Are your hips feeling more like creaking hinges than fluid ball-and-socket joints? You’re not alone. Studies show it affects adults of all ages, genders, and activity levels. Hip pain is hard to ignore, particularly when it starts disrupting your daily life. 

The solution? Chiropractic care.

Begin your hip pain journey with chiropractic wisdom. This blog delves into effective chiropractic techniques for hip pain to help you move pain-free and comfortably.

Understanding Hip Pain

Hip pain is an unpleasant sensation in or around the hip joint. It can have various underlying causes, including issues with muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues. Hip pain can sometimes be a common symptom of certain diseases or conditions, such as arthritis, bursitis, and sports injuries.

If you're experiencing persistent pain or discomfort that restricts even the slightest movements, it might be an excellent time to seek chiropractic care. Here's why.

Role of Chiropractic Care in Hip Pain Relief

Why should you choose chiropractic care for hip pain relief? 

• Chiropractic treatment takes a natural, holistic approach. It diagnoses and treats a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including hip pain.
• Chiropractic research and practice aim to restore optimal body function by addressing all contributing factors of hip pain.
• Chiropractic treatments are noninvasive. Instead of surgery or medications, chiropractors use manual techniques—spinal adjustments, mobilization, and soft tissue therapies—to address hip pain and promote healing.
• Chiropractic care is all about prevention. It focuses on spinal health, which houses the nervous system and directly influences overall body function.

Chiropractic Techniques for Hip Pain Relief

Chiropractic care is ideal if you’re seeking noninvasive and holistic treatment. The question is, how exactly does it work for hip problems? Let’s explore five chiropractic techniques for hip pain.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic adjustments for hip pain focus on specific areas of your hip to realign joints and enhance function. These techniques include spinal manipulation and lumbar adjustments.

Chiropractic adjustments do not merely provide short-term relief; they invest in long-term wellness, addressing all aspects impacting hip health. 

Soft Tissue Therapies

Soft tissue therapy for hip pain targets muscle tension to alleviate hip pain. Myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and Active Release Technique (ART) are the most commonly applied techniques for this condition. They gently loosen and apply pressure to the fascia surrounding the hip joint, reducing inflammation and tension.

Mobilization Techniques

Mobilization techniques for hip pain provide quick relief and functional enhancement using controlled, gentle motion exercises on the surrounding tissues. These exercises help reduce stiffness, improve blood flow, and loosen tense joints without the need for thrusting movements. Think pelvic stabilization, 90/90 hip stretches, hip circles, hip flexions, and leg raises and swings.

Instrument-Assisted Techniques

Sometimes, chiropractors apply instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) techniques to address hip pain. These help break down scar tissue and fix mobility problems in the hip area. Here are some well-known instrument-based chiropractic methods for hip pain and how they work.

• The Activator Method: Uses a handheld device to apply low-force adjustment on targeted joints 
• Graston Technique: A patented method that uses smooth and rounded stainless steel tools to massage and mobilize soft tissue in the hip joint gently
• Astym Therapy: Uses specialized plastic tools to remove unwanted scar tissue causing pain and restrictions while stimulating tissue generation

Corrective Exercises

In chiropractic care, corrective exercises are targeted physical activities that help boost your body mechanics, including strengthening and stabilizing your hip muscles. These go hand-in-hand with hip mobilization techniques, which provide immediate relief and improved function.

To prevent future hip pain and support the effectiveness of chiropractic treatments, chiropractors typically incorporate exercises such as hip bridges, clamshells, fire hydrants, glute bridges, and donkey kicks into your routine.

Integrative Approach with Other Therapies

As mentioned earlier, chiropractic care is holistic. It takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating hip pain, addressing all aspects influencing the issue. 

For instance, chiropractic adjustments align the spine and joints, while pain management strategies help eliminate discomfort. Massage therapy supports this by relaxing hip muscles and improving blood circulation, and nutritional counseling promotes overall health and healing. 

Combining chiropractic care with other forms of therapy can effectively alleviate hip pain, improve hip function, and promote long-term hip health.

