Spine Related Chiropractic Care
There are many conditions that can affect the spine. Some of the most common being back pain, headaches, neck pain, sciatica and scoliosis. Below, goes into more detail and how at Ozark Family Chiropractic, our highly trained doctor treats the issue and providing relief and restoring comfort to our patients.
BACK PAIN
Are you dealing with back pain in Centerton? Whether it’s in your upper, middle, or lower back, it’s highly likely that you’ll experience some form of back discomfort at some point in your life. Studies suggest that around 32 million Americans are currently living with back pain, and nearly 80% of people will encounter it at some stage in their lifetime. With numbers like these, it’s no surprise that back pain has become the leading cause of disability in the United States. These statistics highlight the importance of understanding what triggers lower back pain, how to prevent it, and the most effective treatment options when it arises. Our chiropractic team in Centerton is here to provide insights and help you find the answers to these questions and more.
What causes back pain? The list of injuries, misalignments, and conditions that can lead to back pain is extensive. The back is a complex structure designed to support movement while absorbing stress, and any part of it—including tendons, ligaments, discs, muscles, and bones—can become strained, irritated, or damaged, resulting in discomfort. In some cases, back pain arises from significant trauma, such as a car accident, while in other cases, repetitive minor stresses cause gradual damage over time. This means you might not always recall a specific incident that triggered your pain. Moreover, physical injury is not always the root cause of back pain. At Ozark Family Chiropractic in Centerton, our skilled doctors bring years of training and experience to accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the most effective course of treatment. Without a precise diagnosis and the right care, even mild issues can progress into chronic, long-term problems. While back pain can stem from a variety of causes, certain factors are more commonly seen and treated than others. Below are some of the most frequent causes of lower back pain.
Disc Bulges and Herniations
One of the leading and most painful causes of back pain in Centerton is a disc bulge or herniation. However, it’s important to note that not all disc bulges or herniations result in pain. MRI studies have revealed that up to 37% of the U.S. population has a disc bulge or herniation, yet the majority experience no symptoms or discomfort. Unfortunately, for those who do feel pain, it is often described as severe and debilitating. The type and intensity of the pain caused by a disc herniation depend on the location and nature of the herniation. If the damaged disc irritates a nearby nerve, it can cause shooting pain and weakness that radiates into the legs. This type of pain is commonly described as sharp, stabbing, or lightning-like in nature.To better understand how a disc herniation occurs, think of a disc as being similar to a jelly doughnut. Over time, wear and tear can weaken the outer layer of the disc (the doughnut), allowing the jelly-like substance inside to push out. This process can irritate surrounding structures and nerves, leading to pain and other symptoms. Once a herniation has occurred, it can be challenging to reverse the damage. Fortunately, chiropractic care has been shown to slow the progression of herniations and alleviate the associated pain, providing patients with relief and improved quality of life.
Subluxations
Subluxations are one of the most frequently overlooked causes of back pain. The term "subluxation" refers to a vertebra in the spine that is misaligned. When this misalignment occurs, it can disrupt normal movement and trigger a chain reaction of issues, including pain. Subluxations can develop anywhere along the spine and may be caused by a wide range of factors. Common causes include physical trauma, stress, and exposure to toxins. Much like how stress can lead to ulcers in the stomach, it can also create physiological changes in the body that cause vertebrae to shift out of position. The time it takes to correct subluxations depends on the individual, as each case is unique. However, at Ozark Family Chiropractic, our chiropractors our among the few specialists specifically trained to identify and correct subluxations effectively.
Sprains and Strains
Strains and sprains can happen to anyone, but they are especially common in people who push their bodies in unfamiliar ways or take on tasks they are not accustomed to. For instance, someone attempting to run a marathon for the first time in the summer is likely to overexert their muscles and ligaments, leading to injury. Ligament sprains occur when a ligament is stretched beyond its normal range, causing tears, while muscle strains often result from lifting objects that are too heavy or performing twisting motions. Injuries like these in the back can be extremely painful and are often accompanied by swelling and bruising in the affected area. Because strains and sprains are closely connected to the spine, they typically respond very well to chiropractic care. At Ozark Family Chiropractic, we are fully equipped to provide comprehensive treatment and support for these types of injuries.
Stress and Back Pain
People who experience chronic stress have a significantly different physiological response compared to those who do not. When the body is exposed to high levels of stress, it releases stress hormones to help adapt to the situation. These adaptations can include an increased heart rate, higher blood pressure, changes to the immune system, reduced bone density, and loss of muscle mass. However, when stress is prolonged, it can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, digestive problems, depression, obesity, and even back pain. The tension created by these stress hormones often causes muscle tissue to contract, forming "trigger points." These trigger points can be highly painful, but the good news is that they can be treated effectively. At Ozark Family Chiropractic, we specialize in treating these issues with a high success rate, providing relief and restoring comfort to our patients.
