​If you’re reading this, you likely know firsthand how sacroiliac (SI) joint pain can impact your life. It’s that dull ache, persistent discomfort, or even sharp pain that seems to echo through your lower back, hips, or legs. As specialists in helping people find relief from sacroiliac joint pain, we at the Hesch Institute have seen how it can disrupt daily routines and make the simplest tasks feel challenging. But here’s the good news—lasting relief is possible!
 
Today, we’ll share insights on understanding SI joint pain and how you can experience a lasting recovery through our unique approach: The Hesch Method.
 
What’s the Deal with Sacroiliac Joint Pain?
 
The sacroiliac joint connects your spine to your pelvis, playing a crucial role in stabilizing your body. Unfortunately, it’s also prone to dysfunction and pain. This pain can be due to a variety of reasons—injury, arthritis, repetitive motion, or even pregnancy. Once this pain sets in, it can seem like it’s here to stay. But at the Hesch Institute, we believe that understanding the root cause of sacroiliac joint dysfunction is the first step toward relief.
 
We know it’s frustrating to feel stuck in a cycle of discomfort. You might have tried other treatments—maybe even injections, medication, or traditional physical therapy—without success. That’s where we come in with a fresh perspective on treatment for sacroiliac joint pain.
 
What Makes the Hesch Method Unique?
 
Our unique approach doesn’t involve quick, forceful adjustments. Instead, we use gentle, sustained forces that the body can accept without causing further pain. We aim for true, lasting change with treatments that span just three visits on average. This is possible because of the Hesch Method’s emphasis on balancing reflexes and restoring the function of dense connective tissues.
 
How Does the Hesch Method Work?
 
At the Hesch Institute, we begin by listening to your story. Before you even walk through the door, we perform an extensive chart review and discuss your history to ensure we understand the full picture. Then, when you come in, Dr. Hesch himself—who provides all client care personally—conducts a thorough assessment. This includes testing the body in multiple positions to identify all dysfunctional segments.
 
Unlike many traditional therapies that focus solely on the immediate area of pain, we test the spine and pelvic girdle’s relationship with the rest of your body. We aim to restore not just the sacroiliac joint but also the entire lumbopelvic-hip complex. By working on the entire system, we help the body recognize and accept new, healthier patterns of movement. The result? Many of our clients find they can finally experience lasting relief from their pain.
 
Why Three Visits? The Power of Efficient Treatment
 
You might be skeptical—“Only three visits?”
 
Yes, you read that right! The Hesch Method typically requires just three visits to achieve significant improvement. We use gentle, prolonged forces rather than the abrupt, forceful methods you may have experienced elsewhere. This allows your body to adapt without unnecessary strain or discomfort. Plus, we teach you simple self-correction techniques to empower you to manage and even prevent future flare-ups. By doing this, we aim to minimize your reliance on frequent treatments and help reduce your long-term healthcare costs.
 
Ready to Find Lasting Relief?
 
Living with SI joint pain doesn’t have to be your reality.
 
At the Hesch Institute, we’re committed to helping you find a path to recovery that’s effective, efficient, and lasting. If you’re tired of short-term fixes, consider the Hesch Method—a treatment that goes beyond the ordinary to address the real root of your pain. Our treatment of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction focuses on delivering results that restore your quality of life, offering relief that lasts.
Reach out to us today, and let’s start your journey toward healing and rediscovering a pain-free life.

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We’ve all been there sitting at a desk for hours on end, only to feel that familiar ache in the lower back creeping up. If you're like many people with a desk job, you're probably familiar with the discomfort that comes from sitting for long periods. The sitting pain in the lower back is real, and it can make even the simplest tasks uncomfortable.
 
At the Hesch Institute, we know this feeling all too well, and we're here to help you find relief.
 
Let’s look into why sitting can hurt your back and what a specialist can do to ease the pain.
 
