Why Chiropractic Care is Ideal for Treating Headaches

September 8, 2010

It’s a universal condition that all Americans have suffered from: a headache.  But for the 1 in 6 million individuals who suffer from chronic headaches, long-term relief can feel like a something of a myth.  And chronic headaches don’t just interfere with your work performance; sufferers often report feeling withdrawn from social commitments and family life, as their constant headache pain makes it difficult to live life to the fullest.

If this sounds all-too-familiar, then you might think that a neurologist can give you the answers you need.  However, if you haven’t considered chiropractic care for treating headaches, then you might be overlooking your best option for headache relief.

It’s not surprising that many individuals overlook chiropractic care as a solution to their chronic headaches.  But that’s because the causes of the headaches are often assumed to have an underlying neurological problem rather than a spinal one.  However, with more headaches caused by poor posture, awkward sleeping positions and herniated discs, there’s a lot that a chiropractor can do to treat both headaches and neck, back and shoulder problems, including:

  • Using gentle exercises and massages to realign a spine’s natural curve.  Due to our largely sedentary lifestyles, poor posture can have a significant impact on the frequency of headaches.  Slouched shoulders, hunched spines and tense necks can all contribute to chronic headache syndromes.  To effective treat these spinal problems – including the headaches themselves – a chiropractor can show you simple exercises that will gradually ease pressure from your back, neck and shoulders.
  • Introducing at-home exercises that, when done properly, can treat the root problem of your headaches.  By teaching these at-home exercises, a chiropractor can ensure that his or her patients can tackle persistent headaches without resorting to over-the-counter medication to numb the pain.
  • Pinpointing the area in which problem lies.  Contrary to popular belief, headaches aren’t caused by problems within the head; rather, a back injury or neck strain can later manifest as a headache, even if the sufferer is unaware of the injury itself.  Commonly referred to as a cervicogenic headache, these painful headaches don’t often appear right after a neck or back injury, which leads sufferers to believe that their headaches and migraines are a separate phenomenon.

Remember, chiropractic care isn’t a treatment for the headache itself – but by identifying the cause of the headaches within the neck, back and shoulder region, sufferers can ensure that they’re effectively treating their chronic headaches once and for all.

If you are suffering from chronic headaches, our chiropractic and physical therapy clinics in Bayonne and Scotch Plains NJ come highly recommended by numerous physicians in Hudson and Union Counties.  Feel free to contact us for a Free, In-Office Evaluation.  If you are looking for faster service, give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations.  For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location, call us at 908-490-1800.  Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $145 value).

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Headaches | Leave a Comment 

I Slipped a Disk – What Is That Exactly?

June 16, 2010

“I was digging a hole in my garden and hit a rock with the shovel.  After clearing the dirt from around the rock, I bent over and reached into the hole.  I couldn’t get a good grip on the rock and had to twist my body to get my arm under it.  As I started to move the rock, I felt something ‘give out’ in my low back and felt immediate low back pain, but it wasn’t terrible.  Like a fool, I gave it another try but this time, the pain in my back was really sharp when I twisted to reach under it.  Then, it felt like a knife stabbing me when I tried to stand up.  Since then, I can’t stand up straight and pain is shooting down my left leg.”

The intervertebral disk is like a shock-absorber located between each vertebra in our spine extending from the tail bone to the upper neck.  When healthy, your disks truly do function as shock absorbers.  There are two parts to the disk – the inner part (called the nucleus) which is the liquid-like center and the outer part (the annulus), which is tough, laminated and rubber-like whose job is to hold the nucleus in the center of the disk. The annulus has concentric rings which look similar to the rings of an oak tree trunk and the strength of these laminated rings is due to the fibers crisscrossing, creating a self-sealing, secure border for the nucleus center.  In spite of this great anatomical structure, our disks degenerate and can crack or tear allowing the more liquid-like nucleus to leak out of the annulus creating the classic “slipped disk” (technically referred to as a herniated or ruptured disk).  When the herniated disk presses into the nerve that goes down the leg, pain is felt along its course and can radiate all the way to the foot.  There are five vertebrae and disks with a pair of nerves that go into each leg and depending which disk ruptures, pain will follow a different course down the leg, which is why we ask you if you feel the pain more in the back or in the front of the leg. When the disk tears prior to both disk herniation and leg pain, low back pain occurs because the nerve fibers that are normally only located in the outer third of the disk grow into the central portion of the disk, making it generate more pain.

