Patient Education

would like to be your partner in health care. Feel free to ask your questions and share your concerns with us. We will work with you to develop a wellness program for the care and treatment you need.

We welcome you to our practice and look forward to caring for you.

provides a full range of medical services including the following:

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is an alternative healthcare approach that focuses primarily on disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors use a hands-on approach to diagnose and treat problems that affect the nerves, muscles, bones and joints by mechanically adjusting the spinal column. Although spinal manipulation is the foundation of chiropractic care, chiropractors, who take a holistic approach to treatment, use many other types of therapy to relieve pain and restore mobility. ...

Arthritis

There are two major types of arthritis: osteoarthritis, which is caused by aging and wear-and-tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the joints. Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment for both. Although the two types of arthritis differ in significant ways, both cause joint pain, stiffness, swelling and immobility that chiropractic treatment may relieve. ...

Bursitis

Bursitis is a common painful disorder involving inflammation of one or more bursae, the small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the areas between bones and other body parts. When bursae are damaged by traumatic injury or chronic overuse, they become filled with excess fluid. This inflammation can cause severe pain at the affected site. Bursitis can occur in various regions of the body, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, or ankle. Once bursitis occurs, the patient's movements alter in an attempt to lessen the pain and further misalignments of the spine are likely to occur, exacerbating the condition. ...

Chiropractic Care for Children

Chiropractic care is as helpful for children as it is for adults. In addition to strengthening the immune system and treating certain injuries and diseases, in children chiropractic care promotes proper alignment during growth and development. Chiropractic care is used as an adjunct to primary medical care, often enhancing medical treatment and sometimes providing effective relief of symptoms where typical medical remedies fail. In addition to assisting with the neuromuscular conditions so central to adult chiropractic care, chiropractic care for children has frequently proven helpful in solving common childhood complaints typically resistant to treatment. ...

Fertility Issues

Fertility issues are relatively common. These issues are distressing to both men and women and may result from dysfunction in the reproductive tract of either partner. In some cases, no cause of infertility can be isolated. Although some percentage of reproductive problems are related to anatomical abnormalities, diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, or exposure to toxins or radiation, in many cases fertility issues may be associated with improper functioning of the nervous system, a condition chiropractic care is specifically designed to address. ...

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia, a chronic, sometimes disabling, condition that causes fatigue and widespread muscle aches, often responds well to chiropractic treatment. In addition to constant dull pain, patients who suffer from fibromyalgia have specific points on their bodies that are sensitive to even minimal pressure. These tender spots may be present in the back, neck, shoulders and chest, or along the inner knees. Because in many cases conventional medical treatment does not provide sufficient relief, many patients with fibromyalgia turn to chiropractic care. ...

Headaches and Migraines

Getting a headache is a universal human experience, and most headaches are short-lived and relatively benign. For millions of people, however, headaches are a serious problem because of their frequency or severity. A very small percentage of headaches are due to traumatic brain injury or tumor, and some are the result of anatomical abnormalities or polyps. The vast majority are due to more benign causes. This does not, however, make these headaches any less painful. While conventional medicine treats headaches primarily with medication, chiropractic care for headaches involves hands-on manipulation of misaligned vertebrae to reduce or eliminate nerve compression and increase the flow of oxygen and blood to the affected site. ...

Joint Pain

Joint pain is a common complaint, often prompting patients to seek chiropractic or other medical care. When joints, the places where bones meet in order to facilitate movement, get out of alignment, several painful conditions can result. Joint misalignment affects both muscles and nerves, often resulting not only in localized pain, but in radicular pain, pain that runs down the adjacent limb. Although any joint can move out of its correct position, the joints that most often bring patients in for treatment are the facet joints of the back, the sacroiliac (SI) joints and the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). ...

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system. The disorder causes an inflammation of the myelin sheath, the outer covering of the nerves, precipitating a wide variety of symptoms, including muscles weakness, pain, numbness, decreased coordination, spasticity (muscle stiffness) and, when the optic nerve is affected, visual difficulties. Chiropractic care, with its holistic emphasis on correcting spinal misalignments to allow the body to heal itself, is a natural treatment for this disease. ...

Spine Conditions

Ever since homo sapiens evolved into upright creatures, there has been strain placed on the spinal column. Chiropractors are able to treat spinal disorders that occur because of birth defects, injuries, repetitive stress or disease processes. Through manual adjustments, chiropractors correct misalignments of the vertebrae in the spine, decompressing discs and nerves in the process. By restoring proper alignment of the vertebrae, they help to restore musculoskeletal, neurological, and vascular health, promoting proper circulation so that all systems of the body receive proper oxygenation and nourishment. ...

