For years, John has been struggling with disruptive hip pain resulting from a hip misalignment. Sad to say, he’s not alone in this ordeal — hip pain is prevalent among athletes and our senior citizens.
Determined to find a solution, he sought out various avenues for pain relief, hoping to regain his freedom of movement and enjoy an active lifestyle once again. After researching different treatment options, John discovered that chiropractic care could be the answer to his hip pain and misalignment woes! Let’s find out how chiropractic treatment provides long-lasting pain relief and effectively addresses hip misalignments, allowing patients like John to reclaim their mobility and live life to the fullest!
What Are the Main Causes of Hip Pain?
The onset of hip pain is brought about by various causes, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Some of the most common causes of hip pain include:
Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (i.e., tiny fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip) leads to pain and discomfort in the hip area.
Fractures: A break in the upper part of the thigh bone (i.e., the femur) can lead to severe pain and difficulty moving the hip.
Hip labral tear: The labrum is a ring of cartilage that provides stability. A tear in this cartilage can cause pain and instability.
Infections: Infections in the hip or surrounding tissues can cause pain and inflammation.
Osteoarthritis: This degenerative joint disease occurs when the cartilage that cushions the hip wears away, causing bone-on-bone friction, inflammation, and pain.
Referred pain: Hip pain can sometimes be caused by issues in other parts of the body, such as the knees or the lower back.
Sciatica: Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve (i.e., running from the lower back to the leg) can cause pain in the hip area.
Strains or sprains: Overstretching or tearing the muscles, ligaments, or tendons around the hip translates into pain and discomfort.
Tendinitis: Inflammation or irritation of the tendons attaching muscles to the hip cause pain during movement.
How Do Chiropractors Perform Hip Adjustments?
Chiropractors perform hip adjustments using a variety of techniques to restore proper alignment, improve joint function, and relieve pain. The choice of treatment option will depend on the chiropractor’s expertise and the patient’s unique needs, medical history, and condition.
During a hip adjustment, the patient is typically positioned on the chiropractic table, lying down on their side, back, stomach, or sitting. Dr. Gregory Doerr then carefully assesses the patient’s hip joint to identify any misalignments or movement restrictions.
Once the problem area has been identified, Dr. Doerr uses controlled force to manipulate it. This may involve a quick, high-velocity thrust or a slow, low-force adjustment. The goal is to reposition the joint, increase its range of motion, and reduce pain and inflammation.
Chiropractors may use other techniques in addition to joint manipulation to enhance the effects of hip adjustments. These can include soft tissue therapies, such as massage or trigger point release, as well as stretches and exercises to improve muscle strength and flexibility around the hip joint.
Are Chiropractic Hip Adjustments Painful?
Chiropractic hip adjustments are a pleasant, pain-free treatment option when performed by a licensed and experienced chiropractor. However, the sensation experienced during a chiropractic hip adjustment can differ from one patient to another. You may experience a mild, temporary discomfort or pressure as your chiropractor manipulates the painful joint, although not enough to put a damper on your experience!
Communicating openly with Dr. Doerr and his team about your comfort level during treatment is essential. An expert chiropractor will always adapt their technique to suit the patient accordingly!
It is common to experience mild soreness in the treatment area after chiropractic adjustments. Thankfully, this expected side effect is temporary and can easily be managed with ice, heat, or over-the-counter pain medications as recommended by your chiropractor.
What Is a Hip Misalignment?
A hip misalignment occurs when the bones and structures forming the joint are not properly aligned, causing an imbalance. Proper alignment of the hip joint is essential for maintaining optimal function, stability, and range of motion.
Hip misalignment can stem from various causes, including injuries, muscle imbalances, congenital deformities, or wear and tear due to aging or overuse. It may also originate from pain located in other parts of the body, such as the lower back and pelvis (i.e., referred pain).
Symptoms of hip misalignment include pain or discomfort in the hip, groin, or lower back, reduced range of motion, stiffness, and difficulty walking or performing daily activities. If left untreated, misaligned hips can lead to chronic pain, joint instability, and an increased risk of injury.
