The human shoulder is capable of a wide degree of movement. Unfortunately, this comes with a price. The shoulder is very prone to injury. Couple this with poor posture, prolonged periods of time sitting in front of a computer and sedentary lifestyles and you begin to understand why shoulder problems are so common.

Tendonitis? Or something else….

While we have traditionally viewed most shoulder problems as a version of tendonitis, as our understanding has increased we’ve realized that this is not really the case. Rather, “tendonosis” is the condition that contributes to most shoulder problems. This is NOT an inflammatory condition, and so anti-inflammatories and most prescriptions will have little effect. Tendonosis refers to the presence of scar tissue within the soft tissues of the tendons. When we suffer any type of injury, there is inflammation created. As the body heals, it is not going to heal at 100%. There will be some residual scar tissue remaining. In turn, this scar tissue is more prone to re-injury, recycling the process and depositing more and more scar tissue as time goes on. Given enough time, tearing of the rotator cuff muscles becomes much more likely, and even quite common.

My rotator cuff is torn. I need surgery.

Not even close to true in most cases. As a matter of fact, a large percentage of women over 50 have rotator cuff tears that they aren’t even aware of!! That means that it is likely that a rotator cuff tear may have been present even before an injury, and that an injury just worsened what was already present. Just because an MRI shows a tear does not mean that it wasn’t already present a year ago when you had no pain. So, does this sound like surgery is the only option?

Why doesn’t rehab really fix a shoulder problem?

If tendonosis with scar tissue is present, no amount of stretching, strengthening, ultrasound, massage or interferential will change that. Unless the scar tissue is addressed the shoulder isn’t really fixed. Tendonosis requires a different soft tissue approach.

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“Had a great experience. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I am looking forward to seeing great results on my treatment. I’d highly recommend LifeCare chiropractic.”
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Chiropractor Adjustments Mesa Arizona

If you’re suffering from back or neck pain, you may have considered seeing a chiropractor. These healthcare professionals focus on diagnosing and treating mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system. However, in order for you to get the most out of your sessions, it’s important to do your part.

Here are a few tips on how to benefit the most from chiropractor adjustments in Mesa Arizona at LifeCare Chiropractic.

Be Consistent

If you’re getting chiropractor adjustments in Mesa Arizona for a chronic issue, like back pain, you can’t expect to get better after one session. The amount of treatments you need will depend on the severity of your condition. Be consistent with your visits to the chiropractor and don’t get discouraged if you don’t start feeling better right away.

Drink Plenty of Water

Chiropractor adjustments in Mesa Arizona are effective for treating back pain, but there are other steps you can take afterward to improve your symptoms, like drinking water. The small discs in your back contain water and protect your back against damage. However, these discs can lose water over time. If you don’t stay hydrated, it could cause damage to your spine. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.

Improve Your Posture

If you have lower back pain, your posture could make a big difference. If you combine good posture with chiropractic care, you could significantly lower your pain. Make sure to alway sit up straight with your shoulders pulled back. If you need extra support, put a small pillow below your back.

Listen to Your Chiropractor’s Advice

During chiropractic Mesa AZ residents trust, your chiropractor will likely ask you to do several exercises at home to help your back pain. It’s very important to abide by your chiropractor’s instructions and follow through with these exercises. Doing so can help you improve your symptoms quicker.

Rest Afterward

If you’re new to getting chiropractor adjustments in Mesa adjustments, you may feel tired and sore afterward. That’s why you shouldn’t schedule your appointments right before going back to work. After you get your adjustment, you should go home and rest your body.

Be Honest With Your Chiropractor

During your first session with a chiropractor, he or she will ask you several questions about your condition and overall health. For example, he or she may want to know how long you’ve been experiencing back pain and what your eating habits are. It’s important to be completely honest with your chiropractor. If you don’t tell the truth or leave important information out, your chiropractor can’t help you to the best of his or her ability.

