Entries by Toby Hall

Should I Train If I’m In Pain?

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Pain serves as a vital warning signal that is inherently unpleasant, acting as a natural protective mechanism. For instance, the discomfort of touching a hot stove or hitting our head on a hard surface instructs us on health and safety. Despite its essential role, pain can be frustrating in the long run as it hinders our enjoyment of activities, especially chronic pain like back pain, hip pain, or plantar fasciitis.

However, it is unclear whether we should halt our training when we experience pain or keep pushing through it. The matter is complex because studies have shown that avoiding pain by being inactive is counterproductive, while overexertion is also not advisable.

Not Doing Enough

If we fail to exercise adequately when our bodies are weakened or recovering, we risk aggravating the situation. Insufficient activity may result in reduced blood flow to painful areas, muscle atrophy, stiffness in the affected areas, and inactivity-related mild depression. These consequences are highly undesirable, particularly when dealing with persistent pains such as knee pain, heel pain, hip pain, or plantar fasciitis.

Doing Too Much

If we exert ourselves excessively, we risk placing undue stress on injured or tender tissues, which can impede the healing process. It is common knowledge that running on a broken leg is unwise, and the same principle applies to back pain, ankle pain, plantar fasciitis, and similar conditions.

Mastering the ability to gauge how much to challenge our pain is a valuable skill which plays a significant role in resolving pain over the long term.

A Golden Nugget

I have a valuable piece of advice that has helped numerous individuals alleviate their uncertainty about how much weight to lift or how far to run.

“As a general rule, if you experience slightly more discomfort during or shortly after exercise, it is usually not a cause for concern. However, suppose your pain significantly intensifies after a particular exercise or movement and lasts more than a day. In that case, it is typically not a positive sign.”

While there may be exceptions to this loose guideline, it can assist in preventing you from encountering issues.

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Recent Articles


Should I Train If I’m In Pain?

The matter of ‘Should I train if I am in pain’ is complex because studies have shown that avoiding pain by being inactive is counterproductive, while overexertion is also not advisable. So what should we do?


Read More


Toby Hall

April 26, 2023


How Can A Chiropractor Help Me?

When you hear the word ‘chiropractor’ you most probably associate it with ‘back or neck pain’. Most Individuals who have never sought chiropractic care before are often surprised to discover the extent to which a chiropractor can help with other issues that can improve their overall well-being


Read More


Toby Hall

April 25, 2023


Back Pain From Cycling?

Putting in long hours on the bike is an excellent way to keep your body in top condition, improving your cardiovascular system and building up your quads. However, extended periods of crouching over the handlebars can be tough on your back.


Read More


Toby Hall

April 25, 2023

How Can A Chiropractor Help Me?

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When you hear the word ‘chiropractor’ you most probably associate it with ‘back or neck pain’. Most Individuals who have never sought chiropractic care before are often surprised to discover the extent to which a chiropractor can help with other issues that can improve their overall well-being. It’s highly likely that yourself, or someone you know, is grappling with a medical condition that could be alleviated with proper chiropractic care.

Outlined below are seven typical indicators that suggest it’s time to book an appointment with City Chiropractic.

7 Signs You May Need To See A Chiropractor - headache

Frequent Headaches

Suffering from frequent headaches, whether it be upon waking up or towards the end of a workday, can be unpleasant and unusual. If you’ve been relying on headache medication to alleviate your symptoms daily, recent research suggests that you reconsider your options.

By realigning the spine and reducing tension in the neck and surrounding muscles, chiropractic adjustments may help to alleviate the underlying causes of headaches and promote better circulation and nerve function.

Norwegian scientists conducted a study that revealed how chiropractic care significantly lessened the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms for individuals with chronic tension headaches. The study demonstrated that patients receiving regular chiropractic treatment experienced almost a 60% reduction in their headaches.

Frequent Headaches

Suffering from frequent headaches, whether it be upon waking up or towards the end of a workday, can be unpleasant and unusual. If you’ve been relying on headache medication to alleviate your symptoms daily, recent research suggests that you reconsider your options.

By realigning the spine and reducing tension in the neck and surrounding muscles, chiropractic adjustments may help to alleviate the underlying causes of headaches and promote better circulation and nerve function.

Norwegian scientists conducted a study that revealed how chiropractic care significantly lessened the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms for individuals with chronic tension headaches. The study demonstrated that patients receiving regular chiropractic treatment experienced almost a 60% reduction in their headaches.

Asymmetries In Your Posture

You Observe Asymmetries In Your Posture

Postural imbalances refer to abnormal alignments or positioning of the body that can lead to a range of physical problems, including pain, discomfort, and reduced range of motion. These imbalances can develop over time due to poor posture, repetitive movements, or other factors that place undue stress on the musculoskeletal system.

Some common postural imbalances include:

  1. Forward head posture: This occurs when the head juts forward and out of alignment with the spine, leading to tension in the neck and upper back muscles.
  2. Rounded shoulders: This occurs when the shoulders hunch forward, causing tightness and weakness in the upper back and chest muscles.
  3. Anterior pelvic tilt: This occurs when the pelvis tilts forward, leading to lower back pain and reduced flexibility in the hips.
  4. Scoliosis: This is a lateral curvature of the spine that can cause pain and discomfort, as well as a range of other health problems.
  5. Uneven leg length: This can occur due to structural differences in the legs, which can lead to imbalances in the hips and spine.

Although there are several ways to mitigate postural issues independently, research has demonstrated that the most effective approach to achieving lasting stabilization and correction of your structure is a combination of chiropractic care and active rehabilitation exercises.

You Observe Asymmetries In Your Posture

Postural imbalances refer to abnormal alignments or positioning of the body that can lead to a range of physical problems, including pain, discomfort, and reduced range of motion. These imbalances can develop over time due to poor posture, repetitive movements, or other factors that place undue stress on the musculoskeletal system.

Some common postural imbalances include:

  1. Forward head posture: This occurs when the head juts forward and out of alignment with the spine, leading to tension in the neck and upper back muscles.
  2. Rounded shoulders: This occurs when the shoulders hunch forward, causing tightness and weakness in the upper back and chest muscles.
  3. Anterior pelvic tilt: This occurs when the pelvis tilts forward, leading to lower back pain and reduced flexibility in the hips.
  4. Scoliosis: This is a lateral curvature of the spine that can cause pain and discomfort, as well as a range of other health problems.
  5. Uneven leg length: This can occur due to structural differences in the legs, which can lead to imbalances in the hips and spine.

