Diapulse Therapy

At Carolina Chiropractic Center, Dr. James Huggins, Jr. has a pain solution for everyone, and diapulse therapy could be the one that’s right for you.  Diapulse is a device that directs pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) to an area of injury.  Injuries interrupt a body’s natural electric current, and this treatment substitutes the electrical component a body needs to function at its best. The treatment improves blood flow, reduces pain and inflammation, and promotes overall healing.

Diapulse is recommended to treat soft tissue injuries because the short intense electromagnetic pulses penetrate into deep tissues.  We also use this therapy for postoperative edema and pain in superficial soft tissue and chronic wounds.  Diapulse is used after spinal cord injuries to enhance blood flow and promote expedited healing.  For each patient, the reason diapulse is recommended may be different.  We understand that even patients with the same condition respond differently to treatments, which is why a plan of care will always be tailored to meet your needs, goals, and your medical and physical condition.

To learn more about diapulse therapy and all the services we provide at the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Shoulder Pain

Many people seek out chiropractic care because of back pain, but at Carolina Chiropractic Center we are also skilled in treating extremities like the knees, elbows, and the shoulders. The shoulder joint is the body’s most mobile joint. It is surrounded by nerves, tendons, bursa, and other tissues which can all experience irritation and cause pain. This complex structure means that shoulder pain can have many causes and may require your chiropractor to assess your overall health and condition to target the root of the problem. 

Whether pain began after an injury or has increased over time, chiropractic treatment is a safe and effective way to treat damage to both hard and soft tissue.  When shoulder pain is caused by joint irritation, relief can often be achieved through an adjustment.  Pain in the muscles can be addressed by massage or stimulation therapy, and your chiropractor will recommend exercise and stretches if needed.  If you are suffering from pain in the shoulder, don’t wait any longer to come see us!

To learn more about all the treatments available at our practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Drug-Free Approach to Pain Management

As the opioid epidemic continues to rise, Dr. James Huggins, Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center continues to offer a drug-free approach to pain management. Depending on your condition, we offer alternative therapies that include physical therapy, hand manipulation, and spinal decompression. Those who participate in these methods are less likely to reach for a pill bottle to manage pain. If your body is in discomfort, schedule a consultation to discuss your treatment options.

If you experience tight muscles, joint or back pain, and find yourself with a limited range of motion, we can work with you to create individualized exercises, stretches, and body alignment positions to strengthen these areas. Pain can interfere with any aspect of life, including making you less active and interfering with your quality of sleep. Dr. James Huggins, Jr. wants patients to perform at their highest peak and feel their absolute best. If you feel anything but the sort, we can help you improve your overall wellness.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment or pain management, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Bad for Your Back Workout Mistakes

Exercising is important for your health, and at Carolina Chiropractic Center we encourage all our patients to be active.  There are simple mistakes we can make exercising that cause more pain, so keep these in mind while exercising so your workout truly benefits you!  Not warming up, or replacing a warm up with a lot of stretching, is not the right way to start exercising. Light warm-up exercises will raise your heart rate and increase circulation, providing better blood flow to muscles.  Even five minutes of light cardio exercise and some easy stretching can have this effect.  It is most important to stretch after a workout.  When muscles have been warmed up and worked out, stretching will feel easier and can prevent soreness by releasing lactic acid built up in the muscles.

Even people who exercise regularly can experience strain if they don’t train their core.  Core and abdominal strength is essential for supporting the spine, and abdominal muscles should be trained with every workout.  No matter which muscle group is being exercised, proper form and good posture are important to avoid injury.  The most common mistake people make working out sounds very simple but is critical: going too far.  This includes pushing the limits in term of any weights you lift, too much twisting of the spine, and exercising excessively.  Listen to your body’s response and build up strength rather than pushing yourself over the limit. Come see us for help correcting your workout routine to make sure you are helping, not hurting yourself with exercise.

