Pregnancy can be a wild and wonderful journey. In the third trimester your developing baby starts to change position and prepare for delivery. With that comes aches, pains and sometimes startling symptoms. Here are some of the more common issues moms-to-be face and tips to help you find relief safely - without exposing your baby to risks associated with medications.

UNDERSTANDING RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH NSAID USE DURING PREGNANCY
Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) during pregnancy can put your baby's health at risk. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that NSAID use between 20 weeks of pregnancy and delivery is not recommended. While low-dose aspirin (81mg) for certain pregnancy conditions is advisable, patients should generally avoid taking regular strength or higher NSAIDs during pregnancy.
When taken during early pregnancy, NSAID use is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and congenital malformation. In the second or third trimester, NSAID use may cause fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment.
While some situations, such as potentially delaying pre-eclampsia, require the use of NSAIDs, the risks generally outweigh the benefits during pregnancy. Thankfully, there are alternatives to help you manage your aches and pains.

SAFER WAYS TO RELIEF PREGNANCY ACHES AND PAINS
Chiropractic care provides natural, drug-free relief from aches and pains associated with pregnancy. Prenatal chiropractic adjustments are generally considered safe during pregnancy and studies have not linked them to an increased risk to moms or their baby. Some research has shown that spinal adjustments may also alleviate tension in the ligaments surrounding the pelvis as well as any lower back pain associated with your growing belly. 
Dr. Dukes specializes in pre-natal care and can help reduce a host of pregnancy concerns including: 

• Low back pain
• Ligament pain
• Morning sickness
• Pelvis and sacrum pain

IS CHIROPRACTIC CARE SAFE FOR YOU AND YOUR BABY?
Yes! It’s not only safe to see a chiropractor while pregnant, it’s beneficial for more than just getting rid of tension and pain. Pelvic balance is something you're likely noticing now because, as your belly grows, your posture and pelvic balance is changing. That, among all the other changes happening, typically result in constant aches and pains.
Chiropractic therapy while pregnant can also help control nausea and has been linked to reducing labor time.
Maintaining pelvic balance is important for you and your baby. Intrauterine constraint is a condition where pelvic misalignment reduces the amount of room available for the developing baby which can reduce your likelihood of a natural, non-invasive birth.
For most patients, Chiropractic therapy is safe. Of course, we encourage patients to consult with their physician and communicate any pre-existing conditions before seeking treatment.

BACK ACHES & PAINS
“Backache is probably the most common complaint I hear,” says Dr. Brenda Dukes. The cause isn’t only due to natural weight gain, moms-to-be center of gravity changes  as your baby bump grows. This puts higher demand on muscles and soft-tissues and more stress on the spine. Your body is also producing relaxin, a hormone that develops in pregnancy to loosen joints to help prepare your body for delivery. This can add even more strain to your lower back.
Preventing is key for moms-to-be. Bend with your knees; don’t lean over at the waist when picking things up; avoid awkward twists and turns that put your lower back in vulnerable positions. Other back-friendly tips during pregnancy include not standing on your feet for extended periods and walking daily.
‘Most patients are surprised to learn that 30 minutes of walking each day makes an incredible difference,’ says Office manager Sarah Dahl. ‘It really helps keep them loose - some patients choose to slip into pool for a few laps and absolutely love it.’

PELVIS TIGHTNESS AND ACHES
It’s very common for patients to report tightness and achiness in the pelvis area. Mild heat applied through a heating pad can help. Sleeping with a body pillow, or a pillow between your legs, will help keep you properly supported and provides relief for many patients.
It’s also important to avoid strain when you’re getting out of bed or trying to find a comfortable sleeping position. Avoid sharp movements by rolling like a log rather than twisting your body. Some may need to get out of bed altogether to flip sides.

RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME
RLS affects up to one-third of pregnant women and typically peaks in the third trimester. For most, the condition subsides shortly after delivery. Symptoms normally include feeling itchy, pulling, or creepy-crawly sensations in the legs combined with an overwhelming urge to move the legs. Symptoms often subside after moving the legs.
Although much less common, symptoms may also exhibit in the arms.
RLS in pregnancy might be triggered by folic acid or iron deficiency. Some evidence suggests that rising estrogen levels during pregnancy may also contribute to RLS.
Having restless legs syndrome may also make you more likely to have a longer labor and to need a C-section.
For mild RLS, there are a variety of simple routine changes that may reduce your symptoms:

• Avoid drinking coffee, soda, and other caffeinated beverages.
• Exercise every day ensuring that you stop at least two hours before bedtime.
• Get into a rhythm by adhering to a consistent sleep routine. Relax with a warm bath or read in bed for 20-minutes before shutting off the lights. Avoid screens (TV, phone, etc) at least 30-minutes before bed. Go to bed and wake at the same time each day.
• Apply a mild heating pad to the areas where RLS symptoms most commonly occur for a few minutes before bedtime.
• Have your partner gently massage your legs just prior to bedtime.

 
If your symptoms are more intense or fail to respond to routine changes, have your iron levels tested. In many cases where the supply of iron in the body is low a supplement will be enough to correct RLS.

HEARTBURN/INDIGESTION
Some of my patients who have never experienced heartburn before pregnancy suddenly find themselves all too familiar with that uncomfortable burning sensation. It’s especially common in the third trimester.

Chiropractic therapy helps ease heartburn symptoms in two ways. (1) helping to relax the diaphragm and shift the esophageal valve into a better and lower position. And (2) improving parasympathetic nervous system function, which improves digestion.

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
What makes this condition so common during pregnancy is hormone-related swelling. Just as fluid retention in pregnancy can cause your ankles and fingers to swell, it can also cause swelling in the wrists that leads to this painful wrist/arm condition. Gentle manipulation of the spine, wrist, and elbow could easily improve your symptoms.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS PAIN RELIEF
In addition to helping relieve common pregnancy aches and pains, chiropractic adjustments help you have a safer, quicker delivery for both you and your baby. They help align your pelvis to allow for plenty of room for your baby to move and grow by promoting proper pelvis alignment for smoother passage through the birth canal.

Call Dr. Dukes today at 813.752.2524 to schedule your examination and learn if Chiropractic Care is the right choice for you and your baby.

Dr. Dukes is tuning patients wellness through Cymatic therapy and it's changing people's lives. As one of the few sound therapy practitioners in central Florida, Dr. Dukes feels blessed to provide this cutting-edge technology that helps so many people alleviate pain and reduce inflammation while improving mental clarity.

Similar to ultrasound, Cymatic therapy also known as Cyma therapy or sound therapy, uses specialized medical devices to transmit sound waves in specific frequencies through the body. Different frequencies are used to treat different symptoms.

Dr. Dukes employs Cyma therapy to effectively treat a variety of patient health issues. It is effective in treating inflammation and pain resulting from conditions such as asthma, chronic fatigue, headaches, joint mobility, hormone problems, fibromyalgia, strokes, and depression. Patients also report better sleep, reduced stress, sharper focus, clearer thinking, and a greater ability to recall memories.

Therapy effectiveness is measured in subjective methods such as patient quality of life feedback as well as empirical measures such as function & mobility tests, symptom improvement, and inflammation reduction. Thermography is a medical imaging process used for identifying inflammation in the body. It is used for diagnosis and analysis as well as defining effectiveness.

A variety of research studies have used thermographic images captured before and after Cyma therapy sessions to determine session results. A Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) study revealed a stunning decrease in inflammation as can illustrated in the images below.

A variety of long-term research projects are underway seeking to leverage the unique treatment modalities of sound therapy. Notable potential treatment applications include Alzheimer’s, COPD and emphysema. Although still in trial phases, early results are promising.

And loved ones often report being delighted by the improved mood, higher energy levels, reduced anxiety and fewer mood swings. Dr. Dukes commented, "We're so blessed when loved ones tell us how it feels that patients are back to themselves - they're happy and energetic again."

How Long are Cymatic Therapy Sessions?
Treatments typically last between 45-90 minutes depending upon the patients’ needs and which modalities Dr. Dukes and her team employ during care. Some sessions may be as quick as 30-minutes.
 
