Ankle Injuries

Dr. Jay McClanahan provides chiropractic treatment for many issues. This includes joint pain, also known as Arthralgia. This isn’t a condition itself but a symptom of something larger like arthritis. When other treatments fail to work, contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, located in Nitro, WV. We’ll help you find the pain relief you need.

The severity of your joint pain is completely personalized to you. Everyone experiences it differently. It ranges from mild discomfort to debilitating. When it gets severe, patients struggle to even move or walk. Here are a few causes of arthralgia:

-Muscle strain
-Dislocation
-Nutritional deficiencies
-Fibromyalgia
-Gout
-Bursitis
-Lupus
-Osteoarthritis
-An underactive thyroid
-Psoriatic and rheumatoid arthritis
-Rickets
-Multiple sclerosis
-Sprains
-Tendonitis
-Sarcoidosis

Scheduling an appointment with Dr. McClanahan is the best way to get a diagnosis. The appointment starts with your Nitro, WV, chiropractor performing a physical evaluation. This narrows down what could be causing your arthralgia. Once the reasoning behind the pain is found, the treatment begins.

It’s important to remember that chiropractic care is holistic. Instead of giving you prescription drugs, we utilize your body’s natural healing processes. Increasing its overall functioning lets you heal quicker and better.

Don’t wait any longer when struggling with arthralgia. Pain relief is possible with just one phone call! Schedule an appointment with Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center today. To schedule your appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan in Nitro, WV, call 304-776-1520 or visit https://www.drjbackdocwv.com/

What Is A Personal Injury?

Everyone at one point or another has suffered from what is called a Personal Injury. These are accidents that happen outside your workplace. At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, located in Nitro, WV, Dr. Jay McClanahan is highly experienced in treating these injuries. We recommend that you schedule an appointment right away. You should never wait to seek chiropractic treatment after an injury. Prevention and intervention are key to a healthy life.

Your appointment with Dr. McClanahan begins with a thorough examination. He evaluates your body, looking for any lingering damage from your injury. Once the injured body part is located, the road to recovery can begin.

Here are a few common personal injuries:
-falls, slips, and trips
-bicycle accidents
-car and motorcycle accidents

Chiropractors are different from other medical professionals when it comes to treatment. Your Nitro, WV, chiropractor believes that healing only occurs when the root of the pain is addressed. In simple terms, treating the cause removes your painful symptoms. Dr. McClanahan offers non-invasive and holistic treatment. You won’t need to rely on pain medication, just a willingness to heal. Treatment for a personal injury varies between patients. Most cases involve adjustments and therapeutic exercise.

Don’t hesitate to contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Dr. Jay McClanahan is available by appointment. To schedule a time that works for everyone, call 304-776-1520 or visit his website.

Hormonal Disorders

A large majority of women deal with hormonal disorders and issues. This includes difficult periods, intense emotional mood swings during PMS, and infertility. If other treatments haven’t worked, consider chiropractic treatment at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Unlike other medical professionals, Dr. Jay McClanahan focuses on holistic methods. Your Nitro, WV, improves your body’s natural functions to decrease your negative symptoms.

When your Nitro, WV, chiropractor talks about holistic treatment, he’s discussing non-invasive and prescription free options. Dr. McClanahan focuses on your body as a whole, looking past your symptoms to their cause. Only through healing the cause will the symptoms diminish. We boost your body’s natural functions to help you fully recover. We are merely here to help you help yourself.

There are a few hormonal problems we can treat. When it comes to PMS, naturopathic care eliminates your body’s production of moodiness, acne, and extreme bleeding. There are natural remedies, like certain supplements and dietary changes, that improve your menstrual periods. Dr. McClanahan can improve your fertility and likelihood to conceive as well. We increase your overall health by detoxifying your body and addressing any cyclical issues. This strengthens your body for carrying a baby to full-term.

We have to spend the rest of our lives with our bodies, it’s important to take care of them! Let us work with you through your hormonal difficulties. If you are interested in learning more, contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center today. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520.

Chronic Disease & Chiropractic Treatment

No one likes having a cold or being sick. Besides not feeling good at all, you end up spending time in the doctor’s office or trapped in bed. Nobody knows this better than those suffering from a chronic disease. That’s where Dr. Jay McClanahan’s chiropractic treatment comes in. At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we work with you to strengthen your body and immune system. Schedule an appointment with our office in Nitro, WV, today.

Harmful yet chronic diseases can go undetected for years. Many are very difficult to diagnose, stumping medical professionals everywhere. Your symptoms may come and go or seem completely unrelated. You might first think that you have a stomach bug. You have bouts of nausea, bloating, and discomfort. Maybe you have pain in your joints or back. The one common thread between your symptoms is that they are chronic and never go away. You’ll develop blood sugar, hormone, blood pressure, cholesterol, and sleeping problems.

Your Nitro, WV, promotes the idea of neuropathic healing. This means that your chronic disease must be combated by strengthening your entire system. We offer a variety of techniques to help you reach this goal. The first is nutritional and dietary changes. What you eat affects your entire body. If you eat better, you’ll undoubtedly feel better! Exercise works to the same effect. Talk to Dr. McClanahan about various therapeutic exercises.

Your first appointment starts relatively simple. Talk to Dr. McClanahan about all your symptoms and how long you’ve experienced them. He may also perform a physical evaluation. Regardless of the results, Dr. McClanahan works with you to find the right treatment plan.

Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520.

