Services

Myofascial Release

Myofascial release is an intervention administered to various patients to alleviate pain or restrictive tissue problems. The release treatment usually involves the application of gentle or moderate pressure on the connective tissues and leads to relaxation and eventual elongation of the fascia therein. These restrictions are often caused by traumatic accidents or inflammations of the soft tissue. Some patients get them as an after-effect of surgery. They always result in muscular tension and spasm of sharp pain. They cannot be detected through standard diagnosis tests like the x-ray scan. It is essential for a patient to visit a doctor or physiotherapy expert once they notice restriction of movement in the hip area or shoulder. Painful backs can also be a sign of the restriction and can only be treated through the Myofascial Release procedures.

What to expect during therapy
If you have never undergone a Myofascial Release procedure before, you might wonder what will be done. There is no need to panic any way, since it is a minor therapy intervention meant to alleviate any pain that could be as a result of fascia muscle pain and restriction. Here is what you can expect if you visit a standard therapist for your myofascial pain treatment.

• The therapist might have to interview you about what you think the cause of the pain could be. They may also palpitate the affected area to identify the particular fascia that needs to be massaged and given due attention during the procedure.
• A standard treatment should last anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour, but should not last longer than that as that may lead to soreness and fatigue.
• You may experience considerable relief, but if the case is severe, you may need to go for another session or two in the subsequent days.
• The treatment does not require the use of any equipment and creams or gels. The therapist will only need their hands to manipulate and apply slight pressure to the trigger points and affected muscles.

Diversified Technique

The goal of the Diversified Technique is to reduce nerve interference. There are no special or unique procedures needed. Patients are assessed using these various mechanisms: history and basic examination (orthopedic and neurologic), palpation, x-ray, leg checks and reflex procedures as well as others.

The procedure involves analyzing the full spine and extremities. The majority of adjustments used in Diversified are manual adjustments, HVLA (high velocity, low amplitude), or long lever manipulations aimed at cavitating the joint and creating an audible release. This sound is known by patients as the “popping” or “cracking” sound associated with adjustments. Some chiropractors utilize specialized equipment such as drop tables or pelvic blocks.

Many neck and back problems associated with workers’ compensation are the result of spinal misalignment, which means that the bones of the spine have moved out of position. Other work-related neck and back problems are the result of soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash, affecting the muscles, nerves and connective tissue of the neck and back.

Musculoskeletal disorders affect a person’s muscles, bones, joints and connective tissue, such as tendons and ligaments.

A number of musculoskeletal disorders can keep a worker off the job, including:

• Sprains, strains, and tears
• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive stress injuries
• Headaches and migraines

How Can Rehabilitation Stretches & Corrective Exercises Help You?

Our tailored exercise programs offer a multitude of benefits, including:

• Significant Pain Reduction: By addressing the root cause of your pain, such as muscle weakness, tightness, or poor movement patterns, corrective exercises can dramatically decrease discomfort in the back, neck, shoulders, and other areas.
• Improved Range of Motion & Flexibility: Gentle stretches and mobility work help to loosen tight muscles and joints, allowing for greater freedom of movement.
• Enhanced Strength & Stability: Corrective exercises target and strengthen weak or underutilized muscles, providing better support for your spine and joints.
• Postural Correction: We identify and address postural issues that contribute to pain and dysfunction, helping you stand taller and move more efficiently.
• Faster Injury Recovery: Whether you’ve experienced a sports injury, auto accident, or work-related strain, our rehabilitation programs can accelerate healing and help you return to your activities sooner and safer.
• Prevention of Future Injuries: By correcting imbalances and improving biomechanics, these exercises make your body more resilient to future injuries.
• Empowerment Through At-Home Care: Dr. Rivas and our team will equip you with the knowledge and specific exercises you can perform at home to continue your progress and maintain your well-being.

What Conditions Can Benefit from Our Exercise Programs?

