Advanced Wellness Solutions offers personalized holistic healthcare, including primary care, medical weight loss, gentle chiropractic, acupuncture and medical massage therapy. Discover the difference patient-centric care makes. Advanced Wellness Solutions is offering primary care in our Stuart location in Martin County. Offering primary care is not just a service; it’s a commitment to the health and […]
chronic pain
Pain Management Alternatives
Gentle chiropractic care, acupuncture, and medical massage therapy are pain management alternatives that have demonstrated impressive results in managing various types of pain. These natural approaches offer a compelling alternative to traditional pharmaceutical interventions, providing long-term solutions that address the root cause of discomfort.
Addressing the Source of Pain
Chiropractic care, acupuncture, and medical massage utilize traditional knowledge and modern techniques to target the root cause of pain, rather than just masking its symptoms. Whether you’re grappling with chronic back issues or recovering from an injury, these modalities promise more than just relief; they aim to restore balance and foster resilience within your body’s intricate systems. As we delve deeper into each approach—examining their benefits, methodologies, and potential synergies—we invite you to discover how these transformative practices may redefine your relationship with pain and inspire a renewed sense of vitality in your life.
Pain Management Alternatives: Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic treatment focuses on aligning the spine and restoring proper joint function, which can have a profound impact on pain originating from musculoskeletal issues. Gentle chiropractic care uses unique, targeted adjustments to improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and promote the body’s natural healing processes.
Therapeutic Benefits of Gentle Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care has gained recognition as a powerful and holistic approach to pain relief, particularly for those suffering from musculoskeletal issues. Gentle chiropractic not only targets the spine but also unlocks tight muscles and improves joint function throughout the body. This comprehensive treatment can lead to significant reductions in pain while promoting overall well-being, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking alternatives to medication or invasive procedures.
One of the standout benefits of chiropractic care is its focus on addressing the root cause of pain rather than merely masking symptoms. For example, many patients report relief from chronic headaches after receiving spinal adjustments that improve neck alignment—a testament to how interconnected our bodily systems truly are.
Furthermore, chiropractic techniques such as soft tissue therapy can enhance blood circulation and facilitate quicker recovery times by optimizing muscle repair. As patients begin to experience less discomfort, many also find themselves more energized and willing to engage in physical activities they once avoided due to pain, leading to a healthier lifestyle overall.
Pain Management Alternatives: Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, involves the strategic placement of thin needles along the body’s energy meridians. This ancient practice has been shown to effectively alleviate pain by stimulating the release of the body’s own pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins and serotonin.
Therapeutic Benefits of Acupuncture
Research has shown that acupuncture may be helpful for treating chronic pain and has gained popularity in recent years as an effective method of drug-free pain relief.
Acupuncture stands out as a time-honored remedy that taps into the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. By targeting specific points, this ancient practice helps unblock stagnant energy and promotes both physical and emotional well-being.
One of acupuncture’s compelling benefits is its effectiveness in addressing chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis and back pain, often giving patients relief when conventional treatments fall short.
What many find surprising is that acupuncture does more than just alleviate surface-level discomfort; it also nurtures a deeper connection between mind and body. As practitioners insert fine needles into carefully selected acupoints, they stimulate the release of endorphins—nature’s own painkillers—while simultaneously reducing inflammation. This multifaceted approach diminishes pain and enhances overall quality of life by encouraging relaxation and reducing anxiety associated with ongoing health challenges.
Offering an Individualized Approach to Personalized Care
Moreover, acupuncture offers an individualized approach to personalized care. Each session can be tailored to address specific concerns or shifts in condition, meaning patients can engage actively in their healing journey. This approach helps people feel more in control, letting them look into treatment options that go beyond medications or surgery, and encouraging a healthier way of living through mindfulness and better self-awareness.
Pain Management Alternatives: Medical Massage Therapy
Medical massage offers a targeted approach to pain relief that goes beyond mere relaxation, focusing instead on the underlying issues causing discomfort. Unlike traditional massages, which may simply address surface-level tension, medical massage employs specific techniques tailored to individual ailments. This precision fosters not only immediate relief from muscle tightness but also promotes long-term healing by enhancing circulation and reducing inflammation in affected areas.
