What starts as minor neck pain can quickly become a major hindrance to your daily routine. This is a common occurrence in Fort Wayne, as in many other places worldwide, with an estimated 203 million cases globally in 2020 alone. The constant aching, stiffness, and restricted motion can make even the most basic tasks challenging. 

At this point, you may be considering chiropractic care as a safer, natural, and noninvasive alternative to other treatments. But how do you know when to consult a chiropractor for neck pain? This blog has the answers.

Common Causes of Neck Pain in Fort Wayne

Several local factors can contribute to developing neck pain. 

Work-Related Strain

Fort Wayne has a significant manufacturing sector and a growing healthcare industry. Jobs in these fields often involve repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and long periods of sitting, all of which can strain the neck. 

A cross-sectional study shows that physical, mental, and social factors can affect how often you experience neck pain. Over time, such physical demands can lead to chronic discomfort and a higher risk of developing neck issues.

Posture Problems

With work-from-home setups growing globally, including in Fort Wayne, long hours of sitting with poor posture can lead to neck strain. Slouching or staying in one position for extended periods puts pressure on the neck, causing stiffness and pain. Additionally, improper ergonomic setups, such as a poorly positioned screen or chair, can worsen the strain. 

Stress and Tension

Stress affects many Fort Wayne residents, particularly those with busy schedules. This mental strain often manifests physically in the neck and shoulder area, resulting in tightness, tension, and headaches as muscles stiffen in response to stress.

Accidents or Injuries

Snowy and icy roads in Fort Wayne might cause car accidents and lead to neck injuries like whiplash. These sudden, forceful movements can damage the neck's soft tissues, leading to persistent pain and limited mobility. 

According to the National Safety Council, the number of fatal motor vehicle accidents in the United States (covering all motor vehicles) increased by 996% over time. This highlights the need for safer driving initiatives and effective treatment options to address car injuries.

Recreational Activities

Popular local activities in Fort Wayne, such as snow shoveling, cycling, gardening, and outdoor sports, can all contribute to neck pain. Engaging in these activities without proper technique or stretching can strain the neck’s muscles and ligaments, especially after prolonged or strenuous activity.

Signs You Should See a Chiropractor for Neck Pain

Here are clear signs that help you identify when your neck pain has progressed beyond a simple discomfort, indicating the need for a chiropractor for neck pain.

• Persistent Pain: If your neck pain lasts longer than a few days and doesn't improve with rest or over-the-counter remedies, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires chiropractic attention.
• Stiffness and Limited Movement: Difficulty turning your head or feeling neck stiffness could signal an issue that affects mobility. A chiropractor can help address this through targeted adjustments.
• Radiating Pain: Pain extending to your shoulders, arms, or hands could suggest a nerve or musculoskeletal issue that chiropractic treatment can help alleviate.
• Frequent Headaches or Migraines: If headaches or migraines accompany your neck pain, it often points to spinal tension or misalignment. A chiropractor can help correct these issues to reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
• Difficulty with Daily Activities: If neck pain prevents you from easily completing everyday tasks—working, exercising, or driving—chiropractic care can help restore function and reduce discomfort.

How a Fort Wayne Chiropractor Can Help with Neck Pain

Now that you know when to see a chiropractor for neck pain, here's how they use professional techniques to address this musculoskeletal disorder. 

Comprehensive Evaluation

A chiropractor will assess a patient’s posture, spine, and range of motion to understand the root cause of the neck pain. This evaluation also considers the patient’s medical history, current symptoms, lifestyle habits, and unique needs and goals. With this comprehensive approach, a chiropractor can develop a tailored treatment plan that effectively relieves neck pain and improves the patient’s overall well-being.

Targeted Treatments

Based on the evaluation, a neck pain chiropractor will create a personalized treatment plan incorporating targeted treatments. These treatments, ranging from spina-l adjustments to ergonomic advice, work on the affected areas to achieve optimal results, restoring alignment and preventing future pain.

Noninvasive Approach

If you're hesitant about surgery and medications for treating neck pain, chiropractic care offers drug-free and noninvasive solutions. You can achieve natural, long-term relief while avoiding potential side effects and risks of invasive procedures.