Rehabilitation stretches and corrective exercises are effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Back Pain (Lower Back Pain, Sciatica, Disc Issues)
• Neck Pain & Stiffness
• Headaches & Migraines (related to neck tension)
• Sports Injuries (Strains, Sprains, Overuse Injuries)
• Whiplash & Auto Accident Injuries
• Work-Related Injuries
• Postural Dysfunction
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (e.g., Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., Rotator Cuff Issues)
• Hip and Knee Pain
• Reduced Mobility and Flexibility

Your Personalized Path to Recovery in Colorado Springs

At Colorado Springs Spine & Injury, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. When you visit our clinic, Dr. Rudy Rivas will conduct a thorough examination to understand the underlying cause of your condition. Based on this assessment, a personalized treatment plan will be developed, often incorporating chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapies like Myofascial Release and Active Release Technique (ART), and a specific regimen of rehabilitation stretches and corrective exercises.

Our team will guide you through each exercise, ensuring proper form and technique for maximum benefit and safety. We believe in educating our patients, helping you understand how these exercises contribute to your recovery and long-term health. You’ll receive clear instructions for any at-home exercises, empowering you to be an active participant in your healing journey.

Take the Next Step Towards a Healthier, More Active Life

Don’t let pain or limited mobility hold you back any longer. Discover the powerful benefits of rehabilitation stretches and corrective exercises at Colorado Springs Spine & Injury. Dr. Rodolfo “Rudy” Rivas and our compassionate team are here to help you regain your strength, flexibility, and overall quality of life.

Contact us today at (719) 598-6955 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation and learn how personalized rehabilitative care can make a difference for you.

What is the Graston Technique®?

The Graston Technique® is a patented form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) that enables clinicians to effectively detect and treat scar tissue and fascial restrictions that can cause pain and limit movement.

The technique involves using specially designed stainless steel instruments that glide over the skin to gently identify and break down fibrotic tissue. These instruments are shaped to conform to different parts of thebody, allowing for precise and targeted treatment. By addressing the problematic tissue directly, the Graston Technique® helps to stimulate a local inflammatory response, leading to the reabsorption of unhealthy tissue and promoting the remodeling of affected soft tissues.

How Can the Graston Technique® Help You?

Patients at Colorado Springs Spine & Injury can experience a wide range of benefits from the Graston Technique®, including:

• Reduced Pain: Effectively targets and breaks down adhesions and scar tissue that are often the source of chronic pain.
• Faster Recovery Times: Can decrease overall treatment time and accelerate the healing process for acute and chronic conditions.
• Increased Range of Motion and Flexibility: By releasing fascial restrictions and scar tissue, movement becomes easier and less restricted.
• Improved Blood Flow: Promotes better circulation to the treated area, enhancing healing.
• Non-Invasive Treatment: Offers a conservative approach to pain relief and tissue regeneration without the need for injections or surgery.
• Resolution of Chronic Conditions: Can be particularly effective for conditions that have failed to respond to other forms of treatment.

Conditions Commonly Treated with Graston Technique®

Dr. Rudy Rivas utilizes the Graston Technique® to treat a variety of soft tissue injuries and conditions, including but not limited to:

• Plantar Fasciitis (Foot and heel pain)
• Achilles Tendinosis (Pain in the Achilles tendon)
• Rotator Cuff Tendinosis (Shoulder pain)
• Patellar Tendinosis (Jumper’s knee)
• Lateral Epicondylosis (Tennis elbow)
• Medial Epicondylosis (Golfer’s elbow)
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Wrist pain and numbness)
• IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial band friction syndrome)
• Cervical Sprain/Strain (Neck pain)
• Lumbar Sprain/Strain (Back pain)
• Myofascial Pain Syndromes
• Shin Splints
• Fibromyalgia
• Trigger Finger
• Post-Surgical Scars (e.g., caesarean section, joint replacement)
• Sports-Related Injuries

Your Graston Technique® Session at Colorado Springs Spine & Injury

When you visit Colorado Springs Spine & Injury for Graston Technique®, Dr. Rudy Rivas will first conduct a thorough assessment to determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific condition.

During the treatment, Dr. Rivas will use the specialized Graston® instruments to scan the affected area for soft tissue adhesions. Once identified, the instruments are used to gently break down these restrictions. Patients may experience some mild discomfort during the procedure and some minor bruising or redness afterward, which is a normal part of the healing process.

Graston Technique® is often integrated with other chiropractic treatments, rehabilitation stretches, and corrective exercises to maximize your recovery and achieve lasting results. Dr. Rivas will develop a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and health goals.

