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How X-Rays Help Determine A Chiropractic Treatment Plan

HOW X-RAYS HELP DETERMINE A CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT PLAN

X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool in a lot of areas of healthcare including chiropractic care. Many health issues occur inside the body and aren’t visible to the naked eye. X-rays enable your healthcare provider to see inside your body in order to identify the problem and make an accurate diagnosis.

How X-Rays Help Determine A Chiropractic Treatment Plan

In chiropractic treatment, x-rays are used in exactly the same way. Chiropractic care is focused on the musculoskeletal system, which refers to the system of bones, muscles, and connective tissues found throughout our bodies. Chiropractic X-rays will show your chiropractor an image of the affected area which will include the bone and dense soft tissue. This will allow them to determine the best course of treatment to both alleviate the symptoms that you’ve been experiencing and their underlying cause. This is important because there are some instances in which conventional spinal adjustments may not be an appropriate course of action and could, in fact, make your issues worse. Patients may instead benefit from starting treatment using gentler techniques.

How Do X-Rays Work?

X-rays, also known as radiographs, are images of the inside of the body taken using electromagnetic radiation. The radiation is targeted at the specific area of the body where the discomfort seems to be emanating from and then passes through it. The way that it reacts when it comes to specific structures determines how they are produced on the visual images. The radiation beam passes through the skin and soft tissue easily but is unable to pass through bone and teeth, causing these to appear dense and white on the x-ray image. Soft but dense tissues such as muscles, organs, and ligaments appear as shades of grey. This gives your chiropractor a clear picture of the internal structures of your body.

Benefits Of X-Rays For Chiropractic Treatment Plans

Some of the advantages of undergoing chiropractic x-rays include the following:

  • X-rays give your chiropractor a clear picture of the issues that are affecting your musculoskeletal system, enabling them to make an accurate diagnosis. This includes the identification of issues such as dislocations, fractures, tumors, infection, and cancer. They will also be able to assess things like disc degeneration, bone spurs, joint spaces, and bone alignment which could help them to identify issues such as scoliosis and degenerative disc disease.
  • X-rays will ensure that the appropriate treatment is taken, rather than putting patients through a treatment that could exacerbate their condition and make their symptoms worse. Patients can feel reassured that their treatment plan is tailored to their individual needs.
  • Regular x-rays can enable your chiropractor to monitor the success of your treatment, or in the case of patients with degenerative diseases, track their progression. This will help to ensure that you continue to receive the right treatment, which could slow or halt the progression of degenerative conditions.
  • X-rays also empower patients with knowledge about their condition as they can see the abnormalities for themselves. This will help them to accept the issues affecting them and, as they are resolved, they will be able to see as well as experience the improvement in their situation.

We are delighted to be able to offer patients the benefit of chiropractic x-rays, right here at our office in Charleston, SC. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment.




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Benefits Of Ultrasound Therapy

BENEFITS OF ULTRASOUND THERAPY

You are probably most familiar with ultrasound being the technique used to detect pregnancy. However, in recent years, ultrasound has also begun to commonly be used therapeutically, particularly by chiropractors and practitioners offering alternatives to conventional medicine. Here’s what you need to know about ultrasound therapy and the benefits that it offers patients

ultrasound therapy, chiropractic therapy, Charleston chiropractic associates, speciality chiropractor

What Is Ultrasound Therapy?

Ultrasound therapy is a highly effective, non-invasive treatment that can be used to treat a range of different medical problems, and in particular, those which affect the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system comprises of the bones, muscles, ligaments, and other connective tissues within the body that help us to stand and move around.

Ultrasound therapy uses gentle soundwaves which are transmitted from the handheld device into the body. Conduction is made easier using a special gel that is placed over the area being targeted by ultrasound therapy before treatment begins. As the soundwaves pass into the skin, they create slight warmth while they stimulate the cell membranes within the body, producing a range of therapeutic effects.

Conditions That Can Be Treated Using Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy has been shown to be successful in helping patients to achieve relief from a variety of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Bursitis

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

  • Myofascial pain

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Strain and sprain injuries

If you are unsure as to whether ultrasound therapy will be helpful in treating your issues, don’t hesitate to consult with your chiropractor for advice.

