From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories:

Chiropractic Adjustments for Foot Pain from Metatarsalgia

 

This was a 45 year old patient who had a chief complaint of pain on the bottom of the foot, specifically at the sole. To be HIPAA compliant, I will call her Beatrice instead of her real name.  Beatrice had treated with another chiropractor prior to seeing me.  She had foot problems he wouldn’t address.  He would only work on her spinal complaints.  

 

Beatrice’s History

Beatrice worked all day on her painful feet.  Moreover, she didn’t know how she developed this problem.  There was no trauma. Beatrice went to a podiatrist with no relief.  He told her she had metatarsalgia.

However, the podiatrist did tell her the culprit could be the improper shoes she often wore.  Beatrice’s high heels transferred extra weight to the front of her feet.  And this could have caused metatarsalgia. Beatrice also wore shoes with a narrow toe box. 

Beatrice started wearing athletic shoes with a lot of support and padding, but her feet continued to hurt. Even the orthotics she got at the podiatrist didn’t help.  She didn’t want a cortisone shot or surgery. The podiatrist had prescribed NSAIDS (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) which gave her very little relief.  

 

 

What is Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is defined as pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. It can have varied causes. Typically, the pain is experienced in the padding directly below the toes. The metatarsals are the five long bones in the midfoot. They are located between the tarsal bones and the phalanges.

 

Metatarsalgia pain can consist of numbness, shooting pain, and/or soreness, especially when flexing the toes. Indeed, injuries to the balls of feet are common in athletes.  Also, metatarsalgia is a repetitive injury. It is prevalent in those who spend a lot of time on their feet.  Metatarsalgia is a very common foot problem.

 

Causes of Metatarsalgia

There are a lot of reasons for Metatarsalgia.  Some may be related to gait mechanics (how you walk), foot anatomy, and/or foot and ankle deformity/malformation (e.g. hammer toes, pes planus (low arch) or pes cavus (high arch).

 

Furthermore, chronic stretching of the transverse ligaments may be an underlying reason. These ligaments run across and connect together the heads of all the metatarsal bones.

 

Firstly, excessive weight or repetitive activity may injure these ligaments. Secondly, direct trauma from jumping or landing on the toes with running or jogging can be a cause.  Thirdly, standing for long periods of time in high-heeled shoes is definitely a contributing factor.  Fourthly, shoes with too narrow a toe box will also cause compression and pain. Lastly, your feet may have a chiropractic subluxation of the metatarsal heads.

 

Beatrice’s Examination and Imaging

Upon examination, there were positive tests for Beatrice’s feet for Metatarsalgia. The x-rays she brought in from her podiatrist’s office showed degenerative osteoarthritis of both her feet. 

 

Beatrice’s Treatment

Beatrice was given instructions on the use of a metatarsal pad placed just proximal (next) to the metatarsal heads.  And room was left after placement of the pad for the first and fifth metatarsal heads.  The pad was only utilized during the beginning (acute stage) of her care.

Chiropractic adjustments were performed to the metatarsal restricted joints and associated regions.  Associated regions that were adjusted were her other foot joints and ankles that were restricted.  Beatrice was also adjusted full spine to keep her aligned and functioning optimally.

Next, Soft tissue therapy (myofascial release, pressure point and various post isometric relaxation procedures) and modalities (cold/heat therapy and electric muscle stimulation) were administered as needed.

Finally, she was given therapeutic exercises to continue her treatment at home.

 

Beatrice’s Outcome

The outcome for Beatrice was excellent! She started feeling better immediately from the first few visits.  By the end of 12 visits, she was pain-free and her feet were functioning optimally. Beatrice returned for as needed care for her feet. 

 

Chiropractic Adjustments restore joint mobility and function, resolves joint inflammation and reduces the patient’s pain.  Do you know someone who is in need of chiropractic care for Metatarsalgia?  Contact  Meiri Chiropractic today at 561-253-8984 to learn more about  Chiropractic Adjustments for Foot Pain from Metatarsalgia or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

                                           Video /vlog

 

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories:

Computer and Video Game Injuries in Kids: Chiropractic Care is Effective

 

This is my clinical pearl story about Computer and Video Game Injuries in Kids: Chiropractic Care is Effective. Arnold was a 10 year old child who liked playing video games and spent many hours on his computer a day.  His chief complaint one day in the office was that his thumbs, neck and mid back hurt from playing video games continuously for 4 hours. This was double the amount of time he normally spent daily!  His mom brought him in the next day.  I will call him Arnold instead of his real name to be HIPPA compliant. 

 

Arnold’s Examination

Upon examination, Arnold tested positive for his neuromusculoskeletal injuries: Myalgia (muscle pain) in his mid back and strain in his neck and thumbs.

