Tag Archives: pain relief

Benefits of a Daily Multivitamin

29 Jun

Many adults and children take a daily multivitamin as part of their overall health
strategy. However, decades of research have produced mixed findings on whether
multivitamins reduce the risk of major health outcomes. As a result, some experts assert that
water-soluble vitamins produce little more than expensive, neon-colored urine.
More recent studies—particularly those using improved research designs—are
beginning to challenge this notion. While multivitamins are not a cure-all, they may offer
subtle but measurable benefits, especially in certain populations.

  • In a 2026 study analyzing data from the COSMOS trial involving 958 older adults,
    researchers found that participants who took a daily multivitamin for two years
    experienced slower biological aging—by about four months—compared to those
    taking a placebo. The multivitamin group also had lower levels of inflammatory
    markers and performed better on cognitive assessments, suggesting potential benefits
    for both physical and brain health.
  • An August 2020 study of 42 middle-aged and older adults found that those taking a
    daily multivitamin experienced less severe illness symptoms and shorter illness
    duration than those given a placebo. Many nutrients commonly found in
    multivitamins—such as vitamins C, vitamin D, and zinc—are known to support
    immune function.
  • In a group of 1,708 heart attack survivors, researchers observed that those given a
    high-dose multivitamin had a 54% lower risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes
    compared to those given a placebo.
  • An analysis of nearly 100,000 women found that multivitamin use during pregnancy
    was associated with reduced risks of several birth defects, including neural tube,
    cardiovascular, urinary tract, and limb abnormalities.
    A more modern perspective is that multivitamins may not be universally necessary—
    especially for individuals who consume a well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet rich in fruits,
    vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. For these individuals, additional
    supplementation may offer little added benefit. However, for older adults, individuals with
    dietary restrictions, chronic conditions, or increased nutritional demands, a daily
    multivitamin may serve as a practical and low-risk way to help close nutritional gaps.
    As research continues to evolve, the most balanced conclusion may be that
    multivitamins are neither a miracle solution nor a waste, but rather a tool that can be useful in
    the right context.

Brent Binder, D.C.

4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888

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Neuroinflammation and Chronic Whiplash Symptoms

25 Jun

It’s estimated that up to 50% of patients with whiplash-associated disorders
(WAD) continue to experience symptoms one year after their injury. Common chronic
WAD symptoms include persistent neck pain and stiffness, headaches, shoulder and
upper back pain, arm pain or numbness and tingling, dizziness or balance issues, fatigue
and sleep disturbance, cognitive difficulties, and increased pain sensitivity.
Because of the significant toll chronic WAD can have on individuals, families, and
society as a whole, there has been substantial research aimed at better understanding
these injuries in hopes of preventing long-term pain and disability. In particular, the view
is beginning to shift from WAD being the result of simple soft tissue injury to a more
complex condition involving the nervous system, where ongoing inflammation in and
around neural tissues may continue to drive pain long after the initial injury.
The sudden acceleration and deceleration of the head and neck that characterizes
whiplash can place rapid strain on cervical tissues, including the joints, muscles,
ligaments, and tendons. In response, the body initiates an inflammatory process, releasing
chemical messengers that help coordinate healing. These inflammatory signals can also
affect nearby nerves, increasing their sensitivity and altering how they transmit signals.
In the short term, this response is normal and part of recovery. However, if the
condition is not effectively managed, this heightened state can persist. Ongoing irritation
of the nervous system may amplify pain signaling and contribute to increased sensitivity
over time, a process known as central sensitization. As a result, stimuli that would not
normally be painful may begin to produce pain, and symptoms can persist even after the
original injury has largely healed.
Patients with signs of sensitization often require a more comprehensive treatment
approach—one that addresses both the physical tissues and the nervous system. Care may
include manual therapies and therapeutic modalities, targeted exercises and a gradual
return to normal activity, and patient education to support positive recovery expectations.
In some cases, additional strategies aimed at reducing inflammation, such as dietary
considerations, may also be included as part of a broader, individualized plan.

Brent Binder, D.C.

