3 Strategies for Effective Pain Management

Dealing with ongoing pain from an injury or condition can disrupt your life, and finding an effective pain management strategy can be frustrating. In addition, managing pain can often involve surgery or reliance on prescription pain medication. However, a chiropractor may be able to help you reduce or alleviate your chronic pain while reducing or avoiding the need for interventions like surgery and pain medications. Here are three common ways chiropractic practitioners approach pain management.

Pain management from a chiropractor

A chiropractor takes a holistic approach to pain management, considering the source of the pain and lifestyle factors that may contribute to it. These practitioners focus on nonpharmacological and surgical interventions aimed at easing pain, promoting healing, and helping the patient prevent future injury. Each treatment plan will be customized to the individual and may involve the following.

Chiropractic manipulation and mobilization

Joint or spinal manipulation and mobilization are two common approaches chiropractors employ to help relieve pain and restore mobility. Manipulation involves applying controlled rapid force to a joint using tools or the practitioner’s hands, which can often cause a popping or cracking sound. The goal is to stimulate surrounding tissue to reduce pain and inflammation and improve the joint’s function.

On the other hand, mobilization employs slower movements that involve gentle pressure, stretching, and repetitive motions. With mobilization, there are known popping or cracking sounds. This approach often appeals to older adults or those recovering from injury seeking a gentler approach.

Soft tissue therapy

Soft tissue techniques focus on muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues. A chiropractor can apply various massage techniques to help relax muscles and improve blood flow, promoting pain relief and healing. Other soft tissue therapies include:

• Myofascial release. Type of soft tissue therapy that releases tightness in the myofascial tissues
• Trigger point therapy. Helps release knots to relieve pain and tension in muscles and fascia
• Kinesiology taping. Involves the use of a special tape to stabilize and support muscles and joints without restricting movement
• Cupping therapy. Special cups are placed on the skin to create suction, improve blood flow, promote healing, and relieve muscle tension

The chiropractor may also employ heat and cold therapy and electrical stimulation to help improve circulation and relieve tension and discomfort.

Posture and lifestyle advice and modifications

Chiropractors are knowledgeable in posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle changes that can contribute to pain relief. Patients may be employing postures and movements at work or home that contribute to their pain. A chiropractor can help patients recognize these and make the necessary adjustments to their dynamic and static postures. In addition, the practitioner can advise the patient on lifestyle changes such as nutrition improvements and stress reduction techniques.

Explore your pain management options

If aches and pains are interfering with your life, Woods Chiropractic PC may be able to help you feel better and get back to your active lifestyle. We offer compassionate chiropractic care tailored to your needs. Call our team today to learn more about effective pain management strategies.

Request an appointment here: https://www.woodsindychiro.com or call Woods Chiropractic PC at (317) 257-3919 for an appointment in our Indianapolis office.

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