Benefits Of Ultrasound Therapy

There is a range of benefits and effects of ultrasound therapy, including the following:

Increased blood flow. By far one of the biggest effects of ultrasound therapy is an increase in blood flow. By stimulating the flow of blood around the body, ultrasound therapy can ensure that oxygen and nutrients are able to reach areas that need it most – such as those that are affected by injury or a health problem.

Faster healing. If blood flow is increased, areas that require healing can get the nutrients that they need more quickly. This improves cellular function, helping them to repair themselves more rapidly, which enables patients to heal and recover from injury faster.

Breaking down internal scar tissue. Scar tissue forms after any sort of injury. When your injury is internal, as so many musculoskeletal injuries are, the scarring also happens inside the body. When there is a great deal of scar tissue, it can cause constriction in the area and this may limit the patient’s mobility and even cause chronic discomfort.

Reduction in inflammation. Inflammation is a very common problem and particularly affects the musculoskeletal system. It occurs when the body tries to protect itself against things that harm it, such as injuries, infections, and toxins. Inflammation also occurs as it tries to fight these things and heal itself following damage that has already occurred. When inflammation is chronic, a patient experiences high levels of pain and stiffness. Fortunately, ultrasound therapy has been shown to be effective in counteracting inflammation and its associated symptoms.

Natural pain relief. Nobody likes having to take prescription pain medications, especially those patients who have conditions that cause them chronic discomfort. Ultrasound therapy is particularly popular as a type of drug-free pain relief. It does this by stimulating the release of natural pain-relieving substances like endorphins. This can reduce or eliminate a patient’s reliance on pain medications.

 

For more information on the benefits of ultrasound therapy, don’t hesitate to speak to our friendly chiropractic team.




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Chiropractic Care For Sciatica

CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR SCIATICA

Sciatica is a type of debilitating lower back pain that radiates to the hips and to the outer side of the leg. It usually affects the older population of the United States. Strong pain relievers can manage severe discomfort from sciatica. Yet, most patients prefer natural solutions such as chiropractic care.

Running relief, South Carolina chiropractor, athletic chiropractor

According to the American Chiropractic Association, chiropractic care can treat sciatica without adverse reactions or expensive medications. If you want to take the natural route in dealing with your sciatic pain, here’s what you need to know about chiropractic care for sciatica.

Correct Diagnosis

During the consultation, your chiropractor will take your medical history and subject you to a physical exam. Expect questions about your lifestyle and exercise routine. The information your chiropractor collects will help determine the root cause of your pain.

Cold And Heat Therapies

Your chiropractor can use cold and heat therapies to relieve your sciatic pain. Cold therapy reduces pain and relieves inflammation. Heat therapy relaxes your muscles and increases blood flow to encourage tissue healing. Your chiropractor will recommend the right treatment for you and how often to alternate these two therapies.

Chiropractic Modalities

Chiropractors also utilize certain tools to target your sciatic pain:

  • Ultrasound. This uses sound waves to penetrate your affected tissues. It also reduces cramping, pain, swelling, and muscle spasms.

  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). TENS is a portable nerve stimulator. It increases endorphin production, eases muscle spasms, and decreases pain.

  • Cold laser therapy. This is low-intensity laser treatment. It encourages tissue healing by decreasing musculoskeletal pain, edema, and irritation

Massage Therapy

Chiropractic massage therapy can trigger muscle relaxation. It can also relieve your pain by stimulating the release of endorphins. Experts say that chiropractic massage can also soothe and heal sciatica.

Spinal Decompression

Your chiropractic specialist can stop the compression in your spine through spinal decompression. This technique enhances the space between your vertebrae. It then lengthens and relaxes your spine.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Spinal adjustments can realign your vertebral discs. It can loosen the movement of your spine as well. Your chiropractor can rest your herniated disk back into its normal position. With regular chiropractic sessions, you can regain your mobility and normal nerve transmission. They can also relieve your muscle spasms.

Exercises And Lifestyle Changes

Certain exercises can release the pressure from your tightened muscles. As they do so, they prevent the worsening of your sciatica. Your specialist can also advise you to change the way you sleep, stand, lift, and sit. Back exercises can strengthen your back muscles. A strong back can prevent your vertebral discs from slipping. It can also prevent the discs from pressing onto your sciatic nerve.

