start Your Family!
At Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, under the leadership of 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 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
“Female Infertility and Subluxation-Based Gonstead Chiropractic Care: A Case Study and Selective Review of the Literature.” Vertebral Subluxation Research, vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2017/09/10/female-infertility-and-subluxation-based-gonstead-chiropractic-care-a-case-study-and-selective-review-of-the-literature/. Accessed 1 Jul. 2023.
If you’re on a quest to relieve pain and keep your body in top-notch shape, let’s talk about an unsung hero in the world of chiropractic care: electrical muscle stimulation!
Picture this: an electrical stimulation device that sends gentle electrical pulses to your muscles, causing them to contract and then relax, just like they would during a workout, but without you having to lift a finger!
Electrical stimulation has been an effective therapeutic method in healthcare for years. It can help ease pain, reduce inflammation, promote muscle strength, and even speed up your recovery!
So, whether you’re dealing with an injury, chronic muscle tension, or just trying to take your fitness to the next level, adding EMS into your chiropractic care could be a game-changer!
What is Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)?
Electric muscle stimulation is a therapeutic method that uses small electrical impulses to trigger muscle contractions. It’s like your body’s natural electrical signals, but on steroids, helping to improve muscle condition and tone.
Imagine you’re doing a bicep curl. Your brain sends an electrical signal down to your bicep, telling it to contract and lift that dumbbell. EMS works on a similar principle but instead, the gentle electrical signal is delivered through small pads placed on your skin!
It’s often used by physiotherapists, chiropractors, and even sports trainers to help patients:
Recover from injuries
Improve athletic performance
Get toned up faster
How Electrical Muscle Stimulation Works
Electric muscle stimulation uses a device that sends electrical pulses to stimulate your muscles, making them contract. This device is connected to several small pads attached to the muscles you want to work on. When you turn it on, these pulses go through the pads and into your skin stimulating your muscles.
The pulses are timed just right, so your muscles contract and then relax. It’s like doing a workout, but without actually moving! Plus, you can control the intensity, frequency, and duration of the impulses to match your comfort level and fitness goals.
However, EMS isn’t a replacement for good old-fashioned exercise; it’s always best used in conjunction with a regular exercise routine and a balanced diet.
The Other Types of Electric Stimulation
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): It works by sending low-voltage electrical currents through the skin to the nerves underneath. TENS helps block or reduce pain signals sent to the brain, thus alleviating chronic pain.
Interferential Current (IFC): This type of electric stimulation uses two high-frequency currents that cross paths (hence the name). It’s used mostly for deep tissue pain relief because it can penetrate deeper than TENS or EMS. It’s also used to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Russian Electrical Stimulation: This type of EMS uses medium frequencies to stimulate muscle contraction. It was developed by the Russians (hence the name) and is often used in sports training to strengthen the muscles.
Microcurrent Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulator (MENS): It’s mostly used for healing soft tissue injuries and wounds by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes.
High Voltage Pulsed Galvanic Stimulation (HVPGS): This type uses short bursts of high-voltage electrical currents. It’s used mostly to manage acute pain, reduce swelling, and promote healing, especially for patients with poor circulation or sensation, like those with diabetes.
What are the Benefits of Electrical Muscle Stimulation?
Strengthening the Muscles
EMS gives your muscles a bit of a workout by triggering muscle contractions. This can be especially useful if you’ve been injured or had surgery and need a gentle way to start rebuilding your muscle strength without putting too much stress on the weaker muscles in your body.
Speeding Up the Workout Recovery Process
EMS is also a bit of a superstar when it comes to helping with recovery after a workout. By enhancing blood flow, it can flush out lactic acid (the culprit behind muscle soreness) and release tension.
Improving Muscle Stiffness
EMS also helps patients struggling with muscle spasms or stiffness by relaxing the muscles and increasing range of motion.
Boosting Your Blood Flow
With boosted blood circulation and more oxygen and nutrients reaching the tissues, EMS speeds up the healing process, especially when it comes to soft tissue injuries.
