Understanding the Impact of Screen Time on Our Bodies

Before diving into the ways chiropractic care can help, we need to explore and understand the effects of excessive screen time on our bodies. Prolonged periods of sitting and staring at screens can lead to a myriad of issues, including:

1. Poor Posture: This is one of the primary issues associated with excessive screen time. When we spend hours hunched over screens, it can wreak havoc on our posture and cause misalignments in the spine and tension in the muscles. The strain on our necks and backs can lead to chronic pain and discomfort, impacting our quality of life and productivity.
2. Neck, Shoulder, and Back Pain:These are some of the most common complaints among people who spend significant amounts of time on screens. Repetitive motions and static positions associated with screen use can put a strain on the muscles which can lead to muscle tension, stiffness, and pain.
3. Eye Strain:Staring at screens for extended periods can cause eye strain, dryness, and headaches.
4. Reduced Mobility: Sedentary behavior associated with screen time can contribute to decreased mobility and flexibility, leading to an increased risk of obesity and other physical health issues.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

By focusing on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system, chiropractic care emphasizes the body’s innate ability to heal itself. By addressing spinal misalignments, this form of healthcare can alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being. Here’s how chiropractic care can counter the effects of screen time:

1. Spinal Adjustments:As chiropractors, we perform spinal adjustments to correct misalignments, known as subluxations, restoring proper alignment and function to the spine and alleviating strain on the muscles and joints. Our approach maintains proper spinal alignment and mobility to help prevent long-term damage and promote overall well-being.
2. Postural Correction:Chiropractic care specializes in identifying and correcting postural imbalances through a combination of targeted therapies, adjustments, exercises, and ergonomic recommendations. This helps patients improve their posture and prevent future issues caused by poor posture habits.
3. Enhancing Circulation and Nerve Function:

Prolonged screen use can impair blood circulation and compromise nerve function, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arms and hands. Chiropractic adjustments stimulate blood flow and nerve conduction, helping to restore optimal function to the nervous system. By addressing these underlying issues, we can alleviate discomfort and promote healing in the affected areas.

4. Pain Management:Chiropractic care offers natural pain relief for neck, back, and shoulder pain associated with prolonged screen time. By targeting the underlying cause of the pain, rather than masking symptoms with medication, chiropractors promote long-term healing.
5. Stress Reduction:Screen time often leads to increased stress and tension in the body. Chiropractic adjustments can help release tension in the muscles and promote relaxation, reducing overall stress levels.
6. Lifestyle Recommendations:In addition to hands-on treatments, our chiropractors at Chirolink provide valuable lifestyle recommendations to support spinal health, including exercise routines, ergonomic workstation setups, and stress management techniques.

Incorporating Chiropractic Care into Your Wellness Routine

To reap the benefits of chiropractic care in combating the effects of screen time, consider incorporating the following tips into your daily routine:

1. Schedule Regular Chiropractic Adjustments:Make chiropractic appointments a regular part of your wellness routine to maintain spinal alignment and prevent issues caused by prolonged screen time.
2. Take Breaks and Move:Incorporate regular breaks into your screen time routine to stretch, move around, and give your eyes a rest. You can set daily reminders to take short breaks every 30 minutes to an hour.
3. Practice Good Ergonomics:Ensure that your workstation is ergonomically designed to promote proper posture and reduce strain on your neck and back. Adjust your chair, and desk and monitor height to maintain neutral spine alignment.
4. Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting. Incorporate activities such as walking, stretching, or strength training into your routine to improve mobility and posture.
5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well:Proper hydration and nutrition are essential for overall health and well-being. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support optimal spinal function.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to mitigating the effects of screen time on our bodies. By addressing spinal misalignments, promoting proper posture, and providing natural pain relief, we empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being in the digital age. Incorporating chiropractic care into your wellness routine, along with healthy lifestyle habits, can help you combat the negative effects of screen time and enjoy a healthier, more vibrant life.

By implementing these strategies, you can not only alleviate the immediate discomfort caused by excessive screen time but also promote long-term spinal health and overall wellness. If you’re experiencing discomfort or pain related to screen time, consider consulting with us at Chirolink to explore your treatment options and take proactive steps towards better health in the digital age. Additionally, you can also consider chiropractic care as an essential component of your wellness routine. Your body will thank you for it.

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system, which is designed to recognize and eliminate harmful substances, mistakenly attacks the body’s healthy tissues and organs. The exact causes of autoimmune diseases are still not fully understood. However, researchers believe that a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors plays a significant role in their development.

There are over 80 known autoimmune diseases, each with its own set of symptoms and affected organs. Some common examples include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis. These diseases can target virtually any part of the body, leading to a wide range of symptoms and complications. 

What are the symptoms?

Autoimmune diseases can have a profound impact on the lives of those affected. Each autoimmune disease presents with its symptoms depending on the main organs involved. Many of them have similar generalized symptoms that can be diverse, ranging from mild to severe, and can include fatigue and malaise, difficulty concentrating, joint and muscle pain, skin rashes or changes (e.g. dryness), hair changes, digestive issues, neurological problems, and more. The unpredictable nature of autoimmune diseases often leads to challenges in diagnosis and treatment, as symptoms may fluctuate and mimic other conditions. 