Massage Therapy For Burns

Your burn scars shouldn’t be a constant reminder of a traumatic event. Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is a great addition to your medical team. His recommended treatment is Burn Scar Massage Therapy. This slows the development of scar tissue while increasing healing. Massage therapy improves the appearance along with your range of motion. To learn more, contact our office in Nitro, WV.

The first line of treatment is massage therapy and stretching. These activities loosen the scar tissue for healing. This is one of the main reasons chiropractic treatment is used for burns. When a wound starts to heal, the skin tightens and puckers into a scar. This makes it hard to move the selected body part. There are other benefits to massage therapy as well,

Other common benefits:
-Reduces itching, muscle spasms, swelling, skin sensitivity, and pain in the injured area
-Prevents structural dysfunction
-Prepares the burned area for stretching and strengthening

Your Nitro, WV, chiropractic treatment helps with the appearance of the burn too. When a burn is assisted through the healing process, it scars much less than without treatment. The scar isn’t as apparent or noticeable then.

If you or a loved one have suffered from a burn, and are interested in treatment, contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Dr. Jay McClanahan is available for an appointment by visiting his website or calling 304-776-1520.

Lifestyle Changes for a Healthier Spine

A large amount of the population struggles with some sort of back pain. It’s one of the reasons that spinal care grows more important every day. If you’re one of these individuals, reach out to Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV. Your top-notch chiropractor, Dr. Jay McClanahan, has put together a few lifestyle tips for a healthier spine. 

First, evaluate your exercise and diet regimen. Changing these up is a great way to get started. Being overweight puts extra stress on your spine and body. It’s best to stay within ten pounds of your ideal weight. Extra fat, like a “beer belly,” weakens the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Through exercise and a healthy diet, you can regulate your weight. 

Back pain is often caused by improper lifting and bending. You need to take the proper precautions to maintain a healthy spine. Make sure you never bend at the waist to pick a heavy item up from the ground. Instead, keep one foot flat on the floor while you kneel. Another method is bending at the knees. Pick up the item, keeping it close to your body, and lift with your legs instead of your back. Never twist your body while lifting. This is an easy way to hurt your back. 

If you stand for long periods due to your job or other activities, there are a few ways to keep your spine healthy. Try standing with one foot in front of the other, with your knees slightly bent. Doing this removes the extra pressure from your spine. You should also try to avoid bending at the waist for longer periods. 

Even the way you sleep can affect your back. The recommended sleeping position is on your side. When you sleep on your back, large amounts of pressure are placed on your spine. If you use this position, place a pillow under your knees to remove the pressure. 

At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, your health is our biggest concern. Following these tips is a surefire way to improve your life. If you or a loved one suffer from back pain, don’t hesitate to contact our office in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520. 

Pinched Nerve

Dr. Jay McClanhan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center treats a wide variety of back and spinal conditions. This includes pinched nerves. Have you ever twisted or moved your body in a way that resulted in sharp pain? Did it restrict mobility in that region? You probably pinched a nerve. These manifest in any spot along the spine, affecting your lower, middle, and upper back. Your joints are vulnerable too. In some cases, the pinched nerve resolves itself. If it doesn’t, your Nitro, WV, chiropractor corrects it with spinal adjustments. 

If you’re worried that you’ve pinched a nerve, don’t panic. Evaluate the area for these symptoms: 

-Neck pain

-Extreme migraines or headaches

-Radiating pain in the arms and legs

-Pain in the spine

-Burning, tingling, or numbness in the extremities 

-Tenderness in the lower back

There are a few common causes of a pinched nerve. Most are due to other spinal conditions. These include subluxation, osteoarthritis, disc herniation, and disc degeneration. Many of these afflictions are asymptomatic at the beginning. It’s why regular chiropractic care is recommended. Your Nitro, WV, chiropractor detects any issues before they can truly manifest. 

At your appointment, Dr. McClanahan evaluates your spine. He can easily determine the area of the pinched nerve. He then moves forward with a spinal realignment. This is done quickly and painlessly with either his hands or a small tool. After, your pain will subside in a few days. 

Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520. 

Frozen Shoulder

Shoulder pain, when left untreated, takes over every area of your life. It becomes impossible to engage in everyday activities. Don’t wait for it to get this bad. Contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV. You are most likely experiencing a condition known as Frozen Shoulder. Dr. Jay McClanahan characterizes this condition with constant pain and shoulder stiffness for upwards of two years. Without treatment, your sleep and mental health are disrupted. It can also lead to other pain problems. 

This condition begins with inflammation in the shoulder’s joint capsule. This is where the bones attach to the ligaments through the joint. The inflammation seizes the ligaments, greatly constricting your range-of-motion. From here, the frozen shoulder develops in three stages: 

-Painful, freezing stage: you start to feel increasing pain in the shoulder. You’ll notice that your range-of-motion is becoming limited. 

-Adhesive, frozen stage: the pain starts to diminish. Your shoulder has more mobility but feels stiffer. 

-Thawing or recovery stage: your range-of-motion slowly improves.

The cause of frozen shoulder is unknown. People over the age of forty are at a greater risk of developing it. This is especially true in women. Other shoulder conditions also put you at risk.

A diagnosis is made after an examination by your Nitro, WV, chiropractor. Dr. McClanahan performs a physical exam and asks a few questions. He might ask you to perform a few physical movements. These allow him to determine the injury’s severity. He’ll order various Imaging tests. 

