How do chiropractors know where to adjust our bodies?
Houston Chiropractor Comments: Patients always ask me, “How do chiropractors know where to adjust our bodies?” They are surprised when sometimes we need to adjust an area that they did not know was a problem. Sometimes they just need a vertebrae adjusted and multiple problems go away.
Chiropractors identify where to adjust the body by combining patient history, physical exams, and imaging. Key methods include palpation (using hands to feel for tension or restricted movement), range of motion tests, postural analysis, and sometimes X-rays or MRIs to detect misalignments. They also listen to symptoms like pain or numbness.
- Palpation: Chiropractors use their hands to detect, or “palpate,” areas of the spine and muscles to identify stiffness, swelling, or tension that indicate a misalignment.
- Motion Assessment: They check how joints move, looking for areas with limited range of motion.
- Posture and Gait Analysis: Observing how a patient walks (gait) and stands (posture) helps reveal structural issues.
- Imaging: X-rays or MRIs may be used to look deeper at the spine for structural abnormalities or degenerative changes.
- Patient History: A detailed discussion about symptoms and past injuries guides the assessment.
They typically assess the spine and extremities in different positions—sitting, standing, and lying down—to find the best area for treatment.
After being a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in the Houston area for over 36 years, we have the education, training and experience to know where you need treatment and where you do not need it.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!
Signs That Your Back Pain May Be An Emergency
Houston Chiropractor Comments: Back pain is one of the most common things that we see in our Houston TX office. Most of the time, chiropractic care is the best way to get relief from back pain without the need of medication or expensive diagnostic tests.
While most back pain resolves with rest and home care, certain “red flag” symptoms indicate a potentially life-threatening or disabling condition that requires immediate medical evaluation.
Immediate Emergency Indicators (Call 911 or visit ER)
Seek emergency care immediately if you experience back pain accompanied by any of the following:
- Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control: New inability to control or empty your bladder/bowels can signal Cauda Equina Syndrome, a rare but surgical emergency caused by extreme nerve compression.
- Saddle Anesthesia: Numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation in the groin, buttocks, or inner thighs—areas that would touch a saddle.
- Sudden Severe Weakness: Difficulty standing, walking, or moving your legs, or a foot that drags (foot drop).
- Abdominal Pain & Pulsing: Severe, “tearing” pain that radiates to the belly or a pulsating sensation near the navel may indicate an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA).
- Fever and Chills: Intense back pain paired with a high fever can be a sign of a spinal infection, such as Vertebral Osteomyelitis.
Symptoms Requiring Urgent Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) or other Physician Evaluation
If your pain is not an immediate emergency but involves the following, schedule a priority visit with your doctor of chiropractic (DC) or other physician:
- Pain at Night: Back pain that is significantly worse when lying down or wakes you from sleep, which can sometimes be linked to inflammation, infection, or tumors.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Weight loss that occurs without changes in diet or exercise.
- Radiating Pain: Shooting pain that travels down one or both legs, especially past the knee (sciatica).
- History of Cancer: New back pain in individuals with a current or past cancer diagnosis.
- Traumatic Injury: Pain that begins immediately after a high-impact event like a car accident, a fall from a significant height, or a sports-related collision.
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!
10,000 Steps a Day
Clear Lake City Chiropractor Comments: A popular trend in exercise is to walk 10,000 steps a day. Walking 10,000 steps a day, roughly 5 miles, is a popular, achievable goal that boosts cardiovascular health, aids in weight loss, and improves mood. While the number originated from a 1965 marketing campaign, research confirms that high daily step counts (7,000–10,000) significantly reduce risks of heart disease, dementia, and premature death. It generally takes about 1.5 to 2 hours of walking to reach this goal.
Key Aspects of 10,000 Steps a Day:
- Health Benefits: Walking 10,000 steps reduces the risk of 13 types of cancer, cardiovascular diseases (stroke, heart failure), and Type 2 diabetes. It also strengthens bones and improves metabolic health.
- Calories Burned: While it varies by weight and pace, walking 10,000 steps generally burns approximately 300 to 500 calories.
- Potential Drawbacks: For individuals with pre-existing joint issues, high-volume walking can cause discomfort, such as pain in the back, knees, or feet if not managed properly. It may also be time-consuming for some lifestyles.
- Is it Necessary? Studies suggest that health benefits begin to plateau around 7,500 steps, meaning you do not have to hit 10,000 to see significant improvements, although doing so is not harmful.