4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptom Mapping

18 Jun

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition characterized by symptoms in parts of the hand
supplied by the median nerve, typically caused by compression of the nerve as it passes through the
wrist. However, the constellation of symptoms associated with CTS is not unique to this peripheral
neuropathy, and without a thorough history and examination, it’s possible for a healthcare provider to
make an incorrect or incomplete diagnosis. In such cases, patients may achieve only temporary relief
at best.
Let’s look at how a doctor of chiropractic may map a patient’s symptoms to develop a clearer
picture of the chief complaint:

  • Location: The chiropractor will work with the patient to identify the precise areas in the hand
    where symptoms are experienced. In CTS, symptoms are most often reported in the thumb,
    index finger, middle finger, and the thumb-side of the ring finger as well as the
    corresponding portion of the palm. Symptoms affecting the pinky, the pinky-side of the ring
    finger, or the back of the hand may suggest involvement of a different nerve.
  • Timing and movement: Uncovering when symptoms occur can provide important clues. In
    CTS, symptoms may worsen at night, during repetitive or forceful hand activity, or at the
    extremes of wrist motion. If symptoms are provoked by changes in neck position or certain
    arm movements, this may indicate involvement beyond the wrist.
  • Path: If symptoms travel from the hand up the arm—or from the neck or shoulder down into
    the hand—this may suggest nerve irritation somewhere along its course.
  • Associated symptoms: While hand symptoms often drive patients to seek care, it’s important
    to check for additional complaints such as neck pain or stiffness, shoulder discomfort,
    headaches, or weakness in the arm or hand. These findings may be related and can influence
    the diagnosis.
    Assessing symptoms in this way helps determine whether the patient likely has CTS, whether
    there is median nerve involvement at other points along its path, whether a different nerve is
    involved, or some combination of these factors. It’s not uncommon for median nerve compression at
    the wrist to coexist with irritation at other sites (often referred to as double crush syndrome), or for
    the ulnar or radial nerves to also be involved—especially in cases that do not respond as expected to
    typical CTS care.
    With a more complete clinical picture, the chiropractor can develop a treatment plan aimed at
    reducing pressure on the affected nerves. This may include manual therapies, targeted exercises,
    physiotherapy modalities, nighttime wrist splinting, and nutritional recommendations to help manage
    inflammation. If underlying health conditions are suspected to contribute to nerve irritation, care may
    also involve collaboration with other healthcare providers, such as a medical physician or specialist.

Brent Binder, D.C.

4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888

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The Importance of the Scapula

11 Jun

The shoulder is not a single joint. It’s a complex structure made up of four joints that
must work together to allow the wide range of motion needed for everyday arm movements.
While the glenohumeral (ball-and-socket) joint often gets the most attention when assessing
the shoulder, the scapula—or shoulder blade—is frequently overlooked despite its important
role in shoulder movement and stability. Let’s look at some of its key functions:

  • Stable Base for Muscle Activation: The scapula provides a stable platform for the
    rotator cuff and surrounding shoulder muscles to function properly. This stability is
    essential for coordinated movement, efficient force production, and safe load transfer
    during arm activity.
  • Scapulohumeral Rhythm and Joint Positioning: As the arm lifts, the scapula moves in
    coordination with the humerus to maintain proper alignment between the ball and
    socket. This coordinated motion—called scapulohumeral rhythm—includes upward
    rotation, posterior tilt, and external rotation. These movements help preserve space in
    the shoulder joint, reduce the risk of impingement, and allow for smooth, full-range
    motion.
  • Kinetic Chain Function: The scapula acts as a link between the shoulder, neck, and
    trunk, helping transfer force from the core and lower body to the arm. This role is
    especially important during activities that require strength, coordination, or overhead
    motion.
  • Glenohumeral Stability: The scapula must strike a balance between mobility and
    stability. It needs to move freely to position the socket correctly while also providing
    a firm base that allows the shoulder joint to remain stable during movement. This
    balance is critical for preventing injury and maintaining normal shoulder function.
    Research shows that improving scapular muscle endurance and correcting abnormal
    scapular positioning—both at rest and during movement—through manual therapy and
    targeted exercises can lead to better outcomes in patients with shoulder pain, including
    impingement. Additionally, studies have linked poor scapular alignment with an increased
    risk of chronic neck pain as well as greater pain intensity and disability. For this reason,
    doctors of chiropractic often evaluate the scapula when assessing patients with shoulder or
    neck pain.

Brent Binder, D.C.

