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Say Goodbye to Pain and Inflammation
For many people, chronic pain and inflammation are daily struggles that diminish their quality of life. Traditional treatments, such as medications or invasive procedures, often provide only temporary relief or come with unwanted side effects. At Dr. Dukes’ chiropractic practice, patients are discovering how Cyma Therapy helps them regain mobility, reduce discomfort, and improve their overall well-being. What Is Cyma Therapy? Cyma Therapy is a sound-based healing modality that utilizes targeted frequencies to encourage the body’s natural ability to heal itself. By delivering precise, low-frequency sound waves to affected areas, this therapy helps reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and restore balance at a cellular level. The process is gentle, painless, and highly effective for various conditions, including arthritis, joint pain, muscle soreness, and even stress-related tension. Dr. Dukes’ Approach to Healing Dr. Dukes has long been a champion of holistic wellness, incorporating innovative techniques into his practice to help patients achieve optimal health. By integrating Cyma Therapy with chiropractic adjustments, he has developed a comprehensive approach to pain management that not only targets symptoms but also addresses the root causes of discomfort. “Many of my patients come in after trying everything—medications, physical therapy, even surgery—without long-term success,” says Dr. Dukes. “With Cyma Therapy, we’re seeing profound improvements in pain levels, inflammation reduction, and overall function.” Real Success Stories Patients who have undergone Cyma Therapy with Dr. Dukes are experiencing life-changing results. “I was skeptical at first, but after just a few sessions, my chronic knee pain—something I’ve dealt with for years—started to fade,” says Mark T., a long-time patient. “Now, I can move without stiffness, and I feel better than I have in years.” Another patient, Sarah L., struggled with neck and shoulder tension due to prolonged desk work. After trying multiple treatments with little success, she turned to Dr. Dukes. “The relief was almost immediate. It felt like my body was finally able to relax and heal itself. I wake up pain-free, and my energy levels have skyrocketed.” Why Choose Cyma Therapy? Unlike medications that merely mask pain or invasive procedures that require long recovery periods, Cyma Therapy works naturally with the body. The benefits include:
Dr. Dukes emphasizes that true healing is about more than just managing symptoms—it’s about restoring balance. The beauty of Cyma Therapy is that it helps the body heal itself. It’s gentle, safe, and incredibly effective. Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Living If you’re struggling with chronic pain or inflammation and want a natural, effective solution, Dr. Dukes and his team are here to help. Discover the power of Cyma Therapy and start your journey to better health today. You don’t have to live in pain Dr. Dukes can help. Get back to living life on your terms. Call Dr. Dukes at 813.752.2524 today. #CymaTherapy #ChiropracticCare #PainRelief
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Sciatica is one of the most common and misunderstood types of pain that occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed. Symptoms may include a burning sensation or shooting pain that starts in the lower back and extends down your leg to your calf, foot, or toes. Some experience numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot. Sometimes the pain can feel like a jolt or electric shock. Prolonged sitting can aggravate symptoms, which can also be worse when you cough or sneeze.
