When visiting a chiropractic clinic, there are multiple treatment options that may be available. Chiropractic treatment is so diverse and can treat many different kinds of conditions. Each provider can approach treating a condition in several different ways, with the outcome being beneficial. In this post, we will discuss what types of treatment are used at Apex Chiropractic.
At Apex Chiropractic, we offer multiple forms of treatment to return optimal function to the body. Our main goal is to relieve pain by making sure that each joint is functioning at the highest level it possibly can and that the nerves are not under pressure, so that the nervous system is working as well as it possibly can. Treatments used in our office include:
Chiropractic Adjustments
One thing that almost every chiropractor will have in common when it comes to treatment is the chiropractic adjustment. In an adjustment, a chiropractor will usually use their hands to move the bones of the spine into the proper alignment. The main goal of the adjustment is to help relieve pain by returning the spine to its correct position. When the spine is properly aligned, pressure is removed from the spinal nerves, which can help with conditions such as neck pain, lower back pain, sciatica and headaches. In addition to removing nerve pressure, the adjustment can also help relax muscles of the spine and improve range of motion to the neck and back. At Apex Chiropractic, we utilize a number of different adjustment techniques to help our patients. You can read more about different adjustment techniques in this post.Â
Spinal Decompression
If a patient is experiencing pain that is radiating from the spine to the extremities (arms, hands, legs, feet, etc.), then this may be the best therapy for them. Radiating pain, like sciatica, is commonly caused when there is pressure on a nerve that exits the spine. Discs, located between each bone of the spine, can cause pressure on the nerves if the disc begins to bulge or degenerate. Decompression is the best therapy for disc issues. Decompression stretches the spine vertically so that the disc spaces open up, allowing more blood flow into the area to promote healing. At Apex Chiropractic, we use the best decompression chairs that are available, and have seen patients get amazing results since we added them to our clinic a few years ago.
Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)
This therapy uses pads that stick to the area of pain and sends electrical signals to the surrounding tissues. The patient will feel a tingling sensation that causes the muscles to contract. By causing the muscles to constantly contract, they naturally tire out and relax. EMS also helps promote blood flow to the area, which can help speed up the healing process. At Apex, we will commonly combine ice with EMS to help calm inflammation. By relaxing muscles and promoting blood flow, EMS is a great way to help relieve pain, when used in combination with adjustments and decompression.
Intersegmental Traction (IST)
At Apex Chiropractic, each of our treatment rooms include an intersegmental traction table. These tables have rollers that go up and down the spine to massage and stretch the surrounding tissues. The rollers move up and down the spine, to help relax the muscles along the spine and improve motion to each of the spinal joints. Patients often tell us that the ten minutes that they spend on the traction table is the best part of their day. When combined with adjustments, intersegmental traction is a great way to improve spinal mobility. Â
Stretches/Exercises
When going to a chiropractor a patient should almost always expect to be given stretches or exercises to perform at home. It is important that patients do the recommended stretches/exercises that are given to them. We have found that patients that are consistent with their at home exercises get better faster and don’t have as many exacerbations of pain as those that do not do their exercises. These exercises are usually designed to improve posture, increase flexibility and strengthen the spinal musculature.
At Apex Chiropractic, we utilize a number of different treatments that help our patients feel better and reach their goals. We devise a specific care plan for each patient to help them get better faster and stay better for a long time. If you or someone you know can benefit from chiropractic care feel free to call our office to make an appointment or you can schedule online. If you have any questions please leave them below and we will be sure to answer them.