Patient Satisfaction is found to be excellent for chiropractic care! Researchers analyzing the prevalence, patterns and predictors of chiropractic utilization in the U.S. general population found that, “Back pain and neck pain were the most prevalent health problems for chiropractic consultations and the majority of users reported chiropractic helping a great deal with their health problem and improving overall health or well-being.” (1) Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Cervical Spine Anatomy and Chronic Neck Pain is about how chiropractic can help chronic neck pain.

 

Symptoms of Cervical Spine (Neck) Pain

Symptoms  may only be stiffness or restricted range of motion.  Looking over the shoulder may not be possible. And/or moving the head in any direction may be difficult.  This came on insidiously for you.  Finally, It is painful and muscle spasm is present.

Common muscle imbalances at or affecting the cervical spine include tightness of the sternocleidomastoids (SCMs).  Also, short, deep neck extensors, upper trapezius, levator scapulae, and the pectoralis major and minor. Muscles can get inhibited (the nerve signals needed to activate and control the muscle are impaired, leading to weakness and poor function).  These include the deep neck flexors.  Also, the lower stabilizers of the scapulae, including the lower and middle trapezius and the rhomboids are involved. In the end, these imbalances often lead to a rounded shoulder-forward head position.

 

Relevant Cervical Spine Anatomy

Firstly, the cervical spine can be divided into 2 sections when describing the anatomy. The first section is the upper cervical spine consisting of the occiput (bottom of skull) and CI-C2.  The second section would be the lower cervical spine (C2-C7/TI). Functionally, there is a distinction between these two sections due to the greater degree of rotation at the upper cervical spine. So the unique articulation between the C2 and C1 vertebrae allow this greater rotation.  Specifically, the dens of C2 is the pivot for rotation.  Additionally, there is more lax ligamentous structures in this area.  Therefore, the muscles are more supportive and intricate so as to provide the stability and control. Indeed, this area has more laxity in the ligamentous system than the thoracic (mid back) and lumbar (low back) spine.

Secondly, another difference in the upper cervical spine is there is no disc between and C0, C1 and C2 levels.  Discs, called intervertebral discs, are positioned between each vertebra throughout the rest of the spine.

Thirdly, neurologically, the upper cervical spinal cord has a unique connection with the central nervous system.   This is through the trigeminocervical nucleus (functional convergence zone in the upper cervical spinal cord where sensory nerve fibers from the face (via the trigeminal nerve) and the upper neck (C1-C3 spinal nerves) meet. Here there is an intermingling of the spinal nucleus of the trigeminal nerve and the dorsal horn of the upper cervical spinal nerves. This is an anatomical explanation for the cause of headaches, dizziness, and facial pain.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Cervical Spine Anatomy and Chronic Neck Pain Connection…

The cervical spine has the task of maintaining head posture while allowing for a great deal of mobility. Moreover, the cervical spine must balance the weight of the head atop a relatively thin and long lever. This makes it quite susceptible to traumatic forces. The cervical facets (paired joints in neck) allow movement in all directions. In fact, the cervical spine is therefore the most movable portion of the spine. Anatomically, it is quite vulnerable.

 

Causes of Neck Pain from Daily Stresses

Incorrect posture, obesity and weak abdominal muscles often disrupt spinal alignment. This leads your neck to bend forward to compensate. Stress and emotional problems can cause muscles to tighten and contract, resulting in pain and stiffness. Postural stress can contribute to chronic neck pain. Symptoms can eventually extend into the upper back and the arms.

Dentists, mechanics, plumbers, electricians, and various technicians can be in awkward positions for prolonged periods. Any particular position may cause pain.  So many neck structures can be stretched or compressed.

There are repetitive sports injuries to the neck.  These may become chronic due to lack of proper treatment.

Research For Neck Pain Relieved by Chiropractic Care

There was a recent study funded by NIH’s National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.  It was to test the effectiveness of different approaches for treating mechanical neck pain. 272 participants were divided into groups.  They received either spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) from a doctor of chiropractic (DC) or pain medication. It lasted for 12 weeks.  About 57 percent of those who met with DCs reported at least a 75 percent reduction in pain.  In comparison, only 33 percent of the people in the medication group reported pain reduction. After one year, approximately 53 percent of the drug-free groups continued to report at least a 75 percent reduction in pain. And this compared to just 38 percent pain reduction among those who took medication.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Cervical Spine Anatomy and Chronic Neck Pain

Dr. Natalie Meiri will examine you and come up with a treatment plan to get you better! Through regular chiropractic visits, you can get pain relief and improve your health without drugs or surgery. Indeed, although aging is a slow and progressive deterioration of bodily functions the body can be maintained by proper care.

Make an appointment today at 561-253-8984! And/or call to find out more about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Cervical Spine Anatomy and Chronic Neck Pain.

References: (1 ) Adams et al (2017) Spine

                   (2) Bronfort et al. (2012), Annals of Internal Medicine

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s clinical pearl story about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief From Hip Osteoarthritis With Acupuncture

 

This is my clinical pearl story about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief from Hip Osteoarthritis With Acupuncture.  He was a 49 year old male patient.  His chief complaints were right hip pain. To be HIPAA compliant, I will call him Brett instead of his real name.

Brett’s right hip was chronically hurting now for over a year. And Brett even had thigh pain from  sudden movement. It had come on insidiously and seemed to be getting worse day by day. Brett may have had some trauma or injury involving his hip in the past. However, it always seemed to subside.