Ready to Experience Relief and Enhanced Healing?

If you’re tired of living with pain and limited movement, the Graston Technique® at Colorado Springs Spine & Injury may offer the solution you’ve been searching for. Dr. Rodolfo “Rudy” Rivas’s expertise in this advanced technique can help you break down barriers to healing and restore your body’s natural ability to move freely and without pain.

What is Cupping Therapy?

Cupping therapy is a non-invasive treatment that involves placing specialized cups on the skin to create suction. This suction draws the underlying tissues upward into the cup, which can help to:

• Increase Blood Circulation: The negative pressure promotes blood flow to the treated area, delivering oxygen and nutrients essential for healing.
• Reduce Muscle Tension and Knots: Cupping helps to lift and separate soft tissue, releasing tight muscles, trigger points, and fascial adhesions.
• Decrease Inflammation: By improving circulation and lymphatic drainage, cupping can help reduce local inflammation and swelling.
• Promote Detoxification: The increased blood flow can help draw toxins and metabolic waste away from injured or stressed tissues.
• Induce Relaxation: Many patients find cupping to be a deeply relaxing and soothing experience, helping to calm the nervous system.

At Colorado Springs Spine & Injury, we primarily utilize dry cupping, where suction is created using either heat (fire cupping – where a flame briefly heats the inside of a glass cup) or a mechanical pump with plastic or silicone cups. The cups may be left in place for several minutes (static cupping) or gently moved across the skin with a lubricant (dynamic or massage cupping) for a massage-like effect.

How Can Cupping Therapy Benefit You?

Patients at our Colorado Springs clinic may experience a range of benefits from cupping therapy, including:

• Relief from Back and Neck Pain: Effectively eases muscle stiffness and spasms.
• Reduced Shoulder Pain and Frozen Shoulder: Helps improve range of motion and decrease discomfort.
• Alleviation of Headaches and Migraines: Can reduce tension in the neck and upper back contributing to headaches.
• Management of Sciatica: May help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Support for Sports Injury Recovery: Assists in reducing muscle soreness and accelerating healing.
• Relief from Respiratory Conditions: Historically used to help with congestion from colds or asthma by stimulating lung function (typically applied to the back).
• Improved Digestion: Can stimulate the digestive organs when applied to the abdomen.
• Reduced Appearance of Cellulite: Dynamic cupping can improve circulation and lymphatic drainage in affected areas.
• Overall Stress Reduction and Relaxation.

What Conditions Can Cupping Therapy Address?

Cupping therapy can be a valuable component of a comprehensive treatment plan for various conditions, such as:

• Muscle Strains and Spasms
• Chronic Back Pain
• Neck and Shoulder Pain
• Fibromyalgia
• IT Band Syndrome
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Arthritis Pain
• Sports-Related Muscle Soreness
• Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Poor Circulation
• Tension Headaches

Dr. Rudy Rivas will assess your specific condition to determine if cupping therapy is an appropriate and beneficial treatment for you, often integrating it with chiropractic adjustments, corrective exercises, or other therapies like the Graston Technique for optimal results.

What to Expect During Your Cupping Session in Colorado Springs

Your cupping therapy session at Colorado Springs Spine & Injury will be performed by a trained professional in a comfortable and relaxing environment. Dr. Rivas or a member of our team will discuss your health concerns and explain the procedure.

During the treatment, cups will be applied to the targeted areas. You may feel a pulling sensation as suction is created. The intensity of the suction can be adjusted to your comfort level. While the therapy is generally painless, it is common to experience circular marks on the skin after treatment. These marks, ranging in color from light pink to dark purple, are temporary (typically lasting a few days to a week) and indicate the level of stagnation and toxins drawn from the tissues.

Most patients report feeling immediate relief, reduced pain, and increased flexibility following a cupping session.

Discover the Healing Power of Cupping Therapy

If you’re ready to explore a natural and effective way to manage pain, recover from injury, and enhance your well-being, cupping therapy at Colorado Springs Spine & Injury may be the solution. Dr. Rodolfo “Rudy” Rivas, D.C., is committed to providing personalized and holistic care to help you feel your best.

