The Problem with Relying on Medications for Low Back Pain

It’s safe to assume that all of us have an over-the-counter pain reliever like Aleve or Ibuprofen in our medicine cabinets at home.

 

From a young age, we learn to have these on hand to help us find short-term relief from temporary headaches or other body aches and pains.

 

We’re looking for immediate symptom relief…

 

And that is ALL these medications are designed to do – to temporarily mask the symptoms.

 

They are not intended to treat the underlying condition causing those symptoms.

 

They are also not intended to be used long-term.

 

When it comes to chronic low back pain, NSAIDs like these will not help you find long-term relief.

 

So, if you’re one of the many living with low back pain in Mount Pleasant, here’s what you need to know.

Bottom Line:

 

Although NSAID medications can be purchased over the counter, it doesn’t mean they don’t have risks and dangers.

 

Over the past twenty years, we’ve seen the effects of low back pain change our healthcare landscape forever.

 

• It’s estimated that 100,000 people are hospitalized each year from NSAID related complications.
• Each day, it’s estimated that 100 people pass away as a result of opioid overdoses.

 

Leading healthcare organizations have taken note.

 

They’ve also taken note of the many benefits of chiropractic care for low back pain and now recommend that movement-based care options, such as chiropractic, should be explored for most low back issues before medications.

 

Why it Matters:

 

As chiropractors, we take a whole-body (holistic) approach to health and healing.

 

The World Health Organization supports chiropractic care and other non-invasive interventions for the treatment of acute, subacute, and especially chronic back pain.

 

In addition, Harvard Health, The Mayo Clinic, and other established healthcare organizations have published numerous articles highlighting the benefits of chiropractic and movement-based treatment options.

 

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain

 

Most people who explore chiropractic care take far fewer medications than those who don’t.

 

Why? Because it works.

 

Movement-based strategies such as spinal adjustments, controlled exercise, and dynamic stretching are a few of the most effective ways to relieve low back issues.

 

We see the effects first-hand every day at our chiropractic practice in Mount Pleasant.

 

And not only are movement-based strategies good at providing fast relief, but research strongly suggests that such conservative care interventions may also offer a preventative effect when continued over time.

 

That’s why the care that chiropractors deliver ranks at the top of nearly every list!

 

The use of heat, massage, acupuncture, mindfulness-based stress reduction, tai chi or yoga, and low-level laser therapy can also be beneficial for both back-specific and overall function improvements as well as improvements in your overall health-related quality of life.

 

Next Steps:

 

Medications are designed to mask the pain, not fix the problem.

 

Receiving a complete and comprehensive evaluation is the first step towards finding relief.

 

As a conservative care based practice, we believe in focusing on treating the root cause of an issue and ongoing prevention rather than treating and masking the symptoms.

 

After discovering the cause of your pain, we can work together to craft a care plan that will help you not only reduce your pain so you can reach your health goals.

 

If you or someone you know is struggling with low back pain and you’re ready to see a chiropractor who specializes in Mount Pleasant, call us today.

 

Our doors are open, and we’re here to help you get and stay out of back pain for years to come.

The Surprising Cause of Your Leg Pain: Your Back!

Let’s go ahead and lay all of our collective cards out on the table.

 

Most of us spend way, way more time sitting at our computers or sitting down with our digital devices than we know we should.

 

And, honestly, most of us are living with aches or pains as a result that we don’t really want anyone to know about.

 

Our necks hurt. Our backs hurt. And our… legs… hurt?

 

Yep.

 

And if you spend your days working at a desk, we’re willing to bet you know exactly what we’re talking about.

 

So, why does this happen and what can be done to help take care of all of the above?

 

Read on.

 

Bottom Line:

 

It may seem odd to think that nagging leg, calf, or foot pain could be traced back to a low back problem…

 

But if you’ve had pain in your leg or foot, a pinched nerve in your low back may be creating your issue!

 

As the go-to back pain specialist in Mount Pleasant, this is something we see nearly every day in practice.

 

Pain that travels along a spinal nerve is called radicular pain, and it’s one of the most common types of pain that occurs as a result of spinal nerve compression.

 

Nerve compression is often what causes back and leg pain to appear at the same time.

 

And if a nerve in your low back is compressed or “pinched”, your body is sure to let you know.

 

Why it Matters:

 

Pain is your body’s way of saying “pay attention inside now!”

 

It’s your body’s way of letting you know you’ve pushed past its limits.

 

When a nerve is compressed or irritated — be it from a herniated spinal disc, bone spur, or ligament overgrowth — it can become inflamed and painful.

