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A male runner sits on the pavement holding his bare foot from plantar fasciitis pain.
By Bari Liebowitz Chiropractic Care, Chronic Pain, Laser Therapy, Plantar Fasciitis

Chiropractic Laser Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis Relief

If you’ve read our blog posts (like how we support Bend trail runners), you know we don’t chase symptoms—we target root causes. Structural imbalances, faulty biomechanics and chronically inflamed tissues are the real culprits. That’s where low-level laser therapy fits so beautifully into our chiropractic toolkit.

At Total Body Chiropractic, we use a Medray Quad Class IV laser (combining wavelengths of 650 nm, 810 nm, 915 nm, and 980 nm and up to 30.2 watts of power). This multi-wavelength system allows us to treat both superficial and deeper tissue layers in one shot. (You can read more about our laser therapy setup on our services page.)

Why does that matter? Because plantar fasciitis isn’t just superficial tissue inflammation—it often involves deeper micro-tears, scar formation, adhesions, nerve irritability and vascular compromise. The laser enables us to address all of that in a non-invasive, precise, healing-focused way for immediate relief from foot pain.

An infographic of the foot and demonstrating what happens during plantar fasciitis.

We love laser therapy for plantar fasciitis because:

  • It’s non-surgical, non-invasive, and gentle—no needles, no incisions.
  • It modulates inflammation and calms nerve irritation, which helps ease persistent heel pain.
  • It boosts cellular repair via photobiomodulation, accelerating blood flow and the healing process.
  • It synergizes with adjustments and soft-tissue care—calmer tissues respond better to alignment work.
  • It fits our philosophy: we combine tech and touch to treat both structure and biology.

We don’t rely on laser alone. But when added to a comprehensive plan of structural correction, soft tissue work and movement rehab, this conservative treatment becomes a very powerful ally in plantar fasciitis recovery.

How We Use Laser Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis (At Our Bend Clinic)

Let’s walk through exactly how we apply laser therapy as part of treating chronic heel pain — so you know what to expect when you come see us.

1. Thorough Evaluation & Customized Planning

Our first meeting is all about listening and observing—a systematic review of the issues. We’ll discuss:

  • The timeline and pattern of your heel pain—when it started, what aggravates or eases it.
  • Previous treatments you’ve tried (stretching, medications, orthotics, steroid injections, etc.).
  • Your foot alignment, gait, posture and compensations in ankles, knees, hips or spine.
  • Palpation of the plantar fascia, calf muscles, Achilles tendon and intrinsic foot tissues.
  • Range of motion, flexibility, strength and kinetic chain function.

From that, we develop a treatment roadmap. Laser treatment is a core tool, but we combine it with adjustments, soft-tissue work, biomechanics correction, therapeutic exercises and sometimes custom orthotics or taping.

2. Laser Session Protocol

Once your plan is set, the laser treatment portion goes something like this:

  • You lie comfortably, exposing the bottom of the heel, underside of foot and possibly into the calf or midfoot structures.
  • We use the Medray handheld applicator, sweeping over tender zones of the damaged plantar fascia, heel pad and connected soft tissues.
  • Because the laser has multiple wavelengths, we target both superficial and deeper tissue structures in the affected area in one session.
  • We tailor the dosage (energy delivered, duration, pulsing vs. continuous) based on how chronic the condition is and how the tissues respond.
  • Many patients feel nothing—or only a mild warming or tingling in the area. There are no needles, no downtime.
  • A typical session lasts 8–12 minutes (sometimes a bit more, depending on the size of the region we treat).

3. Frequency & Progression

Here’s how we usually structure the schedule:

  • Acute phase: 3–4 treatments per week initially, to calm inflammation and reduce plantar fasciitis pain.
  • Mid phase: As symptoms ease, shift to 2–3 per week with deeper dosing and more focus on tissue repair.
  • Later / maintenance phase: 1–2 per week, then taper out as your function normalizes.

Over a typical 4–6 week timeframe, many plantar fasciitis sufferers see substantial improvement—and we continue with maintenance checks to prevent relapse.

4. Complementary Chiropractic & Soft Tissue Techniques

Laser is a tool, not a standalone cure. We layer on:

  • Chiropractic adjustments of the foot, ankle, knee, hip or spine to reduce aberrant stresses.
  • Soft tissue/fascial work (Graston technique, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release) to break adhesions and restore glide.
  • Stretching & strengthening programs focused on calves, intrinsic foot muscles and glutes and core to remove mechanical tension on the fascia.
  • Taping, bracing or orthotics if needed to offload stress during the healing window.
  • Gait re-education and movement coaching to adjust how you walk, run or stand in daily life.

This integrated method is what differentiates us from “laser-only” clinics. We want you to heal deeply and not just get temporary relief.

5. Ongoing Monitoring & Tweaking

We track your progress using:

  • Pain scales (morning first step, daily averages, activity-induced).
  • Functional outcomes (how far you walk, how long you stand, how it feels during activity).
  • Physical palpation, tissue feel and symmetry checks.
  • If needed, we adjust laser doses, revisit biomechanics or change your rehab plan.

If something stalls, we don’t just keep pushing the same protocol—we dig into why and adapt.

Why Many of Our Patients See Big Gains

Close up view of a woman sitting on the floor massaging her heel pain from plantar fasciitis.

In our Bend practice, patients often tell us they’ve tried all the traditional treatments —stretching, orthotics and cortisone shots—with only temporary relief. Here’s what they often experience with our laser + chiropractic approach:

  • Faster pain relief: Because laser energy acts on inflammation and nerve sensitivity directly, many people feel relief within the first few visits.
  • Reduced dependence on pain meds: Less need to manage symptoms with anti-inflammatories or injections.
  • Deeper healing: Rather than forcing healing (as injections do), laser supports tissue’s own regenerative pathways.
  • Lower recurrence risk: Because we correct mechanical contributors, rebuild tissue resilience, and keep check-ins, flare-ups tend to be fewer.
  • Active life preserved: Short sessions, minimal downtime—not disruptive to your week.

We’ve seen folks in Bend go from hobbling around to returning to trail runs, weekend hikes or just enjoying walking without dread of their first step.

What You Can Expect as a Patient at Our Clinic

Chiropractor Bari Liebowitz working with a patient in her office.

Here’s how a laser-enhanced plantar fasciitis program with us typically feels:

First Appointment

  • History, exam, biomechanics, palpation.
  • We explain your plan—including where laser fits in.
  • We may begin with a laser session (if appropriate) or soft-tissue prep.

Subsequent Visits

  • Each laser session is short, comfortable and integrated with manual care.
  • You’ll get homework: stretches, strength drills, maybe taping, movement cues.
  • We’ll check response and adjust treatment pacing or dosage.
  • Throughout, we keep communication open—“How’s the pain this morning? After your walk?”

Results & Maintenance

  • Many patients feel meaningful improvement by week 2 or 3.
  • After full course, you’ll often transition into a maintenance schedule (monthly or as needed).
  • We also give ongoing tweaks to your movement, alignment and load to prevent re-injury.

We aim to help you not just heal temporarily—but build foot resilience so you don’t see us again for plantar fasciitis.

FAQ: Laser Therapy & Plantar Fasciitis at Total Body Chiropractic

A product view of a Medray Quad Class IV laser used to accelerate healing and relieve pain in chiropractic care.

  1. Is this safe? Yes. Class IV laser therapy, when used by trained professionals, is a safe, effective treatment. It’s non-invasive and generally well tolerated. Some people report mild soreness like after a workout—but serious side effects are rare.
  2. Does it hurt? Not typically. Most people feel gentle warmth or slight tingling. Because we control dosing carefully, we avoid overheating or discomfort.
  3. How many sessions will I need? It depends. Acute cases may resolve in 6–8 sessions. More chronic cases might need 10–15, then tapering maintenance. We customize based on your response.
  4. When will I notice improvement? Some patients see changes after the first couple sessions. For most, improvements accumulate week to week—less pain, more flexibility, better tissue feel.
  5. Can laser therapy completely replace other treatments? It can for many people—but our preference is to integrate laser with adjustments, soft-tissue care and rehab. For some severe or structural cases, surgery might still be necessary, but we often help reduce or avoid that.
  6. Are there any people who shouldn’t get laser therapy? You shouldn’t get laser therapy if you have cancer in the area being treated, are pregnant (especially over the belly), have uncontrolled bleeding problems or have health conditions that make you very sensitive to light. We always screen carefully before beginning.
  7. Will insurance cover laser therapy? Coverage varies. Some of our patients pay out-of-pocket or use flexible spending accounts. We’re happy to help you check with your provider and provide documentation if needed.
  8. Can I combine this with your chiropractic adjustments and exercise plan? Definitely. That’s exactly how we use it. The calmer, more responsive tissues make chiropractic adjustments more effective—and your rehab work more sustainable.

Final Thoughts from Our Bend Team

At Total Body Chiropractic, we believe movement is medicine—and we don’t settle for half-measures. Plantar fasciitis may feel like an inevitable ailment for foot-heavy folks, but it doesn’t have to be your story. By bringing together structural care, laser-enhanced tissue healing, soft-tissue work and guided movement, we offer a pathway off the pain treadmill.

If you live in Bend and the surrounding areas and heel pain is slowing you down, we invite you to make an appointment. Let’s talk about whether Class IV laser therapy is the right form of regenerative medicine for you. You don’t have to live another morning dreading your first step. Let’s shine a little light on that fascia—and get you back to walking, running and all your daily activities, pain free!

 

A lone female trail runner on a mountain trail in Bend, Oregon.
By Bari Liebowitz Chiropractic Care, Exercise, Sports Injury

Chiropractic Care for Bend Trail Runners

Bend, Oregon offers an endless playground for trail runners, with winding paths, steep climbs, and rugged terrain that push both body and mind. Every run tests balance, core strength, and endurance, demanding more than just speed. Preparing for these challenges takes more than training miles; it requires a body that moves well, adapts quickly, and recovers fully. That’s where chiropractic care makes a difference. By improving alignment, mobility, and stability, it helps runners glide over uneven ground, protect themselves from common injuries, and recover faster after long, grueling runs. With the right foundation, the body handles the toughest trails while still staying strong for everyday life—whether that means another day on the mountain, a busy workweek, or simply keeping up with the pace of life in Bend.

