Back Pain
Since back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, it is vital to know how to prevent the cause of back pain. By maintaining a healthy diet and weight, remaining active and avoiding prolonged inactivity or bed rest are all important ways to avoid back pain. Before doing exercises or any physical activity, it is recommended to warm up and/or stretch.
Neck Pain
The neck, also called the cervical spine, begins at the base of the skull and contains seven small vertebrae. The cervical spine supports the full weight of your head which is on average about 12 pounds. While the cervical spine can move your head in nearly every direction, this flexibility makes the neck very susceptible to pain and injury.
Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is a very common condition and affects almost half of the U.S. Most patients feel some sort of pain, limited range of motion, an inability to engage in activities of daily living (ADL) or something more serious as a permanent disability.
Headaches/ Migraines
There are a few health conditions that can be more frustrating or debilitating than headaches. These headaches can come in many different forms. This includes tension headaches, cluster headaches, and migraine headaches. Those who suffer from migraine headaches are familiar with the symptoms that they can cause. They may feel like they are unable to do anything productive. These headaches can cause nausea, vomiting, and can last for several hours. Fortunately, with the help of a trained chiropractor, such as those from Cove Chiropractic, the citizens of Huntsville will have some relief.
Getting to the Root Cause of Migraine Headaches
Anyone who suffers from migraine headaches has likely heard the same treatment advice over and over again. Most people are recommended to simply lay down, relax, or even take a pill to help with their headaches. When someone seeks migraine treatment from a trained chiropractor, there is a different approach. We will take the time to identify the root cause of your migraine headaches. Instead of just treating the symptoms, we will find a way to not only treat an acute headache but also prevent this from ever returning.
This means that we will take the time to get to know you. We will talk about your diet and nutrition because this can have an impact on the frequency and severity of your migraine headaches. We will also talk about posture, muscle pain, and tightness because the skin can place stress on the skull, leading to a migraine headache. We will figure out where these headaches are coming from so we can prevent them from ever coming back.
A possible Procedure for Headache & Migraine Treatment: Spinal Manipulation
In some situations, we may even recommend imaging of the neck, back, and head to make sure that everything is in proper alignment. Sometimes, we can treat migraine headaches by performing spinal manipulation procedures. In this treatment, a trained chiropractor will use well-controlled thrusts to move the vertebrae back into the proper location. This can alleviate some of the stress and tension on the skull, helping to prevent migraine headaches and returning. We will take the time to explain this procedure thoroughly and address any questions or concerns that you may have.
Call Our Chiropractor Today!
Migraine headaches can be debilitating and we believe that everyone should have their headaches fully understood. At Cove Chiropractic, we take the time to listen to the people of Huntsville, understanding where their headaches are coming from. Then, we find a way to address these headaches fully and completely. Anyone who is suffering from migraine headaches should call us today to make an appointment. We are here to help you!
Knee Pain
Knee pain is increasingly becoming a more common problem in society. It is a complaint we see frequently. The most common complaint associated with knee pain is considered the normal “wear and tear.” Another ailment that affects the knee is osteoarthritis. The symptoms and progression of osteoarthritis and knee pain can be reduced through our individualized approach to chiropractic care.
Sciatica
Sciatic nerve pain can be one of the most debilitating disorders we see here at Cove Chiropractic. This pain starts in the lower back and can radiate across the back and buttocks and down both legs, resulting in severe pain. Now patients who are feeling the effects of this don't have to travel far for treatment with the opening of our Huntsville office.
What is Sciatica?
In the majority of cases (90 percent) sciatic nerve pain is caused by a herniated disc that pinches the sciatic nerve. Many people end up seeing a doctor for the leg pain that is associated with this condition. The pain normally follows a path through one side of the buttocks and down one leg into the foot. Raising your leg increases the pain. In addition to pain, there may be tingling or numbness in the foot on the affected side. Sciatica is influenced by:
- Age
- Weight - more weight puts more stress on the spine
- Occupation - regular heavy lifting, bending, and twisting
- Smoking
- Prolonged sitting
- Diabetes - which increases nerve damage
The good news is that once you get treatment for sciatica, the prognosis is good
How Do You Treat Sciatic Nerve Pain?
