Tag Archive for: chiro treatment

Cryotherapy and Chiropractic: A Potent Combination for Speedy Recovery

chiropractor performing therapy to female patient

When it comes to holistic health and wellness, combining various therapeutic modalities can yield a ton of benefits, often surpassing what can be obtained from a single approach. In line with this, the combination of cryotherapy and chiropractic stands out as an effective and efficient method with regard to accelerating recovery, improving overall well-being, and so forth.

This article takes a closer look at the endless benefits of this, say, integrated approach. Read on to find out more.

What is Chiropractic

According to the National Health Service, the publicly funded healthcare system of England, chiro care is a form of treatment wherein a doctor of chiropractic utilizes his or her hands in an effort to mitigate issues that are related to the bones, joints, and muscles.

If performed by a reputable practitioner who has undergone extensive training, it can help treat the following:

  • Back pain

Per Duke Health, the health program of Duke University, chiropractic, which usually includes chiropractic massage, spinal manipulation, exercise advice, and self-care recommendations, among others, can relieve pain as well as discomfort that are associated with lower back pain. It can also improve the function of patients with the said condition.

  • Neck and Shoulder Pain

The said chiro adjustment can treat neck and shoulder pain by relaxing tensed muscles and improving blood flow in the said areas. Chiropractors address the said issues by means of spinal realignment, shockwave therapy, and posture modification.

The last one is often overlooked but beneficial in so many ways because tech neck and other similar ailments are caused by poor posture when working or doing entertainment activities. This is most true in Metro Manila, the center of economy in the Philippines.

  • Joint Pain

According to Web MD, a chiropractor can fix joint pain by gently working through the joint’s range of motion, checking for areas where movement is restricted. Other techniques that may be utilized include joint mobilization as well soft-tissue therapies.

As reference, it should be noted that joint pain is a condition that should not be taken for granted because damage to one can lead to a domino effect when it comes to spasms and tightness surrounding the muscles. In line with this, making sure that it is treated can lead to significant pain relief improvements.

What is Cryotherapy?

According to Physiopedia, cryotherapy a.k.a ice application is one of the simplest as well as oldest ways to treat injuries. In fact, it is used across the globe due to its effectiveness, convenience, ease of transportation, affordability, etc.

Many studies suggest that ice can aid in pain management by instigating some sort of anesthetic effect. It can also decrease (build-up of fluid in the body) cellular metabolism, nerve conduction velocities, blood flow, and so forth.

While its potential is simply endless, it should be noted that its benefits may depend on the method, duration, temperature that is used in the process, and the depth of subcutaneous fat.

What are the Benefits of Combining Cryotherapy with Chiropractic Care?

  • Enhanced Pain Management

Strategically integrating cryotherapy with chiropractic manipulation can provide a more extensive pain management solution that cultivates a holistic approach. The former’s capacity to minimize inflammation and dull pain pretty much complements the reformative adjustments of chiropractic in Manila.

  • Expedited Recovery From Injuries

Such an integrated healthcare method of including chiro care with cryotherapy can improve recovery time from injuries. The former can aid in minimizing tissue damage and, at the same time, reduce inflammation. While the latter can repair misalignments that may slow down healing. It can also promote strength as well as flexibility in body parts that need recovery.

  • Refined Mobility and Flexibility

Conventional spinal manipulations as well as chiro adjustments can ensure optimum joint function, which can pave the way to refined mobility and flexibility. Cryotherapy can reduce pain and inflammation, which may hamper movements.

  • Heightened Athletic Performance

Athletes and weekend warriors can benefit from a combined approach that consists of cryotherapy and chiropractic in Manila. Cryotherapy can speed up recovery from intense competition and training, while the said holistic approach can guarantee that the body achieves appropriate biomechanics, which may eventually pave the way to improved strength as well as endurance.

  • Prevention of Future Injuries

By maintaining optimum musculoskeletal health, increased physical strength, and improved culture, the likelihood of developing injuries in the future can be drastically reduced.

In addition, strategically combining cryotherapy can minimize or totally eradicate reliance on medication. How? By addressing the root cause of pain, discomfort, and everything in between in a holistic manner.

Is cryotherapy before or after chiropractic adjustment?

