by Dr. Chad Koterba | Oct 3, 2023 | Migraines
Let’s face it, migraines are never fun and often come at the worst time. They affect around 15% of us, and while there are medications to help, not everyone is thrilled about popping pills with those pesky side effects. Plus, the idea of relying on meds for the long haul doesn’t sit well with some folks.
A systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving the use of manual therapies to treat migraines found that spinal manipulative therapy (that’s SMT for short) can be just as effective as the popular migraine medications, propranolol and topiramate. Who would’ve thought?
Now, let’s dive into some real-life success stories to really drive the point home:
Case #1: Picture this—a 24-year-old pregnant woman who’s been battling migraines. She tried everything from massages to meds, but nothing quite did the trick. Then, she turned to chiropractic care as her beacon of hope. Lo and behold, after some spinal magic and other manual therapies, she waved goodbye to her meds and said hello to relief.
Case #2: Meet a grandmother with a 60-year history of migraine woes. Nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and noise—you name it. Before chiropractic care, she had migraines one to two times a week. But after getting some chiropractic care, her headaches vanished! No more meds, just pure migraine-free bliss. And seven years later, she’s still living the migraine-free dream.
Case #3: Imagine a 49-year-old lady who got caught up in a car accident and ended up with debilitating migraines. A twelve-week course of chiropractic care utilizing SMT along with both active and other passive therapies, her migraine-related struggles took a backseat. The result? Huge improvements in her pain and disability.
Case #4: Here’s a story that’s nothing short of a miracle. A 17-year-old boy fell on his head while pole vaulting and began to experience bipolar disorder symptoms, seizures, sleeping problems, and migraine headaches. Doctors couldn’t crack the code, and then, he turned to chiropractic care. After four months of chiropractic care, his migraine frequency dropped from three times a week to twice a month. He reported a full recovery after seven months of care.
Chiropractic care can be helpful in treating migraines. Chiropractic care isn’t just about those satisfying “back cracks”; it might be your ticket to a migraine-free life. If you’re tired of relying on medications or looking for a drug-free solution, maybe it’s time to give chiropractic care a whirl. Who knows, you could be sharing your success story soon!
by Dr. Chad Koterba | Sep 19, 2023 | Hip Pain, Recovery
Hip pain isn’t just a game-spoiler on the sports field. It can crash your daily activities too! Whether you’re chasing a victory or chasing after your dog, hip pain is no fun. Let’s explore some of the most common hip injuries that can turn your moves into groans.
Muscles Strains
This is probably the most common injury to the hip and groin. The weight bearing “job” the hips have when running, cutting, jumping, climbing, twisting, etc. Strains occur more often with “eccentric” muscle contractions (when the muscle lengthens) vs. when the muscle shortens. Examples of eccentric muscle contractions include the lowering of a weight during a biceps curl, running DOWN a hill or steps, or lowering a bar to the chest in a bench press.
Bursitis
A bursa serves as a fluid-filled pouch positioned at the junction where muscles connect to bones. Its purpose is to facilitate the smooth movement of muscles and tendons. And reducing friction as they glide against one another during physical actions. Bursae are present in multiple joints throughout the body, with notable concentrations in the hip, shoulder, elbow, and knee joints. Damage to a bursa can occur due to excessive use, sudden injury, or complications arising after surgical procedures.
Contusions
A direct blow to the hip and/or pelvis can bruise the area, which is called a “contusion.” This is a common cause of bursitis and when located on the side of the hip, it is often called a “hip pointer.”
Stress Fracture
These are usually seen in long distance runners and in women more often than men. Individuals with a nutritional deficiency (like those with an eating disorder) and older athletes—especially those with poor bone density—also have an elevated risk for stress fracture.
Labral Tear
The labrum constitutes a sturdy, fibrous circle that encircles the hip socket, contributing depth and stability to the hip joint. In the event of a labral tear, individuals might encounter sensations of discomfort, reduced flexibility, and limitations in their range of motion.
Femoroacetabular Impingement
When bone spurs form on the rim of the hip joint socket (acetabulum), they can cause pinching as the hip is moved to its end-ranges of motion. This can lead to osteoarthritis and is often due to a torn labrum and/or capsule.
Common hip injuries mentioned above are never fun, but they can be treated. If dealing with any of the above, or simply have hip pain, and are not sure what to do next, make sure to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
by Dr. Chad Koterba | Sep 5, 2023 | Back Pain, Exercise
It’s quite common for people dealing with low back pain to find themselves cutting back on their activities in an attempt to escape the discomfort. Unfortunately, this often leads to a gradual weakening of the core muscles—the ones that provide support to your midsection—because they aren’t being used regularly. This weakened core can actually increase the risk of further injuries.
So, the key to improving your low back pain situation effectively is to start by practicing core-strengthening exercises and maintaining gradually and as tolerable!
Think about doing one to three sets of ten repetitions each for simplicity, and always remember to release each exercise slowly—avoid abruptly returning from the end position of the exercise.
Abdominal Muscles
When we talk about the abdominal muscles, they can be broken down into four groups: the rectus abdominis (these connect your rib cage to your pelvic area, with fibers running straight up and down), the internal obliques (their fibers run down and inward, overlapping on the sides), the external obliques (fibers run down and out), and lastly, the transverse abdominis (with fibers running horizontally, attaching to the lower back’s fascia).
If we consider three levels of exercise difficulty, an easier approach (Level 1) to a sit-up could involve a “crunch” or simply lifting your head and shoulders off the floor. Stepping up the challenge (Level 2), you could bend your knees and hips at 90-degree angles while doing a sit-up. For a more demanding exercise (Level 3), try a double straight leg raise during the sit-up. The rectus abdominis benefits from straight up-and-down movement, while the obliques are worked through trunk twists. You can engage your core muscles, or perform an “abdominal brace,” in any position or activity during the day—it’s like bracing yourself for a stomach punch.