Will Chiropractic Care Address Hip Misalignment?
Yes, chiropractic care can effectively address hip misalignment! Chiropractors receive special training to identify and treat various musculoskeletal issues, including misalignments in the hips.
Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper alignment, improving joint function, and reducing pain and inflammation through a combination of manual adjustments and other complementary therapies. Through manipulative therapy targeting the hips and surrounding soft tissues, chiropractors help correct misalignments, increase the joint’s range of motion, reduce inflammation, and alleviate any associated pain or discomfort.
In addition to manual adjustments, chiropractors may recommend specific stretches and exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles supporting the hip joint and improve overall stability. They may also provide guidance on proper body mechanics, posture, body weight, and ergonomics to help prevent future hip misalignments.
The effectiveness of regular chiropractic care for hip misalignment varies depending on the underlying conditions and the patient’s specific needs. If you suspect you’re dealing with a hip misalignment, consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of a personalized treatment plan.
Ready To Be Free From Your Hip Pain? Dr. Doerr Can Help!
Amelia had been struggling with persistent lower back and neck pain for months, and the discomfort was starting to take a toll on her daily life. She knew she needed professional help but was unsure whether to seek treatment from a chiropractor or an osteopath. After researching both fields, she found that each had its unique approach to addressing musculoskeletal issues.
Amelia was determined to make an informed decision, weighing the philosophies, treatment methods, and scope of chiropractic and osteopathy to determine which healthcare professional would be best suited to help her achieve pain relief and improve her well-being.
We’re here to answer Amelia’s questions and help you understand the differences between chiropractic and osteopathic physicians!
What Do “Osteopathic” and “Chiropractic” Mean?
“Osteopathic” and “chiropractic” are terms used to describe two distinct medical professions focusing on diagnosing, treating, and preventing musculoskeletal disorders. These Ancient Greek terms convey the underlying philosophy and approach of each profession.
The term “osteopathic” comes from the Greek words “osteon,” meaning bone, and “pathos,” meaning suffering. Osteopathy is based on the philosophy that the whole body is an interconnected unit, and disruptions in one part can affect the whole system. Osteopaths consider the musculoskeletal, circulatory, and nervous systems in their treatments, emphasizing the body’s ability to self-heal and self-regulate.
The term “chiropractic” is derived from the Greek words “cheir,” meaning hand, and “praxis,” meaning practice or action. It reflects the profession’s emphasis on using hands-on techniques to restore proper alignment and function to the spine. Chiropractic is rooted in the belief that spinal misalignments interfere with the nervous system, leading to various health issues. Chiropractors primarily focus on the spine, using adjustments to correct misalignments.
While both osteopathic and chiropractic medicine emphasize the importance of the musculoskeletal system in overall health, their philosophies are distinct. Osteopathy takes a more holistic approach, considering the body as an integrated unit, while chiropractors focus primarily on the spine and its relationship with the nerves.
What Are the Differences Between a Chiropractor and an Osteopath?
Chiropractors and osteopaths are both healthcare professionals who specialize in treating musculoskeletal disorders but differ in terms of education, philosophy, and treatment approach.
Education
Chiropractors complete a Doctor of Chiropractic degree (DC), which typically takes 4 years of study after completing an undergraduate degree. The program focuses on spinal adjustment techniques, anatomy, physiology, and nutrition.
Osteopaths obtain a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, which also requires 4 years of study after an undergraduate degree. Their training is more similar to that of a medical doctor (MD), with an emphasis on osteopathic principles and practices.
Philosophy
Chiropractic treatment is rooted in the belief that misalignments in the spine (called subluxations) cause interferences in the nervous system, leading to various health issues. Chiropractors primarily focus on the spine, using adjustments to restore proper alignment and function.
