The following list includes common conditions that may be addressed by a chiropractor, but it is not exhaustive. Chiropractors are trained to assess and treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal and nervous system issues, and many other conditions can benefit from chiropractic care. Each individual’s health needs are unique, and a chiropractor may consider various factors beyond this list when developing a personalized treatment plan. If you have concerns not mentioned here, it’s important to consult with a chiropractor to explore the best approach for your specific condition.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed or irritated. This can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in the hand and fingers, often affecting daily activities and grip strength.
Chiropractors can help manage carpal tunnel syndrome by addressing the underlying causes, such as inflammation, joint dysfunctions or muscular imbalances. Treatments may include wrist adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and ergonomic guidance to reduce strain on the nerve. Chiropractic care focuses on relieving symptoms, restoring proper nerve function, and preventing the condition from worsening.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is not as much a disease as it is a name for the changes that can happen to the spine as we age. Our discs are made of a tough, rubbery exterior and a soft interior. They sit between the vertebrae to act as shock absorbers. As we age, the spinal discs begin to degenerate. This can cause herniated discs, bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis.
The degeneration of spinal discs may cause no symptoms at all, and symptoms depend on each patient and the severity of their case. Pain may occur at the site of the affected disc in the back or neck. As the pain is often caused by compressed nerves, this pain can also travel to other areas of the body like the buttocks, arms, and legs. Numbness and tingling in the arms and legs may also be experienced. Pain can range from mild to severe and debilitating.
As mentioned previously, our spines can degenerate as a natural part of aging. Tears in the tougher outer layer of the disc are common as we grow older. and when the discs begin to lose fluid, they become smaller and less flexible. In addition to aging, other factors that may come into play, including obesity, smoking, repeated physical work, and injury.
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive approach to managing DDD by improving spinal motion and stability, reducing stress on the affected discs, and enhancing overall function. Treatments may include gentle spinal adjustments, spinal traction, therapeutic exercises, and supportive therapies to alleviate discomfort and improve mobility. Chiropractors also focus on strengthening the surrounding muscles to better support the spine and slow further degeneration.
Disc Problems
Intervertebral discs are positioned between the vertebrae in the spine. The outside of a disc is made from cartilage, and in the center is a jelly like solution. These discs serve many purposes, including allowing movement of the spine, creating space between the vertebrae, and acting as shock absorbers. The gelatinous middle allows the disc to compress and expand based on impact and movement. Trauma to the spine can cause the discs to herniated, bulge, become displaced (slipped disc), or even rupture. Trauma or direct injury to the area is not the only cause, however. As we get older, the discs can begin to weaken and dehydrate. These conditions can put pressure on the nerves around the spine and cause pain.
If you suffer from one of these injuries you should see a chiropractor. Surgery is risky, expensive, and requires recovery time. In many cases, you can experience relief from these conditions through chiropractic. By properly aligning the spine, pressure can be relieved on nerves and on the discs themselves. This will reduce and hopefully eliminate your pain and discomfort and allow you to live a normal lifestyle.
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a condition that we still do not know much about. There is no specific known cause, and it could be brought on by many different factors. The main symptom of fibromyalgia is chronic pain throughout the body, mainly located in joints. The pain may be achy, sharp, radiating, burning, or shooting and it may be mild or severe. Fibromyalgia has also been known to bring on other conditions like trouble sleeping, headaches, depression, and anxiety.
While there is no known cure for fibromyalgia, chiropractic treatment can help to uncover what may be causing the pain and also provide relief for the pain. The cause of fibromyalgia could be physical, mental, or emotional, so a full examination will be performed. Adjustments and chiropractic massage can be used to relieve pain from the affected areas. The added effects of chiropractic treatment such as increased energy levels, better circulation, and a stronger immune system can also help to fight the effects of fibromyalgia. If you are experiencing symptoms of fibromyalgia give us a call to schedule a consultation so we can establish a plan to start you on your road to recovery.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It develops when the connective tissues surrounding the shoulder joint become inflamed and thickened, often leading to a progressive loss of mobility.
Chiropractic care can be an effective part of a treatment plan for frozen shoulder. Techniques such as gentle mobilization, soft tissue therapy, and therapeutic exercises are used to restore range of motion, improve quality of motion and reduce pain.
Headaches
Many people believe that headaches are caused by loud noise, being tired, or being stressed. While these are all factors that can lead to headaches, the direct cause is tightness in the neck and shoulders. The tightness can cause misalignments in the vertebrae of your neck, resulting in pain. 80% of all headaches originate from the neck. With a typical cervicogenic (neck origin) headache, a person usually feels pain starting at the base of the skull which radiates into the temples, eyeballs, and forehead. Massage of the neck and shoulder muscles can release tension, and a chiropractic adjustment can realign the vertebrae in your neck. Chiropractic can help eliminate the cause of your headaches rather than offering a temporary relief from the symptoms.
Hip pain
Hip pain can stem from various causes, including osteoarthritis, bursitis, muscle imbalances, or joint dysfunction. It often leads to discomfort during walking, sitting, or performing everyday activities. Left untreated, hip pain can disrupt mobility and place additional stress on surrounding joints like the knees or lower back.
Chiropractic care provides an integrative approach to managing hip pain by restoring joint function and addressing contributing factors such as gait irregularities or muscular tension. Treatments may include gentle adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and strengthening exercises tailored to your specific needs.