Although there are several ways to mitigate postural issues independently, research has demonstrated that the most effective approach to achieving lasting stabilization and correction of your structure is a combination of chiropractic care and active rehabilitation exercises.

struggling with mobility

Struggling With Mobility

If you find yourself having difficulty performing basic tasks like putting on your shoes, reaching items from high shelves at the supermarket, or turning your head to check your blind spot, it may be time to seek assistance from a chiropractor.

At City Chiropractic, we specialize in restoring mobility by addressing joint movement and alignment through chiropractic treatment and correcting muscle imbalances through myofascial therapy. Following a session at our clinic, you’ll typically feel much more comfortable, limber, and centred.

Whether your issue involves joints or soft tissue, we’ll help you regain the ability to relish daily activities!

Struggling With Mobility

If you find yourself having difficulty performing basic tasks like putting on your shoes, reaching items from high shelves at the supermarket, or turning your head to check your blind spot, it may be time to seek assistance from a chiropractor.

At City Chiropractic, we specialize in restoring mobility by addressing joint movement and alignment through chiropractic treatment and correcting muscle imbalances through myofascial therapy. Following a session at our clinic, you’ll typically feel much more comfortable, limber, and centred.

Whether your issue involves joints or soft tissue, we’ll help you regain the ability to relish daily activities!

trouble sleeping

Sleep issues?

Are you having difficulty getting a good night’s sleep? It may be worth contacting us.

According to a JMPT review of case studies involving insomnia, data was collected from 221 patients who received chiropractic treatment. A third of these patients reported an immediate improvement in their sleep patterns following treatment. Furthermore, when asked about their insomnia symptoms six days later, these individuals still reported a sustained improvement in the quality of their sleep.

Chiropractic care can help with sleep issues in several ways. Misalignments in the spine, called subluxations, can interfere with the nervous system’s ability to function properly. This can lead to an imbalance in the body, including disruptions in sleep patterns. Chiropractic adjustments can correct these subluxations and restore proper nervous system function, which may improve the quality of sleep.

Additionally, Chiropractic techniques such as soft tissue therapy and spinal manipulation can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation, which may result in a better night’s sleep.

It’s also worth noting that chiropractic care takes a holistic approach to health, meaning that chiropractors look at the body as a whole and strive to address underlying issues rather than simply treating symptoms. As such, chiropractors may work with patients to identify and address underlying factors that could be contributing to their sleep issues, such as poor posture, dietary habits, or stress levels.

Sleep issues?

Are you having difficulty getting a good night’s sleep? It may be worth contacting us.

According to a JMPT review of case studies involving insomnia, data was collected from 221 patients who received chiropractic treatment. A third of these patients reported an immediate improvement in their sleep patterns following treatment. Furthermore, when asked about their insomnia symptoms six days later, these individuals still reported a sustained improvement in the quality of their sleep.

Chiropractic care can help with sleep issues in several ways. Misalignments in the spine, called subluxations, can interfere with the nervous system’s ability to function properly. This can lead to an imbalance in the body, including disruptions in sleep patterns. Chiropractic adjustments can correct these subluxations and restore proper nervous system function, which may improve the quality of sleep.

Additionally, Chiropractic techniques such as soft tissue therapy and spinal manipulation can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation, which may result in a better night’s sleep.

It’s also worth noting that chiropractic care takes a holistic approach to health, meaning that chiropractors look at the body as a whole and strive to address underlying issues rather than simply treating symptoms. As such, chiropractors may work with patients to identify and address underlying factors that could be contributing to their sleep issues, such as poor posture, dietary habits, or stress levels.

pain medication

Frequently Using Over The Counter Pain Medication

If you find yourself frequently taking ibuprofen or paracetamol to get rid of pain, you may want to consider booking a consultation with a chiropractor. People who receive routine chiropractic care are at a lower risk of relying on medication.

While pain medication can be a helpful tool in managing pain, overusing pain medication can have several negative consequences. Here are a few reasons why it’s important to use pain medication responsibly and avoid overuse:

  1. Risk of addiction: Many pain medications, particularly opioids, can be highly addictive. Overusing these medications can increase the risk of developing a dependence or addiction, which can have serious long-term consequences for your health and well-being.
  2. Increased tolerance: Over time, the body can become tolerant to the effects of pain medication, meaning that higher doses are needed to achieve the same level of pain relief. This can lead to a cycle of increasing dosage that can be difficult to break.
  3. Side effects: Pain medications can have a range of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, and nausea. Overusing these medications can increase the risk of experiencing these side effects, which can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.
  4. Masking underlying problems: Pain is often a symptom of an underlying problem, such as an injury or an inflammatory condition. Overusing pain medication can mask the underlying problem, preventing you from getting the proper diagnosis and treatment you need to address the root cause of the pain.

Frequently Using Over The Counter Pain Medication

If you find yourself frequently taking ibuprofen or paracetamol to get rid of pain, you may want to consider booking a consultation with a chiropractor. People who receive routine chiropractic care are at a lower risk of relying on medication.

While pain medication can be a helpful tool in managing pain, overusing pain medication can have several negative consequences. Here are a few reasons why it’s important to use pain medication responsibly and avoid overuse:

  1. Risk of addiction: Many pain medications, particularly opioids, can be highly addictive. Overusing these medications can increase the risk of developing a dependence or addiction, which can have serious long-term consequences for your health and well-being.
  2. Increased tolerance: Over time, the body can become tolerant to the effects of pain medication, meaning that higher doses are needed to achieve the same level of pain relief. This can lead to a cycle of increasing dosage that can be difficult to break.
  3. Side effects: Pain medications can have a range of side effects, including drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, and nausea. Overusing these medications can increase the risk of experiencing these side effects, which can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.
  4. Masking underlying problems: Pain is often a symptom of an underlying problem, such as an injury or an inflammatory condition. Overusing pain medication can mask the underlying problem, preventing you from getting the proper diagnosis and treatment you need to address the root cause of the pain.

Feeling Sluggish Or Suffering From Constant 'Brain Fog’?

Feeling Sluggish Or Suffering From Constant ‘Brain Fog’?

We all feel a little sluggish or unmotivated from time to time. But if you notice these feelings becoming more frequent and they are affecting your daily life, there is a good chance that a visit to a chiropractor can help.

Recent research indicates that chiropractic care can boost cognitive function, which may come as a surprise to some.

A groundbreaking study involving 500 adults utilized state-of-the-art technology to generate brain activity maps in the cortical regions of the brain both before and after chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine. The researchers observed that “cervical adjustments activate specific neurological pathways” in the brain, potentially enhancing cognitive function.

Research from New Zealand has also demonstrated that chiropractic treatment can enhance cognitive reaction time. The researchers discovered that “multiple sites of cervical spinal joint dysfunction were related to impaired cortical processing.” However, after receiving chiropractic care, the study participants showed a substantial improvement in cortical processing and reaction time.