Living with an autoimmune disease can also take an emotional toll. Chronic pain, fatigue, and limitations in daily activities can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, and depression. Individuals with autoimmune diseases need to receive not only medical support but also emotional and psychological support to cope with the challenges they face. It is generally advised that this should also be extended to the closest family and friends of these individuals. Living with the repercussions of an autoimmune disease may affect you as an individual, but it commonly takes an emotional toll on the surrounding support structure too.

So, what is the cause of autoimmune disease?

Unfortunately, even in the twenty-first century, there are no known specific causes of autoimmune diseases but there are a few known factors that may increase your risk of developing one and the risk increases with the more of these factors you are exposed to. These include:

• Gender – the female gender has a higher prevalence of most autoimmune diseases.
• Family history – having a family member with an autoimmune disease increases the likelihood of developing one as some autoimmune diseases are genetic. 
• Environmental factors – stress and exposure to certain bacteria or viruses (infections) as well as toxin exposure including pollution, smoking, mercury, and chemicals may increase your risk.
• Ethnicity – certain ethnicities are more likely to present with certain autoimmune diseases. An example of this would be muscular autoimmune diseases being more frequent within the Caucasian ethnicity and systemic lupus erythematosus being more common within the Latino, Hispanic, and African American ethnicities.  
• Already having an existing autoimmune disease – you are at a greater risk of a second autoimmune disease if you already have an existing one. 
• Nutrition – a diet lacking quality nutrition increases your risk and severity of autoimmune disease.
• Certain medications – some pharmaceutical medications may have side effects within the body that confuse the immune system.
• Other existing health conditions may also increase your risk of developing an autoimmune disease such as obesity. 

How are autoimmune diseases treated? 

While there is no cure for autoimmune disease, significant progress has been made in managing their symptoms and slowing disease progression. Treatment approaches vary depending on the specific disease and its severity but often involve a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and therapies.

Immunosuppressants or anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly prescribed to reduce the activity of the immune system and control inflammation. Biologic therapies, which target specific molecules involved in the immune response, have revolutionized the treatment of some autoimmune diseases. 

Lifestyle changes are not to be underestimated. These include adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. These simple yet significant changes can contribute to overall well-being and symptom management. At Chirolink, we’ve seen an unparalleled improvement in our patients who have adopted these changes into their everyday lives. This goes hand in hand with patients reaching out for the appropriate psychological support to cope with the emotional toll that it can take.

Promising research is also conducted in areas such as gene therapy, stem cell transplantation, and immunomodulatory drugs, offering hope for more effective treatments and even potential cures in the future.

Autoimmune diseases pose complex challenges for both patients and the medical community. They are characterized by a malfunctioning immune system that attacks the body’s tissues, leading to a wide array of symptoms and complications. Despite the difficulties faced by individuals with autoimmune diseases, advancements in research and treatment options have provided hope for improved management and quality of life. 

With continued research, increased awareness, and a holistic approach to care, we can strive to unravel the mysteries surrounding autoimmune diseases. By supporting affected individuals and professionals, we move closer to a future where these diseases are better understood, effectively treated, and ultimately prevented.

Remember, if you or someone you know is living with an autoimmune disease, seek medical advice and support from healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan and find the necessary resources to navigate this challenging journey. If you’d like to discuss it any further with us at Chirolink, don’t hesitate to book an appointment. We are more than happy to assist all of our patients to achieve a happier, healthier, and more comfortable life. 

Don’t forget to catch our next blog post! We’ll be looking at a few of these autoimmune diseases in a bit more detail.

This blog post outlines a few different exercises out of the normal gym routine that you can do to give your body the boost it needs to take your quality of life to the next level.

Before we give you these important exercises, we will first discuss why we do them and explain just how smart the body is.

Firstly, there are the well-known benefits of exercise. It combats disease, boosts the immune system, maintains a healthy weight, keeps us strong, and even balances our mood. Ultimately, the stronger we are, the more stable our bodies are, in every sense (our joints, meaning less pain and inflammation, but also systemic health). The happier and healthier our joints and muscles are, there is much less chance of wear and tear.

Why these specific exercises?

Firstly, Chiropractic adjustments provide the body with significant proprioceptive input, and this alone benefits the body in a variety of ways, but we all have our parts to play in health and healing. Going for regular adjustments is crucial but there is more you can do at home! There are very specific exercises we can do that complement the adjustments phenomenally. These exercises focus on the body’s proprioception and cross-lateral motor control. They focus on postural muscles that require strength to keep our backs and bodies strong and stable by appropriately positioning themselves to protect the spine. They keep the body at its lowest risk of acute or chronic injury. In other words, regular adjustments and exercise sharpen the proprioception in our body stimulating the flow of sensory integration resulting in a better functioning of our frame.

Let’s first break down proprioception.

Proprioception refers to the sense and perception of the position, movement, and orientation of our body parts. Our nervous system can gather information from sensory receptors located in our muscles, tendons, joints, and inner ear and integrate that information to provide us with a continuous sense of our body’s position and movement in space.

Proprioception plays a crucial role in our daily activities and overall coordination.