If you suffer from sciatica, there is no need for you to tolerate it and keep using strong pain relievers. At Charleston Chiropractic Associates, we can help improve your quality of life through our established chiropractic techniques. Please visit our clinic in Charleston, South Carolina, for a one-on-one consultation. You can also call us at 843-225-4357 if you want to schedule an appointment. We can also answer your inquiries about our chiropractic care strategies for sciatica.




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How Chiropractic Care Can Help With Headaches

HOW CHIROPRACTIC CARE CAN HELP WITH HEADACHES

Do you often suffer from throbbing headaches, blurred vision, neck and eye pain, or nausea? Chiropractic care can help ease your suffering. There are different types of headaches, including cluster headaches, tension-type, migraines, and cervicogenic.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help With Headaches

Millions of people suffer from migraine headaches. Many try different kinds of treatments and therapies for their debilitating pain. Few of them are as effective at relieving headaches as chiropractic care.

Importance Of Treating Headaches

You need to process emotions and think clearly to perform your daily activities. A strong headache can destroy the clarity you need to perform well. It is normal for people to have occasional headaches. If you suffer from frequent headaches, it will affect your ability to get on with your daily life. It can be a disabling problem, which can even affect your ability to sleep.

For some people, strong headaches can strike at any time. Unfortunately, many people believe that their headaches will resolve on their own. This is not always the case. However, there are ways to treat and prevent frequent headaches. Chiropractic care does not involve any drugs or surgery; therefore, it is one of the best ways to deal with this condition.

Things That Trigger Headaches

Common headache triggers include stress, bright lights, loud noises, foods, insomnia, fluctuations in blood sugar, and more. Some headaches are warning signs of certain physical problems. Most are primary headaches, such as cluster headaches, migraines, or tension. Primary headaches do not stem from diseases. Nevertheless, they are still a major concern.

Tension in the neck causes most headaches, which is where chiropractic care comes in. Many people today, especially in developed countries, engage in sedentary activities. They spend more hours in one fixed posture or position — for example, sitting in front of a computer. Such activities increase muscle tension and joint irritation in the scalp, upper back, and neck. Consequently, the head begins to ache.

Importance Of Chiropractic Care

Chiropractors are the nervous system, muscle, and spine experts. They can diagnose the underlying cause of all types of headaches. After performing a comprehensive examination, your chiropractor will be able to determine whether your symptoms stem from spine joint dysfunction or other surrounding muscle structures. He or she will also rule out any other causes and refer you to the appropriate doctor for more care when needed.

What Chiropractors Do

Your chiropractor can do different things to help treat your frequent primary headaches. He or she can perform chiropractic adjustments or spinal manipulation to ease the stress on your system. This will improve your spinal cord’s function. Your chiropractor will give you nutritional advice or recommend the addition of B complex vitamins. He or she will also provide advice on relaxation techniques, exercises, posture, and ergonomics. This advice will help ease tension in your muscles and recurring joint irritation of the upper back and neck.

For more information about chiropractic care, visit Charleston Chiropractic Associates at our offices in Charleston, South Carolina. You can also call (843) 225-4357 to book an appointment today.




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5 Tips For Traveling This Holiday Season

5 TIPS FOR TRAVELING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

How can you avoid back pain while enjoying friends and family this season?

5 Tips For Traveling This Holiday Season

When preparing for holiday trips and spending time with friends and family, we are usually extremely busy with planning. From travel plans to hotel stays, packing to ensuring that everyone has what they need for the trek, the holiday seasons are typically pretty stressful. Here are 5 quick and easy tips on how you can avoid neck and back pain while traveling this year!

1. Take Breaks While Traveling To Stretch And Move Around!

It is imperative that while traveling long distances, whether it be by car, plane, or train, that you take time to stretch and move around often! By doing simple stretches for the neck, shoulders, back, and legs, you can largely reduce and prevent the amount of stiffness that you may encounter while enjoying your trip!

