elm-chiropractic

Thermography

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 23:54:46 GMT

Thermography Services in Elmhurst, IL Empty heading

Serving Elmhurst, DuPage County & the Western Suburbs

Elm Chiropractic is proud to offer thermography services in Elmhurst, IL , providing patients throughout DuPage County and the surrounding western suburbs with access to advanced, non-invasive thermal imaging. Thermography appointments are available at our conveniently located Elmhurst office on the following 2026 dates :

February 16, 2026
May 18, 2026
August 17, 2026
November 9, 2026

If you are searching for thermography near Elmhurst , breast thermography in DuPage County , or radiation-free imaging in the western suburbs of Chicago , Elm Chiropractic offers a trusted, preventive option close to home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thermography Empty heading

What is thermography and how does it work?

Thermography, also known as Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) , uses an infrared camera to detect heat patterns and blood flow changes in the body. These temperature variations can indicate inflammation, nerve irritation, or vascular changes that may not yet appear on X-rays or MRIs.

Is thermography safe?

Yes. Thermography is completely safe and FDA-registered . It uses no radiation , no injections , and no compression , making it an ideal imaging option for individuals who want a non-invasive and gentle diagnostic scan .

Is breast thermography a replacement for a mammogram?

No. Breast thermography is not a replacement for mammography , but it is often used as a complementary or adjunctive screening tool . Many women in Elmhurst and DuPage County choose thermography for its ability to monitor physiological changes over time without radiation or compression.

Always consult your healthcare provider about appropriate breast screening options for your individual needs.

Who should consider thermography?

Thermography is beneficial for individuals who want to:

Monitor breast health without radiation
Identify chronic inflammation or pain
Evaluate nerve, muscle, or joint issues
Investigate unexplained or recurring symptoms
Track progress from chiropractic care, acupuncture, or functional medicine

It is especially helpful for those with a family history of breast cancer , autoimmune conditions, chronic pain, or sports-related injuries.

How long does a thermography appointment take?

Most thermography appointments last 30 to 60 minutes , depending on the type of scan being performed (breast, full-body, or regional). Scans are performed in a temperature-controlled room by a certified thermographer at our Elmhurst chiropractic office.

When will I receive my thermography results?

Your thermographic images are interpreted by certified physicians trained in thermal imaging . A detailed written report is typically provided within 7–10 business days , outlining findings and recommendations for follow-up if necessary.

Do I need a referral for thermography in Elmhurst, IL?

No referral is required to schedule a thermography scan at Elm Chiropractic. Patients throughout Elmhurst, DuPage County, and nearby western suburbs may schedule directly with our office.

Does insurance cover thermography?

Thermography is generally considered a self-pay wellness service and is not typically covered by insurance. Our office will review pricing, scan options, and any preparation instructions when you schedule.

How should I prepare for my thermography appointment?

You will receive detailed preparation instructions prior to your appointment. Common guidelines include avoiding lotions, deodorants, exercise, and chiropractic or massage treatments for a specified period before your scan to ensure accurate results.

Where is Elm Chiropractic located?

Elm Chiropractic is conveniently located in Elmhurst, IL , serving patients from DuPage County, Oak Brook, Villa Park, Lombard, Addison, and surrounding communities .
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Time and Location

Upcoming Thermography Dates: November 19, 2025

Time: 11AM -1PM (later times may be available - call Cindy Shroba at 815.482.6224 to inquire about an alternate time option)

Location:

Elm Chiropractic

475 S Spring Road

Elmhurst, IL 60126

Beyond Pain Killers: How Chiropractic Treatments Can Reduce Opioid Use

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 02:40:31 GMT

The Opioid Crisis: How Did We End Up Here?

About 30 years ago, there was a fundamental shift in medicine regarding how pain was understood and treated. The number of people with chronic pain seemed to rise, and it was thought that the options to address the pain weren't adequate.

As doctors paid more attention to assessing pain, they also paid more attention to treating pain. Opioid medication was prescribed more frequently for chronic lower back or neck pain. Until then, opioids were only prescribed for severe pain after surgery or advanced-stage cancer. But, in the early 1990s, it all changed. New opioid formulas were promoted as less addictive, and

physicians were encouraged to prescribe these drugs far more liberally than before.

Prescribing these drugs very quickly led to a variety of problems. First, patients rapidly adapted to the drugs, requiring larger and larger doses to achieve the same effect over time. Second, these drugs weren't very effective at addressing chronic pain. They provided short-term relief but became less useful for many people as time passed. Finally, these drugs provided a euphoric feeling that quickly led to addiction.

Starting in the 1990's, doctors were encouraged to prescribe opioids for chronic pain.

59% of opioid users report having experienced back pain.

In the US alone, we have averaged over 130 deaths per day due to opioids.

Now, decades later, we are consumed with the opioid crisis. Over 130 people die daily from opioids, and over 40% are from prescribed opioids. If there is a silver lining to this crisis, we now realize that the answers and treatment of chronic pain are rarely found in a bottle. Many leading healthcare organizations are now recommending non-pharmacological approaches to treating chronic pain- including chiropractic. If you want to explore a drug-free approach to pain relief, schedule an appointment with us today.

The Chronic Pain Crisis is the Opioid Crisis

For decades, opioids were marketed as a "safer" alternative to treat chronic pain. And as the number of people with chronic pain began to rise, so did the number of people addicted to

and dying from prescription opioids. The chronic pain epidemic has evolved into our current opioid crisis.

To address the opioid crisis, we must first find non-pharmacological solutions to the chronic pain epidemic. Over the past few years, major healthcare agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have recognized that

non-pharmacological approaches should be the first line of care to manage chronic pain.

New studies have indicated that there is a reason to be hopeful. Non-drug care options, such as chiropractic, are very effective at helping people reduce pain. Even people with severe chronic pain have benefited from the care that chiropractors can provide.

Chronic low back pain will affect up to 20% of people over 18 years old.

Empty head Cooperation between your Medical Doctor and Chiropractor can help provide the best results.

Chiropractic care has been shown to provide better outcomes than care in a pain clinic.

The change in approach to a primarily non-pharmacological-based approach to care is unprecedented in healthcare. We can't undo the damage that has been done. But, we can learn from the past and work together to overcome chronic pain with safe and effective care to relieve your pain without the dangerous side effects and addiction issues we've experienced with opioid medications. Our practice is proud to partner with other healthcare providers supporting a natural pain management approach.

Opiates vs. Opioids: What's the Difference?

Opioids and opiates have caused millions of people looking for pain relief to enter a cycle of addiction. The scary part is that many people dying from opioids aren't recreational drug users looking for the next high; they were people prescribed these drugs by their doctors to treat chronic pain.

To understand how this epidemic has happened, it's essential to understand the differences between opioids and opiates.

Opiates describe drugs derived from the flowering opium poppy plant. Morphine is an example of an opiate. These drugs have been linked to physical dependence, increased tolerance, and addiction.

Opioids are synthetic or made in a lab. When opioid receptors in the brain become activated, they produce feelings of pleasure and pain. All opioid drugs act on these receptors. Some are up to 50 times more powerful than heroin. Opioid drugs used to treat pain include oxycodone and hydrocodone. These drugs are highly addictive and dangerous. Oxycodone exhibits the highest risk of abuse and poses the most significant dangers. It affects the nervous system in the same way as heroin.

Opioids can have a negative impact on your emotions, breathing, digestion, and movement.

Fentanyl, a pain-relieving opioid, is 100 times more potent than morphine.

Opioids are highly addictive and not meant to be used for chronic pain.

Current medical guidelines no longer recommend using opioids for most spinal pain. If you're struggling with pain, movement based care such as chiropractic is often the best way to accelerate the healing process and put yourself in a position for long term relief. Call us today if you want to explore a relief path that doesn't include medications.

Beyond the Pill: Non-Opioid Care for Chronic Pain

If you're dealing with chronic pain, now is the time to tackle it naturally. But how do you deal with chronic pain without using opioid pain medication?

One of the problems with pain medications is that they only treat the symptoms; they aren't doing anything to resolve the source of your pain. If you are looking for a long-term solution, the cause needs to be addressed. Altered biomechanics, or movement patterns, tend to be a common issue for many people dealing with chronic spine pain.

To get things moving on the path toward relief, we have found a lot of success with a plan that typically encourages:

Whole Body Movement with Daily Exercise

It may seem impossible to get out and get active when dealing with chronic pain, but it may help you see some relief from your symptoms! For example, if you're dealing with chronic back pain, regular walks can help relieve the stiffness and soreness of back pain.

Specific Spinal Joint Movement with Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractors are an excellent resource for anyone who is dealing with chronic pain. New research has shown chiropractic care is at least as effective at relieving pain as many medications, without the risks or dangers associated with drugs. The likelihood of filling an opioid prescription is reduced by over 50% for people who see a chiropractor.

Next Steps:

You don't need to keep struggling with chronic pain. Researchers have found that chiropractic care and active exercise can effectively reduce your symptoms and address the cause. If you or someone you know has struggled with chronic pain, please reach out to us today so that we can help provide you with options for relief that don't include the dangerous medications that have created the current opioid epidemic. To learn more, call us today at (630)530-4744 .

Science Sources:

Understanding the Epidemic. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2018

Prevalence of chronic low back pain: a systematic review. Rev Saude Publica. 2015

A Comparison Between Chiropractic Management and Pain Clinic Management for Chronic Low-Back Pain in a National Health Service Outpatient Clinic. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Volume 14, Number 5, 2008

Association Between Utilization of Chiropractic Services for Treatment of Low Back Pain and Risk of Adverse Drug Events. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2018 CDC. The Opioid Epidemic. 2020

Association Between Utilization of Chiropractic Services for Treatment of Low Back Pain and Risk of Adverse Drug Events. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2018

Impact of Chiropractic Care on Use of Prescription Opioids in Patients with Spinal Pain. Pain Med 2020

Association Between Utilization of Chiropractic Services for Treatment of Low Back Pain and Risk of Adverse Drug Events. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2018

How Does a Chiropractic Adjustment Work?

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:22:54 GMT

Facet Joints: Gliding Your Way to Better Health

If you've had neck or back pain that you could put a finger on, or sharp pain when moving, it may be due to facet joints of your spine. It's easy to think of your facet joints as the knuckles of your spine. They are small joints with a capsule and cartilage pad that glide and slide, allowing your spine and body to move.

As you go through life and your spinal discs undergo the aging process, your facet joints take on the extra load. Unfortunately, this excess stress and pressure can wear down your facet joints, resulting in the beginning of the degenerative process, which can cause adhesions, restricted motion, bone spurs, and pain.

The facet joints of your spine slide and glide as you move.

Restrictions or adhesions in the facets can occur with age and injury.

Spinal adjustments help the facet joints move freely and decrease painful restrictions.

The facet joints of your spine thrive on movement. Movement helps them stay healthy and may even slow down the degenerative process. Spinal adjustments have been shown to reduce adhesions of the facet joints, allowing you to move more freely with less pain. We believe that when you are moving better, you are feeling better, and we're proud to be a part of the healthcare team that helps you stay active!

