This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Leg and Foot Neuropathies Acupuncture Can Help- Sural Nerve Pain.  Peripheral Neuropathy is a general term for when there is damage to the peripheral nerves. And Peripheral nerves connect your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body. Neuropathy can be caused by various disorders and dysfunctions (e.g nerve entrapment, diabetes). Fortunately, if you have peripheral neuropathy of the leg or foot, acupuncture can provide relief! We’ve got some great information to share below about Sural Nerve Entrapment/Neuropathy and how Acupuncture can Help.

 

Sural Nerve Entrapment and Neuropathy

Do you have persistent pain, burning, aching, or numbness in the back side of your leg, ankle, or foot?  These are all symptoms of Sural Neuropathy. 

 

Anatomy of the Sural Nerve

The sural nerve is a cutaneous (affecting the skin) nerve. So it is purely sensory. It provides only sensation to the posterolateral (back outside) aspect of the distal (away from body) third of the leg and the lateral (outside) aspect of the foot, heel, and ankle.

It is formed by terminal (ending) branches of the tibial and common peroneal nerves (both branches of the sciatic nerve) that join together in the distal third of the leg.

The Sural Nerve descends between the two heads of the gastrocnemius (calf muscle).  Next, it pierces the deep fascia (casing of connective tissue holding muscles) in the middle or upper part of the back of the leg. Then it is joined by the sural communicating branch of the common peroneal nerve. Finally, it continues to the lateral malleolus (bump of bone on the outside of your ankle). 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Leg and Foot Neuropathies Acupuncture Can Help -Examination

Typically, patients are diagnosed by the physical (orthopedic, neurological etc.) examination.  However, your doctor may order a nerve conduction study in a difficult unremitting case.  Often, you may also need an x-ray. 

 

Entrapment Sites

Sural nerve entrapment/neuropathy most commonly occurs in the ankle/foot area. The entrapment site located approximately two thirds the distance between the knee and the heel is a less common entrapment location.  The  most common sites are in the fascia just above the ankle and behind the lateral malleolus.

Sural Neuropathy/Nerve Entrapment Causes

Your pain and paresthesias (numbness and tingling) could have come on insidiously (gradually).  However, Sural neuropathy/nerve entrapment can be due to various causes such as trauma, bakers cyst, scaring, fascial restrictions and vascular problems.

Firstly, tight boots and lacing may be the cause of compression of the sural nerve. 

Secondly, different forms of trauma can be a leading cause of sural nerve pain. For instance, after an ankle sprain or an ankle fracture.  Afterwards, this can create significant pulling and traction on the nerve. Additionally, direct impact to the nerve from being kicked, falling, or an accident can be a cause.

Thirdly, entrapment sites are areas along the nerve’s pathway that may become entrapped, causing more pressure on the nerve. For instance, like carpal tunnel syndrome in the hand.

Fourthly, trauma from surgery can cause sural neuropathy. Sadly, this may be a common cause of chronic pain CRPS (Complex regional pain syndrome). And this is often in the news because of the American opiate crisis.   Patients are taking harmful drugs due to pain. And some of these patients’ pain could be related to this painful sural neuropathy. Various surgeries in the ankle, foot and leg can injure the sural nerve, resulting in sural nerve pain.

 

Here are some examples of  Sural Neuropathy after surgery:

• Heel Fractures: Surgey is performed on the outer side of the heel bone which is next to the pathway of the nerve. A post-surgical scar can occur which irritates the nerve. So the nerve can become entrapped and tangled in the scar.
• Achilles Tendon Repair: Similarly, surgery performed on the achilles tendon for repair or lengthening places the nerve at a risk for injury.
• Ankle Surgery: Any ankle surgery may also cause injury to the nerve.

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Leg and Foot Neuropathies Acupuncture Can Help-Sural Nerve Pain-Research:

First, in one study, among patients with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), acupuncture helped the sural nerve.  Acupuncture helped by enhancing structural regeneration of the sural nerve.  This was according to study findings published in the journal Phytomedicine. 

Second, Chemotherapeutic agents cause cellular and DNA damage and inflammation which evoke peripheral nerve degeneration and small fiber neuropathy. To evaluate whether acupuncture may improve symptoms of CIPN, the Acupuncture for Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy (ACICIN) study was conducted between 2012 and 2015 at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf in Germany. Patients received weekly acupuncture for 10 weeks.

Third, in the same study, Acupuncture was also associated with improvements in burning pain, numbness, hypesthesia dorsum of foot, cramps, frequency of symptoms, and unsteadiness of gait.

Fourth, researchers concluded, subsequent studies should investigate the possible preventive effect of acupuncture if applied during chemotherapy.”

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Leg and Foot Neuropathies Acupuncture Can Help-Sural Nerve Pain: How does Acupuncture help?

Acupuncture is a treatment that has been used for over 4000 years to treat pain and other health problems. It is a painless technique used to affect what the ancient chinese practitioners called Meridians (energy channels) in your body under the skin. Traditional acupuncture is based on the belief that an energy, or “life force”, flows through the body in these channels called meridians.

 

Today, Researchers believe when an acupuncture needle is inserted, the sensory and proprioceptive nerves are stimulated. This sends a message to your brain and nervous system. Ultimately, Acupuncture improves blood flow and calms the nervous system.  This triggers nerve signaling that affects the function of other parts of the body, including organs.

 

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for sural nerve pain and many other ailments.

Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call 561-253-8984 today!  Ask to make an appointment or find out more about: Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Leg and Foot Neuropathies Acupuncture Can Help- Sural Nerve Pain. The next post will be on leg, ankle and/or foot neuropathies involving diabetes acupuncture can help.

 

References:

Friedemann T, Kark E, Cao N, et al. Acupuncture improves chemotherapy-induced neuropathy explored by neurophysiological and clinical outcomes – the randomized, controlled, cross-over ACUCIN trial. Phytomedicine. Published online June 26, 2022. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154294

 

 

This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Leg and Foot Neuropathies Acupuncture Can Help (Part 1).  Peripheral Neuropathy is a general term for when there is damage to the peripheral nerves. And Peripheral nerves connect your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body. Neuropathy can be caused by various disorders and dysfunctions (e.g nerve entrapment, diabetes). Fortunately, if you have peripheral neuropathy of the leg or foot, acupuncture can provide relief! We’ve got some great information to share below about Peroneal Nerve Entrapment/Neuropathy and how Acupuncture can Help.

Peroneal Nerve Entrapment and Neuropathy

Do you have pain and burning over the outer border of the distal (closest to foot) calf and dorsum (top) of the foot and ankle?  Perhaps you also have numbness and paresthesia (pins and needles)?  These are all symptoms of superficial peroneal nerve entrapment and neuropathy. 

 

Ankle/Foot Pain Due to Superficial Peroneal Neuropathy

If you are exercising, you may experience a loss of sensation or pain along the lateral calf.  Additionally, swelling may occur locally in your foot.  At other times, the pain may localize to a distal part of your leg.

