Call 024 7622 2002.Reg’d with BUPA. AXA  PPP. HSA.  AVIVA. Simplyhealth. Standard  Life. Pru health.Cigna. Mercia  health. Medisure.  Medicash.  All health insurance accepted. Cold/Low Level  Laser Therapy for Pain Relief and Recovery.

Neck Pain “Whiplash” (WAD) Shoulder Pain and Upper and Lower Back Pain. Cold/Low Level  Laser Therapy for Pain Relief and Recovery.

Neck Shoulder and Upper Back Pain.

People do not realize how much they move their neck, until they are unable to do so. The neck has the least amount of muscular stabilization to support and move your head, which makes it very susceptible to injury. It doesn’t take much force to disrupt that fine balance.

The spinal cord passes through a space in the vertebrae sending nerve impulses to every part of the body. Between each pair of cervical vertebrae, the spinal cord sends bundles of nerves that pass down the arms and to the upper back, and if your arm is hurting, it may be a problem in the neck! Symptoms in the arms can include numbness, tingling, cold, aching, and “pins and needles”.

The neck can also contribute to headaches, muscle spasms in the shoulders and upper back, ringing ears, otitis media (inflammation in the middle ear, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ or jaw joint). Dysfunction of the neck also causes restricted range of motion and chronic tightness in the upper back.

Causes of Neck and Upper Back Pain. 

Neck and upper back pain is caused by a combination of factors, including injury, poor posture, stress, and disc problems.

Injuries

The most common injury to the neck is a “whiplash”(WAD) injury. “Whiplash”(WAD) is caused by a sudden movement of the head.

(Listed in our “Whiplash” (WAD) neck pain section top left corner under “Pain” or “Conditions”) 

Much more common causes of neck pain and headaches are poor posture. It’s easy to get into bad posture habits, can eventually lead to pain and headaches. The rule is simple: keep your neck in a “neutral” position whenever possible. Don’t bend or hunch your neck forward for extended periods. Also, do not to sit in one position for extended period of time. If you must sit for an extended period, make sure your posture is good: Keep your head in a neutral position, make sure your back is always supported, and keep your knees slightly lower than your hips.

Stress

When people become stressed, they unconsciously contract their muscles, Particular the muscles in their back. This ‘Muscle guarding’ or Defence posture is a response designed to guard against injury. Muscle guarding occurs whenever we become emotionally stressed. The area’s most affected are the muscles of the neck, upper back and low back.

Disc Herniations 

Discs in your neck may herniated or bulge and put pressure on the nerves that lead from the spine into your shoulders, arms and hands. Although cervical discs do not bulge nearly as often as lumbar discs do, they occasionally can still get damaged especially when damage sustained from a “whiplash” (WAD) injury

(Listed in our Cold Laser Therapy Section under Inflammatory conditions.) 

Lower Back Pain. Including Cold Laser Therapy for Pain Relief and Recovery.

Sprained ligaments, strained muscles, ruptured discs, trigger points and inflamed joints are the many of different conditions that can result in low back pain. While sports injuries or accidents can lead to an injury and pain, sometimes even the simplest movements, like picking up a pencil from the floor, can have painful results. In addition, conditions such as poor posture, stress, arthritis, kidney stones and kidney infections, can be the cause of low back pain.

There may be many other things that can cause low back pain, and some of those things can be serious if left untreated. Physiotherapists are able in diagnosing the cause and determining a proper course of treatment for low back pain. Following are some of the most common causes.

Subluxations

When a disruption in the normal movement or position of the vertebrae occurs it results in pain and inflammation. In the lumbar spine these occur at the transition between the lower spine and the sacrum. Subluxations can lead to debilitating low back pain, however, subluxations are easily treatable and there is often a significant reduction in pain experienced almost immediately after treatment.

Disc Herniations

A herniated disc does not automatically mean that you may suffer from low back pain. In one study almost 60% of all adults had at least one bulging or herniated disc, even though they did not experienced any back pain. However, herniated discs can be a source of severe and debilitating pain, which may radiate to other areas of the body. Unfortunately, when a disc herniates, they rarely, completely heal. Further deterioration can be avoided through Physiotherapy, but a complete recovery is less common.

Sprains, Strains and Spasms

Sprains strains and spasms, are the most common source of low back pain. Overworking the muscles or ligaments of the low back may lead to tears in the tissues, which become painful, swollen and may even ache, with a tightening to the area affected.

Stress

When you become stressed your body responds by increasing the levels of stress hormones leading to the rise of blood pressure and heart rate and tightening up of your muscles. By becoming stressed all the time your muscles will become weak and painful loaded with trigger points.

Cold laser Therapy/Treatment

Low Level Cold Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a Handheld, non invasive, light-emitting medical device which is used over different areas of the body. It provides an unmatched advantage in the treatment of conditions such as Athletic and sports injuries;

Upper and Lower Back Pain and injuries.

Slipped disc.

Prolapsed disc.

Herniated disc.

Bulging disc.

Sciatica. 

Trapped Nerves.

Stiff Back.

Knee and Foot Pain
Shoulder Injury
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Arthritic Pain Relief,

Muscle Spasm
Relief of Muscle and Joint Pain
Skin infections including cold sores
Relief of Stiffness, the Promotion of Muscle Relaxation, and Cell Restoration

Wound Management  including Skin Ulcers, Pressure Sores and Burns. 

Soft Tissue Injuries including Sprains and Strains, Tendonitis and Haematomas.

Joint Disorders and Conditions including Arthritic Pain Relief and Tenosynovitis.

Chronic pain including Trigeminal Neuralgia and Chronic Neck and Back pain.

Cold Laser Therapy is used at our clinic for pain relief and treatment of ligament and tendon injuries, muscle sprains by reducing pain and accelerating the healing process.

For further in depth information on “Pain” or “Conditions” and “Treatments” for cold Laser Therapy. Please go to top left corner. 

Call 024 7622 2002 Reg’d with BUPA. AXA  PPP. HSA.  AVIVA. Simplyhealth. Standard  Life. Pru health.Cigna. Mercia  health. Medisure.  Medicash.  All health insurance accepted.

Back Pain, Neck Pain “Whiplash” (WAD) Shoulder Pain and Upper and Lower Back Pain. Cold/Low Level Laser Therapy for Pain Relief and Recovery.

Neck Shoulder and Upper Back Pain.

People do not realize how much they move their neck, until they are unable to do so. The neck has the least amount of muscular stabilization to support and move your head, which makes it very susceptible to injury. It doesn’t take much force to disrupt that fine balance.

The spinal cord passes through a space in the vertebrae sending nerve impulses to every part of the body. Between each pair of cervical vertebrae, the spinal cord sends bundles of nerves that pass down the arms and to the upper back, and if your arm is hurting, it may be a problem in the neck! Symptoms in the arms can include numbness, tingling, cold, aching, and “pins and needles”.

The neck can also contribute to headaches, muscle spasms in the shoulders and upper back, ringing ears, otitis media (inflammation in the middle ear, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ or jaw joint). Dysfunction of the neck also causes restricted range of motion and chronic tightness in the upper back.

Causes of Neck and Upper Back Pain. 

Neck and upper back pain is caused by a combination of factors, including injury, poor posture, stress, and disc problems.

Injuries

The most common injury to the neck is a “whiplash”(WAD) injury. “Whiplash”(WAD) is caused by a sudden movement of the head.

