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!

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!

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.

Long-Term Effects of Tech Neck

Anterior Head Syndrome, also known as Forward Head Posture (FHP) and “tech neck,” is a condition
where the head leans forward, sitting in front of the body’s midline instead of in line with it. 

If left uncorrected, Anterior Head Syndrome can have significant effects on your overall health. These include: 

• Chronic Pain in Neck, Shoulders, and Upper Back
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Respiratory Issues (restricted chest expansion, making it harder to take full breaths)

Read more about Anterior Head Syndrome in our latest article.

Living Near Ann Arbor and Having Tech Neck Pain?

An Ann Arbor chiropractor can help with neck pain and tech neck! By adjusting spine and reducing the strain caused by forward head posture, Dr. Gessert can help alleviate pain and improve spinal function. To make an appointment or just ask a question, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

Causes and Symptoms of Tech Neck

Anterior Head Syndrome, also known as Forward Head Posture (FHP) and “tech neck,” is a condition where the head leans forward, sitting in front of the body’s midline instead of in line with it.

Causes

• Tech Dependence (Tech Neck): Using electronics like smartphones and laptops encourages a downward head tilt, reinforcing poor posture habits over time. This is referred to as both “tech neck” and “text neck.”
• Weak Neck and Upper Back Muscles: Unbalanced muscles in the neck and upper back can cause the head to lean forward. Weakness in these muscles may result from lack of exercise or poor posture.
• Injury: Injuries such as whiplash or head trauma can cause your muscles to try to compensate for the injury by leaning the head forward for stability.
• Occupational Factors: People working in environments that require sitting for long periods of time, such as desk jobs, can develop poor postural habits.

Symptoms

• Neck Pain/Tension 
• Shoulder/Upper Back Pain
• Headaches
• Reduced Range of Motion
• Fatigue and Muscle Weakness
• Neurological Symptoms (numbness/tingling in the arms or hands, dizziness, or balance issues)
• Postural Imbalance (rounded shoulders or hunched upper back)

Read more about Anterior Head Syndrome in our latest article.

Living Near Ann Arbor and Having Tech Neck Pain?

An Ann Arbor chiropractor can help with neck pain and tech neck! By adjusting spine and reducing the strain caused by forward head posture, Dr. Gessert can help alleviate pain and improve spinal function. To make an appointment or just ask a question, call (734) 221-0362 or submit a contact form here.

What Are Common Ergonomic Injuries?

Do you ever get that pins and needles feeling in your hands?

Do you deal with reoccurring episodes of neck pain?

If you’re a seasoned office veteran experiencing these symptoms, you could be suffering from the consequences of poor ergonomics. Many of us think that office work is among one of the easiest jobs on your body but long hours of awkward posture can be detrimental to your health. Taking the proper precautions can help you avoid many of these injuries but it’s important to be educated so you can take the right corrective actions.

What injuries are caused by poor workplace ergonomics?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by pressure or irritation on the median nerve. This leads to numbness, tingling and pain in the hands, wrists, and forearm areas.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis occurs when the tissue connecting muscle to bone becomes inflamed. Tendinitis can be caused by repetitive strain through poor posture, injury or even aging as tendons lose elasticity over time. Some symptoms of tendinitis are: Stiff joints, cracking and popping sounds as you move, swelling, skin discoloration and pain at the site of the tendon.

Chronic tendinitis left untreated can turn into constant dull pain, torn tendons, and loss of movement. It is best to seek treatment as early as possible for the best outcome.

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger can often result from repetitive stress on the hands and fingers through actions such as typing, playing an instrument, or using power tools. Those who suffer from trigger finger have a difficult time bending and straightening their fingers. Symptoms include a clicking sensation when moving your fingers, fingers feeling locked up and pain and tenderness at the base of the finger. 

Read more on our website!

Visit Dr. Gessert for Relief from Neck Pain Due to Ergonomic Injuries

If Dr. Gessert does not believe that chiropractic is the best method to cure your neck pain or ergonomic injury, he will refer you to someone in his extensive field of specialists.

Why should you seek chiropractic care for ergonomic injuries? We believe that we can give you the best advice and treatment to get you back on track to a fulfilling career and pain-free life!

Contact us here to learn more.

Car Accident Aftermath: Get Pain Relief from Whiplash

Did you know the average driver will be in a car crash once every 18 years? 

The odds are high that one of these accidents will result in whiplash or other bodily injury.

Even a minor fender bender can result in whiplash, and symptoms can linger, making day-to-day life difficult. Whiplash is a neck injury due to a rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, like the cracking of a whip. According to the Mayo Clinic, “most people with whiplash get better within a few weeks by following a treatment plan that includes medication and exercise.”

How can the Chiropractor Help with Neck Pain Due to Whiplash?

According to the Insurance Research Council, “nearly one third of all claimants injured in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) seek treatment from doctors of chiropractic.” 

