Category: Patient Information

Nate Wiechmann, D.C., Trained in McKenzie Method of MDT Part A: The Lumbar Spine

Picture of woman with lower back painGood news for patients with upper and lower back pain: Nathaniel Wiechmann, D.C., A.R.T., is now trained in the McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) Part A – the first in a four-part post-graduate series that focuses on identifying and correcting mechanical instabilities that cause pain.

Part A of the McKenzie Method of MDT focuses on assessing and treating conditions related to the lumbar spine. Part B focuses on the cervical/thoracic spine, while Parts C and D focus on the spine and extremities. This exercise-based assessment process helps provide patients with the tools and resources to manage musculoskeletal pain.

The following is a step-by-step guide to MDT (provided by the McKenzie Institute):

  1. Assessment – MDT clinicians begin by evaluating each patient’s medical history and symptoms. During the initial examination, you will be asked to perform specific functions and hold certain positions, which will help the clinician “classify” your condition.
  2. Classification – Each symptom will be addressed individually using specific mechanical procedures, including repeated movements and sustained postures.
  3. Treatment – Based on the information garnered from the assessment, the clinician will prescribe specific exercises and posture adjustments. Depending on your condition, the clinician may apply hands-on techniques to aid your treatment. The goal is to provide you with the knowledge and tools to manage your condition on your own.
  4. Prevention – By learning how to self-manage your condition, you will gain the knowledge and tools to help minimize the risk of recurrence. You will also be better equipped to address future symptoms, putting you in greater control of your condition.

Dr. Wiechmann completed the 26-hour Part A course at Cleveland University-Kansas City in November. He plans to complete Part B-D to earn his official certification as an MDT clinician. Contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

Shoulder Pain: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Picture of older male with shoulder painThe shoulder is the body’s most mobile joint, which makes it susceptible to shoulder injuries and other conditions that can cause shoulder pain. The most common causes of shoulder injuries include chronic wear and tear (such as repetitive overhead motion) and direct impact (such as a high-impact collision or fall).

While chiropractic care is often associated with treating neck pain and back pain, it is also a viable treatment option for shoulder pain. Below, I discuss the most common shoulder conditions that can cause shoulder pain and possible chiropractic treatment options.

Common shoulder conditions include but are not limited to:

  • Partial and/or full rotator cuff tears
  • Dislocated shoulders
  • Shoulder fractures or labral tears
  • Shoulder impingement syndrome

The key to successfully treating any musculoskeletal condition—including conditions associated with shoulder pain—is identifying the underlying cause of the pain, which is the overall goal of chiropractic care. This often starts by locating the restricted joints and muscles in the region, and then addressing the patient’s dysfunctional movement patterns or limitations.

Chiropractic treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition. In most cases, shoulder conditions can be treated with chiropractic manipulation, myofascial release and/or corrective exercise techniques. In addition, the following may be recommended:

  • Dietary supplements
  • Activity restrictions
  • Rehabilitative taping (e.g. KinesioTaping)
  • Dry needling

Learn more about our chiropractic services.

If you suspect any of the above conditions, it is important to seek care as soon as possible. Contact Pottawattamie County Sports & Family Chiropractic today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

What Should You Expect Before Your First Visit to a Chiropractor

Picture of new patientIf you’ve decided to visit a chiropractor for the first time, there is a good chance you have questions about what to expect. Below, I discuss what you can anticipate during your first visit to a chiropractor.

During your first appointment, your chiropractor will perform a thorough examination, which will include the following:

Patient history questionnaire

  • Physical assessment
  • Diagnostic tests
  • Treatment plan

As part of your patient history assessment, you will be asked to provide information about your symptoms and conditions. Questions may include:

  • When did your pain or condition start?
  • Where is the pain located?
  • Does anything improve or worsen the pain?

It is also recommended that new patients bring in any previous X-ray, MRI, or lab results. Depending on your condition, your chiropractor may request additional diagnostic imaging or lab studies to better address your needs.

During your physical examination, your chiropractor will evaluate your condition and develop a working treatment plan. This includes checking vital signs like height, weight, blood pressure, pulse and respiration, as well as range of motion, muscle tone, strength, posture and movement.

The initial examination will typically conclude with a series of chiropractic services, including spinal/joint manipulation, soft tissue therapy, Active Release Technique (ART) and/or rehabilitative exercises. Your chiropractor may send you home with some additional exercises to do on your own. It is important you perform these exercises in order to achieve optimal results and regain full function. Depending on your diagnosis, you should expect to come back for a follow-up appointment within 1-2 weeks of your initial exam.

To learn more about chiropractic care at Pottawattamie County Sports & Family Chiropractic or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.

Pottawattamie County Sports & Family Chiropractic provides convenient chiropractic care for patients in Council Bluffs, Oakland, Avoca and the surrounding areas. We accept most major insurance plans, including auto accident and workers’ compensation. We specialize in chiropractic manipulation, functional medicine, soft tissue therapy, mobilization and nutritional counseling. From pregnant mothers to weekend warriors and even star athletes, we provide a personalized approach to meet each patient’s unique needs.