8. What Can Be Done for Muscular Pain?
There are many types of muscular pain. Sometimes muscular pain is the direct
result of injury to the muscle, as in the case of a muscle pull, tear,
or rupture. Other times, the muscular attachment to the bone (called
the "tendon") becomes strained in a specific injury, or as the result
of repetitive strain. Examples of repetitive strain to the muscle
or tendon include prolonged and/or poor sitting postures, repetitive
motions, and improper lifting. Most people don't realize that by the
time they actually feel muscular pain, the surrounding joints and
nerves have also become affected. This is why chiropractic care is
so effective in treating muscular pain: because it is comprehensive
care that addresses not only the muscles, but also the joints and
their related spinal nerves.
After a thorough examination, the doctor will determine the exact muscles, joints, and nerves involved, as well as any underlying causes and potential perpetuating factors. Depending on the specific findings of your exam, some combination of the following treatments may be recommended to decrease your pain and speed healing: spinal manipulation (adjustment), acupuncture, therapeutic exercises, electrical muscle stimulation, ultrasound, and ice or heat therapy. Massage therapy and myofascial release techniques may also be used in conjunction with these other therapies in order to get the best results. Also, the doctor may arrange for on-site evaluation of your workout routine and/or workplace to correct improper ergonomic conditions, which may be aggravating your condition. In the event that your condition requires medical attention, an appropriate referral would be made promptly.
PROGRESSIVE HEALTH & WELLNESS BLOG: THE IMPORTANCE OF ERGONOMICS & MICRO-BREAKS : Over time, the human body has adapted very well to the task of hunting for and gathering food. It performs and feels its best when it is in motion during the day, and resting at night. Sitting all day, on the other hand, puts an enormous strain on the sspine and its supporting tendons, ligaments, muscles, and fascia. If you are sitting at a desk and/or computer for more than 1 hour on a regular basis, then you are what we call an “industrial athlete”. For you, proper ergonomics and micro-breaks (discussed in a separate blog) are essential to prevent neck pain, back pain, and headaches, as well as to allow your body to get the best results from your chiropractic care. Proper ergonomics involves having your computer monitor positioned directly in front of you (not off to one side), at eye-level. Your feet should be in full contact with the floor, with your hips and knees bent at approximately a 90 degree angle. It is crucial that your elbows are in at your sides at all times (even when using your keyboard and mouse), no more than 2-3 inches away from your sides or reaching in front of your shoulders. Ideally, your elbows and wrists are resting on an arm rest/wrist rest, either attached to your chair, or your desk. In order for the above requirements to be met, a drop-down keyboard tray and fully adjustable ergonomic chair are usually necessary. Drs. Ezgur and DiDomenico are highly skilled in advising you how to modify your worksite to be ergonomically correct for you. They may also recommend that you request an ergonomic consultation to be performed for you by your employer. Many people don’t realize that most companies are required by law to comply with your request. Read More |