If you’ve been experiencing chronic back pain, you may benefit from chiropractic adjustments in Mesa Arizona. After several sessions, you may see an improvement in your symptoms and can live a better life.

Chiropractic Treatment Mesa, AZ

Chiropractic Care for Forward Head Posture

Are you experiencing pain in the neck, upper back, or shoulders? Do you believe it could be related to your posture and alignment, but you are unsure about how you can fix it? If so, chiropractic treatment in Mesa, AZ may be right for you. To learn more now, call LifeCare Chiropractic.

What is Forward Head Posture?

You might have heard the term ‘forward head posture’, but may not really understand what it is. This is a topic that frequently comes up at LifeCare Chiropractic, and something that chiropractic treatment in Mesa, Arizona can address. Forward head posture refers to the changes in normal posture in the neck and upper back area. More specifically, it involves a person’s head that has shifted forward. As a result of this shift, the person may appear hunched in a forward posture. 

Although a forward head posture is usually associated with aging, this is not always the case. In fact, for the majority of people, this is not true at all. It is possible to have great posture as an older person, or elder. As a chiropractor Mesa, AZ trusts, we see many teenagers and children that have a forward head posture. Today, the most common cause of a forward head posture is due to long periods of time looking down or leaning forward. Extended use of cell phones, tablets, laptops, and other handheld devices do contribute to the problem. Over time the postural position transitions from being temporary to permanent. 

For every inch that your head is forward, the weight on your spine increases by up to 10 pounds! So, if a person’s forward head posture is three inches forward, it is equivalent to carrying 30 pounds of weight on your head. This extra weight can be significantly straining on the muscles encompassing the neck, as well as the upper spine and shoulders. Symptoms that can result from a forward head posture include:

• Chronic neck pain
• Chronic upper back pain
• Headaches
• Jaw pain
• Inability to sleep
• Concentration problems
• Tingling in the arms or hands

Forward head posture is not an issue to ignore. The longer it exists, the more difficult it will be to treat and reverse. Chiropractic treatment Mesa, AZ has to offer can help. 

At LifeCare Chiropractic, we work with clients of all ages to develop a custom treatment plan for musculoskeletal issues. Something like forward head posture tends to require a multifaceted approach. Before we begin your Mesa, AZ chiropractic treatment, we may:

• Assess the spine for any shifts in its structure and alignment
• Perform X Rays or an MRI
• Pinpoint the areas that need correction
• Deliver gentle corrections to the spine

In addition to chiropractic treatment in Mesa, AZ, our chiropractor may utilize electro stimulation and therapeutic massage. We may also talk about workplace ergonomics, exercise and movement routines, and herbs that help to improve posture, build strength, and reduce pain. 

If you believe you have been affected by forward head posture, and would like to know if you are a candidate for chiropractic treatment in Mesa, AZ, call LifeCare Chiropractic.

Back Pain Chiropractor Mesa, AZ

How Can Chiropractic Care Help Me?

You may initially come to a Mesa, Arizona back pain chiropractor thinking you may find relief and resolve symptoms of back or neck pain. And while chiropractic care is highly effective in addressing those issues, it is a natural treatment that does so much more. LifeCare Chiropractic is a compassionate chiropractic professional in Mesa, Arizona who wants you to understand how chiropractic care can help you and your loved ones.

What is chiropractic care?

Chiropractic is a form of natural treatment that aims to improve health by restoring structure and function to the musculoskeletal system, which includes the spine and other joints. Accidents, overexertion, stress, and many more things may contribute to the minor displacement, or subluxation, of the spinal vertebrae. When vertebrae are displaced, irritation to the spinal nerves and muscular tension can result, leading to pain and impacting overall health.

A back pain chiropractor Mesa, AZ trusts, is a licensed healthcare provider who evaluates the function and structure of the spine and how it affects the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. A chiropractic for back pain in Mesa, AZ provider can help to restore these systems to their correct function. Chiropractors often do this by performing chiropractic adjustments that manipulate any improperly aligned spinal and extremity joints, bringing them back to their proper positions and restoring function.

