You Can Learn to Meditate

It probably goes without saying that as we age our body doesn’t feel or respond the same way as it used to when we were younger. It hardly seems right that as our mind appears to improve and become more “inventive,”  our body seems to become less “cooperative.” We’re stiff when we get out of bed; many of the activities we do during the day make us sore in the evening; and, if we’re not cautious, even a movement as simple as turning too fast or reaching down to pick up a dropped piece of paper, can cause our back or some other muscle group to go into spasm. Fortunately, there is help available that can not only slow down the aging process of the body, but help us to avoid some of those problems altogether.

For an example, arthritis. In point of fact, with the exception of pharmaceuticals, conventional medicine doesn’t address this age-related challenge. Why? The answer is that most medical doctors focus only on the symptoms of arthritis. Chiropractic treatment, in contrast, not only helps to relieve the pain of arthritis, without drugs and their side effects, but it addresses the source of the affliction and corrects it.  Chiropractors, like your Santa Clara Chiropractor, have been caring for people suffering from pain caused by arthritis, and other age-related challenges, for over a century.

Repetitive stresses, years of incorrect gait and incorrect posture, and lack of beneficial movement produce degeneration of certain joints over time and create the arthritic changes the body experiences as you get older. Chiropractic adjustments restore motion back into your joints and decrease any vertebral misalignments that may be causing irritation and restriction. In addition to causing arthritic changes in the spine and increasing pain, did you know that misaligned vertebra can also reduce your resistance and immunity? It’s true, and this may be one of the reasons why it may seem that as you get older you develop more health problems and that it often takes longer for you to feel better again. According to studies done on men and women, those who received regular chiropractic care stayed healthier. In fact, you could say that, as you get older, chiropractic treatment is good for what ails you!

When it comes to the health of the musculoskeletal system, chiropractors are highly proficient whether it’s the small, growing frame of an infant or the full-grown body of a mature adult.  Your chiropractor is experienced in working with the aging process  of the body and has exceptional observational and diagnostic skills that help in detecting spinal misalignments and joint degeneration. In fact, a chiropractic examination can often reveal some age-related conditions before they’ve begun to create noticeable pain. Furthermore, your Santa Clara Chiropractor can check your posture and observe your gait to ascertain if there are any inappropriate patterns that could generate further arthritic changes.

So, if you have been feeling your age lately, but you’d like to feel a whole lot better, make an appointment with your Santa Clara Chiropractor today!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Hoewisch

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It’s not surprising that Seattle Chiropractic has treated hundreds of people suffering from foot pain, and knows all too well how commonplace painful foot problems are nowadays. Here’s why: Health care professionals, especially chiropractors, will tell you that movement is healthy for every part of body, right? In fact, our overall good health is highly influenced by our getting regular physical exercise. So, you may be wondering why so many people suffer from foot pain. After all, aren’t our feet made for walking? The answer, of course, is “yes,” but they aren’t designed for exploitation.

The average, healthy individual takes 3,000-5,000 steps per day, not to mention activities like running and aerobic exercise. Unfortunately, all too often those steps are taken by people walking incorrectly, with clumsy gait patterns and bad posture.

Furthermore, a large number of individuals wear inadequately-designed, incorrectly-fitting shoes. Moving the body through space improperly on feet that are impeded from performing as they were meant to cannot help but to cause painful problems not only in a variety of places in the feet, but in other parts of the body, too.  For example, if an individual over-pronates (walks like a duck) in a pair of poorly-made or unevenly-worn shoes, or in any pair of high heels, that individual will not only develop foot and ankle conditions, but will probably experience aches and pains in the back, knees and legs.

One of the most recognized foot problems is Plantar Fascitis (heel pain), which is most frequently caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is an extraordinary, multi-tasking band of connective tissue that surrounds the muscles on the bottom of the foot, connects the heel bone to the ball of the foot, supports the arch, protects the foot, and absorbs shock. Obviously, the healthy function of the plantar fascia is crucial for pain-free movement of the foot.

There are many determinants that contribute to the development of Plantar Fascitis. Short and tight calf muscles are one factor. Undue stress on the smaller and weaker plantar muscles and fascia occurs when calf muscles get short and tight, exerting a strong pull on the back of the heel bone. You may be wondering how calf muscles get short and tight. Besides aerobics, volleyball, running, basketball, tennis, and similar activities that involve running and jumping, the wearing of high heels can produce the condition.

Sudden strenuous activity after a period of prolonged inactivity can contribute to Plantar Fascitis, as can such factors as abnormal gait patterns (e.g., over-pronation), improper footwear, walking on hard or uneven surfaces (particularly with bare feet), and obesity.

Once an individual develops Plantar Fascitis, the condition is often difficult to manage and can become intensely painful and constant. Without appropriate treatment, Plantar Fascitis will only get worse.

