Are you one of the 50 million Americans that suffer from chronic pain?

Having pain that does not go away no matter what you try can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Chronic pain that persists can restrict daily activities at work and with family and can lead to frustration, anxiety, depression, and even social isolation.

Fortunately, chiropractic care is a great option for anyone suffering from chronic pain.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about 20 percent of adults in America suffer from pain that lasts three months or longer. Chronic pain is a leading cause of disability and a common reason for seeking medical care.

Dr. Llaird Likens is a trusted chiropractor who has been helping patients with chronic pain for nearly 18 years.

“Dr Likens has been my savior for a few years now. Whenever my hips and lower back get out

of wack a quick adjustment and I’m like new again,” said Amanda, a long time patient of Dr. Likens.

Chronic pain can worsen when it’s not treated properly. Traditional medicine methods can sometimes mask the pain with medication or use surgery that permanently alters the body.

Instead, chiropractic care can release pressure, tension and pain with regular treatments and keep the pain away naturally. Regular treatments keep the tension and pain from building back up in a non-invasive, medication-free way. 

Keeping the pain away is important, but there is more to Dr. Likens’ approach.

“He’s also very informational and truly wants to help solve the problem. I’ve been taught how to try and prevent the problems from reoccurring as often,” said Amanda.

Helping patients understand what is happening with their bodies and how it is affecting their health is a primary focus for Dr. Likens. He is genuinely concerned for the patient’s overall wellness and recovery. Treatment is not just about coming in for an adjustment and leaving. Educating and including the patient in on the treatment and recovery plan is vital. Not only does it put the patient more at ease, it can also help reduce future problems, pain and injuries.

Since every patient is different, Dr. Likens ensure that they receive personalized attention and consideration to address their unique situation and needs.

“I would definitely recommend his services to anyone who’s looking for relief,” Amanda said.

If you’re looking for a chiropractor with years of experience and a commitment to helping patients achieve optimal health and wellness, look no further than Dr. Likens. With over 18 years of experience serving the Gulf Breeze, Navarre, Midway, and Mary Esther communities, Dr. Likens is a trusted provider of chiropractic care. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or looking to maintain your overall health, Dr. Likens can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs. So why wait? Contact Dr. Likens today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you.

In 1967 Joseph Kabalka was in Vietnam hiking over mountains and hills. He was on the move constantly, being dropped here and there from a helicopter. Along with his fellow marines, he’d jump out of the “chopper” six feet from the ground.

“I firmly believe that’s why I have the problems I have today,” Joseph said, referring to the stress the jumps and gear-laden hikes put on his shoulders, neck and back.

While Joseph’s injuries have a unique origin story, many people suffer from low back pain, shoulder pain and neck pain. The resulting pain from an accident or personal injury can limit mobility and reduce quality of life. And, like Joseph, for many the pain continues to compound until they find themselves in a doctor’s office.

In Joseph’s case, he found himself at a sports doctor’s office in Pensacola where they gathered x-rays and MRIs. When the doctor called Joseph in to talk about the results, it wasn’t promising.

“There’s really nothing we can do for you,” Joseph recalled the doctor saying. “We can weld all your vertebrates together and shorten your movement area but you’re going to have a different life.”

For Joseph, it was a choice between dealing with pain or dealing with not being able to move.

This can be the case for many people with back and neck issues. Traditional medicine will often include invasive, life-altering surgeries as well as addictive pain medications as a solution to chronic pain and the injuries causing it.

There is another way, however. Chiropractic care for back and neck pain can be the answer.

After hearing from his doctor, Joseph sought another option at the Navarre Chiropractic Center.

“The doctor looked at my x-rays and MRI and discussed with me about not only how he felt but how I felt,” Joseph said.

When you’re in pain, it can be very reassuring to be able to talk through exactly what you’re experiencing.

Dr. Llaird Likens cares about your overall well being and will seek to provide solutions that fit your circumstances, your wishes and your lifestyle. Fortunately, Dr. Likens has many different tools he brings to the table, different from a typical chiropractor.

That’s because his continued learning and certifications in areas like clinical nutrition, chiropractic biophysics, whiplash, impairment ratings, applied kinesiology and functional medicine allow him to see the whole picture for a patient. Dr. Likens is able to use a variety of therapies and treatments for a particular patient based on their individual needs.

In this case, Joseph receives ongoing traction therapy and acupuncture.

Traction removes pressure from the spine by stretching and manipulating the muscles and discs apart to create space and provide relief.

“Fresh fluids go in and give me a little cushion and hopefully keeps the spine and neck straight,” Joseph says of the therapy.

Using traction, Dr. Likens aims to relieve pressure and pain associated with back and disc problems, joint pain, sciatica and even herniated discs and other spinal injuries.

Joseph also receives regular acupuncture treatments in order to stimulate his nerve endings and alleviate pain and mobility issues. The thin, sterile needles used in acupuncture send messages to the brain that allow the release of endorphins and other chemicals that help relieve pain. Acupuncture takes the body out of fight or flight mode and allows the body and muscles to relax and eliminate tension.

