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Pelvic Pain

Pelvic Pain

by | May 16, 2020 | Advice, Injury, Pregnancy, Wellness

Understanding Pelvic Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Why does my pelvis hurt?

There could be a number of culprits behind your pelvic discomfort, 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 

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

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 Relieve Pain in Your Pelvis 

The best way to relieve pain in your pelvis pain 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 Pelvic Pain 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. 

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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 | Injury, Orthotics, Weight-Loss

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.

 

 

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Knee Pain

Knee Pain

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

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!

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Knee Pain

Jumpers Knee

by | May 14, 2020 | Advice, Injury, Orthotics, Wellness

Jumper’s Knee: Things You Need to Know About Patellar Tendonitis

The knee is the largest joint in the body. Not only that, but it’s also the most complex. For one thing, it’s made up of three bones—the femur, tibia, and patella.

At the same time, however, it’s also the joint that’s most likely to be injured. Take ACL injuries, for example—they occur when you tear or sprain one of the ligaments that keep your knee in place.

Patellar tendinitis aka jumper’s knee is another example. Instead of the ligaments, however, it affects the tendons.

What causes it? How can you treat it? Keep reading to find out!

What is Patellar Tendonitis?

Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper’s knee, is a condition in which the patellar tendon becomes inflamed. Generally speaking, it occurs just below the kneecap.

In the initial stages, the pain may be sporadic; swelling may also be present. As the tendon becomes more damaged, however, it can progressively get worse. For example, it’s not uncommon for it to interfere with daily activities such as sitting or climbing stairs.

Causes For Patellar Tendonitis

Patellar tendonitis occurs when there’s repeated stress on the knee. Ultimately, it’s this stress that causes tears in the tendon.

More often than not, it’s due to sports or exercise. Certain things can also contribute to the condition such as obesity, improperly fitted shoes, misaligned feet, or uneven leg strength.

Note: Athletes tend to be at a higher risk due to their long training sessions.

Natural Treatments for Patellar Tendonitis

It’s possible to treat jumper’s knee without any medication. For example, you can apply ice. Not only will it alleviate the pain, but it’ll also bring down the swelling.

Don’t apply the ice directly to your knee, though. Instead, wrap it in a towel so that it won’t come into direct contact with your skin.

Aside from that, there are stretching exercises that you can do that’ll help. Ultimately, the goal is to lengthen the muscle-tendon unit so that there will be fewer muscle spasms.

Chiropractic Treatment for Patellar Tendonitis

There are a few different ways that a chiropractor can treat jumper’s knee. For instance, they can use electrical muscle stimulation to loosen the tendon, which will relieve pain.

From there, they can manipulate the joint once the inflammation goes down. Depending on the severity, they may also recommend physical or massage therapy.

On top of that, there are strengthening exercises that they can teach you that’ll help strengthen the knee joint.

Treating Jumper’s Knee

Hopefully, that gives you a better understanding of how to treat jumper’s knee. As you can see, there are different methods that you can use to relieve the pain—chiropractic care being one of them!

Looking for a chiropractor in the Mill Creek area? Feel free to contact us to set up an appointment!

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Heel Spurs

Heel Spurs

by | May 14, 2020 | Injury, Orthotics, Weight-Loss

What is a Heel Spur? The Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Do you have a sharp pain in your heel when you stand or walk? Can you feel a small, bony lump underneath foot when you try to investigate the cause of your pain?

If you can feel a small lump protruding from the bottom of your foot, then you might have a heel spur.

What is a heel spur, and what heel spur treatment options are available? Here’s what we want you to know about living with foot pain.

What is a Heel Spur?

A heel spur is a calcium deposit on the underside of your heel. The deposit causes your bone to stick out, which can cause significant pain when you put pressure on it when you stand or walk.

Although heel spurs aren’t uncommon among younger people, they become more common as you get older.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Heel Spurs?

If you have a heel spur, you’ll experience pain all day – beginning when you stand up in the morning. It won’t take overuse to flare up. Your pain will be sharp in the morning and simmer as a dull ache until you go to sleep at night.

You may also experience heat radiating from the area. In some cases, you can even see the spur sticking out from your heel.

While heel spurs are best associated with heel pain, only 50% of people who have heel spurs experience any pain at all. It’s not uncommon for people to live with heel spurs for years and never realize it.

What Causes Heel Spurs?

The calcium deposits that cause heel spurs usually take several months to build up and cause you any grief. But what causes those deposits to occur in the first place?

Your foot is a complex web of tendons, muscles, ligaments, and bones. When any one of them becomes injured, inflamed, or irritated, it can wreak havoc on your whole foot. Some of the common causes can be:

  • Long periods of standing
  • Standing on hard ground
  • Repetitive stress
  • Injuries
  • Age-related shrinkage of the fat around the heel
  • Poorly-fit shoes

If you experience a heel spur, the most likely cause is a strain on your plantar fascia or another muscle and ligament around your heel. It can also be caused when you repeatedly tear the membrane over your heel bone.

Because heel spurs are so closely linked to the plantar fascia, it’s not uncommon to confuse heel spurs with plantar fasciitis.

Can Chiropractic Care Treat Spurs?

Chiropractic care can help you deal with both heel spurs and plantar fasciitis. As chiropractors, we ensure that your foot’s biomechanics operates the way it should. Chiropractic care can help stretch your calf muscles, provide taping to protect the fascia, and prescribe custom foot orthotics for arch support.

You Don’t Have to Live with Painful Feet

Chiropractic care can help relieve your pain and keep you walking right.

Are you ready to walk without pain? Get in touch to learn how Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness can help you put your best foot forward.

 

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