Your treatment depends entirely upon your injury. The earlier you get treatment, the better. Various techniques decrease your pain while improving your range-of-motion. 

If you are experiencing any sort of shoulder pain, don’t wait to contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Conveniently located in Nitro, WV, we are here for you. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520. 

Knee Pain

Knee pain can affect anyone. Whether you’re a professional athlete, a workout buff, or just performing your daily activities, you are at risk. Even worse, knee pain is a condition that is often ignored. Don’t wait for your knee pain to reach critical levels before contacting Dr. J Chiroractic & Wellness Center. Unlike other medical professionals, your chiropractor, Dr. Jay McClanahan, is trained to evaluate and treat knee pain. Treatment is available through manipulation, adjustments, and stretching. To learn more, contact our office in Nitro, WV. 

Your knee is an important part of the body. It provides stability and balance while bearing the brunt of your weight. Pay attention to any pain felt when walking, sitting, or going up and down the stairs. These are the warning signs of a serious knee problem. This is especially true if you notice popping, grinding, or clicking sounds when squatting or kneeling. 

Your Nitro, WV, chiropractor provides treatment based on the severity of your knee. It’s recommended you undergo a combination of therapies. These focus on strengthening and stretching your knee through chiropractic adjustments. There is also soft tissue treatment and joint support tapping. 

Other possible treatments for knee pain include: 

-Spinal decompression

-Trigger point therapy

-Knee braces

-Therapeutic exercise

Knee pain is a problem that should never go ignored. If you experience it, contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center right away. Early prevention and intervention is the key to a healthy life. Our office is conveniently located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520. 

Allergy Relief with Chiropractic Treatment

The changing of the seasons is both a wondrous and beautiful time. Unfortunately, it also brings seasonal allergies. For patients with severe allergies, autumn can be downright miserable. Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center has a solution. Your Nitro, WV, chiropractor provides allergy treatment. This is a natural alternative that works just as well as pharmaceuticals.

You may not realize it, but your immune and nervous systems are directly connected. Your immune system is thrust into overdrive during allergy season. This throws your entire body off-balance. After a thorough examination at your first appointment, Dr. McClanahan will likely suggest spinal adjustments. Realigning your spine brings your body back into harmony.

Your nervous system is housed throughout your spine. It allows communication between your brain and everywhere else. That’s why a spinal subluxation requires quick treatment. A spinal blockage creates a communication barrier. Your allergies and other conditions worsen. Your Nitro, WV, treats this with spinal manipulation. Using either his hands or a small tool, he pushes the misaligned areas back into place.

Stress levels also aggravate your allergies. When you’re stressed, your adrenal glands go into overtime. It’s harder for you to regulate your bodily reaction to allergens. A spinal realignment helps reduce cortisol, the stress hormone.

Making lifestyle changes help as well. When you exercise, you strengthen your respiratory system. It reduces the effects of environmental allergens. Your respiratory system is the most affected by the changing of the seasons. It contains your ears, throat, nose, and lungs.

Don’t let allergies keep you from enjoying this fall! With chiropractic treatment provided by Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, this season will be the best yet! To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520.

Headache Relief

Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, located in Nitro, WV, provides headache-relieving treatment for patients. There are a few recommended treatments, including exercises, spinal manipulation, and massage. Your quality of life doesn't need to suffer due to chronic headaches. We provide holistic treatments. There’s no need to worry about possibly harmful medications. To learn more, contact our office today.

There are a few different headache types we commonly treat: migraines, tension, and cervicogenic. Each type responds to treatment differently, hence why we use various methods.

Cervicogenic headaches are identifiable by the one-sided pain felt. It starts at the back of your head before moving to the front. Chiropractic treatment is great for this type of headache. This is due to their cause. It’s believed that cervicogenic headaches stem from underlying neck problems or injuries. The best treatment route is spinal manipulation. Your Nitro, WV, chiropractor uses his hands or a device to apply force to the spine. Specifically, he targets the cervical spine (the part of the spine found in the neck).

For migraines recommended treatment includes neuromuscular massage and various lifestyle changes. Migraines are worsened versions of headaches, accompanied by symptoms like nausea and dizziness. Massages to the upper back relive pressure in various trigger points, easing your symptoms. Talk to your chiropractor about various lifestyle changes. Stress management and relaxation techniques help immensely.

Tension headaches result from muscle tension in the upper body. The best treatment for these is a gentler form of spinal manipulation. Dr. McClanahan applies pressure to the neck joints, moving them in cervical segments.

Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520.

Ice Therapy vs. Heat Therapy

It’s hard to know when you should apply heat or ice to an injury. It seems like everyone has a different opinion on the topic. Because of the constant miscommunication on this issue, Dr. Jay McClanahan has created this simple guide. At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, located in Nitro, WV, we offer the best advice for our patients. In simple terms: ice is best for recent injuries while heat is great for sore and stiff muscles.

As expected, Ice or Cold Therapy consists of icing the injured area. Doing so greatly reduces the inflammation of the swollen tissue. Inflammation is a natural but painful part of the healing process. Applying ice makes it less uncomfortable. Ice therapy works best on superficial injuries.

Use Heat Therapy when treating aches and pains. Stiffness often results from chronic and muscle pain, along with stress. Heat is the perfect solution. It relaxes the muscles, creating better circulation and blood flow to the area. It both soothes and speeds up the healing process.

Be cautious when switching quickly between ice and heat therapy. Talk to your Nitro, WV, chiropractor beforehand.