Why Does Sitting Cause So Much Pain? 
Sitting might seem like a harmless activity, but it can wreak havoc on your lower back. When you sit, especially in a poor posture, your spine takes on a lot of pressure. Over time, this can lead to strain on the lower back muscles, discs, and joints.
Many of us slouch without realizing it, putting even more stress on the lumbar spine. Eventually, this posture can lead to sitting pain in the lower back, which might feel like a dull ache or even sharp shooting pain. If you feel like you have to lean to one side when sitting you may benefit from an evaluation and treatment at the Hesch Institute in Aurora, Colorado to improve pelvic posture and mobility. Many times, a lack of micromotion in the hips, pelvis and lumbar spine alters muscle function via neurological inhibition. Dr. Hesch is a pelvic, hip, and lumbar spine (actually whole-body expert) expert. By balancing the pelvis which is the foundation of the spine and upper body in sitting, sitting returns to your natural design.

It’s Not Just About Sitting — It’s How You Sit 
Posture plays a big role in the discomfort you feel at your desk. Sitting with rounded shoulders, slumped over a keyboard, or not having proper back support can cause significant strain. Over time, this poor posture can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and even long-term damage.
 
That’s why we at Hesch Institute emphasize the importance of an ergonomic setup. A good chair, proper desk height, and correct posture can make a world of difference when it comes to easing pain and preventing future issues. Some patients (up to 30%) have developmental asymmetry in how the pelvic bones grew. These cannot be corrected with treatment and do contribute to sitting discomfort throughout the body. Dr. Hesch developed a thorough evaluation and treatment for this by precisely measuring lifts on one side of the seating surface or wedges to be placed under the trochanter of the hip. Thorough testing is performed at the Hesch Institute.

What Can a Specialist Do? 
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to live with lower back pain. A low back pain specialist can assess the cause of your discomfort and create a plan tailored to your specific needs. At the Hesch Institute, we specialize in understanding the biomechanics of the body and finding the root cause of your pain.
 
Our specialists take a comprehensive approach, looking at not just your back, but how your whole body moves. This can include a combination of manual therapy, stretches, and strengthening exercises that help realign your body and relieve pressure on your lower back.

Stretch It Out — It Really Helps 
One of the things we love to recommend is stretching. A few targeted stretches can help loosen up those tight muscles that have been overworked from sitting. We’ll guide you through exercises designed to reduce tension and improve your posture, so you can sit more comfortably. However, the Hesch approach to stretching is much more effective because it uses the addition of a fulcrum to engage the mechanoreceptor nerves in the joint which allows a greater range of stretching and resets the neurology. Dr. Hesch states: Posture should be a normal output of the nervous system. When it is impaired therapy that targets the nervous system is more effective (with some exceptions) than traditional manual therapy, adjustments, myofascial work, stretching, and core strengthening AKA core stabilization.
 
Along with stretches, strengthening your core is crucial. A strong core helps support your spine and takes some of the pressure off your lower back. At Hesch Institute, we’ll show you exercises that not only relieve pain but also prevent it from coming back. This works after the nervous system is rebalanced with the Hesch Method.

It’s All About Long-Term Relief 
We get it—nobody wants a quick fix that only works for a day or two. That’s why our approach focuses on long-term solutions. We’ll help you understand the adjustments you need to make in your daily routine, whether it’s your posture, how you lift things, or how you sit at your desk.
 
By working with a low back pain specialist, you’ll learn strategies to manage and reduce your pain in the long run, so you can get back to living your life without constant discomfort. Effective care is provided in 1-3-visits at the Hesch Institute, where the goal is to quickly get you off of the treatment roller coaster and save $$$$$. The cost of care for the whole body at the Hesch Institute is less than a single prolotherapy injection session. Most treatment paradigms are designed to keep you coming back for many visits. Hesch Method is designed to maximize your benefit within 1-3 visits.

If your desk job has left you with lingering pain in your lower back, you're not alone. But you don’t have to suffer in silence.
 
Reach out to a low back pain specialist at the Hesch Institute today and take the first step toward living without discomfort. We’ve got your back—literally!

Bringing a new life into the world is an incredible experience, but it can also take a toll on your body. After childbirth, many women experience various forms of pain and discomfort. Whether it's backaches, sore muscles, or lingering postpartum cramps, finding relief is essential for your well-being. Luckily, there are some straightforward ways to ease these aches and help you feel more like yourself again.
 