If you are suffering from heel pain, your chiropractor will be able to establish the reason for your problem and what chiropractic therapies would be most appropriate. Such care might include ultrasound therapy, laser, joint manipulation, Graston technique, muscle stretching and strengthening exercises, kinesio taping and, in some cases, orthotics.

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It isn’t always requisite for you to find a traditional healing approach if you are experiencing back pain.  As a matter of fact, some natural approaches will often be able to help you overcome the pain, even when medical science is unable to do so.  One of the reasons why is because natural approaches tend to look for a cure for the genuine cause of the pain whereas medical approaches treat just the symptoms.  If you’re interested in experiencing natural methods that have proved to help back pain and many other problems, it isn’t necessary for you to look further than chiropractic and acupuncture.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been essential to traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.  Nowadays, quite a few people all over the world are finding relief from their back pain and other problems by coming in to see an acupuncturist on a regular basis.  According to traditional Chinese acupuncture therapy, small needles are inserted into the body at specific points that are said to affect various areas of the body.  Customarily, only the needles are used, but sometimes and particularly in recent years, minute electrical currents are passed through the needles into the body.  Although it may seem though it would be painful, it hardly ever is and, moreover, many people experience relaxation and pleasurable sensations whenever they are undergoing acupuncture treatments.

Chiropractic

A Honolulu chiropractor, also called a doctor of chiropractic, has been treating people suffering from back pain and other problems for over a hundred years. A chiropractor offers therapy to people who are in pain due to musculoskeletal and nervous system dysfunctions. Chiropractic medicine attends to the abnormalities of the vertebral column that impede the operation of the nervous system. These misaligned vertebra can lessen resistance and immunity, thus creating new health difficulties. A proficient chiropractor has superb observational and diagnostic skills that assist in discovering physical irregularities and joint problems. Many chiropractors employ neurological tests and orthopedic examinations. Some will analyze the posture of an individual as a means of identifying postural deviations, and may also study an individuals gait to pinpoint faulty movement patterns. Chiropractic therapy non-invasive, drug-free treatment as well as advice and education regarding the benefits of individual lifestyle changes, such as in exercise and nutrition.

So, if you are experiencing back pain, headaches, neck pain, hip pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, balance challenges, or arthritis, and you’ve tried a number of other things and they haven’t worked, chiropractic and acupuncture may be able to help.  One way to find out  for sure is to go in to see a good chiropractor or acupuncturist, and to permit them to clarify for you precisely what they can do for you.  It’s very possible that you will experience some relief from your problem even after only one visit.  With subsequent visits, you will maintain your improvements, and it is likely that you will discover that these natural treatments work best for your back pain.

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Santa Barbara Chiropractor: 10 Most Frequent Questions

Good balance is essential for an individual to be able to control and preserve body position while mobile or staying still. Good balance helps a person to walk without wobbling, arise from a sitting position without tottering, and to climb stairs without stumbling.

Balance difficulties are regularly reported by 9 percent of adults, aged 65 and older. Good balance is vital in helping an older person to stay independent, and to carry out daily chores and activities. Dizziness, “wooziness,” and difficulties with balance are experienced by many individuals as they grow older.

The label, vertigo, applies to the experience that many individuals have that they, themselves, or their environment is spinning. About 40 percent of individuals in the U.S. will experience dizziness that is severe enough to go seek out a health professional. And, among older adults, falls are the prevailing cause of severe injury and deaths.

Balance and Inner Ear Challenges

There are a variety of balance disorders. Three conventional types are benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, labyrinthitis, and Meniere’s disease. Of these three, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is the most widespread. It takes place as a brief, intense feeling of vertigo when a person changes head position. It can likewise be felt when rolling over to the left or right in bed, upon getting out of bed in the morning, or when looking up for an object on a high shelf. This affliction is more likely to happen in individuals 60 and older, however it can also occur in younger adults.

There are an assortment of basis for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. It may be created by an inner ear infection, head injury, or simply aging. While it can be associated with other disease processes, often a simple Epleys procedure can fix the condition. Your Santa Barbara Chiropractor has many years of experience in this procedure.

Labyrinthitis is an infection or iinflammation of the inner ear that cause dizziness and loss of balance. It affects adults of any age and the cause is unknown.

Ménière’s disease is a balance disorder that creates vertigo, hearing loss irregular, tinnitus (ringing or roaring in the ears), and a “full feeling” in the ear.

Even though those over 65 years are more likely to experience balance disorders, age is not the only explanation for why these problems happen. Depending on the cause of the balance disorder, treatment will vary. A chiropractor is well-educated in discovering and treating many of the causes. Not infrequently, even simple exercises for vestibular rehab can be the solution to balance challenges. Call a health care professional, such as your Santa Barbara Chiropractor, if you have experienced, or are currently experiencing, dizziness, vertigo, or other abnormalities with balance.