4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888

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Tips to Help Prevent Episodic Headaches

4 Jun

Headaches are among the most common physical ailments worldwide, with about half of
adults experiencing at least one episode each year and roughly 1 in 6 reporting a headache on
any given day. Fortunately, for most people, headaches are not a persistent issue but instead
occur episodically—that is, they arise for a short period of time and then resolve. In broad terms,
three major contributors to episodic headaches include dehydration, stress, and muscle tension.
Dehydration is a condition in which the body does not have enough fluids to support
normal physiological functions. This can lead to reduced blood volume, slowing the delivery of
oxygen to tissues and the removal of cellular waste. It can also disrupt electrolyte balance, affect
nerve signaling and muscle function, impair temperature regulation, and alter brain function.
Together, these changes can contribute to the development of a headache that may persist until
hydration is restored. To reduce the likelihood of dehydration-related headaches, drink water
consistently throughout the day and limit excessive caffeine intake. It’s also important not to rely
solely on thirst as a signal, as mild dehydration may already be present by the time thirst
develops.
Stress activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, increasing cortisol levels and causing
muscles to tighten in preparation for potential injury. While this response is helpful in short-term
emergencies, ongoing stress in daily life can lead to increased pain sensitivity and sustained
muscle tension in the shoulders, neck, and scalp. This combination can create the conditions for
tension-type headaches. Managing stress through regular physical activity, taking breaks during
the day, and practicing relaxation techniques such as controlled breathing or meditation may help
keep these headaches at bay.
Muscle tension headaches are frequently associated with poor posture, particularly
forward head posture, which places additional strain on the muscles and joints of the neck and
upper back. This is especially common among individuals who spend long periods working at
desks or using phones and tablets. Over time, this strain can lead to tightness and discomfort that
radiates into the head. Maintaining proper posture, positioning screens at eye level, and taking
regular breaks to stretch and move can help minimize this type of headache.
If these strategies do not reduce the frequency, duration, or intensity of headaches, it may
be appropriate to consult a healthcare provider, including a doctor of chiropractic. A thorough
review of medical history and current symptoms, along with a physical examination, can help
identify underlying musculoskeletal factors that may be contributing to recurring headaches.

Brent Binder, D.C.

4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888

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 Rethinking Pain from Lumbar Disk Herniation

1 Jun

Lumbar disk herniation occurs when one of the cushioning disks between the bones in the
lower back becomes damaged, allowing the soft inner material to push outward. A disk
herniation itself may not cause symptoms, and studies show that many adults have positive
findings on MRI without pain. However, when a herniated disk irritates nearby nerves, it can
lead to localized low back pain and/or symptoms like sharp, shooting pain into the leg.
Traditionally, pain and disability related to lumbar disk herniation have been attributed primarily
to nerve compression. However, more recent research suggests a more complex picture—one in
which the nervous system, including the brain, plays an important role in ongoing pain.
When the body detects injury, it releases inflammatory chemicals to begin the healing
process. While helpful, these chemicals can also irritate or sensitize nearby nerves, making them
more responsive and increasing pain signaling. Over time, this can lead to increased sensitivity in
the nervous system—a process often referred to as central sensitization. In this state, the body
becomes more reactive, and even normal movements may trigger pain. In some cases, the disk
may heal enough that it is no longer the primary source of pain, but the nervous system remains
overly sensitive to non-painful stimuli.
Doctors of chiropractic commonly use a treatment called spinal manipulative therapy,
often referred to as chiropractic adjustments. These techniques are used to help improve motion
in the joints of the spine and reduce mechanical stress in the area. In addition, research suggests
that adjustments may influence the nervous system by affecting how pain is processed and by
influencing neurochemicals involved in pain regulation. When combined with a gradual return to
normal movement, patient education, and targeted exercises, this approach may help reduce
sensitivity in the nervous system and support a return to more normal function.
Many patients with lumbar disk herniation recover without invasive procedures such as
surgery. Early conservative care may be especially helpful, as it may reduce the risk of the
nervous system becoming overly sensitized. Addressing both the physical and neurological
components of pain may improve long-term outcomes.
Supporting spinal health through daily habits is also important. Staying active,
maintaining overall health, and engaging in regular physical activity—including movement and
appropriate loading—can help support the spine. Movement plays a key role, as it helps deliver
nutrients to the disks and keeps the surrounding structures healthy and functioning properly.

Brent Binder, D.C.

4909 Louise Dr. Suite 102

Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 697-1888

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