 

Computer and Video Game Injuries: Repetitive Trauma

It is common to have a postural problem for individuals who work at desks. Prolonged sitting at a desk combined with the repetitive activity of typing or using the mouse for your computer causes postural problems and/or repetitive motion injuries. Furthermore, we are texting (ie. Text neck) and looking on smart phones with a forward neck position. 

This sedentary lifestyle which eliminates a variety of movements cause pain and dysfunction. Moreover, Kids and teenagers can also develop a slumped posture due to heavy back packs, hunching over homework or video games.   

 

Prevent computer and video game injuries

By correcting ergonomic issues and limiting these types of repetitive injuries, long term damage can be avoided.    Indeed, excessive gaming in front of a screen can result in postural stresses from lack of movement.  Additionally, it can cause eyestrain, wrist, arm, elbow, hand, thumb strain and even carpal tunnel syndrome.

 

Some Tips (what to do) to Avoid Repetitive Injury at the computer and while video gaming

 

• Taking frequent short breaks and doing stretching exercises while working or gaming. Also, switch up the activity.
• Sit at an adjustable desk that is specially designed for computer use
• Having the computer screen at eye level or slightly lower
• Ensuring your keyboard is at a height that allows your elbows to rest comfortably at your sides.
• Ensuring your forearms are nearly parallel to the floor and at the same level as the keyboard.
• Using an ergonomic chair that is designed to prevent the spine from losing its natural curve while sitting
• Adjusting your chair such that your feet are always resting flat on the floor, or using a footstool

Kids should be interested in a variety of hobbies, and activities.  And especially physical activities like sports.  Simply sitting all day can lead to obesity and even problematic emotional or aggressive behavior.  Kids should have a limit. Sensible time for playing could be a maximum of 1-2 hours a day for computer and video games with lots of breaks during these sessions.  Getting the right keyboard, mouse and furniture that is suitable for your child’s height is essential.

Arnold’s Treatment and Outcome at  Meiri Chiropractic:

 

Firstly. Chiropractic manipulation or mobilization of the cervical (neck) and thoracic (mid back) spinal joints and both thumbs/hands.

Secondly, soft tissue manipulation to the muscles involved.

Thirdly, exercises focusing on stretching tight muscles and strengthening weak muscles.

Fourthly, recommendation on redesign of work environment and ergonomics.

Fifthly, postural advice/ recommendation of frequent breaks with stretching.

Finally, after the first visit, Arnold started feeling better!  And within a few visits, he was completely healed.

 

Computer and Video Game Injuries in Kids: Chiropractic Care is Effective

Most children and adolescents regularly experience physical injuries from ordinary play and sports. However, with the increasing popularity of computer and video games, some kids are now feeling the same kind of pains and aches that adults get from sitting behind their desks all day. Chiropractic care can help to offset the postural stresses and lack of movement linked to gaming and sitting at a computer all day. 

Are you experiencing pain due to poor posture or repetitive motion injury?  Chiropractors can help posture problems and repetitive motion injuries for you and your family. Call 561-253-8984 today for an appointment.

 

Do you have pain, weakness, and paresthesia (tingling, numbness or “pins and needles”) in your arm/forearm (below the elbow)?  You may have dull, sore achiness in the extensor muscles (muscles that extend wrist/hand) below your elbow. The pain may be more prominent at night and after use. These are all symptoms of Radial Neuropathy/Entrapment below the elbow. Read on to learn about Elbow and Forearm Pain Due to Radial Neuropathy: Chiropractic Can Help.

 

Anatomy of the Radial Nerve

The radial nerve is the terminal (end) continuation of the posterior (back) part of the brachial plexus. And the brachial plexus is a bundle of nerves that originate from nerve roots in the cervical (neck) and upper thoracic (torso) sections of the spinal cord (C5-T1). Ultimately, the brachial plexus creates a network that connects to the nerves in the arm. Therefore, the radial nerve contains fibres from nerve roots C5 – T1.

It arises from the axilla and exits the axilla inferiorly (below).  Next, it supplies branches to the long and lateral heads of the triceps brachii muscle.

The radial nerve then descends down the arm.  It travels in a shallow depression within the surface of the humerus (long upper arm bone), known as the radial groove.

To enter the forearm, the radial nerve travels anterior (front of) to the epicondyle of the humerus, through the cubital fossa of the elbow. The nerve then ends by dividing into two branches:

• Deep branch (motor) – innervates (supplies) the muscles in the posterior (back) compartment of the forearm.
• Superficial branch (sensory) – contributes to the cutaneous (skin) innervation of the dorsal (back) hand and fingers.

 

Compression of the Radial Nerve from Elbow to the Wrist

The Radial nerve divides into its two major branches, the posterior interosseous and the superficial radial nerve at the level of the radiocapitellar joint (elbow joint).  Above the elbow the radial nerve innervates the brachioradialis and extensor carpi radialis longus and brevis.  Therefore, entrapment below the elbow joint does not affect these muscles. 

