Health Information

Jonathan WardInformation is presented on various health conditions, treatments and procedures with the goal of empowering patients to take an active role in managing their health with informed decisions about their care. This provides patients with knowledge, skills, and confidence to understand conditions and treatment plans that affect them.

The effort ultimately leads to positive experiences with healthcare providers, to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life.

Back Pain

The spine is the main support for the human body and provides protection for the spinal cord. It is comprised of 33 vertebrae that permit you to maintain an upright position as well as bend. There are three regions of the spine: the cervical or neck area, the thoracic or chest area and the lumbar or lower back area. The sacral and coccyx areas make up the bottom of the spine. ...

Neck Pain

Neck pain, or a stiff neck, involves discomfort and possibly soreness in the neck. Often it becomes painful to turn the head. The majority of neck pain cases are the result of muscle strain in the neck, often brought on by poor posture, awkward sleep positions or a jarring movement. If the nerves are affected, you may experience tingling, numbness or a weakening of the neck, arm or hand. More serious causes of neck pain include falls, accidents, problems in the spinal canal or vertebrae and fibromyalgia. ...

Sciatica

Sciatica is an inflammation of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. The sciatic nerve stretches from the spinal cord to the end of each leg and may become inflamed for a number of reasons, including age-related changes in the spine, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle. Sciatica usually develops gradually as the nerve is compressed over time. This results in pain along the nerve pathway, as well as numbness, tingling and muscle weakness in the affected area. ...

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a narrow, fibrous passage in the wrist that protects the median nerve, which runs down the length of arm and through the wrist into the hand. It controls some hand movement, and sensation in the thumb, index and middle fingers, and half of the ring finger. Irritation or compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel can cause tingling and numbness in the fingers, a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). ...

Degenerated Discs

Degenerated discs are a common back problem. The spinal discs, which are soft, gelatinous cushions that separate the vertebrae, wear down during the aging process. Because the discs function as between-the-bones shock absorbers, allowing the spine to bend and twist, this deterioration can result in serious back pain. As discs are damaged or wear away, the amount of space between the vertebrae gets smaller. As the space narrows, joints are placed under greater stress, resulting in further degeneration. ...

Foraminal Stenosis

Foraminal stenosis is a painful condition caused by a narrowing of a foraminal canal, one of the passages through which nerves branch off the spinal cord. This condition may be the result of a congenital defect, aging, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, a thickened ligament, a herniated disc, a bone spur, or the enlargement of a vertebral joint. Most frequently, it is caused by disc degeneration. ...

Migraine Headache

Migraines are chronic headaches that cause intense pain, and throbbing or pulsing sensations in the head. Along with severe head pain, some people also experience nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The pain and symptoms of a migraine may last from hours to days at a time. Most people experience recurring migraine headaches that may be triggered by stress, anxiety, hormonal changes, certain foods or changes in sleep patterns. Migraines are more common in women than men and they may develop as a result of genetic or environmental factors. Migraines can begin at any age, though most people experience their first migraine during adolescence. ...

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc (also called a ruptured or slipped disc) is a damaged "cushion" between two bones in the spine (vertebrae). Normally, the gelatinous discs between the vertebrae hold the bones in place and act as shock absorbers, permitting the spine to bend smoothly. When a disc protrudes beyond its normal parameters, and its tough outer layer of cartilage cracks, the disc is considered "herniated." ...

Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain is the most common cause for a work-related disability and one of the main reasons for people staying home from work. The lower back is one of the most important parts of the body as it holds most of our body weight when we stand and is involved in movement when we bend or twist at the waist. Because of its pivotal role and frequent use, the lower back is susceptible to injury and chronic pain. Lower back pain is especially common in older adults who may have decreased bone strength and muscle elasticity. The spongy cartilage pads, called intervertebral discs, that allow for flexibility may wear away and weaken in an elderly person. ...

