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Tag: common injury

A Chiropractor’s Approach to Auto Accident Neck Injuries

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Despite being remarkably strong and flexible, the neck is surprisingly delicate. This part of your spine, known as the cervical spine, contains the seven smallest vertebrae in your spinal column. Your spinal cord, which acts as the information highway between your brain and the rest of your body, passes through the cervical spine, making it a particularly sensitive spot when it comes to traumatic injuries.

Automobile accidents are among the worst culprits when it comes to neck injuries. There are so many different kinds, and they can all affect your body’s ability to function at full capacity. That said, chiropractic care is the ideal treatment for identifying and correcting neck injuries after an accident. See below for some of the most common cases and associated symptoms, and learn how chiropractic can help.

•       Herniated Disc. The shock-absorbing discs that sit between your vertebrae are filled with a gel-like substance which helps cushion your spine. A traumatic injury can cause the tough outer edge of the disc to burst, allowing the spongy center to push its way out.

•       Radiculopathy. More simply defined as pinched nerves in the neck, radiculopathy can have far-reaching effects. You might feel pain or numbness in your extremities, all the way to your arms and legs.

•       Facet Joint Injury. Facet joints are what connect the vertebrae and give your spine its flexibility. Cervical facet joints are particularly susceptible to injury, and symptoms include soreness and stiffness.

•       Whiplash. Due to the high forces at play in a car accident, the sensitive muscles, tendons, and ligaments that hold your neck in place can suffer moderate to severe trauma. Symptoms of whiplash include headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

Chiropractors have a number of tools and techniques at their disposal when approaching auto accident neck injuries. Here are just a few examples:

•       Cervical Adjustment. More generally known as spinal manipulation, this hands-on technique allows the chiropractor to correct any misalignments in the neck directly.

•       Spinal Decompression Therapy. With the help of a specialized traction table, a gentle stretch of the spine can alleviate any pressure that’s been placed on the discs in your cervical spine.

•       Therapeutic Massage. Massage therapy will assist in preventing muscle spasms, increasing blood flow, and releasing built-up tension and stiffness in the neck area.

Automobile accidents can be particularly tough on your neck, shoulders, and back. But don’t let that stop you from experiencing wellness. Visit us here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte, and you’ll see that relief and recovery are possible. Contact us to schedule an appointment and start feeling better today!

What Kind of Auto Accident Injuries Can Chiropractic Care Help With?

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The post-accident process can be particularly hectic and overwhelming. Not only do you have to worry about the immediate effects of the incident, but you need to work to resolve the far-reaching legal and financial consequences of the wreck as well. Oftentimes, especially in minor rear-end collisions or fender-benders with no major injuries, the safety and wellness of those involved can get lost in the shuffle.

For those that have been in an automobile accident, Chiropractic Health Charlotte is here to remind you that your health is important. Even if you’re asymptomatic, take some time out of your schedule to visit a chiropractor and receive an evaluation. Chiropractic care is perfect for treating many of the ailments that manifest after a car accident. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common examples:

•       Whiplash. Whiplash is very common with a rapid change in velocity. It’s possible that won’t feel it at the time of the accident, but you may notice a gradual soreness and stiffness settle in your neck.

•       Inflammation. If you notice any inflammation in your body after an accident, then you should consult a chiropractor. Inflammation is often the body’s response to the enormous internal strain that occurs during an accident. A chiropractor can be instrumental in helping the swelling to go down.

•       Joint Trauma. Your joints act like shock absorbers for the body. When the body undergoes something as sudden and violent as an automobile collision, your joints are likely to be sore. This is likely to be especially true for your elbows, knees, and shoulders, which bear the brunt of the force in a collision.

•       Concussion. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are very possible during a car accident. It makes sense, considering the high forces involved in a typical collision. Concussions are not usually fatal, but they can have severe effects, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, light sensitivity, and brain fog. These symptoms may also take time to manifest, so you might not notice it right away, making it even more of a concern.