Disc Issues and Chiropractic

Disc herniations, bulges, protrusions, and extrusions are the most common reasons people visit a chiropractor. Come to think of it, most people see a chiropractor not just because they have a disc issue but because the disc issue has caused a significant impact on their quality of life. Exciting new research has begun to showcase what we have witnessed for years: how chiropractic care provides outstanding results for people with spinal disc issues.

Specific chiropractic techniques are thought to influence the pressure in your spinal discs. Emerging research has shown that movement, reducing intradiscal stress, and opening up the channels your nerves pass through can improve how you feel and accelerate the healing process.

Keeping your core muscles strong and flexible can decrease your likelihood of suffering a disc bulge or herniation.

Research has shown spinal adjustments to be very effective at reducing pain caused by disc bulges and herniations.

Spinal adjustments were found to be more effective than spinal injections for treating disc issues.

Your body has an incredible ability to heal without drugs or surgery, even from disc herniations. A recent study showcased that people with an MRI-confirmed disc herniation received better results with chiropractic adjustments than injections. If you have an MRI that shows a disc issue, it does NOT mean that surgery or injections are your only options. If you have a disc issue slowing you down, call us today to discover a natural way to find relief.

The Brain + Spine Connection

Every thought and movement occurs through your brain or spinal cord, commonly known as the central nervous system. Your spinal column acts as the protection and pathway for your spinal cord to travel down and then split into the nerves that reach every cell of your body. Every moment, millions of messages are moving along your spinal cord to maintain the delicate balance between your brain and body.

Chiropractic adjustments can alter biochemical markers in your brain. New research has shown that the type of movement during a chiropractic adjustment can change the chemistry of your brain. These changes can result in everything from endorphin release (a feel-good hormone) to pain relief, and emerging research has even indicated increased strength (or cortical drive) after an adjustment.

Your brain and body are in constant communication through your central and peripheral nervous system.

The spinal cord can send information to your brain at over 250 mph!

Chiropractic adjustments to your neck or back have been shown to influence brain function, resulting in pain relief, endorphin release, and more.

Over the past 100 years, scientists and doctors have learned much about the brain/body connection, but we still have a long way to go. Aging, healing, and your entire life experience happen through the communication and coordination of your brain and body. Keeping your brain and body engaged and moving each day can help support a healthy life. If you've struggled to stay active due to pain, schedule an evaluation with us today.

Your Body is Designed to Move

Your body is built to move. Every spinal disc and joint is designed to help you sit, stand, run, and move! Your discs are soft enough to flex as you bend forward and back, the spinal facet joints slide as you turn and twist, and the spinal bones are connected with ligaments that keep you supported as your muscles push and pull. It's an incredibly strong and resilient system when you stop and think about it.

New research has begun to give us a glimpse of just how important movement is in our lives. For example, spine movement has now been shown to stimulate and accelerate the healing process. Movement is so crucial in the healing process that even people who have spine surgery are encouraged to get up and move as quickly as possible after surgery.

All of the bones, muscles, ligaments, and joints of your spine are designed to support daily movement.

Blood flow, strength, and flexibility are all enhanced through movement.

Movement of the individual segments of your spine can affect how you heal.

Next Steps:

I believe encouraging healthy movement and activity is part of my job as your chiropractor. If you have any questions about stretches, exercises, or other ways to proactively stay healthy, ask. There is an old saying, “You don't get old then stiff; you get stiff then old." We want to help you stay young by helping you keep your spine and body moving. Stay proactive with your health by ensuring you have your next appointment scheduled! Call us today at (630)530-4744 .

Science Sources:

Comparative Clinical Effectiveness of Nonsurgical Treatment Methods in Patients With Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 2019

Magnetic resonance imaging zygapophyseal joint space changes (gapping) in low back pain patients following spinal manipulation and side-posture positioning: a randomized controlled mechanisms trial with blinding. JMPT 2013

Symptomatic magnetic resonance imaging-confirmed lumbar disk herniation patients: a comparative effectiveness prospective observational study of 2 age- and sex-matched cohorts treated with high-velocity, low-amplitude spinal manipulative therapy or imaging-guided lumbar nerve root injections. JMPT 2013

Changes in biochemical markers of pain perception and stress response after spinal manipulation. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. 2014

Say Goodbye to Headaches: What Causes Them and How to Find Relief

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 19:38:05 GMT

Headache Types: The Facts You Need to Know

Death, taxes, and…headaches? Almost everyone will experience a headache at some point in their life, and over 50% of people will deal with the effects of a headache in a given year. Fortunately, headaches are rarely life threatening. But for people dealing with chronic headaches, they can dramatically impact your quality of life.

The International Headache Society has classified over 150 different types of headaches. The most common are migraines, tension, and cluster headaches. Knowing what kind of headache you are dealing with is the first step toward finding the best care plan to find relief.

Migraine: sensitivity to light and sound is common during migraine headaches. Approximately 1/3rd of people will experience an aura before the onset of a migraine.

Tension: Almost everyone will experience a tension headache during their life. Stress, anxiety, dehydration, and even posture can trigger a tension headache.

Cluster: Affecting more men than women, cluster headaches cause severe pain behind or around your eye and last between 15 minutes and 3 hours.

Now that you've identified your headache type- it's important to know why it's happened. Often, a few simple changes in your daily routine can potentially reduce or eliminate chronic headaches for good. Next week, we'll cover the top 3 causes of headaches so you can take your first steps towards prevention.

The Top 3 Causes of Headaches

A variety of factors can cause primary headaches. The good news is that many lifestyle factors are habits and patterns you can control. Discover the top 3 causes of headaches in our new blog.

A variety of factors can cause primary headaches. Understanding a few of the most common causes of headaches will give you the information to make the changes needed to find lasting relief! The good news is that many lifestyle factors are habits and patterns you can control.

Ironically, one of the most common causes of headaches is the medication usually prescribed to treat headaches. Overusing over-the-counter medications is a leading factor in a refractory or bounce-back headache, so pills may not be the best option for care. Many tension headaches start with repetitive motion and poor posture while sitting or standing at work. Keeping your shoulders back and your spine in proper alignment throughout the day can help prevent future episodes. And finally- most of the good stuff like coffee, cheese, alcohol, and meats have substances that can cause headaches. You don't need to eliminate them, but we recommend having a watchful eye towards moderation.

Medications: Many commonly prescribed pain-relieving medications (including those prescribed for headache relief) list headaches as a top side effect.

Foods: coffee, cheese, alcohol, and many types of meat contain substances that can contribute to headaches.

Posture: forward head posture due to long hours sitting or standing at work is a primary factor in the development of tension and cervicogenic headaches.

Do you see anything in the top 3 causes that may be contributing to your headaches? Taking a proactive step of improving your posture and ergonomics at work, moderating the foods that cause headaches, or asking your medical doctor about the side effects of medications and potentially finding alternative treatment options may help you reduce the frequency, severity, and impact of headaches are having in your life.

How to Find Natural Relief from Headaches

Finding natural relief for your headaches doesn't mean you must join a food co-op and start eating granola with every meal. Many leading healthcare organizations now recommend natural or organic healthcare solutions because of the reduced dangerous side effects, high patient satisfaction, and fantastic treatment results.

Three of the most effective natural solutions for headaches include magnesium, chiropractic care, and B vitamins. Low levels of magnesium have been linked to migraine headaches. Taking a magnesium supplement can reduce the occurrence of migraine headaches without any of the side effects typically associated with painkillers. B vitamins are a powerful natural way to reduce stress and improve mood. If stress is a significant factor in your headaches- B vitamins may be a natural fit for relief. Finally, postural changes and muscle tension are the leading causes of migraine headaches. Chiropractic care has been shown to help reduce headaches' frequency, severity, and duration. That's what I call a winning trifecta!

Magnesium: Low levels of magnesium have been reported as a risk factor for migraine headaches.

Chiropractic: Researchers have discovered a reduction in the frequency, severity, and duration of headaches for individuals under chiropractic care.

B-Vitamins: These powerful vitamins have the potential to help reduce stress and improve mood, which are essential factors when finding relief from headaches

As you can see, finding natural relief from headaches can be easy. What would your life look like if you could reduce or eliminate chronic headaches?

Headaches Every Day? Read This…

Life can be busy and stressful. Sound familiar? If so, you may be more likely to develop headaches that become more frequent and severe. It could be related to a lack of quality sleep, nutritional challenges, or even postural issues contributing to a vicious cycle of daily headaches. These chronic headaches are a good indication that your body needs attention.

Daily headaches are a signal from your body that something needs to change. Depending on the foods you eat, the stress in your life, and how you move your body and spine can increase or decrease the likelihood of experiencing headaches. While researchers have struggled to place an exact cause on every type of headache, they have discovered various risk factors that can lead to chronic headaches.

Your brain doesn't have any nerve fibers that transmit pain signals. Headaches are felt by the tissues that support your brain, head, and neck.

Researchers have discovered a close link between what you eat, your stress, and hormone levels, and how that can impact your chances of developing chronic headaches.

A balanced diet, consistent sleeping patterns, and chiropractic care have all been shown to decrease the likelihood of developing chronic headaches.

Next Steps:

Daily headaches aren't something you "have to live with." Top research publications have found chiropractic care provides 50% more relief to headaches without the risky side effects typically associated with drugs and medications. To learn more, call us today at (630)530-4744 .

Science Sources:

Mayo Clinic. Headache. 2018

Medications and Substances Causing Headache. Medlink: Neurology. 2017

Why all migraine patients should be treated with magnesium. Journal of Neural Transmission. 2012

The effect of 90-day administration of a high dose vitamin B-complex on work stress. Human Psychopharmacology. 2011

Chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy for cervicogenic headache: a single-blinded, placebo, randomized controlled trial. BMC Central. 2017

Dose-response and efficacy of spinal manipulation for chronic cervicogenic headache: a pilot randomized controlled trial. SPINE 2010

Car Accidents: Everything You Need to Know to Find Relief

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 19:48:49 GMT

Whiplash: The Symptoms You Need to Know

Whiplash is an injury that occurs when your body is suddenly forced backward and forward. It's the most common injury during an automobile accident and is one of the leading causes of chronic neck and back pain. While a little fender bender may not seem like a big deal, new research has shown that even small accidents can result in significant injuries.

The violent forces that occur during an auto accident can cause damage to your spinal discs, ligaments, tendons, and bones-even at "low" speeds. Most of these injuries happen because your head is quickly whipped backward and forward. This rapid back-and-forth motion frequently results in ligament tearing and spinal disc injuries. Symptoms such as neck pain, back pain, headaches, confusion, and even depression indicate that you've suffered a whiplash injury. You may not immediately notice any pain because of a spike in adrenaline during the accident. For many people, these symptoms may take hours or even a few days to develop after the initial shock of the car accident wears off.