(Listed in our “Whiplash” (WAD) neck pain section top left corner under “Pain” or “Conditions”) 

Much more common causes of neck pain and headaches are poor posture. It’s easy to get into bad posture habits, can eventually lead to pain and headaches. The rule is simple: keep your neck in a “neutral” position whenever possible. Don’t bend or hunch your neck forward for extended periods. Also, do not to sit in one position for extended period of time. If you must sit for an extended period, make sure your posture is good: Keep your head in a neutral position, make sure your back is always supported, and keep your knees slightly lower than your hips.

Stress

When people become stressed, they unconsciously contract their muscles, Particular the muscles in their back. This ‘Muscle guarding’ or Defence posture is a response designed to guard against injury. Muscle guarding occurs whenever we become emotionally stressed. The area’s most affected are the muscles of the neck, upper back and low back.

Disc Herniations 

Discs in your neck may herniated or bulge and put pressure on the nerves that lead from the spine into your shoulders, arms and hands. Although cervical discs do not bulge nearly as often as lumbar discs do, they occasionally can still get damaged especially when damage sustained from a “whiplash” (WAD) injury

(Listed in our Cold Laser Therapy Section under Inflammatory conditions.) 

Lower Back Pain. Including Cold Laser Therapy for Pain Relief and Recovery.

Sprained ligaments, strained muscles, ruptured discs, trigger points and inflamed joints are the many of different conditions that can result in low back pain. While sports injuries or accidents can lead to an injury and pain, sometimes even the simplest movements, like picking up a pencil from the floor, can have painful results. In addition, conditions such as poor posture, stress, arthritis, kidney stones and kidney infections, can be the cause of low back pain.

There may be many other things that can cause low back pain, and some of those things can be serious if left untreated. Physiotherapists are able in diagnosing the cause and determining a proper course of treatment for low back pain. Following are some of the most common causes.

Subluxations

When a disruption in the normal movement or position of the vertebrae occurs it results in pain and inflammation. In the lumbar spine these occur at the transition between the lower spine and the sacrum. Subluxations can lead to debilitating low back pain, however, subluxations are easily treatable and there is often a significant reduction in pain experienced almost immediately after treatment.

Disc Herniations

A herniated disc does not automatically mean that you may suffer from low back pain. In one study almost 60% of all adults had at least one bulging or herniated disc, even though they did not experienced any back pain. However, herniated discs can be a source of severe and debilitating pain, which may radiate to other areas of the body. Unfortunately, when a disc herniates, they rarely, completely heal. Further deterioration can be avoided through Physiotherapy, but a complete recovery is less common.

Sprains, Strains and Spasms

Sprains strains and spasms, are the most common source of low back pain. Overworking the muscles or ligaments of the low back may lead to tears in the tissues, which become painful, swollen and may even ache, with a tightening to the area affected.

Stress

When you become stressed your body responds by increasing the levels of stress hormones leading to the rise of blood pressure and heart rate and tightening up of your muscles. By becoming stressed all the time your muscles will become weak and painful loaded with trigger points.

Cold laser Therapy/Treatment

Low Level Cold Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a Handheld, non invasive, light-emitting medical device which is used over different areas of the body. It provides an unmatched advantage in the treatment of conditions such as Athletic and sports injuries;

Upper and Lower Back Pain and injuries.

Slipped disc.

Prolapsed disc.

Herniated disc.

Bulging disc.

Sciatica. 

Trapped Nerves.

Stiff Back.

Knee and Foot Pain
Shoulder Injury
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Arthritic Pain Relief,

Muscle Spasm
Relief of Muscle and Joint Pain
Skin infections including cold sores
Relief of Stiffness, the Promotion of Muscle Relaxation, and Cell Restoration

Wound Management  including Skin Ulcers, Pressure Sores and Burns. 

Soft Tissue Injuries including Sprains and Strains, Tendonitis and Haematomas.

Joint Disorders and Conditions including Arthritic Pain Relief and Tenosynovitis.

Chronic pain including Trigeminal Neuralgia and Chronic Neck and Back pain.

Cold Laser Therapy is used at our clinic for pain relief and treatment of ligament and tendon injuries, muscle sprains by reducing pain and accelerating the healing process.

For further in depth information on “Pain” or “Conditions” and “Treatments” for cold Laser Therapy. Please go to top left corner. 

Sports Injuries Call 024 7622 2002. Registered with BUPA. AXA PPP. HSA. AVIVA. CIGNA. Simplyhealth. Standard life. Pru health. Mercia health.Medicash Medisure. All health insurance accepted

Soft Tissue Injuries.

Cold laser therapy for pain relief and recovery for Ligaments,  muscle tears and  Sprains,  Nerves, Tendonitis, Neck Back, Shoulders, Biceps, Triceps, and Knee, Hip, Foot. 

The Cold Lasers (LLLT) used at Central Chiropractic Clinic are certified as Cold Laser.  For the past 30 years the technology of Cold Laser Therapy (also known as Low Level Laser Therapy) has been formally accepted in North America and in many other parts of the world such as Europe, including Russia and Japan.  In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from its use.  It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.

Cold Laser Therapy uses laser light energy to stimulate cells to function optimally.  Cold Laser Therapy is similar to photosynthesis in plants; sunlight is absorbed by the plant and converted into energy the plant can utilize for growth.  In the body light sensitive chromophores and other elements within the cell absorb energy, initiating a series of important photochemical changes such as increased production of nitric oxide, singlet oxygen and ATP, as well as, an increase in the cell membrane’s permeability.  The mitochondria and Kreb’s Cycle stimulation initiates the production of ATP, providing the cell with the extra energy needed to accelerate the healing process and positively influence pain.  The additional energy and effects result in normalization of the cell function when cell function is impaired.  These activities can occur in all types of cells and includes ligament, nerves, cartilage, and muscle.

Cold Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a Handheld, non invasive, light-emitting medical device which is used over different areas of the body. It provides an unmatched advantage in the treatment of conditions such as:

Athletic and sports injuries

Soft Tissue Injuries including Fractures, Sprains and Strains, Tendonitis, conditions and disorder

Shoulders, Biceps, Triceps, Muscle Tears, Rotator Cuff injuries.

Knee, ligaments, Runners Knee, Bursitis, conditions and disorders

Hip Pain, Sacroiliac Joint inflammation

Foot, Heel Ankle Pain and injuries

Achilles tendonitis,

Plantar Fasciitis

Back pain, Lower back pain

Slipped disc, Prolapsed disc, Herniated disc, 

Trapped nerve.

Sacroiliac Joint inflammation 

“Whiplash” (WAD), Neck Pain and injury

Athletic Injuries

Lower Back Pain
Knee, Heel and Foot Pain
Shoulder Injury
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Arthritic pain relief

Muscle Spasm and Relief of Muscle and Joint Pain

Skin infections including cold sores,

Wound Management including Skin Ulcers, Pressure Sores and Burns

Soft Tissue Injuries including Sprains and Strains, Tendonitis and Haematomas

Joint Disorders including Arthritic pain relief and Tenosynovitis

Chronic pain such as Trigeminal Neuralgia and Chronic Neck and Back pain.

Soft tissue injuries for further in depth information on all above conditions please go to top left corner under ”Pain” or “Conditions” and “Treatments” for Cold Laser Therapy.

Call 02476 222002.Registered with BUPA. AXA PPP. HSA. AVIVA. CIGNA. Simpleyhealth. Standard life. Pru health. Mercia health.Medicash Medisure. All health insurance accepted.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affects the wrists, an injury that can prevent people from working, and making the wrists and hands very painful. This is a wrist condition that can result in chronic wrist and hand pain.

Carpal: Across the back of the wrist, eight small irregular bones (called carpals) are aligned in 2 rows forming a letter “C.” There is a tough ligament attaching across the inner side of the wrist. Thus forming the Carpal Tunnel.