Whiplash

Whiplash is a painful, sometimes immobilizing, injury of the head and neck that can often be effectively treated with chiropractic care. Whiplash occurs when a sudden backwards-forwards motion of the head, commonly the result of vehicular accidents or sports injuries, causes muscles and ligaments of the neck to move beyond their normal range of motion. Most often whiplash injuries are limited to strains, sprains, and inflammations of the nerves or facet joints. ...

Electrical Muscle Stimulation

Electric muscle stimulation (EMS) is a method of treatment frequently used in chiropractic therapy to relieve muscle spasms and pain. During EMS, electrodes attached to an electric stimulation machine are placed on the patient's areas of discomfort, transmitting mild electrical current to the region. The purpose of EMS is to decrease pain, strengthen muscles, and reduce inflammation. Patients who undergo electric muscle stimulation most often find it soothing and pleasant, something like a deep electrical massage. ...

Heat Therapy

Heat therapy, also known as thermotherapy, involves the application of heat to the body to relieve pain, increase circulation and mobility, and assist in the healing process. Frequently used by chiropractors and physical therapists, heat therapy has a long medical history as an a means of rehabilitation. Moist heat is sometimes considered even more effective because water carries heat more rapidly than air, though research has not confirmed this. ...

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy involves hands-on stimulation of the soft tissues of the body to increase blood flow and stimulate the healing process. During massage, skin, muscles, joints and connective tissue are manipulated as a means of reducing pain and stress. Massage therapists are trained professionals who use specific techniques to treat various medical problems. ...

Neuromuscular Re-Education

Neuromuscular re-education is a mode of therapy used by chiropractors and physical therapists to assist in restoring normal movement after injury. Normally, muscles and nerves work together to produce movements. In fact, it is believed that nerves and muscles are so in tune that such collaborative patterns are reinforced over time, stored in the brain, and become automatic. A good example of this process is the way people come to walk stairs, adjusting to step height without conscious thought. When disease or traumatic injury interrupt this process, neuromuscular re-education can help to restore the patient's neuromuscular function. ...

Trigger Point Therapy

Chiropractors and many other therapists, including physiatrists and osteopaths, often focus their therapeutic attention on trigger points, the hypersensitive spots in muscle tissue that develop as a result of overuse or misuse of muscles. Trigger points are actually palpable nodules located in deep muscle fibers. Trigger points generally develop due to muscle overload which may result from injury, muscular atrophy due to illness, or excessive exercise. The nodules that appear in the deep muscle tissue are considered to be small knots of spasmodic muscle contraction. ...

Ultrasound Therapy

While ultrasound is used for diagnosis and observation in many medical disciplines, such as vascular surgery and obstetrics, chiropractors and physical therapists commonly use ultrasound as a treatment mode. Applied to the patient's skin using a device called a transducer, therapeutic ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to penetrate deep into muscle tissue to relieve pain, increase circulation, and reduce inflammation and spasms. Ultrasound treatment is effective in treating vehicular and sports injuries and can also be helpful in treating the ongoing pain of certain systemic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. ...

Vertebral Subluxation

Vertebral subluxation is a chiropractic term referring to a misalignment, or minimal dislocation, of the bones of the spinal column (vertebrae). When a vertebra moves out of position, it can create pressure on a spinal nerve. This interferes with communication among the nerves, possibly setting the stage for an injury or the beginning of a disease process. Chiropractors are professionals who have gone through extensive training in order to be able to detect vertebral subluxations and correct them through manual manipulations called "adjustments." ...

Activator Technique

The Activator Technique of chiropractic treatment makes use of a device known as a mechanical force, manual assisted instrument (MFMA) as an alternative to manual manipulation of the spine or joints. Considered a gentler form of chiropractic treatment, the activator technique involves using the MFMA, a handheld spring-loaded instrument, to deliver enough kinetic energy to the spine to move the vertebrae slightly, correcting misalignment. This treatment method is commonly employed to relieve back pain, neck pain, and various types of headaches. Some studies indicate that the Activator Technique may be as effective as manual adjustment in relieving back pain. ...

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of chronic inflammatory arthritis that significantly affects the joints of the spine. This autoimmune condition causes swelling between the vertebrae, and often affects one or both sacroiliac joints, the joints that attach the spine to the pelvis. In severe cases, the extreme swelling may cause the bones of the spine to fuse. Pain, swelling, and stiffness in the lower back are the typical symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, but inflammation may occur in other parts of the body, including the eyes. Men are more likely than women to develop ankylosing spondylitis and it most commonly occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood. ...