Here are a few reasons why it is important :

• Body awareness: proprioception allows us to have a sense of where our body parts are without having to look at them. It enables us to perform tasks such as reaching for objects, typing on a keyboard, or walking without constantly monitoring our movements visually.
• Posture and balance: Proprioception helps us maintain proper posture and balance. It provides feedback to our muscles and joints, allowing us to make subtle adjustments to keep our body aligned and stable. This is particularly important during activities that require stability, such as standing, running, or playing sports.
• Motor control: proprioceptive information is vital for fine motor control and coordination. It allows us to perform precise movements with our hands and fingers, like writing, playing musical instruments, or using tools. It also helps us adapt our movements to different situations, such as adjusting our grip strength when picking up objects of varying weights.
• Injury prevention: proprioception plays a role in injury prevention by providing us with a sense of body position and movement. It helps us detect and correct movements that may put excessive strain on our joints or muscles. For example, if we stumble, proprioception allows us to quickly adjust our body position and recover balance to prevent a fall.
• Rehabilitation: proprioception is crucial in rehabilitation following injuries or surgeries. It helps individuals regain strength, coordination, and motor control by retraining the sensory feedback loops between the brain and the body. Rehabilitative exercises often involve tasks to improve proprioceptive functioning.

Overall, proprioception is essential for our daily functioning, coordination, and body awareness. It allows us to navigate the world smoothly and efficiently while maintaining balance and preventing injuries.

Specific proprioceptive exercises include:

Planking – while laying your stomach, lift the body with only the forearms and toes on the ground. The elbows are bent, the arms are shoulder-width apart and the body is held up in a straight line (no lifting or dropping of the pelvis). This position is held for as long as possible. We recommend trying to build it up to a minute a day – or longer if you can!

Bird dogs – while on your hands and knees in the tabletop position, slowly lift your left hand while simultaneously lifting your right leg and then bring them back down. This is then repeated on the opposite side.

Cat cows or pelvic tilting – while on your hands and knees in the tabletop position, slowly and gently tilt the pelvis while arching the lower back. From here slowly come back to neutral and tuck the pelvis under by rounding the back up towards the sky. These movements are done while holding the abdominal muscles firm to protect the small structures of the back.

Simply balancing on one leg. This can be done with your eyes open or closed while standing on an uneven surface or while brushing your teeth.

Motor coordination or cross-lateral exercises are an exceptional way to build up proprioceptive input into the spine and brain. They are integrative exercises that reinforce this information. They are not incredibly challenging but require consistency, persistence, and finesse. Motor coordination is the ability of the different parts and sides of the brain to communicate effectively and share information during functional tasks. As babies, not all of us crawl for long enough or efficiently enough and it is suspected that this may lead to difficulty doing cross-laterality exercises further down the line. This has even been linked to academic and sporting difficulties.

Cross-lateral exercises for motor control are designed to train and develop the communication pathways between each side of the brain about the body. The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body and vice versa. these include:

• While standing upright, slowly lean forward while raising the left arm forward and lifting the right leg backward. Without twisting the hips or body. This is repeated on the opposite side.
• While standing upright, with the elbow bent, raise your right arm to the side while raising your left leg forward with your knee bent. This is repeated on the opposite side.
• While standing, raise the left arm to the side while raising the right leg to the side with the knee straight. This is repeated on the opposite side.
• While lying on your back, raise your left arm over your head while simultaneously turning your head to the left.

These movements need to be done simultaneously, not separately. They are not challenging like gym exercises and therefore don’t require you to go too far or too hard. They require finesse and control as we are exercising the nervous system not just the muscular system.

Always remember that some is better than none. The volume of exercises can be overwhelming. We encourage our patients to at least do some but to do it consistently to truly see the results.

If you’d like to discuss this further and take it to the next step, book an appointment at Chirolink and we will be more than happy to help you!

What types of traumatic injuries occur?

When it comes to knee trauma, the most common types are injuries are ligament tearing or sprain, meniscal tearing or fraying, dislocations, or fractures. Knee fractures occur with a sudden trauma, as do dislocations, but dislocations can also occur with specific underlying predispositions. Traumatic injuries have two aspects. The first is sudden acute trauma and the second is repetitive microtrauma. The ligaments and menisci may undergo both types of traumas. For this post, we will be focusing specifically on the trauma of these two structures.

Firstly, when do we see these the most? Sports. Let’s go into more detail.

Ligament tears:

When there is ligament tearing it commonly affects one of the four primary ligaments, being the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL). The most common way any of these ligaments are injured is with a sudden and forceful movement that has put excessive stress on the ligaments. These include sports-related injuries that normally high impact on the knees such as football, netball, skiing, or rugby. Trauma results from a direct blow to the knee such as a fall or motor vehicle accident. Overuse with specific activities, such as long-distance running, causes repetitive microtrauma resulting in a greater tear.

• The ACL is the most injured knee ligament. This normally occurs during activities that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or pivoting motions.
• PCL is less common and often occurs because of a direct blow to the front of the knee or from hyperextension.
• The MCL is located on the inner side of the knee and is typically injured from a direct blow to the outer side of the knee.
• The LCL is located on the outer side of the knee and is less commonly injured than the MCL. These injuries typically result from a direct blow to the inner side of the knee.

Symptoms:

• Sudden pain
• Swelling – sudden onset
• Clicking or popping sound
• Reduced range of motion
• Feeling that the leg may ‘give way’.