Osteopathy follows the creed that the body is an integrated unit and that disruptions in one part can affect the whole system. Osteopaths consider the musculoskeletal, circulatory, and nervous systems holistically in their treatments, emphasizing the body’s self-healing abilities.
Treatment Approach
Chiropractors predominantly use spinal manipulations or adjustments to correct misalignments and improve nervous system function. They may also employ other therapies such as massage, ultrasound, and electrical muscle stimulation.
Osteopaths use a broader range of manual techniques, including soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and stretching. They also focus on the broader musculoskeletal system and may address other factors such as lifestyle, nutrition, and stress.
Scope of Practice
In general, chiropractors tend to have a more limited scope of practice, mainly focusing on spinal adjustments and conservative musculoskeletal care.
An osteopath, however, is a fully licensed physician with the ability to diagnose and then treat patients with a broader range of conditions, prescribe medication, and perform surgery, if necessary. They often practice in a more primary care role and integrate osteopathic treatments with conventional medical care.
What Are the Similarities Between Chiropractic and Osteopathy?
Despite their differences, chiropractors and osteopaths share several similarities in their approach to healthcare and treating musculoskeletal disorders:
Both chiropractors and osteopaths follow a holistic approach to healthcare, considering the body as an interconnected system. They believe that a problem in one area of the body can impact other areas and contribute to overall health issues.
Both professions prioritize the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal conditions, such as joint pain, back pain, and muscle tension. They recognize the importance of maintaining proper alignment and function of the musculoskeletal system for overall health.
Both chiropractors and osteopaths use hands-on techniques to treat their patients. They employ various methods, such as spinal manipulation, joint mobilization, and soft tissue techniques, to alleviate pain and improve function.
Chiropractors and osteopaths favor noninvasive, drug-free options for their patients. They recommend lifestyle changes, such as exercise, nutrition, and stress management, to help patients manage their conditions and promote overall health.
Both professions emphasize the importance of patient education and self-care. They work to empower patients with the knowledge and tools needed to take an active role in their healthcare and improve their quality of life.
Chiropractic and osteopathic medicine are often considered complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches. They can be used alongside conventional medical treatments or as standalone therapies, depending on the specific needs and preferences of the patient.
Do I Need Chiropractic or Osteopathic Medicine?
Deciding whether you need a chiropractor or an osteopath depends on your specific health concerns, treatment preferences, and personal goals. Both professionals can effectively address musculoskeletal conditions, although their approaches and areas of focus differ. Here are some factors to consider when choosing between a chiropractor and an osteopath:
If your primary concern is spinal alignment, such as back pain, neck pain, or headaches caused by spinal issues, a chiropractor is more suitable due to their expertise in spinal adjustments.
If you prefer a broader approach that considers not only the musculoskeletal system but also the circulatory and nervous systems, an osteopath is a better fit.
If you require a healthcare professional who can provide a broader range of medical care, including diagnosing and treating various conditions, prescribing medication, and performing surgery, an osteopath is the better choice, as they are fully licensed physicians.
Chiropractors are the right choice if you are specifically interested in spinal manipulation or adjustment. However, an osteopath is more suitable if you prefer a broader range of manual therapy techniques, such as soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and stretching.
If you want a healthcare professional who can easily integrate their treatments with conventional medical care, an osteopath may be a better fit, as they are trained to work alongside medical doctors and provide a more comprehensive approach to healthcare.
Ultimately, the decision to see a chiropractor or an osteopath is personal and should be based on your specific needs. Both professions can provide effective treatments for musculoskeletal issues, but their approaches and areas of focus vary. Therefore, it’s essential to research and consult with medical professionals in both fields to determine the best fit for you.
Looking for Excellent Chiropractic Care? Dr. Doerr Can Help!
After experiencing persistent neck pain and stiffness for several weeks, John started researching how chiropractic care could alleviate his symptoms. However, he was unsure how often he should see a chiropractor and what to expect from the treatment. John had heard that chiropractic care effectively treated severe pain and musculoskeletal conditions. Still, he didn’t know how often he would need to schedule appointments or how long the treatment would take to produce results.
