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

In healthcare, understanding the underlying causes of frequent complaints, such as neck pain, often go beyond the surface. Manytimes, the root issues may derive from nutritional deficiencies rather than just physical damage or injury. This brings us to a fascinating and less-discussed topic in the Augusta chiropractic community: 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, performs a vital role in our body. It impacts the production of DNA, nerves, and blood cells. Its deficiency, however, can manifest in numerous ways, often misleading, as was vividly illustrated in a recent case reported which revolved around a patient who presented with neck pain and cervical radiculopathy. Cervical radiculopathy is a spinal pain condition where spinal nerve roots become irritated or inflamed, resulting in symptoms like pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck and arms. Through a comprehensive examination similar to one we perform here at Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic, it was unexpectedly discovered that the root cause of the patient's symptoms was a critical deficiency in Vitamin B12. This finding is quite notable as it demonstrates the importance of our Augusta 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 Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic for holistic care, the appropriate diagnosis leads to the proper 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 dealing with 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 overlooked but critical area to investigate. 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, 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 screen for B12 levels can help avoid 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 provide new possibilities for relief.

CONTACT Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic

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 Augusta chiropractic appointment now. We are ready to not only find the root cause of your neck pain and arm pain but also design 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 integrated approach to health and wellness like you’ll find at Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic. See you soon!