 

Common Peroneal Nerve versus the Superficial Peroneal Neuropathy

Injury to the common peroneal nerve results in a foot drop described as slapping or tripping. Pain and parethesia (pins and needles) may occur at the site of compression as well as distally into the lateral leg. At times there may be a radiation of pain into the thigh. Numbness and tingling can occur along the lateral leg and dorsum (upper surface) of the foot. Peroneal neuropathies occurring at the fibular (outer of two bones of the lower leg) neck (upper part of fibula) affect the DPN (deep peroneal nerve).  The SPN (superficial peroneal nerve) entrapment occurs in the lower leg at the ankle frequently due to a twisting of the ankle.

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Leg and Foot Neuropathies Acupuncture Can Help (Part 1): Causes

Runners involve the superficial peroneal nerve frequently due to repetitive stretching.  This happens during inversion (turning sole of foot inwards) and plantar flexion (turning foot towards sole of foot), causing the nerve to push up against the fibula neck (top part of outer of 2 leg bones). 

You may have had a lateral (side) ankle sprain.  This may have also stretched and damaged the superficial peroneal nerve at the level of the fibular head (top of side leg bone). Similarly, a previous problem with this nerve may create a weakened peroneal muscle. And the peroneal muscle is essential for ankle positioning (especially for inversion) and stability. Next, this results in recurrent ankle sprains. 

Other causes may be:

-prolonged knee crossing (especially if you have recently lost a large amount of weight)

-tight knee band or cast

-repetitive trauma

-ganglions, cysts, or tumors

 

Anatomy of the Superficial Peroneal Nerve

Firstly, the superficial peroneal nerve originates from the common peroneal nerve along with the deep peroneal nerve. The superficial peroneal nerve is the smaller of the two common peroneal nerve branches.

Secondly, the common peroneal nerve arises from spinal nerves L4 through S1. Furthermore, the common peroneal nerve branches out from the sciatic nerve, which is composed of fibers from spinal nerves L4 through S3.

Third, the sciatic nerve terminates at the popliteal fossa of the knee.  It divides into the common peroneal and tibial nerves as it wraps around the top of the fibular bone.

Fourth, after separating from the common peroneal nerve, the superficial peroneal nerve courses through the peroneus longus muscle. The superficial peroneal nerve provides motor stimulation to the peroneus longus and peroneus brevis muscles (group of muscles that run along the outside of the lower leg and attach to the bones of the foot).

Fifth, the superficial peroneal nerve leaves the peroneal muscles on the anterolateral (front and side) aspect of the lower leg above the ankle joint.

Sixthly, the medial and intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerves appear from the superficial peroneal nerve. And these nerves provide sensory innervation to the leg’s anterolateral aspect, the dorsum (top) of the foot, and the dorsal (top) aspect of the toes, except the 1st interdigital space (between toes), which is innervated by the deep peroneal nerve. 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Leg and Foot Neuropathies Acupuncture Can Help -Examination

Typically, patients are diagnosed by the physical (orthopedic, neurological etc.) examination.  However, your doctor may order a nerve conduction study in a difficult unremitting case.  Often, you may also need an x-ray. 

Sites of possible entrapment of the superficial peroneal nerve include the following:

-deep fascia of leg, extensor digitorum longus muscle

-extensor hallucis longus muscle (lower leg muscles that move the foot and big toe)

-superior and inferior extensor retinaculum (thickened fascia located at the ankle joint).

 

Research on Acupuncture for Superficial Peroneal Nerve Pain and How it Works

Firstly, one review aimed to assess the efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of neuropathy of various etiologies (cause). Acupuncture appears to improve nerve conduction study parameters in both sensory and motor (movement) nerves. A nerve conduction study (NCS) is a diagnostic test that measures how fast and effectively electrical signals travel through your nerves. So this study focused on acupuncture and it’s effects on nerve function.

Secondly, traditional Chinese Medicine’s explanation is that channels of energy called meridians run in regular patterns through the body and over its surface. These energy (called Qi) channels, nourish the tissues. Moreover, with acupuncture treatment, there is an improvement and balance of energy.  Ultimately, this results in stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities.  Lastly, it promotes physical and emotional well-being.

Thirdly, the modern scientific explanation is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system.  Ultimately, this releases chemicals (e.g. enkephalins and endorphins) in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain. These chemicals can dramatically relieve pain.  Also, they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones.  And this further influences the body’s own internal regulating system.

Fourthly, once these neurotransmitters are moving about, your blood vessels vasodilates. And this gets blood into the affected areas, initiating healing. Indeed, Acupuncture improves blood flow and calms the nervous system. 

 

Are your suffering from leg, ankle and/or foot pain from Neuropathy?

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for superficial peroneal nerve pain and many other ailments. Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call 561-253-8984 today!  Ask to make an appointment or find out more about: Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Leg and Foot Neuropathies Acupuncture Can Help (Part 1). The next post will be on leg, ankle and/or foot pain involving the Sural Neuropathy/Nerve Entrapment.

 

References:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5359694/

J Altern Complement Med. 2017 Mar 1;23(3):164–179. doi: 10.1089/acm.2016.0155

Acupuncture for the Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

 

 

 

 

Posttraumatic headaches in automobile accidents, falls and/or contact sports with head and neck trauma are commonly seen in a Chiropractor’s office. This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief of a Concussion.

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head.  Moreover, it could be a hit to the body that forces the brain to rapidly move inside the skull. This disrupts normal brain function. Ultimately, this requires physical and cognitive rest to heal properly. Most likely, with direct trauma to the head, injury may occur. Next, a cerebral contusion (bruise) may occur. Typically, headaches can surface immediately or later. 

Frequently, patients with head trauma and loss of consciousness get a CT or MRI prior to presenting at our office.  Also, they may have already seen another specialist to rule out any severe brain injury.   

 

Symptoms of a Concussion

Firstly, even with neurologic function being intact, headaches from a concussion can be severe.  It can feel like a dull tension headache. 

Secondly, it can feel like a non-throbbing, persistent headache. And it is felt in the frontal or occipital (front and back of head) areas. It is often worse upon awakening. 

Thirdly, it may resolve during the day, but worsen in the late afternoon. Unfortunately, these headaches have been reported to last as little as months to as much as years.

Fourthly, other symptoms of a concussion are cognitive, visual, vestibular (sensory network in your inner ear that controls balance and spatial orientation), physiological, or of cervical spine (neck) origin.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief From a Concussion- Causes and Treatment

First, there are a number of possible causes for post-concussion symptoms. Indeed, there is evidence supporting various theories. For example, it may be brain blood flow abnormalities, metabolic/inflammatory contributors, visual and vestibular disorders, and cervical spine dysfunctions.

Second, in a case study series, researchers found the manual therapy as provided by chiropractors for the symptoms of concussions beneficial. Additionally, this seemed to be the case whether the concussion was sports or non-sports related. Also, the case studies involved acute thru the chronic stages of concussions. 