Posterior interosseous nerve compression depends on where the compression occurs. There may be involvement at the radial tunnel, causing what is known as the radial tunnel syndrome or along the distal course of the nerve (including the radial tunnel) in which case it’s called the posterior interosseous nerve syndrome.

 

Radial Tunnel Syndrome aka Resistant Tennis Elbow:

If you have what appears to be tennis elbow, but is resistant to therapy, it could actually be radial tunnel syndrome.  And you may have unremitting pain around the lateral epicondyle (bump on outer side of elbow) of the elbow.

 

What is radial tunnel syndrome?

This is a compressive neuropathy of the posterior interosseus nerve (PIN) branch of radial nerve in the radial tunnel. The radial tunnel is about 2 inches long. It goes from the capitellum (rounded knob-like structure at end of humerus where meets elbow) of the humerus (long bone of upper arm) and the radial head of radius to the supinator muscle. 

The boundaries of the radial tunnel is formed by the supinator (broad muscle in the posterior compartment of the forearm, curved around the upper third of the radius), extensor carpi radialis longus/extensor carpi radialis brevis (both muscles in forearm extend hand a wrist), and brachioradialis ( muscle of the forearm that flexes the forearm at the elbow).

 

Locations of compression within the Radial Tunnel

Locations of compression within the radial tunnel include:

–fibrous bands over the anterior (front of) radial head and capsule (of elbow joint) at the the entrance to the tunnel

-a recurrent fan of blood vessels that supplies the brachioradialis and the extensor carpi radialis longus, the ulnar half of the tendon and fascia of the extensor carpi radialis brevis muscles

–under the fibrous arch at the proximal edge of of the supinator called the arcade of frohse and below the fascial arcade at the distal lateral border of the supinator muscle. 

The arcade of frohse seems to be the most common area of entrapment in this area.  Researchers stated that in 10% of patients with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) there is a co-existent radial tunnel syndrome due to radiocapitellar bursitis (inflamed bursa at elbow).

 

Causes of Radial Tunnel Syndrome

Radial tunnel syndrome is caused by direct compression by anatomic structures as mentioned above.  Additionally, in athletes by vigorous contraction of the extensor musculature can trigger it. Furthermore, it can occur with one very strenuous effort.  However, more often it is due to repetitive pronation and supination (rotating palm downward or upward), although wrist extension can aggravate it.  The syndrome is found especially in athletes who lift weights, golf, swim and participate in racquet sports. 

 

Posterior Interosseous Nerve Syndrome:

Radial tunnel syndrome refers to a rare compressive neuropathy of the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) as it passes through the radial tunnel as described above.  So radial tunnel syndrome has pain without motor or sensory dysfunction. And with the PIN compression syndrome, a more severe compressive neuropathy occurs. Ultimately, with PIN there is wrist extensor muscle  weakness as well as pain. Again, the PIN is a branch of the radial nerve at the elbow.  It supplies motor innervation to the dorsal (top) extensor compartment of the forearm and sensory innervation to the dorsal wrist.

Causes of Posterior Interosseous Nerve Syndrome (pins)

The main site of compression is at the arcade of frohse at the elbow.  Other causes can be vascular anomalies (abnormalities), synovitis, edema, ganglion, bursa or lipoma. Of course, overuse such as repetitive pronation and supination are culprits as well.

 

Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic for Radial Neuropathy:

Firstly, soft tissue techniques will be rendered to the contracted fibrotic muscle and collagen at entrapment sites.

Secondly, Chiropractic adjustments (chiropractic manipulative therapy) to the elbow, wrist, and associated restricted joints.  This would be along the kinetic chain  and spine which is important.

Thirdly, Therapeutic exercise will be given for stretching and strengthening.

Fourthly, if trauma or swelling is involved, ice, compression, elevation, and physical therapy modalities is utilized to reduce swelling. Ergonomic recommendations to change the inciting activity is necessary.

Are your suffering from elbow or forearm pain from Radial Neuropathy?

We offer excellent Chiropractic care for Radial Neuropathy. At Meiri Chiropractic, we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you have. Indeed, Chiropractic is a holistic and natural way to not only treat shoulder and arm pain, but to keep your body in its best working condition. We have been offering effective chiropractic care in West Palm Beach since 2006. Many of our patients reviews note our excellence. Call us today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about Elbow and Forearm Pain Due to Radial Neuropathy: Chiropractic Can Help.

