Winter Activities Near Canton Ohio

As the weather outside becomes colder and winter begins to set in, people often look for ways to keep busy and enjoy themselves. If you're looking for some fun winter activities near Canton, Ohio, you'll find plenty of options here. From skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts to ice skating on local ponds and rivers, there's something for everyone. So bundle up and get ready to enjoy everything this wonderful season has to offer.

Goodyear Heights Metropark

Goodyear Heights Metropark has a total land area of 410 acres and was first opened in 1930. In other seasons of the year, this part is great for outdoor picnics, walks, and sightseeing. During the winter season, this park becomes a winter wonderland and is considered as of the popular destinations near Canton, Ohio. The area offers a great venue for winter outdoor activities such as sledding, tubing, and many more. 

Hours: 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Amenities:

Directions:

Take Newton St and Brittain Rd to I-76 W then proceed to I-77 S to Everhard Rd NW in Jackson Township. Take exit 109 from I-77 S. Turn left onto Everhard Rd NW then right onto Whipple Ave NW. Turn right onto Munson St NW and left onto Executive Cir NW where you will find your destination on the left.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers some of the greatest views and exciting winter activities. The park features a Winter Sports Center for renting skis and snowshoes for adults and children, perfect for all their snow and ice activities. The Winter Sports Center opens every year from late December to late February. 

Activities:

Directions:

Get on OH-8 S from W Hines Hill Rd and Olde 8 Rd. Follow OH-8 S and I-77 S to Everhard Rd NW in Jackson Township. Take exit 109 from I-77 S. Turn left onto Everhard Rd NW and turn right onto Whipple Ave NW. Turn right onto Munson St NW and turn left onto Executive Cir NW where the destination is on the left.

Hall Of Fame City Ice Rink

Ice skating enthusiasts and beginners alike are all welcome to enjoy this outdoor rink. With weather permitting conditions, the 60'x100' rink opens every December until February.

Amenities:

Admission Fee

$2 with your own skates

$4 to rent figure or hockey skates

Directions:

Head west on Tuscarawas St W toward Cleveland Ave SW. Use the right lane to merge onto I-77 N/US-62 E via the ramp to Akron. Take exit 109A toward Belden Village St/Whipple Ave/Everhard Rd. Turn left onto Whipple Ave NW and turn right onto Munson St NW. Turn left onto Executive Cir NW where you will find your destination on the left. 

Canton Museum of Art

The winter season is also a great time to enjoy indoor activities such as visiting art museums. The Canton Museum of Art is one of the premier museums featuring exceptional visual arts within Ohio. The museum is recognized for highlighting American art focusing on paper, primarily watercolors and ceramics. The museum also offers community events and programs with about 45,000 participants every year. If it's too cold outside, enjoy a cozy vibe and appreciate art or take part in their hands-on classes.

Hours:

Depends on the day. Best to check their calendar at https://www.cantonart.org/calendar

Directions:

Head north on Market Ave N toward 11th St NE and turn left onto 12th St NW. Turn right onto Mercy Drive Northwest and merge onto I-77 N. Take exit 109A toward Belden Village St/Whipple Ave/Everhard Rd and turn left onto Whipple Ave NW. Turn right onto Munson St NW and  left onto Executive Cir NW.

Massillon Museum

The Massillon Museum is filled with exquisite exhibitions from local arts and history. It features photography collections, costumes and textiles, china, glass, pottery, and other sorts of memorabilia. The Massillon Museum displays approximately 100,000 objects in 94 categories.

Hours:

The museum is open from Tuesday up to Saturday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm and on Sundays from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

Directions:

Head north on 1st St SE toward Lincoln Way E and turn right at the 1st cross street onto Lincoln Way E. Turn left onto Wales Rd NE then turn right onto Hills and Dales Rd NW. Continue onto Everhard Rd NW, turn right onto Munson St NW, and turn right onto Executive Cir NW where the destination is on the left.

