Could your headaches be coming from your neck?
Do you suffer from frequent headaches? Are you confused by the different opinions about whether or not your headaches are coming from your neck?
It seems that most medical practitioners fall into one of two camps when discussing the role of the cervical spine (neck) in chronic head pain.
- Those who believe the neck is always the primary culprit in chronic head pain.
- Those who think the neck plays little to no role in a patient’s headache symptoms.
My name is Dr. Cody Doyle, and I can tell you, every day, at least one patient presents to my office complaining of recurrent headaches. And then, they ask the most common yet complicated question I get asked in my chiropractic practice.
“Could my neck be causing my headaches, and if so, what treatments are effective?”
As an evidence-based chiropractor with over twenty-three years of successfully treating patients with headache symptoms and an insatiable desire to learn everything I can to help my patients best, I believe I have the right answer.
My answer?
Maybe.
The “Gray Area” of Whether Your Headaches Are Coming From Your Neck
The conflicting opinions of medical practitioners can lead to a large degree of confusion and irritation for patients who experience frequent headaches.
One provider tells them their neck plays a significant role in their symptoms while another is seemingly dismissive of the role the neck plays in the generation of headache symptoms. Add to this confusion the well-meaning advice and anecdotal stories relayed by close friends and family members. The result of all this conflicting information is enough to send patients into a spiral of frustration, causing a headache on the spot.
That’s the last thing headache sufferers need.
If you experience frequent headaches, you don’t need confusion and frustration. You need answers. Because the truth is, some headaches come from the neck, and some do not.
What is important to know when determining if your headaches are coming from your neck?
As already stated, I am an evidence-based chiropractor.
What do I mean by an Evidenced-Based Chiropractor?
According to Wikipedia:
“An evidence-based practice (EBP) is any practice that relies on scientific evidence for guidance and decision-making.”
So, as an evidence-based practitioner treating headaches, I am primarily concerned with what research (evidence) says about the cervical spine and its role in driving the pain associated with headaches.
Of course, I also pay attention and listen to my patients when it comes to what treatments work for them. Science offers evidence and information, but I understand that what really matters is resolving your symptoms. Therefore, I will continually evaluate your unique progress and suggest changes in your treatment plan if your symptoms are not resolving.
But before we get to a treatment plan, I will perform a thorough examination, including medical history, current medications, x-rays, and physical exam.
During the physical exam, I utilize several techniques to help determine if your neck (cervical spine) is contributing to your head pain. For instance, I will put you through some maneuvers that attempt to reproduce your headache.
If we can determine that certain movements of your neck or palpation of specific structures in your neck reproduce your pain, it helps me understand the mechanism that could be involved in some or all of your head pain.
After a thorough history and physical examination, we should be able to have a pretty good idea of what role, if any, your neck plays in your head pain.
Your Headache Type Helps Determine if the Neck Is Involved
Before we begin a discussion about the neck and its role in headache symptoms, it will be helpful to discuss the types of headaches.
The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition contains descriptions of many classifications and subclassifications of headache and head pain. However, for this discussion, we will focus only on two general categories of headache:
- Primary headache
- Secondary headache
According to the IHS Classification, a primary headache is a condition by itself. In other words, the headache does not occur as a result of some other external sources, such as medications, dehydration, or neck dysfunction. Examples include migraines, cluster headaches, and tension-type headaches.
A secondary headache is head pain that occurs as a result of another disorder that is known to cause a headache. Examples include head pain caused by bacterial meningitis, medication overuse, dehydration, or neck dysfunction.
A headache arising from dysfunction or abnormality in your neck would be a secondary headache.
It is also helpful to understand that some patients may have a primary type of headache (i.e., tension-type headache) that is exacerbated (or made worse) by dysfunction in the neck.
The real questions to ask are:
- What does the research (evidence) say about neck dysfunction that causes a headache?
- How will we know if you, indeed, have head pain related to the neck?
The second question can have layers. For instance, if you have primary headaches, do you have a neck issue that exacerbates it? If you experience secondary headaches, are they related to the neck or something else?
How often do headaches come from the neck?
If your head pain is related to dysfunction or misalignment of the cervical spine (neck), you have what is called cervicogenic headaches.
When you consider all the types of head pain, cervicogenic headaches are relatively rare.
In fact, an article in the Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy1 reports a prevalence rate of approximately 2.5 percent in the general population.
However, it is also important to note that the prevalence of cervicogenic headache climbs to as high as 53 percent in patients who have suffered an injury to their cervical spine2.
What treatments are available if my neck is contributing to my head pain?