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories:

Chiropractic Care for Cervical Radiculopathy

 

This was a 68 year old patient who had neck and left hand numbness and pain. To be HIPAA compliant, I will call him Wallace instead of his real name.  Wallace had treated with another chiropractor prior to seeing me.  He had gone to physical therapy for his lower back which was much better.  However, Wallace’s orthopedist thought his cervical spine (neck) condition was a surgical case.  After trying another chiropractor and acupuncture, he presented to my office.

Wallace worked as a handyman for 30 years and attributed some of his neck problems to his daily work activity.  However, he really didn’t know why this had occurred.  What really bothered him was the constant numbness in his last 2 fingers (4^th and 5^th digits) and weakness in his left hand. 

Wallace had been prescribed NSAIDS (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) which gave him very little relief.  

 

Wallace’s Examination and Imaging

Upon examination, there were positive tests for his cervical spine (neck) as well as the left hand-4^th and 5^th finger symptoms giving the diagnosis of C8 radiculopathy. 

I ordered X-rays of Wallace’s cervical spine. The findings in his x-rays were a reversal in the natural lordotic curve and moderate to severe osteoarthritis (wear and tear arthritis). 

I would order a M.R.I. if he wasn’t improving in a month or 12 visits. 

After that, I explained his diagnosis (radiculopathy of C8 nerve root and osteoarthritis), prognosis and treatment plan.

 

 

Wallace’s Treatment

Firstly, Wallace’s chiropractic treatment for C8 radiculopathy consisted of chiropractic manipulation/ adjustments of the cervical spine (at levels above the C8 nerve root) and associated regions.  Associated regions that were adjusted were his thoracic and lumbar spine (low back) which were misaligned (subluxations or intersegmental dysfunctions).

Secondly, soft tissue therapy (myofascial release, pressure point and various post isometric relaxation procedures) and modalities (cold/heat therapy and electric muscle stimulation) were administered as needed.

Thirdly, he was given therapeutic exercises to continue his treatment at home.

Fourthly, Wallace was given recommendations on his activities of daily living (ergonomics on posture etc) at home and work. 

Lastly, his visits started at 2-3 times a week for 4 weeks and than 1-2 times a week thereafter for 3 months. 

 

What is a radiculopathy?

Cervical radiculopathy is a neurologic condition resulting from compression or inflammation of the cervical nerve roots (initial segment of nerve leaving central nervous system). The nerve compression is caused by narrowing of the neural foramen (opening in spine for nerve exit) due to cervical spondylosis (osteoarthritis), disc (small rubbery cartilage between spinal vertebrae) herniation, trauma, or an abnormal curve of the spine. The majority of cases of cervical radiculopathy stem from degenerative disease (osteoarthritis) in the cervical spine.

In Osteoarthritis, your disk desiccates (drying out) over time.  This can lead to decreased disk height, hypertrophy of the uncinate joint (joint becomes bigger), foraminal stenosis (nerve exit gets smaller) and cervical radiculopathy occurs.  Finally, disk degeneration and herniation trigger a pro-inflammatory cascade causing further nerve root irritation.

Indeed, trauma or swelling can contribute to symptoms.  Cervical radiculopathy can less commonly be caused by tumors, infection, or changes in blood flow. 

 

Wallace’s Outcome

The outcome for Wallace was excellent! He started feeling better immediately from the first few visits.  Moreover, after a few weeks of continued care his function improved. His range of motion greatly improved and he gained the strength back in his hands.  By the end of his 3 months of corrective care, he was pain-free and functioning optimally. Wallace returned for once a month supportive/maintenance care after this.

 

Chiropractic Care for Cervical Radiculopathy at Meiri Chiropractic

So Cervical radiculopathy is a medical condition where there can be symptoms of pain, weakness, and/or numbness as a result of a pinched or irritated nerve in the neck.  Cervical radiculopathy will cause loss of function and/or symptoms in one or both arms.  And Chiropractic Adjustments restore joint mobility and function, resolves joint inflammation and reduces the patient’s pain.

Do you know someone who is in need of chiropractic care for cervical radiculopathy? Contact Dr. Natalie Meiri of Meiri Chiropractic today at 561-253-8984 to learn more about Chiropractic Care for Cervical Radiculopathy or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

 

 

Do you have Paresthesia (tingling, numbness or “pins and needles”) in your shoulder or arm (above the elbow)?  Also, do you have weakness in your arm?  You may have limitation of motion of your triceps muscle? These are all symptoms of Radial Neuropathy/Entrapment above the elbow. Read on to learn about Shoulder and Arm Pain Due to Radial Neuropathy: Chiropractic Can Help.

 

Anatomy of the Radial Nerve

The radial nerve is the terminal (end) continuation of the posterior (back) part of the brachial plexus. And the brachial plexus is a bundle of nerves that originate from nerve roots in the cervical (neck) and upper thoracic (torso) sections of the spinal cord (C5-T1). Ultimately, the brachial plexus creates a network that connects to the nerves in the arm. Therefore, the radial nerve contains fibres from nerve roots C5 – T1.