 

What Causes Back and Leg Pain

 

Your spinal nerves can be pinched or compressed by a bone, disc, or ligament.

Let’s take a closer look at each scenario…

 

• Bone Spurs: Bone spurs can form as a result of joint damage associated with osteoarthritis, and these can sometimes grow large enough to pinch your spinal nerves.
• Disc Herniations: Disc herniations, bulges, or tears can invade the space of your nerves and that inflammation and pressure can cause narrowing of the canals..
• Ligament Hypertrophy: Ligament hypertrophy (or overgrowth) can happen with age and injuries and lead to added pressure on your nerves.

 

Whichever of the above may be causing your pain, it’s important to know that all have a great chance of recovering without the need for drugs or surgery.

 

Top research publications have shown that people struggling with sciatica pain can get fantastic results with chiropractic care.

 

The numbers don’t lie.

 

Since we’re talking about what causes back and leg pain, let’s use sciatica pain as an example.

 

In one widely circulated study, researchers observed that 89% of patients suffering from symptomatic sciatica responded very well to chiropractic adjustments.

 

In another recent study, researchers found that 60% of participants with symptomatic cases of sciatica benefitted from chiropractic adjustments to the same degree as if they underwent surgical intervention (again, without any of the risks!).

 

And what many may not know is that beyond adjustments, exercise and rehab can also help strengthen the muscles supporting your spine to reduce the likelihood of a relapse.

 

Next Steps:

 

Starting with chiropractic care is the smartest decision you can make.

 

In our practice in Mount Pleasant, we utilize various treatments, including adjustments, to correct spinal conditions such as herniated disc to help relieve your leg and back pain and help prevent it from recurring.

 

That’s a long way of saying our mission is to help people treat their compressed nerves and regain their quality of life.

 

Taking non-invasive steps to reduce inflammation, re-establishing proper joint motion, and taking proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of the pain coming back are all part of our care plans.

 

So, if you want to find out what’s causing your leg and low back pain, give us a call today!

 

The Movement Solution for Back Pain Relief

When we feel pain in our low back, what’s the first thing many of us tend to think?

 

We need to lie down. We need to sit down. We need to rest so our back will feel better.

 

We may think we need to reach for a bottle of Aleve – maybe a heating pad.

 

Fair enough. Each of those methods has limited or short-term effectiveness at best, but they may help us find temporary relief.

 

But what about when those nagging aches and pains in our back return the next day?

 

Now that internal dialogue turns to – What’s the problem? What do I need to do so I don’t have to do the same thing day after day after day?

 

As the go-to lower back pain specialist in Mount Pleasant, we’re glad you asked!

 

Read on.

Bottom Line:

 

Simple movement can be one of the best ways to find all natural back pain relief.

 

In fact, science has shown us that medications and rest are actually a few of the least effective ways to find relief!

 

In one recent study, researchers found that 60% of participants with symptomatic cases of sciatica benefitted from chiropractic adjustments to the same degree as if they underwent surgical intervention.

 

Right?!

 

Your body is designed to move, and often it’s a lack of daily movement (or chronic postural changes) that causes back pain to begin in the first place.

Why it Matters:

 

When your joints aren’t moving correctly, the rest of your body isn’t moving correctly, and that’s when pain can strike.

 

The right movements and exercises can help you recover more quickly and prevent future back pain episodes.

 

There are three different types of body movement: segmental, regional, and whole body.

 

• Segmental motion occurs between the individual joints of your body.
• Regional movement occurs in a body region such as your neck, mid-back, or low back.
• Whole-body movement is characterized by the actions we typically think of as exercise.

 

All three types are essential and work together to keep your spine and musculoskeletal system healthy and functioning at its best.

Let’s take a closer look…

 

1. Segmental Movement: Moving the individual joints of your body is what chiropractors are specifically trained to do. Proper segmental movement can help reduce pain, improve your range of motion, and influence your central nervous system.
2. Regional Movement: Dynamic stretching with regional range of motion exercises can reduce low back stiffness.
3. Whole Body Exercise: Daily exercise can help your brain and body feel better as well as improve your rest and recovery at night.

Chiropractic Care for All Natural Back Pain Relief

 

It’s easy to see why movement can be your most important ally when it comes to finding all natural relief from low back pain.

 

The foundation of all movement is segmental movement.

 

Take it from the leading lower back pain specialist in [your city / town / neighborhood], if your joints aren’t moving well, your body as a whole isn’t moving well, and you certainly aren’t going to be feeling well.