Not all balance disorders are produced by complications in the inner ear. Some may be associated with other areas of the body such as the brain or heart. Other factors, besides aging and ear infection, may involve head injury, certain medicines, challenges with blood circulation, upper respiratory infections, viral infections, stress, fatigue, smoking, alcohol use, stroke, high or low blood pressure, and heart disease.

Balance disorders produced by high blood pressure can usually be managed by less sodium intake,maintaining a healthy weight, and exercise. To help in making the symptoms of dizziness less intense, most often eating low-salt or salt-free foods, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol, will help.

Balance disorders are significant. It is the primary cause of falls and fall-related injuries in older people. It is extremely important to have a possible balance disorder accessed and treated as soon as possible.

If you can answer “yes” to any of the questions listed below, you should discuss the symptom(s) with your chiropractor:

• Do you have the feeling of being “unsteady?”

• Does the room seem to spin around you?

• Is there ever a time when you feel as if you are moving when you know you are standing still?

• Do you lose your balance and/or fall?

• Do you feel as if you are falling?

• Does your vision ever become “blurred?”

• Do you ever feel disoriented, or lose a sense of time, place or identify?

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Call your chiropractor today.

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Scoliosis: An Introduction

When the body is viewed from behind, a normal spine looks straight without much deviation from laterally.Scoliosis is a condition that is generally associated with a lateral, or side-to-side, curvature of the spine.This condition frequently gives the appearance of the patient leaning to one side though it should not be confused with bad posture. Characterized by both lateral curvature and rotation of the vertebra, this complicated deformity often produces a characteristic “rib hump” in the mid or thoracic spine. This is created by the vertebrae in the region of the major curve rotating toward the concavity and pushing their attached ribs posterior thus producing the distinctive rib hump seen in thoracic scoliosis. If the thoracic curve and rib rotation are severe, greater than 70 degrees, pulmonary and cardiac function can be obstructed. Oftentimes later in life in untreated severe idiopathic infantile and juvenile scoliosis patients, this amount of curve and resulting cardiac and pulmonary changes can be life threatening.

Anatomy

If a person were to look at the trunk from a side view, the spine would disclose four normal curves: the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral. In the lower spine there is a natural “C-shaped” curve called swayback or lordosis, while the thoracic curve in the chest vicinity has a “reverse C” called a kyphosis. Increased kyphosis in the thoracic area is called hyperkyphosis, while elevated swayback is termed, hyperlordosis. Scoliosis changes generally accompany alterations from normal on a side view. Postural exercises can eliminate some round back deformities that are simply due to bad posture. A small percentage of individuals with kyphosis have more rigid deformities than the postural type, which are associated with vertebral deformity. This class of deformity, called Scheuermann’s kyphosis, is much more problematic to treat than postural kyphosis, and it’s cause is unknown.

Even a nonprofessional can help to identify a child or fully-grown individual with scoliosis just by looking at the person in a standing position, preferably bare-chested and in , and observing the following:

• One shoulder may be more elevated than the other.

• One scapula (shoulder blade) may be raised or more conspicuous than the other.

• With the arms hanging loosely at the sides, there may be more space between the arm and the body on one side.

• One hip may appear to be raised or more conspicuous than the other.

• The head is not aligned with the pelvis.

• When the person is analyzed from the rear and asked to flex forward until the spine is horizontal, one side of the back looks more raised than the other.

The child or adult should be sent to a healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor, for further diagnosis once scoliosis is identified. your chiropractor would be happy to help.

There are a variety of causes and many varieties of scoliosis, however the most common, by far, is Idiopathic Scoliosis, which accounts for about 85 % of all cases. “Idiopathic” means “no known cause” and is witnessed with equal frequency in boys and girls in the mild or low curve magnitudes. Depending on the age of onset, this condition can be sub-classified into infantile, juvenile and adolescent categories. Idiopathic Scoliosis frequently runs in families and may be linked to genetic or hereditary influences. Though it is unknown why, girls are five to eight times more likely than boys to have their curves increase in size and require treatment. As the term “Idiopathic Scoliosis” implies, this kind of scoliosis usually occurs when children are completing their last major growth spurt. Unfortunately, at this age young people are disinclined to allow their body to be seen by parents and other adults, so it is smart to have this age group viewed on a regular basis.

It is very important that if a scoliotic curve is observed in a growing adolescent, the curves be monitored for any development by a periodic examination and on occasion standing x-rays. In ninety percent of cases, the scoliosis is mild and does not require active treatment, though| increases in spinal deformity require evaluation to decide if a brace or other treatment is needed. In a small number of patients, surgical treatment may be necessary.~Surgery may be required for a small number of people.

Brace treatment (orthosis) is recommended for newly-identified conditions of moderate scoliosis or abnormal kyphosis, as well as when an increase in scoliosis or kyphosis is observed in both juvenile and adolescent children. There are a number of kinds of braces, all created to prevent curves from increasing by acting as a buttress for the spine during active skeletal growth. Bracing is effectual in halting curve progression in a significant portion of skeletally-immature adolescents. Nevertheless, braces will not usually make the spine completely straight, and cannot always keep a curve from increasing.

