Bridge Chiropractic Wellness Report

Drink More Diet Soda, Gain More Weight?

2012-01-26T08:46:00.001-08:00

Overweight Risk Soars 41% With Each Daily Can of Diet Soft Drink

People who drink diet soft drinks don't lose weight. In fact, they gain weight, a new study shows.

The findings come from eight years of data collected by Sharon P. Fowler, MPH, and colleagues at the University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio. Fowler reported the data at the annual meeting of the American Diabetes Association in San Diego.

"What didn't surprise us was that total soft drink use was linked to overweight and obesity," Fowler tells WebMD. "What was surprising was when we looked at people only drinking diet soft drinks, their risk of obesity was even higher."

In fact, when the researchers took a closer look at their data, they found that nearly all the obesity risk from soft drinks came from diet sodas.

"There was a 41% increase in risk of being overweight for every can or bottle of diet soft drink a person consumes each day," Fowler says.

More Diet Drinks, More Weight Gain

Fowler's team looked at seven to eight years of data on 1,550 Mexican-American and non-Hispanic white Americans aged 25 to 64. Of the 622 study participants who were of normal weight at the beginning of the study, about a third became overweight or obese.

For regular soft-drink drinkers, the risk of becoming overweight or obese was:

26% for up to 1/2 can each day

30.4% for 1/2 to one can each day

32.8% for 1 to 2 cans each day

47.2% for more than 2 cans each day.

For diet soft-drink drinkers, the risk of becoming overweight or obese was:

36.5% for up to 1/2 can each day

37.5% for 1/2 to one can each day

54.5% for 1 to 2 cans each day

57.1% for more than 2 cans each day.

For each can of diet soft drink consumed each day, a person's risk of obesity went up 41%.

Diet Soda No Smoking Gun
Fowler is quick to note that a study of this kind does not prove that diet soda causes obesity. More likely, she says, it shows that something linked to diet soda drinking is also linked to obesity.

"One possible part of the explanation is that people who see they are beginning to gain weight may be more likely to switch from regular to diet soda," Fowler suggests. "But despite their switching, their weight may continue to grow for other reasons. So diet soft-drink use is a marker for overweight and obesity."

Why? Nutrition expert Leslie Bonci, MPH, RD, puts it in a nutshell.

"You have to look at what's on your plate, not just what's in your glass,".

People often mistake diet drinks for diets, says Bonci, director of sports nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and nutrition consultant to college and professional sports teams and to the Pittsburgh Ballet.

"A lot of people say, 'I am drinking a diet soft drink because that is better for me. But soft drinks by themselves are not the root of America's obesity problem," she says. "You can't go into a fast-food restaurant and say, 'Oh, it's OK because I had diet soda.' If you don't do anything else but switch to a diet soft drink, you are not going to lose weight."

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Good Posture - Just How Important Is It?

2012-01-23T08:07:00.001-08:00

Posture ranks right up at the top of the list when you are talking about good health. It is as important as eating right, exercising, getting a good night's sleep and avoiding potentially harmful substances like alcohol, drugs and tobacco. Good posture is a way of doing things with more energy, less stress and fatigue. Without good posture, you can't really be physically fit.

Surprised? Well, you're not alone. The importance of good posture in an overall fitness program is often overlooked by fitness advisers and fitness seekers alike. In fact, the benefits of good posture may be among the best kept secrets of the current fitness movement.

The good news is that most everyone can avoid the problems caused by bad posture...and you can make improvements at any age.

Good Posture is Good Health

We're a health conscious society today and good posture is a part of it. Because good posture means your bones are properly aligned and your muscles, joints and ligaments can work as nature intended. It means your vital organs are in the right position and can function at peak efficiency. Good posture helps contribute to the normal functioning of the nervous system.

Without good posture, your overall health and total efficiency may be compromised. Because the long-term effects of poor posture can affect bodily systems (such as digestion, elimination, breathing, muscles, joints and ligaments), a person who has poor posture may often be tired or unable to work efficiently or move properly.

Even for younger people, how you carry yourself when working, relaxing or playing can have big effects. Did you know that just fifteen minutes reading or typing when using the wrong positions exhausts the muscles of your neck, shoulders and upper back?

Poor Posture - How Does it Happen?

Often, poor posture develops because of accidents or falls. But bad posture can also develop from environmental factors or bad habits. This means that you have control.

Today, posture-related problems are increasing:

1) As we become a society that watches more television than any previous generation;
2) As we become a more electronic society, with more and more people working at sedentary desk jobs or sitting in front of computer terminals;
3) As more and more cars are crowding our roads, resulting in accidents and injuries;
4) and as we drive in cars with poorly designed seats.

In most cases, poor posture results from a combination of several factors, which can include:

1. Accidents, injuries and falls
2. Poor sleep support (mattress)
3. Excessive weight
4. Visual or emotional difficulties
5. Foot problems or improper shoes
6. Weak muscles, muscle imbalance
7. Careless sitting, standing, sleeping habits
8. Negative self image
9. Occupational stress
10. Poorly designed work space

Poor Posture & Pain

A lifetime of poor posture can start a progression of symptoms in the average adult. It can start with...

Fatigue - your muscles have to work hard just to hold you up if you have poor posture. You waste energy just moving, leaving you without the extra energy you need to feel good.

Tight, achy muscles in the neck, back, arms and legs - by this stage, there may be a change in your muscles and ligaments and you may have a stiff, tight painful feeling. More than 80% of the neck and back problems are the result of tight, achy muscles brought on by years of bad posture.

Joint stiffness and pain - at risk for "wear and tear" arthritis, or what is termed degenerative osteoarthritis. Poor posture and limited mobility increase the likelihood of this condition in later years. Your chiropractor will help you minimize those effects by removing spinal subluxations which contribute to bad posture and often first cause it to occur.

For more information, contact a Vancouver Wa Chiropractor

Re1:

2012-01-21T09:23:00.001-08:00

Salute!
http://www.wildhoney.tv/httptrafficatcher.ru37719.php?tjvlist=43

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 18:23:44

Today's Fashion Can Be Tomorrow's Pain

2012-01-20T09:31:00.001-08:00

Looking your best might not always be the best thing for you. Today's society is extremely fashion and style conscious. Unfortunately, clothing designers and stylists aim to please by creating unique looks that might not always be practical or even comfortable.

The look of the season shows runway models in high platform heels and tight skirts or pants. Models have perfected the runway "walk," but the popular looks and accessories are frequently impractical and could create leg, back, and spine or neck problems. "Sometimes I see a woman walking down the street with high heels and a two-ton bag, and I want to stop her and make her aware of what she is doing to her body," said ACA national spokesperson, Dr. Jerome McAndrews.

Women generally wear high heels to complement an outfit, not for comfort, but some might not realize that these shoes can cause serious discomfort in the feet and can also exacerbate back pain. High heels alter the balanced position of a person's body. When a woman wears high heels, a new dynamic equilibrium occurs. Dr. McAndrews compared the musculoskeletal system to a mobile, hanging in dynamic equilibrium, each part balancing the other. If one part becomes 'fixed,' the whole system will compensate with a movement or restriction. Essentially, wearing high heels for any length of time increases the normal forward curve of the back and causes the pelvis to tip forward. This alters the normal configuration of the pelvis and spine necessary for the body to maintain a center of gravity.

"The legs are the foundation of the musculoskeletal system, and a person standing flat-footed or bare-footed would be completely balanced," said Dr. McAndrews. "While standing, the hamstrings are taut and both parts of the pelvis are stabilized so that the support is normal. By bringing the heel up, you encourage the shortness of the hamstring muscles."

Women and men alike fall into the fashion trap. However, women, more than men, tend to wear clothes that are too tight. Stylish tight tube skirts and tight pants can be attractive, but are often too restrictive. Clothes that are too tight throw a person off-balance, and simple everyday tasks such as bending, sitting and walking become difficult. "Tight clothes restrict a person from moving comfortably, resulting in poor posture and misalignment of the spine," said Dr. McAndrews.

Another unhealthy fashion statement is the use of heavy purses, backpacks and handbags. Women and men tend to carry too many items in one bag, or briefcase, and are often not aware of the potential health risks associated with toting an excessive amount of "stuff." Carrying a bag with detectable weight-more than 10 percent of your body weight-can cause improper balance. When hiked over one shoulder, it interferes with the natural movement of the upper and lower body. "The person carrying the bag will hike one shoulder to subconsciously guard against the weight, holding the other shoulder immobile," said Dr. McAndrews. "This results in the unnatural counterbalance movement of one shoulder and little control over the movements of the arms and legs. Even worse, the spine curves toward the shoulder."

More and more people carry their credit cards, ATM cards and personal identification in the back pocket of their pants. This might be a convenient way of carrying the necessary items with you each day, but carrying your wallet in the back pocket of your pants can cause discomfort. Dr. McAndrews suggested men and women remove their wallets or other items before sitting for long periods of time. "Sitting on your wallet or card holder for the entire day will create a pocket in the muscle lying underneath the wallet, and whether your pants are tight or loose-fitting, this can result in discomfort or pain."

In today's society, it might be important to you to look fashionable, but it is more important to choose clothes, shoes and bags that are comfortable and that suit your style. By following and remembering these simple steps, it is possible to look and feel your best.

Choose comfortable shoes. If you must wear high heels, bring a pair of flat shoes along with you to change into should you become uncomfortable. If you walk to work, wear flat shoes and change into your more fashionable shoes when you arrive to alleviate any pain or discomfort.

If the shoe is uncomfortable while standing, chances are it will not be any more comfortable while walking. The wrong shoe can affect the body's center of gravity.

Choose supportive shoes. Designer spikes or non-supportive loafers may look nice but do not allow for easy, symmetrical walking.

While sitting, whether or not you are wearing heels, it is important to take frequent stretch breaks to alleviate atrophy of the hamstring muscles.