How Many Cymatic Therapy Sessions Are Required?
Dr. Dukes creates individualized treatment plans unique to each patient. In most cases where an acute issue is present, Dr. Dukes will prescribe multiple sessions per week for the initial treatment with less frequent sessions as healing progresses. Minor health problems may often be resolved with 3-5 treatments over a 2-week period. Patients with chronic issues often prefer regular weekly treatments.

When Do Patients Feel the Healing Effects?
Each case is unique. Some patients experience symptom reduction almost immediately. Others may take up to 24 hours to notice symptom improvements.

Is Cymatic Therapy Addictive, Is It Safe?
Cymatic therapy is not addictive, but feeling great and being healthier might be. And it’s safe with the FDA recognizing Cyma therapy instruments as Class 1 devices that abide by the safety requirements of the Consumer Protection Agency.
Dr. Dukes only provides safe and effective healthcare through proven, natural treatment methods that do not involve invasive procedures nor the use of dangerous drugs.

What About Cymatic Therapy Side Effects?
Cymatic treatment is a very subtle and soothing therapy.  Patients often feel tingling, heat or tension release during or shortly after treatment. These are very mild sensations. Patients have not reported pain during or after treatment. Occasionally patients report unusual sweating, vivid dreams, muscle soreness, fatigue, or hyperactivity after treatment. When healing responses do occur, they are typically mild and quick, lasting less than 24 hours.

What are the Success Rates for Cymatic Therapy?
An average of 80% of our patients experience a direct beneficial response resulting in measurable symptom reduction of acute symptoms. We have found that applying sound to the body is successful in resolving variety of health challenges including Allergies, Alopecia, Arthritic pain, Back Pain, Chronic Fatigue, Digestive Issues, Leaky Gut, Joint Injuries, Migraines, Moodiness, Stress and Fatigue.

Moving Forward
Severe and chronic pain isn’t normal. If you find yourself hurting, it may be time to seek help from Dr. Dukes and her experienced team of professionals. She'll help you determine the severity of your issue, develop a course of care, work with you to ensure quick recovery and help you prevent future issues. Call today (813) 752-2524.

Waking up to a new day should be a refreshing experience, but for many of us, mornings are marred by neck pain and discomfort.

I’m receiving more and more new patients suffering from chronic neck pain. Various underlying conditions contribute to neck pain including muscle strains, nerve compression, injuries, and certain diseases. But, for many of my patients, I’ve found the most common contributing factors to be tech neck, poor ergonomics and poor sleeping posture.

The impact of morning neck pain extends beyond the physical discomfort. Persistent neck pain can lead to chronic issues, affecting an individual's ability to carry out everyday tasks. Work productivity can suffer. Sleep quality is typically poor. Patients are frustrated by physical limitations. And everyone feels the effect on mood and mental health.

Morning neck pain is often overlooked or dismissed as a minor inconvenience. Many people consider it a normal part of life and fail to seek appropriate treatment. This lack of attention often allows the problem to escalate with more severe health consequences over time. Prevention is key. Individuals can take several proactive steps to manage their neck pain. But, knowing where and how to start can be challenging.

Neck pain is a common condition characterized by discomfort or stiffness in the area between your head and shoulders. While it can occur at any time of the day, many individuals specifically report experiencing neck pain in the morning, often upon waking up. This is commonly referred to as morning neck pain.

Morning neck pain can range from mild discomfort that dissipates as the day progresses to severe pain that restricts movement and impacts daily activities. It's not merely a physical nuisance; it can also affect a person's mood, productivity, and overall quality of life.

• Tech neck: poor posture at work, school or play where a person holds poor posture while viewing digital device screens such as a phone, laptop, tablet, desktop or gaming station.
  
