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Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

by | May 23, 2020 | Advice, Informational, Injury

IT Band Syndrome: Understanding IT Band Pain, Causes, and Treatment

You go out for a run, and out of nowhere, your knee starts hurting.

Don’t ignore this pain.

It might be the start of IT band syndrome, and if you don’t get the right treatment, it can turn into a much bigger problem. We’ve put together this guide to help you recognize IT band pain and learn what to do about it.

So let’s get started!

Where Is the IT Band Located?

Your IT band starts at the outside of your hip, runs along the outside of your thigh and knee, and ends at the top of your shin. This band is made up of a thick group of fibers, and it can become painful if it gets too tight.

What Is IT Band Syndrome?

IT band syndrome is an overuse injury. People who often bend their knees repetitively, such as runners, can develop this injury if their IT band becomes tight or inflamed.

It can be hard to recognize the symptoms of IT band syndrome. Since this condition mostly causes pain around the knee, many people will mistake IT band syndrome for a different type of knee injury. However, if there isn’t any swelling accompanying your pain, you might have IT band syndrome.

Natural Treatment for IT Band Syndrome

The best treatment for IT band syndrome is rest.

You should immediately stop running (or doing whatever caused the pain) and get several days of rest. If you rest your leg right away, the pain probably won’t come back. It’s also a good idea to do some IT band stretches. These will help loosen the band and can prevent the pain from starting back up again.

If you don’t take the time to treat your IT band syndrome, the condition can become chronic.

IT Band Stretches and Exercises

There are a few different stretches that’ll keep your IT band lose and help relieve pain. You can start doing these stretches before you go running or do any other type of physical activity.

Standing Stretch 

Cross your left leg behind your right leg. Put equal weight on both feet and, if you can, keep them about a shoulder’s width apart. Then lean as far to the right as you can (you lift your left arm over your head to deepen the stretch).

Repeat this with the opposite leg crossed in the back.

Wide-Legged Forward Bend

Spread your feet apart so they’re wider than your shoulders. Then bend as far forward as you can. If you can’t touch the floor, you can bend your knees slightly or use a chair to help support yourself.

Twist your upper body and put your hands on the outside of your right leg. After holding this for at least 15 seconds, repeat this on the left.

Lying Glute Stretch 

Start by lying down on your back. Then lift your right knee to your chest. Hold it there for a few seconds before crossing it as far as you can over your left leg.

Repeat this process with the other leg.

Chiropractic for IT Band Pain

If rest and stretches aren’t helping your IT band syndrome, you might need additional treatment from a professional. Getting a chiropractic adjustment can fix IT band pain and prevent this condition from coming back in the future.

Not sure where to find chiropractic help?

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today! We’ll walk you through the best treatment plan for your personal IT band needs.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis

by | May 19, 2020 | Advice, Informational, Injury

Pain, Pain, Go Away: What’s the Best Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis?

The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the human body. What does it do? It connects your calf muscles to your heel.

Without it, you wouldn’t be able to walk properly!

As it turns out, however, there are many diseases that can affect the tendons. Take rheumatoid arthritis, for instance, it can cause chronic inflammation.

Injuries can affect the connective tissues as well. In fact, they’re one of the main causes of Achilles tendonitis, which affects up to 18% of athletes.

Luckily, the condition is treatable. Interested in knowing what the best treatment for Achilles tendonitis is? Because that’s what we’ll be going over in this post!

Where is the Achilles Tendon Located?

The Achilles tendon is a thick band of fibrous tissue that’s located at the back of the lower leg. More specifically, it connects the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles of the calf to the calcaneus aka heel bone.

Despite its size and strength, it’s vulnerable to injury—even with the small sacs of fluid protecting it at the heel.

Causes for Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed. Generally speaking, this can be caused by any repetitive movements.

That’s the main reason why athletes are more prone to the condition. Those who participate in sports such as tennis, softball, volleyball, and track and field, are particularly susceptible.

Certain factors can play a role as well. For example, an individual will be more likely to experience tendonitis if they exercise without warming up. A sudden increase in physical activity can also strain the tendon.