So now for the important question, “…what can I do for it?”  When you visit our office, we will ask you about how you injured your back.  Often, the cause of a herniated disk can be the accumulation of multiple events over time. It certainly can happen after one major event, like our example of lifting a rock out of a hole, but that is usually the “straw that breaks the camel’s back” and not the sole cause.  Many researchers have reported it is rare for a healthy disk to herniate.  Rather, disk degeneration with tears already present sets up the situation where a bend plus a twist, “…finishes the job.”  The orthopedic and neurological examination will usually clearly identify the level of herniation.  Chiropractic treatment often includes traction types of techniques, some form of spinal manipulation or mobilization, extension exercises, physical therapy modalities like electric stimulation, low level laser, or ultrasound, and ice therapy.  Core / trunk strengthening and posture management are also commonly applied and, proper bending/lifting/pulling/pushing techniques are taught.  We realize that you have a choice in where you choose for your healthcare services.  If you, a friend or family member requires care for low back pain, we sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence shown by choosing our services and look forward in serving you and your family presently and, in the future

This information is solely advisory, and should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.

<small>Dr. Chludzinski has been treating neuropathic conditions for the past 5 years. He is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ, graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia, graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union and Hudson counties, including Bayonne, Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights and South Plainfield.</small>

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Chronic Back Pain Conditions | Leave a Comment 

Physical Therapy Exercises for Pediatric Scoliosis

May 26, 2010

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine and can occur at any age.  The condition of scoliosis is complex and no two patients with the condition are exactly the same. We treat many pediatric scoliosis patients at Hudson Spinal Care, because we offer a custom designed Physical Therapy treatment that consists of a regiment of traction, stretches, exercise, chiropractic manipulation, and electrical stimulation.

Physical therapy exercises will help tone and strengthen muscles, which can aid in living a more comfortable life by decreasing the level of everyday pain.

Physical therapy exercise for scoliosis helps stretch out the concave area of your spine. There are many exercises we recommend for scoliosis patients.  Here are some common types of exercises, but it is always important to consult with your medical practitioner prior to any exercise regime.

  • “Seated Twist”:   Sit in a firm chair and straighten your spine. Slowly turn your entire upper body to one side. Hold, return to the original position. Turn to opposite side.
    Back arch: While sitting, bend your back so that you slouch over. Feel the stretch. Hold. Return to upright position. Repeat.
  • “Concave arch” While sitting upright, stick out your chest until you feel a back stretch. Hold. Return to original position. Repeat.
  • “Upper back stretch”: Lift one arm over your head with the elbow bent. Use your other arm to grab ahold of the other elbow. Gently pull toward your head. Hold. This stretches out your spinal column and loosens your upper back muscles. Relax and return to original position. Repeat with other arm. This exercise can also be done standing up.
  • “Leg Lifts”: Lay on your back on a flat surface. Bend your knees. Lift one leg and cross it over the other. Put your hands behind your lower leg and intertwine your fingers underneath the knee area. Lift your leg off the ground. Pull both legs toward your upper body. Hold. Return to original position. Repeat with the opposite leg.
  • “Back Arch”:  This is also known as the Cat Pose in yoga, and according to Yoga Journal, this physical therapy exercise for scoliosis provides a gentle massage to your spine and internal organs. Get on the floor on your hands and knees. Gently arch your back so that your head is looking toward the floor.

Relaxation is a major key to a successful physical therapy program especially when children are involved.  The trained physical therapists at Hudson Spinal Care are highly experienced in working with posture and movement disorders including scoliosis.  All of our treatment plans will be done in a comfortable and pain free manner so that the child is receptive and rejuvenated by the treatment.