 

Areas around Canton, Ohio, offer a wide variety of activities during the winter season. From exciting outdoor adventurous activities to cozy indoor relaxing leisure, you will always find places to go and enjoy with your family or friends while the frosty weather is on.

 

 

References:

https://www.cantonohio.gov/

https://www.cantonart.org/

https://www.nps.gov/

https://www.summitmetroparks.org/

 

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Sciatic Nerve Impingement Causing Sciatica

What is sciatica and how does it happen?

Sciatica is a condition in which pain may radiate from your lower back into your leg and foot. It can happen because the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or stretched by the spinal disc or tightened muscles.

Sciatica often occurs as the result of some “pinching” of the sciatic nerve in the low back.  Some common actions that could predispose a person to sciatica are excessive movements such as bending forward, lifting heavy objects, or bending and twisting in the low back.

These actions are often performed by specific sports or occupations, which increases the possibilities of sciatic occurring.  Golfers, weight lifters, construction workers, and concrete workers are more susceptible to these injuries.

Although the pain associated with sciatica can be severe, most cases resolve within a few weeks with non-operative approaches. However, severe sciatica that causes leg weakness or bowel or bladder changes might be appropriate for surgery.

What causes sciatic nerve impingement?

The actual cause of sciatic nerve impingement is not fully understood but can be attributed to multiple factors. Below is a list of the most common factors associated with sciatica.

Symptoms

Pain stemming from your lower back and extending to your buttock and down the back of your leg is the hallmark of sciatica. You might experience this discomfort almost anywhere along the nerve pathway, but it is especially likely to follow a path from your lower back to your buttock and the back of your thigh and calf.

The symptoms of sciatica are not always easy to distinguish.

Common symptoms of sciatica are the following:

Preventions

It is not always possible to prevent sciatica. However, some lifestyle modifications can help reduce a person's risk.

  1. Be cautious when sitting for long periods, even if you're resting or sleeping on a couch. Try moving around every hour or so. Stand up and stretch your legs out straight behind yourself while simultaneously reaching back toward where they would be against furniture. 
  2. Feather-lite ball chairs can help by providing more lumbar support than traditional swings - use them instead to avoid sciatica.
  3. Avoid positions that place stress across both knees at once 
  4. Wear comfortable shoes.
  5. Remain active every day.
  6. Maintain good posture.
  7. Get regular checkups.

In general, having a solid core and doing regular exercise may both help prevent sciatica. Additionally, maintaining a good posture while sitting and standing can reduce the risk of getting sciatica because it will result in people using their bodies better.

Treatments

There are many different options for treating sciatica. For example, treatment might include rest, chiropractic treatment or stretching to help you recover from your illness and live an active lifestyle again. Only in the most severe cases are more aggressive procedures, like surgery, required.

With the variety and complexity of treatments for sciatica, it is difficult to know which option will work best with your needs. Chiropractic treatment for sciatica is often a smart first approach.  Chiropractic care is a non-surgical approach to resolving sciatica pain.

Chiropractic treatment often includes manual adjustments to the affected joints to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.  Additionally, stretching and strengthening may be included in the treatment plan.

The best way of finding out what will work is by speaking with our chiropractor at Belden Village Chiropractic & Wellness Center who can assess any injuries and provide more personalized advice on individual needs.

If you have sciatica or back pain, take this remedy and you'll never suffer again!

 

Read next article

 

References:

-https://www.mycantonchiropractor.com/

-https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sciatica

-https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/

-https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases

 

The Purpose of Inflammation Following Injury

Injuries, whether they are small or large, can cause inflammation. Inflammation includes swelling, redness, and heat and is a result of the body’s immune system reacting to the injury.  Commonly, injury treatment may be needed to assist the body and aid in recovery. 

This content will help you understand the process of Inflammation, including the reasons behind the body’s inflammatory response. 

How does inflammation occur?

When an injury happens, the damaged cells release chemicals and debris into the bloodstream. These chemicals act as signals to the blood to release components that will create an “initial repair” to the site of injury.

