Chiropractic Therapy, More Than Manipulation
At Great Lakes Physical Medicine, chiropractic therapy is more than just adjustments. Dr. Wolk's approach emphasizes comprehensive assessment to accurately diagnose your condition. By evaluating mobility, joint stability, and neuromuscular function, he identifies the underlying causes of your pain.
Dr. Wolk develops a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. He aims to resolve your issues efficiently and effectively, minimizing the duration of treatment. He uses complementary therapies to address the root causes of your pain. Manipulation is just one tool in his arsenal, used in combination with other effective research-based techniques to address your pain. Below is an explanation of some of the tools Dr. Wolk’s team might use in your customized plan:
Chiropractic Manipulation
Contrary to popular misconception, chiropractic manipulation isn't about aligning bones. It's a technique used to restore your natural range of motion. At Dr. Wolk's office, X-rays are not used as a screening tool but rather as a diagnostic aid to determine your specific treatment needs.
Your safety is our top priority. Before proceeding with manipulation, we carefully assess for any contraindications.
High-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) manipulation is a safe and effective treatment that involves a controlled, rapid movement to release tension in the joint capsule – the membrane that surrounds a joint, like a protective sleeve. This helps prevent stiffness and immobility, which can contribute to degenerative changes.
Some patients hear a "pop" during manipulation, but this isn’t the sound of the bones shifting into place. It's the release of pressure within the joint capsule. HVLA restores normal joint function and improves your overall mobility.
Active Release Techniques (ART)
Dr. Wolk compliments his manipulation with Active Release Technique (ART)® is a state-of-the-art soft tissue, movement-based manual release technique that treats muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves. It is a great compliment to the chiropractic manipulation to help improve mobility issues regarding muscle extensibility issues. ART is a popular technique with professional and collegiate athletes, used by their athletic trainers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, personal trainers, and massage therapists.
Dry Needling
Dry needling is the western equivalent to acupuncture. This is helpful for muscular pain, trigger points or spasm. Not only is it effective in reducing pain, but it also promotes your body’s natural inflammatory process to help trigger a cellular healing process. Dr. Wolk was trained by Structure and Function Education, the world leader in dry needling, rehab and performance education.
Therapeutic Exercise
A crucial role in recovery for our patients is through personalized exercises designed to improve mobility, stability, and motor control. You become an active participant in your healing journey.
By addressing these fundamental components, we aim to reduce your reliance on ongoing treatment and equip you with the tools to maintain your progress. Our goal is to help you move well and move often!
A few examples of therapeutic exercises include:
Gait analysis
Movement pattern assessment
Pelvic tilt exercises
Glute bridges
Box squats
Rotator cuff strengthening
These exercises are tailored to your specific needs and are closely monitored by our experienced clinic staff.
Posture and Ergonomics: The Building Blocks for Injury Prevention
By understanding proper posture and movement techniques, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury and improve overall performance. Our experts will guide you through essential considerations, including:
Proper sitting posture
Transitional movements
Proper gait (walking mechanics)