But after one quick consultation with Dr. Doerr, John became one of the 35 million Americans seeking the help of a chiropractor each year! Now, he sees his chiropractor regularly enough to notice a consistent improvement in his neck pain. Not all patients require the same amount of care, which is why only talking to an expert chiropractor will help determine the right treatment plan for you. You’re one step away from being like John — pain-free!
Why Do People See Chiropractors?
We see chiropractors for various reasons, the most common including back or neck pain. Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those affecting the spine.
Chiropractors use a hands-on approach to spinal manipulation and other techniques to provide pain relief and improve the function of the musculoskeletal system. As a result, the body can heal itself, and by addressing the root cause of the problem, chiropractors help the body achieve healing.
In addition to back pain, neck pain, and headaches, we also see chiropractors for conditions such as sciatica, whiplash, carpal tunnel syndrome, and sports injuries. Chiropractic care is also a complementary physical therapy for other conditions like asthma, allergies, and digestive disorders!
Chiropractic care is considered safe and effective, but you must consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine if it is appropriate for your needs. If needed, chiropractors work with other healthcare providers to provide a comprehensive approach to patient care.
What Is Chiropractic Maintenance Care?
Chiropractic maintenance care is an ongoing treatment plan designed to help maintain and improve spinal health even after the initial symptoms have been resolved. It involves regular visits to a chiropractor, typically once a month or every few months, to receive adjustments and other forms of necessary treatment.
The goal of chiropractic maintenance is to prevent the recurrence of pain and promote optimal function of the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors believe that regular adjustments and other forms of care help correct spinal misalignments, improve joint mobility, and reduce muscle tension, thus preventing injuries and boosting overall health.
Chiropractic maintenance is often recommended for patients with chronic pain or recurrent musculoskeletal problems or those with physically demanding jobs or participating in high-impact sports. It is also commonly used as a preventive measure for patients who want to maintain their overall spinal health and wellness.
Chiropractic maintenance treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach and may not be appropriate for everyone. The frequency and type of treatment will vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and health goals. It is recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if chiropractic maintenance treatment is appropriate for you!
How Often Should You Get a Chiropractic Adjustment?
The frequency with which you should see your chiropractor depends on your health goals. Chiropractic treatments are tailored to each patient, and the frequency of visits will depend on factors such as your condition’s severity, overall health, and your response to treatment.
For acute conditions, such as a recent injury or flare-up of a chronic condition, you may need to see your chiropractor more often — i.e., two to three times per week. Once your symptoms have improved, you can reduce the frequency of visits to once a week, then once every two weeks, and so on.
For chronic conditions, such as ongoing back or joint pain, you will benefit from regular ongoing chiropractic care — i.e., a month or every few months. Regular visits will help prevent flare-ups and maintain spinal health and function.
Ultimately, the frequency of visits to your chiropractor’s office depends on your health issues and goals. Your chiropractor will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and adjust the frequency of visits based on your progress.
Can You Go to the Chiropractor Too Much?
While considered safe and effective, chiropractic care can turn from friend to foe when done in excess, just like any other form of medical care. Excessive or unnecessary chiropractic treatment can lead to discomfort, pain, or injury.
The frequency of chiropractic visits should be based on your specific medical needs and should be determined during a chiropractic appointment. For example, for patients with acute conditions or injuries, more frequent adjustments may be necessary initially to help manage serious pain and promote healing. But for patients with chronic conditions, less frequent visits may be sufficient for maintaining proper health.
It is also essential to ensure that the chiropractor uses appropriate techniques and provides appropriate treatment. If a chiropractor uses overly aggressive or forceful techniques or provides unnecessary treatment, you will run a higher risk of injury or discomfort.
Communicate any pain or discomfort experienced during or after treatment with your chiropractor. They can adjust their techniques and treatment plan to ensure you receive the appropriate level of care!
How Do Chiropractic Adjustments Work?
