 |
||
 |
|
 |
 |
|
                   |
Should I use ice or heat?Immediately following an injury, it is recommended that you use ice. Ice is a natural analgesic, which means that it will numb the pain. Additionally, ice decreases the inflammatory response by causing the blood vessels to constrict, thereby limiting the amount of swelling and additional tissue damage. Finally, ice can slow nerve impulses in the area, limiting the reflexive muscle spasm that often accompanies an injury. Ice is generally most helpful during the first 48 hours following an injury.Never apply ice directly to your skin - use a damp cloth, t-shirt or paper towel between your skin and the ice. Icing should be performed for 10 to 20 minutes (never more) depending on the thickness of the tissue. Never use ice on areas of impaired sensation. After the initial 48 hours following an injury and once signs of inflammation (swelling, redness) are gone, it is usually appropriate to use heat intermittently. Heat causes dilation of blood vessels, allowing for nutrients and cells that repair damaged tissues to enter the injured area while also removing damaged tissue and dead cells. Heat also relieves muscle tension by promoting relaxation of muscle tissue but it should not be applied for longer then 10 to 20 minutes (never more).  Does an adjustment hurt?No. Under normal circumstances, adjustments are painless. Patients who are extremely tense during an adjustment or who are suffering from significant muscle spasm may experience some minor discomfort. There are many different ways to adjust the spine and the extremities - Dr. Lipton will choose a technique that is effective and comfortable for you to reduce your discomfort during an adjustment.What does an adjustment do?A chiropractic adjustment has many specific effects on the body, some of which are mechanical in nature and others that are reflexive in nature, but all of which are extremely beneficial. The results of an adjustment include:
Is care appropriate if I am pregnant?There are many challenges imposed by the developing baby upon the expectant mother. As a result many women experience lower back pain, sciatica, headaches, and neck pain. While most medications are not an option, many women report significant relief with treatment such as massage and chiropractic care. Preparation is the best approach to a comfortable pregnancy and many women utilize our prenatal/postnatal conditioning. We have accommodating tables and pillows to make the patient comfortable regardless of the stage of their pregnancy. As it is an extremely safe and effective management strategy, we have many OB/GYNís who regularly refer patients for management.How long will I have to come for treatment?Generally speaking, there are three phases of care:
What is wellness care?Many people have the misconception that once you start treatment with a chiropractor, you will always need chiropractic care. This is not so! Many people choose to continue with chiropractic care for wellness purposes after experiencing the benefits of chiropractic first hand. Just as regular maintenance for your car or teeth can prevent expensive repair work, regular chiropractic check-ups help you to avoid serious physical problems and the expense of time and money to correct those problems.We are exposed daily to mental and physical stresses, environmental toxins, long periods of sitting and standing and many other activities that are detrimental to our health and spine. A proper diet, exercise and regular chiropractic adjustments are your best means of ensuring a healthy life. Learning how to become and staying in good physical shape should be a priority for all of us so that we can enjoy a healthy and long life. If I'm not in pain, why should I continue treatment?Pain is usually the last symptom to appear and the first to leave. However, reduction in pain symptoms is rarely an accurate indication of tissue health. Soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons and muscles continue to heal long after pain symptoms resolve. Continuing with treatment results in a complete recovery, which decreases the likelihood of relapse or the development of a recurring, chronic condition.Disclaimer: No individuals, including those under our active care, should use the information, resources or tools contained on this website to self-diagnose or self-treat any health-related condition. Diagnosis and treatment of all health conditions should only be performed by your doctor of chiropractic or other licensed health care professional. |
|
|
| © 2024 ACTIVE SPINE AND JOINT CARE |  |