Remember there are a few situations where these therapies should be avoided. Ice worsens stiffness and heat aggravates inflammation. It seems like common sense, but don’t apply heat to an area that’s burning up or ice when you’re shivering.

If you’ve recently suffered an injury or are dealing with untreatable pain, reach out to the staff at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Dr. Jay McClanahan offers a variety of treatments. To learn more or schedule an appointment at our Nitro, WV, office, visit our website or call 304-776-1520.

Chiropractic Treatment for Stress Relief

Everyone experiences stress in their lives. It’s only when it becomes an everyday occurrence that treatment is needed. Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center offers stress management services. Located in Nitro, WV, we work with you to make healthy changes in your life. Our chiropractic treatments show you how to adjust your posture, minimize muscle tension, and relax your entire system.

Untreated stress creates a ripple effect across your entire system. It increases your risk for infection and mental health conditions, along with disrupting your sleep cycle. Your Nitro, WV, chiropractor understands that your entire body is connected. When one area is underperforming, your whole body suffers. Don’t let untreated stress result in backaches, headaches, and muscle tension. Schedule an appointment with Dr. McClanahan today.

Our goal when treating your stress is restoring normal bodily functions. The first line of treatment is massages. This relieves the body’s stress reaction. Gently invigorating the soft tissues relieves muscle tension.

A blockage in your spine both causes and is caused by a misalignment. Removing the blockage alleviates your symptoms. At your appointment, your chiropractor evaluates your spine. Dr. McClanahan locates a blockage, then uses his hands or a small tool to push the area back into place.

Correcting your posture allows muscle relaxation. When you’re stressed, your posture takes a hit. Learning the recommended relaxation techniques and posture exercises brings your body back to normal.

Don’t feel down when you’re stressed out! The chiropractic staff here at Dr. J Chiropractic and Wellness Center can help. Located in Nitro, WV, Dr. Jay McClanahan is available by appointment. To schedule an appointment with him, visit his website or call 304-776-1520.

Spinal Stenosis

Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center treats patients with a variety of medical problems. This includes patients suffering from Spinal Stenosis. This is a condition where the spaces between the spine start to shrink. If you’re experiencing back problems in the Nitro, WV, area, reach out to our staff today! 

Spinal stenosis starts with major shifting in the spinal canal. This moves the spinal structures out of their necessary positions. They are now confined in these smaller areas. This is when symptoms start to occur at this time. Without treatment, your spine cannot function correctly. It’s important to schedule an appointment right away. 

There are risk factors for developing spinal stenosis. Your age is the biggest contributor. When you get older, your vertebra naturally narrow. This is due to a lifetime of everyday use. You’re using your spine constantly, even though you don’t realize it. There is no way to avoid usage. Thickened ligaments are also more common. These create bone spurs that push into the spinal canal. It can cause and aggravate spinal stenosis. Lastly, other risk factors include other spinal conditions. This refers to any form of arthritis and spondylolisthesis. 

The biggest and most common factor for spinal stenosis is back pain. It often radiates through the arms and legs. The shifting of the canals causes the nerves to become pinched. Neck pain is also common. A diagnosis is made after a thorough examination by Dr. McClanahan. Together you’ll go over your past medical history. Being forthright with any symptoms experienced. He will then examine your spine, and possibly order some imaging scans. 

Treatment is highly personalized to your specific needs. Your Nitro, WV, chiropractor bases care around you. The most common treatment options are decompression therapy, chiropractic adjustments, and postural corrections. 

Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520. 

Treating Sciatica Pain

Your sciatic nerve is the largest in the entire body. It moves throughout the entire torso and into your legs. Sciatic pain is less of a diagnosis and more a symptom of another problem. Only a professional chiropractor, like Dr. Jay McClanahan, can diagnose what is truly causing your sciatica. The most likely culprit is a pinched or aggravated nerve. Contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center to schedule an appointment. We are located in Nitro, WV. 

A few common symptoms identify sciatic pain. These include:

• Severe lower back pain
• Problems controlling the lower extremities
• A burning sensation running through the legs and back
• Tingling and loss of sensation in the legs and feet

Almost all cases of sciatica are traced back to spinal stenosis, misalignment, or herniated discs. Treating your pain presents the biggest issue. Because the pain comes and goes sporadically, traditional physicians are hesitant to diagnose. This isn’t the case with your Nitro, WV, chiropractor. He understands that the only relief comes through his treatments. 

At your appointment, Dr. McClanahan performs a spinal evaluation. He’ll detect any blockages throughout the area. Treatment depends on whether your sciatica is caused by a spinal problem or a disc injury. In most cases, the recommended treatment for both is a chiropractic adjustment. This is a painless and quick procedure. Dr. McClanahan relieves the pain by carefully moving any misaligned vertebra into their correct place. 

Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520. 

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic pain disorder that is difficult to treat. It creates widespread pain across your entire musculoskeletal system. This includes areas like tendons, soft tissues, joints, and muscles. You don’t have to compromise your quality of life if you schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan. At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, located in Nitro, WV, he treats FMS with both chiropractic adjustments and manipulations. Learn more by contacting our office today. 

FMS is a very difficult medical condition to treat. This is partially due to its cause. There is no known reason for it. Theories behind its cause range from genetics, infections, and even emotional/physical distress. The treatment your Nitro, WV, chiropractor offers is much different from other medical professionals. Traditional physicians focus on treating your pain. They offer you pain medication that doesn’t solve the problem. Dr. McClanahan works your body through the responsible factors. He focuses on resolving the roots of your pain. This is the only way to truly improve your everyday life. Although we can’t cure FMS, our treatments certainly help. 