The treatment used to correct sciatic nerve pain is varied, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the cause. After a thorough evaluation, you can expect one or more of the following courses of treatment:
1. Chiropractic manipulation, which is used to help realign the spine.
2. Massage therapy is often used to help relieve pain.
3. Physical therapy to help strengthen the spine and relieve pressure on the nerve.
4. Medication that is used for pain relief. These can take the form of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), oral steroids, anticonvulsant drugs such as gabapentin, anti-depressants, or opioid pain reliever, which is used only if none of the others work.
5. Injections to help relieve pain and inflammation.
6. Surgery is the final course of action and is not usually recommended unless all other treatment methods have failed.
On average, patients can expect relief of symptoms in as little as four to six weeks, although it may take longer if the problem has been going on for some time.
Find Sciatica Relief in Huntsville
Cove Chiropractic has opened an office that serves sciatica patients in Huntsville and the surrounding area. Don't let sciatic nerve pain keep you from doing all the things you love. Contact our office today for all your chiropractic needs. Our knowledgeable staff offers more than simple treatment. We have a nutritionist, offer exercise to help strengthen your back, and have massage therapy available. Don't stay in pain another day.
Vertigo
Vertigo is the feeling that you are moving when you’re not. This sensation can be triggered by movements such as turning your head too quickly or looking down from a great distance, but it is ultimately caused by problems in the inner ear, brain, or brainstem. There are two different forms of vertigo with each stemming from various medical issues: peripheral vertigo and central vertigo.
Peripheral vertigo results in a problem with your inner ear and thus your balance, while central vertigo occurs when your brain or brainstem are suffering from a disease originating from your central nervous system (CNS). Peripheral vertigo is typically more severe, and central vertigo is more gradual in its onset. Regardless of the type of dizziness you are experiencing, more than likely, your quality of life is suffering because of it.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is when natural changes in the discs of your spine cause pain. The discs between vertebrae act as shock absorbers for your spine, and as you age, they begin to lose flexibility. While this is a normal part of aging, it should not cause pain. If you experience pain due to this, it is classified as degenerative disc disease.
Each disc is composed of a sturdy outer wall and a soft, gel-like inner core. When we are born, these discs are primarily composed of water, but as age advances, the discs lose some of this water content and begin to get thinner. As you might imagine, this means each disc doesn’t absorb the shocks of everyday life as well.
Herniated Disc
If you feel numbness or pain in your extremities or lower back, you may have a herniated disc. At Cove Chiropractic in Huntsville, our chiropractor can alleviate disc pain and help your body begin to heal itself. Learn more about what a herniated disc is and how we can help.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of your spinal disc pushes through its exterior casing. Some herniated discs have no symptoms. Others rub against nearby nerves, causing numbness, pain, and weakness in the extremities.
Herniated Disc Symptoms
Herniated discs typically impact the lower back and also occur in the neck. Herniated disc symptoms vary depending on where the impacted disc is located and whether or not it's pressing on a nerve. They usually affect just one side of your body and result in:
- Arm or leg pain. For herniated discs in the lower back, pain usually occurs in the thigh, calf, and buttocks. Part of the foot could also be impacted. A herniated disc is in your neck causes pain in the shoulder and arm. Sharp, burning pain may flare when you cough, sneeze, or shift positions.
- Numbness or tingling. A herniated disc often causes radiating numbness in the body parts served by the affected nerves.
- Weakness. Muscles tend to weaken, which can cause you to stumble or affect your ability to grasp or lift anything.
How Can Chiropractic Help?
Chiropractic care is a preferred treatment for herniated discs. It doesn't involve drugs, surgery, or injections. Your chiropractor can verify the diagnosis and work with you to find the best treatment. Besides taking your medical history, the doctor may order an MRI or x-ray to get a better feel for what's going on. Your chiropractor will examine your whole spine to see if there are any other issues, as well.
Focused chiropractic adjustments using low force can alleviate herniated disc symptoms. The chiropractor manipulates your spine around the herniated disc. Sometimes, recommending cervical or lumbar traction machines to help open your joints and release some of the pressure on the disc.