Whiplash is an acceleration-deceleration injury that can affect your ligaments, spinal discs, muscles, and facet joints

There is often a period of little to no pain before the symptoms become worse

Symptoms of whiplash include neck or back pain, headache, radiating pain, confusion, and difficulty sleeping

It's smart to get a complete evaluation after an auto accident to minimize your risk of long-term pain. Getting the right care at the right time can make a big difference in your ability to heal quickly and avoid long-term chronic pain. Remember, even small accidents can cause injuries, so if you've been involved in an auto accident, be sure to reach out to our office as soon as possible so we can help you get on the relief road.

How Long Does Whiplash Last?

Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, back pain, headaches, dizziness, or confusion—none of these sound like a good time. So, if you've been involved in a car accident, you may wonder how long these symptoms will last. The good news is that with a proper evaluation and early treatment, you have a high likelihood of getting well within a matter of weeks.

One of the most common injuries associated with whiplash is ligament tearing. Ligaments are short, tough bands of connective tissue that hold together the bones in your neck and the joints of your body. If these ligaments are torn, it can cause neck pain. The average time it takes a ligament to heal is about six weeks with the proper care and treatment. If you notice symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or memory issues, you may have suffered a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). A majority of people with a mild TBI recover within three months.

Whiplash injuries frequently cause tearing of the ligaments that support proper spinal motion and stability.

The acute inflammatory phase of injury lasts up to 72 hours, the repair phase takes up to 6 weeks, and the remodeling phase of healing can last up to a year

A non-healed ligament injury can result in osteoarthritis

After an accident, the most important step you can take is to receive a full evaluation. Only after a complete evaluation will you know what type of injuries you've sustained and, most importantly- how to get well. You would be surprised how many people shrug off a "small" accident and push their symptoms aside. While that may save you a little time today, it's likely to result in much more pain down the road.

Shoulder Pain After a Car Accident: What Does it Mean?

You may be surprised to learn that shoulder injuries and whiplash are some of the most common challenges after a car accident. If you are the driver and have your hands on the wheels at the time of the crash, the sudden force created by the accident can lead to a torn rotator cuff. Your shoulder is one of the most complex parts of your body and comprises a collection of bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

The rotator cuff is a ball and socket joint made up of three bones: your arm bone (the humerus), your shoulder blade (the scapula), and your collarbone (the clavicle). The supporting muscles, ligaments, and tendons are designed to help you lift and rotate your arm. Your shoulder is one of your body’s most dynamic and unstable joints. It's hard to ignore a torn rotator cuff because…it hurts! Signs of a tear include shoulder pain when lifting your arm, weakness, pain when lying down, or a limited range of motion.

Shoulder impingement has been estimated to occur in up to 10% of people involved in car accidents

The shoulder is one of the most complex, dynamic, and unstable joints in the body, with a complex network of bones, ligaments, and muscles

The risk of neck or shoulder pain seven years after a collision was three times higher for patients with initial whiplash injuries than those without

Ignoring a shoulder injury after a car accident is not a good idea. Your shoulder is designed to move, and if you try to "let it heal" by not moving it, you're putting yourself at risk for a frozen shoulder. Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is when your shoulder develops adhesions due to lack of movement. This can result in severe pain that takes months to heal. If you have shoulder pain after an accident, time is of the essence! Our team is here and can provide a complete evaluation and treatment plan for you to get moving safely and heal quickly.

Finding Relief After a Car Accident without Drugs or Surgery

Screech. Bam. Uh-oh. You've been involved in a car accident. Your day has been thrown upside down, and a million thoughts are racing. If you don't feel immediate pain, you may be tempted to think you don’t have a problem. But waiting too long to seek care has been shown to increase the chances that you'll need more aggressive interventions. Taking the right action steps as quickly as possible after a car accident can greatly improve your overall health and healing. With the stress of an accident, calling the insurance company, getting a car repaired, etc., it's not uncommon for people to put their health and well-being last on the to-do list.

The problem is that the longer you wait to get evaluated and receive care, the higher your likelihood of needing more aggressive medical care. Without a proper diagnosis and treatment, your body may begin to "heal" with more scar tissue than necessary. You may also try to live "around" your injuries, which can cause additional stress and compensation on other parts of your body and lead to additional injuries. Research has shown that active care involving range of motion, mobilizing exercises, and strengthening can effectively reduce pain. We recommend three simple steps to give yourself the best chance to find relief without needing drugs or surgery.

The three steps to finding relief after a car accident

Get an evaluation: A complete evaluation can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan

Begin receiving care: After reducing inflammation, movement-based techniques are often recommended to help you regain your quality of life

Stay consistent: Getting well is a process. Stay consistent with your care to heal as quickly as possible

Next Steps:

There's no way around it- auto accidents aren't fun. But with the right healthcare team, most people can return to their full lives and activities without needing drugs or surgery. The key is to follow the three steps of evaluation, care, and consistency. While it seems simple, following the three steps will give you the best chance to get well quickly and stay well for years to come. And if you’ve been in an auto accident, call us today at (630)530-4744 .

Science Sources:

The Effectiveness of Conservative Management for Acute Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) II: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.PLoS One. 2015

Biomechanics of whiplash injury. Chinese Journal of Traumatology. 2009

Ligament Injury and Healing: A Review of Current Clinical Diagnostics and Therapeutics. The Open Rehabilitation Journal. 2013

The association between exposure to a rear-end collision and future neck or shoulder pain: a cohort study. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology. 2000

Subacromial impingement in patients with whiplash injury to the cervical spine. Journal of Orthopedic Surgery and Research. 2008

How Chiropractic Can Elevate Athletic Performance and Speed Up Recovery

Sat, 02 Mar 2024 16:46:46 GMT

The Athlete in All of Us

Professional sports and chiropractic care go back a long way. Athletes have always sought a performance advantage, and many have discovered that chiropractic can give them that competitive edge. Nearly everyone likes to believe they are an “active” person, so this month is an excellent opportunity to appeal to their inner athlete. Throughout the month, you will find a variety of topics related to sports performance and chiropractic care, including the social proof of professional utilization, the CrossFit craze, and exciting new research, all with a variety of fantastic testimonials.

Professional athletics have allowed chiropractors to showcase their skills as part of an elite healthcare team. Exciting new research has begun to show the depth of what can be achieved with an adjustment. Researchers from Brain Science found an increase in cortical drive and strength after an adjustment, and the team at SPINE found periodic chiropractic care has the potential to prevent future episodes of low back pain. It’s an exciting time to be a chiropractor, and this month, our sports performance research updates will turn some heads in your community!

"I did a lot of things to stay in the game, but regular visits to my chiropractor were among the most important." - Jerry Rice, Pro Football Hall of Famer

Emerging research has shown an increase in strength after a spinal adjustment

Periodic chiropractic visits can help evaluate, detect, and treat an emerging problem, thus preventing future episodes of low back pain.

How Pro Athletes Deal with Pain

Professional sports are big business. The athletes are given access to various healthcare options to help them play at the highest level possible. Over the past few years, you may have noticed some familiar faces on the sidelines- chiropractors. Sports performance is a huge part of winning in a game of inches. Chiropractors are on nearly every sideline, working to keep the athletes happy, healthy, and productive over the course of a long and rigorous season.

The days of receiving shots of narcotics on the sidelines are over. Turning off the pain mechanism is an excellent way to cause more injury, not less. But, with chiropractors there to help find the cause of the injury- the athletes can get back on the field feeling better than ever. The sports franchises and the players now realize that a team approach to care is best.

Nearly every professional sports team has a team chiropractor on the sidelines

"I did a lot of things to stay in the game, but regular visits to my chiropractor were among the most important." - Jerry Rice, Pro Football Hall of Famer

Chiropractors are there to help keep the athletes performing at their peak level

Crossfitters! Want to Get Stronger?

Crossfitters focus on strength and conditioning with a healthy dose of competition. And if you want to improve your WOD (that’s workout a day for the uninitiated), then you need a plan to achieve your best performance while ensuring your body can recover quickly. Otherwise, injuries may cause you to slow down or even keep you from going to the gym altogether.

As someone looking for optimal performance and recovery, there is no better choice than chiropractic. Exciting new research has shown that chiropractic adjustments can increase cortical drive by influencing your nervous system, which results in increased strength. Also, adjustments can improve spinal motion and reduce inflammation- all of which help with

CrossFit is a popular, high-intensity style workout

Improving core strength and flexibility can reduce the likelihood of injuries

Emerging research has shown an increase in strength after a spinal adjustment

Be Like Mike: How To Improve Your Sports Performance

Athletes and active people are always looking for a competitive edge. No one may embody that spirit more than basketball legend Michael Jordan. He won multiple world championships and gold medals, breaking almost every record in the NBA. So, what was the secret to his success? Aside from a tremendous amount of hard work and persistence, Michael said, "I didn't know how much I could improve until I started seeing a chiropractor. Since I've been in chiropractic, I've improved mentally and physically by leaps and bounds."

Like you, Mike was always striving to reach his full physical and mental potential. With that statement, he joined athletes like Tom Brady, Aaron Rogers, Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, and Wayne Gretzky, who talked about how chiropractic care helped them stay at the top of their game. With the rigors of pro sports and the demands these athletes place on their bodies, chiropractic care would be used to keep them healthy and perform to their highest potential.

Here is what a few other star athletes had to say about chiropractic.

Chiropractic care has been instrumental in my life, both on and off the field...” -Jerry Rice

Performing at my best is important and should be to everyone. Getting adjusted regularly

Along with practicing other good health habits that my mom helped me to establish – these are all part of my goal to win in life and on the field. – Aaron Rodgers

“I’ve been going to a chiropractor for as long as I can remember; it is as important as the practice of my swing.” - Tiger Woods

Pro Tips to Keep Your Spinal Discs Healthy

Not everyone spends the week preparing to “play on Sunday.” Most of us will never make it to the NFL, and our big game is more likely to occur in a conference room than in a stadium. But, no matter what you do for work, doing it in pain is no fun. Instead of lifting weights and working with the coach on a new play, your day-to-day may consist of long hours commuting and then 8 hours sitting at a desk. Research has shown that all those hours sitting can place more stress on your spine than if you were working out and pushing the limits of your body all day long.

It may be a bit too late to change careers and try out for a professional sports team, but you can do a few things to stay healthy and productive at work and home, just like the pros. Daily exercise, light stretching, and chiropractic care can all help keep your spinal discs healthy and strong. Adjustments allow your discs to stay healthy by bringing in valuable nutrients to help heal and flush out the inflammatory substances that can cause pain. Researchers from SPINE found that periodic chiropractic care may be able to detect, evaluate, and prevent future episodes of back pain!

Sitting is one of the most stressful positions for your spine

Periodic chiropractic visits can help evaluate, detect, and treat an emerging problem, thus preventing future episodes of low back pain.