The Aches and Pains: What's Going On? 
First things first—why do you feel so sore? During pregnancy and childbirth, your body goes through intense physical changes. Muscles stretch, joints loosen, and ligaments shift to accommodate your growing baby. Once the baby arrives, your body starts to recover, but this process can leave you with pain in various areas.
 
Postpartum pain treatment is all about understanding these changes and addressing them with the right approach. Let's dive into some simple solutions to help you bounce back.
 
●       Hot and Cold: Your Best Friends 
Heat and cold therapy are classic methods for soothing postpartum pain. They’re simple, effective, and can be done right at home. When you’re dealing with sore muscles or back pain, a warm compress or heating pad can work wonders. Heat helps to increase blood flow and relax tense muscles.
 
On the flip side, cold therapy is perfect for areas that are swollen or inflamed. If you’re experiencing perineal pain or discomfort from stitches, a cold pack can reduce swelling and numb the area, giving you much-needed relief.
 
●       Keep Moving: Gentle Exercise is Key 
It might seem counterintuitive, but gentle exercise is one of the best ways to alleviate postpartum pain. Once your doctor gives you the green light, start with low-impact activities like walking or stretching. Moving around helps to improve circulation, ease muscle tension, and even boost your mood.
 
If you’re feeling up for it, try incorporating some light yoga into your routine. Yoga can help you stretch out sore muscles, strengthen your core, and improve flexibility. Plus, it’s a great way to carve out a little “me time” in your busy day.
 
●       Posture Check: Sit Up Straight 
New moms often find themselves hunching over—whether it’s during feeding, holding the baby, or just trying to catch a quick nap. Poor posture can lead to neck, shoulder, and back pain. The good news? Simply adjusting your posture can make a big difference.
 
When sitting, try to keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and feet flat on the floor. Use pillows to support your back and arms, especially during breastfeeding. These small changes can help alleviate some of that pesky postpartum pain.
 
●       Rest When You Can: Sleep is Essential 
It’s no secret that sleep is hard to come by with a newborn. However, getting enough rest is crucial for your body’s healing process. Sleep allows your muscles to recover, your mind to recharge, and your overall well-being to improve.
 
If sleeping through the night isn’t possible, try to catch naps when your baby sleeps. Even short bursts of rest can help reduce pain and fatigue.
 
●       Mind Your Diet: Fuel Your Recovery 
What you eat can play a role in how you feel. A balanced diet rich in nutrients can support your body’s recovery and reduce inflammation. Focus on foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, which are known to help with pain relief.
 
Staying hydrated is also key. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush out toxins and keep your body functioning at its best.
 
Remember, taking care of yourself, including seeking postpartum pain treatment, is just as important as taking care of your little one.
 
So, go ahead and try these tips. Your body will thank you

Thoracic pain can be a real pain in the back—literally. This discomfort in the middle section of your spine, also known as the thoracic region, can come from various sources. Whether it's a sudden ache or a persistent throb, figuring out what's causing your thoracic pain is key to finding the right thoracic pain treatment.
 
Let's dig into seven possible culprits behind this nagging issue.
 

• Muscle Strain: It Happens to the Best of Us

 
Overdoing it at the gym? Maybe you twisted the wrong way while lifting something heavy? Muscle strain is a common cause of thoracic pain. The muscles in your back can easily get overworked or strained, leading to sharp or dull aches in the thoracic region. This pain often worsens with movement, making it hard to ignore.
 

• Poor Posture: The Silent Saboteur

 
We all know that slouching is bad, but it's more harmful than you might think. Poor posture, especially when sitting for long periods, can wreak havoc on your thoracic spine. This causes the muscles and ligaments to strain, leading to that all-too-familiar ache. If you're constantly hunched over a computer or slouching on the couch, this could be the root of your pain.
 

• Herniated Discs: When Things Slip Out of Place

 
Your spine is made up of discs that act as cushions between your vertebrae. When one of these discs herniates or slips out of place, it can press on nearby nerves, causing significant pain in the thoracic area. This kind of pain can be sharp and radiate around your chest or back.
 