 

That’s where we come in.

 

Chiropractic care is a safe, natural, and effective way to help ensure your body is moving at its best so you can feel your best.

 

Harvard Health, The Mayo Clinic, and other established healthcare organizations have published numerous articles highlighting the benefits of chiropractic and movement-based treatment options.

 

Next Steps:

 

Moving may be the last thing you want to do if you’re struggling with back pain, but research has repeatedly shown that movement and exercise are two of the best ways to find relief from back pain.

 

If you’ve dealt with back pain and especially if you live in the Mount Pleasant area, call us today.

 

Our team will be happy to provide you with a complete movement assessment and personalized exercise plan to help you get (and stay) well for years to come, naturally!

Moving Your Way to Low Back Pain Relief

Say Goodbye to Low Back Pain: Understanding the Causes

 

For many of us, gone are the days where we can clean the house, go for a walk, play with the kids, play with our pets, or, if we’re being honest, simply go to sleep without putting ourselves at risk for neck or low back pain.

 

Sound familiar?

 

Surprise sleep injuries aside, if you’re all too familiar with back pain, you’ve come to the right place!

 

As the leading low back pain specialist in Mount Pleasant, we know a thing or two about the common causes of low back pain.

 

Keep reading to learn more about what might be behind yours and, more importantly, what you can do to say goodbye to low back pain.

 

Bottom Line:

 

Low back pain is the number one reason people worldwide visit their doctor and miss work.

 

If you’ve dealt with it in the past (or maybe even right now), you know back pain can change your life in an instant.

 

Not being able to enjoy hobbies, difficulty in your ability to work, and a sneaking suspicion that you may never get “back to normal” are all normal when you’re experiencing a bout of back pain.

 

So why do so many people here in Mount Pleasant and around the world struggle with back pain?

 

In many cases, your daily habits are a big contributor to your back pain.

 

Why it Matters:

If you’ve been living with aches and pain, it’s often connected to distorted movement patterns that affect your neuromusculoskeletal system – your brain, nerves, muscles, bones, joints, cartilage, tendons, etc.

And those abnormal movement patterns can happen for a variety of reasons that range from long hours at a computer and repetitive stress to sudden injuries.

That repetitive stress combined with nagging injuries, a diet filled with inflammatory foods, or a lack of daily exercise and movement can all contribute to an increased likelihood of back pain.

Common Causes of Low Back Pain

Here are the three most common causes of low back pain…

 

 

1. Sprain/Strain Injuries: Repetitive stress can create inflammation and lead to sprains or strains.
2. Spinal Disc Issues: Disc bulges and herniations can press on your spinal nerves, leading to back pain that travels to other parts of the body.
3. Arthritis: As you get older, your body will naturally go through some degenerative changes, and if your spinal joints become inflamed, you may notice some pain.

 

A whopping 80% of us will experience low back pain at some point in our lives, and none of us want to rely on pills to feel better.

 

The good news is that, in most cases, sprains and strains and joint issues can heal pretty quickly with the right care.

 

That’s where we come in.

 

An overwhelming majority of people recover from back pain naturally or with a little additional help from a chiropractor.

 

So, if you’ve been searching for a low back pain specialist in Mount Pleasant, you’ve come to the right place!

 

Research supports the use of chiropractic care for the treatment of all causes of and all types of low back pain.

 

Get this.

 

In a recent study, researchers found that low back pain patients with disc issues who received chiropractic care experienced the same if not more relief than patients who underwent invasive back surgeries.

Next Steps:

 

While it may feel like you’ll never get back to your old self, the odds are in your favor that you will!

 

And even if you typically seem to recover by taking it easy for a few days, it’s still a smart decision to visit a chiropractor.

 

Chiropractic care has been part of the wellness conversation worldwide for well over 125 years, and our chiropractic practice is proud to serve the Mount Pleasant community now and for years to come.

 

Our low back pain specialists will work with you to determine both what’s at the root of your low back pain and the non-invasive treatment options that make sense for you.

 

Research also strongly suggests that periodic chiropractic care – just like dynamic stretching and regular exercise – can help prevent future episodes of low back pain.

 

So, if you haven’t, be sure to have your next – or first – visit scheduled!

The 3 Most Common Injuries We See With Collision Accidents

Whether you are just driving to work or taking a big family vacation, an unexpected car accident can cause painful injuries that impact you for months and years to come.

 

The weight of your vehicle combined with motion and speed can create a tremendous amount of force.

 

Even low-speed collisions can generate enough force to cause significant injury.