The Inflammation will start with the body increasing the release of leukocytes (a blood component that fights off infection). The leukocytes will travel to the site of injury to trap the damaged cells and any foreign invader that may have entered the wound, such as bacteria. As the leukocytes engulf the debris and bacteria, they release a chemical called pyrogen that kills these foreign materials. This process prevents the bacteria and debris from traveling far from the injured site and causing a widespread infection in the body.

Another response that is activated during an injury is the release of platelets when there is external or internal bleeding. The platelets will travel to the wound to promote blood clotting and avoid excessive bleeding. Additionally, The blood flow within the injured area will increase to maximize the delivery of the blood components responding to the injury.

What are the results of the inflammatory response?

The inflammation process results in noticeable symptoms that the person can feel and see. Let’s take a closer look at these symptoms and how they happen.

Swelling - Swelling happens due to the increase in blood flow in the area. Some fluids from the blood leak outside the arteries and stay within the surrounding tissues causing a swell.

Heat - The inflamed area is warmer when touched. This is because of the increased blood flow and the release of pyrogen by the leukocytes.

Redness - Redness is also visible when an injury occurs. This redness is a result of heat and increased blood flow.

Pain - Every injury causes pain. This pain is the effect of the damage in the free nerve endings as well as the compression of the surrounding nerves due to the swelling.

The importance of Inflammation

Inflammation is a natural response by the body. Its main purpose is to keep the injury to a minimum and remove the injurious agent and damaged tissues to aid the body in the healing process.

Without this process, the person may be at risk of bringing the injuring agent to the vital parts of the body, such as the heart, brain, kidneys, or other parts. When the injury reaches the vital organs, these organs may develop infection and may stop functioning. Injury to these organs can cause fatality.

Another purpose of local Inflammation is to prevent systemic infection. Systemic infection happens when the invading material (bacteria) spreads to the whole bloodstream infecting the body. A systemic infection can cause irreversible organ damage, organ failure, or possible death.

The inflammation process is vital in keeping the injury contained and eases the body’s natural healing capacity. Anything that happens beyond the usual presentation of Inflammation should be reported to the doctor.

If you are experiencing inflammation in joints or soft tissue, our healthcare team has the ability to treat and help you along with recovery.  Treatment of inflammation is commonly treated in our office and we are ready to help.  Call our office to schedule an appointment.

 

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

https://www.medscape.com/

https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/

https://accessphysiotherapy.mhmedical.com/

 

Four Causes of Wrist and Hand Pain

People use their hands for just about anything – cooking, eating, driving, holding things, working, etc. Hands make daily tasks and routines easier. Most people don’t realize the importance of their hands until they experience pain or a tingling sensation that prevents them from doing their usual routines.

Wrist pain is usually the most common complaint. Affected areas will present specific symptoms such as dull pain, sharp pain, tightness in the area, or a sensation of pins and needles. There are many causes of pain that occur in the hands. Due to the complex structure that makes up the fingers, wrists, and hands; determining the root cause of the pain entails a comprehensive medical history, physical inspection, and diagnostic imaging tests.

Here are the four causes of wrist and hand pain:

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis / Wrist Tendinitis

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis is one of the top conditions that cause wrist and hand pain. Its presenting symptom is pain on the side of the thumb and wrist. It is also considered as Wrist Tendinitis as a result of a repetitive or sudden injury to the wrist.

Women appear to be more affected by De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis than men. This condition is also called “mommy’s wrist” due to a higher prevalence in new mothers and postpartum moms. This is associated with repetitive motion of holding and picking up a baby combined with hormonal fluctuations that result in fluid retention and swelling around the joints after giving birth.

Pain is usually felt around the thumb and its nearby wrist structures where two thumb tendons occupy the same space.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Neuropathy, often popularly called ‘peripheral neuropathy’ is the dysfunction or damage of the nerves in your body. It is an indication of a problem occurring in the peripheral nervous system. Neuropathies will usually start in your hands and feet but will also manifest in other body parts.