Contact Colorado Springs Spine & Injury today at (719) 598-6955 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation and learn more about how cupping therapy can benefit you.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry Needling involves inserting a thin, solid filiform needle (similar to an acupuncture needle) directly into a muscular trigger point or tight muscle band. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles of energy flow (Qi), Dry Needling is a Western medical technique based on modern scientific understanding of neuromuscular anatomy and physiology.

The primary goal of Dry Needling is to:

• Release Trigger Points: Deactivate hyperirritable spots within a muscle that can cause pain and dysfunction.
• Reduce Muscle Tension: Alleviate tightness and spasms in affected muscles.
• Improve Blood Flow: Stimulate circulation to the area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
• Restore Normal Muscle Function: Allow muscles to return to their proper length and strength.
• Decrease Pain: By releasing trigger points and reducing inflammation, pain levels can be significantly reduced.

How Does Dry Needling Work?

When the fine needle is inserted into a trigger point, it can elicit a “local twitch response” – an involuntary reflex contraction of the muscle fibers. This twitch response is a key sign that the trigger point has been stimulated and is beginning to release. This process helps to:

• Break the Pain Cycle: The twitch response can disrupt the neurological feedback loop that maintains the trigger point.
• Alter the Chemical Environment: It can help normalize the chemical balance within the muscle tissue, reducing irritation of nerve endings.
• Improve Microcirculation: Enhancing blood flow brings oxygen and nutrients to the area and removes metabolic waste products.

Dr. Rudy Rivas carefully assesses your condition to identify the specific muscles and trigger points contributing to your pain before performing Dry Needling.

Benefits of Choosing Dry Needling at Our Colorado Springs Clinic:

Patients at Colorado Springs Spine & Injury who undergo Dry Needling therapy often experience:

• Significant Pain Relief: Effective for both acute and chronic pain conditions.
• Improved Range of Motion: Releases muscle tightness that restricts movement.
• Faster Recovery Times: Can accelerate healing from muscle strains and injuries.
• Reduced Muscle Soreness and Stiffness: Alleviates discomfort and improves muscle function.
• Targeted Treatment: Precisely addresses the source of myofascial pain.
• Complements Other Therapies: Can be effectively integrated with chiropractic adjustments, Graston Technique, cupping, and corrective exercises.

Conditions Effectively Treated with Dry Needling:

Dry Needling can be a valuable treatment option for a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Myofascial Pain Syndrome
• Trigger Points
• Neck Pain (e.g., due to muscle tension, whiplash)
• Headaches (tension-type, cervicogenic)
• Lower Back Pain (e.g., sciatica, muscle spasms)
• Shoulder Pain (e.g., rotator cuff issues, impingement)
• Tennis Elbow & Golfer’s Elbow
• Hip Pain (e.g., piriformis syndrome, IT band syndrome)
• Knee Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Muscle Strains
• Repetitive Strain Injuries
• TMJ Dysfunction (jaw pain)

What to Expect During Your Dry Needling Session

If Dry Needling is deemed appropriate for your condition, Dr. Rivas will explain the procedure thoroughly. During the treatment at our Colorado Springs office:

1. Identification: The targeted muscle and trigger point will be located.
2. Needle Insertion: A sterile, single-use needle will be gently inserted into the trigger point. You might feel a slight prick or nothing at all.
3. Twitch Response: When the needle reaches the trigger point, you may experience a brief, involuntary muscle twitch or a sensation of muscle cramping. This is a positive sign that the treatment is working.
4. Multiple Points: Depending on your condition, several points may be needled during a session.
5. Post-Treatment: After the needles are removed, you might feel some immediate improvement in pain or range of motion. It’s also common to experience some muscle soreness, similar to post-exercise soreness, for 24-48 hours. Dr. Rivas may recommend gentle stretching or heat application after the session.

It is important to note that all practitioners offering Dry Needling at Colorado Springs Spine & Injury meet the specific educational and training requirements set by the Colorado State Board of Chiropractic Examiners.

Unlock Your Body’s Potential for Pain-Free Movement

Don’t let muscle pain and trigger points limit your life. Dry Needling at Colorado Springs Spine & Injury, under the skilled care of Dr. Rodolfo “Rudy” Rivas, D.C., offers a powerful solution to help you heal and return to the activities you love.