To learn more about Physical Therapy for Scoliosis, register for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, feel free to give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $145 Value).

This information is solely advisory, and should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.

Dr. Chludzinski has been treating neuropathic conditions for the past 5 years. He is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ, graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia, graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union and Hudson counties, including Bayonne, Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights and South Plainfield.

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Physical Therapy | Leave a Comment 

Coping With Fibromyalgia

February 8, 2010

Fibromyalgia (FM) is one of the most common conditions associated with chronic pain affecting up to 5% of the population.  It is characterized by pain in the muscles and joints and is associated with generalized, whole body muscle stiffness, body aches, sleep disruption, and headache.  Stress is often a component of FM.  Women are 2-3 times more likely to suffer from FM.

So the question is raised, “what can I do to reduce the pain and suffering that I feel from FM?” The answer is multifactorial as there are many treatment approaches reported to be helpful.  Perhaps the most prevalent is exercise.  This seems logical as often, the presence of pain is misinterpreted as a reason to rest or reduce activity.  This inappropriate thought leads to de-conditioning or weakening of muscles, stiffness in joints, lowered aerobic capacity and a host of negative physical and mental effects that can have negative effects on quality of life.  Because many patients with FM are “out of shape,” the worst approach with exercise is jumping into it too quickly.  The post-exercise soreness when people first engage in a new activity can be profound if the introduction into exercise is too vigorous, and again, the pain intensity may be misinterpreted as a reason to discontinue any and all future exercise programs.

Therefore, the key to success is realizing pain thresholds are reached faster in the FM patient and hence, a slow but steady introduction into exercising is needed.

For example, start out with a walking program of 5 minutes, 1-3 times a day, and gradually increase it to 10, 15, 20 and eventually, 30 or more minutes per session.  Stretching exercises of the overly tight postural muscles like the hamstrings, calf muscles, hip flexors, lower, middle, and upper back muscles are very helpful.  Applying light resistance during the stretch using a “slow motion” approach improves results.

In general, low-impact activities like water exercise, swimming, bicycling, and elliptical (low setting) are great options.  Using light dumbbells/hand weights emphasizing high rep/low weight is also very effective.

Another highly successful type of exercise are balance stimulating exercises. That is, using a rocker board, wobble board, gym ball, and/or foam pad to incorporate balance challenges into the exercise process is very effective. Consistent exercise is a key to success.

Also, don’t set your goals too high as you may be setting yourself up for disappointment.  Rather, make realistic goals and “grow” with the exercise process, changing and modifying goals on a monthly or quarterly basis.

We realize that there are many healthcare options available.  If you, a friend or family member require care for fibromyalgia, we would be honored to offer our services.

To learn more about Fibromyalgia, register for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, feel free to give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $245 Value).

Article by Dr. Eric Chludzinski, DC. Dr. Chludzinski is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union County and Hudson County, including Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights, and South Plainfield.

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Fibromyalgia | 1 Comment 

Chiropractic Care For Low Back Pain – What Does The Research Say?

November 12, 2009

There has been a debate for years regarding the use of spinal manipulation and its benefits in the treatment of low back pain.  Since the founding of chiropractic in 1895, the initial reaction against the early pioneer chiropractors resulted in doctors of chiropractic (DC’s) being incarcerated for “…practicing medicine without a license.”  But chiropractors kept forging ahead and because of obtaining good results and helping millions of people, by 1971, Medicare adopted coverage for chiropractic – a first in chiropractic’s history.  In 1975, the US Department of Health, Education, and Welfare invited an international group of health care provider types (MD’s, DC’s, DO’s, etc.), to share with each other at the National Institute of Health, and determine what the “current” research status of spinal manipulative therapy was at that time. Recommendations for future needed research resulted and the proceedings were published in: The DHEW Publication No. (NIH) 76-998 “The Research Status of Spinal Manipulative Therapy.” That landmark gathering stimulated a plethora of research that was to follow over the course of the next 30+ years and continues today.  Due to the overwhelming positive benefits of chiropractic published in many research studies, by the late 1980’s, most insurance companies included coverage for chiropractic care.  Today, many chiropractors practice in multidiscipline health care centers that include DC’s, MD’s, and PT’s others. The following list of research studies has had a significant impact in vaulting chiropractic to its current accepted status in the health care system (the URL is included for further study):