To learn more about all the services provided at the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Hip Pain

If you experience pain in your hips, chiropractic treatment can help.  Come to Carolina Chiropractic Center for evaluation and treatment. Hip joints are our largest, and are intertwined with muscles, ligaments and nerves that control most of the body.  Because the hip is a complex joint and connects so much of our anatomy together, assessment from a chiropractor is important for diagnosis.  What someone perceive to be hip pain can easily be caused by or linked to an issue in the lower back, legs, or butt.

At your examination, tell your chiropractor what your discomfort feels like and when it occurs.  Describe if it is painful, feels stiff, or you feel a decrease in the range of motion.  Also note if your hip is mainly sore after waking up, or becomes more painful at certain times.  When the source of your pain is determined we can determine the best treatment.  In addition to adjustments your chiropractor will assign exercises and stretching to do on your own, which is important for a joint responsible for almost all of our movement.  Whatever may be causing your hip pain, you don’t have to suffer with it.  Come see us for an assessment and get back in motion!

To learn more about all the services provided at the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Cell Phone Usage and Neck Pain

Dr. James Huggins, Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center sees a lot of patients straining their back and neck by looking down at the screen on their devices.  You may have even heard this being called “text neck”. The average adult head weighs between 10 and 12 pounds, and neck muscles are meant to support the weight of the head in a neutral position.  Looking down at a screen increases the strain on your neck as if your neck is carrying a lot more weight.  Tilting your head forward just 15 degrees adds enough force to double the weight your neck is supporting, and the greater the angle, the greater strain.  Many people who text with their chin near the neck are tilting the head forward 60 degrees, which increases the load to about 60 pounds! The good news is we can make smarter choices about how to use devices every day to reduce strain on our bodies.

Starting with good posture will always reduce strain on your neck.  Sit up straight with your shoulders lined up above your hips and your head upright. Hold your phone or device up higher rather than looking further down to see what is on your screen.  If you work on a computer a lot, position your monitor at eye level to avoid looking up or down too much. Stretching your neck is also important to reduce the risk of painful strain.  When your neck muscles are strong and flexible, it is less likely to have a spasm.  There are mobile apps available that can alert you when your phone is being held at a bad angle for your neck, and you can also set reminders on your device to take breaks from looking at the screen and to stretch throughout the day. Remember these tips when using your devices!

To learn about all the services we offer, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Chiropractic Treatment for Kids

Carolina Chiropractic Center offers chiropractic care to patients of all ages, and there is no age recommendation for beginning chiropractic care.  Even infants who have suffered trauma to the spine during a natural or C-section birth can receive a minor adjustment.  Chronic ear infections in a small child can feel like a vicious cycle, but this irritation is often related to misalignment in the neck.  Restoring that balance can improve middle ear drainage and prevent further infections. Allergies and asthma also start to surface in young children, and the two are closely linked to the respiratory system. A misalignment in the spine can confuse a body’s immune system and cause a reaction with respiratory symptoms, so children should be seen by a chiropractor before being treated for allergies. 

Regular adjustments are healthy for the growth and development of a child’s nervous system and strengthen immunity.  Chiropractors use the body’s ability to heal itself in their approach to treatment and kids are especially resilient, making them great candidates for chiropractic care.  Keeping a body’s systems functioning at their best helps to heal injury and fight infection in your child without drugs or procedures.

To learn more about all the services provided at the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Raking Safety

It’s the time of year to enjoy fall foliage, which means it’s also time for raking. At the Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, we highly value patient safety. People who are at risk for herniated discs or muscle spasms could injure themselves if they don’t rake properly, so we thought we’d pass along a few tips.

People commonly wear sweats or denim while doing yard work, and for good reason. The safest clothing is that which is form-fitting, yet breathable. You don’t want to be wearing anything that dangles or could get caught, such as large loops on the pant legs, and if you have long hair, you’ll need to tie it back. Pick shoes that have slip-resistant soles and that give you good arch support. They’ll need to be close-toed. Select a rake that has a long enough handle to be used without you needing to bend down.