Scoliosis has no simple answer. The majority of cases, even though regularly monitored, are not actively treated. Severe conditions are sometimes treated surgically, but the standard medical treatment for moderate cases is a brace. You may want to see your local chiropractor first.

Besides bracing, many other methods have been used successfully such as specialized exercise, electric stimulation of spinal muscles, nutritional programs, and chiropractic treatments. It appears that the most beneficial results have been sustained with a multi-faceted approach to the treatment of this abnormality.

There are chiropractors, that have years of experience treating scoliosis conditions.

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Chicago Chiropractor and Arthritis

Introduction

One of the most widely misunderstood conditions among patients is arthritis..Often the word, “arthritis,” inspires images of a future that includes crippled and twisted joints.  But, many conditions from benign to severe are listed under the term, arthritis. For our purposes we will confine this discussion to the most common forms of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care

The most common form of arthritis has many names: osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, degenerative joint disease (DJD), and spondylosis if it is in the spine. Primarily, the condition is due to the erosion of the cartilage that lines the joint surfaces, and it is found not only in humans, but also in all mammals. Degenerative changes in the joint happens when joint cartilage is injured and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is normally guarded by the cartilage. Sometimes, osteophytes, or bone spurs, can develop when the bone around the joint proliferates. Bone spurs produce painful irritation to other tissues around the joint exacerbating the already grievous condition.

Usually the areas of the body that develop degenerative joints are in the spine, particularly in the lower neck and lower back, the knees, the hips and the fingers. Everyone may experience DJD at one point in their lives, though previous trauma, ones occupation, activities, weight, diet, and heredity influence the degree of the condition and its onset.

Pain and/or stiffness in the affected joints are primary indicators of DJD. If the weight-bearing joints, such as the hips or knees are involved, ones mobility can be affected notably in the more advanced stages of the condition.  In some cases, if the joint is sufficiently worn and the person can no longer walk without severe pain, the joints are surgically replaced with synthetic devices. Of course, one should make an effort to manage the condition early on in ones life to avoid the need for surgery.

The best management of DJD is, without exception, prevention that involves taking care of ones joints at an early age.

• Making sure that all injuries to joints are properly treated will help to avoid future problems.
• People involved in occupations that demand standing or walking should wear appropriate shoes that offer good support and shock absorption.
• Weight loss through proper diet will help to lessen stress on weight-bearing body joints.

• Care should be taken to guard knees from pain aad strain when kneeling on hard surfaces.

• Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables as they have natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are vital for the health of the joints, as well as the rest of the body.

Recently there have been some studies that offer proof that the nutritional supplement, Glucosamine, can help with DJD and might help rebuild joint cartilage. However, it must be used over an extended period and does not work in all conditions.

Chiropractic adjustments are not only safe, but an efficient treatment for arthritis, and can help to restore proper mobility and function to the spinal joints, thereby giving patients great relief. Your Chicago chiropractor has many of years of expertise in helping people with arthritis pain. Other forms of chiropractic care may include joint mobilization, massage, ultrasound, cold laser, or electro-therapy, all of which may be helpful in the relief of painful and stiff joints. On occasion a brace is necessary to help stabilize the joint in an attempt to alleviate pain. A chiropractor may suggest exercises such as stretching, yoga, tai chi and other gentle mobilizing activities to help maintain arthritic joints.

Gout

Gouty arthritis is generated by high levels of uric acid in the blood and the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. The most common joints are the big toes, the knees, ankles and wrists, and is often characterized by severe pain and swelling. A large number of people who develop gout are predisposed through heredity, though episodes are generally brought on by binge eating of agitative foods, when dehydrated or fasting, or after a major surgery or illness. Foods that need to be avoided contain a natural substance called Purines that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. Those with this condition cannot efficiently metabolize uric acid, thus the buildup in the bloodstream and the ensuing joint problems. The foods most associated with high purine content are: red meat especially organ meat, certain seafood, legumes, mushrooms and other foods as well. There are other dietary restrictions that must be followed including the avoidance of alcohol.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of systemic origin. The primary cause is not known, but it is thought to be due to a problem with the immune system. The most common joints affected are the small joints of the hands and fingers, the feet, knees, and shoulder, although other areas of the body can be affected as well. Morning stiffness made more painful by movement is most often associated with the disease. Many times people complain of general malaise and fatigue, and the disease in its more advanced forms can affect many of the other body systems. Rheumatoid arthritis can be easily identified through particularized blood tests. Management includes medication and vitamin and diet therapy, as well as chiropractic treatments. In addition, joint mobilization and modalities such as ultrasound, heat, electro-therapy and massage can help with the pain and stiffness associated the condition. Your Chicago chiropractor is dedicated to supporting sufferers in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis.

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Can Chiropractic Help Back Pain?

