Thursday, May 2, 2019

5 Common Chiropractic Adjustment Techniques

Common Techniques of Chiropractors

Get the best chiropractic change, from hands-on manipulation to instrument-assisted adjusting and the drop-table technique to ease aches and discomforts.
From the founding of the chiropractic occupation in 1895 to present day, the majority of chiropractic practitioners have actually carried out modifications, such as to control the spinal column, in an effort to alleviate patients' pain and enhance joint function.

How private specialists tackle laying on hands-- or do not when using instruments rather-- varies extensively. Robert Hayden, a representative for the American Chiropractic Association, says there are about 150 strategies referenced in chiropractic doctor literature. He notes that professionals usually use more than one to tailor treatment to their clients' requirements.

Usually thought about safe, specialists advise patients to always ask about threats, such as rare major issues like a herniated disc or compression of nerves, before concurring to undergo change.

" These are five of the most frequently experienced chiropractic adjustment methods in chiropractic workplaces," Hayden says:

1. Gonstead strategy

This hands-on strategy typically involves adjusting the low back or hips as the patient rests on his side. Chiropractic practitioners use it to straighten joints, decrease pain and tightness, and increase movement. "This adjusting method is essentially universal in chiropractic education and is taught to students early in their learning process," Hayden states.

2. Activator techniqueActivator-Adjustment

A portable adjusting instrument provides a gentle impulse into the vertebral sectors of the spinal column, or the extremities. The force feels like a light thumping experience when utilized to treat whatever from low back discomfort to specific types of headaches, like migraines. "It is really comfortable to the client and an excellent option for elders," Hayden states.

3. Flexion interruption

Likewise called Cox Technic or decompression manipulation, it's used in majority of all chiropractic centers, and a method of choice when treating disc herniations, facet joint pain, scoliosis and other conditions, Hayden says. "Patients should expect to feel a gentle extending motion," he says of the method that requires a specially created adjusting table.

4. Thompson, or drop table, technique

This involves a specially adjusted table with cushioned platforms created to drop a fraction of an inch when the chiropractic doctor uses a quick thrust to make a modification. The subtle dropping motion, which clients feel as vibration, makes it extremely comfy for many patients, Hayden says. It can be used for the spine or extremities.

5. Diversified technique

Also utilized to adjust the spinal column and extremities, this feels comparable to the Gonstead strategy. It's considered the most commonly utilized technique involving extremely precise hands-on thrusts targeted at restoring proper motion and alignment to the spine.

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Tuesday, April 30, 2019

6 Unexpected Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic Care Unexpected Benefits

If you believe chiropractic care is simply for your neck or your back, you need to think once again! Chiropractic treatment can benefit you in ways you may never expect. And while many people pop into their chiropractic practitioner's workplace for the very first time to eliminate pain in their back or neck, they keep returning even after the pain is gone due to the fact that of the remarkable advantages. Here are simply a few of the unforeseen benefits of Chiropractic care:

Chiropractic care can enhance your resistance.

A healthy body immune system must be able to eradicate many of the germs and infections that it comes into contact with, with just very little assistance from antibiotics or other drugs. Because the worried system controls the functions of cells, organs and tissues of the body, a misalignment can reduce the ability of the body immune system. Chiropractic care can straighten the spine, maximizing the body immune system to eliminate off intruders. Studies reveal that people who practice chiropractic upkeep have less colds than others.

Chiropractic adjustments can improve your digestion.

The nerves that go through the spinal column likewise manage your stomach and its functions. If the vertebrae in this area are poorly lined up, the nerves can begin signifying a requirement for more acid production, resulting in gas, heartburn, and acid reflux. A chiropractic change can help the nerves in the thoracic spine work correctly; completion outcome is regularly the removal of stomach problems.

Chiropractic treatment increases your energy.

It's able to do this in two methods: by lowering tension in the spine and by releasing the nerves to work more effectively. Sometimes we've ached and tense for so long that we do not even notice it. Discomfort becomes regular to us. As our bodies have problem with muscle aches and discomforts and an ineffective nerve system, we find ourselves feeling diminished and tired. Chiropractic changes remove all the pressure, releasing the body to run as it was developed to.

Chiropractic may be able to reduce your high blood pressure.

A research study performed by WebMD concluded that a chiropractic modification that particularly targets the nerves in the upper neck is as reliable as taking a double dosage of high blood pressure medications. This specific manipulation is described in chiropractic circles as the "Atlas modification," and is known to have stabilizing results on high blood pressure.

Chiropractic care can help you breathe better.

The lungs are similar to every other part of the body in that they rely on nerve function to take a trip unobstructed from the brain to the spiral cable. A misalignment in the thoracic and mid-cervical areas of the spinal column can cause lung abnormalities like asthma. Remedying subluxations can assist lower inflammation in the lungs and increase our capability to breathe effectively.

Chiropractic treatment can help in a much healthier pregnancy and may even have the ability to make delivery easier.

