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How to Treat Turf Toe: Causes, Symptoms, and Expert Treatment Options

How to Treat Turf Toe: Causes, Symptoms, and Expert Treatment Options

by | Mar 1, 2021 | Advice, Orthotics, Wellness

Got Turf toe? 

So do many athletes, active people, and everyday individuals who are on their feet on a regular basis. Whether this injury developed from a jammed toe or repetitive injury from sports, starting the healing process as soon as possible can limit further pain and discomfort that inevitably comes with it.

This article will explore what Turf Toe is, common symptoms and causes, and how to treat Turf Toe to relieve discomfort.

What is Turf Toe?

Turf Toe refers to a sprain at the base of the big toe due to excessive strain placed on the ligaments in charge of the big toe’s range of motion. Whenever the big toe is exercised beyond its standard range of motion, the ligaments can stretch and even tear. Thus, the outcome of this injury ranges from a mild sprain to a torn ligament. 

What Are the Causes?

Usually, this injury develops from athletes playing on artificial turf fields. However, athletes aren’t the only individuals who experience this condition. Walking in unsupportive shoes or even stubbing your toe can result in a sprain at the base of the big toe.

What are the Symptoms?

There are 4 common turf toe symptoms:

  • Pain at the base of the foot
  • Bruising around the ball of the foot and at the top of the big toe
  • Tenderness or swelling around the ball of the foot and top of the toe
  • Limited range of motion

As a result of these symptoms, a person suffering from this injury will have difficulty walking. Applying pressure to the foot with Turf Toe would be uncomfortable. This is because the torn ligaments in the toe make it difficult to push off the big toe. The combination of the strain and swelling causes extreme pain and discomfort.

How to Treat Turf Toe 

The ideal turf toe treatment involves reducing the swelling of the foot and immobilizing the big toe. This can be done through practicing R.I.C.E (Rest, Ice, Compress and Elevate), especially in the first 24-hours of swelling.

As with most leg or foot sprains, the best practice is to keep the foot elevated as often as possible. This will relieve the strain on the toe and quicken the healing process.

If your toe does not get better after these treatments, the best thing to do is seek professional help from a doctor to ensure no further injury is caused. A doctor will perform evaluations to determine if ligaments are strained or ruptured. Depending on the severity of the issue, a doctor might prescribe a walking boot to protect the foot and/or physical therapy or chiropractic services to restore strength and flexibility.

Get Treatment for Turf Toe 

Knowing how to treat Turf Toe is essential to healing this serious injury. At Amazing Life, we offer foot pain services dealing with the heels, soles, arches, and toes. 

Your feet are your body’s foundation. Any issue related to the health of your feet should be addressed and resolved immediately. If you are dealing with Turf Toe or are recovering from it and need additional relief, contact us today for evaluations and treatment plans to get your foot back in good health.

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Fallen Arches in the Feet: Everything You Need To Know

Fallen Arches in the Feet: Everything You Need To Know

by | Feb 26, 2021 | Advice, Orthotics, Pregnancy, Wellness

Examining the structure of a normal adult foot reveals a visible upward arch in the midsole. This is because a network of tendons is constantly pulling the 26 small bones in the foot toward each other.

However, some adult feet don’t have much of an arch, if any is present at all. This condition, known as fallen arches, happens when the tendons weaken and can’t exert enough force to maintain the natural curve. Over time, this can lead to widespread pain and a host of other symptoms.

To learn more about the consequences of fallen arches and the treatments available for them, keep reading through this guide.

What Are Fallen Arches?

Fallen arches are also called pes planus, a term that literally means “flat feet”. It affects an estimated 20-30% of people. Some of the most common fallen arches symptoms and signs include:

  • feeling tired after standing for a short time
  • swelling and/or stiffness in the feet
  • aches or pains in the heels and arches
  • difficulty scrunching or bending the feet
  • difficulty standing on toes
  • widespread pain through the legs and back
  • reduced balance

Those who think they may have flat feet can check inside their shoes for uneven wear on one side. They can also get their feet wet and make a footprint on concrete or paper. If the entire sole leaves a print, it’s time to suspect fallen arches.

What Causes Fallen Arches?

Some people are born with weak tendons and have congenital fallen arches. Others develop the condition later in life due to injury, overuse, poor footwear, or degeneration due to normal aging.