Tips for Success:
- Start Gradual: If you are sedentary, increase your daily count by 500–1000 steps each week rather than jumping straight to 10,000.
- Incorporate Activity: Take the stairs, walk during lunch breaks, or park farther away.
- Consistency Matters: Focus on making this a daily habit rather than hitting the number only occasionally.
- Chiropractic Care: If you notice any pain in your back, knees or feet, make sure to see your Doctor of Chiropractic (DC). Chiropractors are especially qualified to keep you moving with the minimum amount of pain or 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 Does My Back Hurt After Losing Weight?
Houston Chiropractor Comments: Getting in shape and losing weight can have many health benefits, but sometimes it can have some unwanted side effects. Back pain after weight loss often results from weakened core muscles, rapid muscle loss, dehydration, or changes in spinal pressure. While weight loss generally reduces strain on the spine long-term, rapid weight reduction can leave surrounding muscles too weak to support the spine, leading to discomfort. Key solutions include strengthening core muscles, increasing protein intake, and staying hydrated.
Common Causes for Back Pain After Weight Loss
- Loss of Muscle Mass: Rapid, significant weight loss (often with GLP-1 drugs) can cause a loss of 30–40% lean muscle, weakening the hips and core muscles that stabilize the spine.
- Reduced Body Padding:
Less fat means less natural cushioning for joints and bones, which can increase discomfort in the back
- Dehydration: Low-carb diets, often used for weight loss, can lead to fluid loss, which in turn reduces the fluid needed by spinal discs for cushioning.
- Posture and Center of Gravity Changes: A rapidly changing body weight alters the center of gravity and pelvic tilt; straining muscles used to the previous posture.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of adequate calcium or vitamin D can cause bone or muscle weakness.
- Increased Activity/Overuse: Starting new, intense, or improper exercise routines too quickly can cause strain.
Management and Prevention Strategies
- Strengthen Core Muscles: Focus on exercises that strengthen the abdomen and back muscles to better support the spine.
- Stay Hydrated: Ensure adequate water intake to maintain spinal disc hydration.
- Nutrient-Dense Diet: Consume enough protein to prevent muscle loss and ensure adequate calcium/vitamin D intake.
- Gradual Activity Increases: Avoid sudden, intense workouts, and focus on proper form.
- Consult a Professional: If pain is severe or accompanied by unexpected, rapid, or unexplained weight loss, consult a doctor of chiropractic (DC) to rule out underlying conditions like infections or tumors.
In most cases, this pain is a temporary adjustment to a changing body, but strengthening exercises are key to long-term relief.
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 Often Should You See A Chiropractor?
Clear Lake Chiropractor Comments: A common question that I get in my Clear Lake City, TX office is “How often you should see a chiropractor?” The answer depends on your specific health goals, the severity of your condition, and how your body responds to treatment. Most treatment plans follow a progression from intensive initial care to less frequent maintenance visits.
General Visit Guidelines
- Acute Pain or Injury: For a new injury or severe flare-up (e.g., whiplash, sudden back strain), chiropractors typically recommend 2–3 sessions per week for the first 2–4 weeks.
- Corrective Phase: Once the initial pain stabilizes, frequency often drops to once a week or biweekly for 4–8 weeks to retrain muscles and stabilize alignment.
- Maintenance & Prevention: For long-term wellness or to prevent recurrence, many patients find success with a visit once a month or even every 2–3 months.
- Chronic Conditions: For ongoing issues like arthritis or sciatica, you may need a consistent schedule of 1–2 visits per month to manage symptoms long-term and prevent the need for surgery or long term medication dependence.
Factors That Influence Frequency
- Lifestyle Demands: Individuals with physically demanding jobs (heavy lifting) or sedentary roles (long hours at a desk) may require more frequent “check-ins” to address repetitive strain.
- Specific Populations:
- Pregnancy: Visits may start monthly but increase to 1–2 times per week during the third trimester to support pelvic alignment.
- Athletes: Often schedule adjustments around training cycles or competitions to optimize performance.
- Health Status: Age and existing conditions like obesity or past surgeries can impact how quickly your body heals and how many sessions you’ll need.
When to Reassess
- You should see improvement within 6–10 visits. Periodic reexaminations are performed to determine if you need specific stretches or exercises to help aid in your treatment plan. If you feel increased soreness for more than 24 hours after an adjustment or if your pain does not improve, discuss adjusting your schedule with your doctor of chiropractic (DC). There are different types of treatment that can be offered to minimize your 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!