As an evidence-based chiropractor, I am primarily concerned with what the research says concerning effective treatment and the frequency of that treatment. Based on this research and your unique symptoms and physical examination, I will work with you to formulate a treatment plan that works best for you.
When it comes to effective treatment, Dunning, et al3 performed a study on a group of patients suffering from cervicogenic headaches. They compared the effects of either combined cervical and thoracic manipulation (chiropractic care) or mobilization and exercise (physical therapy). They found:
“The results of the current study demonstrated that patients with cervicogenic headache who received cervical and thoracic manipulation experienced significantly greater reductions in headache intensity, disability, headache frequency, headache duration, and medication intake as compared to the group that received mobilization and exercise; furthermore, the effects were maintained at three months follow-up.”
To summarize, the above study found that patients treated with spinal manipulation (chiropractic care) did significantly better than those who received only physical therapy and exercise.
The study goes on to discuss the proposed mechanism for superior results achieved through chiropractic manipulation versus physical therapy. If you are interested, you can search the article referenced below and read further.
How many treatments will I need if my headaches are coming from my neck?
Determining the number of visits a patient may need is always challenging. Again, we look at what the evidence shows regarding the dosage of spinal manipulation in conditions such as this.
Haas and colleagues looked at the question of appropriate dosage for treating cervicogenic headache. They published their findings in The Spine Journal4. In this impressive study, they randomized participants to four different dose levels of chiropractic manipulation: 0, 6, 12, or 18 sessions. They treated each patient three times per week for six weeks, and for those receiving less than 18 sessions of spinal manipulation therapy (SMT), a focused, light-massage was performed as a control for the sessions when manipulation was not assigned.
The authors found:
“There was a linear dose-response relationship between SMT visits and days with cervicogenic headache (CGH) that was durable to 52 weeks after the start of care. For the highest and most effective dose of 18 SMT visits, CGH days were reduced by about half, and about three more days per month than for the light-massage control.”
To summarize, the patients given 12 and 18 spinal manipulation treatments experienced the most improvement. Their improvement lasted 52 weeks (one year) after the start of care.
There are many variables among patients to consider. The degree of degeneration present in the neck, limitations in range of motion, soft tissue abnormalities, etc.. However, most patients respond favorably and achieve lasting pain relief with somewhere between 12 and 18 chiropractic visits.
Do you suffer from headaches and wonder if your neck plays a role?
If you have frequent headaches, your neck could be involved. Especially if you have experienced an injury to your cervical spine. And studies prove chiropractic spinal manipulations can offer you the relief you desire.
Is it time for you to find relief?
Do you have any questions? Would you like to find out if your neck may be causing your headaches? Call (817) 767-5430 today. One of our friendly team members would love to answer your questions and schedule a consultation.
References
- Racicki, S., Gerwin, S., DiClaudio, S., Reinmann, S., & Donaldson, M. (2013). Conservative physical therapy management for the treatment of cervicogenic headache: a systematic review.Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 21(2), 113–124. doi:10.1179/2042618612Y.0000000025
- Bogduk, N., & Govind, J. (2009). Cervicogenic headache: an assessment of the evidence on clinical diagnosis, invasive tests, and treatment. Lancet neurology, 8(10), 959–968. doi:10.1016/S1474-4422(09)70209-1
3.Dunning, J. R., Butts, R., Mourad, F., Young, I., Fernández-de-las-Peñas, C., Hagins, M., et al. (2016). Upper cervical and upper thoracic manipulation versus mobilization and exercise in patients with cervicogenic headache: a multi-center randomized clinical trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 17, 64. http://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-016-0912-3
- Haas, M., Bronfort, G., Evans, R., Schulz, C., Vavrek, D., Takaki, L., et al. (2018). Dose-response and efficacy of spinal manipulation for care of cervicogenic headache: a dual-center randomized controlled trial. The Spine Journal, 18(10), 1741–1754. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.spinee.2018.02.019
Which is Better for Neck Pain–a Chiropractor or Masseuse
It has been estimated that one in three people suffer from or have experienced neck pain significant enough to seek treatment at least once a year. Many of these patients seek alternative treatment options from a chiropractor or masseuse.
At Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture in Roanoke, TX, neck pain is a common complaint for many of our patients. Dr. Cody Doyle has over two decades of experience in successfully treating patients suffering from neck pain. His treatment options are non-invasive, non-addictive, and drug-free.
What can a chiropractor do for neck pain?
As a chiropractor, Dr. Doyle offers several alternative treatment options. This includes acupuncture, myofascial release therapy, ultrasound therapy, and muscle stimulation. The most common treatment he performs, however, is spinal manipulation—also known as spinal adjustment.