HEADACHES & MIGRAINES
Migraines and headaches are serious conditions that affect many people in Centerton. If you’re unsure whether you’ve experienced a migraine, it’s likely you haven’t, as the pain can be intensely debilitating. For many, migraines can make it nearly impossible to function. While traditional medical treatments often rely on medication, this approach may not be sufficient for everyone. Identifying the root cause of the issue is crucial, and our Centerton chiropractic office is here to help. Migraines and headaches can be preceded by various symptoms. Some individuals may experience hallucinations, depression, or irritability. Common symptoms during a migraine include sensitivity to light and loud noises, as well as nausea and vomiting. Understanding these signs can help in managing and addressing the condition effectively.
Chiropractic care has repeatedly been shown to be effective in helping individuals manage migraines. By aligning the spine and relieving pressure on the nervous system, chiropractic adjustments can help prevent migraines from occurring. While most people recognize the importance of regular dental visits, many overlook the need for chiropractic care. Dentists focus on maintaining oral health, which is vital, but the spine and nervous system play a central role in controlling all bodily functions.
For over a century, chiropractic care has provided relief from headaches and migraines. Chiropractors in Centerton understand the critical role of the nervous system in overall health. When the spine shifts out of alignment, it can put pressure on surrounding nerves, leading to various issues, including headaches.
The type of treatment for headaches depends on their underlying cause. At our clinic, our chiropractors focus on identifying and addressing the root cause of your headaches to help you find lasting relief. Every year, millions of dollars are spent on aspirin and other medications to manage headaches. While these may provide temporary relief, they often don’t address the source of the problem. Chiropractic care targets the root cause, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for headache medications. Don’t let headaches and migraines control your life. At Ozark Family Chiropractic in Centerton, our team is dedicated to helping you understand what’s causing your condition and providing the treatment needed to resolve it. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call—we’re here to help!
NECK PAIN
If you’re struggling with neck pain in Centerton, you’re not alone. Millions of people experience neck pain but often don’t receive the care they need. For over a century, chiropractors have been helping individuals find relief from this condition. At Ozark Family Chiropractic, our Centerton chiropractors are highly trained in addressing neck pain and have achieved excellent success rates. Read on to discover how our team can help you regain comfort and mobility.
Effectively addressing neck pain requires identifying its exact source. Chiropractors in Centerton are trained to use various diagnostic tools to pinpoint the root cause of neck pain, providing a significant advantage when treating this condition.
The spine is one of the most intricate structures in the body, housing nearly all systemic nerves. When a section of the spine is misaligned, the surrounding muscles may spasm and tighten as a natural defense mechanism to protect the spine and spinal cord. Poor posture and repetitive motions with improper posture are the most common causes of spinal misalignments.
Unfortunately, many people ignore spinal problems, hoping their neck pain will resolve on its own. While the pain may temporarily subside, the underlying misalignment often remains. Without correction, the issue can worsen over time, leading to recurring pain and more severe complications. In some cases, the condition may progress to the point where surgery becomes the only option. Don’t let neck pain go untreated. Addressing the problem early can help prevent long-term damage and provide lasting relief.
Common vs Normal
If you’re experiencing neck pain, don’t fall into the “common vs. normal” trap. Just because neck pain is common doesn’t mean it’s normal. This misconception leads many people to ignore their discomfort until it becomes a more serious, sometimes irreversible, issue. Don’t become a statistic—address the problem before it’s too late. When you visit our office for the first time, we’ll start with a thorough review of your health history. Our doctor needs a clear understanding of your condition to provide the most effective care. Our goal is to help you recover quickly and efficiently. Don’t let neck pain hold you back. The team at Ozark Family Chiropractic in Centeton is ready and eager to help. If you have any questions, give us a call. Today is the perfect day to start your journey toward lasting relief with chiropractic care!
SCIATICA
Emergency room doctors report that sciatica is one of the most common conditions they treat annually in Springfield. Despite its prevalence, many individuals struggle to find lasting relief. Sciatic pain often worsens over time due to the lack of proper treatment. This article from Ozark Family Chiropractic explains the details of sciatica and how chiropractic care in Centerton can help you overcome it. What does sciatica feel like? Patients describe the pain as ranging from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. It can occur in various areas of the leg and foot and often fluctuates in intensity. Over time, untreated sciatica tends to worsen, with periods of pain becoming more frequent and severe. Understanding and addressing the condition early is key to long-term relief.