Studies show that at least more than half of regular runners experience injuries each year, most often from overuse. When a part of the body is overused without proper care, it can easily lead to injury. Total Body Chiropractic focuses on strengthening our core as well as parts of the body that we use the most, depending on our activity levels, so that our body can keep up with any challenge while reducing injuries. When we give our body the care it deserves, we can run longer, feel more confident, and enjoy every trail of Bend.

A male trail runner silhouetted against mountains as he runs along a ridge in Bend, Oregon.

Understanding Core Strength and Stability

Core strength does not mean having six-pack abs or a flat belly. It is all about stability, balance, and control. For trail runners, a strong core stabilizes our torso, protects our spine, and helps our body move efficiently. It allows us to absorb shocks from uneven surfaces and maintain steady movement even when the terrain gets tricky.

Running on trails constantly challenges our muscles by adjusting to rocks, roots, and sudden elevation changes with every step. Without a well-conditioned core, other muscles compensate, which can quickly lead to fatigue, poor posture, or injury. Strengthening our core improves running efficiency and supports our long-term joint and muscle health.

Why Trail Runners Need a Strong Core

Trail running is more demanding on the body than running on flat surfaces. Every step we take sends force to the joints and core that is double or triple our body weight. However, without a strong core, the body starts compensating for that, which can negatively affect the muscles and joints.

A trail runner grabs her knee in pain while on a trail in Bend, Oregon.

It also increases the risk of injuries like lower back pain, ankle injuries, IT band issues, and even shin splits. According to research, exercises that cause shin discomfort are responsible for 10-20% of all runner injuries and 60% of all lower-limb overuse injuries.

We also tend to get tired more quickly, making it difficult to maintain balance and good form. If we have a strong core, it helps our body absorb impact, stay stable on uneven ground, and move efficiently. It’s about protecting our body so we can keep enjoying the trails for years to come.

How Chiropractic Care Can Increase Core Strength

Chiropractic treatment makes the core stronger by working on alignment, nervous system function, and flexibility. By focusing on these areas, we make sure our body works the way they’re meant to. When our spine and core are in sync, running feels smoother, balance comes easier, and injuries are less likely. It’s all about keeping us steady, strong, and confident on the trails.

Bend Chiropractor Bari Liebowitz performing a neck adjustment on a patient.

This is how we assist trail runners at Total Body Chiropractic.

1. Optimizing Alignment and Pelvic Balance

Even slight misalignments in the pelvis or spine can disrupt our running mechanics. Chiropractic care puts our spine and pelvis in alignment so that our core muscles can engage properly and move well. Making slight adjustments to our hips, glutes, and lower back allows them to work together efficiently. This creates a solid base for taking on any trail. Getting a spinal alignment can make a big difference!

2. Improving Neuromuscular Efficiency

Our nervous system controls how our muscles respond to movement. Misalignments can disrupt this communication, slowing reflexes and reducing stability. Regular chiropractic care helps our brain and muscles communicate more effectively, ensuring our core activates at the right time.

This improves balance, reaction speed, and control on uneven terrain, helping us avoid missteps and injuries while making each stride feel more natural.

3. Enhancing Flexibility and Movement Fluidity

Tight hips, hamstrings, or lower back muscles can limit our core’s ability to stabilize the body. When we add a series of manipulations and some soft tissue treatments like myofascial release or a Graston therapy, we improve joint motion and flexibility.

Enhanced flexibility reduces overuse injuries and enables our legs, core, and hips to work in concert. This makes climbing hills less strenuous, descending hills safer, and distance runs less tiring.

4. Personalized Exercise and Rehabilitation Plans

Chiropractic care is most effective when paired with exercises designed for our body and running style. At Total Body Chiropractic, we create personalized routines that strengthen our core, hips, and glutes while improving flexibility and muscle weakness.

Exercises like planks, bird-dogs, hip bridges, and rotational core work help reinforce stability, support proper posture, and improve running efficiency. Over time, these drills build resilience, reduce injury risk, and make our runs more comfortable and enjoyable.

Supporting Injury Prevention for Trail Runners

Close up of trail runners legs running on a trail in Bend, Oregon.

Injury Prevention Through Stability and Mechanics

Many injuries start with subtle imbalances or misalignments. Chiropractic care addresses these early, helping our body move efficiently before small problems become serious.
For trail runners, this means,

  • Greater resilience when stepping over roots, rocks, and uneven terrain.
  • Less lower back strain from repetitive, uneven movements.
  • Improved joint mechanics, reducing the risk of runner’s knee, shin splints, and other overuse injuries.

Faster Recovery When Injuries Do Occur

Even with careful preparation, injuries can happen. Chiropractic care helps our body recover faster by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and increasing mobility.

If we suffer a sprain or strain, targeted adjustments and soft-tissue therapy restore movement, stabilize muscles, and prevent secondary injuries. This means less downtime and a quicker return to the trails.

Supporting Long-Term Athletic Longevity

Trail running is tough on the body. Staying strong over the years takes a proactive approach. With regular chiropractic adjustments, soft-tissue care, and personalized exercise plans, we maintain strength, prevent chronic injuries, and enjoy trail running for years to come.

Consistent care ensures our body recovers efficiently, withstands repeated impact, and stays resilient season after season.

Real-World Benefits at Total Body Chiropractic

At our Bend clinic, we offer a full range of services designed for trail runners.

  • Chiropractic Adjustments: Restore alignment, improve nervous system function, and support optimal movement.
  • Graston & Soft-Tissue Therapy: Release tight muscles, break down scar tissue, and enhance mobility.
  • Personalized Exercise & Rehab Plans: Programs tailored to our running style, injuries, and core needs.
  • Holistic, Goal-Oriented Approach: Every plan focuses on our running goals and long-term health.
  • Supportive Environment: We make our care comfortable, safe, and encouraging throughout the process.

These services work together to strengthen our core, improve efficiency, and prevent injuries, helping us confidently tackle Bend’s trails.

A Path to Stronger, Safer Trail Running

women-running-on-a-trail

Every trail runner deserves a strong, stable core and a resilient body. Chiropractic care strengthens muscles, improves mechanics, speeds recovery, and prevents injuries. By being proactive, we’re protecting our body before problems arise.

Keeping our spine aligned, core strong, and muscles flexible ensures our body is ready for long runs, steep climbs, and technical descents. This approach helps us run longer, recover faster, and enjoy trail running more fully.

Take the Next Step at Total Body Chiropractic

Trail running in Bend rewards us with challenge and beauty, but it also asks a lot from our bodies. A strong core, proper alignment, and balanced movement keep us running longer and recovering faster. Without that foundation, small aches can quickly grow into setbacks.

At Total Body Chiropractic, we help runners build resilience through personalized adjustments, soft-tissue therapy, and tailored exercise plans. Whether you’re new to the trails or training for your next big race, our focus stays on prevention, strength, and recovery—so you can keep moving with confidence.

Give your body the support it needs to handle every mile. Schedule a consultation with Total Body Chiropractic and see how stronger mechanics, fewer injuries, and faster recovery can elevate your trail-running experience.

A close up view of an African American female runner in a gray hoodie holding her lower back due to back pain.
By Bari Liebowitz Back Pain, Chiropractic Care, Massage Therapy, Sciatica, Spinal Decompression Therapy

How Massage Therapy Complements Chiropractic Care for Sciatica Relief

Living with Sciatica feels like carrying around an invisible weight that drags you down with every step that you take. The pain starts as a dull ache in your lower back but quickly travels through your hips, buttocks, and down your leg, or even all the way down to your foot. This isn’t just discomfort, it’s a disruption to your daily rhythm, your mobility, and even your sleep.

At Total Body Chiropractic in Bend, Oregon, we value how painful sciatica affects your daily life. That’s why our Bend chiropractors combine targeted spinal manipulations with therapeutic massage for sciatica pain, giving you a complete treatment plan that tackles both the cause and the symptoms for long-lasting relief.

What is Sciatica and Why Does it Happen?

Before you find out why it happens, it’s important to know that your sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the entire human body, running from your lower back through your hips and all the way down each leg. When this nerve becomes compressed, inflamed, or irritated, it presents as a set of symptoms, collectively called “Sciatica”.

Sciatica symptoms move beyond pain: you might feel various sensations, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in your leg or foot. Long walks become more exhausting and painful, sitting for work feels totally unbearable, and daily activities that you loved doing once seem to be out of reach.

An graphic depicting where sciatica occurs in the human anatomy.

Common causes of sciatic nerve pain include:

  • Herniated Disc: When the cushion-like disc between vertebrae bulges or ruptures, it presses on the nerve roots.
  • Piriformis Syndrome: Tightness or spasms in the piriformis muscle can irritate the sciatic nerve.
  • Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal that crowds the nerve.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear-and-tear changes in spinal discs can put pressure on nerves.
  • Pelvic Misalignment or Poor Posture: Everyday habits can gradually lead to nerve compression.

Why a Combined Approach Works

Many patients typically try one therapy at a time, whether it’s chiropractic care or massage therapy, only to find the relief isn’t that effective in the long run. That’s because sciatica often involves structural issues and soft tissue problems such as muscle stiffness and inflammation. Entertaining only one side of the problem leaves the other side to cause the pain once again.

When they are used together, this holistic approach not only reduces sciatica pain; it addresses the underlying cause and prevent future flare-ups.

A senior man sits on the couch holding his lower back in pain from sciatica.

Here’s where our Bend chiropractors’ combined approach makes a significant difference:

  • Chiropractic adjustments focus on restoring proper alignment of the spinal cord, reducing nerve compression, and improving joint mobility.
  • Massage therapy targets tight muscles and fascia, improves circulation, and calms inflammation, creating the ideal environment for nerves to heal.

Think of it like this:

  • Adjustments free up the nerve pathway so that your body can move naturally.
  • Massage releases tension in the muscle around that pathway so that your adjustments hold longer and you stay free from pain for more time between visits.

This dual approach matches perfectly with our entire body-wellness philosophy, helping you feel better, move better, and live better, not just today, but in the months and years to come.

How Massage Therapy Complements Chiropractic Care for Sciatica Relief

What most people think about massage, they start imagining the relaxation, spa music, and maybe a scented candle or two. We agree that relaxation is a wonderful time to connect. Therapeutic massage for sciatica pain goes further; it’s a targeted hands-on approach to reduce muscle tightness in the affected area, improve blood flow, and help your body to heal.

Our professional massage therapists customize every session based on your symptoms, activity level, and recovery goals. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach; your massage is as unique as your body type.