Takeaway

Your neck pain may or may not be severe, and this uncertainty can be frustrating. Recognizing when to consult a chiropractor for neck pain is essential to gain immediate clarity about your condition and prevent further damage to your musculoskeletal system. Talk to your doctor if the pain persists and interferes with everyday activities.

If you’re in Fort Wayne and searching for a chiropractor for neck pain near me, North East Chiropractor is here to serve you. Our chiropractors in New Haven, Leo, Grabill, Huntertown, and Fort Wayne are highly trained, compassionate, and dedicated to tailoring a personalized treatment plan for specific neck issues. We ensure you receive exceptional care in a warm, welcoming environment, prioritizing professionalism and respect.

Schedule a consultation with us today!

 

Low back pain (LBP) is a common issue affecting many people in Fort Wayne. It could stem from a strain, poor posture, or overexertion. While it can go after a few days and might not always be a cause for concern, some cases might persist. This suggests that LBP could be a sign of a deeper issue that requires professional attention.

 

If you experience persistent pain or discomfort, consider seeing a chiropractor for low back pain. This blog explains why and how and covers various treatment options and the unique benefits of low back pain care.

Common Causes of Low Back Pain

First, let's explore the leading causes of LBP to understand why it happens.

Poor Posture

A 2024 study found that extended periods of poor posture—such as sitting, slouching, or using improper lifting techniques—significantly contribute to lumbar discomfort. This is common among desk workers or mobile users without ergonomic support. Misaligned posture can cause nerve compression, muscle imbalances, and spinal strain, leading to pain, reduced mobility, and discomfort.

Muscle Strains and Sprains

Sudden movements, overexertion, or heavy lifting can strain or tear muscles in the lower back. These may occur due to lifting heavy objects, abrupt movements, awkward twists and bends, or poor posture. Muscle strains and sprains can lead to stiffness, muscle spasms, and localized pain, which are common symptoms of LBP.

Herniated or Bulging Discs

When the discs between your spine bulge or leak, they irritate nearby nerves, leading to sharp pain, numbness, or sciatica (pain radiating down the leg). This condition, known as a herniated disc, occurs when a disc is damaged and protrudes out of place. Chiropractors commonly use spinal adjustments to relieve pain, reduce pressure, and realign the discs.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Spinal discs contain a gel-like substance called the nucleus pulposus, which cushions the spinal column. When this cushioning deteriorates, it can lead to degenerative disc disease, a primary cause of chronic low back pain. Genetics, lifestyle, and repetitive stress also contribute to this, affecting mobility. Improving mobility and slowing progression through treatment is essential.

Sciatica

Sciatica occurs when sciatic nerve pressure, herniated discs, or spinal misalignment causes burning or shooting pain in the lower back and travels down the leg. This condition becomes more prevalent with age and is often exacerbated by poor posture, repetitive strain, or a sedentary lifestyle.

Lifestyle and Stress

Sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and chronic stress can strain the spine, contributing to back pain. These factors weaken muscles, add extra weight, cause muscle tension and inflammation, and lead to poor postural habits, further aggravating back pain and pressure. 

Injuries or Accidents

Traumatic injuries from car accidents, falls, or sports can trigger lower back pain. Sudden impacts from these incidents damage the soft tissues and misalign the spine, targeting specific parts of the back. These injuries can cause pain, reduced mobility, and discomfort. 

How a Fort Wayne Chiropractor Diagnoses Low Back Pain

Can a chiropractor help with lower back pain? Absolutely. If you’re considering seeing a Fort Wayne chiropractor for low back pain, it’s crucial to understand how they evaluate patients for treatment. 

Initial Consultation

During your first visit, a Fort Wayne chiropractor will review your medical history, assess your current symptoms, and understand your unique needs and goals. This consultation allows them to create personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs, ensuring effectiveness.

Physical Examination

After the consultation, the chiropractor evaluates your posture, flexibility, and motion range. This enables them to pinpoint the root causes of your symptoms and assess your overall musculoskeletal health.

Diagnostic Imaging (If Necessary)

In some cases, the chiropractor might use imaging tools like MRIs or X-rays to rule out serious conditions. This helps them get a detailed view of your spine and other structures, ensuring an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. 