Best Treatment For Achilles Tendonitis (Without Medications)

There are ways to treat Achilles tendonitis without medications. For one thing, you can use the RICE method. Here’s a brief overview of how it works:

Rest: Avoid putting weight or pressure on the tendon for 1-2 days—that’ll allow it to heal faster. Consider using crutches if you need to walk.

Ice: Apply ice to the tendon for 15-20 minutes at a time. The cold will help bring down any swelling or inflammation. It’s a good idea to wrap the ice pack with a towel so that it won’t damage your skin.

Compression: Compress the injury by wrapping athletic tape around the tendon; this will prevent excessive swelling. However, don’t wrap it too tightly or else it’ll affect your blood flow.

Elevation: Raise your foot so that it’s above your chest—you want it to be higher than your heart. This is an effective way of reducing bruising and swelling.

Chiropractic Treatment for Achilles Tendonitis

Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve pain. After all, it’s not uncommon for misaligned joints to put extra stress on the Achilles tendons and feet.

Your chiropractor may also opt for Active Release Therapy (ART). Basically, it involves breaking up scar tissue in the tendon, leg, and foot. Not only will this help with the pain but it’ll also prevent further complications.

Dealing With Achilles Tendonitis

While most cases are minor, it never hurts to go see a doctor or even a chiropractor—they’ll be able to determine the best treatment for Achilles tendonitis that’s right for you.

For those of you who are in the Mill Creek area, feel free to contact us to see how we can help!

Pelvic Pain

Pelvic Pain

by | May 16, 2020 | Informational, Injury

Understanding Pelvic Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Why does my pelvis hurt? There could be a number of culprits behind your pelvic pain, ranging from serious medical conditions to temporary pain. If you’re experiencing any type of pelvic pain, there are a few steps you should take next.

We’ve put together this guide to walk you through the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for pelvic pain.

So let’s get started.

What Is Pelvic Pain and Where Is It Located?

Pelvic pain is most commonly associated with women, but men can experience it as well. This type of discomfort is located around the pelvic bone area, the reproductive organs, or other non-reproductive internal organs.

The exact pain you feel will vary depending on the cause of the condition and your personal pain tolerance. You might feel sharp pain, dull throbs, sensitivity, mild discomfort, etc.

What Causes Pelvic Pain?

There are many different reasons your pelvis might hurt.

For example, the source of the pain may be a medical condition, an infection, or an injury. Because of this, you should never ignore pelvic pain. The pain is your body telling you something is wrong, such as:

  • Appendicitis
  • Bladder disorders
  • Broken pelvic bone
  • Hernias
  • Intestinal problems
  • Kidney stones
  • Kidney infection
  • Nerve conditions
  • Pelvic disorders
  • Prostatitis
  • STDs
  • Testicular conditions
  • Bruising

Women may experience additional types of pelvic pain as well, including things like:

  • Cervical or uterine cancer
  • Endometriosis
  • Fibroids
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Ovulation
  • Miscarriage
  • UTI

If you start to notice any discomfort in your pelvic area, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. They’ll be able to catch any potential problems before they get worse, and they can recommend the best treatment options.

However, just because you feel pain in your pelvis doesn’t mean you should panic. It may not be a serious problem, and there may be a few simple ways to take care of it.

How to the Relieve Pain 

The best way to relieve pain in your pelvis is to take basic, over-the-counter pain medications, such as Advil or Ibuprofen. After you talk to your doctor, they may also prescribe stronger medications or antibiotics. It can also be beneficial to visit a chiropractor.

If the pain you’re feeling is due to menstrual cramps, a heating pad can also help lessen the pain. You can use an electric heating pad or, if you don’t have one, a hot water bottle will do the trick, too.

In some cases, you might not get full relief until you receive the right treatment.

Natural Treatment

Since pelvic pain can indicate a serious medical condition in some cases, you should always follow your doctor’s recommended treatment options. However, there are several natural remedies for pelvic pain that can help ease your discomfort as well.