Whether your hip pain is acute or chronic, chiropractic care can help you regain comfort, stability, and improved range of motion.
Joint Dysfunction
Joint dysfunction occurs when joints become stiff and full movement is restricted. It can be caused by an injury, poor posture, overuse/underuse of a joint, muscle imbalance, as well as other factors. Like arthritis, joint dysfunction can cause pain in the joint and the surrounding muscles, and can also cause problems in other parts of the body due to overcompensation.
One common form of joint dysfunction is sacroiliac joint dysfunction, which occurs where the base of the spine meets the pelvis. It causes low back pain and prohibits movement. This condition is often misdiagnosed because the symptoms are similar to sciatica or a herniated disc.
Your chiropractor can properly diagnose this condition and provide relief. Using specific adjustments for the affected joint can return proper mobility and relieve pain. If you have joint pain, visit us for relief.
Muscle Strain and Ligament Sprain
Muscle strains and ligament sprains are common injuries that occur when muscles or ligaments are overstretched or torn, often due to sudden movements, overexertion, or improper biomechanics. Strains typically affect muscles or tendons, while sprains involve ligaments connecting bones at joints. Both injuries can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Chiropractic care provides a comprehensive approach to managing these injuries by addressing both the immediate symptoms and underlying causes. Treatments may include gentle joint adjustments, soft tissue therapy to reduce inflammation, and targeted rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and flexibility. Chiropractors also evaluate and correct biomechanical imbalances to promote healing and prevent re-injury. Whether you're recovering from a sports injury or an everyday mishap, chiropractic care can help you return to activity faster and stronger.
Osteoarthritis / Degenerative Joint Changes
Arthritis is a condition that is caused by the wearing down of the cartilage between joints. Some of the major joints that are affected are the knees, hips, back, neck, and hands/wrist. Arthritis can be painful and can cause the affected areas to not function properly. Arthritis in one area can cause arthritis or other problems in a different joint. For instance, if you have arthritis in your left knee, you may compensate for this by putting more pressure on your right side, leading to right hip problems.
Pain killers can cause temporary relief from pain and discomfort, but it is not a long term solution. Chiropractic care can minimize pain by releasing joint pressure and improving mobility. It can restore joint movement, helping to encourage proper mechanics to prevent further injury. Additionally, we will utilize exercises, manual therapy and nutritional advice to help manage your condition. We aim to restore and maintain proper movement and functionality to increase your overall well being.
Pinched Nerve
Can be caused by joint dysfunctions, bulging or herniated discs, degeneration (wear and tear), or other factors. When a nerve is squeezed or compressed it is called a "pinched nerve". This can be caused by spinal misalignments, bulging or herniated discs, or other factors. The increased pressure on the nerve causes inflammation, pain, and sometimes muscle spasms. The pressure on the nerve must be relieved in order to alleviate the pain.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. It often presents as sharp or stabbing pain near the heel, especially during the first steps of the day or after periods of rest.
This condition is typically caused by repetitive strain on the plantar fascia due to activities like running, prolonged standing, or wearing unsupportive footwear. Factors such as flat feet, high arches, or tight calf muscles can also contribute to its development.
Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach to managing plantar fasciitis. Treatments may include targeted shockwave therapy, soft tissue therapy, adjustments to improve foot and ankle motion, and customized stretching and strengthening exercises to relieve tension and enhance stability. Addressing biomechanical issues in the feet, knees, or hips can also help reduce stress on the plantar fascia and prevent recurrence.
If foot pain is limiting your activity, we’re here to provide effective solutions that get you back on your feet comfortably and confidently.
Sciatica
Sciatica is a condition that results when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated. Bulging discs, joint dysfunction, and muscle spasms can all cause increased pressure on the sciatic nerve. When this happens it causes pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower back and leg. To properly treat sciatica the cause of the condition needs to be diagnosed and properly treated. Your chiropractor can help you do this.
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to pain and inflammation in the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, it’s not limited to tennis players and can affect anyone engaging in repetitive arm, elbow, or wrist movements.
Chiropractic care for tennis elbow focuses on reducing pain and improving function through techniques such as soft tissue therapy, joint mobilization, and targeted exercises. Chiropractors may also address underlying biomechanical issues in the wrist, shoulder, or posture to prevent further strain. Treatment is designed to support healing and restore strength and flexibility in the affected area.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common injury for people involved in car collisions. When a car is struck from behind or collides with another object, it causes the neck to snap back and forth violently. This causes the muscles and ligaments to overextend, leading to strains and/or tears. This is referred to as soft tissue damage, and can cause stiffness and soreness. Whiplash can also cause structural damage such as joint restrictions vertebrae, herniated, bulging or ruptured discs, or nerve damage due to the overextension from the violent movement.
Supportive Care
Supportive chiropractic care is designed to help patients manage ongoing conditions that have previously improved but may become re-exacerbated over time. Life’s demands, stress, or physical activity can sometimes trigger the return of discomfort or mobility issues. Supportive care ensures that these flare-ups are addressed promptly to prevent further progression and maintain overall function.
Through targeted chiropractic adjustments and therapies, we aim to provide relief, restore proper movement, and support your body’s ability to heal. This approach helps patients maintain the progress they’ve made while offering ongoing support for their conditions. We’re here to help you stay on track, so you can continue enjoying a life of improved health and activity without letting setbacks hold you back.
(1)Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15965403?dopt=A...