Category: Hesch Method

Why Should You Consult A Specialist For Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction?

7/30/2024

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!

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Why Chiropractic Care Might Help With Sacroiliac Joint Pain?

7/30/2024

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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!

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Understanding The Hesch Method for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction!

5/28/2024

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At the Hesch Institute, we are dedicated to redefining the approach to pelvic joint dysfunction, particularly focusing on the sacroiliac joint (SI joint), the pubic joint, the hips, the lumbar spine, the tailbone, and the very important role of the whole-pelvis. Traditional methods often fall short in accurately diagnosing and treating these complex issues, instead relying solely on gross motion testing and limited bony landmark palpation. However, through extensive research and practical experience, we've developed the Hesch Method—a comprehensive approach that addresses the nuanced complexities of the pelvic structure.

At Hesch Institute, with over 43 years of experience under Dr. Jerry Hesch's leadership, we specialize in helping individuals overcome the challenges of sacroiliac joint dysfunction. This blog delves into the power of the Hesch Method as a cornerstone of treatment, highlighting its diverse techniques and potential to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and restore function, not just within the sacroiliac but throughout the whole body. In 1981 Dr. Hesch started to develop the Hesch Method an advanced biomechanical model of evaluation and treatment of complex sacroiliac joint pain and dysfunction. He is an expert at treating all joints in the body which is a specialty named orthopedic manual therapy, or manual therapy. His extensive work in this area of the body is described in his curriculum vitae available through the search function of the website. He is appropriately referred to as a "Sacroiliac Guru".

Here's a breakdown of what sets this method apart:

Advanced Palpatory Skills

Our method emphasizes advanced palpatory skills, allowing for a deeper understanding of the intricate structures involved in pelvic joint dysfunction. By homing in on specific palpation techniques, we can pinpoint areas of restricted mobility and dysfunction with precision. This includes palpation of bony landmarks, ligament tone palpation, and soft tissue palpation. Comprehensive evaluation is necessary for thorough treatment. The Hesch Method evaluates more bony landmarks than the traditional osteopathic, muscle energy, chiropractic and physical therapy traditions.

Accessory Motion Tests

Unlike traditional methods, this method incorporates accessory motion tests to assess the micromotions, and force transmission through the pelvic joints. In 1981 Dr. Hesch was studying the literature on the anatomy and kinesiology of the pelvis and sacroiliac joint and he was struck by the concept that the SIJ functions as a shock absorber. He then started testing the pelvic joints in the same way that the integrity of a car shock absorber is tested. This led to a large number of shock-absorber spring tests in multiple directions throughout the pelvis. These tests are one of several significant ways in which, the Hesch model differs from the traditional model of SIJ evaluation. This comprehensive approach ensures that no aspect of dysfunction goes unnoticed, leading to more effective treatment outcomes.

Treatment Based on Neuromuscular Factors

Treatment with the Hesch Method isn't limited to addressing joint mechanics alone. We also take into account neuromuscular factors and the viscoelastic nature of the joints, providing a holistic approach to rehabilitation. There are relevant interactions between impaired joint mobility and muscle function. Ligament and muscle in addition to joint congruency enhance the stability of the pelvic joints. When there is an imbalance of ligament tone due to a micro-displacement, there will be an inhibition of normal resting tone of muscle, thus increasing hypermobility in at least one direction. Motion in the opposite direction is reduced/hypomobile. An under-appreciated fact is that by treating the direction(s) which are hypomobile, the directions which are hypermobile will return to normalcy. There are simply two sides of the hypo/hyper coin. Therefore, micromotion testing and evaluating force transmission (shock absorption and stability) is a hallmark of the Hesch Method and is a significant distinction in comparison to the traditional "alignment" model. When micromotion is normalized via the Hesch Method, ligament and muscle tone is normalized and the reflex muscle inhibition is resolved, adding to joint stability
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Recognition of Predictable Sequences of Dysfunction

Through years of experience, we've identified several predictable sequences of dysfunction within the SI joint. In a book chapter published in 1998, Dr. Hesch described his Most Common Pattern of Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction which consists of up to eight different components. Each is evaluated and treated sequentially, making for much more comprehensive care. In contrast, the traditional approach only names a single pattern of mobility impairment without acknowledging the true complexity of typical patterns of pelvic motion dysfunction. As Dr. Hesch states: "Correct diagnosis leads to correct treatment." By understanding these patterns, we can tailor treatment plans to address each individual's unique needs effectively.

Focus on Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motion Restrictors

This method goes beyond only addressing the intrinsic biomechanics of the SI joint. We also examine extrinsic motion restrictors, including the biomechanics of the entire pelvic structure, and within the whole body. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of dysfunction are addressed for optimal results. It is quite rare for a person in pain to only have one pattern such as "right anterior ilium motion dysfunction. Focusing on only one joint leads to inadequate treatment. The Hesch Method is a true whole-body approach, as it is based on the fact that the body functions as an integrated whole. For that reason, evaluation must include the foot and ankle, the knee, hip, pelvic joints, lumbar spine, rib cage, thoracic and cervical spine, and shoulder girdle. Here is a lucid example. The latissimis dorsi muscle has a connection between the humerus and shoulder girdle and the ilium. Therefore, balanced function of the shoulder girdle is imperative for optimal posture and optimal strength and flexibility. Body balance needs to be the goal of treatment not just "align the pelvis."

Re-balancing the Whole Body

Our method recognizes that pelvic dysfunction can impact soft tissues and movement patterns throughout the body. By re-balancing the pelvis and addressing related soft tissue issues, we can alleviate symptoms and improve overall function. This approach acknowledges the role of a very powerful neurologic reflex in the body which is named The Righting Reflex. It functions to balance blood supply to both hemispheres of the brain and help maintain the eyes horizontally. The reflex allows you walk in a straight line even if a major part of your body is twisted. Here is an example: If any part of your pelvis or lower body orients to the left, the righting reflex is mandated, and it induces a counter reflex in the upper cervical spine. Without that reflex movement would become very inefficient and you would bump into things.

The concept of the Righting Reflex and its relevance to pain, posture, and mobility impairment is illustrated: Dr. Hesch evaluated a man who had a 5-year history of severe occipital headaches. In performing a whole-body evaluation, it was found that his suboccipital muscles were like steel cable! Working directly on the neck would fail. It was discovered that he lost range of motion in the hips, ankles and the joints below the ankles. After correcting them his neck softened considerably and he was elated. Five days later he sent an email reporting no more headaches. Thus, integrating the nervous system is relevant to the work of the Hesch Institute.

At the Hesch Institute, our goal is to provide practitioners with the tools and knowledge they need to effectively diagnose and treat pelvic joint dysfunction. Through the Hesch Method for Sacroiliac Joint, we're revolutionizing the approach to SI joint issues, leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life for patients.

Visit our website today!

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Why Should You Consult A Specialist For Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction?

Why Chiropractic Care Might Help With Sacroiliac Joint Pain?

Understanding The Hesch Method for Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction!

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