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 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 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.

Causes of Degenerative Joint Disease

Did you know that arthritis is actually Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)?

Degenerative Joint Disease can develop due to a combination of factors, including:

• Aging: Cartilage naturally deteriorates with age.
• Joint Overuse: Repetitive motion or long-term physical stress on joints, such as from manual labor or sports, can accelerate cartilage breakdown.
• Injury: Previous joint injuries or trauma (e.g. fractures or ligament tears) increase the risk of DJD.
• Obesity: Excess body weight puts added stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and spine.
• Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase susceptibility.
• Poor Posture or Biomechanics: Misaligned joints and abnormal movement patterns can hasten joint wear.

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.

Intro to Healing Ligaments

When a ligament is injured, how does it heal?

There is much knowledge on the structure and function of normal ligament tissue, but there is still limited research on ligament injuries and the complicated nature of ligament healing. 

Healing within an injured ligament is a complex dance of cellular processes, which “cause alterations in the biology and biomechanics of the injured ligament, leading to inadequate healing and tissue formation that is inferior to the tissue it has replaced” according to the Open Rehabilitation Journal. “The incomplete healing and lower integrity of the new ligament tissue results in ligament laxity, predisposing the joint to further injury.  The cycle of injury and laxity causes joint instability which, leads to chronic pain, diminished function, and ultimately, to osteoarthritis (OA) of the affected joint.”

Ligaments take a long time to fully heal, and this occurs in three phases: the acute inflammatory phase, the proliferative or regenerative/repair phase, and the tissue-remodeling phase.

Read more in our latest article.

How can an Ann Arbor Can Chiropractor Help with Ligament Injuries?

Along with physical rehabilitation, your Ann Arbor chiropractor can work in collaboration with your other doctors to be part of a treatment plan for ligament injuries. Depending on the severity of the injury, adjustments to improve stability, mobility, reduce pain, and improved healing can be an important part of ligament damage recovery.

To get started or ask a question, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

Source: Hauser, R., Dolan, E., Phillips, H., Newlin, A., R., & Woldin, B. (2013). Ligament Injury and Healing: A Review of Current Clinical Diagnostics and Therapeutics [Abstract]. The Open Rehabilitation Journal, 6(1), 20th ser. doi:10.2174/1874943701306010001

Intro to Ligaments and Ligament Injuries

What are ligaments?

What happens when they’re injured?

Ligaments are made up of dense connective tissue that hold bones together, supporting every joint in your body. They act to stabilize your joints while at rest and during normal range of motion. Ligaments are important for both stability and mobility in a joint. When a ligament is injured, it disrupts the balance between those two qualities.  

This imbalance will lead to an abnormal transmission of forces, which can lead to injury in other tissues around the joint.  The most common joints that suffer from ligament injuries are the shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, elbow, and wrist.  Research has shown that spinal ligament injuries account for a majority of auto accident injuries, and just like other major joints in the body, they are susceptible to similar outcomes when injured.    

Just like muscles, ligaments can stretch, however, they’re not as forgiving as muscles.  When you stretch a muscle, it’s like stretching a pair of yoga pants – they expand then contract back to their normal size.  Ligaments, on the other hand, are like a pair of denim jeans – it takes much more force to stretch them, but when it does happen, you notice tears or fraying in the fibers.

When a ligament is stretched past its physical limitations, the fibers will tear. If the trauma is severe enough, the ligament can rupture all the way through.  Damage to the ligament causes a permanent change in the ligamentous fibers. 

Read more in our latest article.

How can an Ann Arbor Can Chiropractor Help with Ligament Injuries?

Along with physical rehabilitation, your Ann Arbor chiropractor can work in collaboration with your other doctors to be part of a treatment plan for ligament injuries. Depending on the severity of the injury, adjustments to improve stability, mobility, reduce pain, and improved healing can be an important part of ligament damage recovery.

To get started or ask a question, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

Source: Hauser, R., Dolan, E., Phillips, H., Newlin, A., R., & Woldin, B. (2013). Ligament Injury and Healing: A Review of Current Clinical Diagnostics and Therapeutics [Abstract]. The Open Rehabilitation Journal, 6(1), 20th ser. doi:10.2174/1874943701306010001

Causes of Cervicogenic Dizziness

In our last blog, we defined cervicogenic dizziness. But what causes it?

Several conditions and factors can contribute to cervicogenic dizziness, including:

• Neck Injuries: Trauma to the neck, such as whiplash from a car accident or a sports injury, can disrupt the normal function of the cervical spine and lead to dizziness.
• Poor Posture: Prolonged poor posture, such as forward head posture from excessive screen time, can strain the neck muscles and joints, contributing to dizziness.
• Cervical Degeneration: Conditions like osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease in the cervical spine can impact nerves and blood flow, leading to dizziness.
• Muscle Tension & Spasms: Tight or strained neck muscles can interfere with proper nerve signaling and blood circulation, causing dizziness.

