Dr. Brandon Blood

08/10/2026

This is awesome. ❤️

🌟 PATIENT SPOTLIGHT 🌟

🎉 Congratulations, Krystal! 🎉

We are so proud to celebrate an incredible milestone -71 pounds lost! 👏💪

Krystal's transformation is about so much more than a number on the scale. Through dedication, consistency, and a commitment to improving every aspect of her life, she has made remarkable changes to her health, fitness, and overall energy.

Weight loss isn't just about the program. It's about showing up every day, making healthier choices, and staying focused even when the journey isn't easy. Krystal did exactly that, and the results speak for themselves.

✨ 71 pounds down
✨ More energy
✨ Improved fitness
✨ Better overall health
✨ A healthier, happier future

Krystal, thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. Your hard work and determination are an inspiration, and we can't wait to see what you accomplish next!

08/04/2026

Most people with back pain say the same thing:

“I don’t know what I did to cause this.”

It's a completely natural question…but it may not be the right one.

The reality is that most back problems don't happen because of one dramatic event. More often, they develop from years of repetitive micro-injuries, poor movement habits, weakness, limited mobility, and everyday stresses that slowly accumulate over time.

For years, you've probably gone about your daily routine without thinking much about protecting your back. Why? Because you didn't have pain.

But here's the important part:

The absence of pain does not necessarily mean the absence of a problem.

Our bodies are incredibly resilient. They compensate, adapt, and heal as best they can.

But eventually, they reach a point where they can no longer keep up.

That's when pain shows up.

Think of pain as your body's check engine light. It's often not the beginning of the problem, but it's the signal that the problem has been building for quite some time.

So instead of asking:

"What did I do to cause this?"

Try asking:

"What haven't I been doing to help protect my back?"

Your spine thrives on consistent care…not perfection.

✔️ Maintain flexibility.
✔️ Maintain Posture.
✔️ Improve mobility.
✔️ Build strength.
✔️ Move your body regularly.
✔️ Take care of small problems before they become big ones.

If you're currently struggling with back pain, don't lose hope.

The good news is that many back conditions can improve with the right evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.

Your back has been taking care of you for years.

Now it's time to return the favor.

07/23/2026

Let's Talk About Spinal Discs

When people think of neck or back pain, they often assume it's "just a pulled muscle."

In reality, one of the most common sources of spinal pain is the intervertebral disc.

Research has shown that spinal discs are among the most frequent pain generators in the lower back, and they are also a significant source of pain in the neck, second only to the facet joints in many studies.

So... what exactly can happen to a disc?

Degeneration– As we age, discs lose water content and become less resilient.

Annular Tears– The tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus) can develop small tears, which may become painful because this outer portion contains nerve fibers.

Disc Bulges– The disc extends beyond its normal boundaries but the outer fibers remain largely intact.

Disc Herniations– When the inner gel-like nucleus pushes further through or out of the outer fibers.

Herniations are generally classified as:
Protrusion-type
Extrusion-type
Sequestration-type (when a fragment separates from the parent disc)

When a disc bulges or herniates, it can narrow the spinal canal or the openings where nerves exit the spine (called the neural foramina). This may contribute to:

Pain radiating into an arm or leg
Numbness
Tingling
Sometimes weakness

However, not every disc abnormality causes symptoms.

In fact, many people have bulging or even herniated discs on MRI without any pain at all. That's why a thorough history, physical examination, and imaging review are all important before deciding on treatment.

Does a disc herniation always require surgery?

Fortunately, no.

Most patients can improve without surgery.

Surgery becomes more important to consider when there is:

Progressive muscle weakness
Significant neurological deficits
Loss of bowel or bladder control
Certain cases of severe, persistent pain that fail appropriate conservative care

Otherwise, many patients improve with non-surgical treatment.

Conservative management may include:
Mechanical decompression (when appropriate)
Therapeutic exercise and core stabilization
Mobility and flexibility training
Neuromodulation and pain-relieving therapies
Activity modification and education

Non-surgical Medical management may include:
Anti-inflammatory or other medications
Epidural steroid injections or other image-guided procedures when clinically indicated

One of the most fascinating aspects of disc herniations is that the body has its own healing mechanisms.