The combination of these treatments have given Joseph his life back. He comes in two times a week and now has a better quality of life. He has avoided surgery, a fused back and a life-long subscription to pain medication.

“When you have someone on the other end that cares about how you feel and listens to what your needs are, it works. You work as a team. You get problems resolved,” Joseph said.

Being able to return to normal activities is the goal with chiropractic care. Avoiding addictive pain medications, muscle relaxers and invasive surgeries is possible if you’re suffering from pain after an accident, injury or as the result of the type of work you do.

Dr. Likens works with a variety of treatment options to help you feel better. If you have any questions, call us today so we can help you get started. Dr. Llaird Likens accepts insurance and offers self-pay options. Dr. Likens also proudly serves veterans as a partner with the Veterans Administration (VA). He services those living or visiting in Gulf Breeze, Navarre, Midway or Mary Esther.

If you’re thinking about making an appointment with a chiropractor, it’s important to have a crystal clear understanding of what you’re looking for. Chiropractic care is a holistic approach to wellness that focuses on the health and alignment of the spine and musculoskeletal system. While techniques and treatment plans vary among chiropractors, there are common expectations to consider. In this article, we will look into some key things you should look for about your chiropractor.

We’ll cover:

• Your health, well-being and education should be the top priority for your chiropractor
• Your chiropractor should be able to help you stop feeling pain
• You should be able to trust your Chiropractor with your entire family
• Your chiropractor should be recommended by other chiropractors
• Your chiropractor should have a wide variety of expertise and treatment options

Your health, well-being and education should be the top priority for your chiropractor

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a doctor who will take the time to really listen to your problems and tackle them like a detective can be hard to find. A doctor with a bedside manner that takes the time to talk to you and educate you is priceless. Of course, you want to feel relief too. Dr. Llaird Likens is dedicated to helping you feel better immediately while also providing you with the treatment, tools and knowledge to prevent future pain.

Dr Likens has been my savior for a few years now. Whenever my hips and lower back get out  of whack a quick adjustment and I’m like new again. He’s also very informational and truly wants to help solve the problem. I’ve been taught how to try and prevent the problems from  reoccurring as often. Would definitely recommend his services to anyone who’s looking for  some relief. | Amanda R.

Your chiropractor should be able to help you stop feeling pain

Every person is unique and it can be difficult sometimes to find the root source of pain. At times, medical professionals can skip past finding the source of pain and aim to medicate you or, worse, send you to surgery.

However, a good chiropractor will seek to identify the cause of the pain and perform corrective treatment to relieve the pain and prevent it from coming back. For those with chronic pain or who have been dealing with a particular injury for a while, this discovery and treatment process can feel like a life-saver.

Dr. Llaird is the best Chiropractor. He is incredibly knowledgeable and he really addressed the source  of pain that all of the other Doctors’ overlooked. He was a life saver for my active lifestyle! | Ashley S.

You should be able to trust your Chiropractor with your entire family

Chiropractic care is not just for adults or victims of auto accidents. It’s for the whole family! In fact, many health-conscious parents use chiropractic care for their infants, specifically to help with colic and excessive crying, digestive issues, sleep problems and ear tube drainage. Everybody at every age can benefit from chiropractic care.

Llaird is an amazing Chiropractor. I trust my body and the bodies of my entire family to him, including our infant. He truly listens to your needs and addresses them appropriately. | Matt C.

Your chiropractor should be recommended by other chiropractors

You know your chiropractor is good when other chiropractors come to him for treatment. An endorsement like that speaks volumes about a chiropractor’s reputation and expertise among his peers.

I am a chiropractor and Dr. Likens was my personal chiropractor for the last five years. He is a  knowledgeable and gifted Doctor, chiropractor, and acupuncturist. I am happy to recommend  Dr. Likens to anyone who needs chiropractic care. | Brandon B. 

Your chiropractor should have a wide variety of expertise and treatment options

Manual manipulation is a great foundation for chiropractic care. However, you should also expect other treatment options including acupuncture, applied kinesiology, functional medicine, nutrition coaching, massage, electric stimulation, heat therapy and more.

When these therapies are combined, they can have extraordinary outcomes such as increased range of motion and freedom from pain medication.

Dr Likens is very personable, caring, and extremely knowledgeable in the fields of  Chiropractic Care and Acupuncture. I have achieved quite a bit more range of motion  in my neck and back along with an increased level of pain management due to an  extensive treatment plan provided by Dr Likens. I highly recommend him for your  Chiropractic and Acupuncture needs. | M.W.

Dr. Llaird Likens has been serving Northwest Florida for over 18 years. These testimonials, along with many others, show him to be an extraordinary chiropractor with exceptional skills and compassionate treatment to patients. Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, improved mobility, or enhanced well-being, Dr. Likens’ chiropractic care and acupuncture expertise are highly recommended by satisfied patients, peers, and even fellow healthcare professionals.  If you have any questions, call us today so we can help you get started. Dr. Llaird Likens accepts insurance and offers self-pay options.

