Outdoor Activities That Are Good For Your Back
Houston Chiropractor Comments: When patients recover from their injuries, it is common that they as me “What are some outdoor activities that are good for my back?”
Outdoor activities like walking, hiking, biking, and gardening are beneficial for spinal health as they promote low-impact movement, strengthen core muscles, and improve overall fitness. These activities help reduce back pain and support a healthy spine without excessive stress.
Here’s a more detailed look at these spine-friendly activities:
Walking:
- Walking is a natural and safe form of exercise that is great for the spine.
- It improves cardiovascular health and helps maintain a healthy weight, which reduces stress on the spine.
- Walking can be done at various paces and distances, making it suitable for different fitness levels.
Hiking:
- Hiking is a low-impact cardiovascular activity that activates core muscles to maintain balance and stability.
- It strengthens muscles around the spine and improves overall fitness, which can reduce back pain.
- Hiking on varied terrain provides a more challenging workout while being gentle on the joints.
Biking:
- Biking is a low-impact exercise that is gentle on the spine, offering a good workout without excessive jarring.
- It can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and increase flexibility.
- Biking on scenic trails can make the experience enjoyable and motivating.
Gardening:
- Gardening provides a gentle form of exercise that involves bending, twisting, and lifting.
- It can strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and promote overall health.
- Gardening can be done at a variety of levels of intensity, allowing for customization based on individual needs.
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!
Is it worth visiting a chiropractor if I have no pain?
Houston Chiropractor Comments: While most patients visit our Houston, TX office because of some form of pain, pain is not always the best way to determine your health. A lot of problems can exist for a long period of time before a patient notices pain. Heart problems and cancer typically have been present for a while before the patient notices any pain. In our office we see patients coming in with an extensive amount of arthritic degeneration that occurred before they noticed pain.
Similar to the check engine light in a car, people will say that they noticed various symptoms for a while, but they thought it was normal. Some patients had attributed it to “just getting older”.
Here are some reasons for visiting a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC)
- Preventive Care:
Even if you don’t feel pain now, misalignment can be a precursor to pain later. Chiropractic adjustments can address these issues before they become significant problems.
- Improved Overall Health:
Regular chiropractic care can optimize the nervous system, leading to improved function of the entire body.
- Enhanced Performance:
Chiropractic care can improve flexibility, range of motion, and overall physical performance.
- Better Sleep:
Improved posture and spinal alignment can contribute to better sleep quality.
- Stress Management:
Chiropractic care can help manage stress by optimizing the nervous system.
- Addressing Underlying Issues:
Chiropractors can identify and address issues like tight muscles, limited flexibility, and aching joints, even if they are not causing immediate pain.
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 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!
Chiropractic Care For Trapezius Pain
Clear Lake City Chiropractor Comments: One of the more common complaints that I hear in my Clear Lake, Texas office is that the muscles at the top of the upper back are painful and full of muscle knots. This comes from sitting at a desk on a computer or looking down at a phone or iPad for hours each day. Patients wonder if there is anything that chiropractic can do to make the muscles of the upper back relax. Luckily, the answer is yes.
Chiropractic care can be an effective approach to managing trapezius pain, addressing muscle tension, and improving mobility through techniques like spinal adjustments, massage, and targeted stretching.
Here’s a more detailed explanation of how chiropractic care can help with trapezius pain:
- Spinal Adjustments:
Chiropractors focus on realigning the spine, particularly in the cervical (neck) and thoracic (upper back) regions, which can help reduce pressure on the trapezius muscles and improve nerve function.
- Massage Therapy:
Massage can help relax tight muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the trapezius area, promoting healing and reducing pain.
- Stretching and Exercise:
Chiropractors may recommend specific stretches and exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the trapezius muscles and surrounding areas, preventing future issues.
- Soft Tissue Therapy:
Chiropractors may utilize myofascial release or other soft tissue techniques to address muscle restrictions and trigger points that can contribute to trapezius pain.
- Home Strategies:
Chiropractors may also recommend home strategies like massage, stretching, and foam rolling to help manage pain and prevent future issues.
- Addressing Underlying Issues:
Chiropractors can assess and address potential underlying causes of trapezius pain, such as poor posture, repetitive movements, or muscle imbalances.
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 Treatment For Carpal Tunnel
Houston Chiropractor Comments: In my Houston, TX office it is common for people to come in complaining about having carpal tunnel syndrome. They believe that all hand and wrist pain is carpal tunnel. While this is not actually correct, sometimes they do have carpal tunnel syndrome.
The good news for those patients is that after 37 years in practice, we get great results with that condition.
How Beecher Chiropractic Clinic addresses Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
- Manual Adjustments:
Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to adjust the spine, neck, shoulder, and wrist, aiming to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
- Spinal Manipulation:
Chiropractic adjustments can help realign the vertebrae in the neck and spine, which can contribute to carpal tunnel symptoms.
- Wrist and Hand Adjustments:
Specific techniques can address misalignments in the wrist and hand, reducing pressure on the median nerve.