Therapeutic Benefits of Medical Massage
Furthermore, the therapeutic benefits of medical massage extend into mental wellness, alleviating stress and anxiety that often accompany chronic pain conditions. By creating a nurturing environment during treatment, patients can experience significant emotional release alongside physical improvement. Integrating this form of therapy with conventional medical treatments cultivates a holistic approach to health—transforming patient care into a multi-faceted strategy where mind and body collaborate toward recovery. Embracing medical massage as part of your regimen could therefore be pivotal for anyone grappling with persistent pain challenges, encouraging both relief and rejuvenation on multiple levels.
A Safe, Drug-Free Path to Lasting Relief.
Incorporating these alternative pain management methods into your healthcare routine can provide a safe, drug-free path to lasting relief. Explore the benefits of chiropractic, acupuncture, and medical massage at Advanced Wellness Solutions and take control of your pain management journey.
Acupuncture for Chronic Pain
Advanced Wellness Solutions offers Acupuncture for Chronic Pain
As modern science increasingly validates its efficacy, acupuncture emerges not just as a relic of history but as a viable solution for managing chronic pain conditions ranging from arthritis to migraines. Whether you’re seeking relief from relentless discomfort or chronic pain, discover how these tiny needles can lead to profound changes in your well-being.
Originating from ancient China, acupuncture has been touted for its ability to provide natural and effective pain relief without the need for medication or invasive procedures.
Imagine tiny needles delicately placed on strategic points of your body, unlocking the body’s innate healing abilities and restoring balance within. This age-old technique is not just about sticking needles into skin; it’s about tapping into the body’s energy flow to promote holistic wellness.
Join us as we explore how this traditional practice can be a game-changer in managing pain and improving overall well-being.
Overview of Acupuncture for Chronic Pain
Research 1 has shown that acupuncture may be helpful for treating chronic pain. Acupuncture has gained popularity in recent years as an effective method of drug-free pain relief. By inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, acupuncture aims to stimulate the nervous system and release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Drug-free pain relief using acupuncture is increasingly being used alongside conventional medical treatments to manage various types of chronic pain, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and osteoarthritis.
Moreover, acupuncture is not just about treating physical ailments; it also addresses emotional and mental well-being. Some studies suggest that acupuncture can help reduce anxiety and depression by promoting relaxation and reducing stress hormones in the body. The holistic approach of acupuncture focuses on restoring balance and harmony within the body, which can lead to overall improved health and well-being. As more research emerges supporting the efficacy of acupuncture for pain relief, it continues to be a valuable option for those seeking alternative methods for managing chronic pain conditions.
How acupuncture helps alleviate pain
Acupuncture has been proven to effectively alleviate pain by stimulating specific acupoints in the body. This holistic approach to pain management works by promoting the flow of energy, or Qi, through the body’s meridians. By inserting thin needles into strategic points along these pathways, acupuncture helps to release endorphins and other natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. This process not only provides immediate relief from acute pain but also addresses the root causes of chronic pain conditions.
Furthermore, research has shown that acupuncture can help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which are key factors in managing various types of painful conditions. In addition to its physical benefits, acupuncture also promotes relaxation and releases tension in the muscles, helping patients experience a sense of overall well-being. With its minimal side effects and non-invasive nature, acupuncture offers a safe and effective alternative for those seeking relief from pain without relying on medication or surgery.
Advantages of using acupuncture for chronic pain relief
Acupuncture offers a natural and holistic approach to pain relief that targets the root cause of discomfort rather than just masking symptoms. By stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture promotes the release of endorphins, our body’s natural painkillers, leading to effective and long-lasting pain relief. This ancient healing technique also helps improve circulation and relax muscles, which can further alleviate pain in various parts of the body.
Additionally, acupuncture is a safe and non-invasive treatment option for individuals seeking an alternative to medications or surgeries for managing chronic pain conditions. When carried out by a qualified and trained practitioner, acupuncture typically has few negative effects, in contrast to some conventional treatments that might have risks or side effects. Furthermore, many people find that acupuncture not only reduces physical pain but also enhances their overall well-being by reducing stress levels and improving sleep quality.
Common conditions treated with acupuncture
Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of conditions beyond just pain management. In recent years, more scientific research has supported its effectiveness in treating various health issues, including stress and anxiety. By stimulating specific points on the body with thin needles, acupuncture can help regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation. This natural approach to addressing mental health concerns is gaining popularity as people seek alternatives to medication.