5 Common Causes of Chronic Neck Pain
Clear Lake City Chiropractor Comments: In our modern society, chronic neck pain has become very common. Patients in my Clear Lake City, TX office often ask me what caused their cervical (neck) pain. Here are the five most common reasons.
- Poor Posture (Chronic Strain): Long-term, repetitive stress on the neck muscles—commonly from “text neck” (looking down at devices) or sitting at a computer for hours—causes chronic pain, stiffness, and muscle fatigue.
- Cervical Osteoarthritis (Joint Wear): As with other joints, the cartilage in the cervical spine can wear down over time, leading to arthritis, inflammation, and reduced mobility in the neck.
- Cervical Herniated Disc: When the soft, gel-like material inside a spinal disc pushes through a tear, it can irritate surrounding nerves. This often leads to severe, localized pain that may radiate down the shoulders, arms, and hands.
- Cervical Spinal Stenosis (Nerve Compression): This occurs when the spinal canal narrows due to bulging discs, bone spurs, or arthritis, causing a “pinching” of the spinal cord or nerve roots, resulting in chronic numbness, weakness, and pain.
- Whiplash and other injuries: Trauma, such as car accidents, falls, or sports injuries, can cause sudden, violent movement of the head. This often results in damaged ligaments, tendons, and muscles that do not heal properly, leading to long-term chronic pain.
Key Takeaway: Chronic neck pain usually indicates an underlying structural or degenerative condition that should be evaluated by a doctor of chiropractic (DC).
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!
Does Weather Affect Back Pain?
Clear Lake Chiropractor Comments: As the rare cold weather came to the Houston, TX area this week, patients asked me if the weather was making their back pain worse. I get this same question when we get our more common rain storms.
Yes, many people with back pain, especially chronic conditions, report that weather changes affect their symptoms, with cold, damp, or humid conditions often worsening pain due to muscle stiffness, nerve irritation from barometric pressure shifts, or reduced activity, though some studies show no direct link, suggesting behavioral factors or heightened sensitivity play a role.
How Weather Can Worsen Back Pain:
- Cold Temperatures: Can cause muscles to tense and stiffen, reducing flexibility and increasing pain, while also constricting blood vessels and potentially heightening pain sensitivity.
- Barometric Pressure Changes: Drops in pressure (before storms) might cause tissues to expand, putting pressure on nerves or inflamed areas, though evidence is mixed
- Humidity & Dampness: High humidity might increase joint stiffness and inflammation, making joints feel heavier and more painful.
- Extreme Heat: Can lead to muscle tension as the body tries to regulate temperature, plus dehydration and fatigue, which lowers pain tolerance.
- Reduced Activity: Cold or bad weather often leads to less movement, causing stiffness and weaker supporting muscles, which strains the back.
What You Can Do:
- Stay Active: Gentle movement and stretching improve flexibility, even in cold weather.
- Stay Warm: Dress in layers and use heating pads or warm baths to relax muscles.
- Stay Hydrated: Keeps spinal discs and muscles elastic, especially important in heat.
- Maintain Good Posture & Weight: Reduces strain on your spine.
- Listen to Your Body: Adapt activities and manage symptoms as seasons change.
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!
Treating Headaches With Chiropractic Care
Houston Chiropractor Comments: Chiropractic care is a common non-pharmacological approach used to treat various types of headaches by addressing musculoskeletal issues in the neck and upper back. As of 2026, it is frequently integrated into multidisciplinary treatment plans for chronic pain.
Common Headache Types Treated
- Cervicogenic Headaches: These originate from issues in the cervical spine (neck). Research indicates that spinal manipulation is highly effective for these, often providing superior short-term relief in intensity and frequency compared to exercise alone.
- Tension-Type Headaches: These are often caused by muscle tightness and stress. Chiropractors use adjustments and soft tissue therapy to alleviate tension in the neck and shoulders.
- Migraines: While primarily neurological, many migraines are linked to neck stiffness and tension. Chiropractic care can reduce the frequency and severity of attacks by improving spinal alignment and circulation.
Chiropractic Techniques
- Spinal Manipulation (Adjustments): The cornerstone of treatment, involving controlled force applied to spinal joints to restore alignment and reduce nerve irritation.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Includes techniques like myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and massage to break up muscle knots and improve blood flow.
- Chiropractic Mobilization: Gentler, controlled movements within a joint’s natural range of motion, often preferred by patients sensitive to high-velocity adjustments.
- Postural & Ergonomic Advice: Guidance on workplace setups and daily habits to prevent the recurring joint irritation that triggers headaches.
