Fibromyalgia diagnoses have been increasing as awareness has risen. Many individuals now feel that they can seek help from the medical field for their issues, although treatments are generally more difficult to understand. Many people who have fibromyalgia also complain about the lack of effectiveness that many treatment options offer. However, chiropractic care has become an increasingly common and successful treatment option for patients with the disease.
Fibromyalgia is a disorder that is characterized by a laundry list of signs and symptoms. These symptoms include:
Widespread musculoskeletal pain
Weakness
Fatigue
Sleep loss
Memory issues
Mood changes
While the cause is still being investigated, researchers believe that the disorder amplifies pain signals that are sent to the brain. This means that the normal pain sensation of a pinprick to the finger can instead feel like a searing stab wound.
While fibromyalgia is most commonly diagnosed in women, individuals that suffer from headaches, TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder), anxiety, depression, or irritable bowel syndrome are more likely to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia. The disease is also commonly linked to another traumatic injury or surgery. Symptoms may appear instantaneously or gradually increase in severity.
As fibromyalgia research continues, we can expect to see more definitive answers to our questions. Currently, researchers believe that the disorder may be caused by genetics, past infections, physical trauma, or a combination of the three.
As people age, it is a common often belief that the pain and discomfort associated with our joints is a normal occurrence that we are forced to live with. While our joints can experience levels of degradation as we age, the pain and reduced mobility that is often associated with arthritis don’t have to be something that we suffer through. Instead, let's review some of the facts about chiropractic care and how it can be beneficial in treating the pain associated with arthritis.
Many people believe that chiropractors don't do any work beyond that focused on the spine. And while It is true that the majority of work that chiropractors do surrounds issues associated with the spine, if you think this is the only work that chiropractors do, you are likely to miss a lot of the additional benefits of chiropractic care.
In addition to spinal work, chiropractors also specialize in issues that surround our joints. Since the vertebrae that make up our spinal column contain joints between each individual vertebrae, it becomes more apparent how chiropractors are able to help with your arthritis when you think of them as joint specialists.
Arthritis typically occurs when something irritates the joints, which can be a deterioration of the joint itself. As joints deteriorate, they may become irritated more frequently by multiple factors such as increased movement, regular movement, or changes in temperature which can cause inflammation and pain.
This chronic pain and inflammation are what we refer to as arthritis. Many patients take prescription or over-the-counter medications to manage the effects of arthritis, but medications will only treat the symptoms and don’t get to the root cause of your discomfort.
Lower back pain is an exceptionally common complaint and it is estimated that 80% of Americans will suffer from it at some point during their lifetime. Lower back pain is also a leading cause of absence from work due to ill health, even though more than half of all cases are believed to be a direct result of the patient doing a job that involves continual sitting.
In many cases, the back pain is either not severe enough for the patient to seek professional intervention or it resolves itself within a few days. However, there is a percentage of individuals who suffer from chronic, recurrent back pain and are reliant on pain medication to help keep them comfortable day today.
Fortunately, there is no longer any need to suffer from ongoing lower back pain. Chiropractic care from a trained and experienced professional can help relieve your discomfort and enable you to work, sleep and enjoy life without worrying about back pain.
The lower back, also known as the lumbar, works with the bones of the pelvis to help support the weight of our body as well as to stabilize, rotate, flex and bend the spinal column.
Lower back pain has been attributed to many different things, but experts tend to agree that a sedentary lifestyle, combined with the growing obesity problem, has definitely contributed to the increasing number of people experiencing lower back pain. Posture is also a significant cause of lower back pain. Sitting at laptops and computers for hours on end as well as sitting too long while driving and when watching television are all associated with this type of discomfort.
Occasionally, back pain can be attributed to a medical condition such as sciatica, irritation of the nerve that runs from the pelvis to the feet, or a slipped/herniated disc. Nevertheless, it is often impossible to pinpoint an exact cause of lower back pain and is therefore often referred to as ‘non-specific back pain’ by doctors.
Neck pain is a relatively common ailment, which most of us will experience at least once in our lifetime. In most cases, neck pain will improve and disappear on its own, but if you frequently suffer from this problem, or find that conventional ways of relieving your pain are not working, you may want to consider chiropractic care.