A subluxation, also known as a spinal misalignment, happens when a vertebra shifts from its designated location. This creates a blockage throughout the nervous system. This aggravates your present FMS symptoms. Chiropractic care relieves this blockage. Dr. McClanahan performs a spinal manipulation. Very gently, he uses his hands or small tool to move the vertebra back into place. The entire process is quick and painless. 

For patients with FMS, it’s recommended you visit our office twice a week. It’s the best way to maintain and prevent any future problems. Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit his website or call 304-776-1520. 

Icing An Injury

At the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we help patients rehabilitate from all kinds of injuries.  The method of icing an injury, called cryotherapy, is known to provide cooling relief and help numb painful soft tissue injuries. Applying ice safely by using an ice pack or cold compress is an excellent way to treat muscle spasms and injuries like sprains and strains.  If icing an injury does not provide relief or your pain worsens, contact us for help.

After an injury, affected soft tissue will be inflamed and icing the area reduces inflammation and pain, as well as cools the skin to constrict blood vessels and heal the area.  The healing effects of ice pack therapy can also be helpful after a flare-up in chronic pain like in the back of the knee and is a cheap option for at-home relief. Cryotherapy is an effective way to manage pain at home without medication.

To learn more about soothing injuries and the services provided at the practice, visit www.drjbackdocwv.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV, call 304-776-1520.

Cell Phone Use and Neck Strain

Many patients come to Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center with neck pain, after straining their back and neck by looking down at the screen on their devices.  You may have even heard this being called “text neck”. The average adult head weighs between 10 and 12 pounds, and neck muscles are meant to support the weight of the head in a neutral position. 

Looking down at a screen increases the strain on your neck as if your neck is carrying a lot more weight.  Tilting your head forward just 15 degrees adds enough force to double the weight your neck is supporting, and the greater the angle, the greater the strain. 

Many people who text with their chin near the neck are tilting the head forward 60 degrees, which increases the load to about 60 pounds! The good news is we can make smarter choices about how to use devices every day to reduce strain on our bodies.

Starting with good posture will always reduce strain on your neck.  Sit up straight with your shoulders lined up above your hips and your head upright. Hold your phone or device up higher rather than looking further down to see what is on your screen.

If you work on a computer a lot, position your monitor at eye level to avoid looking up or down too much. Stretching your neck is also important to reduce the risk of painful strain. When your neck muscles are strong and flexible, it is less likely to have a spasm. 

There are mobile apps available that can alert you when your phone is being held at a bad angle for your neck, and you can also set reminders on your device to take breaks from looking at the screen and to stretch throughout the day. Remember these tips when using your devices!

To learn about all the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drjbackdocwv.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV, call 304-776-1520.

Workout Mistakes That Are Hurting Your Back

Exercising is important for your health, and at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center we encourage all our patients to be active. There are simple mistakes we can make exercising that causes more pain, so keep these in mind while exercising so your workout truly benefits you! 

Not warming up, or replacing a warm-up with a lot of stretching, is not the right way to start exercising. Light warm-up exercises will raise your heart rate and increase circulation, providing better blood flow to muscles.  Even five minutes of light cardio exercise and some easy stretching can have this effect. It is most important to stretch after a workout. When muscles have been warmed up and worked out, stretching will feel easier and can prevent soreness by releasing lactic acid built up in the muscles.

Even people who exercise regularly can experience strain if they don’t train their core. Core and abdominal strength are essential for supporting the spine, and abdominal muscles should be trained with every workout.  No matter which muscle group is being exercised, proper form and good posture are important to avoid injury.  The most common mistake people make working out sounds very simple but is critical: going too far.  This includes pushing the limits in term of any weights you lift, too much twisting of the spine, and exercising excessively.  Listen to your body’s response and slowly build strength rather than pushing yourself over the limit. Come see us for help correcting your workout routine to make sure you are helping, not hurting yourself with exercise.

To learn more about proper workout form and all the services provided at the practice, visit www.drjbackdocwv.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV, call 304-776-1520.

Prenatal Chiropractic Care

The body goes through many changes during pregnancy, and some women experiencing pain and discomfort assume there will be no relief until the due date. But that’s not true! At the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we can help expectant mothers maintain a healthy pregnancy with prenatal chiropractic adjustments.

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is a safe and effective way to care for a woman’s changing body and prepare for delivery.  In later stages of pregnancy when the abdomen begins to protrude, the back and pelvis respond to this change. For some women, this can result in a misaligned spine or joints. Maintaining pelvic balance and alignment during pregnancy is possible, and prenatal chiropractic adjustments can help.  A healthy pregnancy benefits the mother and baby, all the way through to labor and delivery!

To learn more about chiropractic adjustments and all the services provided at the practice, visit www.drjbackdocwv.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV, call 304-776-1520.

Osteoporosis and Spinal Curvature

As people live longer and healthier, we’re becoming more aware that things that used to be regarded as natural parts of aging are actually preventable diseases. One of the best examples of that is the hyperkyphosis that is associated with the elderly. We’re experts in nutrition as well as spinal health at the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, and we want our patients to understand how those things intertwine.