Research has demonstrated that many herniated discs gradually shrink over time through natural biological processes involving inflammatory cells, new blood vessel formation, and enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which help break down and remove herniated disc material.

The key is identifying what is actually causing the pain and matching the treatment to the patient, not simply treating an MRI finding.

If you've been told you have a bulging or herniated disc, remember: an MRI is only one piece of the puzzle. The goal should always be to correlate the imaging with your symptoms and examination before deciding on the best treatment plan.

Of course, always for educational purposes.

07/21/2026

There are certain moments in your career that shape the direction you think you're going to take.

For me, it happened back in my second year of chiropractic school.

I became fascinated by patients suffering from disc injuries like herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, chronic neck pain, upper extremity pain/numbness/tingling.

These complex cases that so many people had been told they simply had to "live with."

I spent countless hours studying these conditions, traveling and learning, and before long I became the student that classmates and instructors often sought out when difficult disc cases came through the student clinic.

When I graduated and opened my clinic, I fully expected helping patients with disc-related pain to become one of the biggest parts of my practice.

But starting a practice has a way of changing your plans.

To grow, I had to become proficient in treating a much wider variety of conditions.

While I never stopped caring for patients with neck and back pain, my focus naturally broadened as the clinic evolved into the multidisciplinary practice it is today.

Still... treating disc conditions has always been one of the areas of healthcare I'm most passionate about.

That's why I'm excited to share something I've wanted to build for a long time.

**RejuvaBack.**

RejuvaBack is a comprehensive program designed specifically for patients suffering from chronic neck and back pain related to disc problems, including degenerative disc disease, disc bulges, and/or herniations.

This isn't about rushing patients through an adjustment.

It's about taking the time to understand *why* you're hurting.

Every patient begins with a thorough evaluation, a detailed review of any MRI or imaging, and an individualized treatment strategy designed around their specific condition and goals.

When appropriate, our objective is simple: help patients reduce pain, restore function, and pursue every reasonable opportunity to avoid surgery.

Not everyone is a candidate, and no ethical provider can promise results.

But if you've been living with chronic neck or back pain and feel like you've run out of options or you've been told surgery is your only path, it may be worth having a conversation.

I'm excited to get back to doing one of the first things that inspired me when I started in this profession.

If you or someone you know has been struggling with chronic neck or back pain, I'd love the opportunity to see if RejuvaBack may be the right fit.

05/14/2026

So excited to be back educating.

Many have asked me what I am up to with some recent changes happening at Apex…

I have missed educating and helping individuals dealing with chronic conditions…

Conditions that main stream healthcare often does not have answers for and often leaving patients being told

‘Learn to live with it’

Sometimes that, in fact, can be the case.

But often it’s because traditional healthcare’s purpose is to manage disease and symptoms.

Which can be a good thing at times.

But the focus isn’t to help heal, recover, and restore.

We had a great event this evening and my goal was to have everyone leave like they learned something that can improve their life… regardless if they chose to work with me or not. I feel like my mission was accomplished.

If you’re struggling with your health and a chronic condition(s), just know there are many options that exist out there that can truly change your life for the better. Just commit to the process of change.

It’s good to be back. Thank you all who attended. ❤️

Let me know what you are dealing with, maybe I can help point you in the right direction.

04/20/2026

Big Announcement at Apex Physical Medicine!

First, please join me in congratulating Dr. Nathan Bukuts on stepping into the role of Lead Chiropractic Physician this May!

Dr. Nate has been with Apex since 2018, and there’s no one more deserving of this role.

His experience, consistency, and commitment to patient care make him the perfect fit to lead our chiropractic services moving forward.

He will now be working with the majority of our chiropractic patients, continuing to deliver the personalized, high-quality care you expect from Apex.

Now… here’s where things get really exciting.

Over the past several years, I’ve seen a growing problem:

Too many patients with chronic pain are being forced into limited, insurance-driven care…

Quick visits. Temporary relief. No real long-term solution.