Chiropractic patients typically experience pain relief quickly after a chiropractic adjustment, unless the muscles surrounding the area are in spasm. In patients with muscle spasms, chiropractors often use other alternatives as part of a comprehensive treatment protocol, including:

• Rehabilitative exercise
• Postural rehabilitation
• Stretching techniques
• Massage
• Nutrition and supplement therapies
• Hot or cold therapy
• Electrical stimulation
• Ultrasound therapy
• Acupuncture

What types of conditions can chiropractic care help?

A back pain doctor Mesa, AZ has to offer, such as one from LifeCare Chiropractic, focuses on disorders of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems and how the effect they have on the rest of the body. Chiropractic techniques may help patients of all ages with health issues that are acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term). Some of these include:

• Headaches and migraines
• Achiness and soreness
• Back Pain (upper, lower, and middle)
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Wrist pain and carpal tunnel syndrome
• Knee pain
• Foot pain
• Sciatica
• Spinal stenosis
• Dizziness and vertigo
• Whiplash
• Nervous system issues
• Mental issues
• Sports injuries
• Work injuries
• Accident-related injuries
• Heredity-related diseases
• Arthritis

What happens at a chiropractic appointment?

At an initial chiropractic visit, you’ll likely discuss your health history and problem and then have your complaint evaluated. You are assessed through consultation, your case history, a physical examination, laboratory analyses, and possibly x-ray images. You will also receive a chiropractic structural examination, with special attention paid to the spine. The chiropractor can review your entire situation and then work with you to re-establish your optimal health and wellness solutions through a comprehensive care protocol.

Since chiropractic care is a natural method of healing that assists the body in communicating more effectively and stimulates it to heal itself, a wide range of chiropractic techniques aim to identify, analyze, and correct vertebral misalignments in the spine. Other treatments strive to restore function and reduce pain. 

To have your return to spinal health kick-started, contact a back pain Chiropractor in Mesa, AZ to schedule an appointment.

Benefits of Massage Therapy In Mesa AZ

A Mesa, AZ massage therapist from LifeCare Chiropractic knows there are many benefits to massage therapy, including both emotional and physical benefits. Below are the most commonly cited benefits that massage therapists in Mesa, AZ and clients agree are reasons to include massage therapy into your self-care routine:

Physical Benefits

Pain Relief: One of the most widely-known benefits of massage therapy is that it can help ease chronic pain. Knee pains, back pains, or chronic fatigue syndrome are some of the issues that regular massage therapy with a skilled massage therapist in Mesa, AZ can address. Massage therapy eases physical pain through not only increasing circulation to the afflicted areas but also through the stimulation and release of pain-fighting endorphins. The ability of massage therapy to relieve various causes of pain is of vital importance because it can reduce or eliminate the need for painkillers.

Relieves Inflammatory Conditions: Pain relief is not the only thing massage can provide. A massage therapist in Mesa, AZ can also be used to treat inflammatory conditions such as tendinitis and arthritis. This is not only because it helps to relax and loosen the muscles, it also enhances flexibility of joints. This in turn allows more fluidity of movement which also makes your muscles less susceptible to injuries.

Improved Immunity: A report by the American Massage Therapy Association suggests that massage therapy can boost one’s immune system. Massage therapy can increase the white blood cell count as well as their activity level. White blood cells work to prevent the body from viruses and diseases.

Improves Posture and Treats Breathing Problems: Another advantage of massage therapy is that it can help open your chest area through the expansion of your rib cage. This is often beneficial because it loosens tightness in the chest area, allowing one to inhale and exhale more deeply. This, in turn, can oxygenate the blood.

Emotional Benefits

Eases Stress/Depression/Anxiety: The feel-good factor that massage therapy offers can help ease your stress, depression, and anxiety. The endorphins produced in the body while undergoing massage therapy can enhance relaxation which in turn can reduce stress, depression, and anxiety.