Kyphosis is the forward curvature of the upper back. Hyperkyphosis is an extreme stoop. It commonly afflicts older women as a result of osteoporosis. Our bones are constantly breaking down in a process called resorption and being rebuilt. In people with osteopenia, the breakdown is outpacing the rebuilding. When osteopenia becomes advanced, the bones are riddled with tiny holes, which is the condition “osteoporosis” describes.

Brittle bones easily develop hairline cracks. Their accumulative impact is one frequent cause of hyperkyphosis. While we can ease discomfort from osteoporosis through minimally invasive methods such as therapeutic massages, we also emphasize prevention through nutrition and exercise. In addition to calcium-rich foods and supplements, people may increase their calcium intake by exposing themselves to more sunlight. Low or no-impact exercise such as swimming and yoga can also build up back muscles, relieving pressure on the vertebrae.

Dr. Jay McClanahan operates the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center at 642 Cross Lanes Drive, 
Nitro, West Virginia, 25143. To schedule an appointment, visit Dr. J Back Doc WV or call 304-776-1520.

Introduction to Spondylolisthesis

Back pain can have a lot of causes. Our spines are complex structures and problems often develop slowly over time. One common condition is spondylolisthesis, in which one vertebra has slid over another. Our practice at the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center can correct this problem, but since it often goes undetected, it’s helpful for patients to be aware of it.

“Spondylolysis” describes small fracture in the part of the vertebra that connects with other vertebrae to form a facet joint. It could be caused by a traumatic injury or overuse, as most often occurs in teenage athletes. It may also result from degenerative disc disease. As people age, the spongy discs between their vertebrae become less elastic, allowing the bodies of the vertebrae to slide out of place. Eventually, the body of a vertebra could become significantly dislocated, putting pressure on the lower back muscles. A slipped vertebra could even compress a nerve.

We can determine whether spondylolisthesis has occurred by taking x-rays. Our goal is to stabilize the back so the patient can develop stronger muscles that will keep the vertebrae in place. Adjustments may be useful. We can also recommend exercises that will loosen the hamstrings, which tend to tighten up when a lumbar vertebra has slipped forward, and provide relief from the strain with electric muscle stimulation and therapeutic massages.

Dr. Jay McClanahan operates the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center at 642 Cross Lanes Drive, Nitro, West Virginia, 25143. To schedule an appointment, visit Dr. J Back Doc WV or call 304-776-1520.

Shoes for a Healthy Gait

Healthy posture depends on a healthy gait. There are some shoes that provide healthy support for the musculoskeletal system, and some which only cause misalignments. Part of our mission at the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro is providing patients with the information they need to care for their own spinal health, so let’s take a look at what patients should do the next time they need new shoes.

The healthiest shoes are those which are made of breathable material and provide support to the side as well as the bottom of the foot’s arch. There are many sandals being produced that do this, and shoe manufacturers are making dress shoes, flats, and flip flops that are more supportive than past models. But sneakers still have a major advantage in that the cuff and tongue stabilize the ankle, making it less likely to roll.

Shoes should be replaced when they no longer have adequate traction. For running shoes, this could mean every few months. When buying new shoes, shoppers are advised to go later in the day, when their feet have spread out a bit from bearing their weight. It is important to get each foot measured; they are often not the exact same size. If patients need additional support, we can provide them with customized orthotics.

Dr. Jay McClanahan operates the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center at 642 Cross Lanes Drive, Nitro, West Virginia, 25143. To schedule an appointment, visit Dr. J Back Doc WV or call 304-776-1520.

Comfortable Sleep Positions

Do you wake up with pain in your neck or back? You can guess that your sleep position probably has something to do with it, but how should you sleep instead? At the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we highly value prevention and want our patients to know how to avoid straining their back muscles. Best sleep practices may require lifestyle changes.

Ideally, the back, neck, head, and pelvis will all be in a straight line during sleep. Stomach sleeping is the position that pushes the body the furthest from this ideal. It thrusts the head backwards and sideways and allows the lumbar spine to sag. Sleeping on the side is a much better option, although it works better when the sleeper keeps a pillow between their knees. Besides keeping the knee joints from rubbing together, this allows the pelvis to remain level, preventing the lumbar spine from bending. Larger people may also favor softer mattresses that their downward-facing hip can sink into for the same reason.

Side sleeping still allows the lumbar spine to sag. The optimal sleep position is on the back, with small cylindrical pillows supporting the curves of the neck and lumbar spine. Most people favor firm mattresses. The only downside is that lying on the back may increase a patient’s risk of obstructive sleep apnea, for which they should get assessed if they find they are still tired after sleeping. Nonetheless, they should notice a reduction in muscle aches.

Dr. Jay McClanahan operates the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center at 642 Cross Lanes Drive, Nitro, West Virginia, 25143. To schedule an appointment, visit Dr J Back Doc WV or call 304-776-1520.

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

The pelvis plays a crucial role in supporting our upper bodies, so when it’s in pain, that’s a big problem. The Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro is dedicated to providing patients with low-risk, fast-acting pain relief, and when they come to us complaining of hip pain, we have lots of options available.

The sacroiliac joints are what connect the spine to the pelvis. The sacrum is a large body made up of fused vertebrae just beneath the lumbar section of the back, and the iliac bones are the top ridges of the pelvis. When there is inflammation here it is called “sacroiliitis,” although dysfunction does not always result in inflammation. No spinal nerves pass through the sacrum, but pain in the sacroiliac joints can still radiate to the lower back or down the legs. It tends to be worse after the patient has been standing or walking up stairs.

