The Manahawkin Neck Pain, Radiculopathy Arm Pain, & B12 Deficiency Connection
In healthcare, understanding the underlying causes of common complaints, such as neck pain, often go beyond the surface. Frequently, the root issues may come from nutritional deficiencies rather than just physical damage or injury. This brings us to a fascinating and less-discussed topic in the Manahawkin 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, has a critical role in our body. It contributes to the production of DNA, nerves, and blood cells. Its deficiency, however, can be evident in numerous ways, often misleading, as was well shown in a recent case report which involved a patient who presented with neck pain and cervical radiculopathy. Cervical radiculopathy is a spinal pain condition where spinal nerve roots 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 Manahawkin Chiropractic Center, it was surprisingly discovered 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 Manahawkin chiropractic treatment plan which considers nutritional deficiencies as possible contributors to neuromusculoskeletal complaints. (1) For this case’s patient and those who come to Manahawkin Chiropractic Center for holistic care, the proper diagnosis leads to the appropriate chiropractic care (often a mix of Cox® Technic spinal manipulation, exercise, and nutrition) that leads to pain relief.
THE BROADER IMPLICATION FOR CHIROPRACTIC PATIENTS
What this tells us is that for anyone suffering from persistent neck pain, radiculopathy, or other neuromusculoskeletal issues, checking Vitamin B12 levels could be essential. The symptoms of B12 deficiency, including fatigue, weakness, numbness, or tingling, can overlap with those associated with neck issues, making it an easily overlooked but critical area to explore. Your chiropractor can sort this out!
HOW TO MANAGE AND PREVENT B12 DEFICIENCY
- Dietary Choices: Make sure your diet includes adequate amounts of Vitamin B12. For those on a vegan or vegetarian diet, incorporating fortified foods or supplements can be quite helpful.
- 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 help avoid potential complications.
- Consultation: For chiropractic patients having chronic neck pain without a clear diagnosis, talking about the possibility of a B12 deficiency with your chiropractor or healthcare provider can provide new avenues for relief.
CONTACT Manahawkin Chiropractic Center
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 Manahawkin chiropractic appointment today. We’re ready to not only discover 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 need. The body’s systems are really interconnected and do well with a broader, more cohesive approach to health and wellness like you’ll receive at Manahawkin Chiropractic Center. See you soon!