Furthermore, acupuncture has shown promising results in treating digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). By targeting key points related to gut health and digestion, acupuncture helps improve gastrointestinal functions and reduce symptoms like bloating and discomfort. The holistic nature of acupuncture considers the interconnectedness of bodily systems, offering a comprehensive approach to managing chronic digestive issues. As more individuals explore integrative therapies for their overall well-being, acupuncture continues to emerge as a valuable treatment option for common ailments beyond conventional medicine’s scope.
Acupuncture has also been used for centuries to treat some, but not all, causes of infertility. Fertility acupuncture can benefit both men and women. From regulating hormone levels in women to enhancing sperm quality in men, acupuncture can play a crucial role in optimizing your chances of successful conception.
Scientific studies supporting effectiveness of acupuncture
Scientific studies have shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for various conditions. In a study published in the Journal of Pain, researchers found that acupuncture was more effective than usual care for reducing chronic pain. Additionally, a meta-analysis published in JAMA Internal Medicine concluded that acupuncture is effective in treating chronic pain conditions such as back and neck pain.
Furthermore, recent research has suggested that acupuncture may help improve mental health outcomes. A study 1 found that acupuncture was associated with significant reductions in symptoms of anxiety and depression. Another study 2 showed that acupuncture can help reduce insomnia and improve sleep quality.
In conclusion, scientific evidence continues to support the effectiveness of acupuncture as a complementary therapy for various health conditions.
Acupuncture as effective option for pain relief
Acupuncture addresses physical, emotional, and mental pain by targeting meridian points, restoring body balance, and alleviating stress-related pain. Effective for migraines, lower back pain, and arthritis, it goes beyond medication-based pain management.
Research supports acupuncture’s effectiveness for various painful conditions, promoting its acceptance in mainstream healthcare. Acupuncture is gaining recognition as a safe, holistic pain relief alternative to pharmaceuticals, providing both physical and emotional well-being.
Call to schedule your appointment today.
Spinal Stenosis Treatment Options
There are many spinal stenosis treatment options you should consider before resorting to surgery. Most patients with spinal stenosis respond well to non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and gentle chiropractic care.
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, typically caused by age, injury, or congenital disorder. The condition can cause difficulty with movement and can be debilitating. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery, spinal stenosis affects 8 to 11 percent of the population.
What is Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord. Bone spurs can cause a narrowing of the spinal canal. Bone spurs are one cause of spinal stenosis. They are small bony growths that form from calcium deposits and can put pressure on the nerve roots as they exit the spine. Other causes of spinal stenosis include:
- Disc degeneration
- Spinal arthritis
- Herniated disc
- Tumor
- Osteoporosis
What Causes Spinal Stenosis?
The most common cause of spinal stenosis is osteoarthritis. It usually develops slowly over time. Most people who develop symptoms of spinal stenosis are over 50 with women at a higher risk than men.
Besides osteoarthritis, other conditions or circumstances can cause spinal stenosis:
- Narrow spinal canal
- Injury to the spine
- Spinal tumor
- Certain bone diseases
- Past surgery of the spine
- Rheumatoid arthritis
How Do Doctors Diagnose Spinal Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is often diagnosed using diagnostic imaging. Diagnostic imaging can determine the exact location, type and extent of the problem.
What are the Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis?
The most common symptoms are pain and weakness or numbness. Stenosis can affect any part of the spine and often occurs in the lower back and neck.
Other symptoms of spinal stenosis include:
- Radiating pain
- Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
- Weakness in the extremities
- Neck pain
- Clumsiness in the arms and hands
- Abnormal reflexes
What are Non-surgical Treatments?
The majority of patients (70%) are able to manage their symptoms through nonsurgical treatments. 1
Treatments for spinal stenosis pain vary depending on the type and location of the pain. Non-surgical treatments include medication, chiropractic care, and acupuncture.
- Pain medications are prescribed to relieve the pain and reduce inflammation. Unfortunately, these medication can cause side effects.
- Gentle Chiropractic care is recommended to help relieve muscular skeletal pain. Chiropractic care improves the movement of the spine. This helps to relieve strain on the discs and nerves in the back. Gentle chiropractic care avoids the twisting, snapping and torque of traditional chiropractic adjustments.