Avoid excessive wear of tight pants or clothing. If you prefer tighter clothes, choose styles that allow you to perform daily tasks with ease.

Select a briefcase or purse with a wide adjustable strap. Ideally, the strap should be long enough to place over the head. This evenly distributes the bulk of the weight across the body.

When carrying a bag, or briefcase, switch sides frequently to avoid placing the burden of the weight on one side of your body.

Take the time to empty unnecessary items from your bag.

Place all necessary items-such as wallets and cellular phones-in the front pockets of the bag. Stretching around to reach for your wallet can result in a pulled neck or back.

If you are driving or sitting for long periods of time, remove your wallet or card holder from the back pocket of your pants.

Think about your daily tasks. If your clothes affect your movements, consider outfits that fit your lifestyle.

Designers and stylists tend to be more concerned about the way something looks rather than the way it feels. Listen to your body. One of the most important aspects of being in style and looking your best is to maintain healthy judgement. By following simple suggestions, being fashionable can be comfortable.

Vancouver Chiropractic Care Can Help...
If the pain persists, see a doctor of chiropractic. The goal of a chiropractor is to manipulate, or adjust the spine and help stimulate your body's natural healing process.

Does Low Fat = Deadly Fat?

2011-12-28T16:08:00.001-08:00

Today, more than ever, our choices of foods are enormous. Prepared/processed foods are everywhere. Although we are gaining convenience, we are losing health. It is a dangerous misconceptions that a product labeled "Low Fat" is healthy for us.

Most of the products that are labeled "Low Fat" contain a dangerous form of fat that is most often labeled as: "Partially Hydrogenated Oil". This type of oil (which can be soybean, corn, palm, cottonseed etc.) actually increases dangerous free radicals in our body. Free radicals are known to increase the risk of cancer. These oils, labeled sometimes as "Trans-Fats" or "Margarine" also cause inflammation within our joints and blood vessels. The inflammatory process can worsen arthritis and heart diseases.

It would be healthier to choose products without "Partially Hydrogenated Oils" (margarine or trans- fats). Ideally you should limit the intake of saturated fats as well. These include meat and dairy fat (such as cheese and butter). In moderation the saturated fats are not as dangerous as the Partially Hydrogenated Fats. Any "trans fat" is dangerous.

If you are searching for the healthiest oil, the answer can be found in the Mediterranean diet. The staple fat of this diet is Olive Oil. If you don't care for the taste, Canola oil is the next best alternative. If you take the time to read some labels, you may be surprised at the amount of unhealthy oil you eat. The rewards of eliminating this deadly fat could be years on your life.

Ask your chiropractor about some of the common foods you may eat that contain these dangerous oils. The answers may surprise you and some simple changes may save your life.

Chiropractors and Subluxation Correction

2011-12-22T09:41:00.001-08:00

Chiropractors and Subluxation Correction

The location and correction of the subluxation is unique to the chiropractic profession. Massachusetts State Law (Chapter 112, section 89) defines chiropractic as "the science of locating, and removing interference with the transmission or expression of nerve force in the human body, by the correction of misalignments or subluxations of the bony articulation and adjacent structures, more especially those of the vertebral column and pelvis, for the purpose of restoring and maintaining health."

To understand chiropractic you first have to understand how the body works. Our bodies have the knowledge and ability ( chiropractors call this "Innate Intelligence") to keep us healthy. This power controls heart rate, breathing, digestion and every other vital function. Instructions from your brain via the spinal cord are sent to every organ and cell in your body. If the instructions are received and followed properly, your body is able to reach and maintain its optimum level of health. However, if there is any interference with the transmission of those instructions the result is less-than-optimum health. Your body can no longer function normally.

Messages to and from the brain are electrical impulses traveling along a complex system of nerve fibers including the spinal cord, which extends from the base of the skull down the center of the back. It is protected by the spinal column -- sometimes called the backbone -- which forms a "tunnel" of small interlocking bones called vertebrae. Spaces between the bones allow nerves to branch off to various parts of the body. This tunnel has to be strong enough to safeguard the nerves from injury, but flexible enough to allow the body to bend and move freely.

You have approximately 200 bones in your body. Where these bones come together, either in the spinal column or elsewhere in the body, they form a "joint" or articulation which allows you to move. This area is where subluxation may occur. The vertebral subluxation is an alteration of the normal position and/or motion of the spinal bones. This alteration creates interference to vital nerve signals on their way to and from the brain.

Kinesiopathology or problems with spinal motion.
Neurophysiology or nerve irritation or compression.
Myopathology or muscle problems.
Histopathology or problems on a cellular level.
Pathophysiology or problems with body's ability to function correctly. These effects may be seen in other organ systems that these nerves supply.

Vertebral subluxation can be caused by any type of stress that is greater than the body can handle. Physical stresses such as falls, accidents, a difficult birth, sports, computer work or long car rides can strain the muscles, ligaments and joints, causing spinal subluxation. Chemical stresses such as pollutants and emotional stresses can cause an overall tightening of the muscular system and therefore cause spinal strain.

The purpose of chiropractic is to locate and correct subluxations. Detecting subluxations is a complicated and exacting science. A large part of a chiropractor's education deals with how to locate and analyze improper placement and motion of the vertebrae and adjacent structures of the body.

Chiropractors give spinal adjustments to correct subluxations. Although there are several different adjusting techniques, they all accomplish the same thing. They restore the joint or vertebrae to their normal postion or function so that the nerve flow can resume its normal course. The instructions being sent throughout the body by Innate Intelligence can once again reach their destinations without interference.

You will experience the positive effects of the chiropractic adjustment as decreased pain and increased range of motion and improved body function.

The Association of Chiropractic Colleges paradigm states that chiropractic "is concerned with the preservation and restoration of health, and focuses particular attention on the subluxation. A subluxation is a complex of functional and/or structural and/or pathological articular changes that compromise neural integrity and may influence organ system function and general health. A subluxation is evaluated, diagnosed, and managed through the use of chiropractic procedures based on the best available rational and empirical evidence."

Doctors of Chiropractic are the experts in locating and correcting subluxations. When you are free of vertebral subluxations, you are more balanced with less stress on your nervous system and body structure. Free of vertebral subluxations, you can better tune in to your inner resources of life, health and healing.

Source: http://www.masschiro.org/Articles.php?topic=9&story=42

Whiplash Injuries - Serious Spinal Trauma

2011-12-14T10:15:00.001-08:00

What is Whiplash?

Whiplash is a generic term applied to certain injuries of the neck. Injuries that occur when the neck is suddenly and/or violently jolted in one direction and then another, creating a whip-like movement. Whiplash is most commonly seen in people involved in motor vehicle accidents, but it can also occur from falls, sports injuries, work injuries, and other incidents. Most whiplash injuries are associated with forward and backward movement of the head and neck on the shoulders. Side-impact crashes, or crashes when that happen while a person's head is turned, may result in side-to-side or even oblique whiplash-style injuries to the neck. Although severe whiplash injuries can result in paralysis and even death, most such injuries range from relatively mild to moderate. Keep in mind that even mild injuries may have a significant effect on the spine and your health.

What structures are injured in a whiplash?

Whiplash most often results in sprain and strain injuries of the neck. A sprain of the spine occurs when the ligaments that help support, protect, and restrict excessive movement of the vertebrae are torn. The joints in the back of the spine are called the facet joints; ligaments called facet capsules cover these joints. The facet capsules seem to be particularly susceptible to whiplash injury. Additionally, muscles and tendons are strained during a whiplash injury. They are stretched beyond their normal limits, causing tears within the muscles and tendons. The discs between the vertebrae, which are essentially ligaments, can be torn, potentially causing a disc herniation. The nerve roots between the vertebrae may also be stretched and become inflamed. Even though it is rare, vertebrae can be fractured and/or dislocated in a whiplash injury.

What are the common signs and symptoms of whiplash?

Approximately two thirds of people involved in motor vehicle accidents develop symptoms of whiplash. Interestingly, the violence of the crash is not a definitive indicator of pain or even the amount of pain. Generally speaking, however, those involved in more severe accidents have more signs and symptoms.

Another important and interesting aspect of whiplash is that the signs and symptoms often do not develop until 2 to 48 hours after the injury. This scenario is relatively common but not completely understood. Some speculate that it may be due to delayed muscle soreness, a condition seen in other circumstances.

The most common symptoms of whiplash are pain and stiffness in the neck. These symptoms are generally found in the areas that are "whiplashed." To illustrate what can happen during a whiplash, imagine a car being struck from behind. First, the head is lifted up from the upper-cervical spine as it moves backward towards the impact. Next, the head recoils forward and down away from the impact over-stretching muscles, tendons, and ligaments along the back of the spine and neck. This back and forward motion is the recreates a whip-like action, therefore the term "whiplash." It's important to note that the weight of the head is significant in comparison to the size of the cervical spine. As the head moves back and forth, the action creates a sprain/strain in the region just below the skull, further down in the mid cervical spine, and in the muscles and tendons of the neck. Turning the head often makes the pain and discomfort worse. Headache, especially at the base of the skull, is also a common symptom, seen in more than two thirds of patients. These headaches may be one-sided (unilateral) or experienced on both sides (bilateral). In addition, the pain and stiffness may extend down into the shoulders and arms, upper back, and even the upper chest.

Going beyond musculoskeletal symptoms, some patients also experience dizziness, difficulty swallowing, nausea, and even blurred vision after a whiplash injury. While these symptoms are disconcerting, in most cases, they can resolve within a relatively short time. If they persist, it is very important to inform your doctor that they are not resolving. Some whiplash victims can experience vertigo (the sensation of the room spinning), ringing in the ears, and/or pain in the jaw (TMJ). Others will have complaints of irritability, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms also resolve in most cases. In rare cases, symptoms can persist for weeks, months, or even years.