- Soft Tissue Therapy:
Chiropractors may use soft tissue mobilization to release tension and improve circulation, potentially reducing inflammation and pressure.
- Bracing:
Wrist braces can help stabilize the joint and limit movement, which can provide temporary relief and allow the tissues to heal.
- Exercises:
Chiropractors may recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles in the wrist, arm, and hand, and to improve flexibility and range of motion.
- Ultrasound and Electrical Stimulation:
These therapies can be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
Why Beecher Chiropractic Clinic is a Good Option for Carpal Tunnel:
- Non-invasive:
Chiropractic care is a non-surgical option that avoids the risks and recovery time associated with surgery.
- Drug-free:
It provides a natural approach to managing symptoms without relying on medication.
- Holistic approach:
Chiropractors consider the interconnectedness of the body and address the underlying causes of carpal tunnel, not just the symptoms.
- Improved function:
By restoring proper alignment and function, chiropractic care can improve overall hand and wrist function.
- Empowerment:
Chiropractic care can empower patients to actively participate in their own recovery by learning how to manage their condition with self-care and proper ergonomics.
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?
Clear Lake Chiropractor Comments: One of the most common injuries that I see in My Houston, TX office are sprain / strain injuries. These are your overuse injuries to your muscles and ligaments. They typically come from doing more than you normally do or you do something incorrectly.
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!
How Can Chiropractic Help Common Auto Accident Injuries
Clear Lake Chiropractor Comments: Unfortunately, auto accidents happen. On average, there are over 6 million passenger car accidents in the US every year. Road crashes are the leading cause of death in the country resulting in more than 38,000 people losing their lives each year.
Even more people are injured from car wrecks annually. In our Houston, TX office we treat patients that have been injured in car accidents every day with great results.
Chiropractors can help with common auto accident injuries by addressing musculoskeletal issues like whiplash, back pain, and neck pain through spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and exercises, aiming to reduce pain, improve range of motion, and promote healing.
Here’s a more detailed explanation of how chiropractic care can help with common auto accident injuries:
- Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to restore proper alignment of the spine and surrounding structures, which can help relieve nerve pressure and ease pain and stiffness.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains, are common after a car accident. Chiropractors can use techniques like massage, stretching, and soft tissue therapy to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote faster healing.
- Pain Relief: Chiropractic care can help reduce pain and inflammation throughout the body, making it easier for accident victims to resume their normal activities.
- Improved Range of Motion: By addressing spinal misalignments and soft tissue injuries, chiropractic care can help restore range of motion and improve overall mobility.
- Long-Term Health: Addressing injuries early on can prevent long-term complications, such as chronic pain and reduced mobility.
- Holistic Approach: Chiropractors take a holistic approach to treatment, considering the entire body and its interconnectedness, rather than just focusing on the symptoms.
- Whiplash: Chiropractic care can help address the symptoms of whiplash, such as shooting pain, restricted movement of the neck, trouble concentrating, extreme fatigue, and vertigo.
- Nerve Irritation: Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve nerve pressure and ease symptoms associated with nerve irritation, such as numbness or tingling.
- Sciatica: Chiropractors can treat sciatica, which occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed, by realigning the spine and reducing inflammation around the affected nerve.
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!
Best Sleeping Positions For Lower Back Pain
Houston Chiropractor Comments: When patients come in to my office in Houston, Texas they often comment that they have been having trouble sleeping due to the pain. Sometimes they have even moved to an uncomfortable location so that they do not disturb their spouse or partner.
Here is some helpful information.
For lower back pain, the best sleeping positions are on your side with a pillow between your knees or on your back with a pillow under your knees, both of which help align your spine and reduce pressure.
Side Sleeping with Support:
- Position:
Lie on your side, keeping your spine aligned by placing a pillow between your knees.
- Benefits:
This position helps to align the hips and reduce pressure on the lower back, maintaining the natural curvature of the spine.
- Additional Tips:
Use a pillow to support your head and neck and consider a full-length body pillow for added comfort.
Back Sleeping with Knee Support:
- Position:
Lie on your back with a pillow under your knees to support the natural curve of the spine.
- Benefits:
This position helps distribute weight evenly across the spinal column, reducing strain and pressure on specific areas.
- Additional Tips:
Try to keep both legs pointed in the same direction. Do not have one leg straight and the other bent at a large angle.
Other Considerations:
- Avoid Stomach Sleeping:
Generally, sleeping on your stomach is not recommended for individuals experiencing lower back pain.
- Reclined Position:
Sleeping in a reclined position can also help reduce pressure on the spine.
- Adjustable Beds:
Consider using an adjustable bed or wedges to achieve a reclined position.
- Mattress:
Ensure your mattress is providing adequate support and is not too soft. Typically, the firmer the mattress the better.
- Pillows:
Choose pillows that are appropriate for your sleeping position and provide adequate support for your head and neck.
- Consult a Doctor:
If you are experiencing persistent or severe lower back pain, consult with a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) to rule out any underlying conditions and to determine the best course of 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!
