Tag: brynmawrchiropracticcare

3 Signs You May Need A Physical Therapist in Addition to A Chiropractor

Home > Blog > 3 Signs You May Need A Physical Therapist in Addition to A Chiropractor

Chiropractor treating a patient adjustments
Chiropractor treating a patient chiropractic adjustment

Three Signs You May Need to See a Physical Therapist in Addition to a Chiropractor

Although chiropractors can massage your muscles to loosen them up before an adjustment and can assign you physical therapy-type exercises to do at home, they’re not massage therapists or physical therapists (in most cases). And while your chiropractor can handle some musculoskeletal problems that don’t seem directly related to the spine, some problems are likely to need the attention of a licensed physical therapist as well. Here are a few signs that you may need to head in that direction.

  1. You’re sure the problem isn’t spine-related

You’ve probably heard miracle stories about people who went to the chiropractor and magically had their temporomandibular (TMJ) or migraines resolved by a spinal adjustment. However, just because their headaches were helped by a spinal adjustment doesn’t necessarily mean your sports injury will be. Of course, that’s not to say you don’t need to see a chiropractor; you may well have ended up with a subluxation as well as tendon damage during that football tackle. But your torn tendon should be more of a priority, so you should probably see the physical therapist first.

  1. It’s an unusual injury

Sports injuries as a group are quite common, but there’s always a chance that you’ll get an uncommon one that requires specialist knowledge, and the same goes for occupational and other injuries. If you have a common problem like carpal tunnel syndrome, your chiropractor can probably help you with that, but if you have a less common issue with one of the other nerves in your hand you may need an appointment with a physical therapist who specializes in hand therapy.

  1. Your injury hasn’t responded well to chiropractic treatments

If you’re a regular chiropractic patient, congratulations; regular adjustments can significantly improve your overall well-being. But not all injuries are alike, and not all bodies respond the same way to treatments. Your current injury, if it doesn’t seem to be responding well to chiropractic care, may need to be looked at from a different perspective. Going to a physical therapist can be another holistic option if you feel you need a second opinion on how to treat it and don’t want to jump straight to surgery.

These are three situations in which going to a physical therapist may be a good bet for you, even if you’re a longtime chiropractic patient. Don’t stop going to a chiropractor just because you also have physical therapy needs, but don’t let your loyalty to your chiropractor keep you from getting physical therapy either.

About Bryn Mawr Chiropractic Care

Dr. Eric Chesloff, D.C., Ph.D, is a board-certified chiropractor serving the Philadelphia Main Line since 1984, including Lower Merion Township, Haverford Township, Radnor Township, Tredyffrin Township, Easttown Township, Willistown Township, Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County, . Services provided include gentle spinal adjustments, sports injury care, family care, auto accident care, and health education.

BRYN MAWR CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Eric G. Chesloff, D.C., Ph.D.
Rosemont Plaza
1062 Lancaster Avenue
Suite 15-I
Rosemont, PA 19010
(610) 527-8491
DrChesloff@BrynMawrChiropractic.com
www.BrynMawrChiropractic.com

Hours are by appointment, Monday through Saturday. Insurance is accepted, as applicable. Dr. Chesloff is a Medicare provider.

Lower Merion Township PA, Haverford Township PA, Radnor Township PA, Tredyffrin Township PA, Easttown Township PA, Willistown Township PA, Montgomery County PA, Delaware County PA, Chester County, PA, Aldan, PA 19018; Ardmore, PA 19003; Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004; Berwyn, PA 19312; Broomall, PA 19008; Bryn Mawr, PA 19010; Chesterbrook, PA 19087; Chester Springs, PA 19425; Conshohocken, PA 19428; Daylesford, PA; Devon, PA 19333; Gladwyne, PA 19035; Gulph Mills, PA 19428; Haverford, PA 19041; Havertown, PA 19083; King of Prussia, PA 19406; Malvern, PA 19355; Merion, PA 19066; Merion Station, PA 19066; Narberth, PA 19072; Newtown Square, PA 19073; Paoli, PA 19301; Penn Valley, PA 19072; Penn Wynne, PA 19096; Philadelphia, PA; Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462; Radnor, PA 19087; Rosemont, PA 19010; St. Davids, PA 19087; Strafford, PA 19087; Villanova, PA 19085; Wayne, PA 19080; West Chester, PA 19382; West Conshohocken, PA 19428; and Wynnewood, PA 19096. Pennsylvania.

Common Causes of Low Back Pain

Home > Blog > Common Causes of Low Back Pain

Common Causes of Low Back Pain Bryn Mawr Chiropractic Care

Common causes of low back pain

Common Causes of Low Back Pain

If you’re suddenly experiencing low back pain, you might not only be uncomfortable, but concerned. It can happen at any age, but most people are more likely to experience low back pain in later life. Low back pain can occur for a number of reasons.