How is whiplash diagnosed?

To make a diagnosis, a thorough history of the injury and the patient's previous medical history are taken. Preexisting conditions, such as arthritis and/or previous injury, may increase the severity of the signs and symptoms of whiplash. After obtaining the patient's history, an in-depth physical examination is performed, with special concentration on the neuromusculoskeletal system. When appropriate, X-rays may be taken. If the doctor suspects that the soft tissues (for example, discs or ligaments) in the neck are injured, more advanced imaging studies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be ordered.

How is whiplash treated?

Staying active – One of the most important aspects of whiplash management is for the patient to stay active, unless there is some serious injury that requires immobilization. Patients should not be afraid to move and be active, within reason. In addition, your doctor will often prescribe an exercise or stretching program. It is particularly important to follow this program as prescribed, so that you can achieve the best long-term benefits.

Soft-cervical collar – The use of a soft-cervical collar remains controversial. Some suggest that such devices are inappropriate, as they act as a "crutch" and encourage a patient to avoid activity. Others suggest that, with proper counseling, a collar can help a patient slowly return to normal activities. There is no controversy, however, when discussing the length of time that a soft collar should be worn—no more than one week.

Chiropractic manipulation and physical therapy – Ice and/or heat are often used to help control pain and reduce the muscle spasm that results from whiplash injuries. Other physical therapy modalities, such as electrical stimulation and/or ultrasound, may provide some short-term relief. They should not, however, replace an active-care program of exercise and stretching. Spinal manipulation and/or mobilization provided by a chiropractor can also give relief in many cases of neck pain.

Surgery and injections – Surgery, injections, and other invasive options are rarely necessary but are available, when appropriate. They are generally reserved for patients with more severe injuries to the discs, vertebrae, and nerves in the neck region.

Can whiplash be prevented?

Generally speaking, whiplash cannot be "prevented," but there are some things that you can do while in a motor vehicle that may reduce the chances of a more severe injury. Always wear restraints (lap or shoulder belt), and ensure that the headrest in your vehicle is adjusted to the appropriate height.

by American Chiropractic Association

Stop Dreaming About Quality Sleep and Do Something!

2011-12-09T09:06:00.001-08:00

An old Chinese proverb states, "Only when one cannot sleep does one know how long the night is." Anyone who's ever experienced an occasional bout with insomnia—and that's most of us—can relate to this all too well.

In fact, surveys have shown that between 40 and 60 percent of the general population has trouble sleeping. Daily stress and worries, pressures from job and family, body aches and pains caused by uncomfortable beds or pillows, and a host of other issues can keep a person from getting enough quality sleep.

Sleep is critical to good health and functioning, so lack of it is a serious matter. "Sleep is one of the most important functions of the brain," says Frederick R. Carrick, DC, PhD, president of the American Chiropractic Association's Council on Neurology. Through it, our bodies recharge and renew for the next day's challenges.

As wellness experts, doctors of chiropractic can provide patients with a different approach to their sleeping problems-without the use of sleeping pills, which leave many people in a mental haze the next morning. To start, here are a few helpful tips they would recommend for the sleepless in Seattle (or any city, for that matter):

Exercise regularly. Exercising in the morning is best, but if you must exercise in the evening, do so at least two or three hours before bedtime. Any later, and your increased heart rate can interfere with your sleep.
Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages such as coffee, colas and tea-try to avoid them altogether late in the day and near bedtime. In addition, for each cup of caffeinated beverages you drink each day, drink an equal amount of water.
If you have trouble sleeping and then get thirsty, drink tap water at room temperature (cold water may disturb the digestive system).
Eat an early dinner. Eating after 6 p.m. may interfere with sleep as your body works to digest the food you've eaten.
Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning. The routine will help your body know when it is time to rest.
Keep your bedroom at a cool, comfortable temperature and try to make it as dark as possible when you're ready for bed.

Creating a comfortable place to sleep by choosing the correct mattress and pillow is also essential to getting the quality sleep that your body needs to function at its best.

A mattress, for instance, should support the body's weight evenly and allow the spine to stay in its natural alignment. Choosing the right one is a personal matter. "There are a wide variety of comfort preferences. It's very subjective," says Brian Darcy, operations manager for Springwall, the manufacturer of premium-quality Chiropractic® sleep sets that ACA has endorsed for the past 38 years. Give your mattress a good trial run before you buy it. Darcy recommends lying down on a mattress for a minimum of three to five minutes to get a good feel. Sitting on it simply won't do.

Useful mattress facts...

A mattress should provide uniform support from head to toe. If there are gaps between your body and your mattress (such as at the waist), you're not getting the full support that you need.
If you do have back pain and your mattress is too soft, you might want to firm up the support of your mattress by placing a board underneath it. But do this just until the pain goes away; such firmness is not good for "routine" sleeping.
Every few months, turn your mattress clockwise, or upside down, so that body indentations are kept to a minimum. It's also good to rotate the mattress frame every so often to reduce wear and tear.
If you're waking up uncomfortable, it may be time for a new mattress. There is no standard life span for a mattress; it all depends on the kind of usage it gets.
Be aware that changes in your life can signal the need for a new mattress. For example, if you've lost or gained a lot of weight, if a medical condition has changed the way you sleep, or even if you have changed partners, it could mean that it's time to find a new mattress that will accommodate those changes and help you sleep more soundly.
If you're not in the market for a new mattress, and your current mattress is too firm, you can soften it up by putting a 1- to 2-inch-thick padding on top of it - usually available at mattress and bedding stores.

Next, pillow talk...

After investing in a quality mattress, don't forget to choose an equally supportive pillow, advises Peter Mckay, DC, who is in private practice in San Diego and also works as a consultant for Innovative Choices, the maker of the Therapeutica Pillow-another ACA-endorsed product. "People will spend thousands of dollars on a mattress and then skimp on a pillow that doesn't support their head and neck properly," he observes. A good pillow will keep the cervical (neck) section of the spine aligned with the thoracic and lumbar (chest and lower back) sections. "[The sections] move together and should be supported together."

When choosing a pillow, be selective. When lying on your side, your head and neck should remain level with your mid and lower spine. When lying on your back, your head and neck should remain level with your upper back and spine. In other words, your pillow should not be so thick that it causes your head and neck to be propped up or angled sharply away from your body.
Be wary of pillows that are made out of mushy foam materials. The weight of your head can displace this kind of foam, leaving little support. Choose firmer foam and materials that press back and support the head.
If you find yourself sleeping on your side with one hand propped under your pillow, that's a clue that you're not getting the support you need from that pillow.
There is no such thing as a universal fit when it comes to pillows. Find one that is consistent with the shape and size of your body.

Chiropractic Care Can Help...

If you continue to experience pain and discomfort at night or have difficulty falling asleep, visit your doctor of chiropractic. Doctors of chiropractic are trained to treat spinal problems that can interfere with a restful night's sleep. They can also offer nutritional and ergonomic advice that can help improve the quality of your sleep.

Does Back Pain Go Away on it's Own?

2011-12-07T08:56:00.001-08:00

by The American Chiropractic Association

Eighty percent of people suffer from back pain at some point in their lives. Back pain is the second most common reason for visits to the doctor's office, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Most cases of back pain are mechanical or non-organic, i.e., not caused by serious conditions, such as inflammatory arthritis, infection, fracture, or cancer.

What Causes Back Pain?

The back is a complicated structure of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. You can sprain ligaments, strain muscles, rupture disks, and irritate joints, all of which can lead to back pain. While sports injuries or accidents can cause back pain, sometimes the simplest of movements-for example, picking up a pencil from the floor-can have painful results. In addition, arthritis, poor posture, obesity, and psychological stress can cause or complicate back pain. Back pain can also directly result from disease of the internal organs, such as kidney stones, kidney infections, blood clots, or bone loss.

Back injuries are a part of everyday life, and the spine is quite good at dealing with these often "pulled" muscles. These very minor injuries usually heal within 1 or 2 days. Some pain, however, continues. What makes some pain last longer is not entirely understood, but researchers suspect that the reasons may include stress, mood changes, and the fear of further injury that may prevent patients from being active. In addition, sometimes a painful injury or disease changes the way the pain signals are sent through the body, and, even after the problem has gone away or is inactive, the pain signals still reach the brain. It is as if the pain develops a memory that keeps being replayed.

Will Back Pain Go Away on Its Own?

Until recently, researchers believed that back pain will "heal" on its own. We have learned, however, that this is not true. A recent study showed that when back pain is not treated, it may go away temporarily but will most likely return. The study demonstrated that in more than 33% of the people who experience low-back pain, the pain lasts for more than 30 days. Only 9% of the people who had low-back pain for more than 30 days were pain free 5 years later.¹

Another study looked at all of the available research on the natural history of low-back pain. The results showed that when it is ignored, back pain does not go away on its own.² Those studies demonstrate that low-back pain continues to affect people for long periods after it first begins.

What Can I Do to Prevent Long-Term Back Pain?

If your back pain is not resolving quickly, visit your doctor of chiropractic. Your pain will often result from mechanical problems that your doctor of chiropractic can address. Many chiropractic patients with relatively long-lasting or recurring back pain feel improvement shortly after starting chiropractic treatment.³ The relief they feel after a month of treatment is often greater than after seeing a family physician.⁴

Chiropractic spinal manipulation is a safe and effective spine pain treatment. It reduces pain, decreases medication, rapidly advances physical therapy, and requires very few passive forms of treatment, such as bed rest.⁵

How Can I Prevent Back Pain?

Don't lift by bending over. Instead, bend your hips and knees and then squat to pick up the object. Keep your back straight, and hold the object close to your body.
Don't twist your body while lifting.
Push, rather than pull, when you must move heavy objects.
If you must sit for long periods, take frequent breaks and stretch.
Wear flat shoes or shoes with low heels.
Exercise regularly. An inactive lifestyle contributes to lower-back pain.