Pick a time to rake when you anticipate the leaves will be dry; they’ll be too heavy to pick up otherwise. Prior to raking, do a five-minute warm-up that incorporates dynamic stretches to get blood flowing faster through your arms. Stand with your knees unlocked and your legs in a scissor position next to the leaf pile. Alternate which hand is higher on the rake about every five minutes, and if you have to turn, move your entire body instead of twisting your torso. While filling the leaf bag, test to see if you can lift it before it’s full. You’ll also need to do a cool-down after you’ve finished.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit Carolina Chiro Center and fill out a contact form.

 

Strained Back Muscles

Back pain is not always caused by a problem in the spinal column. Often, it is the muscles and ligaments supporting the spine which fray, resulting in a dull, throbbing ache. The good news is that if there hasn’t been a complete tear, the muscles are usually able to heal themselves. At the Carolina Chiro Center in Florence, we’ll help the patient control their pain in a safe manner and remain in a condition that optimizes the body’s self-healing.

There are several major muscle groups supporting the lumbar region of the spine. They make up the complicated connections between the lower back and the hips, as well as the abdomen, so pain may be felt in the pelvic region. However, pain that shoots along the lower legs is likelier to be caused by a pinched nerve, as is pain that persists during rest. The word “strain” technically refers to injuries to muscles and tendons while “sprain” refers to injuries to ligaments, but in either case, the patient will likely experience limited range of motion and inflammation.

Although spinal adjustments are an important part of maintenance, they may not be appropriate after a strain or sprain has occurred. However, we offer ultrasound therapy to prevent the formation of scar tissue, which could permanently limit the muscle’s motion. We also offer instructions on therapeutic exercise that will restore the back’s flexibility, prevent the muscles from losing their strength, and make injuries less likely in the future.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit Carolina Chiro Center and fill out a contact form.

Cupping

Carolina Chiropractic Center uses multiple methods together to heal patients.  The oldest practice we utilize from traditional Chinese medicine is cupping. Cupping therapy is performed by placing cups on the skin to create suction. The suction of the cups encourages blood flow to promote the healing of a broad range of medical ailments. The treatment can be used to treat respiratory conditions, arthritis, gastrointestinal disorders, and is recommended for sore muscles.

During a cupping treatment, glass cups are warmed using a cotton ball or other flammable substance soaked in alcohol and placed inside the cup. The cups can be made of a variety of materials, and are most commonly glass. Burning a substance inside the cup uses all the oxygen it contains, which creates a vacuum on the skin. This helps release rigid soft tissue, lifts connective tissue, and helps blood flow to skin and muscles.  Depending on the patient and their condition, cups can be left in place for between 5 and 10 minutes.

To learn more about cupping therapy and all the services we provide, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Car Accidents and Chiropractic Treatment

When someone is involved in a car accident that isn’t a major collision, it may seem more like a nuisance than trauma.  We typically worry more about being late for work or an insurance claim, and don’t always stop to assess what damage may have been done to our bodies. At Carolina Chiropractic Center, we know some drivers and passengers feel the effects of whiplash injuries immediately following an accident, while others may walk away not feeling injured and experience pain later. This is why you should always visit Carolina Chiropractic Center and see Dr. James Huggins, Jr. for evaluation.

Whiplash occurs when a person’s head moves backward and then forward very suddenly with great force, causing the tendons and ligaments in your neck to tear. The most common site of pain and stiffness for passengers involved in an accident are the neck and back.  A chiropractor can evaluate these injuries, as well as treat damage to both hard and soft tissue. Depending on a patient’s evaluation the chiropractor may perform an adjustment or assign exercises to help heal a particular injury.  If you have been involved in a car accident of any severity, please contact us. 

To learn more about all the services we provide the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

The Effect of Stress on the Body

Stress is known to have negative effects on a person’s mental and physical health. This is because stress can trigger and intensify headaches, raise blood pressure, and wear a person down emotionally. Everyone experiences stress in an acute form such as the fight or flight response when we need to complete a task, but when stress becomes chronic and doesn’t go away no matter what you do, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center.