Massage Therapy’s Role in Sciatica Care

When the muscles around your hips, lower back, and glutes tighten up, they pinch and irritate the sciatic nerve. This tension then creates a cycle of lower back pain and inflammation that does not go away on its own. Massage therapy breaks it down by:

  • Releasing tight muscles that contribute to nerve compression, especially in the piriformis and hamstrings.
  • Improving flexibility and range of motion, making movement easier and less painful.
  • Boosting circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues for faster healing.
  • Reducing inflammation and muscle spasms that keep the nerve.

A comparison chart showing how massage and chiropractic work together to relieve sciatica pain.

Massage Techniques for Sciatica

Here, the goal isn’t just to make you feel good and relaxed during the massage; it’s to create a muscle environment that supports lasting nerve health.

  1. Deep Tissue Massage: Works through multiple muscle layers to release chronic tension and adhesions.
  2. Trigger Point Therapy: Targets small, hyper-irritable spots in muscles that refer pain down the leg.
  3. Myofascial Release: Loosens the fascia (connective tissue) surrounding tense muscles, reducing stiffness.
  4. Sports Massage: Perfect for Bend’s active outdoor community, helping athletes recover from strain and maintain performance.

Chiropractic Techniques for Sciatica

While the massage addresses muscle tension, chiropractic care focuses more on perfecting the spinal alignment and restoring normal nerve function. Our Bend chiropractors use a wide range of techniques to make this process safe and effective, reducing sciatic nerve irritation.

Key methods include:

  • Spinal Adjustments (Manual and Instrument-Assisted): These subtle but gentle movements realign the lumbar spine, taking the pressure off the sciatic nerve and improving your body’s natural range of motion.
  • Spinal Decompression Therapy: Using a specialized table, the spine is gently stretched to create space between the vertebrae. This relieves pressure on compressed discs, reduces nerve irritation, and promotes nutrient-rich fluid flow for healing.
  • Shockwave Therapy: Delivers high-energy acoustic waves to the affected area, stimulating blood flow, accelerating tissue repair, and breaking down scar tissue that may contribute to sciatic pain.
  • Laser Therapy: Uses targeted light energy to penetrate deep into tissues, reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and supporting faster cellular healing in muscles and nerves.
  • Pelvic Alignment Adjustments: Correct imbalances in your hips and pelvis that can lead to uneven weight distribution and nerve irritation.
  • Therapeutic Exercises: Guided stretches and strengthening moves to support spinal health, improve posture, and reduce recurrence risk.

These techniques are made with keeping the patient’s comfort in mind. We avoid any aggressive, forceful movements and instead focus on more accurate, precise, and targeted body movements, which are optimal for you.

Also, once you combine the massage therapy and chiropractic adjustments, you will be getting double benefits. The muscle then relaxes, and so will the adjustment, making it much easier to hold longer, and the spine stays aligned, so the muscles don’t stiffen back there.

How the Two Therapies Work Together

Once you are scheduled for chiropractic care and massage for sciatica pain, you are not just getting two different treatments; you’re getting a full strategic plan for faster and more complete recovery.

Here’s how the combination works:

  • Massage prepares your muscles by loosening the tight fibers, reducing inflammation, and improving the overall circulation. This means when you step into your chiropractic adjustment, your muscles are out of stress and now ready for a proper alignment.
  • Adjustments help maintain muscle balance by keeping your spine and pelvis in the correct position. This stability helps the benefits of massage last a bit longer.
  • Pain relief happens much faster because the structural and muscular causes of sciatica are addressed in accordance.
  • Recovery speed improves since your body isn’t constantly fighting against unresolved tension or misalignment.

A female runner stands on a trail holding her lower back from sciatica pain.

Imagine a runner setting out early on a crisp Bend morning. The pine-scented air is cool, the sun is just starting to light up the Cascade peaks, and the trail winds ahead in a perfect ribbon of dirt. But before long, each step sends a sharp, shooting pain from the lower back down the leg — the unwelcome grip of sciatica.

That’s where the combined power of massage and chiropractic care comes in.

  1. Loosen the Grip
    A skilled massage therapist works into the tight glutes, hamstrings, and lower back muscles that have been locking down with every climb and descent. The tension melts away, circulation improves, and the body starts to feel light and ready again.
  2. Restore the Alignment
    With muscles relaxed, a chiropractic adjustment realigns the spine and pelvis, taking pressure off the sciatic nerve. The joints move freely, and the body feels balanced — like all the moving parts are finally working together again.
  3. Back on the Trail
    The combination doesn’t just ease pain in the moment — it speeds up recovery, keeps the benefits lasting longer, and reduces the chance of the same problem flaring up again. Before long, that same runner is back on the trail, stride smooth and strong, enjoying Bend’s sweeping views without a thought of sciatica.

What to Expect at Total Body Chiropractic

Your experience at our Bend clinic is designed to be professional and welcoming. We want you to feel confident and cared for every step of the way.

Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Comprehensive consultation: We assess your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms to exactly pinpoint the cause of your sciatica.
  2. Collaborative care plan: Our chiropractors and massage therapists work closely to create a personalized strategy.
  3. A thorough communication: You’ll receive progress updates, at-home recommendations, and the ability to adjust your plan as needed.
  4. Focusing on the long-term results: Our goal isn’t just to get you out of pain; it’s to keep you there.

Sciatica Self-Care Between Visits

To keep your recovery moving forward, we recommend incorporating these habits into your routine. Start practicing.

Targeted stretches:

  • Piriformis stretch to relieve muscle pressure on the nerve.
  • Hamstring stretch to ease tension in the back of the leg.
  • Hip flexor stretch to improve pelvic alignment.

Posture tips:

  • Keep feet flat on the ground while sitting.
  • Avoid prolonged leg crossing.
  • Use a supportive chair or lumbar cushion.

Gentle activities:

  • Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, or yoga.
  • Avoid high-impact sports until pain-free.

Nutrition & hydration:

  • Stay hydrated to keep spinal discs healthy.
  • Eat anti-inflammatory foods like berries, salmon, and leafy greens.

Lasting Relief Is Possible, Let’s Get Started

Living a life that is filled with pain and restricted by sciatica leaves you in uncertain conditions. By combining targeted chiropractic adjustments with the complementary therapy of massage, our Bend chiropractors can set you free from the pain and get you back to the healthy lifestyle you loved.

At Bend Total Body Chiropractic, we believe in restoring your mobility, preventing any future flare-ups, and helping you feel your absolute best so that you can move freely and confidently without any hesitation every single day.

Time to book your appointment and work together to make your sciatic pain a thing of the past, because you deserve a life that is far and free from pain and stress.

 

 

man-with-headache-at-computer
By Bari Liebowitz Chiropractic Care, Headache Pain

How Your Neck Could Be Causing Your Headaches (And How a Chiropractor Can Help)

You wake up with a stiff neck and by lunchtime, there’s a dull, pounding ache sliding up the back of your head. Sound familiar to you?

For many people, chronic headaches don’t always stem from stress or screen time. They’re coming from a place most don’t think to check. The neck.

When the muscles tighten in your neck or the joints fall out of alignment, it can create pressure that triggers pain in your temples, behind your eyes, or across your forehead.

That’s exactly where you need reliable chiropractic care.

Total Body Chiropractic in Bend helps patients every day who are struggling with neck-related headaches.

If you’re ready to understand what’s really causing your headaches—and finally start feeling better, you’re in the right place.

How Do Neck Problems Trigger Headaches

Woman sitting at a desk looking at her computer and rubbing her neck from neck pain.

Let’s start with what’s actually happening in your body.

Your neck is a complicated structure of bones, nerves, muscles, and your spine that acts as a vital bridge connecting your head to the rest of your body. When something’s off, like your neck muscles tighten or your spine joints are stuck, or years of slouching at a screen, it can send pain signals straight to your head.

Similar to how a fuse works, if it’s overloaded or out of balance, things start short-circuiting, thus the headache. Even mild tension or poor posture can compress nerves or restrict blood flow to the brain. Over time, this pressure builds until it finally screams for attention…often in the form of a pounding headache. Some studies have also revealed that treating the neck directly can significantly reduce both the intensity and frequency of their headaches.

What Types of Headaches Come From the Neck?

A black woman sits on the sofa and holds her head from tension headache pain.

Not all headaches are created equally, and thus, they also don’t work equally either. However, understanding the type you’re dealing with is key to getting the right kind of care. Here are the three main culprits we see most often in headache sufferers:

Tension Headaches

Tension-type headaches are one of the most common major headache types. Researchers have reported that more than 70% of people have episodic tension headaches.

Such kinds of headaches make you feel as if a tight band is wrapped around your head, leading to a dull and persistent ache. Chronic tension headaches are usually caused by tight neck and shoulder muscles. Hours hunched over your laptop or phone can set them off. Add a little stress, and you have a headache.

Neck-Related Headaches (Cervicogenic)

Cervicogenic headaches are caused by a direct impact on your neck. Nearly 47% of the global population suffers from headaches, and 15-20% of those headaches are cervicogenic. The CGHs often start from the base of your skull or deep within your neck, going all the way up to your temples, forehead, or even behind your eyes. They can be triggered by movement ,and they often come with stiffness or limited neck mobility. If turning your head makes the pain worse, this might be your type.

Migraines

Migraines are one of the most common forms of headaches. According to SingleCare, 35 million people in the U.S. get migraine headaches. These are generally more intense than those mentioned above, coming with signs like sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, or even visual interruptions. And while the neck is not always the culprit here, stiffness, tension, or a misalignment in your upper spine can serve as a trigger, giving you an intense migraine attack. But many people find that when they treat the underlying neck tension, their migraines become less intense and less frequent

How Chiropractic Care Can Help?

A chiropractor sitting working on the neck of a patient.

If you’ve ever tried to “stretch it out” or rolled your neck in every direction, hoping the ache would ease…you’re not alone. But here’s what you need to know: when headaches are rooted in your neck, you need more than a quick fix. You need a deeper reset.

That’s where chiropractic care shines.

At Total Body Chiropractic, we understand how deeply connected your neck, spine, and nervous system really are. When something’s out of alignment, be it even slightly, it can create a ripple effect of tension, pressure, and pain that travels up into your head. How can our chiropractors help? They can help you restore balance, naturally and gently, so your body can do what it’s meant to do: move freely and heal itself.

