Structure Dictates Function (Anterior Head Syndrome Continued)

One of the foundational principles of chiropractic care is that structure influences function.

Think of a bridge. If the supports of the bridge begin to shift out of position, the bridge may still stand, but it won't distribute forces as efficiently. Over time, excess stress develops in areas that were never designed to handle it.

The human body works the same way.

The neck must support a head that weighs approximately 10 to 12 pounds. A healthy cervical curve helps distribute that load across the joints, muscles, discs, and ligaments of the neck. When that curve is lost or reversed, the body's mechanics change. The muscles may be forced to work harder, joints may experience abnormal stress, and movement patterns can become less efficient.

This is why many people with altered cervical curves experience symptoms such as:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Frequent headaches
• Reduced range of motion
• Muscle tension in the shoulders and upper back
• Fatigue during prolonged sitting or computer work
• Discomfort during physical activity

While not everyone with a reversed cervical curve experiences symptoms, structural changes can alter how forces move through the spine and surrounding tissues.

Performance Starts with Proper Alignment

Whether you're an athlete, a busy professional, or simply someone who wants to stay active, your body's performance depends on efficient movement.

When the spine maintains healthy alignment, muscles can work more effectively, joints can move more freely, and the body can better handle the stresses of daily life. Conversely, abnormal spinal mechanics can contribute to compensations throughout the entire kinetic chain.

A reversed cervical curve doesn't just affect the neck. Because the spine functions as a connected system, changes in one area can influence posture and movement elsewhere in the body. The result may be increased stress on the shoulders, upper back, and even the lower spine.

Read more in our latest article.

Live Near Ann Arbor and Struggling with Neck Pain?

If you've been diagnosed with Anterior Head Syndrome or have been struggling with chronic neck discomfort, headaches, or postural challenges, a comprehensive chiropractic evaluation can help determine whether structural changes in your neck may be contributing to the problem. Dr. Gessert can help treat a myriad of issues related to neck pain in Ann Arbor, so if you’re unsure whether or not a chiropractor could help, give us a call at 734-221-0362 or submit a contact form here!

What is Anterior Head Syndrome?

Anterior Head Syndrome occurs when the normal C-shaped curve of the neck straightens significantly
or bends in the opposite direction. In some cases, this condition develops gradually over time. In others, it may result from trauma, repetitive stress, poor posture, or chronic mechanical strain on the neck.

Modern lifestyles often contribute to this problem. Hours spent looking down at phones, working on computers, and maintaining forward-head posture can place abnormal stress on the structures of the cervical spine. Over time, these stresses may contribute to changes in spinal alignment.

Can Anterior Head Syndrome Be Improved?

Every patient is unique, and the severity, cause, and duration of AHS all influence the potential for improvement.

Research has explored structural rehabilitation approaches aimed at improving cervical alignment and forward-head posture through combinations of corrective exercises and chiropractic care. While outcomes vary from patient to patient, the goal is often to address the underlying structural issue rather than simply managing symptoms.

A thorough examination, including posture assessment and appropriate imaging when indicated, can help determine the extent of the problem and guide a personalized care plan.

Read more in our latest article.

Live Near Ann Arbor and Struggling with Neck Pain?

If you've been diagnosed with Anterior Head Syndrome or have been struggling with chronic neck discomfort, headaches, or postural challenges, a comprehensive chiropractic evaluation can help determine whether structural changes in your neck may be contributing to the problem. Dr. Gessert can help treat a myriad of issues related to neck pain in Ann Arbor, so if you’re unsure whether or not a chiropractor could help, give us a call at 734-221-0362 or submit a contact form here!

5 Benefits of Cold Showers

In our last blog, we introduced the idea of cold showers for health. Here, we’ll dive into the benefits.

Here are 5 potential benefits of cold showers:

Increased Energy and Alertness

Cold water can create an invigorating effect on the body. The sudden temperature change often increases heart rate and encourages deeper breathing, helping many people feel more awake and energized.

For some, a cool shower in the morning can provide a natural boost without relying solely on caffeine.

Support for Muscle Recovery

Athletes have long used ice baths and cold therapy to help manage soreness after intense workouts. Cold water may help reduce temporary inflammation and muscle fatigue following exercise.

