Sources of Whiplash Pain

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We can treat car accidents including neck pain, back pain, rotator cuff, foot pain, carpal tunnel, and much more.

Chiropractic treatment and deep tissue massage.

Deep tissue massage and chiropractic work well together it is not always one or the other.

Chiropractic and deep tissue massage work well together.

We recently had a patient in the chiropractic clinic that trapped a nerve in their neck and needed a mix of treatments from the Chiropractor and deep tissue massage. Through the first stages of the injury the patient shoulder and neck muscles had gone into spasm and proved to be too tender to receive a chiropractic manipulation. Deep tissue massage alternatively could be familiar with loosen from the muscle spasm allowing the region to wind down. The tenderness across the shoulder and neck decreased after receiving several massage treatments. The individual ended up being in a position to receive chiropractic manipulation to complete the treatment programme therefore regaining full range of motion without pain that helps and to prevent reoccurrences from the injury.

When asked which treatment methods are better deep tissue massage or manipulation with a chiropractor then the answer then is neither as both treatments put in place the procedure and repair off musculoskeletal health.

Mahler Chiropractic Comments

A lot of people believe most chiropractors just offer manipulation. We presume it is important to treat each complaint while using best researched answer to that specific case, in lieu of practising only that which you are comfy with or exactly what a particular clinic offers. It really is that is why we help GP, physiotherapists, sports masseurs and also cranio sacral therapists. We do this to ensure that each person gets the most appropriate maintain their complaint. As practitioners we’re constantly developing our skills, learning new techniques and researching alternative therapies.

Deep tissue massage is designed treat the soft tissues of the body including muscles and connective tissue (ligaments and tendons). Using such techniques as trigger pointing. Pressure is applied to increase blood flow to the injury to reduce pain and inflammation

Paul R. Mahler Jr. DC

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We can treat car accidents including neck pain, back pain, rotator cuff, foot pain, carpal tunnel, and much more using these techniques.

Preventing Chronic Neck Pain and Back Pain

Treating chronic back pain and neck pain from a whiplash injury

Neck Pain Due to Car Accident

After a car accident neck pain is one of the primary complaints. This is due to the fact the the head weighs around 10 lbs and during acceleration and deceleration that can create a lot of force on some of the smaller muscles and ligaments of the body, the result is whiplash and neck pain. After a whiplash injury, it is fairly common for people to suffer from chronic neck pain and back pain. During a chiropractic examination certain factors in a patient’s history an physical exam can be used to evaluate for this possibility. This process will help the chiropractor identify the patient who is at risk of developing chronic pain resulting from a whiplash injury, so that aggressive preventative measures can be taken.
At Mahler family Chiropractic Center, in Kingston Pa, the general approach to managing a patient’s chiropractic treatment is critical to the success of preventing chronic pain from a whiplash injury.

It is important that the patients pain be reduced in the first several weeks of treatment.
After This the focus shifts toward restoration of the function of the patients joints and muscles using both active and passive therapy procedures. This also means helping the patient return to work, home and recreational activities as soon as possible. The transition back to these activities is often gradual and takes time. It is important for the chiropractor to get the patient back to these activities even if the patient is not sure that he or she can engage in them fully.
It is important that the patient gets back to normal activities and restoring the patients confidence after a whiplash injury is an important part of the chiropractor s job and also important for rehabilitation.
Exercise, both for the purpose of correcting faulty movement patterns and instability, and for general fitness, is important in this effort to treat a whiplash injury.

Teaching the patient that hurt does not necessarily mean harm and the nature of chronic pain means placing focus on those activities the patient can do, rather than those they can not perform. This is a major part of treating chronic pain and in disability prevention after a whiplash injury. At Mahler Family Chiropractic Center we integrate the strategies explained above to develop the most effective approach for recovering from a whiplash injury and preventing future episodes of back pain.

Paul R. Mahler Jr. DC

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We can treat car accidents including neck pain, back pain, rotator cuff, foot pain, carpal tunnel, and much more.

What is Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic health care a drug free solution!

Chiropractic not just for neck pain and back pain

Chiropractic is a health care system that targets the central nervous system via the spinal column to help maintain good health. A chiropractor leverages the recuperative power of the body to cure itself naturally and efficiently. Chiropractic health care focuses on the connection between the vertebral column alignment and performance as coordinated by the nerve network and how that association affects the preservation and regaining of health.

Chiropractic care involves analyzing and treating the cause of disease which occurs when the spinal column is misaligned or subluxated. The bones of the spinal column when misaligned interrupt the messages of the nerves in the central nervous system. These messages balance and control cells, tissues, and organs of the body. Chiropractors address these subluxations and by delicately changing the alignment of the vertebrae, reduce or alleviate abnormal communication in the nervous system permitting the human body to appropriately operate and repair.

A Chiropractic Physicians Treatment is Distinct from Traditional Medical Care

If you’re considering visiting a Kingston Chiropractors or a Chiropractor near Wilkes Barre PA for the 1st time, you’re most likely wondering what kind of results you can anticipate. Having realistic expectations is important. A Chiropractic specialist’s will explain the chiropractic process and therapy and how it is being presented may have a vital role in the satisfaction with the adjustment you receive. Your experience will be improved by an explanation leading to understanding of the service itself, but don’t mistake chiropractic treatment for medical therapy. A chiropractors is not meant to replace medical physicians. A Medical Doctor addresses disease while a chiropractic specialist focuses on health. Not having a disease is very different than actually being healthy. The purpose of chiropractic therapy is to improve your health and well-being not simply to treat your illness.

Before visiting a chiropractor it is important to under stand that chiropratic is not just for back pain, neck pain and othe phisical aliaments but for over all health. As well as over all health a chiropractor can help manage auto accidents, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, headaches, migraines, herniated disc, neck pain, sciatica, sports injuries, scoliosis, back pain, and much more. A chiropractor can treat infants, the elderly, children, audults, children with special needs, and pregnant women. Chiropractic physycians are for much more than just neck and back pain.