Surgery may be recommended if non-invasive methods don’t provide symptoms relief.
Spinal stenosis is a common condition that affects millions of Americans each year. The symptoms can vary from person to person. Treatment options for spinal stenosis vary depending on how severe symptoms are and what other health conditions are present.
Acupuncture for spinal stenosis is effective for fighting the pain associated with the condition. Clinical studies 4 have shown that this holistic therapy can help relieve the types of pain caused by the condition of spinal stenosis.
Gentle chiropractic care is preferable to traditional chiropractic care for spinal stenosis.
Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis
The most common treatment is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDS treat pain and inflammation.
In 2007, the American Heart Association issued a scientific statement warning of the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 5 which included this warning:
“Consumers are advised that all over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, including NSAIDs, should be used in strict accordance with the label directions. If use of an OTC NSAID is needed for longer than ten days, a physician should be consulted.”
If non-surgical treatments can’t provide adequate pain relief, you may need surgery. There are many kinds of surgery for spinal stenosis. The health care professionals at Advanced Wellness Solutions will help get you the care you need if they aren’t able to relieve your pain.
Call to schedule your appointment today at 772-403-7640.
Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Acupuncture has been used to relieve pain for centuries and is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It involves the insertion of needles into specific points on the body. The needles are inserted into the skin and manipulated. This promotes a healthy flow of energy, or “chi”, through the body. It is believed that this balance can help relieve pain and other symptoms.
Acupuncture for Pain Relief: How it Can Help You
Acupuncture facilitates the communication and activation of the nervous system, which releases specific chemicals within the body. These chemicals can help relieve pain and swelling. This is why acupuncture is used to treat headaches, back pain, arthritis, and joint pain.
Acupuncturists go through rigorous training and licensing. There are many different types of acupuncture. Each one is used to address a different health issue.
Acupuncturists are properly trained to stimulates points on your body that can relieve pain and promote healing.
What are the Benefits of Acupuncture for Pain Relief?
Acupuncture can effectively treat:
- back pain,
- neck pain,
- headaches
- shoulder pain
- wrist pain.
The biggest benefit to acupuncture for pain relief is the safety of the procedure. The complication rate for acupuncture is low and the side effects are usually mild. Soreness and minor bleeding or bruising are the most common side effects.
In a German study1, only 0.003% of patients (13 out of over 4,441,000) experienced severe adverse events from acupuncture.
Acupuncture is also cost-effective treatment the following conditions:2
- Allergic Rhinitis
- Low back pain
- Ambulatory Anesthesia
- Migraine
- Chronic Pain
- Neck Pain (plus usual medical care)
- Depression
- Osteoarthritis
- Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
- Post-operative nausea and vomiting
- Headache
Individuals struggling to conceive can also benefit from acupuncture. Acupuncture can improve fertility through its ability to regulate hormone levels, improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, and reduce stress levels, which are all crucial factors in enhancing fertility.
How does acupuncture compare to other treatments for pain?
Acupuncture has fewer risks than those associated with taking pain medication. Unfortunately, addiction is a very real risk with prescription painkillers.
According to Hopkins Medicine3,
It takes a couple of weeks to become physically dependent on an opioid, but that varies by individual. If you take an opioid for a day or two, it should not be a problem and, generally, you will not become addicted. However, some studies show even the first dose of an opioid can have physiological effects.
One study found up to 25% of of patients develop a life-long addiction.4 In 2016, there were 63,632 drug overdose deaths in the United States, a 21.4% increase from 2015.5 Two-thirds of these deaths involved an opioid.6
A recent study concluded that any dose of NSAIDs for any duration increased the risk of heart attack.8 This means acupuncture is even safer than over-the-counter pain relievers (NSAIDs).
Acupuncture has treated pain and other chronic symptoms for centuries. It can supplement or replace other treatments, depending on the individual.
What is the evidence for acupuncture?
There have been over 8,000 intensive scientific clinical trials of acupuncture over the past 50 years.9
In 2017, the American College of Physicians began recommending acupuncture for both chronic and acute low back pain.10
The Acupuncture Evidence Project 11 found evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture for 117 conditions. Conditions with strongest evidence supporting the effectiveness of acupuncture include:
- Allergic rhinitis (perennial & seasonal)
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (with anti-emetics)
- Migraine prophylaxis
- Chronic low back pain
- Postoperative nausea & vomiting
- Headache (tension-type and chronic)
- Postoperative pain
Why You Should Consider Using Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been treating pain for thousands of years. There are many reasons why acupuncture may be a good treatment option for you. Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for pain. It’s a safe, cost-effective treatment option for many conditions.
