What Are the Best Treatments for Whiplash?

When it comes to whiplash, there are multiple treatment options available depending on where the injury occurred and the resultant symptoms. With some perseverance, dedication, and a positive attitude, treatment results will be optimized.

It is very common that whiplash victims don't experience the pain right away. It may take a few days to a few weeks for the discomfort to show itself. This can be from adrenaline causing you to not feel any pain.

If you were transferred to the emergency room after the accident, the workup will be to rule out something very acutely serious, such as a fracture or neurologic injury. Once those are ruled out, then the typical diagnosis comes down to a Cervical Strain/Sprain. This can mean a bunch of different things.

Acutely, treatment should consist of some common things such as:

1) Ice, not heat - the objective is to decrease inflammation, and ice may constrict blood vessels and limit the swelling and inflammation. Hence pain may be decreased as well.

Pain medication - Can be very effective in the acute setting for pain relief. It is not recommended for chronic intake.

Muscle relaxers - these medications include Valium, Skelaxin, Soma, Flexeril, etc and act to counter muscle spasm.

NSAID's - anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen and naproxen may help with whiplash pain.

Additional medications that may be considered include neuropathic medications like Lyrica or Neurontin, sleep aids like Ambien or Restoril, and anti-depressant medications such as Paxil or Prozac.

Sixty percent of chronic whiplash pain has been shown to be coming from the facet joint capsule. Pain Doctors have had good results utilizing cervial epidural steroid injections (ESI), trigger point injections, and radifrequency ablation (RFA). RFA gives much longer pain relief typically than an ESI. The medial branches, which are the tiny nerve endings supplying the joint capsule with sensation (and pain) usually regenerate between 270-400 days, so patients may achieve over one year of pain relief.

Whiplash injuries respond typically best to an active and comprehensive therapeutic intervention. The "wait and see" approach may end up in a missed window of opportunity for making great strides in pain relief. Half of whiplash patients end up with chronic pain and 10% of whiplash patients become disabled. That adds up to over 250,000 new disabilities each year in the US.

Physical therapy may be dramatically beneficial to whiplash patients. Ice, heat, traction, ultrasound, deep tissue massage, active and passive range of motion may allow patients to quickly become more mobile and active.

Chiropractors are the single largest group of practitioners treating whiplash injuries. Chiropractors treat 36% of all whiplash victims. The remaining 64% are treated by a combination of generalists (internists, family practice) and acupuncturists. A study in the UK looking at chiropractic treatment for whiplash injuries displayed over 90% effectiveness for relieving whiplash pain.

Other studies have looked specifically at cervical spinal manipulation for whiplash and found the treatment to be very effective.

Evidence on treatment for Mechanical Neck Disorders, of which Whiplash is classified, includes:

Strong evidence = Stretching/Strengthening along with Spinal manipulation

Moderate Evidence = Stretching/Strengthening, IV steroids for whiplash, and epidural injections. Low level laser therapy, electrotherapy (TENS), Intermittent traction (like spinal decompression), and acupuncture.

Limited Evidence = Magnetic stimulation, Chinese massage, trigger point injections, and orthopaedic pillow.

Thoracic Herniated Disc Treatment - Stretches

Thoracic herniated disc problem is something which could be cured both with the help of surgical and non surgical treatments. This is good news for the people who are not really willing or are a bit scared of going under the knife for this problem.

The non surgical treatments could be very beneficial only if they are done over a period of time and they are done in combinations of different treatments. Just one treatment is not good enough. We would, in this article, look at some of the non surgical treatments for thoracic herniated disc.

Taking rest is very important for this problem and if you are having this problem, then it would be advisable that you go through a couple of days rest and then get back to the normal things of life. This would ensure that the herniated disc does not get further deteriorated by your activities.

After some time of rest, the person can go back to normal activities but he or she should be very slow and gentle in each and everything he or she does for some period. Starting with some gentle walking exercises would be a good way to go about things initially.

There could be some medications taken as well. They could be either narcotic or non narcotic or a combination of both. These narcotic medicines are basically used to cure the upper back pain problems which might help in relieving the pain from the thoracic herniated disc as well. There could be some anti-inflammatory agents used as well mainly for bringing down the inflammation near the herniated disc.

These anti-inflammation remedies could be either medications, ice packs or some anti inflammatory injections. Strengthening exercises, manual manipulation could be some of the other non surgical treatments that can be used to cure the thoracic herniated disc.

Inversion Tables Do They Work

There's a lot of talk among both people in the healthcare fields and those of us whom are just laypeople - inversion tables do they work? Some experts say no and they caution that some people may be at a greater risk to their health if they are hanging upside down using these apparatuses.