While a cold shower may not fully replace a professional recovery routine, it can be a convenient addition to an active lifestyle.

Healthier Skin and Hair

Very hot water can strip natural oils from your skin and hair, leaving them feeling dry or irritated. Cooler water may help preserve moisture and reduce that overly dry feeling after a shower.

Many people also find that cooler rinses help hair appear smoother and shinier over time.

Improved Circulation

Alternating between warm and cool temperatures can stimulate circulation as your body works to regulate temperature. Healthy circulation plays an important role in delivering oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.

Mental Resilience and Mood Support

Cold showers can feel challenging at first, but many people report feeling refreshed and mentally clear afterward. Some research suggests cold exposure may stimulate the nervous system and trigger the release of mood-supporting chemicals in the body.

While cold showers are not a replacement for professional mental health treatment, they may help some people feel more focused and refreshed.

Learn more in our latest article.

Struggling with Chronic Neck Pain, Back Pain, or Joint Pain?

Specific structural chiropractic care focuses on improving alignment and supporting proper function of the spine and nervous system. By helping reduce stress on joints, muscles, and nerves, chiropractic care may help support mobility, recovery, and overall wellbeing.

If you live near Ann Arbor and you’re struggling with chronic neck pain, back pain, or joint pain, Dr. Gessert can help! To schedule a no-pressure consultation, call 734-221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

Intro to Cold Showers for Health

Do you feel sluggish in the morning? 

Cold plunges and ice baths have become increasingly popular among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and people focused on recovery and wellbeing. While full cold plunges aren’t for everyone, there’s an easier way to experience many of the same benefits right at home: a cold shower.

Even a brief exposure to cooler water may help support circulation, energy levels, recovery, and mental clarity. The best part? You don’t need expensive equipment or a tub full of ice to get started!

How to Try a Cold Shower

If you’re new to cold exposure, there’s no need to jump straight into freezing water. Start with your normal warm shower, then gradually lower the temperature over the last 30–60 seconds. As your body adapts, you can slowly increase the amount of time spent under cooler water.

The goal isn’t discomfort—it’s consistency and moderation.

A Healthy Habit That You Can Do Consistently

One of the biggest advantages of cold showers is their accessibility. They don’t require a gym membership, expensive equipment, or a major time commitment. Small healthy habits practiced consistently often have the biggest long-term impact.

Cold showers can be one piece of a healthy routine, but overall wellness depends on many factors—including movement, recovery, sleep, posture, and spinal health.

Learn more in our latest article.

Struggling with Chronic Neck Pain, Back Pain, or Joint Pain?

Specific structural chiropractic care focuses on improving alignment and supporting proper function of the spine and nervous system. By helping reduce stress on joints, muscles, and nerves, chiropractic care may help support mobility, recovery, and overall wellbeing.

If you live near Ann Arbor and you’re struggling with chronic neck pain, back pain, or joint pain, Dr. Gessert can help! To schedule a no-pressure consultation, call 734-221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

How Specific Structural Chiropractic Care Helps Arthritis

Specific structural chiropractic care goes beyond general adjustments. It focuses on identifying and
correcting the root structural imbalances in your body that contribute to pain and dysfunction.

Here’s how it can help with arthritis:

1. Improving Joint Alignment

Gentle, targeted adjustments help restore proper alignment in the spine and extremities, reducing abnormal stress on arthritic joints.

2. Reducing Pain and Stiffness

By improving joint mechanics and relieving tension in surrounding tissues, chiropractic care can decrease pain and improve comfort. 

3. Increasing Mobility and Function

Chiropractic techniques—combined with movement-based therapies—help improve range of motion, making everyday activities easier and less painful. 

4. Supporting the Nervous System

The spine plays a key role in nervous system function. When alignment improves, communication between the brain and body can improve—helping your body better regulate inflammation and movement.

5. Addressing Compensation Patterns

Arthritis in one joint often causes other areas of the body to compensate. Structural care identifies and corrects these patterns to prevent secondary pain and further damage.

A Natural, Non-Invasive Approach to Pain Relief

Many arthritis sufferers rely on medications to manage pain, but these often only mask symptoms.