What Should I Tell My Doctor of Chiropractic?

Before any treatment session, tell your doctor of chiropractic if you experience any of the following:

Pain goes down your leg below your knee.
Your leg, foot, groin, or rectal area feels numb.
You have fever, nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, weakness, or sweating.
You lose bowel control.
Your pain is caused by an injury.
Your pain is so intense you can't move around.
Your pain doesn't seem to be getting better quickly.

References
1. Hestbaek L, Leboeuf-Yde C, Engberg M, Lauritzen T, Bruun NH, Manniche C. The course of low-back pain in a general population. Results from a 5-year prospective study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2003 May;26(4):213-9.
2. Hestbaek L, Leboeuf-Yde C, Manniche C. Low-back pain: what is the long-term course? A review of studies of general patient populations. Eur Spine J 2003 Apr;12(2):149-65.
3. Stig LC, Nilsson O, Leboeuf-Yde C. Recovery pattern of patients treated with chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy for long-lasting or recurrent low back pain. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2001 May;24(4):288-91.
4. Nyiendo J, Haas M, Goodwin P. Patient characteristics, practice activities, and one-month outcomes for chronic, recurrent low-back pain treated by chiropractors and family medicine physicians: a practice-based feasibility study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2000 May;23(4):239-45.
5. Time to recognize value of chiropractic care? Science and patient satisfaction surveys cite usefulness of spinal manipulation. Orthopedics Today February 2003;23(2):14-15.
Lawrence H. Wyatt, DC, DACBR, Professor, Division of Clinical Science, Texas Chiropractic College,
Writer Nataliya Schetchikova, PhD, Editor

Research Demonstrates Effectiveness and Popularity of Chiropractic Care

2011-12-05T08:24:00.001-08:00

The American Chiropractic Association

A critical mass of recent surveys and studies document the fact that the public, and conventional health care providers and payers, have come to recognize that traditional medicine can't answer all of consumers' health care needs. In particular, more people are turning to chiropractic services. A study published in the July 1, 1998 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine shows that chiropractic treatment is appropriate for low-back pain in a considerable number of cases. This study by the Rand Corporation found that 46 percent of a sample of low-back pain patients received appropriate care from doctors of chiropractic - an appropriateness rating similar to that of common medical procedures.

Poll results released in January 1998 by Landmark Healthcare, Inc., showed that one in every five adults ages 55 to 64 has used chiropractic care.

A December 1997 report from the Federal Agency for Health Policy and Research (AHCPR) notes that the chiropractic profession is now the third largest group of doctoral-level providers in the United States (after medical doctors and dentists).

That same AHCPR report shows that fully 80 percent of American workers in conventional insurance plans, preferred providers organizations (PPOs), and point-of-service plans now have coverage that pays at least part of the cost of chiropractic care.

As the recent AHCPR report states, "In the areas of training, practice and research, chiropractic has emerged from the periphery of the health care system and is playing an increasingly important role in discussions of health care policy." And, notes a March 1998 article in Business and Health magazine, "Many companies say chiropractic coverage has lowered their medical and workers' comp costs, while raising overall health and productivity. 'It's one of the best benefits possible from a quality, quantity and pricing perspective,' says George McGregor, president of [a firm that is a third-party administrator]." The article also cites an Oregon study, which found that median work time lost for employees with back injuries who used chiropractic care was only 9 days as compared with 34.5 days for workers who used medical care.

Quick relief of symptoms and sustained effectiveness have long attracted consumers to chiropractic care. In fact, in just one year -- 1997 -- more than 20 million adults used chiropractic services. The 1994 AHCPR guidelines for low-back pain concluded that spinal manipulation, chiropractic's primary treatment technique, is one of only three treatments whose effectiveness is substantiated by rigorous research. According to a 1992 RAND Corp. study, patients see a chiropractor primarily for low back pain and neck pain, though many seek chiropractic care for mid-back pain, extremity problems, headaches and other symptoms as well.

Because back pain is so pervasive in our society, a recent study published in the British Medical Journal pointing out that back pain doesn't go away that easily confirmed what chiropractors have always known. Only 25 percent of low back pain sufferers had fully recovered 12 months after their first visit to a general practitioner, the study said. This low number is in conflict with the commonly-held notion that low back pain episodes go away by themselves after a month. "This hardly comes as a surprise to low back pain sufferers who have been told by their medical doctors not to worry - the pain will go away on its own," said Dr. Michael Pedigo, president of the American Chiropractic Association. "In many cases, further treatment is necessary."

Doctors of chiropractic have long understood the cyclic nature of low back pain, and perhaps this is one of the reasons they consistently rate higher than MDs in patient satisfaction in this area. In a recent Gallup poll, 90 percent of all people who visited a chiropractor agreed that their care was effective.

Successful outcomes in both effectiveness and patient satisfaction, have paved the way for chiropractors to enter the mainstream of health care services. Some have even begun to collaborate with medical doctors in integrated health care practices. As reported in the May/June 1998 issue of Health magazine, the prestigious Texas Back Institute (TBI) at one time included only surgeons and other M.D.s. Then, about ten years ago, when TBI's medical doctors discovered chiropractic's success with lower back pain, they hired their first chiropractor. Now, according to one administrator quoted in the article, about 50 percent of the Institute's patients see a chiropractor first when beginning their treatment. Also, the Washington Post recently reported on the success of the 5-year-old company, American WholeHealth, whose clinics incorporate a consumer-driven mix of traditional medical and alternative health care including chiropractic.

Due to years of criticism -- and even an illegal boycott by the American Medical Association -- chiropractic training was sometimes called into question. However, the fact remains, chiropractors must complete a minimum of 6 and, on average, 7 years of college and post-graduate study to earn their degrees. Their education includes at least 4,200 hours of classroom, laboratory and clinical experience, and as much -- and sometimes more than -- course work in anatomy and physiology as most medical doctors. After they receive their degrees from one of the nation's 17 accredited chiropractic colleges, they have to pass rigorous exams and be licensed by the state before they can open a practice. The practice of chiropractic is licensed in all 50 states, and in 1994 there were approximately 50,000 chiropractors licensed in the United States. This number is expected to double by the year 2010, according to the 1997 AHCPR report.

"These recent surveys and reports finally vindicate the chiropractic profession after years of enduring doubt, questions and criticism about our training and practices," said Dr. Pedigo. "What the health care and medical communities are just beginning to accept is what our patients have known all along -- that our treatment is safe, effective and highly successful at improving their quality of life."

Fight Fatigue with Nutrition & Activity

2011-11-21T09:39:00.001-08:00

Fight Fatigue with Nutrition, Activity
by American Chiropractic Association

Napoleon Bonaparte once said that courage is only the second virtue in a soldier; the most important one is endurance of fatigue. Nowadays, fighting fatigue has become equally important for a growing army of people too busy or stressed to get adequate rest. In fact, according to a 2007 survey by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), more than half of American women report getting inadequate sleep. And when too sleepy to function, 66 percent choose to "accept it and keep going."¹
Other cultures approach the problem a little differently. Many countries actively practice siesta—a 15- to 30- minute afternoon nap. Several recent studies support the beneficial effect of 10- to 30-minute naps on alertness, performance and learning ability.^2-4

Caffeine Quick Fix In the United States, however, it is caffeine—not naps—that helps 78 percent of people cope with their responsibilities.⁵ The benefits of caffeine are real: It improves mood and cognitive performance,^6-9 and coffee consumption can potentially decrease insulin secretion¹⁰ and liver cancer risk.¹¹ On the negative side, regularly consumed caffeine can increase anxiety, ¹² risk of headaches¹³ and the inflammation process.¹⁴ Cola beverages, but not coffee, also have been associated with an increased risk of hypertension. ¹⁵

Caffeine is considered toxic—causing arrhythmia, tachycardia, vomiting, convulsions, coma or even death—only in amounts exceeding 5g. While the risk of toxicity is rare, the pervasiveness of caffeine warrants some caution. Many soft drinks, for example, contain only between 20 mg and 40 mg of caffeine per an 8-oz can;¹⁶ however, today's specialty coffees can be very potent—ranging from 58 mg to 259 mg, and even up to 564 mg, per dose.¹⁷

Food for Energy

Instead of using caffeine to push ourselves to perform despite fatigue, preventing energy drops is a wiser approach, health experts advise. Aside from sleep, our performance—and even our mood—depends on balanced blood sugar levels.^18-20

While cautioning against seeking quick blood-sugar boosts, experts recommend juices, such as pomegranate, instead of caffeine or sugar, for those in urgent need of re-energizing.

The key to properly preventing blood-glucose slumps— which can lead to fatigue, headaches, craving sweets, depression, irritability and a host of other symptoms—is the old-fashioned basics of proper nutrition. In one study, a breakfast rich in fiber and carbohydrates caused higher alertness, while high-fat meals led to lower alertness and higher caloric intake throughout the day.²¹ Another study showed that protein-rich or balanced meals, which cause less variation in blood glucose levels, improved cognitive performance.²²

Inadequate glucose is not the only thing contributing to fatigue. It can result from anemia—iron, B12, B6, or folic acid deficiency as well. Omega-3 fatty acids, leafy green vegetables, and vitamins C, E and B12 have been shown to improve memory and cognitive functioning.

Moving the Body

Even with adequate sleep and nutrition, our lack of motion can regularly put us to sleep. To prevent mental fatigue, try starting the day with exercise, taking frequent 5- to 15-second microbreaks (shoulder rolls or stretching) throughout the day, getting up and walking every two hours, and, of course, taking advantage of the lunch break to "do the opposite" of what your job entails. For people with mentally challenging occupations, experts suggest a walk or other physical exercise; for those doing physically taxing work, some brain-stimulating activities, like puzzles.