Keep your spine healthy with daily exercise, light stretching, and chiropractic care

Next Steps:

Instead of catching a game-winning touchdown, your idea of peak performance might include a fantastic presentation at your next team meeting. Don’t let pain slow you down and keep you on the sidelines. You have made an excellent choice to include chiropractic care as a part of your active lifestyle. Let us know if you don’t already include stretching in your daily routine. We would be happy to provide a few tips to get you started! Give us a call today at (630)530-4744 . Our team is here to help

Science Sources:

The use and role of sports chiropractors in the national football league: a short report. JMPT 2002

Impact of CrossFit-Related Spinal Injuries. Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine. 2017

Does Maintained Spinal Manipulation Therapy for Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain Result in Better Long-Term Outcomes? SPINE 2011

Impact of Spinal Manipulation on Cortical Drive to Upper and Lower Limb Muscles. Brain Science 2016

Impact of CrossFit-Related Spinal Injuries. Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine. 2017

Packers’ Rodgers Has Deep Roots in Chico. New York Times 2011

Does Maintained Spinal Manipulation Therapy for Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain Result in Better Long-Term Outcomes? SPINE 2011

The Cervical Spine: How You Can Find Lasting Relief from Neck Pain

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 17:03:06 GMT

H2: How to Get Rid of a Stiff Neck

Working on computers and staring at our smartphones for hours each day has left 20% of us experiencing neck pain over the past three months. A stiff neck usually starts with postural issues that have weakened your neck muscles. Weakened muscular support places additional stress on your spinal joints. Over time, the extra stress can change how you move, increase the pressure on your spine discs, and cause pain.

Looking down at your computer or phone all day can cause the muscles that support your neck to become chronically tired. If you do this all day, the stress can add up and result in the joints of your neck not moving correctly. At this point, it's only a matter of time before you wake up with a stiff neck or turn your head during the day and are greeted by intense muscle discomfort or pain. Here are three smart tips to get rid of a stiff neck:

Perform range of motion exercises each day to stretch and strengthen muscles that support your neck

Sleep on a supportive pillow that keeps your head in a neutral position throughout the night

Receive spinal adjustments to restore the proper motion and function of your spinal joints

A small adjustment can make big changes in your quality of life. Our team is here to help. We are focused on helping you feel (and function) better by improving your spinal motion and providing you with the stretches and exercises you can do at home to continue your improvement. If neck pain has got in the way of you enjoying your life, give us a call and schedule an appointment today.

Why Does My Neck Hurt?

Your neck has a tough job. It has to hold up the weight of your head every day for a lifetime. Holding up to 11 pounds may not seem like a lot, but the seven bones and 25 or so neck muscles must work together in perfect harmony to move your head around and keep that weight in place. As you get older, postural changes, sudden injuries, and arthritis are a few reasons why you may begin to notice neck pain. Often, the pain can be traced to a problem with either the muscles, bones, discs, or nerves in your neck.

If you've ever had a stiff neck and couldn't turn your head for a day or two, you know how debilitating and life-changing neck pain can be. The sharp muscle spasms that restrict your ability to move can happen when your body tries to protect a spinal joint that isn't moving correctly. Almost every bone in your neck has a pair of sliding joints towards the back called facet joints. If an adhesion forms or the joint is stuck, your body will try to compensate for a little while, and you may not notice any pain or restriction. But, this compensation can cause additional challenges if it's not handled.

Sudden injuries, arthritis, and postural issues can all contribute to neck pain

The small sliding joints ( facet joints ) of your neck can become stuck and cause muscle spasms and pain

Gentle spinal adjustments combined with daily stretching can help restore the motion of your facet joints and reduce pain

A stiff neck is your body's way of saying "pay attention"! Even if it eases up by the end of the day, it's smart to have us evaluate your spine's motion. Taking care of small challenges before they become big issues is part of being proactive with your health. By taking a proactive approach to your health today, you can reduce your risk of future neck pain and stiffness episodes.

The Neck Pain Solution No One Is Talking About

You may not know that a neck pain solution is recommended by most major healthcare organizations that almost no physicians talk about. It works better than medications and is far less risky than injections or surgery. So why hasn't the world embraced it? That's a good question.

Spinal adjustments are the neck pain solution that physicians aren't talking about (until now!). Gentle adjustments to your neck effectively reduce neck pain, improve your range of motion, and even influence your brain and nervous system. Chiropractors focus on the structure and function of your spine. When your spine functions optimally, your body can often heal itself- no medications needed. Research has shown that nearly 80% of people with a disc herniation in their neck found relief with spinal adjustments! So don't let a disc herniation make you believe your condition is too advanced for chiropractic care.

Drugs and surgery usually aren't recommended for the care of neck pain due to their risks and side effects

The Cleveland Clinic and American College of Physicians support chiropractic adjustments for the care of neck issues

Spinal adjustments have been shown to provide more relief than steroid injections for neck pain caused by disc herniation

We believe that the first step to relief is discovering the cause of your pain. After finding the structural issue causing your pain, we can create a treatment plan to improve your function and reduce your pain. If you or someone you know has struggled with neck pain, give us a call today!

Neck Arthritis: Why Your Daily Habits Might Be to Blame

Arthritis is defined as the breakdown of the cartilage around your joints. It can happen anywhere in your body, and common symptoms associated with arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, or restricted motion. While arthritis is a natural part of the aging process, the decisions you make each day dramatically affect whether it becomes a problem for you as you get older. The choices you make today play a powerful role in your future health.

Many people get diagnosed with arthritis and believe they are destined for a life of pain, but that isn't true. Thinning discs and bone spurs happen as we age due to gravity, previous injuries, and other lifestyle factors. But you can manage and even mitigate many of the challenges of arthritis by making positive decisions for your spinal health each day. Here are three ways to stay proactive and reduce the effects of arthritis:

Each day, perform stretches and exercises that foster a balance of strength and flexibility

Use good ergonomics at your work desk by keeping your monitor at eye level

Follow a diet that limits inflammatory foods, which can contribute to pain and chronic inflammation

Next Steps:

A habit is defined as a routine that's repeated without you even thinking about it. It's estimated that most habits form after about 60 days. Can you follow the healthy habits above for the next 60 days? There isn't just one thing you can do to prevent arthritis, but making small changes to your habits each day can help you minimize your risk of painful arthritis. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, call us to schedule an appointment at (630)530-4744 .

Science Sources:

Do you have a stiff neck? Try these simple remedies. Cleveland Clinic. 2015

Intervertebral Kinematics of the Cervical Spine Before, During and After High Velocity Low Amplitude Manipulation. The Spine Journal. 2018

Chiropractic Care for Arthritis. Arthritis Foundation. 2020

Do you have a stiff neck? Try these simple remedies. Cleveland Clinic. 2015

Osteoarthritis. University of Maryland Medical Center. 2007

Outcomes from Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Confirmed Symptomatic Cervical Disk Herniation Patients Treated with High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude Spinal Manipulative Therapy. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. October 2013

How to Have Your Best Year Ever

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 17:26:30 GMT

3 Steps To Go from Exhausted to Energized

If you're leaving the holiday feeling sluggish and low on energy, you're not alone! The changes to your regular sleep and exercise routine can drain your energy levels and leave your body struggling to keep up without a quick caffeine fix. But, as we head into the new year, there are some simple steps you can take to have a healthier, happier, and more energized 2022.

If you're exhausted, you may notice things like achy muscles. But did you know it can also affect your brain and immune system function? Taking proactive steps to boost your energy is important to your overall health and wellness. Here are three quick strategies to help you go from exhausted to energized.

Strive for Daily Exercise: While exercising, if you feel exhausted, might seem like the quickest route to being more tired, the opposite is true. Exercise can increase your energy levels and brain activity and may help support your immune system function.

Set Your Sleep Schedule: Your body runs on daily cycles called circadian rhythms. They are 24-hour cycles that are part of your internal clock. Prioritize your sleep and work towards going to bed and getting up around the same time each day.

Eat Right: Keeping your blood sugar balance supports overall energy levels. Sugary foods can provide a quick spike in energy but very quickly leave you feeling wiped out. Eating more whole foods and reducing sugar intake can help your energy levels stay consistent and balanced throughout the day.

Following these steps to boost your energy levels will help your body and positively impact your mood. If you can't tackle all of them at once, start today by getting some exercise and moving your body. Then, tomorrow, take the next step. And if you cannot exercise or sleep because of any pain or discomfort, schedule a visit with us today! Before you know it, you'll be healthier and happier due to your new wellness routine.

Creating Smart Goals for Better Health

It's a new year, so it's time to set your goal for better health. There is no better time to evaluate your health and wellness and set smart goals for healthy changes. Changing your health isn't easy, but setting smart goals can set you up for long-term success. Keep reading to learn how.

Smart goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Trackable. Using smart goals can help increase your motivation and make you much more likely to reach your target. Setting these health goals shouldn't be stressful. Each action you take towards better health is a positive step in the right direction, so don't become overwhelmed with the process. Take a few minutes today and write down your health goals for this year using the smart framework below:

Specific - Exercising more or eating better are good ideas but nearly impossible to quantify. Aim for specific goals such as exercising daily or eating less than 25 grams of sugar per day instead.
Measurable - Set a measurable goal, such as exercising 5x per week for 20 minutes.
Attainable - Try to avoid aiming too high or low. Your health goals should be attainable based on your current commitments and habits.
Realistic - Take a look at your current health habits and set your goals to be realistic.
Trackable - Goals that are trackable help you monitor your progress throughout the year and celebrate success!

New Year's resolutions are great, but often they go unfulfilled. We're here to help support your desire for better health this year! By setting smart goals, you'll quickly be on your way to better health this year. Schedule a visit with us today if you're struggling to get started with your daily exercise goals based on chronic pain or a new injury.

The Power of Your Health Potential

"Your body's ability to heal is greater than anyone has permitted you to believe." Not only is that quote inspiring and thought-provoking, but we see it in action every day in our practice. Your body has an incredible natural ability to adapt, change, and heal. Whether you're bouncing back after an acute injury or looking for the best way to overcome chronic pain, in many cases, your body just needs to have the opportunity to heal, and nature will take care of the rest.

Understanding your body's natural healing power isn't some woo-woo thought. Health entails much more than just not having pain. The World Health Organization defines health as complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease. This statement shows us that true health is multi-dimensional and emphasizes the critical connection between your brain and body.

You were born with an unbelievable ability to heal through complex interactions between your brain and body.

Your habits and choices can enhance or reduce your body's ability to reach its health potential.

Your brain and body are directly connected and coordinate all of your body systems (including your immune system) by communicating through your nervous system.

The function of your nervous system is a key part of your overall health and wellness. Chiropractors are focused on the spine for exactly this reason. Since your spine protects your spinal cord, proper spinal motion is important. Pain is just one of your body's indications that something is wrong. So, if you're experiencing pain in or around your spine, schedule a visit with us today. We'll help you move in the right direction by working with your body's natural healing ability!