Cryotherapy can be performed before or after a spinal manipulation session and may depend on the needs of a patient. As stated earlier both chiropractic care and cryotherapy can tap the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

If done prior to a chiro adjustment, cryotherapy can prepare the body for chiro adjustments by cutting down pain as well as swelling. When performed after the said session, cryotherapy can reduce soreness by alleviating nerve conduction or electrical signals, which include pain signals that travel through the nerves. Afterward, it can lower inflammation as well as oxidative stress levels.

What are the Risks of Cryotherapy?

It should be noted that not everybody responds to cryotherapy positively and extreme cold has certain risks. Therefore, individuals with underlying medical conditions should practice caution when including it in their chiro care regimen.

Some reported risks of cryotherapy are elaborated in the succeeding paragraphs. Bear in mind that they are rare and are closely monitored by doctors.

  • Cerebral Breathing
  • Headaches
  • Discomfort
  • Frostbite
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Shivering
  • Hives
  • Temporary Memory Loss

Summing Up

Chiropractic in Manila as well as cryotherapy are complementary approaches to wellness that, if performed properly by a healthcare practitioner who has undergone extensive training, can offer a wide range of benefits. When properly utilized together, it can promote natural healing and enhance health.

Individuals who are contemplating to include chiropractic care and cryotherapy in their health program should ask the opinion of a qualified professional prior to starting it. This is essential to ensure that their full potential can be enjoyed.

Remember, regardless of whether you’re an athlete who wants to compete at a high level, a weekend warrior who wants to speed up recovery, or an ordinary individual who wants to treat work-related back pain, the combination of chiro care and cryotherapy can help you achieve your health objectives, no matter how simple or complex they may be.

In line with this, our personnel at Posture Perfect Chiropractic can help you along the way and provide the utmost assistance that can help you achieve improved health.

Book an appointment now!

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Chiropractic: A Holistic Approach for Occupational Injuries

Employee at a workplace experiencing back pain

Occupational injuries are unfortunate realities of work environments. In worse-case scenarios, they may negatively impact employees physically, emotionally, financially, and so forth. They may range from sprains, strains, fractures, and concussions.

Generally, the aforementioned injuries, whether caused by untoward incidents or repetitive tasks, and the like, can cause pain as well as discomfort. Because of this, the said individuals turn to treatments that can improve the said symptoms. Many of them are geared toward medication as well as surgery, but there is a holistic form of treatment that has gained the approval of many: chiropractic. It offers a non-invasive approach that can pave the way to healing and pain management.

This write-up takes an extensive look at the said holistic method and its relation to occupational injuries. Read on to find out more.

Philippine Statistics

According to Statista, in 2021, there were about 27,636 cases of occupational injuries recorded in the country. This is actually lower compared to 2019 (40,892), 2017 (46,283), 2015 (50,961), and 2013 (49,118). In line with this, according to Business World, in 2015, 12.6% of occupational injuries consisted of dislocations, strains, and sprains; 8.8% consisted of fractures; and 4.9% consisted of concussions.

In addition, according to a 2021 study that was published in Manila Bulletin, Metro Manila had the highest share of reported cases with regard to work-related injuries as well as illnesses. Per the study, occupational injuries dropped by 32.4% to 27,636 cases during the said year from 40,892 in 2019.

Despite the drop in numbers, the said injuries should not be taken for granted. The good news is that chiropractic in Manila is an accessible method of treatment that employees can turn to. Particularly those who are looking for something that can provide significant help, especially when it comes to pain management.

How Does Chiropractic Help in Injury Treatment?

According to Cleveland Clinic, chiropractic care concentrates on the link between the spine as well as the nervous system. Here, a doctor of chiropractic utilizes his or her hand or a set of special instruments to manipulate the joints of the body. This is a process called chiropractic adjustment and it is performed to fix misalignments or subluxations of the spine.

It should be noted that if left untreated, it can interfere with nerve function and cause pain as well as dysfunction. A chiropractor may perform the said procedure to tap the body’s innate ability to heal itself and bring about pain relief.

