Finding ways to manage chronic pain is a priority. Chiropractic testing and treatment could be an option that is effective and affordable. Various chiropractic care can help manage chronic pain caused by a condition like herniated disc/s. Chiropractic testing involves diagnosing the root cause/origin of the pain. Getting a proper diagnosis usually involves:

• X-rays
• CT scan
• MRI
• DNA

Chiropractic testing

The correct diagnosis is essential to creating an optimal treatment plan. It is a complicated disorder that can be difficult to treat because it can present with no apparent cause. But, researchers are working to find answers to many of the questions surrounding chronic pain. When treating spine-related pain other tests can include:

• Discography
• Bone scans
• Nerve studies
• Electromyography
• Nerve conduction study
• Myelography

A pain specialist might consult with and refer the individual to a neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon to determine if the pain requires surgery. This is because untreated and not fully treated chronic pain is one of the leading causes of limited mobility and flexibility. Other associated issues are:

• Sleep disorders
• Problems with focus
• Depression

There are some experts that believe tests like MRIs are overused. There is a fear that too many tests could expose individuals to unnecessary radiation and increase medical expenses. However, determining the cause/s holds the key to a successful treatment plan. Therefore, choosing the right diagnostic strategy will help in:

• Creating the most effective and optimal treatment plan

• Quality of life improvement

• Prevent potential complications

• Reduce the cost of diagnosis

• Reduce the cost of treatment

Chiropractic Management

Chronic pain does not respond to typical pain management techniques. Chiropractic management deals with chronic pain inflammation and muscle tension. Chiropractors use a variety of non-surgical techniques like:

Soft Tissue

• Manual release therapy stretches the muscle/s while pressure is applied
• Trigger point therapy applies pressure on the area of the tensest muscle/s
• Instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy uses a tool/s to apply gentle pressure.

Manual Therapy

When the joints are not moving correctly, a chiropractor may utilize this technique to regain a full range of joint motion. This is accomplished through joint mobilization which is slow, gentle stretches of the affected joint and manipulation, which are quick but gentle movement/thrusts that stretch the joint.

Exercise Therapy combined with Self-care

A chiropractor will provide simple therapeutic exercises and stretches that can be done at home to help with the pain and to help with prevention. Also provided:

• Safe lifting techniques
• Posture exercises/tips
• Dietary strategies to manage pain and prevent re-injury

Once diagnosed with a pain condition, a chiropractor will develop a unique customized treatment plan. Don’t be afraid to talk with your chiropractor. The more they know the better the treatment plan. Once the pain is fully addressed, patients will be able to gradually increase daily activities.

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