 

Whatever the details, one thing remains true…

 

That force gets transferred directly to your body!

 

If you’ve recently been in an auto accident, the first thing you should do is make an appointment with a chiropractor specializing in collision accident injuries in Mount Pleasant.

 

The violent forces that occur during an auto accident can cause damage to your spinal discs, ligaments, tendons, and bones-even at “low” speeds.

 

Most common injuries after a collision accident happen because your head is whipped backward and forward very quickly.

 

This rapid back and forth motion frequently results in ligament tearing and spinal disc injuries.

 

Symptoms such as neck pain, back pain, headaches, confusion, and even depression may indicate that you’ve suffered a whiplash injury.

 

Why it Matters:

 

You may be surprised to learn that shoulder injuries are some of the most common injuries after a collision accident in addition to whiplash.

 

Your shoulder is one of the most complex parts of your body and is made up of a collection of bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

 

If you are the driver and have your hands on the wheel at the time of the crash, the sudden force created by the accident can lead to a torn rotator cuff.

 

Seat belt related injuries are also some of the most common injuries after a collision accident.

 

Your seat belt can irritate impingement syndromes in the shoulder and contribute to other spinal injuries.

 

That said, remember this.

 

Seat belts save millions of lives each year and should absolutely be used every time you enter a vehicle.

 

In addition to head and shoulder injuries, a sudden stop or change in direction during an accident can also place a tremendous force on your chest.

 

What’s more, since your arms and legs are more than likely unsecured, they can strike the interior of your car, causing additional injuries.

 

Common Injuries After a Collision Accident

So, here are a few of the most common reasons we recommend you see a chiropractor specializing in collision accident injuries in Mount Pleasant after any collision accident.

 

• Head Injuries: Striking your head against the steering wheel, dashboard, or window can result in a severe head injury such as a concussion (which is considered a mild traumatic brain injury).
• Spinal Injuries: The forces that occur during a car accident can cause spinal injuries like instability, whiplash, or herniated discs.
• Arm or Leg Injuries: Injuries to your shoulders (if you’re holding the wheel) or your knees (if they hit the door or dashboard) are very common after a car accident.

 

Next Steps:

 

Ignoring any injury, whether it’s on our list of the most common injuries after a collision accident or not, is not a good idea.

 

If you’re in a car accident, no matter how minor, it’s important to get evaluated.

 

Taking the right action steps as quickly as possible can make a huge difference in your overall well-being and healing.

 

In fact, the injuries sustained in most accidents can be treated conservatively, and many don’t require surgery.

 

Research has shown chiropractic care to be very effective at treating injuries like neck and back pain, headaches, whiplash injuries, and extremity issues.

 

If you’re searching for a chiropractor specializing in collision accident injuries in [your city / town / neighborhood], know that our doors are open and our expert team is here to help, right now.

 

We’re focused on relieving pain, restoring mobility, and supporting long-term healing, and we specialize in treating most all of the common injuries after a collision accident.

 

A complete evaluation is how we determine the extent of your injuries and begin your journey towards recovery.

 

What’s more, our practice’s evaluation process and assessment tools can help us fully document your injuries for your records, your medical doctor’s records, your insurance providers records, and, when needed, your attorney’s records.

 

Then with a combination of conservative treatments designed specifically for you, we can help you find relief as quickly, safely, and naturally as possible.

Here’s How to Recover from Whiplash Injuries Naturally

Your spine is a long chain of bones, discs, muscles, and ligaments that extend from your skull down to your tailbone.

 

The cervical spine (your neck) is designed to support your head and protect the nerves that go out to your face, shoulders, and arms.

 

Postural changes, arthritis, and sudden injuries are a few of the primary causes of neck pain.

 

Most of the time, the pain can be traced to a problem with either the muscles, bones, discs, or nerves in your neck.

 

That’s important to remember when considering how to recover from whiplash injuries naturally.

 

That’s probably a big part of what has you considering seeking chiropractic treatment for whiplash in [your city / town / neighborhood].

 

Whiplash injuries can occur during a sports accident or during a slip and fall.

 

And, as most of us know, whiplash injuries are also commonly sustained during auto accidents.

 

These injuries can cause damage to the delicate structures in your neck and lead to symptoms such as headaches, neck pain and stiffness, shoulder pain, and numbness and tingling or pain in your arms and hands.

 

That pain is your body’s way of saying “pay attention inside now!”

 

Let’s take a closer look at what happens when a whiplash injury is sustained, and, perhaps more importantly, how to recover from whiplash injuries naturally.