Third, the treatment plans in the studies above included soft-tissue therapy and spinal manipulation. And patient education on visual/vestibular rehabilitation exercises were provided. The researchers concluded chiropractors should be part of the interdisciplinary healthcare team for patients with post-concussion symptoms.

Fourth, a ‘brain recovery diet’ high in unrefined carbohydrates (i.e. real fruit juices, brown rice/pasta) was encouraged in the studies. So this was to try and counteract the possible blood-brain-barrier dysfunction. This was to fight the reduced intra-cerebral glucose levels that have been associated with a concussion. The ‘brain recovery diet’ consisted of three balanced meals. Specifically, the patient was encouraged to avoid refined sugars/carbohydrates (i.e. white flour products) and select natural sources of carbohydrate instead.  Also, patients were encouraged to select quality sources of protein (i.e. lean cuts of grass fed, free-range meats), to include quality fats (i.e. products high in omega-3 fatty acids), and select foods rich with natural antioxidants.

 

 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief From A Concussion

Meiri Chiropractic serving West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, North Palm Beach and the surrounding areas offers chiropractic care for concussions. Your chiropractor will examine, diagnose and determine your best course of chiropractic treatment for concussions . Call us in West Palm Beach at 561-253-8984 to schedule an appointment or to find out more about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief From A Concussion.  Start getting relief today!

 

 

This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Stress. Stress is defined as “a physical, chemical, or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension and may be a factor in disease causation” (1).  Psychosocial stress pervades modern life and is known to have an impact on health. You can experience stress from your environment, your body, and your thoughts. For instance, negative changes such as an illness, injury, job loss, or a relationship break-up can contribute. Similarly, positive changes such as a promotion, a mortgage, or the birth of a child still produce stress. 

Moreover, a state of continual stress ultimately wears out the body. And it especially effects the immune response and increases susceptibility to illness and slows healing.  Researchers estimate that stress contributes to many major illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, endocrine and metabolic disease, skin disorders, and infectious ailments of all kinds, insomnia or other changes in sleep patterns, and/or gastrointestinal disorders. Most definitely, almost all body functions and organs are effected. 

Chronic stress can lead to physical symptoms such as: 

1. headaches
2. muscle tension in the face, neck, back
3. shoulder/ chest pain
4. an upset stomach
5. elevated blood pressure
6. exhaustion
7. sexual dysfunction
8. increase or loss of appetite
9. problems sleeping

Acupuncture Can Help Your Stress

Firstly, acupuncture has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety. Even one treatment has been shown to be of benefit. Additionally, with a full course of care, the benefits have been shown to last many months to a year.

Secondly, Acupuncture helps to reduce stress by balancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. So Chronic stress can create havoc in your body. It can disrupt hormonal balance, which can influence everything else in your body. It can cause mood swings, thyroid issues, immune problems, and even fertility issues. Therefore, acupuncture can be part of a complete and holistic treatment plan to manage any disorder.

Lastly, not only can Acupuncture help you reduce stress, it can help improve your mood. 

 

Our bodies release stress hormones 

These include adrenaline, nor-adrenaline and cortisol. And the hormones create physiological changes to help us cope with the threat or “danger”. And the “fight or flight” response and is apparently designed to prepare one to face an immediate danger.

Firstly, the endocrine system gets activated with stress. The endocrine system plays an important role in regulating mood, growth/ development, tissue function, metabolism and reproductive processes. Furthermore, our metabolism is affected. Your hypothalamus located in the brain plays a key role in connecting the endocrine system with the nervous system. The hypothalamus sends Stress signals to activate the release of stress hormones cortisol and epinephrine (adrenalin) from your adrenal glands.  Next, glucose (blood sugar) is produced by your liver to provide the extra energy. Thereafter, most people reabsorb the extra glucose when the stress subsides.  However, for some people there is an increased risk of diabetes.  Subsequently, the Cortisol released as a consequence to stress suppresses the immune system and inflammatory pathways.  As a result, we become more susceptible to infections and chronic inflammatory conditions. In other words, our ability to fight off illness is reduced.

Secondly, stress can effect your gastrointestinal system. Heartburn and acid reflux might begin if you have changed your eating habits.  For instance, you may be eating more or less.  You may have started eating more fatty and/or sugary foods. So the ability of our intestines to absorb nutrients from our food may be reduced. The result may be stomach pain, bloating and nausea, diarrhea or constipation.

Thirdly, heart rate and blood pressure increase when you are stressed. Once the stress passes, it returns to normal.  However, if chronically experienced, damage to blood vessels and arteries may occur. You will have an increased risk for hypertension, heart attack or stroke.

Fourthly, your respiratory system is working to breathe harder and more quickly with stress. This is to quickly distribute oxygen-rich blood around your body. For asthmatics, this could be a problem. For others it can cause hyperventilation. The last scenery is more likely if someone is prone to anxiety and panic attacks.

 

We can’t avoid stress in life, but acupuncture can help relieve your stress

Acupuncture improves blood flow and calms the nervous system.  Researchers believe when an acupuncture needle is inserted, the sensory and proprioceptive nerves are stimulated. This sends a message to our brain and nervous system.

Our body’s enkephalins and endorphins are released.  These are our body’s natural opioids and can dramatically relieve pain.  Additionally, once these neurotransmitters are moving about, our blood vessels vasodilates. And this gets blood into the affected areas, initiating healing.

Recently, a team of researchers led by neuroscientists at Harvard Medical School has looked at the underlying neuroanatomy of acupuncture that activates a specific signaling pathway.  In this study, they specifically investigated acupuncture as a potential treatment for inflammation.  They found “acupoints” or acupuncture points on the body’s surface are mechanically stimulated, triggering nerve signaling that affects the function of other parts of the body, including organs.

 

Research on Acupuncture and Stress

There is evidence that acupuncture decreases the stress response.  Heart rate variability (HRV), a noninvasive autonomic measure has been utilized to acupuncture interventions. This was in controlled academic settings to compare points used, types of stimulation, or the HRV parameters measured.

In one study, cases of patients presenting to a private acupuncture clinic was utilized. Moreover, these Patients received manual body acupuncture from published protocols for hypertension treatment.

So the Ancient Chinese Medicine doctors understood that a predictable-unchanging regularity of heart rate is a sign of disease, age, and stress. In contrast, a Variable heartbeat is a sign of good health.  Therefore, Heart rate variability (HRV) is a noninvasive monitor of autonomic balance (eg, a measure of physiologic stress). Indeed, there is evidence that acupuncture decreases the stress response and increases HRV in both human and animal subjects.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Stress

Acupuncture has been used for over 4000 years to treat pain and other health problems safely and effectively. The acupuncture treatment stimulates the pathways called meridians. This activates the body’s natural healing abilities.  Ultimately, this brings balance back to your body. Acupuncture has a beneficial effect when treating many diseases and painful conditions.

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for Stress relief and many other ailments. Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call 561-253-8984 today to find relief from stress.

