Nerve problems can be a very painful experience. They also limit strength and mobility, cause numbness and tingling, and disrupt the brain’s communication with organs. That's where a chiropractor can help. Chiropractors are skilled doctors trained in the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, which include issues in the muscles, joints, and of course, nerves. In this newsletter, we'll discuss the many treatment options chiropractic care offers to someone with nerve issues.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Chiropractic adjustments are a way of realigning the joints to their proper anatomical position. This releases pressure on pinched nerves. There are many types of chiropractic adjustments for the spine and extremities. Some of these methods involve the assistance of instruments or technology, such as traction, which also releases pressure on spinal discs.
Physical Therapy
Common contributors to nerve dysfunction are lack of muscle support and improper joint positioning. Both of these are issues that adherence to a physical therapy program can correct. If your chiropractor recommends this treatment for your case, they'll design an exercise plan customized to your needs. You'll have regular progress check-ins, and likely some exercises to do at home. As with anything, consistency is key to cultivating stellar results!
Cryotherapy
Inflammation is another common contributor to pinched nerves. Cryotherapy is a temperature therapy used to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. It involves the use of cold temperatures safely applied to the skin, limiting blood flow. Other therapies to increase blood flow may be applied later in the recovery process once excessive inflammation is less of a concern. In addition to its uses in nerve conditions, cryotherapy can also be beneficial for injury rehabilitation, migraines, and eczema.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is an excellent way to relieve muscle tension. There are a variety of massage therapy techniques, each with its own treatment objective. Massage also helps relieve muscle spasms, which can worsen nerve pain, and improve circulation in the affected tissues.
Electric Muscle Stimulation
Electric muscle stimulation (EMS) is a treatment in which low-voltage electric current is applied to the skin. This triggers focused muscle spasms, which relieve tension and promote blood flow. EMS is also beneficial for muscular weakness. Since the nerves are simply pathways for electricity to send signals to your muscles, proper use of EMS may retrain them and restore their function. It's commonly used for people with spinal cord issues and other serious nerve conditions.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release is a type of massage therapy that focuses on the connective tissues that bundle muscle fibers, known as myofascia. Tension in these tissues can cause painful limitations in mobility. Releasing myofascia relieves tightness in the muscles and promotes relaxation, thereby taking pressure off the nerves. It is done by applying pressure to specific trigger points.
To learn more about what chiropractic treatment can do for your struggles with nerve pain, reach out to your trusted chiropractic provider. They'll be happy to answer questions, set you up with a treatment plan, and help you get to the root cause of your nerve pain. Sometimes, a combination of these treatment options is best to resolve your health condition. In the meantime, we encourage you to keep maintaining a healthy lifestyle. We wish you the best of luck on your health and wellness journey.