Stress negatively impacts the nervous system, the musculoskeletal system, the respiratory system and even the reproductive system. Under stress, muscles tense up and the tension can lead to headaches, migraines, and various musculoskeletal conditions. Stress can also make a person breathe harder and cause rapid breathing as well as hyperventilation which can cause panic attacks. In men, excess amounts of cortisol – the stress hormone – can affect the normal functioning of the reproductive system. In women, stress can cause absent or irregular menstrual cycles.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment or pain management, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Fight Inflammation

There are two kinds of inflammation that occur in the body – acute inflammation and chronic. While acute inflammation is a regular part of the healing process, chronic inflammation is more problematic and can leave a patient feeling fatigued, and may or may not be a cause of an underlying health condition. If you feel discomfort due to inflammation, schedule a consultation with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center.

Inflammation in different parts of the body, including the joints, can have an impact on blood flow, tissue damage, and even cognitive decline. Simple tips for fighting inflammation of any kind include changing your diet to incorporate healthier foods such as fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and anti-inflammatory beverages such as coffee or water. Most fruits and brightly colored vegetables naturally contain antioxidants which help reduce inflammation while junk foods that contain sugar and carbohydrates actually increase inflammation.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment or pain management, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Is Chiropractic New To You?

At Carolina Chiropractic Center we are happy to welcome first-time chiropractic patients.  New chiropractic patients often arrive frustrated, having tried other treatment methods and not found relief from their pain or discomfort.  Chiropractic takes a systemic approach to care, meaning the whole body and the body’s ability to heal itself are considered in every case. This is why your initial consultation and assessment with a chiropractor is especially important.  We will work to understand your goals for treatment, and take a very detailed record of your current condition using a physical exam and sometimes x-rays.  From there, we can form a treatment plan to target any issues and improve overall health.

What surprises most new patients is that chiropractic does not incorporate drugs as part of treatment.  Chiropractic focuses on treating the root cause of any pain, rather than masking symptoms with medication.  Whether you are in serious pain or looking to restore your body’s natural balance, we welcome you to experience chiropractic treatment and find the relief you’re looking for.

To learn more about the services we provide, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Icing An Injury

Dr. James Huggins, Jr. and the staff at Carolina Chiropractic Center help patients rehabilitate from all kinds of injuries.  The method of icing an injury, called cryotherapy, is known to provide cooling relief and help numb painful soft tissue injuries. Applying ice safely by using an ice pack or cold compress is an excellent way to treat muscle spasms and injuries like sprains and strains.  If icing an injury does not provide relief or your pain worsens, contact us for help.

After an injury, affected soft tissue will be inflamed and icing the area reduces inflammation and pain, as well as cools the skin to constrict blood vessels and heal the area.  The healing effects of ice pack therapy can also be helpful after a flare-up in chronic pain like in the back or knee, and is a cheap option or at-home relief. Cryotherapy is an effective way to manage pain at home without medication, and we also provide custom cryotherapy in the office.

To learn more about cryotherapy and all the services provided at the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Pain-Free Sleeping Positions

Getting a good night sleep is often difficult, especially for those who struggle with joint pain. There are three main sleeping positions that most of us adapt to- side, stomach, and back, - some positions are better than others depending on the status of your health. Changing the way you sleep can be difficult, but Dr. James Huggins Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center is here to suggest tips for waking up pain-free.

Sleeping on one’s side can increase back pain and leave a person feeling stiff and uncomfortable in the hips and low back. For additional spine support, utilize a body pillow or place a pillow between the legs. This will keep the body in alignment and alleviate pressure off the hips. Sleeping on your back is the best position for keeping pain at bay. Placing a pillow under the lower back will also provide added support.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment or pain management, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Bulging Disc Management

Bulging discs, also known as disc protrusion, are very common and people often develop them without realizing it. A bulging disc usually arises with no symptoms, however, they can cause discomfort and disability in various parts of the body, especially if the disc compresses an adjacent nerve root or the spinal cord. Following the diagnosis of a bulging disc, Dr. James Huggins, Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center will recommend treatments designed to alleviate symptoms.  