Tunnel: An opening through which something passes through. Nine tendons of the muscles of the forearm that move the fingers along with the soft median nerve pass through this narrow tunnel. This tunnel is about the size of your little finger.

In carpal tunnel syndrome the median nerve becomes either compressed, irritated or swollen resulting in pain.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve becomes irritated and swells. During the swelling the pressure in the canal increases leading to further irritation and compression of the nerve. This leads to more swelling and nerve irritation.

What are Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms?

Typical symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include parenthesis (abnormal sensations) such as tingling and numbness in the thumb and index and middle fingers on the palm side, night pain, weakness in grasping, thumb and index finger pinching, and other thumb movements’ clumsiness, such as awkward hand movements and dropping things with increased weakness.

What treatment is available for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Before commencing the treatment patient should be evaluated for the cause of the nerve swelling. Some systemic conditions such as under active thyroid can lead to the swelling of the tendons, thus putting pressure onto the median nerve.

Patients should also be evaluated for possible compression of the nerves at the neck, shoulder and elbow levels that can also present itself as a pain and weakness in the wrist. In majority of cases of wrist and hand pain and weakness the primarily cause is compression of the nerve root at the neck level that forms nerves of the arm and hand. That’s why some patients still experience symptoms of carpal tunnel even after the surgery or cortisone injections were performed.

Cold laser therapy applied over the carpal tunnel has proven to be very effective in reduction of swelling and pain management. Please contact us if you require further information.

 (See our Cold Laser Therapy Section under Inflammatory conditions.)

Cold Laser Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome including;

Soft tissue injuries. Ligaments. Tendons and muscles. Tendonitis Bursitis. Plantar fasciitis. Back and Lower back pain. Neck Shoulder Arm and Wrist pain. Hip knee ankle pain injuries.

The lasers used at Central Chiropractic Clinic are certified as Cold Laser.  For the past 30 years the technology of Cold Laser Therapy (also known as Low Level Laser Therapy) has been formally accepted in North America and in many other parts of the world such as Europe, Russia and Japan.  In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from low level laser therapy.  It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.

Cold Laser Therapy uses laser light energy to stimulate cells to function optimally.  In the body, light sensitive chromophores and other elements within the cell absorb energy, initiating a series of important photochemical changes such as increased production of ATP. The mitochondria and Kreb’s Cycle stimulation initiates the production of ATP, providing the cell with the extra energy needed to accelerate the healing process and positively influence pain.  These activities can occur in all types of cells and includes ligament, nerves, cartilage and muscle.

Low Level Cold Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a Handheld, non-invasive, light-emitting medical device which is used over different areas of the body. It provides an unmatched advantage in the treatment of conditions such as;

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Chronic Neck and Back Pain. “Whiplash (WAD) injuries” Neck Pain. Cervical Disc injury.

Upper and Lower Back Pain, Sciatica.

Disc injuries, Slipped disc, Prolapsed disc, Herniated disc, Bulging disc.

Trapped  Nerves.

Hip Pain Sacroiliac joint inflammation

Athletic and Sports Injuries. Ligaments. Tendons. and Tendonitis.

Lower Back Pain
Knee and Foot Pain and injury
Shoulder Injury
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Arthritic Pain Relief and Muscle Spasm
Relief of Muscle and Joint Pain
Skin infections,

Wound Management; including Skin Ulcers, Pressure Sores and Burns

Soft Tissue Injuries including; Sprains and Strains, Tendonitis and Haematomas

Joint Disorders; including Arthritic pain relief and Tenosynovitis

Chronic Pain such as Trigeminal Neuralgia and Chronic Neck and Back

 Pain. “Whiplash (WAD) injuries”, Neck Pain and injuries.

For further in depth information on Back, Neck or Shoulder Pain, Sciatica, Lower Back Pain, please go to top left corner under “Pain” or “Conditions”. 

Call 02476 222002.Registered with BUPA. AXA PPP. HSA. AVIVA. CIGNA. Simpleyhealth. Standard life. Pru health. Mercia health.Medicash Medisure. All health insurance accepted.

Running injuries; Runners Knee – Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome. Achillies Tendonitis. Plantar Fasciitis Cold Laser Therapy. 

Runner’s Knee Explained

Runner’s Knee is the common term for Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome. Runner’s Knee is a painful overuse knee injury that affects the outer part of the knee. It is common in runners and cyclists. It affects around 5% of all runners, while knee injuries in cyclists 20% are diagnosed as Runner’s Knee.

Runner’s Knee to understand this condition its necessary to be familiar with the anatomy of the outer side of the thigh and knee. The Ilio Tibial Band is a tough length of fascia that attaches to the outer side of the pelvis (The Ilium), goes down the outer side of the thigh and inserts into the outer side of the shin bone (Tibia). The Ilio Tibial Band forms a length of taught fibrous tissue that connects the hip and knee.

The Lateral Epicondyle is a bony prominence that is the widest point of the thigh bone. When the knee is straight the Ilio Tibial Band is in front of the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh bone and when the knee is fully bent the ITB is behind the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh bone. During movements of the knee, the Ilio Tibial Band moves over the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh, with maximum friction at 30 degrees of knee bend.

During activities such as running and cycling, where there is repeated bending and straightening of the knee joint, the Ilio Tibial Band can ‘impinge’ upon the Lateral Epicondyle and the resultant friction can lead to inflammation of the tissues. If the Ilio Tibial Band is tight then the degree of friction is increased and a tight Ilio Tibial Band can predispose people to Runner’s Knee.

Between the Ilio Tibial Band and the thigh there is a sac of fluid, called a bursa, which is meant to prevent friction. However, where there are repeated knee bending movements with a tight Ilio Tibial Band, the bursa can become impinged between the Ilio Tibial Band and the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh. The bursa itself, as well as the Ilio Tibial Band, can become inflamed and painful.

Runner’s Knee Symptoms

Typically there is pain located on the outer side of the knee joint. This pain may radiate up the thigh or down the outer side of the shin and is exacerbated by running or cycling activities. Usually, the pain from Runner’s Knee is only present during activity and settles when the person rests. However, in some cases it can also be extremely uncomfortable going up or down stairs.

There is often severe tenderness when the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh bone is palpated. There is usually maximum friction at the area of the Lateral Epicondyle when the knee is bent to around 30 degrees.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis accounts for around 13% of running injuries. The Achilles tendon is the large tendon at the back of the ankle. This Tendon connects the calf muscles (Gastrocnemius and Soleus) to the heal bone (calcaneus) and provides the power and drive in the push off phase of the gait cycle. The Achilles tendon can become inflamed through overuse as well as a number of other factors. Achilles tendonitis may be acute or chronic. Acute Achilles tendonitis is a result of overuse.

Achilles Tendonitis the Symptoms

Achilles tendonitis symptoms include:

• Acute inflammation
• Achilles Tendonitis pain may increase gradually during exercise. l Swelling may appear over the Achilles tendon.
• Redness may appear over the skin in the area of the tendonitis.
• You may feel a cracking or creaking sensation when you press your fingers into the tendon while moving the foot.
• Chronic Achilles tendonitis will often follow on from acute Achilles tendonitis if the acute tendon injury is not treated properly and given time to heal. Chronic Achilles tendonitis is a difficult condition to treat. The pain experienced during the acute phase of the injury may well disappear after a warm session, and may return when training has stopped.

