Conditions We Treat
Conditions of the Lower Back
Disc Herniations
Disc Herniations are often referred to as a herniated or slipped disc. This occurs when the soft, jelly-like center of an intervertebral disc in the spine pushes through its tough outer layer. This can result in compression or irritation of nearby nerves, leading to symptoms such as back or neck pain, radiating pain into the arms or legs, numbness, tingling, or weakness. Disc herniations commonly occur in the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine) regions.
Lower Back Pain
Low Back Pain is characterized by discomfort or pain in the lower part of the spine, typically between the ribcage and the buttocks. It can range from a dull ache to sharp, debilitating pain and may be caused by various factors, including muscle strains, herniated discs, poor posture, or underlying medical conditions. Symptoms may occur in as little as a few days but may also last much longer.
Sciatica
Sciatica is low back pain characterized by radiating pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the back of each leg. This condition is caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, often due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other spinal issues. The pain can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the back of the leg.
Conditions of the Shoulder
Rotator Cuff Pain
Rotator Cuff Pain typically stems from irritation, inflammation, or injury to the group of tendons and muscles that surround the shoulder joint, known as the rotator cuff. Common causes include repetitive overhead movements, sports-related activities, or degenerative changes with age. The pain is often felt in the shoulder and upper arm, worsening during specific movements or at night.
Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder Impingement is a common condition characterized by the compression or irritation of structures within the shoulder joint, most commonly the rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial bursa. This compression occurs when the space between the upper arm bone (humerus) and the acromion (a bony projection of the shoulder blade) narrows, often due to repetitive overhead movements or poor posture. Symptoms of shoulder impingement include pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder.
Shoulder Pain
Shoulder Pain is a common ailment that can result from various causes, including muscle strains, ligament injuries, tendon inflammation, or underlying medical conditions. It often presents as discomfort or pain in the shoulder joint and can be associated with limited mobility or weakness in the affected arm.
Conditions of the Head and Neck
Concussion
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury typically caused by a blow or jolt to the head, although it can also result from a sudden impact to the body that transmits force to the head. Concussions are often associated with symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and sensitivity to light and noise. These symptoms can vary in severity and may not always be immediately apparent.
Headaches
Headaches are a common neurological ailment characterized by pain or discomfort in the head or upper neck area. They can be triggered by various factors, including stress, dehydration, sinus congestion, or underlying medical conditions. Headaches come in different forms, such as tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches, each with its unique symptoms and triggers.
Jaw or TMJ Pain
Jaw or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain is discomfort associated with the jaw joint and the muscles controlling its movement. It often results from issues such as teeth grinding, clenching, misalignment of the jaw, or arthritis. Symptoms may include jaw stiffness, pain while chewing, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, and even neck or shoulder pain.
Conditions of the Elbow
Tennis Elbow
Tennis Elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition that affects the outer side of the elbow. It is often caused by repetitive wrist extension and gripping activities, such as playing tennis, but can develop in individuals who don't play the sport. The condition results from inflammation and strain on the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus (the bony bump on the outer side of the elbow). Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and weakness in the forearm and wrist. Symptoms may last anywhere from a few weeks to many months.
Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s Elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a painful condition that affects the inner side of the elbow. Despite its name, it can occur in individuals who don't play golf. This condition is typically caused by repetitive wrist flexion and gripping activities, leading to inflammation and strain on the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle of the humerus (the bony bump on the inner side of the elbow). Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and weakness in the forearm and wrist. Symptoms may last anywhere from a few weeks to many months.
Elbow Pain
Elbow Pain is a common complaint that can arise from various causes. It typically manifests as discomfort, soreness, or sharp pain in the elbow joint. Common factors contributing to elbow pain include overuse, repetitive motions, injuries such as sprains or fractures, and underlying conditions like arthritis or tendonitis.
Conditions of the Hip and Thigh
Hip Flexor Strain
Hip Flexor Strain refers to an injury or overstretching of the muscles that allow the hip to bend and the leg to move toward the torso. This injury is often seen in activities that involve repetitive hip flexion, such as running, kicking, or excessive sitting. Symptoms include pain in the front of the hip or groin, and in some cases, walking or lifting the knee may be challenging.
Hamstring Strain
Hamstring Strain refers to an injury or tear in the muscles or tendons at the back of the thigh. This type of injury commonly occurs during activities that involve rapid acceleration, deceleration, or sudden changes in direction, such as sprinting or jumping. The symptoms of a hamstring strain include pain, swelling, and sometimes bruising in the affected area.
Quad Strain
Quad Strain refers to an injury or overstretching of the quadriceps muscles, a group of four muscles located at the front of the thigh. This type of injury often occurs during activities that involve explosive movements, sudden stops, or changes in direction. Symptoms of a quad strain typically include pain, swelling, and difficulty with activities like walking, running, or climbing stairs.
Conditions of the Hand and Wrist
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed at the wrist within the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway made of bones and ligaments at the base of the hand. Symptoms of CTS include numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain in the hand, particularly during activities that involve repetitive motions like typing or gripping.