This has the potential to be an exceptionally painful injury, but the degree of pain is proportional to the amount of tearing that has occurred. It can affect anyone of all ages and activity levels. It is important to know this information for early detection and proper treatment.

We’ll give an example. Angela has been playing netball multiple times per week for the past six years. It became a passion of hers at 16 years old and hasn’t looked back. She arrived at Chirolink a month ago suffering from severe knee pain. Two days before her appointment with us, she had stopped very suddenly during her match, hearing a pop, and feeling a searing pain in her knee. Since then, it has remained painful, accumulated a large amount of swelling, and had a significantly limited range of motion. After a physical examination, we determined that Angela had most likely sprained her ACL. This is a painful and tricky condition to navigate, but in our hands, we managed to assist her with recovery seamlessly. Later in this blog post, we will discuss her Chiropractic treatment.

Meniscus injury:

A meniscus injury is a prevalent type of knee injury. The knee has two menisci each. They are a C-shaped piece of cartilage located in the knee joint, serving as a cushion between the thigh bone (femur) and the shinbone (tibia). This type of injury generally occurs due to sudden trauma but can also occur with slow progressive degenerative changes with time.

The most common causes include –

Traumatic injuries: meniscus injuries often occur during sporting activities that involve sudden twisting or pivoting movements, such as soccer or basketball. Direct impact or forceful twisting of the knee can cause tears or strains in the meniscus.

Age and degeneration: as we age, the meniscus becomes more prone to degenerative changes. Over time, the cartilage weakens, making it more susceptible to tears or fraying even with minimal stress or movement.

Symptoms:

• Pain that is localized over the knee joint. It may be sharp or dull, depending on the severity of the injury.
• Swelling.
• Limited range of motion that may feel as if it is ‘locking’ or ‘catching’ during movement.
• Instability or feeling that it may ‘give way’.

Another example would be Dave , 24 years old and is a passionate player for his local football team. He arrived at Chirolink complaining of pain that felt as if it were coming from deep within the knee joint. Firstly, it had started one week before the appointment after hearing a popping sound when he quickly turned during a football game. The pain was made worse with turning movements and found he was struggling to fully straighten his knee. The swelling had been noticeably progressing over the week. It was one of those pains he was hoping would have faded with time but this time it wasn’t. after a thorough assessment, we determined that Dave had torn the meniscus in his left knee.

A key point to note is that ligament and meniscus injuries have mostly the same symptoms, but the speed of swelling and method of injury are the two differing factors. Another important fact to note is that these two injuries do commonly occur simultaneously.

These will be diagnosed with your Chiropractor after a physical examination. If a severe injury is suspected and with little response to conservative treatment, it may warrant further imaging (x-ray or MRI) and a specialist consultation.

These are two completely different causes of knee pain, with different diagnoses. We use our knees non-stop with walking. When there is any form of injury involved, there are immediate compensatory changes within the ankles, pelvis, and spine. To prevent overload of these joints, we use Chiropractic adjustments to ensure they are all moving properly to manage the added load better. The nervous system is highly complex and as Chiropractors we can tap into that ability and harness it to significantly reduce the healing time.

The last key point to remember is that we can reduce the risk of both injuries with a few simple steps. This includes strengthening exercises, proper sporting technique, and ensuring we warm up before activities and stretch afterwards.

To conclude our blog series, there are many different causes of knee pain. Some of which haven’t been mentioned in these blog posts at all. Each condition is different, and each person is different so if you are struggling with knee pain, book with us at Chirolink and we will be able to help.

We would like to encourage our patients not to neglect their pain as it is human nature for us to only appreciate something when we no longer have it. Health is wealth. And it should be treasured while it is there. One of the most common causes of knee pain that we see here at Chirolink is osteoarthritis.

An example would be Paul. At 67, he has accomplished a lot in his life. From professional rugby for seven years to owning his own construction business. Paul has always been fond of doing manual work. His life has consisted of relatively hard manual labour and his body had started to feel its effects. He arrived at Chirolink for his regular maintenance session and happened to mention that his knee was giving him a bit of trouble. It was showing signs of arthritis. His knee was stiff, and sore, particularly in the mornings and when walking too much. He’d noticed it making clicking and grinding sounds too. By catching it in its tracks, we have since been able to significantly improve Paul’s quality of life, and what a pleasure it was to be a part of his journey. 

Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease is an exceptionally common condition. Due to the nature of it being a wear and tear disease, many of us will get some form of it at some point in our lives. It simply differs in location, time of onset, and severity and we must never forget that it is a condition that can be prevented and managed incredibly well with the right care. The start of osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage on each bony surface of the joint undergoes some wear down. As it is with anything, aging occurs but certain risk factors can contribute to the likelihood of it occurring. 

So, what are certain factors that contribute to the development of knee OA?

• Age: Unfortunately, the risk increases with age, as the wear and tear on the joints accumulates over time. 
• Joint injury: traumatic injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can damage the knee joint and increase the likelihood of developing OA later in life.
• Obesity: excess weight places additional stress on the knee joints, accelerating the breakdown of cartilage.
• Repetitive stress: occupations or sporting activities that involve repetitive stress on the knees, such as kneeling, squatting, or lifting heavy loads, can contribute to the development of OA.