Design a Year of Abundant Health

A year of abundant health starts with setting smart goals and taking proactive daily steps to support your body being its best. Movement and exercise are both essential foundations to living your best life. Movement and exercise help you feel better physically, but emerging research shows they may also help your brain stay sharp and focused.

Before you can begin a daily exercise routine, you'll need your spine and joints to move well. If you have fixations or limitations with how your spinal joints move, it will be difficult to safely and painlessly move through your entire range of motion. With a limited range of motion, you may increase your risk for injury as other joints compensate and become overloaded. Here are the three types of movement that are key to optimizing your health.

Segmental: As the foundation of your spinal motion, segmental movement describes the motion between each set of bones in your spine.

Regional: Your spine is divided into four primary regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), lumbar (low back), and sacral (tailbone).

Whole Body: When you combine your spine's segmental and regional movements with your extremities, you have whole-body motion.

Next Steps:

Each of these movement types builds upon the other. To have optimal whole-body movement, you must ensure that your regional and segmental motion is tip-top. Problems with segmental motion can cause problems with your regional and whole-body movement. We know that abundant health starts with moving well and feeling great. So, if you notice pain or limitations in your movement patterns, schedule a visit with us today by calling (630)530-4744 .

Science Sources:

How Simply Moving Benefits Your Mental Health. Harvard Health. 2016

7 Steps to Boosting Energy. Mayo Clinic. 2017

Setting Smart Goals for Success. Mayo Clinic Health System. 2020

Constitution. World Health Organization. 2021

Ease Inflammation and Enhance Mobility: The Surprising Benefits of Chiropractic

Sat, 02 Dec 2023 16:38:00 GMT

What Causes Inflammation?

Chronic inflammation is among the most significant health issues many of us will face today. It's been linked to everything from chronic pain to a wide range of other mild and serious medical conditions.

It's important not to mistake acute inflammation for chronic inflammation.

Acute inflammation describes your body's natural defense mechanism against injuries or toxins. When your immune system is constantly stressed, it can lead to chronic inflammation, which can lead to other conditions.

In 2014, it was estimated that over 50% of people had at least one chronic condition, and 40% had more than one.

Chronic inflammatory diseases can include respiratory and heart disorders as well as diabetes.

The majority of these disorders are linked directly to our lifestyle choices. Each day, you can either increase or decrease your state of inflammation.

Here are some fundamental ways to start taking your life back from chronic inflammation:

Eat right. Fruits and vegetables are high in natural antioxidants and may protect the body against inflammation.

Get enough rest. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can reduce your physical and emotional stress levels, which has been linked to a lower risk of chronic inflammation.

Stay active. Exercise can lower the amount of pro-inflammatory chemicals in your body and benefit your cardiovascular and mental health.

Reducing your risk of chronic disease and inflammation begins with the choices you make every day, and we're here to help you make the best decisions to help you live a full, active, and healthy life.

If you believe you're not eating, sleeping, or moving as well as you would like, be sure you have an appointment scheduled with us. Together, we’ll analyze your habits and create a plan to get you and your well-being back on track.

Most Chronic Diseases are Linked to Inflammation

One of the most important health discoveries of the past 20 years has been that the immune system and inflammatory process are involved in nearly every mental and physical health problem we encounter today.

It's safe to say that chronic inflammation is a leading cause of chronic disease.

Chronic inflammation is a condition that can affect your immune system and can influence all of your organs, tissues, and cells.

Unlike the normal inflammatory response that happens after an injury and goes away within a few days, chronic inflammation is an abnormal response that can last years.

Here are a few ways chronic inflammation can affect your body.

Chronic inflammation can cause your immune system to function sub-optimally.

Fatigue, increased blood pressure, insulin resistance, and poor appetite are also linked to chronic inflammation.

Heart disease and other neurodegenerative disorders have been linked to long-term chronic inflammation.

It's true. It’s impossible to prevent chronic disease completely, but you have the power to reduce your risk every day.

Taking action steps like eating right and exercising each day have been shown to dramatically decrease chronic inflammation and your likelihood of developing a chronic disease.

Know we're here to help you live an active and fulfilling life. We understand it’s hard to exercise enough daily when you’re in pain. We hope you’ll take a moment to schedule a movement assessment with us so we can create a plan to help you start moving and feeling better.

Let's take the first step towards reducing your risk of chronic disease together!

How Inflammation Affects Your Body

Inflammation is like a check engine light for your body. It tells you something isn't quite right, and you should pay attention.

The first step in discovering the cause of the problem is determining whether you have acute or chronic inflammation.

Acute inflammation is short-term and critical in healing and injury repair. Chronic inflammation on the other hand describes a condition where your immune system continues to produce white blood cells and chemicals even after the injury is gone.

The combination of chronic inflammation and an excess of white blood cells can cause some problems for your immune system. In some cases, your immune system may even begin to target healthy cells and structures.

If sustained over a long period of time, you may experience changes in your cells, tissues, and organs that can increase the likelihood of disease.

Of course, one of the most significant challenges is that chronic inflammation can be invisible unless you know where to look.

Here are a few of the most common signs of chronic inflammation.

Insulin resistance. Insulin helps control the sugar level in your blood, and inflammation could affect how well your insulin works.

Muscle weakness. Chronic inflammation can cause your immune system to mistakenly attack and inflame your muscles, which could make you weaker.

Fatigue. Fatigue is a sign of long-term inflammation and common in inflammatory diseases like fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

You may also live with chronic inflammation if you've been living with muscle weakness, fatigue, or other nagging pains.

Often, your daily habits contribute to this state of chronic inflammation.

Know that our team specializes in helping you create a healthy lifestyle through daily habits that combat chronic inflammation.

We invite you to take the first step towards better health by scheduling your next visit with us today so we can work together to help you feel and function at your best.

How to Reduce Pain and Inflammation Naturally

While the inflammatory process is extremely complex, the solutions aren't.

Reducing pain and inflammation naturally is simple with the right strategy.

Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly are all ways that have been shown to effectively reduce pain and inflammation naturally.

Your diet and daily exercise routine greatly affect chronic inflammation because each influences your weight and sleep patterns.

Foods high in antioxidants (like berries, turmeric, and green vegetables) can lower overall inflammation and provide more energy. Daily exercise can help protect you against conditions such as heart disease and obesity, which are linked to chronic inflammation.

Did you know…

Antioxidants known as polyphenols can lower inflammation.

Even 20 minutes of daily exercise can have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Proper sleep patterns encourage recovery and can lower stress and inflammation levels.

Next Steps:

Reducing pain and inflammation naturally starts with your ability to move your body and exercise daily.

If you notice an injury or pain is slowing you down, take a moment to schedule an appointment with us today.

Our expert team will work with you side by side to help you move better, and once you start moving better, everything else becomes easier!

Give us a call at (630)530-4744 . Let’s make chronic inflammation a thing of the past.

Science Sources:

Chronic Inflammation in the Etiology of Disease Across the Life Span. Nature Med. 2019.

Chronic Inflammation. StatPearls. 2021.

Signs of Chronic Inflammation You May Not Expect. WebMD. 2019.

Understanding Acute and Chronic Inflammation. Harvard Health Publishing. 2020.

Finding Relief from Neck Pain: The Powerful Impact of Chiropractic Care

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 16:09:45 GMT

Why Does My Neck Hurt?

Your neck has a tough job. It has to hold, stabilize, and move the weight of your head every day for a lifetime. Holding up 11 pounds may not seem like a lot, but the seven bones and 20 neck muscles need to work together in perfect harmony to move your head around and keep that weight balanced. Postural changes, sudden injuries, and arthritis are a few of the primary causes of neck pain. Pain can often be traced to a problem with your neck’s muscles, bones, discs, or nerves.

If you've ever been unable to turn your head for a day or two, you know how debilitating and life-changing neck pain can be. The sharp muscle spasms that restrict your ability to move can happen when your body tries to protect a spinal joint that isn't moving correctly. Almost every bone in your neck has a pair of sliding joints towards the back called facet joints. If an adhesion forms or the joint is stuck, your body will try to compensate or work around the issue for a little while. But, over time, this compensation can cause additional challenges.

Sudden injuries, arthritis, and postural issues can all contribute to neck pain

The small sliding joints (facet joints) of your neck can become stuck and cause muscle spasms and pain

Gentle spinal adjustments combined with daily stretching can help restore the motion of your facet joints and reduce pain

Pain in your neck is your body's way of saying "pain attention"! Even if it eases up by the end of the day, it's smart to have us evaluate your motion. Movement assessments are part of our examination and provide us with incredible information about your body. By taking a proactive approach to your health today, you may be able to prevent future episodes of neck pain and stiffness.

Stenosis: How a Pinch in Your Neck Can Affect Your Whole Body

Have you been told that you have spinal stenosis? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people suffer from spinal stenosis each day, and it's the number one reason people over 65 years old have spine surgery. Spinal stenosis is the compression, or pinching, of your spinal cord. It can occur due to a disc herniation, bone spur, or ligament overgrowth. But drugs and surgery are not the only way to find relief.

For many people, the most significant challenge associated with spinal stenosis is the decreased ability to get up and move! Severe pinching in your neck can cause issues with your arms and legs. One of the best ways to relieve the symptoms associated with spinal stenosis is to open up the spinal canal and take the pressure off the nerves and spinal cord. Many chiropractic techniques focus on decreasing the pressure on your spinal cord, relieving the symptoms associated with spinal stenosis.

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine

Spinal stenosis is most commonly caused by degenerative changes in the spine related to osteoarthritis

Relief can often be found by building up your strength while improving the flexibility and stability of your spine with chiropractic care

After chiropractic care, many patients report decreased symptoms, the ability to walk further without pain, and improved overall quality of life. If you have been slowed down due to spinal stenosis, do not hesitate to schedule an evaluation with us. We will provide a complete evaluation and guide you toward the best treatment options to find relief.

Is My Arm Pain Coming from My Neck?

Pain in your hand, wrist, or arm can be frustrating. You don't realize how much you use your arms and hands until pain, numbness, or tingling gets in the way. Most of us don't usually think that an issue in our neck may cause our arm pain. But it's very common that arm pain can be traced back to a nerve issue in your neck.

Hand, wrist, and arm pain often starts with a neck problem. When a spinal disc in your neck irritates or presses on a nerve, it can result in arm pain. Like the power lines that bring electricity to your house, your brain and spinal cord split into individual nerve roots that deliver information to every body part. The nerves in your neck are specifically focused on providing strength and sensation to your head and arms.

A bulged or herniated disc in your neck can irritate or compress the nerves that travel to your hands, arms, and shoulders

A recent study of people with cervical (neck) disc herniation showed improvement in over 86% of people who received chiropractic adjustments

Improving spinal mobility, decreasing inflammation, and improving your posture may help prevent future episodes of neck and arm pain

A painful arm with a pinched nerve in your neck rarely requires surgery. Most people can find long-term relief with conservative care, such as chiropractic. Getting rid of the inflammation and giving the disc time to heal are part of a complete plan we use each day to help our patients reduce their symptoms and get their lives back.