 

Why it Matters:

 

Over 1.5 million whiplash injuries occur each year, many from low impact collisions.

 

Research does in fact show that low-speed crashes can create the force necessary to cause pain and injury.

 

Because these injuries can be sustained in collisions other than car accidents and can occur at low speeds, many people often ignore them and have never learned how to recover from whiplash injuries naturally.

 

Many of you neighbors who’ve been involved in an auto accident recently are most likely seeking chiropractic treatment for whiplash in [your city / town / neighborhood] right now for that reason.

 

The truth is that even minor damage to the ligaments of your neck can take up to 12 weeks to heal.

 

In some cases, the partial tearing of the muscles, tendons, or ligaments around your spine can take several months to heal.

 

Depending on the severity of the ligament tearing, these injuries may also be classified as permanent.

 

Whiplash can also cause damage to your facet joints and spinal discs by stretching them beyond their normal range of motion.

 

Almost every bone in your neck has a pair of sliding joints towards the back called facet joints.

 

If an adhesion forms or the joint is stuck, your body will try to compensate.

 

A stiff neck after an accident is a good clue that a whiplash injury may have occurred.

 

Keep an eye out for swelling and bruising, which can take up to 24 hours to develop.

 

Many people may already know what symptoms to watch for, but most people may not really know how to recover from whiplash injuries naturally.

 

How to Recover From Whiplash Injuries Naturally

 

It’s essential to control any inflammation early in your treatment and improve your range of motion.

 

In other words, it’s key to use movement as medicine.

 

While it may seem strange that movement can be a good thing even if it causes discomfort, we know that controlled movement can limit the amount of scar tissue that forms and may even increase the healing rate.

 

Still wondering exactly how to recover from whiplash injuries naturally?

 

Let’s recap the key principles we just discussed.

 

• Obtaining an accurate diagnosis with a complete examination and spinal imaging is the first step towards determining the best plan of care to heal from your injuries.
• Inflammation is often the primary factor that causes pain and restricted movement after a whiplash injury.
• Controlling inflammation naturally and reestablishing your range of motion can help reduce your pain and improve the results of your care.

 

 

Next Steps:

 

With the right healthcare team, most people can get back to their full life and activities without the need for drugs or surgery.

 

Chiropractors focus on the structure and function of your spine.

 

When your spine is functioning optimally, your body is able to heal itself, no medications needed.

 

When looking at how to recover from whiplash injuries naturally, a chiropractor’s care is key.

 

We take a holistic approach to help you recover from whiplash by examining and treating the injured muscles, ligaments, discs, and more.

 

Depending on the type of accident, we may choose to take x-rays or an MRI of your neck to evaluate your injuries better.

 

Chiropractors are considered essential after an accident because of our focus on improving your movement, biomechanics, and functional ability while reducing your pain.

 

Schedule an appointment to receive chiropractic treatment for whiplash in Mount Pleasant today if you are someone you know has been injured in a car accident.

 

We’re here to help guide your recovery process and theirs every step of the way.

3 Common Manifestations of Delayed Pain After a Car Accident

If you can walk away after a car accident without any catastrophic injuries, you should certainly consider yourself lucky.

 

But there is something important we want you to commit to your memory right now.

 

Even if you feel ok after exchanging information and speaking with the police, it is always a good idea to see a chiropractor after an accident.

 

With your adrenaline pumping directly after an accident, your brain may not truly register the pain signals coming from your body.

 

It’s only after you have some time to calm down that you find yourself suddenly living with previously unnoticed injuries and manifestations of delayed pain after a car accident.

 

The good news?

 

Non-drug care options, such as chiropractic, are very effective at helping people both reduce the sensations of delayed pain after a car accident and restore their functional health.

 

If you’re looking for a car accident chiropractor in Mount Pleasant, know our expert team is here to help.

 

Even people with severe and chronic pain have been shown to benefit from the care that chiropractors provide.

 

And with a proper evaluation and early treatment, you have a high likelihood of putting that delayed pain after a car accident in the rear view mirror and getting well within a matter of weeks.

 

Why it Matters:

 

While medications can provide temporary pain relief, they don’t do a very good job of helping your body heal.

 

One of the problems with pain medications is that they only treat the symptoms.

 

They aren’t doing a thing to resolve the injuries that are the real source of your pain.

 

That’s just one reason why Ignoring a new ache or manifestation of delayed pain after a car accident and hoping it will go away is definitely not a smart strategy.

 

Even minor symptoms can be an indication of a more significant problem.

 

That’s perhaps one of the most important reasons you need to see a car accident chiropractor in Mount Pleasant.