• Osteoarthritis: The Wear and Tear Problem

 
As we age, the cartilage that cushions our joints can start to wear down. Osteoarthritis, a common condition among older adults, can affect the thoracic spine. This leads to stiffness, swelling, and pain. The pain tends to be more noticeable after periods of inactivity or in the morning.
 

• Scoliosis: The Curveball

 
Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally to one side. While it's often associated with the lower back, scoliosis can also affect the thoracic region. The abnormal curvature puts extra stress on the spine, leading to chronic pain. For those with scoliosis, the pain can be a constant companion.
 

• Spinal Fractures: The Not-So-Fun Break

 
Spinal fractures, particularly in the thoracic region, can occur due to trauma or conditions like osteoporosis. These fractures can be excruciating and often require immediate medical attention. The pain from a spinal fracture is usually sudden and severe, making it hard to move or even breathe deeply.
 

• Myofascial Pain Syndrome: The Trigger Point Trouble

 
Myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic condition that causes pain in the fascia, the connective tissue covering the muscles. Trigger points, or sensitive areas in the muscle, can cause referred pain in the thoracic region. This type of pain can feel like a deep, aching sensation that doesn't go away easily.
 
Thoracic pain can be caused by various factors, ranging from simple muscle strains to more serious conditions like spinal fractures. Understanding the source of your discomfort is the first step in finding relief. If you’re experiencing persistent thoracic pain, it might be time to consult a thoracic specialist. They can help pinpoint the cause and guide you toward effective treatment options. Don’t let thoracic pain hold you back—take action and get back to feeling your best.

If you’ve ever felt a nagging pain in your lower back or hips, you might have heard of sacroiliac (SI) joint issues. It’s a common problem that can really cramp your style. But, what exactly is a sacroiliac adjustment, and how can it make a difference in your mobility?
 
Let’s dive in and unravel the mystery behind this crucial aspect of physical health.
 
What’s the Deal with Sacroiliac Adjustment? 
A sacroiliac joint adjustment is a technique used to correct misalignments or dysfunctions in this joint. These misalignments can result from various factors like injury, poor posture, or even repetitive stress. When the SI joint isn’t functioning properly, it can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
 
Why Adjust the Sacroiliac Joint? 
So, why bother with sacroiliac joint adjustments? Here are a few compelling reasons:
 
1. Relieve Pain: One of the main goals of SI joint adjustments is to alleviate pain. Misalignment in the SI joint can lead to pain in the lower back, hips, and even down the legs. By correcting these misalignments, adjustments can provide significant relief.
2. Improve Mobility: When the SI joint is out of whack, movement can become restricted. This can make everyday activities, like bending over or walking, feel uncomfortable. An adjustment can help restore proper movement and improve your overall mobility.
3. Enhance Function: Proper function of the SI joint is crucial for a healthy spine and pelvis. Adjustments can help ensure that the joint is working correctly, which can lead to better overall function of your body.

How Does a Sacroiliac Adjustment Work? 
During a sacroiliac adjustment, a trained professional uses gentle, controlled forces to realign the joint. They might use their hands or specialized tools to apply precise pressure. The goal is to restore the joint’s proper alignment and function.
 
1. Assessment: First, a thorough assessment is performed to identify the source of the problem. This often includes physical exams and sometimes imaging.
2. Adjustment: Next, the adjustment itself is performed. The professional will apply a specific force to the SI joint to correct the misalignment.
3. Follow-Up: After the adjustment, there might be follow-up recommendations. These could include exercises or stretches to support the joint and prevent future issues.

Long ago Dr. Hesch realized that most adjustments to the sacroiliac including Chiropractic, Muscle Energy Technique (MET), Osteopathic, etc., are short-lasting and require repetition. He developed a very effective method that quickly provides lasting results and does not require repeat visits. His techniques are appropriately referred to as "CORRECTIONS, which are typically achieved within 1-3 visits.

What to Expect After an Adjustment? 
You might experience some immediate relief after an SI joint adjustment. However, it’s not unusual to feel a bit sore for a day or two. This is a normal part of the process as your body adjusts to the new alignment.
 
