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Musculoskeletal System
Musculoskeletal conditions are the leading cause of disability worldwide. They limit mobility, balance, and dexterity, and often come with debilitating pain, resulting in a lower sense of well being and inability to participate in social settings. Low back pain is the most prevalent of the musculoskeletal disorders, contributing to reduced productivity and a poor quality of life. Naturopathic assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal symptoms and conditions includes identifying the root cause and holistic care for sustained relief and outcomes.
Muscles, Bones, Joints, Systems
What comprises the musculoskeletal system?
Musculoskeletal conditions affect muscles, bones, joints, and connective tissues, which can lead to temporary or lifelong limitations and disability depending on the disease. These conditions are usually characterized by pain and other limitations across all age groups. Conditions range from those that arise from injury such as fractures to those that are chronic and long term such as osteoarthritis and back pain.
What are common risk factors that contribute to poor musculoskeletal health?
- Poor posture
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Age
- Repetitive movements
- Heavy lifting
- Hormone imbalances
- Incorrect lifting techniques
- Workplace ergonomics
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Stress
- Genetics
- Previous injuries
What are some common musculoskeletal conditions I work with?
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Osteoporosis
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Connective tissue diseases
- Gout
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- TMJ disorders
- Joint pain/inflammation
- Muscle pain/stiffness
- Fibromyalgia
How are musculoskeletal conditions treated?
Conventional treatment for musculoskeletal conditions varies depending on the diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and effect on day to day life. Oral medications are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy and occupational therapy may also be recommended. Surgery and other interventional procedures such as steroid infections or nerve blocks may also be recommended.
My holistic approach is two fold: to identify and treat the root cause of pain or discomfort, and to prevent it from coming back. Since inflammation is systemic and intertwined with gut health, I first identify the causes of inflammation and offer treatments such as nutritional recommendations, botanical medicines, supplements, and hydrotherapy. I also combine various modalities such as energy healing and movement therapy to calm our nervous system – which holds onto pain – and as a result, relaxes our muscles, tissues, nerves, and joints. I offer posture correcting exercises and pressure point therapy in addition to integrating many other modalities to ensure a whole-body approach rather than symptom management.