Sciatica is a symptom of lower back spinal disorders, rather than a disease itself. It is most likely to develop between the ages of 30 and 50 and affects as many as 40% of Americans. Chiropractic is Effective Sciatica Treatment If you’re dealing with sciatica, chiropractic care is proven effective and recommended as a first-line approach. Studies show it’s a safe and effective way to manage symptoms and tackle the root cause—without the risks of dangerous drugs or invasive surgery. According to research published in the European Spine Journal, chiropractic care has been shown to have a 72% success rate in treating sciatica, which means that a significant majority of patients experience relief from their sciatica symptoms with chiropractic adjustments. This study also found that chiropractic care had a significantly higher success rate compared to physical therapy (20%) and corticosteroid injections (50%) for sciatica treatment. Using techniques like adjustments, stretching, massage, and therapies like PEMF and ultrasound, chiropractors can help reduce tension, calm inflammation, and boost circulation in the painful areas. By realigning your spine, they take the pressure off your sciatic nerve, which sometimes brings instant relief. What will Dr. Dukes Ask About in My Consultation? During your appointment, Dr. Dukes will ask you questions about your health, medical history, daily habits, diet, fitness habits and if you have other medical conditions. Chiropractic therapies can be very effective in treating sciatica. What should I expect during each session? During a typical session, your Dr. Dukes will perform a thorough examination, discuss your symptoms, learn about your activities, and assess your range of motion. Treatment may include targeted spinal adjustments and other therapies like soft-tissue manipulation, PEMF, Ultra-sound, hot/cold, etc. How does chiropractic care help with sciatica? By performing spinal adjustments, Dr. Dukes works to realign the spine with the goal of reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve due to impingement. Additional therapies will be employed such as PEMF, ultrasound, and soft-tissue manipulation (massage and stretching) to reduce inflammation and improve range of motion. What kind of adjustments are used for sciatica? Depending on the severity and root cause of your sciatica, Dr. Dukes may use manual adjustments, specialized tables, or other techniques to target the affected spinal segments. Besides adjustments, what other treatments might a chiropractor use for sciatica? In addition to spinal manipulations, Dr. Dukes may incorporate modalities like heat therapy, ice therapy, muscle stretches, specific exercises designed to strengthen the core and improve flexibility, and education on proper posture and ergonomics. Dr. Dukes may also employ therapies such as PEMF and ultrasound to reduce tension, calm inflammation, and boost circulation in the affected area. Is chiropractic care safe for sciatica? Yes, chiropractic care is considered a safe and non-invasive treatment option for sciatica, with minimal side effects when performed by a qualified practitioner like Dr. Dukes and her team. How many sessions might be needed for sciatica relief? The number of sessions required can vary based on the severity of your condition, but most people experience significant pain relief within a few weeks of regular chiropractic treatments. Can chiropractic care prevent future sciatica episodes? Yes, by addressing underlying imbalances and strengthening supporting muscles, Dr. Dukes and her team can help prevent future occurrences and minimize flare-ups. You don’t have to live in pain. Dr. Dukes can help. Get back to living life on your terms. Call Dr. Dukes at 813.752.2524 today.  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:
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:
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.  Did you know your neck is an engineering marvel? Officially known as the cervical spine, it starts at the base of your skull and consists of seven small vertebrae, six major ligaments, dozens of muscles, and eight pairs of cervical nerves. This intricate system works in harmony to allow movement in virtually any direction while supporting the full weight of your head, which weighs 11-13 pounds for the average adult. However, this complexity also makes the neck susceptible to injury and pain. Read on to discover how chiropractic care can safely relieve your pain without dangerous drugs or surgery. Common Causes of Neck PainInjury and Accidents: One of the most common causes of neck pain is whiplash—a sudden, forceful movement of the head or neck that results in a rapid "rebound" effect. This "whipping" motion can injure the surrounding tissues, causing muscle fatigue and stiffness. Severe cases can affect the inter-vertebral joints, discs, ligaments, muscles, and nerve roots. Car accidents are a frequent cause of whiplash. The Impact of Aging: Degenerative disorders such as osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease are often age-related issues that directly impact the spine. Osteoarthritis leads to the deterioration of cartilage, prompting the body to form bone spurs that affect joint motion. Spinal stenosis compresses nerve roots by narrowing the nerve passageways in the vertebrae, causing pain and numbness in the neck, shoulders, and arms. Degenerative disc disease further reduces the elasticity and height of inter-vertebral discs, leading to tingling and pain that radiate into the arm. Controllable Factors: Modern life presents its own challenges to cervical spine health. Overuse injuries such as tech-neck, poor posture, obesity, and weak abdominal muscles disrupt spinal balance are common factors that cause imbalances which cause your neck to overcompensate. Stress and emotional tension can tighten neck muscles, resulting in pain and stiffness that may extend into the upper back and arms leading to a host of painful symptoms such as tension headaches. How Chiropractic Care is Used to Treat Neck PainYour First Visit: During your visit to Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, Dr. Brenda Dukes will perform a comprehensive evaluation to identify the root cause of your neck pain. She will inquire about your symptoms, any treatments you've tried, and whether your pain radiates or changes in intensity. Examination Process: Dr. Dukes will conduct both physical and neurological exams. In the physical exam, she will observe your posture, range of motion, and note any painful movements. The neurological exam will assess your reflexes, muscle strength, and any nerve changes or pain spread. If necessary, X-rays may be taken to identify narrowed disc spaces, fractures, bone spurs, or arthritis. An electromyography (EMG) test could be performed to evaluate nerve responsiveness. Treatment Options: Dr. Dukes emphasizes conservative care and proven solutions without the risks of drug therapies or surgery. If your condition lies outside her expertise, such as a neck fracture, she will refer you to a specialist. She may also coordinate with your family physician for comprehensive care. Neck Adjustments: A neck adjustment, or cervical manipulation, is a precise procedure applied to the neck's joints. It aims to enhance spine mobility and restore motion while increasing muscle movement. Patients typically experience improved head movement and reduced pain and stiffness shortly after treatment. Dr. Dukes may incorporate various treatments depending on your needs, such as mobilization, massage, and rehabilitative exercises. For more information on maintaining cervical spine health, visit Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic. Explore how chiropractic care can offer neck pain relief, enhance cervical spine health, and even alleviate tension headaches. Get in touch today! Call Dr. Dukes today at 813.752.2524 to schedule your examination and learn if Chiropractic Care is the right choice for you. Key Takeaways
Find Neck Pain ReliefExplore how chiropractic care can offer neck pain relief, enhance cervical spine health, and even alleviate tension headaches.