Our chiropractors in Bend use manual therapy techniques such as spinal adjustments that release tension without adding to it. We adjust the joints in your neck and spinal column to relieve pressure on nearby nerves, loosen tight muscles, and improve your mobility.

Apart from restoring your spinal alignment, one of the best benefits of chiropractic treatment is that it’s a natural and drug-free approach. Unlike others, we don’t cover your symptoms with random medicines, but concentrate on helping your body function and heal better.

And we’re not the only ones saying it works.

●       According to the National Library of Medicine, spinal manipulation may be an effective technique to reduce migraine pain. If the actual cause of the tension is identified, chiropractic care offers a permanent solution.

●       Chiropractic care is effective, similar to some headache medications, but without the side effects. Therefore, those who prefer a safe and effective substitute, chiropractic adjustments are an ideal option.

What Can You Expect During a Visit?

Bend chiropractor Bari Liebowitz using the graston technique on the neck of a patient for neck pain.

When you visit our Bend Chiropractors, here is what you can expect with your headache treatment:

Detailed Consultation

We will question you about the headaches: when they started, what they feel like, how frequently they disturb you, and if there are any patterns. We will also ask about your lifestyle, daily habits, posture, and any injuries in the past.

Gently Feel Your Neck

Our chiropractors will feel your neck and spine to examine the level of muscle tension, neck pain, and whether areas are hindering your motion. Please perform simple movement tests to observe how much your neck can move.

Adjust The Target

Your Bend chiropractor will do the targeted adjustments to correct spinal misalignment. The adjusting part is precise and designed to restore proper placement and function to your spinal cord, offering immense comfort and long-term relief.

Tailored Treatment

Our Bend chiropractors will create a customized treatment plan based on your type of headache and specific wellness goals. For instance, to add tips for improving posture, and simple exercises to strengthen your muscles.

Many individuals notice a significant reduction in their headache frequency, but if your case is in the chronic category, then that might take longer to achieve the desired relief. Furthermore, your chiropractor in Bend will provide you with a treatment schedule to visit regularly in the beginning days, then slowly space them out as your neck movement becomes better.

Everyday Lifestyle Habits That Can Help Too

A senior woman sits and gently performs neck stretches.

Try integrating chiropractic care into your daily routine to enhance your overall well-being and prevent severe headaches from disrupting your peaceful life. Our Bend chiropractors offer these healthy habit tips:

  1. Sit Up Straight: Sit properly, especially when using a phone or a computer. Imagine you have a string pulling the crown of your head towards the ceiling, fixing your spine.
  2. Keep Taking Breaks: If you have a desk job, keep taking breaks. Every 30-60 minutes, take frequent breaks and stretch to prevent stiffness.
  3. Do Neck Stretches Daily: Adopt simple neck stretches to reduce tension. Your chiropractor can show you particular stretches, suiting your needs.
  4. Stay Hydrated: How much is your water consumption? Lack of intake results in such headaches. The same goes for inadequate sleep, too. Therefore, sleep for at least 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night and drink plenty of water.
  5. Don’t Carry Heavy Bags on One Shoulder: Avoid carrying bags, and especially the heavy ones, on one shoulder. Instead, get a backpack or distribute the weight evenly between both shoulders.

Your chiropractor in Bend can share more lifestyle advice and specific requirements whenever you visit.

When Should You See a Chiropractor for Headaches?

Refrain from delaying and reach out to our Bend chiropractors if you experience the following:

●       Headache pain starting in your neck or upper back.

●       Get the pain after using a desk or a computer for hours.

●       Feel tightness or stiffness consistently in your shoulders or jaw.

●       Or want a natural, drug-free technique to find relief.

Chiropractic care works even better when following healthy lifestyle habits, too.

Ready for Relief? Don’t Let Headaches Control Your Life.

You don’t have to just “deal with it.” Persistent headaches that stem from your neck can absolutely be treated, and lasting relief could be just one adjustment away.

At Total Body Chiropractic in Bend, we’re all about helping you move better, feel better, and live pain-free—without relying on medication to get through the day.

Let’s get to the root of the pain—together.

Book your visit today, and let’s start building a care plan that helps you take back your day, your energy, and your peace of mind.

 

deep-tissue-massage-on-back
By Bari Liebowitz Massage Therapy

Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage in Chiropractic Care

You’re an outdoor-loving Bend local. Your weekends are filled with hikes up Pilot Butte, long bike rides through the Deschutes National Forest, or paddleboarding on the river. You spend your weekdays juggling Zoom meetings, family responsibilities, and errands—all while trying to stay active and healthy.

But lately, your shoulders have been stiff. Your lower back feels sore by mid-afternoon. Your neck cracks a little too easily when you turn your head. You’ve tried stretching, bought the fancy ergonomic chair, and even experimented with those self-massage tools. But the pain? It keeps coming back.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

At Total Body Chiropractic in Bend, we witness this story unfold every day. Our patients are motivated, busy, and health-conscious. They’re not looking for a quick fix—they want real pain relief that lasts. And while chiropractic adjustments do wonders for realigning the spine and restoring movement, we’ve found that true, long-lasting results often come from a deeper place.

That’s where deep tissue massage comes in.

Let’s break it all down—what deep tissue massage actually is, how it pairs with chiropractic care, and why this combo might be the best thing you do for your body this year.

What Is Deep Tissue Massage?

Most people hear “massage” and immediately think of relaxing spa music and light pressure gliding across their back. That’s a Swedish massage—great for general relaxation and de-stressing.

Deep tissue massage is a whole different experience.

This massage technique focuses on the deeper layers of muscle fibers, fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles), and tendons. The pressure is firm, deliberate, and purposeful. It’s designed for the following.

  • Break up adhesions (those stubborn knots and tight spots)
  • Improve blood flow to tense areas
  • Reduce inflammation
  • Help the body repair and heal

But here’s the key: It’s not just about firm pressure. A skilled massage therapist doesn’t just press with brute force—they use slow strokes with intention, using hands, elbows, and tools to access deeper tension in a safe and controlled way.

Yes, it can feel intense. But when done right, the deep strokes leaves you feeling lighter, looser, and far more mobile. For many people with chronic pain and muscle soreness, it’s a game-changer.

Chiropractic Care – Getting to the Root of the Problem

Before we explore how the two work together, let’s quickly revisit what chiropractic care does.

At its core, chiropractic care is about restoring alignment to the spine and joints, improving nervous system function, and creating more balance throughout your body. It’s not just about cracking backs—it’s about treating the root causes of pain, not merely covering up symptoms.

Whether it’s your posture, sleeping habits, movement patterns, or even past injuries, chiropractors look at how your entire body functions as a system.

Here in Bend, our active, adventurous lifestyle is incredible—but it also means we ask a lot of our bodies. Whether you’re skiing at Mt. Bachelor, lifting weights, or sitting at your desk for long hours, your spine, muscles, and joints are constantly adjusting and compensating.

That’s where chiropractic adjustments come in. They realign your spine, restore joint motion, and take pressure off the nervous system. But when your muscles are locked up with tension?

Adjustments alone might not be enough.

Why Deep Tissue Massage + Chiropractic = Real Results

You can think of your body as a tent. The spine is the pole, and your muscles are the ropes. You can straighten the pole all you want, but if the ropes are pulling unevenly, things stay off balance.

That’s why combining chiropractic adjustments with deep tissue massage creates such powerful results. Here’s how this integrative health approach works.

1. It Helps Your Adjustments “Stick”

Tight muscles can pull your spine right back out of alignment after an adjustment. The sustained pressure of deep tissue massage relaxes those tense areas, helping your adjustments last longer and reducing the need for constant visits. When your muscles are balanced and relaxed, your body holds onto alignment better, meaning fewer flare-ups, less discomfort, and more freedom in your daily movements.

2. It Reduces Muscle Guarding

When we experience pain, our bodies protect themselves by tightening up—that’s called guarding. Massage helps loosen that guarding reflex, allowing your chiropractor to make more effective adjustments with less muscle resistance.

3. It Increases Your Range of Motion

Muscles, fascia, and scar tissue can restrict how far your joints can move. Deep tissue work loosens these restrictions, making it easier to move, stretch, bend, and live pain-free. With improved flexibility and mobility, everyday activities—like reaching for a shelf, tying your shoes, or going for a hike—start to feel effortless again. It’s about restoring ease and confidence in the way your body moves.

4. It Eases Nerve Compression

Muscle tension can pinch nerves, causing tingling, numbness, or shooting pain. Massage helps release the pressure around those nerves, supporting healthier movement and reducing muscle pain.

5. It Speeds Up Healing

Deep tissue massage promotes blood circulation and lymphatic drainage and speeds up the healing process. That means more oxygen and nutrients reach the muscles, and waste products (such as lactic acid) are flushed out faster. If you’ve been dealing with a sports injury or chronic muscle tension, this can seriously speed up your recovery time.

6. It Supports Injury Prevention

Balanced muscles are strong muscles. By regularly releasing tight spots and improving mobility, you’re less likely to suffer sprains, strains, or overuse injuries—especially if you’re into running, hiking, or any kind of sport.

The Bend Lifestyle – Perfect for Massage And Chiropractic Combo

Living in Central Oregon means your body is working hard—whether you’re scaling Smith Rock, skiing in fresh powder, or chasing your pup through Drake Park. Here’s how regular massage therapy supports athletic performance and your active lifestyle.

Outdoor Adventurers

Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking—these are great for the soul but tough on the body. Quads, glutes, and back muscles often carry the brunt of the work. Deep tissue massage helps release built-up muscle tension so you can stay mobile and injury-free.

Remote Workers and Desk Sitters

Hours at the computer often mean tight hips, rounded shoulders, and “tech neck.” Massage loosens the deep postural muscles affected by sitting and helps reset your body to a healthier, more upright position. Over time, this can lead to better circulation, fewer headaches, and a noticeable drop in that end-of-day fatigue that seems to settle into your back and neck.

Stressed-Out Minds

Chronic stress leads to tense muscles and poor sleep. Massage helps your body flip out of “fight-or-flight” mode and into “rest-and-digest,” reducing cortisol, calming the nervous system, and promoting deeper relaxation.

Posture Rebuilders

If you’re working on standing straighter and feeling stronger, massage is your secret weapon. It helps correct muscular imbalances—like tight pecs and weak upper back muscles—that sabotage good posture without you even realizing it.