Common signs and symptoms of Neuropathy include ‘pins and needles’ sensation, numbness,  sharp pain, changes in sensation, loss of coordination, muscle weakness or twitching, paralysis, abnormal heart rate, excessive sweating, problems with bladder, digestion, and bowels.

Arthritis

Arthritis is the most common cause of wrist and hand pain for people age 40 and older. Although the wrist is the least affected part when it comes to arthritis compared to other joints of the body, arthritis on the wrist can occur as a result of wear and tear or a history of wrist joint injury. When a tear in the wrist ligaments happens, bones form in an unusual pattern. This abnormal movement causes the cartilage breakdown. The cartilage acts as a cushion between the two bones in a joint. When the cartilage breaks down, bones rub each other that causes bone spurs which is one aspect of arthritis.

Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, loss of normal range of motion, and pain in the affected part.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a prevalent condition among office workers who are always using the computer. This condition is a result of a compressed or squeezed median nerve.

The median nerve is located in the middle of the wrist and travels to the hand. It is surrounded by flexor tendons and tissues. When the surrounding structures become swollen, the tunnel becomes narrowed putting pressure on the median nerve. This pressure causes numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the hand.

When to see a Chiropractor

You need to see a chiropractor when the symptoms of wrist and hand pain prevent you from doing your activities of daily living. The chiropractor will perform a physical examination, thorough medical history, and diagnostic procedures to determine the cause of pain in your wrist or hand. The doctor will often use manual therapy techniques and adjustments which often resolves the problem.

 

Sources:

https://orlandohandsurgery.com/2019/12/31/four-causes-of-wrist-pain-and-effective-treatments/

https://www.verywellhealth.com/wrist-pain-causes-symptoms-and-treatments-2549458

https://www.sports-health.com/sports-injuries/hand-and-wrist-injuries/wrist-tendonitis-overview

Five Causes of Low Back Pain

Low back pain is one of the leading causes of absenteeism from work and a reason for doctor visits. About 80% of the adult population has reported experiencing back pain at least once in their lifetime. Low back pain has affected both men and women alike. Pain can be sudden as a result of the improper lifting of heavy objects or it can also develop over the course of time due to degenerative diseases. Acute pain often resolves in a few weeks while chronic pain lasts for more than three months despite home management and doctor-prescribed medications.

Here are five common causes of low back pain:

Lumbar Herniated Disc

A lumbar herniated disc is also known as a slipped disc or ruptured disc. The lumbar vertebrae are segmented together through cartilage. When the cartilage exits or herniates from the spinal cord, it pushes against the spinal cord or nerve roots causing nerve compression. This is a common injury resulting from the sudden lifting of an object or twisting of the back. The compression of the nerve root will cause swelling, inflammation, and severe pain.

Sprains and Strains

Sprains are caused when ligaments are overstretched or torn while Strains result from tendon or muscle tears. Both conditions can occur from improper body posture when twisting, stretching, or lifting something heavy. These improper body positioning can also trigger muscle spasms at the lower back area and can also be painful.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease of the cartilage as a result of wear and tear over a long period. It affects the cartilage that acts as a cushion preventing two bones from rubbing each other. It is the most common type of arthritis that affects joints in the hips, hands, knees, and spine. Spinal arthritis often leads to narrowing of the spaces surrounding the spinal cord. This condition is called ‘spinal stenosis’ and may cause pain in the lower back area especially during movement.

Poor Posture

Poor posture can also cause lower back pain. The pressure or weight of the body is not well distributed throughout the spine. Poor sitting and standing posture weaken the tissues in the lower back. It causes misalignment of the intricate connection of muscles, joints, and cartilages beyond their normal limit which will result in pain.

Common poor posture practices that will later result in low back pain:

Mechanical Back Pain

Mechanical back pain is one of the causes of low back pain. It is usually a result of a specific trauma or strenuous activity that may cause pain. It is also known as Acute Idiopathic Low Back Pain, Lumbago, Lumbosacral Strain or Sprain, and Lumbar Syndrome. The source of the pain may involve the spinal discs, vertebrae, joints, or soft tissues. Fortunately, people with mechanical low back pain often recover quite well under chiropractic care.  Chiropractic care for mechanical low back pain is an effective form of treatment.