2. Make Proper Use Of Mid-Back And Low-Back Support While Traveling.

While it is important to be comfortable when driving or riding as a passenger, it is also important to note that your posture in a seat is crucial to your spinal health. Doing things like bringing up the backs of the car seat to support your back, adjusting the mirrors to the appropriate position, and positioning the seat of the chair to fit your height will help you decrease pain levels by maintaining good posture during the ride.

3. Give Your Neck A Break, Especially If You Are A Passenger.

We often like to have things to entertain us during travel. Whether that be reading a book, checking your favorite social media site, or watching your favorite movie this often requires a great deal of looking down. To prevent yourself from having a very stiff, sore neck and/or a headache give yourself constant reminders to keep your head facing straight ahead as much as possible. Simple changes like holding your book, phone, or tablet upright instead of down and in your lap will help encourage the muscles in your neck to hold a healthy posture.

4. Bring Your Own Pillows!

Believe it or not, pillows will make or break the ability for you to have a good night’s sleep or to have a comfortable ride when traveling. Our bodies become accompanied to our usual sleeping environment, so sleeping on different pillows while away from home can sometimes make your body sore and disturb your spine’s alignment. By bringing your own pillow to sleep on, or a neck pillow to nap on while riding, you will decrease the chances of having neck and upper back pain during and after your travels.

5. Make Sure You Visit Your Local Chiropractor Before And After Traveling!

The best way to prevent stiffness and soreness before, during, and after a long trip this holiday season is to pay a visit to your chiropractor! Chiropractors have the ability to adjust the joints of your spine, arms, and legs, to encourage the optimal health of your nervous system! When your joints are properly aligned, not only does your nervous system function properly, but your muscles have the opportunity to relax and work with you, not against you! Making frequent visits to a chiropractor is always a great idea, whether you’re traveling or not!

By taking these five, simple tips seriously, you are doing what it takes to ensure that your holiday season will be joyous, relaxing, and most of all, healthy!




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Treating Neck Pain With Chiropractic Care

TREATING NECK PAIN WITH CHIROPRACTIC CARE

Neck pain is a common problem among Americans. You have it more often if your work requires you to stay in one position for an extended period. People with desk jobs are usually the ones with issues in the neck and back. Pain relievers are potent, but they give you short-term relief.

Treating Neck Pain With Chiropractic Care

Patients usually want long-term comfort. This is when chiropractic care comes into view. The American Chiropractic Association sees the importance of chiropractic care for cervical pain. If you want to understand how chiropractic care treats this pain, here’s what you should know.

Accurate Diagnosis

Before any treatment begins, your chiropractic specialist will assess your spine first. This is to see if the lower parts of your spine have the same problem. The extensive health examination reveals the specific cause of your cervical pain. Expect a check of your posture, past medical history, and medications. Your chiropractor will determine if your cervical spine needs surgery or not. If it does, you will receive a referral for a specialist. Your chiropractor can also help you with lifestyle goals, nutrition, and stress management.

Manual Manipulation

Below are the manual manipulations that your chiropractor can use:

  • Trigger point therapy. This is a method that involves pressing and rubbing on your trigger points. It involves dry needling, which “stabs” stress points by using acupuncture needles.
  • Manual resistance and joint stretching. By helping your muscles and joints stretch, the pain disappears.
  • Therapeutic massage therapy (TMT). When your soft tissue experiences movement, its functional use returns. TMT can help with musculoskeletal issues, such as neck pain.
  • Instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy. Various therapeutic instruments are effective in diagnosing and treating tense muscles.

Spinal Manipulation

The following are the common spinal manipulation techniques for your neck pain:

  • Specific spinal manipulation. This method uses hands or a device to apply a restrained thrust to a specific joint in your spine. The force makes your joint move more than it could in a normal way.

  • Flexion-distraction. This involves gentle pumping manipulation on your affected intervertebral disc.

  • Instrument-assisted manipulation. With this technique, your chiropractor uses a special instrument to apply indirect force into your spine.

Cervical Manipulation

Neck adjustments apply precise pressure to your neck joints. Chiropractors use their hands to restore your neck’s ROM (range of motion). These adjustments also enhance your cervical spine’s mobility. Cervical manipulation can help neighboring muscles, such as your shoulder or back muscles. You can experience less pain, stiffness, and soreness after this treatment.