It arises from the axilla and exits the axilla inferiorly (below).  Next, it supplies branches to the long and lateral heads of the triceps brachii muscle.

The radial nerve then descends down the arm.  It travels in a shallow depression within the surface of the humerus (long upper arm bone), known as the radial groove.

To enter the forearm, the radial nerve travels anterior (front of) to the epicondyle of the humerus, through the cubital fossa of the elbow. The nerve then ends by dividing into two branches:

• Deep branch (motor) – innervates (supplies) the muscles in the posterior (back) compartment of the forearm.
• Superficial branch (sensory) – contributes to the cutaneous (skin) innervation of the dorsal (back) hand and fingers.

 

Entrapment Sites

 

High Radial Nerve compression

High radial nerve compression involves compression from the axilla to the proximal (beginning) elbow. Entrapment can first occur as the radial nerve passes in front of the subscapularis (one of 4 rotator cuff muscles), tendons of the latissimus dorsi and teres major muscles. 

Furthermore, entrapment can include axillary compression and compression at the spiral groove of the humerus, fibrous arcade (band) at the origin of the lateral head of triceps muscle and within the triceps muscle.

Compression proximal (near) to the elbow

Entrapment occurs proximal (nearer) to the elbow on the lateral (side) position between the brachialis (muscle goes from humerus and inserts to ulna bone of elbow) and brachioradialis (muscle goes from humerus to radius bone at wrist).

 

 Symptoms/ Signs of Radial Neuropathy

As mentioned previously, there is usually weakness of the triceps if the compression is in the axillary area.  This differentiates higher from lower levels of compression.  Moreover, entrapment from the level of the spiral groove of the humerus down usually does not affect the triceps. 

However, if severe enough, compression in the axilla can be very extensive.  It can lead to loss of elbow, wrist (wrist drop) and finger extension. This is because entrapment at the axilla affects all of the motor and sensory (possible numbness) radial distributions.

 

Radial Neuropathy/Nerve Entrapment Causes

Firstly, your pain and paresthesias (numbness and tingling) could have come on insidiously (gradually).  However, radial neuropathy/nerve entrapment can be due to various causes such as trauma, tumor, scaring/fascial restrictions, fracture, and tourniquet or crutch use causing pressure at the axilla.

Secondly, Saturday night palsy; where you are sleeping with the head on an outstretched hyperabducted (stretched above head) arm may lead to it as well.

Thirdly, sports such as gymnastics and wrestling may be a cause due to some of the maneuvers.

Fourthly, other sports such as baseball and weight lifting where your elbow is forcefully extended may be a cause.

Fifthly, even runners are at risk for radial neuropathy.  Runner’s Radial nerve palsy occurs due to keeping the elbow tightly flexed while running.  This causes numbness in the forearm and dorsal (upper) hand.

Sixthly, repetitive or prolonged muscle contracture in laborers and throwers may be a cause.

 

Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic for Radial Neuropathy:

-Soft tissue techniques will be rendered to the contracted fibrotic muscle and collagen at entrapment sites.

-Chiropractic adjustments (chiropractic manipulative therapy) to the shoulder, elbow and associated restricted joints along the kinetic chain and spine is important.

-Therapeutic exercise will be given for stretching and strengthening.

-If trauma or swelling is involved, ice, compression, elevation, and physical therapy modalities is utilized to reduce swelling. Ergonomic recommendations to change the inciting activity is necessary.

Are your suffering from shoulder or arm pain from Radial Neuropathy?

We offer excellent Chiropractic care for Radial Neuropathy. At Meiri Chiropractic, we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you have. Indeed, Chiropractic is a holistic and natural way to not only treat shoulder and arm pain, but to keep your body in its best working condition. We have been offering effective chiropractic care in West Palm Beach since 2006. Many of our patients reviews note our excellence. Call us today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about Shoulder and Arm Pain from Radial Neuropathy: Chiropractic Can Help.

 

 

 

 

Do you have pain and tenderness around your patellar tendon or lower part of the patella (kneecap)? It may be described as a burning pain in the knee with use or after prolonged sitting with the knee flexed. Perhaps jumping, running or walking may be difficult due to the pain?  Additionally, you may have swelling and erythema (redness of the skin) along the patellar tendon depending on the amount of inflammation.  Also, in chronic cases a nodule of scar tissue that is often tender can be found in the tendon or near the patella.  Keep reading to find out more about Knee Pain Due to Patellar Tendinitis: Chiropractic Can Help.