Call Dr. Dukes today at 813.752.2524 to schedule your examination and learn if Chiropractic Care is the right choice for you. Chronic low back pain is a debilitating condition that affects countless individuals, often leading physicians to approach pain treatment through opioid therapy. A variety of effective, non-invasive modalities can be used to prevent, decrease, or even eliminate pain without the risks associated with drug therapies. In fact, the American Medical Association (AMA) recommends non-pharmacological, non-surgical treatments for first-line treatment of chronic pain. Opioid use can result in serious adverse effects including addiction. A 2021 study revealed that adverse drug effects were 42 times higher for patients who opted for Opioid Analgesic Therapy (OAT) compared to those who chose Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT). Hope for Chronic Pain SufferersThere is hope for those struggling with chronic pain. Dr. Dukes' approach paves the way for managing chronic pain effectively, responsibly, and safely. She has helped thousands of patients improve mobility and reduce pain, demonstrating the critical role chiropractic care can play in combating the opioid crisis. By emphasizing the body's healing ability and fostering a drug-free approach, Dr. Dukes and her team are ready to help you find relief from chronic pain. Medical doctors often recommend opioid treatment for chronic pain sufferers due to the powerful analgesic effects these medications offer. Opioids can significantly reduce pain, improve quality of life, and allow patients to function more normally in their daily activities. However, this approach is fraught with high risks. Opioids are highly addictive, and prolonged use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same level of pain relief. This increases the potential for dependence and abuse. Additionally, opioids come with a host of side effects, including respiratory depression, which can be fatal. The risk of overdose is also a serious concern, especially with long-term use. Therefore, while opioids can be effective for managing chronic pain, their high-risk profile necessitates careful monitoring and consideration of alternative treatments. Opioid DangersOpioids are commonly used to treat pain, but they merely mask symptoms rather than addressing the root cause. These medications, also known as opiates or narcotics, can be dangerous even when taken as prescribed. Opioids interact with receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, altering pain perception and increasing feelings of pleasure. However, taking opioids at any dose can be harmful, leading to serious risks such as mental fogginess and potential addiction. Understanding Opioid Pain Medication RisksFor chronic pain sufferers seeking relief, it's crucial to understand what opioids are and why they can be dangerous. Opioids are a broad group of pain-relieving drugs that interact with opioid receptors in the body. They can be derived from the poppy plant or synthesized in laboratories. When these medications bind to receptors in brain cells, they trigger signals that reduce pain perception and increase pleasure. The two primary risks of opioid use are:
Shift Toward Non-Drug Pain SolutionsEthical pain management physicians now recommend using opioids for chronic pain treatment. Dr. Dukes is at the forefront of this paradigm shift, focusing on non-drug approaches to target the root cause of pain. Utilizing spinal manipulation and adjunctive therapies like soft tissue techniques and exercises, Dr. Dukes creates individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs. The Benefits of Chiropractic CareChiropractic care is a proven, powerful alternative to OAT that restores movement and function without the need for drugs or invasive surgery. It is cost-effective, readily accessible, and focuses on promoting proper alignment of the body's musculoskeletal structure, particularly the spine. This approach not only alleviates pain but also addresses the root cause, offering a long-term solution. Beyond chronic low back pain, chiropractic care is effective for conditions such as headaches, neck pain, and joint problems. One of the most significant advantages is its ability to avoid the fogginess and addiction potential associated with prescription opioids. Take the First Step Towards Pain RelieftIf you're experiencing back pain or chronic pain, consider exploring chiropractic care. It offers a low-risk, high-reward alternative to surgery and opioid medications. The American Medical Association (AMA) even recommends chiropractic care as a primary treatment method for back pain due to its effectiveness and safety.