To understand why we get the symptoms, we need to understand what is happening to the joint. The first part of osteoarthritis is the wearing away of the cartilage, the second part is when there is narrowing of the joint space between the bony surfaces and the third part is when the body attempts to stabilize the joint by placing calcified tissue into the area. Most of the pain that patients experience starts at the second stage going into the third as this is when the two bony surfaces of the joint start to rub against each other. Due to it being a very slow process, we often don’t know that it’s happening until it has progressed a fair amount into the ‘disease’ process. 

Within the knee itself, osteoarthritis commonly affects the joint between the thigh bone (femur) and the leg bone (tibia) and more specifically on the inner side of this joint (medial aspect). It can commonly affect the joint between the kneecap (patella) and the thigh bone (femur) too. 

What are the symptoms?

• Pain that persists within the joint or behind the knee cap.
• Stiffness and possible swelling.
• Reduced range of motion.
• Pain and stiffness that is worse in the morning or with prolonged periods of inactivity.
• Pain and stiffness that is relieved with heat and gentle activity.
• Possible joint instability (if it is in the second phase of the OA).

How do we treat this?

We do what we do best. As Chiropractors, we prioritize normal movement. Motion is lotion especially when it comes to osteoarthritis. This is not just with the knee and patella alone, but the full biomechanical chain where the movement of the full spine, hips, and ankles are assessed and adjusted where necessary. The patellar, quadriceps, and gluteal muscles are important for us to zone in on. With the wear and tear that occurs within this system, not just the joints are affected. The supporting muscles are too, and these have a direct impact. This is effective in the treatment but also prevention of osteoarthritis. Depending on the symptoms, diagnosis, and response to treatment, patients may be sent for further scans such as an X-ray or ultrasound when warranted. Essentially, we ensure there is optimal movement in the joints which also means happy muscles, happy biomechanics, and a happier life. It really can be that simple. 

Knee OA can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, but with the right knowledge and management strategies, its effects can be reduced. At Chirolink we believe that knowledge is power, and we encourage our patients to take an active role in their recovery by understanding their condition, getting it treated, and doing all the right homework. We have seen it time and time again. The patients who persist are the ones who see the greatest results! Remember, early intervention is key. If you have any further questions regarding your knee pain, book with us at Chirolink and we can assist you with living a pain-free and better quality of life. 

To find out more about knee pain, look at our next blog post. 

How many of us struggle with knee pain but think ‘Ah, it will go away eventually’ and then leave it without getting it treated? A lot of us. At Chirolink we see this time and time again. Many of us don’t think it’s ‘serious’ enough to get it looked at. Because it’s not a sore back, we automatically think it’s less important. Yes, the spine does house our ever-important spinal cord, but this doesn’t mean the knee should be neglected when it’s in pain. Knees, biomechanically, are incredibly underrated and many of the conditions associated with it shouldn’t be ignored to prevent trouble down the line. 

The first case that we’ll discuss is about Claire. Few weeks ago, Claire came to Chirolink with pain behind and below her kneecap. It had started niggling a few months ago but came to a head one week prior, after going to the gym and ‘overdoing’ it with her weighted lunges. She left it untreated for the week (and continued exercising) in the hope that it would get better but unfortunately, there was no improvement. Claire promptly booked to see us at Chirolink to get it checked. After an assessment, we determined that she was experiencing a patella tendinitis and patellofemoral pain syndrome. We quickly formulated a treatment plan and got her pain-free in no time.

Let’s break down each of these conditions:

Patella tendinitis and patellofemoral pain syndrome are two conditions that commonly go hand in hand. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is defined as pain at the front of the knee and surrounding the patella. It is suggested that the pain occurring is due to injury and inflammation of the cartilage at the back of the kneecap (patella). This occurs when the patella is not ‘tracking’ properly when pulled slightly towards the outer aspect of the knee consistently for a long period. This creates closer bone-on-bone contact between the patella and the femur. This method of injury is commonly the cause of patella tendinitis too where abnormal tension is placed on the tendon consistently for a long period, but it can also be caused by a sudden overload. The question is why would the patella track incorrectly? The patella itself is enveloped by the tendon of the quadriceps muscle. If something is biomechanically compromised in the chain upwards (the quadriceps, hip flexor, or extensor muscles and the joints of the pelvis), the movement of the patella is compromised. 

Symptoms: 

• Pain behind and around the patella (especially below it).
• Clicking and popping sounds with movement.
• Possible swelling surrounding the patella.

Our second case is about Kate. Unsure if this was the right place for her to be, Kate arrived at Chirolink seeking help for the pain she was experiencing at the side of her knee. It had been on and off for about 4 months but had noticeably progressed in the last two weeks. After taking a thorough history and physical examination, we discovered that Kate had significantly increased her cycling distance over the last month and that her bicycle setup wasn’t correct. These are two simple things put together to create what we call ITB (iliotibial band) syndrome. This is a frustrating condition for many sportsmen but can be managed well with the correct treatment protocols. A swift treatment plan was made for Kate and with each session, she has gotten better and better. 