Managing and Treating Cervicogenic Dizziness

Treatment for cervicogenic dizziness focuses on addressing the underlying cervical spine dysfunction. Common approaches include:

• Chiropractic Care & Physical Therapy: Gentle spinal adjustments, mobilization techniques, and specific exercises can help restore proper neck alignment and function.
• Postural Corrections: Improving posture through ergonomic adjustments and strengthening exercises can reduce strain on the cervical spine.
• Massage Therapy: Soft tissue techniques can help alleviate muscle tension and improve circulation.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management, hydration, and maintaining an active lifestyle can help prevent flare-ups of dizziness.

Learn more in our latest article.

Talk with an Ann Arbor-Based Chiropractor

Cervicogenic dizziness is a condition that a structural chiropractor can help address by correcting spinal alignment, which assists with balance and equilibrium. For more information, call our Ann Arbor chiropractor’s office at (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form. Remember, talking to Dr. Gessert is never a commitment!

What is Cervicogenic Dizziness?

Do you experience frequent dizziness?

Cervicogenic dizziness is a lesser-known but significant condition that affects many individuals. It is not a disease itself but rather a symptom arising from issues in the cervical spine (neck). Characterized by dizziness or a sense of imbalance, cervicogenic dizziness can significantly impact a person’s daily life and overall well-being. Understanding its causes and effects is crucial for proper management and treatment.

Cervicogenic dizziness is a type of dizziness that originates from dysfunction in the cervical spine, often due to musculoskeletal or neurological issues. Individuals with this condition may experience a sensation of unsteadiness or lightheadedness rather than a spinning sensation commonly associated with vertigo. It is frequently accompanied by neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced range of motion in the neck.

Learn more in our latest article.

Talk with an Ann Arbor-Based Chiropractor

Cervicogenic dizziness is a condition that a structural chiropractor can help address by correcting spinal alignment, which assists with balance and equilibrium. For more information, call our Ann Arbor chiropractor’s office at (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form. Remember, talking to Dr. Gessert is never a commitment!

Causes of TMJ Disorders

You’ve probably heard of TMJ, but what causes it?

Several factors can contribute to TMJ disorders, including:

• Jaw Injuries: Trauma to the jaw or joint can lead to inflammation or misalignment.
• Teeth Grinding: Habitual grinding or clenching can strain the joint and surrounding muscles. 
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joint's cartilage.
• Stress: Tension can cause clenching of the jaw, exacerbating symptoms.
• Misaligned Bite: Irregular alignment of teeth can impact how the joint moves and functions. This can also happen if the jaw was moved after having braces.
• Connective Tissue Disorders: Conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome may affect joint stability.

Learn more in our latest article.

Talk with an Ann Arbor-Based Chiropractor

TMJ is a secondary condition that a structural chiropractor can help by addressing TMJ joint alignment and underlying displacements of the spine. For more information, call our Ann Arbor chiropractor’s office at (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form. Remember, talking to Dr. Gessert is never a commitment!

Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

How can you tell if you might have an issue with TMJ?

TMJ disorders can present a variety of symptoms, including:

• Jaw Pain or Tenderness: Often localized around the joint or extending to the face.
• Difficulty or Discomfort When Chewing: Pain or a sensation of tightness while eating or speaking.
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully.
• Clicking or Popping Sounds: Noises when opening or closing the jaw, sometimes accompanied by discomfort.
• Locking of the Jaw: Episodes where the jaw becomes stuck open or closed.
• Headaches or Ear Pain: Radiating pain that can mimic migraines or ear infections.

Learn more in our latest article.

Talk with an Ann Arbor-Based Chiropractor

TMJ is a secondary condition that a structural chiropractor can help by addressing TMJ joint alignment and underlying displacements of the spine. For more information, call our Ann Arbor chiropractor’s office at (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form. Remember, talking to Dr. Gessert is never a commitment!

Preventing Low Back Pain

What can you to do prevent low back pain?

Here are six simple steps you can take:

1. Maintain Good Posture: Sit and stand up straight, and avoid slouching.
2. Lift Properly: Bend your knees, not your back, when lifting heavy objects.
3. Exercise Regularly: Strength training and stretching can help strengthen your back muscles.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put extra strain on your back.
5. Ergonomic Workplace: Ensure your workspace is set up to minimize strain on your back.
6. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate back pain. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.

Read more in our latest article.

Near Ann Arbor and Need Help with Lower Back Pain?

Getting adjusted by a chiropractor can not only ease existing lower back pain, but also prevent it from returning. If you’re in the Ann Arbor area and struggling with low back pain, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form!

Causes of Low Back Pain

Do you struggle with low back pain?

Here are six common causes:

1. Muscle Strain: Overexertion, poor posture, or sudden movements can strain the muscles in your lower back, leading to pain and stiffness.
2. Ligament Sprains: These connective tissues can be injured due to sudden twisting or lifting heavy objects.
3. Disc Problems: The discs between your vertebrae can become herniated or degenerate, causing pain and nerve compression.
4. Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, can affect the spine and lead to low back pain, especially in older adults.
5. Poor Posture: Slouching or sitting for long periods without proper back support can strain your back muscles and ligaments.
6. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as kidney stones, infections, or fibromyalgia, can cause low back pain.

Read more in our latest article.