Call Advanced Wellness Solutions at 855-509-5400 to schedule your appointment.
Feeling Tired?
Feeling tired is NOT just part of getting older. Fatigue could be a sign of an underlying medical condition that needs treatment.
Fatigue is more than just feeling tired. It’s an overall feeling of lack of energy. It isn’t the same as simply feeling drowsy or sleepy. Fatigue can also mean not having enough strength to do anything on your plate.
Feeling Tired? Symptoms of fatigue
Fatigue can include feeling sleepy or drowsy, but there are other symptoms as well. Other symptoms of fatigue include headache, dizziness and even impaired reflexes. Impaired reflexes can be especially dangerous, especially when driving in south Florida traffic. It can also impair your decision-making and judgement. It can affect your ability to react quickly and cause car accidents. The next time you see someone who’s driving like a crazy person, they may not be crazy. They may just be feeling tired and fatigued.
Fatigue is a common symptom for many medical conditions. If you’re feeling fatigued, it could be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. It could also be caused by:
- depression,
- stress
- lack of exercise
- poor diet.
Since we live in Florida, it’s possible that your fatigue may be the result of the heat. When it’s oppressively hot, you’re likely to be avoiding the unairconditioned outdoors. This can lead to you not getting enough vitamin D or exercise, which can lead to exhaustion and lethargy.
Feeling Tired? Try these tips to help you feel more energized:
- Reduce stress.
- Drink lots of water.
- Eat for energy, foods like protein, whole grains, high-fiber vegetables, nuts, and healthy oils.
- Take frequent breaks from sitting to stand up and walk around.
- Avoid caffeine after noon
- Resist the urge to nap during the day.
Most importantly, avoid energy drinks. They contain sugar and other ingredients that could make you feel even more exhausted later on.
Seek Medical Treatment for Fatigue
If you’re suffering from fatigue even after getting a good night’s sleep, it’s time to seek medical help. Unfortunately, according to a report from the NIH 1,
Patients generally regard fatigue as important (because it is disabling), whereas doctors do not (because it is diagnostically non-specific).
What this means is that in the world of Western medicine, fatigue can be caused by factors other than an underlying disease.
At Advanced Wellness Solutions, we won’t dismiss your complaint of fatigue. We will first perform a thorough consultation and exam to identify the specific symptoms of fatigue. We’ll then work to identify and address the factors potentially causing your fatigue.
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine as well as chiropractic care are both effective at treating fatigue.
Chiropractic care has been shown to help successfully treat fatigue 2 with no dangerous side effects. Studies have shown that regular chiropractic care may contribute to an improved quality of life in patients suffering from CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) 3
Acupuncture is another treatment option for fatigue. A fundamental concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine is that QI (vital energy) flows freely through the body. When Qi isn’t flowing properly, it causes fatigue.
Scientific studies show that acupuncture and TCM offer proven benefits for treating fatigue without any negative side effects.4 Acupuncture has also been shown to increase serotonin levels which improves sleep and mood.5
Feeling tired shouldn’t be normal.
Fatigue is not just part of getting older. If you’re feeling fatigued, don’t dismiss it. Extreme stress, lack of sleep and decreased physical activity can trigger fatigue. It can also be a sign of a serious medical condition. If gentle chiropractic care and Traditional Chinese Medicine aren’t able to resolve your symptoms of fatigue, the medical professionals at Advance Wellness Solutions will refer you to another medical professional who can help.
Accepting new patients.
Call 855-509-5400 to schedule your appointment.
If you’re suffering from fatigue, it’s time make an appointment with Advanced Wellness Solutions.
Arthritis Pain Management
Gentle chiropractic is a safe, nonsurgical method of arthritis pain management. Gentle chiropractic care can help reduce inflammation and increase range of motion while reducing arthritis pain.
Movement is like lubrication for the joints. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can help to encourage full range of joint motion to provide safe arthritis pain management. In conjunction with the gentle chiropractic adjustment, electrical muscle stimulation is often used for immediate pain relief. Patients receive appropriate exercises to perform at home to promote increased joint mobility, in addition to in-office therapies.