Can a Chiropractic Physician Help?

The short answer is often yes. Spinal subluxations are generally due to stress that overwhelms the body’s resilience and coping ability. This stress can be physical stress and can occur as the result of an automobile accident or slipping on a wet sidewalk, improper posture, occupational trauma, or birth trauma. It can be emotional stress as a result of heavy emotional shock or the inability to adjust to a stressful event, or even chemical shock as a result from the inappropriate usage of prescription or illicit drugs, inadequate food stuffs, or environmental poisons. These misalignments disrupt the standard function, reducing your body’s capability to operate, evolve, and heal from injuries by creating interference within the nervous system.

Chiropractic Physicians address these misalignments by delicately fixing the alignment of the backbones of the spinal column, reducing or alleviating abnormal messaging so permitting the body to properly self regulate, adapt and regenerate. The care and upkeep of the spinal column and nerve system is a necessary component of healthcare. Spinal hygiene is more important that dental hygiene but often neglected due to lack of understanding. Your Wilkes Barre and Kingston PA Chiropractors will assist you to start chiropractic care with this understanding so you will appreciate the whole process of recieving chiropractic therapy.

By: Dr. Paul Mahler
Mahler Family Chiropractic Center
Kingston PA
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Meditation benefits experiences

meditation and stress reduction

If you have a meditation that you like or a story about meditation and stress please add it to the comment section of this blog.

Fantastic Methods For Wrecking Pressure Before It Influences You!

Tension might be a key health risk in the event you aren’t careful. Numerous experts have discovered that pressure is generally a mix of actual factors and intellectual aspects. People who reside in high anxiety situations understand that it’s truly a managing work to plan everything perfectly nevertheless in real truth it’s not away from anyone’s get to to live a pressure-bare minimum existence. Read through the tips in this article and you can lessen the level of stress in your daily life on the total.

Meditating

You should utilize meditating as being a solution for your stress and panic. It is possible to sit in the calm space and let your brain release the ideas that happen to be resulting in your anxiousness. Sitting together with your eye shut with relaxing music actively playing from the background typically will help somebody meditate totally.

You may use deep breathing as being a treatment for your stress and panic. You may sit down in the tranquil area and allow your mind let go of the ideas which can be leading to your stress and anxiety. Resting together with your eyes shut down with relaxing audio actively playing within the background often assists a person meditate entirely.

Active relaxation will nourish your mindset, increase your feeling and assist you in finding tranquility in on your own. Make time to end and remove the imagination and deep inhale and exhale only if for any min. It might minimize anxiety, reduce your hypertension and relax the body and also the mindset.

A wonderful way to decrease tension is to apply meditation for stress reduction. Deep breathing is a a part of numerous spiritual teachings for thousands of years, yet it is not essential to attach the spiritual aspects with it. With deep breathing a deep feeling of rest may be accomplished in fact it is very good for too long phrase health insurance and joy.

Consume meditation or prayer. You don’t need to be spiritual to complete meditation. Just spending time to peaceful your mind can be a big support and lower stress during this process. Many studies have been completed regarding the wonderful benefits of deep breathing, so find out somewhat regarding this and let your tension disappear.

Quite a quick and simple strategy to ease anxiety is always to meditate. Meditating will allow the entire body to relax all muscle groups and relax your mind. While in this peaceful status of mind and body, you can actually relieve any pent up pressure and get back to a quiet the outdoors.

One way to handle stress is to occupy yoga exercise as being a standard action. This may be useful due to the fact yoga mixes physical fitness with meditation – both of which are ideal approaches to clean your body of anxiety. Consider possibly acquiring a publication or possibly a movie to assist you with the yoga and fitness strategy.

Commence meditating. Meditation is a wonderful stress minimizing methodology. Relaxation may have the two minimum outcomes on our health and wellness and gargantuan results. It can help with dealing with our blood pressure, aid manage compulsive ingesting, and in many cases act as a heartbeat regulator. All it requires is a couple of minutes of relaxation every day to start to make improvements.

Take some time for yourself. Generally put aside time every day to dedicate to your self. Regardless of whether it’s time each morning prior to anybody else is conscious or at night when supper has finished – try to loosen up. Some individuals discover that meditating enables them to, some like relaxing in a warm bathtub, while other individuals want to destress on their own by taking a stroll or possibly a work.

Take up deep breathing or prayer. You don’t have to be religious to perform deep breathing. Just spending time to calm your mind can be a big support and reduce anxiety along the way. A lot of studies have been accomplished regarding the wonderful benefits of deep breathing, so understand a bit regarding this and allow your pressure disappear.

As you can see, there are many strategies you can use to reduce the side effects of anxiety in your life. You can have higher satisfaction through the use of these tips in a consistent way. Start today to treat yourself to a much less demanding life.

My old meditation techniques instructor and Sacramento meditation can help your needs by offering free meditation Sacramento area.

This Article was provided by an author from Seolink but has been red and approved by Dr. Paul Mahler of Mahler Family Chiropractic Center, Kingston, PA for posting on our blog.

What Ab Workout Assists In Reducing Belly?

Abdominal Workout

Ab Workouts If you have a killer ab workout share it with other in the comments section of this blog.

Individuals are continuously inquiring of me which the very best ab exercises are to get a flatter stomach. The typical belief that ab exercises should improve you to get rid of belly fat is among the main mistakes I encounter daily as a health and fitness professional. Almost every person has differing levels of too much body type fat in the ab region, and the best method to burn off that~ extra abdomen fat continues to elude a lot of people today.

The dilemma is that most people are looking for the incorrect workouts and exercise sorts to shed difficult belly fat. Most people are seeking for a miraculous combination of abdominals exercises combined into the best abdominal workout ever created that will burn off their stomach fat quicker than you can examine this article.