Feeling Sluggish Or Suffering From Constant ‘Brain Fog’?

We all feel a little sluggish or unmotivated from time to time. But if you notice these feelings becoming more frequent and they are affecting your daily life, there is a good chance that a visit to a chiropractor can help.

Recent research indicates that chiropractic care can boost cognitive function, which may come as a surprise to some.

A groundbreaking study involving 500 adults utilized state-of-the-art technology to generate brain activity maps in the cortical regions of the brain both before and after chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine. The researchers observed that “cervical adjustments activate specific neurological pathways” in the brain, potentially enhancing cognitive function.

Research from New Zealand has also demonstrated that chiropractic treatment can enhance cognitive reaction time. The researchers discovered that “multiple sites of cervical spinal joint dysfunction were related to impaired cortical processing.” However, after receiving chiropractic care, the study participants showed a substantial improvement in cortical processing and reaction time.

sinus issues

Ongoing Sinus Issues

Many patients who seek our assistance with sinus problems have a prolonged history of taking decongestants, steroids, antihistamines, and other allergy medications with little or no success.

What primary care physicians who prescribe these drugs often overlook is that these patients typically suffer from upper cervical (neck) issues. In reality, 84% of individuals who report experiencing chronic sinus congestion headaches also report suffering from upper neck pain.

All of the nerves that govern sinus function, specifically the vagus nerve, trigeminal nerve, and superior cervical ganglion, can become strained, compressed, or inflamed when the upper cervical spine is misaligned and not functioning correctly. By addressing the structural issues, your sinuses can calm down rather than being in a constant hyper-reactive, inflamed state.

A 2012 JMPT study even suggested that chiropractic treatment “could be considered as an appropriate alternative treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis.”

Ongoing Sinus Issues

Many patients who seek our assistance with sinus problems have a prolonged history of taking decongestants, steroids, antihistamines, and other allergy medications with little or no success.

What primary care physicians who prescribe these drugs often overlook is that these patients typically suffer from upper cervical (neck) issues. In reality, 84% of individuals who report experiencing chronic sinus congestion headaches also report suffering from upper neck pain.

All of the nerves that govern sinus function, specifically the vagus nerve, trigeminal nerve, and superior cervical ganglion, can become strained, compressed, or inflamed when the upper cervical spine is misaligned and not functioning correctly. By addressing the structural issues, your sinuses can calm down rather than being in a constant hyper-reactive, inflamed state.

A 2012 JMPT study even suggested that chiropractic treatment “could be considered as an appropriate alternative treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, chiropractic care is a holistic approach to healthcare that has many benefits for patients. It not only relieves pain but also improves overall physical function and promotes general well-being. By addressing the root cause of the problem rather than just treating the symptoms, chiropractic care can help patients achieve long-term relief and prevent future health issues. With the use of chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and lifestyle modifications, chiropractors work with their patients to create a customized treatment plan that addresses their individual needs. Chiropractic care can be an effective solution for a wide range of health concerns.

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Recent Articles


Headaches, ‘A Pain In The Neck’?

Have you ever heard of the term ‘cervicogenic headache’? If you were to consult the International Society for Headache Research, you would discover a category of headache known as ‘cervicogenic headache’, which essentially means a headache caused by issues in the neck and its tissues. It’s more common than most people, including doctors (but probably not chiropractors), might expect.


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Toby Hall

April 18, 2023


Can A Chiropractor Fix My Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Here at City Chiropractic, shoulder pain is something we are well versed in dealing with. Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, repetitive strain, or underlying medical conditions. When it comes to treating shoulder pain, chiropractors can offer a non-invasive, drug-free alternative to traditional medical treatments.

In this blog, we will discuss the causes of shoulder pain and how chiropractors can help relieve it.


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Toby Hall

April 17, 2023


A Century Of Treating Back Pain

Back pain in the early 20th century was commonly attributed to ‘rheumatism’, with little explanation provided in clear biomechanical terms. However, given the World War and the subsequent devastation wrought by the Spanish flu, it is clear that there were more pressing matters on people’s minds at that time.


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Toby Hall

April 17, 2023

Back Pain From Cycling?

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Why is my back sore from biking?

Putting in long hours on the bike is an excellent way to keep your body in top condition, improving your cardiovascular system and building up your quads. However, extended periods of crouching over the handlebars can be tough on your back.

While biking is undoubtedly healthier than sitting at a desk all day, the reality is that you’re still stuck in a stationary sitting position. This positioning tilts your pelvis forward, causing your lower back muscles to strain and shortening the muscles in your anterior hip, like your hip flexors and quads. When these muscles become too tight, your glutes don’t function properly, creating a two-fold problem: tightness in the front and weakness in the back.

The good news is that you don’t have to endure back pain as a regular part of your daily routine. You don’t have to rely on painkillers and anti-inflammatories to relieve the pain, and you don’t have to avoid cycling altogether.

Here are two things you can do to reduce the stress on your back and ,hopefully, get you back (no pun intended) to cycling, pain free.

Streeeeetch

To alleviate cycling-related back pain, it is crucial to stretch the muscles in your hips as a first step.

Tight hip muscles can lead to lower back pain, as they can cause imbalances in your pelvis and spine. By stretching your hips, you can reduce the strain on your lower back and prevent pain from developing.

One effective stretch for cyclists is the wall lunge. Begin by facing away from a wall, placing your left foot entirely vertically on the wall and your right foot far enough back to create a slight amount of hip extension in the rear leg. Keeping your left foot on the wall, drop your left knee straight down and straighten your torso to stretch your left quad and hip flexor muscles. Hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds, and then switch sides.

Get that bike appropriately fitted.

Having an improperly fitted bike can affect back pain in several ways

  1. Increased Stress on the Spine: When your bike is not fitted to your body, it can cause you to adopt an uncomfortable or unstable position on the bike. This can increase the stress on your spine, which can lead to pain or discomfort in your lower back.
  2. Poor Spinal Alignment: An improperly fitted bike can also cause poor spinal alignment. When your bike is not fitted to your body, it can cause you to arch your back or slouch, which can put your spine in an unnatural position and increase the strain on your lower back.
  3. Overuse Injuries: An improperly fitted bike can also lead to overuse injuries in your spine. It can cause you to pedal with an unnatural motion, which can increase the stress on your spine and lead to overuse injuries over time.
  4. Disc Problems: An improperly fitted bike can also lead to disc problems in your spine. It can cause you to experience shocks and vibrations that can damage the discs in your spine and cause pain or discomfort.

To prevent back pain while cycling, it is important to have your bike properly fitted to your body by a professional bike fitter. This can help to ensure that your spine is in a natural and comfortable position while cycling, reducing the risk of developing back pain or other spinal problems.