  • 5) Luo X, Pietrobon R, Sun SX, Liu GG, Hey L. Estimates and Patterns of Direct Health Care Expenditures Among Individuals With Back Pain in the United States. Spine 2004 (Jan 1); 29 (1): 79-86. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14699281

At this clinic, we are most appreciative to have the opportunity to provide care to our patients and strive to make the experience highly satisfying.  If you, a family member or a friend requires care, we sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence shown by choosing our services.  We are proud that chiropractic care has consistently scored the highest level of satisfaction when compared to other forms of health care provision and look forward in serving you and your family presently and, in the future.

To learn more about Back Pain Relief, sign up for a free report, or click here to register for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, feel free to give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $245 Value).

Article by Dr. Eric Chludzinski, DC. Dr. Chludzinski is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union County and Hudson County, including Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights, and South Plainfield.

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Chronic Back Pain Conditions | Leave a Comment 

Have You Lost Work Time Because of Your Back Pain?

October 9, 2009

“I can’t believe how much my low back hurts! I don’t know if I can go to work with it like this!”  Does this sound familiar?  Have you ever missed work because of low back pain?  Well, if you have, you’re certainly not alone!  In fact, over 80% of the general population seeks some type of health care provision at some point in life because of low back pain and many of those lose work time.  Lost work time is often associated with not being able to tolerate certain positions such as prolonged sitting, standing, bending, twisting, reaching, or combinations of these.  Sometimes, just getting to work is next to impossible as the car ride alone may intolerable!  There is nothing more depressing than not being able to move due to the sharp knife-like feeling in the back every time you try to change positions.

However, it’s one thing to lose a day or two or even a week of work but what about those that can’t work for longer time periods, like several weeks or even months?  This can become life altering as avoidance of moving for fear of that knife-like sensation in the back can quickly lead to muscle weakening, weight gain, lethargy, depression, and a host of other negative residuals.  Many articles have been published in the past that tried to identify ways determine early on in the course of back treatment, who might be at greatest risk of not improving or becoming disabled.  The term, “yellow flags” has been used to describe such factors and some success in identifying those prone to becoming disabled has been reported.  In May 2009, another attempt to identify injured workers who were at risk for becoming disabled or, not being able to return to work for at least 3 months was published.  Of the 346 injured workers that were followed for 6 months after the sick leave period began, 47% failed to return to work.  There were five questions found to adequately screen those who were not able to return to work or were at greatest risk of becoming disabled. The 5 questions included:

1. Do you expect to return to work within 6 months?
2. How much does the pain interfere in your daily activities?
3. It is not advisable to be physically active?
4. Do you feel generally nervous?
5. Do you feel generally scared?

The good news is that chiropractic manages these types of acute back pain quicker and better than any other form of health care.  This is reflected by the highest percentage of consumers seek chiropractic over any other form of alternative health care for back pain relief according to the May, 2009 issue of Consumer’s Report.

To learn more about Back Pain Relief, sign up for a free report, or click here to register for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, feel free to give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $245 Value).

Article by Dr. Eric Chludzinski, DC. Dr. Chludzinski is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union County and Hudson County, including Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights, and South Plainfield.

