This week, we’ve had an influx of patients asking us about leg pain coming from what appeared to be a peripheral nerve, also known as peripheral neuropathy. Have you been told you have neuropathy? A common symptom of neuropathy is a sensation of either burning, tingling or numbness down one (or both) legs to the foot. It is very common in diabetics and individuals with hypertension. Peripheral neuropathy also responds really well to natural treatments. Read ALL of today’s blog, so that you can better understand if this type of natural treatment is for you if you’re currently suffering with peripheral neuropathy.

4/27/2023 By: Alex Earl, DC Spine Care Specialist Do your feet burn, tingle or go numb? If so, you might be suffering with a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that can cause a wide range of painful symptoms, including tingling, numbness, and burning sensations in the hands and feet. While there are many possible causes of peripheral neuropathy, the condition can be challenging to treat and manage, particularly in cases where the underlying cause cannot be addressed. Chiropractic care and physical medicine may offer a natural solution to help alleviate neuropathic symptoms and improve quality of life for patients. Chiropractors are trained to evaluate the musculoskeletal system and can provide targeted treatments to address any associated issues, such as nerve impingement. By working in collaboration with other healthcare professionals and taking a holistic approach to treatment, chiropractic care may be able to help patients overcome the pain and discomfort of peripheral neuropathy. Several factors can increase a person's risk of developing peripheral neuropathy, especially lower extremity neuropathy. Here are some of the most common risk factors:

1. Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing peripheral neuropathy, particularly if their blood sugar levels are poorly controlled.
2. Aging: As people age, they may be at a higher risk of developing peripheral neuropathy.
3. Alcohol abuse: Chronic alcohol abuse can damage nerves and increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy.
4. Vitamin deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins like B12 and folate can increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy.
5. Certain medications: Some medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and certain antibiotics, can increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy.
6. Autoimmune diseases: Certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy.
7. Infections: Certain viral or bacterial infections, such as Lyme disease, can increase the risk of peripheral neuropathy.
8. Hereditary factors: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing peripheral neuropathy.

It's important to note that not everyone with these risk factors will develop peripheral neuropathy, and some people without any known risk factors may still develop the condition. If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider to know your options for relief and long-term solutions BEFORE it gets any worse. In diabetic peripheral neuropathy, the nerves become sensitized due to a combination of factors, including chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic disturbances. When blood sugar levels are consistently high, it can cause damage to the nerves, leading to a breakdown in their ability to transmit signals effectively. Over time, the nerves become hyperactive and hypersensitive, leading to the characteristic symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, including pain, tingling, and numbness. While there are pharmaceutical options available to manage the symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, they often come with a host of side effects and may not address the underlying cause of the condition. This is where natural treatments, such as vitamins and changes in diet, lifestyle, and stress management, can be some of the best long-term solutions for managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Some important (and often overlooked) solutions include several vitamins and nutrients which have been shown to be beneficial in managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy. For example, vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in nerve health and function, and a deficiency in this vitamin can contribute to peripheral neuropathy. Similarly, vitamin D has been shown to be important for nerve function, and low levels of this vitamin have been linked to an increased risk of peripheral neuropathy. Other nutrients that may be helpful in managing peripheral neuropathy include alpha-lipoic acid, acetyl-L-carnitine, and magnesium. These nutrients can help to reduce inflammation, improve nerve function, and alleviate symptoms. Another important factor to consider is nutritional changes. Making changes to your diet can also be an effective way to manage diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Eating a diet that is rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods and low in processed foods and refined sugars can help to stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation in the body. A diet that is high in protein and healthy fats can also be beneficial, as it can help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is a common complication of diabetes. Eating grass-fed meat is a wonderful way to increase protein intake. The quality of red meat does matter in this case. I do not advise you avoid red meat while going through a peripheral neuropathy situation. In my experience, avoiding the foods that are high in sugar and seed oils are the quickest way to reduce the severity of symptoms. Seed oils include canola oil, grapeseed oil, safflower and sunflower oils. These ALL cause a massive spike of inflammatory markers in the blood and are very detrimental towards your optimal health goals. Certain lifestyle changes can also be helpful in managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Regular exercise, for example, can help to improve blood sugar control, reduce inflammation, and improve nerve function. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness meditation and deep breathing exercises, can also be helpful in managing the stress that can exacerbate peripheral neuropathy symptoms. While natural treatments may take longer to show results than pharmaceutical options, they can provide a more sustainable and long-term solution to managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy. By addressing the underlying causes of the condition, such as chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, these treatments can help to improve nerve function and reduce the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Additionally, they often come with fewer side effects and can provide other health benefits beyond just managing peripheral neuropathy. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can be a debilitating condition that can greatly impact a person's quality of life. However, there are natural treatments available that can help to manage the symptoms and improve nerve function over time. By incorporating vitamins and nutrients into your diet, making healthy changes to your diet and lifestyle, and managing stress, you can take a proactive approach to managing your diabetic peripheral neuropathy and improve your overall health and wellbeing.