When should I see a Chiropractor?

Despite your best efforts to avoid back pain, there may be instances where your chiropractor’s expertise is necessary to provide additional relief. So, how do you know when your discomfort warrants professional attention? Listen to your body, particularly the day after. Cyclists should be cautious if your back pain persists for more than a day after cycling or if you experience pain or weakness radiating down one or both legs.

It’s essential to bear in mind that cycling should not be painful, and pain is not normal. By adhering to these recommendations, you can reduce the frequency of cycling-related injuries that we frequently encounter at City Chiropractic.

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Recent Articles


The ‘Fascia-nating’ Fascia

You’ve probably come across the terms ‘fascia’ or ‘myofascial release’ before, especially if you’ve been to see us at the Featherston Street Pain Clinic or during a yoga, physical therapy, or massage session. But what exactly is fascia?


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Toby Hall

April 11, 2023


3 Ways To Treat Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a real pain to say the very least, it is one of those conditions that both really really hurts and is really really inconvenient.
In this blog, we will discuss three ways to treat plantar fasciitis.


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Toby Hall

April 4, 2023

Headaches, ‘A Pain In The Neck’?

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Have you ever heard of the term ‘cervicogenic headache‘? If you were to consult the International Society for Headache Research, you would discover a category of headache known as ‘cervicogenic headache’, which essentially means a headache caused by issues in the neck and its tissues. It’s more common than most people, including doctors (but probably not chiropractors), might expect.

Chiropractors have known for nearly 100 years that the neck is a major cause of headaches. And now medical science is catching up to them.

Mr Nikolai Bogduk, a medical researcher and leading expert in the microanatomy of the human nervous system, has discovered significant overlaps between the sensory nerve pathways of the neck and the head. This discovery makes it easy for a neck problem to be felt as a headache. In fact, many headache or migraine sufferers report that their headaches start in their neck or they feel neck pain during their headache/migraine episodes. These individuals also experience more frequent neck pain than the average person, indicating a strong connection between neck pain, neck problems, and headaches. Chiropractors can help address these issues and provide relief to those suffering from cervicogenic headaches.

If you were to ask a traditional medical practitioner about headaches like migraines, they would tell you that changes in blood flow to the brain are the primary cause. While this may be true for migraines and possibly tension headaches, it is important to note that changes in blood flow could be triggered by neck issues. Research has shown that there are connections between the sensory nerve pathways of the neck and head, which means that a problem in the neck can be felt in the head. This is where a chiropractor can come into play.

As a chiropractor, I work in the pain management trenches and have found that most headache/migraine sufferers have deep knots in the muscles at the top of their neck, as well as stiffness, locking, and inflammation of the small weight-bearing joints. Additionally, many have a limited range of motion in their spinal joints. By addressing these issues, we have reduced headaches for many patients. 

So if you have been wondering whether neck problems could cause your headaches, the answer is a definite and resounding YES – and there is help available through chiropractic care.

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My Migraine Blog

There are a multitude of pathways to persistent pain. Changes in the brain, lasting tissue damage, aberrations in the way the mind and body communicate with each other – all can cause chronic pain.


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Toby Hall

March 22, 2023


What To Do When Pain Persists

There are a multitude of pathways to persistent pain. Changes in the brain, lasting tissue damage, aberrations in the way the mind and body communicate with each other – all can cause chronic pain.


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April 19, 2021

Can A Chiropractor Fix My Shoulder Pain?

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Shoulder pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Here at City Chiropractic, shoulder pain is something we are well versed in dealing with. Shoulder pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, repetitive strain, or underlying medical conditions. When it comes to treating shoulder pain, chiropractors can offer a non-invasive, drug-free alternative to traditional medical treatments.

In this blog, we will discuss the causes of shoulder pain and how chiropractors can help relieve it.

Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can be caused by a number of factors, including:

  1. Rotator Cuff Injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that connect the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone. Injury to these muscles and tendons can result in pain and limited range of motion.
  2. Tendinitis: Tendons are tough cords of tissue that connect muscles to bones. When these tendons become inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort in the shoulder.
  3. Bursitis: Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. When these sacs become inflamed, it can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder.
  4. Frozen Shoulder: Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition in which the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, making it difficult to move.
  5. Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, including the shoulder joint. This can result in pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.

How Chiropractors Treat Shoulder Pain

Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions, including shoulder pain. After a thorough examination and assessment of the patient’s medical history, chiropractors can develop a personalised treatment plan to address the underlying causes of shoulder pain.

Chiropractic treatment for shoulder pain may include:

  1. Chiropractic Adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments involve applying gentle force to the affected joint to help restore proper alignment and range of motion.
  2. Soft Tissue Therapy: Soft tissue therapy involves the use of massage and stretching techniques to help relieve tension and pain in the muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint.
  3. Rehabilitation Exercises: Chiropractors may prescribe specific exercises to help strengthen the muscles and improve range of motion in the shoulder joint.
  4. Lifestyle Modifications: Chiropractors may also recommend lifestyle modifications, such as ergonomic adjustments or changes in exercise routines, to help prevent future episodes of shoulder pain.

In Conclusion

Shoulder pain can be a debilitating condition that can affect your daily life. Chiropractors offer a non-invasive, drug-free alternative to traditional medical treatments for shoulder pain. By addressing the underlying causes of shoulder pain, chiropractors can help relieve pain, improve range of motion, and restore function to the affected joint. If you are experiencing shoulder pain, consider consulting a chiropractor to see if chiropractic care may be right for you.

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ankle
ankle pain
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Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractor
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headache
headaches
headache treatment
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Migraine
Migraine headache
migraine treatment
neck pain
neck pain treatment
orthotics
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Pain Management
Pain relief
pain treatment
patient
personality assessment
Plantar fasciitis
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Shoulder injury
Shoulder Pain
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Spinal manipulation
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Recent Articles

A Century Of Treating Back Pain

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Back pain in the early 20th century was commonly attributed to ‘rheumatism’, with little explanation provided in clear biomechanical terms. However, given the World War and the subsequent devastation wrought by the Spanish flu, it is clear that there were more pressing matters on people’s minds at that time.

Over the course of the 20th century, the treatment of back pain underwent a transition from traditional healing methods such as Bone Setting to the modern medical model and emerged on the other side of this transformation. Along the way, there were also some interesting subplots that are worth exploring.

Although we will need to criticise mainstream medicine to some extent, this will be done with great respect for the many ways in which medicine has helped us in other areas. It is worth noting that the author of this blog owes his life to the skill and care of his doctors.

