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!

The Spine, Nervous System, and Immune Function

Do you feel like your immune system isn’t as responsive as it used to be?

When you think of chiropractic care, your mind probably goes straight to back pain relief or better posture. But did you know that your spine and nervous system also play a vital role in how your immune system functions? At Pivotal Chiropractic, the focus is on optimizing the body's natural ability to heal and protect itself—without drugs or surgery. Supporting immune health is one important piece of that puzzle.

Your nervous system is the master control center of your body. It communicates with every cell, organ, and system—including your immune system—through the spinal cord and its network of nerves. If spinal misalignments interfere with this communication, your body may struggle to respond efficiently to infections, inflammation, or chronic stress.

Specific structural chiropractors (like Dr. Gessert) focus on finding and correcting these misalignments. By improving spinal alignment and removing nerve obstruction, chiropractic adjustments help restore clear communication between the brain and body. This can lead to better overall health, including a more responsive immune system.

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!

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

How do you know if you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the narrow carpal tunnel in the wrist. This nerve supplies sensation to the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger, and controls some thumb movements. Narrowing of the tunnel from swollen tissues, repetitive stress, or structural misalignment, can pinch the nerve.

Here are some common symptoms you may be experiencing if you have CTS:

1. Numbness, tingling, or burning in the thumb, index, middle, and inside of the ring finger.
2. Nighttime discomfort is typical, as sleeping with bent wrists aggravates pressure.
3. Weakness or clumsiness, including dropping items or difficulty gripping.
4. Muscle atrophy at the base of the thumb (also called the “thenar eminence”) can happen in long-standing cases.

Learn more in our latest article.

Live Near Ann Arbor? We’re Your Friendly Neighborhood Chiropractor!

If you’re struggling with wrist pain, tingling, or numbness, visiting Dr. Gessert could be a valuable next step—especially to see if your spine is contributing to the condition in question.

To get started with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor, schedule a no-commitment consultation by calling 734-221-0362 or submitting a contact form here.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the narrow carpal tunnel in the wrist. Here are a few common causes of this nerve compression:

Repetitive Hand Use & Ergonomics
Repeating wrist motions—gripping tools, typing, working on assembly lines, etc.—causes strain, especially with vibration or forced wrist positions. OSHA and NIOSH note these as significant risk factors.

Medical & Physiological Factors
Conditions like obesity, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, fluid retention (e.g. pregnancy), and genetic predispositions all increase CTS risk.

Trauma & Anatomical Changes
Wrist injuries (such as fractures), ganglion cysts, or joint inflammation can constrict the carpal tunnel. 

Learn more in our latest article.

Live Near Ann Arbor? We’re Your Friendly Neighborhood Chiropractor!

If you’re struggling with wrist pain, tingling, or numbness, visiting Dr. Gessert could be a valuable next step—especially to see if your spine is contributing to the condition in question.

To get started with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor, schedule a no-commitment consultation by calling 734-221-0362 or submitting a contact form here.

Chiropractic Care for Degenerative Joint Disease

Are you considering chiropractic care for your arthritis? Here’s what you need to know!

Chiropractic treatment is a non-invasive, drug-free option that can play a significant role in managing DJD. Chiropractors focus on spinal and joint alignment, which helps improve movement patterns, reduce pain, and support overall joint function.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for DJD Include:

• Pain Relief: Gentle adjustments can help reduce joint pressure and nerve irritation, easing discomfort.
• Improved Joint Mobility: Restoring proper joint alignment enhances range of motion and flexibility.
• Decreased Inflammation: Chiropractic care may help lower inflammation in and around the joints.
• Enhanced Posture and Balance: Proper alignment supports better biomechanics, helping to reduce wear on affected joints.

Learn more in our latest article.

Start Feeling Better with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

Chiropractic work can help you manage degenerative disc disease, as well as many other secondary conditions. To get started with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor, schedule a no-commitment consultation by calling 734-221-0362 or submitting a contact form here.