Category: Chiropractic

Why Do Some People Feel Worse After Seeing A Chiropractor?

Houston Chiropractor Comments: While most people feel better after getting adjusted in our Houston, TX office, some people notice an increase in discomfort when they begin care.

Some individuals may experience an initial worsening of symptoms after a chiropractic adjustment due to a variety of reasons, including temporary muscle soreness, increased inflammation, or the release of toxins. Additionally, pre-existing conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis can be aggravated by adjustments temporarily. 

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

• Muscle Soreness and Discomfort:

Adjustments can cause muscle soreness and discomfort as the body adapts to the change in alignment. This is similar to how muscles feel after a strenuous workout. 

• Inflammation:

The adjustments can sometimes increase inflammation in the affected area, leading to temporary pain and stiffness. 

• Release of Toxins:

Some practitioners believe that adjustments can trigger the body’s detoxification process, causing temporary symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or even flu-like symptoms. 

• Pre-existing Conditions:

If someone has a pre-existing condition like a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, the adjustment could exacerbate these conditions and cause increased pain temporarily. 

• Poor Technique:

In rare cases, improper or forceful adjustments can lead to misalignment or injury, worsening pain. 

• Individual Sensitivity:

Some individuals are simply more sensitive to the adjustments and may experience more discomfort than others. This is why experienced chiropractors know a variety of techniques. The doctor can find the type of adjustment that is best for the individual patient. 

It’s important to communicate any concerns or worsening pain to the chiropractor, as they can assess the situation and adjust the treatment plan accordingly. In most cases, the symptoms subside within a few days, and the long-term benefits of chiropractic care outweigh the initial discomfort. 

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston,     TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!

Why is chiropractic care beneficial to overall health?

Houston Chiropractor Comments: When I talk to people about chiropractic, most people understand the benefit of chiropractic medicine when they have injured themselves or are in pain. Chiropractic care has become recognized as the best way to become pain free without the need of drugs or surgery. Chiropractic care is used by most school and professional sports programs and people understand the value of care for pain relief.

What most patients do not know is the benefit of chiropractic care for your overall health. Here are some ways that regular chiropractic care can benefit your overall health.

Chiropractic care offers a range of potential benefits, including pain relief, improved posture, enhanced athletic performance, and boosted immune function. It focuses on aligning the spine and nervous system to promote overall well-being. 

Here’s a more detailed look at the potential benefits:

1. Pain Relief:

• Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate pain by relieving pressure on nerves and reducing inflammation. 
• This can be particularly helpful for conditions like back pain, neck pain, and headaches. 

2. Improved Posture: 

• Chiropractic care can help correct spinal misalignments, leading to better posture and reducing stress on joints and ligaments.
• Improved posture can also contribute to increased energy levels and improved digestion.

3. Enhanced Athletic Performance: 

• By addressing joint restrictions and improving flexibility, chiropractic care can enhance athletic performance and reduce the risk of injuries.
• It can also improve balance and coordination, which are essential for athletic activities.

4. Boosted Immune Function:

• Chiropractic care can help support a healthy nervous system, which in turn regulates the body’s immune response. 
• By reducing stress on the nervous system, chiropractic adjustments may help improve the body’s ability to fight off infections. 

5. Other Potential Benefits:

• Increased Range of Motion:

Addressing joint restrictions can lead to a broader range of motion in the neck, shoulders, hips, and other joints. 

• Improved Flexibility:

Enhanced joint flexibility can make daily activities, exercise routines, and sports performance more comfortable. 

• Reduced Stress:

Chiropractic care may help reduce stress and improve mental well-being. 

• Improved Sleep Quality:

By addressing pain and inflammation, chiropractic treatments may help improve sleep quality. 

• Increased Energy:

Many people report increased energy levels and decreased feelings of fatigue following chiropractic treatment. 

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston,     TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!

Can Chiropractic Care Effectively Address Muscle Strains?

Most of these injuries are resolved in 1-3 days on their own and do not need any chiropractic attention. If the sprain / strain discomfort lasts longer than 72 hours, then chiropractic care can be very effective.

Chiropractic care can be effective in treating muscle strains by addressing spinal alignment, reducing pain and inflammation, and promoting healing. Chiropractors use techniques like spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and physical therapy to restore proper function and alleviate discomfort. 

Here’s how chiropractic care can help with muscle strains:

• Spinal Alignment:

Chiropractic adjustments help realign the spine, which can reduce pressure on muscles and nerves, alleviating pain and promoting faster healing. 