Who is Not a Candidate for Electric Muscle Stimulation?
While electrical muscle stimulation does benefit numerous patients, it’s not a one-size-fits-all therapy method. Certain conditions exclude EMS altogether, such as:
Pregnant Women: If you’re expecting, it’s generally advised to steer clear of EMS. The electrical currents could potentially affect the baby. It’s best to play it safe and wait until after delivery.
Patients with Pacemakers or Other Implanted Electronic Devices: EMS interferes with the performance of these devices, potentially causing serious health issues.
Patients with Heart Conditions: If you have a heart condition, check with your doctor before trying EMS, as electrical stimulation might affect your heart rhythm.
Patients with Epilepsy: Electrical stimulation could trigger a seizure.
Patients with Certain Skin Conditions: Avoid EMS if you have a skin condition in the area where the EMS electrodes would be placed. The stimulation can irritate the skin or worsen the condition.
How Does Chiropractic Care Include Electrical Muscle Stimulation?
Chiropractic care and electrical muscle stimulation make an amazing team!
In addition to manual adjustments, many chiropractors use EMS as part of their overall therapeutic approach. The goal of chiropractic care isn’t just to fix misalignments in the spine. It’s also about improving the function of the nervous system and helping the body heal itself. And EMS fits right into that philosophy!
Injuries or even chronic tension in your muscles can throw your whole body off balance, leading to pain and restricted movement. By targeting these problem areas directly, EMS stimulates the muscles, thus breaking up tension, reducing inflammation, and promoting the healing process.
Don’t be surprised if your chiropractor suggests EMS therapy when you go in for a chiropractic adjustment! They might use it before your adjustment to help your muscles relax and make your treatment more effective. Or, they could use it after the adjustment to help reduce any residual tension and speed up your recovery.
Like any therapeutic approach, EMS isn’t for everyone, so it’s always best to have a chat with your healthcare provider before jumping in. They can help you figure out if it’s the right fit for your health goals!
Let Chiropractic Electrical Stimulation Help You Achieve Pain Relief!
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
Bacharach, Elizabeth. “What Are EMS Workouts and Are They Really Worth the Hype?” Shape, Shape, 17 June 2022, www.shape.com/fitness/trends/electrical-stimulation-workouts. Accessed 5 Jun. 2023.
If you’ve ever experienced the discomfort of ear infections, you know it’s no picnic. But, have you ever considered turning to chiropractic care for some pain relief, too?
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free approach that can help address the symptoms of ear infections. It’s all about aligning the body in just the right way to boost its natural healing abilities.
In this case, we’re talking about relieving tension in the neck, promoting drainage from the ears, and potentially even supporting your immune system to fight off the nasty bugs causing the infection!
Consider how chiropractic care can help you as a handy sidekick in your battle against ear infections, offering an added boost to your body’s natural defenses. So, add chiropractic adjustments to your treatment approach, and give your body that extra fighting power it deserves!
What is an Ear Infection?
An ear infection occurs when a bacterial or viral infection affects the middle ear (that is, the ear part just behind the eardrum). This section of your ear acts as a tiny echo chamber packed with lots of small parts that vibrate to create sound. But when an infection sets in, it can lead to fluid build-up, inflammation, and pain.
Most ear infections clear up on their own. If, however, that ear pain lingers or the infection keeps popping back, it’s time to consult a doctor. They will prescribe antibiotics or other treatments to kick that infection to the curb.
Who is More Predisposed to Ear Infections?
Anyone can get an ear infection, but some people do have a higher chance of getting one. Here’s the “usual suspect” list:
Kids: Children are more likely to get ear infections than adults. Their immune systems are still developing, and their Eustachian tubes (that is, the tiny tunnels connecting the middle ear to the upper throat) are smaller and more level, which means they can get clogged with fluid more easily. Plus, they’re often around other kids with colds, flu, and all sorts of germs at daycare or school.
