Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Consulting a chiropractor for neck pain

By Anthony Snyder


When you get in an accident, there is a physiological cascade effect that takes place that chiropractors can put a quick end to. It starts with whiplash from the neck being jerked back and forth, and moves to spinal tissues that inhibit joint motion. The nervous system reacts by freezing spinal joints, which is where chiropractor Fremont can work their magic, stop this process, and relieve your pain.

The chiropractor will eventually manipulate the spine and re-activate the frozen joints. However, this can only be done once the initial injury has been treated. The ultimate goal is to bring everything back to prime function.

The acute phase of whiplash is considered to be the time immediately after the injury. The doctor works on reducing pain and inflammation with ultrasound therapy or some other types of therapy modalities. Gentle stretching and muscle energy therapy may be indicated by the doctor. Often ice is recommended and a lightweight neck support for a brief period. As the neck begins to improve the chiropractor will use gentle spinal manipulation to unlock the spinal joints and restore motion to the area. Some patients respond well to the Cox flexion distraction technique, which chiropractor Fremont can help with. This is a non-surgical adjustment technique that re-aligns the spine and often stops pain immediately.

If you visit the chiropractor for neck pain after an accident, they will examine the whole spine because regions other than your neck may be affected. The spine is usually divided into 3 parts which are the cervical spine (neck area), the thoracic spine (mid-back) and the lumbar spine (lower back). Using unique chiropractic diagnostic techniques such as motion and static palpation, the doctor can determine disc and ligament injury, muscle spasm and restricted joint motion. He can feel for tightness or tenderness, and he will analyze your overall posture and how you walk to understand your body mechanics. He may take x-rays or an MRI if needed.

Chiropractors, including chiropractor Fremont, are considered to be "whole person" doctors who do not focus solely on your neck pain. The doctor's advice about nutrition, therapeutic exercises, stress management, and life goals should be followed to keep the pain at bay. Various therapy modalities can help reduce the inflammation associated with whiplash. Ultrasound machines use sound waves that are transmitted to the tissue and vasculature surrounding the injury. This creates a gentle heat within the muscle tissues that enhances circulation and decreases inflammation.




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