Conditions Treated | ACT Chiropractic

Arthritis

Arthritis, commonly referred to as joint pain or joint disease, is the leading cause of disability in America, affecting more than 50 million adults and 300,000 children. This condition can impact people of all ages and often presents with symptoms such as swelling, pain, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion. In more severe cases, arthritis can lead to chronic pain, difficulty performing everyday activities, and even permanent joint damage. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, we understand how limiting arthritis can be and focus on helping patients manage their symptoms naturally while improving joint function and overall mobility.

To determine whether you may be suffering from arthritis and to assess its severity, a medical professional may perform blood tests and imaging scans such as X-rays, CAT scans, or MRIs. Once diagnosed, adopting healthy lifestyle habits plays a key role in managing the condition. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, and understanding your specific type of arthritis and available treatment options are essential steps toward reducing discomfort.

Auto Injuries

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, even a minor one, your body may be dealing with hidden injuries that can worsen over time without proper care. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, we specialize in treating auto-related injuries such as whiplash, soft tissue damage, back pain, and joint misalignment. Our approach focuses on identifying the root cause of your discomfort and creating a personalized treatment plan to restore mobility, reduce inflammation, and support your body’s natural healing process—without relying on medication or invasive procedures.

Prompt treatment after an accident is essential, even if symptoms seem mild at first. Delayed pain, stiffness, headaches, and reduced range of motion are common after auto injuries and can interfere with your daily life if left unaddressed. At ACT Chiropractic, we use gentle, targeted adjustments and therapeutic techniques to help realign the spine, relieve pressure on nerves, and improve overall function. Our goal is to help you recover quickly, feel better naturally, and get back to living your life with confidence and comfort.

Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common health concerns people face and is recognized as the leading cause of disability worldwide. Because of how widespread and disruptive it can be, understanding how to prevent back pain is essential. Simple lifestyle habits can make a significant difference, including maintaining a healthy diet and weight, staying physically active, and avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity or bed rest. These preventative measures help support spinal health, improve muscle strength, and reduce unnecessary strain on the back.

In addition to daily habits, preparing your body for movement is just as important. Before engaging in exercise or any physical activity, it is recommended to warm up and stretch to reduce the risk of injury and improve flexibility. Taking these proactive steps can help protect your spine, minimize discomfort, and keep your body functioning at its best. With the right approach, many cases of back pain can be prevented or managed effectively, allowing you to stay active and maintain a better quality of life.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

CTS is a problem of the median nerve which runs from the forearm into the hand. When there is excessive pressure in the wrist, it causes swelling of the median nerve. This small area called the carpal tunnel is a narrow tunnel at the wrist made up of bones, soft tissues, nerves, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels. When the median nerve which runs through this tunnel gets compressed it causes pain, weakness, numbness or tingling in the hand and wrist which radiates into the forearm. The carpal tunnel is the most common area that gets compressed in both the hands and feet.

CTS should be diagnosed and treated early. During your consultation, you will receive a standard physical examination of the hands, arms, shoulders and neck to help determine if your symptoms are related to daily activities or to an underlying disorder. Our highly skilled chiropractor will also utilize other orthopedic tests to try to produce the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Laboratory tests and x-rays can reveal diabetes, arthritis, fractures, and other common causes of wrist and hand pain.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease occurs when the natural, age-related changes in the discs of your spine begin to cause pain. These discs, located between each vertebra, act as shock absorbers that allow your spine to move comfortably and efficiently. Over time, they gradually lose flexibility and resilience. While this process is a normal part of aging, it should not typically result in pain. When discomfort, stiffness, or reduced mobility develops as a result of these changes, it is classified as degenerative disc disease. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, we focus on addressing these symptoms with gentle, non-invasive care designed to support spinal health and improve overall function.

Each spinal disc is made up of a tough outer layer and a soft, gel-like inner core that helps cushion movement. At birth, these discs are largely composed of water, but as the body ages, they begin to lose hydration and become thinner. This loss of water content reduces their ability to absorb the everyday stresses placed on the spine, which can lead to increased pressure, irritation, and discomfort. At ACT Chiropractic, we create personalized care plans aimed at relieving pain, improving mobility, and helping you maintain a more active, comfortable lifestyle despite these changes.

Headaches / Migraines

Headaches and migraines are incredibly common, with nine out of ten Americans reporting that they suffer from headaches at some point. For some, these episodes are occasional, while others experience frequent or even constant headaches that can be severe and debilitating. In many cases, headaches are accompanied by additional symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light, and difficulty concentrating. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, we understand how disruptive headaches and migraines can be and focus on identifying the underlying causes to help provide lasting relief.