Wrist Pain
Wrist Pain is discomfort or soreness experienced in the wrist area, often resulting from various factors such as repetitive motion, injury, arthritis, or strain. It can affect daily activities and is common in individuals who engage in activities like typing, sports, or manual labor. Symptoms may include stiffness, swelling, aching, or a sharp pain in the wrist.
Conditions of the Foot, Ankle and Lower Leg
Ankle Sprain
Ankle Sprain is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often due to an abrupt twisting or rolling motion of the foot. This injury can lead to immediate pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. The severity of a sprained ankle can range from mild to severe, with more severe cases potentially involving complete ligament tears. However, most cases are mild and recover within several weeks.
Foot Pain
Foot Pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages and lifestyles. It can result from various causes, including overuse, injury, underlying medical conditions, or improper footwear. The pain can manifest in different areas of the foot, such as the heel, arch, toes, or the entire foot. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, Morton's neuroma, and stress fractures are among the many potential causes of foot pain.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition often causes stabbing pain, particularly in the heel area, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Plantar fasciitis can result from factors such as overuse, high-impact activities, improper footwear, or underlying foot mechanics issues.
Shin Splints
Shin Splints refer to pain along the shinbone (tibia), typically on the inner edge. This condition is often associated with physical activity and can result from excessive or repetitive stress on the shinbone and the tissues attaching the shinbone to the muscles. Runners, dancers, and individuals engaged in high-impact sports are particularly susceptible to shin splints. The pain is usually characterized by a dull, aching sensation and may be accompanied by swelling.
Other Conditions
Acne
Acne is a common side effect of major hormonal changes. It is common in teenagers, pregnancy, menopause, changing medications, or coming off the birth control pill. This is commonly due to higher levels of androgens (think testosterone) and lower levels of other hormones. We often also see a deficiency in certain vitamins (D mostly) and a lot more oil and bacteria on the skin.
Bone Fracture
Bone Fracture occurs when a bone is cracked or broken, often due to trauma, falls, or excessive force. Fractures can vary in severity, from hairline cracks to complete breaks with displacement of bone fragments. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected limb.
Bursitis
Bursitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation or irritation of a bursa, which is a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions and lubricates areas where tendons, skin, and muscles glide over bones. The inflammation of the bursa is often due to repetitive motion, pressure, or injury to a specific joint. Common sites for bursitis include the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee. Symptoms can include localized pain, swelling, tenderness, and limited movement in the affected joint.
Cycling Pain
Cycling Pain can arise from various sources due to the repetitive nature of the activity and prolonged periods spent on the bike. Common types of cycling-related pain include saddle sores, which are skin irritations or sores on the buttocks or groin area, and numbness or tingling in the hands or feet caused by pressure on nerves. Cyclists may also experience knee pain, often linked to improper bike fit or pedaling technique.
Digestion Issues or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Digestion Issues or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both. The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but factors such as abnormal gut motility, heightened sensitivity to certain foods, stress, and gut microbiota composition are believed to play a role. Diagnosis often involves ruling out other gastrointestinal conditions through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and sometimes additional tests.
Fertility Issues
Fertility issues can affect individuals or couples attempting to conceive and may stem from various factors. Both men and women can experience challenges related to fertility, including hormonal imbalances, reproductive system disorders, age-related decline in fertility, and lifestyle factors such as stress and poor nutrition. Common causes in women include ovulatory disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and structural issues in the reproductive organs. In men, issues like low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or structural abnormalities can contribute to fertility problems.
Nerve pain
Nerve Pain, also known as neuropathic pain, is a type of discomfort or pain that originates from problems with the nerves themselves rather than from an external injury or stimulus. It can be caused by various factors, including nerve damage from injuries, diabetes, infections, or conditions like neuropathy. Nerve pain is often described as burning, tingling, stabbing, or shooting sensations and can be chronic and debilitating.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disorder that primarily affects the cartilage, the protective tissue covering the ends of bones in joints. Over time, the cartilage gradually breaks down and wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility. OA is often associated with aging but can also result from joint injuries, obesity, genetics, or other factors. Commonly affected joints include the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Patellofemoral Pain (PFPS)
Patellofemoral Pain (PFPS) is a common knee condition that causes pain around or behind the kneecap (patella). It often occurs when the patella doesn't move smoothly within the groove of the thigh bone (femur) during knee movement. PFPS is frequently associated with activities that involve repetitive knee bending and is common in runners, cyclists, and individuals who engage in sports that stress the knee joint. Symptoms include a dull, aching pain in the front of the knee, particularly during activities like climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting with the knees bent for extended periods.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects individuals assigned female at birth, typically during their reproductive years. It is characterized by a collection of symptoms that may include enlarged ovaries containing small cysts, irregular menstrual cycles, and an excess of androgen hormones, which may lead to symptoms such as acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), hair loss, fertility difficulties, and difficulty with weight loss/weight gain. PCOS is also associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical symptoms, physical exams, and hormonal tests.
Running Pain
Running pain can manifest in various forms and locations in the body, often as a result of the repetitive impact and strain associated with running. Common types of running pain include shin splints, which affect the lower leg, and runner's knee, a condition characterized by pain around the kneecap. Other runners may experience Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or IT band syndrome, all of which involve discomfort in specific areas of the leg or foot.