  • Chiro for Dislocations, Strains, and Sprains

According to the Mount Sinai Health System, many individuals head to chiropractic clinics to get treatment for strains, sprains, and dislocations. On top of chiropractic adjustment and joint manipulation, a chiropractor in Manila may utilize other forms of treatment to address the aforementioned ailments. The long list includes ice, heat, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), and ultrasound.

Also, the said doctor may also recommend mobility, strengthening, and balance workouts that can help them recover. While the benefits of the previous two are already well documented, those of the balance workouts are recently just being discovered. A study that was published in the National Library of Medicine found out that balance training workouts may reduce the risk of ankle sprains among high school basketball and soccer players.

In addition to the said study, another research that includes individuals with ankle sprains suggests that chiro adjustment if performed with anti-inflammatory medicine can alleviate pain and improve flexibility.

  • Chiro Treatment for Fractures

The benefits of chiro when it comes to being a complementary treatment for fracture are well documented. If properly executed, the mentioned holistic method can speed up recovery and improve muscle regeneration.

Bear in mind that conventional treatment is necessary when it comes to setting, securing,and maintaining appropriate bone placement during healing. This is the reason why fractures are often put in a cast. However, weeks or months in a cast can make affected body parts weaker than their opposite limb since it is not utilized for regular activities. This is where chiropractic care comes in.

A doctor of chiropractic can utilize different techniques to alleviate pain and discomfort during the healing stage. He or she can also help patients maintain proper posture and alignment, which, in turn, can reduce the stress on the bones. Furthermore, the said practitioner can also improve the mobility of the affected joint, boost mobility, and strengthen the bones as well as muscles.

All these can play a key role in helping patients cope with fractures that may arise from occupational injury.

Chiro Care for Concussion

In the last couple of years, the potential of chiro when it comes to managing concussions has, say, taken the limelight. It aids in treating the said condition by reducing inflammation by elevating the body’s inflammatory response, and creating an appropriate environment for healing. Along the way, cutting down the duration as well as severity of symptoms.

Worse-case concussions may disrupt communication between the brain and the rest of the body. In the long run, this may lead to a number of neurological issues, which include but are not limited to balance issues, cognitive impairment, and so forth.

A chiropractor will try to restore optimum nervous system function by gently and carefully manipulating the spine back to alignment. If properly executed, it may not only alleviate symptoms, it may also increase blood flow to essential parts of the brain and enhance its capacity to heal.

Summing up

Occupational injuries are unfortunate and, in some cases, inevitable. The good news is that all is not lost for those who encounter the said untoward incidents. Thanks to chiropractic Manila that offers a holistic and patient-centered method of healing, pain management, and so on.

Consequently, by addressing the root cause of dysfunction, a doctor of chiropractic can help injured employees recover from injuries and, later on, enhance their overall health. The said approach may even prevent future occupational injuries from developing.

If you are looking for a topnotch chiropractor Manila clinic that can help you treat your injury, Posture Perfect Chiropractic is the place to be.

Book an appointment and schedule a consultation. Let our doctors help you with your journey to recovery.

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Chiropractic: An Excellent Treatment for Bone Tuberculosis

Doctor showing lung x-ray result to patient

Bone tuberculosis, a.k.a. Pott’s Disease, is a serious chronic ailment that is detrimental to the bones and joints. While primarily a condition of the lungs, tuberculosis (TB) may spread to various parts of the body: spine, hips, knees, and other bones.

Treatment, especially during the early stages, can prevent bone TB from causing deformity or loss of joint function, however, in its latter stages, it may require several anti-TB medications, chemotherapy, or surgery. In addition to all these, many medical practitioners nowadays encourage patients to undergo chiropractic Manila and other complementary therapies.

This article delves into the potential of chiro when it comes to managing bone TB. Read on to find out more.

What is Bone Tuberculosis?

Bone tuberculosis is an infectious condition that accounts for a small percentage of all tuberculosis cases. For instance, it accounts for 4.7% of TB cases in the US and 2.2% in Europe.

In the Philippines, while there is no precise data on the percentage of bone tuberculosis, it should be noted that according to the World Health Organization, there are about 1 million Filipinos with active TB (the highest after South Africa and Lesotho) and an estimated 106 Filipinos die every day.