We will want to test patients complaining of hip pain for infections, but sacroiliac dysfunction is usually caused by acute or chronic injury. If a joint is dislocated, we can perform an adjustment. We can also loosen tight gluteal muscles with electric muscle stimulation. Stronger pelvic muscles will relieve pressure from the sacroiliac joints; we can advise patients on which exercises will subject them to the least impact force.

Dr. Jay McClanahan operates the Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center at 642 Cross Lanes Drive, Nitro, West Virginia, 25143. To schedule an appointment, visit Dr J Back Doc WV or call 304-776-1520.

Disc Herniation

The spine is an incredibly important part of the human body. It’s necessary for controlling your everyday functions. Vertebra composes the spine, with intervertebral discs between them. When these become herniated or “slip out” of place, patients may experience excruciating pain. Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, in Nitro, WV, provides treatment for herniated discs.

Your appointment with Dr. McClanahan starts with a physical examination. He checks if your reflexes are intact and the level of sensation along your nerves. Make sure to share any pertinent medical history with him. Lastly, your spine is fully evaluated. Your Nitro chiropractor will pinpoint exactly where the herniated disc is.

The next step is designing a treatment plan. This mainly consists of spinal manipulation. This moves the disc back into place, relieving all the painful symptoms. Dr. McClanahan takes your body’s pain levels, overall health, and activity into consideration.

There are some patients that aren’t eligible for treatment. In the case of advanced injuries, consulting with a spinal surgeon may be necessary.

A herniated disc can happen for a variety of reasons. Falling or injuring yourself is the main cause. There are also genetic factors like degenerative spinal diseases.

Contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center today. We are located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit our website or call 304-776-1520.

Deep Tissue Massage

Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, located in Nitro, WV, offers Deep Tissue Massage to our patients. This type of massage focuses on intense muscle manipulation instead of simple relaxation techniques. If you are suffering from muscle adhesions due to a chronic illness or injury, deep tissue massage can help.

A traditional massage has a variety of benefits. But when you have a specific area that needs help, deep tissue massage is best. These sore areas are caused by an injury or even whiplash resulting from an auto accident. It’s also beneficial to repetitive-strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and inflammation. When other forms of treatment fail, deep tissue massage gives positive results to patients with muscle spasms, tenderness, and chronic pain.

You first need a consultation before receiving a deep tissue massage treatment. A certified massage therapist will examine you and your injuries. This helps them better understand what you’re hoping to achieve from your massage therapy. The massage therapist will then focus and apply pressure to the outlined area. This relaxes inflamed tissue while relieving pain. If you experience any discomfort during the massage let your therapist know.

Expect soreness after each session. Your massage therapist may recommend icing the injured area afterward. Overall, any discomfort should pass within a day or so.

Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit our website or call 304-776-1520.

Youth Massage

Children of all ages can benefit from the health effects of massage. At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV, our staff caters to patients of all ages. For children, massages provide them with physical contact needed for human development. Massages reduce stress, strengthening children's immune systems as well.

Dr. Jay McClanahan’s practice specializes in massaging infants to older children. For infants, massage has been used for centuries to promote a healthy lifestyle. One of the first senses a newborn develops is touch. Human contact helps them grow and bond emotionally and physically. The specific needs of a newborn body are taken into account when providing them with a massage.

Children with special needs can also benefit from massage. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, can be regulated through massage. Patients report an increased ability to focus and control themselves. This improves not only the child’s home and social life but their academic career, too. Children who struggle with sleeping problems may also benefit from massage. Results show an easier time falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night.

If you’re interested in learning more about our youth massage programs, or our other services, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan today. Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. Visit our website for online contact information or call 304-776-1520.

Weight Loss Program

At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we encourage our patients to make healthy choices. A healthy diet along with exercise will help to prevent back pain and your overall wellness. Dr. J’s weight loss program is designed to help our patients lose weight, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and reduce back pain. We provide weight loss seminars for patients who are interested in a healthier life.

Regardless of your goals, our weight loss program will help you get to where you want to go through personal guidance. Our program was developed by a doctor of nutrition in Europe, is the most popular weight loss program in Canada, and is now available in the United States.

Don’t forget to sign up for your free consultation to evaluate your weight and a plan to help you get to where you want to go. Patients who attend our seminars and start the program will be offered incentives by Dr. J. The time to change your life is now, and at Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center.

If you’re interested in learning more about our weight loss seminars and program, or our other services, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan today. Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. Visit our website for online contact information or call 304-776-1520.

Whiplash

When you’re involved in a car accident, you may not feel soreness or pain at the time. However, the following days you might be experiencing severe pain, most commonly in your head, neck, and shoulder. Those are common symptoms of whiplash, which is the force that moves your neck backward and forward during accidents. At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we advise our patients who have been in an accident to seek chiropractic care.

When possible, we encourage our patients to look for symptoms following a car accident. These symptoms include neck pain/stiffness, lower back pain, and blurred vision, ringing in the ears, headache, shoulder pain, and nausea. Our doctors are trained in Human Biomechanics to help diagnose and treat these symptoms.

The benefit of chiropractic care is a pain-free approach that doesn’t involve painkillers and other medications. Dr. J and his staff treat injuries through spinal realignment that takes pressure off of your nerves and provide pain relief.

If you’re interested in learning more about car accidents and whiplash, or our other services, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan today. Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. Visit our website for online contact information or call 304-776-1520.