• Pain Relief:

Spinal manipulation and soft tissue therapies, such as massage, can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with muscle strains. 

• Improved Blood Flow:

Chiropractors may use techniques like massage and ultrasound therapy to improve blood flow to the injured area, which can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to promote healing. 

• Reduced Inflammation:

Chiropractic care can help reduce inflammation, which can exacerbate pain and delay healing. 

• Restored Function:

By restoring proper alignment and reducing pain and inflammation, chiropractic care can help patients regain mobility and function. 

• Prevention:

Chiropractors can also provide advice on proper posture, exercise, and ergonomics to help prevent future muscle strains. 

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston,     TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!

Chiropractic Care For Premenstrual Low Back Pain

Clear Lake Chiropractor Comments: One of the benefits of chiropractic care that most people do not talk about is the ability to help reduce or eliminate premenstrual low back pain and cramps. Usually, the patient is coming in to our office in Houston, TX for another complaint, and become pleasantly surprised when their cramps go away with a specific adjustment to the lumbar spine. Now, after over 35 years in practice, I have some patients come in every month specifically to help control their premenstrual low back pain and cramps.

Chiropractic care may offer relief for premenstrual low back pain by addressing spinal misalignments and restoring nerve function, potentially improving hormonal balance and reducing pain and cramping. 

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

• How Chiropractic Care Works:
  • Chiropractors focus on the relationship between the spine, nervous system, and overall health. 
  • They use spinal manipulation (adjustments) and other techniques to restore proper spinal alignment and function. 
  • This can help reduce nerve interference, improve nerve communication, and potentially alleviate pain and other symptoms associated with PMS. 
  • Chiropractic care can also improve circulation and reduce inflammation. 

• Potential Benefits for PMS Symptoms:
  • Reduced Back Pain: Spinal misalignments can contribute to back pain, and chiropractic care aims to address these issues. 
  • Improved Hormonal Balance: By addressing nerve interference, chiropractic care may help improve the body’s ability to regulate hormones, potentially reducing PMS symptoms. 
  • Reduced Cramping: Chiropractic care can help restore proper function in the spine and joints, which can reduce pain and cramping associated with PMS. 
  • Improved Overall Well-being: By addressing underlying issues, chiropractic care can contribute to a more balanced and healthy lifestyle, potentially leading to improved overall well-being during the menstrual cycle. 

• Spinal Manipulation 
  • Spinal manipulation is a common technique used by chiropractors to restore proper spinal alignment and function. 
  • It involves applying controlled force to the spine to release restrictions and improve joint mobility. 
  • Other techniques, such as mobilization (gentle stretching and movement) and soft tissue therapy, may also be used.

• Research and Studies:
  • Some studies suggest that chiropractic care can be effective in managing PMS symptoms, including back pain, abdominal cramping, and dysmenorrhea. 
  • A study found that a group of women who received chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue therapy experienced a statistically significant improvement in PMS symptoms compared to a placebo group. 

• Important Considerations:

• It’s essential to consult with a qualified chiropractor to determine if chiropractic care is appropriate for your specific needs and to discuss any underlying medical conditions. 
• Chiropractic care is generally considered safe and effective, but it’s important to choose a reputable and experienced practitioner. 
• Chiropractic care can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments, such as medications or herbal remedies. 

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston,     TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below! 

Benefits of Chiropractic Maintenance Care

Houston Chiropractor Comments: A common question that I get from patients after they complete their scheduled treatments for their injuries or complaints, is “What can I do to help prevent this from happening again?” 

They have gone from having pain or limitations and now feel good. They are now looking for ways to make sure that they maintain all the gains that they received.

This is where maintenance care comes into the picture.

Chiropractic maintenance care comes in a couple of different ways.

The first part is doing specific stretches and exercises. While patients are under active care, we show specific stretches and exercises to help stabilize their problem areas. After patients are discharged from active care, we recommend a series of specific exercises and stretches to address other areas of weakness. This helps to allow the body to operate at its maximum potential.

The second aspect of maintenance is making sure that the patient is getting the proper rest and nutrition. The body needs the correct nutrition and opportunity to rebuild healthier than before.

The final aspect of maintenance care is finding a schedule of spinal adjustments to make sure that your body is staying in the optimal alignment. This will depend on a variety of different factors, including the patient’s overall health, lifestyle habits, and specific concerns.

