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.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The Dr. J Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Nitro is dedicated to helping our patients remain flexible and comfortable despite the forces regularly put on their bodies. One of the most common musculoskeletal disorders is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). This condition can put pressure on major nerves, causing pain and loss of muscle control, but at our office, we provide safe, non-invasive therapies.

The median nerve arises from the lower cervical an upper thoracic nerves. It runs the length of the arm, into the palm, and branches into the thumb and first four fingers. Along the way, it passes through a structure in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, which is made up of protective bones and ligaments. If the carpal tunnel is compressed, the median will be pinched, and the patient may feel numbness, dull pain, or tingling along the length of it and have difficulty moving their wrist and fingers.

CTS is usually an overuse injury. It is common among people who have to extend their hands and wrists for a long period and among people with conditions that cause inflammation. The carpal tunnel is densely packed with tendons, as well as the carpal nerve, and doesn’t have much room for swelling. People with CTS are advised to get rest and may have to wear arm braces to avoid flexing their wrists too much. But we can help them recover through methods such as therapeutic exercise, which will strengthen and improve the flexibility of the arm muscles, and therapeutic massages or electric muscle stimulation, which can relieve swelling.

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.