Call Dr. Dukes today at 813.752.2524 to schedule your examination and learn if Chiropractic Care is the right choice for you.  Curious about chiropractic care? We've got you covered! Whether you're dealing with back pain, headaches, or wondering how many sessions you'll need, we've compiled the 10 questions people ask Dr. Dukes. Get the answers you need to make informed decisions about your health and wellness. What do people want to know about chiropractic care?
Getting Back to Living Pain-FreeAt Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, we love welcoming new patients and watching their progress. If you are suffering and been told that drugs or surgery are your only options, Dr. Dukes encourages you to learn the facts and get a second opinion. Dr. Dukes can help get you back to living life on your terms, naturally, through drug-free and non-surgical chiropractic care.
Call (813) 752-2524 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Dukes.  Chronic low back pain is a debilitating condition that affects countless individuals, often leading physicians to approach pain treatment through opioid therapy. A variety of effective, non-invasive modalities can be used to prevent, decrease, or even eliminate pain without the risks associated with drug therapies. In fact, the American Medical Association (AMA) recommends non-pharmacological, non-surgical treatments for first-line treatment of chronic pain.
Opioid use can result in serious adverse effects including addiction. A 2021 study revealed that adverse drug effects were 42 times higher for patients who opted for Opioid Analgesic Therapy (OAT) compared to those who chose Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT). Hope for Chronic Pain Sufferers There is hope for those struggling with chronic pain. Dr. Dukes' approach paves the way for managing chronic pain effectively, responsibly, and safely. She has helped thousands of patients improve mobility and reduce pain, demonstrating the critical role chiropractic care can play in combating the opioid crisis. By emphasizing the body's healing ability and fostering a drug-free approach, Dr. Dukes and her team are ready to help you find relief from chronic pain. Medical doctors often recommend opioid treatment for chronic pain sufferers due to the powerful analgesic effects these medications offer. Opioids can significantly reduce pain, improve quality of life, and allow patients to function more normally in their daily activities. However, this approach is fraught with high risks. Opioids are highly addictive, and prolonged use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same level of pain relief. This increases the potential for dependence and abuse. Additionally, opioids come with a host of side effects, including respiratory depression, which can be fatal. The risk of overdose is also a serious concern, especially with long-term use. Therefore, while opioids can be effective for managing chronic pain, their high-risk profile necessitates careful monitoring and consideration of alternative treatments. The Dangers of Opioids Opioids are commonly used to treat pain, but they merely mask symptoms rather than addressing the root cause. These medications, also known as opiates or narcotics, can be dangerous even when taken as prescribed. Opioids interact with receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, altering pain perception and increasing feelings of pleasure. However, taking opioids at any dose can be harmful, leading to serious risks such as mental fogginess and potential addiction. Understanding Opioid Risks For chronic pain sufferers seeking relief, it's crucial to understand what opioids are and why they can be dangerous. Opioids are a broad group of pain-relieving drugs that interact with opioid receptors in the body. They can be derived from the poppy plant or synthesized in laboratories. When these medications bind to receptors in brain cells, they trigger signals that reduce pain perception and increase pleasure. Two Major Risks of Opioids
The Shift Towards Non-Drug Approaches Ethical pain management physicians now recommend using opioids for chronic pain treatment. Dr. Dukes is at the forefront of this paradigm shift, focusing on non-drug approaches to target the root cause of pain. Utilizing spinal manipulation and adjunctive therapies like soft tissue techniques and exercises, Dr. Dukes creates individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Hi Benefit/ Low Risk Pain Therapy Chiropractic care is a proven, powerful alternative to Opioid Analgesic Therapy (OAT) that restores movement and function without the need for drugs or invasive surgery. It is cost-effective, readily accessible, and focuses on promoting proper alignment of the body's musculoskeletal structure, particularly the spine. This approach not only alleviates pain but also addresses the root cause, offering a long-term solution. Beyond chronic low back pain, chiropractic care is effective for conditions such as headaches, neck pain, and joint problems. One of the most significant advantages is its ability to avoid the fogginess and addiction potential associated with prescription opioids. Take the First Step Towards Pain Relief If you're experiencing back pain or chronic pain, consider exploring chiropractic care. It offers a low-risk, high-reward alternative to surgery and opioid medications. The American Medical Association (AMA) even recommends chiropractic care as a primary treatment method for back pain due to its effectiveness and safety. Call Dr. Dukes today at 813.752.2524 to schedule your examination and learn if Chiropractic Care is the right choice for you.  Curious about chiropractic care? We've got you covered!
