Vancouver chiropractor Dr. Troy Dreiling explains how arm weakness can be cared for using chiropractic adjustments. Call to schedule a free consultation.
Video Transcription
Hi, it’s Dr. Troy here.
Arm weakness is what I want to discuss. A lot of patients will have trouble holding things, they can’t control their grip, they feel like they’re weak, their shoulder might not be functioning properly. They feel like they have a weakened arm or hands.
We found that if there is misalignment in the upper cervical spine, the lower neck primarily the C5, C6, C7 which interfere with the nerves that control the strength and the power that goes into your arms.
If there is a vertebral misalignment which can be caused by trauma, repetitive sitting in a chair or driving. I see this a lot in people who are fork lift drivers because they are turning their head all the time and using their arm, therefore, putting a ton of pressure on the communication lines that actually control the strength and power of your arm.
We do a few things to determine if there is weakness:
- Muscle testing: We do an examination called palpation, getting in there to feel if there is any irritation to the nerves.
- X-Rays: We do this to see if there is a misalignment or degeneration
We then know how to best solve the problem through specific chiropractic care. Sometimes we’ll use traction and sometimes we may even use some spinal molding blocks.
We would have the patient lay their spine over molding blocks for up to 20 minutes a day, sometimes 2 or 3 times a day depending on if there is numbness or tingling that goes along with the weakness.
I have seen great results from people with arm weakness, numbness, tingling in their hand.
If you’re interested we do a consultation to determine if chiropractic is right for you.
This is Dr. Troy, the Zenaptic Chiropractor.
More Information on Arm Weakness
Many Americans suffer from weakness of the arms, hands, or shoulders, as well as associated symptoms such as tingling or numbness, without having any idea of what may be the cause. The condition can be reoccurring or chronic, to the point that it affects their ability to lead a normal, active lifestyle. Such weakness can make it difficult to work, exercise, drive, or other routine activities, and thus results in more problems, such as lack of fitness and obesity.
Causes of Arm Weakness
The problem for many patients is that the symptoms may have no apparent cause. And while arm weakness, numbness, and pain could be signs of many different root problems, such as a physical injury, a stroke, heart problems, or more, in many cases it is the result of vertebral misalignment or other spinal issues that may not be readily apparent.
Vertebral misalignment is a condition in which the muscles, joints, and discs of your neck, back, and pelvis become off-center due to uneven forces on the spinal column. Continued misalignment can lead to a progressive deterioration of the vertebrae that is characterized by five stages: a wedge, a bulge, protrusion, herniation, and a rupture.
Another cause of shoulder, arm, and hand weakness or pain arises from issues with a group of nerves called the brachial plexus. This nerve group extends from the lower neck into the upper shoulder region. Its purpose is to control the movement and feeling in the arm and hand.
If patients are suffering chronic weakness in their arms, it could be a symptom of nerve damage to the brachial plexus. We call this condition brachial plexopathy, and it could be the result of many problems, including injury, overstretching or inflammatory conditions.
What these two conditions have in common, besides shared symptoms, is that they can both be treated by a clinical chiropractor.
Arm Weakness Analysis and Treatment
Because the symptoms of both vertebral misalignment and brachial plexopathy can manifest in a variety of ways, it is necessary to carefully identify the cause of a patient’s discomfort before coming up with a treatment. At Zenaptic Chiropractic, we have a number of techniques for ruling out potential causes and determining exactly what is happening so we can form a successful treatment plan.
There are two specific approaches that we use with these types of cases. First, we will conduct muscle testing via an exam known as palpation. This allows us to ascertain if the patient is suffering from nerve irritation, which could be an indication of brachial plexopathy. We will also take x-rays, as necessary, to look for signs of vertebral misalignment or degeneration. By working with our patients and using the latest in chiropractic techniques, we can determine the best course of specific care.
Arm Weakness and Chiropractic Care
We have a number of options at our disposal to effectively treat or reduce arm weakness and pain. One course of treatment involves traction, which is a form of decompression therapy that will relieve pressure on the affected area and stimulate a healthy flow of fluids and nutrients, thereby inducing a natural healing process.
Another option is to use spinal molding blocks. The patient will lay down on the blocks for a period of approximately twenty minutes, as many as three times a day, in order to induce a realignment of the spine.
Summary
If you are suffering from arm weakness, you can learn about how we can help by setting up a FREE consultation today. We are committed to advancing the health and well being of every one of our patients. Call today (360) 260-6903, to learn how we can help you live a more active and pain-free life!