Back Pain Prevention

At some point in their lives, the great majority of adults will suffer from significant low back pain, usually from an injury at work, at home or at play. Orthopedists, chiropractors, physical therapists, coaches and trainers all have helpful advice regarding back pain prevention. By following their directives, people can minimize the possibility of back injury, and keep themselves healthier in the process. ...

Bursitis

Bursitis is a painful inflammation of a bursa, one of the small sacs at the joints that cushion the tendons, muscles and bones. Bursae normally enable fluid movement, but when overtaxed they can inflame and fill with fluid. Once a bursa becomes irritated, gritty and rough, it can create painful friction in the joint. Bursitis usually results either from repetitive stress or sudden injury and presents with swelling, redness and deep, aching pain. The joints most commonly affected by bursitis are the shoulder, elbow, hip and knee. ...

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a narrow, fibrous passage in the wrist that protects the median nerve, which runs down the length of arm and through the wrist into the hand. It controls some hand movement, and sensation in the thumb, index and middle fingers, and half of the ring finger. Irritation or compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel can cause tingling and numbness in the fingers, a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). ...

Muscle Spasms

Muscles spasms, or sudden involuntary contractions of muscles, are a common, painful ailment. Spasms occur as the body's reaction to sudden trauma, as during a vehicular of athletic accident, or repetitive trauma, as occurs when people remain in an uncomfortable position for too long, exercise without warming up, carry unusually heavy loads, or work physically hard in extreme heat. Muscle spasms are the body's way of protecting an injured joint by preventing further movement. Chiropractic care, which focuses on spinal and joint manipulation, as well as stretching and massage, can be very helpful in relaxing the affected muscles and relieving the intense pain of muscle spasms. ...

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, also known as TTS, is a disorder of the foot that parallels carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, though the wrist condition is much more common. Despite being a relatively benign problem, TTS results in significant pain. The tarsal tunnel is a channel that runs between the medial malleolus, the bone that presents as a bump on the inside of the ankle, and the band of ligaments that stretches across the foot. The tarsal tunnel protects the tibial nerve, the nerve that provides sensation to the bottom of the foot. When the tibial nerve is compressed, the resulting pain and disability is referred to as tarsal tunnel syndrome. In many cases, the pain, burning, tingling and numbness resulting from tarsal tunnel syndrome can be successfully reduced and even eliminated by chiropractic care. ...

Degenerated Discs

Degenerated discs are a common back problem. The spinal discs, which are soft, gelatinous cushions that separate the vertebrae, wear down during the aging process. Because the discs function as between-the-bones shock absorbers, allowing the spine to bend and twist, this deterioration can result in serious back pain. As discs are damaged or wear away, the amount of space between the vertebrae gets smaller. As the space narrows, joints are placed under greater stress, resulting in further degeneration. ...

Diversified Technique

Diversified technique is the primary treatment used by chiropractors to correct subluxations (partial dislocations) of the spine. Chiropractic medicine focuses on restoring biomechanical function to each section of the spine: lumbar, thoracic and cervical. Since the original development of the diversified technique, this method has evolved as a means to adjust the joints of the extremities as well as those of the limbs. This adaptation has broadened the use of diversified technique to assist in treating sports injuries and injuries due to other causes. ...

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes fatigue, as well as widespread pain and tenderness in the muscles, ligaments and tendons. People with fibromyalgia have specific tender points on their bodies that are particularly sensitive when pressure is applied. Fibromyalgia is also associated with sleep problems, headaches and trouble concentrating. Women are more likely than men to develop fibromyalgia, as are people between 40 and 60 years old. ...

Foraminal Stenosis

Foraminal stenosis is a painful condition caused by a narrowing of a foraminal canal, one of the passages through which nerves branch off the spinal cord. This condition may be the result of a congenital defect, aging, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, a thickened ligament, a herniated disc, a bone spur, or the enlargement of a vertebral joint. Most frequently, it is caused by disc degeneration. ...

Lateral Epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow, is an elbow injury that occurs as a result of the overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm and elbow. The pain associated with this condition affects the lateral epicondyle, the area where the tendons of the forearm connect with the bony outer portion of the elbow. Repetitive movement and constant use during certain types of activities may put excessive strain on the elbow tendons. Tennis elbow may occur in tennis players or individuals who participate in certain athletic activities, but may also occur in people who have jobs that involve repetitive motions of the wrist and arm, such as carpenters, or people in construction related trades. ...

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc (also called a ruptured or slipped disc) is a damaged "cushion" between two bones in the spine (vertebrae). Normally, the gelatinous discs between the vertebrae hold the bones in place and act as shock absorbers, permitting the spine to bend smoothly. When a disc protrudes beyond its normal parameters, and its tough outer layer of cartilage cracks, the disc is considered "herniated." ...

Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is the most common cause for a work-related disability and one of the main reasons for people staying home from work. The lower back is one of the most important parts of the body as it holds most of our body weight when we stand and is involved in movement when we bend or twist at the waist. Because of its pivotal role and frequent use, the lower back is susceptible to injury and chronic pain. Lower back pain is especially common in older adults who may have decreased bone strength and muscle elasticity. The spongy cartilage pads, called intervertebral discs, that allow for flexibility may wear away and weaken in an elderly person. ...

Mechanical Traction

Mechanical traction is an effective, nonsurgical treatment for spinal pain. While it can be performed manually by a chiropractor or physical therapist, it usually has a greater rate of success when administered mechanically by a device specially designed for the purpose. The machine is normally a special table that uses ropes or pulleys that attach either to the neck, legs or lower back. By pulling on the vertebrae with gentle force, often exerted against gravity, mechanical traction reduces pressure on the vertebral discs, thus straightening the spine and permitting improved circulation. These actions reduce pain, allowing the body to heal itself without interference. ...

Muscle Cramps

Muscles cramps, colloquially known as a charley horse, are a common, painful ailment. While not usually considered serious, the sudden contraction of the muscle, or spasm, can cause serious discomfort and temporarily interfere with function. In some cases, muscle cramps may be a sign of a medical issue that needs to be addressed. Muscle cramps can occur anywhere in the body, but most frequently occur in the legs, affecting the calf, hamstring or quadriceps muscles. ...

Nerve Pain

Nerve pain often results from nerve entrapment syndrome, the damage caused when a nerve is pinched or compressed. Patients with this condition may experience mild or severe pain that is temporary or chronic. The nerves of the body extend from the brain and spinal cord, threading through to every region of the body. The compression of the nerve can take place in the spine, causing pain to radiate into the limbs, or can take place in other parts of the body. It may occur do to a traumatic injury, repeated stress, or an underlying disease condition. ...

Pain Management

An estimated 70 million Americans suffer from chronic pain. Chronic pain is a major medical condition distinctly different from and more complex than acute pain. Whereas acute pain is a normal sensation triggered in the nervous system to alert the body to possible injury, chronic pain is a state in which pain persists, for many months or years, beyond the normal course required by healing. The effects, both economic and personal, associated with chronic pain can be significant. They include loss of income; debt from costly medical treatment; impaired mobility; and anxiety and depression. ...

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction, also known as sacroiliitis, is the inflammation of one or both of the sacroiliac joints, the joints that link the pelvis and lower spine by connecting the sacrum to the iliac bones. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction may be caused by injury, pregnancy, osteoarthritis, degeneration of cartilage, or inflammatory joint disease. At times, a structural abnormality, such as legs of differing lengths or severe pronation, may put increased stress on the joint, resulting in this problem. Patients with sacroiliac joint dysfunction typically experience pain in the buttocks and lower back that worsens when running or standing. While a traumatic injury may cause this problem, it more often develops gradually over a long period. ...

Sciatica

Sciatica is an inflammation of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. The sciatic nerve stretches from the spinal cord to the end of each leg and may become inflamed for a number of reasons, including age-related changes in the spine, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle. Sciatica usually develops gradually as the nerve is compressed over time. This results in pain along the nerve pathway, as well as numbness, tingling and muscle weakness in the affected area. ...

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal curving of the spine. While all spines have a natural curve, patients with scoliosis have excessive spinal curving. Usually scoliosis develops during the growth spurt before puberty, between the ages of 9 and 15. Although some cases of scoliosis are congenital, and some are the result of underlying neuromuscular conditions, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, most cases of scoliosis are idiopathic, meaning their cause is unknown. Both girls and boys can develop scoliosis, but cases in females are more likely to require treatment. In some cases, scoliosis appears to be hereditary. ...

Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression is a therapeutic treatment option for patients suffering from chronic back, neck and leg pain caused by herniated, bulging, or degenerating discs in the spine. This nonsurgical system gently stretches affected areas of the spine to reduce pressure on the discs and relieve symptoms such as tingling, numbness and pain. This newest type of spinal decompression, which is controlled by a computer system, replaces the older mechanical type of traction decompression used by medical professionals for many years. ...

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is an inflammation of one of the tendons, the soft flexible cords of tissue that connect muscle to bone. Such inflammations can occur as a result of overuse or traumatic injury. Tendonitis can occur anywhere in the body, but most often occurs in joints such as the shoulder, knee, wrist, ankle and elbow. ...