Chiropractor in Huntsville
Cove Chiropractic in Huntsville offers treatment for herniated discs and their related symptoms. We provide safe and effective care to alleviate back and disc pain. Contact us today to begin the journey to improved mobility and pain-free living.
TMJ
TMJ is an abbreviation for the temporomandibular joint which connects the mandibular, or your lower jaw, to the temporal bones of the skull. The TMJ is one of the more unique joints within your body as it allows you to move your jaw forward, backward, and side to side so that you can chew, talk, sing, yawn, and more. This joint can be found just in front of your ears on both sides of your head.
What are the causes of TMD?
There can be a variety of causes for TMD and can arise from problems with the jaw, the muscles near the jaw, or the joint itself. If you notice some of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor who may refer you to a specialist to determine the cause of the oral problem. Some common causes for TMD include:
- Injury to the joint, jaw, or muscles along your neck and face
- Whiplash
- Grinding or clenching your teeth which puts pressure on the joint
- Movement or dislocation of the soft cushion, or disc, between the joint parts
- Arthritis of the joint
- Stress, which can cause you to tighten facial or jaw muscles
- Tooth/jaw misalignment
Signs & Symptoms
Patients with TMD often experience severe pain and discomfort that can be temporary or chronic. Symptoms depend on the severity and cause of your condition and can show on one side or both. There are many signs and symptoms of TMD that can overlap with other conditions, which makes a diagnosis by your doctor all the more important.
Some of the most common symptoms of TMD include:
- Pain in the face, jaw, or ear area
- Headaches
- Earaches
- Pain or pressure around the ears, face, and behind the eyes
- A clicking or popping sound when opening or closing the mouth
- Dislocation of jaw
- Locked, stiff, or stuck jaw
- Tenderness of jaw muscles
- Limited jaw movement
- Swelling of the face
- Dental occlusion (the way the upper or lower jaw/teeth fit together)
Treatment
Chiropractic treatment is a holistic treatment option for TMD, and we are proud to offer these services at our practice. Every case is unique, and a careful diagnosis and treatment plan will help to address your needs.
If you have any questions about TMD or your temporomandibular joint, please contact our office today so that we can help.
Pediatrics
Here at Cove Chiropractic, we specialize in chiropractic care for children. We are proud to serve children in Huntsville, AL and the surrounding communities.
Chiropractic care is not just for adults. In fact, there are more and more parents seeing the many benefits of their children seeing a chiropractor every single day. Some of the benefits are improved sleep, improved behavior and attitude, and improved immune system function.
Children encounter many physical stresses in their life that you may not realize. These stresses can cause your child’s spine to have issues in growth and development.
The first thing that we will do when you see us is take a thorough history of your child’s health. You are able to explain to us any complaints that you or your child may have. We will then do a complete physical examination of your child’s spine. We want to ensure that all areas are working and functioning correctly.
Our entire staff enjoys seeing children in our practice and will always create a positive experience for them. We know that starting chiropractic care while young can create wonderful benefits and ensure that your child grows up as healthy as possible. Many issues you experience when you are older were likely caused when you were younger. We are here to correct any issues that may be occurring. We are always here to answer any of your questions or concerns.
Pre/Postnatal
Here at Cove Chiropractic, we specialize in both prenatal and postnatal care. We are proud to serve patients in Huntsville, AL and the surrounding communities.
Many people assume that pregnant women should not see a chiropractor. The truth is actually the opposite. Chiropractors work with the body’s natural ability to adapt and function the way that it was designed to, which is vital for the normal physiological function of both the mother and the baby during pregnancy and birth.
During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes, including developmental and hormonal changes. Many of your ligaments may shift, and any women experience lower back pain as a result. Our job is to assist you with this and make your pregnancy experience enjoyable and pain free.
Chiropractic care can also reduce restrictions and interferences which can then increase the chance of getting pregnant. If you are trying to get pregnant, chiropractic care is a wonderful solution.
Our entire staff will always go above and beyond each and every time that we see you. We create a stress-free environment so you can enjoy coming in. We are always available to answer any of your questions. We also always create a safe environment for you and your baby.