To maintain the benefits, it's essential to follow any recommendations provided. This might include specific exercises or lifestyle adjustments to support the health of your SI joint.
 
So, take the leap and explore how a sacroiliac joint correction might help you get back on track.
 
Feel free to call us to get more information related to this!
 
Links


Sacroiliac Hip and Lumbar Spine Book

https://www.amazon.com/Treating-Sacroiliac-Dysfunction-Lumbopelvic-Pathomechanics/dp/B0BTJBY577/ref=sr_1_3?crid=DUIBSRDWFTMO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I3Drt2ykx1KbPD1ob2Kn1HhYjif1GG5FOJpVYlbWJgSlSa2rQOi5eUifJdEoej5pyYStDQKyN-K2fNolEPXHXQQsltWlk6-JZx-6W-L8r_hoALDOm
 
Sacral Torsion Book Chapter
 
https://www.heschinstitute.com/uploads/6/0/7/6/6076312/dynamic_body_chapter2017__3-2017_.pdf
 
Book Chapter Most Common Pattern of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
 
https://www.heschinstitute.com/uploads/6/0/7/6/6076312/chaptersijbasic1997.pdf
 
Hesch Institute Website
 
https://www.heschinstitute.com/
 
Hesch YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/jerryhesch​

​Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD) can be a real hassle. This problem affects the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, causing pain and discomfort that can really mess with your daily life. You might think about trying over-the-counter pain relievers or home remedies, but sometimes, these aren’t enough. Consulting a Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction specialist could be your best bet for getting better and staying pain-free.
 
Here’s why seeing an expert makes a big difference.
 
What Is TMJD? 
TMJD stands for Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the part of your body that lets you open and close your mouth, like when you talk or eat. When this joint doesn’t work right, you can experience pain in your jaw, hear clicking or popping sounds, or find it hard to open your mouth wide. TMJD can also cause headaches and neck pain. The reasons behind TMJD can vary, including things like injuries, grinding your teeth, or a misaligned bite.
 
Why You Might Need a Specialist? 
You might try some basic remedies or pain relievers for TMJD, but they often only help for a short time. These methods usually don’t fix the underlying problem. A Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction specialist knows a lot more about TMJD and can help you find out what’s really going on. They have special tools and training to diagnose and treat TMJD more effectively than general treatments.

Specialists Have Special Tools and Knowledge 
TMJD specialists, such as dentists who have extra training or orthodontists, are experts in this area. They have special tools to look closely at your TMJ and figure out what’s causing your problems. This means they can give you a more accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan that’s right for you. They know exactly what to look for and how to treat it properly.
 
A Customized Plan Just for You 
When you visit a TMJD specialist, they create a treatment plan just for you. They will look at your specific symptoms and how TMJD is affecting you. This personalized approach means they can suggest treatments that are best suited to your needs. Treatments might include special exercises for your jaw, medications to reduce pain, or dental appliances to keep your teeth from grinding together.
 
Avoiding Further Problems 
If you don’t treat TMJD properly, it can lead to other issues like ongoing pain, dental problems, or changes in how your teeth fit together. A Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction specialist helps you avoid these problems by giving you the right treatment early on. This means you’re less likely to have long-term issues.
 
So, if you’re dealing with TMJD, call us for a happier, pain-free future!

​Rib pain can be more than just a nuisance. When it sticks around and keeps bothering you, it can really affect your daily life. While many people think pain in the ribs is only from things like a broken rib or an infection, there’s another surprising reason it might happen: problems in your lower back.
 
Here’s how a specialist who focuses on low back pain can help you with that annoying pain.
 
How Are Your Back and Ribs Connected? 
It might seem strange, but your lower back and ribs are closely connected. Your body’s muscles and nerves are all part of a big network. If there’s a problem with your lower back, it can sometimes cause pain in your ribs, even if the ribs themselves aren’t injured.
 
Imagine your back and ribs are like a team. If one player (your back) is out of shape or hurt, it can affect how well the whole team (your ribs) performs. When something goes wrong in your lower back, it can send pain signals up to your ribs.
 