Bottle-fed babies: Babies who drink from a bottle, especially while lying down, have a higher risk of ear infections than their breastfed counterparts.
People with allergies: But don’t worry, adults aren’t off the hook either. Allergies, sinus infections, and even changes in altitude (like when you’re on that awesome mountain hike) can block the Eustachian tubes in grown-ups, leading to a middle ear infection.
Frequent cold and sinus sufferers: If you’re someone who often catches a cold or battles with sinus infections, you’re also on the ‘more likely’ list. Colds and sinus infections can block the Eustachian tubes and create a nice, warm, moist environment that bacteria and viruses love.
People with weakened immune systems: This includes people undergoing certain medical treatments like chemotherapy or with conditions that lower the body’s defenses.
Smokers (and those exposed to second-hand smoke): Smoke can mess with the function of the Eustachian tubes and also irritate the tiny ear hairs keeping germs and bacteria at bay.
The Four Types of Ear Infections
Otitis Media: This is basically doctor-speak for a middle ear infection. It happens when the area behind your eardrum gets all inflamed and filled with fluid. It is a common condition in children, although it can also occur in adults. Middle ear infections can either be acute (they come on quickly, with nasty symptoms) or chronic (they’re long-lasting or keep recurring).
Otitis Externa: Also known as “swimmer’s ear“, otitis externa occurs when the ear canal becomes inflamed, usually due to water hanging out in there for too long. It’s not as common as a middle ear infection but can be a real pain when it happens.
Otitis Media with Effusion: It occurs when fluid sticks around or fills the middle ear, but without any bacterial or viral infection (and usually without symptoms). It often follows an acute infection episode.
Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media: It’s a long-term middle ear infection that can result in a persistent or recurring discharge from the ear. If untreated, it can potentially lead to hearing loss.
What are the Symptoms of Ear Infections?
If you’ve got a middle ear infection, you will notice pressure in your ear — like when you’re underwater or wearing earmuffs — potentially leading to a dull pain or a throbbing ache. Children with this type of infection can be extra fussy, have trouble hearing or balancing, or even get a fever.
An outer ear infection can cause your ear to feel itchy or even painful when you touch or tug on the earlobe. It could also lead to a bit of drainage. Don’t be surprised if things sound a bit muffled or if your ear feels full.
Last but not least, if you’ve got a more serious type of ear infection such as chronic suppurative otitis media, you might notice a persistent discharge from your ear, often accompanied by a fever, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and a decreased ability to hear.
Can Regular Chiropractic Adjustments Help With Ear Infections?
Chiropractic adjustments, especially those in the upper neck, have a significant impact on the nervous system. When your spine is in proper alignment, your nervous system can work more effectively, thus boosting your immune response. With a more efficient immune system, your body might be better equipped to decrease ear infections!
Another part of this puzzle involves the Eustachian tubes, which sometimes become clogged up, especially in children, leading to fluid buildup in the ear. Chiropractic adjustments relax the muscles around the Eustachian tubes, helping them drain more effectively and thus reducing the chances of an infection.
The connection between chiropractic and ear infections has already been scientifically established decades ago. A 1996 study conducted on forty-six children aged five and under found that combining routine chiropractic care with conventional medical treatment alleviated the symptoms of ear infections in 93% of the cases!!
However, while chiropractic adjustments help treat ear infections, they don’t replace the traditional medical treatments. If you’re considering a chiropractic approach to your ear infection, definitely talk it over with your healthcare provider first.
Ready to Deal With Your Ear Infection? Dr. Doerr Can 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!
“Ear Infections.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 Apr. 2022, www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/swimmers/rwi/ear-infections.html. Accessed 4 June 2023.
“Ear Infections.” Paediatrics & Child Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2786955. Accessed 4 June 2023.
RM, Froehle. “Ear Infection: A Retrospective Study Examining Improvement from Chiropractic Care and Analyzing for Influencing Factors.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8728460. Accessed 4 June 2023.
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