In the realm of health and wellness,
understanding the underlying causes of common
complaints, such as neck pain, often go beyond the surface. Frequently,
the root issues may originate from nutritional
deficiencies rather than just physical damage or injury. This
brings us to a fascinating and less-discussed topic in the
Auburn chiropractic world: the impact
of a deficiency of vitamin B12 on neck pain and
radiculopathy.
THE HIDDEN CULPRIT: B12 DEFICIENCY
Vitamin B12, an essential nutrient found in meat, fish, and
dairy products, plays a vital role in our
body. It influences the production of
DNA, nerves, and blood cells. Its deficiency, however, can be
evident in various ways, often misleading, as
was well shown in a recent case
reported which involved a patient who
sought help for neck pain and
cervical radiculopathy. Cervical radiculopathy is a spinal pain condition where
nerve roots coming from the spinal cord
become aggravated or inflamed, resulting in
symptoms like pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck and arms. Through a comprehensive
examination similar to one we do here at Dr. Le's Chiropractic & Wellness, L.L.C., it was
surprisingly found that the root cause of
the patient's symptoms was a critical deficiency in Vitamin B12.
This finding is significant as it shows
the importance of our Auburn chiropractic treatment plan which bears
in mind nutritional deficiencies as possible
culprits for neuromusculoskeletal complaints. (1) For this
case’s patient and those who come to Dr. Le's Chiropractic & Wellness, L.L.C. for holistic care, the proper
diagnosis leads to the appropriate chiropractic care (often a blend
of Cox® Technic spinal manipulation, exercise, and nutrition) that leads to pain
relief.
THE BROADER IMPLICATION FOR CHIROPRACTIC PATIENTS
What this shows us is that for anyone suffering from persistent neck pain, radiculopathy, or other
neuromusculoskeletal issues, considering a check on Vitamin B12
levels could be vital. The symptoms
of B12 deficiency, including fatigue, weakness, numbness, or tingling, can
overlap with those related to neck issues, making it an
easily unnoticed but critical area to explore. Your chiropractor can sort this out!
HOW TO MANAGE AND PREVENT B12 DEFICIENCY
- Dietary Choices: Ensure your diet includes
adequate amounts of Vitamin B12. For those on a vegan or vegetarian diet, incorporating
fortified foods or supplements can be beneficial.
- Regular Screening: Especially for individuals at risk (e.g.,
older adults, vegetarians, and those with gastrointestinal disorders), regular
blood tests to screen for B12 levels can prevent
potential complications.
- Consultation: For chiropractic patients with
chronic neck pain without a clear diagnosis, talking about the
possibility of a B12 deficiency with your chiropractor or healthcare provider
can offer new avenues for relief.
CONTACT Dr. Le's Chiropractic & Wellness, L.L.C.
Listen to this PODCAST
with Dr. Umar Ellahie, on The
Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he
describes The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management.
Make your Auburn chiropractic
appointment soon. We’re ready to not only find
the underlying cause of your neck pain and arm pain but
also set a plan toward pain relief with gentle
chiropractic treatment and nutrition as your condition may demand.
The body’s systems are truly interrelated and
do well with a broader, more cohesive
approach to health and wellness like you’ll receive at Dr. Le's Chiropractic & Wellness, L.L.C..
See you soon!