The neck is a very important part of our body, containing the very top of the spine, called the cervical spine as well as many blood vessels and nerves that supply structures including our esophagus, larynx, trachea and thyroid gland. The neck is also home to major blood vessels including the carotid arteries and jugular veins.
When there is tension in the neck, it can have a significant impact on the flow of blood between the head and body, as well as cause compression of the nerves and potentially the spinal cord. When this happens, it can have an effect on other areas of the body, including the upper and lower limbs.
In many instances, the exact cause of neck pain may never be known, but some of the most common causes believed to be behind the majority of cases include:
Sleeping in an awkward position
Bad posture
Trapped nerve
An injury, such as from a vehicle collision or fall
The pain you experience may also differ. It may be a constant dull ache or a sharp pain that occurs when you place your head a certain way or perform a specific movement, such as turning your head from side to side.
In many cases, neck pain may be accompanied by other symptoms, including swelling or inflammation in the neck, pain that radiates into the shoulders or upper arms, or headaches.
With more vehicles on the road than ever before, automobile accidents have unfortunately become a common occurrence. Even the most confident and experienced driver can make mistakes that sometimes have catastrophic results. Estimates suggest that there are around 2.35 million auto injuries in the United States every year – more than 6,000 every single day – and while some injuries may be minor, others can have debilitating and sometimes permanent consequences.
Neck and back damage is among the most common type of injury sustained during automobile accidents. This is because the force of the impact overextends and strains the ligaments and muscles in the back, causing injuries including:
These occur when the upper part of the body is thrown forward while the lower body is restrained by a seat belt. When this happens, the vertebrae can be pulled apart, causing them to fracture. In severe cases, the spinal cord may also become damaged by fractured pieces of bone.
The intervertebral discs are sponge-like circular pads that sit in-between the vertebrae. They have several functions, including enabling the spine to absorb impacts without becoming damaged. However, if the outer layer of a disc becomes damaged, the soft, inner gel can seep out and irritate the surrounding nerves.
This condition occurs when a vertebra moves out of place due to force or a fracture in the bone. The displaced bone may then press on the surrounding nerves, causing pain and other neurological symptoms.
Whiplash is most common in rear-end collisions as the impact of the secondary car forces your head to ‘whip’ backward and forwards in quick succession and as a result, the muscles in the neck are overextended.
Neuropathy, often referred to as peripheral neuropathy, is a condition that arises from damage to the peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. While it commonly affects the hands and feet, it can impact other parts of the body depending on the underlying cause.
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Neuropathy is caused by damage to the peripheral nerves, which can occur due to a variety of factors, including:
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves over time, leading to diabetic neuropathy, the most common form.
Injuries: Physical trauma, such as fractures or sports injuries, can disrupt nerve function.
Infections and Illnesses: Viral or bacterial infections like shingles, Lyme disease, or hepatitis can attack the nerves.
Autoimmune Disorders: Diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus may mistakenly target nerve tissues.
Toxins and Medications: Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals or the side effects of chemotherapy can damage nerves.
Vitamin Deficiencies: A lack of nutrients like B vitamins can impair nerve health and function.
Neuropathy symptoms can vary depending on the nerves affected. Common warning signs include:
Sensory Symptoms:
Numbness or tingling, often in the hands or feet.
Burning sensations or increased sensitivity to touch.
Motor Symptoms:
Muscle weakness or cramping.
Difficulty with coordination or balance.
Autonomic Symptoms:
Dizziness or fainting due to changes in blood pressure.
Digestive issues or bladder problems.
If you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
The Impact of Neuropathy on Daily Life
Patients with neuropathy often experience:
Reduced mobility due to pain or muscle weakness.
Sleep disturbances caused by nighttime pain.
Difficulty performing routine tasks, like walking or writing.
Managing neuropathy often involves a combination of approaches tailored to the patient’s specific needs:
Lifestyle Changes:
Regular exercise can improve blood flow and nerve health.
A nutrient-rich diet, particularly one high in vitamins B1, B6, B12, and folate, supports nerve function.