A bulging disc results in a spinal disc compressing against an adjacent nerve root. There are different severities of a bulging disc, some that are more problematic than others. To manage pain for a bulging disc, Dr. James Huggins, Jr. may suggest spinal adjustments, a physical therapy program, or electrical muscle stimulation. These treatment methods will help improve flexibility, decrease pain, and reduce inflammation.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment or pain management, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Spinal Anatomy

We believe at Carolina Chiropractic in Florence that patients should be fully informed about their treatments. To that end, we want our patients to know more about what the spinal column is and how different issues can affect it.

The backbone is not a single bone, but a combination of bones, joints, and connecting tissues. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves which travels from the brain to the legs, with other nerves branching off it. The backbones, or vertebrae, are made up of flat main bodies and hollow protrusions surrounding the spinal cord. In between the bodies of most of the vertebrae are soft, spongy discs that cushion them. The neck contains seven vertebrae that move independently, the thorax includes twelve, and the lower back, or lumbar region, contains five. In the pelvis are the sacrum and the coccyx, both of which are made of vertebrae fused together without intervening spongy discs.

The guiding theory of chiropractic is that when vertebrae and their adjacent tissues are misaligned, the signals from and to the spine are disrupted. Sciatica would be one example of how this creates problems or prevents the body from healing optimally.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit Carolina Chiro Center and fill out a contact form.

Causes of Upper Back Pain

People suffering from upper back pain need look no further than the Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence. Although neck and lower back pain are more common, pain in the thoracic portion of the spine is an issue which deserves attention and we want our patients to understand what factors into it.

There are some causes of pain in the upper back which are rare but should be tested for. These include infections or bony growths in the vertebrae putting pressure on the spinal cord. The thoracic vertebrae, which the ribs are attached to, do not have as much freedom of movement as other articulated vertebrae, but it is still possible for their discs to wear down or a fracture to develop in people with osteoporosis. However, most upper back pain is caused by muscle fatigue.

If people maintain bad posture, their back muscles will be strained and may tear. Slouching while seated, carrying heavy objects off-center or too high over the head, or even lack of a properly fitted bra may put excessive weight on the upper back muscles. For short-term relief, we provide spinal adjustment to ensure the muscles aren’t being further strained by misaligned parts of the spinal column. In the long-term, strengthening the torso muscles will allow them to take on more weight from the back muscles. Office workers should also remember to sit straight up with their feet on the floor and to keep their screens at eye-level.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit Carolina Chiro Center and fill out a contact form.

 

What is Fibromyalgia?

Many people inaccurately think of chiropractic as only treatment for the back. In fact, at the Carolina Chiropractic center in Florence, we are concerned with the entire body and overall wellness of our patients. One of the best examples of a disease which requires a whole-body approach is fibromyalgia. This condition has no known cure but is treated with the non-invasive, non-addictive therapies in our office.

Fibromyalgia is believed to be a dysfunction in how the brain processes impulses from the rest of the body. Most of the people who develop it are middle-aged women who have recently experienced enormous stress, physical trauma, or infection, but an exact cause is hard to pin down. People with fibromyalgia describe themselves as feeling constant aches throughout their bodies, as well as fatigue. They also frequently have psychological issues such as anxiety and depression and conditions that are linked to psychological stress, such as irritable bowel syndrome. One of fibromyalgia’s defining features is how afflicted people have difficulty remembering things or focusing.

Getting pain under control can only help with fibromyalgia’s psychological symptoms. The electric muscle stimulation we offer helps the body to release endorphins, which are its natural pain relievers. Spinal adjustments and other therapies to relieve pressure on the nerves can also improve the body’s internal communication system.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit Carolina Chiro Center and fill out a contact form.

 

National Arthritis Month

It’s impossible to overstate how important understanding of arthritis is to chiropractic. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States and one of the most common causes of pain. Therefore, this National Arthritis Month we want to help our patients understand it better and how our non-invasive therapies can help.