Symptoms for chronic Achilles Tendonitis are similar to those of acute tendonitis as well as:

• Stiffness and pain in the Achilles tendon are especially noticeable in the morning. This pain may be described has none specific or generalized pain of the area.
• Nodules or lumps may appear in the Achilles tendon, 2cm above the heel.
• Tendon pain may appear when walking up a hill or incline.
• Chronic tendonitis differs from acute tendonitis in that it is a much more of a long term problem.

Causes of Achilles Tendinitis

An Overuse are the main factor and the basic cause of this injury, however other factors can make an overuse injury more likely.

Running up inclines and hills will mean the Achilles tendon has to stretch more than normal. This exasperates and worsens this condition.

Overpronation, meaning feet which roll in, will place an increased strain on the Achilles tendon. As the foot rolls in and (flattens) the lower leg rotates inwards which then twists the Achilles tendon placing torsion stress along the length of the Achilles tendon.

Treatment of Achilles Tendonitis

Rest and apply cold therapy or ice (not directly onto the skin).

Wearing a heel pad, as a temporary measure, to raise the heel and take the strain off the Achilles tendon. Rest while the Achilles tendon is healing.

Listed in our cold laser section under conditions treated.

Plantar Fasciitis. Heel Pain, spurs and Injury, Foot Pain and injury, causes, symptoms and treatment with Tog GaitScan and/or Cold Laser Therapy.

Plantar Fasciitis . A common cause of heel pain in adults. A classic sign is pain that is particularly severe when the first steps are taken in the morning. Plantar Fasciitis is a self-limited condition, however many people can suffer with this problem for years. The symptoms usually resolve more quickly when the time between the onset of symptoms and the start of treatment is short. There are many treatment options including Cold laser therapy rest stretching, strengthening, orthotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Pain is usually caused by collagen degeneration at the origin of the plantar fascia at the medial tubercle of the calcaneus. The cause of the degeneration is repetitive micro tears of the plantar fascia that overbears the body’s ability to repair itself. Cold laser therapy has become a major player in helping the body’s ability to repair itself quicker.

Although the classic sign of Plantar Fasciitis is early morning pain, not every patient will have these symptoms.  Symptoms vary from person to person, however the majority will notice pain at the beginning of activity which lessens as they warm up. Plantar Fasciitis pain may also occur with prolonged standing. In severe cases, the pain will increase towards the end of the day.

The Plantar Fascia is a thickened fibrous aponeurosis that originates from the medial tubercle of the calcaneus and runs forward to form the longitudinal foot arch. The function of the Plantar Fascia is to provide static support of the longitudinal arch and shock absorption. Individuals with pes planus (flat feet) or pes cavus (high arches) are at increased risk of suffering Plantar Fasciitis. 

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis 

A history of an increase in weight-bearing activities is common, especially those involving running, which causes micro trauma to the plantar fascia that exceeds the body’s capacity to recover. Plantar Fasciitis also occurs in elderly. In these patients, the problem is usually more biomechanical, often related to decrease in strength of intrinsic muscle.

As mentioned above, people with faulty foot biomechanics are also at risk of developing Plantar Fasciitis. A large percentage of the population will over-pronate (i.e. the foot rolls inward when they walk) which overstretches the plantar fascia and causes irritation.

On examination, the patient usually has a point of maximal tenderness just under the front aspect of heel bone and on the sole of the foot. The pain may be worsened by having the patient stand on the tips of the toes.

Plantar Fasciitis is often called “heel spurs,” although this terminology is somewhat misleading because 15 to 25 percent of the general population has heel spurs, without any symptoms and many symptomatic individuals do not have them. 

In general, Plantar Fasciitis is a self-limiting condition meaning it would resolve by itself usually within 6 to 18 months. Suffering for such a long time can lead to

Frustration for patients and Doctors.

Stretching and Strengthening

Stretching and strengthening programs address risk factors such as tightness of the gastrosoleus complex and weakness of the intrinsic foot muscles. Increasing flexibility of the calf muscles is particularly important. Frequently used stretching techniques include wall stretches and curb or stair stretches.

Other effective techniques include placing a two-inch 3 four-inch piece of wood in the areas where the patient stands for a prolonged time (workplaces, kitchen or stoves) to use in stretching the calf. Dynamic stretches such as rolling the foot arch over a can or a tennis ball are also useful. Cross-friction massage above the plantar fascia and towel stretching may be done before getting out of bed. 

Exercises such as picking up marbles and coins with the toes are also useful. Towel curl involves pulling the towel toward the body by curling the towel with the toes while sitting with the foot flat on the end of a towel placed on a smooth surface. Toe taps involve lifting all toes off the floor and, keeping the heel on the floor and the outside four toes in the air, the big toe is tapped to the floor repetitively. Next, the process is reversed, and the outside four toes are repetitively tapped to the floor while keeping the big toe in the air.

Shoes.

Wearing shoes with thicker, well-cushioned arch supports decreases the pain associated with long periods of walking or standing. Thus, simply getting a new pair of shoes may be helpful in decreasing pain as studies have shown that with age, running shoes lose a significant portion of their shock absorption.

Some 14 percent of patients with Plantar Fasciitis stated that change of shoes was the treatment that worked best for them.

Orthotics and Arch Supports

The three most commonly used mechanical corrections are arch taping, over-the-counter arch supports and custom made orthotics.

Arch taping can be used as definitive treatment or as a trial to determine if the expense of arch supports or orthotics is worth per suing. Taping may be more cost effective in cases of acute plantar fasciitis while over-the-counter arch supports and orthotics may be more cost-effective for chronic or recurrent cases of plantar fasciitis and for prevention of injuries.

Over-the-counter arch supports are highly variable and depend on the material used to make them. In general, patients should try to find the densest material that is soft enough to be comfortable to walk on. Over-the-counter arch supports are especially useful in the treatment of adolescents where rapid foot growth may require a new pair of arch supports once or more per season.

Custom made orthotics are usually made by taking a plaster cast or an impression of the individuals foot and then constructing an insert specifically designed to control biomechanical risk factors such as pes planus, valgus heel alignment and discrepancies in leg length. The main disadvantage of orthotics is the cost, which may range from £50 to £200 or more. However, the strong advantages of orthotics are that they are made specifically to match your individual foot. Similar to having a prescription for glasses. You wouldn’t want to wear someone else’s glasses! Although the initial cost is more than an over the counter pair, they are more cost-effective as they will last longer. Orthotics are also an excellent corrective treatment.

(   TOG Gait Scan and Cold Laser Therapy are below.)

Tog GaitScan™ 

Our GaitScan™ System is a revolutionary diagnostic tool for assessing patient’s foot biomechanics. GaitScan™ has an industry high 4096 sensors and scans at an industry high 300Hz (scans per second).  These measurements provide today’s Healthcare Professionals with a sophisticated explanation of foot mechanics and assists them with orthotic and/or shoe solutions. 

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections have the greatest benefit if administered early in the course of treatment but, because of the associated risks, they are usually reserved for treatment resistant cases.

Potential risks include rupture of the plantar fascia and fat pad atrophy. Rupture of the plantar fascia was present in almost 10 percent of patients after plantar fascia injection. Long-term consequences of plantar fascia rupture were found in approximately one half of the patients with plantar fascia rupture. On the other hand, another study found that most individuals with rupture of the plantar fascia had resolution of symptoms with rest and rehabilitation.

Cold laser Therapy/Treatment

The lasers used at Central Chiropractic, Physiotherapy Clinic are certified as Cold Laser.  For the past 30 years the technology of Cold Laser Therapy (also known as Low Level Laser Therapy) has been formally accepted in North America and in many other parts of the world such as Europe, Russia and Japan.  In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from low level laser therapy.  It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.