• Poor Ergonomics: One of the most prevalent causes of morning neck pain is poor workplace ergonomics. If your spine isn't aligned properly with the rest of your body, it can lead to muscle strain, stiffness and pain.
• Inappropriate Sleep Setup: Using a mattress or pillow that doesn't provide adequate support can also lead to neck pain. A pillow that's too high or too firm may force your neck to bend unnaturally, causing discomfort.
• Prolonged Strain: Activities that put your neck in an awkward position for extended periods, such as looking down at a smartphone or reading a book in bed, can result in neck strain and subsequent pain.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Certain health conditions like osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease can cause neck pain. In these cases, the pain might be more severe in the morning due to the body's inactivity during sleep.
  

Understanding the causes of morning neck pain is the first step towards effective management. By identifying the factors contributing to the discomfort, individuals can make appropriate lifestyle adjustments or seek professional treatment to alleviate their symptoms and improve their morning experience.
 
Morning neck pain can range from a mild nuisance to severe pain that interferes with your daily activities. Various factors contribute to this problem, including poor sleeping posture, an unsuitable pillow or mattress, stress, and even underlying health conditions. Dr. dukes uses proven chiropractic treatment options to alleviate your morning neck pain and enhance your overall well-being through natural, drug-free and non-invasive techniques.
 
Morning neck pain refers to any discomfort in the neck area that you experience upon waking up. This discomfort might present as stiffness, aches, or intense pain that restricts neck movement. It's crucial to note that while occasional neck pain might be common after a night of uncomfortable sleep, persistent morning neck pain isn't normal and warrants medical attention.

Chiropractors like Dr. Dukes are specialized healthcare professionals who focus on the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders. They use hands-on spinal manipulation and other non-invasive treatments to ensure proper alignment of the body's musculoskeletal structure. Some of the most common treatment techniques are:

• Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractors perform spinal adjustments using quick, gentle thrusts to align the body and enhance its physical function. By restoring proper alignment, these adjustments can relieve pressure on the neck joints and improve nerve function, thereby reducing morning neck pain.
  
• Soft Tissue Therapy: In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors use various types of soft tissue therapies to relieve muscle tension and reduce neck pain. These may include trigger point therapy, manual joint stretching, therapeutic massage, and more.
• Pulsed Electro Magnetic Therapy: Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMFT, or PEMF therapy), also known as low field magnetic stimulation (LFMS) is the use of electromagnetic fields to heal non-union fractures and depression.
• Low-Level Laser Therapy: LLLT has been shown to have a significant effect on pain reduction for patients because the absorbed light stimulates the production of intracellular energy via oxidative phosphorylation. LLLT has been found to reduce pain immediately after treatment in acute neck pain and up to 22 weeks after completion of treatment in patients with chronic neck pain.
• Postural Education: Poor posture during sleep is a leading cause of morning neck pain. Chiropractors can provide valuable education about maintaining proper posture during sleep. They may also recommend exercises to strengthen the neck and upper back muscles, thereby promoting better sleep posture and reducing the likelihood of waking up with neck pain.
• Lifestyle Recommendations: Chiropractors understand that factors outside of the spine also contribute to neck pain. They can provide advice on ergonomics, exercise, diet, and stress management to help improve overall health and prevent neck pain.

Tech neck, also known as text neck, has become a prevalent health concern for people of all ages. This refers to neck pain and damage sustained from the poor posture of looking down at your cell phone, tablet, or other wireless devices too frequently and for too long.

Fortunately, chiropractors like Dr. Dukes can play a crucial role in treating and preventing this condition by using a variety of proven therapies and providing valuable advice on how to prevent recurring symptoms.
 
Tech neck is typically characterized by neck pain and soreness, stiffness, and in severe cases, disc herniations and nerve damage. These symptoms are primarily caused by the forward head posture adopted while using electronic devices. This posture increases the strain on the neck — for every inch your head tilts forward, the pressure on your neck roughly doubles.