“Arthritis” actually refers to a number of conditions which cause joint swelling. The two most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the result of wear and tear. It affects the spinal column when the cartilage in between the facet joints, which link vertebrae together, erodes. Rheumatoid arthritis is an immune system disorder in which the body attacks its own tissues. However, there are other forms of arthritis which mainly affect the spine, including ankylosing spondylitis, which is usually felt near the pelvis, and spinal stenosis, which can cause the spinal canal to narrow and compress the spinal cord.

Genetics, lifestyle, and nutrition all play a role in the development of arthritis. Because other nerves in the body branch off from the spinal cord, joint dysfunction in the spinal column can affect the whole body. Proper treatment of arthritis requires realignment of the spinal bones and reduction of inflammation. We provide this through adjustments, electric muscle stimulation, and cold laser therapy, along with counseling on preventive measures.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit Carolina Chiro Center and fill out a contact form.

 

When to Use Ice vs. Heat

Some of us are more accident prone than others but when we hurt ourselves, our natural reaction is to apply ice or heat to alleviate the pain. Using the appropriate temperature while recovering from injury will mean all the difference in making it better, or worse. Dr. James Huggins, Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center is here to inform patients on when to use cryotherapy (cold therapy) or thermotherapy (heat).  

Applying ice after injury calms down damaged tissues that are inflamed and swollen. Therefore, ice should be used if an injury occurs around a joint or a tendon. This is because it reduces blood flow to a particular area, which can significantly reduce inflammation and swelling that causes pain. Be careful as to apply ice to muscle pain as this can increase inflammation. Heat therapy should be used for muscle tension, chronic pain, and stress. If hot or cold therapy doesn’t help the injury you’ve sustained, you’ll need to discuss treatment options with Dr. James Huggins, Jr.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment or pain management, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Chronic Pain Management

Chronic pain is a type of pain that is ongoing for a long period of time. Dr. James Huggins, Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center can treat your chronic pain once he determines the cause. If you already suffer from acute pain, it’s important not to let it go untreated, because it can develop into chronic pain. Before you visit us, it’s important to know where your pain is stemming from and what exactly is causing it.

If you wake up in pain and fall asleep with it, it’s time to seek medical attention. Chronic pain in the lower back may be a result of sciatic nerve damage, while unnecessary neck pain may be due to whiplash. Receiving treatment for chronic pain as soon as possible will prevent future problems from occurring. Treatment methods may include physical therapy, spinal manipulation, or electrical muscle stimulation, depending on the cause.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Neck Stiffness

Do you suffer from neck stiffness? You don’t have to anymore! At the Carolina Chiropractic Clinic, we offer holistic, non-invasive treatments for musculoskeletal problems, but we want our patients to understand how to avoid stiffness, as well.

When a patient comes in complaining of a stiff neck, we’ll run imaging tests and conduct an examination to determine the cause. Sometimes, the problem may be an infection such as meningitis. However, the vast majority of the time, it is strain and pressure on the levator scapulae muscles. These muscles are what link the neck vertebrae to the shoulders. They get worn down through frequent usage, such as in swimmers, who turn their heads with each stroke. They can also be strained through unhealthy usages, such as when people rest their chins on their palms, which pushes on the neck.

It is also possible for the levator scapulae muscles to be pinched by misalignments in the neck vertebrae. Through spinal adjustments, electric muscle stimulation, and cold laser therapy, we can manage discomfort while helping the body to heal itself. We can also recommend therapeutic exercises and lifestyle changes that will prevent a relapse.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit Carolina Chiro Center and fill out a contact form.

 

What to Know About TMJD

At the Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, we treat the entire musculoskeletal system and the problems elsewhere in the body that result from its neglect. One of the most infamous problems is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD). This disease can cause pain from the head down to the shoulder.

The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complicated joints in the body. It links the lower jaw to the skull and has to be able to move in every direction and withstand the incredible forces put on it every time the patient chews. When it is misaligned, a person may have difficulty opening their mouth and hear clicking sounds when they try. They may also experience pain in their shoulder and neck as a result of the strain on their jaw.