Cold Laser Therapy uses laser light energy to stimulate cells to function optimally.  In the body, light sensitive chromophores and other elements within the cell absorb energy initiating a series of important photochemical changes such as increased production of ATP. The mitochondria and Kreb’s Cycle stimulation initiates the production of ATP, providing the cell with the extra energy needed to accelerate the healing process and positively influence pain.  These activities can occur in all types of cells and includes ligament, nerves, cartilage and muscle.

Low Level Cold Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a Handheld, non-invasive, light-emitting medical device which is used over different areas of the body. It provides an unmatched advantage in the treatment of conditions such as;

Athletic and Sports Injuries.

Shoulder conditions and injuries.  Ruptures. Tears. Ligaments. Tendons.

Knee Ankle and foot Pain Conditions and injuries. Hip, Knee Bursitis.

Achilles Tendonitis. Bursitis.  Plantar Fasciitis. Stress Fractures. Shin Splints.

Meniscus tears. Runners Knee Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome

Chronic Neck and Back pain.

“Whiplash” (WAD) injury/ Neck Pain. Cervical Disc injury.

Upper and Lower Back Pain

Slipped disc. Prolapsed disc. Herniated disc. Bulging disc.

Trapped  nerves.

Hip Pain Sacroiliac joint inflammation

Shoulder Injuries and conditions.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Arthritic Pain Relief.

Muscle Spasm
Relief of Muscle and Joint Pain
Skin infections.

Wound Management including Skin Ulcers, Pressure Sores and Burn.

Soft Tissue Injuries including Sprains and Strains, Tendonitis and Haematomas.

Joint Disorders including Arthritic pain relief and Tenosynovitis

Chronic pain such as Trigeminal Neuralgia and Chronic Neck and Back

Pain. “Whiplash” (WAD) injury. Neck Pain and injuries.

For further in depth information on Hip knee or Ankle pain including Back and Lower Back Pain, Sciatica. Please go to top left corner under “Pain” or “Conditions”. 

Call 02476 222002.Shoulder Dislocation

Shoulder dislocations occur when the head of the humerus which is the upper arm bone, jumps out of the shoulder socket of the scapula, which is called the glenoid. This can happen during severe wrench pulling the shoulder upward or outward, or from combined over-extension and external rotation of the humerus.

Glenohumeral dislocations are generally classified by the direction of dislocation of the humerus.

A dislocation can be full or partial:

·   A partial dislocation  which also known as subluxation, when the head of the humerus slips out of the socket momentarily and then snaps back into place (socket)

·    A full dislocation, when the head of the humerus comes completely out of the socket  

Shoulder dislocations are normally associated with fractures to different parts of the shoulder; there may be a fracture and dislocation at the same time. Nerves and blood vessels can sometimes be injured with a severe shoulder dislocation.

Causes

Shoulder dislocation can be caused by:

·    Falling on an outstretched arm

·    A direct powerful blow to the shoulder area.

·    Repetitive sports or activities i.e. Throwing or lifting 

·    Any kind of force applied to an outstretched arm 

Symptoms

Symptoms include

•   Swelling
•   Bruising
•   Pain, often severe
•   Shoulder contour appears abnormal
•   Bruising Instability and weakness in the shoulder area
•   Inability to move the shoulder
•   Bruising Instability and weakness in the shoulder area
•   Numbness and tingling around the shoulder or in the arm or fingers
•    Seek immediate medical attention.

Shoulder Injury for further in depth information on shoulder injuries and treatment, please go to top left corner under “Pain” or “Conditions” and ”Treatments” for Cold laser therapy.

Call 02476 222002.Registered with BUPA. AXA PPP. HSA. AVIVA. CIGNA. Simpleyhealth. Standard life. Pru health. Mercia health. All health insurance accepted.

The collarbone

The collarbone is a part of the shoulder. Its function is to connect the arm to the body. The collarbone sits directly above several important nerves and blood vessels. These vital soft tissues are rarely injured when the collarbone breaks. The collarbone is a long bone, and most breaks occur in the middle of the bone.

Cause.

A broken collarbone, or the medical term a fractured clavicle is a common injury. Many babies are born with a broken collarbone this is due to child birth, also to people in contacted sports such as rugby or just  general accidents where a fall results in a  severe blow or  a heavy fall to the shoulder .  

The collarbone doesn’t   harden until a person is about 21 years old; a child’s collarbone can easily be broken from a direct blow or fall.

Symptoms include.

A hump or “bump” over the fracture area

Shoulder hanging down and forward 

Unable to lift the arm due to the pain

A grinding sensation attempting to raise the arm

Diagnosis.

There is always an obvious deformity, or “bump,” around the fractured area. A small amount of pressure over the fracture area will bring about pain. Also, a grinding feeling can be felt when the patient attempts to raise the arm. Its rare for a fragment of bone to break through the skin, An X-ray is often done to pinpoint the location and severity of the break.  Then an assessment should be carried out by a medical trained practitioner. 

Nonsurgical Treatment .

Most broken collarbones heal well without surgery.

A simple arm sling will be used to immobilize the arm. A child may have to wear the sling for 4 to 6 weeks; an adult may have to wear it for 4 to 8 weeks. Depending on the location of the break

Medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, will help reduce pain. But for a speedy recovery see our cold laser therapy section this is under inflammatory conditions on the home page.

For in depth information on shoulder injuries and treatment please go to top left corner under “Conditions” or “Pain” and “Treatments” for Cold Laser therapy for in depth information.

Chiropractic treatment for Running injuries.Call 02476 222002. Runners Knee. Heel/Arch Pain. Runners or Ilio-Tibial Band Syndrome. Achilles Tendonitis. Achilles Tendonitis.Plantar fasciitis. Stress Fractures. Cold Laser Therapy for pain relief and accelerating the healing process and recovery.

Runners Knee

The symptoms of this leg injury include pain directly under the knee cap or the surrounding area. Ascending or descending stairs will become painful. Runners’ knee injury responds well with biomechanical evaluation, introduction of orthotics, and Cold Laser Therapy section. For in depth information on knee pain, please go to left corner under “Pain”or”Conditions”

Heel/Arch Pain

Heel and arch pain are a common type of injury which may vary from tightness at the bottom of the foot to an intense heel pain. An X-ray will sometimes reveal the “heel spur” on the bottom of the heel bone. This may be due to an overpronation that will respond well to the use of orthotic. (Orthotics can be used to prevent a large number of heels and arch injuries). For in depth information on foot ankle, please go to “Pain’ or “conditions”

Runners or Ilio-Tibial Band Syndrome

These Leg injuries can manifest themselves anywhere along the entire length of this fibrous connective tissue located on the side of the thigh between hip and knee joints. The pain can be intense at either the outside of the hip or outside of the knee. A biomechanical evaluation from foot to hip is needed to diagnose the problem and prevent further injuries occurring.

(Listed in our Cold Laser Therapy Section under Inflammatory conditions.)

Achilles Tendonitis

Inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel. May be stiff at the beginning of a day and feel better later on in day. The Pain varies from a dull ache to acute, stabbing-like pain. Treatment should include sports massage to the calf muscle, evaluation of pelvis and low back alignment.

(Listed in our Cold Laser Therapy Section under Inflammatory conditions.)

For in depth information on Ankle pain, please go to left corner under “Pain”or”Conditions”

Shin Splints

This leg injury often causes pain along the front of lower leg. Symptoms vary from dull tightness to a severe pain along the lower leg. These Injuries have a higher incidence of occurrence in athletes especially when foot overpronation is present.