•       Insomnia. While not technically an injury, the shock and trauma of a car accident can actually lead to sleep disorders and insomnia. Normal sleep patterns can be disrupted when your body is holding on to so much anxiety. Chiropractic can help promote deeper, healthier sleep that will allow you to get back on track.

Suffering from an automobile accident injury? Look no further! Chiropractic is the perfect solution, free of prescription medication and invasive surgeries. We invite you to request an appointment with Chiropractic Health Charlotte and schedule a consultation at one of our two office locations. Get started with us today!

Understanding the Causes of Shoulder Injuries and Chiropractic Solutions for It

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When people think about chiropractic, they tend to focus on treatment for the back and neck. After all, the practice is primarily concerned with the spine, right? While that may be true, chiropractic care has so much more to offer. For example, patients often come seeking relief from generalized pain in their head, shoulders, hands, legs, etc.

Shoulder pain is a particularly common issue. Your shoulders are in such close proximity to the neck and spine, and yet they function independently with their own complex set of muscles, tendons, and nerves. These structures can suffer from injury, just like any other part of the body, and the resulting discomfort may cause a significant decrease in your quality of life. Let’s explore some of the most frequent causes of shoulder injury and how chiropractic can help.

•      Tendonitis. This is the inflammation of your rotator cuff. Tendonitis typically results from repetitive overuse of the muscles in your shoulder, often after participating in certain strenuous sports.

•      Pinched Nerves. Also known as cervical radiculopathy, compression between the vertebrae in your neck can cause nerves to become pinched. This may lead to a radiating pain, numbness, or tingling in your shoulder.

•      Rotator Cuff. The rotator cuff is the series of muscles and tendons that keep your arm in its shoulder socket. Injury can be the result of a traumatic accident, or it may occur gradually over time with use.

•      Bursitis. Bursa are sac-like structures that serve to decrease friction between tissue and bone. Bursitis in the shoulder occurs when these bursas become swollen and inflamed, typically due to excess stress.

•      Frozen Shoulder. As the name implies, frozen shoulder severely limits the movement and range of your shoulder due to tissue inflammation. Keeping your arm still for long periods of time (e.g., post surgery recovery, having your arm in a cast, etc.) can increase the risk.

•      Dislocation. A dislocation occurs when the arm pops out of its shoulder socket. This typically requires the force of a sudden, traumatic injury.

Chiropractors have a number of tools and techniques at their disposal to treat shoulder pain. Cervical spinal manipulation can help release pinched nerves, and gentle applied pressure can increase range of motion and encourage the release of stiff muscles and tendons. The traditional direct thrust technique is invaluable for correcting a dislocated shoulder. If you’re experiencing chronic shoulder pain, ask your chiropractor how you can avoid overuse and injury in the future.

For more helpful tips and tricks, see some of our other published articles. If you’re looking for a chiropractor to call home, consider Chiropractic Health Charlotte for all your needs. Request an appointment through our website to schedule a consultation today!

Understanding the Science Behind Chiropractic Adjustments

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Chiropractic care is built on the philosophy that the individual systems in your body are intricately connected. More specifically, your nervous system, controlled by the brain and the spinal cord, can have profound effects across your entire body. Everything from migraines to indigestion to lack of focus can be traced back to a communication gap in the nervous system. Here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte, we like to help our patients stay informed. So whether you’re new to chiropractic care or you just want a quick refresher on the science behind the practice, let us be your guide as we explore the subject a bit deeper.

There’s one question that many new patients have when they are first getting acquainted with the practice: “If the nervous system is the primary concern, then why do chiropractors place such an emphasis on the spine?” The answer lies in the way your nervous system functions. The system as a whole is split into two main parts. Your brain and spinal cord form the central nervous system, and the vast branching network of nerves that extend throughout your entire body comprises the peripheral nervous system. The peripheral nervous system relies on the central nervous system to function with accuracy and efficiency.

