HealthQuest can dramatically treat and resolve a patients neck pain fast!
Neck pain can result from several causes, including:
Muscle strains.
Overuse, such as too much time spent hunched over a steering wheel, often triggers muscle strains. Neck muscles, particularly those in the back of your neck, become fatigued and eventually strained. When you overuse your neck muscles repeatedly, chronic pain can develop. Even such minor things as reading in bed or gritting your teeth can strain neck muscles.
Worn joints.
Like the other joints in your body, your neck joints experience wear and tear with age, which can cause osteoarthritis in your neck. Neck (cervical) osteoarthritis can cause pain and stiffness in your neck.
Disk disorders.
As you age, the cushioning disks between your vertebrae become dry and stiff, narrowing the spaces in your spinal column where the nerves come out. The disks in your neck also can herniate. This means the inner gelatinous cartilage material of a disk protrudes through the disk's tougher cartilage covering. Neck pain may occur or nearby nerves can be irritated. Other tissues and bony growths (spurs) also can press on your nerves as they exit your spinal cord, causing pain.
Injuries.
Rear-end collisions often result in whiplash injuries, which occur when the head is jerked forward and back, stretching the soft tissues of the neck beyond their limits.
HealthQuest will relieve the Chronic Mid Back pain of patients in no time at all!
Causes for Mid Back Pain
Pain in the middle region of your back is not only limited to muscular or vertebrae problems. There are many other factors that lead to contribute towards the same. Let’s have a look at some of the prominent causes that can lead to mid back pain.
Muscle Strain: It’s the first and the foremost reason for back pain in majority of people. Medical researches have shown that muscular strain is the major cause of middle back pain among office goers. The back muscles and tendons provide support to the spine and the ribs of your back. They are the muscles that take the stress that may arise from activities like sitting, lifting of heavy objects, running, exercising, etc. Sitting in wrong postures for long periods of time can also cause harm to the muscles. As a result strains or spasms may occur. Wrong exercise or over exercising also leads to spasm. As a result, it cause pain in the spinal muscular region of the back which can travels to the left side of your back and affect that as well.
Slip disc: The vertebrae that protects the spine and support us for balance has cartilaginous discs that provides flexibility and helps in shock-absorption. If any of the discs slips out slightly, they apply pressure on the adjoining bundle of nerves coming down from the brain. It pinches and hurts the result of which is inflammation and pain that slowly spreads towards the left or right side of the back or downwards.
Now let’s have a look at some other causes besides muscles and the spine:
Gastroenteritis: Its not necessary that your muscles can only be the reason for back pain. The gas formed in the stomach exerts pressure in the surrounding areas. Sometimes it moves towards the back region and may cause the pain in the mid back.
Pregnancy: If a woman is pregnant and is suffering from back pain, be sure to consult a doctor instead of trying self prescribed medicines. Pregnancy causes many metabolic disorders and the pain may be the result of the same.
Scoliosis is a condition where a person experiences an abnormal curvature in the spine. As a matter of fact, a normal amount of curvature is required if the spine is to function properly. When the curvature is above normal, the patient develops an abnormal leaning posture. This condition is called as scoliosis. Scoliosis is not a type of back pain. It is more in the nature of a deformity. The word scoliosis had its origin in the Greek word “skoliosis” which means crooked.
This deformity is noticed mostly in children and very rarely in adults. If the deformity manifests itself in adult human beings, then chances are that the condition went unnoticed during childhood. It is very difficult to ascertain the causes of scoliosis. Heredity, muscle imbalances and weakness of the bones are some of the reasons. Women and children are more prone to this condition than men.
One way or the other, scoliosis is a severe condition where surgery and bracing are the only viable options available for a permanent solution.
