Conditions We Treat

Lower back pain

Lower back pain can present in many different ways and the causes and diagnosis of lower back pain vary as well. When Chiropractors approach lower back pain they aim to find out the cause of the lower back pain by doing a detailed medical history, orthopedic testing, neurological examination and in some cases require x-rays, MRI and blood tests. Our bodies are designed to move and lack there of can cause many different problems and restrictions. Alignment of the spine ensuring all the joints are functioning as they should helps alleviate pain, stimulates nerves and relaxes muscles.

Most importantly do not ignore discomfort that lasts 2 – 3 days or pain that is reoccurring more often than usual.

Neck pain

The neck pain can present in a variety of ways, isolated neck pain, arm pain, headaches, and stiff trapezius muscles to name a few. As with lower back pain the correct diagnosis of the condition is vital, through a detailed medical history, orthopedic testing, and neurological examination and in some cases require x-rays, MRI and blood tests. Once the diagnosis has been reached a treatment plan and protocol can be established.

Sports Injuries – tendonitis/muscle strains

Depending on the sport, which you are involved in, the injuries will vary. As for most sportsman and sportswoman preventing injuries or treating them effective and getting them back to their training is always a goal. Stellenbosch Chiropractic has invested in Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy, which is an incredible tool to help reduce pain, stimulate new blood supply and reduce inflammation associated with tendonitis injuries and muscle sprains and strains. Along with a biomechanical assessment of the spine and ensuring good recovery for muscle or tendon injuries the aim would be to create an integrated approach using chiropractic, physiotherapy, biokinetics to help rehabilitate the patient.

Scoliosis

Idiopathic Scoliosis is described as an abnormal lateral (side to side) curve of the spine. In 80% of cases it occurs during the growing stages of children from the ages of 10 – 17 in both boys and girls. It is more common in girls than boys. The key to the management of scoliosis is early detection, which is done by a postural spinal screening test. If scoliosis is detected a full spine standing x-ray is recommended to find out the degree of the curve. Initially the curve is monitored but if there is a risk of progression or the size of the curve is 20 degrees or greater the option of bracing is recommended. SpineCor is the only 3 dimensional dynamic brace available and has shown to help prevent progression in 65 – 75% of cases. Where possible conservative treatment of this condition with bracing and corrective rehabilitation is recommended. www.scoliosisbracing.com

Pregnant Women

Pregnancy is a very exciting time but it can also be very daunting the first time round. Each pregnancy can vary from child to child. Biomechanically our bodies go through an incredible change, which involves expanding and stretching of various muscles; the hormone relaxin is secreted to help the pelvis expand during the birthing process and gaining baby weight. With all these complicated processes all happening at once this in turn can create pressure on your lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine and it can sometimes become painful. If your pain is biomechanical, Chiropractic is a safe treatment to help alleviate your discomfort.