Near Ann Arbor and Need Help with Lower Back Pain?

Getting adjusted by a chiropractor can not only ease existing lower back pain, but also prevent it from returning. If you’re in the Ann Arbor area and struggling with low back pain, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form!

How Bulging and Herniated Discs Affect Your Spine

How do bulging discs and disc herniations affect your spine?

Both bulging and herniated discs can cause pain, but the severity and location can differ. Bulging discs might cause a dull ache, while herniated discs can produce sharp, radiating pain. Herniated discs are also more likely to cause weakness, numbness, and tingling in the arms or legs, depending on the location of the herniation.

While bulging and herniated discs affect the spine, they represent different stages of disc degeneration. Bulging discs are generally less serious, and symptoms may not even be present. Herniated discs, on the other hand, can cause significant pain and nerve issues. If you experience back pain that radiates down your leg or arm, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Get Help for Bulging Discs in Ann Arbor

Chiropractic care can go a long way towards helping you recover from spinal issues. Pivotal Chiropractic can help provide treatment for disc herniations and bulging discs in Ann Arbor. To reach out with questions or schedule an appointment, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

The Difference Between Bulging Discs and Disc Herniations

What’s the difference between bulging and herniated discs?

Like any complex system, your spine prone to wear and tear. Two common conditions that can affect the discs in your spine are disc bulges and disc herniations. These terms may sound similar, but they are very different conditions.

The Discs: Our Spinal Cushions

Between each vertebra sits a disc. These discs act as shock absorbers, providing cushioning and flexibility to the spine. Each disc has a tough outer shell and a soft, jelly-like center.

Bulging Disc: When the Tire Loses Air

Imagine a car tire. A bulging disc is like a tire that's lost some air. The disc retains its shape, but the outer layer weakens and bulges outward. This bulging can press on nearby nerves, causing pain. Bulging discs often go unnoticed, especially if they don't affect your nerves.

Herniated Disc: When the Filling Spills Out

A herniated disc is more severe than a bulge. Here, the outer layer tears or ruptures, allowing the soft center to protrude outward. This leakage can put significant pressure on spinal nerves, which can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness that radiates along the path of the affected nerve.

Get Help for Bulging Discs in Ann Arbor

Chiropractic care can go a long way towards helping you recover from spinal issues. Pivotal Chiropractic can help provide treatment for disc herniations and bulging discs in Ann Arbor. To reach out with questions or schedule an appointment, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

Health Benefits of Cold Showers

Have you noticed that your skin or hair feel dry after a hot shower?

As it turns out, cold showers are actually much better for the body than hot showers. Here are three ways that cold showers can improve your physical health: 

Healthy Skin and Hair

Hot water strips moisture from your skin and hair almost instantly. To avoid moisture loss, turn down the temperature when you jump in the shower—your hair and skin will look and feel a lot better in the long run.

Increased Testosterone for Men

Prolonged exposure to cold water has been shown to increase testosterone production in men, enhancing overall strength and energy.

Better Circulation

Good cardiovascular health depends on getting enough blood pumping through your veins. Alternating between hot and cold water in the shower is an easy way to boost circulation. Cold water causes your blood to move towards your organs to conserve heat, and warm water brings it to the surface of your skin.

Improve Your Wellbeing with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

There’s much more to cardiovascular health than taking a cold shower! Regular visits to a chiropractor can help support a healthy lifestyle and recovery from injury by protecting your joints, spinal discs and nerves. If you are looking for a holistic Ann Arbor chiropractor, call Pivotal Chiropractic at (734) 221-0362 or schedule a complimentary consultation!

The Magic of Cold Showers

Are you looking for easy tweaks to improve your overall wellbeing?

If you’re tuned into the fitness world, you may have been recently hearing about the benefits of cold plunges: reduced inflammation, improved immune system, improved sleep, better mood, etc. Well, you can get very similar benefits by simply taking a cold shower!

To enjoy a boost to your health and energy that lasts all day, start off with hot water and slowly adjust the temperature until it’s cold but tolerable. Spend at least five minutes under the water before getting out.

Increased Energy

Stepping into a cold shower instantly ramps up your heart rate, and the rush of blood through your body will quickly wake you up. You might even find that a few minutes under cold water is just as effective as a piping hot cup of coffee.

Natural Depression Treatment

Research from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine revealed that short, cold showers can activate the “blue spot” in a person’s brain. This area is the brain’s main source of nor-adrenaline, a feel-good chemical known for relieving feelings of depression.

Faster Recovery for Athletes

After a strenuous workout, it’s common for athletes to relax in an ice bath. Not only does this numb them to any post-workout pain, but the cold water reduces inflammation and speeds up the recovery process. You can get similar benefits from taking a chilly shower after intense training sessions.

Improve Your Wellbeing with an Ann Arbor Chiropractor

There’s much more to cardiovascular health than taking a cold shower! Regular visits to a chiropractor can help support a healthy lifestyle and recovery from injury by protecting your joints, spinal discs and nerves. If you are looking for a holistic Ann Arbor chiropractor, call Pivotal Chiropractic at (734) 221-0362 or schedule a complimentary consultation!