Posts

7 Signs You May Need To See A Chiropractor

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. 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.

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

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

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
headache from neck pain

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.

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.

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.

Read More

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.

Read More

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.

Read More
Can A Chiropractor Fix My Shoulder Pain?

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.

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.



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?

Read More

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.

Read More