What Does Treatment Look Like? 
Once they know what’s causing the pain, the specialist will create a treatment plan just for you. This plan could include several things to help you feel better:
 
●       Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is like special exercises and stretches designed to make your back and ribs stronger and more flexible. This can help relieve the pressure and pain. Your therapist will show you how to do these exercises safely.
●       Manual Therapy
Manual therapy is when the specialist uses their hands to gently move and adjust your back and ribs. This can help fix alignment problems and reduce pain. It’s like giving your body a tune-up to make sure everything is working smoothly.

Checking Your Progress 
As you start your treatment, your specialist will want to check in with you regularly. They’ll see how you’re doing and whether the pain is getting better. If needed, they’ll adjust your treatment plan to make sure you’re getting the best care.

Why Does This Matters? 
Seeing a low back pain specialist can make a big difference if you’re dealing with pain in the ribs. By fixing problems in your lower back, you might find relief from the pain in your ribs. Specialists know a lot about how the body works and can help you get back to feeling better.
 
If you’re struggling with pain in the ribs and think it might be connected to your lower back, call us for assistance. It could be the first step toward feeling better.
 
Links

Sacroiliac Hip and Lumbar Spine Book

Sacral Torsion Book Chapter

https://www.heschinstitute.com/uploads/6/0/7/6/6076312/dynamic_body_chapter2017__3-2017_.pdf
 
Book Chapter Most Common Pattern of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
 
https://www.heschinstitute.com/uploads/6/0/7/6/6076312/chaptersijbasic1997.pdf
 
Hesch Institute Website
 
https://www.heschinstitute.com/

Hesch YouTube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/jerryhesch

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​Have you ever felt a sharp pain in your lower back or hips that just won’t go away?
 
You might be dealing with something called sacroiliac pain. This type of pain can make it hard to move around comfortably. But don’t worry—chiropractic care might be a good option to help you feel better.
 
Let’s break down how chiropractic care works and why it might be a great choice for dealing with SI joint pain.
 
What Is Sacroiliac Joint Pain? 
The sacroiliac joints are located where your spine connects to your pelvis (that’s the big bone in your lower body). These joints help your body absorb shock when you walk or run. If these joints get inflamed or out of place, it can cause pain in your lower back, hips, or even legs.
 
What Do Chiropractors Do? 
Chiropractors are specialists who focus on fixing problems with your spine and joints. They use their hands to make adjustments, which means they gently push or pull your joints back into place. Their goal is to help your body move better and to reduce pain.

How Can Chiropractic Adjustments Help? 
Chiropractic adjustments can be really helpful for SI joint pain. Here’s how:

• Straightening Out the Joints: Sometimes, the SI joints can get out of alignment, which means they’re not in the right position. Chiropractors can use specific techniques to realign these joints, which can help relieve the pain.
  
  
• Making Movement Easier: When your SI joints are not aligned properly, it can be hard to move around. Chiropractic adjustments can help improve the movement in these joints, making it easier to move without pain.
  
  
• Reducing Pain: By fixing the alignment of your SI joints, chiropractors can help reduce inflammation and pain. This can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel.

Why Choose Chiropractic Care? 
There are some great reasons to consider chiropractic care if you’re dealing with SI joint pain:

• No Surgery Needed: Chiropractic care is non-invasive, which means you don’t need surgery. It’s all about using natural methods to help your body heal.
  
  
• Look at the Whole Body: Chiropractors don’t just focus on where it hurts. They look at your whole body and may give you tips on how to sit, stand, or move better to help you feel good.
  
  
• Personalized Care: Chiropractors create a treatment plan that’s just for you. This can be more effective than a standard treatment plan that might not fit your specific needs.

Chiropractic care could be a great way to tackle sacroiliac joint pain.
 
If you are looking for the best treatment for sacroiliac joint pain, reach out to us today!

​Thoracic pain, or pain in the upper and middle part of the back, can be a troubling experience. Understanding its causes and knowing when to seek specialist care is crucial for effective treatment. 

Let’s look at the common causes of thoracic pain, guide you on when to seek specialist care for thoracic pain treatment.