Chiropractic adjustments, also known as spinal manipulations, are the primary treatment method chiropractors use to address musculoskeletal conditions, particularly in the spine. The aim of chiropractic adjustments is to correct spinal misalignments, improve joint mobility, and reduce muscle tension, thus working to relieve pain and other symptoms.
During a chiropractic adjustment, the chiropractor uses their hands or a specialized instrument to apply a controlled force to a joint in the spine. This force involves a quick, low-impact thrust, or a slower, more gentle movement, depending on the patient’s specific needs.
The adjustment may result in a cracking or popping sound caused by the release of gas bubbles from the joints. This sound is not harmful and is similar to the one heard when cracking your knuckles.
Chiropractic adjustments restore proper alignment and function to the joints and muscles of the spine. This process improves nerve function, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing. In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors use techniques such as soft tissue therapy, stretching, and exercise to address specific musculoskeletal conditions.
Ready for Excellent Chiropractic Care? Dr. Doerr Can Help!
It’s natural. It’s exciting. It’s a true miracle. Pregnancy is the epitome of self-sacrifice toward bringing a new human being to life. But the imminent joy of seeing their children cooing or laughing is not the only common denominator amongst pregnant women. According to research, one in two women experiences lower back pain during pregnancy and three out of four during labor. Unfortunately, only one in five women seek medical care, especially alternative, noninvasive pain relief methods.
As you anxiously approach your due date, the potential discomforts of labor can overwhelm the anticipation of meeting your baby. While some women do experience it spontaneously, others seek natural ways to induce labor, either because they are past their due dates or for other medical reasons.
One complementary therapy that has gained attention for its potential role in promoting labor is chiropractic care. This article explores how a chiropractor helps induce labor and the many benefits it can provide for both the mother and the baby during pregnancy!
What Are the Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy?
Chiropractic care during pregnancy offers several benefits for expecting mothers! It focuses on maintaining the health of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems through spinal adjustments and other noninvasive techniques.
Here are some potential benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy:
Alleviation of Pregnancy-Related Discomfort
Pregnancy causes significant strain on the muscles in a woman’s body, leading to discomfort (i.e., back pain, pelvic pain, sciatica). Chiropractic care alleviates these issues by correcting misalignments in the spine and pelvis, thus reducing pain and inflammation.
Improved Pelvic Balance
A balanced pelvis is essential for giving the baby sufficient room to grow and move within the womb. Chiropractic care ensures proper pelvic alignment, which may reduce the risk of intrauterine constraint and allow for proper fetal positioning.
Reduced Labor and Delivery Time
Research suggests that chiropractic care during pregnancy is associated with shorter labor times and reduced need for medical interventions during delivery.
What Can a Chiropractor Do To Induce Labor?
While chiropractors are not explicitly trained to induce labor, they can help create optimal conditions for a more comfortable and natural birth by focusing on the alignment of the spine and pelvis. Chiropractic treatment, particularly the Webster Technique, addresses musculoskeletal imbalances and reduces pelvic area tension, indirectly facilitating labor onset.
The Webster technique is a specific chiropractic adjustment that targets the sacrum and the ligaments supporting the uterus, aiming to improve the alignment and biomechanics of the pelvic muscles. A rebalanced pelvis allows for more room for the baby to move into the optimal birth position, thus potentially promoting the onset of labor.
However, it’s important to remember that chiropractic care is not a guaranteed method to induce labor. The primary goal of chiropractic care during pregnancy is to maintain the health and well-being of the mother and optimize her body’s natural ability during the birthing process. Pregnant women should always consult with their obstetrician or midwife before seeking chiropractic treatment or any other complementary therapies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for their specific circumstances.
How Will Chiropractic Care Help Me After Giving Birth?
Chiropractic care is exceptionally beneficial for new mothers after giving birth, as it addresses various issues arising during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery.