With spinal manipulations, the chiropractor uses his hands or a special adjustment tool to loosen and adjust spinal joints. By applying sudden but controlled force to joints, he returns your vertebra to proper alignment. This helps treat joint, muscle, and nerve pain. This treatment relieves the pain caused by numerous factors, such as a pinched nerve or muscle spasms. It can also relieve pain associated with tissue inflammation or scarring caused by repetitive stress, such as consistent poor ergonomics or posture, or from trauma, such as with whiplash.
The spine acts as an extension of the nervous system, which communicates with all the muscles. Therefore, spinal health is extremely important for your overall well-being.
Many chiropractors will also teach you exercises to perform at home to help keep your joints loose.
Some chiropractors, like Dr. Doyle, also offer acupuncture. This is an effective way to reduce inflammation and pain. It also tricks your body into releasing endorphins, which are your body’s natural painkillers.
Another potential treatment option a chiropractor may suggest is myofascial release therapy. With this treatment, Dr. Doyle stretches or massages the myofascial connective tissue that surrounds muscles and bones. Different from massage, this is steady, prolonged (three to five minutes) pressure to targeted areas. This releases restrictions in connective tissues. The result is increased range of motion and decreased pain.
What can a masseuse do for neck pain?
A masseuse, or a licensed massage therapist, can help relieve pain by applying kneading and stroking motions to muscle groups and soft tissues. This is usually accompanied by lubricants or oils to allow the therapist to slide their hands over the skin. The result is muscle stimulation and relaxation, which can promote healing and temporarily reduce pain.
While massage can help alleviate muscular pain, it is not typically used to treat pain with the joints, spine, or tendons. The benefits come from mood enhancement, increased energy, and relaxation.
Massage therapy is most beneficial for those experiencing daily stressors, such as tired, tense, or achy muscles caused by odd sleeping positions or exercise.
Treatment usually lasts 30-60 minutes and can help reduce “knots” in the muscles. While it can promote a sense of relaxation and peacefulness, it does not address connective tissue pain.
Is a chiropractor or masseuse best for your neck pain?
The answer depends on your unique desires and needs.
If you have pain from “knots” in your muscles or experience soreness from exercise or prolonged activity, a masseuse may be all you need. Massage can relieve tension and promote relaxation, which can provide relief. However, repeated and routine massages may be required for continued relief.
If you suffer from chronic pain or pain associated with a misaligned spine, treatment from a chiropractor is your best option. This treatment restores joint mobility and aims to fix the source of your pain rather than just treating symptoms.
Not sure which treatment is best for you? Talk with your doctor to discuss which option could be most beneficial.
Contact Dr. Doyle Today
There’s no better time than today to find relief from your pain. If you live in the Colleyville, Trophy Club, Grapevine, or Southlake area, contact our office online or call (817) 767-5430 today to schedule your consultation.
Benefits of Visiting a Chiropractor and Acupuncturist
There are multiple benefits of both chiropractic treatment and acupuncture. You may experience the best results, however, with a combined treatment of both. The two go hand in hand and complement each other. Bringing them together offers tremendous advantages.
At Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture in Roanoke, TX, Dr. Cody Doyle is a chiropractor and acupuncturist who has over two decades of experience. He can offer you a treatment plan customized for you that gets you on the road to recovery faster.
What treatment does a chiropractor offer?
When the spine is not in alignment, patients experience pain and inflammation. Chiropractic care is a nonsurgical, drug-free, holistic approach to helping the body heal and be healthy through manipulation of the spine. The manipulations, sometimes called adjustments, put the spine back into alignment, reducing pain and inflammation. Added benefits include improved mobility, function, and overall wellness.
Rather than masking pain with medications, chiropractic care goes to the root of the problem and fixes it.
Also, the spine communicates with the nervous system, which is responsible for the coordination and function of all the organs and muscles in your body. Therefore, a misaligned spine can produce numerous symptoms and conditions people don’t usually associate with chiropractic care.
When performed properly, spinal adjustments can help with many issues, including:
- Allergies
- Fatigue
- Respiratory issues
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Weight gain
- Boosts immunity
- Improved digestion
- Increased energy
How can an acupuncturist help my pain?
Acupuncture involves the use of flexible, hair-thin needles that the acupuncturist places at particular pressure points. This produces an effect on the nervous system that decreases both chronic and acute pain. In addition, acupuncture causes the body to release endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers.
Many patients experience more pain relief with acupuncture than they do with pain medication.
Acupuncture can reduce musculoskeletal pain, including the low back and neck. It can also reduce or eliminate headaches.