Medically Prescribed Bed Rest

The practice of prescribing bed rest for back pain was a common treatment during the 20th century but ultimately proved to be detrimental to patients. This approach was promoted by orthopedists, who were relatively new to the medical field at the time. The idea of using “healing rest” to alleviate spinal tissue irritation may have seemed promising, but in reality, extended periods of lying flat on one’s back can cause increased stiffness, muscle atrophy, and clinical depression, all of which can exacerbate back pain. As a result, more severe cases of back pain emerged, as opposed to the milder, occasional episodes.

Medically Prescribed Bed Rest

The practice of prescribing bed rest for back pain was a common treatment during the 20th century but ultimately proved to be detrimental to patients. This approach was promoted by orthopedists, who were relatively new to the medical field at the time. The idea of using “healing rest” to alleviate spinal tissue irritation may have seemed promising, but in reality, extended periods of lying flat on one’s back can cause increased stiffness, muscle atrophy, and clinical depression, all of which can exacerbate back pain. As a result, more severe cases of back pain emerged, as opposed to the milder, occasional episodes.

Surgery

During the second phase of attempts to alleviate back pain, medical professionals resorted to surgical disc repair and spinal fusions. However, this approach treated back pain as a medical condition rather than a biomechanical and overall well-being concern. The common practice of diagnosing back pain by focusing on spinal abnormalities and imperfections, despite the fact that most of these do not cause pain, was a significant misinterpretation affecting the vast majority of sufferers. Research has now revealed that only a tiny fraction of individuals with back pain require surgery. Nevertheless, spinal surgery was once widely employed as a primary treatment in the mid-20th century. Fortunately, through research, this approach was exposed as a mistake, leading to a reduction in the number of people receiving surgery for back pain today.

 

**If you have a major disc prolapse and severe leg pain, surgery can definitely be an excellent short-term solution, especially with modern procedures that have become less invasive.

Surgery

During the second phase of attempts to alleviate back pain, medical professionals resorted to surgical disc repair and spinal fusions. However, this approach treated back pain as a medical condition rather than a biomechanical and overall well-being concern. The common practice of diagnosing back pain by focusing on spinal abnormalities and imperfections, despite the fact that most of these do not cause pain, was a significant misinterpretation affecting the vast majority of sufferers. Research has now revealed that only a tiny fraction of individuals with back pain require surgery. Nevertheless, spinal surgery was once widely employed as a primary treatment in the mid-20th century. Fortunately, through research, this approach was exposed as a mistake, leading to a reduction in the number of people receiving surgery for back pain today.

**If you have a major disc prolapse and severe leg pain, surgery can definitely be an excellent short-term solution, especially with modern procedures that have become less invasive.

Pharmaceuticals

The third phase of medical treatment for back pain in the 20th century involved the use of drug therapies, which continues to be a prevalent practice today. However, the problem of back pain in our society is multifaceted and extends beyond the use of drugs. While painkillers provide short-term relief, their long-term use can have adverse physical effects and often replaces legitimate scientific rehabilitation efforts.

While drug therapies have their place in managing back pain, they cannot be considered a long-term solution, much like how they are not a solution for tooth decay. It is worth questioning if medicine has turned to drug therapies as a last resort, given that medical training does not typically cover accountable and updated pain management. Family doctors are spread thin in terms of their scope of practice, while orthopaedic surgeons may have hyper-specialisation that limits their ability to address back pain.

It is important to note that there are three major sub-plots in the story of back pain treatment in the 20th century that have not been addressed.

Chiropractic

The term ‘chiropractic’ has its roots in the Greek words cheir, meaning ‘hand’, and praktos, meaning ‘done by hand’. The founder of chiropractic, Daniel David Palmer, a self-taught healer, chose this name. Palmer’s interest in the relationship between the spine and health was sparked by his own experiences, and he discovered that various forms of spinal manipulation had been used for centuries without a scientific explanation. He developed a hypothesis that became the foundation of the chiropractic profession based on his reasoning ability and extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology.

Today, chiropractic adjustments have been proven to be an effective treatment for lower back pain, in line with international guidelines. Palmer performed the first official chiropractic adjustment in September 1895 and established the Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, in 1897. By 1931, 39 states had granted chiropractors legal recognition as primary healthcare providers, on par with doctors and dentists.

Chiropractic has made a significant contribution to pain management, and millions of people receive chiropractic treatment worldwide each year. However, early theories about the influence of chiropractic adjustments have been found inadequate over time, and researchers are extensively revising them. Nonetheless, spinal manipulation is listed on virtually all scientifically validated international guidelines for the management of back pain.

While traditional chiropractic’s contribution to the management of back pain is somewhat limited due to the complexity of the issue, modern European-style chiropractic training encompasses a wide range of evidence-based perspectives and techniques. Since the early 20th century, chiropractic has been less invasive and less harmful than traditional medicine in managing back pain. While not a competition, this comparison is valuable for those seeking pain relief.

Osteopathy

Andrew Taylor Still, a physician and surgeon, founded osteopathy in Kirksville, Missouri, in the late 1800s. His belief that the body’s parts should work together for optimum health led him to develop a concept of restoring the body to health with minimal surgery and medicine.

Through experimentation and effective treatments, Still gained a reputation, and patients from all over America sought him out for treatment. This led to the establishment of the American School of Osteopathy, which in 1892 enrolled its first wave of 22 osteopathic students. The two-year program included in-depth education in anatomy and physiology, and upon graduation, students were awarded the title of D.O. (Doctors of Osteopathy) with full practice rights.

Osteopathy grew rapidly, and in 1917, the British School of Osteopathy was founded, laying the strong foundations for osteopathy in Europe. However, the integration with medicine was uneasy at times during the 20th century, and it wasn’t until the introduction of the Osteopaths Act in 1993 that osteopathy became a legally regulated profession. This led to the establishment of the General Osteopathic Council and the Register opening in 1998, requiring qualified practitioners to register with GOsC to practice and use the title of ‘osteopath’.

Osteopaths, like chiropractors, have made valuable contributions to the non-invasive, non-toxic, and conservative treatment of back pain since their professional birth just over 100 years ago. They are well-positioned to carry the torch of ‘best practice’ as society learns more about how to collectively manage lower back pain.

The Biopsychosocial Model – The Beginning Of A Happy Ending

The 20th century ended with significant progress in our comprehension of lower back pain. We saw the early stages of healthcare professionals collaborating as a team and developing a consensus on how to manage back pain. Thanks to ample research, we now have international guidelines for handling lower back pain, a crucial milestone. A significant advancement of the late 20th century was the biopsychosocial model of lower back pain, formulated by orthopaedic surgeon Gordon Waddell.