At first, Brett thought his pain was in the low back or buttocks when it was in fact due to his hip.  He had seen his primary care physician and had his hip and low back x-rayed.  The pain medication his primary prescribed didn’t help at all.  So that’s when he decided to try acupuncture.

 

Brett’s Examination at Meiri Chiropractic

Upon examination, Brett tested positive for his right hip condition.  His x-rays taken at the primary care doctor showed degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis). Indeed, as a weight bearing joint, the hip is commonly affected by degenerative joint changes and soft tissue damage.   Brett’s diagnosis was osteoarthritis of his right hip. If Brett wasn’t responding in a month, further testing (e.g. MRI) would be ordered.

 

Hip Anatomy

The hip, like the shoulder, is considered a ball-and-socket joint. It is formed by the head of the femur (thigh bone) which sits in what’s called the acetabulum, a part of the pelvis. The head of the femur is large (ball) and the acetabulum (socket) is deep.  The soft tissues (refers to non-bony structures that connect, support, or surround other structures) in your hip are:

• the muscles, which allow you to move.
• the tendons, which connect your muscles to the bone.
• the ligaments are bands of tough elastic tissue around your joints. They connect bone to bone, give your joints support, and limit their movement.
• the fascia – stretchy, thin, white fibrous tissue. All your muscles are enveloped in fascia.
• the bursae – fluid-filled pads that act as cushions at the joints. Bursae reduce friction between the surfaces of a bone and soft tissue 

What is Osteoarthritis?

Primary Osteoarthritis occurs usually in middle-aged to elderly people (>45 years old). It is more prevalent in women (female to male 10:1). Primary means this osteoarthritis develops due to aging and the wear and tear that comes along with it.

An example would be Brett’s hip: primary femoroacetabular (hip) osteoarthritis. Typically, your symptoms consists of hip and possibly buttock, groin, or knee pain that was insidious (came on gradually) in onset. Additionally, you note a slow stiffening, specifically internal (inward) rotation. This often results in walking with the hip held in external (outward) rotation. You may complain of low back pain due to excessive extension with weight bearing. The low back pain is really due to compensating for limited hip movement due to hip osteoarthritis.

Common joints involved in primary osteoarthritis are the hips, knees, sacroiliac joint, acromioclavicular (shoulder and collar bone), first metacarpophalangeal (part of thumb joint), first metacarpotrapezium (part of thumb joint closer to wrist), and the distal interphalangeal joints (joints at tips of fingers).

Often initially asymptomatic, you will have a gradual increase in joint stiffness and pain. Moreover, deformity may be apparent such as  herberden’s nodes in the hands (bony bumps).  If not treated, primary osteoarthritis may eventually lead to joint subluxation (dislocation) and instability.

Cause of Osteoarthritis

Primary osteoarthritis is due to progressive degeneration of the joint or joints involved by an accumulation of microtrauma.  A microtrauma is an injury resulting from repetitive stress to tissues. 

 

Brett’s Acupuncture Treatments at Meiri Chiropractic

 

Brett did 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.  These were inserted into the skin and underlying tissues. 

Brett reported that he was starting to feel better after the initial visit.  Moreover, he continued to improve with each visit. After 12 visits, he was mostly pain-free.  Brett continued his acupuncture treatments thereafter at less frequent intervals.

 

How Does Acupuncture Help Hip Osteoarthritis?

Firstly, a study published in the JAMA Internal Medicine was done to determine the effect size of acupuncture for 4 chronic pain conditions: back and neck pain, osteoarthritis, chronic headache, and shoulder pain.  The study concluded: Acupuncture is effective for the treatment of chronic pain and is therefore a reasonable referral option.

Secondly, research studies have shown promising results for the use of acupuncture to manage arthritis symptoms.  However, limitations in study design and sample size suggest that further research needs to be done. More studies to better understand the impact of acupuncture on arthritis pain and inflammation is being done.  Nevertheless, with existing evidence and because acupuncture carries a low risk of harm, acupuncture is recommended for people with arthritis.

Thirdly, Acupuncture in combination with a chiropractic care plan may help dramatically to reduce pain and improve quality of life.

Fourthly, Neuroscientists at Harvard Medical School looked at the underlying neuroanatomy of acupuncture.  Specifically, that acupuncture activates a nerve signaling pathway. The signaling affects the function of other parts of the body, including organs (and neuromusculoskeletal body parts).

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

 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief From Hip Osteoarthritis With Acupuncture

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for hip osteoarthritis 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 for hip osteoarthritis at 561-253-8984.

 

References: Acupuncture for Chronic PainIndividual Patient Data Meta-analysis

1. Andrew J. Vickers, DPhil; Angel M. Cronin, MS; Alexandra C. Maschino, BS
2. et al  https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/1357513

 

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s clinical pearl stories: Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief from T.M.J. Pain with Acupuncture

 

This is my clinical pearl story about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief from T.M.J. Pain With Acupuncture.  She was a 45 year old female patient.  Her chief complaint was temporomandibular joint (T.M.J.) pain.   To be HIPAA compliant, I will call her Gene instead of her real name.