Again, heat is a good thing to try first. This will help relax your muscles if they’re cramping. You can also give yourself a pelvic massage, which can reduce your pain.

It can also be helpful to change your diet. You might want to avoid certain foods, such as:

  • Gluten
  • Dairy products
  • Processed foods
  • Sugars
  • Red meats

In some cases, eating more fruits and vegetables and whole grains can prevent pelvic pain from developing or getting worse.

Can a Chiropractor Help Relieve Pelvic Pain?

The short answer to this question is yes.

If your pelvis pain isn’t caused by an internal problem, it can also form if your body is out of alignment. Getting chiropractic adjustments can reposition problematic areas in your body, which can relieve the pain.

Not sure where to find a chiropractor in the Mill Creek, Washington area?

We can help! Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to learn more or set up your first appointment today.

Coccyx Pain Treatment

Coccyx Pain Treatment

by | May 14, 2020 | Advice, Injury, Pregnancy, Weight-Loss, Wellness

Understanding Coccyx and Tailbone Pain, Causes, and Treatment

The spine is made up of 33 individual bones. More specifically, they’re divided into four main regions—the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacrum spine.

At the bottom of the spine is the coccyx aka tailbone. While it’s considered vestigial (aka no longer necessary), it does have a few important functions.

That is, it serves as the insertion site for tendons, ligaments, and muscles. In addition to that, it supports you while you’re sitting.

Like the rest of the body, however, it can be affected by various conditions.

What causes coccyx and tailbone pain? How can you treat it? Want to know? If so, be sure to read the rest of the post!

Where is the Coccyx/Tailbone?

The tailbone is made up of four small bones that are fused together at the bottom of the spine. Triangular in shape, it is located just below the sacrum.

In fact, it connects with the bony structure through the sacrococcygeal joint. When you move, there is also a slight movement between the sacrum and the coccyx.

What Causes Pain in Your Coccyx?

A number of things can cause coccyx pain. For example, the tailbone can start hurting if you sit on a hard chair or bench for a long period of time.

Injuries such as falls can also cause bruising. In some cases, it can even lead to fractures.

While anyone can experience tailbone problems, those who are overweight are more prone to issues. For one thing, more weight puts extra stress on the coccyx. 

How to Treat Coccyx Pain

Assuming that there’s no fracture, the pain should go away on its own within a couple of weeks. In the meantime, there are over-the-counter medications that you can take to relieve the pain.

Aside from that, you can apply heat or ice, both of which should help with the discomfort. The way you sit matters as well—that is, you want to make sure that your feet are flat on the ground and that your back is pressed against the chair.

There are also donut-shaped pillows that you can get that’ll help relieve pressure from the tailbone area.

Chiropractic Treatment for Tailbone/Coccyx Pain

Depending on the injury, the tailbone can move out of alignment. When this happens, it can irritate the tissues and nerves around the area, which can be quite painful.

That’s where chiropractors come in. They’re able to fix the underlying problem by correcting the misalignment.

In addition to that, they might suggest massage therapy. Not only will that help reduce inflammation but it’ll also promote muscle recovery.

Understanding Coccyx and Tailbone Pain

Now you know all about how to treat coccyx and tailbone pain. Remember, you don’t always have to go for medications—there are many other options!

Are you in the Mill Creek, WA area? Looking for a chiropractic clinic? Feel free to reach out—we’d be happy to help!

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Sprained Ankle

Sprained Ankle

by | May 14, 2020 | Informational, Injury

The Sprained Ankle Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options: A Helpful Guide

Do you think you may be suffering from a sprained ankle, but aren’t quite sure?

Sprained ankles are one of the most common injuries in the US. In fact, over 25,000 people in the US sprain their ankle every day, and over 1 million people visit the emergency room each year because of an ankle injury.

But, even though sprained ankles are very common, not everyone knows when a sprained ankle looks like or feels like. If you’re looking to learn more about sprained ankles, you’ve come to the right place.

Read on to learn about sprained ankle signs, symptoms, treatments, and more in this helpful guide.

What is a Sprained Ankle? 