Let’s break it down:

ITB Syndrome is a condition that occurs when there is an increased workload placed on the tendon at the side of the knee, rubbing against the bone. This increased load results in considerably more friction and resultant inflammation. When this tendon is pulled too tight (from higher up the leg) or when there is sudden repetitive overload, it is more likely to happen. Why would it be pulled too tight? The ITB itself is formed by the gluteal muscles and the tensor fascia lata muscle joining together at the side of the hip. When these muscles are pulled too tight (because we often tend to sit too much or forget to stretch after exercise), they pull on the tendon. 

Symptoms:

• Pain at the side of the knee – particularly when running cycling or walking downstairs.
• Possible swelling at the side of the knee.
• Possible clicking when bending the knee.

In both Claire’s and Kate’s conditions, the cause of the knee pain was due to overloading their respective tendons. Claire’s was due to a combination of sudden overload and repetitive micro-trauma whereas Kate’s was due to repetitive micro-trauma solely. 

So, how do we treat these conditions? 

We must ensure that the movement of the entire biomechanical chain is sound. This includes the knee and patella itself but also the foot and ankle, pelvis, and spine. Where there is abnormal movement, we employ safe and effective adjustments to restore normal movement and nerve function. Firstly, this provides optimal movement and function, but it can also have a resultant neural reflex reaction to the associated muscles, allowing them to release tension as well as activate properly. We use trigger point therapy for the problematic muscles and give effective stretches and home advice for our patients to receive the best outcome. Depending on the symptoms, diagnosis, and response to treatment, patients may be sent for further scans such as an X-ray or ultrasound when warranted. 

A lot, we know! But there is so much more interesting information to come. If you’d like to learn more about the different causes of knee pain, keep an eye out for our next blog post that’s on its way.

Cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of the elbow, commonly known as the “funny bone.” When the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated at the cubital tunnel, located on the inside of the elbow, it can result in a range of symptoms that can significantly impact an individual’s daily life.

Cubital tunnel syndrome often occurs due to repetitive or prolonged activities that involve bending the elbow, such as frequent and forceful elbow flexion, leaning on the elbow for extended periods, or repetitive throwing motions. Other potential causes include elbow fractures, arthritis, cysts, or abnormal bone growth in the area. In some cases, individuals may be born with a smaller or tighter cubital tunnel, making them more prone to developing the condition.

Symptoms:

• Numbness or tingling in the ring finger and the little finger. This sensation can extend to the hand and forearm.
• Weakness in the hand makes it challenging to perform certain movements, such as gripping objects or manipulating small items.
• Pain may be present in the elbow, forearm, or hand. It can range from mild discomfort to sharp, shooting pain.
• Difficulty with hand coordination.
• Worsening symptoms at night.

Cubital tunnel syndrome can cause discomfort, weakness, and functional limitations in the affected arm and hand. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking appropriate treatment can help individuals manage the condition effectively which we will discuss further below. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and to develop an individualized treatment plan that suits each person’s unique needs. With proper care, most individuals can find relief from cubital tunnel syndrome and regain their quality of life.

Neck Conditions and Elbow Discomfort:

When we think about the human body’s interconnectedness, it’s easy to overlook the intricate relationship between different body parts. One such connection that often goes unnoticed is the link between neck conditions and elbow discomfort. While it may seem counterintuitive, several neck-related issues can manifest as symptoms in the elbow. Let’s dive in and unravel the fascinating connection between neck conditions and elbow discomfort.

To comprehend how neck conditions can impact the elbow, we need to acknowledge the complex network of nerves that traverse our bodies. The nerves responsible for transmitting sensations and controlling movement in the arm and hand originate from the cervical spine, located in the neck. When there is a disturbance in the neck, such as an injury or degenerative changes, it can affect the nerves that travel down to the elbow.

Common Neck Conditions and their impact

Cervical Radiculopathy: Cervical radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the neck is compressed or irritated, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness that radiate down the arm and into the elbow. The most common causes of cervical radiculopathy are herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis, which can exert pressure on the nerve roots.

Cervical Disc Degeneration: As we age, the discs between the vertebrae in the neck may deteriorate or degenerate. This degeneration can result in the narrowing of the spinal canal and the formation of bone spurs, both of which can compress the nerve roots. Consequently, individuals may experience referred pain in the elbow region.

Forward Head Posture: Modern lifestyles characterized by prolonged sitting and excessive use of electronic devices often contribute to poor posture, including forward head posture. This condition places increased strain on the neck and upper back muscles, leading to muscle imbalances and tension. The resulting muscle tightness can refer pain to in the elbow area.

While it may be surprising, the connection between neck conditions and elbow discomfort is a real phenomenon. Understanding this relationship helps healthcare professionals diagnose and treat patients more effectively. If you experience persistent elbow pain or discomfort, it’s important to consult with a medical professional who can evaluate your symptoms comprehensively and determine the underlying cause. By addressing the neck condition, you can find relief not only for your elbow but also for the interconnected web of symptoms throughout your upper body. Remember, our bodies are intricately interconnected, and by acknowledging and tending to these connections, we can achieve better overall well-being.

Treatment for both conditions:

With regards to cubital tunnel syndrome and referred pain to the elbow, Chirolink utilizes a holistic approach to treatment to ensure the best, most effective, and quickest response to treatment. 