People with heart disease or glaucoma are at a higher risk level for having a stroke. They probably should find some other way to relieve their back pain or other problem instead. There is also some controversy that being in an inverted position alone can increase the pressure on the lower back instead of reducing it. This is especially supposed to affect men whom normally have a larger proportion of their body weight in the upper halves of their body. The idea is that turning individuals upside down for inversion therapy might be putting more strain on their spines.

Other medical experts stress a word of caution too. Again the most problematic area of concern for most health experts is the increased blood pressure to the neck and eyes that occurs when one's body is turned into a 180 degree position. In theory, the apparatus is supposed to help relieve back pain by removing gravitational pressure off the nerve roots and disks in the spine. This increases the space between the vertebrae. Some people found this treatment as most useful for temporary relief. The table gradually tips someone into a head-down position. This is the way that gravity attempts to stretch the spine (spinal traction) so that at least some temporary back relief can be achieved by the individual. Another adverse side-effect of this action is that within a short time a person's heart rate does slow down. and This is accompanied again with increased blood pressure going to the neck and eyes.

People that use these devices truly believe that they are gaining some positive health effects, at least in the area of being relieved from back pain on a temporary basis. The decompression of the spinal disks from being in an upside down position is what seems to help most back sufferers that utilize this method for relief. Many people swear that by using the device as little as 5-10 minutes a couple of times a day or just before bed for 10-15 minutes the pressure that is relieved from their discs makes the usage of this equipment beneficial. In addition these same users also claim that their sleep has improved, as well as their posture, their flexibility and their level of mental agility too.

Inversion tables do they work? The answer to whether or not they do lies within the eyes of the users of theses apparatuses. Many back sufferers claim that they do help to gain relief on a temporary basis. While others, especially in the healthcare field caution the use of these tables because of the possibility of adverse health effects, especially by those with heart, blood pressure and eye disease problems. Everyone can agree that before anyone uses one of these devices. Seek the advice of your trusted doctor before using it so that your level of health is appropriate for its usage.

Reverse Hypers - A Strength Training Equipment for Powerlifters

Reverse hypers, a strength training equipment, is used by powerlifters for the development of their hamstrings, glutes, and lower and middle back. This patented fitness equipment is ideal for strength athletes and powerlifters and is invented by the legendary powerlifter and strength trainer Louie Simmons. Louie invented this equipment after he broke his fifth lumbar vertebra. This product was patented in the year 1993. This machine helps to increase squat and bench and are ideal for strength and rehabilitation.

The following are some reverse hypers that powerlifters can use:

Ultra Supreme Reverse Hypers: This fitness equipment focuses on developing the back muscles. This is used with table set straight; it produces similar effect that one can get on the other strength training equipment invented by Louie. In the concentric phase, this device helps in dynamic strength development; in the eccentric phase, it serves as a rehabilitation mechanism. While doing powerlifting training, this machine helps to stretch and depressurize the low back muscles gently with blood and the spinal column with spinal fluid.

While using this equipment tilt down the table toward front, this helps to feel the stretch and decompression completely, especially into the complete thoracic area. The machine can be tilt down towards the rear to get a 45-degree hyper; it is ideal for stimulating the gluts and erectors. This is great fitness equipment that can help the powerlifters to develop their lower back muscles like never before.

Pro Reverse Hyper: This helps to decompress the spine. Vertical compression cannot be felt on the spine, while using this machine. Just like the Supreme Ultra Reverse Hyper, Pro Reverse Hyper helps in achieving dynamic strength development during the concentric phase. In the eccentric phase, this strength training equipment allows for rehabilitation mechanism by stretching and depressurizing the spine gently. It creates an internal pumping mechanism by filling the low back muscles with blood and the spinal column with spinal fluid. For rehabilitation, pressure is required to be released and circulation must be restored to the injured area. One can use this fitness machine 3 to 4 times in a week for therapeutic work. However, many use this fitness equipment on a daily basis with light weight; this helps to tighten the lower back area. This unit can easily take up the abuse of heavy weights. These machines are ideal for using 24 hours a day. One can be use it as home gym equipment as well as in commercial gyms. An instructional tape is provided for the users along with this equipment. Though white frame and black pad is the standard color, one can even order for a customized color.

Ultra Pro Reverse Hypers: This strength training equipment can be used as Strap or Roller model and can be changed with a pin removal. It comes with two sets of straps and roller and one can use it as either model. This Louie Simmons equipment does not produce vertical compression on the spine and can decompress the spine. In the concentric phase, this machine allows for dynamic strength development and in eccentric phase, Pro Rollers facilitates in rehabilitation mechanism. Powerlifters often experience injured back; using this product will help the lifters to relieve the pressure as well as to restore blood circulation to the injured area. For therapeutic work, one can use this fitness equipment 3 to 4 times a week. It is also ideal for everyday use; however, it is recommended to opt for lightweight while using this machine on a regular basis.