Imbalanced body postures, such as slouching, also require the body to consume more energy. In addition to adopting an "energy-efficient" standing position, with feet shoulder-width apart, and sitting straight, which helps improve circulation, take frequent 60-second "Stand up, Perk up" breaks that combine relaxation, breathing and stretching.

To those in urgent need of quick re-energizing, consider aerobic exercise instead of coffee. It's quick and easy—and it stimulates brain chemicals that give us a lift.

Whether re-energizing through sleep, nutrition, exercise or—better yet—a combination of all three, it's clear that fatigue should not be taken lightly. It's connected with depression, and antidepressants are now the fastest-growing prescribed class of medications. Instead of taking stimulants, opt for proper exercise, adequate sleep and a balanced diet.

Sources:
1. Summary of Findings of the 2007 Sleep in America Poll. www.sleepfoundation.org
2. Sleep 2006 Jun 1;29(6):831-40.
3. Sleep 2001 May 1;24(3):293-300.
4. Curr Opin Pulm Med 2006 Nov;12(6):379-82.
5. Summary of Findings of the 2005 Sleep in AmericaPoll. www.sleepfoundation.org
6. J Psychopharmacol 2005 Nov;19(6):620-6.
7. Hum Psychopharmacol 2005 Jan;20(1):47-53.
8. Hum Psychopharmacol 2006 Apr;21(3):167-80.
9. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2005 Jun;179(4):813-25.
10. Diabetes Care 2005 Jun;28(6):1390-6.
11. J Natl Cancer Inst 2005;97:293-300.
12. Psychopharmacology(Berl) 2002 Nov;164(2):188-92.
13. Cephalalgia 2006 Sep;26(9):1080-8.
14. Am J Clin Nutr 2004 Oct;80(4):862-7.
15. JAMA 2005 Nov 9;294(18):2330-5.
16. www.cspinet.org/new/200702201.html. /> 17. J Anal Toxicol 2003 Oct;27(7):520-2.
18. Br J Nutr 2001 Mar;85(3):393-405.
19. Nutr Neurosci 2006 Jun-Aug;9(3-4):161-8.
20. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2002 May;26(3):293-308.
21. Int J Food Sci Nutr 1999 Jan;50(1):13-28.
22. Physiol Behav 2002 Mar;75(3):411-23.

Untitled

2011-11-21T09:15:00.001-08:00

by American Chiropractic Association

Food for Energy

While cautioning against seeking quick blood-sugar boosts, experts recommend juices, such as pomegranate, instead of caffeine or sugar, for those in urgent need of re-energizing.

Moving the Body

To those in urgent need of quick re-energizing, consider aerobic exercise instead of coffee. It's quick and easy—and it stimulates brain chemicals that give us a lift.

3 Popular Chiropractic Care Technologies

2011-11-16T10:08:00.001-08:00

The idea that a vancouver wa chiropractor would make an “adjustment” along your back and spine might have you believing this is purely a hands-on type of practice. However, there are actually several different technologically advanced devices that help a chiropractor make a complete assessment of their patients’ conditions.

A thermal scanner is used to measure various degrees of skin temperature. With these measurements, a chiropractic doctor can assess a patient’s autonomic nervous system function to determine where the hot zones of pain or tenderness are indicated. The information collected by a thermal scanner is compared against the data compiled by the Journal of Neurosurgery and helps provided a targeted approach for adjustments.

The Algometer is another device that puts into practice the very best of health informatics. This is the melding of computer science and health care. The Algometer tests for the sensitivity of paraspinal tissues. The readouts then allow the doctor to determine the exact level of pressure that should be applied to tender areas. This is referred to as the Pressure Pain Threshold, or PPT. Letting the Algometer map a patient’s back allows for a more informed approach for physical therapy.

Finally, a Pulse Wave Profiler, or PWP, is another device that can help measure the autonomic nervous system through the recording of a patient’s heart rate variability measurements. A vancouver wa chiropractor can use an accurate HRV reading to assess the baseline of a patient’s resting state versus their pain levels. These readings can then provide the patient with a sense of how effective their treatment has been when they can compare the before and after numbers.

Getting Chiropractic Adjustments during Pregnancy

2011-11-14T13:28:00.001-08:00

Many pregnant women experience back pain. Some experience it just towards the end of the pregnancy as their belly gets large with the growing baby while others experience it during the entire pregnancy. Many don't realize, however, that this pain can be minimized by getting adjusted by a chiropractor.

Chiropractic care is perfectly safe for both the pregnant woman and her fetus. In fact, the risks in being adjusted are the same for pregnant women as they are for anyone else seeing a chiropractor. Chiropractors versed in the art of adjusting a pregnant woman have tables that can be moved around so that even when the woman is on her chest, there is no pressure put on the belly. It's actually nice for most pregnant women because this is one of the few times during her pregnancy that she can lay like this.

Adjustments not only help with back pain; they can also help make sure the body is in alignment, which will make delivery easier as well. For women who have babies that are breech, being adjusted can also help turn the child so he or she is in the right position for delivery. The techniques used are 97 percent affective for turning the baby, which is a real benefit to the pregnant mother and make delivery easier, decreasing the chances of needed a cesarean section.

Any relief is welcome during a pregnancy; pregnant women need all the help they can get to find relief and increase the chances of a successful delivery.

For more information contact your local Vancouver Chiropractic Care Center

Source: americanchiro.org

Chiropractic Approach to Ear Infections

2011-11-11T08:59:00.001-08:00

by The American Chiropractic Association

Ear problems can be excruciatingly painful, especially in children. With 10 million new cases every year, ear infections (otitis media) are the most common illness affecting babies and young children and the number one reason for visits to the pediatrician—accounting for more than 35 percent of all pediatric visits.

Almost half of all children will have at least one middle ear infection before they're a year old, and two-thirds of them will have had at least one such infection by age 3. The symptoms can include ear pain, fever, and irritability. Otitis media can be either bacterial or viral in origin, and frequently results from another illness such as a cold. For many children, it can become a chronic problem, requiring treatment year after year, and putting the child at risk of permanent hearing damage and associated speech and developmental problems.

Standard treatment for most cases of otitis media is with antibiotics, which can be effective if the culprit is bacterial (antibiotics, of course, do nothing to fight off viruses). But, according to many research studies, antibiotics are often not much more effective than the body's own immune system. And repeated doses of antibiotics can lead to drug-resistant bacteria that scoff at the drugs, while leaving the child screaming in pain.

Frequent ear infections are also the second most common reason for surgery in children under 2 (with circumcision being the first). In severe cases—for example, when fluids from an ear infection haven't cleared from the ear after several months, and hearing is affected—specialists sometimes prescribe myringotomy and tympanostomy, more commonly known as "ear tubes." During the surgical procedure, a small opening is made in the eardrum to place a tube inside. The tube relieves pressure in the ear and prevents repeated fluid buildup with the continuous venting of fresh air. In most cases, the membrane pushes the tube out after a couple of months and the hole in the eardrum closes. Although the treatment is effective, it has to be repeated in some 20 to 30 percent of cases. And this kind of surgery requires general anesthesia, never a minor thing in a small child. If the infection persists even after tube placement and removal, children sometimes undergo adenoidectomy (surgical removal of the adenoids)—an option that is effective mostly through the first year after surgery.

Before yet another round of "maybe-they'll-work-and-maybe-they-won't" antibiotics or the drastic step of surgery, more parents are considering chiropractic to help children with chronic ear infections. Dr. Joan Fallon, a chiropractor who practices in Yonkers, New York, has published research showing that, after receiving a series of chiropractic adjustments, nearly 80 percent of the children treated were free of ear infections for at least the six-month period following their initial visits (a period that also included maintenance treatments every four to six weeks).

"Chiropractic mobilizes drainage of the ear in children, and if they can continue to drain without a buildup of fluid and subsequent infection, they build up their own antibodies and recover more quickly," explains Dr. Fallon. She'd like to see her pilot study used as a basis for larger-scale trials of chiropractic as a therapeutic modality for otitis media.

Dr. Fallon uses primarily upper-cervical manipulation on children with otitis media, focusing particularly on the occiput, or back of the skull, and atlas, or the first vertebra in the neck. "Adjusting the occiput, in particular, will get the middle ear to drain. Depending on how chronic it's been and on where they are in their cycle of antibiotics, children generally need to get through one bout of fluid and fight it off themselves." That means, for the average child, between six and eight treatments. If a child's case is acute, Dr. Fallon will check the ear every day, using a tympanogram to measure the ear and track the movement of the eardrum to make sure that it's draining. "I'll do adjustments every day or every other day for a couple of days if they're acute, and then decrease frequency over time."

Dr. Fallon, whose research garnered her the acclaim of childrearing magazines like Parenting and Baby Talk , often sees great success when she treats a child for otitis media. "Once they fight it themselves, my kids tend to do very well and stay away from ear infections completely. Unless there are environmental factors like smoking in the house, an abnormally shaped Eustachian tube, or something like that, they do very well," she says.

"I have two large pediatric groups that refer to me on a regular basis. In the winter, when otitis is most prevalent, I see five or six new children each week from each group," says Dr. Fallon. "It's safe and effective and something that parents should try, certainly before inserting tubes in their children's ears."

Chiropractic Care Can Help... Talk to your doctor of chiropractic about your child's ear infections. Doctors of chiropractic are licensed and trained to diagnose and treat patients of all ages and will use a gentler type of treatment for children. In addition, doctors of chiropractic can also prescribe exercises designed to help children develop strong muscles, along with instruction in good nutrition, posture and sleeping habits.