(Listed in our Cold Laser Therapy Section under Inflammatory conditions.)

Stress Fractures

Stress Fractures are located in either the lower leg (tibia) or one of the metatarsals (toes), the 2nd and 3rd toes being the most commonly involved. This type of leg injury can be difficult to diagnose as it has similarities and can be confused with shin splints. Healing requires two to three months of rest.

(Listed in our Cold Laser Therapy Section under Inflammatory conditions.)

Cold laser Therapy/Treatment

The lasers used at Central Chiropractic Clinic are certified as Cold Laser.  For the past 30 years the technology of Cold Laser Therapy (also known as Low Level Laser Therapy) has been formally accepted in North America and in many other parts of the world such as Europe, Russia and Japan.  In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from low level laser therapy.  It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.

Cold Laser Therapy uses laser light energy to stimulate cells to function optimally.  In the body, light sensitive chromophores and other elements within the cell absorb energy, initiating a series of important photochemical changes such as increased production of ATP. The mitochondria and Kreb’s Cycle stimulation initiates the production of ATP, providing the cell with the extra energy needed to accelerate the healing process and positively influence pain.  These activities can occur in all types of cells and includes ligament, nerves, cartilage and muscle.

Low Level Cold Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a Handheld, non-invasive, light-emitting medical device which is used over different areas of the body. It provides an unmatched advantage in the treatment of conditions such as;

Sports Injuries. Ligaments.  Tendons.  Tendonitis. Stress Fractures. Shin Splints and Soft tissue injuries.

Chronic Neck and Back pain. “Whiplash” (WAD) injury Neck Pain. Cervical Disc injury.

Upper and  Lower Back Pain. Sciatica.

Disc injuries. Slipped disc, Prolapsed disc, Herniated disc, Bulging disc.

Trapped  nerves.

Hip Pain. Sacroiliac joint inflammation

Knee and Foot Pain and injury
Shoulder Injury
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Arthritic Pain Relief, Muscle Spasm
Relief of Muscle and Joint Pain
Skin infections,  

Wound Management  including Skin Ulcers, Pressure Sores and Burn

Soft Tissue Injuries including Sprains and Strains, Tendonitis and Haematomas

Joint Disorders  including Arthritic Pain relief and Tenosynovitis

Chronic pain   such as Trigeminal Neuralgia and Chronic Neck and Back

 Pain. “Whiplash”(WAD) injury Neck Pain and injuries

For further in depth information on Back Pain, Sciatica, Lower Back Pain, please go to top left corner under “Pain” or “Conditions”. 

COLD LASER THERAPY CAN BY VERY EFFECTIVE IN TREATMENT OF ABOVE CONDITIONS BY ACCELERATING  THE HEALING PROCESS AND RECOVERY.

Call 02476 222002.Registered with BUPA. AXA PPP. HSA. AVIVA. CIGNA. Simplyhealth. Standard life. Pru health. Mercia health.Medicash Medisure. All health insurance accepted.

Running injuries; Runners Knee – Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome. Achilles Tendonitis. Plantar Fasciitis Cold/ low level Laser Therapy

Runner’s Knee Explained

Runner’s Knee is the common term for Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome. Runner’s Knee is a painful overuse knee injury that affects the outer part of the knee. It is common in runners and cyclists. It affects around 5% of all runners, while knee injuries in cyclists 20% are diagnosed as Runner’s Knee.

Runner’s Knee to understand this condition its necessary to be familiar with the anatomy of the outer side of the thigh and knee. The Ilio Tibial Band is a tough length of fascia that attaches to the outer side of the pelvis (The Ilium), goes down the outer side of the thigh and inserts into the outer side of the shin bone (Tibia). The Ilio Tibial Band forms a length of taught fibrous tissue that connects the hip and knee.

The Lateral Epicondyle is a bony prominence that is the widest point of the thigh bone. When the knee is straight the Ilio Tibial Band is in front of the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh bone and when the knee is fully bent the ITB is behind the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh bone. During movements of the knee, the Ilio Tibial Band moves over the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh, with maximum friction at 30 degrees of knee bend.

During activities such as running and cycling, where there is repeated bending and straightening of the knee joint, the Ilio Tibial Band can ‘impinge’ upon the Lateral Epicondyle and the resultant friction can lead to inflammation of the tissues. If the Ilio Tibial Band is tight then the degree of friction is increased and a tight Ilio Tibial Band can predispose people to Runner’s Knee.

Between the Ilio Tibial Band and the thigh there is a sac of fluid, called a bursa, which is meant to prevent friction. However, where there are repeated knee bending movements with a tight Ilio Tibial Band, the bursa can become impinged between the Ilio Tibial Band and the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh. The bursa itself, as well as the Ilio Tibial Band, can become inflamed and painful.

Runner’s Knee Symptoms

Typically there is pain located on the outer side of the knee joint. This pain may radiate up the thigh or down the outer side of the shin and is exacerbated by running or cycling activities. Usually, the pain from Runner’s Knee is only present during activity and settles when the person rests. However, in some cases it can also be extremely uncomfortable going up or down stairs.

There is often severe tenderness when the Lateral Epicondyle of the thigh bone is palpated. There is usually maximum friction at the area of the Lateral Epicondyle when the knee is bent to around 30 degrees.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis accounts for around 13% of running injuries. The Achilles tendon is the large tendon at the back of the ankle. This Tendon connects the calf muscles (Gastrocnemius and Soleus) to the heal bone (calcaneus) and provides the power and drive in the push off phase of the gait cycle. The Achilles tendon can become inflamed through overuse as well as a number of other factors. Achilles tendonitis may be acute or chronic. Acute Achilles tendonitis is a result of overuse.

Achilles Tendonitis the Symptoms

Achilles tendonitis symptoms include:

• Acute inflammation
• Achilles Tendonitis pain may increase gradually during exercise. l Swelling may appear over the Achilles tendon.
• Redness may appear over the skin in the area of the tendonitis.
• You may feel a cracking or creaking sensation when you press your fingers into the tendon while moving the foot.
• Chronic Achilles tendonitis will often follow on from acute Achilles tendonitis if the acute tendon injury is not treated properly and given time to heal. Chronic Achilles tendonitis is a difficult condition to treat. The pain experienced during the acute phase of the injury may well disappear after a warm session, and may return when training has stopped.

Symptoms for chronic Achilles Tendonitis are similar to those of acute tendonitis as well as:

• Stiffness and pain in the Achilles tendon are especially noticeable in the morning. This pain may be described has none specific or generalized pain of the area.
• Nodules or lumps may appear in the Achilles tendon, 2cm above the heel.
• Tendon pain may appear when walking up a hill or incline.
• Chronic tendonitis differs from acute tendonitis in that it is a much more of a long term problem.

Causes of Achilles Tendinitis

An Overuse are the main factor and the basic cause of this injury, however other factors can make an overuse injury more likely.

Running up inclines and hills will mean the Achilles tendon has to stretch more than normal. This exasperates and worsens this condition.

Overpronation, meaning feet which roll in, will place an increased strain on the Achilles tendon. As the foot rolls in and (flattens) the lower leg rotates inwards which then twists the Achilles tendon placing torsion stress along the length of the Achilles tendon.

Treatment of Achilles Tendonitis

Rest and apply cold therapy or ice (not directly onto the skin).

Wearing a heel pad, as a temporary measure, to raise the heel and take the strain off the Achilles tendon. Rest while the Achilles tendon is healing.

Listed in our Cold Laser Section under conditions treated.

Plantar Fasciitis. Heel Pain, spurs and Injury, Foot Pain and injury, causes, symptoms and treatment with Tog GaitScan and/or Cold Laser Therapy.