Contact Colorado Springs Spine & Injury today at (719) 598-6955 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation and discover if Dry Needling is the right choice for your pain relief journey.

Whether you’re an athlete, have experienced a recent fall or accident, or are concerned about a potential head injury, understanding your brain health is crucial. Our concussion screening program is designed to help identify the signs and symptoms of a concussion and provide guidance for appropriate next steps.

What is Concussion Screening?

Concussion screening is a process used to evaluate brain function after a suspected head injury. It can also involve baseline testing, which is performed before an injury occurs to get a snapshot of an individual’s normal brain function. This baseline information can then be used as a comparison point if a concussion is later suspected.

 

Screening typically involves a combination of assessments, which may include:

• Symptom Checklists: Evaluating for common concussion symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, memory problems, fatigue, and sensitivity to light or noise.
• Cognitive Assessment: Testing aspects of brain function like memory, concentration, attention, and reaction time. This may involve standardized tools or computerized testing.
• Balance and Coordination Tests: Assessing stability and the ability to perform coordinated movements, which can be affected by a concussion.
• Cranial Nerve Examination: Checking the function of the nerves that emerge directly from the brain.
• Assessment of the Cervical Spine (Neck): Head injuries often involve associated neck trauma (whiplash), which can contribute to concussion-like symptoms. Dr. Rivas pays close attention to this interconnectedness.

Why is Concussion Screening Important?

• Early Detection: Prompt recognition of a concussion allows for immediate management, which is critical for recovery.
• Preventing Second Impact Syndrome: Returning to activity too soon after a concussion, before the brain has fully healed, significantly increases the risk of a more severe, potentially fatal, second concussion (Second Impact Syndrome).
• Guided Return-to-Play/Activity: Objective screening helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about when it is safe for an individual to return to sports, school, work, and other activities.
• Baseline for Comparison: Having a baseline test, especially for athletes in Colorado Springs, provides a valuable tool to compare against if a head injury occurs, helping to determine the extent of the injury and track recovery.
• Reducing Long-Term Complications: Proper management of a concussion can help reduce the risk of persistent post-concussion symptoms and other long-term health issues.

Who Should Consider Concussion Screening?

• Athletes: Particularly those involved in contact sports (football, hockey, soccer, lacrosse, etc.) or sports with a risk of falls (skiing, snowboarding, cycling, equestrian).
• Children and Adolescents: Their developing brains are more vulnerable to injury.
• Individuals After a Head Injury: Anyone who has experienced a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that caused a rapid movement of the head.
• Individuals with a History of Concussions: To monitor for any lingering effects or increased susceptibility.

Our Approach to Concussion Screening in Colorado Springs

At Colorado Springs Spine & Injury, Dr. Rudy Rivas takes a comprehensive approach. While we offer screening services to help identify potential concussions, our process may involve:

1. Detailed History: Understanding the mechanism of injury (if any), current symptoms, and any previous concussion history.
2. Symptom Evaluation: Using standardized checklists to quantify symptoms.
3. Neurological and Musculoskeletal Examination: Assessing cognitive function, balance, coordination, and paying close attention to the cervical spine for any related injuries that can mimic or exacerbate concussion symptoms.
4. Referral if Necessary: If a significant concussion is suspected or if more advanced neurocognitive testing or imaging is required, Dr. Rivas will refer you to the appropriate specialist or facility in the Colorado Springs area for further evaluation and co-management.
5. Guidance on Recovery: Providing advice on rest, activity modification, and strategies to support brain healing. For associated neck pain or dysfunction, chiropractic care may be beneficial during the recovery phase, once medically cleared.

(Please note: While Colorado Springs Spine & Injury offers concussion screening services, the specific components of the screening may vary. For complex cases or if baseline testing programs are desired for sports teams, we can discuss appropriate resources. It is important for individuals with a suspected concussion to be evaluated by a healthcare professional trained in concussion management.)

 

Take Head Injuries Seriously – Get Screened

Protecting your brain health is paramount. If you or a loved one has concerns about a potential concussion or wishes to discuss baseline screening options, don’t hesitate to reach out. Early intervention can make a significant difference in recovery.

Contact Colorado Springs Spine & Injury today at (719) 598-6955 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and learn more about our concussion screening services.