Medications:
Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications may help manage symptoms.
Anticonvulsants or antidepressants are sometimes used to relieve nerve pain.
Physical Therapy:
Strengthening exercises can improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
Stretching techniques may alleviate pressure on affected nerves.
Alternative and Chiropractic Therapies:
Chiropractic adjustments address spinal alignment, reducing nerve compression.
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) stimulates nerve repair and improves circulation.
At Accelerated Chiropractic, we specialize in providing targeted care for patients with neuropathy. Our Neuropathy Reversal Program combines advanced therapies, personalized care, and a holistic approach to restore nerve function and improve quality of life.
Here’s what you can expect from our program:
A thorough assessment to identify the root cause of your neuropathy.
Customized treatment plans tailored to your specific symptoms and goals.
Access to innovative therapies, including laser treatments and specialized rehabilitation techniques.
Ongoing support to ensure long-term success and symptom relief.
Thousands of patients have found relief through our program. Take the first step toward a pain-free life—schedule a consultation today to learn how we can help you reclaim your mobility and comfort.
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Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This condition typically causes stabbing pain near the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.
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There are several factors that can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including:
Overuse: Repetitive activities such as running, walking long distances, or standing for prolonged periods can strain the plantar fascia.
Foot mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can put extra stress on the plantar fascia.
Obesity: Excess body weight increases the pressure on the plantar fascia and can contribute to its inflammation.
Improper footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate support or poor cushioning can exacerbate plantar fasciitis.
Pain: The most common symptom is a stabbing pain near the heel, particularly when taking the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. The pain may also worsen after long periods of standing or physical activity.
Tenderness: The bottom of the foot, especially near the heel, may feel tender to the touch.
Stiffness: The foot may feel stiff and tight, especially after periods of inactivity.
Heel Pain: Pain may be localized to the underside of the heel or extend along the arch of the foot.
Discomfort with Movement: Pain may increase with activities that put stress on the plantar fascia, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs.
Pain Relief with Rest: Symptoms may temporarily improve with rest or when the foot is elevated.
Morning Pain: Pain is often most severe in the morning when taking the first steps out of bed. This is due to the tightening of the plantar fascia overnight.
Worsening Pain Over Time: If left untreated, plantar fasciitis symptoms may worsen over time, potentially leading to chronic foot discomfort and difficulty performing daily activities.
Suffering from any of these symptoms?
Accelerated Chiropractic & Natural Healing Center can help!
The methods at Accelerated Chiropractic & Natural Healing Center are non-invasive – meaning we don’t use injections, drugs, or surgeries. We use a variety of different therapies on a consistent basis that provide relief and help stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Like Dr. Randy Hamling says, not any single one of our therapies is special, it’s the combination of them that make our niche programs the best for each unique individual.
Our Plantar Fasciitis Program may provide the relief you need. For more information, please visit our Plantar Fasciitis page or contact us at (320) 585-7246.
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Knee pain is one of the most common complaints among adults and can affect daily activities, mobility, and overall quality of life. Whether due to injury, wear and tear, or an underlying condition, knee pain can be persistent and challenging to manage. Understanding the root causes and treatment options is the first step toward finding relief.
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Knee pain can result from various factors, including:
Injuries: Ligament injuries, meniscus tears, fractures, and dislocations are frequent causes, often resulting from sports or accidents.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other forms of arthritis commonly cause knee pain, especially in older adults.
Tendonitis and Bursitis: Overuse and repetitive motion can lead to inflammation of the tendons or bursae, causing pain and swelling.
Patellar Tracking Disorder: When the kneecap shifts out of place, it can cause discomfort and limit movement.
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, lack of exercise, and poor muscle strength can put extra stress on the knees, leading to pain over time.
Knee pain symptoms can vary widely depending on the cause. Here are some signs to monitor:
Swelling and Stiffness: Often worsens after activity or prolonged periods of sitting.
Redness and Warmth: Indicates inflammation or infection in the joint.
Weakness and Instability: The knee may feel like it’s giving way under weight.
Popping or Crunching Noises: May indicate cartilage damage or arthritis.