Plantar Fasciitis . A common cause of heel pain in adults. A classic sign is pain that is particularly severe when the first steps are taken in the morning. Plantar Fasciitis is a self-limited condition, however many people can suffer with this problem for years. The symptoms usually resolve more quickly when the time between the onset of symptoms and the start of treatment is short. There are many treatment options including Cold laser therapy rest stretching, strengthening, orthotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Pain is usually caused by collagen degeneration at the origin of the plantar fascia at the medial tubercle of the calcaneus. The cause of the degeneration is repetitive micro tears of the plantar fascia that overbears the body’s ability to repair itself. Cold laser therapy has become a major player in helping the body’s ability to repair itself quicker.

Although the classic sign of Plantar Fasciitis is early morning pain, not every patient will have these symptoms.  Symptoms vary from person to person, however the majority will notice pain at the beginning of activity which lessens as they warm up. Plantar Fasciitis pain may also occur with prolonged standing. In severe cases, the pain will increase towards the end of the day.

The Plantar Fascia is a thickened fibrous aponeurosis that originates from the medial tubercle of the calcaneus and runs forward to form the longitudinal foot arch. The function of the Plantar Fascia is to provide static support of the longitudinal arch and shock absorption. Individuals with pes planus (flat feet) or pes cavus (high arches) are at increased risk of suffering Plantar Fasciitis. 

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis 

A history of an increase in weight-bearing activities is common, especially those involving running, which causes micro trauma to the plantar fascia that exceeds the body’s capacity to recover. Plantar Fasciitis also occurs in elderly. In these patients, the problem is usually more biomechanical, often related to decrease in strength of intrinsic muscle.

As mentioned above, people with faulty foot biomechanics are also at risk of developing Plantar Fasciitis. A large percentage of the population will over-pronate (i.e. the foot rolls inward when they walk) which overstretches the plantar fascia and causes irritation.

On examination, the patient usually has a point of maximal tenderness just under the front aspect of heel bone and on the sole of the foot. The pain may be worsened by having the patient stand on the tips of the toes.

Plantar Fasciitis is often called “heel spurs,” although this terminology is somewhat misleading because 15 to 25 percent of the general population has heel spurs, without any symptoms and many symptomatic individuals do not have them. 

In general, Plantar Fasciitis is a self-limiting condition meaning it would resolve by itself usually within 6 to 18 months. Suffering for such a long time can lead to

Frustration for patients and Doctors.

Stretching and Strengthening

Stretching and strengthening programs address risk factors such as tightness of the gastrosoleus complex and weakness of the intrinsic foot muscles. Increasing flexibility of the calf muscles is particularly important. Frequently used stretching techniques include wall stretches and curb or stair stretches.

Other effective techniques include placing a two-inch 3 four-inch piece of wood in the areas where the patient stands for a prolonged time (workplaces, kitchen or stoves) to use in stretching the calf. Dynamic stretches such as rolling the foot arch over a can or a tennis ball are also useful. Cross-friction massage above the plantar fascia and towel stretching may be done before getting out of bed. 

Exercises such as picking up marbles and coins with the toes are also useful. Towel curl involves pulling the towel toward the body by curling the towel with the toes while sitting with the foot flat on the end of a towel placed on a smooth surface. Toe taps involve lifting all toes off the floor and, keeping the heel on the floor and the outside four toes in the air, the big toe is tapped to the floor repetitively. Next, the process is reversed, and the outside four toes are repetitively tapped to the floor while keeping the big toe in the air.

Shoes.

Wearing shoes with thicker, well-cushioned arch supports decreases the pain associated with long periods of walking or standing. Thus, simply getting a new pair of shoes may be helpful in decreasing pain as studies have shown that with age, running shoes lose a significant portion of their shock absorption.

Some 14 percent of patients with Plantar Fasciitis stated that change of shoes was the treatment that worked best for them.

Orthotics and Arch Supports

The three most commonly used mechanical corrections are arch taping, over-the-counter arch supports and custom made orthotics.

Arch taping can be used as definitive treatment or as a trial to determine if the expense of arch supports or orthotics is worth per suing. Taping may be more cost effective in cases of acute plantar fasciitis while over-the-counter arch supports and orthotics may be more cost-effective for chronic or recurrent cases of plantar fasciitis and for prevention of injuries.

Over-the-counter arch supports are highly variable and depend on the material used to make them. In general, patients should try to find the densest material that is soft enough to be comfortable to walk on. Over-the-counter arch supports are especially useful in the treatment of adolescents where rapid foot growth may require a new pair of arch supports once or more per season.

Custom made orthotics are usually made by taking a plaster cast or an impression of the individuals foot and then constructing an insert specifically designed to control biomechanical risk factors such as pes planus, valgus heel alignment and discrepancies in leg length. The main disadvantage of orthotics is the cost, which may range from £50 to £200 or more. However, the strong advantages of orthotics are that they are made specifically to match your individual foot. Similar to having a prescription for glasses. You wouldn’t want to wear someone else’s glasses! Although the initial cost is more than an over the counter pair, they are more cost-effective as they will last longer. Orthotics are also an excellent corrective treatment.

(   TOG Gait Scan and Cold Laser Therapy are below.)

Tog GaitScan™ 

Our GaitScan™ System is a revolutionary diagnostic tool for assessing patient’s foot biomechanics. GaitScan™ has an industry high 4096 sensors and scans at an industry high 300Hz (scans per second).  These measurements provide today’s Healthcare Professionals with a sophisticated explanation of foot mechanics and assists them with orthotic and/or shoe solutions. 

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections have the greatest benefit if administered early in the course of treatment but, because of the associated risks, they are usually reserved for treatment resistant cases.

Potential risks include rupture of the plantar fascia and fat pad atrophy. Rupture of the plantar fascia was present in almost 10 percent of patients after plantar fascia injection. Long-term consequences of plantar fascia rupture were found in approximately one half of the patients with plantar fascia rupture. On the other hand, another study found that most individuals with rupture of the plantar fascia had resolution of symptoms with rest and rehabilitation.

Cold laser Therapy/Treatment

The lasers used at Central Chiropractic, Physiotherapy Clinic are certified as Cold Laser.  For the past 30 years the technology of Cold Laser Therapy (also known as Low Level Laser Therapy) has been formally accepted in North America and in many other parts of the world such as Europe, Russia and Japan.  In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from low level laser therapy.  It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.

Cold Laser Therapy uses laser light energy to stimulate cells to function optimally.  In the body, light sensitive chromophores and other elements within the cell absorb energy initiating a series of important photochemical changes such as increased production of ATP. The mitochondria and Kreb’s Cycle stimulation initiates the production of ATP, providing the cell with the extra energy needed to accelerate the healing process and positively influence pain.  These activities can occur in all types of cells and includes ligament, nerves, cartilage and muscle.

Low Level Cold Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a Handheld, non-invasive, light-emitting medical device which is used over different areas of the body. It provides an unmatched advantage in the treatment of conditions such as;

Athletic and Sports Injuries.

Shoulder conditions and injuries.  Ruptures. Tears. Ligaments. Tendons.

Knee Ankle and foot Pain Conditions and injuries. Hip, Knee Bursitis.

Achilles Tendonitis. Bursitis.  Plantar Fasciitis. Stress Fractures. Shin Splints.

Meniscus tears. Runners Knee Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome

Chronic Neck and Back pain.

“Whiplash” (WAD) injury/ Neck Pain. Cervical Disc injury.