Low Back Pain

Low back pain is second in commonality only to the common cold. It affects more than 80% of human being. However, unlike the common cold, back pain is often perplexing to most of its sufferers. Your Fort Worth Chiropractor is an expert at solving the problem.

Anatomy

Knowledge of the anatomy of the spine is very useful in understanding back pain. The spinal bones or vertebrae of the lower back consist of posterior joints called facets that link vertebrae to one another and serve to dictate the motion of the spine. The inter-vertebral discs link the bodies of the vertebrae and are made of a form of tough cartilage that covers a soft material in the center, called the nucleus. The discs act as shock absorbers and spacers between the vertebrae. Ligaments and muscles also join the vertebrae. The wedge-shaped bone at the bottom of the spine is the sacrum and is joined to the two pelvic bones at the sacroiliac joint. In a canal located between the body and the facets of the vertebrae is the spinal cord. The spinal nerves exit the spine between the vertebrae.

Causes of Back Pain

Most back pain victims have not experienced any trauma, accidents or major injuries prior to the onset of their problem. The cumulative effects of awkward sitting posture, poor work habits, incorrect lifting, lack of proper exercise, and other negative lifestyle-related factors cause most back pain.  All of these factors cause stresses and imbalances on the spine and eventually produce pain. This is why people can often injure their back simply by bending over to pick up a piece of paper. The instability of the spine makes it vulnerable to even the most simple movements, such as bending. When this comes about, the surrounding back muscles go into spasm to protect the stressed or injured tissues of the back. Chiropractors are back pain specialists. Your Fort Worth Chiropractor can help you to get out of pain quickly.

Disc Problems & Sciatica

Increased pressure on the intervertebral discs and imbalances in the muscles around the spine can occur during and after prolonged sitting, specifically in a unsuitable position. Eventually the lower spine loses its usual function and no longer is prepared for the normal day-to-day stresses in ones life. Finally, the intervertebral disc develops small fissures, or cracks, letting the soft nucleus to distend the disc outward. If the disc pushes on sensitive tissues, it produces the pain that is often referred to as a slipped disc. If the disc presses on the spinal nerve, a person can develop sciatica, which is defined as pain, tingling, numbness, and occasionally weakness in the lower extremities. Sometimes if the disc protrusion or herniation is large and the condition is not managed correctly, surgery is needed to dispose of the herniated disc material. With chiropractic adjustments and care, which often includes postural exercises, most disc problems, including sciatica, can be alleviated. If you are experiencing any of the conditions defined above, it is essential for you to seek chiropractic attention.

Spondylosis

Repetitive damage to the discs, facet joints, and surrounding ligaments may produce increased wearing away and weight-bearing stress on the spine. Bone spurs are created when the cartilage around the joints is negatively affected by stress that engenders calcium to deposit in the tissues around the vertebrae. These spurs can compress adjacent nerves, blood vessels and soft tissue resulting in symptoms ranging from minor pain and numbness to gross sensory loss and muscular atrophy. This condition – known as Spondylosis – is a kind of arthritis that is likely to affect almost everyone at some point in life, as it is a common part of the aging process of the spine as well. However, determinants such as previous trauma, unhealthy lifestyle, and repetitive stress injury influence the time of onset in life. Regular chiropractic adjustments and overall chiropractic management is very effective in slowing the aging process of the spine, as well as aiding Spondylosis sufferers in managing their condition. Your Fort Worth Chiropractor has assisted many Spondylosis sufferers.

Sacroiliac Problems

Another general area of dysfunction or injury in the low back is in the sacroiliac joints. These weight-bearing joints link the upper part of the body to the lower pelvic portion and are usually very strong and stable. However with damage such as falls, sports injuries, or lifting heavy objects, the joints can become unstable and move to an abnormal position.  This condition is called a sacroiliac subluxation. Women may get this condition during or after their pregnancy. Sacroiliac subluxation produces imbalances in the lower extremities giving a person a functional long and short leg. Pain occurs particularly with prolonged standing and walking, or during and after physical activity, and the individual may experience a lack of energy and exhaustion.  Often this imbalance can affect structures further up the spine and individuals can develop neck and shoulder pain, as well as headaches. Chiropractic adjustments and treatment are extremely effective in ameliorating this problem by establishing proper alignment of the joints.. Ask your Fort Worth chiropractor how you can get effective pain relief.

Spinal Subluxation

A commonplace disorder of the lower back, as well as the entire spine, is subluxated or misaligned facet joints. Subluxations can exist on their own or in conjunction with disc problems and Spondylosis. Subluxations are not only painful, but they can compress the nerves as they exit the foramen (or spaces) between the vertebrae, creating paraesthesia. Paraesthesia is a variation of sensation described as a tingling, burning or “funny feeling.” Paraesthesia in the upper extremities oftenoriginates from nerve problems in the neck, while paraesthesia in the lower extremities is very often associated with nerve dysfunctionin the lumbar region (lower back). Visceral problems such as asthma and gastric conditions can also beassociated with, or complicated by, spinal subluxations and nerve compression. Subluxations are best corrected by chiropractic adjustments.