Other types of pain acupuncture can relieve include:
- Labor pain
- Dental pain
- Menstrual cramps
- Arthritis pain
Acupuncture can also help relieve respiratory disorders and reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy.
Chiropractor and Acupuncturist in One Doctor
Since Dr. Doyle is both a chiropractor and acupuncturist, he can provide both modalities to improve your health and pain so you can heal and recover. This is good news for patients suffering from neck or back pain, as when these treatments are combined, patients improve faster.
Chiropractic care gets the structural system in alignment, and acupuncture helps control inflammation. Combined, they work together to help the body stay relaxed.
If you have ever heard the saying that one plus one equals three, the sum of spinal manipulation plus acupuncture is even better. Not only are they highly compatible, but they complement each other so patients can feel better and return to normal activities quicker.
This is because both treatments help improve the nervous system, producing the force of multiplication in pain relief, relaxation of muscles, and reduction of inflammation.
The combined treatments can also help other issues. For instance, they can help reduce pain and inflammation for joint issues both pre and post-surgery.
Additional issues combined treatment can help include:
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Sinus pain
- Allergies
- Insomnia
A Doctor You Can Trust
If you live in the north Fort Worth area, including Colleyville, Trophy Club, Grapevine, and Southlake, contact Dr. Doyle online or call (817) 767-5430 today to schedule your consultation. He will perform a thorough examination and come up with the best treatment plan for your unique needs.
Isn’t it time to start on the road to recovery?
Can a Chiropractor Ease my Chronic Pain?
Do you suffer from ongoing back or neck pain? Did you know your chiropractor can help with chronic pain? Dr. Cody Doyle treats patients in the north Fort Worth area at Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture in Roanoke, TX. He has over two decades of experience in reducing pain for patients in Keller, Southlake, Grapevine, Colleyville, and Trophy Club in his Roanoke, TX office, and he can help you too.
Chiropractic care is an effective, safe, and natural treatment option that considers the whole person for patients experiencing chronic pain. While the most commonly known treatment of a chiropractor is spinal manipulation, Dr. Doyle offers several other holistic, natural, and conservative options to rid you of your pain.
What is the first step in finding relief from chronic pain?
Before Dr. Doyle can do anything to treat your pain, he will need to know what is causing it. The first thing he will do is perform a physical examination. He will also want results from any necessary diagnostic testing. Most often, this means x-rays; however, some patients may require additional testing, such as an MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound imaging.
Once Dr. Doyle has diagnosed your condition, he will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan based on your unique needs and desires. This may include a combination of several treatment methods to achieve optimal results.
In addition, he will provide education regarding things you can do to improve health and pain, such as proper posture, exercises, nutrition, and relaxation methods.
How does spinal manipulation improve pain?
Dr. Doyle has an insatiable desire to learn and understand the latest techniques in alternative medicine. He will put this knowledge to work in helping you to be as healthy and pain-free as possible.
Chiropractic therapy focuses on the structure of the body. The most commonly known chiropractic treatment option is spinal adjustments and manipulations. This involves the therapeutic movement of the spine to return it to proper alignment. This is done by applying strong but quick pressure between the vertebrae of the spine.
When the body is properly aligned, pain is reduced, function is improved, and the body is better equipped to heal.
What are other chiropractic treatment options for chronic pain?
While spinal adjustments and manipulation are the mainstays of chiropractic care, Dr. Doyle goes above and beyond to offer numerous other safe, effective, and all-natural drug-free treatment options for your pain.
Thanks to his quest to learn everything he can about alternative treatment, his patients experience improved health and decreased pain.
Once he learns the cause of your pain, he will work with you to determine which modalities will help you the most.
Some of the possible treatment modalities he may offer you for chronic pain include:
- Acupuncture
- Deep myofascial release massage
- Hot and cold therapy
- Therapeutic exercises
- Herbal remedies
- Muscle stimulation
- Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation
- Ultrasound therapy
- Auriculotherapy
- Weight loss treatments
- Nutritional and detoxification programs
- Treatments for allergies
And since Dr. Doyle continually learns more, he frequently adds new techniques and treatments as he perfects his protocols.
Don’t Let Chronic Pain Interfere with Your Quality of Life
If you suffer from chronic pain, there is no better time to begin treatment to change your life for the better. Call 817-767-5430 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Doyle.
Isn’t it time to get on the road to recovery?
Is chiropractor treatment only for back pain?
If you think chiropractor treatment is only for back or neck pain, think again. Your overall health and wellbeing rely on the proper alignment of every system in your body. This includes the entire musculoskeletal structure and the nervous system.