This model is currently the most comprehensive approach to understanding back pain and the chronic disability that often accompanies it. It considers back pain not only from a physical perspective but also from a holistic viewpoint, including the mind, emotions, and societal and cultural factors. The term “biopsychosocial” reflects this integrated approach, with “bio” referring to bodily tissues, “psycho” to the mind, and “social” to society and culture. The biopsychosocial model recognises that back pain, like all chronic pain, is profoundly influenced by emotional well-being, belief systems, and cultural attitudes toward pain and those who suffer from it. Although it is not perfect and may require revision, the biopsychosocial model represents a significant breakthrough in our comprehension of back pain.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the alarming increase in long-term disability caused by back pain makes this conversation not just about back pain treatment but about the freedom to live a happy, normal life. Back pain can restrict individuals from enjoying certain activities, fulfilling their responsibilities to others, and connecting with loved ones. For those with severe cases, simply being able to walk, stand, sit, and sleep without pain can provide a sense of basic freedom. These are the fundamental realities underlying the issue of back pain, while the treatment details are merely the means to achieve these goals.

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Do We Need To Re-Evaluate How We Assess Back Pain?

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A report from The Journal of the American Medical Association has concluded that Americans spend an estimated $380 billion annually on spine and joint pain treatment, with the use of MRI scans, narcotic painkillers, injections, and invasive spine surgery all growing by several hundred per cent. Yet, the percentage of people with impaired function due to back problems has drastically increased over the past two decades, even after controlling for an aging population. Many mainstream medical approaches to treating back pain are minimally effective at best and may actually be doing more harm than good. Unfortunately, in the majority of cases, mainstream medical practitioners aren’t even able to figure out what’s causing their patients’ pain, with a definitive cause only being identified in about 5-15% of people with back pain. The reductionist approach of attempting to fit every patient into a neatly defined box and calling it a day doesn’t work, and there’s no magic bullet. Pain is highly complex neurobiology that involves many different factors, and treating it needs to take the full picture of the individual patient into account.

As author and blogger Todd Hargrove, in Healthy Movements for Human Animals: An Evolutionary Perspective on Exercise, points out that we have a tendency to simplify the causes of back pain.

“When back pain suddenly shows up, we are tempted to blame it on the last minor stressor that affected it, such as a soft bed in a hotel. This is like blaming your bankruptcy on the last latte you bought before your account finally went into the red.” – Todd Hargrove.

So What’s The Solution?

The initial step to tackling pain is to locate a healthcare provider who is well-versed in pain science, willing to invest time in comprehending the root cause and values the patient as an equal partner.

Chiropractic care has been proven to be one of the best solutions for back pain. Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to back pain treatment. Chiropractors not only focus on the spine but also on the patient’s overall health and well-being. They may recommend lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to help improve the patient’s overall health and prevent future back pain.

Additionally, it’s crucial to retain control over your health and avoid magnifying the situation. You are not fundamentally damaged, and your pain is not permanent; there is hope. Taking one proactive step at a time can make a significant difference.

 

 

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The ‘Fascia-nating’ Fascia

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You’ve probably come across the terms ‘fascia’ or ‘myofascial release‘ before, especially if you’ve been to see us at the City Chiropractic or during a yoga, physical therapy, or massage session. But what exactly is fascia?

In high school biology class, we learned about our body’s bones, muscles, organs, nerves, and blood vessels, but the term fascia (pronounced “fash-i-a”) was likely never mentioned. However, the fascia system plays a crucial role in how your body functions, moves and maintains its shape.

If you’ve used a foam roller, massager or received Graston (scraping) therapy at City Chiropractic, you’ve been taking care of your fascia without even realising it. But to optimise your fascial treatment, it’s important to have a solid understanding of how your fascia functions.

What Is Fascia, And How Does It Function?

Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds and interconnects muscles, bones, organs, and other structures throughout the body. It consists of a network of collagen and elastin fibres, as well as a gel-like substance called ground substance. Fascia provides structural support to the body and helps to maintain its shape.

 

The fascia plays several important roles in the body:

  1. Structural support: The fascia forms a web-like network that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, organs, and other structures, helping to maintain the body’s shape.
  2. Movement and flexibility: The fascia allows muscles to glide smoothly over each other, and provides a lubricating surface for bones to move against, which is essential for smooth and efficient movement.
  3. Tension and force transmission: The fascia is able to transmit forces and tensions throughout the body, which is essential for coordinating movement and maintaining stability.
  4. Sensory feedback: The fascia contains a variety of sensory receptors that provide information to the nervous system about the body’s position, movement, and tension.
  5. Injury prevention and healing: The fascia helps to distribute stresses and forces throughout the body, which can help to prevent injuries. It also plays a role in the healing process by providing a supportive environment for the repair of damaged tissues.

Overall, the fascia is a dynamic and complex tissue that plays a crucial role in many aspects of physical function and health.

When fascia becomes tight or restricted, it can cause pain, discomfort, and restricted movement. Myofascial release techniques, such as foam rolling or massage, can help to release tight fascia and restore mobility and function. By understanding the role that fascia plays in the body, individuals can better care for and optimise their overall physical health and well-being.

man-neck-pain-the fascia-nating fascia

What Pain Can Be Caused By Tight/Restricted Fascia?

  1. Neck and shoulders: Fascia restrictions in the neck and shoulders can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. This can result in tension headaches and even migraines.
  2. Lower back: Fascia restrictions in the lower back can cause pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. This can lead to sciatica and other nerve-related pain.
  3. Hips: Fascia restrictions in the hips can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. This can lead to hip impingement and even arthritis.
  4. Legs: Fascia restrictions in the legs can cause pain, tightness, and limited mobility. This can lead to shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and even knee pain.
  5. Abdomen: Fascia restrictions in the abdomen can cause pain, discomfort, and even digestive issues. This can lead to irritable bowel syndrome and other gastrointestinal disorders.

It’s worth noting that fascia is a complex and interconnected system throughout the body, so pain or dysfunction in one area may be linked to fascia trouble elsewhere.

What Pain Can Be Caused By Tight/Restricted Fascia?

  1. Neck and shoulders: Fascia restrictions in the neck and shoulders can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. This can result in tension headaches and even migraines.
  2. Lower back: Fascia restrictions in the lower back can cause pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. This can lead to sciatica and other nerve-related pain.
  3. Hips: Fascia restrictions in the hips can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. This can lead to hip impingement and even arthritis.
  4. Legs: Fascia restrictions in the legs can cause pain, tightness, and limited mobility. This can lead to shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and even knee pain.
  5. Abdomen: Fascia restrictions in the abdomen can cause pain, discomfort, and even digestive issues. This can lead to irritable bowel syndrome and other gastrointestinal disorders.