Before we dive into the symptoms, we first need to answer the question, “What is a sprained ankle?”

A sprained ankle occurs when there is an injury to the ligaments (tough bands of tissue) that surround and connect the bones of your leg to your foot. This type of injury typically happens when you turn or twist your ankle in an unnatural manner. This can cause the ligaments that hold your bones and joints together to twist and tear.

Sprained Ankle Symptoms 

You know you’ve injured your ankle, but you’re not quite sure if it’s sprained. How can you tell? Here are the symptoms to look out for:

  • Swelling, tenderness, and pain
  • Bruising or discoloration
  • Trouble moving your ankle
  • Inability to put your full weight on your ankle
  • Stiffness

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you should see your doctor, as they’ll be able to properly diagnose the injury. During your visit, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam to figure out which ligaments have been torn. They may also order image testing, such as X-rays, to rule out bone fractures.

Degrees of Sprained Ankles 

Sprained ankles fall into different grades depending on the severity of the injury. Sprained ankles are classified as:

  • Grade 1: This occurs when the ankle is in pain, but there is little loss of function and ligament damage
  • Grade 2: This occurs when there’s moderate damage to the ligaments and the ankle joint is a bit loose
  • Grade 3: This occurs when one or more ligament is torn and the ankle is extremely unstable or loose

Treatment Options 

How you treat your ankle will depend on the severity of your sprain. In general, the first phase of treatment focuses on RICE. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

You should rest your ankle and avoid putting weight on it. You should also ice it for 20 to 30 minutes at a time every few hours. You should use an elastic wrap to apply compression to your ankle, and elevate it when sitting.

If your sprain is more severe, then you may need to wear a brace for extra stability and protection. Or, you may need to use crutches.

Some people also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help alleviate the pain.

You may also want to seek chiropractic care, as a chiropractor can help you get your ankle back in shape.

Sprained Ankle Signs: Are You Ready to Care for Your Sprained Ankle?

Now that you’ve read all about sprained ankle signs, symptoms, and treatment, you should have a better idea as to whether or not you have a sprained ankle.

If you’re seeking chiropractic care for your sprained ankle, contact us today.

 

 

Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options: A Helpful Guide

Do you think you may be suffering from a sprained ankle, but aren’t quite sure?

This particular sprain is one of the most common injuries in the US. In fact, over 25,000 people in the US sprain their ankle every day, and over 1 million people visit the emergency room each year because of this type of injury.

But, even though they are very common, not everyone knows what a it feels looks or feels like. If you’re looking to learn more about sprained ankles, you’ve come to the right place.

Read on to learn about the signs, symptoms, treatments, and more in this helpful guide.

What is a Sprain? 

This occurs when there is an injury to the ligaments (tough bands of tissue) that surround and connect the bones of your leg to your foot. This type of injury typically happens when you turn or twist your ankle in an unnatural manner. This can cause the ligaments that hold your bones and joints together to twist and tear.

Symptoms 

You know you’ve injured your ankle, but you’re not quite sure if it’s sprained. How can you tell? Here are the symptoms to look out for:

  • Swelling, tenderness, and pain
  • Bruising or discoloration
  • Trouble moving your ankle
  • Inability to put your full weight on your ankle
  • Stiffness

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you should see your doctor, as they’ll be able to properly diagnose the injury. During your visit, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam to figure out which ligaments have been torn. They may also order image testing, such as X-rays, to rule out bone fractures.

The degrees are classified as:

  • Grade 1: This occurs when the ankle is in pain, but there is little loss of function and ligament damage
  • Grade 2: This occurs when there’s moderate damage to the ligaments and the ankle joint is a bit loose
  • Grade 3: This occurs when one or more ligament is torn and the ankle is extremely unstable or loose

Treatment Options 

How you treat your ankle will depend on the severity of your sprain. In general, the first phase of treatment focuses on RICE. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

You should rest your ankle and avoid putting weight on it. You should also ice it for 20 to 30 minutes at a time every few hours. You should use an elastic wrap to apply compression to your ankle, and elevate it when sitting.