Dr. Cody Doyle at Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture in Roanoke, TX, has over 20 years of experience treating patient with pain, numbness, tingling, and reduced range of motion. He understands the significance of proper alignment in the entire body for overall health and wellness.
When any system of the body is out of alignment, it can affect you in unexpected ways. For instance, problems in the nervous system can trigger or worsen allergies. And while misalignment in the spine is known to cause numerous problems, the body has many joints in the upper and lower extremities that rely on proper alignment.
In addition, Dr. Doyle has several chiropractor treatment options that go above and beyond the manipulation of joints. Some of his most popular treatment options include acupuncture, myofascial release therapy, muscle stimulation, and ultrasound therapy. Other treatments include hot and cold therapy, nutrition and herbal therapies, detox and home exercise programs, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation.
Chiropractor Treatment for Lower Extremity Pain
Problems in the lower extremities typically involve the ankle, knee, and hip joints. Most often, injury (trauma), overuse, or wear and tear cause the problems. However, arthritis or inflammatory issues can cause also cause pain. And an issue with one leg can cause overcompensation of the other leg, which can change your gait and lead to more problems.
Issues with your ankle
The most common ankle issue is a tear, inflammation, or bruising of the muscles, tendons, or ligaments. This is commonly known as an ankle sprain.
Other ankle problems, however, can occur with knee or hip disorders, gait issues, overuse, ill-fitting shoes, and arthritis.
Common ankle issues also include:
- Plantar fasciitis, which causes stabbing pain near your heel at the bottom of your foot.
- Achilles tendonitis, which causes pain along the heel bone and back of your ankle.
- Shin splints, which causes pain in the lower leg that radiates to your foot and ankle.
- Heel spurs, which are painful bony growths on the arch of the foot or heel bone.
Dr. Doyle will determine the cause of your pain and symptoms with a thorough evaluation. He can then recommend a chiropractor treatment plan that addresses your specific complaints and needs to alleviate your pain.
Knee Conditions
Your knee bears a great deal of your body weight, and it is often the first injured joint. Problems arise from trauma, overuse, poor arch support, and improper use, such as with lifting weights. However, issues can also arise from hip or ankle injuries.
Symptoms of knee problems include stiffness, pain, popping or clicking, swelling, and muscle weakness.
Common knee conditions include:
- Runner’s knee, which produces pain to the outside and front of the knee when running, jumping, squatting, or kneeling.
- Degenerative arthritis that affects the cartilage of the knee.
- Bursitis, which can cause pain on either side of your knee.
- Strain of the meniscus, MCL, or ACL, which can cause severe pain to the outside, inside, or back of the knee with rotation.
- Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease, which causes pain and swelling to the front of the knee due to rapid bone growth.
Hip Conditions
The hip joint is a large ball and socket joint responsible for weight-bearing that allows running, jumping, walking, and sitting.
Problems in the hip joint can cause localized pain or pain that radiates through the pelvis and down the leg.
Common chiropractor treatment options Dr. Doyle offers for the hip include:
- Hip strains, caused by overuse or injury to surrounding hip muscles from injury, overuse, or improper form.
- Bursitis, which produces a burning sensation or pain on the outside of the hip.
- Sciatica, represented by pain that radiates through the buttocks and down the leg caused by a pinched nerve in the back.
- Arthritis, in which the loss of cartilage causes stiff and inflamed joints.
- Snapping Hip Syndrome, which produces a popping or clicking sound in the hip when walking, stretching, or standing up.
Chiropractor Treatment for Upper Extremity Pain
Numerous treatable problems in the upper extremities can prevent you from enjoying life and completing your job satisfactorily. While injury and trauma can cause problems with your wrists, elbows, hands, and shoulders, the problem is usually related to overuse or repetitive motion, such as with typing, over-exercising, or frequent heavy lifting.
The severity of injury and your activity level greatly affect your pain. Symptoms can include throbbing, dull, aching, or sharp pain followed by tingling and numbness. The pain may radiate down your entire arm, or it could be isolated to one area.
The most common upper extremity issues include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is frequently caused by repetitive use, such as typing, but thyroid disorders, obesity, arthritis, and fluid retention can also cause it. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, or pain in your wrist and hand.
- Tennis Elbow: This causes pain and swelling in the arm and elbow. While tennis can cause this problem, any repetitive motion of the thumb and first two fingers can be the culprit. This includes knitting, typing, guitar playing, and weightlifting.
- Nerve Entrapment: Also called a pinched nerve, this condition generally causes pain and weakness in the wrist, elbow, and hand that can travel to your little finger. This is generally caused by injury or improper techniques during repetitive activity.