Your spinal cord is housed within the vertebral column, commonly referred to as the spine, which is made up of 33 individual bones known as vertebrae. These vertebrae can move and shift slightly, disrupting the natural alignment of your spine and putting pressure on the spinal cord within. Vertebrae that have shifted or torqued are known as “subluxations,” and they can lead to pain and dysfunction in the body. Your central nervous system can not communicate as effectively with the peripheral nervous system. This is where chiropractic comes in.

The goal of chiropractic adjustments is to correct these subluxations through gentle, non-invasive spinal manipulations. A chiropractor may ease vertebrae back into place, or they might relieve the tension in a muscle that keeps pulling your spine out of alignment. By restoring the body’s natural function, patients experience a better quality of life. Pain relief, efficient healing, and improved mobility are just a few of the many benefits that come with chiropractic adjustment.

Your body is a delicate balance of interconnected systems that determine your overall health, so choose chiropractic as the natural, science-based treatment method for chronic or traumatic pain. Our holistic approach steers clear of medications and invasive surgeries. Get in touch with our offices here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte to see how you can get started today!

How Chiropractic Treatments Can Bring Relief to Neck Pain

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While chiropractic is ideal for correcting and minimizing painful symptoms in the back, keep in mind that the spine goes all the way up through your neck. This area, known as the cervical spine, may experience different types of trauma that present their own unique set of challenges. Let’s do a deep dive on the neck from a chiropractic perspective: How is it constructed? What activities or disorders may cause harm to the sensitive muscles and nerves housed there? How can you find relief from pain? Read on for the answers to these questions and more.

First, the cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae in total, starting at the base of your skull. The first two vertebrae nearest your skull, called the atlas and the axis, hold your head upright and allow for side-to-side movement, respectively. The cervical spine is surrounded by a collection of muscles, ligaments, and nerves that allow for full range of motion. As a whole, these individual parts make up your neck.

There are several things that could cause damage to these delicate inner workings. Some of these events are traumatic and occur immediately, while others take place slowly over time. See below for some examples:

•      Accidents & Injuries. From sports injuries to car accidents, your neck is often the first to feel the effects. Whiplash is among the most common traumatic injuries, and it can cause stiffness, headaches, and even dizziness.

•      Degenerative Disk Disease. This can cause the disks between your cervical vertebrae to wear thin and lose their natural elasticity. Patients typically experience pain, tingling, or numbness.

•      Poor Posture. Sitting or standing without the proper support can put an enormous strain on your cervical spine. This wears on the body over time.

•      Stress & Tension. When your stress levels are elevated, the muscles in your neck tighten, causing stiffness.

When you begin consulting a chiropractor, they’ll typically complete an exam to determine the root cause of your neck pain. From there, treatment consists primarily of neck adjustments. Chiropractors are trained in the precise application of pressure to realign vertebrae, relieve painful symptoms, and restore function to the spine. A wide array of stretches and therapies, prescribed by your chiropractor on a case-by-case basis, may be the perfect complement to regular spinal adjustments.

If you’re suffering from neck pain, we invite you to join us here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte. Our team of doctors is passionate about the health and wellness of our patients. Contact us today to request an appointment!

 

How Chiropractic Care Can Help With Physical Labor-Intensive Jobs

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Not all people in the workforce have desk jobs. In fact, according to data presented by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only just under 30% of civilian workers occupied sedentary positions. The other 70% occupied roles that required frequent standing, walking, or lifting of significant weight. While sedentary work can lead to its own set of issues in the back and neck over time, labor-intensive jobs are obviously more likely to cause direct damage to the spine and surrounding muscles.

Because your body is constantly in use, you need to take care of it. Fortunately, chiropractic care is well-equipped to support you and help mitigate the long-term effects of physically taxing jobs. First, let’s take a look at some of the most common conditions that plague workers today:

•      Back & Neck Pain. Labor-intensive jobs can be tough on your spine and the muscles that control it. Repetitive motion or improper lifting technique may gradually lead to chronic pain in your back, neck, and shoulders.