Some chronic medical conditions, like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, can increase your chances of fallen arches. Obesity and pregnancy can also contribute due to the feet having to support increased weight.

How to Treat Fallen Arches

If you’re on your feet a lot during the day, investing in supportive footwear should be your first course of action. The best work boots for fallen arches also have firm heels, a natural bend at the toes, resistance to twisting motions, and a removable insole. Along with the right shoes, orthotic shoe inserts can offer even more support.

Drugstore arch-support shoe inserts are an option, but the best orthotics for fallen arches are made specially to fit your feet. Those with flat feet can visit their chiropractor for a diagnostic foot scan. Based on the results, they can get custom orthotics that support their feet in a variety of shoes.

Finally, a chiropractor may also recommend following an exercise and stretching regimen to strengthen the feet and improve their flexibility. This could include exercises like toe raises, towel scrunches, and stork stretches.

Is It Time to Seek Fallen Arches Treatment?

Those with flat feet don’t have to learn how to live with fallen arches and the pain they cause. Instead, they can learn the signs of pes planus, invest in supportive shoes, and remember to stretch and strengthen their feet.

The most important intervention, though, is investing in custom orthotics. For those in the Mill Creek, WA area, Amazing Life Chiropractic can help. Visit our “new patients” page to learn more and set up an orthotics appointment today.

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Obesity and Foot Health: The Essential Guide

Obesity and Foot Health: The Essential Guide

by | Feb 24, 2021 | Advice, Wellness

Avoiding Swollen Feet During Pregnancy: 4 Chiropractic Tips That Can Help

Did you know that each year 123 million women attempt to become pregnant and succeed? Are you currently pregnant, and want to make sure you avoid swollen feet during pregnancy? Or, maybe you’re currently experiencing swelling, and want to know what to do next? 

In this article, explore the top chiropractic tips for keeping your feet at a normal size with no swelling. Read on to explore these tips from your chiropractic office here at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness. 

When Do Your Feet Swell During Pregnancy? 

Swelling (edema) affects many pregnant women each year. You might notice it beginning between weeks 22-27. It’s common for it to stay until you give birth. 

What happens is your body fluids increase for both your baby and you. This increased fluid accumulates within the tissues in your body.

Pressure is experienced on your vena cava and pelvic veins from your uterus growing. This can cause swelling in your feet and ankles. It can also cause swelling in your hands as well. 

1. Exercise

To prevent swelling, do pregnancy-safe exercises, rest, drink plenty of water, and eat healthily. Make sure to choose comfortable shoes instead of anything too tight and restricting. Be mindful of your shoe size because some women might experience a permanent shoe size change from pregnancy. 

2. Stretch

During the day, have your feet up and stretch your legs to ensure you’re keeping the blood flowing. Don’t sit or stand for too long at a time. When you raise your legs, keep them higher than your heart. 

3. Avoid Socks

Avoid stockings or socks since they can restrict your blood flow. Instead, choose compression socks. They can help reduce any swelling you’re currently experiencing. 

4. Reduce Salt

In the United States, many Americans eat a high sodium diet. While some might find it delicious, it can increase your risk of swelling during pregnancy.

Ensure that you watch how much salt you use, and cut down on it. Instead, choose foods that are lower in sodium content. Choose fresh herbs instead of salt for your meals. 

Home Remedies for Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

To decrease the swelling you’re experiencing, choose a high potassium diet. Examples of foods high in potassium are bananas, salmon, lentils, yogurt, beans, spinach, and sweet potatoes. 

If you drink coffee or tea with caffeine, you’ll want to cut back. Coffee can make the swelling you’re experiencing worse due to the caffeine. Instead, go for herbal tea or decaf coffee. 

Choose waist-high maternity support stockings during pregnancy to help out. Make sure that you’re getting enough water as well. If you’re not finding relief with at home care, you’ll want to schedule a chiropractic appointment. 

Tips for Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

Now that you’ve explored the top tips for reducing and preventing swollen feet during pregnancy, you should have better information to have less swollen feet soon. Are you uncomfortable from your swollen feet, and want relief? 

Or maybe you’re trying to get your baby into a good position before delivery? Contact us today and we’ll come up with an action plan that’s specific to your needs. 