 

And there’s something else to consider.

 

The longer you wait to get evaluated and receive care, the higher your likelihood becomes of needing more aggressive medical care.

 

In fact, without a proper diagnosis and swift treatment, your body may begin to “heal” with more scar tissue than necessary.

 

The same principle applies if you ignore what that delayed pain after a car accident is trying to tell you and simply decide to try to live “around” your injuries.

 

Doing so can lead to even more physical stress and compensation from other parts of your body and, ultimately, additional injuries.

3 Common Manifestations of Delayed Pain After a Car Accident

Let’s take a look at some common manifestations of delayed pain after a car accident that may not appear for hours or days.

 

• Headaches: A concussion, neck injury, mild traumatic brain injury, or whiplash can create headaches after a car accident, so don’t dismiss a headache or dizziness until you’ve been adequately evaluated by a doctor.
• Back Pain: Pain in your back after a car accident can take hours or days to begin, and it could be a sign of a spinal disc injury, soft tissue injury, or whiplash.
• Neck / Shoulder Pain: If you notice pain in your neck, shoulders, or arms, it may be a sign of whiplash or a spinal injury.

 

 

Next Steps:

 

Delayed onset of symptoms after a car accident is quite common.

 

It doesn’t mean that you’re “making it up.”

 

The stress of a car accident can make it difficult to truly assess how you feel in the minutes after impact.

 

It takes time for swelling and inflammation to begin, and you may not notice these common manifestations of delayed pain after a car accident for hours or even days.

 

Don’t dismiss your symptoms or concerns.

 

With the right healthcare team, most people can get back to their full life and activities without the need for drugs or surgery.

 

Chiropractors are often the first healthcare professional a majority of people see after getting into an accident.

 

So, if you’ve been searching for the best car accident chiropractor in Mount Pleasant, give our office a call right now.

 

Receiving a complete and thorough evaluation is critical to discovering injuries early on so that you can receive the best care and treatment to put your injuries in the rearview mirror as quickly as possible

 

Research has shown that active care involving range of motion, mobilizing exercises, and strengthening can effectively reduce pain.

 

So, call us to schedule a proper evaluation as soon as you can.

 

It has the potential to make a massive difference in both your quality of life and long-term well-being!

Got Whiplash? Here are 3 Big Reasons to See Your Chiropractor

Whiplash is the term used to describe the injuries that occur as a direct result of a forceful, uncontrolled, and rapid back and forth motion of the neck.

 

These injuries can occur during sports, slip and fall, or auto accidents.

 

Most of us have heard of this type of injury.

 

Most of us know whiplash pain is often associated with auto accidents.

 

However, what we may not know is that whiplash injuries used to be considered “no big deal.”

 

Needless to say, times have certainly changed.

 

Doctors now know that whiplash injury can mean lifelong pain and disability if the associated injuries are not properly cared for when they occur.

 

Recent research also tells us that people who suffer a neck injury during a motor vehicle accident are very likely to experience both whiplash pain and future neck pain.

 

Thankfully, research also indicates that chiropractic care can improve range of motion and decrease pain associated with whiplash injuries.

 

And if you’re looking for a local chiropractor who treats whiplash in Mount Pleasant, you’ve come to the right place!

Why it Matters:

 

With all the stress that comes with the accident itself, calling insurance companies, getting cars repaired, and so on, it’s not uncommon for people to make the mistake of putting their health and well-being last on the to-do list.

 

Your body wasn’t designed to deal with the forces that occur in a car accident.

 

Even low-speed collisions can generate enough force to injure the delicate ligaments in your neck that support your head.

 

And although modern cars have an array of safety features, the damage from an accident can range from small aches to life-changing injuries.

 

The forces that both the vehicle and your body have while driving along the road is known as kinetic energy.

 

It’s true – your vehicle has been carefully built to displace the (kinetic) energy that occurs during an accident.

 

However, no matter what type of car you have, your body will still absorb some of the impact.

 

It’s likely that those powerful forces will cause injuries to your body.

 

During a car accident, your head moves forward and backward suddenly with a tremendous amount of force.

 

If you’ve sustained a whiplash injury it means your head and neck have been forcefully extended beyond their normal range of motion.

 

This can create partial tears and other damage to the muscles and ligaments around your spine and also injure your spinal discs or nerves and your spine’s supporting muscles.

 

Key Indicators of a Whiplash Injury

 

A few key indicators that you may have suffered a whiplash injury include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and pain in your upper or lower extremities.

