Extremity Care
Chiropractic care extends far beyond the spine. We provide expert treatment for all extremity joints — from your jaw to your feet — using precise adjustments, Graston Technique, and Active Release Therapy.
We Treat the Whole Body — Not Just the Spine
Every joint in your body has the potential to become restricted, inflamed, or misaligned. When that happens, it affects not only that joint but the entire kinetic chain above and below it. Dr. Kelchen's training in extremity adjustments, Graston Technique, and Active Release Technique (ART) allows him to address dysfunction wherever it occurs — from your jaw to your feet.
Conditions We Treat by Joint
Select your area of concern to learn more about how we can help.
Shoulder
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body — and one of the most commonly injured. Whether from overuse, trauma, or poor posture, shoulder dysfunction responds well to chiropractic adjustments combined with soft tissue therapy.
Conditions We Treat:
Elbow
Elbow conditions are often caused by repetitive strain from work, sports, or daily activities. Graston Technique and Active Release are particularly effective for breaking down scar tissue and restoring pain-free function.
Conditions We Treat:
Hand & Wrist
Hand and wrist conditions are increasingly common in our screen-heavy world. Chiropractic care addresses not only the wrist itself but also the elbow, shoulder, and cervical spine — all of which can contribute to hand and wrist symptoms.
Conditions We Treat:
Hip
Hip dysfunction is often overlooked as a source of low back and knee pain. Restoring proper hip joint mobility and muscle balance can have a profound effect on your entire lower body kinetic chain.
Conditions We Treat:
Knee
Knee pain is one of the most common complaints we see. Chiropractic care evaluates the entire lower extremity — foot, ankle, knee, and hip — to identify and correct the biomechanical factors driving your knee pain.
Conditions We Treat:
Ankle & Foot
The foot and ankle are your foundation. Dysfunction here affects your knees, hips, and spine. We address joint restrictions, soft tissue adhesions, and biomechanical imbalances to restore pain-free movement from the ground up.
Conditions We Treat:
Jaw (TMJ)
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is directly connected to the cervical spine and can be a hidden source of headaches, neck pain, and facial discomfort. Gentle TMJ adjustments and soft tissue work can provide significant relief.
Conditions We Treat:
Our Approach to Extremity Care
A multi-modal approach that addresses the joint, the surrounding soft tissues, and the biomechanical factors driving your condition.
Joint Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of joint mobility, stability, and alignment to identify the root cause of your pain.
Extremity Adjustments
Precise, controlled adjustments to restore proper joint mechanics and reduce nerve irritation.
Graston Technique
Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization to break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions.
Active Release (ART)
Patented soft tissue technique that treats muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do chiropractors treat joints other than the spine?
Absolutely. Chiropractors are trained to assess and treat all joints of the body, not just the spine. Extremity adjustments are a core part of our practice at Libertyville Wellness Group.
How is extremity chiropractic different from physical therapy?
Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper joint mechanics through specific adjustments, while also addressing soft tissue restrictions with techniques like Graston and Active Release. We often work alongside physical therapy for comprehensive rehabilitation.
Can you help with post-surgical rehabilitation?
Yes. We work with patients recovering from orthopedic surgeries to restore joint mobility, reduce scar tissue, and rebuild strength. We always coordinate with your surgeon to ensure our care aligns with your recovery protocol.
What is Graston Technique and how does it help extremity conditions?
Graston Technique uses specialized stainless steel instruments to detect and break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions in soft tissues. It is particularly effective for chronic tendinitis, sprains, and overuse injuries in the extremities.
How many visits will I need for my shoulder/knee/ankle?
It depends on the nature and severity of your condition. Acute injuries often respond in 4–8 visits, while chronic conditions may require a longer course of care. Dr. Kelchen will give you a clear treatment plan with realistic expectations at your first visit.
Stop Living with Joint Pain
Whether it's your shoulder, knee, ankle, or jaw — we can help. Book your evaluation today.