Takeaway

Hip pain is common, but what if it’s more than just a minor ache? When it persists, it’s time to pay attention. Your body is signaling for help; it deserves more than just a casual shrug. If you’re wary of medications and surgery, chiropractic care offers a gentle, natural solution that covers all the bases. From soft tissue therapies to corrective exercises, receive instant relief and foster long-term wellness with chiropractic techniques for hip pain. 

If you’re seeking professional help in Fort Wayne, Leo, Grabill or New Haven, consider North East Chiropractic Center. Our certified chiropractors specialize in hip pain relief and provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. With cutting-edge tools and expert counseling, we’re confident in helping you achieve the best health outcomes possible. 

Book a consultation with us today!

Imagine your shoulder joint as a ball-and-socket mechanism. The “ball” is the upper arm bone, while the “socket” is part of your shoulder blade. Around this joint is the shoulder joint capsule, which acts like a protective sheath for smooth shoulder movement. When this capsule becomes tight, thick, and inflamed, you’re likely experiencing a frozen shoulder. 

Frozen shoulders restrict mobility, which can interfere with daily activities. Fortunately, chiropractic care can effectively treat this condition, and it’s becoming increasingly popular for pain management and rehabilitation.

In this blog, let’s explore the specific benefits of chiropractic care for frozen shoulders.

What Is a “Frozen Shoulder”?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, happens when the protective tissue surrounding your shoulder joint becomes stiff and swollen, making it painful and difficult to move your shoulder normally.

Researchers have yet to find the exact cause of frozen shoulders. However, certain conditions are involved in its development.

• Inflammation of muscles and tendons
• Shoulder immobilization after an arm injury or surgery
• Bursitis
• Rotator cuff tendonitis

You should also consider the following factors that may increase the likelihood of developing adhesive capsulitis.

• Aging (between 40 to 60 years of age)
• Sex (more common in women)
• Reduced mobility from previous shoulder injury or surgery
• Other health diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, thyroid disorders, and cardiovascular diseases 

Symptoms and Stages 

Detecting early signs is vital for effective treatment and prevention of any condition. A frozen shoulder is no different; initially, it might feel like minor shoulder pain, but it can worsen over time if not addressed promptly.

A frozen shoulder progresses slowly and may take two to nine months to develop. Its symptoms include the following:

• A dull or aching pain in the outer shoulder
• Pain from any shoulder movement
• Restricted shoulder motion
• Shoulder stiffness that worsens initially but gradually improves
• Shoulder pain that disrupts your sleep

Three stages detail the progression of a frozen shoulder.

• Freezing: Painful and limited shoulder movements
• Frozen: Less shoulder pain but persistent stiffness 
• Thawing: Shoulder movement gradually improves

How Chiropractic Care Works

Treating a frozen shoulder demands a holistic approach. This condition can be complex and have diverse underlying causes, and each patient presents unique needs and challenges.

Studies show that chiropractic care can be a highly effective alternative for people suffering from this condition. Let’s delve into the mechanisms of chiropractic adjustments and frozen shoulders.

• Chiropractic care believes in natural, holistic solutions. The body's systems naturally work together to seek proper structure.
• Chiropractic care focuses on the connection between spinal health and overall wellness. Research and practice aim to restore optimal body function by fixing misalignments.
• Chiropractic care is all about enhancing health rather than merely treating symptoms. It integrates regular adjustments into comprehensive healthcare plans. 

How do chiropractors diagnose and treat frozen shoulders? The process typically involves a physical exam, a range of motion tests, and imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to fully assess shoulder movement and confirm the diagnosis.

Once the consultation and examination are complete, collaborative treatment planning takes place. Chiropractors work with various healthcare professionals and establish clear lines of communication to create a personalized plan considering each patient’s preferences, values, and needs.

Here are some effective chiropractic care techniques to restore shoulder joint function and alleviate pain. 

• Spinal Adjustment or Manipulation: Using hands or a small instrument to apply pressure to a spine joint
• Soft Tissue Therapy: Massaging muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the shoulder joint
• Mobilization: Mild and soothing exercises within a joint’s range of motion

Chiropractic Treatment Benefits for Frozen Shoulder

Chiropractic care effectively addresses all aspects of musculoskeletal conditions like adhesive capsulitis. From shoulder pain relief to proactive healing, let's explore seven benefits of chiropractic care for frozen shoulders.