There are a number of things that could cause TMJD, but our office offers a wide variety of treatments. Ultrasound, cold laser therapy, and electric muscle stimulation all help to relieve pain from overworked and stressed muscles, and they can also facilitate the faster healing of joints.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit Carolina Chiro Center and fill out a contact form.

 

The Proper Way to Lift a Heavy Object

Dr. James Huggins, Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center doesn’t need to remind you that there is a right way and a wrong way to do something. If we don’t follow directions clearly, or do something correctly, we risk hurting our performance or worse, injuring ourselves. To avoid injury when lifting a heavy object, there is a correct technique to follow. Next time you pick up a package from your front porch, utilize this method.

Before you lift something heavy, it’s important to have a strong foundation. Be aware of the weight of the object and check your pathway to make sure it’s clear. When lifting, get as close to the object as possible. The feet should be shoulder-width apart. Squat down, bending at the hips and knees only – if you are struggling, do not hesitate to ask for help. Be sure to keep good posture at all times by looking straight with your back straight, chest out, and shoulders back. Once the item is elevated, hold it as close to your body as possible and lead with your hips.  Once in place, set the item down carefully so that you don’t strain your back.

If you suffer from back pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about all the treatments available at the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Importance of Proper Form While Exercising

Whether you work out or go to the gym once a week, or on a daily basis, it’s most important to prevent injury during your routine. If you’ve ever heard a trainer commenting on form, proper form is especially important during exercise. Think about it, if you’ve strained your back while lifting something heavy, it’s because you weren’t practicing proper lifting form. Dr. James Huggins, Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center is here to guide you and help you avoid injury.

When we lift heavy objects, this causes the body to become misaligned and this puts stress on the tendons, muscles, and joints, putting them at risk for strains and sprains. Depending on which exercise you are doing at the time, the form may change, so it’s important to ask questions if you are struggling. Some tips for preventing injury include stretching regularly, don’t go too heavy, and stay grounded from your feet up.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment, injuries, or ergonomics, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Electrical Muscle Stimulation

At Carolina Chiropractic Center, we have a pain solution for every patient.  Electrical muscle stimulation is recommended for patients with muscle or soft tissue injuries because it reduces pain and swelling and can reduce overall recovery time.  When disease or injury occurs, a body’s natural electric current is disrupted.  Electric muscle stimulation mimics the electrical current that occurs naturally in a healthy body. 

During a treatment, electrodes are placed directly on the skin in the affected area and the machine is turned on.  The gentle current causes the muscles to contract and relax, which relieves pain and can release locked up muscles.  These contractions also trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s most powerful natural pain reliever.  Most patients describe the treatment feeling like a tingling sensation and aren’t uncomfortable during the process. The treatments are short in length and can be scheduled over a series of weeks.

To learn more about electrical muscle stimulation and all the treatments we provide, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Benefits of Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy is an alternative method of treatment that is taking the sports entertainment world by storm, and Dr. James Huggins, Jr. offers this as a service to patients. Cupping therapy uses special cups that are placed on the skin for a few minutes to create suction. This ancient form of therapy is known to help with reducing pain and inflammation while increasing blood flow and relaxation.

If you’re curious about cupping, Dr. James Huggins, Jr. can explain the process in detail during a consultation. The cups may be made of glass, bamboo, or silicone. To create the suction, one of our specialists will insert a flammable substance, such as herbs, into this cup and set it on fire. The cup is usually kept in place for about three minutes and the feeling resembles a deep tissue massage.

If you have questions or concerns about cupping therapy or alternative treatment methods, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Spinal Decompression

Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center treats patients with bulging and herniated discs using spinal decompression.  Herniated discs often have a direct impact on the central nervous system, causing more pain to the extremities.  Spinal decompression is a safe, non-surgical treatment that uses specialized equipment to provide patients relief without surgery or drugs. 

The DRX9000 is a piece of FDA-approved equipment that resembles a table but has moving parts. Patients lie on their back or stomach, depending on the location of the problem disc, and the treatment alternates between applying distraction forces to the vertebrae and periods of rest.  As a result the vertebrae slowly separate from each other, gently stretching the spine.  This creates a vacuum effect and helps discs return to their natural position, relieving pressure from any nerves and treating patient pain.  This treatment is typically scheduled in several sessions over a period of weeks, but most patients feel relief after one treatment.