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach that focuses on improving how your body functions, not just covering up discomfort.

Read more in our latest article.

Your Local Ann Arbor Chiropractor Can Help!

At Pivotal Chiropractic, our focus is on specific structural correction, helping you address the root cause of your discomfort, not just the symptoms.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward lasting relief, your Ann Arbor chiropractor is here to help! Call call 734-221-0362 or submit a contact form to schedule a no-commitment consultation.

The Structural Cause of Arthritis Pain

Many people think arthritis pain comes solely from inflammation or aging, but that’s only part of the
picture.

In reality, joint dysfunction and misalignment often play a major role.

When your spine or joints are not properly aligned:

• Certain joints take on more stress than they’re designed for 
• Surrounding muscles become tight or imbalanced 
• Movement patterns change, leading to compensation and further wear 

Over time, this added stress can accelerate joint degeneration and worsen arthritis symptoms.

Read more in our latest article.

Your Local Ann Arbor Chiropractor Can Help!

At Pivotal Chiropractic, our focus is on specific structural correction, helping you address the root cause of your discomfort, not just the symptoms.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward lasting relief, your Ann Arbor chiropractor is here to help! Call call 734-221-0362 or submit a contact form to schedule a no-commitment consultation.

How Specific Structural Chiropractic Care Can Help Arm & Shoulder Pain

Do you experience persistent shoulder stiffness, arm pain, or limited mobility when reaching overhead
or behind your back?

You’re not alone—arm and shoulder pain are incredibly common, especially for people with desk jobs, active lifestyles, or past injuries.

Here’s how specific structural chiropractic care can help:

1. Restores Proper Alignment

Specific chiropractic adjustments target misalignments in the spine, helping to:

• Reduce pressure on nerves
• Improve joint mechanics
• Restore natural posture

When alignment improves, the body can move more efficiently—and pain often decreases as a result.

2. Reduces Nerve Irritation

Many cases of arm pain—especially those involving tingling, numbness, or weakness—are linked to nerve irritation in the neck.

By improving spinal alignment, chiropractic care helps:

• Decompress affected nerves
• Improve communication between the brain and body
• Reduce radiating pain into the shoulder and arm

Research shows that spinal manipulation can support nerve function and even enhance the body’s ability to heal and adapt. 

3. Improves Shoulder Function & Mobility

Even though care focuses on the spine, it has a direct impact on shoulder performance.

Studies have shown that combining spinal and shoulder-focused manual therapy can:

• Accelerate recovery
• Reduce pain severity
• Improve shoulder mobility and function 

That means easier movement, better range of motion, and less discomfort during daily activities.

4. Relieves Muscle Tension & Imbalances

When the spine is out of alignment, surrounding muscles often become tight, overworked, or imbalanced.

Specific structural corrections help:

• Normalize muscle tone
• Reduce tension and “knots”
• Improve coordination and stability

This creates a more balanced, resilient shoulder and upper body.

Read more in our latest article.

Find Lasting Relief at an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

Arm and shoulder pain can interfere with everything—from work and workouts to sleep and daily tasks. But you don’t have to just “push through it.”

We focus on specific structural correction to help your body function the way it was designed to—so you can move better, feel better, and get back to doing what you love.

To schedule a no-commitment consultation with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor, call 734-221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

Understanding Arm and Shoulder Pain

The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body, supported by muscles, ligaments, and
nerves that originate in the cervical (neck) and thoracic (upper back) spine.

Common causes of arm and shoulder pain include:

• Poor posture (forward head, rounded shoulders)
• Repetitive movements (lifting, typing, sports)
• Rotator cuff injuries or strain
• Shoulder impingement or “pinching”
• Nerve irritation or compression in the neck
• Past trauma (car accidents, falls, sports injuries)

When the spine is not properly aligned, it can place stress on surrounding muscles and irritate nearby nerves—leading to pain, weakness, or tingling that travels into the shoulder and arm. 