Trauma

Damage such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury can cause trauma to the spine and lower back. Frequently these traumas produce over-stretching or tearing of the tissues of the spine. When this happens a person can experience considerable pain and immobility. In order to escape long term disability or the development of any of the conditions listed above, chiropractic adjustments and treatment at the onset of symptoms is vital. If you experience a trauma, call your chiropractor as soon as possible.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is often associated with low back pain. Chiropractic care offers exceptional pain relief.

When it comes to the spine, chiropractors have more education and training than medical doctors. I can provides state of the art diagnosis and highly competent treatment for any of the above-mentioned dysfunctions of the spine and lower back.

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San Jose Chiropractor: Ten Most Frequently Asked Questions

In addition to spinal complaints, knee pain and disability is one of the most widespread dysfunctions of the musculoskeletal system. Insufficient mechanics of the knee, as well as reduced foot mechanics as the result of foot pain as a rule create painful knee conditions. Additional causes generally include overuse of the knee joint, ailments as the result of arthritic changes in the joint, and traumatic injury from sports and falls.

Non-trauma knee problems: Deficient mechanics of the knee joint and the corresponding stress on the soft tissues of the knee are, by far, the most widespread cause of non-traumatic pain. Generally, the part of the knee affected is the patella or knee-cap. Many times the patella does not move smoothly or does not move sufficiently on the femur during bending of the knee producing undue stress on the tendons, cartilage and ligaments. This particular condition is often called chondromalacia patella (CMP) or Patella Femoral Syndrome (Knee Cap Pain). The condition generally starts when there are imbalances in the quadriceps muscles of the thigh that join to and move the patella. Lower back ailments, particularly in the sacroiliac joints, are one of the main reasons for imbalances in the muscles related to knee movement, and resultant knee problems. Pain and dysfunction can also be produced by imbalances in the muscle groups that connect to the knee. For example, the muscles on the inside of the thigh, when strained and tight, can create pain on the medial or inside of the knee.   Faulty foot mechanics that produce gait irregularities such as pronation, are another cause of mechanical knee pain.

The correspondent pain from overuse is most often noticeable during activity, in particular stair climbing, running, jumping, and following rising after prolonged sitting. A number of women seem to be predisposed to painful overuse ailments for anatomical reasons, although such conditions are frequently due to wearing high heels on a regular basis.

It is important to re-establish proper muscle balance, restore appropriate motion to the patella and other knee joints, and to correct any subluxations of the sacroiliac joints and bones of the foot.  In certain cases, a brace is adopted to help with the positioning of the patella or to secure the joint. Chiropractors, such as your San Jose chiropractor, are experts in supplying the proper diagnosis and care of these conditions.

Knee problems due to trauma: Traumatic injuries commonly take place during sports that involve running and jumping, particularly. Sprains happen when tissue is torn due to the knee being stretched or contorted beyond the capacity of the ligaments that hold the joint together. Strains to muscles that facilitate movement of the knee can occur when the muscles are torn during injury. As with a sprain, a muscle strain can vary from a mild injury that requires little care to a extreme injury needing surgery. The knee also contains two special “cartilages” – the menisci – between the tibia and the femur that allow fluid motion and cushioning. These cartilages can also be torn during trauma, and often need surgical repair, or even removal if damaged severely.

Traumatic knee injuries can cause intense pain and swelling and require immediate evaluation and attention. In most instances a competent chiropractor, such as your San Jose Chiropractor, can manage these types of injuries, but there are some injuries that require the craft of an orthopedic surgeon. In any event, it is crucial to stabilize the injured joint right away and to put ice on the hurt area, if possible, until the injury can be evaluated.

Conditions such as poor mechanics and problems due to overuse, as well as traumatic injuries, need to be corrected at an early stage. If not, the tissues of the knee joint, particularly the cartilage, will begin to erode. If tissue and cartilage wear away, the bones will rub together unprotected and changes such as bone spurs can take place. This painful problem, known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, commonly increases with age. General treatment may involve medications such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Fortunately, there are natural anti-inflammatory supplements that are highly effectual such as rosemary, glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, bioflavinoids, curcumin. Conservative treatment, such as chiropractic, can be extremely helpful in relieving the pain. Your San Jose chiropractor is will be happy to recommend anti-inflammatory supplements. In addition, sufferers can often help themselves by keeping their weight down, doing exercises (especially in the pool), and wearing cushioned shoes or insoles.

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Is It Safe To Adjust Children? FAQ#7

The negative effects of many medications on children’s health has more and more parents worried. Parents want to know if there is something better that they can do for their child than to give them pharmaceuticals.

Moms and dads are adverse to merely mask symptoms with medication, and they are concerned about side effects. Their intent to achieve a healthier state for their children has inspired parents to find health care options that assist their child’s own inherent ability to be healthy.