During pregnancy a woman's body goes through many substantial changes that affect the worried system's function. Ligaments in the pelvic area loosen to allow giving birth; at the exact same time, weight boost in a female's core can result in an instability that puts increased pressure on an expectant mom's spinal column. Regular chiropractic care throughout pregnancy can assist guarantee a much healthier mother and child, as infants born to mothers who visit their chiropractic doctors establish in a much healthier environment than those who do not.

As you can see, there are many other reasons to go to a chiropractor besides relief from neck and back pain. Chiropractic care is a safe, natural way to help the body learn how to heal itself. Chiropractic treatment isn't so much a method of repairing physical problems as it is a method of allowing your body to perform the healing it already understands how to do if it's offered the care and respect it requires.

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Wednesday, February 27, 2019

Your smartphone could be causing your neck pain

Your smartphone could be causing your neck pain

Do you ever ask yourself why your neck is so stiff, or why you have that nagging headache that doesn’t seem to want to go away? Neck pain is a common complaint for Canadians that can range from mildly inconvenient to completely debilitating. You’re probably aware that poor posture, hunching over a computer, or falling asleep on the sofa can cause your neck pain. But did you know your smartphone might be to blame?

How prolonged use can cause strain

According to a recent poll by Forum Research, more than a quarter of Canadians use a mobile device at least two hours a day.1 Over the span of a week, that’s 14 hours spent texting, calling and swiping.

So what exactly is happening to your neck while you’re staring at your smartphone? It all has to do with the angle of your head. When you’re sitting or standing in a neutral position, looking forward, your head weighs between 10-12 lbs. As you begin to tilt your head forward 15 degrees, you put stress on your neck, increasing the pressure to 27 lbs. By the time you angle your head 60 degrees to stare at your smartphone, the pressure equates to a whopping 60 lbs. That’s a lot of strain on your neck and spine!

Tips to relieve pain

What can you do to protect your spine and relieve neck pain? We know you can’t completely disconnect from your smartphones – many of us use our devices for work, to stay connected with distant friends and family, and as a source of entertainment after a long day. But there are small changes you can make to reduce the strain over time.

Dr. Sean Lamasz, DC, recommends the following tips to manage “Text Neck:”2

  1. Lift your phone up to eye level

“A simple way to help prevent neck pain associated with these devices is to avoid bending your neck forward,” advises Dr. Lamasz. “Looking at your phone while sitting at your desk? Lean on your elbows, bringing your phone to eye level, allowing you to keep your neck in its neutral position.”

  1. Take a break

Dr. Lamasz suggests implementing the 20-20-20 rule. For every 20 minutes on your mobile device, take a 20-second break and look 20 feet ahead, which will neutralize your spine.

  1. Stretch it out

If you’re looking for something you can do to instantly relieve neck pain, try these eight simple stretches:

Illustration of a woman performing 8 neck stretches

SOURCE: www.drseanlamasz.com/blog/2019/2/14/text-neck

Your chiropractor can help

These stretches are often best practiced in combination with manual therapy. Your chiropractor will recommend a course of treatment specific to you which may include spinal adjustments, joint mobilization, muscle release techniques, muscle stimulation, therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle advice.

1Powers, Neil. “Half of Young Canadian Adults Spend Two or More Hours per Day on Their Cellphones.” Financial Post, 26 Feb. 2018, business.financialpost.com/telecom/half-of-young-canadian-adults-spend-two-or-more-hours-per-day-on-their-cellphones.
2Lamasz, Sean. “8 Easy Stretches to Manage ‘Text Neck.’” Dr. Sean Lamasz, Dr. Sean Lamasz, 14 Feb. 2019, www.drseanlamasz.com/blog/2019/2/14/text-neck.

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Monday, February 25, 2019

Avoiding Back Pain while Shoveling and stretches for when you are done.

Full Up Your Cup

If you are the type of person who gives until their cup is empty, this is the video for you. We want you to be able to give back to others, but first you need to invest in your health.

 

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Friday, February 15, 2019

What to Expect From Your First Chiropractic Visit

What to Expect From Your First Chiropractic Visit

Originally published: April 2016

It is common to have questions and even trepidations before your first visit to any new healthcare provider. Luckily, chiropractors know that new patients may need extra time to discuss their questions or concerns. You can play a role in your own chiropractic care before your first visit. An effective way to be involved in your own healthcare is to learn about what you can expect from visit #1.

Duration of visit

Depending on the injury or condition for which you are being treated, initial visits can last from 45 to 60 minutes. Subsequent visits will likely be shorter, but the first visit aims to start building the therapeutic relationship, identifying the cause of the problem and discussing a proposed plan of management. As MSK experts, chiropractors are extensively trained to assess, diagnose, manage and prevent reoccurrence of MSK conditions while specifically addressing your needs and goals. Make sure you communicate your needs and goals to your chiropractor.