And that’s not why I got into this.

So I’m making a shift.

I’ll be dedicating my time and energy to advanced, non-traditional programs designed specifically for people who:

Have tried traditional chiropractic, PT, injections, or medications

Looking to avoid surgery if possible

Have been told “this is just something you have to live with”

Are still dealing with daily pain and frustration

These programs are built for:

Neuropathy (burning, tingling, numbness)

Chronic neck & back pain

Chronic Sciatica

Disc conditions in the neck/lower back

Chronic knee pain

Patients who feel like they’ve run out of options

This is not typical care.
This is not insurance-driven.
This is focused on real solutions and long-term results.

Two clear paths at Apex moving forward:

➡️ Dr. Nate leading exceptional chiropractic care
➡️ Myself leading advanced solutions for chronic, unresolved conditions

If you (or someone you know) are still struggling and haven’t found answers…

This is exactly who these programs are built for.

Message us or call the office to see if you’re a candidate.

We’re just getting started... I’m incredibly excited about what this means for our patients and our future.

— Dr. Brandon Blood, DC

01/30/2026

Coming very soon!

We’re excited to be adding this new service SOON to our Apex medical offerings. Our team is passionate about helping patients get to the root cause of their health concerns, spending meaningful time with each individual, and looking at the whole picture—not just isolated symptoms.

This approach allows us to care for patients in a way that’s thoughtful, personalized, and different from the traditional medical model.

01/26/2026

10/20/2025

Exciting News!

We’ve expanded our Comprehensive Weight Loss Program to give you even more options to achieve your health goals!

✅ NEW Natural Approach Available– A program designed around supplements, personalized nutrition, and activity planning for those who prefer a more natural path.
✅ Proven Medical Support – For patients who desire or need additional support, we still offer safe and effective medication-based options to accelerate results.
✅ Truly Comprehensive – Whether you’re focused on lifestyle changes, medical solutions, or a combination of both, our team has a tailored plan for you.

Your journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with our medical team. Together, we’ll review your goals, explore your options, and design a personalized plan to help you succeed.

Don’t wait to start feeling healthier, stronger, and more confident.

Call us today (330) 497-9797 or send us a message and we can schedule your consultation!

10/15/2025

Today's health post: Sciatica

If you’ve ever felt pain shooting down your leg… numbness in your foot… or a deep ache that won’t go away, it might not just be simple “back pain.”

You could be dealing with sciatica, and understanding what it is (and what it isn’t) is key to beating it without surgery.

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a set of symptoms caused when the sciatic nerve (the largest nerve in the human body) becomes irritated or compressed.

This nerve runs from your lower back through your hips and down both legs.

When it’s irritated, it can cause:

Shooting pain down the leg
Numbness or tingling
Muscle weakness
Burning or electric sensations

Common Confusion: Sciatica vs. Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain

Many people (and even some clinicians) confuse SI joint pain with sciatica.

SI joint pain often stays localized near the buttock or pelvis.

True sciatica typically follows a distinct path radiating down (one or both legs) the back of the thigh and sometimes to the calf or foot.

That’s why a thorough evaluation is essential before starting any treatment.

Conservative Treatment Options

Before jumping to medications, injections, or surgery, there are several effective, non-invasive treatments that can help resolve the root cause of sciatica:

Chiropractic care to restore proper spinal function and relieve pressure on the nerve

Spinal decompression therapy to reduce disc bulging and improve space for nerve roots

Targeted rehabilitation exercises to strengthen and stabilize your spine

Infrared or electrical cell signaling therapy to improve circulation and reduce inflammation

Lifestyle adjustments such as posture correction, ergonomic support, and core strengthening

Medical Approaches

In some cases, conservative care is paired with medical support, such as:

Anti-inflammatory medications or targeted injections

Physical therapy or pain management strategies

Surgical options in select cases may be warranted

However, the goal should always be to restore normal function and reduce dependency on medications or invasive procedures whenever possible.

If you are struggling with chronic sciatica issues and are looking for options, our team will do a thorough evaluation and help determine appropriate diagnosis and treatment options.