Common Causes of Thoracic Pain

Muscle Strain

One of the most common causes of thoracic pain is muscle strain. This often occurs due to poor posture, heavy lifting, or sudden movements. People who sit for long periods, especially with poor ergonomic setups, are particularly susceptible.

Herniated Discs

A herniated disc in the thoracic spine can cause significant pain. This condition happens when the soft material inside a disc pushes out through a tear in the tougher exterior. The pressure on the surrounding nerves can lead to sharp pain, numbness, or weakness.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis can affect the thoracic spine, causing pain due to the degeneration of cartilage between the joints. This condition is more common in older adults and can lead to stiffness and discomfort.

Fractures

Thoracic fractures, often resulting from trauma or osteoporosis, are another cause. These fractures can cause intense pain and require immediate medical attention.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis, a curvature of the spine, can also lead to thoracic pain. This condition can put extra stress on the muscles and bones of the thoracic region, causing chronic discomfort.

Other Causes

Other potential causes include infections, tumors, and inflammatory conditions like ankylosing spondylitis. These are less common but can be serious and require prompt diagnosis and treatment.

When to Seek Specialist Care

Persistent Pain

If your thoracic pain persists for more than a few weeks, it is time to consult a specialist. Persistent pain may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires professional evaluation.

Severe Symptoms

Seek immediate care if you experience severe symptoms, such as sudden onset of intense pain, difficulty breathing, or loss of bladder or bowel control. These could be signs of a medical emergency, such as a spinal cord injury or serious infection.

Neurological Symptoms

Symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs should prompt you to see a specialist. These symptoms can indicate nerve involvement and require specialized treatment.

Impact on Daily Activities

If thoracic pain is significantly impacting your daily activities and quality of life, seeking specialist care is advisable. Early intervention can help manage pain more effectively and prevent further complications.

If you experience persistent, severe, or disabling pain, do not hesitate to consult a thoracic specialist. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve your quality of life and prevent further complications.

Visit our website, Hesch Institute to get more information related to it!

Lower back pain is a common issue for many people, especially those with sedentary lifestyles. While occasional discomfort may be manageable, persistent sitting pain in the lower back can indicate a more serious problem. Understanding when to seek help from a specialist is crucial for effective treatment and long-term relief.

Common Causes of Lower Back PainSeveral factors can contribute to lower back pain. Poor posture, prolonged sitting, and inadequate support can strain the lower back muscles and ligaments. Additionally, underlying conditions such as herniated discs, sciatica, or degenerative disc disease can exacerbate the pain. Identifying the root cause is the first step in addressing the issue. There are a few causes of what is named mechanical sitting low back pain. This refers to posture or movement. To be more specific, patterns of altered posture and motion reduction especially of the pelvis and hip and hip can affect sitting posture.  We will first explore the hip.

The Hip

A common pattern of reduced hip motion occurs over time based on how our hip functions while driving a car. The driver tends to hold the right hip in greater flexion and internal rotation due to constantly using the foot for gas and braking. At Hesch Institute these restrictions are evaluated and treated very effectively within two-visits. It is the philosophy of the Hesch Institute to restore the motion and instruct the client in a very simple brief self-treatment performed once a week to ensure long-term benefit.

The Pelvis

The pelvis then becomes altered in response to the altered posture and mobility of the hip and it too develops a similar pattern. When the pelvis develops a sustained alteration to its normal posture and movement a powerful reflex in the body creates a compensation in which the mid back and trunk counter rotate. Sometimes the person only becomes aware of the pain between their shoulder blades, and they are unable to get effective care. Why? Because the cause which is the altered posture and mobility of hip pelvis are not addressed. It is a big problem to only treat "where it hurts." At the Hesch Institute a whole-body evaluation and treatment is utilized so the actual cause is identified.

Another important concept is that approximately 30% of people have a developmental asymmetry. This oftentimes creates sitting postural discomfort in the low back, upper back, shoulder and neck. This asymmetry is in the bones and therefore cannot be corrected with typical approaches to postural asymmetry. Sometimes the solution is quite simple such as using a small lift under one sit bone or a wedge-support under the trochanter of the hip. Hesch-trained clinicians can recognize this and develop appropriate modifications.