Arthritis
Arthritis is inflammation of the cartilage, which causes swelling and tenderness in afflicted joints. Cartilage is the connective tissue that surrounds the ends of bones. It is dense, elastic tissue that supports and cushions the joints while helping joints to move smoothly. When cartilage becomes inflamed, joint pain and stiffness result.
The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While the symptoms are similar, the cause of each is dramatically different.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease.
RA is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells by mistake. RA attacks the healthy cells in the cartilage that cushions the joints. The joints affected are usually in the hands, wrists, and knees. When the body’s immune system attacks the joint cartilage, it becomes inflamed, swollen and tender. Later, inflammation damages joint cartilage and bones. This can cause long-lasting or chronic pain, unsteadiness (lack of balance), and deformity (misshapenness). 3
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis.
OA is a degenerative condition that affects joint cartilage and bones. It causes pain, loss of mobility, as well as decreased muscle function and strength. Like RA, osteoarthritis causes joint pain and stiffness. It was once thought that in osteoarthritis, the joints were simply wearing out. Research has shown that OA is a complex process with many causes. It is not an inevitable part of aging, experts say, but rather the result of a combination of factors.
While osteoarthritis can damage any joint, it most commonly affects those that bear weight—like your knees, hips, feet, and spine. It often comes on gradually over months or years.2 Ten percent of men and 20% of women aged between 45 and 65 years report OA,4 with 80% of those older than 75 years showing radiographic evidence of OA.5
Treatments for Arthritis Pain
According to Scott Haldeman, MD, a neurologist in Santa Ana, California and Chairman Emeritus of the Research Council for the World Federation of Chiropractic, as quoted in arthritis.org6,
Chiropractic care is one of the safest therapies you can use if you have back or neck pain due to osteoarthritis.
In addition to treating neck and back pain from osteoarthritis, gentle chiropractic treatment can also treat osteoarthritis of the hip and7 other arthritic joints.
Gentle Chiropractic Care for arthritis pain
Gentle chiropractic care can help increase the range of motion in arthritic joints and reduce arthritic joint pain.
While gentle chiropractic care won’t repair or rebuild cartilage, it can relieve pressure on joints caused by arthritis. Gentle chiropractic care can also stop muscle spasms and tenderness caused by osteoarthritis through gentle manipulation of muscles and soft tissues surrounding arthritic joints.
Acupuncture for arthritis pain
For thousands of years, people have used acupuncture and Chinese medicine to relieve arthritis pain. While acupuncture can’t cure or reverse the process of arthritis, a study showed it can help you feel significantly less pain and function better. 8
Over-the-counter medications
It’s very common to reach for over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication for arthritis pain management. Regrettably, a black box warning is now attached to all NSAIDs, including OTC pain medication. The FDA reserves this, the strongest of all warnings, for drugs that pose a significant risk to the population. In 2007, the American Heart Association issued a scientific statement warning of the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which9 included this warning:
“Consumers are advised that all over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, including NSAIDs, should be used in strict accordance with the label directions. Consult a physician if you need to use an OTC NSAID for more than ten days.
A practice-based study of people with both short-term and long-term low back pain found that within two weeks of care, people whose main treatment was chiropractic manipulation had significant drops in their visual analogue scale (VAS) scores.10 This study also included an evaluation of traditional medical management with primary treatment using NSAIDs. The NSAID group did not report the same level of pain reduction until the 12-week marker.
Herbs and supplements for arthritis pain relief
There are many herbal supplements that tout anti-inflammatory properties. It’s important to exercise caution when taking supplements. Just because a product is natural does not mean it’s safe. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not verify the contents of supplements.
Some supplements can interact with medications or can cause health problems.
You should always consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplement.
Turmeric, ginger and cinnamon are supplements that reduce inflammation in the body. There is also evidence that vitamin C and fish oil may help with arthritis pain while providing other health benefits.