What Happens During a Deep Tissue Massage at Total Body Chiropractic?

If you’ve never experienced a deep tissue massage—or had a negative one—you might wonder what it’s like. At Total Body Chiropractic in Bend, we do things differently. We prioritize making you feel safe, heard, and comfortable every step of the way. It’s not about pushing through pain—it’s about collaborating with your body to release tension in a way that feels helpful, not punishing.

A male massage therapist performing deep tissue massage on the lower back of a male patient.

Step 1 – Personalized Assessment

Before anything starts, we’ll talk about your goals, your pain, and your movement patterns. Our team creates a tailored care plan that may combine chiropractic adjustments, massage, and even movement education.

Step 2 – Targeted Treatment

Our licensed massage therapists are trained in advanced techniques that go far beyond your average back rub. They’ll use their understanding of anatomy and movement to focus on the muscles that need the most attention.

Communication is key. You’ll never be left gritting your teeth through unbearable pressure—we check in frequently to make sure you’re comfortable.

Step 3 – Post-Massage Care

After your session, you’ll receive simple tips to extend the benefits. That might include hydration, stretches, posture exercises, or recommendations for when to return to your daily activities. Think of this as a collaboration, not just a treatment.

Why It’s Worth It

The truth is that you shouldn’t have to “just live with it.”

Tension, pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility—these issues gradually diminish your quality of life. However, they are not inevitable. With proper care, your body can heal, recover, and feel better than it has in years.

Chiropractic care gets your body back in alignment. Massage therapy keeps it there. Together, they don’t just manage pain—they help prevent it.

Ready to Feel Like You Again?

At Total Body Chiropractic in Bend, Oregon, we’re all about helping you feel good in your body again—whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic tension, or just want to stay active and pain-free for the long haul.

We believe in whole-body healing, not band-aid solutions. That’s why we offer integrated care that’s tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and long-term health.

Take the next step.

Book your deep tissue massage or chiropractic consultation today, and let’s build a wellness plan that helps you move better, feel stronger, and live fully—right here in beautiful Bend.

 

By Bari Liebowitz Laser Therapy, Sports Injury

Unlock Peak Performance with Advanced Laser Treatment for Sports Injuries

Picture this: you’re gearing up for a perfect day—maybe a trail run along the Deschutes River or a mountain bike ride down Tyler’s Traverse. You feel strong, focused, and ready. But then, in a single instant—a wrong step, an awkward twist, a sudden strain—everything changes. What started as an active adventure ends with lingering pain. Whether you’re a skier, cyclist, runner, or that weekend warrior who lives for mountain-town life, sports injuries can feel like an unavoidable part of the journey. But that doesn’t mean you’re destined for the sidelines.

At Total Body Chiropractic, we believe your recovery plan should be as fluid and mobile as your achievements. Our Bend chiropractors focus on providing the necessary care to get you back on your feet through cutting-edge, non-invasive treatments. One of these innovative treatments is laser therapy, which we now perform in our Bend clinic with the Medray Quad Class IV Laser.

What is Class IV Laser Therapy?

Class IV Laser Therapy is an advanced, non-invasive treatment used to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain in both acute and chronic conditions. Unlike lower-level lasers, Class IV lasers deliver higher energy levels, allowing light to penetrate deeper into tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This deep tissue stimulation boosts cellular activity, enhances circulation, and accelerates the body’s natural repair processes.

Our Bend chiropractors now offer laser therapy to treat injuries like sprains, strains, tendonitis, and joint pain. Patients often experience reduced discomfort, pain relief and improved mobility after just a few sessions, with minimal risk of side effects. Because of its effectiveness and safety, Class IV Laser Therapy is increasingly popular among Central Oregon athletes and active individuals seeking faster recovery without relying on medication or surgery. Overall, it offers a powerful, drug-free option for managing pain and supporting the body’s natural healing ability.

How does Laser Therapy Work on Sports Injuries?

Class IV Laser Therapy accelerates the healing process for sports injuries by delivering focused light energy deep into damaged tissues. This therapeutic light stimulates cellular level activity, triggering a biological response known as photobiomodulation. As a result, cells produce more ATP—the energy source essential for tissue repair—allowing injured muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints to heal faster.

In addition to enhancing cellular metabolism, Class IV Laser Therapy reduces inflammation by increasing blood flow to the injured area, which helps remove waste products and bring oxygen and nutrients to support faster healing. The laser also decreases nerve sensitivity, providing immediate pain relief without medication or invasive procedures.

Athletes with conditions such as sprains, strains, tendonitis, or joint pain often experience faster recovery times, reduced swelling, and improved mobility after just a few sessions. This makes Class IV Laser Therapy an ideal option for anyone wanting to return to their sport quickly and safely.

Common Sports Injuries Treated with Medray Quad Class IV Laser Therapy

At Total Body Chiropractic, our Bend chiropractors apply laser therapy on a regular basis to address a variety of sports injuries. Whether you are experiencing chronic pain or a new injury, Class IV laser therapy can help with your recovery and strengthening.

Sprains and Strains

Soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains are some of the most common setbacks for active individuals. Sprains involve overstretched or torn ligaments, while strains affect muscles and tendons. These injuries can sideline even the most dedicated athletes.

Class IV Laser Therapy targets the affected area by reducing inflammation and promoting faster cellular repair. Many patients notice relief within a few sessions, with most treatment plans ranging from 4 to 8 visits depending on the severity.

Tendonitis (Achilles, Patellar, Tennis Elbow)

Tendonitis often sneaks up on athletes due to overuse or repetitive movements—whether it’s your Achilles after a hike or your elbow after countless tennis swings. Laser therapy helps relieve discomfort by increasing blood circulation in the damaged area, stimulating collagen production, and minimizing scar tissue buildup. This gentle, drug-free approach restores healthy tendon function without injections or anti-inflammatory medications.

Plantar Fasciitis

Runners know the feeling well—that sharp, stabbing heel pain first thing in the morning or after a workout. Plantar fasciitis results from inflammation in the thick band of tissue along the sole of the foot.

Laser therapy penetrates deep into the fascia to break up adhesions, reduce inflammation, and encourage lasting relief. Most patients experience noticeable pain reduction after just a few treatments, with full improvement typically achieved in 6 to 10 sessions.

Rotator Cuff Injuries and Shoulder Impingement

Swimmers, tennis players, CrossFit enthusiasts—shoulder injuries are all too common in active lifestyles. These issues limit range of motion and cause persistent discomfort.

Laser therapy speeds up tissue repair and calms inflammation in the shoulder joint and surrounding muscles. When paired with chiropractic care and mobility exercises, most patients see measurable improvement in as few as 3 to 6 treatments.

Knee Pain (Runner’s Knee, Meniscus Irritation)

Knee pain—whether from runner’s knee or minor meniscus issues—can severely impact your activity level. Laser therapy works by reducing joint inflammation, supporting cartilage healing, and relieving pain gently, without aggravating the injury site.

In Bend, we often combine laser therapy with personalized corrective exercises to help you recover faster and prevent future flare-ups.

Back and Neck Strain (Athletic Activity)

From lifting weights to tackling rugged trails, your spine absorbs stress with every move. Muscle spasms, tightness, and post-exercise soreness are common in active lifestyles.

Laser therapy relaxes tense muscles, reduces swelling, and supports spinal alignment. When used alongside chiropractic adjustments, this treatment can restore mobility and ease discomfort from back pain.

Why Athletes Choose Laser Therapy

Traditional advice like “rest and ice” can leave athletes frustrated and sidelined. Laser therapy offers a faster, more effective path to recovery—with no downtime required.

Why do Bend’s active community members choose laser therapy?

  • Non-invasive: No incisions, injections, or prolonged healing.
  • Pain-free: Gentle, soothing warmth—no discomfort.
  • Faster results: Many feel better after just a few sessions.
  • FDA-cleared: Safe, proven, and trusted worldwide.
  • Minimal side effects: No drug-related risks or complications.

Best of all, laser treatment provides peace of mind—helping you return to activity confidently, without fear of re-injury.

What to Expect at Total Body Chiropractic

A product view of a Medray Quad Class IV laser used to accelerate healing and relieve pain in chiropractic care.

At your first visit to our Bend clinic, we’ll carefully assess your condition and customize a treatment plan to match your goals and lifestyle.

A typical session includes:

  • Duration: 10–15 minutes per treatment.
  • Sensation: Warm, relaxing light—never painful.
  • Frequency: 2–3 times per week, with early improvements common.
  • Comprehensive Care: Our chiropractors may recommend additional therapies—like adjustments or rehab exercises—for complete recovery support.

From start to finish, our team is here to guide your healing journey—whether you’re bouncing back from an injury or working to prevent its return.

Ready to Heal Stronger?

Don’t let pain keep you off the trails, slopes, or courts. With the Medray Quad Class IV Laser Therapy at Total Body Chiropractic, you can relieve discomfort, recover faster, and return to the activities you love—stronger than before.

Our mission is to help Bend’s active community thrive through safe, proven, and effective treatments. Laser therapy is an essential part of this holistic approach to lasting health and performance.

Don’t wait for your body to heal on its own. Make an appointment today and take the first step toward a faster, stronger recovery.

A black woman sits on the sofa and holds her head from tension headache pain.
By Bari Liebowitz Chiropractic Care, Headache Pain, Massage Therapy

Relieve Headaches Naturally with the Power of Chiropractic and Massage

Does your day grind to a halt every time a headache strikes? Headaches easily derail your whole day. They sap your energy and make even simple tasks feel like pushing a boulder up a hill. If you’re a Bend resident who struggles with frequent headaches – and around 1 in 6 Americans do so, too – you’re probably on the lookout for a drug-free path toward lasting relief, right?

Headaches are one of the most common health complaints in the world. They affect people of all ages, genders, occupations, and backgrounds. But you can overcome them naturally. At Total Body Chiropractic in Bend (and surrounding areas), we help you find relief by uncovering the root causes of your headaches.

So, let’s see how many different types of headaches exist. What causes them? How do our chiropractors in Bend help you find relief? What makes massage therapy the perfect treatment?

Let’s explore how you can break free from the cycle of pain and reclaim your life.