Renal artery stenosis is a condition where there is a blockage in the arteries which supply blood to the kidneys. This happens because of scar formation to the walls of the artery, fibromuscular dysplasia and atherosclerosis. Renal artery stenosis is also caused by atheroembolic renal disease. Fibromuscular Dysplasia is a condition more common in younger women. In this condition fibrous tissue results in the narrowing of the renal artery wall. Scarring in the renal artery can also take place on account of injury to the kidneys.
Renal artery stenosis is a condition which has no obvious symptoms. As a result it is very difficult to diagnose. So doctors suggest that people who have unexplained high blood pressure are susceptible and need to be diagnosed for the existence of this condition. If high blood pressure does not subside with general medications, chances are that renal artery stenosis may be the reason for such hypertension. A battery of tests is required to establish the existence of such a condition. An X ray, CT scan .or MRI scan of the kidney may be required. Another specialized test called the renal arteriography may be required to determine the presence and extent of this condition.
Regarding the options available, one should always consult a doctor who will be able to determine the extent and severity of the problem and advice suitable medication. In many cases the defective kidney is removed and the patient has to live with just one kidney. Surgery correction of the condition is another possible treatment. Balloon angioplasty or Stent replacements are examples of other better treatment options available nowadays. Smoking is a factor which is known to cause this condition and giving up smoking can help to prevent it.
Pulmonic stenosis is a heart condition which is usually congenital in nature. It refers to the narrowing down of the pulmonary valve as a result of which there is obstruction in the blood flow to the lungs from the heart. This condition can cause serious problems for your heart. It can result in the accumulation of fluids in the chest cavity or the abdomen and a shortage of blood supply to other parts of the body. On account of this condition people often faint while performing physical work as the body needs more oxygen and cannot obtain it on account of the poor blood supply.
Causes
Myxomatous plaques are formed in the right ventricles due to carcinoids which constrict the ring of the pulmonary artery, thus blocking the passage of the blood. Very rarely cardiac tumors can also be the reason for the disease of blood obstruction.
Symptoms
On severe conditions there will be a slight noise near the heart when one breathes because of the narrowing of the pulmonary valve. Other symptoms are pain the left part of the chest, difficulty in breathing and heaviness in the area of the chest.
There are three types of pulmonic stenosis. These are valvular PS, subvalvular PS, and peripheral PS. All of them affect the valves of the right chamber of the heart preventing blood flow to the right ventricles from where heart moves to other parts of your body.
Treatments
Pulmonic stenosis is generally treated by surgeries called valvotomy. Since 1982, balloon valvuloplasty has been carried out as a treatment for the problem. Another surgery called the valvular angioplasty is also used to treat more complex cases.
Heart rate and blood pressure are two different vital signs of an individual's health and both are intimately related with each other.
Blood pressure is measured in terms of the force exerted by the blood, as it circulates against the wall of the artery. It is recorded as systolic and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure is measured when the heart is contracting and pushes the blood around the body. On the other hand diastolic pressure is measured when the heart is in a relaxed state.
Blood pressure is measured as e.g. 120/80mmHg. The numerator is systolic pressure and the denominator is diastolic pressure. Heart rate, on the other hand is the number of times the heart beats in one minute. It is known as the pulse rate. Systolic pressure less than or equal to 120 and diastolic pressure less than or equal to 80, and a heart beat/rate of 70 to 72 per minute is considered normal blood pressure and heart rate.
Normal blood pressure and heart rate not only measures the blood pressure in your arteries, but also the rhythm and strength of the heart. Low blood pressure too also signifies abnormal and weak heart, and the heart rate falls down from normal.
Normal blood pressure and heart rate is the indicator of your cardiovascular health. Normal readings mean you are in sound health and there are no complications with your heart, the regulator of life. Many factors tend to change the normal state of these two vital factors of health and pose serious treat to your body. Obesity, stress, malnutrition, unrest and insomnia are some of the prominent factors that disturb both blood pressure and heart rate.
Abnormal blood pressure and heart rate are symptoms that things are not okay with your cardiovascular system. It is important to take care of your health and lifestyle and enjoy a trouble free life and existence.