Here are the ways chiropractic care can help you after giving birth:
Spinal Alignment and Posture
Pregnancy and childbirth put significant stress on the spine and affect posture due to changes in the center of gravity, weight gain, and hormonal fluctuations. Chiropractic care restores proper spinal alignment and improves posture, alleviating discomfort and promoting overall well-being!
Pelvic Realignment
The pelvis undergoes various changes during pregnancy and childbirth, including the loosening of ligaments and joints to accommodate the growing baby and prepare for delivery. Regular chiropractic adjustments realign the pelvic bones and ensure they are functioning correctly, thus reducing pain and improving mobility.
Pain Relief
Many new mothers experience back, neck, and shoulder pain from breastfeeding, carrying the baby, and other postpartum activities. Chiropractic care alleviates this pain by addressing underlying musculoskeletal imbalances and promoting proper biomechanics.
Recovery From Cesarean Sections
Chiropractic care helps address any scar tissue or adhesions that may have formed during the healing process after a cesarean section. This approach can help improve mobility and reduce discomfort associated with scar tissue.
Stress Relief
Chiropractic sessions positively impact the nervous system, helping reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Looking for Ways To Ease Your Pregnancy? Dr. Doerr Can Help!
When was the last time you enjoyed a good night’s sleep? Need help remembering? Unfortunately, the same story is told by millions of Americans. Sleep disorders have become an epidemic all across the United States. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, almost 1 in 4 adults reported insufficient sleep at least one night a month, while for more than 1 in 10 adults, restless nights have become a fact of life. Overall, between 50 to 70 million Americans have a hard time getting enough sleep at night, regardless of age and socioeconomic background, the majority of which never seek treatment.
There are various reasons why you’re struggling with a sleep disorder, including stress, anxiety, depression, and physical discomfort. While numerous treatment avenues for sleep disorders are available, chiropractic care is often suggested as an alternative therapy for poor sleep. But can chiropractic treatment help you rediscover restful sleep? This article will explore the connection between chiropractic care and sleep and how chiropractic adjustments can improve your sleep quality!
What Are the Causes Behind Sleep Disorders?
Before discussing how chiropractic care can help you manage your sleep problems, it’s important to understand the causes behind them. Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia, are brought about by numerous factors, including:
Stress and Anxiety: Stress and anxiety are the number one culprits behind poor sleep. Stress causes the mind to become overactive, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep.
Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and excessive caffeine consumption can affect the quality of your sleep.
Pain and Discomfort: If you’re experiencing chronic pain, you know how hard it is to find a comfortable sleeping position.
Medical Conditions: Medical conditions, such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and insomnia, can disrupt your sleep patterns and make it difficult to enjoy a good night’s rest.
Sleep apnea is the sudden interruption in breathing experienced while sleeping. It occurs either because there’s something blocking the air’s path in your trachea (i.e., obstructive sleep apnea) or because your brain fails to control your breathing patterns while asleep (i.e., central apnea). In both cases, your brain instinctively wakes you up in order to breathe again properly. You can thank this reflex for keeping you alive, but only at the expense of messing with your sleep.
Research indicates that 1 in 5 American adults are suffering from sleep apnea, putting themselves at risk for all sorts of health issues, such as cognitive impairment, heart disease, hypertension, and even stroke. The traditional treatment avenue for sleep apnea involves the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Device (CPAP) device at night to keep the air flowing through the trachea. A great deal of patients, however, search for more convenient ways to tackle this sleep disorder, such as chiropractic care!
2. Insomnia
Insomnia is a sleep disorder affecting all the stages of your rest schedule, making it hard to fall or stay asleep. Patients dealing with insomnia can hardly summon the energy required to be productive at home and work while preserving their physical and mental health.
At least 1 in 10 Americans do not get the 7-8 hours of nightly rest associated with a healthy lifestyle. Most instances of insomnia are acute, resulting from stress or dealing with a traumatic event. The onset of chronic insomnia occurs when the issue persists even after a month. According to the National Sleep Foundation, insomnia is often attributable to chronic neck and back pain, whose causes can be addressed through chiropractic care!