Understanding Headaches: Types and Root Causes

Headaches are more common than you think. Nearly 75% of kids get them before turning 16. Migraine attacks make employees miss 4.4 workdays each year. But headaches come in many types; they also stem from a variety of reasons. If you want long-term pain relief from headache symptoms, you must start by understanding the type and its root cause. Getting chiropractic care and massage therapy in Bend will help you find lasting relief.

man-with-headache-at-computer

Common Types of Headaches

  • Tension Headaches: It’s the most common type. You feel a dull, aching pain around your head, like wearing a very tight band. This headache stems from stress. Also, if you spend long hours at a desk or on your phone, you’ll likely suffer from chronic tension headaches.
  • Migraines: A study says that 11.7% to 14.7% of Americans suffer from migraine headaches. This condition can be intense with a throbbing headache. You’ll feel the migraine pain on one side of your head. Migraine symptoms last a few hours or several days, depending on the root cause, including:
    • Light/sound sensitivity
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Auras (visual disturbances)
  • Cluster Headaches: Cluster ones are rare (1 out of 1,000 people). But they are extremely severe. You will feel a burning, piercing pain around a single eye. Cluster headaches also come in cycles.
  • Cervicogenic Headaches: This type of headache starts with neck pain, slowly radiating to your head. These headaches often stem from neck trauma. Muscle spasms and poor posture may also lead to cervicogenic headaches. These headaches most often occur at the same time every day, like clockwork.
  • Sinus Headaches: These painful headaches cause pressure and pain around your face, chiefly sinuses. If you have a sinus headache, you may also get nasal congestion or infection.

Root Causes of Headaches

  • Poor Posture: When you habitually slouch or hunch over your phone, it weakens the muscles in your back and neck. The result is spinal alignment, ergo muscle soreness and headaches.
  • Stress: High stress levels stiffen the muscles in your neck and shoulders. That’s why stress or depression sets the stage for headaches.
  • Neck Injuries: Whiplash or other neck-related injuries can disrupt the alignment of your cervical spine. As a result, you experience chronic headaches.
  • TMJ Dysfunction: When your jaw joints are in pain, it causes your head to ache as well.
  • Sleep Deprivation: When you don’t get enough sleep (or sleep in an awkward position), you can have throbbing pain in your head.
  • Dehydration: Not drinking enough water or consuming too much coffee can cause headaches.

What is Chiropractic Care?

A chiropractor sitting working on the neck of a patient.

Chiropractors focus on your musculoskeletal system, mainly the spine, with manual therapies. Our Bend chiropractors will use hands-on techniques to:

  • Restore spinal alignment
  • Relieve nerve irritation
  • Accelerate your body’s self-healing

Let’s see how chiropractic care works.

How Chiropractic Works?

Spinal adjustments are the basis of chiropractic care in Bend. Chiropractors will gently realign your spine and its vertebrae, especially the neck ones. That’s why they reduce pressure on your nerves and bolster your joints’ mobility. Your nervous system also becomes well-balanced. No wonder several studies done in the past have confirmed that chiropractic care can “reduce the migraine severity, frequency, duration of suffering and associated disability.”

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Headaches

  • Chiropractors reduce nerve irritation and muscle tension caused by a misaligned spine.
  • Realigning your spine/joints means your joints and muscles are now under less strain, so your headaches will be less frequent than before.
  • Your headaches will also be less intense (occurring less often as well), especially for tension-type and cervicogenic headaches.
  • You can avoid the side effects and dependency risks of pain meds thanks to our chiropractors in Bend.

4 Chiropractic Techniques for Headache Relief

Our Bend chiropractors use several effective treatments to help headache sufferers.

1. Spinal Manipulation (Chiropractic Adjustments)

Our chiropractors reduce pressure on your nerves by realigning the cervical spine carefully. They correct postural imbalances as well. This technique works perfectly well for tension/cervicogenic headaches.

2. Soft Tissue Therapy

As headaches are often caused by tension in your neck and shoulder muscles, our chiropractors will use trigger-point therapy and myofascial release for triggering tight muscles. They will break up knots, trying to restore normal movement. So, this technique will give you pain relief, and your headaches may even disappear for good.

3. Postural Education & Ergonomic Advice

Since poor posture is the culprit behind many headache types, our chiropractors in Bend will show you how to maintain a healthy posture. They will give you practical ergonomic advice as well on how to make your workspace health-friendly. We’ll show you simple stretches and home care strategies to keep your muscles relaxed and your spine aligned.

4. Lifestyle and Nutritional Counseling

Headaches also have lifestyle triggers like dehydration or certain allergies. Our team identifies these triggers so you may avoid them. They will offer you personalized advice on hydration and nutrition. You will also get stress management advice from them.

Complementary Massage Therapy Techniques

Massage therapy, migraine massage, neck pain. muscle pain

At Total Body Chiropractic, we offer massage therapy to complement our chiropractic care in Bend for headache sufferers. Our therapists may use several different massage techniques for headache pain:

  • Deep Tissue Massage: This technique will target chronic tension in your muscle’s deep layers, chiefly your neck and shoulders. So, deep tissue massage will break up stubborn knots and improve blood flow. This type of massage prevents future flare-ups as well.
  • Craniosacral Therapy: How about a gentle, hands-on technique? Craniosacral therapy focuses on how your cerebrospinal fluids flow around the brain. This massage therapy releases tension in your head and neck, providing migraine relief and less severe headaches
  • Trigger Point Therapy: Trigger points often refer pain to other body parts. These pressure points are tight, tender points in your muscles. Our massage therapists use targeted pressure to release these knots.

Chiropractic adjustments work hand in hand with massage therapy. Chiropractic care realigns your spine and restores nerve function. Massage therapy leads to muscle relaxation and better blood circulation. A combined effect of both these approaches is long-lasting pain relief. Thus, our Bend chiropractors and massage therapists collaborate to create a personalized care plan that addresses your unique needs.

When to See Our Bend Chiropractors for Headaches?

You’re probably wondering if your headaches are spine-related. When is it perfectly suitable to look for chiropractic care in Bend? What are the signs? Well, here’s when you should see a chiropractor:

  • You have splitting headaches that disrupt your daily life.
  • Your headaches have become more frequent than before.
  • Headaches start after an injury or when you spend hours at work.
  • Your headaches come with neck pain, stiffness, and motion-related pain.
  • OTC painkillers aren’t helping, or you want to avoid medication cold turkey.

Do any of these signs sound familiar to you? If they do, schedule an appointment with our Bend chiropractic clinic. We’ll conduct a thorough assessment of your symptoms and headache types. This way, we’ll identify the root cause of your pain to develop a customized treatment plan.

Reclaim Your Life from Headache with Massage Therapy in Bend

Don’t let headaches control your life — get relief from migraines with chiropractic care and massage therapy at Total Body Chiropractic. Our Bend chiropractors address the underlying causes and help you find lasting comfort. Whether it’s spinal misalignment or muscle tension, we’ll discuss how these non-invasive treatment options improve your quality of life. If you’re ready to take the next step, make an appointment today and get on the path to a headache-free future.

By Bari Liebowitz Back Pain, Chiropractic Care, Chronic Pain, Laser Therapy, Sports Injury

Unlock Lasting Pain Relief with Laser Therapy and Chiropractic Care

There’s growing interest today in safe, non-invasive solutions for overcoming back pain and restoring a sense of normalcy. While prescription medications and surgery are common approaches to managing pain, they often come with significant drawbacks, including lengthy recovery times and unwanted side effects. As a result, many Oregonians are seeking out more natural, effective alternatives that support healing and long-term wellness.

At Total Body Chiropractic, our Bend chiropractors understand your concerns—and we’re here to help. That’s why we’re proud to offer laser therapy, a cutting-edge, effective treatment now available alongside our trusted and highly effective chiropractic care. This powerful, science-backed combination not only accelerates your healing and reduces pain but also expands our ability to treat a broader range of conditions than ever before.

Ready to hike Pilot Butte, play with your kids, enjoy sports, or work comfortably at your desk—without relying on painkillers? With the support of laser therapy combined with chiropractic care, it’s entirely possible. Let’s take a closer look at how this innovative therapy works and what you can expect when you visit your trusted chiropractor in Bend, Oregon.

What is Laser Therapy?

Let’s discuss what “laser therapy” means. You may have heard of it as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or cold laser therapy. It uses the healing power of photons to help you self-heal. Surgical lasers usually cut or burn skin tissue; however, LLLT uses gentle, focused light energy to stimulate cellular activity in injured tissue beneath the skin. So, no heat, discomfort, damage, or scarring.

When you come for your laser therapy session in Bend, our chiropractors direct a specialized device over the injured area of your body. Penetrating deep into your tissues, this light energizes your cells to boost blood circulation and trigger a series of natural self-healing processes. That’s how LLLT accelerates tissue repair, reducing inflammation & providing immediate pain relief.

Treatment plans vary but most conditions can be treated with a few times a week to start. This method has been authenticated by many studies stating that LLLT has fewer side effects, is perfect for older patients, works like magic in pain management, helps your body heal faster, and provides quick pain relief. Our FDA-cleared laser device lets us treat a range of conditions, such as these:

  • Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains
  • Joint pain in the knees, shoulders, wrists, or ankles
  • Inflammation from overuse, repetitive motion, or acute trauma
  • Tendonitis and bursitis, which often resist other treatments

Why Combine Laser Therapy and Chiropractic Care?

Did you know that 1,800 chiropractic physicians operate in the Beaver State? Annually, around 35 million Americans see a chiropractor. But our Bend chiropractors recommend combining the much-appreciated laser therapy with their usual methods due to “synergy.” It means that these treatment options complement each other’s therapeutic effects, helping you recover faster. With laser therapy, your tissues get ample light energy that reduces inflammation and calms your overactive nerves. As a result, your body becomes more receptive to chiropractic adjustments.

Our chiropractors can realign your spine and joints with greater precision and comfort, restoring healthy movement and function. They aim to ensure that your body’s overall structure supports optimal healing. When your spine and joints are moving in the right direction, you will see a 100% improvement in blood flow. That’s why research says that chiropractic care is an affordable, drug-free method for alleviating chronic pain. Using this laser-chiro combination, our Bend-based chiropractic team offer these benefits:

  • Faster recovery from injury: Laser therapy accelerates tissue repair, while chiropractic care restores alignment. You heal quickly and thoroughly, so you can get back to your favorite activities.
  • Reduced muscle tension and joint stress: The laser calms inflamed tissues, making spinal adjustments easier and more comfortable. You experience less soreness and faster relief.
  • Improved mobility and long-term outcomes: By addressing both pain and underlying causes, you enjoy better movement and lasting results.

