The winter months typically bring hazardous conditions. As a result, we see an increase in injuries resulting from the extra strain of shoveling, slips and falls on ice, auto accidents, and winter activities such as skiing and ice-skating. All of these winter activities and subsequent risks lead to a number of problems: from sprains, strains and fractures to back pain. At Montvale Health Sport & Spine, we are equipped to handle all of these problems, and are currently accommodating patients by offering zero wait time.

Sciatica is relatively common, and has been reported to occur in 15 to 40 percent of people during their lifetime, most commonly between the ages 30 and 50. Some causes include a herniated disk and degenerative arthritis of the spine. These are more common causes than actual injury.

The shoulder is one of the most complex and moveable joints in the body. It is composed of the clavicle (collarbone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the humerus (upper arm bone). Working in tandem with these bones are muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which anchor the shoulder in a stable position. When any of these areas are damaged, it can impact the entire joint and limit movability. Because of the complexity of the joint, it is frequently the site of injury. If you are experiencing stiffness, feel as if your shoulder could pop out of the socket, or are lacking strength in the shoulder, it is highly likely that you have an injured shoulder.

October is National Chiropractic Health Month, sponsored annually by the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) to raise national public awareness about chiropractic services. This year’s campaign’s theme is “Conservative Care First!”, aiming to educate the public on why a conservative, non-invasive approach to healthcare is both safe and effective. Rather than patients seeking non-invasive care options after experimenting with riskier approaches, the ACA advises starting with conservative approaches to reduce risk and experience results.

October is National Chiropractic Health Month, hosted each year by the American Chiropractic Association to promote the advantages of seeking out chiropractic care first. Before choosing a medical procedure to manage back pain, patients should exhaust all non-invasive approaches, including chiropractic care. Though they may not work for every individual patient’s needs, research has shown that is worthwhile to attempt safer procedures first. Learning about all available options will help you to make an informed decision about what method will best improve your back pain.