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Chronic Back Pain Conditions | Leave a Comment 

Neck Pain – Non-Surgical Treatment Options

October 5, 2009

There are many treatment options for those suffering from neck pain.  There is conventional medical care where the family doctor will usually prescribe a muscle relaxant, anti-inflammatory, and/or pain killer to help patients through episodes of acute neck pain.  However, many patients with neck pain have been through the process of treatments associated with medications and simply cannot tolerate the adverse side effects of stomach pain common with anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Nuprin, Mediprin, etc.), Aleve (Naproxen), or aspirin.  Others don’t like the groggy, drunk-like feelings associated with pain killers or the sleepiness associated with muscle relaxants.  Therefore, these patients often turn to complementary / alternative care.

As noted in the May, 2009 issue of Consumer’s Report for low back pain, chiropractic was the most sought after form of treatment, but there has been no extensive review of neck pain regarding evidence-based treatment approaches – at least not until February, 2008.  An international “team” representing 9 countries screened over 31,000 titles of articles published between 1980 and 2006, reviewed more than 1200 articles and eventually reported on 552 studies in their final report.  Their findings included the following:

  • In the US, 54% utilized complementary (alternative) treatment approaches compared to 37% that obtained conventional medical care.
  • Neck pain was the 2nd most common reason Americans obtained chiropractic care.
  • Chiropractic was found to be the most frequently reported form of treatment for upper back or neck pain (ahead of massage therapy, relaxation therapy, acupuncture).
  • Those who obtained complementary AND conventional medical care were much more likely to perceive the complementary/alternative therapy as being helpful (61% vs. 6.4% for neck conditions and 39.1% vs. 19% for headaches).
  • Women more commonly obtained care than men for neck/shoulder pain (29% vs. 18% men) over a 4-6 year time frame.
  • Manual therapy (mobilization, manipulation, stretching) was associated with greater pain reduction in the short-term among patients with acute whiplash when compared with usual medical care, soft collars, passive modalities, or general advice.
  • For non-whiplash neck pain (without arm radiating pain), manipulation or mobilization, exercise, low level laser therapy (LLLT), and “…perhaps acupuncture…” were reported as more effective than no treatment, sham, or other alternative interventions.
  • For both whiplash and non-traumatic neck pain, supervised exercise with or without manual therapy was favored over usual medical care or no care.

What does all this mean?  Simple!  Everyone who is suffering from neck or upper back pain should seek chiropractic care which includes manipulation, mobilization, exercise training, and activity modifying advice, as these approaches have been found to be more effective than usual medical care!  Why waste time with a “wait and watch” with or without drug intervention approach when the evidence favors chiropractic related interventions.  If you, a friend, or a loved one is struggling with neck or upper back pain, we will properly assess your condition and administer the appropriate care that is required.  We will coordinate care with other health care services when necessary.  This recommendation may represent one of most significant acts of kindness you can offer those that you truly care about.

To learn more about Back Pain Relief, sign up for a free report, or click here to register for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, feel free to give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $245 Value).

Article by Dr. Eric Chludzinski, DC. Dr. Chludzinski is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union County and Hudson County, including Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights, South Plainfield

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Chronic Back Pain Conditions, Non Surgical Pain Relief Options | Leave a Comment 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) – “Fact Sheet”

October 2, 2009

What is it? Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when a nerve on the palm side of the wrist is pinched.  It is named after the area of the wrist from where the symptoms occur.  The Carpal Tunnel is basically a horseshoe shape made from 8 small carpal bones and the ends of the horseshoe are connected with a ligament thus completing the “tunnel.”

What are the symptoms? CTS symptoms include pain from swelling of the tendons inside the CT.  When the nerve pinch occurs, numbness, tingling, or a half asleep sensation into the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th fingers occurs.  This is often worse at night due to the wrist being bent when asleep.  This often wakes the person and shaking/flicking the hand/fingers is needed to “wake them up.”  Grip weakness is also associated with CTS such as difficulty opening jars.

What are the causes? Usually, over use from tasks including repetitive line work (meat/fish/poultry packing, cookie/food packing), typing, sewing, carpentry, waiting tables, and the like.  Other “contributors” include hormone related conditions such as hypothyroid, dysmenorrhea, diabetes, and obesity. These fast/repetitive movements cause swelling of the tunnel’s contents (9 tendons and the median nerve) and the nerve is pushed into the ligament connecting the ends of the horseshoe/tunnel.