Gene had suffered from T.M.J. pain for a year. Gene stated her T.M.J. pain was from grinding her teeth from stress.  She felt the pain in her jaws and face.  Additionally, her symptoms included clicking, popping, or grinding noises in the jaw.  Furthermore, at times she had some difficulty opening or closing the mouth. Gene felt Jaw “stiffness or locking”. Moreover, she even felt ear pain and/or fullness along with mild dizziness and headaches.

However, since she was perimenopausal she felt her hormones were causing some of her issues of aches and pains. Also, she wasn’t sleeping well.

Before Gene came to see me, she went to her dentist.  He gave her a (mouth guard) splint and a prescription for NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Gene’s dentist told her she “grinds her teeth”.  By his recommendation, she tried a splint at night which helped a little.  

Finally, Gene came to see me since she still had TMJ pain.

 

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Anatomy

The TMJ is composed of:

–Synovial cavity– space between the bones in a synovial joint that’s filled with synovial fluid (nourishing thick fluid).

–Articular cartilage– specialized type of connective tissue that covers the ends of bones in joints.  It provides a smooth surface for joint movement.

-Articular capsule– fibrous connective tissue encloses the joint capsule

–Several ligaments- ligament is a band of tissue that connects bones and joints. Ligaments hold the TMJ in place and help move it properly.

–Disk- articular fibrocartilaginous structure located between the mandible (jaw bone) and the temporal bone (sides of skull).

TMD refers to a group of disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint connecting the jaw to the skull.

 

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain/ Temporomandibular diseases (TMD) and Causes

 

Temporomandibular diseases (TMD) refers to a group of disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint connecting the jaw to the skull.

TMJ problems can be due to developmental abnormalities, intracapsular diseases, and dysfunctional conditions:

-Developmental abnormalities include hypoplasia/hyperplasia (under or over development of TMJ)

-Impingements (pinching) of the various TMJ structures (e.g. coronoid process, synovial fold)

-Ossification (calcification) of TMJ ligaments (e.g. stylohyoid ligament; Eagle syndrome).

-Intracapsular (located within a capsule) diseases (e.g. disk adhesions/displacements, degenerative arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, infections, and gout)

– Postural stresses, muscle tone, malocclusion/dysfunction of the teeth can affect the TMJ.

-Women experience a higher incidence of oral (mouth) diseases including periodontal diseases and temporomandibular joint disease/pain. This points to the role of estrogen on TMJ structures.  Low levels of estrogen during menopause predisposes the TMJ to degeneration (osteoarthritis).  Furthermore, it leads to alveolar (bony ridge that contains the sockets of the upper teeth) bone loss.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief from T.M.J. Pain with Acupuncture-Gene’s Examination

Upon examination, Gene’s mandibular “gait” (way lower jawbone moves) was out of alignment.   Tendinitis and trigger points were found by increased tenderness in the belly and tendons of the masseter (muscles on mandible that help close the mouth) and temporalis (muscle on temporal bone that help move jaw bone).  Plain film x-rays are virtually useless for TMJ disorder diagnosis (except perhaps for fracture).  And since there was no history of trauma, x-rays were not performed. Gene would try a course of 12 acupuncture treatments. 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief from T.M.J. Pain with Acupuncture-Gene’s Acupuncture Treatments

Gene’s Acupuncture treatments consisted of the insertion of very thin metal needles.  These were inserted into the skin and underlying tissues of the appropriate acu points.  Her sleep and stress issues were also addressed through acupuncture. The outcome for Gene was pain relief and improved T.M.J. function.  Gene symptoms of temporomandibular diseases (TMD) was resolved.She also stated, “more energy, better sleep and less stress” with her treatments!

 

How Does Acupuncture Help T.M.J. Pain, Disorders and Dysfunction?

Firstly, in one study (1), they utilized Acupuncture’s effectiveness for pain relief and muscle relaxation. They looked at the possibility of acupuncture treatment altering the the occlusal forces and mandibular movements in patients with deep-bite malocclusion (overbite). The study confirmed that acupuncture may become an alternative treatment on improving the occlusal force of deep-bite patients.

Secondly, a study (2) at the TMD Clinic, at the School of Dentistry, The University of Manchester was done.  It compared the effect of real acupuncture and sham acupuncture in the treatment of temporomandibular joint myofascial pain.  This was to establish the true efficacy of acupuncture.  The “results demonstrated that real acupuncture had a greater influence on clinical outcome measure of TMJ myofascial pain than those of sham acupuncture”.

Thirdly, Neuroscientists at Harvard Medical School looked at the underlying neuroanatomy of acupuncture.  Specifically, that acupuncture activates a nerve signaling pathway. The signaling affects the function of other parts of the body, including organs (and neuromusculoskeletal body parts).

 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Relief from T.M.J. Pain with Acupuncture

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

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for T.M.J. Pain 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 for T.M.J. Pain and Dysfunction at 561-253-8984.

 

 

References:

• (1) Effects of short-term acupuncture treatment on occlusal force and mandibular movement in patients with deep-bite malocclusion J Dent Sci . 2019 Mar;14(1):81-86. doi: 10.1016/j.jds.2018.11.003. Epub 2018 Dec 4. Chih-Yu Fang, Jian-Hog Yu, Chia Chi Chang, Jhia Chi Chang, Jui Ting Hsu, Yu Chen Lee Heng Li Huan 

 

• (2) The efficacy of acupuncture in the treatment of temporomandibular joint myofascial pain: a randomised controlled trial PHilip Smith, Daniella Mosscrop, Stephen Davies, Philip Sloan, Ziad Al-AniAffiliations  PMID: 17095133 DOI

 

 

 

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s clinical pearl story about West Palm Beach Chiropractic Acupuncture:  Relief from Low Back and Toe Pain

 

This is my clinical pearl story about West Palm Beach Chiropractic Acupuncture:  Relief from Low Back and Toe Pain.  He was a 65 year old male patient.  His chief complaints were low back and toe pain.   To be HIPAA compliant, I will call him Frankie instead of his real name.

