Chiropractic
Chiropractic Services
During a chiropractic adjustment the goal is to treat a specific joint or vertebrae that is causing discomfort. Each patient is different therefore each treatment is different. Much more precise than a manipulation, an adjustment is performed by palpating each joint to determine exactly where the problem is located. X-rays are then taken to see what condition the joint or vertebrae is in and which areas should not be treated. By detecting these degenerative changes the doctor may more accurately predict the outcome of the procedure.
A manipulation is more generic in that each patient receives a general treatment. This includes manipulation on their right side and then their left for lower back pain. Next the patient lies on their stomach and the mid back is manipulated by applying pressure in an upward and then downward movement. Finally, the joints of their neck are moved until a popping sound is heard. While all these movements may help a patient feel better, the pain relief is often short term because no specific correction has been made.
Cox Technic is a hands-on, non-surgical treatment that allows the doctor to manipulate a patient’s spine while they lay on The Cox Table. The Cox Table is specifically designed for flexion-distraction, a chiropractic technique used to treat most conditions affecting the lumbar spine. It helps to reduce pressure on the spinal nerves and help return motion to the spinal joints. One of the most commonly used chiropractic techniques, Diversified Treatment entails quick, shallow manual thrusts. This manipulation often produces a popping noise in the joint.
Joint Mobilization is a gentle therapy intervention using manual movement of a skeletal joint. It is targeted to a specific synovial joint. Its goal is achieving pain-free movement within a normal range of motion.
A modality is a mechanical, electrical or thermal energy that creates positive physiological change. Ultrasound, heat, ice, electrical stimulation and traction are all modalities used to relieve pain.
Myofascial Release is an alternative therapy used to treat chronic pain caused by tightness or sensitivity in the myofascial muscles. It helps to stimulate the stretch reflex in facial muscles resulting in improved blood and lymphatic circulation and less contraction in the muscles.
Similar to core training, Neuromuscular Re-education break down the most simple single-joint movement patterns. Using manual or mechanical assistance, these non-weight bearing movements require muscle stabilization, proper alignment and controlled breathing. They are often focused on a single-joint movement. Once that movement is mastered, more complex exercises with progressive resistance are added. |
NVC or Nerve Conduction Velocity is an electrical diagnostic test to examine abnormal nerve activity. While an electromyogram (EMG) records the electrical activity of muscles, Nerve Conduction Velocity measures any abnormalities in the nerves.
Electrodiagnostic Testing is a vital component of all chiropractic medicine. It is essential to providing an accurate diagnosis. Two of the most commonly prescribed tests are Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Velocity Study (NVC). Electromyography (EMG) helps determine the cause of neck or back pain, numbness and tingling as well as the loss of muscle strength. It can reveal whether the problem is in the muscle itself or is caused by a nerve disorder. During an EMG, the doctor or technician inserts a very fine needle into the muscle. Acting as an electrode, the needle records electrical activity in the muscle during a range of motions. This activity can be seen on a screen or oscilloscope. A Nerve Conduction Study, which is performed as part of the EMG, uses surface electrodes which are taped to the skin. The results of an EMG can reveal any dysfunction in nerves or muscles. It also identifies problems with nerve to muscle signal transmission. It is important to note that this test should be done no sooner than three weeks after the injury or trauma occurs. It often takes at least three weeks for all traumatic changes to occur. Nerve Conduction Velocity Study (NVC) is an electrodiagnostic test to examine abnormal nerve activity. While an electromyogram (EMG) records the electrical activity of muscles, Nerve Conduction Velocity Study measures any abnormalities in the nerves Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is a therapeutic treatment that uses electrical stimulation in the treatment of muscle pain and spasms. Electric impulses are sent through electrodes on the skin to create muscle contractions. By mimicking the way the body naturally exercises its muscles, it can help prevent atrophy and maintain muscle tone and strength in patients with severe spinal cord injuries or stroke. It is also an effective treatment for arthritis, scoliosis, and sciatica. TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. Back pain is treated by stimulating nerves with a low voltage electric current from a TENS unit, a small battery operated device.
Aerobic, cardiovascular, endurance and isometric are all examples of therapeutic exercise. Therapeutic exercises focus on endurance, stability, strength and balance. These exercises, when performed correctly may speed up a patient’s recovery and return them to an active, pain-free life.
Spinal Decompression Therapy is an effective non-surgical treatment for relieving lower back and leg pain as well as radiating pain in the arms and legs. The procedure involves using a traction table to stretch the spine. The stretching of the spine allows the repositioning of the bulging, herniated or degenerating discs. Once repositioned, pressure is relieved in the disc promoting an optimal healing environment Non-surgical Treatment and Diagnosis |