Lower Back
To bolster the muscles of your lower back extensors, there are several effective core-strengthening exercises to consider, including the “bird-dog” (starting on all fours) by extending the opposite arm and leg separately (Level 1), progressing to simultaneous movement and alternating sides (Level 2). At Level 3, you could extend hold times, trace a square with your hand and foot, or increase repetitions.
Another exercise to strengthen your lower back is the “Superman.” Lie on your stomach and start by lifting one arm and then the opposite leg separately (Level 1); then lift opposite limbs at the same time (Level 2); and finally, raise both arms and legs simultaneously (Level 3). Placing a cushion under your pelvis/abdomen can add comfort.
Side Muscles
To target the side muscles of the core, or lateral trunk stabilizers, try a side bridge or plank (lying on your side, propped up on your elbow and feet, hips lifted off the floor). Level 1 might involve a six-second hold from your knees, Level 2 a six-second hold from your feet, and Level 3 could be a twelve-second hold between your elbow/forearm and feet. You can modify this with slow repetitions of lowering your pelvis to the floor and back up. Don’t be afraid to mix things up!
There’s a multitude of other Core-Strengthening Exercises out there, but these should give you a good starting point!
Remember, always stay within your “reasonable pain boundaries” that you set, release each exercise slowly, and most importantly, enjoy the process!
Better yet, start these before you even start to have low back pain to help prevent it from happening.
by Dr. Chad Koterba | Aug 22, 2023 | Back Pain, Chiropractic
Oh, the woes of persistent pain! If you’re nodding your head in agreement, you’re not alone. Millions around the world grapple with this nagging condition that just won’t quit. Today, we will uncover the triggers behind chronic lower back pain.
Together, we’ll delve into the intricate design of the lower back and unravel the mysteries that shroud this discomfort. So, grab a seat (a comfy one!) and let’s dive in.
The Marvels of Your Back
The lower back—a remarkable structure designed to bear the weight of the world and protect your spinal cord. Picture five lumbar vertebrae, intervertebral discs as shock-absorbing heroes, and facet joints that bring flexibility to the party. And let’s not forget the sacrum, the lumbar spine’s loyal companion, joined at the hip—literally—at the sacroiliac joint (SIJ). It’s an intricate team working hard for your support and mobility.
The Culprits
Back pain can have various triggers. From herniated discs and spinal stenosis to osteoarthritis and SIJ dysfunction, the causes can range widely. Pinched nerves in the lumbar region might induce pain that radiates to the legs or cause numbness or tingling. Poor posture, spinal misalignment, and muscle strains can also instigate lower back pain.
How to Diagnose
To pinpoint the exact reason for your pain a chiropractor will conduct a comprehensive examination. Based on your symptoms and signs, they will perform tests assessing your back’s nerve and joint functionality. For instance, if a patient describes leg pain, the chiropractor will examine reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength to see if a herniated disc is pressing a nerve. Any identified nerve damage will be addressed to remove the pressure and restore leg sensation and strength.
Chiropractic Interventions
Chiropractic care is a proven, non-invasive method. Depending on the identified cause, a chiropractic doctor can use spinal adjustments, manual therapies, and rehabilitative exercises to realign the spine, restore function, and reduce pain. Chiropractic interventions can also enhance your posture and prevent future episodes.
Don’t allow back pain to dominate your life. Contact us today or schedule an appointment to uncover the root cause of your pain and discover effective strategies for lasting relief.
by Dr. Chad Koterba | Aug 8, 2023 | Recovery
Ah, the sinuses—those air-filled spaces in our skulls that play a vital role in breathing and even vocal quality. But when it comes to headaches in that area, things can get confusing. Many assume it’s a classic sinus headache but hold your tissues! The truth is, that general term has sparked debates because the headache may have nothing to do with sinus issues. Join us on this amusing adventure as we explore three leading causes that often masquerade as sinus headaches.
Rhinitis – The Sneaky Inflammation
Rhinitis is an inflammation of the sinus lining that can give you a run for your tissues. Symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy sensations may convince you it’s a sinus headache. But there’s more! Rhinitis brings along friends like nosebleeds, snoring, and even fatigue. Whether it’s the result of a viral infection or pesky allergens, managing rhinitis involves avoiding triggers, maintaining a healthy diet, and possibly seeking medical treatment.
Sinusitis – The Fluid Fiasco
Sinusitis, another imposter in the sinus headache world, occurs when fluid decides to throw a wild party in your sinuses, inviting bacteria along for the ride. It’s a stuffy, runny nose extravaganza with added guests like facial pain, post-nasal drip, and bad breath. But fear not! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have some secret remedies up their sleeve, including warm compresses and trusty nasal sprays. However, if the symptoms go wild or last longer than ten days, it’s time to call in the reinforcements—medical intervention and possibly antibiotics.
The Headache Conspiracy
Get ready for a plot twist! A fascinating study revealed that what we often label as sinus headaches might actually be an entirely different headache villain. In their sample, only a measly 13% fit the criteria for rhinitis or sinusitis headaches. The majority? Migraines and tension-type headaches took the stage, with a cameo appearance from some uncategorized troublemakers. Neck disorders were found to be potential accomplices in various types of headaches. Who knew the neck had such secrets?
The Chiropractic Solution
Sinus headaches may be the ultimate con artists, fooling us with their disguises. That’s why a thorough evaluation is essential for those who believe their headaches are sinus-related. Chiropractors, the heroes of musculoskeletal assessments, come to the rescue! We specialize in identifying and treating neck disorders, potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of various headaches.
Want to learn more? Schedule your complimentary call today and let’s explore what treatments are right for you.