Prevention is better than cure, especially when it comes to tech neck. Here are some preventive measures that Dr. Dukes suggests:

• Regular Breaks: Taking regular breaks from your device can significantly reduce the strain on your neck. Try to take a 5-minute break every 30 minutes of device use.
• Proper Device Positioning: Hold your device at eye level as much as possible. This position reduces the need to bend your neck and helps maintain a healthier posture.
• Posture Awareness and Correction: Be mindful of your posture throughout the day. Aim to keep your spine aligned — your ears should be over your shoulders, and your shoulders should be over your hips.
• Neck Exercises and Stretches: Incorporate neck exercises and stretches into your daily routine. They can help offset the effects of forward head posture.
• Ergonomic Workstation Setup: If you use a computer for extended periods, ensure your workstation is ergonomically set up. The top of your screen should be at eye level, and your keyboard and mouse should be in a position that allows your elbows to be bent at 90 degrees.

 
Tech neck is a modern-day problem with potentially serious consequences. However, with the right chiropractic care and preventive measures, it's entirely manageable. Dr. Dukes offers valuable expertise in treating tech neck and, importantly, educating patients about posture and lifestyle modifications to prevent this condition.

Dr. Dukes encourages you to implement good work ergonomics to help prevent neck pain and promote overall health and well being. Whether working remote from home or in an office, many of us spend a significant portion of our day sitting at a desk and using computers. This prolonged static posture can lead to various musculoskeletal disorders, including body aches and neck pain.
 
Work ergonomics is the science of designing the workplace to fit the worker, rather than forcing the worker to fit the workplace. It involves organizing your workspace so you can work comfortably and safely, reducing the risk of strain and injury. When it comes to preventing neck pain, ergonomics mainly focuses on maintaining proper posture and arranging your desk setup optimally.

Implementing good work ergonomics has several benefits, especially in preventing neck pain:

• Reduced Muscle Strain: Proper ergonomic setup promotes good posture, reducing the strain on the neck muscles. When your monitor is at eye level, your keyboard and mouse within comfortable reach, and your chair providing adequate back support, you're less likely to slouch or strain your neck.
• Prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders: Ergonomic interventions can help prevent musculoskeletal disorders such as cervical spondylosis, disc herniation, and muscle strains, which are common causes of neck pain.
• Enhanced Productivity: Comfortable employees are more productive. When you're free from discomfort and pain, you can concentrate better, work more efficiently, and produce higher quality work.
• Improved Wellbeing: A well-organized, comfortable workspace can not only prevent physical ailments but also contribute to your overall wellbeing. It can reduce stress, improve mood, and foster greater job satisfaction.

 
Dr. Dukes recommends implementing these key ergonomic strategies to prevent neck pain and feel your best:

• Monitor Placement: Position your monitor at eye level and an arm's length away. This posture prevents you from tilting your head up or down, reducing the strain on your neck.
• Chair Adjustment: Use a chair that supports your lower back and allows your feet to rest flat on the floor. Your knees should be at the same height as your hips or slightly lower.
• Keyboard and Mouse Placement: Place your keyboard and mouse close to each other and within easy reach. Your elbows should be bent at a 90-degree angle when using them.
• Frequent Breaks: Take frequent short breaks to stand, stretch, and move around. This practice helps relax your muscles and promotes better circulation.
• Use of Ergonomic Equipment: Consider using ergonomic equipment like adjustable chairs, standing desks, and keyboard trays that can be customized to your body size and work habits.

 
By implementing good work ergonomics, you can significantly reduce the risk of neck pain potentially preventing discomfort and injury while enhancing productivity and overall wellbeing. Remember, it's not just about having the right equipment; it's about using it correctly. So, make the necessary adjustments, take regular breaks, and keep moving. Your neck will thank you.

One of the most overlooked aspects of preventing morning neck pain is choosing the right pillow and mattress. An ideal pillow should keep the neck aligned with the chest and lower back while supporting the natural curve of the spine. The wrong pillow can lead to muscle strain and misalignment of the spine, causing neck pain.

Similarly, a suitable mattress is crucial for maintaining spinal alignment and ensuring a comfortable sleep. A mattress that's too firm or too soft can cause or exacerbate neck pain.
Your chiropractor can guide you in choosing the right pillow and mattress based on your sleeping habits, body type, and specific needs. This personalized approach ensures that your bedding not only helps prevent neck pain but also promotes quality sleep.