Frankie’s low back pain had come on 20 years ago.  He didn’t know how it started because there was no trauma. It came on insidiously. He was a technician servicing various machinery.  Therefore, his job entailed a lot of driving and lifting heavy equipment.  Frankie definitely thought a lot of his back problems were job related.

When Frankie first came to see me, he stated the “back problem had become a numbness” in his gluteal (buttock) area. The numbness was new and alarming to him.  Moreover, he had “pain in both big toes”. So he had gone to an orthopedist initially.  He was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of his low back and toes.  Next, he was prescribed drugs. Finally, he was sent to physical therapy.  After some sessions, Frankie’s condition wasn’t improving.  And when the orthopedist suggested injections, he decided to turn to another alternative. Frankie had always had success with natural and holistic healing. So that’s when he came to see me.

 

Frankie’s Examination and Imaging

Upon examination, Frankie tested positive for his back pain condition.  His x-rays taken at the orthopedist showed degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) in his lumbar spine and both halluces (big toes). Additionally, Frankie’s diagnosis was sciatica which was the cause of the numbness in the gluteal area. And Frankie’s toes (in extension) were due to a Sand Toe injury.   

What is Sciatica?

Firstly, the sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the human body. Sciatic nerves originate from several nerves in your lower back. These nerves branch outward from the spine. And then it comes together at each buttock to form the sciatic nerve, which then radiates down each leg.

 

Secondly, the word “sciatic” is defined as relating to the hip or ischium or to any structure in its vicinity, as the sciatic nerve. The ischium is a paired bone (one on each side) of the pelvis.  This forms the lower and back part of the hip bone(s).

 

Thirdly, sciatica is defined as irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve.  This causes pain in the buttock area with radiation to the lower leg. It is a condition characterized by pain along the course of the sciatic nerve.  Furthermore, it is usually a neuritis (inflammation of a nerve).  And it generally involves the lumbosacral spinal nerve roots.

 

Fourthly, many cases have a spinal cause, such as disc herniation/bulge causing impingement of L5 or S1 nerve roots. Other common causes include spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease (wear and tear arthritis/osteoarthritis), and spondylolisthesis. There are also other causes of sciatica, which are less common. These include piriformis, trauma, post-operative complications, gynecologic conditions, and herpes zoster (shingles).

 

Fifthly, in Frankie’s case, his sciatica was due to osteoarthritis.

 

What is Sand Toe?

“Sand toe”, is an injury to the big toe joint, specifically the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ). It can be caused by repetitive hyperextension of the big toe.  For instance, like running and jumping. Symptoms include throbbing pain, swelling, and bruising.  In Frankie’s case, it may have also been work related.

 

Frankie’s Acupuncture Treatments at Meiri Chiropractic

Frankie initially treated with chiropractic care for his low back complaint. Indeed, his low back pain did decrease. However, the numbness wasn’t completely gone.  Of course, there was the halluce (big toe) problem.  Therefore, I started him on acupuncture treatments.

His Acupuncture treatments consisted of the insertion of very thin metal needles.  These were inserted into the skin and underlying tissues.  Finally, Frankie’s outcome from the acupuncture was a complete resolution.

 

 

How Does Acupuncture Help Sciatica, arthritis and “sand toe”?

Neuroscientists at Harvard Medical School looked at the underlying neuroanatomy of acupuncture.  Specifically, that acupuncture activates a nerve signaling pathway. The signaling affects the function of other parts of the body, including organs (and neuromusculoskeletal body parts).

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

Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for low back pain, osteoarthritis, sciatica, sand toe 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 for sciatica at 561-253-8984.

 

 

 

This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Sciatica Relief.  Symptoms include mid-buttock pain that radiates down the leg, most often unilaterally (one side). You will often experience an abnormal sensation such as numbness or parethesia (pins and needles). You may also have weakness in the leg effected.

If you have Sciatica, acupuncture can provide relief!  We’ve got some great information to share below.

 

What is Sciatica?

 

Firstly, the sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the human body. Sciatic nerves originate from several nerves in your lower back. These nerves branch outward from the spine. And then it comes together at each buttock to form the sciatic nerve, which then radiates down each leg.

 

Secondly, the word “sciatic” is defined as relating to the hip or ischium or to any structure in its vicinity, as the sciatic nerve. The ischium is a paired bone (one on each side) of the pelvis that forms the lower and back part of the hip bone(s).

 

Thirdly, sciatica is defined as irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve that causes pain in the buttock area with radiation to the lower leg. It is a condition characterized by pain along the course of the sciatic nerve.  This is usually a neuritis (inflammation of a nerve).  It is generally caused by mechanical compression or irritation of the lumbar and sacral spinal nerve roots.

 

Fourthly, many cases have a spinal cause, such as disc herniation/bulge causing impingement of L5 or S1 nerve roots. Other common causes include spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease (wear and tear arthritis/osteoarthritis), and spondylolisthesis. There are also other causes of sciatica, which are less common. These include piriformis, trauma, post-operative complications, gynecologic conditions, and herpes zoster (shingles).