According to a 2012 study on the Epidemiology of Whiplash, “manual therapy (i.e., cervical mobilization and or manipulation), together with exercise appear to be the most effective noninvasive treatments for patients with acute whiplash related neck pain.” 

After a whiplash injury, you may not feel immediate pain. Sometimes, symptoms don’t show up for days or even years after an accident has occurred. Typical symptoms of whiplash are neck pain, back pain, vertigo, nausea, weakness, headaches, and numbness and tingling in the extremities.

Find out how a chiropractor can help with whiplash neck pain after a car accident on our website.

Get Relief for Neck Pain Today!

The sooner neck pain is treated, the better. Don’t wait to get relief – contact Dr. Gessert today! You don’t have to live your life in pain. We can help you get back to the activities you love.

Contact Dr. Gessert for a complimentary consultation today to see if chiropractic care is the right solution for your neck pain.

How can the Chiropractor Help with Neck Pain Due to Whiplash?

According to the Insurance Research Council, “nearly one third of all claimants injured in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) seek treatment from doctors of chiropractic.” 

According to a 2012 study on the Epidemiology of Whiplash, “manual therapy (i.e., cervical mobilization and or manipulation), together with exercise appear to be the most effective noninvasive treatments for patients with acute whiplash related neck pain.” 

After a whiplash injury, you may not feel immediate pain. Sometimes, symptoms don’t show up for days or even years after an accident has occurred. Typical symptoms of whiplash are neck pain, back pain, vertigo, nausea, weakness, headaches, and numbness and tingling in the extremities.

Providing no fractures have occurred from your accident, Dr. Gessert will do an examination to see the extent of damage or any change in your spine. By doing orthopedic and neurologic tests, a range of motion test, posture and palpation check, and x-rays, Dr. Gessert can determine if an MRI is needed, and refer you out to one if necessary.

After this exam, a treatment plan will be created for you. This plan could include passive and active exercises, chiropractic spinal and extremity adjustments, and therapies such as traction to correct the spinal position.

Find out how a chiropractor can help with whiplash neck pain after a car accident on our website.

Get Relief for Neck Pain Today!

The sooner neck pain is treated, the better. Don’t wait to get relief – contact Dr. Gessert today! You don’t have to live your life in pain. We can help you get back to the activities you love.

Contact Dr. Gessert for a complimentary consultation today to see if chiropractic care is the right solution for your neck pain.

How can the Chiropractor Help with Neck Pain Due to Whiplash?

According to the Insurance Research Council, “nearly one third of all claimants injured in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) seek treatment from doctors of chiropractic.” 

According to a 2012 study on the Epidemiology of Whiplash, “manual therapy (i.e., cervical mobilization and or manipulation), together with exercise appear to be the most effective noninvasive treatments for patients with acute whiplash related neck pain.” 

After a whiplash injury, you may not feel immediate pain. Sometimes, symptoms don’t show up for days or even years after an accident has occurred. Typical symptoms of whiplash are neck pain, back pain, vertigo, nausea, weakness, headaches, and numbness and tingling in the extremities.

Providing no fractures have occurred from your accident, Dr. Gessert will do an examination to see the extent of damage or any change in your spine. By doing orthopedic and neurologic tests, a range of motion test, posture and palpation check, and x-rays, Dr. Gessert can determine if an MRI is needed, and refer you out to one if necessary.

After this exam, a treatment plan will be created for you. This plan could include passive and active exercises, chiropractic spinal and extremity adjustments, and therapies such as traction to correct the spinal position.

Read the full article about relief from neck pain due towhiplash on our website!

Get Relief for Neck Pain Today!

The sooner neck pain is treated, the better. Don’t wait to get relief – contact Dr. Gessert today! You don’t have to live your life in pain. We can help you get back to the activities you love.

Contact Dr. Gessert for a complimentary consultation today to see if chiropractic care is the right solution for your neck pain.

Find Relief from Neck Pain Due to Whiplash

Have you or someone you know been in a serious car accident?

The average driver will be in a car crash once every 18 years, and though the risk of death is low, the odds are high that one of these accidents will result in whiplash or other bodily injury.

Even a minor fender bender can result in whiplash, and symptoms can linger, making day-to-day life difficult.

How can you find relief?

First, it’s important to know how whiplash happens and what the symptoms are. According to Mayo Clinic:

• Whiplash is a neck injury due to forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, cracking like a whip.
• Whiplash is commonly caused by car accidents, but could also result from sports accidents and other types of traumas such as a fall.
• Most people with whiplash get better within a few weeks by following a treatment plan that includes pain medication and exercise, but some people have chronic neck pain and other long-lasting complications.

Read the full article about relief from neck pain due to whiplash on our website!

Get Relief for Neck Pain Today!

The sooner neck pain is treated, the better. Don’t wait to get relief – contact Dr. Gessert today! You don’t have to live your life in pain. We can help you get back to the activities you love.

Contact Dr. Gessert for a complimentary consultation today to see if chiropractic care is the right solution for your neck pain