Improved Sleep: Your sleep may improve once you undergo massage therapy with a skilled Mesa, AZ massage therapist. This is helpful for both insomniacs and those without sleeping problems. For the latter, they may notice that they wake up less during the night and feel more energized upon waking up. A lack of sleep can also be caused by stress and depression so massage therapy can help address this.

Better Concentration: Massage therapy can also help improve concentration and alertness. When one is calm and relaxed, it is easier to focus and remain alert. This is crucial for anyone who wants to be more productive and creative because with better concentration comes improved decision-making.

Improved Sense of Self-Awareness and Peace: This comes as a result of the connection between the mind and body. A sense of peacefulness is more accessible when one is less stressed or physically sound. Massage therapy with a skilled massage therapist in Mesa, AZ can allow the mind to focus less on insignificant things and instead, focus on what is more important.

Massage FAQs:

Q: Is It Hard to Find a Massage Therapist I Can Trust?

A: According to the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, nearly 300,000 people in the United States study massage therapy and work as massage therapists. State agencies regulate and license massage therapists to ensure professionalism, privacy, and safety. Many states require therapists to take the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination. Determine your state’s licensing requirements and ask your massage therapist for their credentials to increase your trust in their services.

Q: Does My Health Insurance Cover Massage Therapy?

A: Some insurers cover alternative therapies like massage, chiropractic care, and acupuncture. However, you may face higher out-of-pocket expenses than one might expect. Before making your first massage appointment, check with your insurer and your therapist to make sure you’re covered. Ask if you need a prescription or a referral from your physician, if you must pay a deductible or copay, or if you have coverage only for a limited number of visits.

Q: What Are the Benefits of Massage Therapy?

A: People get massages for many reasons:

• Relaxation
• Injury recovery
• Athletic massage
• Pain reduction
• Stress relief
• Physical therapy
• Migraine headache mitigation
• Improved digestion
• Fibromyalgia treatment
• Insomnia prevention
• Heart disease, diabetes, and cancer symptom reduction

Q: When Should I Avoid Massage Therapy?

A: Massage therapists offer non-invasive, non-narcotic treatments for many types of injuries and pain. However, massage isn’t for everyone. People with high blood pressure, deep-vein thrombosis, and certain skin conditions should check with a doctor before getting a massage. If you have a fever, feel dizzy, or have recently been in an accident, you may want to postpone your massage appointment.

Q: What Kind of Training Does It Take to Be a Massage Therapist?

A: At the 300 U.S. massage therapy schools, aspiring practitioners typically get 600-700 hours of training. Almost all massage therapists take continuing education classes, averaging 20 hours per year. Ask your practitioner about their educational experiences, practical training, and ongoing professional development.

Q: What If I Don’t Want a Massage Therapist to Work on a Certain Part of My Body?

A: Before your massage, let your therapist know which parts of your body you want them to avoid. For example, many clients aren’t comfortable with having their abdominal area massaged. Your massage therapist will know how to avoid any sensitive areas you identify and still give you a therapeutic experience.

What are the top myths about massage therapy?

When most people hear about getting massages, they believe it is only done as a luxury. While many spas have incorporated different massages into their routines to help relax their clients, massage therapy goes beyond simple relaxation. It helps to stimulate your body’s own natural ability to heal. So, what are the top myths about massage therapy?

1. When you get a massage, it only focuses on your muscles.

False! A massage does more than just focus on your muscles, especially when done by a Mesa, Arizona massage therapist. When you get a proper massage, it can help to loosen your joints by moving fluids around in your body. This also helps to give you a more increased range of motion. Further, by massaging areas of fluid buildup, you may find that your massage therapist has helped reduce swelling as well.

