Extremity Pain And Injuries

By addressing disturbed joint mechanics, Dr. Strasser treats the cause of extremity pain with gentle chiropractic extremity manipulation and osteopathic techniques. There is an alternative to pain medications and muscle-based techniques.

What Is An Extremity Injury?

Upper extremity joints are the shoulders, elbows, wrists and hands. Lower extremity joints are the hips, knees, ankles and feet. A wide range of injuries and conditions affect the extremities including sprains, joint restrictions, bursitis, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff injuries, repetitive use injuries and arthritis. Portland chiropractor Dr. Strasser offers a unique, effective approach to treating extremity injuries.

How Does Dr. Strasser Diagnose Extremity Injuries?

Dr. Strasser uses range of motion, specific motion palpation, standard orthopedic and neurological testing, imaging studies and years of palpatory experience to determine the specific local cause of pain and injury.

Why is a Structural Examination Crucial To Diagnosing Extremity Pain?

An extremity injury and pain has to be seen in the context of the whole structure, and this is an important principle in the chiropractic approach. For instance, a knee injury may be the outcome of disturbed mechanics in the pelvis. In evaluating shoulder pain, it is important to address any neck problems.

How Does Dr. Strasser Treat Extremity Injuries and Pain?

• Chiropractic Extremity Manipulation and Traction: gentle Chiropractic extremity techniques address the mechanical sources of extremity dysfunction and acute and chronic pain.
• Strain-Counterstrain: a gentle, traditional osteopathic technique that is especially useful in treating extremity injuries.
• Manual Techniques: a number of joint movement and resistance, soft tissue and muscle techniques are an important component of successful management.
• Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy: using specialized hand-held tools, soft tissues can be treated to break adhesions between tissue layers and to increase circulation to promote healing.
• Therapy Modalities: Ultrasound, interferential, the application of ice and heat, and orthopedic supports are adjuncts that aid in extremity care.
• Sports Taping: Taping is a specialized skill that can speed recovery and allow a joint to heal while minimizing joint laxity.
• Therapeutic Exercises: it is important that specific joint exercises are not introduced too soon or improperly prescribed. Exercises to improve motion and increase strength and stability to the joint are crucial when introduced at the correct stage of treatment.

Dr. Strasser is always available to answer questions you may have regarding extremity injuries and pain.