References: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4203477/

Med Acupunct. 2014 Oct 1;26(5):286–294. doi: 10.1089/acu.2014.1050

Does Acupuncture Reduce Stress Over Time? A Clinical Heart Rate Variability Study in Hypertensive Patients

Kristen Sparrow ^1,✉, Brenda Golianu PMCID: PMC4203477  PMID: 25352944

This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Wrist Pain Relief.

First, Your wrist is made up of eight small bones (carpal bones) plus two long bones in your forearm — the radius and the ulna. Your wrist functions as the link between the hand and the forearm. In your wrist, a tendon functions to move the bone. A ligament is a fibrous connective tissue that attaches bone to bone. There are no tendon attachments that function at the wrist. Tendons cross the wrist to insert into the hand, fingers, and thumb. Similarly, there are ligaments holding and stabilizing your wrist bones in place.

Second, Problems affecting muscles that originate off the elbow and forearm may show up as pain at your wrist. For example, Wrist conditions are often the result of trauma, overuse, and arthritis.

Third, in athletes, positions that strain muscles repetitively are likely to cause an insidious (gradual) onset. Ultimately, this may lead to tendonitis. Tendonitis is inflammation or irritation of a tendon. For instance, Weight lifting, gymnastics, rowing, and racquetball are culprits. Also, Overuse with typing is a common problem. Finally, You may be a professional musician or be in assembly line movement patterns at work.

Below are conditions causing Wrist Pain and 5 Tendonitises Acupuncture Can Help With

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

You will have radial (thumb side) wrist pain. It may happen after forceful gripping activities with ulnar deviation (bending the wrist to the little finger) or repetitive use of the wrist or thumb.

Cause:

A synovial tendon sheath surrounds your wrist tendon. This is a lubricated layer of tissue in which the tendon is housed and through which it moves. And stenosing tenosynovitis is inflammation of a tendon and its synovial sheath.  With de quervain’s tenosynovitis, two thumb muscles, the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendons  at your wrist become stenosed.

 

Intersection Syndrome

You will have pain and crepitus (“creaky” joints) 2 inches above the wrist on the dorsoradial (back side, above thumb) aspect. This is usually after repeated wrist flexion (bending palm down) and extension (raising back of hand) movements with occupational or sports activities.

Cause:

An inflammatory response and possible bursitis occurs at the crossing of two groups of tendons: the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendons crossing over the top of the wrist.  Bursae are fluid filled pads that act as cushions at the joints. Bursitis is inflammation of bursae. This occurs most often at joints that perform frequent repetitive motion. For example, Intersection syndrome is more common in canoeists, weight lifters, and recreational tennis players.

 

Other Tendinopathies of the wrist:

 

Extensor pollicis longus (EPL)tendinitis/tendinosis

This muscle arises dorsolaterally (back or upper surface) from the middle part of the ulna (long forearm bone closest to fifth finger) and ends at the distal (tip) of the thumb. The EPL extends the thumb (moves the thumb  away from the hand and parallel to the palm). For example, this tendonitis is seen in drummers, athletes involved in racquet sports, and patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

 

Extensor indices proprius (EIP) syndrome and extensor digiti minimi (EDM) tendinitis/tendinosis

The Extensor indices proprius (EIP) is a narrow, elongated muscle in the deep layer of the dorsal (back of ) forearm. Its tendon goes to the index finger, which it extends (bends backward).

The extensor digiti minimi (EDM) is also a narrow muscle which originates in the lateral humerus (elbow area) and attaches to your 5th digit (5th finger). The EDM is a two joint muscle. It acts as an extensor in both joints. The EDM extends the wrist and the little finger.  This means it moves the back of the hand toward the back of the forearm and straightens the little finger from a fist.

 

Extensor carpi ulnaris tendonitis/tendonosis

This muscle originates in the lateral humerus (elbow area). And it inserts into the 5th metacarpal (5th bone in palm of hand).  The extensor carpi ulnaris serves to extend and adduct the hand (moving a hand toward the body) at the wrist. On the whole, it is a relatively common tenonitis found in occupations or sports requiring repetitive wrist movement.  For example,this includes racquet sports, rowing, golf, and baseball.

 

How Does Acupuncture Work to Relieve Wrist Pain?

First, Acupuncture is a treatment that has been used for over 4000 years to treat pain and other health problems. Moreover, it is a painless technique used to affect what the ancient chinese practitioners called Meridians (energy channels) in your body under the skin.

Second, Traditionally, acupuncture is based on the belief that an energy, or “life force”, flows through the body in these channels called meridians. Also, this life force is known as Qi (pronounced “chee”).

Third, Acupuncture Needles work by increasing the blood flow to the painful area, increasing and facilitating the flow of the “Qi”.  Subsequently, the goal is to activate the body’s natural healing abilities. Ultimately, it improves the function of your entire body.   

Fourth, the needle reduces the accumulated exudate (fluid that leaks out of blood vessels) at the site.  Additionally, it reduces inflammation, edema and increases joint movements.

 Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Wrist Pain Relief Research

Firstly, in one study, with 622 participants Acupuncture proved effective and safe for short-term pain reduction and functional improvement in hand-and-wrist conditions.  For rheumatoid arthritis, 1 trial showed significant pain reduction and functional improvements post treatment and short-term. And in carpal tunnel syndrome, 1 trial showed significant pain reduction and functional improvements. In tenosynovitis, 1 trial showed significant pain reduction and functional improvements short-term. Also, for poststroke impairments, 1 trial showed significant functional improvements.

Secondly, in another study, stated acupuncture facilitates the blood flow, Qi flow and restores lost energy.  The treatment itself improves the general condition of the body. Furthermore, Acupuncture reduces inflammation, pain and improves joint movements.  According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), “if there is a blockage of the Qi flow, acupuncture can improve the Qi flow and blood flow to the body restoring lost energy”.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Wrist Pain Relief

Acupuncture has a beneficial effect when treating many diseases and painful conditions. Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for wrist pain and many other ailments. Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.   

Acupuncture is a holistic and natural way to treat existing injuries and disorders to keep your body in its best working condition.  Contact Meiri Chiropractic today at 561-253-8984 for your acupuncture treatment.

 

References:

Thomas Bergman, David Peterson, Chiropractic Technique Principles and Procedures, 3rd edition, 2011

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35251436/

The Effect of Acupuncture on Hand and Wrist Pain Intensity, Functional Status, and Quality of Life in Adults: A Systematic Review

Kien Trinh  ^{1   2} , Fangwen Zhou  ³ , Nikita Belski  ⁴ , Jiawen Deng  ³ , Chi Yi Wong  ³

PMID: 35251436 PMCID: PMC8886934  DOI: 10.1089/acu.2021.0046

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336140902_Acupuncture_treatment_in_hand_and_wrist_pain

Acupuncture Treatment in Hand and Wrist Pain Jihe Zhu, Blagica Arsovska and Kristina Kozovska, International Journal of Current Advanced Research ISSN:O: 2319-6475, ISSN: P:2319-6505, Impact Factor 6.614

 

If you have Knee pain from Chondromalacia Patella, Acupuncture can provide relief! This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Patellafemoral Arthralgia and Chondromalacia Patella.