- Nutritional Counseling: Advice on dietary triggers (like MSG or caffeine) and supplements (such as B-complex vitamins or Vitamin D) to manage symptoms.
What to Expect
- Initial Assessment: A comprehensive history and physical exam, often including
neurological tests or imaging (X-rays/MRI) to rule out serious underlying conditions.
- Treatment Plan: A series of sessions tailored to the specific headache type.
- Gradual Results: While some patients feel immediate relief, chronic conditions typically require multiple visits over several weeks for lasting improvement.
Safety and Considerations
- Professional Care: Treatment should be performed by a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic (DC).
- Complementary Use: Chiropractic care is often used alongside other treatments like physical therapy or stress management.
- Red Flags: Seek emergency medical attention for sudden, severe “thunderclap” headaches, or those accompanied by fever, confusion, or difficulty speaking.
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!
The Science Behind Pain Relief After Chiropractic Adjustments
Houston Chiropractor Comments: One of my greatest joys as a Doctor of Chiropractic is getting patients well without drugs or surgery. Patients ask me how I am able to get them lasting relief without OTC medications or prescriptions from their medical doctor.
Chiropractic pain relief comes from restoring proper nerve function, reducing inflammation, and triggering natural painkillers like endorphins through spinal adjustments that improve joint mobility and decrease nerve irritation, helping the body heal by enhancing communication between the brain and body and relaxing tense muscles. Adjustments stimulate sensory receptors (proprioceptors)to send signals to the brain, while realigning joints reduces pressure on nerves and decreases inflammation, leading to reduced pain and improved function.
Key Mechanisms of Pain Relief
- Nervous System Regulation: Misaligned vertebrae can irritate spinal nerves; adjustments correct this, improving nerve signal flow and reducing pain signals.
- Endorphin Release: The manipulation stimulates proprioceptors (sensory receptors in joints) to trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural opioids, providing pain relief and a sense of well-being.
- Reduced Inflammation: Adjustments help decrease inflammation in affected tissues, a major contributor to pain, allowing for better healing.
- Improved Joint Mobility: By restoring proper motion to spinal joints, adjustments alleviate stiffness and improve comfort, making daily activities easier.
- Muscle Relaxation: Correcting spinal imbalances reduces tension in surrounding muscles that often tighten to compensate for misalignment, further easing pain.
- Better Blood Flow: Restoring proper spinal alignment can enhance blood flow, supporting the body’s natural repair processes.
Scientific Evidence
- MRI Studies: Research using MRI has shown that chiropractic adjustments can significantly increase joint space (by up to 82%), correlating with reduced pain.
- Improved Function: Studies confirm that patients experience improved spinal mobility and reduced pain after adjustments, with benefits seen in both short-term and long-term settings.
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!
Healthy New Year’s Resolutions
Houston Chiropractor Comments: Every year, patient’s in my Houston Texas office ask me what they can do next year to make them healthier. Healthy New Year’s resolutions focus on sustainable habits like better sleep (consistent times, routine), improved nutrition (more water, produce, less sugar), increased movement (enjoyable, varied, regular activity), and better mental well-being (mindfulness, less screen time, spending time in nature). Success comes from setting specific, realistic goals and tracking progress with support from others.
Physical Health & Movement
- Move More: Aim for short, regular workouts, try strength training, or simply walk more outside.
- Eat Better: Drink more water, increase fruits/veggies, plan meals, and reduce sugary/processed items.
- Prioritize Sleep: Establish a consistent bedtime, create a cool/dark environment, limit screen time before bed, and get morning light.
- Check-ups: Schedule that doctor’s appointment you’ve been putting off.
- Reduce Harmful Habits: Cut back on alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine.
- Regular Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments will help you operate at your maximum potential.
Mental & Emotional Well-being
- Practice Mindfulness: Try meditation or simply focus on being present to boost mood.
- Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors daily for mental clarity.
- Limit Screen Time: Step away from digital devices to reduce stress.
- Gratitude & Relaxation: Make time for gratitude and weekly self-care.
- Breathe Better: Practice nasal breathing for relaxation.
Making Resolutions Stick
- Be Specific & Realistic: Vague goals fail; aim for small, achievable steps.
- Measure Progress: Track your habits with a journal or app.
- Plan for Obstacles: Know what might derail you and have a backup plan.
- Get Support: Ask friends or family to join you.
- Reward Yourself: Celebrate milestones with healthy treats.
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!