Treatment Options for Low Back Pain

Now that you understand the process, let’s explore different techniques for effective chiropractic care for low back pain.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractors realign the spine using targeted, controlled force on specific points to alleviate pain, reduce nerve pressure, and restore function. They perform techniques tailored to your needs and comfort level, minimizing soreness after the adjustment.

Non-surgical Spinal Decompression

Chiropractic care’s holistic approach allows for the inclusion of complementary treatments like spinal decompression to enhance the effectiveness of the primary treatment. In spinal decompression, chiropractors apply controlled, precise adjustments to gently stretch the spine, improving disc alignment, reducing nerve pressure, and enhancing the flow of blood oxygen and nutrients.

Corrective Exercises

Chiropractors may incorporate customized exercises and stretches into your treatment plan to prevent further injuries. These exercises strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, enhance body mechanics, and promote proper posture and movement patterns, supporting a well-rounded approach to physical wellness.

Lifestyle Advice

Lifestyle habits are key to reducing LBP. Regular exercise, healthy weight, good posture, effective stress management, and reduced prolonged sitting strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. A lower back pain chiropractor incorporates this advice into their holistic treatment plans to maximize the patient’s recovery.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain

How is consulting a chiropractor for lower back pain more beneficial than other treatments like medication or surgery? Here are four ways.

Noninvasive and Drug-Free

Chiropractic care offers natural relief without invasive procedures. It avoids the potential side effects and risks associated with medications and surgery, focusing on the root cause of the pain instead of just the symptoms, promoting natural healing.

Personalized Care

A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for LBP. Each plan should be tailored to the patient’s condition and goals, and chiropractic care does exactly that. Your chiropractor assesses your health history, condition, and lifestyle to create a personalized treatment plan, incorporating various options like spinal adjustments and soft tissue therapies for optimal results.

Long-Term Results

Chiropractic treatment is recognized for its holistic approach, focusing on both relieving symptoms and addressing the root cause for lasting pain relief. This method promotes long-term wellness and helps prevent future episodes of back pain.

Improves Overall Well-Being

Choosing chiropractic care offers more than just relief from low back pain. Its comprehensive approach also reduces tension and inflammation, improves posture, and enhances mobility and function. 

Regain Your Overall Health & Wellness with Our Fort Wayne Low Back Pain Treatment Center

Low back pain might not always be serious, but if it persists, it’s important to consult a professional for evaluation, even if it feels mild. A chiropractor can help identify the root cause and offer personalized solutions for immediate and lasting relief.

 

If you’re in Fort Wayne and searching for a chiropractor for low back pain near me, consider North East Chiropractic Center. Our chiropractors for low back pain in New Haven, Leo, Grabill, Huntertown, and Fort Wayne are trained and dedicated to finding the right chiropractic techniques for various types of back pain, tailoring treatment plans to meet your unique needs.

 

Book a consultation with us today!

 

More than 2 million Americans experience whiplash each year, and while it may seem like another common neck pain, it's more than that. Whiplash happens when your neck suffers from a strain or sprain from abruptly snapping forward and backward, resembling a whiplike motion. Neck pain is usually the first sign, but it may not appear until hours, days, or even weeks later. 

Regardless of when it starts, don’t ignore the pain. Seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent long-term issues. If you're looking for the best option, chiropractic care for whiplash injuries is worth considering.

This blog answers why and how chiropractic care can effectively manage, alleviate, and help heal whiplash pain.

Common Causes of Whiplash

You may experience whiplash as a result of the following:

Auto Accidents

Auto accidents are the most common cause of whiplash due to the sudden force exerted on the neck. Rear-end collisions, in particular, cause the head to be jolted forward and then backward, straining the neck's muscles and ligaments.

Contact Sports

An awkward fall or collision in contact sports like football and rugby can cause whiplash injuries due to the rapid, forceful movements of the head and neck. Additionally, the repetitive contact in these sports can cause cumulative damage, and limited gear protection increases the risk.

Physical Assault or Abuse

If someone bumps, punches, or shakes you intensely, it can also cause whiplash injuries. The forceful motion of the head disrupts the normal alignment of the neck, causing soft tissue injuries and, in more severe cases, even possible damage to the spinal cord or brain. 