Conditions That May Benefit

Specific structural chiropractic care can help with a wide range of arm and shoulder conditions, including:

• Rotator cuff injuries
• Shoulder impingement
• Frozen shoulder
• Tendonitis or bursitis
• Nerve-related arm pain (pinched nerves)
• Postural strain and tech neck

When to Seek Care

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be time to get evaluated:

• Pain when lifting or reaching

• Stiffness or reduced range of motion

• Numbness or tingling down the arm

• Weakness in the shoulder or grip

• Ongoing discomfort that isn’t improving

Early care can make a significant difference in how quickly and effectively you recover.

Read more in our latest article.

Find Lasting Relief at an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

Arm and shoulder pain can interfere with everything—from work and workouts to sleep and daily tasks. But you don’t have to just “push through it.”

We focus on specific structural correction to help your body function the way it was designed to—so you can move better, feel better, and get back to doing what you love.

To schedule a no-commitment consultation with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor, call 734-221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

How Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy can Help Spring Injuries

Pivotal Chiropractic offers shockwave therapy (ESWT) in Ann Arbor, which is used as part of a
comprehensive care plan to help patients recover from springtime injuries more effectively.

Unlike treatments that simply mask symptoms, ESWT works by stimulating the body’s natural healing response.

Stimulates Tissue Repair

ESWT delivers focused acoustic waves to injured tissue. These waves:

• Increase blood flow to the area
• Stimulate cellular repair
• Activate the body’s regenerative processes

This is especially helpful for chronic tendon irritation, plantar fasciitis, and stubborn soft tissue injuries that haven’t responded to rest alone.

Breaks the Pain Cycle

Overuse injuries often linger because damaged tissue doesn’t receive enough circulation to fully heal. 

ESWT helps:

• Reduce inflammation
• Decrease pain sensitivity
• Promote remodeling of damaged tissue

Patients frequently report improvement in both pain levels and mobility after a series of treatments.

Addresses Chronic & Acute Spring Injuries

ESWT is particularly effective for conditions common in early spring, including:

• Achilles tendonitis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Shoulder and rotator cuff irritation
• Tennis and golfer’s elbow
• Chronic muscle tightness or trigger points

When combined with chiropractic adjustments and corrective exercises, it supports long-term recovery, not just temporary relief.

Helps You Get Back to Activity Faster

The goal isn’t just to reduce pain. It’s to help you:

• Restore proper movement patterns
• Improve flexibility and strength
• Prevent recurring injuries

By promoting real tissue healing, ESWT helps active individuals return to their routines safely and confidently.

Read more in our latest article.

Feel Better with Shockwave Therapy in Ann Arbor

Our goal is to focus on identifying the root cause of your pain and using evidence-based treatments like ESWT as part of a personalized care plan.

If you’re ready to enjoy spring without being sidelined by injury, contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn whether ESWT is right for you.

Let’s help you move better and heal faster!

Most Common Injuries People See in Early Spring

When folks jump back into activity after the winter months, certain injuries tend to pop up more often.

These usually stem from tight muscles, weakened stabilizers, limited mobility, or spinal misalignment from long periods of inactivity. Common springtime injuries include:

1. Strains & Sprains

Quick starts without proper warm-ups can cause the muscles and connective tissues to overreach or tear. 

Common examples include:

• Hamstring or calf strains from running
• Ankle sprains on uneven trails
• Knee ligament irritation from quick direction changes

These often come with pain, swelling, or limited range of motion. 

2. Lower Back Pain

After months of sitting more and moving less, the core and back muscles can lose strength, leading to:

• Low back stiffness or spasms
• Pain when bending, lifting, or twisting
• Flare-ups during yard work or lifting gardening gear

Misalignment or imbalance in the spine often contributes to these symptoms. 

3. Tendonitis

Repetitive activities like biking, tennis, or increased walking can inflame tendons, especially in the:

• Achilles tendon
• Shoulders (rotator cuff)
• Elbows (tennis or golfer’s elbow)

Even moderate activity increases can aggravate these tendons if the body isn’t ready. 

4. Plantar Fasciitis

Sudden boosts in walking or jogging can stress the bottom of the foot, leading to heel pain and stiffness; classic signs of plantar fasciitis.

Read more in our latest article.