Glucosamine sulfate supplements have unique anti-inflammatory effects. In some laboratory tests, it demonstrated a protective effect on the cartilage as well. Chondroitin sulfate supplements also appear to have anti-inflammatory properties. Some laboratory studies suggest that chondroitin sulfate may slow cartilage breakdown associated with osteoarthritis and even stimulate cartilage growth.11
Trigger point injections for arthritis pain relief
If chiropractic treatment alone does not provide adequate pain relief, the medical professionals at Advanced Wellness Solutions may recommend a trigger-point injection. A trigger-point injection usually contains an anesthetic and a steroid to immediately help alleviate arthritis pain. These injections are rarely a standalone treatment. They work best when combined with other conservative treatment methods, such as chiropractic care.
Trigger point injection therapy can provide immediate and ongoing relief from pain in the targeted area while chiropractic treatments address the underlying cause of the pain.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for arthritis pain relief
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) delivers a small electric current to specific nerves. Tens units provide neuromodulation treatments that can ease pain with minimal risks and offer an alternative to pain medication for arthritis pain management. According to Arthritis.org 12
These devices are generally safe. However, they involve sending electrical impulses though your body. So it’s important to talk with your doctor first if you have a pacemaker, another implanted device, are pregnant, have epilepsy, or have a heart problem.
Topical medications for arthritis pain relief
Advanced Wellness Solutions recommends topical medications that do not contain NSAIDs.
- CryoDerm Gel: It contains almost 300% more of the active ingredient and pain reliever menthol than other topical pain relievers. Menthol is used clinically as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. It creates a cold sensation on the skin by activating the peripheral cold receptors.
- Biofreeze Professional: Biofreeze is greaseless, stainless and has a vanishing scent. It is an optimized, fast-acting proprietary formula.
Topical NSAIDS are now available without a prescription. Diclofenac sodium 1% gel (voltaren arthritis pain) is now available at many pharmacies. A 2016 Cochrane review concluded,14 “Topical diclofenac and topical ketoprofen can provide good levels of pain relief beyond carrier in osteoarthritis for a minority of people, but there is no evidence for other chronic painful conditions.”
Safe Arthritis Pain Management
When arthritis threatens to immobilize you, gentle chiropractic care can keep you moving.
We are currently accepting new patients. Call (772) 403-7640 to schedule your appointment.
We accept all major medical health insurance and Medicare.
You can find safe arthritis pain management at Advanced Wellness Solutions. Effective gentle chiropractic care can help to relieve the pain and slow the damage to cartilage from osteoarthritis. Gentle chiropractic maximizes the function of arthritic joints by encouraging full range of joint motion.
Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Using acupuncture for pain relief has been an effective drug-free treatment for thousands of years.
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine have been treating pain and illness for thousands of years. Researchers have conducted numerous studies to assess the effectiveness of acupuncture. The Acupuncture Trialists’ Collaboration compiled raw data from trials where the main outcome measures were pain and function. They concluded that acupuncture is an effective method of treating chronic pain. Their conclusions included: 1
- acupuncture is effective for the treatment of chronic pain
- that the effects of acupuncture persist for up to 12 months,
- and that the benefits of acupuncture cannot be explained solely by the placebo effect.
The report itself states:2
Acupuncture is effective for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal, headache, and osteoarthritis pain.
Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Acupuncture involves the insertion of sterile, fine needles into specific spots to stimulate the body to heal itself. There are 2,000 acupuncture points according to traditional Chinese medicine. These points are connected by meridians or energetic pathways. Energy, or Qi (pronounced “chee,” which means vital energy), flows through the body using these pathways.
In a healthy body, Qi (vital energy) flows freely. Pain, lack of function, or illness are signs that Qi has been disrupted.
By stimulating specific points on the body, Dr. Heather can help to restore healthy function to the body.
Advanced Wellness Solutions patients frequently tell us that they didn’t realize how much chronic pain was impacting their lives.
The research makes it clear that chronic pain is detrimental for your physical health. Chronic pain can elevate blood pressure, pulse rate, adrenaline and cortisol serum levels. This puts hazardous stress on the cardio-vascular system. Chronic pain can cause elevated serum lipids and glucose levels.1
According to Perry G. Fine, MD, of the Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, Pain Research Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA,1 the long-term consequences of chronic pain include:
- sleep disturbances
- cognitive processes and brain function
- mood/mental health
- cardiovascular health
- sexual function
Living with chronic pain makes everything more difficult. Chronic pain can make performing the simplest tasks more difficult. It also has a significant impact on your mental health.