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The following are common symptoms associated with the scenarios above:

• Neck pain
• Stiffness
• Headaches 
• Reduced range of motion

A thorough diagnosis is required to assess a whiplash injury fully. This usually includes a physical exam to check for range of motion, pain, and any symptoms of nerve involvement. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be required to rule out fractures, disc herniations, or other underlying disorders that could be causing the symptoms.

Chiropractic Techniques for Whiplash Treatment

When left untreated, whiplash injuries can escalate into serious health conditions and chronic pain. If you’re experiencing neck pain, do not delay treatment; consider finding relief through chiropractic care, which offers noninvasive intervention. Discover the different chiropractic treatments that can support your full recovery.

Flexion–Distraction Technique

Has your whiplash injury worsened a herniated disc? This technique can help. It involves a gentle, thrust-free, slow-pumping action on the affected disc to reduce inflammation and irritation. Instead of applying quick, direct force to the spine, it realigns the herniated discs in the neck.

Instrument-Assisted Adjustment

Chiropractors typically use this technique for whiplash cases classified as grades 0, 1, and 2, which are considered mild. Specialized hand-held instruments for non-thrusting spinal adjustments accompany this process.

Specific Spinal Adjustment

Chiropractors identify restricted and abnormally moving spinal joints and address them with a gentle thrusting technique to restore normal motion. This whiplash treatment stretches the soft tissues and activates the nervous system to help restore normal spinal movement.

Graston Technique

The Graston technique is an instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy involving gentle, repetitive strokes over the injured soft tissue. Since whiplash always affects soft tissues in the neck, this technique can help break down scar tissue, reduce muscle tightness, and improve mobility in the affected area. 

Trigger Point Therapy

If you're suffering from whiplash, you have tense, painful “trigger points” in your muscles that trigger point therapy can address. Trigger point therapy applies direct pressure to these tight muscle knots, effectively managing whiplash pain and tension. By releasing these knots, the treatment improves muscle function and promotes faster recovery.

Additional Therapies

One of the top benefits of chiropractic care for whiplash injury recovery is the variety of treatment options available. Fascial stretch therapy, spinal decompression, and massage therapy are often used as complementary treatments alongside spinal adjustments. They improve flexibility, relieve pressure, and relax muscles to support healing and enhance recovery.

When Should You See a Chiropractor for Whiplash?

Knowing when you need to see a chiropractor after suffering from whiplash is crucial for timely intervention. This will help address the problem and prevent further damage. Here are some clear signs that it's time to see a chiropractor for whiplash.

• Immediately after the injury, even if symptoms are mild
• Symptoms persist for more than a few days or worsen over time
• Ongoing pain or discomfort that doesn't improve with conservative treatments
• You want to ensure your neck muscles stay healthy

Additionally, consider seeking a chiropractor for posttreatment evaluation. This helps ensure proper healing, identify any lingering issues, and develop a personalized plan to prevent future problems.

Takeaway

Whiplash may seem minor initially, but if unaddressed, it can severely impact your quality of life, making it hard to enjoy time with your loved ones. Take the symptoms seriously and seek treatment early. Chiropractic care offers a gentle, natural approach with techniques tailored to your needs.

North East Chiropractic Center's neck pain doctors are compassionate and highly trained for cases like whiplash. They take the time to understand individual needs and tailor cutting-edge treatment plans to their patients. We're here to assist you and your loved ones with all your health needs. Serving New Haven, Leo, Grabill, Huntertown, and Fort Wayne, we strive to be your trusted local chiropractor.

Book a consultation with us today and begin your healing journey with our chiropractic care for whiplash.

Pregnancy is a beautiful and life-changing experience, but it also comes with its fair share of physical challenges as women’s bodies undergo incredible changes. From back pain to muscle strain, these changes can sometimes feel overwhelming. 

While many pregnant women turn to traditional methods for relief, gentle, natural options are also available to ease the aches and support the body through this transformative journey. One such option is chiropractic care.

Chiropractic care involves gentle, noninvasive adjustments to relieve pain, improve alignment, and support the body’s changes during this sensitive time. In this blog, we’ll explore the role of chiropractic care and the different chiropractic techniques for pregnant women. 

Signs It’s Time to See a Chiropractor During Pregnancy

The first question that may come to mind is, when should pregnant women see a chiropractor? Consider chiropractic care if you’re dealing with persistent issues such as:

• Lower back pain
• Pelvic discomfort
• Sciatica
• Mobility issues

Early intervention can prevent discomfort from escalating and improve the quality of life for expecting mothers. 