Neck Pain: How To Find Relief

An episode of neck pain can quickly hamper your everyday activities. Whether you began experiencing pain due to injury, degenerative spinal changes, or poor posture, it can be difficult to think about anything except the pain when you're struggling. It's estimated that 70% of people experience neck pain in their life, but you should know there is a path towards relief.

Neck pain can create everything from headaches to pain in your arms and hands to pain directly on your neck. Different types of pain indicate different issues. The most common reasons for neck pain are strained muscles and stuck spinal joints. Each of these challenges can cause a lot of pain and may have you fearing that you have a more significant issue. But, with a proper examination, our team can pinpoint the cause of your pain and provide a complete plan of care to help you reclaim your life from neck pain.

Facet joints are small spinal joints at the back of your spine which can become fixated or stuck and cause pain

Muscle strains can occur due to poor posture at your desk or sleeping in an awkward position

Motion heals: relief typically begins by reducing the inflammation and improving your range of motion

Next Steps:

A small adjustment can make big changes in your quality of life. Our practice is focused on helping you feel (and function) better by improving your spinal motion and then providing you with the stretches and exercises you can do at home to continue your improvement. If neck pain has got in the way of you enjoying your life- give us a call at (630)530-4744 . Our team is here to help

Science Sources:

Intervertebral Kinematics of the Cervical Spine Before, During, and After High-Velocity Low Amplitude Manipulation.The Spine Journal. 2018

Spinal Stenosis. The Mayo Clinic. 2020

Symptomatic, Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Confirmed Cervical Disk Herniation Patients: A Comparative-Effectiveness Prospective Observational Study of 2 Age- and Sex-Matched Cohorts Treated With Either Imaging-Guided Indirect Cervical Nerve Root Injections or Spinal Manipulative Therapy. JMPT 2016

Spinal manipulation, medication, or home exercise with advice for acute and subacute neck pain: a randomized trial. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2012

Redefining Posture: What You Need to Know About Posture, Your Health, and Chiropractic

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 20:42:10 GMT

Perfect Posture is Dynamic

Is there such a thing as perfect posture? The answer may surprise you.

The latest research shows that it’s actually more beneficial to think about your posture as dynamic, not static.

In other words, your ideal posture is constantly changing and evolving.

Think of your posture as a dynamic pattern of responses, reflexes, and habits, not just a fixed position.

Gravity, your work environment, and your body's anatomy all play essential roles. For instance, sitting for hours at a time staring at a computer screen is a perfect example of a damaging static posture that, over time, can lead to the development of chronic forward head posture.

Forward head posture affects millions of people who spend their days using computers and can potentially cause pain and degenerative changes in your spinal joints. It places stress on the neck and shoulders and weakens the supporting muscles.

Here’s what you need to know...

Forward head posture affects millions and results in neck pain for up to 75% of those affected.

Neck pain, tension, stiffness, and tenderness are all signs of chronic forward head posture.

Trapezius strengthening has been shown to provide clinically significant relief for those struggling with neck pain due to forward head posture.

If you spend long hours each day in a single position - like sitting at a computer - it's important to take the time to take periodic breaks to stretch and move your body.

Remember, posture is dynamic, and stretching can help "reset" your posture but also help keep your spine healthy and your energy levels up!

Scheduling a posture and movement assessment with us is also a smart idea to help ensure you remain as pain-free as possible no matter how you spend your days. Just give us a call at (630)530-4744 !

How to Improve Your Posture

When discussing posture, we often refer to your body’s overall position as you stand, sit, or lie down.

Most experts would agree that a "good" overall posture involves physical positions that reduce stress on the body by balancing the load placed on the muscles and ligaments that support the spine.

If you've looked in the mirror and noticed that your posture doesn't look as balanced as you'd like - not to mention it doesn’t feel as balanced as you’d like - you may be wondering what you can do to improve it.

One of the best ways to improve your posture is through motion.

Changing positions frequently during the day, stretching, and specific postural exercises are all ways to improve your posture.

Good posture helps you keep your bones and joints in proper alignment, which helps reduce the wear and tear on your joints and decrease the strain on the ligaments that support your spine.

Here are some key takeaways:

Good posture means keeping your spinal curves aligned and weight evenly distributed.

Stretches and exercises can help improve your posture and reduce your risk of neck and back pain.

Standing desks have been shown to reduce back pain by over 30% compared to sitting at a desk.

Remember that stretching and exercising are essential when creating a plan to improve your posture.

Equally important is knowing where to start.

Our postural and movement assessments can help you determine the best strategy to help balance and improve your posture, especially if you’ve been living with pain.

It all starts with a phone call. We’re standing by and ready to help in Elmhurst, IL!

How Your Smartphone Impacts Your Posture

Believe it or not, many of us spend 3 hours or more per day on our smartphones. That adds up to over 1,000 hours each year!

And the positions we tend to hold our heads in while using our devices can be, well... damaging. You are damaging to your posture and damaging to your spine.

It’s not surprising that over the past few years, an uptick in these awkward positions has led to an uptick in head and neck pain.

It's estimated that tilting your head forward, even just 15 degrees, can triple the weight of your head on your neck. Tilting your head forward 60 degrees can increase the stress and strain on your neck ten times over.

Repeating this forward head posture repeatedly can result in pain, stiffness, dysfunction, headaches, and more - a group of symptoms often referred to as “Tech Neck.”

The good news about postural stress and “Tech Neck” is that simple routine changes can help reduce your risk of experiencing pain.

Here’s what you need to know:

“Tech Neck” is the term used to describe the flexed head and neck position that occurs when looking down at your smartphone.

Just 15 degrees of forward bending can increase the stress of your head on your neck three times over.

Taking breaks every 15 minutes and looking up from your phone or tablet can help your body reset and give your muscles a chance to relax.

Reducing your “Tech Neck” symptoms involves more than just changing the angle you look at your phone.

Proper ergonomics and regular stretching and exercise all play significant roles in helping you continue to enjoy your favorite devices without those nagging pains.

If you’ve been living with “Tech Neck” and are ready to take action, you’ve come to the right place!

Our expert team in Elmhurst, IL is prepared to help evaluate your ergonomics and provide a plan of action complete with personalized recommendations that will help make it easy for you to maintain a more balanced posture for years to come.

Posture: Balancing Strength and Flexibility

Both strength and flexibility play a significant role in how your posture develops.

For instance, a strong and flexible core helps the body dynamically adapt to every environment. The spine is supported and moves well, reducing the possibility of injury or pain.

While it’s true that "perfect" postures may not exist, improving our strength, flexibility, and ergonomics goes a long way toward improvement.

Your body is dynamic and designed to move, but over time, it may feel less dynamic than it used to!

Getting into a wellness routine with exercises focusing on strength and flexibility is a smart way to keep your body feeling young while promoting good posture - a true win-win.

Here’s why.

Strengthening exercises can help develop proper support for your joints and decrease overall postural stress. Incorporating stretches and exercises focusing on flexibility will help your body maintain its ability to move through its full range of motion.

Did you know...

Your posture will likely improve when you focus on increasing muscular flexibility.

Lifting weights strengthens your back, shoulder, and core muscles, which are essential to standing properly and preventing lower back pain.

Stretching your muscles and joints also leads to a greater range of motion, improved balance, and increased flexibility.

Next Steps:

Remember, postural stress can add up over time.

Just because you're not currently in pain doesn't mean that everything is functioning at its highest level or that your daily wellness routine is as optimized as possible.

Our team specializes in posture and provides comprehensive individualized care plans - adjustments, stretches, exercises, and all!

Schedule an appointment today if you'd like to learn more about how we’re helping the people in your community achieve an ideal balance of strength, posture, and flexibility.

Our doors are open, and we’re here for you.

Science Sources:

Effects of Trapezius Strengthening on Posture. Med Sci Monit. 2020.

Back Health and Posture. Cleveland Clinic. 2020.

"Tech Neck" Taking a Toll on Posture. Columbia Spine. 2018.

Breaking up Workplace Sitting Time. Occup Environ Med. 2014.

Why Being Flexible is Great for Your Health. Healthline. 2020.

Forward Head Posture and Neck Pain. Curr Rev Musculoskel Med. 2019.

Guide to Good Posture. Medline Plus. 2020.

Upright Posture Improves Effect and Fatigue. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry. 2017.

Prevalence of Forward Head Posture. IJERHS. 2019.

Kids and Chiropractic: Overcoming Tech Neck, Improving Posture, and Performing Their Best

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 17:29:13 GMT

Be Smart With Your Smartphone and Look Up!

As education steps into the digital age, many students will be e-learning in some capacity for hours each day on their digital devices. While our devices can be fantastic tools for entertainment and education, the postural effects are something all parents should be aware of. For many students, e-learning may increase neck, mid-back, and low back pain.

Spending six or more hours each day looking down at your digital devices can profoundly affect your mental, social, and physical health. It can also lead to the development of "Tech Neck Syndrome." This forward head posture often places tremendous stress on the neck (cervical spine) and can lead to an uptick in headaches, back and neck pain, and more.

Did you know...

Low back pain is the 3rd most common form of pain interfering with schoolwork.

It's estimated that 50.3% of school-aged children present with posture disorders.

Approximately 41.6% of children experience back pain from prolonged sitting.

Why Chiropractic Care is Critical for Kids Who Play Sports

Youth sports are a big deal. It's estimated that over 45 million kids are actively engaged in sports! While sports give kids a fantastic opportunity to grow socially and physically, they also increase risks for injuries, pain from overuse, and muscular imbalances. Finding proactive ways to reduce the risk of injury and balance the effects of training are essential for your child's developing musculoskeletal system.

Your child's skeletal system is actively developing until they are approximately 25 years old. Their postural habits, history of injuries, and genetics play a role in their body's final form (and function). Sports have the potential to add a significant amount of stress and increase the chances of injuries for your developing child. Even small injuries to their spine can create bigger challenges down the road as they get older.

To recap:

Addressing minor injuries and challenges while your child is young can help ensure proper musculoskeletal development.

Youth sports can increase your child's likelihood of developing overuse, growth plate injuries, and chronic pain.

Chiropractic care is a safe and natural way to help your child stay active and perform their best.

Power Your Child’s Brain with Movement

Years ago, many believed that the health benefits of exercise were limited to the body. However, research has demonstrated that regular physical activity and movement can benefit the body and the brain. Recent studies have highlighted that movement can improve the supply of oxygen to the brain and promote the production of new cells. It appears movement also aids in creating new connections in the brain!

Many schools have reduced physical education classes. Many more students have moved towards e-learning. For those reasons, it's important to be mindful of our children's physical activity and encourage them to exercise more daily. And not just to benefit their physical health. In many ways, exercising each day is likely to make your child a better student! Movement triggers the release of chemical substances in the brain that enhance brain function.

Here's a quick snapshot of the benefits of movement:

Better Brain Function - Movement may protect your brain against degenerative changes.