Chronic Pain Affects Your Sleep
According to the APA, 2healthy sleep has been proven to be the single most important factor, more important than diet, exercise, or even heredity, in predicting longevity.
Acupuncture for Pain Relief and Insomnia
Insomnia has been treated with acupuncture in China for thousands of years. Western clinical studies confirm that acupuncture may have a beneficial effect on insomnia.3
Chronic Pain Affects Your Thoughts
If you’re in chronic pain, you’re not operating at your cognitive best. Memory and attentioncare aree impaired in up to two-thirds of patients with chronic pain.3
Chronic pain doesn’t just harm your physical health. It affects your emotions and relationships. It even affects your state of mind. Chronic pain causes changes in the levels of stress hormones and neurochemicals found within your brain. This disruption can affect your mood, thinking and behavior.
Chronic pain can influence your thoughts, feelings, and memory. It also affects your concentration. It can even affect your connections with others.
Chronic Pain Affects Your Emotions
The emotional effects of chronic pain include:
- Depression
- Anger
- Anxiety, and
- Fear of re-injury
Living with chronic pain can affect your mood. Chronic pain can make you more susceptible to depression, anxiety, and fear. Chronic pain can cause sleep disturbances, depression, and a heightened risk of suicide.4
Acupuncture for Pain Relief and Mental Health
According to studies, acupuncture may be valuable for those suffering from mental health disorders.4
Chronic Pain Affects Your Heart
Chronic pain can lead to a chronic stress reaction. This in turn causes an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. This stress reaction can lead to a reduced ability to fight off illnesses and diseases. It can increase the risk for heart disease.5
Acupuncture for Heart Health
Acupuncture reduces stress and improves heart function, according to UCLA researchers.6
Chronic Pain Affects Your Sex Life
Chronic pain may interfere with sexuality for several reasons. One is the nature of the pain itself. Other factors associated with chronic pain include mood disorders, decreased sex drive (libido), medications or stress. All of these can affect sexual function.6
Chronic Pain: The Invisible Disability
Chronic pain is the “invisible” disability. 7What this means is that it is possible to look like the picture of health but suffer from chronic pain. Chronic pain makes everything more difficult.
Advanced Wellness Solutions’ health care practitioners treat chronic pain. If they can’t find a way to relieve or manage your pain, they’ll refer you to someone who can.
Advanced Wellness Solutions offers drug-free pain relief treatments. Our goal is to help our patients achieve a better quality of life.
Advanced Wellness Solutions offers drug-free pain relief using gentle chiropractic, acupuncture and Chinese medicine.
Gentle Chiropractic Care for Fibromyalgia
Gentle chiropractic care for fibromyalgia can help manage the chronic pain, fatigue and poor quality sleep that afflicts patients.
Accepting new patients. Call 855-509-5400 to schedule your appointment.
We Accept All Major Medical Health Insurance and Medicare.
Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain in the joints, muscles, tendons and other soft tissues throughout the body. Other symptoms include:
- fatigue,
- difficulty sleeping,
- memory issues,
- mood issues.
Not that long ago, if you were suffering from pain, fatigue and muscle spasms, your doctor would run a variety of tests. If the tests showed nothing and you kept pestering you doctor, you might get diagnosed with fibromyalgia. That’s no longer the case. Researchers are making progress unraveling this mysterious condition. Research studies suggest that the nervous system plays a role in the illness. Researchers believe that the fibromyalgia patient’s nervous system amplifies painful sensations, affecting the way the patient’s brain processes pain signals. 1
Gentle Chiropractic Care for Fibromyalgia
Gentle chiropractic can help manages fibromyalgia pain and fatigue.
According to a clinical trial published by the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2
“Chiropractic management improved patients’ cervical and lumbar ranges of motion, straight leg raise and reported pain levels.“
Many patients with fibromyalgia also suffer from headaches, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, irritable bowel syndrome as well as anxiety and depression.3
Symptoms of fibromyalgia
- muscles spasms.
- fatigue
- poor quality sleep
- “fibro fog” which is characterized by trouble with remembering, learning, paying attention, and concentrating.
- widespread pain.
If you’re suffering from the symptoms of fibromyalgia, you owe it to yourself to see the pain relief specialists at Advanced Wellness Solutions. Schedule your appointment by calling: 855-509-5400