It’s worth noting that fascia is a complex and interconnected system throughout the body, so pain or dysfunction in one area may be linked to fascia trouble elsewhere.

Problems That Can Improve With Fascia Treatment

  1. Pain and stiffness: Tight or restricted fascia can cause pain and stiffness in the muscles and joints. By releasing the fascia, myofascial release techniques can help to reduce pain and improve mobility.
  2. Postural imbalances: Poor posture can cause the fascia to become tight and restricted, leading to postural imbalances. Myofascial release techniques can help to restore balance and alignment to the body.
  3. Muscle soreness and fatigue: Overworked muscles can become sore and fatigued, and myofascial release techniques can help to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
  4. Injuries: Injuries can cause scar tissue and adhesions to form in the fascia, which can restrict movement and cause pain. Myofascial release techniques can help to break up scar tissue and adhesions and promote healing.
  5. Limited range of motion: Tight or restricted fascia can limit range of motion and flexibility. Myofascial release techniques can help to restore mobility and improve range of motion.

How Do You Treat Fascia?

SELF MYOFASCIAL RELEASE (SMR) TECHNIQUES

Self-Myofascial Release (SMR) refers to fascia techniques that can be done independently without the assistance of a therapist/ chiropractor. Although foam rollers are commonly used for SMR, almost any dense and rollable object, such as a tennis or lacrosse ball, can yield comparable results. The choice of tool is determined by the individual’s level of tightness and the specific area being rolled.

FASCIA “MELTING” TECHNIQUES

Approaches that purport to “melt” fascia typically employ massage and heat to make the tissue more pliable and increase its flexibility. Advocates of this technique contend that massage and heat can effectively alleviate pain and enhance mobility by disintegrating adhesions and restoring the proper function of the fascia.

FASCIA “BLASTING” TECHNIQUES

Some practitioners advocate a “blasting” technique for addressing fascia issues, utilising powerful tools to disintegrate taut tissue and enhance mobility. Although this method may be beneficial in quickly alleviating pain and improving function, some specialists contend that it can be excessively forceful and cause additional harm to delicate tissue.

SCRAPING TECHNIQUES

On the opposite end of the spectrum, there are Graston or IASTM (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization) techniques that utilise tools with hard edges to “scrape” the fascia, disintegrating adhesions and reinstating normal function. These techniques can be beneficial in rapidly decreasing pain and enhancing mobility.

MANUAL “HANDS-ON” TECHNIQUES

Lastly, certain methods, such as Active Release Therapy (ART), aim to softly massage the fascia back to its original shape through manual therapy with the use of hands. This approach is often identified as “myofascial release,” and supporters contend that it is the gentlest and most effective technique for eliminating adhesions in the fascia adjacent to the muscles.

 

Since everyone’s body is unique and responds differently to various techniques, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for rectifying fascia problems. The optimal strategy for fascia correction may be a blend of techniques tailored to the individual’s requirements.

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3 Ways To Treat Plantar Fasciitis

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3 Ways To Treat Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a real pain to say the very least, it is one of those conditions that both really really hurts and is really really inconvenient.

Plantar fasciitis is a painful and common foot condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. The condition is often characterised by sharp pain and stiffness in the heel and arch of the foot, especially in the morning or after extended periods of inactivity. In this blog, we will discuss three ways to treat plantar fasciitis.

1. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. Simple exercises, such as calf stretches and toe curls, can help stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons in the foot and ankle, reducing the strain on the plantar fascia.

Other exercises that may be helpful include heel raises and toe taps. These exercises help to improve the strength and flexibility of the foot and ankle muscles, which can reduce the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis in the future.

Here are some tricks you can try at home:

Plantar fasciitis trick 1 – Roll an ice bottle – Fill a plastic bottle with water, freeze it and roll the sore part of your foot back and forth for 15 minutes to reduce inflammation and slow down nerve impulses from the painful area.

Plantar fasciitis trick 2 – use a shakti mat – Buy yourself a shakti mat ( don’t be scared ) . You can start just by resting your foot gently on the mat while you sit on the sofa if it’s too sore to put pressure on it. Repeat every day for 5 minutes at whatever level of pressure you can handle and gradually increase pressure over time

Plantar fasciitis trick 3 – stretch your toes up – Point your toes firmly up towards the tip of your nose hold them stretch down through your heel ( like trying to make your leg longer between the hip & your heel ) hold the toes and heel stretch for 30 seconds then relax x 10 reps – repeat OFTEN.

2. Footwear Modifications

Wearing the right footwear can also help alleviate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Shoes that offer good arch support and cushioning can help reduce the pressure on the plantar fascia, reducing pain and discomfort.

Orthotic inserts, which are custom-made to fit the shape of your foot, can also provide additional support and cushioning, reducing the strain on the plantar fascia. Night splints, which keep the foot in a stretched position while you sleep, can also help to alleviate pain and stiffness in the morning.

3. Rest and Ice

Rest and ice are two simple and effective treatments for plantar fasciitis. Resting the foot and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Icing the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Ice can be applied using a cold pack, a bag of frozen peas, or a cold water bottle.

Conclusion

Plantar fasciitis can be a debilitating condition that affects your quality of life. However, with the right treatment, it is possible to reduce pain and discomfort and prevent the condition from worsening.

Stretching and strengthening exercises, footwear modifications, and rest and ice are three effective ways to treat plantar fasciitis. If you are experiencing persistent or severe pain, it is important to seek medical attention to rule out other potential causes of foot pain and to receive proper treatment. By taking care of your feet and using these treatments, you can reduce pain and discomfort and enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle.

If you want to look deeper into this issue and try to figure out what is causing your plantar  fasciitis or heel pain please feel free to get in touch. We take people through a process that starts with looking at the foot and how it is functioning when you walk and run. We aim to find preventative measures that can help with your pain both now and in the future.. we are in for the long haul.

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My Migraine Blog

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My Migraine Blog

Migraine

The estimated global prevalence of migraine is 14.7% (that’s around 1 in 7 people).  Migraine affects x3 as many women as men. Research implies that 3,000 migraine attacks occur a day for every million people. There are estimated to be over 190,000 migraine attacks every day in the UK alone. So you can at least be sure that if you have a migraine headache at any given moment you are far from being alone.

To a fairly large extent western medicine has shrugged its shoulders with regard to the migraine issue and understandably gone about the business of helping with things it is better at. That is unless you consider pills that relive the pain of migraine to be a satisfactory conclusion (most migraine sufferers would rather find a resolution to their problem). There is research conducted on the topic of migraine but very little relative to their prevalence. There are no massive research budgets out there for the study of migraine and headache causes, and I guarantee you  that 99% of doctors have not give the the cause of migraine much thought since well before they left medical school. You could argue that the relative effectiveness of migraine headache medications in limiting attacks justifies this relaxed attitude.