Upper and Lower Back Pain

Slipped disc. Prolapsed disc. Herniated disc. Bulging disc.

Trapped  nerves.

Hip Pain Sacroiliac joint inflammation

Shoulder Injuries and conditions.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Arthritic Pain Relief.

Muscle Spasm
Relief of Muscle and Joint Pain
Skin infections.

Wound Management including Skin Ulcers, Pressure Sores and Burn.

Soft Tissue Injuries including Sprains and Strains, Tendonitis and Haematomas.

Joint Disorders including Arthritic pain relief and Tenosynovitis

Chronic pain such as Trigeminal Neuralgia and Chronic Neck Back Pain.

“Whiplash” (WAD) injury.  Neck injury and pain.

For further in depth information on Hip knee or Ankle pain including Back and Lower Back Pain, Sciatica. Please go to top left corner listed under “Pain” or “Conditions”. 

Call 02476 222002 . Registered with BUPA. AXA PPP. HSA. AVIVA. CIGNA. Simpleyhealth. Standard life. Pru health. Mercia health.Medicash Medisure. All health insurance accepted

Stiff Neck. Inflammatory Diseases, Severe Injuries, Cervical Disc Degeneration, When Should You Seek Medical Care? What is Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD )or commonly known as ”Whiplash” (WAD) Diagnosis.

Non specific term for limited neck mobility often due to muscle cramps and accompanied by pain.

The neck (cervical spine) is composed of vertebrae that begin at the base of the skull and end in the upper torso. The vertebrae along with the ligaments provide stability to the spine. The muscles allow for support and movement of the neck. The neck supports the weight of the head which is 12lbs amounting to a significant load for the neck to cope with during motion thus increasing stress onto the neck (cervical spine). Compare to the rest of the spine, the neck is less protected and is more susceptible to injury and various disorders that can result in pain and restricted motion. Sometimes neck pain is a temporary condition going away on its own accord. Other cases require medical diagnosis and treatment to relieve the symptoms.

Cause

Neck pain may result from injury to the soft tissues including muscles, ligaments, nerves, bones and joints of the spine. Soft tissue injuries or prolonged wear and tear are amongst the most common causes of neck pain. Infection or tumours may cause neck pain in rare instances. Sometimes neck problems may be the source of pain in the upper back, shoulders, or arms.

Inflammatory Diseases

The vertebral column. Rheumatoid arthritis involves joints in the neck and may cause severe stiffness and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis usually occurs in the upper neck area.

Cervical Disc Degeneration

Cervical disc degeneration usually occurs in people aged 40 and older. Disc’s act as shock absorbers between the bones. During cervical disc degeneration the normal gelatin like centre of the disc dries out and the gap between the vertebrae narrows. As the disc space narrows, added stress is imposed onto the joints of the spine exacerbating further wear and degenerative changes. When occurs when cervical disc protrudes due to the weakening of its rim, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

Injury

Due to its flexibility and the weight of the head it supports the neck is extremely vulnerable to injury. Road traffic or diving accidents, contact sports, and falls are the main causes of neck injury. A “rear end” shunt during car accident may result in hyperextension, a backward motion of the neck beyond normal limits, or hyper flexion, a forward motion of the neck beyond normal limits. The use of seat belts and head restrains in cars can help to prevent or minimize neck injury. The soft tissues such as muscles and ligaments are most commonly involved. Severe injuries including fracture or dislocation of the neck may lead to the damage the spinal cord and cause paralysis.

What is Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) or’whiplash”?

“Whiplash” (WAD) injury occurs when the body reacts to sudden deceleration or acceleration force causing hyper flexion or hyperextension of the neck.

“Whiplash” (WAD) injuries are associated with car accidents. The “Whiplash”(WAD) injury is sustained when the muscles of the neck and shoulders do not have enough time to brace and hold the head during sudden acceleration or deceleration force application leading to injuries of the muscles, ligaments, capsule of the facet joints and discs of cervical spine.

Uncomplicated cases

“Whiplash” (WAD) cases that are uncomplicated are the result of sprained ligaments in the neck. The muscles spasm naturally to form a protective mechanism for the neck. The “whiplas”(WAD) injury may cause a stiff neck and pain may be present down one or both arms if the nerve roots of cervical part of spinal cord get compressed. Relief for “whiplash” (WAD) can be found with chiropractic treatment, physiotherapy or pain medication.

Severe cases

In severe cases of “whiplash”(WAD) may last for a month or more with persistent and in some cases constant pain. This may indicate that the” whiplash”(WAD) injury has extensive damage and resulting in disc’s rupturing and trapped nerves in the neck. This may also predispose to a “slipped”, ruptured or herniated disc in the back. (See our Cold Laser Therapy Section under Inflammatory conditions.)

Other Causes of neck pain

Tumors, infections, or congenital abnormalities of the vertebrae are less common causes of neck pain.

When Should You Seek Medical Care?

Cases of severe neck pain occur following an injury such as motor vehicle accident, blow to the head or fall related accident. Only a trained professional, such as a paramedic, should immobilize the patient to avoid the risk of further injury and possible paralysis. Medical care should be sought immediately.

Immediate medical care should also be sought when an injury causes pain in the neck that radiates down the arms and legs. Radiating pain or numbness in your arms or legs causing weakness in the arms or legs without significant neck pain should also be evaluated. If there has not been an injury, you should seek medical care when neck pain is:

·         Continuous and persistent

·         Severe

·         Accompanied by pain that radiates down the arms or legs

·         Accompanied by headaches, numbness, tingling, or weakness

Diagnosis

Determining the source of the pain is essential to recommend the appropriate treatment and rehabilitation. Therefore, a comprehensive examination is required to determine the cause of neck pain.

Your Physiotherapist or Chiropractor will take a complete history of the symptoms you are having with your neck. The Physiotherapist or Chiropractor may ask you about other illnesses, any injury that occurred to your neck, and any complaints you have associated with neck pain. Previous treatment for your neck condition will also be noted.

Physiotherapist or Chiropractor will also perform a physical examination. This examination may include evaluation of neck motion, tenderness of the neck and the function of the nerves and muscles in your arms and legs.

Digital X-rays often will be obtained to allow your Physiotherapist or Chiropractor to look at the bones in your neck. This entails simple diagnostic imaging study (radiography) and aids your Physiotherapist or Chiropractor to determine the cause of neck pain and to prescribe effective treatment.

Further evaluation may involve the following:

·         MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). This non x-ray study allows an evaluation of the spinal cord and nerve roots.

·         CT (computed tomography). This specialized x-ray study allows careful evaluation of the bone and spinal canal.

·         EMG (electromyography). This test evaluates nerve and muscle function.

Treatment

The treatment of neck pain depends on the diagnosis. Most patients are treated successfully with Physiotherapy or Chiropractic Treatment. Also rest, medication, immobilization, exercise, activity modifications, or a combination of these methods can be very useful.

Inflammation is a result of stretching muscles and ligaments beyond their limits, (See also Cold Laser Therapy under conditions treated; this therapy is extremely affective in the treatment of inflammation). Surgery is required in very few cases to relieve neck pain. For most patients, a combination of Physiothrapy or Chiropractic treatment, rest, medication, and physical therapy will relieve neck pain. Surgery may be necessary to reduce pressure on the spinal cord or a nerve root when pain is caused by a herniated disc or bony narrowing of the spinal canal. Surgery may also be required following an injury to stabilize the neck and minimize the possibility of paralysis, such as when a fracture results in instability of the neck.

Non specific term for limited neck mobility, often due to muscle cramps and accompanied by pain.

For further in depth information on neck pain, go to top left corner under pain and conditions.