Whether you're dealing with back pain, headaches, or wondering how many sessions you'll need, we've compiled the top 10 questions that new patients most often ask Dr. Dukes so that you can find the answers you need to make informed decisions about your health and wellness. Here are ten common questions people often ask chiropractors, along with their typical answers:
At Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, we love welcoming new patients and watching their progress. If you are suffering and been told that drugs or surgery are your only options, Dr. Dukes encourages you to learn the facts and get a second opinion. Dr. Dukes can help get you back to living life on your terms, naturally, through drug-free and non-surgical chiropractic care. Call (813) 752-2524 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Dukes.  Aging is a natural part of life, and how we age depends significantly on the health practices we adopt throughout our lives. From infancy through older adulthood, maintaining healthy habits can lead to greater resilience and increased opportunities to thrive as we age. At Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, we recognize that the journey to healthy aging begins early and that health disparities experienced earlier in life can exacerbate as we get older. Chiropractic care plays a crucial role in promoting healthy living, ultimately contributing to wellness for life. The Role of Chiropractic Care in Healthy AgingChiropractic care focuses on the health of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, which are vital for maintaining overall wellness. Regular chiropractic adjustments help keep the spine aligned, ensuring that the nervous system functions optimally. This, in turn, promotes better body function, enhances mobility, reduces pain, and supports the body's natural ability to heal itself. Infancy and Childhood:Growth and Development: Proper spinal alignment is essential for children as they grow. Chiropractic care can address issues such as colic, ear infections, and poor posture, setting a strong foundation for future health. Preventing Future Problems: Early intervention can prevent the development of chronic conditions and ensure that children grow up with healthy spines and nervous systems. Adolescence and Young Adulthood:Sports Injuries: Adolescents often engage in sports and physical activities that can lead to injuries. Chiropractic care helps manage and prevent injuries, promoting faster recovery and long-term wellness. Posture and Ergonomics: With increased use of technology, many young adults develop poor posture. Chiropractic adjustments and ergonomic advice help maintain good posture and prevent chronic issues. Adulthood:Pain Management: Adults often experience back pain, neck pain, and headaches due to work-related stress, poor posture, and sedentary lifestyles. Chiropractic care provides non-invasive pain relief and improves quality of life. Enhancing Mobility: Regular adjustments keep joints flexible and muscles balanced, making it easier to stay active and engage in regular exercise, which is crucial for overall health. Older Adulthood:Maintaining Independence: For older adults, maintaining mobility and independence is crucial. Chiropractic care helps manage age-related issues such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and joint degeneration, improving balance and reducing the risk of falls. Improving Quality of Life: Chiropractic care can alleviate chronic pain, enhance physical function, and promote a better quality of life, allowing older adults to stay active and engaged in their communities. Addressing Health DisparitiesAt Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, we understand that health disparities experienced earlier in life can significantly impact aging. Socioeconomic factors, access to healthcare, and lifestyle choices can all influence an individual's health trajectory. By providing comprehensive chiropractic care and promoting healthy living practices, we aim to address these disparities and support our patients in achieving healthy aging. Education and Awareness: We educate our patients about the importance of maintaining a healthy spine and nervous system throughout their lives. This includes advice on proper posture, ergonomics, nutrition, and exercise. Personalized Care: Our chiropractors provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs and health goals, ensuring that they receive the best possible care at every stage of life. Preventive Care: We emphasize preventive care to identify and address potential health issues before they become chronic problems, promoting long-term wellness and healthy aging. The TakeawayHealthy aging is a lifelong journey that requires consistent effort and dedication to maintaining good health practices. Chiropractic care plays a vital role in promoting healthy living and supporting individuals at every stage of life, from infancy through older adulthood. At Dukes Chiropractic Health Clinic, we are committed to helping our patients achieve and maintain optimal health, ensuring that they can enjoy a higher quality of life as they age. By addressing health disparities and providing comprehensive, personalized care, we aim to empower our patients to thrive and age gracefully. If you’re ready to give yourself and your family the gift of health, reach out to Dr. Dukes. Schedule your consultation and learn how regular chiropractic care will help you and your loved ones live their best life. Call (813) 752-2524 today.