Feel Better with Shockwave Therapy in Ann Arbor

We offer shockwave therapy (ESWT) in Ann Arbor, which is used as part of a comprehensive care plan to help patients recover from springtime injuries more effectively.

If you’re ready to enjoy spring without being sidelined by injury, contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn whether ESWT is right for you.

Let’s help you move better and heal faster!

What Patients Notice After ESWT for Shoulder Pain

Because Shockwave therapy (ESWT) supports healing rather than numbing symptoms, improvements
tend to build over time. 

Patients often report:

• Reduced shoulder pain during daily activities
• Improved ability to lift, reach, and rotate the arm
• Better sleep due to decreased nighttime shoulder discomfort
• Greater tolerance for strengthening and rehab exercises

Many patients notice gradual improvements over several weeks as the healing response continues.

ESWT as Part of a Comprehensive Shoulder Care Plan

At our office, ESWT is rarely used in isolation. It is often combined with:

• Targeted chiropractic adjustments
• Soft tissue therapy
• Corrective exercises and mobility work

This integrated approach helps address both the source of shoulder pain and the mechanics that may have contributed to the injury in the first place.

Read more in our latest article.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for Your Shoulder Pain?

If you’re dealing with ongoing shoulder pain, limited mobility, or a rotator cuff injury that hasn’t responded to traditional care, ESWT may be an effective option. Our team will evaluate your condition and determine whether shockwave therapy can help restore movement and comfort.

For a no-pressure consultation, call 734-221-0362 or submit an online contact form. We look forward to helping you feel your best!

How ESWT Targets Shoulder & Rotator Cuff Pain

Shockwave therapy (ESWT) delivers controlled acoustic pressure waves directly to injured shoulder
tissues. These waves stimulate biological responses that are especially beneficial for rotator cuff injuries and chronic shoulder pain.

1. Reduces Chronic Inflammation

Persistent inflammation is one of the biggest drivers of shoulder pain. ESWT helps regulate inflammatory processes in the tendon and surrounding tissues, leading to a gradual but meaningful reduction in pain and irritation.

2. Improves Blood Flow to Rotator Cuff Tendons

Rotator cuff tendons have limited circulation, which slows healing. ESWT increases local blood flow and encourages the formation of new blood vessels, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach damaged tissue more effectively.

3. Stimulates Tendon Repair and Remodeling

ESWT encourages collagen production and tissue regeneration, helping damaged rotator cuff tendons repair themselves. This is especially helpful for chronic tendinopathy and degenerative tendon changes.

4. Breaks Down Scar Tissue and Calcifications

For patients with calcific tendinitis or long-standing rotator cuff irritation, ESWT can help break down hardened deposits and fibrotic tissue that restrict movement and perpetuate pain.

Read more in our latest article.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for Your Shoulder Pain?

If you’re dealing with ongoing shoulder pain, limited mobility, or a rotator cuff injury that hasn’t responded to traditional care, ESWT may be an effective option. Our team will evaluate your condition and determine whether shockwave therapy can help restore movement and comfort.

For a no-pressure consultation, call 734-221-0362 or submit an online contact form. We look forward to helping you feel your best!

3 MORE Tips for Safe Snow Shoveling

Have you ever thrown your back out trying to clear your driveway or sidewalk?

Following our last blog, here are three MORE tips for keeping your body safe while shoveling!

1. Use Good Technique

Avoid bending at the waist — that’s a fast track to lower back pain. Instead:

• Bend at your knees and hips, keeping your back straight.
• Lift with your legs, not your back.
• Keep the shovel close to your body as you lift.
• Don’t overload the shovel — take smaller scoops.

This helps protect your spine and reduces the risk of muscle strains.

2. Pace Yourself and Take Breaks

Shoveling isn’t a race. Take frequent breaks, especially if the snow is heavy or wet. Working slowly and steadily gives your muscles a chance to recover and helps reduce fatigue — one of the biggest drivers of poor form and injury.

3. Watch Out for Ice and Slips

Ice hidden under the snow is a common hazard. Wear boots with good traction and consider sprinkling sand or salt for grip. Slipping and falling can lead to sprains, fractures, or worse, so take extra care when temperatures hover around freezing. 

Read more in our latest article.