Knee Anatomy: Femur (thigh bone), Tibia (shin bone), Fibula (thin, outer long bone of the leg), and the Patella (kneecap)

There are three “articulations” (joint or juncture between bones or cartilages) at the knee: the tibiofemoral, patellofemoral, and tibiofibular articulations. However, only the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral articulations participate in knee joint activity. The tibiofibular 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.

So the tibiofemoral and tibiofibular are synovial articulations.  These are freely movable joints. And the bony surfaces are coated with hyaline cartilage.  It is unified by a fibrous articular capsule. However, the third articulation, patellofemoral, is a functional joint (non-synovial joint).   

 

What is Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee)?

Tendinitis is inflammation of the thick fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone. Jumper’s knee is a traction (pulling/microtear of knee) overuse syndrome (group of signs and symptoms). Furthermore, it can be a quadriceps (group of muscles in the front of thigh) tendinitis or patellar tendinitis.  So this depends on whether the quadriceps bone-tendon junction of the superior (upper) patella or the bone-tendon junction of the inferior (lower) patella is primarily involved. 

Quadriceps tendinitis is more common in the age group older than 30 years.  And patella tendinitis is more common in the adolescent (10-17 years old) population.  Importantly, involvement of the quadriceps in an adolescent is probably an avulsion (tearing away) of the proximal (nearer to the trunk) patellar epiphysis (growth plate) rather than an actual quadriceps tendinitis. 

 

Cause of Patellar Tendinitis

 

Patellar Tendonitis is most often an overuse/ repetitive injury problem.  Most of it is due to “microtearing”.  Next, your body will try to repair the microtearing degenerative process that is taking place. Ultimately, this leads to increased thickness of the insertional fibrocartilage at the patella bone-tendon junction.  Sadly, patients treated with steroid injections are prone to developing ruptures. In contrast, Chiropractic restores and normalizes function to joints.  Therefore, the inflammation and pain subside.

Sometimes, a subtle lateral (outward) subluxation may be a case due to overloading of the patellar tendon.  Moreover, tight hamstrings can produce abnormal movements when extending the knee.  Lastly, tight hamstrings and patellar tendinitis were found as a cause in hard playing surfaces combined with overtraining.

 

 

4 Stages of Patellar Tendinitis

1st Stage-  pain only after activity.

2nd Stage- pain at the beginning of activity that disappears after warm up and returns after activity. 

3rd Stage- constant pain at rest and inability to participate in sports

4th Stage- complete rupture of the patellar tendon.

Patellar Tendonitis is not self limiting (goes away on own).  Without proper treatment and with continued overuse, it may progress through the different stages described above.  Even Stage 3 may sometimes be irreversible and require surgery.  Therefore, it is wise to get treatment as soon as possible.

 

Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic for Patellar Tendinitis. 

Firstly, during the acute phase, rest/ proper warm up before use, stretching, ice after use and a patella restraining brace are recommended.

Secondly, soft tissue techniques (e.g. myofascial release, cross friction) will be performed on the patella ligament and all associated muscles. 

Thirdly, chiropractic adjustments (chiropractic manipulative therapy) to the Knee, patella  and associated restricted joints along the kinetic chain is important.

Fourthly, therapeutic exercise will be given for stretching and strengthening.  For example, hamstring and gastrocnemius and quadriceps stretching and strengthening.

 

Are your suffering from Knee or patellar tendon Pain?

 

We offer excellent Chiropractic care for Patellar Tendinitis. At Meiri Chiropractic, we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you have. Indeed. chiropractic will to keep your body in its best working condition. We have been offering effective chiropractic care in West Palm Beach since 2006. Many of our patients reviews note our excellence. Call us today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about Knee Pain Due to Patellar Tendinitis: Chiropractic Can Help.

 

If you have knee pain from Pes Anserinus Bursitis, Chiropractic can provide relief! This post is about Knee Bursitis and Chiropractic Treatment: Pes Anserinus Bursitis.

 

What is bursitis?

Bursae are fluid-filled, sac like cavities. Bursae are located where muscles and tendons move over bony joint areas. They reduce friction caused by muscles and tendons moving against skin and bones.  Also, they facilitate movement.

A knee bursa is like a cushion. So when one becomes inflamed, increased tension and pain can occur in a condition known as bursitis. The bursa in the knee increases with fluid and redness in the area it occurs.

 

Where is the Pes Anserinus and the bursa?

The pes anserinus is composed of the combination of tendinous insertions of the sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus muscles:

 

1. sartorius– long, thin, superficial muscle that runs down the length of the thigh in the anterior (front) compartment
2. gracilis– muscle descends almost vertically down the leg and inserts on the medial tibia at the Pes anserinus
3. semitendinosus– is one of the three muscles that make up the hamstrings muscle group, and it is located at the posterior (back) and medial (inner) aspect of the thigh.