Bone tuberculosis takes place when mycobacterium tuberculosis, the bacteria that is the cause of TB, spreads from the lungs through the lymphatic system or the bloodstream and finds its way to the bones as well as joints. In a vast majority of cases, the spine is the first one that gets affected, followed by hips and knees.

Some of its most common symptoms are pain, swelling, stiffness, and weakness (especially in the arms and legs).

What is the Role of Chiropractic in Bone Tuberculosis Treatment?

Chiropractic is a method of complementary and holistic medicine that focuses on diagnosing as well as treating musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those that are related to the spine.

It should be noted that the said holistic approach is not a primary treatment for bone tuberculosis. However, it can be a great complementary treatment to doctor-approved medical protocols.

Some of its potential benefits are as follows:

  • Pain Management

Chronic pain is arguably the most common symptom of bone TB. This is most true in cases where the spine or other major joints are affected. Chiro can aid in pain management by means of different non-invasive techniques.

  • Gentle Mobilization

A doctor of chiropractic, in an effort to enhance joint movement, curtail stiffness, and alleviate pain, among others, is going to perform gentle mobilization techniques that is complemented by chiropractic massage. This is essential since it is achieved without applying too much pressure on affected areas.

Such a measure is essential since bone TB is an ailment that causes patients to have weakened bones. This means that inappropriately strong force can lead to fractures and other serious injuries.

  • Soft Tissue Therapy

Soft tissue therapy techniques that include but are not limited massage, myofascial release, and gentle stretches can reduce muscle tension for bone TB patients. The said techniques can also improve blood flow, promote relaxation, fix subluxation (a bone is pushed out of place) and so on.

  • Spinal Manipulation

A study that was published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that chiropractic adjustment that is complemented by flexion-distraction therapy may play a key role in drastically reducing the pain and discomfort in the spine area. This means that bone TB patients who have back pain may benefit from chiropractic care.

Bear in mind that the number as well as frequency of treatment are going to be determined by an individual doctor of chiropractic.

  • Improved Mobilization

According to Medical News Today, some of the most common symptoms of bone TB include pain and tenderness in the bone area, joint deformity, and bone defects. Conditions that may have a negative impact on mobility.

In addition to the procedures that were elaborated above, a chiropractor may also teach exercises and stretches that may help improve mobilization. He or she may also encourage cold and heat therapy, give advice on nutrition, and even perform electrical muscle stimulation using transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators (TENS).

All these may contribute to improved mobilization and allow bone TB patients to live a fulfilling life.

What to Look for When Hiring a Chiropractor for TB?

  • Cautious of Medical Possibilities

It should be noted that bone TB is a complex condition that may have symptoms that are pretty much similar to other musculoskeletal conditions. Putting the said factor into consideration, it is best to go for a chiropractor Manila that has a heightened awareness of the said possibility. This is most true for patients who have persistent joint or back pain, or those who do not respond to conventional treatments.

  • Collaboration with Medical Professionals

As mentioned earlier, bone TB is a complex condition that requires a complex approach: combining medical and chiro treatment methods. The former is essential when it comes to drastically minimizing the risk or totally eliminating infection and managing acute symptoms, while the latter is important with regard to recovery and improving quality of life, especially in the rehabilitation stage.

On the other hand, it should be noted that the proper integration of the said methods need to be performed with utmost caution. This is due to the fact that patient safety should not be compromised in any way. All, while making sure that treatment is performed in the most effective and efficient way possible.

Simply put, by utilizing a multidisciplinary or collaborative approach, bone TB patients can experience better outcomes, which may lead to a return to normal life.

  • Open Communication

A doctor of chiropractic needs to cultivate open as well as transparent communication with the bone TB patient. He or she also needs to explain the potential risks of chiropractic care. This is important because chiro treatment is not a magic pill or a miracle drug.

Yes. Its benefits should not be overlooked; however, its risks should not be neglected.

Summing up

In the end, it can be said that chiropractic offers significant benefits in the treatment of bone TB. However, it should be noted that the risks need to be carefully taken into consideration, and interventions need to be tailor-fitted to complement patient needs, requirements, medical history, and so forth.

Simply put, by prioritizing patient safety–without compromising effectiveness and efficiency–chiro treatment can be a valuable comprehensive plan for bone TB patients.

