Research has shown that patients with pain improve faster with properly prescribed exercises directed at correcting the mechanical cause of pain. Optimal function is different for each person based on their lifestyle. When applicable, our providers will develop an individual exercise protocol specifically designed for you based on your injury and the activity/sport to which you wish to return. Scientific studies also show that exercise is most effective when combined with manual therapy (adjustments, soft tissue treatment, dry needling, etc.)

Soft tissue therapies are designed to rid injured areas of adhesions or scar tissues that develop in muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves.  These adhesions limit blood flow to the tissue, shorten muscle, and decrease overall function of the structures.  These therapies are useful in treating numerous conditions to include, but not limited to, headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, TMJ dysfunction, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow.

At United Spine & Performance we provide various soft tissue therapies:

• Pin & Stretch technique to work scar tissue formed within muscles and tendons by pinning a shortened muscle then taking the muscle through full range of motion.  
• Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manipulation (IASTM), which is similar to pin & stretch, but with the use of a tool to promote blood flow and remodeling of tissue.  
• Cupping to provide negative pressure to the tissues to promote blood flow, decrease pain, and produce relaxation.

Acupuncture involves the placement of hair-fine needles at strategic points on the body. Traditional Chinese Medicine holds that these points alter the flow of energy along imaginary pathways called meridians. Scientists believe that the needles alter nerve conduction and release natural pain relievers called endorphines.

Acupuncture is frequently used to treat infertility, irregular/painful menstruation, PCOS, anxiety, stress, depression, insomnia, PTSD, musculoskeletal conditions and pain, allergies, arthritis, headaches/migraines, tendonitis, hypertension, chemotherapy related symptoms, and more.

Dry needling is skilled technique performed by your physician using filiform needles to penetrate the skin and/or underlying tissues to affect change in body structures and function by reducing tissue tension, improving (micro) circulation, and normalizing physiological processes. The local and systemic effects of dry needling assist to remodel dysfunctional tissue as well as reducing biomechanical imbalance and physiological dysfunction like inflammation and tissue ischemia.

We frequently use dry needling for headaches, migraines, back pain, hip pain, TMJ disorder, elbow pain, plantar fasciitis, musculoskeletal pain not responding to other soft tissue therapies, or patients who wish to recover or return to sports as quick as possible.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is the root cause in a third of neck pain cases and will not resolve without effective treatment of the jaw.   TMJ dysfunction is commonly associated with tension headaches, migraines, clenching, jaw pain, ear pain, neck pain, pain behind the eye, and jaw popping.

Addressing key muscle imbalances in the jaw and neck in addition to patient education are vital in treating this condition.  Some cases may require co-management with a dentist’s office to be fitted for a splint or bite guard. We prides ourselves on working with other physicians when indicated to achieve the best care for our patients.

Dr. Oakley is certified in Webster technique through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Webster technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and manipulation with the goal of reducing effects of SI joint dysfunction. Sacral dysfunction may contribute to difficult labor for the mother caused by inadequate uterine function, pelvic contraction, and baby mal-presentation.