The Ultra Pro Roller Reverse Hypers too can be used as home gym equipment as well as for commercial gyms. This fitness equipment is quite similar to the previous model, except for the hanging apparatus. Unlike the set of straps where one can hang their feet through, this strength training equipment come with a roller system.

All these strength-training equipments hold Olympic plates.

Inversion Bench - Main Causes Of Back Pain And How Reversing Gravity Helps

Inversion bench or inversion table is making a kind of a comeback. It used to be highly popular in the 80's. However, due to some injuries, some even fatal, the inversion therapy popularity has been vastly reduced in the 90s. Today, the comeback of the inversion bench is in full swing. The low inversion bench prices, at least compared to the cost of the doctors and chiropractic visits and pain and other medications that it can help save, makes the inversion table just too good to pass up if you have any kind of back or neck pain.

In this article we will look into main conditions that cause people to develop back pain, and will touch briefly on ways in which reversing gravity with inversion table therapy might help. The four causes are repeated pressure on the spinal bones, being overweight, pinched nerves in the spine, and herniated spinal discs.

Repeated stress and pressure on the spine

The repeated stress and pressure can have many origins. For instance, long distance runners and athletes who run daily, will over time develop spinal problems due to such repeated stresses. Also, when one does physical labor, the pressures are exerted on the spine repeatedly to the degree that the spine can not correct or heal itself anymore. In today's information society, just sitting in front of the computer will cause a higher and repeated pressure on your spine than standing up would. Inversion bench therapy can definitely relieve stress on the spinal column.

Being overweight

This is one of the often forgotten negative consequences of being overweight. We sometimes think that being overweight only affects the internal organs such as heart and lungs, which must work harder to provide a bigger body with oxygen and nutrients. In addition, in overweight people, every single activity, including sitting down, causes a disproportionate level of stress on the spinal bones and discs. With inversion therapy, you give these spinal bones a temporary relief from the pressure.

Pinched nerves in and around the spine

Our spine is a major host of nerves that lead from our brains through the spine, and branch out to the internal organs, the arms, the legs. When the spine is misaligned in a way, these nerves can become pinched and will cause pain. This cause of pain can itself be a consequence of causes mentioned above, such as being overweight and the spine being exposed to constant repeated stress. Back inversion tables at least reposition, and loosen the muscles around the nerves, hopefully "un-pinching" some.

Herniated discs

Also loosely termed "slipped disc", herniated disc is a condition when the outer ring of the spinal disc breaks and allows the softer inner part of the disc to bulge out. The chemicals released in the process can cause major pain. Naturally, the herniated discs can themselves be a consequence of being overweight or of being exposed to repeated stresses on the spine.

Regardless of the causes of the pain, chances are, that the spinal decompression, or relieving the pressure in the spine, at least for the duration of the inversion using the inversion bench or inversion board, will help the body heal.

Chiropractic Care Resources

Making a decision about Chiropractic care in Panama City or any town can present a possible patient with a lot of daunting challenges. Because of the small size of our area and the many different municipalities finding the right one should never be left to chance. Here are some key points to consider when deciding on a chiropractor in our area as well as others.

Does the chiropractor offer the services that I need? Many local chiropractic offices limit the type of services in their offices based on where they went to school. Some colleges teach physical therapy in their schools and others frown on additional services. Try to find an office that offers a complete package which makes decision making easier. Chiropractic services as well as medical services in the same office can be helpful so that deciding whether or not you need a chiropractor or a medical doctor is handled for you. If you just want chiropractic only make sure you will not be forced to undergo other tests or procedures. If you desire an office with a medical staff make sure the medical personnel are trained in Pain Management and that the office is fully equipped to do procedural pain management in house which saves having to make appointments with outside offices which in Panama City can take weeks.

Do they offer the latest training and technologies? Look for years in practice and additional training. Have they been in Panama City long or do they move around? Do they offer services like decompression therapy? I recommend the DRX9000C. This device has offered many patients relief from herniated and bulging discs as well as spinal degeneration in both the Lumbar and Cervical regions and is a state of the art unit. Do not be fooled by copy cat machines which cannot perform at the same level as this unit as it is the only ones that provide significant Spinal Decompression. There are currently only three of these units in the Panhandle of Florida but if you need decompression treatment they are worth the search. The Zerona laser again is rare in our area and is not just for melting fat off the body as the lasers on this machine can be used for post surgical healing and wound healing after an accident. Many injuries can hide to regular x-rays so the use of a Video Fluoroscopy unit in a pain management suite will allow doctors to find and detect hidden fractures and ligamentous damage. This can be of paramount importance should you be involved in an auto accident or suffer a serious injury as commonly these injuries can go undetected and lead to later permanent damage.