You may have anterior (front) knee pain. However, your knee pain may be found behind, in and around your patella (knee cap) as well. It may be vague aching pain that is aggravated by going up and down stairs. Moreover, there may be associated crepitus (cracking or grating) and knee pain going through any squatting maneuver. 

 

 Anatomy

The patella (knee cap) is the largest sesamoid bone in the body. Sesamoid bones develop in some tendons where they cross the ends of long bones. The patella lies within the quadriceps muscle tendon. It functionally extends the lever arm for the quadriceps muscle.  It makes extension (straightening leg) of the knee much more effective. 

In addition, stabilization of the patella is provided by the quadriceps muscles, their fascial extensions, and the distal (end) attachment to the tibial tuberosity (boney bump on top of shin bone) via the patellar tendon. The distal (far from the body) end of the femur (thigh bone) and the proximal (nearest from the body) end of the tibia (shin bone) are connected by numerous ligaments and stabilized by strong muscles to form the knee joint. This joint is situated between the body’s two longest “lever arms”. Similarly, it must be able to transmit significant loads as it sustains high forces through upright posture and gait.

Three articulations (joints) are found in conjunction with the knee: the tibiofemoral, patellofemoral, and tibiofibular articulations. However, only the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral articulations participate in knee joint activity. The tibiofibular (fibula is the thin, outer long bone of the leg) articulation/joint does not actually contribute to the actions of the knee. Instead it is part of the ankle joint complex moving the ankle in all the various ranges of motion. However, dysfunctional processes in the proximal tibiofibular articulation/joint can affect other knee functions and can be a source of knee pain. 

 

Difference Between Patellafemoral Arthralgia/arthritis and Chondromalacia Patella

Certainly, biomechanical (study of living body) abnormalities can lead to an erosion and fragmentation of the sub patellar (beneath kneecap) cartilage.  This breaking up of the patella articular cartilage due leads to chondromalacia.  Apparently, many patellofemoral diagnoses are simply stages of the same overall etiology (cause of disease).

First, knee pain from chondromalacia is usually due to overuse injury while Patella femoral arthralgia is usually idiopathic (cause unknown).

Second, chondromalacia occurs on the medial facet (middle part) of the patella while patella femoral arthralgia occurs on the lateral facet (toward side) of the patella.  

Third, knee pain from chondromalacia occurs in mostly females less than 40 years old. Patella femoral arthralgia occurs in both female and males equally at a greater than 60 years of age.

Lastly, knee alignment in chondromalacia patella can be valgus (knock knee syndrome) or varus (bow leg syndrome).  However, the knee alignment is mostly valgus (bow leg syndrome) in patella femoral arthralgia. 

Causes of Knee Pain from Chondromalacia Patella

Firstly, patellofemoral syndrome is also called chondromalacia patella.  Additionally, it is called “runners knee” since it is common among runners.  Additionally, it is most frequently seen in teenagers, young adults, women and athletes.

Secondly, knee pain in chondromalacia is often related to maltracking or instability of the patella. So Patella tracking disorder (maltracking) describes a condition where movement of your kneecap isn’t aligned. Patella tracking problems can occur primarily from injuries to the knee and quadriceps mechanism.  The quadriceps are a group of four muscles that cover the front and sides of your thighs.  And it can secondarily be in response to problems affecting the ankle or hip.

• There are many causes to the maltracking of the patella leading to knee pain in chondromalacia:
• It may be secondary (happens after) to trauma and recurrent subluxation (dislocation).   
• Postural problems, “Short leg syndrome”/ leg length inequality
• Underdevelopment of the femoral condyles (rounded protuberance at the end of thigh bone) or the patella
• Patella alta (high riding kneecap)
• Imbalance in musculature for example in your quadriceps (group of muscles in front of thigh). Weak medial (toward middle) knee stabilizing muscles (Vastus Medialis Obliques, one of quadriceps) and tight lateral (toward side) muscles/structures such as the vastus lateralis (side quadriceps) and illio tibial band.
• Excessive femoral torsion (inward twisting of the thigh bone) with resultant irregular “Q angle” (angle formed between the quadriceps muscles and the patella tendon).

 

How Does Acupuncuture Help Patellafemoral Arthralgia and Chondromalacia Patella from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Point of View?

Traditional acupuncture is based on the belief that an energy, or “life force” called “Qi”, flows through the body.  According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), obstruction of qi and/or blood leads to pain. TCM theory says the Acupuncture treatment stimulates the imbalanced pathways along the meridians (energy channels). The goal is to activate the natural healing abilities of your body.

Furthermore, TCM theory says “obstruction” causes soreness, swelling, and stiffness to develop in your muscles and joints. Additionally, TCM says the obstruction can effect your entire body.  Therefore, TCM sees Chondromalacia Patella and patella femoral arthralgia as an “obstruction” called “bi” syndrome. 

 

 

Acupuncture Research on Knee Pain

Firstly, Researchers in one Study selected adults with chronic pain or osteoarthritis of the knee.  The adults received either acupuncture treatment or a control consisting of sham (placebo) acupuncture.  They found Acupuncture treatment is significantly superior to sham acupuncture. (1) It was  concluded, Acupuncture therapy helps knee arthritis. And Acupuncture promotes blood circulation of the knee joint and joint fluid circulation in the articular cavity. So it strengthens the nutrition of articular cartilage.

Secondly, in another study, the objective was to evaluate the effect of acupuncture in patellofemoral pain syndrome.  The study concluded that acupuncture may be a beneficial alternative treatment for patellofemoral pain syndrome. (2)

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Patellafemoral Arthralgia and Chondromalacia Patella

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for Patellafemoral Arthralgia and Chondromalacia Patella and many other ailments. Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call today for your acupuncture treatment. If you have pain due to Chondromalacia Patella or other ailment, call us today at 561-253-8984! 

 

References:

(1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17215263/ Acupuncture treatment for chronic knee pain: a systematic review A White  ¹ , N E Foster, M Cummings, P Barlas

(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10630346/ Acupuncture treatment of patellofemoral pain syndrome

R Jensen  ¹ , O Gøthesen, K Liseth, A Baerheim

Affiliations PMID: 10630346 DOI: 10.1089/acm.1999.5.521

 

 

Muscle spasms can be a response, which occurs as the body takes steps to protect itself after an injury.  Other neuromusculoskeletal causes could be arthritis, fibromyalgia or muscle strain.  Without treatment, chronic muscle spasms can result in permanent damage, so treatment is important. Acupuncture is an alternative treatment that is becoming more popular in sports medicine, exercise rehabilitation, and treatment of injuries and chronic conditions. This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Muscle Spasm and Stiffness.

 

What is a Muscle Cramp?

A muscle cramp is an uncontrollable and painful spasm of a muscle. Any muscle can be affected, but the muscles of the thigh, calf and foot are particularly prone.  This involuntary contraction (“charley horse”) of a muscle occurs suddenly and then does not relax.  You will have sudden, tight, and intense pain caused by a muscle locked in spasm. 