Reduced Inflammation and Pain

Targeted chiropractic adjustments can relieve frozen shoulder pain caused by inflammation in the shoulder joint. Chiropractors typically focus on areas directly or indirectly affecting shoulder mobility, giving them controlled thrusts, massages, and stretches. These help restore proper alignment, reduce swelling and nerve irritation, and promote natural healing.

Improved Range of Motion

Chiropractic techniques involve exercises aimed at improving shoulder flexibility and mobility. Pendulum stretches, wall rotations, inward and outward rotations, finger walks, and towel stretches are some examples of mobility exercises for a frozen shoulder. These techniques help gradually restore your shoulder's range of motion. 

Noninvasive Treatment

No scalpels, no stitches. Unlike surgeries, chiropractic care is a non-invasive treatment option that involves shorter recovery times, lower risks of complications, and preserved shoulder function. People often view chiropractic treatment as a safe and effective alternative, eliminating their worries about invasive procedures.

Enhanced Blood Circulation

Chiropractic intervention can enhance blood circulation, which speeds up healing and reduces inflammation in a frozen shoulder. A study from the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that thoracic spinal manipulation significantly increased blood flow, suggesting a potential short-term effect on vascular function.

Reduced Dependence on Medication

With chiropractic care, you can experience greater shoulder mobility and fewer medications. This natural, holistic approach reduces reliance on pain medications when treating frozen shoulders. Avoiding long-term medication use reduces the risk of unwanted side effects and potential issues with other drugs, contributing to a better quality of life.

Holistic Approach

To improve shoulder health and address all contributing factors, chiropractors recommend lifestyle changes related to nutrition, posture, ergonomics, and self-care. This comprehensive approach offers patients not just treatment but long-term health benefits.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Lastly, chiropractic care offers customized treatment plans to meet individual patient needs and produce optimal results. The process typically involves a thorough assessment and diagnosis and periodic evaluations to ensure the treatment's effectiveness.

At North East Chiropractic, for instance, a patient received treatment for neck and shoulder pain focused on stretching for relief and better sleep. Another patient with severe neck and shoulder stiffness received massage therapy and adjustments, which greatly reduced their pain. Personalized chiropractic care plans are essential for improving shoulder function and managing pain effectively.

Takeaway

Skip the ice packs and meds; embrace chiropractic care for a drug-free solution to frozen shoulders. It soothes, aligns, and promotes long-term, flexible, pain-free shoulder mobility. 

Let North East Chiropractic Center accompany you in your journey to healthy living. We provide chiropractic services in Fort Wayne, New Haven, Maples, Townley, and surrounding communities. Our personalized treatments, led by Dr. Adam Osenga, incorporate cutting-edge techniques and expert counseling to help patients significantly improve the quality of their lives. 

Book a consultation today to discover more benefits of chiropractic care for frozen shoulders and get the relief you need.

Chiropractic care and massage therapy have become increasingly popular as people seek holistic and noninvasive treatment options. When used together, they offer advantages beyond alleviating pain and managing stress. Discover how these two therapies complement each other to improve outcomes for various diseases and the benefits of combining them.

How Chiropractic Care and Massage Therapy Work Together

Chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy have similar goals: relieving pain, improving mobility, and enhancing wellness. 

Chiropractors primarily manipulate and mobilize the spine and other joints in the body to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal disorders. On the other hand, massage therapy manipulates soft tissues, such as tendons, ligaments, and muscles, to ease tense muscles and encourage relaxation. 

When combined, chiropractic care becomes more effective as massage therapy helps prepare the body for adjustments.

Benefits of Combining Chiropractic Care and Massage Therapy

Improved Pain Management for Musculoskeletal Conditions

Chiropractic care focuses on aligning the spine to relieve pressure on nerves and reduce inflammation, directly addressing the root causes of pain. It not only targets pain relief but also enhances the body's ability to heal itself naturally over time.

Massage therapy complements this by reducing muscle tension and improving circulation, further aiding pain relief.

Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility

Chiropractic care promotes enhanced mobility and flexibility by restoring joint function and range of motion. By correcting misalignments in the spine, chiropractors can improve the body's biomechanics, allowing for smoother movement and reduced stiffness. This enables individuals to perform daily activities more comfortably and efficiently.

Massage therapy supports this by releasing tight muscles, facilitating easier movement, and reducing the risk of injury.

Reduction of Stress and Tension

Chiropractic care contributes to stress reduction by promoting better nervous system function. Misalignments in the spine can cause nerve interference, leading to reduced resilience to stressors. By restoring proper alignment, chiropractic adjustments help the body manage stress more effectively.

Massage therapy complements this by promoting relaxation and reducing muscular tension, which directly lowers stress hormones such as cortisol and promotes a sense of calm.

Promotion of Overall Well-Being and Body Balance

Chiropractic and massage therapy work synergistically to promote overall well-being and body balance. By ensuring proper nervous system communication, chiropractic care enhances the body's ability to self-regulate and heal. Massage therapy supports this by improving circulation, reducing muscle tension, and promoting relaxation, which are essential components of maintaining a balanced and healthy body. 

Together, these therapies not only address specific health concerns but also contribute to overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being, fostering a state of balance and harmony within the body. 

Tips for Maximizing the Benefits

While the benefits of chiropractic care and massage therapy are proven, maximizing them requires proactive participation on your part.

Here are a few tips.

• Attend regular sessions. Consistency is key. Regular sessions allow your chiropractor and massage therapist to monitor your progress, modify your treatment plan, and address any emerging issues before they become more serious.
• Incorporate recommended exercises. Performing specific exercises recommended by your healthcare provider can enhance the effectiveness of your treatment. They are designed to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and support spinal health.
• Watch what you eat. Nutrition plays a significant role in overall health and healing. Consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients supports the body's ability to reduce inflammation, repair tissues, and maintain optimal function.
• Manage stress. Stress can exacerbate pain and hinder healing. Incorporating stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and adequate sleep, can complement the benefits of your therapies.

Takeaway

Combining chiropractic care and massage therapy effectively manages pain, improves mobility, reduces stress, and promotes overall health. Maximize these benefits by seeking skilled professionals who understand the synergy between these therapies.

Experience expert care here at North East Chiropractic Center. Under the guidance of Dr. Adam Osenga, we offer personalized treatments that seamlessly integrate chiropractic adjustments and therapeutic massage. Our state-of-the-art facilities ensure you receive comprehensive care in a comfortable environment.

Book a consultation today to discover how our holistic approach can enhance your health and well-being.

Did you know that nearly two in five adults reported having back pain in 2019? Full-time workers miss two work days per year due to this condition.

There are two types of back pain: acute and chronic. In this post, we’ll explore acute vs. chronic back pain. Learn their unique causes, symptoms, and treatment options to be better equipped to address your back pain effectively.

 

What Is Acute Back Pain?

Acute back pain persists anywhere from a few days to many weeks. Normally, it goes away with self-treatment and results in no permanent function loss.

Causes

Acute back pain is often caused by an injury, such as a sprain, strain, or fracture from lifting heavy objects, sudden movements, or accidents.

 

Symptoms

Acute back pain is characterized by a sudden onset of sharp, intense pain that can significantly limit mobility. This type of pain may make it difficult to perform everyday activities, and it often worsens with movement.

 

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can diagnose acute back pain by asking if you injured yourself. They may also order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, bone scans, and EMGs to pinpoint the exact cause of the pain and guide treatment.

 

Treatment Options for Acute Back Pain

Ice Therapy

Ice therapy is most effective immediately after an injury to reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area for 20 minutes with 1-hour intervals during the first 48 hours.

Heat Therapy

Heat therapy increases blood flow and relaxes muscles. After the initial 48 hours post-injury, alternate between ice and heat therapy. Apply a heating pad or warm compress to the painful area for 20 minutes at a time.

OTC Pain Medication

NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (e.g., Advil®) and acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol®) work by reducing inflammation, thus providing relief from acute back pain.