Our Bend chiropractors see these benefits daily. Athletes bounce back from sprains and strains. Parents find relief from chronic back or neck pain. Older adults manage arthritis-related joint pain and regain independence. Whether you are recovering from a recent injury or managing a long-standing condition, this combination offers a clear path to wellness.

What Conditions Are Best Treated Together?

At Total Body Chiropractic, we tailor every treatment plan to your unique needs and wellness goals. Using an amazing combo of laser therapy and chiropractic care, our experts in Bend can provide relief for range of conditions from chronic back pain to sports injuries:

Musculoskeletal Pain

For this kind of pain, a blend of laser therapy and chiropractic can prove quite beneficial.

  • Back and Neck Pain: Studies show that blending laser therapy with chiropractic care is a wonderful treatment option for back pain. Laser therapy soothes your tense muscles and our expert chiropractors restore alignment. They can relieve nerve pressure and help you move freely again.
  • Muscle Strains: Overworked muscles respond quickly to laser therapy. It boosts cellular repair and reduces swelling. With chiropractic adjustments, you can return to your daily routine with less risk of reinjury.

Joint Conditions

If you have a joint condition, this is what our laser-chiro treatment can do for you:

  • Arthritis: Your daily life can become quite challenging with joint pain/stiffness. With laser therapy, your joints will become less inflamed and more mobile.
  • Frozen Shoulder: This condition limits your shoulder’s movement and takes months to resolve. However, laser therapy reduces inflammation in the joint capsule, and chiropractic mobilizations restore movement.

Nerve-Related Issues

This process helps people experiencing these problems:

  • Sciatica: This nerve pain radiates from your lower back, moving down your leg. It happens because of spinal misalignment or a herniated disc. So, this combo will calm your irritated nerves via inflammation reduction while relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve.
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Nerve compression in your wrist can lead to a tingling feeling or numbness in your hand (or arm). Laser-chiro treats the inflammation and ensures that your wrist is aligning perfectly with your spine.

Post-Surgical Recovery or Injury Rehab

Your body takes time to heal after surgery. Laser energy quickens the tissue recovery process, reducing the formation of scars. Our chiropractors help restore routine movement patterns while preventing compensatory injuries. Together, these two therapies easily support a smoother, more complete recovery. That’s how you can get back to living fully.

No matter your condition, our Bend chiropractors will create a personalized plan to target your pain, speed your healing, and help you reclaim your active lifestyle.

Is It Safe? Does It Hurt? What Should I Expect?

A product view of a Medray Quad Class IV laser used to accelerate healing and relieve pain in chiropractic care.

Laser therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free treatment option for pain management and healing. Unlike traditional methods that may involve medications or surgery, deep tissue laser therapy has minimal side effects. It works by using low-level light that penetrates the skin without damaging surrounding tissues. The device used in our clinic is FDA-approved, and our chiropractors are professionally trained to administer the therapy with precision and care for targeted treatment.

Most patients report feeling nothing more than a gentle warmth during the session—if anything at all. There are no needles, no incisions, and no downtime. It’s a comfortable, relaxing experience that’s easy to fit into your day. You can even come in during your lunch break and head right back to your normal routine afterward.

During your visit to our Bend chiropractic clinic, we’ll begin by assessing your condition and determining the best treatment plan for your needs. A typical laser therapy session lasts just a few minutes, depending on the area being treated. The laser is applied directly to the skin over the affected area, where it gets to work stimulating cellular repair, reducing inflammation, and easing pain. While some people experience immediate relief, others notice improvement after a few sessions—especially when combined with chiropractic care.

How Often Should You Get These Treatments?

You’re probably wondering how often you should receive laser therapy treatment. The frequency largely depends on your individual goals and how your body responds to the therapy. For acute conditions—such as a recent sprain or strain—our chiropractors typically recommend starting with 2 to 3 sessions per week to effectively jumpstart your body’s natural healing process.

When it comes to chronic pain or long-standing issues, you might visit less often. Your sessions will then be spaced out over several weeks or even months. Our Bend chiropractor will create a highly personalized care plan based on your early assessment. Our goal is always to help you achieve lasting relief and independence, so you can return to your favorite activities as quickly and safely as possible.

Final Thoughts: Is Laser Therapy Right for You?

Are you tired of living with pain? Do you feel frustrated by slow progress with other treatments? The ideal solution is chiropractic laser therapy for a holistic, non-invasive path to healing. At Total Body Chiropractic, our Bend chiropractors help you unlock your body’s own natural ability to heal. We use the state-of-the-art Medray Quad Class IV laser technology and a personalized touch to deliver lasting results.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out to Total Body Chiropractic in Bend today. Schedule an appointment, ask questions, and discover how laser therapy & chiropractic care together can help you live pain-free. Your journey to lasting wellness starts now.

 

 

By Bari Liebowitz General Health

How Chiropractic Care Helps You Heal from Sports Injuries

Staying physically active is one of the best ways to support long-term health. Whether you’re playing a sport, hiking trails, lifting weights, or simply enjoying your daily walks, movement helps maintain energy, mobility, and a strong sense of well-being. But even with the best habits and intentions, sports injuries can happen—and when they do, they can throw a wrench in your routine.

A sports injury can range from a minor sprain to a more disruptive muscle strain or joint issue that keeps you from your usual activities. That pain might come from one awkward motion or from repeated stress that gradually wears down your body. And when it strikes, the most important thing you can do is respond quickly and smartly—with care that treats the root of the issue, not just the symptoms.

That’s exactly what chiropractic care offers. Through expert assessment, hands-on treatment, and a whole-body approach to healing, chiropractic helps your body recover faster, reduce inflammation, and restore balance so you can return to your active lifestyle with confidence.

Why Sports Injuries Happen—and What They Look Like

Injuries don’t always occur during high-impact activity. In fact, many sports injuries happen in low-intensity situations—like lifting awkwardly, twisting during a golf swing, or taking a wrong step while trail walking. Others result from overuse: the slow buildup of tension or inflammation from repetitive motions that put strain on joints and muscles.

Common examples of sports-related injuries include:

  • Muscle strain in the back, shoulders, or legs
  • Neck pain from poor posture or awkward positioning
  • Joint sprains from sudden direction changes
  • Tendonitis in areas like the elbow, wrist, or knee
  • Lower back pain triggered by lifting or rotation
  • Repetitive strain injuries from cycling, tennis, or running

These injuries can affect your strength, balance, and coordination. Worse, they can linger and lead to future injuries if not treated properly. That’s why it’s so important to address them with a focused, personalized approach—one that goes beyond rest and painkillers.

Why Chiropractic Care Makes a Difference

Chiropractic care is more than just adjustments. It’s a method of care that works with your body’s natural systems to help you heal faster and stay healthier for longer.

When you visit our sports injury chiropractor, you’ll begin with a thorough assessment to determine the full scope of your injury—not just where it hurts, but what’s causing the imbalance. Often, we find that the source of pain isn’t where the pain shows up. For example, tight hip muscles might be putting extra pressure on the lower back, or poor shoulder mechanics might be leading to neck pain.

With this whole-body view, we create a customized treatment plan that may include:

  • Chiropractic adjustments to improve alignment and relieve pressure
  • Manual therapy to release muscle tension and increase circulation
  • Functional movement strategies to support better motion
  • Specific home exercises for strength, flexibility, and recovery

Our goal is to not only treat the pain but restore your ability to move freely—without fear of reinjury.

How Chiropractic Treatment Helps the Healing Proces

Recovery after a sports injury depends on more than just rest. The body needs support to heal tissues, restore joint function, and reestablish balance between muscles and movement patterns. That’s where chiropractic treatment shines.

A well-timed chiropractic adjustment can reduce nerve interference and promote circulation, helping your body repair itself more effectively. When combined with manual therapy and targeted exercises, this approach reduces inflammation, promotes muscle function, and supports stability in the joints.

Unlike treatments that mask the pain, chiropractic focuses on correcting the problem. That makes it not only a short-term fix but a long-term solution for those who want to stay active for years to come.

In many cases, we also collaborate with physical therapy providers when more extensive rehabilitation is needed. This integrated approach ensures your treatment plan supports your full recovery from every angle.

When to See a Chiropractor After a Sports Injury

Recognizing the right time to see a chiropractor can be the key to faster healing and avoiding further damage. While many people wait until their pain becomes intense or persistent, early intervention often leads to better outcomes. If you’ve experienced a sudden jolt, a pulling sensation, or discomfort that doesn’t improve after a couple of days, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit. Even seemingly minor issues, like lingering tightness or stiffness after a workout, can point to deeper imbalances that need to be addressed.

Pain during movement, limited flexibility, or weakness in a joint are also signs that your body isn’t functioning optimally. These symptoms might make it harder to engage in daily activities or recover properly from exercise. Our chiropractic team in Bend can perform a thorough assessment to determine the root of the problem and guide you toward a treatment plan that gets you moving again, safely and effectively. Seeing one of our chiropractors sooner rather than later can mean the difference between a quick recovery and a chronic issue that lingers for weeks or months.

 

5 Ways Chiropractic Speeds Up Sports Injury Recovery

Chiropractor working on the upper back of a patient.

Here’s how working with one of our Bend chiropractors helps you return to the activities you love, faster and with better results:

  1. Restores Joint Function
    Misaligned joints can restrict movement and create tension. Chiropractic care improves mobility and joint health.
  2. Reduces Muscle Tension and Strain
    Through manual therapy, tight areas are relaxed, improving blood flow and easing muscle strain.
  3. Supports Natural Inflammation Control
    Instead of relying on medications, chiropractic works with your body’s healing mechanisms to manage swelling and discomfort.
  4. Improves Posture and Body Mechanics
    Your treatment plan includes movement education, helping you avoid future imbalances that lead to injury.
  5. Encourages Long-Term Strength and Stability
    Chiropractic care goes beyond short-term fixes to support ongoing balance, strength, and athletic performance.

Sports Chiropractic for Prevention and Performance

Chiropractic care isn’t just reactive—it’s proactive. Many active individuals incorporate regular visits to a sports chiropractor as part of their overall wellness and training routine. By identifying movement imbalances, joint restrictions, or areas of muscular tightness before they cause problems, chiropractic care helps you stay ahead of potential injuries. This is especially important if you’re returning to activity after time off, increasing your training load, or adjusting your workouts with the seasons.