Visit Your Local Ann Arbor Chiropractor; No Pressure, No Commitment

Dr. Gessert focuses on specific structural correction chiropractic care — meaning that adjustment don’t just mask symptoms, they help identify and correct the root causes of your pain with a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Whether it’s back pain, shoulder strain, or discomfort from overexertion on the job, our array of services can help you feel better and get back to your normal routine.

Contact your local Ann Arbor chiropractor here or call 734-221-0362 to set up your first appointment! Remember, you’re free to talk to Dr. Gessert without pressure or commitment. We look forward to helping you feel your best!

3 Tips for Safe Snow Shoveling

Did you know that it’s easy to hurt yourself while shoveling snow?

Here are three tips for keeping your body safe while shoveling:

1. Warm Up Like You Would Before a Workout

Shoveling snow is essentially a form of exercise — and just like you wouldn’t start lifting weights with cold muscles, you shouldn’t start shoveling without warming up. Spend a few minutes stretching your back, legs, arms, and shoulders to get your muscles ready for action. 

2. Dress in Layers and Stay Hydrated

Cold muscles are more prone to injury and tightness. Dress in warm, moisture-wicking layers so you can adjust your comfort level as you work. Staying hydrated is important too — even in winter, your body loses fluids through exertion. 

3. Choose the Right Shovel

Pick a shovel that matches your height and strength. A lightweight, ergonomic shovel can make the job much easier, especially if it allows you to push snow rather than lift it. Pushing snow reduces strain on your back and shoulders.

Read more in our latest article.

Visit Your Local Ann Arbor Chiropractor; No Pressure, No Commitment

Dr. Gessert focuses on specific structural correction chiropractic care — meaning that adjustment don’t just mask symptoms, they help identify and correct the root causes of your pain with a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Whether it’s back pain, shoulder strain, or discomfort from overexertion on the job, our array of services can help you feel better and get back to your normal routine.

Contact your local Ann Arbor chiropractor here or call 734-221-0362 to set up your first appointment! Remember, you’re free to talk to Dr. Gessert without pressure or commitment. We look forward to helping you feel your best!

How Shockwave Therapy Helps Elbow Tendon Pain

Did you know that Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment option?

ESWT works by delivering targeted acoustic waves to the injured tendon. These controlled pulses stimulate your body’s natural healing processes, helping break the cycle of chronic inflammation.

Benefits of ESWT for Tennis Elbow & Golfer’s Elbow:

• Stimulates collagen production needed for tendon repair
• Increases blood flow to the damaged tissue
• Breaks up calcifications or scar tissue
• Reduces pain by desensitizing nerve endings
• Improves mobility and function
• Accelerates long-term healing of chronic tendon injuries

Many patients notice improvement within a few treatments, with continued healing over several weeks.

Learn more in our latest article.

Start Healing Your Elbow Pain with ESWT

You don’t have to live with chronic elbow pain. If tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow is limiting your mobility or affecting your quality of life, shockwave therapy may be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Contact Dr. Gessert today to schedule an appointment and find out how Shockwave Therapy can help you get back to the activities you love—without pain.

What is Tennis Elbow and Golfer's Elbow?

Are you struggling with elbow pain day after day?

Here are two possible conditions:

Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons on the outside of the elbow become irritated or inflamed, typically from repetitive gripping, lifting, or overuse of the forearm muscles.

Golfer’s elbow affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow and often develops from repetitive wrist flexion or forceful gripping.

You don’t have to play tennis or golf to develop these injuries—they're common in anyone who performs repetitive motions, including tradespeople, office workers, weightlifters, and parents who frequently lift young children.

Common symptoms include:

• Elbow pain and tenderness
• Weak grip strength
• Stiffness or achiness
• Pain that radiates into the forearm or wrist
• Difficulty lifting or gripping objects

Learn more in our latest article.

Start Healing Your Elbow Pain with ESWT

You don’t have to live with chronic elbow pain. If tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow is limiting your mobility or affecting your quality of life, shockwave therapy may be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Contact Dr. Gessert today to schedule an appointment and find out how Shockwave Therapy can help you get back to the activities you love—without pain.

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.