Regrettably, ab-specific workouts do not eat up fat off of the stomach. Abdominal exercise won’t help in reducing belly. They only tone and reinforce the underlying abdominal muscles. The thing you really want to focus on is a total body strategic workout that will bring about a much better metabolism rise and fat-burning hormonal feedback from the training program as a whole.

In addition, basically carrying out cardiovascular exercises won’t essentially produce the best metabolic feedback or hormonal response either. The thing you genuinely need is a much more rounded exercise program which concentrates on working out the entire body using resistance work out routine and multi-joint exercises in a larger intensity style.

This kind of elevated intensity total body training routine merged with a healthy well balanced diet regime packed with nutrient denseness on a normal basis, is the real magic formula to losing the added stomach fat which covers up the ab muscles. Doing so is a considerably greater plan of attack in contrast to merely trying to do abdominal routines and wishing that simply carrying out a bunch of ab workouts like abdominal crunches and leg raises are will make you get rid of your stomach fat.

The incredible point is that the vast majority of the population still believes that to elimate belly fat, you need to do ab routines every day employing tons of of reps. I see individuals offering this sort of wrong advice daily on most of the physical fitness forums. Please do not use up your time with this breed of advice!

Now just before you say “how can an abs professional not propose ab workouts”, realize that I do strongly believe that a certain overall amount of abdominal-specific workout routines blended into your routines are useful. Abdominal workouts should improve you strengthen and tone the ab muscles and are helpful for other purposes such as a healthy back and posture when carried out correctly. But the actuality stays that ab exercises are not essential for fat loss.

A much smarter total body resistance training routine regimen and a clear wholesome diet are the prime factors. Quite a few of the full body workouts additionally indirectly work the ab muscles and core owing to the stabilization mandated in a worthwhile amount of the tough variations.

This Article was provided by an author from Seolink but has been red and approved by Dr. Paul Mahler of Mahler Family Chiropractic Center, Kingston, PA for posting on our blog. Check the comments section for Additional advice by Dr. Mahler.

Various Treatment Options For Snoring And Sleep Apnea

A lot of men and women consider snoring as a thing they do not need to be really worried about. For them, it is just loud inhaling and exhaling during sleep, and that everyone has them time and time again. They could not be more wrong as continual and sonorous noisy breathing at sleep could be a symptom for a potentially life-threatening condition generally known as sleep apnea. This condition is defined as repeated disruptions in respiration during sleep and it can cause hypoxic brain injuries which will bring about coma or even death.

Snoring and sleep apnea are often mentioned within the same breath because they share similar predisposing and precipitating factors which include senility, diminished tone in the muscles supporting the upper respiratory structures, narrowed airway as a result of fat tissue build-up, in addition to anatomical features of the face like deviated septum which impair the normal flow of air during respiration. Taking in alcohol in addition to a number of drug treatments bring about snoring along with sleep apnea since it makes the muscles supporting the air passage relaxed. Lying supinely and mouth breathing are also recognised to cause snoring too.

The good news is that both snoring and sleep apnea can be prevented and treated. The individual suffering from sleep apnea is rarely aware of having pauses in breathing, even upon awakening. In most instances, it is the one sharing the room or bed with the snorer that hears the hallmark snore-snort pattern typical of sleep apnea. Those suffering from sleep apnea only seek treatment when they already experience symptoms like persistent lethargy and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Treatments for snoring are also effective for sleep apnea. One of the commonly used remedies includes snoring pillows. These products are made specifically for those who sleep on their backs. Snoring pillows are shaped in a way that the head and neck are kept in a neutral position even if the user assumes a back-lying position during sleep thereby keeping the chin off of the chest and leave the air passage open.

Sleep apnea sufferers are also often prescribed with prosthesis like anti-snoring chin straps. The main purpose of these devices is to retrain the person to breathe through the nose instead of through the mouth. Mouth breathers snore because the flow of air through the oral cavity causes greater vibration of the tissues.

Both anti-snoring chin straps and pillows are effective, that is, if you don’t forget to put them on or use them when you sleep. Discussing with your healthcare provider can help figure out the right treatment option for you at the same determine the extent of how snoring or sleep apnea is affecting your health.

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In addition to these options snoring may be associated with the first cervical vertebra and its position. In this case it would make sens to also include a chiropractor into your health care team to help reduce snoring. at Mahler Family Chiropractic Center we will be glad to help you. We are located in the Wilkes Barre and Kingston area.

What is Scoliosis? Treatment for scoliosis.

Scoliosis is not a disease it is a descriptive term that refers to an abnormal spinal curve. All spines have curves these are normal in the neck, upper back and lower back it is normal to find anterior to posterior curves. Humans need these spinal curves to help the upper body maintain proper balance and alignment over the pelvis. Scoliotic curves are a right to left translation not an anterior to posterior translation and this leads to weakness and instability in the spine.

Who is at risk?

Scoliosis affects 2% of women and 0.5% of men in the general population. Scoliosis may be caused through several mechanisms, including congenital spine deformities, genetic conditions, neuromuscular problems and limb length inequality. Additional causes of scoliosis include cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy and tumors. Over 80% of scoliosis cases are idiopathic, which meaning we do not know the cause. Most idiopathic scoliosis cases are found in otherwise healthy people.

Idiopathic scoliosis is found in three categories based on age. The first is infantile found in children ages 3 and under. The next type is juvenile scoliosis found in 3-9 years old. Finally we have adolescent scoliosis found in10-18 years old. Not often but in very rare case scoliosis can occur in adult hood due to trauma. The most common form of scoliosis, representing approximately 80% of idiopathic scoliosis cases, is Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS), which develops in young adults around the onset of puberty. Adolescent scoliosis is often due to a rapid growth cycle in which the bones grow faster than the soft connective tissue, tendons and ligaments, and leads to an imbalance from one side to another.

People with a family history of spinal deformity are at greater risk for developing scoliosis and early detection is essential. If a scolioses curve is discovered before the growth plates close in a persons early twenties there is high likely hood of partial or complete correction.