 

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Swelling and Edema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Swelling and Edema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

by | Feb 22, 2021 | Advice, Diabetes, Wellness

Edema can be a difficult disease to deal with in severe circumstances. It is an issue with swelling and fluid retention in the body which can lead to bad inflammation.

To learn more about edema and how to treat it, read on.

What Causes Edema

There are a few causes of edema.

It can be related to kidney problems due to the issue of filtering excess water from the body. It can also be a problem with weak veins and even a fault lymphatic system that prevents the body from self-draining.  

Edema is also present in pregnant women or sitting and standing for too long where both of the symptoms are most often present in the legs and feet.

Serious causes of edema can be a red flag for possible chronic kidney disease or even congestive heart failure. It’s important to visit a doctor as soon as you see unexplained symptoms of edema to rule out any serious medical conditions.

Symptoms of Edema

The symptoms of edema is the excess fluid making its way to the extremities of the body instead of being filtered out via the kidneys. The fluid is then trapped and makes the affected extremities appear puffy and swollen.

The location varies from person to person but it is most typically found in the legs more specifically the feet, and in the hands. When you press on the skin it will be left with an indent. The indent will take a while to pop back up.

You may also see indents from your socks around your ankles that take a while to go down. This is also an indicator of edema.

Some individuals will complain of their rings not being able to come off or are too tight around their fingers. This is also a symptom of edema.   

Edema Treatments

Serious cases of edema will require medical attention and most likely be put on medication to help with draining excess fluid. 

Those who have symptoms related to sitting or standing for long periods can easily treat their edema with regular massages.

Massages support the lymphatic system in draining excess fluid in your body without the use of medication. Massages will target your back and your neck where lymph nodes are located.

They are a great option for whether you visit a registered massage therapist, or if you do them yourself at home.

Additionally, baths with Epsom Salts are a natural at-home remedy to help the body to release the stubborn fluid that doesn’t want to budge.

Consulting Your Doctor

For more serious edema issues, consult your doctor to determine the right path for your treatment. It’s best to go as soon as possible to rule out any significant health problems that require medical attention.

If you’re ready to treat your less serious edema with a relaxing massage, contact us to book your appointment today.

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Scoliosis Guide: Causes, Treatments, Symptoms, and More

Scoliosis Guide: Causes, Treatments, Symptoms, and More

by | Feb 19, 2021 | Advice, Wellness

Scoliosis affects an average of 7.5 million Americans. 

But what is scoliosis? Simply put, it’s a sideways curve in the spine.

Of course, our spines are supposed to have a front-to-back curve. Think of a stretched out letter “S” and you’ve got the basic shape.

But when the spine develops a side-to-side curve, it can cause a host of problems. Anything from poor posture to lung damage to immobility can occur. 

How effective is chiropractic treatment for scoliosis? Below you’ll find a complete guide. From the causes and types of scoliosis to finding a scoliosis chiropractor near you. 

What Is Scoliosis and What Causes It?

There are a few common causes of scoliosis, with the most common being a genetic condition. If your mother, your aunt, or your grandfather had scoliosis, you may be at a greater risk yourself. 

Neuromuscular disorders can also lead to scoliosis. In particular, cerebral palsy or chronic muscular dystrophy are common contributors. 

Alternatively, birth defects may promote abnormal curving of the spine. Early injuries or infections within the back or spine can lead to scoliosis as well.

Types of Scoliosis and Who Can Get Them 

There are several different types of scoliosis. Early-onset is a common type, most often caught in the early years of a child’s development.

Typically, it’s noticed during puberty, when children experience rapid growth spurts. This is why children in middle school are likely to be checked for it.

Though there are congenital types of scoliosis, you don’t have to have a history of it in your family. Even children without known cases of scoliosis in their family can develop it.

Both boys and girls can be affected by scoliosis. But girls are at more of a risk of having the curvature increase overtime. And adult degenerative scoliosis can develop later in life, too.

Complications of Scoliosis 

Unsurprisingly, the most reported complication connected to scoliosis is back pain. But when scoliosis is severe, it can press the ribs into the heart and lungs. This may make it harder to breathe and impact heart functionality. 

Scoliosis can lead to unbalanced posture, misaligned hips and shoulders, and protruding ribs. This may cause discomfort, pain, or self-consciousness.  

Treatments for Scoliosis

The best way to know how to treat scoliosis is by catching it early. 