2. I can get a massage from any spa and it will be the same.

This is a dangerous notion because a massage from one place is not the same as a massage from another place. No matter where you choose to go for your massage, you want to make sure your masseur has a license. However, if you want real healing, it is important that you go to a massage therapist in Mesa, AZ. Someone who performs massage therapy should have the training and a license so you know you are getting a medical treatment, not just a massage for relaxation.

3. For a massage to be effective, you should feel some pain.

There is only a little bit of truth to this. It is certainly possible that you will feel slight discomfort if your massage therapist is working out a knot. Or, you may feel sore for a few days after your massage. However, if you are in any pain during your massage you should not hesitate to speak up. Your massage therapist should be able to quickly change the type of massage they are giving you to be something more comfortable.

4. I can get a massage once and my aches and pains will go away!

If only this were true about most pain! However, you should speak with your massage therapist in Mesa, AZ about how many appointments you should begin scheduling for your pain. If you are in pain because of chronic bad posture or constantly sitting, you cannot expect your pain to suddenly go away. You should consider setting up standing appointments from your massage therapist to help your pain in the long-term.

Massage Therapy for Auto Accident Injuries

Following a car accident, you might have escaped any serious, life threatening injuries; however, you may have whiplash, a stiff neck, shoulder or wrist injuries, and pain in your body. The first day might be the least painful and is typically related to the adrenaline surging throughout the body. You might notice stiffness and pain on the second day too, but often it is the third day in which severe pain shows itself. Many people won’t be able to move or will have limited mobility. They might at this point choose to go to the hospital (this should be done on the first day), and a doctor might diagnose them with whiplash, sprains, strains, and bruising. In addition to rehabilitation and occupational therapy, massage therapy sessions in Mesa, AZ might be recommended. 

At LifeCare Chiropractic, we have treated many patients who suffered injuries in an auto accident. Our massage therapy sessions in Mesa, AZ can address whiplash, skeletal, and muscular issues that have resulted after an auto accident. If you would like to schedule a session now, please call LifeCare Chiropractic.

Pain After a Car Accident 

A person can experience a broad range of injuries and pain after an auto accident. At a massage therapy session in Mesa, AZ, your massage therapist will go over your pain to gain an understanding of the problematic areas. The most common injuries our therapists see include:

Limited Range of Motion – Muscle tension, stiffness, and limited range of motion are very common injuries after an auto accident. In response to the impact, the muscles in the back, neck, and shoulders tend to swell and stiffen up. This results in limited blood flow and the transportation of nutrients to the injured areas, and leads to a hindered recovery time. Mesa, Arizona massage therapy sessions can use various techniques to reduce the swelling and encourage blood to flow to these places. 

Whiplash – Most car accident victims will experience some degree of whiplash. This happens when the head is jerked forward and backward beyond its normal limits. The soft tissues in the cervical spine are impacted and may swell up. In some cases whiplash can cause severe headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Before you  go to a massage therapy session in Mesa, Arizona begins, your therapist will evaluate the entire body to see whether or not the whiplash has affected other areas. For example, there could be ligament damage, low back pain, or an intervertebral disc injury. 

Scar Tissue – When the body is inflamed, scar tissue may develop. Although this is normal, it can cause discomfort. The best massage therapist in Mesa, AZ, such as one from LifeCare Chiropractic, can help with the formation of scar tissue and promote optimal healing and recovery. 

Following an auto accident, you should not delay in seeking a massage therapist. The sooner you do, the more likely your pain can be reduced or alleviated. As mentioned above, it is recommended that you see a medical doctor for an evaluation as quickly as you can. There are silent injuries that if left untreated, could be fatal. Once you are ready to schedule a massage therapy session in Mesa, AZ, call LifeCare Chiropractic.

Don’t let the myths about massage therapy fool you. It is important that you seek help from a licensed massage therapist in Mesa, Arizona for your aches and pains. For more information or to schedule a therapy session, call a massage therapist in Mesa, AZ from LifeCare Chiropractic today.