- Shoulder pain: Any number of things can cause shoulder pain. Most often, it is the result of rotator cuff injury, repetitive activity, neck injury, or scar tissue. The symptoms can include reduced range of motion and muscle stiffness.
Evaluation of Extremity Problems
Dr. Doyle will perform a series of tests, including diagnostic testing, to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Once he confirms a diagnosis, he will discuss chiropractic treatment options with you and come up with a personalized treatment plan that includes your input.
Your treatment plan may include chiropractic adjustments and one or more modalities to reduce your symptoms.
Chiropractic Treatment Options
Dr. Doyle utilizes numerous treatment modalities to help you with all of your symptoms. Your plan may include one or more of the following:
Manipulation: Dr. Doyle has performed manipulation treatment to over 100,000 patients. This involves returning the musculoskeletal and nervous systems to normal function by making sure they are properly aligned.
Myofascial Release Therapy: Dr. Doyle treats muscles and connective tissues with the use of deep massage. This therapy improves function and flexibility in your muscles.
Acupuncture: Dr. Doyle is an experienced acupuncturist who treats numerous dysfunctions in the body. Acupuncture involves the use of thin needles placed into acupuncture points in the body to improve energy and blood flow while stimulating the underlying tissues. This treatment has shown improvements in a wide range of health issues.
Contact Dr. Doyle Today
Chiropractic care is no longer only for spinal manipulations to improve back or neck pain. If you suffer from problems with any of your body systems, now is the time to consider chiropractic care. Over the last 20-plus years, Dr. Doyle has experienced tremendous results from the many modalities he offers.
Is it time to return to an enjoyable, pain-free life?
Contact Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture online today or call us at (817) 767-5430 to schedule a consultation.
Chiropractic Care vs Prescription Medication
Migraines, lower back pain, neck pain, and spinal disc issues are common types of pain among American adults. According to the National Institutes of Health, 76 million adults in the United States live with chronic pain. To treat these issues, traditional medical doctors often prescribe NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, or stronger drugs like narcotics and muscle relaxants. While these medications can relieve pain, they do not treat the physiological issues that cause pain. Without proper treatment through chiropractic care, the source of your pain could become worse over time.
At Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture, our highly skilled chiro, Dr. Cody Doyle, offers all-natural, holistic treatment options to reduce pain and restore your body’s function. Begin your journey toward total wellness today. Schedule an appointment at our Roanoke, TX office at 817-767-5430.
Scientific Evidence
In a 2012 scientific study, 272 people who suffered from neck pain were placed into three groups:
- SMT Group: These participants met with a chiropractor over the course of 12 weeks to receive spinal manipulation treatment.
- Medication Group: A licensed medical physician examined these participants and prescribed NSAIDs, acetaminophen, narcotics, or muscle relaxants based on the patients’ symptoms.
- HEA Group: This group met with physical therapists to learn home exercises. They were instructed to do these exercises up to eight times a day.
In this study, there were no negative effects reported by those who received chiropractic care. In fact, the conclusion of the entire study was the SMT was more effective than medication in both the short and long term.
The outcome of this study proved that medication was 42 percent less effective than spinal manipulation treatments. The study also mentioned that the participants who were on medication continued to take and increase their medication dosage.
Negative Side Effects of Medication
Continued use of medications often causes your body to become immune to their effects, which can lead to drug abuse and dependence. Overusing medications can result in a variety of health issues, including:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Hormonal imbalances
- Heart attack
- Constipation
- Digestive problems
- Increased pain
- Headaches
- Depression
- Liver toxicity
- Weakened immune system
These side-effects can be avoided when you seek chiropractic care first.
How A Healthy Spine Reduces Pain
Having a healthy spine is important because every nerve in your body is interconnected with your spine. Messages are sent from your brain to all parts of your body through your spine, and when the spine is misaligned, those messages become weakened. Pinched nerves or other spinal problem can result in pain or discomfort. When a chiropractor correctly aligns your spine through spinal manipulation, those messages are sent and received properly.
Chiropractic techniques, like spinal manipulation, promote your body’s ability to heal itself so you don’t have to rely on surgery or medication. For over 20 years, Dr. Doyle has dedicated himself to creating natural, effective treatment plans for a variety of patient needs. These treatments don’t simply hide your symptoms, they repair the problem. Dr. Doyle uses a combination of chiropractic, acupuncture, and complementary therapies that provide safe, long-lasting solutions.
Contact Your Roanoke, TX Chiropractor Today
Dr. Doyle is constantly improving and perfecting his treatment methods in order to provide exceptional care to our patients. Once your thorough evaluation is complete, Dr. Doyle will create a personalized treatment plan to promote your body’s total wellness.