The consequences of neglecting backache can be very dangerous. If you are suffering from prolonged back pain, then it is recommended to visit a doctor. You should take care of your back since it is one of the most important parts of your body. It provides the human body with balance, movement and the ability to stand upright.
Though most back pains have common symptoms yet complex back pains can have very different symptoms. You should not self medicate yourself since the root cause of the pain may be different from what you have thought. The symptoms are not the only criteria to find a solution to the problem.
Some of the most prominent causes and symptoms of lower back pain are discussed here. Remember that what is discussed here is to only let you know the causes of back pain, and not suggestive of any solution. You must always pay the doctor a visit, in order to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Causes And Symptoms
Old age: This is the most common cause of lower back pain among Americans who have crossed the age of 50 years. Due to aging, there is a normal degeneration of the bones. The symptoms are pain in the lower back, difficulty in walking, moving and lifting things. Treatment will include analgesic pills and exercise.
Sciatica: A herniated disc is protruding from its normal position and is putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. Symptoms include back pain, buttock pain, leg pain, numbness of leg and ankles. The doctors prescribe medication as per severity and exercise. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
Herniated disc: Injury or accidents result in the discs of the vertebra slipping out of their regular positions. They pressurize the nerve roots of the spine causing pain, bowel irregularity and urinary problems. Rest and exercises are recommended for quick recovery.
Kidney stones: Sometimes stones in the kidney can also trigger lower back pain. The symptoms include sharp pinching pain in the lower back. Medicines to remove the stones are prescribed, and as a last resort, surgery is undertaken.
HealthQuest has helped hundreds of people recover from a herniated disc(s). Nevertheless, HealthQuest is committed to treating each patient individually with honesty and forthrightness. If your condition is beyound the services that we can provide, we will refer you to a specialist who can help.
Herniated disc
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The bones (vertebrae) that form the spine (backbone) are cushioned by small, round, flat discs. When these discs are damaged from an injury, normal wear and tear, or disease, they may bulge abnormally or break open. This is called a herniated or slipped disc.
What causes a herniated disc?
A herniated disc may be caused by:
Wear and tear of the disc. As you age, your discs dry out and aren't as flexible. Injury to the spine. This may cause tiny tears or cracks in the hard outer layer of the disc. When this happens, the gel inside the disc can be forced out through the tears or cracks in the outer layer of the disc. This causes the disc to bulge, break open, or break into pieces. What are the symptoms?
When a herniated disc presses on nerve roots, it can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the area of the body where the nerve travels. A herniated disc in the lower back can cause pain and numbness in the buttock and down the leg. This is called sciatica (say "sy-AT-ih-kuh"). Sciatica is the most common symptom of a herniated disc in the low back.
If a herniated disc is not pressing on a nerve, you may have a backache or no pain at all.
If you have weakness or numbness in both legs, along with loss of bladder or bowel control, seek medical care right away. This could be a sign of a rare but serious problem called cauda equina syndrome.
How is a herniated disc diagnosed?
Your doctor may diagnose a herniated disc by asking questions about your symptoms and examining you. If your symptoms clearly point to a herniated disc, you may not need tests.
Sometimes a doctor will do tests such as an MRI or a CT scan to confirm a herniated disc or rule out other health problems.
Usually a herniated disc will heal on its own over time. About half of people with a herniated disc get better within 1 month, and most are better within 6 months. Only about 1 person in 10 eventually has surgery.1
Be patient, and stay with your treatment. If your symptoms don't get better in a few months, you may want to talk to your doctor about surgery.
Can a herniated disc be prevented?
After you have hurt your back, you are more likely to have back problems in the future. To help keep your back healthy:
HealthQuest Chiropractic excells in treating patients who are victims from a car accident injury. HealthQuest has a 96% success rate at getting patients back on their feet again, living their normal lives, and doing the activities they love to do.