Nerve Pain

Nerve pain often results from nerve entrapment syndrome, the damage caused when a nerve is pinched or compressed. Patients with this condition may experience mild or severe pain that is temporary or chronic. The nerves of the body extend from the brain and spinal cord, threading through to every region of the body. The compression of the nerve can take place in the spine, causing pain to radiate into the limbs, or can take place in other parts of the body. It may occur do to a traumatic injury, repeated stress, or an underlying disease condition. ...

Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is a chronic condition caused by damage within the nerve fibers, resulting in the delivery of incorrect signals to the brain. Neuropathic pain, a response to injury to the central nervous or peripheral nervous system, usually causes tissue damage. What makes neuropathic pain so difficult to treat is that it is not only chronic and severe, but unresponsive to simple analgesic relief. ...

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the wrist that protects the median nerve, the nerve that runs down the arm, through the wrist and into the hand. The median nerve controls some hand movement, and sensation in the thumb, index and middle fingers, and half of the ring finger. Inflammation or compression of the median nerve can cause pain in the wrist and tingling and numbness in the fingers, a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Since most people sleep with their wrists flexed, symptoms are often first apparent when a patient awakens. As the condition worsens, patients may develop weakened grip strength in addition to their other symptoms. While allopathic medicine often treats this condition with corticosteroid injections and, in severe cases, with surgery, chiropractic care takes a gentler, less invasive approach wherever possible. ...

Dizziness

Dizziness, which is a common complaint, encompasses a variety of sensations, and can occur for a variety of reasons. Although dizziness can have a benign cause, such as standing up quickly from a prone position, it may be a symptom of a serious disorder, such as a stroke. In order to determine causation, it is important to note the onset of dizziness, the particular sensation experienced, any concomitant symptoms, and the duration or recurrence of the episode. ...

Concussion

A concussion is a common type of brain injury most often caused by a direct blow to the head or sudden head movement that causes temporary brain malfunction. When the head is hit unexpectedly, the brain can move and hit the skull, affecting memory, judgment, reflexes, speech, balance and coordination. A concussion may also be caused by a sports related injury, a motor vehicle accident or from being violently shaken. Most concussions are considered mild injuries, and people usually fully recover from this condition. ...

Brain Aneurysm Embolization

A brain aneurysm embolization, also known as endovascular coiling, is a minimally invasive treatment for a brain aneurysm. It can be used to treat aneurysms that have ruptured and those that are intact. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into the artery and a coil is threaded through the catheter and placed within the aneurysm, cutting off the flow of blood to the aneurysm. The lack of blood flow prevents the aneurysm from rupturing or leaking. Brain aneurysm embolization is an alternative treatment method available to patients that do not qualify for surgery. ...

Balance Disorders

A balance disorder is a complex condition that causes unsteadiness and dizziness, and sensations of spinning, moving or floating. Part of the inner ear known as the labyrinth interacts with other body systems, including those of the eyes, bones and joints, to maintain balance. Normal balance requires the work of three sensory systems: the visual; the vestibular, which is located in the inner ear; and the somatosensory, which involves the muscular and skeletal systems. These systems, as well as the brain and nervous systems, can be the source of balance problems. When these systems do not function properly, vertigo, spinning, disorientation, trouble focusing the eyes, and poor balance may result. ...

Anatomy of the Spine

The spine consists of 33 individual bones. It provides the foundation of support for the body, enabling a person to perform basic movements such as standing upright and bending. The spinal cord, protected by these bones, connects nerves throughout the body to the brain, providing function and movement to every area of the body. Ligaments and tendons attach muscles to the bones of the spine, keeping them properly aligned and united. The spine can be injured by direct trauma to the bones and tissues that surround the spinal cord. ...

Vertigo

Vertigo is the sensation of spinning or dizziness, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting, that occurs as a result of problems within the brain or the inner ear. People with vertigo feel as if their surroundings are moving although no movement is actually occurring. Vertigo is one of the most common health problems in the United States; it affects many adults during their lifetimes. ...