The pes anserinus bursa lies about 2 inches below the medial knee joint line between the pes anserinus (bracilis, sartorius, and semitendinousus muscles) above and the medial collateral ligament and anterior tibia (front of shinbone) below. 

 

Causes of Pes Anserinus Bursitis

Firstly, one possible cause is over training such as excessive miles, excessive hills, and improper or inadequate stretching.  This can lead to shortened medial hamstrings which may compress the bursa with overuse.

Secondly, knee valgus (Knock knee) and heel valgus (heel to drift outwards) may also lead to pes anserinus bursitis.

Thirdly, external tibial torsion (leg turns outward), femoral anteversion (inward twisting of the thigh bone) and a broad pelvis (in women) can cause pes anserinus bursitis.

Fourthly, if you have knee osteoarthritis, there’s a 75% chance of also having pes anserinus bursitis.

Fifthly, it occurs more often in 50-80 year old women especially if overweight. 

Finally, it is also found in runners and soccer players.

 

Symptoms and Signs of a Pes Anserinus Bursitis

You may have pain that occurs with walking up stairs.  This may occur in the early stages of training or later stages of use (distance running).  Furthermore, you usually will have pinpoint tenderness 2 inches below the medial (inner) knee joint line.  And there may be moderate swelling.  Also, your pain may radiate into the medial (inner) knee joint and along the medial (inner) hamstring.  

 

 

Treatment for Pes Anserinus Bursitis at Meiri Chiropractic

First, biomechanical evaluation of the lower extremity regarding torsion and angulation is necessary. 

Second, chiropractic manipulative therapy (adjustments) is rendered to the knee and associated spine and extremity (limb) joints. 

Third, manipulation of muscle contractures with soft tissue techniques is utilized.  Some Techniques include gentle PNF/PIR (e.g. post isometric relaxation) and/or myofascial release techniques.  

Finally, therapeutic exercises for rehabilitation/ strengthening are prescribed.  Flexibility and strengthening of the hamstrings, gastrocnemius and soleus are important.  And corrective shoes or orthotics for heel and knee valgus maybe necessary.

 

Getting regular chiropractic treatment at a chiropractic center in West Palm Beach can help naturally relieve the pain and dysfunction of the knee. Chiropractic is a holistic and natural way to not only treat existing conditions, but to keep your body in its best working condition.

Contact Meiri Chiropractic today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to learn more about  Knee Bursitis and Chiropractic Treatment: Pes Anserinus Bursitis.

 

 

If you have knee pain from a bakers cyst, Chiropractic can provide relief! This post is about Knee Bursitis and Chiropractic Treatment: Baker’s Cyst.

 

What is bursitis?

Bursae are fluid-filled, sac like cavities. Bursae are located where muscles and tendons move over bony joint areas. They reduce friction caused by muscles and tendons moving against skin and bones.  Also, they facilitate movement.

A knee bursa is like a cushion. So when one becomes inflamed, increased tension and pain can occur in a condition known as bursitis. The bursa in the knee increases with fluid and redness in the area occurs.

 

Symptoms and Signs of a Baker’s Cyst

You may have swelling, aching and tenderness in the popliteal area of the knee.   The sac is located in the medial (inner) side of the popliteal fossa (diamond-shaped space behind the knee joint).

 

 

The Baker’s Cyst

The baker’s cyst is an idiopathic (cause unknown) form of bursitis where the cyst contents are not in the knee joint.

It can be found in children between ages 6-8 and 12-14 following rapid growth. Baker’s cysts in children are painless and normally disappear as the child matures. 

In contrast, a baker’s cyst found in adults is symptomatic. In adults it has intra-articular (within joint) problems such as degeneration of posterior horn of the medial meniscus (C-shaped cartilage between shin bone and thigh bone) or synovial membrane (connective tissue joint lining) irritation. 

Apparently, a baker’s cyst is due to swelling of the semimembranosus bursa.  The semimembranosus bursa is located between the semimembranosus (one of a group of muscles called the Hamstrings) and gastrocnemius (calf muscle) tendon.  Therefore, it is also called semimembranosus bursitis. Interestingly, poor flexibility of the semimembranosus and gastrocnemius muscles could contribute to development of a baker’s cyst. And this results in tendinitis.

Furthermore, degenerative joint disease or a torn meniscus are other possible contributing causes for a baker’s cyst.

 

Treatment for a Baker’s Cyst at Meiri Chiropractic

First, Chiropractic care for the knee conditions (e.g. tendinitis) can resolve the cyst. 

 

Second, chiropractic manipulative therapy (adjustments) is rendered to the knee and associated spine and extremity (limb) joints.

 

Third, manipulation of muscle contractures with soft tissue techniques is utilized.  Some Techniques include gentle PNF/PIR (e.g. post isometric relaxation) and/or myofascial release techniques. 