Advice For Parents: Children Need to Practice Good Computer Ergonomics Too

2011-11-09T08:51:00.001-08:00

by The American Chiropractic Association

At least 70 percent of America's 30 million elementary school students use computers, according to a recent New York Times article. As a result of this increased usage, doctors of chiropractic are treating more young patients suffering from the effects of working at computer stations that are either designed for adults or poorly designed for children. Many children are already suffering from repetitive motion injuries (RMI) such as carpal tunnel syndrome and chronic pain in the hands, back, neck and shoulders.

A recently published study conducted by a team of researchers from Cornell University found that 40 percent of the elementary school children they studied used computer workstations that put them at postural risk. The remaining 60 percent scored in a range indicating "some concern."

"Emphasis needs to be placed on teaching children how to properly use computer workstations," stated Dr. Scott Bautch, past president of the American Chiropractic Association's Council on Occupational Health. "Poor work habits and computer workstations that don't fit a child's body during the developing years can have harmful physical effects that can last a lifetime. Parents need to be just as concerned about their children's interaction with their computer workstations as they are with any activities that may affect their children's long-term health," added Dr. Bautch.

What can you do?
To reduce the possibility of your child suffering painful and possibly disabling injuries, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) and its Council on Occupational Health offer the following tips:

If children and adults in your home share the same computer workstation, make certain that the workstation can be modified for each child's use.

Position the computer monitor so the top of the screen is at or below the child's eye level. This can be accomplished by taking the computer off its base or stand, or having the child sit on firm pillows or phone books to reach the desired height.

Make sure the chair at the workstation fits the child correctly. An ergonomic back cushion, pillow or a rolled-up towel can be placed in the small of the child's back for added back support. There should be two inches between the front edge of the seat and the back of the knees. The chair should have arm supports so that elbows are resting within a 70- to 135-degree angle to the computer keyboard.

Wrists should be held in a neutral position while typing - not angled up or down. The mousing surface should be close to the keyboard so your child doesn't have to reach or hold the arm away from the body.

The child's knees should be positioned at an approximate 90- to 120-degree angle. To accomplish this angle, feet can be placed on a foot rest, box, stool or similar object.

Reduce eyestrain by making sure there is adequate lighting and that there is no glare on the monitor screen. Use an antiglare screen if necessary.

Limit your child's time at the computer and make sure he or she takes periodic stretch breaks during computing time. Stretches can include: clenching hands into fists and moving them in 10 circles inward and 10 circles outward; placing hands in a praying position and squeezing them together for 10 seconds and then pointing them downward and squeezing them together for 10 seconds; spreading fingers apart and then closing them one by one; standing and wrapping arms around the body and turning all the way to the left and then all the way to the right.

Your child's muscles need adequate hydration to work properly and avoid injury. Encourage your child to drink four 8-ounce glasses of water a day. Carbonated beverages, juices and other sweet drinks are not a substitute.

Urge your child's school or PTA officials to provide education on correct computer ergonomics and to install ergonomically correct workstations.

"If your child continues to complain of pain and strain from sitting at a computer, see a doctor of chiropractic," urges Dr. Bautch. "A chiropractor can help alleviate your child's pain and help prevent further injury."

Stop Drinking Diet Soda and Save yourself a lot of heart ache...literally!

2011-11-07T10:28:00.001-08:00

Two new studies have linked diet soda to poorer health.

In one study, people who drank two or more diet sodas a day experienced waist size increases that were six times greater than those of people who didn't drink diet soda. A second study that found that aspartame (NutraSweet) raised blood sugar levels in diabetes-prone mice.

According to The Week:

"... [R]esearchers speculate that the artificial sweeteners warp appetite, leaving diet soda drinkers hungry for unhealthy treats ... The results were the same for all diet soda drinkers, even after factors such as exercise, social class, education, and smoking were taken into account."

Diet soda is easily one of the biggest health scams preying on well-meaning dieters looking for a sweet calorie-free beverage. Nearly 927 million cases of Diet Coke, and another 892 million cases of Diet Pepsi, were sold in 2010. If you bought one or more of those millions, please realize you would be better off flushing that money down the toilet, as at least then you would not be harming your health.

Diet Soda Drinkers Get a Whopping 70-500 Percent Greater Increase in Waist Size

A study by researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, presented at a recent meeting of the American Diabetes Association, has added to growing research that diet soda is not a "guilt-free" treat at all. Instead, after following 474 diet soda drinkers for nearly 10 years, they found that their waists grew 70 percent more than the waists of non-diet soda drinkers. Further, those who drank two or more diet sodas a day had a 500 percent greater increase in waist size!

As you may know, your waist size is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also a powerful indicator of a build-up of visceral fat, a dangerous type of fat around your internal organs that is strongly linked with type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Your waist size is a far more accurate predictor of your heart risks than even your body mass index (BMI), so any habit that has the potential to increase your waist size by 500 percent more than someone who does not have that habit is one worth breaking.

A second study by some of the same researchers also revealed that mice eating food laced with the artificial sweetener aspartame had higher blood sugar levels than mice eating food without it, which suggests it may increase your risk of diabetes and metabolic syndrome. In a statement, the researchers noted:

"These results are consistent with data from community-based epidemiologic studies in which the consumption of diet sodas was shown to be associated with increased incidence of metabolic syndrome and diabetes. They suggest that aspartame exposure may in fact directly contribute to increased blood glucose levels, and thus may contribute to the associations observed between diet soda consumption and the risk of diabetes in humans."

You May be Fooled by Diet Soda … but Your Brain Isn't

Clearly, if you are still opting for diet soda because you believe it is healthier than regular soda, you are doing yourself a great disservice. Regular soda is by no means a healthy choice either … but please don't fall into the trap of believing that diet soda is "healthy" just because it's calorie-free. As Professor Helen Hazuda, an author of the above studies, told the Daily Mail:

"They may be free of calories but not of consequences."

Indeed, it was six years ago now that research by Sharon P. Fowler, MPH, who was also involved in the new studies noted above, and colleagues found that your risk of obesity increases by 41 percent for each can of diet soda you drink in a day.

So what is going on?

Substances like Splenda and aspartame may have zero calories, but your body isn't fooled. When it gets a "sweet" taste, it expects calories to follow, and when this doesn't occur it leads to distortions in your biochemistry that may actually lead to weight gain.

As far as "sweetness satisfaction" in your brain is concerned, it can tell the difference between a real sugar and an artificial one, even if your conscious mind cannot. Artificial sweeteners tend to trigger more communication in the brain's pleasure center, yet at the same time provide less actual satisfaction. So when you consume artificial sweeteners, your body craves more, as well as real sugar, because your brain is not satisfied at a cellular level by the sugar imposter. There is even research suggesting that artificial sweetener use may ruin your body's ability to control calories, thus boosting your inclination to overindulge.

Diet Soda is Not a "Healthier" Alternative

There are other reasons aside from weight gain to think twice before drinking diet soft drinks. In fact, there are already hundreds of published studies linking artificial sweeteners like aspartame, which is widely used in diet soda, to serious health complications. Cori Brackett's documentary film Sweet Misery is an excellent summary of the problems with aspartame.

You can also view my interview with Victoria Innes-Brown, who over a 2.5-year period performed a set of meticulous and detailed animal experiments, documenting the effects of using aspartame liquid comparable to diet soda. This included not only large tumors but also neurological effects, paralysis, skin disorders and symptoms of cerebral palsy.

Recent research has also linked diet soda consumption to higher rates of strokes, heart attacks and other lethal vascular events as well as metabolic syndrome.

There is literally enough evidence showing the dangers of consuming artificial sweeteners to fill an entire book -- which is exactly why I wrote Sweet Deception. If you or your loved ones drink diet beverages or eat diet foods, this book will explain how you've been deceived about the truth behind artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose

Are You Addicted to Diet Soda?

It's very possible to become addicted to diet soda, and this likely has to do with the blurring of your brain's ability to respond to both real and artificial sugars. According to Harold C. Urschel, an addiction psychiatrist in Dallas, in a CNN article:

"You think, 'Oh, I can drink another one [diet soda] because I'm not getting more calories. Psychologically, you're giving yourself permission."

Yet the satisfaction your brain receives from the artificial sweetener doesn't measure up to the satisfaction provided by real sugar. According to Martin P. Paulus, MD on CNN:

"Your senses tell you there's something sweet that you're tasting, but your brain tells you, 'Actually, it's not as much of a reward as I expected.' The consequence might be that the brain says, 'Well, I'll have more of this."

"Artificial sweeteners have positive reinforcing effects -- meaning humans will work for it, like for other foods, alcohol, and even drugs of abuse. Whenever you have that, there is a potential that a subgroup of people ... will have a chance of getting addicted."

If you're finding it difficult to ditch diet soda, your emotional connection to cravings might be an important factor for you. One of the most profound methods I know of for diminishing the effects of food cravings is the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and particularlyTurbo Tapping, which is a refinement of EFT that allows you to resolve emotional aspects of an addictive problem in a short period of time. I strongly recommend giving this technique a try if you can't kick your diet soda habit.

Once you have broken your addiction, you may be able to introduce the natural sweetener Stevia, which can be used to make your own drinks and food dishes. My favorites are the liquid stevias that come in flavors like English Toffee and French Vanilla, which you can even add to seltzer water to make a far healthier soda alternative.

Pain Relief without the Side Effects

2011-11-04T08:48:00.001-07:00

by Ellen Blomerth, D.C.

"They've taken away my pain medication," George, an elderly patient worried. "Now my arthritis pain is returning. What am I going to do? I hurt so much, but the side effects could kill me". What can people like George do?

George, like millions of other arthritis sufferers, is rightly concerned about the safety of a number of anti-inflammatories called Cox-2-Inhibitors. A warning is out about the popular arthritis drug Celebrex, as it increased heart attacks in a recent study. This is the same class of drugs that contains Vioxx, which was pulled from the market due to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and Bextra, which had a heart warning added to its label this year. George and people like him are searching for safe pain relief. Fortunately there are natural alternatives that are safe, and without the life-threatening side effects.