Other Chiropractic Therapies

Your chiropractic specialist can also use ultrasound and inferential electronic stimulation. With ultrasound, sound waves penetrate deep into your affected muscle tissues. Your chiropractor can use inferential electronic stimulation to relieve your pain. In this method, gentle electric currents stimulate your affected neck muscles.

Every case of neck pain is different. Your chiropractic professional will create a treatment plan that fits your needs. At Charleston Chiropractic Associates, optimal health is achievable through chiropractic methods. Please visit our clinic in West Ashley, South Carolina, for an in-person consultation. You can call us at (843) 225-4357. That way, we can help you schedule an appointment. We can also answer your questions about our chiropractic techniques for neck pain.

References:


https://www.acatoday.org/patients/health-wellness-information/neck-pain-and-chiropractic



https://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/neck-pain/chiropractic-care-neck-pain




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Chiropractic Care For Herniated Disc Pain

CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR HERNIATED DISC PAIN

The interesting thing about a herniated disc is that some people never experience pain whatsoever. However, most individuals do. If you’ve ever had this problem, you can attest to just how painful it is. Things you probably took for granted, like sitting, standing, and bending become impossible.

Chiropractic Care For Herniated Disc Pain

What Causes A Herniated Disc?

Age is the most common cause of a herniated disc. Over time, the discs connected to the spinal column begin to wear down. That degeneration reduces disc flexibility and makes a tear or rupture a bigger risk. But a herniation can also occur from improperly lifting something heavy, taking a bad fall, or getting hit in the back with a hard object. Even twisting and turning the wrong way can cause a disc to herniate.

A disc has a jelly-like substance in the center, which is then encased inside a harder exterior shell. When a disc slips or ruptures, it becomes herniated, meaning the nucleus pushes through a small tear or rip in the annulus.

A herniated disc can happen at any part of the spinal column. Along with the slip, it irritates the nearby nerves. Based on the location, as well as the degree of the herniation, you would have pain and possibly numbness and weakness in an arm or leg.

Symptoms Of A Herniated Disc

Most notably is pain. Depending on the location of the herniated disc, herniates is what dictates the symptoms. For instance, if in the lower back, you would likely have pain in the thigh, calf, and buttocks, possibly even radiating to the foot. If the herniation is in the neck region, most of the pain is in the arm and shoulder. Simple things like sneezing and coughing are often excruciating.

It’s common to experience a tingling or numbing sensation. In most instances, that only occurs in the body part affected. As for any weakness, you might find yourself struggling to balance, hold objects like a cup of coffee, or even falling.

Chiropractic Care

A chiropractor can dramatically lessen the effects of a herniated disc or eliminate them altogether. With a variety of treatment options, you can get the relief needed. Using manipulation, traction, stimulation, and other remedies, a highly trained expert can make all the difference in the world.

A primary benefit of seeking help from a chiropractor is that the treatments are non-invasive and safe. Unless your herniation is severe enough for surgery, a chiropractor brings the spine into proper alignment, which improves the herniation and removes pressure on surrounding nerves.

Just imagine overcoming pain associated with a herniated disc and improving mobility without the need for surgery or drugs. Depending on the location and severity of the herniation, you might need to see a chiropractor for several sessions. But when finished, you’ll feel amazing.

Stop The Pain

If you suspect you have a herniated disc, contact us at Charleston Chiropractic Associates. With years of experience and an incredible team of chiropractors, we can help. Visit our office in Charleston, South Carolina, or call us at 843-225-4357 to schedule an appointment for proper diagnosis and treatment.




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How Chiropractic Care Helps With Arthritis

HOW CHIROPRACTIC CARE HELPS WITH ARTHRITIS

Pharmacological solutions to arthritic pain usually result in many adverse effects. That is why many patients want natural pain relief. The American Chiropractic Association encourages people with arthritis to seek comfort from chiropractic care.

How Chiropractic Care Helps With Arthritis

Arthritis can cause you to change the way you walk, sit, or stand. This usually leads to more pain developing in various parts of your body. Chiropractic care is a drug-free solution to arthritic pain that can also target the root cause of other pains you may be experiencing. If you want to understand how chiropractic care can help with arthritis, here’s what you should know.