Overworked or Knotted Muscles

Putting excess stress on the muscles in your lower back can cause low back pain. Some common causes include:

      • Extra weight gain in the last few years
      • Overstretching muscles
      • Long periods of sitting, standing, or lying down
      • Intense exercise – especially physical activity that doesn’t fit your usual lifestyle
      • Trying to force your back into a straight position

While your doctor can recommend treatments for these and other common causes of low back pain, many people have no problem managing their pain at this stage. You may have a sore lower back, but it will often clear up and go away by itself.

Dislocated Spine

Your low back may hurt from damage to your discs. Dislocations and tears in the spine can damage the discs and cause severe back pain. In some cases, you will feel pain that goes all the way around your back.

Sometimes, back pain is an indication of a problem with the spine itself. This is called spinal stenosis.

Nerve Damage

Another reason for low back pain may be a problem with your nerves. If you are experiencing pain in both your lower back and legs, the cause is likely nerve damage.

A pinched nerve in your back can also cause a similar sensation.

Mystery Ailments

Perhaps you have gotten a bump or bruise on your lower back that shows up out of nowhere. If it isn’t severe, it likely doesn’t need medical attention.

In some cases, the cause of a low back pain condition is not obvious, and it’s not uncommon to see several reasons for low back pain in one person. These types of situations require a doctor for accurate diagnosis.

When you have low back pain or another symptom that doesn’t seem to be getting better, you should see a doctor. If you’re unable to leave the house because of your pain, you might be able to get a visit from a qualified health professional at home.

Treatments for Low Back Pain

You may get relief from low back pain with exercise, stretching, treatment by a specialist such as a physical therapist or chiropractor, or a combination of these methods. Again, a doctor is the best person to advise you as to which type of treatment is best for your situation.

If your low back pain isn’t relieved by any of these treatments, your doctor may advise over the counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Stronger prescription opioids like hydrocodone, oxycodone, codeine, and morphine are also an option. With their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, these medicines greatly ease low back pain for most people.

Natural remedies can also provide relief from low back pain. However, it’s best to be cautious, especially if you’re taking medication, as there can be interactions. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any natural remedies for pain.

Suffering from low back pain is frustrating, but a lot of situations resolve themselves quickly without the need for medical intervention. If your low back pain doesn’t disappear, your doctor can find out why and help you feel better.

About Bryn Mawr Chiropractic Care

Dr. Eric Chesloff, D.C., Ph.D, is a board-certified chiropractor serving the Philadelphia Main Line since 1984, including Lower Merion Township, Haverford Township, Radnor Township, Tredyffrin Township, Easttown Township, Willistown Township, Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County. Services provided include gentle spinal adjustments, sports injury care, family care, auto accident care, and health education.

BRYN MAWR CHIROPRACTIC CARE
www.BrynMawrChiropractic.com

Eric G. Chesloff, D.C., Ph.D.
Rosemont Plaza
1062 Lancaster Avenue
Suite 15-I
Rosemont, PA 19010
(610) 527-8491
DrChesloff@BrynMawrChiropractic.com

Hours are by appointment, Monday through Saturday. Insurance is accepted, as applicable. Dr. Chesloff is a Medicare provider.

How A Chiropractor Treats Neck Pain

Home > Blog > How A Chiropractor Treats Neck Pain

 

 

How A Chiropractor Treats Neck Pain

Symptoms of neck pain include pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. While many people use pain medication or ice packs to relieve neck pain, there is a better way to treat symptoms permanently: chiropractic care. Learn how chiropractic adjustments reduce neck pain and stiffness without the use of medication.

A healthy neck is able to move in all directions, with no pain or stiffness. Tension, headaches, and reduced mobility all suggest restrictions within the neck tissue. By relieving these restrictions using manual adjustments, a chiropractor can restore the neck’s alignment. Chiropractors can also work out scar tissue or muscle knots that cause pain and inflammation.

Chiropractors use their hands to make neck adjustments, along with instruments that allow them to deliver precise adjustments to the neck tissue. By adjusting the neck muscles and realigning the spine, a chiropractor can restore alignment and length of the spine. Chiropractors can work out muscular tension and scar tissue that block neck movement.

There are sometimes crackling or clicking sounds during adjustments. These sounds indicate trapped gas is released; they are a natural side effect of treatment.

Complementary therapies may also be used to speed up healing. A chiropractor may direct you to use heat or ice packs in the aftermath of an injury. Ultrasound treatment is used to relieve neck stiffness with sound waves. Therapeutic massage and trigger point therapy work on muscular tension that often accompanies neck pain. By incorporating these natural healing methods alongside chiropractic adjustments, a chiropractor is able to relieve neck pain quickly.

Many chiropractors offer lifestyle advice designed to support healing. It’s not unusual for a chiropractor to make ergonomic suggestions, demonstrate exercises, or discuss whole life adjustments designed to improve your quality of life. Chiropractors see you as a whole person, not just a case of neck pain!