Beyond prevention, chiropractic care plays a powerful role in optimizing performance. When your joints move freely, your muscles function more efficiently, and your posture is well-supported, your body operates at a higher level. You recover more quickly between activities, maintain better balance and coordination, and reduce the wear and tear that leads to overuse injuries. Whether you’re looking to enhance your athletic output or simply stay consistent with your favorite activities, ongoing chiropractic care with our Bend chiropractors can support you in moving better, feeling stronger, and performing at your best.

Common Conditions We Treat

At Total Body Chiropractic, we support patients dealing with a wide range of injuries and mobility challenges, including:

  • Sprains, strains, and soft tissue injuries
  • Neck pain and upper body tension
  • Lower back pain related to posture or lifting
  • Overuse injuries from repetitive movements
  • Joint dysfunction affecting shoulders, hips, and knees

We also provide care that supports injury prevention for those who are returning to activity after time off, transitioning into a new sport, or increasing their training volume.

Why Total Body Chiropractic Is Your Trusted Partner in Recovery

Our chiropractic clinic in Bend offers more than treatment—we offer a patient experience that’s thoughtful, supportive, and tailored to you. From your first visit, you’ll feel the difference. Our friendly staff takes the time to listen and understand your goals, and our chiropractic team builds a plan that’s as personal as it is practical.

We use a combination of modern and traditional chiropractic techniques designed to deliver safe, effective treatment with every visit. Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury, dealing with a nagging muscle strain, or simply want to improve your athletic performance, we’re here to help you feel better and move better every step of the way.

We proudly serve Bend and the surrounding area, and we’re honored to be known as one of the best chiropractors in Central Oregon for movement-focused care.

Your Path to a Pain-Free Life Starts Here

Pain doesn’t have to be part of your everyday life. With the right support and care, you can overcome injury, regain function, and enjoy an active lifestyle without compromise.

Whether you’re already struggling with a sports injury or want to stay ahead of one, our chiropractic team in Bend is here to provide the guidance, treatment, and encouragement you need.

Book your appointment today with Total Body Chiropractic and take your first step toward a more mobile, balanced, and pain-free life.

 

By Bari Liebowitz General Health

Get Ready for Summer with Chiropractic Support

As the snow melts and Bend’s mountains and trails begin to bloom, it’s the perfect time to get back outside and enjoy the activities you love—hiking, biking, paddleboarding, or simply walking along the river. But if you’re like many people, the transition from winter hibernation to active movement can come with some unwanted surprises: muscle tightness, lower back pain, or even a sharp jolt that shoots down your leg.

If that sounds familiar, you might be dealing with irritation of the sciatic nerve, a condition that can put a serious damper on your summer plans. Fortunately, preparing your body now with targeted chiropractic care can help you step into spring feeling strong, aligned, and pain-free.

The Outdoor Lifestyle and the Risks of Sciatic Flare-Ups

A family goes hiking in a forest in Bend. Oregon.

Living in Bend means being active. Whether it’s hiking at Shevlin Park, biking the Deschutes River Trail, or simply doing yardwork under the sun, locals thrive on movement. But activity comes with increased demand on the spine and the supporting structures of the lower back—and that’s where problems often start.

After a winter of sitting more and moving less, your spine might be stiff, your muscles tight, and your posture compromised. Then spring hits, and you’re suddenly lifting gear, bending to weed your garden, or hitting the trails. Without preparation, these movements can compress the sciatic nerve, leading to a condition known as sciatica.

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is pinched or irritated, often by herniated discs, inflammation, or misalignment of the spine or pelvis. The resulting sciatica symptoms can include burning, tingling, or radiating pain down the leg. Many people describe it as an electric shock that makes even basic activities uncomfortable or unmanageable.

If you’ve had sciatica before, the chances of it returning during activity spikes in spring and summer. But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with it—especially if you start preparing now.

How Chiropractic Treatment Supports an Active Lifestyle

Chiropractic care is uniquely suited to help people transition safely from sedentary to active routines. At Total Body Chiropractic in Bend, we take a full-body approach to preventing and relieving sciatica pain. Instead of masking symptoms, we focus on addressing the underlying cause of discomfort so you can move freely and confidently.

One of the primary tools we use is the chiropractic adjustment, which helps restore spinal alignment and mobility. When the vertebrae are properly aligned, nerve pressure is reduced—making it less likely that the sciatic nerve will become irritated during activity.

We also offer spinal decompression, a technique that gently stretches the spine to alleviate pressure on discs and nerves. This can be particularly effective for those whose sciatic pain is related to disc issues or muscle spasms in the lower back.

Another key part of your chiropractic treatment plan may include manual therapy and stretching. Tightness in the hips and glutes can place excess tension on the sciatic nerve, especially if you’ve been sitting for long periods. Addressing these imbalances through focused care reduces your risk of flare-ups and supports smoother movement when you’re out on the trail or working in the yard.

Smart Strategies to Avoid Sciatica This Season

To help you stay ahead of sciatic nerve pain this spring and summer, here are five chiropractor-recommended steps you can take today:
1. Warm Up Before You Play – Before hiking, biking, or gardening, get your body moving with light stretches and dynamic exercises that activate your glutes, hips, and core.
2. Schedule a Spinal Adjustment – Regular chiropractic care improves spinal alignment, reducing the risk of inflammation and compression on the sciatic nerve.
3. Stretch Tight Areas Daily – Focus on the hamstrings, hip flexors, and piriformis muscles to ease tension and prevent spasms.
4. Use Good Body Mechanics – Whether you’re lifting kayaks or digging in your flower beds, keep your spine neutral, bend at the knees, and avoid twisting abruptly.
5. Stay Hydrated and Move Often – Dehydrated muscles fatigue faster and tighten up, increasing the likelihood of a sciatica episode. Regular movement and hydration help maintain mobility and cushion spinal discs.

When to Seek Help from a Chiropractor in Bend

A chiropractor sitting working on the neck of a patient.

You don’t need to be sidelined by sciatic pain to benefit from seeing one of our Bend chiropractors. In fact, we often see patients who want to stay ahead of discomfort before the active season begins. Chiropractic care can support your wellness goals by identifying and correcting early signs of spinal dysfunction or muscular imbalance.

If you’re already experiencing lower back pain, numbness, or tingling down one leg—or if standing or walking triggers discomfort—you may already be dealing with sciatica. Early intervention with chiropractic adjustment, soft tissue therapy, and spinal decompression can stop the pain from progressing and promote faster healing.

Even if symptoms are mild, it’s better to act now than to push through pain and risk more severe problems. Our chiropractic team will develop a treatment plan based on your specific needs, activity goals, and the state of your musculoskeletal system, helping you return to the activities you love without worry.

Lifestyle Changes That Make a Lasting Difference

Healing from sciatica and staying pain-free throughout the season isn’t just about what happens in the treatment room—it’s also about the habits you build outside of it. At Total Body Chiropractic, we guide you through sustainable lifestyle changes that promote lasting relief and improved physical performance.

This might include coaching around proper posture during work or recreation, recommendations for ergonomic gear, and customized home stretches that complement your care. We also encourage specific strengthening exercises to reinforce the core and improve support for your spine—so you’re not just out of pain, but fully equipped to stay that way.

Regular, low-impact exercise plays a key role in sciatica prevention and recovery. We often recommend activities like walking, swimming, gentle yoga, or using resistance bands to target stabilizing muscles. These movements improve circulation, reduce muscle tension, and help prevent the muscular imbalances that can lead to sciatic nerve irritation.

By focusing on prevention, mobility, and support, you’ll create a foundation that allows you to enjoy the full range of everyday activities Bend offers—from riverside walks to summer races—without the fear of sciatica slowing you down.

Your Next Step Toward a Stronger, Pain-Free Season

The best time to prepare for summer activity is before the action begins. Whether you’ve struggled with sciatica in the past or just want to ensure your body is ready for adventure, chiropractic care is one of the most effective, natural, and supportive ways to get there.

At Total Body Chiropractic in Bend, Oregon, we believe in helping you move better, feel better, and fully enjoy your outdoor lifestyle—without relying on medication or invasive procedures. With personalized care, expert adjustments, and a focus on lasting results, we’re here to help you make this your most active, pain-free season yet.

Book your appointment today and take the first step toward long-term relief, improved movement, and the confidence to get out and explore Bend this spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is sciatica, and how do I know if I have it?

Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated, often due to spinal misalignment, a herniated disc, or tight muscles in the lower back and hips. Common signs include pain that radiates from your lower back down one leg, tingling, or a feeling similar to an electric shock. If your discomfort worsens during movement or after long periods of sitting, it’s worth seeing one of our chiropractors in Bend for a proper assessment.

2. How does chiropractic care help with sciatica pain?

Chiropractic treatment targets the root causes of sciatica, such as nerve compression, poor spinal alignment, or muscular imbalance. Through chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, and soft tissue therapy, we help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, ease muscle spasms, and improve overall movement. Many patients experience both immediate and long-term relief with consistent care.

3. Can chiropractic adjustments prevent sciatica from coming back?

Yes—regular chiropractic adjustments not only relieve current pain but also support healthy posture, mobility, and nerve function. When the spine and surrounding muscles are balanced, there’s less chance of recurring sciatic pain. We also provide guidance on lifestyle changes and strengthening routines that support your spine between visits.

4. Is it safe to exercise or hike if I’ve had sciatica?

It depends on the severity of your symptoms and your current level of recovery. With a proper treatment plan and guidance from a sciatica chiropractor, many people return to activities like hiking or biking safely. It’s important to start gradually, warm up thoroughly, and incorporate specific stretches to protect your sciatic nerve and support your musculoskeletal system.

5. What should I expect at my first chiropractic visit for sciatica?

Your first visit will include a comprehensive evaluation of your spine, posture, and sciatica symptoms. We’ll discuss your activity goals, identify any underlying issues, and create a personalized care plan. Treatments may include spinal adjustments, manual therapy, or other techniques designed to reduce inflammation and restore function—naturally and without drugs.

6. When should I see a chiropractor for lower back or leg pain?

If you’re experiencing persistent lower back pain, tingling, or leg discomfort that interferes with everyday activities, it’s a good idea to visit a chiropractor. Early care helps reduce your risk of worsening symptoms, supports better healing, and ensures your spine and sciatic nerve are functioning properly—especially as you become more active in spring and summer.