Are you looking for a tried and tested chiro clinic that can treat your bone TB without compromising safety and your overall well-being? Visit us at Posture Perfect Chiropractic. We recognize the importance of the aforementioned aspects and make it a point to address them with utmost urgency.

Book an appointment now and our highly trained as well as friendly personnel will guide you through the whole process. This, to ensure that you are going to undergo the right chiropractic Manila for bone TB that is going to complement your needs, preferences, and even budget.

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Chiropractic Care: A Complementary Approach to Bone Fracture Treatment

Chiropractic Care: A Complementary Approach to Bone Fracture Treatment

Bone fractures are very common injuries that can affect anyone at any age, but they are more widespread in those who are older than 50. This makes holistic and complementary treatments such as chiropractic massage more important than ever. The said statement is more affirmative if we take a closer look at the data.

According to a study that was published by the National Library of Medicine (NLM), there were 178 million new fractures (an increase of 33.4% since 1990) and 455 million prevalent cases of acute or long-term fracture symptoms (an increase of 70.1% since 1990). A separate report that was released by the NLM showed that by 2050, 50% of hip fractures will take place in Asia due to its growing as well as enduring population. With osteoporosis in men becoming a significant burden in the healthcare systems of Asian nations such as the Philippines.

Putting the said factors into consideration, it can be said that bone fractures are prevailing health concerns in the Philippines. On the one hand, conventional medical methods such as orthopedic surgery and casting play essential roles when it comes to managing the said condition. On the other hand, chiropractic massage and adjustments have emerged as complementary treatments that can support the healing process. This write-up delves into the nature of bone fractures, the benefits of chiropractic adjustment therapy, and how the said fields intersect in the Philippine context.

Bone Fractures: An Overview

In simple terms, a broken bone is medically referred to as a bone fracture, which can be partial or complete. It is usually caused by falls, accidents, sports injuries, and other traumas. However, repetitive forces like basketball, running, and other sports activities may also lead to the said condition. To add, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, osteoporosis, cancer of the bones, and other conditions that weaken the bones may heighten the risk of fractures.

When a fracture develops, it is classified as either open and closed, below is its definition according to the National Institutes of Health:

  • Open fracture

An open fracture is an injury wherein the broken bone or fracture hematoma is exposed to the external environment. It is often complemented by a traumatic violation of the skin as well as the soft tissue.

  • Closed fracture

A closed fracture is a rupture in the continuity of the bone, but the skin is intact.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Massage and Therapy in Bone Fracture Treatment

  • Speeds up Recovery

Chiropractors utilize chiropractic massage techniques as well as treatments that involve adjusting the joints, muscles, and bones of the body. If done properly, they offer holistic as well as healthier ways to speed up recovery by tapping the body’s natural healing capacity.

  • Reduces Pain Medication Use

Chiropractic treatment can reduce the need for painkillers, muscle relaxants, and the like. What does a chiropractor do to deliver such a benefit? By increasing the body’s mobility as well as range of motion. These factors can strengthen the muscles and reduce stiffness. Later on, this may relieve pain and discomfort.

To add, it should be noted that misalignments in the spine can have a negative impact on how the brain communicates with the nerves. Having compromised nerves, especially those that are set around broken bones can make the whole healing process more painful and uncomfortable. And since this can be treated by chiropractic massage, the need for muscle relaxants, pain killers, and the like, are significantly reduced.

  • Prevents Spinal Subluxations

Spinal subluxations are misaligned disks, or separation of the articular (the surface of the joint where the ends of the bones meet) can make bone fractures more painful. If not immediately addressed, they can cause complex muscle pains, which may lead to joint pain, excess scar tissue, and hemorrhaging, among others.

The good news is that chiropractors have undergone extensive training to correct subluxations and other misalignment issues. They can effectively, efficiently, and safely restore misaligned vertebrae to their appropriate position in the spinal column. The said healthcare practitioners do this with a combination of manual stretches and spinal adjustments.

On top of these, they may relay exercises that can be done at home. By religiously performing them, patients can limit subluxations from re-developing. This, in turn, can play a role in limiting swelling, improving posture, and, therefore, speeding up the healing process.