 

 

 Some Causes of  Sciatica

 

1. Disc herniation

This occurs usually between the ages of 30 and 50. This age range is due in part to the fact that the disc’s nucleus pulposus (central, softer jelly like inner part of disc) dehydrates with aging, leaving little to herniate.  Low back pain with radiation in the leg(s) which travels below the knee is a symptom. Paresthesia or numbness is more commonly found with disc herniations especially in the foot or ankle area.

 

You may have had a twisting injury accompanied by immediate leg pain. The leg pain is often more of a concern than the back pain.  Moreover, pain is often worse with sitting (due to increased disc pressure) and less with standing or walking.  In the past, you may have a history of recurrent episodes of back pain without leg pain.

 

1. Spinal Stenosis

 

The 50 year old and above with leg pain is more likely to have sciatica due to stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal). You may have more difficulty with walking or standing.  This is because of the compressive effect created by the loading of the posterior (back of) spine where most of the stenosis occurs. Leg pain from spinal stenosis is called neurogenic claudication. 

 

So neurogenic claudication is secondary (due) to spinal stenosis.  In other words, neurogenic claudication is usually caused by spinal stenosis in the lumbar spine (lower back). This narrowing of the spinal canal is generally caused by arthritic changes in the lower spine.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Sciatica Relief

Firstly, in the treatment of sciatica, the first option is a conservative approach using conventional medications (CMs) such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, opioid analgesics, and corticosteroids. However, these have provided limited pain relief.  Furthermore, these have been often accompanied by adverse effects.  These include dizziness, drowsiness, intoxication, allergic reactions, hepatic and gastrointestinal dysfunctions.

Secondly, results of one study showed that acupuncture may be more effective than NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen) in decreasing the patient’s pain level for leg pain/lumbago (low back pain). The study also stated, “Moreover, acupuncture may enhance the effect of medications in leg pain/lumbago relief. To patients with sciatica, acupuncture points appear more effective than nonacupoints”. (1)

Thirdly, a small, randomized clinical trial published in the December 2024 issue of JAMA Internal Medicine has found that acupuncture could offer relief for sciatica. Researchers randomly assigned 216 people (average age 51).  All the participants with sciatica caused by a herniated disk got either real acupuncture or a sham procedure.  And this lasted for 10 sessions over four weeks. In conclusion, those who received acupuncture reported having less leg pain and better physical function.  And this lasted up to a year.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Sciatica Relief

Acupuncture has been used for over 4000 years to treat pain and other health problems safely and effectively. The acupuncture treatment stimulates the imbalanced 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 sciatica 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 for sciatica at 561-253-8984.

 

References: (1) Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Treating Sciatica: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Zongshi Qin, Xiaoxu Liu, Jiani Wu, Yanbing Zhai, Zhishun Liu  PMCID: PMC4631886  PMID: >26576192

 

 

 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Sinusitis is about the natural treatments for sinusitis (sinus infection/inflammation)/sinus problems through acupuncture. Acupuncture has been traditionally used to treat respiratory conditions in China for more than a thousand years.  These include sinusitis/sinus problems, allergic asthma, and chronic bronchitis.

There are higher rates of sinusitis in the South, Midwest, and among women in the U.S.A. Furthermore, kids younger than 15 years of age and adults aged 25 to 64 years are affected most. 

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

 

Symptoms of Sinusitis

Indeed, the symptoms of sinusitis can be very painful and uncomfortable. This includes fever (usually low-grade, but higher in some cases), cough, headache, earache, toothache, facial pain, cranial pressure, difficulty breathing through the nose, loss of the sense of smell, fatigue, malaise, halitosis (persistent bad breath) and facial pain. Furthermore, it can even cause facial swelling along with a stuffy nose and thick discharge of mucus.  Next, the postnasal drip may cause a sore throat, nausea and difficulty sleeping.  

Anatomy of Paranasal Sinuses

The paranasal sinuses are located near the nose and connect to your nasal cavity. There are four paranasal sinuses: maxillary, ethmoid, sphenoid, and frontal. They are named corresponding to the respective bone from which it takes its name. The sinuses are hollow spaces in the skull and facial bones around the nose.  These are air-filled cavities within the frontal, ethmoidal, sphenoidal, and maxillary bones. All drain into the superior (upper) or lateral (side) aspect of the nose. The sinuses’ lining the mucosa (mucus membrane) is continuous with the nasal cavity.  Therefore, any infections from the nasal mucosa can easily spread to the sinuses.

 

Cause of Sinusitis

The cause of Sinusitis is multifactorial.  Most people with colds have an element of viral sinusitis. If you have atopy, a genetic immune system problem, it may make you more likely to develop allergic diseases (e.g. seasonal allergies).  So you are more susceptible to sinusitis. Similarly, sinusitis can be caused by allergens, environmental irritants, viruses, fungi, and bacteria. For example, irritants are animal dander, polluted air, smoke, and dust.

First, a viral upper respiratory infection may cause sinusitis secondary to edema. Second, inflammation of the nasal lining and the production of thick mucus that obstructs the paranasal (near to nose) sinuses allows a secondary bacterial overgrowth. Third, allergic rhinitis (hayfever) can lead to sinusitis.