About Scoliosis: Symptoms

The warning signs of scoliosis are shoulders are different heights, one shoulder-blade is more prominent than the other, head is not centered directly above the pelvis, appearance of a raised, prominent hip, rib cages are at different heights, uneven waist, changes in look or texture of skin overlying the spine, and leaning of entire body to one side. These can all be signs but don mean you have scoliosis you should see your chiropractor for a complete evaluation and remember that x-ray is the best way to diagnose scoliosis.

A standard exam that is often used by chiropractor is called the Adam’s Forward Bend Test. Most children should be tested in the fifth or sixth grade. For this test, the patient is asked to lean forward with his or her feet together and bend 90 degrees at the waist. The examiner can then easily view from this angle any asymmetry of the trunk or any abnormal spinal curvatures. It should be noted that this is a simple screening test scoliosis is usually confirmed with an x-ray of the spine. The curve is then measured by the Cobb Method and is discussed in terms of degrees. Generally speaking, a curve is considered significant if it is greater than 25 to 30 degrees. Curves exceeding 45 to 50 degrees are considered severe and often require more aggressive treatment or surgical intervention. The chiropractor may also conduct exams to test reflexes, motor and sensory functions, and breathing ability. After a diagnosis is made, your doctor will suggest a treatment plan.

Once scoliosis has been diagnosed there are several factors to take into account when discussing treatment. Spinal maturity, is the patient’s spine still growing and changing? Degree and extent of curvature, how severe is the curve and how does it affect the patient’s lifestyle? Location of curve, according to the Scoliosis Research Society, thoracic (upper spine) curves are more likely to progress than thoracolumbar (middle spine) or lumbar (lower spine) curves. Potential for progression, patients who have large curves prior to their adolescent growth spurts are more likely to experience curve progression.

After all the test and exams are assessed there are four treatment options for scoliosis: (1) observation, (2) orthopedic bracing, (3) surgery, (4) chiropractic care

Chiropractic Care:Spine Treatment

Chiropractic care is non-invasive Treatment for scoliosis. This means that when undergoing treatment you do not have to take any prescription drugs or go through a surgical procedure. The process is all natural and drug free. This is because the main principle of chiropractic is to focus on the body’s own natural healing abilities. Chiropractic treatment deals with the adjustment of the spine and according to the research conducted by the National Scoliosis Foundation, chiropractic adjustment has been found to be a good alternative treatment for those who suffering from scoliosis. Chiropractic treatment for scoliosis may involve several procedures depending on the severity of the condition. These treatments may include spinal manipulation, active exercise methods, and postural counseling.

So how can chiropractic treatment help you with your scoliosis? Chiropractic care does not only treat the current problems that are associated with scoliosis but it can also help in alleviating and controlling the symptoms that comes with it. Scoliosis patients who have been treated with chiropractic care have reported to have reduction in the size of the curves, measured using the Cobb Method. This does not happen overnight. Chiropractic care for scoliosis requires multiple visits in order for the patient to experience its full benefits. A chiropractor can also monitor your progress to ensure that you are doing the right thing and to see if the treatment yields favorable results. A chiropractor will recommend you to check with another medical specialist if he or she thinks that is the best course of action for you regarding your condition.

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We can treat scoliosis and back pain including sciatica, disc, herniation, slipped disc, stenosis, and much more.

Chiropractic: What is sciatica and sciatica treatment?

What is sciatica? Sciatica is a set of symptoms and not the disease itself. If you have some or all of the following symptoms you may have sciatica. These symptoms include leg pain associated with numbness, tingling, and weakness but the pain id coming from the nerve and it is a nerve pain. Sciatica is caused by pressure on nerves located in the lumbar spine or the sacrum, and is often present in conjunction with low back pain. Sciatic pain and numbness is felt along the path of the nerve and travels trough the buttock and down the back of the leg into the foot. Sciatica is named for the nerve that it follows the sciatic nerve. sciatica is a symptom of an underlying condition and is not a condition of its own. While often simple in nature there can be sever underlying factors associated with sciatica and medical intervention may be required A chiropractor can diagnose and treat sciatica and will let you know if there is any immediate danger. There can be many causes for sciatica and many of them are simple.

What is the sciatic nerve?

The sciatic nerve originates from the lumbo-sacral spine and travels down the leg all the way to the great toe. Sciatica follows the path of this nerve. There are two lumbar nerve roots and three sacral nerve roots that are involved in the sciatic nerve. These nerve roots are the 4th and 5th lumbar nerve roots and three sacral nerve roots which are the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd sacral nerve roots. These are the five nerve roots involved in creating the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is what supplies the nerves to the leg from the buttocks to the foot.

The Six Common Sciatica Causes

It is important to understand the underlying causes of sciatic when treating it. There are six common causes of sciatica and several less common causes. The first 4 causes can be more difficult to treat but the final two are the lest degenerative cause and highly treatable, as well as the most common two reasons for sciatica.

Herniated disk is one of the first causes to rule in or rule out.
The second cause of sciatic that must be check out is lumbar spinal stenosis. Due to a narrowing of the spinal canal pressure is put on the nerve roots that make up the sciatic nerve. Stenosis is relatively common in adults over age 60.
Degenerative disc disease is the next culprit to check out. Disc degeneration as people place stress on there low back over a life time disc’s can be damaged. When someone has one or more degenerated disc’s they can put presure on the sciatic nerve causing sciatica. Degenerative disc is an earlier stage of disc degeneration.
The fourth cause of sciatica is isthmic spondylolisthesis. This condition occurs when a small stress fracture allows one vertebral body to slip anterior on another vertebral body.
The next cause is piriformis syndrome. The sciatic nerve runs under the piriformis muscle and the muscle can irritates or pinches the sciatic nerve . This is not a true radiculopathy, but the leg pain can feel the same as sciatica caused by a nerve irritation.
Finally we have sacroiliac joint dysfunction, which is commonly seen and treated by chiropractors. Inflammation or scare tissue in the sacroiliac joint can also irritate the fifth lumbar nerve, which lies on top of the sacroiliac joint, causing sciatica-type pain.