Sciatic issues typically originate in the pelvic and lumbar spine. These areas are highly complex, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact problem. Our team is skilled in identifying the source of your pain and will work with you to restore proper alignment to the spine and discs. Many patients recall triggering their pain by performing a simple task, like bending over to pick up a piece of paper, and are puzzled by how such a minor action caused such severe discomfort. The truth is that the condition likely developed over years, with that one action acting as the tipping point. Most spinal issues don’t occur suddenly but gradually build up over time. Recognizing this progression is key to effective treatment and prevention.
How long does it take to correct?
The length of treatment for sciatic pain varies greatly from person to person. Some individuals respond quickly, while others require more time to recover. The duration depends largely on the condition of the affected disc or joints that need correction. Generally, the longer the issue has persisted, the longer it may take to resolve. The good news is that it often takes less time to correct the problem than it did for it to develop. In the U.S., the number of people undergoing back surgery is staggering, and the success rate is disappointingly low. Studies estimate that back surgery is only about 15% effective within five years—a statistic that highlights the need for alternative solutions. If you’re serious about addressing your sciatic pain and avoiding surgery, call our team at Ozark Family Chiropractic in Centerton today. We’re here to answer your questions and look forward to helping you take the first step toward recovery.
SCOLIOSIS
Many people experience scoliosis, a condition that typically begins as a minor curve in the spine and gradually progresses. For scoliosis to be officially diagnosed, the spine must have a sideways curve of at least 60 degrees. At this stage, significant health consequences often arise. The good news is that if scoliosis is detected early and treated properly, its progression can be prevented. This article explores how chiropractic care in Centerton can help. The exact cause of scoliosis remains unclear, although research suggests it is more common in young adolescent females. In many cases, scoliosis begins with a minor misalignment of a single vertebra. Over time, the body compensates for this misalignment, leading to the development of "S" or "C" shaped curves in the spine. Parents and children often notice scoliosis when there is visible un-leveling of the shoulders or pelvis. Unlike some spinal conditions, scoliosis cannot be corrected simply by improving posture.
While scoliosis is often associated with younger individuals, it can also develop in older adults. Aging and degenerative conditions like osteoporosis can alter the shape of the spinal bones. The body compensates by forming lateral curves in the spine to keep the head level. If left untreated, these curves can lead to severe complications, such as heart and lung problems.
X-rays are the most reliable way to diagnose scoliosis, although orthopedic tests like the Adams forward bend test can also be useful. At Ozark Family Chiropractic, our chiropractors assess the hips, shoulders, and leg length for unevenness, which can indicate the presence of scoliosis. With years of experience, our doctors are skilled in identifying scoliosis through detailed evaluations of spinal range of motion. Early detection and intervention are key. If you suspect scoliosis, contact Ozark Family Chiropractic Chiropractic to learn how our experienced team can help.
When addressing any condition, it’s always wise to begin with the most conservative treatment options. Research has shown that chiropractic care can effectively halt the progression of scoliosis and, in many cases, even reverse the condition. At Ozark Family Chiropractic, our doctors have the expertise and resources to provide personalized care, often preventing the need for more invasive treatments. To achieve this, we conduct a comprehensive health history assessment to uncover factors that may contribute to scoliosis, such as occupational habits, lifestyle choices, past injuries, or recreational activities. Once these contributing factors are identified, our chiropractors use targeted spinal adjustments to correct the body’s compensations and promote healing. If you have questions about scoliosis or chiropractic care, don’t hesitate to contact Ozark Family Chiropractic in Centerton. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward better spinal health.
Who could benefits from care?
When healthcare professionals, such as chiropractors, focus on addressing the root cause of back pain rather than merely treating its symptoms, managing back pain becomes more straightforward. A common factor among all the mentioned causes of back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, scoliosis is vertebral misalignment in the spine. Fortunately, the doctors at Ozark Family Chiropractic are highly trained to address these issues effectively. This expertise is supported by multiple studies showing chiropractic care to be one of the most effective treatment options for various causes of all of the above. As with any condition, a conservative, effective, and non-invasive approach is recommended as the first step in treatment. If you're experiencing back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica or scoliosis or have additional questions, we encourage you to contact our Centerton chiropractic office today to schedule a consultation.
Get in Touch
572 E Centerton Blvd
Centerton, Arkansas 72719
479-323-1010
Hours: Monday-Friday
8:00am - 12:00pm
2:00pm - 5:30pm