Car Accident Injuries
Car accident injuries effect various parts of the body. Head, neck and back injuries are certainly the most common, but car accidents also frequently affect internal organs, and upper and lower limbs. The following are some of the most common injuries, symptoms and treatment for car accident injuries:
Head & Neck injuries
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an extremely serious injury that may result in a car accident. Such a brain injury occurs when the external force of a car accident traumatizes the brain. Brain injury may lead to permanent or temporary impairment of the brain's functions. Skull fractures, bruises of the brain (hematoma), and nerve damage are often related to such brain injury.
Brain injuries are more common in side impact car accidents than in rearend auto accidents. Brain damage in a car accident is often related to the quick acceleration and deceleration of the brain, which causes injury to the point of impact and its opposite point or contrecoup. Diagnosis of a brain injury may be difficult. Concussions are associated with traumatic brain injury as are seizures, headaches, dizziness, lack of concentration, memory loss, depression or anxiety. CT scans and MRI scans are often used to diagnosis brain injury.
Neck injuries vary from whiplash, one of the most common and annoying injuries caused by car accidents, to disk injuries. Whiplash is an injury frequently associated with rearend impacts. Whiplash injures the soft tissues made up of nerves, ligaments and muscles. It causes neck pain and limitation of neck and head movement effecting rotation and peripheral vision. It may be temporary or permanent and can effect all aspects of life. If whiplash lasts for more than a few days after a car accident physicians will prescribe medications and often refer patients to physical therapists or chiropractors for rehabilitative therapy.
Temporalmandibular joint (TMJ) injury is an injury to the joint and ligaments that allow the jaw to move. Similar to whiplash, the TMJ joint is injured in the acceleration and deceleration of a car accident. This may occur with direct or indirect injury to the jaw and effects chewing, eating and speech.
Intervertebral discs make up the spine. The disks lie between each bone (vertebrae) in the spine and form joints giving spines flexibility. Discs are made up of an outer skin called an annulus that surround the inner nucleus, a jelly like substance. If the annulus is torn, a disc may herniate and need surgery. Disks in the neck and spine may bulge, slip or rupture, hence the phrases bulging disc, slipped disc, and ruptured disc. CT scans and MRI scans are often used to diagnosis disc injuries and because such tests are expensive doctors will not order them immediately after a car accident. It frequently occurs where a disk injury or herniated disc is not diagnosed until months after a car accident.
Back Injuries
Intervertebral disks in the neck, cervical discs, are not the only discs injured in car accidents. Thoracic, mid-back, disks and lumbar, lower back, disks may also be injured in car accidents. Compression fractures may be caused in such accidents causing permanent disability. Also, herniations or bulges may may cause spinal cord compression. Symptoms of spinal injuries include arm and/or leg weakness, paralysis, difficulty breathing, numbness, tingling, and abnormal bowel or bladder control. Disc injuries causing those symptoms may require surgery to remove disc material or spinal fusion.
In the same way whiplash injures soft tissues of the neck, the back nerves, ligaments and muscles may be traumatized by a car accident causing pain and inflammation. Prescriptive medications are often used initially but for continuing pain and inflammation, patients are sent to physical therapists or chiropractors for rehabilitative therapy. Such therapy generally includes infrared heat, hot packs, paraffin bath, hydrotherapy, diathermy, cold packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, muscle strengthening, traction, massage, or acupuncture. Another common treatment is steroid injection.
Internal Organs
Internal injuries from a car accident include injuries to bowels, kidneys, the spleen, liver, lungs, heart or aorta. Fractured ribs are quite common and may also puncture lungs and other internal organs. Torn spleens are also a frequent injury and may require extensive hospitalization.
Upper limbs
Hands, forearms, arms, shoulders, wrists and fingers are often injured in car accidents as well. Fractures are typical and treatment generally involves splints and casts. Occasionally, such injuries will require surgery in addition to splinting and casting. Therapy may also be required for increasing reduced strength and range of motion.