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston,     TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!chiroprac

10 Benefits of Prenatal Chiropractic Care

Houston Chiropractor Comments: During the journey of pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes to help accommodate a growing baby and prepare for delivery. For some women, this can mean pain and discomfort. Chiropractic care during pregnancy doesn’t just benefit women who are experiencing pain. Prenatal chiropractic care is for all pregnant women looking for prenatal and postnatal benefits. 

Here are 10 benefits of prenatal chiropractic care:

1. Relief From Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common complaints among pregnant women. Back pain is often caused by the loosening of joints and ligaments in preparation for delivery. Routine adjustments throughout pregnancy can help to relieve pain or injury caused by spinal instability, or loosened ligaments and joints.

2. Nausea Reduction

Some women who are plagued by extreme “morning sickness” and nausea during pregnancy can benefit greatly from chiropractic care. While some medications or diet changes can help to reduce nausea for some, a more holistic and complete option can be more effective or used as a complementary treatment. Chiropractors address nausea and vomiting by focusing on spinal realignment that helps to improve nervous system function for hormonal balance. Additionally, adjustments can help to improve digestive issues that are causing everything from nausea to constipation during pregnancy.

3. Improved Pelvic Balance

This one is important for mothers who are concerned about their babies staying in the breech position ahead of labor. There’s evidence that chiropractic care during pregnancy assists with maintaining pelvic balance that helps babies move more freely into the right pre-birth position. In one study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, chiropractors reported a success rate of 82 percent using the Webster Technique. 

4. A Smoother, More Controlled Delivery

Many women who continue with chiropractic care throughout their pregnancies find that the birthing process is simply easier. We can attribute this to the way regular adjustments help to keep the hips, pelvis and spine in proper alignment. Additionally, properly functioning nerves may help women to control contractions more easily.

5. Injury Avoidance

Prenatal chiropractic care helps expectant mothers to stay flexible. This can help to reduce stress injuries that can occur as women adapt to their changing bodies. Let chiropractic care help you move in harmony with your changing body.

6. Posture Support

It’s important for pregnant women to avoid the “arching” of the back that commonly happens during pregnancy because this can lead to long-term back pain and injury. With chiropractic guidance, you’ll learn techniques for keeping a straight back.

7. Better Sleep

Improper sleep posture can lead to restlessness and pain during pregnancy. Unfortunately, that means that many women get less sleep during a time when they need it the most. With guidance from a prenatal chiropractor, pregnant women can learn techniques for good sleep posture.

8. A Healthier Pregnancy

For many women, chiropractic care’s benefits for reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system can lead to healthier pregnancies.

9. Faster Labor Recovery

Routine adjustments during pregnancy can put your body in a position to heal and bounce back quicker because you’re starting off with your body in proper balance.

10. Continued Wellness After Pregnancy

Women who seek chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy can continue to enjoy the benefits after delivery. Proper alignment can help new moms avoid injury when bending to lift a baby, holding a baby for long periods, pushing strollers and lifting car seats.

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston,     TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!

Can I Have Chiropractic Care After Back Surgery?

Clear Lake Chiropractor Comments: I was recently talking to a patient, when they mentioned that they wished their brother could go to a chiropractor for his back pain. I found out that her brother had back surgery 5 years ago, and assumed that he could never get adjusted by a chiropractor again.

This, unfortunately, is a common misunderstanding of patients. People think that if they have ever had neck or back surgery, that they can not go to a doctor of chiropractic and get a spinal adjustment again.

The main thing to understand is it will depend on where and what type of spinal surgery you had to determine when and how can get adjusted again.

After practicing in the greater Houston area for 34 years, we have developed a great working relationship with several spinal surgeons. For a typical discectomy most surgeons will suggest that we wait 4-6 weeks before beginning chiropractic care. A spinal fusion will typically require waiting 4-9 months before receiving a chiropractic manipulation. If a patient received a spinal fusion cage or scoliosis rods, we do not adjust that specific area, but we can adjust the surrounding areas.

A recent study noted that 10% of patients receiving regular chiropractic treatment had at least one prior spinal surgery in the past. Patients With a History of Spine Surgery Receiving Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation in US Academic Health Centers: A Cross-Sectional Cohort Study – PMC (nih.gov) As spine specialist, doctors of chiropractic are uniquely qualified to help with post-surgical rehabilitation and to help minimize a reoccurrence. 

Chiropractic care after back surgery will help increase spinal motion, minimize joint adhesions, and help reduce any associated joint pain.