If you or someone you love has sustained a whiplash injury recently and are considering seeing a local chiropractor who treats whiplash in Mount Pleasant, here’s are some quick facts to keep in mind:

 

• Today, whiplash injuries are considered severe and the rapid back and forth motion that occurs during the associated collision accident can lead to permanent injury to the ligaments of the neck.

 

• It’s estimated that over 80% of people involved in a car accident will sustain whiplash injuries.
• What’s more, over 50% of people with neck pain or whiplash pain after a car accident will continue to have pain one year or more after their initial injury, especially without treatment.

 

Next Steps:

 

Remember this.

 

Immediately after any accident, your adrenaline is pumping, so you may not feel any whiplash pain or overall physical discomfort because you’ll most likely be in a state of shock.

 

That’s why many people wake up the day after an accident experiencing the full brunt of their injuries for the first time.

 

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, you may be wondering how long your whiplash pain and other symptoms are going to last.

 

The good news is that with a proper evaluation and early treatment, you have a high likelihood of getting well within a matter of weeks.

 

Receiving the proper diagnosis and care after a car accident can also help reduce your likelihood of struggling with whiplash pain and a lifetime of chronic neck pain.

 

Our practice is focused on accurately assessing, documenting, and treating those who have been involved in a car accident to help them regain their quality of life as quickly and safely as possible.

 

Don’t shrug off any accidents and push your symptoms aside.

 

Instead, follow three easy-to-remember steps.

 

First, get an evaluation.

 

Next, begin receiving care.

 

Finally, stay consistent.

 

Getting well is a process, so If you have been in an accident and think you might have sustained a whiplash injury –  or someone you know has been involved in an auto accident recently – be sure to reach out to our expert team as soon as possible.

 

When you need a local chiropractor who treats whiplash in [your city / town / neighborhood], remember that our doors are open, and we’re here to help right now!

 

3 Easy Ways to Naturally Increase Your Energy Levels

There’s a reason you see so many commercials for “do-it-all” energy drinks like Red Bull and “have-it-all” energy shots like 5-Hour Energy…

We are exhausted, people!

The mid-afternoon energy crash is very real for just about every person you’ve ever met.

And the mind-boggling thing is we’re often left wondering… why?

If we got enough sleep, already had 2 coffees, didn’t skip lunch, and haven’t had a particularly stressful day, why is our energy still lacking?

We think to ourselves that we must need something else like another coffee, caffeinated soda, energy drink, or energy shot to function because that’s just how life is with our teenage years behind us.

Thankfully, as the leading combination chiropractor and wellness coach in Mount Pleasant, we’re here to tell you those aren’t your only options.

Bottom Line:

Yes, the quickest and easiest way to boost your energy levels in a pinch often seems to be easy grabbing a second (or tenth?!) coffee, but boosting your energy level doesn’t mean you need to rely on caffeine.

When it comes to improving how well you’re able to maintain your mental and physical energy levels, it helps to switch your focus to optimizing rather than supplementing.

Creating smart, healthy habits each day can be all it takes to help you increase your energy levels, mental focus, and overall endurance.

Why it Matters:

As we alluded to earlier, when you walk through a typical grocery store, you’ll often see dozens of products designed to help you “boost your energy” lining the shelves.

Many of these synthetic stimulants aren’t healthy, and some can even become addictive.

What’s more, these can place unnecessary stress on your body.

And doing the exact opposite and finding ways to destress your body and mind is actually the best way to naturally boost your energy levels.

Let’s take a closer look.

3 Ways to Naturally Increase Your Energy Levels

Why are we really so exhausted?

Because we’re stressed.

Take it from the leading chiropractor and wellness coach in Mount Pleasant.

In our modern-day world, we’re subjecting ourselves to heightened levels of constant stress, to diets lacking in basic nutrition, and to increasingly sedentary lifestyles more often.

So, instead of that daily quick fix, it’s better to take a step back and consider the effect that your stress levels, exercise frequency, and diet can have on your energy levels.

1. Being stressed out consumes a ton of energy. Bringing down your mental stress levels with a relaxing activity like meditation and your physical tension with some quick physical therapy in the form of chiropractic care can help you reclaim that energy.
2. Daily exercise can help you sleep better, elevate your mood, and further improve your energy levels by boosting the amount of oxygen circulating in your body.
3. Eating foods with a low glycemic index (where sugar is absorbed slowly) can help you avoid a crash after meals and snacks, keeping you more energized throughout the day.

Hopefully after reading the above list that idea of optimizing vs supplementing is becoming a bit clearer.

