Diagnosing and Treating Coccydynia or Tailbone Pain Coccydynia, also known as persistent pain in the tailbone, is typically a localized pain that worsens when sitting or engaging in activities that involve putting additional weight or pressure on the end of the spine. Dr. DeCaria, an anesthesiologist and pain physician in Evanston, IL and Glenview, IL […]
Balance is the key element when it comes to cortisol, a hormone produced in your adrenal glands. Cortisol performs many vital functions, including: Reducing inflammation Regulating blood pressure Metabolizing glucose Assisting with circadian rhythm regulation Formulating memories Many of these tasks contribute to cortisol’s role in controlling the “flight or fight response.” When your body […]
The relationship between our gut microbiome and various neurological diseases and chronic pain has received increasing attention. The gut microbiome is a crucial modulator of certain types of pain such as visceral pain. Recent evidence suggests that gut microbiota play a critical role in many other types of chronic pain, including inflammatory pain, headache, and […]
“Sciatica pain” is the result of inflammation or irritation of a nerve that causes shooting pain down one or both legs. Often times, people refer to radicular pain, or irritation of a spinal nerve root, as sciatica even though it is not the actual sciatic nerve that is inflamed. The sciatic nerve begins in the […]
Hip pain is a common concern for many people, however it can be due to a myriad of factors. Dr. DeCaria has effectively treated hip pain from many different conditions through her unique and innovative approach that blends conventional medicine with integrative and functional medicine. The exact location of your hip pain indicates important information […]
“A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything.” Irish proverb Here’s an unfortunate irony: We all need a good night of sleep more than ever to effectively cope with the challenges of these often-stressful times. However, research shows that an increasing number of people are experiencing sleep disturbances since […]
Recent years have seen a growing awareness of mental health issues, and, thankfully, more open conversations about addressing psychological challenges. However, many people remain unaware of new, exciting research on the connection between gut health and mental health. The connection between your digestive system and your brain can have a profound influence on your mental […]
Chronic headaches or migraines can make it a challenge to get through basic, everyday tasks. Often, these headaches or migraines can be indicative of an underlying condition or issue, while other times there is no clear reason. It is important to discuss all of your symptoms and experiences with Dr. DeCaria to determine the best […]
Nerve pain, or neuropathy, is a common nervous system condition which brings discomfort and many challenges for those who suffer from it. The cause of neuropathy varies by person; however, you are not alone. More than 20 million Americans have nerve pain. Neuropathic pain comes in many different forms and shoots in a nerve distribution, […]
Tension headaches are very common and often feel like there is a tight headband wrapped around your head, which is not comfortable at all! Tension headache pain can make it very challenging to go about regular activities and can cause a lot of frustration. Fortunately, there are several ways to address tension headache pain. It […]
When a muscle cannot relax, a trigger point forms. This could be due to a variety of reasons. Perhaps your body has an imbalance, or you have been spending hours in a non-ergonomic work space, or even possible you just slept in the wrong position – all of these can lead to muscle pain. Inflamed […]
‘Tis the season for joy, togetherness, and celebration – but also stress. Despite the festive, happy images we are bombarded with in the media, many people find the holidays a difficult time. Financial pressures, loneliness, shorter and darker days are just some of the factors that contribute to a rise in depression and anxiety during […]