Rest

Rest is crucial for recovery from acute back pain as it allows the injured tissues to heal. However, it's important to balance rest with gentle, low-impact movements to prevent muscle weakness and maintain flexibility.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care helps treat acute back pain by realigning the spine, reducing nerve pressure, and improving overall function. The benefits of this noninvasive treatment include pain relief, enhanced mobility, and faster recovery.

 

 

What Is Chronic Back Pain?

Chronic back pain lasts for 12 weeks or longer. Often, it is linked to underlying conditions. Injuries can also result in chronic back pain long after they’ve healed.

Causes

Below are the most common causes of chronic back pain.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage between vertebrae to wear down, leading to pain and stiffness in the spine. This degenerative joint disease often results in chronic back pain due to inflammation and reduced mobility.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, compressing nerves and causing chronic pain, numbness, and weakness. This condition typically affects the lower back and can significantly impact daily activities.

Disk Issues

Disk issues, such as herniation, bulging, or degeneration, involve the deterioration or displacement of intervertebral disks. These problems can lead to nerve compression, persistent pain, and reduced spinal function.

Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Myofascial pain syndrome is characterized by chronic pain due to trigger points in muscles. These sensitive areas can cause pain and discomfort in the back, often linked to stress.

Work and Lifestyle Factors

Work and lifestyle factors, such as poor posture, prolonged sitting, repetitive movements, and heavy lifting, can contribute to chronic back pain. These habits strain the spine and surrounding muscles, leading to long-term discomfort.

 

Symptoms

Chronic back pain is often described as a persistent, deep, or burning sensation. Comparing acute vs. chronic back pain, the latter can vary in intensity and is always present, even if it fluctuates throughout the day. This constant discomfort can significantly limit mobility.

Over time, the ongoing struggle with pain can lead to emotional and behavioral changes. Individuals may experience increased irritability, anxiety, or depression as they cope with the frustration and helplessness that often accompany chronic pain. This emotional toll can further impact relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.

 

Diagnosis

Like acute back pain, chronic back pain is diagnosed through medical interviews and imaging tests.

 

Treatment Options for Chronic Back Pain

Prescription Pain Medication

While OTC pain medications are suitable for mild to moderate pain, prescription drugs are used for more severe cases. However, they come with risks such as dependency and cognitive dysfunction. It's crucial to take these medicines as prescribed to manage pain effectively while minimizing risks.

Chiropractic Care

Regular chiropractic adjustments for chronic back pain focus on long-term spinal health and functionality. The benefits extend beyond immediate pain relief; they promote sustained mobility, enhance quality of life, and prevent future spinal issues through continuous maintenance and proactive care.

Corrective Exercises

Corrective exercises strengthen weak muscles, improve flexibility, and correct posture. These exercises help alleviate pain by restoring balance and proper movement patterns.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy helps treat chronic back pain by loosening tight muscles, improving blood circulation, and reducing inflammation. This therapy can lead to significant pain relief, enhanced relaxation, and improved range of motion, making it easier to perform daily activities without discomfort.

Lifestyle Changes

Adopting certain lifestyle changes can play a crucial role in managing chronic back pain.

• Avoid inflammatory foods that increase pain. These include sugars, refined carbs, and processed foods.
• Try meditating to manage stress.
• Get enough sleep to accelerate healing.
• Stay active. Even low-impact exercises can help improve flexibility and strength, reducing the burden on your back and preventing further pain.

Surgical Options

Surgery might be necessary for chronic back pain when conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if there's a structural issue causing severe symptoms. It aims to correct these underlying problems, offering a chance for long-term pain relief and improved function.

 

Takeaway

Differentiating acute vs. chronic back pain is significant as it guides appropriate treatment strategies and management plans. It allows you to receive tailored interventions that not only manage pain effectively but also enhance your overall quality of life and reduce its impact on your well-being.

The team at North East Chiropractic Center, led by Dr. Adam Osenga, specializes in personalized treatments for acute and chronic back pain. We offer state-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive care that focuses on nonsurgical approaches, such as chiropractic care and massage therapy, to alleviate pain and improve spinal health.

Ready to find relief from back pain? Book a consultation today and start your journey towards a pain-free life.