In fact, 95% of headaches fall into three categories: tension, migraine, or cluster headaches. These types are typically not caused by disease, but rather by issues within the body such as misalignment, muscle tension, or stress. When the spine or surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, it can place pressure on nerves and lead to recurring pain. At ACT Chiropractic, our approach is centered on gentle, targeted care to help restore proper alignment, reduce tension, and improve overall function—helping you experience fewer headaches and a better quality of life.

Knee Pain

Knee pain is becoming an increasingly common problem in today’s society and is a complaint we see frequently at ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM. Many people experience knee discomfort due to everyday “wear and tear,” which can develop over time from repetitive movement, strain, or injury. Another common condition affecting the knee is osteoarthritis, which can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. These issues can make simple daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or exercising more difficult and uncomfortable.

The symptoms and progression of osteoarthritis and general knee pain can often be reduced with the right approach to care. At ACT Chiropractic, we provide individualized treatment plans designed to address the underlying causes of your knee pain, not just the symptoms. Through gentle adjustments and supportive therapies, we aim to improve joint function, reduce inflammation, and enhance mobility. Our goal is to help you move more comfortably, stay active, and maintain a higher quality of life without relying on invasive procedures.

Neck Pain

Neck pain is a common issue that can significantly affect your comfort and daily activities. The neck, also known as the cervical spine, begins at the base of the skull and is made up of seven small vertebrae. This part of the spine supports the full weight of your head, which averages about 12 pounds. While the cervical spine allows your head to move in nearly every direction, this flexibility also makes it especially vulnerable to strain, pain, and injury. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, we understand how important proper neck function is and work to identify the root cause of your discomfort.

Because the neck is constantly in motion and under stress from posture, work habits, and daily activities, it can easily become misaligned or irritated. This may lead to symptoms such as stiffness, reduced range of motion, headaches, or radiating pain into the shoulders and arms. At ACT Chiropractic, we provide personalized, gentle care designed to restore proper alignment, reduce tension, and improve mobility. Our goal is to help relieve your pain, support long-term spinal health, and get you back to feeling and functioning at your best.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a medical condition caused by damaged nerve cells and is often associated with issues such as autoimmune diseases, infections, diabetes, tumors, or hereditary conditions. Peripheral neuropathy alone affects over 20 million people in the United States, making it a widespread and often challenging condition. Symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, ranging from tingling or burning sensations and nausea to muscle spasms, weakness, difficulty moving the arms or legs, and even muscle atrophy. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, we understand how disruptive nerve-related conditions can be and focus on identifying contributing factors to help manage discomfort and improve function.

Because neuropathy affects the nervous system, it can interfere with your body’s ability to communicate properly, impacting movement, sensation, and overall quality of life. While the underlying cause may differ, supportive care can play an important role in symptom management. At ACT Chiropractic, we provide personalized, non-invasive care aimed at improving nerve function, reducing inflammation, and supporting the body’s natural healing processes.

Personal Injury

Personal injuries can happen unexpectedly, whether from an auto accident, slip and fall, or other incident, and receiving proper care as soon as possible is essential for recovery. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, our goal is to help you receive the comprehensive care you deserve after an injury so you can maintain your quality of life and begin feeling like yourself again. We are dedicated to providing personalized treatment plans that address your specific needs, focusing on relieving pain, restoring mobility, and supporting your body’s natural healing process.

Too often, individuals involved in an auto accident or injury may not notice symptoms right away, with pain and discomfort developing days or even weeks later. This delay can make it easy to overlook underlying issues that require attention. That’s where the professionals at ACT Chiropractic come in. Our team is experienced in assisting patients through every stage of personal injury recovery, offering gentle, effective care to help reduce inflammation, improve function, and promote long-term healing so you can get back to your normal routine with confidence.

Pinched Nerve

A pinched nerve can happen in a variety of places throughout the body with some of the most common being the lower spine, wrists, neck, and legs. A pinched nerve occurs when the muscles or tendons around the nerve are inflamed, putting pressure on the nerve and either causing pain or even numbness throughout the extremities related or attached to this affected nerve.
Your pinched nerve may be caused by different physical conditions such as carpal tunnel or a herniated disc. Though pinched nerves can be painful, the majority of patients find that their pinched nerve(s) goes away on its own.