Real Life Case Study: “Feels like my feet are on fire.”

This week, we had a gentleman arrive for his appointment with the chief complaint of tingling and burning sensations down his legs. After assessing his presentation, we came to the rational conclusion that he is most likely suffering with peripheral neuropathy. But identifying the condition is only ½ the battle. Now that we know what the most likely cause of his symptoms was, we then can start to rationally formutate our clinical decision making to help him overcome this tricky situation! The first step we took for this particular patient was addressing the two “lowest hanging fruit” to aid him in the relief he was looking for AND also putting him on the path towards optimal health. We placed him on a gluten-free, dairy-free, and high protein meal plan for 7 days. That’s the intake component. We also agreed to avoid sugary drinks, such as lemonade, soda pop, and sweet tea. (I know, right!) We increased his water intake from 0 ounces per day to 24 ounces. Baby steps. The other component we addressed was the movement aspect. He needs to be moving and stimulating his skeletal muscles. So, we had him walk for 10 minutes after each meal to help regulate his blood sugar levels. That’s it; just a slow-paced walk for 10 minutes, 3 times a day. After 7 days, the peripheral neuropathy symptoms were 90% resolved. That’s 90 PERCENT. Pretty cool, huh?!

Do this next!

Maybe you (or someone you know) is in a similar situation to our 56 year old sciatica patient? If so, I have great news for you today… You are in the right place for relief. Every day, Chattanooga and North Georgia residents are getting the same relief as our recent patient. If you’d like to learn more about your options for overcoming spine pain, do the following:

1. Share this Article with a Friend or Family member who currently has peripheral neuropathy (or it sounds like they do!)
2. Call our office TODAY at (866) 668-0108 to book your next appointment!
3. Keep an eye out for next month’s article, which will be about our #1 Spine Strategy that our patients have called, “The Best Stretch” they’ve ever had for that one tricky spot of their spine. If you have spine stiffness, you know the spot I am referring to!

Information has never before been more readily available than it is right now. In fact, everything you’ve ever wanted to know about back pain is available to you (free of charge most likely) on your cell phone. Our very own chiropractic physician and spine pain specialist has shared some of his thoughts about the things you should know about low back pain here in 2023 (and some things you might have been led to believe about low back pain).

By: Alex Earl, DC
Spine Care Specialist 

Imagine waking up every morning with a stabbing pain in your back that never seems to go away. Unfortunately, this is a reality for millions of people who suffer from chronic spine (back) pain.

Back pain is one of the most common complaints among adults, affecting up to 80% of people at some point in their lives. But did you know that there are different reasons for back pain, each with its own set of causes and treatments?

For nearly a decade patients have come to see me seeking relief for back and neck pain. In most cases I’ve seen, I have found myself giving similar advice to patients when it comes to spine pain.

So, in order to help more people overcome spine pain, I decided to document and share the ten important tips I find myself sharing with patients every day in our office.

The 10 Facts about Spine Pain Dr. Earl Wants You To Know:

