Symptoms of Torticollis

What does torticollis feel like? 

While experiences vary, common symptoms include:

• Head tilted to one side
• Limited range of motion in the neck
• Muscle spasms and stiffness
• Headaches linked to neck tension
• Uneven shoulders or posture issues
• If left untreated, torticollis may become chronic or interfere with daily life.

Learn more in our latest article.

How Your Local Ann Arbor Chiropractor Can Help with Torticollis

Specific structural chiropractic care is different from general chiropractic adjustments. Rather than focusing only on short-term pain relief, it targets spinal misalignments that may contribute to torticollis.

If you or your child struggles with torticollis, a consultation with your Ann Arbor chiropractor can be the first step toward relief and prevention of future episodes.

Contact Dr. Gessert’s office at (734) 221-0362 or by submitting a contact form. 

What Causes Torticollis?

Have you ever woken up with your neck “stuck” to one side? 

This condition, called torticollis, can affect people of all ages. Some common causes include:

• Muscle strain from sleep or sudden movement
• Spinal misalignments in the upper cervical spine
• Congenital muscle tightness in infants
• Degenerative changes like arthritis

In some cases, torticollis resolves quickly, but recurring episodes may point to a deeper spinal issue.

Learn more in our latest article.

How Your Local Ann Arbor Chiropractor Can Help with Torticollis

Specific structural chiropractic care is different from general chiropractic adjustments. Rather than focusing only on short-term pain relief, it targets spinal misalignments that may contribute to torticollis.

If you or your child struggles with torticollis, a consultation with your Ann Arbor chiropractor can be the first step toward relief and prevention of future episodes.

Contact Dr. Gessert’s office at (734) 221-0362 or by submitting a contact form.

Who Can Benefit from ESWT?

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy isn’t just for athletes—it can help anyone dealing with stubborn pain or injuries. 

We recommend ESWT for:

• Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
• Tendon injuries like rotator cuff issues or Achilles tendinitis
• Overuse injuries such as tennis or golfer’s elbow
• Chronic pain that hasn’t responded to rest, stretching, or medication

Because ESWT stimulates your body’s natural repair process, it’s a safe way to improve healing without surgery.

Learn more in our latest article.

Get ESWT in Ann Arbor!

If you’re tired of living with pain or limited movement, we’d be happy to talk with you about whether ESWT in Ann Arbor could be part of your path forward. Contact us for a consultation—no pressure, just a chance to explore what might help you feel better, move easier, and regain more of what you love doing.

What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)?

Have you heard of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) but aren’t sure what it means?

“Extracorporeal” simply means “outside the body,” while “shockwave” refers to the gentle sound waves used during treatment. These sound waves are applied directly to the problem area to stimulate healing, improve circulation, and reduce pain.

Because it’s non-invasive, ESWT often provides faster recovery and fewer risks than surgery or long-term medication. Many patients find relief after just a few sessions.

Learn more in our latest article.

Get ESWT in Ann Arbor!

If you’re tired of living with pain or limited movement, we’d be happy to talk with you about whether ESWT in Ann Arbor could be part of your path forward. Contact us for a consultation—no pressure, just a chance to explore what might help you feel better, move easier, and regain more of what you love doing.

Symptoms of Scoliosis

In our last blog, we went over the definition and common causes of scoliosis. But what does it actually LOOK like?

Signs of scoliosis can range from subtle to obvious, depending on the degree of curvature. Common symptoms include:

• Uneven shoulders or hips
• A visible curve in the spine
• One shoulder blade appearing more prominent
• Leaning to one side when standing
• Back pain or stiffness
• Fatigue from uneven muscle use

In very advanced cases, scoliosis can affect lung or heart function if the ribcage is pushed out of its natural position.

Learn more in our latest article.

How Your Local Ann Arbor Chiropractor Can Help Relieve Scoliosis

Unlike general chiropractic adjustments that focus on temporary pain relief, specific structural chiropractic care addresses the underlying spinal misalignments contributing to scoliosis. 

If you’re showing signs of scoliosis, or if you are struggling with back pain, uneven posture, or stiffness, consulting with your local Ann Arbor structural chiropractor can be a proactive step. With a personalized care plan, you may find relief from pain while addressing the structural imbalances that cause long-term discomfort.

Contact Dr. Gessert’s office at (734) 221-0362 or by submitting a contact form. We look forward to supporting your back and your health!

What Causes Scoliosis?

You’ve probably heard the term “scoliosis” used before, but what does it actually mean?

Scoliosis is a condition that affects the natural alignment of the spine, causing it to curve sideways. While mild scoliosis may go unnoticed, more advanced cases can lead to pain, limited mobility, and changes in posture. 

Scoliosis can have several origins:

• Idiopathic scoliosis – The most common form, typically developing in adolescence, with no clear cause.
• Congenital scoliosis – Caused by abnormal spinal development in the womb.
• Neuromuscular scoliosis – Linked to conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.
• Degenerative scoliosis – Often appearing later in life as a result of arthritis, spinal degeneration, or osteoporosis.

In many cases, scoliosis progresses gradually. The earlier it is identified, the easier it is to manage.

Learn more in our latest article.

How Your Local Ann Arbor Chiropractor Can Help Relieve Scoliosis

Unlike general chiropractic adjustments that focus on temporary pain relief, specific structural chiropractic care addresses the underlying spinal misalignments contributing to scoliosis. 

If you’re showing signs of scoliosis, or if you are struggling with back pain, uneven posture, or stiffness, consulting with your local Ann Arbor structural chiropractor can be a proactive step. With a personalized care plan, you may find relief from pain while addressing the structural imbalances that cause long-term discomfort.

Contact Dr. Gessert’s office at (734) 221-0362 or by submitting a contact form. We look forward to supporting your back and your health!

How Chiropractic Adjustments May Support Immune Health

How can a chiropractor help support your immune system?

While chiropractic care doesn’t “treat” the immune system directly, clinical studies suggest that it can contribute to improved immune function by:

• Reducing Nervous System Stress: Chronic stress weakens the immune response. Chiropractic care helps reduce physical and neurological stress, allowing your body to recover and adapt better.
• Promoting Better Sleep: Good sleep is essential for immune resilience. Many patients report improved sleep quality after chiropractic adjustments.
• Encouraging Healthy Circulation: When your nervous system is functioning properly, your body can better regulate blood flow, which supports immune cell transport.
• Supporting a Balanced Inflammatory Response: The nervous system plays a big role in how your body manages inflammation. Chiropractic care may help your body maintain a healthy inflammatory balance, an important part of immune defense.

Learn more in our latest article.

Support Your Health Goals with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

At Pivotal Chiropractic, care is always individualized. Dr. Gessert takes the time to understand the full picture of your health, not just your symptoms. 

If you’ve been feeling run down, stressed, or like your immune system just isn’t as strong as it could be, consider getting your spine checked. A properly functioning nervous system is essential for whole-body health. 

Ready to learn more about how chiropractic can fit into your wellness routine? Contact your local Ann Arbor chiropractor at (734) 221-0362 or by submitting a contact form. We look forward to supporting you and your health!