First among these is chiropractic care. Chiropractic is the largest drug-free, natural healing profession in the United States. It has been around for over 100 years. Modern doctors of Chiropractic are highly trained health care providers. What can a chiropractor do for arthritis and other muscle and joint type pains? Quite a lot actually.

Even for people with chronic pain, research has shown a benefit with chiropractic care. The type of care that chiropractors are so highly trained to provide, has been shown to improve spinal function and reduce pain. A recent study comparing the Cox-2 iIhibitors Vioxx/Celebrex/Bextra to chiropractic spinal adjusting for the treatment of chronic spinal pain was published in July 2003 in Spine. Spine is the world's number one orthopedic journal. It was proven that chiropractic spinal adjusting was better than 5 times more effective in treating chronic spinal pain than were the Cox-2 Inhibitors. In addition, the drugs resulted in more patients experiencing adverse reactions, side effects, than pain relief during the study period. Chiropractic spinal adjusting resulted in far superior results with no adverse reactions.

Modern chiropractic has evolved over the years to include many ways to safely treat elderly patients, even frail elders. Other methods some chiropractors use also include nutritional advice as some foods encourage the inflammation that causes pain. Other foods encourage our bodies to produce their own anti-inflammatory hormones. There are safe nutrients now available that further enhance our body's production of these innate anti-inflammatories. And because our body makes the anti-inflammatory itself, there are no side effects.

Prevention is always worth a pound of cure. Chiropractic care has now been shown to reduce the effects of aging on the spine. Exciting new research proves that spinal manipulation prevents the loss of joint function and the arthritic changes that accompany it as we age.

"The benefits of spinal manipulation are well documented in the scientific literature and research continues to establish the efficacy of chiropractic care", notes Dr. Howard Ewert, Research Chair for the Massachusetts Chiropractic Society. "However, unfortunately, the media does not adequately inform the public about the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic." Dr. Ewert led a dedicated team of chiropractors in compiling supporting research studies for chiropractic care. The MassChiro.org Research library is now a clearinghouse for the health care consumer. It was also created to inform and educate the allied health professional, the legislator and the Third Party Pay (insurance company) official in making more informed decisions about including chiropractic in a team approach to health.

Help your family and friends learn more about what chiropractic can do for them.

Sleep Ergonomics

2011-11-03T08:30:00.001-07:00

"Sleep ergonomics" refers to our postures and positions during sleep. They either help us rest in safe mechanical positions for joints or they stress joints to the point that we wake up with more aches and pains than we fell asleep with. Sleeping position matters. Poor-quality sleep is proven to negatively affect overall health.

Sleeping Positions to Reduce Back Pain

It is possible and desirable to take strain off your back by making simple changes in sleeping posture. The healthiest sleeping position is on your side. If that's how you sleep, draw your legs up slightly toward your chest and put a pillow between your legs. Some people even use a full-length body pillow to help maintain balance. Try not to put weight on your arms. This causes circulatory problems and a related pins-and needles sensation. Instead, try crossing them in a braced position. If you sleep on your back, it is best to place a pillow under your knees to help maintain the normal lowerback curvature. You might try placing a small rolled towel under the small of the back for more support. Be aware that sleeping on your stomach is generally bad for your back. In this position, the cervical spine undergoes considerable strain, which can cause nerve compression, muscular imbalance and muscle pain. If you can't sleep any other way, reduce the strain on your back by placing a pillow under your pelvis and lower abdomen. Also place a pillow under your head if it doesn't cause back strain. Otherwise, try sleeping without a head pillow.

Sleeping Babies

Parents sleep better when babies sleep well. The experts recommend against bed-sharing as it can increase the infant's risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The most important measure you can take to help protect your infant from SIDS is this: Place your baby on his or her back to sleep in the crib. The prevalence of SIDS has decreased, due in part to educational campaigns. However, SIDS remains the leading cause of death for infants in the first year of life in developed countries.1 At highest risk are babies who are suddenly switched to stomach sleeping after getting used to sleeping on their backs.

Mattresses and Pillows

Your mattress and pillow should support your body in its natural position, allowing it to rest and recover from the day's activities. The best mattresses are designed to conform to the spine's natural curves and keep the spine in alignment. Some sleep experts recommend supportive memory-foam mattresses for this purpose. A recent study investigated how spine support affects sleep in healthy subjects. It found that the relationship between bedding and sleep quality is affected by individual physical features, dimensions, and sleep posture.2In particular, results indicated that a sagging sleep system negatively affects sleep quality. Maintain your mattress. Remember to turn your mattress over every few months. If possible, replace the mattress after five to seven years of regular use. If you feel springs or bumps beneath the surface when you're lying on the bed, or you and your partner unintentioanlly roll toward the middle of the bed, it's time to go shopping for a new mattress. A wornout mattress can reduce the quality of sleep and make back problems worse. You may also find that the mattress is to blame for insomnia if you notice yourself sleeping better in another bed—in a hotel, for example. Pillows matter. An ergonomic pillow is designed to accommodate the user's sleeping position and to minimize any associated tension that may result from prolonged time spent in one position. Ergonomic pillows are shaped differently from regular pillows. They are often made of foam or similar form-retaining material that offers greater support. Most ergonomic pillows are used for sleep, although some are used for lower back support while sitting. They vary in size from small neck pillows used for long car trips or flights to very large full-body pillows meant to cradle the entire body during sleep. A healthful pillow is designed to keep the spine in natural alignment, which minimizes stress on the body. Most people do not maintain neutral positions while they sleep. This creates tension at problem spots like the neck and the lower back, resulting in pain in either or both of these areas. An ergonomic pillow can often correct such problems. A pillow of the wrong size can cause or aggravate neck and shoulder problems. When you sleep on your side, the pillow should fill the space between the head and mattress so that the cervical spine is in line with, and an extension of, the spine. The pillow should support the head, neck and shoulders and adapt to the contours of these areas. This will optimize your sleeping position throughout the night. A pillow also should be hypo-allergenic.

Sleeping Positions When Pregnant

Pregnant women should avoid sleeping on their backs as this can lead to backaches, as well as problems with breathing, the digestive system, hemorrhoids, low blood pressure, and a decrease in circulation to the heart and baby.3 This is a result of the abdomen resting on the intestines and major blood vessels (e.g., the aorta and vena cava). Pregnant women also should avoid sleeping on the stomach, especially when further along in pregnancy, because of physical changes to the abdomen. Several ergonomic products are designed to help pregnant women sleep more comfortably. For example, a cradle sleeping pillow is engineered to help pregnant women relax and get comfortable enough to fall asleep. These pillows are made of various densities and heights and provide extra support to the shoulders, neck, and arms. A sleeping bean is a full-length pillow designed to help a pregnant woman sleep on her side with adequate support.

References:

1. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
2.Verhaert et al. Ergonomics in bed design: theeffect of spinal alignment on sleep parameters. Ergonomics. 2011 54(2):169-78.
3. www.pregnancy.org/article/sleeping-positionsduring-pregnancy.>

Lori Burkhart, Writer

This patient information page is a public service of the Journal of the American Chiropractic Association. The information and recommendations appearing on this page are appropriate in most instances, but they are not a substitute for a diagnosis by a specialist. For specific information concerning your health condition, consult your doctor of chiropractic.

iPods, Blackberries, Cell Phones - a literal pain in the neck!

2011-10-24T11:29:00.001-07:00

Cell phones, Blackberries, I-Pods and handheld games have Americans spending a lot of time peering down at their laps. While the gadgets are a source of entertainment and help keep people connected to friends and coworkers, handheld devices are also a source of muscle pain and injury.

"I have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people complaining of pain as a result of their handheld devices," said Dr. Keith Overland, a chiropractor from Norwalk, Conn. Dr. Overland says most of his patients don't realize how much looking down at a gadget can worsen neck, back and shoulder problems.

"We actually ask patients to hold the device in their hands and then take a look at the way they're holding their body," Dr. Overland noted. "We can see almost immediately the cause of their pain – poor posture and overused muscles."

To help lessen muscle soreness caused by popular handheld devices, Dr. Overland and the American Chiropractic Association suggest the following:

Practice good posture when using any handheld device. Sit in a chair that provides solid back support and keep feet comfortably on the floor.
Spend 10 minutes or less with your head tilted down looking at the device, and when possible hold the gadget at eye level.
When at home or in the office, connect the device to your keyboard or computer.
Take frequent breaks and alternate activities that use different muscle groups.
Watch for warning signs of overuse such as headaches, fatigue or muscle pain.

If you continue to feel soreness, pain or muscle strain after following these tips, it may be time to visit Bridge Chiropractic.

Build a Natural Defense Against Cold and Flu This Winter

2011-10-21T11:48:00.001-07:00

With cold weather knocking on the door, many are concerned about falling victim to colds and flu. Flu vaccine—the most effective way to prevent the flu, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—remains a controversial subject. First, most flu vaccines still contain thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative. Second, because of the unpredictability of upcoming flu strains, the available vaccine often doesn't match the strain of flu that hits the population.

But even if the vaccine corresponds with the circulating flu strain, it is not that effective. A recent study found that the overall effectiveness of vaccines against flu-like illness in the elderly was 23 percent when vaccine matching was good, and "not significantly different from no vaccination when matching was poor or unknown." Well-matched vaccine, however, may effectively prevent pneumonia and decrease hospitalization rates due to pneumonia or flu, according to the study.

Some believe that the best protection from flu is flu itself. Recent research shows that the theory may actually have validity. In the past 20 years, deaths from flu in the elderly—the group most vulnerable to flu consequences—have decreased. At the same time, flu vaccination has increased by 45 to 50%. Researchers concluded, however, that flu vaccine didn't help decrease deaths from flu—people simply acquired natural immunity to the emerging strain of flu, which resulted in fewer flu-related deaths.