  • Minimizes Risk of Future Bone Fractures

Improved balance is one of the most significant benefits of chiropractic massage. This is according to a study that was published in the National Library of Medicine (NLM). It showed that patients who underwent an 8-week program experienced improved balance, and some showed reduced neck pain and dizziness.

As unimportant as it may seem, such a benefit can go a long way when it comes to reducing the risk of future bone fractures. That is because according to the NLM study, dizziness, with symptoms of excessive motion, imbalance, and spinning, contribute to bone fractures, disability, and the like.

What to Look for When Seeking Chiropractic Care in Manila

Interested individuals who are considering chiropractic massage and care for bone fracture should consider the following before signing the dotted line:

  • Don’t neglect medical evaluation

Prior to seeking chiropractic care, it is important to have the bone fracture diagnosed as well as treated by a medical doctor. It is important to note that the former should not be a substitute for conventional medical treatment.

  • Go for a qualified practitioner

Make sure that the chiropractor that is consulted is licensed as well as highly experienced when it comes to bone fractures and other musculoskeletal injuries.

  • Communicate

Patients should be transparent with regard to their bone fracture and medical history. This is important because being open with a chiropractic doctor ensures a collaborative approach.

  • Have realistic expectations

It is best to not go overboard when it comes to expectations. While the benefits of chiropractic medicine, especially when it comes to treating bone fractures, is simply profound, it should be noted that it is not a miracle cure. Therefore, it is best to set realistic expectations that align with fitness goals.

Summing up

Chiropractic massage and other forms of care are valuable complementary treatments for individuals with bone fractures. This is because of the fact that it can speed up the healing process, alleviate pain, boost mobility, improve balance, and so forth.

Along with chiropractic care, our doctors at Posture Perfect can come up with a comprehensive approach to bone fracture management that can complement your present fitness level and your health goals.

So book an appointment now.

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Is Chiropractic Massage Therapy Safe For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Is Chiropractic Massage Therapy Safe For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Computers and gadgets, whether they are desktops, laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and so forth, have become staples of daily living, especially among millennials. Many of us are so engaged with them through social media, playing games, and browsing the Internet that we often forget to take a break. Also, a significant number of Filipinos perform repetitive work such as typing and other jobs that require individuals to be in front of a computer.

Though signs of modern times, they contribute to heightened incidents of carpal tunnel syndrome. Affected individuals should not panic since chiropractic massage sessions can play a key role in alleviating its symptoms. This write-up delves into the details of how the said massage and other forms of chiro procedures aid in carpal tunnel treatment. It also answers the age-long question: “Is chiropractic therapy safe?” Read on for details.

Carpal tunnel syndrome: An overview

According to Dr. Ida S. Tacata of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery (Philippines), carpal tunnel syndrome is a group of symptoms, which oftentimes is a result of the compression of a major nerve that is located in the wrist. Also known as the median nerve, it provides sensation and is in charge of movement to parts of the hand. It should be noted that the part of the wrist where the nerve enters is called the carpal tunnel.

She added that the term “group of symptoms” is utilized because patients have varying symptoms, but the most common ones are weakness and numbness of the wrist, thumb, index, and middle fingers.

A separate study that was published in the Muscle and Nerve Journal suggests that prolonged use of gadgets can lead to the prevalence of severe pain in the hands as well as wrists. Here, researchers determined that utilizing gadgets (smartphones, tablets, etc.) can heighten an individual’s risk of developing the said ailment.

In the Philippines, according to occupational health data that were compiled by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in 2015, there has been a significant increase of 138% in the number of workers who developed carpal tunnel syndrome from 2011 to 2013. The research also supports the necessity for workplace interventions to boost the health status of the Philippine workforce, particularly employees who are at risk of developing the said syndrome by means of repetitive movements.

How chiropractic massage can help treat carpal tunnel syndrome

Chiropractic care offers holistic as well as non-invasive solutions for carpal tunnel syndrome. The long list includes chiropractic massage and techniques such as carpal tunnel release in an effort to reduce pressure on the median nerve. If done properly, it can provide relief for symptoms that affect the palm side as well as ring fingers.