Gentle Or Low-Force Technique Or Spinal Mobilization

There might be some patients who need gentler chiropractic methods or spinal mobilization. The need for this chiropractic treatment is usually based on your size, preference, pathology, and degree of comfort. Some patients want gentle spinal mobilization methods. They do not want intense thrusts or body twisting. Here are some common spinal mobilization techniques:

Toggle-Drop Method

This technique needs both hands pressed down on a specific section of your spine. As the thrust happens, a part of the table falls to enhance the adjustment. Your chiropractor can raise and drop special sections of the table based on the corresponding area of your spine.

Activator Method

This requires an activator, which is a spring-loaded, hand-held device that can give a gentle stimulation. It can help your chiropractor make joint or spine adjustments and test your muscles at the same time.

Cox Flexion-Distraction Method

This uses soft adjustments that stretch and adjust your lower spine.

HVLA Or Spinal Manipulation

High-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) is a common technique used by chiropractors in addressing arthritis. Below are some common HVLA approaches:

Gonstead Adjustment Method

This technique uses a special chest-knee table or a cervical chair.

Diversified Method

This uses low-amplitude, high-velocity thrusts on your affected joints. The goal of this technique is to restore your normal ROM (range of motion).

Other Therapies

Aside from adjustments, your chiropractor can also provide other measures for arthritic pain relief. Specialized therapies can help patients who find their arthritic pain debilitating. An infrared sauna is a technique comparable to having a warm compress pressing on your joints from the inside. Your chiropractor can also use electrotherapy. It uses electrical pulses to stimulate your muscles and nerves. Cold laser therapy can target your painful areas to eliminate inflammation. Ultrasound therapy can relieve your swollen and stiff joints.

Diet Change

Your chiropractor can recommend a diet that can improve your arthritis. Some items that you can include in your diet are garlic, fatty acids, ginger, walnuts, broccoli, and spinach. By adding these foods to your daily intake, you add more nutrients that can help your arthritic pain.

Chiropractic care can relieve your arthritis. At Charleston Chiropractic Associates, we can help improve your quality of life by managing your arthritis naturally.

To learn more about chiropractic care packages for arthritis, contact Chiropractic Care Associates in Charleston, SC at 843-225-4357 to schedule a consultation.




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Chiropractic Care For Foot Pain And orthotics

CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR FOOT PAIN AND ORTHOTICS

Your foot has 26 bones. These are held together with 19 muscles, 33 joints, and as many as 107 ligaments. This intricate body part is rich with nerves that send information to your brain. It tells you where your foot is positioned in space and carries messages of touch.

CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR FOOT PAIN AND ORTHOTICS

Like many other parts of your body, though, your feet’s joints and bones can also experience wear and tear. Sadly, many people experience foot pain when they engage in certain activities. Others live with constant discomfort. Are you looking for ways to relieve foot pain? Here’s how chiropractic care and orthotics can help treat the dysfunction.

Shoe Inserts Vs. Orthotics

Many people think that shoe inserts and orthotics are the same. But there are several distinctions between the two. You can buy inserts in many shoe stores and pharmacies. These offer extra support for your toes, heels, arches, or the entire foot. But if they’re not designed for your foot, they will not likely help fix the problem.

Orthotics are prescription medical devices that help restore natural foot movement. They’re made to meet your needs and help with your foot’s position as you stand, walk, jog, jump, or run. Doctors may also prescribe orthotics to help patients with certain medical conditions. These include arthritis, bursitis, plantar fasciitis, or diabetes.

Why Visit A Chiropractor For Orthotics?

Most patients generally consult a foot care specialist like a chiropodist or podiatrist to fit orthotics. But chiropractors offer a holistic approach to biomechanical problems in your body. They’re trained to determine whether you need orthotics. Many are also experienced in fitting customized ones for your personal needs. Highly skilled chiropractors can show you how orthotics can complement your ongoing treatment for ankle, knee, hip, or back problems.

Besides, chiropractors will use specific exercises and manipulation techniques on your affected foot. This is crucial in clearing any area of restricted movement. It’s also essential in strengthening your supportive musculature. This will help resolve the problem and improve the functioning of your foot.