Do they take my insurance such as Medicare? You will find that in our area many Bay County practices are no longer taking Medicare and even fewer are taking Medicaid. This should be very important in your decision making if you plan on using your insurance and not paying for services as rendered. Many time reimbursement from insurances do not come in as fast or cover as much as you think.

Do they accept active military? Because Panama City has multiple military facilities including Tyndall AFB and the Naval Coastal Systems Station. You may want to consider if the office will accept these type of patients and do they support our fighting men and women in uniform.
Does the chiropractor respect my time? Many Panama City area practices especially some of the medical ones can make you wait weeks for appointments and if you are in pain then this is unacceptable. The outer lying areas can be quicker but usually offer less services. When you are missing work due to pain you need relief fast and waiting will not work. This can force the patient to make quick decisions and sometimes the wrong ones as a result. Personal service and understanding wait times should be of utmost importance in any office. Understanding that your time is precious and that you have other things on your plate will make all of your visits more pleasant and waste less of your limited time. Offices should strive to keep that in mind when scheduling and work with you as much as possible about unforeseen events.

Will you see the same doctor each time? Many local offices rotate multiple doctors and sometimes the patient feels like they have to start over each time they go in. Make sure that the doctor you get will be able to follow through with your care.

Does the chiropractor offer weight loss options? Few doctors honestly will spend time working with weight loss because of the way insurance handles this issue and there is so much noncompliance. Some offices but not many offer treatment with the Zerona Laser. This non invasive treatment option can reduce fat on your body with no diet, no surgery, and no downtime. This device has received FDA clearance as a body sculpting machine and is painless and on average causes patients to lose between 4-7 inches with no major change in lifestyle. Generally, offices will ask that patients start living a better lifestyle to maintain loses that they receive in their offices.

Are there ways to check out the office? Yes, in many cases a quick online search can tell you a lot about an office. We invite you to go to Google maps and look at the reviews of offices online and compare each chiropractic office and pain management offices as well. Many offices can now be found online and we encourage research and questions. Online referral services can also sometimes be of help like 123 Chiropractors.

How Much to Prepare For Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is by and large cost-effective and very affordable. You will see that it is better when equated with a number of other medical measures that last for several years. The fees will change depending on your condition, the professional and duration of treatment. It is recommended that you compare different sources first, to work out how much you actually need.

The Average Costs

A normal chiropractic session in general costs around $65 for general vertebrae adjustment, as reported by one survey in a chiropractic magazine. Sessions usually range anywhere between $35 and $105, dependent on the patient's location, requirements for examinations and the regions of the spine that will be treated. Usually, rates are most expensive in southern areas of the United States, averaging around $70 per session. The Midwest has the lowest rates at around $60.

During your first visits, you ought to expect to pay slightly beyond the typical, at around $60 to $160, since you will require overall health consultation. Additional fees may be charged by professionals for X-ray during diagnostics and evaluation too, priced at about $44 to $160. A great deal of health insurance cover plans will look after certain chiropractic care levels, with remedies turning into a tax-deductible expense. Most chiropractors will take payment plans or insurance.

What to Expect

During each session, you should anticipate to have adjustment of the vertebrae, wherein the chiropractor uses his or her arms and hands, to provide force to the neck and back, thereby realigning joints and relief pain and pressure. The regularity and duration of session will rely upon the actual condition of the patient, as well as patient's a reaction to therapy.

Additional services and modalities can also be given by chiropractors to alleviate tension and stress, as well as treat chronic problems. During a survey of 365 chiropractors, about 48% offer massage services, while 15% offer acupuncture or acupressure. A rub down therapy session by a chiropractor will cost about $40.

Pressure will be put on to the soft tissues and muscles. Acupuncture is the procedure of inserting needles into pressure points in your body to control the correct flow of energy. Each session will cost about $100 to $150, including consultation services. Follow up visits will cost about $65.

Getting Discounts

Some pros who only accept cash usually charge less, at around $55 per session. These physicians are not concerned about the reimbursement percentage that they can get from insurance agencies. Chiropractors with single practice offers usually give discounts, with the whole price average about $63 per session, when equated with physicians belonging in a medical group, with an average charge of about $70.

More Costs

Majority of clinics will require you to go through thorough physical assessment, to work out the right sort of therapy and regions that should be provided attention. Spinal X-Ray, MRI and thermal scan are just a few of the various diagnostic procedures that will be added to your overall costs. You can visit other cheaper places to have these results too, then bring them to your chiropractor to review.

If you are recommended to undergo treatment for several months, expect that costs per session will bit by bit decrease. Some professionals also provide package deals that last for a couple of months, to help patients deal with financial constraints more efficiently.

Quickly learn how to shop for the right professional and compare the rates before picking out.