Additionally, there’s fasciculation, or muscle twitches, which are usually not painful the way a sudden cramp may be. And cramps and fasciculation are the result of muscles contracting involuntarily.

 

Causes of Muscle Cramps

Many truly pathologic (caused by disease) causes exist, such as hypoparathyroidism, vascular insufficiency (circulation problems), and various kinds of trauma for muscle cramping.  Nevertheless, many incidents of muscle cramping have no known obvious cause. 

Cramping can be due to vascular disorders such as atherosclerosis (thickening or hardening of the arteries), intermittent claudication (narrowing or blockage in the main artery taking blood to your leg) or thrombophlebitis (a blood clot (thrombus) inside an inflamed vein). 

 

Muscle Cramps and Positioning

Perhaps there is a position you are in when the cramping occurs?  For instance, you may be doing repetitive plantar-flexion of your (extension of the ankle so that the foot points down and away from the leg) foot while sleeping or exercising which may “shorten” your muscle.  Then when there is further voluntary or involuntary contraction of the already shortened muscle, cramping occurs.   Ladies who wear high heeled shoes regularly may have this problem.

Acupuncuture Research on Muscle Soreness following Exercise

Firstly, results of one study demonstrated the beneficial effects of selected acupuncture points in reducing both pain and stiffness. This was the findings following 24 and 72 hours of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after exercise.

Secondly, Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is pain and stiffness experienced following exercise. It can occur after any type of exercise. DOMS can be seen in “week-end”, experienced and professional athletes.  Interestingly, it typically happens after eccentric (lengthening of muscle) loading during exercise. Furthermore, it is classified as a grade I muscle strain. There is muscle tenderness and stiffness with movement.  Additionally, there is a reduction in muscle strength, range of motion, localized swelling, and an increased level of intramuscular enzymes (proteins within muscle tissue involved in biochemical reactions). Damage to muscle fibers from injury, disease, or intense exercise causes these enzymes to leak into the bloodstream. 

Thirdly, Patients receiving acupuncture reported 79% less pain and 41% less stiffness 24 hours afterwards in one study. And after 72 hours, the patients receiving acupuncture reported 80% less pain and 62% less stiffness than the group not receiving acupuncture.  Moreover, some athletes found greater difficulty in recovering from stiffness than pain after exercise. The conclusion of the study said, “Therefore, treatment should be aimed at reducing both pain and stiffness”. (1)

 

Acupuncuture Research on Muscle Cramps due to Disease

First, Pain resulting from muscle cramps happens often with hemodialysis. Dialysis is a process of filtering the blood of a person with kidneys disease.  Dialysis, which is life-saving, causes muscle cramps. This is due to the unnatural muscle metabolism.  Unnatural muscle metabolism, often termed Protein-Energy Wasting (PEW), is a frequent complication for dialysis patients. Acupressure improves muscle metabolism through the releasing of energy/pressure. And a study was performed with the purpose of determining the impact of acupressure on muscle cramps. So utilizing acupressure may result in decrease of muscle cramps in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Second, Some experts believe that stimulation of points in acupressure prevents the transfer of acute stimuli and increases the level of endorphins in the blood, and thus, causes pain relief. It appears certain peptides are released as a result of acupressure and have multiple properties including anti-pain and can partly justify the mechanism of acupressure for pain control. Peptides play an important role in pain regulation.

Third, as acupressure helps dialysis patients, acupuncture helps very ill patients.  For instance, for post stroke patients and postoperative pain due to visceral surgery acupuncture is effective.  Numerous studies have shown acupuncture to be effective at reducing spasticity and enhancing muscle strength following stroke (3).

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Muscle Spasm and Stiffness

Acupuncture has been used for over 4000 years to treat pain and other health problems. The acupuncture treatment stimulates the imbalanced pathways along the meridians.  Mainly, the goal is to activate the body’s natural healing abilities. It’s often used as part of a broader approach to healthcare and to help inflammatory diseases/disorders.

Acupuncture has a beneficial effect when treating many diseases and painful conditions. Therefore, is thought to be useful as a complementary, alternative and integrative therapy for muscle spasm and stiffness.

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for muscles spasm, stiffness and many other ailments. Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call today for your acupuncture treatment at 561-253-8984. 

 

References:

(1) https://clinmedjournals.org/articles/ijsem/international-journal-of-sports-and-exercise-medicine-ijsem-8-239.php?jid=ijsem

The Effect of Acupuncture on Reducing Pain and Stiffness of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) following Eccentric Loading Exercise

 Steve D Bailey*

(2) The effect of acupressure on muscle cramps in patients undergoing hemodialysis

Kolsoom Mohmadi ¹, Nahid Shahgholian ^2,✉, Mahboubeh Valiani ³, Hossein Mardanparvar ¹

PMCID: PMC5301059  PMID: 28194192

(3) Effects of Acupuncture on Enhancing Muscle Strength: A Systematic Review

Steve D Bailey^* Foot Knee and Back Clinic, U

 

 

Arthritis has a “geriatric” connotation, yet it may affect any age group. The term means joint disease/ disorder. Arthritis can be due to many causes such as degeneration or destruction that is age-related or trauma related, infectious, inflammatory, and/or autoimmune.  Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune related arthritis affecting the neck, back and limb joints. Acupuncture has been used as an adjunctive treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an Autoimmune Disorder

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder causing an inflammatory arthritis occurring mostly in 25-55 year old women. The common joints involved are hand, ankle, foot, toes, wrist, knee, elbow, shoulder (glenohumeral joint, acromioclavicular joint), neck (atlantoaxial joint, first and second cervical vertebrae of spine) and hips (femoracetabular joints).  

Rheumatoid Arthritis often starts as finger or wrist pain. The joints involved most frequently are the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints of the (base of) hands. You may feel the joints are swollen and that in the morning it takes over an hour to be able to move the fingers comfortably. Furthermore, you may feel fatigue and have possible weight loss. 

So pain, warmth and associated periarticular (around the joint) soft tissue swelling, stiffness, and range of motion restrictions are signs and symptoms. Also at some point, the body or limb will be affected bilaterally (both sides).

Cause 

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder causing an inflammatory arthritis. What happens is the joint forms a reactive pannus. And the pannus is a hypertrophied synovium (overgrowth of lining of joint).  This pannus invades and erodes contiguous (nearby) cartilage and bone, causing swelling and eventual erosion. Finally, later changes include flexor (finger folding soft tissue) contractures and ulnar deviation (bend abnormally toward your little finger) of the fingers.

Multiple genetic and environmental factors have been associated with an increased risk for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Associations have been seen with being female, a family history of RA, and with exposure to tobacco smoke.

Also, if you possess the class 2 human leukocyte antigen (HLA), you have a genetic predisposition to getting Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Observations in studies show that HLA genes play an important role in the etiopathogenesis (cause and development of disease) of  RA. Scientists say the genes provide a sort of ‘prearthritic’ immunological background on which the triggering factors for RA thrive.

What is autoimmune arthritis?