Health history

As mentioned, your first appointment includes a comprehensive assessment to help determine the cause of the problem and how to treat it. To do so, expect that the history-taking portion of the visit may include questions about the following areas of your health1:

  • Personal and family medical history
  • Major illnesses you have experienced
  • Surgeries or operations you have had
  • Medications you are taking
  • A description of your area(s) of concern
  • A description of the general state of your health
  • The steps you have taken to manage your condition
  • Your diet and exercise
  • Your sleeping habits
  • Your daily activities
  • Your work routine
  • Your stress level
  • Your home life

Typically, patients can expect a chiropractor to go through a more diagnostic process during the initial visit. However, this may be different from person to person depending on the nature of the injury and personal history.

Maximizing the benefits

Building a therapeutic relationship with a new practitioner can take some time, but investing in good communication at the outset can help you maximize the benefit of your chiropractic treatment. Your chiropractor will be happy to answer questions, address concerns and explain different options to you. This may include preventative strategies and changes in lifestyle practices.

After the appointment

You may feel some slight discomfort or fatigue after your visit, but it should resolve quickly. After your visit, if you have additional questions or concerns, simply contact the office or write them down to be discussed at a subsequent visit.

Source:

1BC Chiropractic Association – First Visit (https://www.bcchiro.com/chiropractors-and-you/your-first-chiropractic-visit/)

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Wednesday, January 30, 2019

High- and Low-Impact Activities for Everyone

High- and Low-Impact Activities for Everyone

iStock_84431747_webIt is no secret that at the Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) we often promote the benefits of regular physical activity as a way to stay healthy and happy. In fact, the CCA thinks it’s so important that we’ve created a free app: Straighten Up Canada! The app is currently available for download via Apple Store, Google Play and Blackberry World. Featuring easy-to-follow exercises, it helps to improve your posture and allows you to stay active during your day!

Investing time to do activities or sports that you enjoy is key to healthy aging and an active lifestyle. Being physically active is often a good way to prevent and manage musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries as well as helping maintain strength and mobility. Varying your routine between high- and low-impact activities is a great way to modify your workouts and challenge the body. We’ve outlined some great suggestions for both so you can get up and get moving!

High Impact

High-impact exercise is typically described as an (often aerobic) activity where both feet leave the ground at the same time1. Often, high-impact activities may include exercise classes which involve jumping, leaping, or jogging in place. Doing high-impact exercise can put you at greater risk of injury if your body is not prepared, especially if you’re just starting out. Be cautious and adapt to a lower impact version of the activity if in doubt. Otherwise, before starting high-impact exercises make sure you have warmed-up.

Good examples of high-impact exercises are:

  • Jumping jacks
  • Jumping rope
  • Running or jogging on a treadmill (or outdoors)
  • Performing plyometric exercises

High-impact exercises tend to be more intense and expend more energy, so it’s important that if you’re doing high-impact exercises that you’re well-prepared. For some, high-impact exercises are not appropriate: they may increase the risk of injury, commonly to the ankles, knees, hips, and even the back. That being said, high-impact exercises can have a lot of great benefits too2:

  • Improves bone density
  • Increases an individual’s heart rate more quickly, thereby burning more calories
  • Improves a person’s stability, balance, and coordination
  • Strengthens the heart and lungs

Low Impact3

Low-impact exercise tends to be less jarring on the body and joints, and less intense overall. According to the American Council on Exercise, keeping at least one foot on the ground at all times also reduces your risk of musculoskeletal injury. Some examples include4:

  • Working out on an elliptical machine
  • Low-impact aerobics
  • Using a rowing machine
  • Home exercise
  • Walking
  • Dancing
  • Cycling
  • Swimming
  • Nordic walking

It’s important to realize that low impact doesn’t mean low intensity (unless purposely designed to be so) because you can still get an intense workout keeping both feet on the ground. Low-impact exercises are great for beginners, people with arthritis or osteoporosis, older adults, individuals who are obese, pregnant women, and people with bone, joint, or connective tissue injuries.

Whichever form of physical activity you choose, make sure you do it safely. Talk to your chiropractor if you have any questions.

 

 

References

1Amy Gonsalves, “High Impact versus low impact.” Diabetes Outside blog. April 19, 2011. https://blog.diabetesoutside.com/?p=1060

2Paige Waehner, “High Impact Exercise—Is High Impact Exercise Right for You?” VeryWell.com. May 2, 2016. https://www.verywell.com/is-high-impact-exercise-right-for-you-1230821

3Nicole Nichols, “low impact vs. high impact exercise: Which is right for you?” SparkPeople.com. April 14, 2010. https://www.sparkpeople.com/blog/blog.asp?post=fitness_defined_lowimpact_and_highimpact_exercises

4NHS, “Easy exercises.” NHS Choices. Page last reviewed: 01/03/2016. https://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/fitness/Pages/Lowimpact.aspx

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