Chiropractic care is that option because it helps a child’s nervous system in functioning at peak performance. When the nervous system is highly functioning, the immune system, which is controlled by the nervous system, is able to do what it’s intended to do, which is keep your child healthy.  As the adage goes, “the best offense is a good defense.” Everyday, children are exposed to massive amounts of airborn, food-born, and contact bacteria. So many bacteria, in fact, that it would be impossible to immunize them against them all. Your Camarillo Chiropractor well-informed and has years of expertise when it comes to colds, sore throats, ear infections, fevers, colic, asthma, tonsillitis, allergies, bed-wetting, infections, pains, falls, stomach-aches, and the hundred and one little (and big) things children go through as they grow up.

Most illnesses that affect children are avoidable. The purpose of chiropractic care is to remove interferences to the inherent healing power running through the body. When that power is freed, the healing results that take place may often be profound.

Furthermore, a child is less inclined to be injured at play or in sports when his or her spine is in alignment. In addition, children who are brought in regularly for chiropractic care don’t appear to experience as many “growing pains” as other children.

Each day at your Camarillo Chiropractor we are happy to see that more and more parents are bringing their children to our clinic to address the questions and concerns they have with respect to their children’s health. Every child is have the right to express their absolute capacity. Chiropractic care for children at your chiropractor is safe, gentle and effective.

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Introduction

The average human takes between 3,000 and 5,000 steps per day. Not to mention, many of us are involved in activities, such as running and aerobic exercise, that add many more steps, as well as stress to our poor, overworked feet. Is it any wonder then why a large number of people have aches and pains in their feet? Factors such as flat feet or over-pronated feet, individual walking and running style, and the type of shoe a person wears can determine if someone will experience foot and ankle pain. In addition these factors can also affect the health of a person’s back, knees and legs. Listed below are some of the most common conditions that affect the feet and ankle.

Hallux Valgus and Bunions

Hallux Valgus, a slow-developing condition, is noticeable when the big toe or hallux angles off towards the outside of the foot, in many cases nearly overlapping or bumping into the adjacent toe. Moreover, a bump, called a bunion, frequently develops on the inside of the big toe. The pain associated with Hallux Valgus is normally felt during weight-bearing activities such as walking or prolonged standing.But, if someone has developed a bunion, the pain can be felt at rest and is often described as a “numbing” or “burning” sensation in the big toes.

The joint between the big toe and the first metatarsal (the first metatarsal-phalangeal) is the genuine problem, and not the bone, itself. It is the damage to this joint that creates the pain and deformity associated with Hallux Valgus. Over-pronation that produces aberrant pressure on the big toe and first metatarsal during walking causes the prolonged wear and tear that often results in Hallux Valgus. Inflammatory arthritis that harms the joint and causes degenerative changes is an additional cause. But, one of the most prevalent causes of the problem is the high-heeled and pointed shoes that women often wear. These shoes not only put extra stress on the joint, but also help in pushing the big toe to the outside.

If you are experiencing Hallux Valgus, your chiropractor can examine your foot to determine which factors are contributing to your condition, and then use a range of chiropractic techniques and modalities to decrease pain and improve the function of your foot.

Plantar Fascitis ( Heel Pain )

Heel pain, known as Plantar Fascitis, is a common foot ailment produced by inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue that encases the muscles on the bottom of the foot . It attaches the heel bone to the ball of the foot, supporting the arch, protecting the foot, and absorbing shock.

A frequent compaint by sufferers with Plantar Fascitis is pain when putting weight on their feet in the morning, as well as pain upon standing after prolonged sitting. The pain starts just in front of the heel bone, but can spread over the entire bottom of the foot.

If left untreated, aggravation associated with the problem can lead to the development of scar tissue, calcium deposits and sooner or later heel spurs. Heel spurs, a bony growth on the front part of the calcaneus of the heel bone where the plantar fascia attaches, can cause a sharp stabbing pain with walking.

Those with other foot conditions, especially Pes Planus (flat feet) and/or over-pronation, are most susceptible to Plantar Fascitis, although other factors often contribute as well. Muscle imbalances between the calf muscles and the muscles on the bottom of the foot are an important contributing factor. When the calf muscles are short and tight they exert an forceful pull on the back of the cancaneus. Such a condition produces unnatural stress on the smaller, weaker plantar muscles and its fascia that are connected to the other side of the calcaneus. In addition to running and jumping activities, wearing high heels can also create a shortening and tightening of the calf muscles. Sudden strenuous activity after a period of prolonged inactivity, atypical walking patterns (such as over-pronation), improper footwear, walking on hard or uneven surfaces (especially barefooted), and obesity all stress the plantar fascia.

Nurses, teachers, and waiters who are required to be continuously on their feet, and those whose activities include aerobic, volleyball, running, basketball, and tennis are more inclined towards getting Plantar Fascitis.