Neck Injuries a Chiropractor Treats

Although many people seek chiropractic care for neck pain, there are medical conditions a chiropractor can treat, too. These include:

      • Whiplash
      • TMJ
      • Neck strain
      • Misaligned posture
      • Degenerative disc disease
      • Osteoarthritis
      • Concussion

Some individuals believe that once you see a chiropractor, you have to keep going for life. That’s not true. Treatments generally occur on a weekly basis. After a series of treatments, the underlying condition is fully resolved, and patients are able to cease treatment.

A chiropractor can explain the treatment plan more fully and answer any questions you have during a consultation. Once you feel comfortable with the plan of care, treatments can begin.

About Dr. Eric Chesloff

Dr. Eric Chesloff, D.C., Ph.D, is a board-certified chiropractor serving the Philadelphia Main Line since 1984, including Lower Merion Township, Haverford Township, Radnor Township, Tredyffrin Township, Easttown Township, Willistown Township, Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County. Services provided include gentle spinal adjustments, sports injury care, family care, auto accident care, and health education.

BRYN MAWR CHIROPRACTIC CARE

Eric G. Chesloff, D.C., Ph.D.
Rosemont Plaza
1062 Lancaster Avenue
Suite 15-I
Rosemont, PA 19010
(610) 527-8491
DrChesloff@BrynMawrChiropractic.com
www.brynmawrchiropractic.com
Hours are by appointment, Monday through Saturday. Insurance is accepted, as applicable. Dr. Chesloff is a Medicare provider.

How to Develop A Safe and Effective Spine-Strengthening Routine

Home > Blog > How to Develop A Safe and Effective Spine-Strengthening Routine

How to Develop A Safe and Effective Spine-Strengthening Routine

Yes, the human spine is designed to move. However, if you’re not actually moving as much as you could be, your spine and its supporting parts could be a source of unwelcome discomfort. Fortunately, it’s never too late to develop a routine to strengthen your spine and the muscle groups that support it. Keep reading to discover what you can do to develop a safe and effective spine-strengthening routine.

Start Slowly

It’s one thing to be firmly committed to getting started with a spine-strengthening routine, and another thing entirely to overdo it so much that you end injuring your spine. Reduce your risk of unintentional injury by starting slowly instead. By gaining confidence and allowing your spine and its supporting parts to get used to a boost in activity, it will be safer to step things up later.

Luckily, there are many options with gentler, beginner-level exercise routines good for your spine. Possibilities include:

      • Walking at a comfortable pace
      • Swimming and other water-based activities
      • Yoga, Pilates, and similar controlled movement disciplines

Seek Expert Advice

There are many knowledgeable sources you can turn to for advice as you get started with a spine-strengthening routine. The most accessible and immediate one is your own regular physician. A spine specialist or chiropractor can also recommend an appropriate routine, as can a personal trainer or fitness expert familiar with spine-friendly exercise routines.

Pay Attention to Your Body

It’s perfectly normal to be sore after you’re just getting started with any type of exercise routine. What you don’t want to do, however, is ignore signs suggesting it’s best to take a day or two to rest or change up your routine. Typically, it’s best to do this if you are noticing:

  • Sudden aches and pains around your spine
  • Worsening spine-related pain if you have existing back issues
  • Trouble with mobility
  • Discomfort that’s not going away after a day or so

Commit to Your Routine

USA Today estimates nearly 70 percent of gym memberships go unused. This is often because there’s an initial commitment to a routine at first that eventually dwindles. Starting off strong and tapering off within a month or so is something you don’t want to do with any type of spine-strengthening routine, even if it’s not one that involves a gym. Plus, starting a routine and stopping it before starting again later increases your risk of injuring your spine or its supporting soft tissues. Ultimately, you’ll do yourself and your spine a favor if you develop and stick to a routine that works best for you.

Remember Your Core

The “core” refers to the muscles primarily in your trunk area. This group of muscles extends to your pelvic area and includes muscles along the side of your body that provide support to your spine as well. These muscles need to be kept strong so your spine isn’t over-stressed from your daily movements and activities.

As you can see, there are many ways to develop and maintain a spine-strengthening routine that’s just right for you. Ultimately, you’ll be rewarded with a healthier spine and the ability to enjoy the many things you look forward to in your daily life.

About Dr. Eric Chesloff

Dr. Eric Chesloff, D.C., Ph.D, is a board-certified chiropractor serving the Philadelphia Main Line since 1984, including Lower Merion Township, Haverford Township, Radnor Township, Tredyffrin Township, Easttown Township, Willistown Township, Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County. Services provided include gentle spinal adjustments, sports injury care, family care, auto accident care, and health education.

BRYN MAWR CHIROPRACTIC CARE

Eric G. Chesloff, D.C., Ph.D.
Rosemont Plaza
1062 Lancaster Avenue
Suite 15-I
Rosemont, PA 19010
(610) 527-8491
DrChesloff@BrynMawrChiropractic.com
www.BrynMawrChiropractic.com

Hours are by appointment, Monday through Saturday. Insurance is accepted, as applicable. Dr. Eric Chesloff is a Medicare provider.