Just because you had neck or back surgery in the past, it does not mean that you cannot experience the pleasure of health by receiving chiropractic care now.

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston, TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!

Do You Have To Keep Going To A Chiropractor After You Start?

Houston Chiropractor Comments: I was recently talking with someone when they told me that they wanted to start chiropractic care, but were worried that they would have to keep getting adjusted forever if they did.

Unfortunately, it was not the first time that I had heard that. Since only about 10 percent of the population goes to a doctor of chiropractic, there is a lot of misinformation about chiropractic care.

In my 35 years of being a doctor of chiropractic (DC), we have treated some patients one time and resolved their problem and we have some patients that come one time a month, and have done that for 30+ years. 

In my Houston, Texas office we like to find out what is causing the patients’ complaint / pain, fix the problem with chiropractic care and exercises / stretches, and then leave it alone.

Most of the time, this works well. The patients’ complaints are alleviated and they are given stretches and exercises to help prevent a reoccurrence. Think of it like going to a dentist and he fixes a cavity and then tells you to brush and floss to prevent future cavities.

Some patients do well with their home-care program, but eventually life gets busy and they stop doing their stretches and exercises. Since they are usually still doing the same activities…the problems that had resolved, return. The patients have these exacerbations periodically until they make their home-care, part of their daily routine.

Finally, some patients find that the quality of their life is improved with regular chiropractic care. They find that they need less medication, visit other doctors less frequently, and generally have more energy. For these patients, it is like having a tune-up so that they can enjoy life to the fullest. 

You do not have to get chiropractic care forever, but you might just find that you want to have regular chiropractic care and experience the pleasure of health.

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston,     TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!

Are Chiropractic Adjustments Painful?

Houston Chiropractor Comments: Every month, at least 10 – 12 new patients ask me if their chiropractic adjustments will hurt. For most people, it is the fear of the unknown. They have never been to a chiropractor, so they have no idea what to expect. Some have been referred in by a doctor, friend, or co-worker, but even if they are told it is safe, they ask me if it will be painful.

Sometimes I will joke that it will not hurt me at all … and then smile. Patients want reassurance that the treatment will not hurt more than the pain that brought them to our Houston Texas office.

If an adjustment is performed correctly, it should not be painful. Sometimes if there is a serious injury with a lot of swelling and muscle spasms, there might be some soreness noted in the area around the injury.

The actual adjustment removes any restriction in the joint and allows more pain free movement. It also allows any irritation of the nerve to be reduced. These things help to reduce rather than cause pain.

Some patients hear the sound of a chiropractic adjustment and assume that it must cause pain. They think that the sound is two bones grinding together or breaking. In fact, it is just gas in the joint capsule typically. Here is a video explaining the noise that you may hear after an adjustment. Beecher Chiropractic – What is that Chiropractic Noise? (youtube.com)

In summary, typically there is no pain from a properly performed chiropractic adjustment. If you do have any discomfort after an adjustment, it will typically be minimal, such as you might feel after lifting weights or doing yard work. Finally, if you notice any increase in pain after an adjustment put ice on the painful area for 20 minutes and it should go away.

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston,     TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!

Benefits Of Walking

Houston Chiropractor Comments: If you have had lower back pain in the past, new research out of Australia has confirmed what we suspected. The study showed that if you have recovered from low back pain, then walking can help to prevent a reoccurrence.

The study mentions that walking allows a combination of gentle oscillatory movements, loading and strengthening the spinal muscles and structures, as well as relaxation, stress relief and the release of endorphins.

Over 800 million people around the world suffer from low back pain. In 7 out of 10 cases, the pain will alleviate only to return in the future.

Most chiropractors and other doctors will recommend stretching and exercising to help prevent, or at least minimize, a reoccurrence. Walking is a low cost, and widely accessible form of exercise regardless of age, socio-economic status, or geographic location.

The study, recently posted in The Lancet, showed that walking almost doubled the length of time before a reoccurrence. In addition, the study group reported missing work only half as frequently. Additional benefits were an increase in bone density, cardiovascular health, weight loss, and improved mental health.

As we say at Beecher Chiropractic, movement is medicine.

Dr. Ward Beecher practices at Beecher Chiropractic Clinic at 1001 Pineloch, Ste 700 Houston,     TX 77062. You can schedule an appointment at www.BeecherChiropractic.com or by calling (281) 286-1300. If you have any questions regarding this blog, please comment below!