Through spinal adjustment and manipulation that are complemented by other physical therapies, a chiropractor can boost blood flow in affected areas. Consequently, this can significantly scale down swelling, loosen tension on the nerves, and alleviate inflammation within the carpal tunnel. Afterward, wrist function can be drastically improved in no time. In addition, he or she can perform joint adjustments to various parts of the body to reduce accumulated pressure on the median nerve, which passes through the hand and wrist.

By effectively, efficiently, and safely relieving pain and inflammation, chiropractic care offers a non-invasive alternative for patients who are seeking relief from carpal tunnel symptoms. All this, without the need for medication. Because of this, it immediately eliminates potential side effects that may be developed from the use of painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other forms of medication.

In addition to all these, a professional chiropractor fully understands the importance of having personalized care for patients who experience mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Along the way, he or she can also address underlying issues that include but are not limited to neck and shoulder pain.

Complementary therapies and exercises

On top of performing chiropractic massage and other forms of treatments, a chiropractor may also carry out or perform the following:

  • Soft tissue therapy

This kind of therapy can loosen restricted muscles that are found around the carpal tunnel. It can boost blood circulation and, in the process, reduce inflammation, relieve tension, and lessen muscle spasms that can exacerbate the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

  • Exercise

It should be noted that proper mobility work and strengthening exercises in the wrist, hand, and arm can minimize inflammation. Consequently this can temper the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome and other nerve conditions. In line with this, a chiro may teach patients the mentioned physical activities in an effort to prevent relapses and maintain long-lasting results.

  • Ultrasound therapy

Ultrasound therapy is a type of low-level heat treatment that is specifically performed to stimulate soft tissues with the use of sound waves. If done properly by a trained healthcare professional, which in this case is a chiropractor, stiffness can be reduced and scar tissue formations can be softened. This can provide immediate relief from symptoms like tingling in the hand and fingers that are complemented by numbness.

  • Nutritional recommendations

Nutrition is one of the most neglected aspects of carpal tunnel syndrome treatment. This should not be the case because its symptoms can be worsened by dietary deficiencies and unhealthy eating habits. A chiropractor may offer nutritional counseling and create a food plan that can support the healing process. In general, it may include the intake of food that are rich in magnesium, vitamin B6, and so on.

Summing up

In the end, it can be said that individuals who are affected by carpal tunnel syndrome do not need to push the panic button because all is not lost with regard to their condition. By having regular chiropractic massage sessions and other medical interventions, improved hand function, pain relief, and a variety of health benefits can be achieved in no time. Along the way, underlying issues that are detrimental to overall health can also be addressed. Furthermore, it can be added that their safety is impeccable, to say the least.

Book an appointment and visit us at Posture Perfect if you are experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Our acclaimed chiropractors can employ various procedures that can complement the treatments that you receive. In turn, this may aid in preventing irreversible damage.

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Does Self-cracking the Back Have the Same Benefits as a Chiropractic Massage?

Does Self-cracking the Back Have the Same Benefits as a Chiropractic Massage?

Lower back pain is a very familiar condition that people across the globe experience at some point in their lives. According to a study that appeared in the Annals of Translational Medicine, it is the world’s most common cause of absence from work. In the Philippines, according to The Filipino Doctor, a premier source of healthcare information, lower back pain is developed by up to 75 percent of the population.

Putting the said numbers into consideration, it is no wonder chiropractic massage and other forms of holistic treatment have become popular nowadays. But because many believe that shelling out a substantial amount for chiropractic session price in the Philippines is unnecessary, they turn to something that is more accessible: self-cracking the back. There is just nothing like it at any time of the day.

That feel-good and relaxing sensation that is felt after self-cracking the back is just undeniable. But the question still stands: Does cracking your own joints have the same benefits as chiropractic care? Read on for details.

What is that cracking sound during a chiro adjustment?

That cracking or popping sound during a chiro adjustment, chiropractic massage therapy (CMT), or other similar activity is called cavitation. To fully understand this, let us take a look at how joints work. Joints produce a substance called synovial fluid that lubricates them and keeps them in optimum condition.