Chiropractors specialise in the treatment and management of the neuromusculoskeletal system. What does this mean? Any nerve, muscle, and joint-related condition can be treated by your Chiropractor! Cubital tunnel syndrome and referred pain to the elbow are both types of conditions that fall exactly into that category. Biomechanically we need to ensure the system of joint movement is working optimally within the neck, back, shoulder, and elbow about these conditions because the entire system works. The proper neurological input to these areas reduces pressure on the nerves and ensures there is proper mechanical function but also allows optimal nerve function. This allows the body to tap into its innate ability to adapt and heal itself. 

The important key to recovery from both conditions is avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms and adopting ergonomic modifications that can help alleviate pressure on the involved nerve. For example, using a padded splint or brace to keep the elbow straight during sleep can relieve symptoms and prevent further irritation. Paying attention to maintaining good posture throughout the day is crucial. Ergonomic adjustments at workstations, taking frequent breaks, and practicing exercises that promote proper alignment can help relieve stress on the neck and the elbow.

Therapeutic exercises, stretches, and manual techniques can help improve posture, strengthen muscles, and reduce nerve compression. Eating densely nutritious food and taking the appropriate vitamins to assist our nerves and muscles to function without any hindrance or additional stress. The go-to vitamin for nerves is vitamin B and the go-to for muscles is magnesium. Vitamin D is highly recommended for overall health and wellness as statistically, most of us are deficient and we desperately need it for many processes in each cell of the body. 

Certain measures can help reduce the risk of developing these conditions or minimize their impact. These measures include maintaining good posture and avoiding prolonged leaning on the elbows, taking regular breaks from repetitive activities that strain the neck and elbow, utilizing ergonomic equipment adopting proper workplace ergonomics, and incorporating exercises that strengthen the body, neck, and arms as well as promote flexibility.

To conclude our blog series, there are many different causes of elbow pain. Some of which haven’t been mentioned in these blog posts at all. Each condition is different, and each person is different so if you are struggling with elbow pain, book in to see us at Chirolink and we will be able to help. 

Gout – what is it? Why does it happen? How do we manage it?

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that affects millions of people worldwide. While it most commonly affects the big toe, gout can also manifest in other joints, including the elbow. 

Cause

Gout occurs due to the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. Uric acid is a waste product produced by the breakdown of purines, which are found in certain foods and are also naturally produced in the body. When the body is unable to eliminate uric acid efficiently, it can accumulate and form crystals, leading to gout attacks. Several factors contribute to the development of gout, including genetics, obesity, certain medications, and dietary choices.

Symptoms

Sudden and intense pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected joint. When gout affects the elbow, these symptoms manifest in the form of severe elbow pain, making it difficult to move or perform daily activities. The pain associated with gout in the elbow can be excruciating and may last for a few days or longer without treatment. Some people may also experience fever and a general feeling of illness during the gout attack. 

Treatment

Gout in the elbow can be a painful and debilitating condition. As chiropractors, we look at the holistic treatment of our patients. Everything is connected and we care about our patients’ health from every angle. Gout may not be a condition where Chiropractic adjustments can directly take the uric acid crystals away, but they can give the body and nervous system the best ability possible to heal. 

It is important to manage gout with a combination of lifestyle changes, medication (when necessary), and self-care strategies. Rest immobilization and cold therapy are necessary to provide relief and help reduce further swelling and inflammation during the acute phase. Once the initial inflammation subsides, heat therapy in the form of warm compresses or a heating pad can provide soothing relief.

Diet and lifestyle changes are non-negotiable. Foods that are high in purines such as organ meats, shellfish, and certain types of fish are best to avoid helping prevent gout attacks. Staying well hydrated, limiting alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight are also very important factors. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are key to managing gout effectively, so don’t hesitate to seek out the correct medical advice. 

The next condition we will be discussing is trauma to the elbow. 

The elbow is a remarkable joint that enables a wide range of movements, from flexion and extension to rotation. However, like any joint, it is susceptible to trauma and injury.

Elbow trauma can occur due to various reasons including:

• Falling on an outstretched hand can lead to direct impact on the elbow joint, causing injury.
• High-impact occupations and sports such as tennis, basketball, or gymnastics where there is excessive strain on the elbow joint, leading to sprains, strains, or fractures using a direct blow or repetitive stress and overuse.

The most affected structures in the elbow due to trauma would be the ligaments, tearing, or the joint and bone itself, using dislocation or fracture.

Symptoms include:

• Pain is the primary symptom, ranging from mild discomfort to severe sharp pain depending on the severity and type of injury.
• Swelling and bruising depending on the severity and type of injury.
• Restricted range of motion making it difficult to flex or extend the elbow.
• Instability can occur when there is severe trauma resulting in dislocation or complete ligament tearing. This causes a visible deformity and loss of function. 

Traumatic injuries will be diagnosed with your Chiropractor after a physical examination. If a severe injury is suspected and with little response to conservative treatment, it may warrant further imaging (X-ray or MRI) and a specialist consultation. 

As we explained above about gout, chiropractors use a holistic approach to the treatment of patients. We are here to assist with the best recovery possible. We manage the biomechanical fallout and increase healing time by using the nervous system. This is not to be underestimated. When there is any form of injury involved, there are immediate compensatory changes within the neck, shoulders, and spine. To prevent overload of these joints, we use Chiropractic adjustments to ensure they are all moving properly to manage the added load better. The nervous system is highly complex and as Chiropractors we can tap into that ability and harness it to significantly reduce the healing time. We have seen these phenomenal results time and time again.