Better Stress Reduction - Exercise and movement have been shown to have an antidepressant effect that can help reduce overall stress.

Better Memory - Regular exercise can help directly and indirectly improve recall and reasoning skills.

E-Learning: How to Avoid Tech Neck

Is your child connected to a phone, computer, or tablet during and after school? Think about it. Many of us aren't more than an arm's length from our phone at any time (even when sleeping). Spending time every day looking down at our devices can place a lot of stress on the supporting muscles of our neck and lead to an uptick in headaches. It's a condition called "Tech Neck," one of the most common causes of headaches and neck pain.

The countless daily hours kids spend on phones and computers can significantly contribute to tension headaches. It’s estimated that kids spend up to 1,400 hours per year in the exact positions attributed to the development of "Tech Neck." That's not surprising. Recent research has also shown that even 15 degrees of forward head tilt can triple the weight of the head on the spine.

Here are some key things to remember when it comes to "Tech Neck":

"Tech Neck" is the term used to describe the symptoms of headaches, neck pain, and poor posture attributed to the forward head posture often associated with using your phone, tablet, and computer.

Taking a break from our mobile devices every 15 minutes can help reduce the likelihood of developing recurring neck pain and headaches.

Chiropractic care, including adjustments and postural exercises, can help decrease the pain and reverse the effects of "Tech Neck.”

Next Steps:

Keep it simple. Encourage your children to take breaks and stretch often. These are some of the best (and easiest) ways to help them break the bad habits leading to "Tech Neck." If your child spends a lot of time online and begins experiencing neck pain or headaches, don't hesitate to give us a call.

Our team is experienced in evaluating children and creating kid-friendly care plans. Our doors are open, and we're ready to help you and your family live the highest quality of life possible!

Science Sources:

Text Neck Syndrome. Intl Journal of Env Research and Public Health. 2021.

Back Pain in School Children. Dynamic Chiropractic. 1995.

School Children's Backpacks, Back Pain and Back Pathologies. Arch Dis Child. 2012.

Specialization & Overuse Injuries in Young Athletes. UCONN Health. 2017.

Learning Upregulates Neurotrophic Factor. Behavioral Neuroscience. 2019.

The Anti-Depressant Effect of Running. Intl Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology. 2005.

Regular Exercise Changes the Brain. Harvard Health Publishing. 2014.

How Exercise Affects Your Brain. Scientific American. 2018.

Assessment of Stresses in the Cervical Spine Caused by Posture. Surg Tech Intl. 2014.

Text Neck Syndrome. Intl Journal of Env Research and Public Health. 2021.

Three Steps to Build a Better Back. Harvard Health Publishing. 2015.

The Problem with Relying on Medications for Low Back Pain

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 23:31:30 GMT

The Problem with Relying on Medications for Low Back Pain

It’s safe to assume that all of us have an over-the-counter pain reliever like Aleve or Ibuprofen in our medicine cabinets at home. From a young age, we learn to have these on hand to help us find short-term relief from temporary headaches or other body aches and pains.

We’re looking for immediate symptom relief… And that is ALL these medications are designed to do - to temporarily mask the symptoms. They are not intended to treat the underlying condition causing those symptoms. They are also not intended to be used long-term.

When it comes to chronic low back pain, NSAIDs like these will not help you find long-term relief. So, if you’re one of the many living with low back pain in Elmhurst, IL here’s what you need to know.

Bottom Line:

Although NSAID medications can be purchased over the counter, it doesn't mean they don't have risks and dangers.

Over the past twenty years, we've seen the effects of low back pain change our healthcare landscape forever.

It’s estimated that 100,000 people are hospitalized each year from NSAID related complications.
Each day, it’s estimated that 100 people pass away as a result of opioid overdoses.

Leading healthcare organizations have taken note.

They’ve also taken note of the many benefits of chiropractic care for low back pain and now recommend that movement-based care options, such as chiropractic, should be explored for most low back issues before medications.

Why it Matters:

As chiropractors, we take a whole-body (holistic) approach to health and healing.

The World Health Organization supports chiropractic care and other non-invasive interventions for the treatment of acute, subacute, and especially chronic back pain.

In addition, Harvard Health, The Mayo Clinic, and other established healthcare organizations have published numerous articles highlighting the benefits of chiropractic and movement-based treatment options.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain

Most people who explore chiropractic care take far fewer medications than those who don't. Why? Because it works. Movement-based strategies such as spinal adjustments, controlled exercise, and dynamic stretching are a few of the most effective ways to relieve low back issues.

We see the effects first-hand every day at our chiropractic practice in Elmhurst, IL. And not only are movement-based strategies good at providing fast relief, but research strongly suggests that such conservative care interventions may also offer a preventative effect when continued over time.

That’s why the care that chiropractors deliver ranks at the top of nearly every list!

The use of heat, massage, acupuncture, mindfulness-based stress reduction, tai chi or yoga, and low-level laser therapy can also be beneficial for both back-specific and overall function improvements as well as improvements in your overall health-related quality of life.

Next Steps:

Medications are designed to mask the pain, not fix the problem. Receiving a complete and comprehensive evaluation is the first step towards finding relief.

As a conservative care based practice, we believe in focusing on treating the root cause of an issue and ongoing prevention rather than treating and masking the symptoms.

After discovering the cause of your pain, we can work together to craft a care plan that will help you not only reduce your pain so you can reach your health goals.

If you or someone you know is struggling with low back pain and you’re ready to see a chiropractor who specializes in Elmhurst, IL call us today. Our doors are open, and we’re here to help you get and stay out of back pain for years to come.

Science Sources:

Receiving Usual Care Plus Chiropractic Care vs Usual Care Alone. Pain Med. 2022.

Noninvasive Treatments for Chronic Low Back Pain. American College of Physicians. 2017.

The Movement Solution for Back Pain Relief

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 17:57:26 GMT

Movement Solution for Back Pain Relief in Elmhurst

When we feel pain in our low back, what’s the first thing many of us tend to think? We need to lie down. We need to sit down. We need to rest so our back will feel better. We may think we need to reach for a bottle of Aleve - maybe a heating pad. Fair enough. Each of those methods has limited or short-term effectiveness at best, but they may help us find temporary relief. But what about when those nagging aches and pains in our back return the next day?

Now that internal dialogue turns to - What’s the problem? What do I need to do so I don’t have to do the same thing day after day after day? As the go-to lower back pain specialist in Elmhurst we’re glad you asked! Read on.

Bottom Line:

Simple movement can be one of the best ways to find all natural back pain relief. In fact, science has shown us that medications and rest are actually a few of the least effective ways to find relief!

In one recent study, researchers found that 60% of participants with symptomatic cases of sciatica benefitted from chiropractic adjustments to the same degree as if they underwent surgical intervention. Right?!

Your body is designed to move, and often it's a lack of daily movement (or chronic postural changes) that causes back pain to begin in the first place.

Why it Matters:

When your joints aren't moving correctly, the rest of your body isn’t moving correctly, and that’s when pain can strike. The right movements and exercises can help you recover more quickly and prevent future back pain episodes.

There are three different types of body movement: segmental, regional, and whole body.

Segmental motion occurs between the individual joints of your body.

Regional movement occurs in a body region such as your neck, mid-back, or low back.

Whole-body movement is characterized by the actions we typically think of as exercise.

All three types are essential and work together to keep your spine and musculoskeletal system healthy and functioning at its best.

Let’s take a closer look…

Segmental Movement: Moving the individual joints of your body is what chiropractors are specifically trained to do. Proper segmental movement can help reduce pain, improve your range of motion, and influence your central nervous system.

Regional Movement: Dynamic stretching with regional range of motion exercises can reduce low back stiffness.

Whole Body Exercise: Daily exercise can help your brain and body feel better as well as improve your rest and recovery at night.

Chiropractic Care for All Natural Back Pain Relief

It’s easy to see why movement can be your most important ally when it comes to finding all natural relief from low back pain. The foundation of all movement is segmental movement. Take it from the leading lower back pain specialist in Elmhurst, IL, if your joints aren't moving well, your body as a whole isn’t moving well, and you certainly aren’t going to be feeling well. That’s where we come in.

Chiropractic care is a safe, natural, and effective way to help ensure your body is moving at its best so you can feel your best. Harvard Health, The Mayo Clinic, and other established healthcare organizations have published numerous articles highlighting the benefits of chiropractic and movement-based treatment options.

Next Steps:

Moving may be the last thing you want to do if you're struggling with back pain, but research has repeatedly shown that movement and exercise are two of the best ways to find relief from back pain.

If you've dealt with back pain and especially if you live in the Elmhurst area, call us today. Our team will be happy to provide you with a complete movement assessment and personalized exercise plan to help you get (and stay) well for years to come, naturally!

Science Sources:

Back Pain. Harvard Health Publishing. 2023.

5 Steps to a Pain-Free Back. Harvard Health Publishing. 2016.

The Surprising Cause of Your Leg Pain: Your Back!

Tue, 02 May 2023 18:09:59 GMT

The Surprising Cause of Your Leg Pain: Your Back!

Let’s go ahead and lay all of our collective cards out on the table. Most of us spend way, way more time sitting at our computers or sitting down with our digital devices than we know we should. Honestly, most of us are living with aches or pains as a result that we don’t really want anyone to know about.

Our necks hurt. Our backs hurt. And our… legs… hurt? Yep. If you spend your days working at a desk, we’re willing to bet you know exactly what we’re talking about. So, why does this happen and what can be done to help take care of all of the above?

Bottom Line:

It may seem odd to think that nagging leg, calf, or foot pain could be traced back to a low back problem… But if you've had pain in your leg or foot, a pinched nerve in your low back may be creating your issue! As the go-to back pain specialist in Elmhurst, this is something we see nearly every day in practice.

Pain that travels along a spinal nerve is called radicular pain, and it's one of the most common types of pain that occurs as a result of spinal nerve compression. Nerve compression is often what causes back and leg pain to appear at the same time. If a nerve in your low back is compressed or "pinched", your body is sure to let you know.

Why it Matters:

Pain is your body's way of saying "pay attention inside now!" It's your body's way of letting you know you’ve pushed past its limits. When a nerve is compressed or irritated — be it from a herniated spinal disc, bone spur, or ligament overgrowth — it can become inflamed and painful.

What Causes Back and Leg Pain

Your spinal nerves can be pinched or compressed by a bone, disc, or ligament.

Let’s take a closer look at each scenario…

Bone Spurs: Bone spurs can form as a result of joint damage associated with osteoarthritis, and these can sometimes grow large enough to pinch your spinal nerves.
Disc Herniations: Disc herniations, bulges, or tears can invade the space of your nerves and that inflammation and pressure can cause narrowing of the canals..
Ligament Hypertrophy: Ligament hypertrophy (or overgrowth) can happen with age and injuries and lead to added pressure on your nerves.
Whichever of the above may be causing your pain, it's important to know that all have a great chance of recovering without the need for drugs or surgery. Top research publications have shown that people struggling with sciatica pain can get fantastic results with chiropractic care. The numbers don’t lie. Since we’re talking about what causes back and leg pain, let’s use sciatica pain as an example.