1. Back Braces

While a child’s body is still developing, a back brace can be a useful treatment for scoliosis. This is especially true if the curvature is between 25 and 40 degrees. The brace helps keep the spine from curving further. 

2. Surgery

For individuals with curves greater than 40 degrees, surgery is the best option. A doctor will fuse segments of vertebrae together and attempt to restore a proper curve to the spine. 

3. Scoliosis Chiropractor

Seeking chiropractic treatment for scoliosis is a great option, and you can start early. In fact, there are many benefits to pediatric chiropractic care.

It’s unlikely that a chiropractor will correct moderate to severe scoliosis. However, treatments have reduced back pain and relieved nerve pressure associated with scoliosis.

How Effective Is Chiropractic Treatment for Scoliosis?

Now you can easily answer, “what is scoliosis?” And talking with your doctor will help you determine how effective chiropractic treatment is for scoliosis.

Think about the types of scoliosis listed here if you’re concerned you may be suffering from it. Speak to your doctor about getting screened for it.  

If you’re ready to seek alternative treatment, find a scoliosis chiropractor near you.​

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Back Pain or Sciatica: What’s the Difference?

Back Pain or Sciatica: What’s the Difference?

by | Feb 10, 2021 | Advice, Wellness

Back Pain or Sciatica: What’s the Difference?

About 65 million Americans have reported recent episodes of back pain. Unfortunately, not many people realize their back pain could indicate a completely different condition: sciatica.

What’s the difference between back pain and sciatica? Does a back brace help sciatic pain? How do sciatic pain symptoms differ from back pain symptoms?

Keep reading to find out! In this guide, we’ll review everything you need to know to differentiate the two.

Read on to discover the difference between sciatic pain vs back pain. 

Back Pain Symptoms 

Most people experience lower back pain near the beltline. The pain can feel like a stiff ache to a stabbing pain.

Different situations can cause lower back pain symptoms, such as stress, poor lifting techniques, physical activity, or accidents. 

Back pain symptoms include:

  • Dully or achy pain
  • A burning, stinging sensation
  • Difficulty standing or walking
  • Muscle spasms and tightness
  • Pain that gets worse after sitting or standing

If your symptoms persist, visit a chiropractor for an adjustment. 

Sciatica Pain Symptoms

Sciatic pain symptoms usually start in the lower back. However, they can also affect the buttocks, legs, and hips. About 40% of people experience sciatica during their life. 

Sciatic pain develops when nerve roots in the sciatic nerve become compressed or pinched. You’ll likely experience symptoms on one side of the body.

Acute sciatic pain can last for one to two weeks before resolving itself. You might have episodes throughout the year. Chronic sciatica, on the other hand, can become a life-long condition. 

Sciatic pain symptoms include:

  • A pins and needles sensation
  • Pain that gets worse when you move
  • Weakness or numbness in the feet or legs
  • Painful tingling in the feet or toes
  • Incontinence 

You could develop sciatica after an injury. Some conditions can cause sciatica, including:

  • Spinal stenosis
  • Herniated disks
  • Piriformis syndrome
  • Spondylolisthesis

Make sure to seek medical attention right away if you experience sudden, excruciating pain. A medical professional might recommend treatments like hot or cold therapy, stretches..

Chiropractic manipulations, massages, and acupuncture might help as well. And does a back brace help sciatic pain? Yes!

What’s the Difference?

What exactly is the difference between back pain and sciatica?

Back pain refers to a range of various symptoms. Sciatica, however, is a type of back pain. Since sciatic pain symptoms are unique, they’re easier to identify.

Back pain can happen anywhere along your spine. Sciatica pain, on the other hand, specifically restricts the sciatic nerve. Sciatica can only develop where the sciatic nerve is located.

Sciatica can also take longer to resolve, while low back pain might resolve itself.

Having a difficult time differentiating your sciatic pain symptoms from back pain ones? Walk across the room on your heels. Is it difficult to elevate your feet?

If so, you could have sciatica.

Visit a chiropractor for a professional diagnosis. 

Let’s Straighten It Out: The Difference Between Back Pain and Sciatica

To recap, what’s the difference between back pain and sciatica? Back pain is a general term, while sciatica is a more specific condition. 

Don’t live your life in pain. Instead, visit a chiropractor to find relief.

Eager to get started? We can help. Request an appointment today.

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TREAT YOUR BACK PAIN TODAY!