Safe Chiropractic Techniques for Pregnant Women

Is chiropractic care safe for pregnant women? Yes, it is. Licensed chiropractors typically receive pregnancy-related training; some, in our case, specialize in prenatal chiropractic care. Let's take a closer look at some safe and effective techniques used.

Webster Technique

The Webster Technique focuses on gently adjusting the pelvis, reducing stress on the nervous system, and balancing the pelvis, muscles, and ligaments. Reducing tension creates more space for the baby to move into the best position for birth, promoting optimal fetal positioning.

A study found that 82% of babies turned into the correct head-down position (vertex) using the Webster Technique. This further shows the potential of the chiropractic technique for pregnant women experiencing pelvic pain.

Gentle Spinal Adjustments

Chiropractors diagnose and correct spinal misalignments using manual adjustments to the spine, joints, and muscles. With pregnant women, they use gentler techniques without pressure on the abdomen to safely and comfortably relieve pain.

Pelvic Blocking Techniques

Pelvic blocking uses cushioned wedges under each side of the pelvis while the patient lies down, drawing the disc away from the affected nerve. This technique is highly beneficial for treating herniated discs, providing pregnancy back pain relief, correcting misalignments, and improving pelvic stability. 

Activator Technique

Spinal misalignments can interfere with the nervous system, which controls many body functions and is especially important during pregnancy. In the Activator technique, chiropractors use a handheld device to deliver a gentle, controlled impulse to the spine. This way, it restores proper movement in dysfunctional areas without twisting or turning the body.

Soft Tissue Therapies

Pregnant women experiencing muscle discomfort can greatly benefit from soft therapy techniques. These techniques involve massage therapy and myofascial release, which relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and alleviate head, back, and pelvic pain.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Here’s why chiropractic care presents a great option for expectant mothers.

Alleviation of Common Pregnancy Discomforts

Chiropractic adjustments realign the spine and pelvis, reducing nerve pressure, inflammation, and muscle tension. A study from the Journal of Osteopathic Medicine revealed that many pregnant women with lower back or pelvic pain experience noticeable improvement with chiropractic treatment, lasting up to a year.

Improved Pelvic Alignment

Maintaining proper pelvic alignment during pregnancy creates enough space for the baby to grow and align in the best position for labor. With chiropractic care, pregnant women can reduce pressure on the uterus and surrounding ligaments, preventing discomfort and improving pelvic function.

Enhanced Nervous System Function

The nervous system controls and coordinates bodily functions, including those related to the uterus, hormones, and labor. Chiropractic care reduces nerve stress in this system, which helps maintain proper communication between the brain and body, supporting a healthy pregnancy.

Potential for Shorter and Easier Labor

Prolonged labor is one of the biggest challenges in pregnancy, as it can be physically and emotionally demanding. The good news is that chiropractic for pregnancy pain may help ease this process. 

For example, this narrative review found that women who see a chiropractor during pregnancy tend to have shorter labors. First-time mothers have 25% shorter labor on average, while women with previous births experience about 31% shorter labor. These show chiropractic care’s potential benefits for shorter and less intense labor.

The Importance of Choosing a Chiropractor Specializing in Prenatal Care

Prenatal chiropractic care uses specialized techniques tailored to the unique needs of expectant mothers, ensuring safer and more effective treatment. Prenatal chiropractors use special tools that help support the body while maintaining proper alignment, allowing for effective adjustments without putting pressure on the abdomen. 

Each pregnancy is unique, so personalized care is essential. Prenatal chiropractors can provide a more thorough assessment before starting any treatment, ensuring the mother's and baby's safety and well-being.

Takeaway

Pregnancy is a delicate journey. It's essential to seek options supporting your body's natural abilities to function. Chiropractic techniques for pregnant women are one of these options, taking a gentle, specialized approach to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

At North East Chiropractic Center, our skilled prenatal chiropractors are committed to providing safe, gentle care tailored to support you during pregnancy. You and your baby are at the core of our practice, prioritizing comfort, safety, and well-being in every session.

You deserve the best care possible. Book a consultation with us today and experience the benefits of chiropractic care firsthand.