Firstly, inflammatory arthritis is due to an autoimmune disease. The immune system doesn’t work properly and releases inflammatory chemicals. Secondly, the resulting inflammation attacks joint tissues and can cause joint swelling, cartilage/bone damage, and muscle loss. Thirdly, the inflammatory chemicals may activate nerves around the joints and other parts of the body and lead to pain as well. Lastly, because most of the inflammatory forms of arthritis are systemic (effects entire body), symptoms related to inflammation may occur in other parts of the body, including skin rashes, eye inflammation, hair loss, dry mouth, and fever.

Inflammatory arthritis includes a group of arthritis accompanied by joint pain, swelling, warmth, tenderness in the joints, and morning stiffness that lasts for an hour. And joints affected are many joints throughout the body at the same time.  Moreover, inflammatory forms of arthritis are much less common than osteoarthritis (wear and tear arthritis), which affects most people at the later stages of life. 

 

Laboratory Findings 

Rheumatoid Factor

A positive rheumatoid factor test result indicates that a high level of rheumatoid factor was detected in your blood. A higher level of rheumatoid factor in your blood is closely associated with autoimmune disease, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. A positive rheumatoid factor (IgM antibody) is found in 75% of people with Rheumatoid Arthritis. A rheumatoid factor test is the most useful test to diagnosis rheumatoid arthritis. 

Additional findings are:

-Lab testing will reveal elevations in erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in Rheumatoid Arthritis cases.

-The CRP test measures the level of C–reactive protein which may be higher due to inflammation. 

-Anemia develops in autoimmune disease such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and is found in the Complete Blood Count (CBC test). 

Imaging and X-Ray

 Radiographic (x-ray) findings usually confirm the diagnosis. However, these are not evident in the early stages of the disease.

 Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Juvenile means the disease starts around ages 5-10 years old. Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis has the same findings as adult Rheumatoid Arthritis.  Common joints involved are hand, foot, wrist, knee, elbow, heel, hip, and cervical spine (neck). Lab work is similar to the adult type with the addition of urinalysis, and other laboratory tests.

Imaging and X-Ray 

Radiographic (x-ray) findings are similar to the adult type with the possible addition of growth disturbances of  bone and epiphyseal (growth plate of bone) injuries due to the autoimmune disease.

 

Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Conventionally, RA is treated with NSAIDs, csDMARDs (immunosuppressive medications), glucocorticoids (steroids), and biologics (drugs from natural substances). However, when longtime medications are given for treatment, patients get side effects. Such side effects can be malignancy, immunosuppression, liver damage, bone marrow dysfunction, life-threatening infections, hyperglycemia, interstitial lung disease, and hypertension. Therefore, patients often look for alternatives such as acupuncture.

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Firstly, “available evidence suggests that acupuncture is beneficial for relieving pain and quality of life and health in patients with RA. Thereby, it should be available as an adjunctive nonpharmacological treatment in rehabilitation programs.” (1)

Secondly, studies suggest that acupuncture may work by stimulating the natural opioid (endorphins) system in the body. Additionally, this would provide feelings of well being.  Being so ill all the time can lead RA patients into depression.

Thirdly, in another study, acupuncture positively affected the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal connection. This is the body’s primary, long-term stress response system.   Also, acupuncture provides a nonanalgesic (not a pain reliever) effect mainly by suppressing the inflammatory response, improving blood flow, and relaxing muscle tone.

Fourthly, Acupuncture works by stimulating certain points on the body known as acupoints. It works by insertion and twisting of thin needles to achieve therapeutic results. Indeed, acupuncture changes or prevents “the perception of pain”.  Furthermore, acupuncture treats certain diseases or physical dysfunction this way. 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Acupuncture has been used for over 4000 years to treat pain and other health problems safely and effectively. The acupuncture treatment stimulates the pathways called meridians. This activates the body’s natural healing abilities.  Ultimately, this brings balance back to your body. Acupuncture has a beneficial effect when treating many diseases and painful conditions.

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for Rheumatoid Arthritis and many other ailments. Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call 561-253-8984 today.

 

 References: 

(1) Evid Based Complement Alternat Med

. 2022 Apr 30;2022:5264977. doi: 10.1155/2022/5264977

Clinical Efficacy of Acupuncture for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

 

 

 

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s clinical pearl stories:  Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief From Piriformis Syndrome With Acupuncture

This is my clinical pearl story about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief for Piriformis Syndrome with Acupuncture.  He was a 40 year old male patient.  His chief complaints were buttock and posterior (back) leg pain.  And it came on insidiously (gradual, subtle but with harmful effects) without any trauma.

To be HIPAA compliant, I will call him Marty instead of his real name.

Marty worked as a truck driver.   One day he presented to my office reporting pain in the gluteal region. It was characterized as shooting, burning, or aching down the back of the leg. In addition, he reported numbness in the buttocks and tingling sensations. And it was along the distribution of the sciatic nerve.

He had seen his primary care physician and had his low back x-rayed.  The pain medication his primary prescribed didn’t help at all.  So that’s when he decided to come see me.

 

Marty’s Examination at Meiri Chiropractic

Upon examination, Marty tested positive for the piriformis syndrome.  His x-rays taken at the primary care doctor showed degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis). Marty’s diagnosis was Piriformis Syndrome. 

Piriformis syndrome occurs due to sciatic nerve entrapment at the level of the ischial tuberosity (“sit bone”).

 

What is Piriformis Syndrome?

Firstly, the piriformis is a flat, pear-shaped muscle located in the gluteal (buttock) region of the hip/proximal thigh.

Secondly, the sciatic nerve runs under the piriformis muscle where it may be compressed (pinched) by the piriformis muscle. As the biggest nerve in your body, it originates from several nerves in your lower back. These nerves branch outward from the spine and then come together at each buttock to form the sciatic nerve, which then travels down each leg. And sciatica is defined as irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve that causes pain in the buttock area with radiation to the lower leg. This is usually a neuritis (inflammation of a nerve) and generally caused by mechanical compression or irritation of the lumbar and sacral spinal nerve roots.  However, piriformis syndrome is another cause of irritation of the sciatic nerve.

Thirdly, predisposition to piriformis syndrome may be due to an anatomically short leg (one leg is structurally shorter than the other due to bone length differences).  Other reasons could be due to excessive pronation (inward rotation of foot) of your foot or a pelvic rotation/misalignment.

Fourthly, in approximately 15 % of the population, there are two muscle bellies (bipartite) to the piriformis muscle.  In this case, the sciatic nerve courses between the 2 muscle bellies.

 

Causes of Piriformis Syndrome

• Trauma to the hip or buttock area
• Piriformis muscle hypertrophy (often seen in athletes during periods of increased weightlifting requirements or pre-season conditioning)
• Sitting for prolonged periods (truck drivers, office workers, bicycle riders)
• Anatomic anomalies (abnormalities) and sciatic nerve coursing:
  • In >80% of the population, the sciatic nerve courses deep to and exits inferiorly (below) to the piriformis muscle belly/tendon

Marty’s Acupuncture Treatments at Meiri Chiropractic

Marty decided to try a course of acupuncture treatments (1-2 times a week for 12 weeks).  