Custom Foot Orthotics

Our orthotics are custom-made devices that go on the inside of your shoes and are designed to help with foot, knee, and lower back pain. At Dr. J Chiropractic and Wellness Center, we make orthotics that provide a cushion for your feet to realign the bones of the foot and ankle and take pressure off other parts of your musculoskeletal system.

Since orthotics are designed to fit your feet, they can be slipped into most shoes and can be used for walking and any other physical activity. The weight distribution of your feet will impact the alignment of the rest of your body, which is why it is important to be able to distribute weight on them evenly. An unhealthy gait could put excessive pressure on your knee or back tissues, resulting in soreness and strains from overuse.

Orthotics sold in drug stores aren’t specific to your feet and are less optimal at providing the balance and support they need. As a preventive measure to get the most foot support possible, Dr. Jack McClanahan recommends all patients see him for custom orthotics. His custom orthotics can last well over a year and realign your feet so you can be active and pain-free.

To learn more about custom orthotics and all the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drjbackdocwv.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV, call 304-776-1520.

DOT Exams

For certain employers, if their employees are labeled as “safety-sensitive” by the Department of Transportation (DOT), then these employees are required to have regular physicals. At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, located in Nitro, WV., Dr. Jay McClanahan offers DOT physical exams for $60. We also offer DOT and non-DOT drug and alcohol testing.

When you go in for your physical with Dr. McClanahan, you need to bring a complete list of your medications. This has to include the dosage regimen, dosages, and the doctor's name and address. If you have vision or hearing problems bring in your glasses, contacts, or hearing aid devices. For diabetic employees, you must bring your most recent lab results and blood sugar logs. Employees with heart-related issues must bring in a letter from their cardiologist. This letter must describe their medical history, current medications, and if they are safe for work.

Your vision, hearing, blood pressure, and urine will be tested at the examination. During the physical segment of the exam, a variety of things will be checked, around a dozen. Things like your lungs and chest, mouth, general appearance, and neurological features. For certain jobs, certain results are needed. For drivers, they must have at least 20/40 acuity in each eye.

Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center is located in Nitro, WV. To schedule a consultation or DOT exam with Dr. Jay McClanahan, visit our website or call 304-776-1520.

Prenatal Massage

Certified prenatal massage therapists like Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center are specially trained to relieve pregnancy pain through massage. Prenatal massage is a holistic, non-addictive alternative to symptom relief.

Prenatal massage begins with the expectant mother being supported by cushions and pillows to protect her and her baby from injury or strain. This makes the massage more comfortable and enjoyable. Many areas of the body are avoided during prenatal massage, to prevent complications, with the focus going to those that are under the most strain.

A multitude of health benefits arise from prenatal massage. Besides the comfort of the massage itself, the mother's stress and anxiety are reduced. It relieves common aches and symptoms of pregnancy as well. Swollen ankles, lower back pain, leg cramps, and headaches are improved. Women with normal or low-risk pregnancies receive the best results from prenatal massage. If you’re in high-risk pregnancy, consult your doctor or midwife beforehand.

If you’re pregnant and want to learn more about prenatal massage, contact Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan on our website or by calling 304-776-1520.

Therapeutic Exercise

Therapeutic exercise is a group of physical activities that help restore and build physical strength, endurance, flexibility, balance, and stability. At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, Dr. Jay McClanahan will lead you through our recommended exercises.

At your first consultation with Dr. McClanahan, your physical condition will be evaluated. This allows us to create an exercise program that works for you. This program will be carefully monitored by Dr. McClanahan and our staff to make sure you’re getting the best possible workout. A few different forms are strengthening, endurance, flexibility, balance, and functional movement exercises.

There are many different exercises to choose from. Although you should not attempt any of them before consulting with us, there are a few that are commonly prescribed. Spinal Rotation is an exercise that takes place while sitting. Reach one arm across your stomach and grab the opposite side of the chair. Look over the shoulder while rotating your mid and lower back. Try to hold this position for fifteen to thirty seconds. Lower Back Extensions have you start out by laying flat on your stomach. Your hands should be placed by your sides. Lift your head and body off the ground using just the muscles in your lower back. Hold this for four to five seconds before relaxing. Repeat between ten and fifteen times.

Neck Stretches are another important subgrouping. For these, start off by bringing your ear to your shoulder. Hold your neck in this position for five to seven seconds. Force your ear towards your shoulder, stretching the muscle on the opposite side. If you experience symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness, stop immediately.

Visit our website to learn about all the various exercises recommended by Dr. Jay McClanahan. Visit Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV. To learn more about our exercise programs, or to schedule an appointment, contact us online or call 304-776-1520.

Workers Compensation

At Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center, we advise our patients who have suffered an injury on the job to see us for a consultation. During the consultation, we will discuss your medical history and evaluate the cause of your pain. Our doctors are professionals at finding the source of the injury and treating it with spinal adjustments. Spinal adjustments are used to improve spinal motion and increase your body’s movement.

Medical doctors treat injuries using surgery and addictive painkillers that don’t always fix the injury. The risk of undergoing surgery is that it only treats one area of your body while we treat the body as a whole. When possible, we encourage our patients to avoid surgery and to consider chiropractic care for a natural fix.
Regardless of the severity of your injury, our doctors can diagnose the source of your pain and treat the entire body to fix it.

To learn more about all of the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drjbackdocwv.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Jay McClanahan of Dr. J Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Nitro, WV, call 304-776-1520.