Sciatica may also be cause by changes in the body that occur during pregnancy, including weight gain, a shift on one’s center of gravity, and hormonal changes. Sciatica can also be caused by scar tissue, muscle strain, and in rare cases spinal tumor or infection. It is important to know the underlying cause of sciatica so it can be properly treated. The cause of sciatica may change or modify the treatment used.

Symptoms of Sciatica

The symptoms of sciatica are different from muscle aches and pains. Some of the clues you many have sciatica are constant pain in one, or some times both, sides of the buttock or leg, pain that is worse when sitting, Burning or tingling down the leg, weakness, numbness or difficulty moving the leg or foot, a constant pain on one side of the rear, and a sharp pain that may make it difficult to stand up or to walk. These are all related to the pressure on the nerve and not due to actual dysfunction of the leg. Sciatic pain comes in many forms and flavors. It varies from infrequent and irritating to constant and incapacitating pain that affects every day life. The symptoms are as varied as the pain and may change in location and severity, depending upon the condition causing the sciatica. Sciatica can be very painful but it is important to note that it is rare that permanent nerve damage will result. It should be noted at this time that the one symptom that should never be ignored when sciatica is present is loss of bowl or balder control if this happens seek immediate medical attention and call 911, this can be a life threatening condition.

Sciatic neuritis or sciatica is an irritation and inflammation of the great sciatic nerve which is also the largest nerve in the body. The pain quality ranges from dull, sharp, burning or electrical and it may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, muscle weakness in the affected leg and the feeling of pins and needles. The symptoms may vary in intensity and in the frequency. Classic sciatic pain radiates from your lower back into to your buttock and down the back of your legs. Sitting, coughing, or sneezing will increase the symptoms of sciatica by increasing inter abdominal pressure.

Sciatica symptoms vary based on where the compressed nerve root is located. The forth lumbar nerve root symptoms usually affect the thigh. Patients may feel weakness in straightening the leg, and may have a diminished knee-jerk reflex. While fifth lumbar nerve root sciatica symptoms may extend to the big toe and ankle. Patients may feel pain or numbness on top of the foot, and between the big toe and second toe. Finally in first sacral nerve root includes the outer part of the foot is involved and it may radiate to the little toe. Patients may experience weakness when raising the heel off the ground or trying to stand on tiptoes. If multiple nerve roots are compromised the patient may experience several of these symptoms at once.

In rare cases sciatica symptoms that worsen quickly may require immediate surgery. The following symptoms indicate a need for immediate medical care may be necessary. Sciatica symptoms that continue to get worse rather than improve, which may indicate possible nerve damage, especially if the progressive symptoms are neurological. Symptoms that occur in both legs and cause either bladder or bowel incontinence or dysfunction, which may indicate cauda equina syndrome. Cauda equina syndrome extremely rare but found in 2% of herniated lumbar disc cases.

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of the above symptoms.

Chiropractic Approach (Treatment for back pain and sciatica)

Most chiropractor use several treatment to treat sciatic and it is often based on the location and cause of the sciatic. Chiropractic adjustments to the spine & lower extremities are some of the most common types of treatments used by chiropractors. Spinal adjustments and manual manipulation performed by appropriately trained chiropractor are focused on providing better spinal alignment, which helps to address a number of underlying causes sciatic nerve pain. Manual manipulation done to address the right indications by appropriately trained chiropractor can create a better healing environment and should not be painful. In addition to chiropractic adjustment your chiropractor will probably use a combination of physiotherapies, active care rehabilitation, nutritional support, and laser therapy (to reduce inflammation & provide specific nourishment to the peripheral nerves). This approach is safe, non-invasive and non-toxic. If you have been suffering with sciatica call our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We can sit down together and discuss your case. I look forward to speaking with you soon!

Medical Approach to Sciatica

The medical approach to treating sciatica is with drugs including anti-inflammatories, analgesics and steroids. Drugs will not cure sciatica. They will only temporarily mask symptoms.

The surgical approach to treating sciatica often involves removing part of the disc (discectomy), or cutting away part of the vertebrae (laminectomy). 50% of all spinal surgeries fail (meaning that the patient’s symptoms are unresolved after a 3 year follow-up). There are always risks involved with surgery including complications, infection and even death. Surgery should ALWAYS your last resort, not your first approach.

Herniated Disc: About back pain and how to treat it.

Low back pain with pain radiating into the legs is one of the most common injuries in the United States. Many of the patients with these symptoms along with lower extremity weakness may have a herniated disc. Herniated discs are also called protruding, bulging, ruptured, prolapsed, slipped, or degenerated discs. A disc herniation occurs when the cushion that sits between the spinal bones, or vertebrae moves from its normal position and enters the spinal canal. This is a problem because this is where the spinal cord and nerve roots are located.

What is the spinal disc?

The soft structure that sits between the each vertebrae is referred to as the spinal disc. The disc is composed of a soft center similar to the center of jelly donuts and referred to as the nucleus pulposus. The nucleus is surrounded by several layers of connective tissue that is composed of material similar to ligaments and tendons called the outer annuls and looks like concentric rings, like the annular growth rings of a tree. This spinal disc becomes more rigid with age. In a young individual, the disc is soft and elastic, but like so many other structures in the body, the disc gradually looses its elasticity and is more vulnerable to injury. As early as 30 a disc may show signs of deterioration and on MRI about 30% of people demonstrate deterioration.

What happens with a ‘herniated disc’?