Don’t allow prescription medications to rob you of a healthy, satisfying life. Contact our friendly team today at 817-767-5430 to schedule an appointment.
How Chiropractic Care Boosts the Immune System
Cooler weather, warm colors, hunting season, and pumpkin-flavored everything are some of the first things that come to mind when we think about fall. Unfortunately, these enjoyable things also come with the stress of upcoming holidays, fear of the flu, and unhealthy eating habits that cause a blow to the immune system. A weakened immune system makes you more susceptible to developing a cold, influenza, and other illnesses.
Your Roanoke family chiropractor, Dr. Cody Doyle, can help you and your loved ones fight off sickness by boosting your immune system with regular chiropractic care. Because your brain, nervous system, and immune system are all connected through the spine, musculoskeletal manipulation dramatically improves their health and function. Regular chiropractic adjustments can increase the chemical messengers, called cytokines, in your body that strengthen your immune system’s response against bacteria, germs, and viruses.
The Evidence
It’s believed that the science of chiropractic became popular during the 1918 Flu Pandemic. According to The Official History of Chiropractic in Texas by Walter R. Rhodes, DC, statistics reveal just how effective chiropractic was in treating influenza. Here are some of those numbers:
- In Davenport, Iowa, medical doctors treated 4,953 cases and had 274 deaths. Chiropractors treated 1,635 cases with only one death. Based on these numbers, had the chiropractors treated every patient, there would have only been five deaths.
- In the whole state of Iowa, medical doctors lost one out of every fifteen patients while chiropractors lost only one out of every 789 patients.
- Nationally, chiropractors treated 46,394 patients and had only 54 deaths.
- Chiropractors in Oklahoma lost only seven out of 3,490 patients and saved 25 after medical doctors gave up on them.
These results, and a number of other stories involving children and the military, led many to receive chiropractic care and many others to join the chiropractic profession.
Another study completed by the chief of cancer prevention research at New York’s Preventative Medicine Institute, Dr. Ronald Pero, showed that 107 individuals who had regular chiropractic adjustments had a 200 percent stronger immune system than those who did not receive chiropractic care. It also showed that the chiropractic patients’ immune systems were 400 percent stronger than those who have cancer or other serious diseases.
What’s weakening my immune system?
Besides visiting Dr. Doyle, one of the most important things you can do to strengthen your immune systems is to find out what is weakening it. When you visit our Roanoke family chiropractic office, Dr. Doyle can help you figure out the cause of your symptoms and suggest lifestyle changes you can make to keep your immune system strong.
Factors that lead to a weak immune system include:
- Insufficient exercise
- Lack of sleep
- Improper nutrition
- Stress caused by trauma, thoughts, toxins, and technology
Exercise, healthy eating habits, good sleeping habits, and reducing stress will give your body the strength and nutrients it needs to fight against bad bacteria and viruses.
Whatever the cause of your illness, Dr. Doyle will work with you to create a personalized plan to promote overall wellness.
Contact Our Roanoke Family Chiropractic Office Today
Chiropractic care is a drug-free, noninvasive solution to many health conditions. Dr. Doyle believes in your body’s natural ability to heal with a little help from proven and safe chiropractic methods. To get started with your regular chiropractic treatments, contact our friendly team today at 817-767-5430.
Does Chiropractic Care Work?
For a long time, many traditional practitioners refused to refer their patients to chiropractors because of a lack of substantial evidence that chiropractic care works. However, more and more research has proven that chiropractic care is one of the most effective solutions for certain conditions.
Dr. Cody Doyle at Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture has worked for years to perfect his alternative treatment methods. He uses chiropractic care and other methods to help improve his patients’ overall health and life. To schedule an appointment with your Roanoke and Trophy Club chiropractor, contact our friendly staff today at 817-767-5430.
Continue reading to learn more about how chiropractic care works and what it can do for you.
How It Works
The word “chiropractic” comes from the Greek, and it means “done by hand.” A chiropractor provides gentle and safe care through hands-on spinal adjustments.
The spine is significant because it is responsible for many things, including:
- Walking
- Bending
- Neck movements
- Protecting the central nervous system
- The function and coordination of every muscle and organ in the body
Your spine is the means by which the brain gets a message to the rest of your body. When the spine is misaligned, it makes completing everyday tasks much more difficult. This is why spinal manipulation is so important. It treats the root cause of your discomfort and allows your body to heal itself – often removing the need for drugs and surgery.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care
In a recent study of 1,700 people, 1,400 claimed that spinal manipulation improved their life and significantly reduced their pain. Other benefits of chiropractic care include:
- Improved range of motion and coordination
- Improved nerve communication
- Improved posture, physical performance, and joint function
- Minimized neck and back pain
- Minimized pain in the upper and lower extremities
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Reduced allergy symptoms
- Reduced headaches
- Relief from degenerative and inflammatory arthritis
- Relief from chronic and acute pain
- Improved quality of life
Another huge benefit is that chiropractic care may help prevent you from needing medication for your pain. NSAIDs can be extremely expensive and extremely dangerous to your overall health. Heart attacks, strokes, stomach ulcers, nausea, and kidney problems are all common side effects of regularly taking pain medications.
