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The McHenry Neck Pain, Radiculopathy Arm Pain, & B12 Deficiency Connection

In healthcare, understanding the underlying causes of common complaints, such as neck pain, goes beyond the surface. Frequently, the root issues may originate from nutritional deficiencies rather than just physical strain or injury. This brings us to an interesting and less-discussed topic in the McHenry chiropractic community: the effect 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, has a vital role in our body. It influences the production of DNA, nerves, and blood cells. Its deficiency, however, can show up in numerous ways, often misleading, as was well demonstrated in a recent case reported by Mehta A, Lynch W, Jha P. (2024). This particular case revolves around a patient who came in with neck pain and cervical radiculopathy. Cervical radiculopathy is a spinal pain condition where nerve roots coming from the spinal cord become aggravated or inflamed, causing symptoms like pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck and arms. Through a comprehensive examination similar to one we do here at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic, it was surprisingly found that the root cause of the patient's symptoms was a severe deficiency in Vitamin B12. This finding is significant as it demonstrates the importance of our McHenry chiropractic treatment plan which considers nutritional deficiencies as possible culprits for neuromusculoskeletal complaints. (1) For this case’s patient and those who come to OrthoIllinois Chiropractic for holistic care, the appropriate 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 investigate. 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, considering 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 check B12 levels can avert potential complications.
  • Consultation: For chiropractic patients experiencing chronic neck pain without a clear diagnosis, discussing the possibility of a B12 deficiency with your chiropractor or healthcare provider can offer new possibilities for relief.

CONTACT OrthoIllinois Chiropractic

Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. Umar Ellahie, on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management.

Schedule your McHenry chiropractic appointment soon. We’re ready to not only find the root source of your neck pain and arm pain but also design a path toward pain relief with gentle chiropractic treatment and nutrition as your condition may require. The body’s systems are really interconnected and recover via a broader, more integrated approach to health and wellness like you’ll find at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic. See you soon!

 McHenry neck pain and arm pain 
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"This information and website content is not intended to diagnose, guarantee results, or recommend specific treatment or activity. It is designed to educate and inform only. Please consult your physician for a thorough examination leading to a diagnosis and well-planned treatment strategy. See more details on the DISCLAIMER page. Content is reviewed by Dr. James M. Cox I."