•      Muscular Strain. Overextension occurs when you push your body beyond its physical capabilities. You might pull a muscle by stretching it too far or working it too hard. The same can be said for damage to tendons and ligaments, which leads to sprains or tearing.

•      Stress Tension. Perhaps you’ve heard that people store stress in the body. Among the most common locations to store stress are the neck, shoulders, back, and hips. This can cause pain and discomfort.

•      Misalignment & Imbalance. People who spend most of the day on their feet need to have the proper support. Without quality footwear, a worker may throw their spine out of alignment, causing further issues with strength and balance.

With that in mind, here are four quick tips from a chiropractor that will help prevent injury and promote healthy function:

1.     Stay Hydrated. Keep a refillable water bottle with you at all times so you can get plenty of fluids throughout the day.

2.     Take Care of Your Body. Warm-ups and proper lifting technique will go a long way in protecting yourself from injury.

3.     Rest & Recharge. Take breaks as needed, and don’t push yourself beyond your physical capacity.

4.     Get a Chiropractic Adjustment! The best thing you can do to improve your daily performance and minimize the wear-and-tear of a physically demanding job is to visit a chiropractor. Spinal adjustments and other holistic therapies can help realign your skeleton, reduce stress and strain, and ease painful symptoms in your back and neck.

Everyone can benefit from chiropractic care, so don’t hesitate. We invite you to join us at one of Chiropractic Health Charlotte’s two locations for a professional consultation and personalized treatment. Request an appointment on our website to get started today!

 

How Chiropractic Care Can Help With Common Injuries

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For those that lead an active lifestyle, minor injuries are quite a common occurrence. In fact, the risk of injury comes with the territory. When you push your body in exercise and athletics, there’s bound to be a few mishaps: bumps and bruises, sprains and strains, shin splints, joint trauma, back and neck pain, etc.

These types of common injuries are not severe enough to warrant surgery, but they can affect your quality of life nonetheless. Many people don’t know what to do or whom to turn to during the healing process. Is there anything that will alleviate the pain? Can the body be supported in any way to accelerate the recovery timeline and promote a more complete healing? Fortunately, chiropractic is a fantastic option that offers many benefits to those recovering from an injury. Read on to learn more about how chiropractic care can help.

Pain Relief
First, and perhaps most immediately helpful, chiropractic can assist with pain relief. Forget the prescription painkillers and addictive medications. By simply relieving pressure on certain nerves in your body, chiropractic can ease painful symptoms.

Improved Healing
Chiropractic is the perfect catalyst for an improved recovery. Not only will a chiropractor support the body’s natural healing processes for a faster recovery, but they’ll be able to help ensure that the injury heals correctly, without complication.

Reduced Inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury. In fact, it often signals the start of the healing process itself. But prolonged chronic inflammation can actually create a roadblock and impede your progress. If you’re suffering from severe inflammation after an injury, a chiropractor can help reduce the tenderness and swelling that characterizes this type of response.

Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
The recovery process is all about restoring your body to the way it was before your injury. Chiropractic care is invested in the rehabilitation of patients’ musculoskeletal health. For example, injuries can negatively impact your range of motion or leave your muscles weak and atrophied. A chiropractor can help restore full range of motion, and they can use exercises to support and stabilize the body.

Injury Prevention
Though injuries are frequently a part of an active lifestyle, they can be made less likely to occur. By strengthening and realigning the body, the patient will enjoy improved physical coordination and overall resilience. Regular chiropractic maintenance is invaluable for preventing future injuries.

Get Started With Chiropractic Health Charlotte!
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury, then it may be time to schedule an appointment with a chiropractor. We invite you to join us here at Chiropractic Health Charlotte. Get in touch with our team to learn more and book your time slot today!