When to see a doctor

Consult a chiropractor when your low back is causing you pain, dysfunction or is persisting for longer than a few days.  Conservative, non-surgical low back treatment can be an effective way of releiving your pains and returning you back to a healthy lifestyle.

Sources:

https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/lower-back-pain/causes-lower-back-pain

https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Low-Back-Pain-Fact-Sheet

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20369906

https://www.spine-health.com/blog/poor-posture-causing-your-back-pain

The Three Curves of the Spine

The spine, also known as the backbone, runs from the base of the skull down to the pelvis. It has three sections that provide support to the body absorbing stress and pressure from body movement.

What is the primary function of the spine?

The primary function of the spine is to support the weight of the body and protect the intricate network of nerves intertwined in between.

The three curves of the spine

When viewed from the side, the spine has three natural curves that give it an 'S' shape. These curves help the spine endure great amounts of pressure from body movements. The spine distributes the weight of the body evenly.

The spine is arranged into three curves – Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar Spine. Each section is made up of a group of bones stacked on top of each other. In between these bones is a soft cushion called ‘disc’ to help absorb shock or weight of the body.

Cervical spine

Cervical Spine is the uppermost segment of the spine. The cervical spine is composed of seven (7) spinal bones (vertebrae) in the neck. It is referred to as C1 to C7 vertebrae from top to bottom.

The main function of the cervical spine is to support the head and allow movement to the neck. C1 and C2 vertebrae are responsible for the weight-bearing of the head, neck movement, and head rotation. C1 is also known as the ‘atlas’ holds the skull. On the other hand, C2, also known as ‘axis’, is composed of a bony projection known as the ‘odontoid process’ that fits into a hole in the atlas (C1) that permits neck rotation.

The cervical spine bends slightly inward, similar to a 'C'. This inward curve is also called a ‘Lordotic Curve’.

Thoracic spine

Thoracic Spine is the second segment of the spine. It is composed of twelve (12) spinal bones or vertebrae. It is referred to as T1 to T12 from top to bottom in the chest region. The rib cage is attached to the thoracic vertebrae. The Thoracic Spine bends slightly outwards, similar to a ‘reversed C’. It is also called a 'Kyphotic Curve'.

Lumbar spine

Lumbar Spine is the third segment of the spine located below the Thoracic Spine. It is composed of five (5) spinal bones or vertebrae. It is referred to as L1 to L5 from top to bottom in the hips or pelvis region. The lumbar spine bears the majority of the body’s weight. It is considered as the largest vertebrae of the body. The Lumbar Spine curves slightly inward forming a 'C'.

A healthy spine exhibits all of these three normal spinal curves. The three curves of the spine act as the shock absorbers of the body. They help align the different parts of the body to achieve optimal movement. Unfortunately, there are lifestyle activities, genetics and other factors that affect the integrity and alignment of the three spinal curves. The most common abnormal curvature of the spine is well known as ‘scoliosis.’ If you notice any unusual alignment in your spine, set a doctor’s appointment immediately. The earlier you can detect abnormalities in your spine, the bigger your chances of qualifying for non-invasive therapy.

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/10040-spine-structure-and-function

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/cervical-spine.html?_ga=2.101433473.1669232893.1586865191-1786852242.1586865191

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/t/thoracic-spine.html?_ga=2.37914531.1669232893.1586865191-1786852242.1586865191

Your Body's Immune Response

We should be focusing on the strength of the body to mount an immune response.  Infection is a complication of lowered resistance due to malnutrition.  All nutrients are interdependent and as such, for the body and the immune alliance to work properly, we need to enhance overall health of the body to find complete resistance to disease. Therefore, below are the products I would recommend:

Catalyn 3/2x day-  Per Dr. Lee “Catalyn causes immunity to be developed at a far more rapid rate than is normally possible.”