Other risk factors of sinusitis include:

• Air travel can lead to inflammation of the sinuses, because of changes in air pressure.
• Chronic sinusitis may be caused by small growths in the nose, injury of the nasal bones, air pollution, dental complications, emotional stress, smoking, and exposure to irritant fumes and smells.
• Allergic sinusitis may be caused by hay fever or food allergies, especially allergies to milk/ dairy products.
• People with compromised immune systems (e.g. HIV) are more susceptible to sinusitis.

 

Acupuncture Treatment and Sinusitis

Conventional medical treatment for sinusitis is usually satisfactory, but often for a short time.  However, many patients have limited or no effect from conventional treatment. Therefore, the condition progresses to a chronic sinusitis which can last for many years. Treatment of chronic sinusitis is a well-established procedure in traditional Chinese acupuncture. Accordingly, acupuncture can be utilized to relieve symptoms of chronic sinusitis.

 

Research on Acupuncture and Sinus Problems

In one study the favorable effects of acupuncture in the treatment of children and young adults with chronic maxillary sinusitis, compared with antibiotics was reported. Numerous observational studies have suggested that acupuncture can be effective in sinusitis or sinus pain.

In another study, Nasal congestion was explored in regards to acupuncture.  It was found those receiving acupuncture had a more positive outcome with nasal problems.  Nasal congestion is one of the most common complaints seen in primary care settings. Additionally, the side effects of decongestants are frequently seen in patients with chronic nasal congestion and sinus problems. In conclusion, this leads to an increasing demand of alternative treatments such as acupuncture for nasal congestion and sinus problems. 

 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Sinusitis

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 to bring balance back.  Mainly, the goal is to activate the body’s natural healing abilities. 

After a thorough exam to rule out any critical problems, a course of acupuncture may definitely help. Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for sinus problems 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 for sinusitis at 561-253-8984.

 

 

References: Acupuncture for nasal congestion: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical pilot study

Am J Rhinol Allergy . 2009 Nov-Dec;23(6):e23-8.  doi: 10.2500/ajra.2009.23.3380. Epub 2009 Sep 18.

Serkan Sertel  ¹ , Zazie Bergmann, Kerstin Ratzlaff, Ingo Baumann, Henry Johannes Greten, Peter Karl Plinkert

 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Menstrual Disorders is about how to minimize or eliminate the bad symptoms of menstrual disorders.

More than half of women who menstruate have some pain for 1 to 2 days each month. Usually, the pain is mild. Others have severe pain with other symptoms, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. Above all, it keeps them from doing normal activities for several days a month. 

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 to bring balance back.  Mainly, the  goal is to activate the body’s natural healing abilities. It’s often used as part of a broader approach to healthcare.

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

 

What is Premenstrual Syndrome?

Premenstrual syndrome (P.M.S.) is a hormone mediated response to fluctuating levels of progesterone and estrogen (sex and reproductive hormones).  Symptoms generally represent the consequences of emotionaI lability (rapid, often exaggerated changes in mood, where strong emotions or feelings occur). For instance, mood swings, anxiety, and depression occur. Furthermore, hormonal effects on neuroendocrine (cells that release hormones into the blood in response to stimulation of the nervous system) function cause headaches, food cravings, fluid retention, breast tenderness or fullness, and back pain.  P.M.S. appears 7 to 10 days prior to menses and improves within hours to days following the onset of menses. After that, dysmenorrhea (menstrual symptoms) may appear.

What is Dysmenorrhea?

Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for pain with your period (menstruation) or menstrual cramps. There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea is the name for common menstrual cramps that come back over and over again (recurrent). Secondary dysmenorrhea can be due to other diseases.  With secondary dysmenorrhea (due to endometriosis or fibroids), you may want to talk to your doctor (OB/GYN) about a diagnosis and treatment options.

 

Why Do P.M.S. (Premenstrual Symptoms) and Dysmenorrhea occur?

The pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain, produces a number of hormones. Each of these hormones affects a specific part of the body.  Luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone produced by the pituitary, promote ovulation and stimulate the ovaries to produce estrogen and progesterone.

Estrogen and progesterone stimulate the uterus and breasts to prepare for possible fertilization. Estrogen causes the breast ducts to enlarge. Progesterone production causes the milk glands to swell. Both of these events can cause your breasts to feel sore.

Before a period begins, the cells that form the lining of the uterus begin to break down.   As a result, large amounts of inflammatory prostaglandins are released. During menstruation these chemicals constrict the blood vessels in the uterus and make the muscle layer contract, causing painful cramps.  Additionally, prostaglandins can cause symptoms of headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and urinary frequency.  Heavy contractions can lead to low back pain.  Similarly, lower abdominal pain can radiate into the low back.

 

Theories to explain why symptoms vary from woman to woman:

 -Some women may metabolize progesterone differently with the result of less allopregnenolone. (Allopregnanolone is a neuroactive steroid involved in modulating behavioral functions, stress). 

-Serotonin levels decreasing. Serotonin is a key hormone that stabilizes our mood, feelings of well-being, and happiness. 

-There is estrogen excess or progesterone deficiency (through stimulation of the renin-angiotensin system and increased levels of aldosterone) leads to fluid retention. The Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) is a hormone system within the body that is essential for the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance. 

-There are nutritional imbalances in B6 and magnesium, altered blood sugar levels, and prostaglandin imbalance. 