Regular appointments with your Roanoke and Trophy Club chiropractor can keep your body communicating and working properly for long-term health.
Will it work for me?
Dr. Doyle recognizes that everyone is unique, so he works with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan. With over 21 years of research and experience, he has created his own drug-free, holistic methods of treatments to help you achieve total wellness. Conditions he treats include:
- Back pain
- Disc issues
- Sciatica
- Migraines and headaches
- Vertigo
- Neck pain
- Muscular and nerve problems
- Extremity injuries
He combines alternative methods to give each patient customized care. His other treatment methods include:
- Acupuncture
- Herbal remedies
- Massage therapy
- Therapeutic exercises
- Auriculotherapy
- Nutritional planning
- Detoxifications programs
- Weight loss treatments
If you are struggling with any of these problems, we have a treatment plan for you.
Visit Your Roanoke & Trophy Club Chiropractor
Holistic, alternative treatment methods, like chiropractic care, are becoming increasingly popular because they work without causing other high-risk issues. Dr. Doyle focuses on getting your whole body healthy – not just treating your symptoms. If you are interested in how our team at Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture can help you, give us a call at 817-767-5430.
Don’t Be Miserable: 4 Tips for Pain Relief
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 70 million Americans lived with chronic pain in 2016. If you are one of the millions of people in America suffering from chronic pain, life can feel hopeless. Most likely you’ve been to multiple doctors and have tried several treatments only to be disappointed. Today, we want to give you some hope.
One of the best pieces of advice we can give you is to visit Dr. Cody Doyle at Doyle Chiropractic and Acupuncture near Justin. He uses alternative methods, such as myofascial release therapy and acupuncture, to treat chronic pain and other health conditions.
While this is a great long-term solution for pain control, here are 4 things you can try at home to help mitigate the pain:
1. Nutrition
On days when you wake up in pain, getting out of bed can seem impossible. And if you aren’t getting out of bed, you probably aren’t staying hydrated or eating properly– both of which might be contributing to your pain.
Studies have shown that dehydration can amplify your pain. So, make sure you are drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day. Buy yourself a giant water bottle or two and keep them next to your bed so you only have to get up once or twice to refill.
Ask yourself this question: What have I eaten today? If the answer is nothing, your pain is probably amplified by fatigue, irritability, and anxiety. Even without chronic pain, that’s a bad combination. If all you’ve eaten today is a donut or bag of chips, try eating some fruit, nuts, or vegetables. Your body needs nutritious food for energy to combat your pain.
2. Exercise
If you don’t exercise, your muscles lose their strength and cause more distress. When you begin exercising, start slow, listen to your body, and gradually work your way up. What begins as a five-minute walk down the street could eventually become a thirty-minute walk around the neighborhood.
Several studies have proven that exercise reduces chronic pain, increases nerve function, and helps relieve stress and anxiety. If you don’t know where to start, or what type of exercise would benefit you most, Dr. Doyle can create a plan that’s right for you.
3. Relaxation
Meditation, deep breathing, and a variety of other mind-body practices have been proven to enhance your overall health by calming your nervous system and regulating blood pressure. Find what fits your lifestyle and see how it affects your symptoms. Pair these relaxing practices with yoga or tai chi to cross exercise and relaxation off your to-do list!
4. Heating Pad/ Ice Pack
Depending on your pain, one or both of these options could be helpful. Use a heating pad or take a warm bath if your muscles are tense. The heat will increase blood flow to that area and cause your muscles to relax. If you have swelling, an ice pack can reduce the inflammation. It can also numb any pain in a specific area.
Learn How Dr. Doyle Can Help You
If you need help managing your chronic pain, chiropractic care is one of the best solutions. People from all over Texas come to Dr. Doyle for chiropractic care because of his expertise and success. Whether you have chronic neck and back pain, headaches or migraines, struggle with stress or anxiety, or are trying to lose weight, he can assist you on your journey to success. Visit our Roanoke and Justin chiropractic and acupuncture office to discover how he can meet your individual needs. Call 817-767-5430 to schedule your appointment.