Who is at risk? Gender is a significant factor as women are 3x more likely to develop CTS than men as the CT may be smaller in woman.  The dominant hand is often first affected and more severe.  Hormone imbalances as described above also increase risk.

How is it diagnosed? The history of the symptoms as well as physical examination of the hands, arms, shoulders and neck can lead to the proper diagnosis.  The exam consists of trying to reproduce the numbness into the fingers by pressing/holding over the CT and other areas where the nerve runs down the arm (including the neck where the nerve originates), tapping over the CT with a reflex hammer, bending and holding the wrists at the extreme endpoints of motion.  Also, poking the skin with a sharp object and comparing the 2nd to 4th fingers to other parts of the hand and the opposite side commonly yields differences between the two sides.  Questionnaires and hand diagrams completed by the patient are helpful and quantify the degree of severity.  Tests used during the course of treatment help track improvements.  More sophisticated testing includes an EMG (nerve conduction test) that tests the motor and sensory changes when the nerve is pinched.

How is it treated? Chiropractic approaches include manipulation of the wrist, hand, forearm, shoulder and neck, specifically addressing the areas of greatest restricted motion.  Soft tissue therapy includes massage, active release, graston, trigger point, and a host of physical therapy modalities such as light/low level laser, IFC, ultrasound, microcurrent, and low frequency approaches.  Exercise training to be repeated multiple times per day is very helpful. Wrist bracing especially at night is also a common treatment approach used by all health care providers.  Nutritional counseling and supplementation is also very helpful.

How can it be prevented? Work station assessments, staying in shape (avoid obesity), taking “minibreaks” when doing repetitive work, and proper treatment for conditions like hypothyroid, diabetes, and other disorders associated with CTS.

To learn more about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, sign up for a free report, or click here to register for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, feel free to give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $245 Value).

Article by Dr. Eric Chludzinski, DC. Dr. Chludzinski is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Union County and Hudson County, including Jersey City, Hoboken, Harrison, Kearny, Newark, Elizabeth, Westfield, Clark, Fanwood, Plainfield, Watchung, Mountainside, Berkeley Heights, South Plainfield

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Carpal Tunnel Syndrome | Leave a Comment 

What Is Fibromyalgia and Can Doctors Agree On the Diagnosis?

September 8, 2009

Bayonne and Scotch Plains Chiropractor Comments: Fibromyalgia (FM) has long been considered a condition involving the soft tissues of the body, that is, the muscles, ligaments, tendons and fascia. It is defined as “a chronic, generalized pain condition associated with symptoms of fatigue, stiffness, and sleep disturbance and is characterized by the physical findings of local tenderness in many specific but widely dispersed sites. Fibromyalgia is the most common cause of widespread pain. The prevalence of this disorder in the general population is between 3% and 5%… Most patients with fibromyalgia remain symptomatic for several years, and no cure has been identified.”  Disturbances in the central nervous system (CNS) has also been linked to this condition.

In one study, 168 FM patients had the CNS evaluated by hearing tests, eye movement tests, and a test that evaluates balance/dizziness.  Abnormal findings were common in the FM patient group compared to non-FM subjects. Another study utilized an electrical current treatment approach through the skull to stimulate part of the brain to see if that would help a group of patients with FM. Two different parts of the brain were stimulated as well as a sham or fake treatment approach.  One of two parts of the brain that was stimulated resulted in reductions of pain that lasted for three weeks and mild improvements in quality of life were reported.

