expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Phillip McCary, D.C.

Chiropractor

Dr. Phillip McCary is a Chiropractor practicing in Portland, OR. Dr. McCary specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions associated with the neuromusculoskeletal system, while improving each patients functionality and quality of life. Conditions treated include sciatica, neck pain, and arthritis pain, among many others. Dr. McCary seeks to reduce pain and discomfort through manipulation and adjustment of the spine.
19 years Experience
Dr. Phillip McCary, D.C.
  • Portland, OR
  • University of Washington
  • Accepting new patients

How do you know if back pain is muscle or disc?

To really figure this out would take a full history, examination, and possibly diagnostic imaging. A few clues: Can you "put your finger on it"? If you can press on a tender spot, READ MORE
To really figure this out would take a full history, examination, and possibly diagnostic imaging. A few clues: Can you "put your finger on it"? If you can press on a tender spot, that is likely muscle. A second one: Is there pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates below the knee? There is a good chance that is from a disc. It is also possible to have both at the same time!

Will exercise help achy legs?

That depends on what is causing the achiness. If you have muscle soreness from a workout heat, light exercise and Epsom salt baths can all be helpful. If you don't know why your READ MORE
That depends on what is causing the achiness. If you have muscle soreness from a workout heat, light exercise and Epsom salt baths can all be helpful. If you don't know why your legs are achy I would recommend you go see your doctor for an evaluation.

What exercises help herniated discs?

Mackenzie exercises, typically into extension (bending backwards) are the most popular, but it depends on your unique situation. Something we like to see for disc pain related READ MORE
Mackenzie exercises, typically into extension (bending backwards) are the most popular, but it depends on your unique situation. Something we like to see for disc pain related exercise is that they "centralize" your symptoms. That means if you have pain, numbness or tingling in the extremities that the exercises help bring the symptoms in closer to your spine.

How should I sleep with neck pain?

Finding a supportive and comfortable pillow is a great place to start. "Comfortable" is subjective so you will need to experiment a little bit. I like fiber or memory foam pillows. READ MORE
Finding a supportive and comfortable pillow is a great place to start. "Comfortable" is subjective so you will need to experiment a little bit. I like fiber or memory foam pillows. In general, if you are a side sleeper, you will need a thicker pillow that if you are a back sleeper. Stomach sleeping can work for some, but often is not the best for those with neck or back pain.

Can chiropractors adjust feet?

We sure can! There are 26 bones and 30 joints in a person's foot that need to move for healthy function.

Phil McCary, D.C

Is chiropractic treatment safe?

Most likely, yes! For most people, chiropractic care, when properly performed, is incredibly safe. A complete history and examination would need to be performed to make sure you READ MORE
Most likely, yes! For most people, chiropractic care, when properly performed, is incredibly safe. A complete history and examination would need to be performed to make sure you are a candidate for care, but compared to many other treatment options, chiropractic care has an enviable safely record.

Should you rest after chiropractic adjustment?

It depends on what you are being treated for, what type of treatment/adjustment will be done, and how your body responds. All of those are factors and you should ask your chiropractor READ MORE
It depends on what you are being treated for, what type of treatment/adjustment will be done, and how your body responds. All of those are factors and you should ask your chiropractor about them. However, in my experience most people are fine to go about their normal activities after an adjustment.

Can a chiropractor or massage therapist help with migraine headaches?

Migraines can be absolutely debilitating and there are many potential causes, but chiropractic care and massage are often very helpful! Joint restrictions and tight muscles in READ MORE
Migraines can be absolutely debilitating and there are many potential causes, but chiropractic care and massage are often very helpful! Joint restrictions and tight muscles in your neck can be causes of migraines and chiropractic care can absolutely help relieve them.