Inability to Fully Straighten the Knee: Can be a sign of structural issues within the joint.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, consulting a professional for an evaluation is essential.
Depending on the severity and underlying cause of the pain, common treatment options can provide relief:
Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility.
Medication: Over-the-counter or prescription medications may reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections may provide temporary relief.
Lifestyle Changes: Weight management, regular exercise, and a healthy diet can alleviate pressure on the knee.
Surgery: In severe cases, procedures like arthroscopy, partial or total knee replacement, or ligament reconstruction might be necessary.
Our Knee Restoration Program (link) is designed to provide long-term solutions for knee pain by addressing both symptoms and underlying causes without the use of drugs, injections or surgery. We combine advanced therapies, personalized treatments, and expert guidance to help you regain strength, reduce pain, and get back to the activities you love.
Is Our Knee Restoration Program Right for You?
Our program is ideal for those experiencing chronic knee pain due to injury, arthritis, or overuse. By addressing the root cause of your discomfort, we aim to help you achieve sustained relief and prevent further issues.
Are you Bone-on-Bone?
No problem! We often work with patients who have been told they are “bone on bone” and are experiencing significant joint degeneration. Our Knee Restoration Program includes therapies specifically designed to improve joint function, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain, even in some of the most advanced cases. While each case is unique, many of our patients with advanced knee conditions have found relief and improved mobility through our non-invasive approach.
Don’t Let Knee Pain Control Your Life
Take the first step towards relief and schedule a consultation to learn more about our comprehensive Knee Restoration Program (link). Let us help you find a personalized path to improved mobility and reduced pain.
Knee Restoration
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Joints are important musculoskeletal structures that connect bones to one another. Some facilitate different types of movement while others remain fixed. Joint pain is a very common and often debilitating problem with around one-third of all adults experiencing it at some point during their lifetime. Fortunately, there are treatments that can help and one of the most effective is chiropractic care.
Here’s what you need to know about joint pain and how chiropractic care can help relieve discomfort.
There are many different things that can cause joint pain. The most common is a condition called osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that usually protects the ends of bones begins to deteriorate, causing them to rub against one another. This friction causes pain, swelling, and problems moving the joint.
Other potential causes of joint pain include but are not limited to:
Gout
Bursitis
Inflammation of the joint lining
Damage to the cartilage at the back of the kneecap
Bleeding into the joint space
A fracture to the bones of the joint
Other types of arthritis such as rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis
Your chiropractor will be able to assess your condition to determine the cause of your joint pain and recommend chiropractic techniques to help ease your discomfort.
Intervertebral discs are found all throughout the spinal column except for the C1 and C2 vertebrae (the Axis and Atlas). These discs act to cushion the vertebrae from each other as well as the impacts that are felt throughout the spinal column. While many people will describe painful back issues as a “slipped disc,” this isn’t really the case as the intervertebral discs don’t actually slide out of place. What many people experience is called a bulge. This bulging disc is also called a herniated disc.
Herniated discs may occur for a variety of reasons. A damaged disc may be the result of poor posture or due to the patient being overweight which places additional stress on the spinal column. Discs may also become herniated due to a sports or other traumatic injury.
Some patients have even suggested that a relatively minor activity, such as a sneeze, has caused a herniated disc. This is usually the end result of a long-term weakening of the disc that has been unnoticed until a small movement finally makes the injury apparent.
The signs and symptoms of a herniated disc can vary widely. This is because damaged discs manifest in different ways at various points in the spinal column. For instance, discs that are damaged in the lower back may cause intense pain in the legs, lower back, or buttocks. But if the herniated disc is in the neck, pain is more likely to present in the shoulders or arms. The pain experienced from a herniated disc can also be felt as a sharp, shooting pain when you sneeze, cough, or move in a specific position.
Many people who have experienced a herniated disc also describe numbness or tingling in their extremities. This numbness and tingling may be felt in the same area as the pain which is related to the location of the herniated disc.
The longer that an individual goes with a herniated disc, the more likely they are to also experience weakness due to the inability of nerves to properly communicate with the affected body parts. The lack of a signal leads to muscle atrophy and a weakening of the muscles.