The outcome of all this indifference is what you might expect. Heaps of people with unresolved migraines. A loose general consensus that migraine headaches are something to do with blood flow to the brain, and a shortlist of pharmaceuticals that can must definitely help with an attack in most cases. To their credit your doctor may also be happy to talk to you about food trigger avoidance but that’s probably not anything you couldn’t figure out for yourself.

So the question is whether there is anything more to the treatment and understanding of migraines than a shrug and bottle of pills. So, what if you are a migraine sufferer and you aren’t happy with the outcomes your get from trigger avoidance and taking a pill when that fails? Is there anything more to the migraine headache story? And can a chiropractor help potentially?

What Really Causes Migraine

To be clear, my chiropractors version of the migraine headache story is not proven scientifically and in fact has yet to be studied scientifically either. As you will see though its not entirely chiropractor waffle – and there are some scientific foundations to the theory that make it pretty solid. In the end however, this chiropractors explanation of migraines is currently a matter of clinical experience – handed down though generations of practically minded practitioners and healers to the present day.

Migraines are caused by chronic muscles tension and soft tissue irritation in the neck!!!!

It feels good just to just to have that out here in the open doesn’t it? Feel free to say it out loud 3 times, go on see how it feels There are a percentage of you reading who kinda knew this all along, because you could feel it.

Chronic muscles tension & chronic soft tissue irritation in the scalp, jaw, neck and shoulders, that’s fundamentally what causes migraines. Now that you know this, the next questions are how? why ? and ultimately  what can we potentially do about it (with our chiropractors help).

How Does The Neck Cause Migraine?

So let’s say that the chiropractor is right about that cause of migraines, how can muscle and soft tissue tension in the scalp, jaw, neck and shoulders cause a migraine? After all – migraines are felt in the head, behind the eye and involve all sorts of strange symptoms like sensitivity to light, nausea and visual disturbances that we wouldn’t usually associate with muscle tension.

Muscle tension bad enough to cause migraines comes from 3 main sources.

    1. Old Injuries like whiplash
    2. Postural Issues
    3. Stress and suppression of emotions

As any chiropractor will tell you, old injuries in the neck can lead to chronic muscles and soft tissues issues if they don’t heal successfully.  The human neck is a delicate weight bearing column that has to support an unusually large cranium. The neck never gets a single day off in its entire lifetime of performing its supporting role for the head. The difficulty of its job and the lack of rest mean that without extensive rehab many of life’s knocks don’t recover fully.

Postural issues like those millions of people take to the chiropractors cause persistent compression of the soft tissues in the neck. The tissues in the neck are design to bear loads obviously, but like any load bearing structure the neck has its limits. If you spend year after year with stubborn postural compression playing out in your neck you can end up with ALOT of stiffness, ALOT of tension and ALOT of inflammation. It is worth knowing that like so many states of unwellness and disease in the body all this can go ‘unfelt’ for large portions of time.

Stress and suppression of emotions can generate a huge amount of pressure in the neck, scalp, jaw and shoulders over time. The tension we hold in our necks is invisible to onlookers and so normal for many of us that we don’t even register it. This type of tension can be so severe though that is can cause serious neck pain, osteoarthritis, headaches and in some people it can even wear down the hardest structure in the body.. tooth enamel. Dentists and chiropractors are both the friends of the jaw clenchers!

All the above sources of trauma and tension to the soft tissues in the neck have the potential to generate migraines. The way in which the tissues do this is much the same as the way sciatic pain can come from the lower back. Sciatic pain is felt in the back of the leg but the pain is caused deep in the lower back and pelvis.

Migraine headache pain is felt in temple and behind the eye usually but comes from the chiropractors mainstay –  inflammation of muscles and soft tissue in the neck, jaw, shoulder and scalp.

The above statement is not a wild theory. There is in fact a sound scientific basis for this theory, as researchers have found nerve pathways that may explain this mechanism of referred migraine headache pain.

Why Me?

The question of why we get migraines is tied up with the answers above. We get migraines when our muscle and soft tissues get so ‘out of whack’ that exotic pain pathways are activate in our head and neck areas.

In another sense there is a broader and deeper ‘why’ behind the migraine topic. We get migraines because some part of our wellbeing has been neglected.

You really can’t get migraines unless you have seriously neglected some aspect of your wellbeing. To be clear about this ‘neglect’ can happen completely unintentionally and unwittingly, it is often not a deliberate thing.

If you have an old injury in your neck that has not been rehabilitated it basically a form of accidental neglect of a body part that has been seriously in need of some chiropractic style TLC.

If your posture has got so bad that compression of your neck tissues has lead to migraine headaches, you have definitely neglected your bodies need for the right kind of movements. This includes allowing weakness to creep into the muscles of the upper back.

But what about if emotional stress in your neck, shoulder and jaw has caused you to develop migraine headaches. Is that a form of neglect? When emotions are allowed to build up so much that they make us sick it does mean that something has been neglected. Usually that something is an ‘inner voice’ that has been trying to tell us something for a long time. Many of us are absolute masters at suppressing emotions and those of us who are best at it often get sick in one way or another. Suppressing emotions that are felt over and over is in itself just another form of neglect that ultimately does us harm.

What Can We Do About It?

The great news is that there is a lot that can be done to help the majority of migraine headache cases. Usually a process of reversing whatever neglect lead them to become a problem in the first place.

The start point on the journey is always identifying the the underlying cause of the migraines. This is usually possible to achieve within the confines of a 45 minute conversation about your history of migraines with someone who is experienced in treating them.. like the right chiropractor.

Once you know what is causing your migraines a tentative plan of management can be formed and treatment can get underway. Treatment for migraines generally involves a range of safe, non-invasive  ‘manual therapies’ for the soft tissues of the neck, jaw and shoulders.

Acupressure, neuromuscular release, scar tissue stretching, spinal manipulation, postural exercises, traction and vibration massage all have a part to play in this process. Not all migraine headache sufferers respond to the same kind of treatment so when it comes to managing them variety is definitely the spice!

Conclusion

The word freedom conjurs up many possible images in the mind. Often areas of life like money, relationships and travel are associated with freedom. There is a deeper layer to the topic of freedom however, one that only those who have been sick or in pain really understand.

The freedom to be able to simple stand sit or lie without pain, the freedom to choose what you want to do with your day, the freedom to be able to get through a days work in comfort. These are the most basic ingredients of a life that feels ‘free’. Living with chronic migraines headaches and any other type of persistent pain is a major box that must be ticked in order to have a lasting experience of that kind of freedom. At the deepest level of our experience being pain free is a freedom issue, and an important one at that.

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