As we age and the spine becomes less flexible and when this happens the disc may rupture. When a disc ruptures a portion of the nucleus pushes outside of its normal borders and may be completely extruded, outside the disc, this is called a herniation. When this herniation enters the spinal canal pressure can be put on the spinal cord and nerve roots, often referred to as a pinched nerve. There is normal some extra space around the spinal cord but if there is not enough to accommodate the herniation then the nerves are compressed.

What causes herniated disc symptoms?

Once the herniation occurs and a nerve is pinched that is when symptoms arise. A herniated disc may occur suddenly in an event such as a fall or an accident, or may occur gradually with repetitive straining of the spine. Often times when a disc is herniated the person may already have spinal stenosis or a narrowing of the spinal canal. This leads to less space for the herniation and increased pain due to further irritation of the nerve.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

When the spinal cord becomes compressed it does not function properly and may lead to a range of symptoms. Abnormal signals may get passed from the compressed nerves, or signals may not get passed at all. There are several common symptoms of a herniated discs. The pressure on the nerve will cause abnormal sensations, commonly experienced as electric shock pains. When the compression occurs in the cervical (neck) region, the shocks go down your arms, when the compression is in the lumbar (low back) region, the shocks go down your legs. Tingling, numbness or pins and needles are often abnormal sensations associated with disc injuries. These symptoms may be experienced in the same region as painful electric shock sensations, but may not be in the area of the actual injury. Because of the nerve irritation, signals from the brain will be interrupted causing muscle weakness. Nerve irritation can therefore be tested by examining reflexes, testing muscle strength, and assessing sensory input. Of all of the symptoms associated with disc problems the most serious is bowel or bladder problems. These symptoms are important because they are signs of cauda equina syndrome, a possible condition resulting from a herniated disc. This is a medical emergency, and your should see your doctor immediately if you have problems urinating, having bowel movements, or if you have numbness around your genitals. These symptoms are all due to compression of the spinal nerves but that may not be the full extent of the damage, as seen in the cauda equina syndrom organs can also be effected leading to issues with breathing, digestion, or even heart problems..

How is the diagnosis of a herniated disc made?

Most often, your physician can make the diagnosis of a herniated disc by physical examination performed by a chiropractor. By testing sensation, muscle strength, and reflexes, your chiropractor can often establish the diagnosis of a herniated disc.

Often this diagnosis will be confirmed using MRI and other advanced imaging. The MRIs is only useful in conjunction with the physical examination and should not be performed by itself. It is normal for a MRI of the lumbar spine to have abnormalities, especially as people age. Patients in their 20s may begin to have signs of disc wear, and this type of wear would be expected on MRIs of patients in their 40s and 50s. This is the reason that your physician may not be concerned with some MRI findings noted by the radiologist.

The diagnosis and treatment of disc issues are dependent on the physical findings and symptoms. Your chiropractor will also take into account the patients experience and asses the imaging studies. Only once this information is put together can a reasonable treatment plan be considered.

Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic care is an excellent treatment choice for the management of herniated disc problems. Chiropractic is safe, non-invasive and non-toxic and it also works! Chiropractic care is a modern treatment approach for herniated discs. Typically chiropractic care involves spinal adjustments, physiotherapies, muscle therapies, such as massage and trigger point work, nutritional support and active care rehabilitation.

What is Lumbar Flexion Distraction technique?

Lumbar flexion distraction technique is, a chiropractic treatment, used in our clinic. It is often referred to as Cox flexion distraction. Cox Technic is non-surgical, doctor-controlled, hands-on spinal manipulation used to help treat herniated disc symptoms. It is performed with the patient lying on The Cox Table a specially designed chiropractic instrument. This table permits an effective decompression adjustment and manipulation. This is a widely used approach to treating symptomatic disc injuries involving back pain and accompanying leg pain. During the treatment the spine is gently distracted or stretches which allows the chiropractor to isolate the area of disc involvement while slightly flexing the spine in a pumping rhythm. There should be no pain involved in the treatment.

The tractioning or distraction of the disc combined with isolation and gentle pumping of the involved area allows the central area of the disc, the nucleus pulposus, to assume its central position in the disc. Flexion distraction is also thought to improve disc height. Well-researched and documented, flexion distraction and decompression help relieve spinal pain and return patients to their desired quality of life by dropping intradiscal pressure, widening the spinal canal foraminal area, reducing pressure on the spinal nerves, and returning motion to the spinal joints. Cox Technique is appropriate for conditions causing low back and leg pain as well as neck and arm pain. It also reduces pain attributable to disc herniation, a slipped disc, a ruptured disc, facet syndrome, stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and other conditions.

Surgery

The surgical approach to treating a herniated disc is removal of the disc (discectomy), surgically fusing two vertebrae together with hardware, or cutting away part of the vertebrae (laminectomy) in order to decompress the spine. Spinal surgery has a very poor track record, a 50% failure rate. It is also the most invasive treatment option. Because of this, surgery should only be considered as a last resort not a first choice. You should try everything else available to you before allowing anyone to operate on your spine. Most surgeon would never even consider operating on you until you have first tried all the conservative treatment choices. This would include chiropractic care, physical therapy, massage therapy, medications, acupuncture, etc. Is surgery ever the right choice? Yes, absolutely, there are certain times when the problem is so severe that it is no longer treatable via conservative methods. That being said, you should still always start with the least invasive approaches first and progress from there.

If you have been suffering with a herniated disc call me to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

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We can treat herniated discs and back injuries and pain including sciatica, disc, herniation, slipped disc, stenosis, and much more.

What is a Headache or a Migraine and Treatments?

What is the natural approach to treating headaches?

Prescription and over the counter drugs are one of the number one treatments for headaches. These treatments fro a headache just mask the symptoms they do not treat them. There is a better way of treating headaches and migraines and it is the natural approach.

The natural approach includes the removal of the trigger for the headache. There are may different types of triggers for a headache and the first step is to figure out what type of headache you have. Some of these triggers include food allergies, inadequate sleep, lack of stress management, too much coffee,and there are many more. These are all common triggers and can be easily treated. It is important to pro-actively manage your headache and migraine symptoms.