Traumatic Brain Injury

A traumatic brain injury occurs when a blow or injury to the head causes damage to the brain. While not all head injuries result in brain damage, those that do can bruise the brain, tear nerve fibers or cause internal bleeding. Most traumatic brain injuries occur as a result of a fall, motor vehicle accident, a direct blow to the head or assault. Sports related injuries may also be the cause of some traumatic brain injuries. Severe traumatic brain injuries may lead to permanent brain damage or death. ...

Ulnar Neuropathy

Ulnar neuropathy, also known as ulnar nerve dysfunction or cubital tunnel syndrome, is an inflammation of the ulnar nerve, the nerve that runs from the shoulder to the hand and affects the forearm, wrist and fingers. When this nerve is damaged, often at the wrist or elbow, patients may experience pain, numbness, weakness and restricted thumb movement. Risk factors for the disorder include prior fractures or dislocations of the elbow, bone spurs, cysts or inflammation of the joint, and prolonged or repetitive use of the elbow in a flexed position. ...

Tension Headache

A tension headache is the most common type of headache that affects people of all ages but typically affect adults and adolescents.

Causes of Tension Headaches

Tension headaches occur due to the contraction of the muscles in the neck and scalp. These contractions may be due to the following: ...

Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders are disturbances in sleep patterns. They involve difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, excessive daytime tiredness, irregular breathing during sleep, or abnormal sleep behaviors. Sleep disorders may develop as a result of changes in the neurotransmitters of the brain, taking certain medications (such as corticosteroids), illness, stress, anxiety, depression, excessive caffeine or alcohol, or drug use. A sleep disorder can interfere with daily activities, and affect overall health and quality of life. When accurately diagnosed, however, most sleep disorders can be effectively treated. ...

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive motor system disorder that occurs when certain cells within the brain begin to degenerate or break down. In individuals with Parkinson's disease, the cells that produce a chemical called dopamine, gradually breakdown or die. Dopamine is a chemical that sends signals to the brain to control movement. As these cells diminish and the dopamine levels decrease, the disease progresses and patients gradually lose control of their movements. While there is no cure currently available for Parkinson's disease, there are treatments available to control symptoms and improve quality of life. ...

Occipital Neuralgia

Occipital neuralgia is a neurological disorder characterized by inflammation or injury to the occipital nerves. These nerves, one on either side of the head, span from the base of the neck to the scalp. This condition produces terrible headaches that are usually located on one side of the head. At times, the symptoms of these headaches may be similar to those caused by a migraine, so it is essential to undergo an examination that will determine their source. ...

Neurology Disorders

Headache

A headache is a continuous pain in the head that may affect the eyes, temples, nose, skin or entire head. Headache pain can be either sharp or dull. Certain types of headaches, such as migraines, tend to run in families. Headaches are more common in women, who make up 70 percent of headache sufferers. More than 45 million people in the United States experience headaches, and they are the most common reason for days lost at work and school. ...

Neurological Rehabilitation

Neurological rehabilitation assists patients who have suffered brain or spinal cord injury, or who have other problems of the central nervous system, to develop or regain their strength and life skills. Such rehabilitation is designed to foster independence and emotional confidence as it simultaneously speeds the healing process. In addition, it helps family members and other caregivers return to a more normal lifestyle. ...

Migraines and Headaches in Children

While most people think that headaches are an adult condition, children experience them too. Headaches are as common for children as they are for adults. In fact, 20 percent of children, between the ages of 5 and 17, have headaches. About 15 percent of these headaches are tension related and the remaining 5 percent are migraine headaches. More prepubescent boys get headaches than girls. After puberty, more girls than boys get headaches. ...

Meniere's Disease

Meniere's disease is a condition that involves abnormalities in the inner ear that causes hearing and balance problems. This condition usually occurs in only one ear and is most common among adults in their 40s and 50s. Over 600,000 people in the United States suffer from Meniere's disease. Although the symptoms can be distressing, there are various treatment options available for people who suffer from Meniere's disease. ...