 For mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome, therapy provides equal or better patient outcomes compared to surgery with no pain killers, significantly reduced risks, faster recovery, and vastly lower patient cost-of-care. For many people with CTS, conservative therapy relieves symptoms and restores function - without the use of dangerous drugs or risky surgeries. Non-surgical therapy is universally recognized as the first-line CTS treatment modality. The AAOR cautions that surgery should be used only as a last resort advising that surgery is only appropriate for severe cases that interfere with daily life with symptoms lasting over 6 months where non-surgical intervention has not resolved the issue. Chiropractors are experts at restoring wellness by treating the root cause of CTS with hands-on care and patient education without risks associated with surgery. Symptoms typically include tingling, pain, numbness or weakness in the fingers and thumb. Some patients may also experience radiating pain in the forearm. Dr. Dukes usually resolves CTS within a few weeks through therapeutic, non-surgical therapy. Many patients start feeling better after the first treatment. Symptoms normally improve gradually. Within a few weeks, most patients report significantly reduced pain, tingling and numbness as well as normal hand function.
What is Carpal Tunnel SyndromeCarpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is typically a constriction of the median nerve as it runs through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. The root cause is most often irritation or damage that causes inflammation with use which compresses the carpal tunnel on your medial nerve. Symptoms of this common hand condition include numbness and/or tingling exhibiting in the thumb and fingers which often results in pain, discomfort, weakness and reduced mobility over time. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway through your wrist. It is made of tendons, ligaments and bones located on the anterior (palm) side of your hand. It protects the median nerve and allows it to pass through your wrist and into your hand. The median nerve provides sensory feeling to your thumb, index finger, middle finger and the thumb side of the ring finger and controls motor (movement) functions to the forearm, wrist and hand. It also sends touch, pain and temperature sensations from the lower arm and hand to the brain. Better Patient Outcomes: Therapy VS SurgeryResearch shows that, in most cases, non-surgical therapy provides equal to or better outcomes when compared to carpal tunnel surgery. In fact, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) recommends non-surgical therapy as the primary CTS treatment modality and cautions that surgery should be used only as a last resort further advising that surgery should be recommended only if ALL of the following criteria are met:
What to Expect from Non-Surgical Carpal Tunnel TherapyIn most cases, non-surgical therapy treatment is effective in reducing CTS symptoms and often helps patients get back to everyday activities within 8-12 weeks depending upon the symptom severity. Typically patients are referred by their primary care physician or a hand specialist after a examination results in a CTS diagnosis. Patients may also self-refer to avoid delaying the process and mitigate cost of care. Therapy for mild cases of early-stage CTS typically involves an initial consultation, testing and 1-2 therapy sessions over 4 weeks. Treatment may include:
Patients with moderate or severe CTS treatment begin with the same process used to treat mild CTS symptoms along with specialized therapy techniques such as myofascial release or fascial stretch therapies that gently manipulate the joints and soft tissues of the wrist, hand, and arm releasing restrictions and tissue adhesions to alleviate pressure on the median nerve. These techniques reduce symptoms and improve electromyographic test results by naturally releasing the transverse carpal ligament which "opens" or dilates the canal. People on blood thinners, with metabolic conditions, deep vein thrombosis, open wounds, burns or bone fractures are not candidates for myofascial therapy. Myofascial release is the primary treatment modality used to break-up restrictions and tissue adhesions in and around the tendons inside the wrist joint. Specifically, this technique breaks fascia restrictions and adhesions that cause tendon inflammation and swelling. This inflammation and swelling is the underlying condition that causes carpal tunnel symptoms. Two primary techniques used:
After myofascial release therapy, you may feel soreness. This should go away within 12-24 hours and your arm, wrist and hand should feel more relaxed. Fascial stretch therapy is another type of manual therapy where therapists don’t apply pressure to certain areas of your body. Instead, parts of your body (such as your arms and hands) are manually moved to stretch your fascial tissues. Treatment may be recommended every one to three days over several weeks or a few months. Therapy sessions will last 15 to 50 minutes. Session frequency and intensity will depend on the cause and severity of your condition. Most patients report numbness and pain subsiding within 12 weeks. Once your symptoms have subsided, your practitioner will likely prescribe self-care stretching, strengthening exercises, and wearing a splint at night until full hand strength returns. Length of time required for full strength to return varies by patient, but most can expect complete recovery in 6 months. Patients should consider:
What to Expect from Carpal Tunnel SurgeryWhile each patient’s experience is unique, in most cases the process takes 16-24 weeks from the initial PCP appointment, specialist consultation, surgery and primary recovery. Full recovery may take 4-12 months depending. In most cases patients are referred to a hand specialist after a general exam performed by their primary physician indicates the potential for CTS. A specialist provider will normally use a combination of physical and imaging tests to diagnose your condition. These may include: Tinel’s sign, Phalen’s test, Wrist X-rays, Electromyography (EMG), Ultrasound, and/or Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is usually done as an outpatient procedure using local or general anesthesia. Two types of carpal tunnel surgery are typically performed: Open surgery involves the surgeon making an approximately 2-inch long cut on the wrist, then cutting the carpal ligament to make the carpal tunnel passageway larger. Endoscopic surgery is performed with the surgeon making one half-inch long cut on the wrist. Then a small probe is attached to a narrow tube which is then inserted into the cut. The small probe may or may not have a camera. The surgeon inserts surgical instruments through the narrow tube and cuts the carpal ligament through the other incision. The surgeon uses the camera to locate and cut the carpal ligament. When there is no camera, an ultrasound device guides the surgeon to the correct probe placement before cutting the carpal ligament.  Post CTS Surgery Post-operative care can be intensive for some patients and mild for others. After surgery, your hand and wrist will be splinted for several weeks or more. The surgeon may also have you keep the affected hand elevated above your heart while sleeping at night to decrease swelling. You'll likely begin a physical therapy program once the stitches have healed and the splint is removed. Use of a splint or brace may be recommended for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Risks. Carpal tunnel release surgery potential risks include bleeding, infection, injury to the median nerve or nerves that branch out from it, injury to nearby blood vessels, sensitive scaring, the need for more surgery. Potential complications. According to a 2023 NIH report,” the most frequent complication of carpal tunnel surgery is the development of a neuroma in the palmar cutaneous branch of the median nerve. Patients may also experience hypertrophic scars, joint stiffness, dysesthesias, and incomplete resolution of their symptoms.” Cost considerations. According to the NIH, the median cost of carpal tunnel surgery was $10,273 as of April 2023. The estimate does not include pre-surgery examinations, testing, post-surgery care, therapy nor follow-up examination costs. Recovery time. Carpal tunnel surgery recovery time varies. Most patients report numbness and pain subsiding within 4 months. Hand strength will return within 1 year – how much strength returns can vary. Pain medication. Prescription pain-killers and drugs are typically prescribed to control post-surgery pain and inflammation. Return to work time. Surgery recovery takes longer for a significant number of patients. The majority of patients choosing therapy to treat CTS return to normal activity within 8 weeks of treatment. However, over 30% of CTS patients choosing surgery do not return to work within 8 weeks. Causes, Risk Factors and PreventionOveruse from repetitive strain injuries is the most common cause of CTS.
It can be hard to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, especially with a contributing health condition or activities contributing to the condition cannot be avoided. Professional healthcare associations including The American Chiropractic Association and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons suggest the following CTS prevention strategies:
Call to ActionPatient education is key to positive patient outcomes. We hope that this article arms those suffering from CTS with the facts they need to make informed health conditions.
Early diagnosis, treatment and intervention will help avoid more extensive damage as well as improve healing trajectory. If you've been told that drugs or surgery are your only options, Dr. Dukes encourages you to learn the facts and get a second opinion. Dr. Dukes can help get you back to living life on you terms, naturally. Call (813) 752-2524 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Dukes. |
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February 2025
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