1. Most cases of spine pain are caused by muscular or mechanical issues rather than misalignments of the spine. There is still a wonderful pain-reducing effect of spinal adjustments, even if that underlying problem is muscular!
2. Chiropractic care and specific exercises are often effective treatments for spine pain, and can be more beneficial than passive therapies like electric stimulation, traction, decompression or laser when used in isolation.
3. Pain in the spine can often be prevented or managed through lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining good posture, staying active, and (most importantly) managing stress levels.
4. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs are NOT sufficient nor necessary for diagnosing spine pain, and can sometimes lead to unnecessary procedures or treatments. In fact, 40% of men aged 40+ are walking around with asymptomatic disc bulges and don’t even know it.
5. In some cases, spine pain can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition like osteoporosis, arthritis, or spinal stenosis. Hence, a comprehensive examination is pertinent to rule in or rule out any contributing factors to your symptoms. A well experienced spine specialist will know exactly what to do for each of these presentations so don’t worry if you have been told you have “arthritis” or “degenerative disc disease.” You have options for relief!
6. Medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or muscle relaxants can be effective in reducing pain temporarily. Always consult your doctor, but in my experience, mechanical pain responds best to mechanical solutions (not chemical or pharmaceutical).
7. Surgery is typically only recommended for spine pain in cases where conservative treatments have failed or there is a clear structural issue that requires intervention. In nearly a decade of treating spine pain, I can honestly state that I have referred less than a dozen patients for a spinal consultation that ended up needing surgery.
8. The use of opioids for spine pain should be avoided when possible, as they can lead to dependence, addiction, and other negative health outcomes.
9. Chronic spine pain can have significant impacts on a person's quality of life, and may require a multidisciplinary approach to treatment that includes physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and other modalities.
10. While there is still much to be learned about spine pain and its causes, a growing body of research suggests that a holistic, patient-centered approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of the condition may be most effective in promoting long-term recovery and wellness.

Real Life Case Study: “You have sciatica.”

Again, it should be worth remembering that all treatments in the neuromusculoskeletal healthcare field should initially undergo a thorough assessment and examination. A skilled spine care specialist has the knowledge and clinical skills to help each individual overcome their specific spine problem. That could be in the form of spinal stiffness and reduced range of motion or it could be in the form of random numbness into an arm or leg.

In fact, just this week I properly evaluated and diagnosed a 56 year old woman with sciatica. She originally went to her Primary Care Physician (PCP) and was told to “Rest and take some muscle relaxers” for a few days. After two weeks of rest, she was still unable to walk and thought she needed more rest.

After listening to her list of symptoms and a detailed exam, which included specific tests, I was able to give her clarity about what her problem was. I told her she was dealing with sciatica and not exclusively a muscle problem but also a nerve issue as well. 

The good news is that both muscle and nerve issues can be healed naturally. 

Do this next!

Maybe you (or someone you know) is in a similar situation to our 56 year old sciatica patient? If so, I have great news for you today… You are in the right place for relief. Every day, Chattanooga and North Georgia residents are getting the same relief as our recent patient. If you’d like to learn more about your options for overcoming spine pain, do the following:

1. Share this Article with a Friend or Family member who currently has low back pain and needs relief.
2. Call our office TODAY at (866) 668-0108 to book your next appointment!
3. Keep an eye out for next month’s article, which will be about our #1 Spine Strategy that our patients have called, “The Best Stretch” they’ve ever had for that one tricky spot of their spine. If you have spine stiffness, you know the spot I am referring to!

There are a lot of myths out there about spinal manipulation, also known as adjustments or “back cracking. About 90% of all our new patients come looking for relief and are familiar with chiropractic adjustments. But, many other new patients come to our office with genuine concerns about its safety. Is it good for you? Are you actually hurting your joints if you do it yourself?  Our very own chiropractic physician and spine pain specialist has some answers on the noises you hear when cracking your back and during your adjustments so that you can better understand if this type of treatment is for you.

 By: Alex Earl, DC DACRB Spine Pain Specialist Believe it or not, this is one of the most frequently asked questions in our Fort Oglethorpe office: “What makes that CRACK noise?” Every day, we help our patients overcome pain, discomfort and stiff joints so that they can continue to live an active and healthy life. One of the ways we achieve these results is through the use of spinal manipulation - also known as the “adjustment”. When a chiropractor performs an adjustment, they are applying a quick and precise force to a joint in order to move it beyond its normal range of motion. This movement can create a popping or cracking sound, which is caused by a sudden release of gas bubbles that have formed within the joint's synovial fluid. This fluid helps to lubricate and cushion the joint, and when it is moved quickly, the gas bubbles can "pop" and release pressure. This is similar to the sound that occurs when you crack your knuckles. VIDEO: Real Time MRI Image of a Joint “Cracking” Chiropractors use adjustments to improve joint function and mobility, reduce pain and inflammation, and promote overall health and well-being. By restoring proper alignment and movement to the joints, chiropractors can help to alleviate pain and improve function in various parts of the body.