Reasons Why You Might Need Orthotics

Not all patients with foot pain need orthotics. But if the muscles and other structures in your foot aren’t strong enough to provide adequate reinforcement when you’re weight-bearing, then you will need support for your foot.

Ready-made orthotics generally fit the average foot. They might be enough for some patients. But fitting custom-made orthotics can offer the best results. This is because they’re molded to your feet. The most suitable orthotic designs are tailored to fit around your foot and how it moves.

The need to use orthotics generally depends on your foot posture and how it moves. People who have occupations that need them to stand or walk throughout the day may find the use of orthotics beneficial. Those who suffer from imbalances due to flat feet or asymmetrical feet might also need these medical devices. Orthotics can also help overweight individuals by providing resistance to the extra stress put on their feet. If you suffer from foot pain during exercise or any sports activity, then orthotics can help reduce the discomfort associated with your condition.

Do you want to provide better positioning for your foot and improve its overall biomechanical function? Visit Charleston Chiropractic Associates today in Charleston, South Carolina. Call us now at (843) 225-4357 to schedule your consultation.




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How Chiropractic Care Helps With Whiplash

HOW CHIROPRACTIC CARE HELPS WITH WHIPLASH

Chiropractic care is a leading pain relief alternative for people who have been injured. These injuries are the result of car accidents, sports activities, and muscle strains. Chiropractors align their patients’ musculoskeletal structures, which enables their bodies to heal themselves. There is no need for medication or even surgery.

HOW CHIROPRACTIC CARE HELPS WITH WHIPLASH

So, if you suffer from neck pain due to whiplash, you need to visit a chiropractor as soon as possible. Whiplash occurs when the neck muscles experience rapid forward and backward movement. The motion causes trauma that can lead to acute neck pain and restricted neck movement. Many people experience this from falls, car accidents, and other types of accidents.

Diagnosing Whiplash Injury

Visit a chiropractor when you experience neck pain after undergoing trauma. This professional will take you through a thorough physical evaluation. He or she will check the spine to diagnose whiplash and find out the damage caused.

The chiropractor will identify areas with an intervertebral disc injury on the spine. He or she will identify restricted joint movement, ligament injury, and muscle spasms. Most diagnostic techniques involve touching while feeling for signs of tenderness.

Posture And Spinal Alignment

The chiropractor will examine spinal joints movement and analyze your walking style. He or she will further examine your spinal alignment and posture. The diagnosis process will help to determine how the spine is operating. An MRI or X-ray of the spine can help to check existing degenerating changes. These are changes that may have been present before the injury.

Whiplash Treatment Plan

A chiropractor develops treatment plans depending on physical testing. He or she will also use neurological evaluation and diagnostic images. Soon after the injury occurs, he or she will work to reduce the neck inflammation. To achieve this, different techniques are applicable. These include ultrasound, manual therapy techniques, and gentle stretching to reduce the pain. The therapist can also recommend the use of an icepack or using neck support for a while.

Spinal Manipulation Treatment

When the neck inflammation reduces, a chiropractor will perform gentle spinal manipulation. This restores normal movement to the facet joints. These treatments will depend on the severity of the injury.

Using Manual Therapy

The chiropractor may use manual therapy for the treatment of muscles and ligaments. Manual therapies include manual joint stretching and instrument-assisted therapy for soft tissue. They also include therapeutic massage and trigger point therapy. The therapy helps to ease muscle tension caused by the neck injury.

This professional can use different therapies to help in reducing neck inflammation. Other therapies include interferential electrical stimulation and ultrasound. He or she will look at the entire body and not the problem area only.

Apart from the treatments, he or she may also recommend therapeutic exercises. These can help to reduce symptoms of whiplash and restore normal spinal motion. Chiropractors emphasize prevention as essential for long-term good health.

If you experience trauma that may result in whiplash, it is important to go for treatment. This can make a huge difference when it comes to finding relief after the accident. You can avoid long-term pain by visiting a chiropractor soon after the trauma or accident.

Learn more about how chiropractic care can help with whiplash, contact Charleston Chiropractic Associates in Charleston, SC at (843) 225-4357.




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