Rotator cuff injuries are frequently caused by car accidents. MRI scans are often used to diagnosis rotator cuff tears but since these tests are costly doctors will typically not order them immediately after a car accident and will wait for completion of physical therapy before ordering an MRI. Severe shoulder injuries will require shoulder reconstruction.
Lower limbs
Hips, legs, knees, heels, ankles, and feet are also commonly damaged in car accidents. Achilles tendon injuries, ankle sprains, collateral ligament injuries and stress fractures are typical. Fractures of the pelvis, femur, patella, tibia, and ankle may require casting or surgery. For serious hip and knee injuries, total hip replacements or total knee arthroplasty may be necessary after a car accident.
Low back pain keeping you down? HealthQuest will treat your problem fast and get you back on your feet feeling GREAT!
Low Back Pain - Cause
Most low back pain is triggered by some combination of overuse, muscle strain, and injury to the muscles, ligaments, and discs that support the spine. Many experts believe that over time muscle strain can lead to an overall imbalance in the spinal structure. This leads to a constant tension on the muscles, ligaments, bones, and discs, making the back more prone to injury or reinjury.
The causes of pain in the low back, or lumbosacral region, tend to add on to one another. For example, after straining muscles, you are likely to walk or move in different ways to avoid pain or to use muscles that aren't sore. That can cause you to strain other muscles that don't usually move that way.
The most common causes of low back pain are:
Injury or overuse of muscles, ligaments, facet joints, and the sacroiliac joints. Pressure on nerve roots in the spinal canal. Nerve root compression can be caused by:
A herniated disc, often brought on by repeated vibration or motion (as during machine use or sport activity, or when lifting improperly), or by a sudden heavy strain or increased pressure to the lower back.
Osteoarthritis (joint degeneration), which typically develops with age. When osteoarthritis affects the small facet joints in the spine, it can lead to back pain. Osteoarthritis in other joints, such as the hips, can cause you to limp or to change the way you walk. This can also lead to back pain.
Spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis, vertebra defects that can allow a vertebra to slide over another when aggravated by certain activities. Spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal canal, which typically develops with age.
Fractures of the vertebrae caused by significant force, such as from an auto or bicycle accident, a direct blow to the spine, or compressing the spine by falling onto the buttocks or head. Spinal deformities, including curvature problems such as severe scoliosis or kyphosis.
Compression fractures. Compression fractures are more common among postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, or in men or women after long-term corticosteroid use. In a person with osteoporosis, even a small amount of force put on the spine, as from a sneeze, may cause a compression fracture.
Less common spinal conditions that can cause low back pain include:
Ankylosing spondylitis, which is a form of joint inflammation (arthritis) that most often affects the spine.
Bacterial infection. Bacteria are usually carried to the spine through the bloodstream from an infection somewhere else in the body or from IV drug use. But bacteria can enter the spine directly during surgery or injection treatments, or as the result of injury. Back pain may be the result of an infection in the bone (osteomyelitis), in the spinal discs, or in the spinal cord.
Spinal tumors, or growths that develop on the bones and ligaments of the spine, on the spinal cord, or on nerve roots.
Paget's disease, which causes abnormal bone growth most often affecting the pelvis, spine, skull, chest, and legs.
Scheuermann's disease, in which one or more of the bones of the spine (vertebrae) develop wedge-shaped deformities. This causes curvature of the spine (rounding of the back, or kyphosis), most commonly in the chest region.
Other medical conditions that can cause pain that may be similar to low back pain include:
Pelvic inflammatory disease.
Aortic aneurysm.
Peptic ulcers.
Gallbladder disease.
Pancreatitis.
Urinary disorders such as kidney stones or urinary tract infections.
Prostate disease.
Your state of mind also has an effect on your level of pain and whether it becomes long-lasting (chronic). People who are depressed, under stress, unhappy in their work, or seeking money for an injury are more likely to have chronic back pain.