If you would like to manage your headaches conservatively one of the first steps is to have your spine checked by a chiropractor for spinal misalignment or subluxations. Subluxations can act as a mechanical stresses or trigger for your headaches, by irritating the central nervous system. Upper cervical subluxations can alter blood flow to the brain or mechanically irritate the meningeal covering of the brain by pulling on it. The axis or C1 vertebra is directly connected to the meningeal covering of the brain by small fibers called arachnid fibers. These small web like fibers can irritate the meningeal covering and this is the only place were pain is felt in the head the brain has no pain fibers.

While a chiropractor will focus on the spine and central nervous system they will also look at the condition systemically. A chiropractor will look for other triggers including chemical and emotional causes. The complexities of the human body can be difficult and just because the pain is in your head that dose not mean that that is were the problem is.

In addition to traditional chiropractic care a lab work up may be needed to find out if you have any nutritional deficiencies.

There are many types of headaches so lets learn a little more about headaches.

Almost ever person must deal with headaches at some point in their life, but there headaches may be very different. Headache pain itself may range from sharp to dull and may last a few days or a few minutes. Most headaches are not serious but those that are require immediate medical attention. Headaches and migraines affect over 25 million Americans each year and include men, women and children. There are over 300 types of headaches in all and each has a unique presentation and symptom set. Most people suffer from three common types.

The first type is the tension headache.

75% of all headache sufferer have tension headaches. Tension headaches are by far the most common. The symptoms usually include a constant dull, achy feeling and may be experienced on one side or both sides of the head. This headache is often described as a dull band of pain around the head and behind the eyes. Tension headaches often come on slowly and gradually increase in intensity throughout the day, lasting anywhere from a few minutes to several days. They tend to begin in the middle or toward the end of the day. Often the pain of tension headaches are sever but are not often associated with symptoms, such as nausea, throbbing or vomiting.

The next most common type is the migraine headache.

In America 25 million people experience migraine headaches each year. Many of these people experience them more than once and the majority of migraine sufferers are women. These symptoms last from as a few hours to as long as a few days, and many of those who suffer from migraines experience visual symptoms called an aura. Just prior to a migraine the aura is often experienced and is described as flashing lights or a dream-like appearance. Even in people who don’t experience the classic migraine aura, most of them can tell that an attack is immanent. Migraines are caused by a constriction of the blood vessels in the brain. These constricted blood vessels irritate the meningeal covering of the brain. This increased pressure leads to a pounding like sensation inside the head. Life style changes are often need to avoid migraine attaches.

The last of the common headache types is the cluster headache.

What is a cluster headache? This headache type is typically very short in duration, excruciating pain, and is usually felt on one side of the head behind the eyes. What is a cluster headache? Around one million people suffer from cluster headaches, in the united states. Unlike migraines, are much more common in men and is the only type of headache that tends to occur at night. There are often months or years between attaches of cluster headaches and, like migraines, cluster headaches are likely to be related to a dilation of the blood vessels in the brain, causing a localized increase in pressure.

What are the medical approaches to headache treatment?

The simple answer is drugs. The medical approach often is the use of prescription and over the counter medications. The over the counter drugs include such as aspirin, Tylenol, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium. The prescription strength headache drugs are typically triptans, steroids, antidepressants, opioids, and anti-convulsive. Medications only mask the symptoms they do not cure the cause of the headache or identify the trigger. Additionally drugs are toxic and may have long-term effects on the kidneys and liver. In addition they can be expensive and they have numerous side effects, such as drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, high blood pressure, weight gain, mood swings, dependency, addiction, worsening of headaches (rebound), itching, respiratory problems, weakened immune system, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, difficulty urinating, impotence, blurry vision and in the most sever cases death.

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We can treat headaches and we can treat migraines.

Fibromyalgia what is it and how to treat it?

syndrome affects 3-6 million people in the United States and is chronic disorder which includes widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and multiple tender points. Fibromyalgia is associated with long-term pain and tenderness in the joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissue, often spread throughout the entire body, and can be associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. Fibromyalgia has also been associated with chronic fatigue, sleep problems, headaches, depression, and anxiety. The word fibro-my-algia is derived from the Latin term for fibrous tissue (fibro) and the Greek words for muscle (myo) and pain (algia).

For reasons that are unclear, more than 90% of those who develop fibromyalgia are women, often between the ages of 20 to 50. It is not currently known whether the predominance of women who suffer from fibromyalgia is a phenomenon of the socialization of women in the American culture or whether it is some combination of the female reproductive hormones and other genetic predispositions. Although the cause if often unknown fibromyalgia is often triggered by trauma (physical or emotional), abnormal pain responses associated with areas in the brain, sleep disturbances, and infections.

There are several conditions that can be associated with or mimic fibromyalgia making diagnosis at best tricky. Some of the conditions that must be ruled out are chronic neck add back pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, hypothyroidism, Lyme disease, and sleep disorders.

There are several symptoms to watch for. The first is painful areas referred to as tender points or trigger points, these are found in the soft tissue, and are located in the back of the neck, shoulders, chest, lower back, hips, shins, elbows, and knees. The pain then spreads out from these areas, and may be described as deep, achy, shooting, or burning pain. This pain does not come from the joints but may radiate into them. These trigger points often get worse thought the day and are affected bu cold damp weather, anxiety, stress, and infection. The trigger points can often lead to fatigue, depression, and sleep disorders (trouble falling asleep or trouble staying awake). Other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia are irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), memory loss, concentration problems, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, heart palpitations, inability to exercise, and headaches.

“Fibromyalgia is defined as “a history of pain in all four quadrants of the body lasting more than 3 months” according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR). Pain in all four quadrants means that you have pain in both your right and left sides, as well as above and below the waist. The ACR also described 18 characteristic tender points and you must experience symptoms in at lest 11 of these, there are nine on the right and nine on the left and they are arms (elbows), buttocks, chest, knees, lower back, neck, rib cage, shoulders, and thighs. Blood and urine tests are usually normal. However, tests may be done to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms.