Finding real ways to address those low-grade energy drains that often go unnoticed in our day to day lives and sticking to them is the best way to reclaim the energy we didn’t think we had.

Next Steps:

Energy zappers are all around you, and now you know where to look.

Developing an awareness of your daily habits and making small changes can result in big changes in your daily energy levels.

It looks like your days of using caffeine as a crutch are coming to an end, right?

Right!

And if you need help identifying and creating a plan to address your personal stressors and you’d like to get our recommendations regarding the exercises, stretches, and dietary and lifestyle adjustments that may be right for you, just ask us during your next visit.

As the top chiropractor and wellness coach in Mount Pleasant, we’re also standing by to provide the tension-relieving adjustments you need to keep moving and feeling your best.

Our doors are open, and we’re here to help!

Here’s How Chiropractic Care Can Help You Be More Active

We’ve all seen the “Sitting is the New Smoking” stories circulating online and in the news in recent years.

(You may have even seen a story or two talking about how chiropractic care can help you be more active like this one.)

Whether it’s running, biking, swimming, lifting weights, or doing yoga, these days many people are focused on leading more active lifestyles.

They’re looking for ways to spend less time sitting and more time moving.

They’re scheduling blocks of time each day to complete a workout routine or to just be up on their feet and out of the house doing something they love.

We all want to be more active, and sometimes we forget that a big part of that is making sure our bodies are able to handle it!

Bottom Line:

You’ve heard it before: regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your physical and mental health.

It’s no secret that living an active lifestyle helps promote better overall health.

Helping you maintain how well you can bend, twist, jump, and move overall is a big part of how chiropractic care can help you be more active.

Daily physical activity / exercise can help you…

• More reliably manage your weight.
• Lessen your likelihood of developing certain health challenges.
• Reduce your overall stress levels.
• And improve your mental outlook.

But, if you’re like 80% of people (yes, 80% of us!), you might not be getting enough physical activity each week.

And you might very well be one of the many living with daily aches and pains that keep you from being as active as you would like to be.

That’s where we come in.

As the go-to full-service, full body adjustment chiropractor in Mount Pleasant, we’re here to help you get out of pain – no pain medications required.

Why it Matters:

Chiropractic care has been part of the wellness conversation worldwide for well over 125 years.

So, exactly how chiropractic care can help you be more active?

The primary focus for chiropractors is movement-based care.

We’re all about “move better, feel better, heal better.”

 

Just like it’s no secret that living an active lifestyle can help improve your overall wellbeing…

It’s no secret that when your neck, arms, shoulders, upper back, lower back, hips, legs, knees, ankles, or any part of your body isn’t “stuck”, you just feel better.

You have one less thing weighing on your mind, you feel less “run down”, you have less of a need for those over the counter pain medications, and you have one less reason to cancel your plans.

So, how do we help keep your body moving at its best?

Read on.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help You Be More Active

Let’s start with Movement 101.

Chiropractors focus on improving your neuromusculoskeletal function with spinal manipulation and other natural, movement-based techniques.

Your overall health is influenced by three types of movement…

1. Segmental: how well your body’s individual joints move.
2. Regional: how well your neck, low back, arms, and legs move.
3. Whole body: how well your whole body moves.

Here’s how…

• Segmental Movement: Regular chiropractic adjustments can positively influence the function of your nervous system, help decrease aches and pains, and help relax your muscles.
• Regional Movement: Regular stretching can help to improve your range of motion and biomechanics and your energy levels.
• Whole Body Movement: Daily exercise can help to improve your mood and your sleep and help to lower your risk of chronic disease.

When you’ve spend some time reading about how chiropractic care can help you be more active, take the leap to finally see a full body adjustment chiropractor in [your city / town / neighborhood] and give us a call, you’ll hear us say it time and time again…

Move better. Feel better. Heal better!

Next Steps:

Millions of people make new year’s resolutions to get more active each year… and each year, they might come up just a bit short.

It happens.

But this year, you have the tools and resources to succeed!

Together, we covered some common sense steps for setting health goals and some simple ways to start cultivating a more positive mindset earlier this month.

And now hopefully you understand just a bit more about how chiropractic care can help you be more active and the role it has to play in helping you finally meet and exceed your resolutions for the year ahead (whether they’re new or not!).

With the proper support, your body can thank you in so many ways.

So, if you’ve been sidelined by chronic aches and pains, let us know.

As the go-to full body adjustment chiropractor in [your city / town / neighborhood], we’re here to help you get healthy and stay healthy so you can stay active and reach your goals!