If the pinched nerve does not resolve itself and you have persistent pain that lasts for more than a few days, you should seek medical attention by scheduling an appointment at ACT Chiropractic with our chiropractor. This is especially true if you’ve tried at-home treatments but feel like your pain is worsening as time progresses. With pinched nerves, it’s important to seek medical attention in order to identify the underlying cause of the pinched nerve to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain in the lower back that radiates down one or both legs. Many people describe the discomfort as dull, achy, sharp, like “pins and needles,” or even similar to electric shocks. Additional symptoms can include burning sensations, numbness, or tingling along the affected leg. The intensity of sciatic nerve pain can range from mild to severe, and its frequency may vary from occasional to constant. Typically, sciatica develops gradually and may not be linked to any specific injury or event. It is also referred to as radiating or referred pain, neuropathy, or neuralgia.

At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, we focus on addressing the underlying causes of sciatica to help reduce pain and improve mobility. By using targeted, non-invasive treatments, we aim to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, restore proper spinal alignment, and support your body’s natural healing processes. Our goal is to help you manage symptoms effectively, regain comfort, and return to an active lifestyle without the constant burden of nerve pain.

Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a very common condition, affecting nearly half of the U.S. population at some point in their lives. Many individuals experience discomfort, a limited range of motion, or difficulty performing activities of daily living (ADLs) such as reaching, lifting, or carrying objects. In more severe cases, untreated shoulder issues can lead to chronic pain or even permanent disability. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, we understand how shoulder pain can interfere with daily life and focus on providing targeted care to restore function and reduce discomfort.

Our approach addresses the underlying causes of shoulder pain rather than just masking symptoms. Through gentle adjustments, therapeutic techniques, and individualized treatment plans, we work to improve joint mobility, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

Sports Injury

Sports can be very taxing on the body, regardless of the activity or level of play. Athletes and active individuals often experience injuries that affect the neck, back, shoulders, knees, or ankles. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, our trusted staff works closely with you to identify the root cause of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you feel better and recover more quickly. Our goal is not only to treat injuries but also to prevent them, keeping your body strong, balanced, and resilient for future activity.

Through manual spinal adjustments and targeted therapies, we can relieve pain, improve joint function, and restore proper alignment. This allows your body to function more efficiently after an injury, reducing strain on surrounding muscles and joints. Whether you are recovering from a recent sports injury or looking to prevent future issues, ACT Chiropractic provides comprehensive care designed to get you back in the game safely and at your best.

TMJ

The temporomandibular joint connects the mandibular, or your lower jaw, to the temporal bones of the skull. The TMJ is one of the more unique joints within your body as it allows you to move your jaw forward, backward, and side to side so that you can chew, talk, sing, yawn, and more. This joint can be found just in front of your ears on both sides of your head.

Any problem with the muscles, ligaments, discs, bones, or the joint itself are known as temporomandibular disorders or TMD and refers to the actual disorder, where the jaw joint is misaligned and causing problems such as pain, inflammation, and inability to move or operate the jaw. However, these problems or conditions are often incorrectly called by the joint name of TMJ instead.

Vertigo

Vertigo is the feeling that you are moving when you’re not. This sensation can be triggered by movements such as turning your head too quickly or looking down from a great distance, but it is ultimately caused by problems in the inner ear, brain, or brainstem. There are two different forms of vertigo with each stemming from various medical issues: peripheral vertigo and central vertigo.

Peripheral vertigo results in a problem with your inner ear and thus your balance, while central vertigo occurs when your brain or brainstem are suffering from a disease originating from your central nervous system (CNS). Peripheral vertigo is typically more severe, and central vertigo is more gradual in its onset. Regardless of the type of dizziness you are experiencing, more than likely, your quality of life is suffering because of it.

Whiplash

According to the American Chiropractic Association, one of the most common causes of neck pain is whiplash, often resulting from a car accident. Whiplash occurs when the head or neck is suddenly forced in one direction and then rebounds in the opposite direction, creating a rapid “whipping” motion. This sudden movement can injure the supporting tissues of the neck and head, causing muscles to tighten and contract. Over time, this muscle fatigue can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

In more severe cases, whiplash can affect not only the muscles but also the intervertebral joints, discs, ligaments, and nerve roots. At ACT Chiropractic in Carlsbad, NM, we provide personalized care to address these injuries, using gentle spinal adjustments and therapeutic techniques to reduce pain, restore proper alignment, and improve function.

Work Injuries

Workplace injuries don’t only occur during traumatic slips and falls at work but are more often than not, the result of repetitive movements, and caused by doing the physical demands required of your job over an extended period of time. These types of workplace injuries are all too common in today’s workforce and are best identified by their symptoms.

Symptoms of a workplace injury can include:

Lower back pain
Shoulder pain
Carpal tunnel and hand pain
Disc injuries
Sciatica (pain caused by the sciatic nerve in your lower back and legs)
Joint pain