Lots of energy, no pain and feeling good. That’s the kind of health most Americans want.

Unfortunately, it’s not the reality as more and more people find themselves in some sort of chronic pain with low energy, difficulty sleeping and unable to do the fun activities they wish to do.

The good news is, chiropractic care can help you heal and achieve the kind of health you’re looking for. You will have to take action now and use every tool available with chiropractic care in order to reach that goal.

In this guide we’ll show you how to get started building better health with chiropractic care. Then we’ll get into some specific therapies you can use to feel better and increase your energy.

Build better health in 4 steps

If you implement these four common sense strategies, you’ll be building better health immediately, regardless of your age or current health.

1. Eat better
2. Prioritize sleep
3. Improve posture
4. Exercise

1. Eat better

Focusing on eating better and increasing the amount of nutrition you’re taking in can improve your health drastically. Eating well can improve your immune system, increase your bone health, reduce inflammation and help your body naturally recover from injuries and disease.

2. Prioritize sleep

Sleeping is one of the most underutilized health hacks in America today. Consistent nights with good rest can reduce stress, improve your mood and energy levels, allow you to think clearer and lower your risk for health problems like diabetes and heart disease. Unfortunately, at least 1 out of 3 Americans don’t get enough sleep according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

3. Improve your posture

If you can improve your posture by being aware of how you’re standing, sitting and laying, you might find your health, energy levels and mood are improved. That’s because bad posture can have a ripple effect throughout your body, spine and muscles that can cause pain and impair movement. Be mindful of your posture while using technology as well since things like phones, computers and video games usually inspire the worst posture.

4. Exercise Daily

While you’re already focused on your body, you may as well sign up for some light exercise. The benefits of exercise are heavily researched and documented. For you, a 30 minute walk or bike ride could do the trick. Yoga and swimming are also great options. Exercise will help you to begin building health and feeling better immediately.

Those are some basic ways you can immediately start feeling better. However, chiropractic care has so much more to offer. Read on to learn specifically how chiropractic health can improve your health.

How chiropractic adjustments improve your health

Chiropractic adjustments allow your spine, bones, muscles and entire body to be in natural alignment. When you’re not in alignment, there can be many symptoms, ranging from small (like a nagging hip pain) to big (like severe whiplash). Chiropractic care can improve your overall health by promoting better blood flow, increasing your flexibility, reducing pain and stiffness and improving muscle strength. Many patients are able to reduce and/or eliminate medications and improve their energy levels with chiropractic care.

How acupuncture improves your health

The ancient practice of acupuncture has a long history of improving health by stimulating the central nervous system and causing biochemical changes that stimulate the body’s natural healing process. Researchers also believe that acupuncture may encourage the release of endorphins, which reduce pain.

How clinical nutrition can improve your health

We’ve already covered how nutrition can improve your health. Clinical nutrition goes to the next level by using food and lifestyle changes to balance hormones to improve thyroid, adrenal and pancreas health. Clinical nutrition can also help with chronic pain, inflammation and fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. Dr. Llaird Likens has extensive training and experience with nutrition and can also help you detect any food allergies or sensitivities you have that may be impacting your health.

How trigger point therapy can improve your health

Trigger point therapy is a popular option for anyone suffering from back pain and neck pain. However, trigger point therapy can bring relief to anyone who walks into a chiropractor’s office. That is because this therapy targets any area or muscle that is sensitive to pressure or is linked with pain and stiffness. An experienced chiropractor can apply pressure to those areas in order to release tension, increase blood flow to the area, allowing the body to heal and move naturally which in turn decreases inflammation and irritation.

How myofascial release can improve your health

Myofascial release is a gentle treatment that targets and releases tightness, tension, knots and pain in myofascial tissue throughout the body. Also known as soft tissue treatment, it can ease myofascial pain syndrome or even everyday aches and pain. Myofascial release can improve your health by loosening and stretching your muscles, improving your range of motion, reducing soreness and stiffness and adding to your overall relaxed well being.

How muscle stimulation can improve your health

Muscle stimulation is a non-invasive process that causes muscles to contract and can reduce your discomfort during rehabilitation. Muscle stimulation improves your health by improving blood flow, increasing muscle strength, enhancing the link between the muscle movement and the brain, preventing atrophy and encouraging relaxation which can increase endorphin production.

If you’re looking to optimize your health give the Dr. Llaird Likens team a call to schedule an initial appointment. Dr. Likens is has over 21 years of experience as a chiropractic physician, acupuncturist, clinic director, team chiropractor, and lecturer with focused practice attention to the treatment of veterans, acute and chronic pain, auto injury, sports injury and performance, family chiropractic, injury rehabilitation, corrective spinal care, and health maintenance.