Comparing 287 general practitioners (GPs), 160 orthopedists, 160 physiatrists, and 160 rheumatologists, evaluating a patient injured in a motor vehicle crash, those most likely to diagnose FM were rheumatologists (83%) with physiatrists and GPs in the middle at 60% and 71%, respectively.  Orthopedists were least likely at 29%. There were five factors found to be important in the respondent’s agreement or disagreement with the FM diagnosis:
1.    The number of FM cases diagnosed weekly by the respondent (strong predictor).
2.    The patient’s gender (females > males was a strong predictor).
3.    The force of the initial impact (least important).
4.    The patient’s psychiatric history before the trauma (more important).
5.    The initial injury severity (least important).
This information is important as the shift from considering FM to be strictly a condition of the muscles and other soft tissues to being a condition of the central nervous system will affect our future treatment strategies.  Obtaining multiple opinions from various types of practitioners will most likely result in a variety of opinions.  Previous reports of treatment benefit utilizing chiropractic approaches, exercise, and strategies to facilitate sleep restoration remain strong in the management process of FM.

To learn more about Fibromyalgia, register for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, feel free to give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $245 Value).

Article by Dr. Eric Chludzinski, DC. Dr. Chludzinski is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ graduating in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Eric Chludzinski services both Hudson County as well as Union County, both in New Jersey.

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Uncategorized | Leave a Comment 

Self-Management Approaches For Your Headache

September 1, 2009

Scotch Plains and Bayonne Chiropractor Comments: One of the reported causes of both migraine and tension headache is cervical muscle tension and spinal joint abnormalities in the neck.   When considering treatment for headaches, whether it’s a tension-type or migraine, there are many choices available.  The question is, which of the many options offer the best benefit?

One study compared the effectiveness of physical therapy (PT) to that of relaxation and thermal biofeedback (RTB). Both groups were treated using one of these approaches, and if at least a 50% improvement was not achieved, the other form of treatment was then utilized.  Results were calculated at 3, 6, and 12 month timeframes.  The PT group of 30 females used standard physical therapy approaches that included:
•    Posture correction for alignment of head and spine
•    Cervical range of motion for neck and shoulders
•    Isometric strengthening of the neck
•    Flare-up management techniques
•    Active self mobilization of the spine
•    Whole body stretching
The goal was to target muscular abnormalities and those in this group were to perform the above twice per day for 30 min. The RTB group were instructed in relaxation and thermal biofeedback (RTB) treatment that focused on muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, and the use of a thermal feedback device that determines when the subject’s temperature changes telling them if they are successfully relaxing.  The participants were to practice at home and utilized audiotapes for relaxation and monitor success with the portable biofeedback unit.

Using the PT approaches, only 13% reported a successful outcome compared to 51% in the RTB group.  In the follow-up of 3, 6 and 12 months, both groups reported continued benefit.   When the subjects reported less than 50% benefit with either method, they were given the other treatment option, and the PT approach achieved a 47% success rate and the RTB 50%.  These findings suggest that treatments that focus on muscle tension reduction (such as the RTB group) might result in a better outcome compared to only addressing posture, range of motion and flexibility.  However, as illustrated in the follow-up group, PT did have a positive beneficial effect.  An important point – the subjects in the RTB group demonstrated the ability to reduce migraine pain and the associated disability by using a self-applied form of care.  When teaching the patient to self-manage their condition by instruction and training, the greater the likelihood is for a successful outcome.

To learn more about Headaches, register for a Free, In- Office Evaluation. If you are looking for faster service, feel free to give us a call at one of our two New Jersey locations. For our Bayonne, NJ location, call 201-339-8889, and for our Scotch Plains, NJ location call us at 908-490-1800. Just tell them that you read this article and you will receive our complimentary in-office evaluation (a $245 Value).

Article by Dr. Eric Chludzinski, DC. Dr. Chludzinski is the founder of Hudson Center for Spinal Care located in Bayonne and Scotch Plains, New Jersey. In preparation for his career, Dr. Chludzinski attended St. Peter’s College in Jersey City, NJ graduating in 1998 with  a Bachelor of Science in Natural Science. He continued his studies at Life University School of Chiropractic in Marietta, GA graduating in the class of 2002 as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Dr. Chludzinski services all of Hudson County and Union County.

Posted by Dr. Eric Chludzinski | Filed Under Headaches | Leave a Comment 

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