One of the key advantages of chiropractors like Dr. Dukes is a holistic approach to health free from drugs and surgeries. Rather than just treating symptoms, chiropractors aim to identify and address the root cause of the problem. This comprehensive approach not only alleviates neck pain but also improves overall health by fostering better sleeping habits, posture, and lifestyle choices.
 
For instance, Dr. Dukes might advise you on how to set up your workspace ergonomically to reduce strain on your neck. They might also guide you on incorporating neck-friendly exercises into your routine or suggest dietary changes to reduce inflammation.
 
Dr. Dukes often collaborates with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care. If your morning neck pain diagnosis indicates potential for an underlying health condition, Dr. Dukes will refer you to an appropriate specialist for more expansive diagnosis.
 
Stretches and Exercises
Dr. Dukes often recommends that neck pain sufferers incorporate neck stretches and exercises into your daily routine. There are many benefits. They can help improve flexibility, enhance range of motion, strengthen neck muscles, and promote better posture. Regular practice can also improve blood circulation in the area, aiding in recovery from any minor strains that might have occurred during sleep.
 
Always seek professional advice before beginning any stretching or exercise routine. Approach stretches gently. The neck is a sensitive area, and aggressive stretching can do more harm than good. Remember, stretches should not cause pain. If you feel any discomfort, ease off a bit.
Dr. Dukes may prescribe stretches such as:

1. Neck Tilt: Sit in a comfortable position. Slowly tilt your head towards your shoulder until you feel a gentle stretch on the opposite side of your neck. Hold for 15-30 seconds and repeat on the other side.
2. Neck Turn: Keep your shoulders relaxed and turn your head to one side, aiming your chin over your shoulder. Hold for 15-30 seconds and repeat on the other side.
3. Neck Extension: Gently tilt your head back and look up towards the ceiling, taking care not to strain your neck. Hold for 15-30 seconds and return to the neutral position.
4. Forward and Downward Stretch: Lower your chin gently towards your chest and hold for 15-30 seconds. You should feel a stretch along the back of your neck.

 
Strengthening the neck and shoulder muscles can also help alleviate morning neck pain. Dr. Dukes may prescribe exercises such as these:

1. Isometric Exercise: Press your palm into your forehead and resist the pressure with your neck muscles. Hold for 5 seconds, then relax. Repeat this exercise by pressing your hand against each side of your head.
2. Shoulder Blade Squeeze: Stand with your back against a wall. Squeeze your shoulder blades together as if you're trying to hold a pencil between them. Hold for 5 seconds, then relax.
3. Prone Cobra: Lie face down on the floor, arms at your sides, palms down. Slowly raise your head and chest off the floor, keeping your gaze downwards. You should feel a gentle contraction in your back and neck muscles. Hold for a few seconds, then lower yourself back down.

 
Consistency is key when it comes to neck stretches and exercises. Make them a part of your daily routine to reap maximum benefits. Know that while stretches and exercises can significantly help alleviate and prevent morning neck pain, they are not a substitute for professional advice. If you consistently experience severe neck pain, it's crucial to seek out a healthcare professional like Dr. Dukes who can guide you on the cause, potential course of treatment and personalized strategies for managing your neck pain.

Chiropractic care offers effective, non-invasive solutions for morning neck pain. By combining spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, postural education, and lifestyle recommendations, Dr. Dukes can help alleviate neck pain and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Dukes will advise you about proper posture and guide you in choosing the right pillow and mattress ensuring that your sleep environment supports your spinal health. This comprehensive, personalized approach not only treats the pain but also addresses the underlying issues causing it.

If you're struggling with morning neck pain, consider seeking out Dr. Dukes holistic approach that treats not just the symptoms, but the root cause of your discomfort, promoting long-term health and well-being. Remember, enduring pain isn't a solution; seeking appropriate care is.

You don’t have to suffer.  Dr. Dukes can help.  Call (813) 752-2524. Take back control of your mornings. Schedule your consultation and learn how Dr. Dukes can help you find morning neck pain relief.