Fibromyalgia is often confused with other conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome or myofascitis. Both fibromyalgia and myofascitis can cause pain in all four quadrants of the body and tend to have similar tender point locations, but that is where the similarities stop. Myofascitis is an inflammatory condition due to overuse or injury to your muscles, whereas fibromyalgia is caused by a stress-induced change in metabolism and healing. Myofascitis comes on suddenly and is associated with a particular activity or injury. Fibromyalgia is slow and usually beginning in early adulthood. It is very important to diagnose each of these correctly, for they require very different approaches to treatment. Unfortunately, fibromyalgia is a chronic condition, meaning it lasts a long time, possibly a lifetime. However. it won’t cause damage to your joints, muscles, or internal organs.

Fibromyalgia can be difficult to treat. Not all doctors are familiar with fibromyalgia and its treatment, so it is important to find a doctor who is. Fibromyalgia treatment often requires a team approach, utilizing chiropractic care, trigger point therapy, massage, dietary changes, as well as exercises and stretching.

Treating Fibromyalgia With Chiropractic

Chiropractic care is essential for those who suffer from fibromyalgia because fibromyalgia causes the muscles to tighten up and lose some of their natural pliability resulting in a global loss of movement in the spine. The loss of movement in the spine results in a neurological reflex that causes the muscles to tighten further and over time will lead to increased pain, increased muscle tightness, loss of movement, difficulty sleeping and the development of more and more trigger points.

The best option is to adjust the spine and keep it moving. Chiropractic adjustments are modified to be gentle so as not to create more issues. This helps to decrease the stress on all of the small supporting muscles of the spine, which can be easily injured. It is important when seeking chiropractic care, to make sure that the doctor is familiar with the muscular changes that occur with fibromyalgia so that they can adjust their treatment accordingly.

Treating Fibromyalgia with Cold Laser Therapy

Since poor healing of muscle tissue and chronic pain are characteristic traits of fibromyalgia, laser therapy is an important part of any treatment plan. Two of the major benefits of cold laser therapy is stimulation of tissue healing and decreased sensations of pain.

A 1997 study of 846 people with fibromyalgia reported in the Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine and Surgery demonstrated that two-thirds of the patients experienced improved pain and mobility with cold laser therapy. Another study published in Rheumatology International in 2002, showed that those who received laser therapy had a significant improvement in pain, fatigue and morning stiffness.

We have successfully helped fibromyalgia sufferers and we can help you too! Our approach involves a combination of chiropractic, laser, rehab and nutrition. The goal is to reduce inflammation and irritation making you feel better! We’d love to hear from you and we are looking forward to helping you live a pain-free life for years to come!

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We can treat fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Cold laser is effective in conjunction with chiropractic care.

Pain relief and how to treat neck pain

Neck pain affects millions of Americans and if you have ever woken up with a kink in your neck, suffered a whiplash injury, experienced chronic neck stiffness, felt popping and crackling whenever you move your neck around or suffer with chronic nagging pain in your neck that travels up into the back of your head, you know what I’m talking about. this can be intensely irritating and cause a disruption in your daily life. Neck pain can affect your ability to concentrate, sleep, play sports, read, do household chores or even watch TV.

What causes neck pain? Neck pain may be caused by any number of causes including car accidents, falls, emotional stress and chemical toxins. Neck pain occurs when the bones in your spine become misaligned causing severe irritation the muscles, ligaments, tendons, and to the nervous system causing pain. Spinal misalignment also stretches and severely irritates the spinal cord & sets the stage for premature wear and tear of the spinal cord and nerve roots. That pain in the neck may even be a pinched nerve.

One of the main causes of neck pain is trauma. A car accident, slip and fall, the birth process, a sports injury or some other type of trauma can cause damage to the bones, joints, discs, ligaments, muscles and other connective tissues of the neck. If you have experienced any kind of trauma past or present you should have it checked out. Neck injuries can lie under the surface for years before you notice major symptoms such as pain or numbness and by then it may be too late for a complete recovery. Chiropractors are uniquely qualified to evaluate, diagnose and treat neck problems due to trauma. A chiropractor can even tell you if that pain in the shoulder is referred from the neck.

Medical Approach

A common approach to treating neck pain involves going to a pharmacy for an over the counter (OCT) medication such as Tylenol, Motrin or Aleve. These medications sometimes work to offer temporary relief. However the problem usually comes back. At this point, many people will call their family doctor for help. The family doctor’s typical course of action will be to prescribe more powerful medications (such as a narcotic for the pain and muscle relaxants). Medications don’t really do much other than to mask symptoms. They don’t actually cure you or go after the root cause of your problems.

Chiropractic Approach: How to treat neck pain

At Mahler Family Chiropractic Center, we offer a unique approach to treating neck problems. Our methods are extremely effective at getting you out of pain, restoring range of motion, improving posture, and correcting misalignment. We have treated people who had been to numerous medical doctors, various therapists and even other chiropractors and weren’t getting any results until they came to us. Our methods are different and they work. Please call our office to schedule an appointment for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Laser Therapy for Neck Pain:

Recently the medical journal Lancet performed a review of studies and concluded from the results that low-level laser therapy is immediately effective for acute neck pain. Lasers therapy is effective within the first treatment and lasts up to 22 weeks following a complete treatment protocol for chronic neck pain. The study reviewed 16 previous studies and found laser therapy to be effective overall, with results comparing “favorably with other widely used therapies, and especially with pain killers and other medications, for which evidence is sparse and side-effects are common.” That’s good news considering that neck pain is one of the most common and disabling conditions, accounting for substantial lost workdays, diminished productivity, and use of over-the-counter medications. If you suffer from chronic neck pain call us now and we may be able to help.