 

Research on Acupuncture and How It May Alleviate Your Symptoms

Results of one study suggest that acupuncture might reduce menstrual pain and associated symptoms more effectively compared to no treatment or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). And the efficacy could be maintained during a short-term follow-up period (1).

How acupuncture can alleviate your symptoms is not completely known.  There are studies on acupuncture treatments and the following:  

Firstly, Endorphins are released during acupuncture.  This acts as the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanism.  Additionally, this may reduce period pain intensity, duration, and symptoms.  This includes headaches, breast tenderness, and bloating.

Secondly, acupuncture improves blood flow to the abdomen and pelvic area.  This may help reduce pain/ menstrual cramping.

Thirdly, acupuncture may help with balancing hormones.  Indeed, hormonal imbalance may be a cause of your menstrual pain and stress levels.

Fourthly, by reducing inflammation Acupuncture provides pain relief.

Fifthly, acupuncture helps relax muscles.  So your uterine muscles will be cramping less.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Menstrual Disorders

If you are suffering from menstrual disorders contact Meiri Chiropractic.  Your chiropractic physician certified in acupuncture in West Palm Beach will get you better.  Call 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to learn more about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture for Menstrual Disorders.

This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Digestion. Acupuncture demonstrates a significant immediate effect in reducing discomforts for digestion and gastrointestinal disorders. Research shows the efficacy and safety of acupuncture to improve digestion and help gastrointestinal disorders.

Indeed, Acupuncture can help manage gastrointestinal disorders by regulating the nervous system, reducing inflammation, and improving gut motility. This is accomplished by stimulating specific acupuncture points that influence the digestive system, promoting relaxation and balancing hormones. Therefore, this can lead to improved digestion and reduced symptoms of gastrointestinal conditions.  Ultimately, you will have overall better gut health.

 

What are gastrointestinal disorders?

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are diseases or health problems of the digestive tract. Your digestive system includes your esophagus (tube leading to stomach from mouth), stomach, large and small intestines, liver, pancreas and gallbladder.  The digestive process involves breaking down of food and drink into nutrients that your body can absorb.  Next, your body uses these nutrients as energy and building blocks for cells.

The following are some common gastrointestinal disorders.

 

1. Reflux Esophagitis/ Hiatal Hernia/ G.E.R.D.

A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes up into the chest through a small opening in the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the abdomen from the chest.  This results in retention of acid and other contents. These acids and other substances can easily reflux into the esophagus causing heartburn. So if heartburn continues and is more frequent it can become GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).

The symptoms of GERD are also epigastric (upper central region of the abdomen) pain after eating a large meal and lying down. Your esophagus is a muscular tube that connects your mouth and your stomach. The esophageal sphincters (rings of muscle) contract and relax to allow food and liquid to pass. The tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) may decrease with age and also with ingestion of certain foods.  In addition, smoking and certain medications also will decrease the tone of the LES, leading to reflux.  Moreover, increased pressure from obesity may aggravate symptoms. However, esophageal reflux can be common in healthy athletes, such as conditioned runners, cyclists, and weightlifters.  Several mechanisms may account for this, including position, Valsalva (forcefully breathing out against closed windpipe), and indirect effects of exercise on lower esophageal tone.

 

2. Peptic Ulcer

Peptic ulcer disease, also referred to as stomach or duodenal ulcers, is usually caused by bacteria or the overuse of common pain relievers.  Although you may have pain after eating, for most people, pain occurs when the stomach is empty.  Moreover, it is four times more common in men than women. 

 

3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a condition with chronic recurrent abdominal pain with constipation or diarrhea.  However, there are no signs of bleeding or inflammation.  And  IBS is the most common chronic gastrointestinal disorder.  Indeed, it is stress related.

 

4. Regional Enteritis (Crohn’s Disease)

Crohn’s disease is a chronic disease that causes inflammation in your digestive tract (small and large intestine). The cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown. Researchers think that an autoimmune reaction may occur.  The symptoms are severe cramping and diarrhea.  Because of malabsorption of nutrients, anemia,  fatigue, and weight loss happens.

 

5. Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. It is usually only in the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum.  Again, the cause is attributed to autoimmune disease.

Symptoms include episodic cramping and bloody diarrhea. Ulcerative colitis is most common in young adults.  In addition, it may be accompanied by systemic (whole body) symptoms.  And there is a high risk for future colon cancer.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Digestion: Research and Empirical Evidence

Firstly, Acupuncture has been used for relief of acute illness, such as pain and indigestion in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Many case reports have demonstrated that acupuncture therapy was very helpful for a patient for pain relief. A Chinese case study reports the positive effects of treating ulcerative colitis with acupuncture (1).

Secondly, acupuncture was started in the Western world only after the historical visit of President Richard Nixon to China in 1972. So within this time, one of the reporters from the New York Times underwent an emergency apendectomy in China.  Afterward, he suffered from postsurgical paralytic ileus. This condition causes the muscles of the intestines to stop working, causing a blockage. It’s characterized by a lack of bowel movements and the inability to pass gas. Moreover, this leads to abdominal distention, pain, nausea, and vomiting. Paralytic Ileus can be caused by various factors, including abdominal surgery, infection, certain medications, and electrolyte imbalances. Lastly, the reporter’s problem was resolved by acupuncturists in China.  Thereafter, it was widely introduced to the west.