The Low Back

The pelvis and hips are the foundations of the low back. Sometimes patients are only able to derive short-term benefit because the low back requires repeat manipulation/adjustments because the hips and pelvis are the actual cause, the low back is the response.

When to See a Specialist

Persistent PainIf your lower back pain persists for more than a few weeks, it is time to consult a specialist. Chronic pain often signals an underlying issue that requires professional assessment. Specialists can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate treatments.

Intensity of PainSevere pain that hinders daily activities or disrupts sleep is a red flag. This level of discomfort is not typical for minor strains or temporary conditions. Intense pain might indicate a serious condition like a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. Seeking a specialist's advice can help prevent further complications.

Accompanying SymptomsLower back pain accompanied by other symptoms should not be ignored. Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs can point to nerve involvement. Additionally, if you experience bladder or bowel control issues, seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms can indicate cauda equina syndrome, a medical emergency requiring prompt intervention.
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Benefits of Consulting a Lower Back Pain Specialist

Accurate Diagnosis

A specialist can perform detailed diagnostic tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to pinpoint the exact cause of your pain. Accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. most of the time the tests do not reveal the cause of pain, they just rule out severe pathology. Therefore, it makes sense to see a specialist who understands the musculoskeletal system. The Hesch Institute uses advanced orthopedic manual therapy to evaluate and treat your sitting pain. A thorough evaluation will include the entire body, and especially the integrated system of the hips, pelvis, sacroiliac joint, and lumbar spine as these form an integrated system. The traditional focus on "where it hurts" is at times ineffective because it does not take into consideration how the body creates symptomatic compensations. You are in good hands being seen at The Hesch Institute in Aurora Colorado. Your whole body will be evaluated and treated not just "where it hurts." We understand the interlinked system and provide thorough treatment.

Customized Treatment Plans

Specialists offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific condition. These plans may include physical therapy, Dr. Hesch's specialty, which is Orthopedic Manual Therapy, medication, injections, or even surgical options. Customized care increases the likelihood of successful pain management and recovery.

Preventing Future Issues

Addressing lower back pain with a specialist not only alleviates current discomfort but also helps prevent future problems. Specialists can guide posture correction, ergonomic adjustments, and exercises to strengthen the back muscles. These preventive measures are vital for long-term spinal health. Dr. Hesch has developed a self-treatment for every pattern of faulty posture, weakness, loss of motion, and pain, and can restore that wonderful feeling of "being back in a balanced youthful body." Miserable Malalignment becomes optimal alignment.

Persistent or severe sitting pain in the lower back should not be overlooked. Early intervention by a specialist can lead to accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and prevention of future issues. If you experience continuous discomfort, intense pain, or additional symptoms, it is time to seek professional help. Prioritizing your spinal health today can ensure a pain-free future.
Visit our website, Hesch Institute to get more information related to it! Website: www.HeschInstitute.com You may also visit YouTube where Dr. Hesch has posted hundreds of unique patient cases and also has many informative videos.
 
Links

Helpful Video on Improving Sitting Comfort
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7_Jt1T99xk
 
Sacroiliac Hip and Lumbar Spine Book
 
https://www.amazon.com/Treating-Sacroiliac-Dysfunction-Lumbopelvic-Pathomechanics/dp/B0BTJBY577/ref=sr_1_3?crid=DUIBSRDWFTMO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I3Drt2ykx1KbPD1ob2Kn1HhYjif1GG5FOJpVYlbWJgSlSa2rQOi5eUifJdEoej5pyYStDQKyN-K2fNolEPXHXQQsltWlk6-JZx-6W-L8r_hoALDOm
 
Sacral Torsion Book Chapter
 
https://www.heschinstitute.com/uploads/6/0/7/6/6076312/dynamic_body_chapter2017__3-2017_.pdf
 
Book Chapter Most Common Pattern of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
 
https://www.heschinstitute.com/uploads/6/0/7/6/6076312/chaptersijbasic1997.pdf
 
Hesch Institute Website
 
https://www.heschinstitute.com/
 
Hesch YouTube Channel
 
https://www.youtube.com/jerryhesch