If your sprain is more severe, then you may need to wear a brace for extra stability and protection. Or, you may need to use crutches.

Some people also take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help alleviate the pain.

You may also want to seek chiropractic care, as a chiropractor can help you get your ankle back in shape.

Are You Ready For Care?

Now that you’ve read all about the signs, symptoms, and treatment, you should have a better idea as to whether or not you have this type of injury.

If you’re seeking chiropractic care for your sprained ankle, contact us today.

Knee Pain

Knee Pain

by | May 14, 2020 | Advice, Informational, Injury

Why Do My Knees Ache? The Causes, Types, and Treatments Explained

Often times, we are asked in our clinic why do knees ache and if it’s something to worry about? According to the CDC, by 2040, about 78 million US adults 18 and older will be diagnosed with arthritis.

In this article, we will cover the different types of knee pain and when you should come into our office. Read on to figure out why your knees ache, and find relief in Mill Creek, Washington!

What Causes Knee Pain?

Your knee consists of 3 bones:

  • Kneecap
  • The upper part of the shinbone
  • The lower part of the thighbone

Your knees also have tendons and strong ligaments that support these 3 bones. Below the kneecap and between the bones, you can find cartilage. The cartilage acts as stabilization for your knees. When you experience a disease or damage to your knee, this can lead to pain.

Some different causes are:

  • Bone tumors
  • Chondromalacia patella (damaged cartilage)
  • Baker’s cyst
  • Gout
  • Bursitis
  • Torn ligament
  • Meniscus tear
  • Dislocation
  • Tendinitis

Types of Knee Pain

From inner knee pain when walking to overweight knee pain, we’ve heard it all in our office in Mill Creek, Washington. A common type of knee pain is actually knee arthritis.

There are 2 types of knee joint arthritis:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Knee osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is considered an autoimmune disease since your immune system attacks many joints in the body. You might experience warmth, redness, swelling, and pain if this is the case.

Rheumatoid arthritis can get better with activity.

Knee osteoarthritis is caused when there’s damage to the cartilage in your knee. It’s most common in those 50 years and older.

Knee Strengthening Exercises

Certain exercises can help alleviate knee pain since it improves your range of motion and flexibility. If you’re not moving your knee, that can make the pain worse since it can stiffen.

1. Heel and Calf Stretch

This is a great stretch for your lower leg and calf muscles.

First, stand and face a wall. Next, have your hands on the wall and have one leg forward. Ensure you have your feet and toes facing forward and your heels flat.

Make sure you have a slight bend in your knees. Lean into this stretch and hold it for 30 seconds. If done correctly, you should feel a stretch in your back leg.

Next, change legs and repeat the above 2x on each side.

2. Hamstring Stretch

This exercise will stretch out the muscles in the back of your thigh.

Make sure you have a mat handy to lay on and have your legs straight. Practice lifting one leg off the floor at a time.

Next, have your hands behind your thigh and below your knee. Pull your knee toward your chest for a slight stretch. Hold this for 30 seconds. Then, lower and switch your legs. Repeat this 2x on each side.

Knee Pain Treatment

Are you wondering how to get rid of knee pain? Also, how to prevent knee pain?

Besides the exercises above that’ll help alleviate some of the pain, you can also try yoga poses. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water will hydrate the ligaments around your knee.

Call your chiropractic knee specialist today if you:

  • Can’t flex your knee
  • Can’t fully extend your knee
  • Have a deformity in your knee or leg
  • Severe knee pain from an injury
  • Have a fever along with redness and swelling
  • Can’t have weight on your knee
  • Swollen knee

When you visit your specialist in Mill Creek, Washington, you might have an MRI, CT scan, X-ray, or Ultrasound done. We will also check for any swelling, warmth, and check the structure of your knee.

Knees Ache Treatment

Now that you’ve explored this guide on different reasons for knees ache you should have a better idea of what’s going on.

Are you ready to finally have relief from your knee pain? Call us today at (425) 737-5343 or fill out our form below and we will come up with a plan specific for you at our office in Mill Creek, Washington. We look forward to seeing you soon!