The byproducts that are produced in the formation of the said fluid are oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen. During chiro adjustment or cracking the fingers or back, the joints are slightly separated, causing a sudden drop in the pressure of synovial fluid. When this happens, gas bubbles are released in the joints, and they produce a cracking or popping sound.

It is important to note that it takes some time for new bubbles to form, that is why there is no more cracking or popping sound after one or two cracks.

Why does it feel good to self-crack the back?

It is not entirely known why self-cracking the back feels so good. However, some medical practitioners suggest that it might be nothing more than just a stress reliever. For instance, if one has spent the whole day hunched over a computer, chances are, there is tightness and tension build-up in the muscles around the spine.

Here is another reason why it is relaxing: the spinal cord is surrounded by groups of cells; the said cells send information to the brain. The information include pain (and other sensations), joint positions, and so on. When the back is cracked, the brain is probably interpreting it as being better and less tensed than it was prior to cracking. In addition to this, according to Healthline, the activity releases endorphins in the bloodstream. Endorphins are hormones that are produced in the pituitary gland to manage pain; in the process, they give a feeling of satisfaction and pleasure.

What are the risks of self-cracking the back?

While self-cracking the back is generally safe, it should be noted that there are risks involved, especially if done improperly. This is the reason why many medical experts encourage chiropractic massage instead of self-cracking. Below are some of them:

  • Pinched nerves

Self-cracking the back, if done forcibly or too quickly, may lead to pinched nerves, especially in the spinal column or its surrounding areas. They can hurt a lot and can last for a long time. If not immediately addressed, they can limit mobility and it is best to visit a chiropractor or other medical professional if they are encountered.

  • Muscle tear or strain

Using too much force to crack the back can lead to muscle tear or strain in the back, neck, or hip muscles. Muscle tears or strains can be painful and can make movements difficult. Severe ones may require surgery to reattach damaged muscles as well as tendons. If properly performed, it can help patients regain mobility, strength, etc.

  • Injured blood vessels

Self-cracking the back too much or too hard may injure the blood vessels. This can be fatal, especially if not immediately addressed.

That is because many important blood vessels run up and down the back, many of which are connected to the brain. If not immediately treated, injured blood vessels can lead to blood clotting, which can pave the way to the occurrence of aneurysms, strokes, and brain injuries.

  • Stretched back ligaments

Too much self-cracking of the back can inappropriately and permanently stretch back muscles. When this happens, perpetual instability may take place and this may increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis as one gets older.

To minimize risks, it is best to visit a credible chiropractor and have a chiropractic massage. However, if schedule or budget does not permit it is best to perform the following exercises: knee to chest, lower back rotation, bridge stretch, and seated lower back rotation.

Why it is best to visit a chiropractor for back adjustment or manipulation

While self cracking the back is generally safe, it is important to note that risks are inevitable. That is why it is best to visit a chiropractor for proper adjustment or manipulation. If performed by a healthcare professional, it can deliver endless benefits minus the harm.

This is confirmed by a 2018 study that was published in the Spine Journal, which suggests that spinal manipulation that is coupled with mobilization is both safe and effective when it comes to addressing lower back pain. In the long run, regular chiro treatment can lead to enhanced overall health and well-being.

In line with this, it is important to note that when a chiropractor is adjusting the back, he or she is making specific movements to ensure that it is properly aligned and mobilized. The thrusting motions that are performed in the process are extensive and extremely precise.

So, to the question, is chiropractic treatment safe? It is proven that it is. However, it is best to make sure that the doctor who is going to perform it is legitimate and has undergone extensive training.

Summing up

Self-cracking the back has become quite common nowadays. While it is indeed relaxing, its healing effects with regard to addressing lower back pain is not proven; plus, it carries unnecessary risks that can be prevented in the first place. If you have doubts regarding the difference between self-cracking and professional chiropractic massage and other chiro treatments, then visit us at Posture Perfect.

Remember, the most effective and safest way to crack your back is to have our chiropractors do it. They can also perform a diagnosis of the underlying condition that caused your lower back pain as well as stiffness. Afterward, they can perform customized treatments that can complement your health and fitness level. Furthermore, our doctors at Posture Perfect can track your progress and make adjustments if necessary.

Book an appointment now, and let us help you fix your back as well as posture issues.

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