Cod Liver Oil 1/3x day- With its naturally occurring vitamins  A, D, and F, as well as a source of essential fatty acids, this is a must to support overall health

Immune Triad: Calcium Lactate 6-20 per day, Cataplex AC -3/2x day (this is a good alternative to Cataplex C), Cataplex F -3/2x day-  Specific nutrients for everyone looking to arm the immune system with the necessary components to help the body identify and engulf invaders.

Thymex 3/2x day - Promotes phagocytic and lymphatic activity, stimulates healing through anti-body production

Congaplex (small sizes) 6-20 per day, Chewable Congaplex 12-20 per day - a combination of Cataplex AC, Thymex, Calcium lactate, and RNA for a combination product to support immune defense.  Add Cataplex F tablets for the complete Immune Triad

Licorice 1:1 liquid - (Mediherb) 5mls/day - Adrenal support with anti-viral properties for enveloped viruses (Contraindicated with Hypertension)

St. John’s Wort 1.8g tablet (Mediherb) 1/3x day - Potent anti-viral against enveloped viruses (like the one everyone might be concerned about ;))

Eleuthero (Mediherb) 1/3x day - An adrenal adaptogen that also has anti-viral properties. Great for patients who are stressed and need immune support

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.  Please call the office at 330-493-0009.

In good health,

Dr. Brent A. Ungar

Chiropractic Physician & Certified

Chiropractic Sports Physician

Belden Village Chiropractic &

Wellness Center

2424 Whipple Ave NE

Canton, Ohio 44708

330-493-0009 Office

330-493-6659 Fax

Ulnar Nerve Entrapment and Its Symptoms

The Nervous System is responsible for the transmittal of information to and from the brain. The nerves allow humans to process sensations received in the periphery so we can react to the stimuli around us.

Too much pressure on the nerves may cause nerve compression. It can happen in many parts of your body more frequently on the joints. When the ulnar nerve is compressed in your elbow, it is called “Ulnar Nerve Entrapment.” Initially, you will feel soreness, numbness, and weakness in your elbow area.

Causes

The ulnar nerve runs from the base of your neck to the entire length of your arm. It functions as the muscle control in the forearm and hand. The ulnar nerve is also responsible for the feelings and sensations affecting your little finger and ring finger. The most vulnerable part of the ulnar nerve is at the elbow.

The leading causes of ulnar nerve entrapment is putting pressure on the area for a long time. Most usual causes of ulnar nerve entrapment are:

Symptoms

The first noticeable sign of a pinched nerve in the elbow is the weakness in your hand. You will have difficulty grasping and gripping objects with your hand.

You may notice tenderness on your hands and feelings of pain in that part. The little and ring fingers may show some signs of weakness and decreased flexibility.

Other symptoms include:

These symptoms may not be bothersome in the beginning. They tend to come and go at the start. You will notice these symptoms when you bend your elbow. Sometimes, you will wake in the middle of the night and feel a tingling sensation in your fingers.

Who are at risk of Ulnar Nerve Entrapment?

Your chances of getting an ulnar nerve entrapment are high if you have the following pre-existing conditions:

Exact reasons that lead to ulnar nerve entrapment remain unknown. Physical activities that involve repeated bending and pressure on the arm are the usual known cause of nerve pinch in the elbow.

When to visit the Chiropractor?

Visit a chiropractor near you if symptoms worsen. If ulnar nerve entrapment remains untreated, it could put you at a high risk of permanent nerve damage. The muscles that the nerve controls may lose its flexibility and function. Over time, these muscles may begin to shrink, also called muscle wasting. This condition is not easy to reverse.

Visit your chiropractor if you have the following warning signs:

A chiropractor will accurately diagnose your condition.

Source:

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/pinched-nerve-in-elbow#2

Cold Laser Therapy Treatment for Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is pain persisting to weeks or months and is commonly associated with an underlying medical condition. Some common conditions that cause chronic pain are inflammation of the joints such as arthritis or injury, bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and fibromyalgia.