An elbow injury can significantly impact your quality of life, but with proper understanding and timely intervention, it can be effectively managed. If you experience persistent or worsening elbow pain, it is important to consult with us at Chirolink to provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. By following preventative measures and adopting healthy habits, you can reduce the risk of elbow pain and maintain optimal joint health for years to come. 

Keep a look at our next blog post in the series about elbow pain. In that post we will be discussing cubital tunnel syndrome as well as elbow pain referred from the neck.

At Chirolink we often have patients coming in for their regular treatment and then mention that they’ve been struggling with elbow pain. When the elbow gets acutely inflamed it can be incredibly frustrating purely because we use our elbows for almost every daily task. As we have seen so many people with elbow conditions due to different reasons, all we need to do to look up a Case Study is to look at our files.

The first two conditions we will discuss are the Tennis elbow and the Golfer’s elbow.

Tennis elbow

For the last 15 years, Rebecca has loved to make sure her garden looks photo-ready and has ensured she gets out maintaining it a few times a week. In the last month or so, for the first time, she has been in too much pain to do it. The outside of her elbow had started niggling and with each week it progressively got worse. Rebecca mentioned this to us at Chirolink while she was at her regular appointment, and we immediately set to work. After two months of treatment and a few specific recommendations she got so much better.

Tennis elbow, also known as Lateral Epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, it can occur in individuals who do not play tennis.

There are a variety of causes of tennis elbow, but it typically includes repetitive and strenuous activities that strain the muscles and tendons in the forearm. While tennis players are more prone to developing this condition due to the repetitive motion involved in their sport, it can also occur in individuals who engage in other activities such as typing, gardening, or using hand tools extensively.

The most common symptom is pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. The pain may radiate down the forearm and worsen with gripping or lifting objects. Other symptoms include weakness in the affected arm, difficulty in fully extending the arm, and discomfort when performing everyday tasks such as opening a door or shaking hands.

Golfer’s elbow

At 57 years old, Gerry has finally caved to his brother’s wishes and has recently started playing golf. Since he started about two months ago, he’s progressively had some pain on the inside of his elbow that spreads down his forearm. It feels worse when he plays golf particularly when he plays on a cold day. After he came to see us at Chirolink, we diagnosed him with Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, and arranged a treatment plan for him.

Golfer’s elbow, also known as Medial Epicondylitis, is like tennis elbow except that it firstly, affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow and secondly, is a less common condition. But as with tennis elbow, the name implies that the condition is sport-specific, which it is not.

Golfer’s elbow is a type of tendinitis that causes pain and inflammation in the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the inside of the elbow. Despite the name Golfer’s elbow, this condition can affect not only golfers but also individuals who perform repetitive motions involving the wrist and forearm, such as tennis players, carpenters, and painters.

The primary cause of the golfer’s elbow is overuse or repetitive stress on the tendons. This can result from frequent swinging, gripping, or flexing of the wrist, leading to tiny tears in the tendon and subsequent inflammation. The tendon undergoes stress and strain resulting in repetitive micro-tearing. Additionally, poor swing technique, improper equipment, and inadequate warm-up can contribute to the development of this condition.

The most common symptom is pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm. The pain may worsen with gripping or lifting objects, making everyday activities challenging and affecting sports performance. Gerry was much better after 6 sessions of treatments. 

The next question may be ‘How do we treat this?’

Both medial and lateral tendinitis are treated in the same manner, although by targeting their respective tendons.

In Chiropractic, what we know is that when there is any tissue compromised in one part of the biomechanical chain, there is always compromise higher up and lower down as compensation. Both need to be resolved for a full recovery. As Chiropractors, we assess and correct any subluxations related to the spine and extremities to restore optimal nerve function and movement of the joint and soft tissue. This provides the groundwork to give the body the best chance at healing.

Treatment of tendinitis requires a combination approach. This includes physical treatment of the full biomechanical chain, gentle soft tissue work of the affected muscles, and activity modification. Ice application can be used to reduce immediate inflammation of the tendons at the elbow along with heat application to the forearm muscles. Resting the affected arm and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition is crucial for recovery. Modifying techniques or ergonomic tools can also reduce strain on the tendon. Wearing a brace around the forearm during specified activities can help provide support and relieve stress on the tendons. The braces that are specifically made for tennis elbow are designed to alter the fulcrum at which the tendon pulls. This reduces the amount of tension or activity occurring in the inflamed tissue. Finally, exercises to strengthen the forearm and stretches to improve flexibility in the tissues are crucial. In severe cases, medical intervention is required.

If you are suffering from elbow pain, it is important to get it examined by your Chiropractor for accurate diagnosis. This will typically include an extensive history, physical examination and possibly ordering of imaging such as x-ray or ultrasound.

By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and following preventative measures, such as proper technique, warming up adequately, and seeking professional help, you can effectively manage and prevent these two conditions. Remember, a proactive approach to your health and well-being is vital for enjoying your favourite activities pain-free.

To find out more about the other various causes of elbow pain, keep a look out for our second blog post that is coming out soon !