His acupuncture treatments consisted of the insertion of very thin metal needles.   

Marty reported that he was starting to feel better after the initial visit.  After 12 visits, he was mostly pain-free.  

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief for Piriformis Syndrome with Acupuncture 

Firstly, Acupuncture is a treatment that has been used for over 4000 years to treat pain and other health problems. It is a painless technique used to affect what the ancient chinese practitioners called Meridians (energy channels) in your body under the skin.

Secondly, Acupuncture’s effectiveness has been well documented in musculoskeletal pain disorders and other ailments. A widely accepted contemporary medical treatment option for myofascial pain is trigger point needling. In traditional Chinese medicine, these myofascial pain areas are called ASHI points. ASHI points are identified by tender, painful reactions upon palpation (using hands to examine body).

Thirdly, the Acupuncture treatment stimulates the imbalanced pathways along the meridians to bring balance back.  The goal is to activate the body’s natural healing abilities. 

 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief for Piriformis Syndrome with Acupuncture: Research

One study compared the difference in clinical efficacy on piriformis syndrome between trigger-point acupuncture and glucocorticoid injections (steroid shots).  Findings were, “The clinical effect of acupuncture is similar to that of glucocorticoid injection on piriformis syndrome in 1 month after treatment. In 2 months after treatment, TrP acupuncture is markedly effective for attenuating pain and the functional impairment of the lower limbs, improving the quality of life and reducing the use of analgesic drugs in comparison with glucocorticoid injection”.

Ultimately, Acupuncture treatments stimulate the imbalanced pathways along the meridians to bring balance back.  Moreover, the goal is to activate the body’s natural healing abilities. It’s often used to manage pain and other conditions, and can be part of a broader approach to healthcare. By combining the appropriate meridians, acupoints and the ashi points corresponding to the piriformis muscle, piriformis syndrome is effectively treated.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief for Piriformis Syndrome with Acupuncture

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for piriformis syndrome and many other ailments. Dr. Natalie Meiri is a chiropractic physician, board certified in acupuncture with over 20 years of experience.  Call today for your acupuncture treatment. If you have pain due to piriformis syndrome  call us today at 561-253-8984!  Ask to make an appointment or find out more about: Chiropractic West Palm Beach: Relief for Piriformis Syndrome with Acupuncture.

 

References:

1. Thomas Souza, (2018) Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor
2. Clinical study of piriformis syndrome treated with trigger-point acupuncture, Li-xue LIU, Miao-miao SHEN, Qin-ge WANG, Wen SHEN, https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.13702/j.1000-0607.20230336

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21.6% of those with drug disorders have an opioid disorder. And this includes prescription pain relievers or “painkillers” and heroin). 70.5 million or 24.9% of people 12 and over have used illegal drugs or misused prescription drugs within the last year. Tobacco use, particularly cigarette smoking, remains a leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. Accidental drug overdose is a leading cause of death among persons under the age of 45. Despite efforts to stop all the above, a significant portion of the population still has these problems.

Drug addiction is a chronically relapsing disorder, affecting people from all over. Fortunatelyl, studies of acupuncture effects on drug addiction show that acupuncture can be used for treating drug addiction by direct activation of brain pathways. This blog is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps You Overcome Addiction.

 

Substance Abuse, Addiction and Acupuncture

Firstly, substance abuse and addiction are universally recognized as diseases that disrupt and damage neurotransmitters in the brain.  Ultimately, this causes a disturbance to production levels of chemicals.   Without improvement, the feelings of anxiety, depression, and mood swings results in an uncontrollable compulsion to consume the substance of addiction. Following an acupuncture treatment, our body’s enkephalins and endorphins are released.  These are our body’s natural opioids and can dramatically relieve pain.  Additionally, once these neurotransmitters are moving about, our blood vessels vasodilates. And this gets blood into the affected areas, initiating healing.

Secondly, acupuncture can help addicts work through pain holistically and learn healthy alternatives for pain management.  Indeed, pain is especially common in those suffering from prescription drug addiction, and often leads people to abuse medications in an attempt to control discomfort.  In fact, for many individuals suffering from addiction, physical pain is one of the primary causes of substance abuse. Developing a rehabilitation plan that treats the physical and mental dependence on drugs or alcohol is important. 

Thirdly, many addicts report that, in an attempt to manage pain, they began misusing prescription pain medication.  A tolerance often builds in people who suffer from long-term pain. Therefore, they start taking more of the medication to manage discomfort. So identifying and relieving pain without the use of prescription medications is key.  Alternative therapy programs like acupuncture have shown to support and enhance the outcome of treatment for substance abuse and chemical dependence. In conclusion, Acupuncture, detox, counseling, and physical rehabilitation (e.g. chiropractic care) are all necessary elements of addiction recovery programs. 

 

Acupuncture for Detoxing

NADA stands for the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association.  NADA treatments benefit trauma, substance misuse, abuse, and mental health conditions. For example, it is an adjunct therapy for patients who are in treatment with counseling.  Indeed, NADA is a very effective auricular (ear) acupuncture treatment that has proven benefits for many addictions.

NADA treatments do the following:

• Decreases cravings for alcohol and drugs, including nicotine
• Relieves withdrawal symptoms
• Promotes calmness, better sleep, and less anxiety
• Negates stress and emotional trauma
• Allows more for filling counseling
• Encourages a more stable inner self perception

How Does Acupuncture Help Addiction Recovery?

Acupuncture may have an Analgesic effect through the release of the neurotransmitter enkephalin, which inhibits the nociceptive pathway or through the release of local endorphin.

In one study, acupuncture tended to improve more than the placebo or no-treatment group in terms of the urine test score, craving test score, efficacy rate, and blood test score studies. For example, retention was significantly higher in the group that underwent acupuncture than in the placebo group in the heroin addiction studies.

In yet another study, a review provides evidence that acupuncture may reduce relapse to drug-seeking behavior by regulating neurotransmitters involved in drug craving.  For instance, these are serotonin and dopamine, resulting in affecting the emotional state and craving. It was stated by researchers this may be the basis for the treatment of smoking cessation. (2) So our body’s enkephalins and endorphins are released.  These are our body’s natural opioids and can dramatically relieve pain.  Additionally, once these neurotransmitters are moving about, our blood vessels vasodilates. And this gets blood into the affected areas, initiating healing.

 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps You Overcome Addiction

At Meiri Chiropractic we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you have.  Chiropractic and acupuncture  are holistic and natural ways to not only treat existing conditions, but to keep your body in its best working condition.  We have been offering effective treatments in Palm Beach county since 2006.  Many of our patient reviews note our excellence.  Call us today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps You Overcome Addiction.

 

Reference: (1) https://drugabusestatistics.org/

(2) Bidirectional role of acupuncture in the treatment of drug addiction Mi Young Lee, Bong Hyo Lee ^b, Hee Young Kim ^b, Chae Ha Yang