8. What Can Be Done for Muscular Pain?
There are many types of muscular pain. Sometimes muscular pain is the direct
result of injury to the muscle, as in the case of a muscle pull, tear,
or rupture. Other times, the muscular attachment to the bone (called
the "tendon") becomes strained in a specific injury, or as the result
of repetitive strain. Examples of repetitive strain to the muscle
or tendon include prolonged and/or poor sitting postures, repetitive
motions, and improper lifting. Most people don't realize that by the
time they actually feel muscular pain, the surrounding joints and
nerves have also become affected. This is why chiropractic care is
so effective in treating muscular pain: because it is comprehensive
care that addresses not only the muscles, but also the joints and
their related spinal nerves.
After a thorough examination, the doctor will determine the exact muscles, joints, and nerves involved, as well as any underlying causes and potential perpetuating factors. Depending on the specific findings of your exam, some combination of the following treatments may be recommended to decrease your pain and speed healing: spinal manipulation (adjustment), acupuncture, therapeutic exercises, electrical muscle stimulation, ultrasound, and ice or heat therapy. Massage therapy and myofascial release techniques may also be used in conjunction with these other therapies in order to get the best results. Also, the doctor may arrange for on-site evaluation of your workout routine and/or workplace to correct improper ergonomic conditions, which may be aggravating your condition. In the event that your condition requires medical attention, an appropriate referral would be made promptly.
PROGRESSIVE HEALTH & WELLNESS BLOG: THE IMPORTANCE OF MICRO-BREAKS & ERGONOMICS : Over time, the human body has adapted very well to the task of hunting for and gathering food. It performs and feels its best when it is in motion during the day, and resting at night. Sitting all day, on the other hand, puts an enormous strain on the sspine and its supporting tendons, ligaments, muscles, and fascia. If you are sitting at a desk and/or computer for more than 1 hour on a regular basis, then you are what we call an “industrial athlete”. For you, proper micro-breaks and ergonomics (discussed in a separate blog) are essential to prevent neck pain, back pain, and headaches, as well as to allow your body to get the best results from your chiropractic care. Ideally, micro-breaks should be performed before you start to feel stiff or sore at your worksite. For most people, this means taking a 20-30 second micro-break every 20-30 minutes of prolonged sitting. Of course, longer breaks of 1-5 minutes should also be taken every 2-3 hours, or as needed. Any of the exercises that Drs. Ezgur or DiDomenico prescribe for you can be used as a micro-break. One of the most effective micro-break exercises is Brugger’s Relief Position, as taught in our offices. Read More |