Thirdly, a Scientific Research trial investigated the effect of acupuncture on nausea and vomiting after minor gynecological surgery. Acupuncture significantly reduced both nausea and vomiting.(2)

Fourthly, A US research trial investigated the effect of acupuncture on the incidence of nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy. Compared to the control group (standard comparison group), the anti-emetic (anti nausea medicine) requirement was significantly lower in the group receiving acupuncture. 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Digestion

After a thorough exam to rule out any critical problems, a course of acupuncture may definitely help. Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for digestion problems/ issues 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 and/or chiropractic treatment for gastrointestinal disorders and digestion issues at 561-253-8984.

 

References:

(1) Yue and Zhenhui, J Tradit Chin Med 2005

(2) Dundee et al, Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1986

(3) Roscoe et al, Altern Ther Health Med 2002

 

 

This post is about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Dizziness and Vertigo.  Acupuncture demonstrates a significant immediate effect in reducing discomforts for both dizziness and vertigo. Research shows the efficacy and safety of acupuncture to treat dizziness and vertigo.

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Dizziness and Vertigo; What is vertigo?

Vertigo is the sensation that you, or the environment around you, is moving or spinning.

This feeling may be barely noticeable or it may be severe.  So severe that you find it difficult to keep your balance and do daily tasks.

Attacks of vertigo can develop suddenly and last for a few seconds, or they may last much longer.

Vertigo is commonly caused by a problem with the way balance works in the inner ear, although it can also be caused by problems in certain parts of the brain.  Additionally, it can be caused by neuromusculoskeletal problems in your neck.

Depending on the condition causing vertigo, you may experience additional symptoms, such as ringing in your ears (tinnitus) and hearing loss.

Symptoms of vertigo are all dependent on each individual and may vary from this list. Some common vertigo symptoms may include:

• Swaying
• Unbalanced
• Headache
• Sweating
• Ringing in ears
• Loss of hearing
• Nausea
• Spinning

Here are some causes of vertigo:

Cervicogenic Vertigo

Cervicogenic means the problem is coming from a source in the neck. Either overstimulation of upper cervical (neck) proprioceptors or degeneration of these proprioceptors occurs with cervicogenic vertigo. A proprioceptor is a sensory receptor which receives stimuli (regarding position and movement) from within the body. Additionally, proprioceptive pathways may cause an imbalance of information. This leads to a perception of vertigo or disequilibrium.  

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

BBPV is vertigo lasting seconds to a couple of minutes. BPPV is due to “degenerative debris” (small bits of calcium carbonate) floating in the semicircular canal in your ear. The semicircular canals are three tiny, fluid-filled tubes in your inner ear that help you keep your balance.  Common head positioning changes causing BBPV are extension (i.e. looking up at a shelf) or rotation, bending over and straightening back up, or rolling over in bed.  Trauma and age appear to be important factors.  BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo.

Meniere’s disease 

These are paroxysmal (sudden and recurrent) attacks of severe vertigo accompanied by low-tone hearing loss, low-tone tinnitus, and a sense of fullness in the ear. The episodes last for several hours to a day. Vertigo-free periods last for weeks or months. Hearing loss is progressive, while vertigo attacks appear to “burn out” over time. Some patients have sudden “drop” attacks without loss of consciousness. Increased fluid maybe causing distention and symptoms.

Causes of  Vertigo Due to an Infection:

Vestibular Neuronitis (Neuritis) 

Vestibular Neuronitis is most commonly associated with an ear infection.  So severe vertigo occurs rather suddenly and lasts for days to weeks. There is often associated nausea and vomiting.  The cause is unknown. However, it may be due to a viral infection of the vestibular nerve (nerve of inner ear). Patients report a respiratory infection prior to this vertigo. Similarly, of patients with vestibular neuritis, 50% report having had a common cold.

Labyrinthitis 

The patient complains of an acute onset of vertigo with or without hearing loss.  A viral or bacterial infection (ie ear infection) causes damage to the inner ear leading to complete destruction of the inner ear. 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Dizziness and Vertigo

Firstly, Acupuncture has been used for relief of acute illness, such as pain, dizziness and vertigo in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. One case report demonstrated that acupuncture therapy was very helpful for a patient with peripheral vestibular (inner ear) vertigo. Moreover, it appears Acupuncture may be an option for patients who are intolerant to drug therapy.

Secondly, Acupuncture can reduce balance disorders caused by disorders of the inner ear. Furthermore, acupuncture targets the emotional disturbances or stress.  These are factors that can exacerbate or start an incident of dizziness and vertigo.

Thirdly, 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. In vertigo caused by abnormalities of the vestibular system, acupuncture can play a role in reducing dizziness through increasing microcirculation in the inner ear.

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Acupuncture Helps Dizziness and Vertigo

After a thorough exam to rule out any critical problems, a course of acupuncture may definitely help! Additionally, Chiropractic adjustments stop the overstimulation and balance out any misinformation in the nervous system pathways. Meiri Chiropractic offers acupuncture for dizziness and vertigo 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 and/or chiropractic treatment for dizziness and vertigo at 561-253-8984.

 

References: Med Acupuncture. 2023 Apr 13;35(2):89–93. doi: 10.1089/acu2022.0012

Acupuncture Therapy for Peripheral Vestibular Vertigo (with Suspected Ménière’s Disease) by Wahyuningsh Diaali, Christina Simadibrata, Irma Naraswari, Nur Asniati Diaali