 

Finally, therapeutic exercises for rehabilitation/ strengthening are prescribed. Especially, the lack of flexibility in the hamstrings and gastrocnemius are addressed.

 

Getting regular chiropractic treatment at a chiropractic center in West Palm Beach can help naturally relieve the pain and dysfunction of the knee. Chiropractic is a holistic and natural way to not only treat existing conditions, but to keep your body in its best working condition.

Contact Meiri Chiropractic today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to learn more about  Knee Bursitis and Chiropractic Treatment: Baker’s Cyst.

 

 

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Do you have numbness and tingling across the bottom of the foot?  Furthermore, do you have burning pain in the ankle or foot?  It may be often at the sole or first toe. Your pain and paresthesias (numbness a tingling) probably came on insidiously (gradually).  And you do not have any associated low back or leg pain. You may also have noticed weakness in your foot. Lastly, your symptoms are worse by prolonged standing, walking, or running.  These are all symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.

In one study that evaluated patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome, 45 % reported numbness, 39% reported pain, and 16% reported both.  Read on to learn about Ankle and Foot Pain from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Chiropractic Can Help.

Cause

The posterior tibial nerve may be stretched or compressed in the tarsal tunnel.  This is a tunnel formed by the flexor retinaculum (band of thickened deep fascia around tendons), calcaneus (large bone forming the heel), distal tibia (shin bone), and malleolus (inner and outer boney protuberances of ankle).

Contents of the tunnel include: the tendons of the posterior tibialis (muscle in posterior compartment of the lower leg), flexor digitorum longus (also located in posterior compartment muscles of lower leg), and flexor hallucis (muscle goes from calf to 1^st toe) and the posterior tibial artery, vein, and nerve. 

Anatomy of the Tibial Nerve

Firstly, the tibial nerve is one of two main terminal branches of the sciatic nerve.  And the sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the human body.

Secondly, the tibial nerve originates from the L4-S3 spinal nerve roots and provides motor and sensory innervation to most of the posterior (back part) leg and foot.

Thirdly, the tibial nerve descends from the popliteal fossa (space behind knee joint) into the posterior compartment of the leg. It passes deep to the fibular and tibial heads of soleus muscle (a calf muscle found between knee and heel). 

Fourthly, it runs vertically through the deep layer of the posterior (back) compartment of the leg, along with the posterior tibial blood vessels. The tibial nerve provides innervation to the surrounding muscles in this area.

Fifthly, the tibial nerve exits next at the ankle joint. It passes behind the medial malleolus (boney protuberance at inner ankle) to enter the sole of the foot.  Here it supplies innervation to most of the intrinsic (deep) muscles and skin.

Sixthly, past the tarsal tunnel, the tibial nerve gives off its terminal branches, the medial and lateral plantar nerves.  These nerves continue to supply motor and sensory innervation to the plantar foot.

 

Pronation of the Foot

Hyperpronation (excessive inward rotation of the foot during gait) is often the cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome.  This could be due to tightening of the flexor retinaculum or arch of the abductor hallucis muscle. This muscle is located on the inner border of the foot and bends the big toe and moves it out to the side. However, trauma and the subsequent swelling may also cause entrapment of the tibial nerve. 

There may also be a chronic tenosynovitis of the posterior tibial or flexor digitorum longus tendons.  This occurs near the malleolus (prominent bones at ankle) as areas that can compress the tibial nerve.  These fascial restrictions may be a primary cause. However, it is necessary to rule out ganglions, myositis ossificans, exercise compartment syndrome, and tumors.

 

Examination

Your doctor may order a nerve conduction study in a difficult unremitting case.  However, usually patients are diagnosed by the physical (orthopedic, neurological etc.) examination.

 

 

Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

First, soft tissue techniques will be rendered to the contracted fibrotic muscle and collagen at entrapment sites. Second, chiropractic adjustments (chiropractic manipulative therapy) to the foot, ankle and associated restricted joints along the kinetic chain is important.

Third, Therapeutic exercise will be given for stretching and strengthening.

Lastly, if trauma or swelling is involved, ice, compression, elevation, and physical therapy modalities is utilized to reduce swelling. Also, an orthotic and/or correction of shoes may be necessary if there is pronation of the foot.

 

Are your suffering from ankle or foot pain from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

We offer excellent Chiropractic care for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. At Meiri Chiropractic, we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you have. Indeed, Chiropractic is a holistic and natural way to not only treat foot and ankle pain, but to keep your body in its best working condition. We have been offering effective chiropractic care in West Palm Beach since 2006. Many of our patients reviews note our excellence. Call us today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about Ankle and Foot Pain from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Chiropractic Can Help.

 

Meiri Chiropractic

5601 Corporate Way, Ste#102

West Palm Beach, FL 33407