So, why does chiropractic care reduce pain?

One theory is that by restoring proper alignment and movement to the joints, chiropractors are able to alleviate pressure on nerves and other soft tissues that may be causing pain. Stiff joints can put pressure on surrounding nerves and tissues, sometimes leading to muscle tightness, pain, and other symptoms. By correcting these stiff joints, chiropractors can reduce this pressure and help to alleviate pain and calm down some of the tight muscles in the surrounding area. Another theory is that chiropractic adjustments can stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. Endorphins are released in response to a variety of stimuli, including exercise, stress, and pain, and they work to block pain signals from reaching the brain. By stimulating the release of endorphins, chiropractic adjustments may help to reduce pain and improve overall mood and well-being. As I mentioned before, every day in our office we help patients overcome spine pain naturally. Patients are often surprised at the Overall, chiropractic care can be an effective treatment option for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and much, much more.

Are you constantly feeling stiff in the same spot? If so, read more about what your options are!

If you feel like you’re constantly needing to pop or crack your back, it is probably because there is an area that lacks sufficient mobility and should be addressed by your chiropractor. Our Atlas Total Health team of highly trained and highly skilled chiropractors are ready to help you improve your overall health and change the way you think about your well-being. If it is truly a mobility limitation in a joint, then you’ve got plenty of options to help. These include stretching, yoga, aerobic exercise like walking or running, and manual therapy. Having said that, though, there are many cases where all of those strategies are not able to achieve the desired relief and mobility to those stiff and stubborn joints. This is the perfect opportunity to consider spinal adjustments to help solve your discomfort. In fact, more and more research is coming out in support of spinal manipulation (adjustments) to help relieve spinal joint pain.

Real Life Case Study: “I want to play catch with my grandson!”

Take, for example, a recent new patient we saw named “Anna”. She came to us after an accident resulted in her having extreme neck and low back pain. Her primary goal was to play catch with her grandson, but every time she tried to throw, her neck would immediately flare up and she’d have to stop. She tried stretching but it only made her neck worse. This really worried her as she felt like something more seriously was at hand and it was getting worse the more she stretched. After listening to her explain what she was going through, we were able to strategize a plan of action that was specific to her needs that included chiropractic care. We adjusted her spine and did some additional joint mobility work, which gave her almost immediate relief. We also worked on her middle and lower back to also give her those powerful pain modulating endorphins that I mentioned earlier. It was a challenging case, to say the least, but I am proud to say that “Anna” is on the path to recovery and doing really well. This is due, in large part, to her consistency with her appointments AND her joints calming down with each adjustment. She has been re-introduced to stretching, except this time she does not experience any pain. In fact, she came in recently with the exciting news that she played catch with her grandson and had no neck pain for the first time in months!

Do this next!

Maybe you (or someone you know) is in a similar situation to “Anna”? If so, I have great news for you today… You are in the right place for relief. Every day, Chattanooga and North Georgia residents are getting the same relief as our dear friend, “Anna”. If you’d like to learn more about your options for overcoming spine pain, do the following:

1. Share this Article with a Friend or Family member who has recently asked you, “What happens when you get “adjusted” at the chiropractor?”
2. Call our office TODAY at (866) 668-0108 to book your next appointment!
3. Keep an eye out for next month’s article, which will be about The 10 Things You Need To Know About Back Pain in 2023!

References:

• Herzog, W. (2010). The biomechanics of spinal manipulation. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 14(3), 280-286.
• Cramer, G. D., Ross, K., Raju, P. K., Cambron, J., Cantu, J. A., Bora, P., & Fergus, M. (2011). Distribution of cavitations as identified with accelerometry during lumbar spinal manipulation. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 34(5), 338-345.
• Pickar, J. G. (2002). Neurophysiological effects of spinal manipulation. The Spine Journal, 2(5), 357-371.
• Bialosky, J. E., Bishop, M. D., Price, D. D., Robinson, M. E., & George, S. Z. (2009). The mechanisms of manual therapy in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain: A comprehensive model. Manual Therapy, 14(5), 531-538.
• Maigne, J. Y., & Vautravers, P. (1998). Mechanisms of action of spinal manipulative therapy. Joint Bone Spine, 65(5), 481-487.