In one widely circulated study, researchers observed that 89% of patients suffering from symptomatic sciatica responded very well to chiropractic adjustments. In another recent study, researchers found that 60% of participants with symptomatic cases of sciatica benefitted from chiropractic adjustments to the same degree as if they underwent surgical intervention (again, without any of the risks!). What many may not know is that beyond adjustments, exercise and rehab can also help strengthen the muscles supporting your spine to reduce the likelihood of a relapse.

Next Steps:

Starting with chiropractic care is the smartest decision you can make. In our practice in Elmhurst we utilize various treatments, including adjustments, to correct spinal conditions such as herniated disc to help relieve your leg and back pain and help prevent it from recurring.

That’s a long way of saying our mission is to help people treat their compressed nerves and regain their quality of life. Taking non-invasive steps to reduce inflammation, re-establishing proper joint motion, and taking proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of the pain coming back are all part of our care plans. So, if you want to find out what’s causing your leg and low back pain, give us a call today!

Science Source:

Radiculopathy. Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2023.

Say Goodbye to Low Back Pain: Understanding the Causes

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 17:00:48 GMT

Say Goodbye to Low Back Pain: Understanding the Causes

For many of us, gone are the days where we can clean the house, go for a walk, play with the kids, play with our pets, or, if we’re being honest, simply go to sleep without putting ourselves at risk for neck or low back pain.

Sound familiar?

Surprise sleep injuries aside, if you’re all too familiar with back pain, you’ve come to the right place!

As the leading low back pain specialist in Elmhurst, IL, we know a thing or two about the common causes of low back pain.

Keep reading to learn more about what might be behind yours and, more importantly, what you can do to say goodbye to low back pain.

Bottom Line:

Low back pain is the number one reason people worldwide visit their doctor and miss work.

If you've dealt with it in the past (or maybe even right now), you know back pain can change your life in an instant.

Not being able to enjoy hobbies, difficulty in your ability to work, and a sneaking suspicion that you may never get "back to normal" are all normal when you're experiencing a bout of back pain.

So why do so many people here in Elmhurst, IL and around the world struggle with back pain?

In many cases, your daily habits are a big contributor to your back pain.

Why it Matters:

If you've been living with aches and pain, it's often connected to distorted movement patterns that affect your neuromusculoskeletal system - your brain, nerves, muscles, bones, joints, cartilage, tendons, etc.

And those abnormal movement patterns can happen for a variety of reasons that range from long hours at a computer and repetitive stress to sudden injuries.

That repetitive stress combined with nagging injuries, a diet filled with inflammatory foods, or a lack of daily exercise and movement can all contribute to an increased likelihood of back pain.

Common Causes of Low Back Pain

Here are the three most common causes of low back pain…

Sprain/Strain Injuries: Repetitive stress can create inflammation and lead to sprains or strains.
Spinal Disc Issues: Disc bulges and herniations can press on your spinal nerves, leading to back pain that travels to other parts of the body.
Arthritis: As you get older, your body will naturally go through some degenerative changes, and if your spinal joints become inflamed, you may notice some pain.

A whopping 80% of us will experience low back pain at some point in our lives, and none of us want to rely on pills to feel better.

The good news is that, in most cases, sprains and strains and joint issues can heal pretty quickly with the right care.

That's where we come in.

An overwhelming majority of people recover from back pain naturally or with a little additional help from a chiropractor.

So, if you’ve been searching for a low back pain specialist in Elmhurst, IL, you’ve come to the right place!

Research supports the use of chiropractic care for the treatment of all causes of and all types of low back pain.

Get this: In a recent study, researchers found that low back pain patients with disc issues who received chiropractic care experienced the same if not more relief than patients who underwent invasive back surgeries.

Next Steps:

While it may feel like you'll never get back to your old self, the odds are in your favor that you will!

And even if you typically seem to recover by taking it easy for a few days, it's still a smart decision to visit a chiropractor.

Chiropractic care has been part of the wellness conversation worldwide for well over 125 years, and our chiropractic practice is proud to serve the Elmhurst, IL and surrounding communities now and for years to come.

Our low back pain specialists will work with you to determine both what’s at the root of your low back pain and the non-invasive treatment options that make sense for you.

Research also strongly suggests that periodic chiropractic care - just like dynamic stretching and regular exercise - can help prevent future episodes of low back pain.

So, if you haven't, be sure to have your next - or first - visit scheduled!

Science Sources:

Back Pain Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. 2023.

elm-chiropractic

Thermography

Thermography Services in Elmhurst, IL Empty heading

Serving Elmhurst, DuPage County & the Western Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions About Thermography Empty heading

What is thermography and how does it work?

Is thermography safe?

Is breast thermography a replacement for a mammogram?

Who should consider thermography?

How long does a thermography appointment take?

When will I receive my thermography results?

Do I need a referral for thermography in Elmhurst, IL?

Does insurance cover thermography?

How should I prepare for my thermography appointment?

Where is Elm Chiropractic located?

Elm Chiropractic is conveniently located in Elmhurst, IL , serving patients from DuPage County, Oak Brook, Villa Park, Lombard, Addison, and surrounding communities . Empty heading

Time and Location

Beyond Pain Killers: How Chiropractic Treatments Can Reduce Opioid Use

The Opioid Crisis: How Did We End Up Here?

Starting in the 1990's, doctors were encouraged to prescribe opioids for chronic pain.

59% of opioid users report having experienced back pain.

In the US alone, we have averaged over 130 deaths per day due to opioids.

The Chronic Pain Crisis is the Opioid Crisis

Chronic low back pain will affect up to 20% of people over 18 years old. Empty head Cooperation between your Medical Doctor and Chiropractor can help provide the best results. Chiropractic care has been shown to provide better outcomes than care in a pain clinic.

Opiates vs. Opioids: What's the Difference?

Opioids can have a negative impact on your emotions, breathing, digestion, and movement.

Fentanyl, a pain-relieving opioid, is 100 times more potent than morphine.

Opioids are highly addictive and not meant to be used for chronic pain.

Beyond the Pill: Non-Opioid Care for Chronic Pain

Whole Body Movement with Daily Exercise

Specific Spinal Joint Movement with Chiropractic Adjustments

How Does a Chiropractic Adjustment Work?

Facet Joints: Gliding Your Way to Better Health

The facet joints of your spine slide and glide as you move.

Restrictions or adhesions in the facets can occur with age and injury.

Spinal adjustments help the facet joints move freely and decrease painful restrictions.

Disc Issues and Chiropractic

Keeping your core muscles strong and flexible can decrease your likelihood of suffering a disc bulge or herniation.

Research has shown spinal adjustments to be very effective at reducing pain caused by disc bulges and herniations.

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Spinal adjustments were found to be more effective than spinal injections for treating disc issues.

The Brain + Spine Connection

Your brain and body are in constant communication through your central and peripheral nervous system.

The spinal cord can send information to your brain at over 250 mph!

Chiropractic adjustments to your neck or back have been shown to influence brain function, resulting in pain relief, endorphin release, and more.

Your Body is Designed to Move

All of the bones, muscles, ligaments, and joints of your spine are designed to support daily movement.

Blood flow, strength, and flexibility are all enhanced through movement.

Movement of the individual segments of your spine can affect how you heal.

Say Goodbye to Headaches: What Causes Them and How to Find Relief

Headache Types: The Facts You Need to Know

Migraine: sensitivity to light and sound is common during migraine headaches. Approximately 1/3rd of people will experience an aura before the onset of a migraine.

Tension: Almost everyone will experience a tension headache during their life. Stress, anxiety, dehydration, and even posture can trigger a tension headache.

Cluster: Affecting more men than women, cluster headaches cause severe pain behind or around your eye and last between 15 minutes and 3 hours.

The Top 3 Causes of Headaches

Medications: Many commonly prescribed pain-relieving medications (including those prescribed for headache relief) list headaches as a top side effect.

Foods: coffee, cheese, alcohol, and many types of meat contain substances that can contribute to headaches.

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Posture: forward head posture due to long hours sitting or standing at work is a primary factor in the development of tension and cervicogenic headaches.

How to Find Natural Relief from Headaches

Magnesium: Low levels of magnesium have been reported as a risk factor for migraine headaches.

Chiropractic: Researchers have discovered a reduction in the frequency, severity, and duration of headaches for individuals under chiropractic care.

B-Vitamins: These powerful vitamins have the potential to help reduce stress and improve mood, which are essential factors when finding relief from headaches

Headaches Every Day? Read This…

Your brain doesn't have any nerve fibers that transmit pain signals. Headaches are felt by the tissues that support your brain, head, and neck.

Researchers have discovered a close link between what you eat, your stress, and hormone levels, and how that can impact your chances of developing chronic headaches.

A balanced diet, consistent sleeping patterns, and chiropractic care have all been shown to decrease the likelihood of developing chronic headaches.

Car Accidents: Everything You Need to Know to Find Relief

Whiplash: The Symptoms You Need to Know

Whiplash is an acceleration-deceleration injury that can affect your ligaments, spinal discs, muscles, and facet joints

There is often a period of little to no pain before the symptoms become worse

Symptoms of whiplash include neck or back pain, headache, radiating pain, confusion, and difficulty sleeping

How Long Does Whiplash Last?

Whiplash injuries frequently cause tearing of the ligaments that support proper spinal motion and stability.

The acute inflammatory phase of injury lasts up to 72 hours, the repair phase takes up to 6 weeks, and the remodeling phase of healing can last up to a year

A non-healed ligament injury can result in osteoarthritis

Shoulder Pain After a Car Accident: What Does it Mean?

Shoulder impingement has been estimated to occur in up to 10% of people involved in car accidents

The shoulder is one of the most complex, dynamic, and unstable joints in the body, with a complex network of bones, ligaments, and muscles

The risk of neck or shoulder pain seven years after a collision was three times higher for patients with initial whiplash injuries than those without

Elm Chiropractic is conveniently located in Elmhurst, IL , serving patients from DuPage County, Oak Brook, Villa Park, Lombard, Addison, and surrounding communities .
Empty heading

Chronic low back pain will affect up to 20% of people over 18 years old.

Empty head Cooperation between your Medical Doctor and Chiropractor can help provide the best results.

Chiropractic care has been shown to provide better outcomes than care in a pain clinic.

CrossFit is a popular, high-intensity style workout

Improving core strength and flexibility can reduce the likelihood of injuries

Emerging research has shown an increase in strength after a spinal adjustment

“I’ve been going to a chiropractor for as long as I can remember; it is as important as the practice of my swing.” - Tiger Woods

Drugs and surgery usually aren't recommended for the care of neck pain due to their risks and side effects

The Cleveland Clinic and American College of Physicians support chiropractic adjustments for the care of neck issues