Pain is nature’s way of telling you that everything is not alright. Although there are many different types of pain, there are a few specific kinds that may require chiropractic attention. And while a homemade solution may work in some instances, often only a chiropractor can alleviate the root cause.
But how do you know that it’s time to visit a chiropractor? For many of us, the next step after attending to the pain ourselves is to merely wish it away. This does not help; in fact, the longer you put it off the worse your situation may become. A slight pain can become a debilitating condition. Achiness may turn to full-on immobility. It seems obvious, but many of us let it happen to ourselves.
Here are five telltale signs that you should put down the ice pack and visit a chiropractor.
You experience chronic headaches or migraines
Headaches can stem from many different issues. Often central to these is muscle tension in the neck. Primary headaches are frequently the result of joint irritation and muscle tension, and the ever-more-common sedentary lifestyle many of us lead does not help.
Through chiropractic adjustments and spinal manipulation, a chiropractor can help alleviate the tension that builds in your head. These practices restore balance to your spine and structure. They take pressure off vital areas to your spine, and thus, reduce the pain in your head.
Of course, each headache is different. Be sure to consult your doctor before receiving chiropractic care for headaches or migraines.
Poor ergonomic habits
Repetitive tasks or sitting for a long period of time can actually do quite a number on the body. As opposed to being at rest, sitting can put undue stress on various parts of the body. Repetitive tasks often will promote poor posture or an uneven utilization of muscle groups.
The best thing you can do is to keep moving. We mention it all the time on our blog posts; that is because it is essential to leading a healthy lifestyle. However, even if you are able to “shake it off,” this lifestyle requires that you see a chiropractor. A professional will be able to give your body a “tune-up,” much as a mechanic would your car. There is a lot you can do for yourself, but a trained professional can diagnose and address the bigger issues.
Persistent neck pain
As we’ve already discussed, a poor lifestyle can lead to neck pain, which in turn can cause headaches. From ice packs to a firm pillow, there is a lot you can do at home. But if the neck pain persists, it is time to see a chiropractor.
Of all the ways your neck might be hurting, the condition to look out for is that it is persistent. You don’t want to take any chances when it comes to your spine and neck. Whether you have trouble turning your head, have trouble getting through the day with the pain, or your stiffness does not improve, see a chiropractor.
Lower back pain, sometimes
We’ve all experienced lower back pain to some extent or another in our lives. And while it is quite uncomfortable and even incredibly painful sometimes, usually it isn’t a cause for too much alarm. In most instances, it hurts for a while but then goes away on its own.
There are a few conditions that, when all three meet, may give you actual cause to investigate. Painscience.com calls these The Big Three symptoms. They are that 1) the pain has persisted for at least six weeks, 2) it is not going away, or maybe even getting worse, and 3) meets at least one of these additional conditions.
If you still fear that your specific back pain may be cause for alarm, don’t hesitate to consult your chiropractor. Just know that while painful, most back pain is not ominous.
Chronic pain in muscles or joints
Even, maybe especially, an athletic lifestyle can lead to problems with muscles and joints. Constant physical activity wears down and builds up your muscles. Thus is the nature of exercise. But occasionally, they never seem to build back up and the result is a chronic ache.
However, this is not exclusive to athletes or exercise. Joint pain may even be an early indicator of something more serious, such as rheumatoid arthritis or even bone cancer. By nipping it in the bed and going to visit a chiropractor, you will not only find a remedy for your pain but perhaps even a chance to beat sickness.
In the meanwhile, try implementing a daily regimen of stretches and a healthy, joint-friendly diet. Joint pain itself isn’t necessarily something to lose sleep over but if it becomes chronic, you should seek professional advice.
Time to visit a chiropractor
Chiropractors receive specialized training to work these areas of your body. Aside from helping to work them through various treatments back into shape, your chiropractor can give you advice on moving forward with your activity levels. If you experiencing these symptoms and home remedies are just not cutting it, it is time to visit a chiropractor. Let their expertise take over and take the next step toward living a pain-free life.
Your chiropractor is there to guide you through the pain; he or she can help you determine what is threatening and what is not. If you have any questions at all about your pain, and whether it is requisite that you receive treatment, contact your local chiropractor.