Conditions Treated

What problems can be helped?

Human function is neurologically integrated. Doctors of Chiropractic evaluate and faciliate biomechanical and neuro-biological function and integrity through the use of appropriate conservative diagnostic and chiropractic care procedures. Direct access to chiropractic care is integral to everyone’s health care regime. Because of the relationship between the spine and the nervous system many people seek chiropractic care for a great variety of health problems.

It would be fair to estimate that the majority of new patients have either low back pain, sciatica, neck pain, shoulder and arm problems and thoracic / chest pain, though more people are now looking for help with other problems such as headaches, migraine, shoulder problems, digestive & menstrual disorders, breathing problems and allergies. Many people choose preventative chiropractoc care to ensure optimal spinal function, as part of their general health programme, which may also include exercise and nutritional changes.

Lower Back Pain And Sciatica

Chiropractors are government recognised specialists for low back pain care! Low back pain affects 8 out of 10 people in the UK. The majority of back pain patients have not experienced any trauma, accidents or major injuries prior to the onset of their problem. The cause of most back pain is the cumulative affect of improper sitting posture, poor work habits, incorrect lifting, lack of proper exercise and other lifestyle related factors. All of these factors cause stress and imbalances on the spine (subluxation) and eventually cause pain. This is why people often injure their back by just bending over to pick up a piece of paper. The spine was already compromised and just the simple act of bending was enough to set off the problem. When this occurs, the surrounding back muscles go into spasm to protect the stressed or injured tissues of the back.

Durham Coastal Chiropractic’s approach is to help restore a more normal motion and position of affected spinal bones using specific chiropractic adjustments. The simplicity and success of this approach has been documented in numerous research projects, the Rand study and has helped many patients avoid risky surgery.

The Dr’s can determine whether chiropractic treatment is essential for you, based on the assessment of your initial exam. Once your problem area(s) have been recognised, the Dr. will outline a personalised treatment program that fits you.

Disc problems

Discs are the cartilage pads that separate and cushion and help connect the vertebrae that make up your spinal column. They serve as shock absorbers between each of the vertebrae and are constantly subjected to the pull of gravity and torque from everyday movement. Disc problems can be the result of genetics, the normal “wear and tear” of ageing and injury.

Disc function is greatly affected by the alignment of the spine. A subluxation or structural imbalance can force a disc to bulge, protrude, or herniate which then can result in contact with the nerves and cause pain.

This common back problem is one we see frequently. The Gonstead system of chiropractic correction is very effective in returning the spine to its normal range of motion, thereby reducing the pressure on the discs and spinal joints. We also incoporate massage therapy as well as strengthening exercises for the abdominal and back muscles. Core stabilisation is essential for prevention of subsequent disc problems.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the degeneration of the cartilage and bones of joints caused by “wear and tear” processes. It is often associated with degenerative changes in the disc and results in friction between adjacent vertebrae. The friction causes a strain as well as a loss of motion in the facets (gliding joints) of the spine. If these joints are exposed to continued trauma such as strenuous exercise, weakened muscles, and the inevitable factors of ageing and heredity, the results can be severe low back and/or leg pain.

Chiropractic care may slow the process of osteoarthritis and may improve the quality of life while living with the disease. Ongoing chiropractic correction is also helpful in preventing the progression of the degeneration. If you’re suffering from osteoarthritis, your spine is usually less flexible; therefore, it becomes more vulnerable to injury. Under our care, your care may include spinal adjustments, massage therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises. We can also recommend natural, drug free ways to control your pain and discomfort.

Whiplash

Whiplash is the common name given to the injury where there is a hyperextention (increased backward motion) and hyperflexion (increased forward motion) of the cervical (neck) spine. More simply put, the head is dramatically thrust forward and backward. Car accidents and falls can cause whiplash injuries. Symptoms of whiplash include headaches; visual disturbance; stiffness of the neck; restriction of movement; shoulder, neck or arm pain. These symptoms may or may not be felt immediately. It is estimated that most whiplash injuries are not felt for several hours or days and in some cases even months or years following the accident.

Even if you are not in pain following a whiplash incident it is important to receive prompt attention to your injury as the structural balance of your neck and spine is important to your health. We can assist in your recovery by correctly adjusting your neck and/or spine so it has the chance to heal properly. In addition, we can recommend massage therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises and nutritional advice to put you back on the road to good health.

Full List of Conditions Treated