You Can’t Be Healthy Without Getting a Good Night’s Sleep!
You might think you can get past a sleepless night unharmed, but unfortunately, there’s no easy way to pay off your sleep debt. Over time, every hour of restless sleep will increase your irritability and daytime fatigue while making it harder to concentrate, think clearly, and rely on your memory. Furthermore, your immune system will take a severe blow, paving the way for high blood pressure, diabetes, mental health issues, heart failure, and stroke. A life of restless sleep is a life of stress, anxiety, and alienation from friends and family.
How Does Chiropractic Care Help Tackle Sleep Issues?
Chiropractic care involves the manipulation of the spine to improve alignment, reduce pain, and enhance overall health. For chiropractors, the nervous system plays a critical role in balancing our physical and mental well-being, and any disruption to it can cause various health issues, including sleep-related ones. By realigning the spine, chiropractors alleviate nerve interference, reducing pain and discomfort and improving sleep quality!
Chiropractic treatment will address the root causes of your sleep issues by:
Reducing Pain and Discomfort: Chiropractic adjustments can reduce pain and discomfort, empowering you to rest in the most comfortable sleeping position.
Alleviating Stress and Anxiety: Chiropractic care reduces stress and anxiety, two leading causes of sleep problems. Realigning the spine alleviates tension and promotes relaxation, leading to improved sleep quality.
Improving Sleep Patterns: By reducing nerve interference, chiropractic care will improve the body’s ability to regulate sleep patterns, leading to more consistent and restful sleep.
Enhancing Overall Health: Chiropractic care is not just about spinal adjustments. It also involves lifestyle recommendations, such as exercise, diet, and stress management. By addressing these lifestyle factors, chiropractors can enhance your overall health, improving sleep quality.
Why Do You Get Better Sleep After Chiropractic Treatment?
So many of our patients report feeling more relaxed and less tense after a chiropractic session! That is because chiropractic adjustments reduce nerve interference, allowing the body to function more efficiently. By improving the function of the nervous system, chiropractors alleviate muscle tension, reduce pain and discomfort, and promote relaxation, all of which contribute to better sleep quality! Chiropractic adjustments also enhance blood flow and oxygenation to the body’s tissues, including the brain, thus reducing inflammation, a significant contributor to sleep issues!
It’s Time To Rediscover Your Restful Sleep at Bergen Chiropractic!
At the Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center, our chiropractic team, led by Dr. Gregory Doerr, follows the highest and most professional medical standards to provide superior chiropractic help. Our mission is to provide unparalleled patient care through chiropractic sessions and services in a comfortable healing atmosphere. Access our contact form or call us at (201) 945-4075 to learn more about our chiropractic 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!
Ever since we were kids, we’ve been told that drinking milk will make our bones unbreakable! But does this childhood mantra still hold water, or was it just a white lie (pun intended)?
Well, the numbers speak for themselves. The International Osteoporosis Foundation estimates that more than 10 million American adults are dealing with osteoporosis, with another 40 million adults aged 50 and older being at risk.
Although not a deadly condition, osteoporosis can affect your health and well-being down the road. Research found that 50% of women and 25% of men in the US will break a bone because of this disease. Osteoporosis has earned the “silent disease” nickname since it does not show any noticeable symptoms until a bone breaks or fractures.
As more and more patients are researching alternative, less invasive avenues of treating this disease, today’s article will cover why chiropractic adjustments are an excellent addition to any osteoporosis treatment!
First of All, What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease whose onset occurs due to decreased bone density (i.e., the body loses too much bone mass or creates too little of it). Therefore, the bones become fragile and can easily break or fracture — even from minor falls, bumps, or strains!
The most commonly affected bones are the hip, spine, and wrist. Osteoporosis affects both men and women, although it is more common in postmenopausal women due to decreased estrogen levels. Calcium deficiencies, steroid use, and thyroid issues are additional risk factors for this bone disease. Patients with diseases that affect bone density, such as rheumatoid arthritis or celiac disease, are at an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, too.