Chronic pain can become quite problematic and disbaling for a person who has it.  Everyday activities like walking, sitting and sleep can be affected when chronic pain persists.

Medical doctors often prescribe pain medications to try to reduce pain.  Recent studies suggest an alternative intervention with the use of cold laser therapy to treat chronic pain. Cold laser therapy is low-intensity light therapy that stimulates healing while using low levels of light and decreases the need for pain medication.

It is called “cold” laser therapy because the low levels of light aren’t enough to heat your body’s tissue. The level of light is small when compared to other forms of laser therapy, such as those used to destroy tumors and coagulate tissue. Cold laser therapy can stimulate all cell types, including muscle, cartilage, ligament, and nerves.

History of cold laser therapy

This approach is used in clinical practice for about four decades. In 1916, Albert Einstein theorized Light Amplification through Stimulated Emission of Radiation or LASER. In 1967, Professor Andre Mester began using low power lasers in medicine. Dr. Mester is recognized by many as the grandfather of laser therapy.

How cold laser therapy works?

Cold laser therapy is also called Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). Its mechanism of action uses various wavelengths. The light energy goes through the skin and directly targets the specific area. The light can penetrate 2-5 centimeters down the tissue and creates a physiological reaction. Researchers have not clearly define how it works. Some hypothesized that low-level laser increases levels of nitric oxide that promote vasodilation thus produces better circulation and healing. Other data suggests an increase in endorphin production. Nonetheless, LLLT demonstrates an analgesic effect on the body.

How is it low level laser therapy performed?

Cold laser therapy is a non-invasive procedure and can be done in a clinical setting. A chiropractor can perform it.

A handheld device is set close to the affected area. A laser light radiates through the skin where it is absorbed. The treatment is done for 2 to 10 minutes since it is non-invasive, with no pain or any side effect after the therapy.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Contraindications to cold laser therapy

Cold laser therapy does not apply to pregnant women, cancer, and hypothyroidism patients. The laser must not expose directly to the eyes as it can cause damage to the eyes.

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/joint-pain/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050668

https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-laser-therapy

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4126803/

Meniscus Tears in the Knee - What is it?

Knee injury is one of the most commonly reported injuries in the sports industry. Although athletes are more prone to injuries of the knees, ordinary people can also experience knee pain at some point in their lives. Meniscus tears in the knee are the most common types of knee injuries that people experience.

Anatomy of the knee

The knee structure is composed of two bone ends – the thigh bone (femur) and the shinbone (tibia)- and two curved cartilages, also known as the menisci. The menisci act as a cushion between the two bones. It absorbs pressure from movement and provides stability to the knees.

Causes of meniscus tears

Meniscus tears happen in a moment’s notice when the person is involved in active sports or when he twists, bends, rotates, or lifts heavy objects. Meniscus tears can also occur due to wear and tear over time.  Knee pain often lasts and worsens after a few days.

Risk factors

People who perform activities involving the knee to bend or twist more than necessary are at risk for meniscus tears.

Signs and symptoms

The first sign of meniscus tear is knee pain. Some people reported a popping sensation on the knee when the injury happened. Other symptoms of Meniscus tear include the following:

Athletes don’t immediately realize they have a torn meniscus. They can continue to play sports even with the injury. Most people can still walk with a torn meniscus. It usually takes several days for the inflammation and stiffness to become more noticeable.

If the person keeps on putting too much movement and pressure on the affected knee, a part of the meniscus could fall off and drift towards the joints. This could cause more severe symptoms, including locking the knee, painful knee popping, and slipping knee cap.

Diagnosing torn meniscus

The chiropractor will ask questions about your medical history. He/She will assess your symptoms and will perform a physical exam. The doctor will check the affected knee for signs of inflammation and tenderness along the joint line.

To get a more accurate diagnosis and to rule out other damages to surrounding tissues, the doctor may require an MRI or an Xray to see if it is a case of osteoarthritis.

Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318371.php#Torn-meniscus-prevention