To learn more about spinal decompression and all the treatments available at the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Sports Injuries and Chiropractic Treatment

More professional athletes are turning to chiropractors than ever.  Medical doctors tend to treat a sports injury by alleviating symptoms with medication and recommending rest from activity.  At Carolina Chiropractic Center, Dr. James Huggins, Jr.’s approach to rehabilitating sports injuries takes the rest of the body and its natural ability to heal itself into account.  This always results in less time ‘benched’ from activity and a quicker recovery.

You don’t need to be a professional athlete to rehabilitate a sports injury the right way.  If you or your family members are involved in sports, a chiropractor can help you too.  Rather than prescription medication and rest from activity, a chiropractor will focus on repairing any damage to hard and soft tissue with chiropractic adjustments to     the spine and extremities.  If you are in pain from an injury, of course your chiropractor will advise the best pain relief strategy for you.  However, your only prescription will likely include physical therapy exercises for you to perform on your own. 

Start rehabbing sports injuries with your chiropractor now for a lifetime of healthy activity! If you suffer from back pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about all the treatments available at the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Sitting Positions for Less Back Pain

Chiropractic care is typically sought out by people seeking relief from neck or back pain.  Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center treats patients and relieves pain, but patient self-care is just as important for their continued health. Simple changes to everyday habits can help you to live a pain-free life.  So many of us spend a lot of a typical day sitting, between working at computer desks, watching TV, and commuting to work. All of this sitting can cause back pain, making it the most common reason patients visit the chiropractor.  Making a few adjustments to how you sit can ease this stress, help alleviate back pain, and minimize future visits.

Believe it or not, you’ll put less stress on your back when you don’t sit up straight. Leaning back just enough so that your thighs are at a 135-degree angle with your torso is an optimal seated position for preventing back pain. Long periods of sitting are what really increase the risk of muscle pulls, strains, and cramps. So if you don’t have time to walk around and stretch at work, try switching between sitting and standing, and look for opportunities to lean back a little!  

If you suffer from back pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about all the treatments available at the practice, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Benefits of Custom Foot Orthotics

If you experience pain in your ligaments and muscles while walking or running, you may benefit from custom foot orthotics. Foot orthotics, also known as shoe inserts, are devices that are designed to be placed in a shoe to help correct a deficiency or a condition and to help add support to the feet. If feet are misaligned, or out of balance, orthotic insoles can eliminate discomfort associated with these issues. Dr. James Huggins, Jr. of Carolina Chiropractic Center creates orthotics that are tailored to provide ultimate comfort.

Custom foot orthotics are molded to a patient’s foot to correct abnormalities or to take pressure off the feet. In addition to helping with foot pain, orthotics can reduce impact shock that feet experience when walking. Orthotics can help take pressure off the knees, hips, and lower back. In many cases, foot orthotics can also help patients retain and enhance their mobility.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment or custom foot orthotics, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192. 

Shoulder Pain Treatment

Chiropractic treatment is commonly sought by people seeking relief from back pain, but chiropractic care can treat a variety of conditions, such as sciatica, neck pain, and even shoulder pain. The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the body, but if we sleep wrong, twist a certain way, or lift something heavy, the shoulder can become painful. If you are seeking relief from shoulder pain, Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center is here to alleviate the problem.

Spinal manipulation or hand manipulation is a common way to alleviate shoulder pain, such as an adjustment by one of our doctors or a soothing massage. Improving your posture by standing up straight can also alleviate tension in the shoulders, eliminating discomfort. Additionally, depending on the severity of shoulder pain, exercise is always a great alternative treatment method. Stretching the shoulders and performing exercises such as the “shoulder swing” before a workout can help warm up the tissues and assist in preventing injury.

If you have questions or concerns about chiropractic treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.carolinachirocenter.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. James Huggins, Jr. at Carolina Chiropractic Center in Florence, SC, call 843-665-9192.