Once an individual develops plantar fascitis, it is often difficult to manage and can become painfully persistent. Chiropractors are well-trained in not only determining the cause of your pain, but in recommending appropriate therapy, such as joint manipulation, muscle stretching and strengthening exercises, special taping, ultrasound therapy and, in some cases, orthotics.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis is a painful, and often, debilitating inflammation of the Achilles tendon, also called the “heel cord.” This large tendon is a continuance of the two biggest calf muscles and runs down the back of the lower leg adhering to the heel bone or calcaneus. Harm to this significant tendon can make it hard or even impossible to walk. The condition may be created by a sudden single incident, such as jumping, but more frequently it results from an accumulation of smaller stresses that produce small tears in the tendon over time. Because the symptoms appear gradually, in the beginning many Achilles Tendonitis sufferers may associate the initial annoyance to the aches and pains that accompany age or fatigue. But, the problem will gradually worsen, especially if the person tries to “work through” the pain. In severe cases, a total rupture of the tendon can arise, resulting in traumatic damage and severe pain that makes walking virtually impossible and may even require corrective surgery.

Achilles tendonitis is many times associated with athletes and performers, such as dancers, who participate in running and jumping activities, especially those that involve sudden starts and stops. Also at risk are women who typically wear high-heeled shoes then switch to sport shoes for exercise because the tendon and muscles have gradually conformed to the shortened position produced by wearing high-heels. When this happens, the change to exercise or flat shoes forces the Achilles tendon to stretch further than it is adapted to, thus creating stress and inflammation. This is why, high-heels should not be worn everyday. If they are required, stretching should be done every morning and night to keep the Achilles tendon lengthened.

As mentioned above, Achilles tendonitis is often age-related, especially in men who are athletes. As a person ages, the arch tends to flatten producing over-pronation and increased stress on the Achilles tendon, as well as the calf and foot muscles. Achilles tendon problems are also prevalent in those who exercise infrequently, such as the “weekend warrior” and in those who are just novices at exercise. In both cases, muscles and tendons have little flexility due to inactivity. Therefore, people who are just beginning to exercise after a long layoff should stretch properly, start slowly, and increase gradually.

Regardless of the cause of the problem, if an individual is experiencing the symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, he or she should consult a qualified professional, such as a chiropractor, to provide care for the problem before it becomes severe. Your chiropractor has many years of experience in treating Achilles tendonitis.

Pes Planus ( Flat Feet )

It is estimated that nearly one quarter of people have Pes Planus, more commonly known as flat feet. Every baby has flat feet, but somewhere between the ages 3-10 we develop an arch. However, some adults never develop an arch. There are a number of factors, besides genetic disposion that can cause flat feet, or predispose a person to the problem. A person’s job, level of activity, and lifestyle can create a previously-developed arch to collapse later in life. Age and weight also are a factor in the development of the condition. Middle-aged individuals who have been working on their feet for years often experience flat feet, as do overweight individuals who are placing added stress on their feet and legs.

Some individuals have flat feet and never feel any annoyance, while others experience pain in the feet and knees, and infrequently in the hips and lower back as well. If you feel you have flat feet and are experiencing discomfort, you ought to see your Orlando chiropractor to determine a plan of management that can lessen your pain and prevent additional symptoms from developing. Chiropractic care includes joint adjustments to correct foot function and resolve painful symptoms. Your chiropractor may also prescribe arch-supporting insoles, called orthotics, for additional support and stability.

Metatarsalgia ( Pain in the ball of the foot )

Metatarsalgia is sometimes called “ball-of-foot pain,” as it is a pain on the sole of the foot just behind the toes where the foot bends during walking. The metatarsal bones extend from halfway up the foot to the toes. A irregularity in one or more of these five bones is the cause of pain.

The feeling of pain can be limited to where the metatarsal bones join the toe bones or it can extend along the entire length of the metatarsals, and possibly between them. Problems vary from stiffness upon movement to a burning or stinging sensation. The degree of discomfort depends upon whether the condition is due to a dysfunction in the joints or an inflammation to the nerves as they travel along the metatarsals.

The cause of the distress is due to either structural or functional reasons. When a structural problem occurs, such as when the metacarpal bones are either too long or too short, it causes abnormal mechanics in the feet and undue stress on the entire area. Flat feet or excessive arch can also alter the stresses on the metatarsals causing similar symptoms.

Excess body weight, as well as wearing high-heeled shoes, are both ancillary factors as they increase stress on the metatarsal that can lead to joint pain and nerve inflammation. In addition, excessive or poor running or athletic training can affect the condition because repetitive foot activities directly stress the metatarsals by exposing them to constant trauma.

No matter the cause, a chiropractor can effectively care for metatarsalgia. After analysing what factors are underlying your condition, your chiropractor can offer a variety of non-invasive therapies, including orthotics, as well as offer recommendations on how you can avoid future pain.

See your Orlando chiropractor as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of the foot problems mentioned above.

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