What Are the Symptoms of Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis has genuinely earned its “silent disease” moniker since it does not show any noticeable symptoms until a bone suffers some form of trauma (e.g., break or fracture). However, it does exhibit a handful of symptoms accurate enough to guide you toward a solid diagnosis:
Fracture or break in a bone after a minor fall or injury
Loss of height over time
Lower back pain
Stooped posture or hunched back
Weakness in the bones, making them more susceptible to fractures.
How Is Osteoporosis Diagnosed?
Several tests will help medical professionals diagnose osteoporosis in a patient. The most commonly used test is called a bone density scan or dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). This quick, painless procedure measures the bone density of the hip and spine and can determine if someone has osteoporosis or is at risk for developing it.
Anything between -1 and -2.5 SD means osteopenia (i.e., the stage before osteoporosis)
Anything below -2.5 SD means osteoporosis
Other helpful tests for diagnosing this bone condition are:
Blood tests to check for vitamin D and calcium levels
X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans to ascertain your bone health
How Does Chiropractic Care Help Address Osteoporosis?
Chiropractic care is a valuable path toward treatment for all patients with osteoporosis! That is because a treatment plan that includes chiropractic sessions will help them achieve pain relief faster without resorting to additional invasive treatments! However, each patient will require a different treatment approach, so consult a healthcare provider before undergoing chiropractic treatment.
Chiropractic care can be adjusted based on the individual’s medical history and the severity of osteoporosis. Therefore, the chiropractor may avoid using high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) techniques that involve twisting or quick spine movements. Instead, they will use gentle and low-force techniques such as mobilization or soft tissue therapy to improve joint mobility, relieve pain, and promote healing.
Chiropractic treatments will also help prevent falls and fractures by improving balance, coordination, and flexibility. Our expert chiropractors will recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected bones, making them more resistant and resilient to fractures. Additionally, we will provide recommendations on nutrition and lifestyle changes to improve bone health and reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis!
Does a Healthy Lifestyle Help Prevent Osteoporosis?
Ultimately, it’s the patient’s lifestyle that determines whether they’ll be predisposed to osteoporosis in the future. But with a few adjustments, your bones will become unbreakable!
1. Get a Healthy Dose of Calcium
Calcium opens the list of crucial nutrients for bone health, as it is the primary component of bones. Foods such as dairy products, fortified cereals, and leafy green vegetables will ensure the recommended daily calcium intake (i.e., 1000 mg for adults aged 19-50 and 1200 mg for those over 50). Consider adding calcium supplements to your diet if you can’t get enough of this precious nutrient from your daily meals.
2. Get a Healthy Dose of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential if you want calcium to be effectively absorbed and utilized by the body. The skin synthesizes this nutrient when exposed to sunlight, but we all know that the sad winter months make it hard for us to get all the sunshine we would like. Fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks will help you reach the daily recommended dietary allowance of 600 IU for adults aged 19-70 and 800 IU for adults aged >70.
3. Spend More Time Exercising
Regular exercise helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis by stimulating bone growth and increasing bone density. Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, running, and strength training are particularly beneficial for the health of your bones! The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends 30 to 40 minutes of exercise three to four times per week, with some weight-bearing and resistance exercises as part of the program.
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Your Alcohol Consumption
Being underweight increases the risk of osteoporosis, as there is less mass for your bones to lose. However, being overweight is also harmful to bone health, as it increases the risk of falls and fractures. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise will make it harder for osteoporosis to affect the health of your bones.
6. Get Regular Bone Density Tests
Bone density tests can detect early signs of brittle bones and help prevent osteoporosis. Experts recommend at least one bone density test per year for patients on medication for osteoporosis, as well as those with risk factors such as a history of osteoporosis in the family, tobacco addiction, or low body weight.
It’s Time To Relieve Your Osteoporosis Symptoms With Chiropractic Care!
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