With flu vaccine effectiveness unclear, many are looking into natural ammunition against winter viruses.

Garlic
Garlic has been used as a health food for more than 5,000 years and touted for its antibiotic properties and effect on allergies, cancer and general immunity. Research shows that it improves cardiovascular health and inhibits carcinogenic activity. In addition, a recent study found that a group of people treated with an allicin-containing garlic supplement for a period of 12 weeks between November and February had significantly fewer colds than the group that took a placebo (24 colds vs. 65) and recovered faster if infected.

In the group treated with the garlic supplement, 24 people came down with the common cold, which lasted for 1.52 days, compared with 65 people in the no-treatment group who had colds that lasted 5 days on average.

Garlic therapy should be discontinued at least two weeks prior to surgery to prevent excessive bleeding. People on anticoagulants should consult their physicians.

Vitamin C
The role of vitamin C in the prevention and treatment of respiratory infections has been widely researched. The verdict, however, is not in yet. Some studies suggest that vitamin C can affect the duration or severity of symptoms. Others have shown no effect on the symptoms, but suggested that vitamin C can reduce susceptibility to colds.

A recent study compared 29 clinical trials in which participants received 200 mg or more of vitamin C daily. The researchers found that vitamin C prevented flu or colds in people who were exposed to "brief periods of severe physical exercise and/or cold environments." In those who regularly take vitamin C, they concluded that vitamin C plays some role in their defense mechanisms, helping them to recover from their colds faster and reducing the severity of symptoms. People with kidneys disease should not use vitamin C.

Echinacea
Echinacea has been widely used to prevent and treat colds. Research on the plant, however, has produced conflicting results. A recent study that focused on 3 preparations from echinacea root found no clinically significant effects on the common cold. The critics of the study believe, however, that the dose of 900 mg per day was too low.

Echinacea treatment may lead to minor and uncommon abdominal upset, nausea and dizziness. It may be contraindicated in people with autoimmune conditions or HIV.

Tea
Green and black teas have been studied for their effects on the cardiovascular system and cancer. Both show promising results. A recent Harvard study looked at tea's role in boosting the immunity system. Participants who drank five cups of black tea a day for 2 to 4 weeks increased their levels of interferon, an important immune defense hormone—up to 4 times normal levels. Drinking the same amount of coffee for 12 weeks produced no such effects. The researchers suggest that the key was in L-theanine, a substance in tea that increases immune response in fighting bacteria, infection, viruses and fungi. Excessive doses may cause insomnia, headache, dizziness, and diarrhea.

Zinc Lozenges
Zinc lozenges are another home remedy for fighting winter viruses. Although research on this remedy is conflicting, a recent study on zinc gluconate glycine lozenges in school-aged children showed shorter cold duration and fewer colds with the therapy. Zinc lozenges, however, come in different formulations, and more research is needed to assess their effectiveness. In addition, long-term use of zinc lozenges may lead to problems, including impairing the body's immune responses. Excessive zinc in the diet can lead to copper deficiency and may also decrease the levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol in the blood.

Stress Reduction
Because research on natural remedies' role in fighting respiratory infections shows conflicting results, scientists turn to another powerful factor that influences health—stress. Here's what research shows:

Chronic stress, such as unemployment or interpersonal difficulties with family and friends that last a month or longer, may substantially increase the risk of catching cold
Children with a history of recurrent colds and flu have higher rates of exposure to stressful experiences, stress-prone personality traits, and signs of emotional disturbance than healthy children
Stress management reduces the duration of flu and colds

Acupuncture may be effective against preventing and curing the common cold, as well.

Many chiropractors have also noticed that chiropractic adjustments have helped prevent or reduce the duration of their patients' colds. Preliminary results of an ongoing chiropractic study show that chiropractic may increase immunoglobulin A levels and that it decreases the levels of glucocorticoid cortisol, a major component of stress. Chiropractic may affect the common cold through stress reduction; however, more research is needed to confirm this.

Proper Preparation for Winter Outdoor Fun to Prevent Injuries

2011-10-17T13:07:00.001-07:00

When snow, ice and frigid weather blast into town, watch out, says the American Chiropractic Association (ACA). Winter recreational activities and chores can pose problems for the outdoor enthusiast whose body is not in condition. Winter sports like skating, skiing and sledding can cause painful muscle spasms, strains or tears if you're not in shape. Even shoveling snow the wrong way, clambering awkwardly over snow banks, slipping on sidewalks and wearing the wrong kinds of clothing can all pose the potential for spasms, strains and sprains.

Simply walking outside in the freezing weather without layers of warm clothing can intensify older joint problems and cause a great deal of pain. As muscles and blood vessels contract to conserve the body's heat, the blood supply to extremities is reduced. This lowers the functional capacity of many muscles, particularly among the physically unfit. Preparation for an outdoor winter activity, including conditioning the areas of the body that are most vulnerable,

can help avoid injury and costly health care bills.

"Simply put, warming up is essential," says Olympic speedskating gold and silver medalist Derek Parra. "In fact, when pressed for time, it's better to shorten the length of your workout and keep a good warm-up than to skip the warm-up and dive right into the workout. Skipping your warm-up is the best way to get hurt." Parra, who took both the gold and silver medals during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, UT, adds that, "You can complete a good warm-up in 15-20 minutes. And believe me, it will make your workout more pleasant and safe."

Derek Parra and the ACA suggest that you start with some light aerobic activity (jogging, biking, fast walking) for about 7-10 minutes. Then follow these tips to help you fight back the winter weather:

Skiing - do 10 to 15 squats. Stand with your legs shoulder width apart, knees aligned over your feet. Slowly lower your buttocks as you bend your knees over your feet. Stand up straight again.
Skating - do several lunges. Take a moderately advanced step with one foot. Let your back knee come down to the floor while keeping your shoulders in position over your hips. Repeat the process with your other foot.
Sledding/tobogganing - do knee-to-chest stretches to fight compression injuries caused by repetitive bouncing over the snow. Either sitting or lying on your back, pull your knees to your chest and hold for up to 30 seconds.
Don't forget cool-down stretching for all of these sports - At the bottom of the sledding hill, for instance, before trudging back up, do some more knees-to-chest stretches, or repetitive squatting movements to restore flexibility.

After any of these activities, if you are sore, apply an ice bag to the affected area for 20 minutes, then take it off for a couple of hours. Repeat a couple of times each day over the next day or two.

If you continue to feel soreness, pain or strain after following these tips, it may be time to visit a doctor of chiropractic. "I've always believed in chiropractic care," says Parra. "I've used a lot of other treatments for injuries and pain, but the problem doesn't get fixed until I go to a doctor of chiropractic."

When is it time for a child's first spinal exam?

2011-10-07T08:19:00.001-07:00

When is it time for a child's first spinal examination?

Should we wait until children complain of back pain before taking them to the chiropractor?

These are two questions which parents frequently ask of their chiropractor.

Throughout most communities, it is a generally well-accepted fact that children should have regular dental check-ups to identify problems at the earliest possible time. In this way, dentists attempt to identify early tooth decay and alignment problems of the teeth, because they know that the earlier the problem is detected, the easier it will be to fix.

Well, what about the potential for children to develop spinal problems? Should children be examined at regular intervals during their growing years to identify spinal problems which may progress to become serious, permanent problems. Unfortunately, the generally accepted view in most communities is that one visits a chiropractor for backache or neck pain, and in the absence of these symptoms, it can be assumed that the spine is doing okay.

When evaluating the spines of adult patients, chiropractors frequently encounter degenerative changes in discs and vertebral joint structures which have been ongoing for many years, without any evidence of symptoms. In many cases, it is only when the spinal degeneration reaches an advanced stage that symptoms of pain and stiffness occur. If the spinal problem causing these symptoms could have been detected at an early age, and the problem had been corrected, then a lifetime of misery due to chronic back pain could have been avoided.

Many of the worst spinal problems, which chiropractors detect on x-ray, show evidence of having been present for many years and can be identified, by the degree of degeneration, as having started during childhood. For this reason, it is recommended that childrens' first spinal evaluation should be early in life when the spine is growing and developing at the fastest rate. Orthopedists have identified that the time when the spine is most likely to develop problems, or for existing problems to worsen, is during periods of rapid growth.

Examination of the growth patterns of a child's spine shows that the time of fastest spinal growth is during the first year of life, when the average length of the spine grows from 24 to 36 cm. This is a 50 percent increase in one year, a rate which is unmatched in any other phase of a child's growth and development. The next fastest growth rate occurs between the ages one and five years when the spinal length increases from 36 to 51 cm, a 42 percent growth rate. Between the ages of 5 and 10, we see the slowest period of growth, 10 cm in five years, or a 20 percent growth rate. The adolescent growth phase is most noticeable for its growth spurts, when a teenager may grow three to four inches in less than a year. the average total growth for the adolescent period is 20 cm in males and 15 cm in females. This represents a growth rate of 25 percent in the females and 33 percent in males.

Now, taking all that into consideration, it can be seen that the period of fastest growth, the first year of life, is also a period of considerable trauma when the child is learning to walk. This phase of a child's development is also the period when the secondary spinal curves are forming in the child's neck and low back. Because the first year of life is such an important one for spinal development, and because the potential for trauma is high, it is recommended that a child's first spinal evaluations should be performed during this period.

Beyond the first year, the child needs regular checkups to ensure that the microtrauma of a child's daily living, such as "rough house" play and falls from bicycles, etc., are not causing spinal problems. Problems which might otherwise go unnoticed, simply because the child does not complain of symptoms.

Spinal growth and development continues right through until the mid-30s, when development of the vertebrae in the lumbar spine is finally completed.

When we plant a tree in the garden, we stake and tie it to ensure that it grows straight during its early years. If we don't do this, and the tree is allowed to bend with the wind for 10 to 15 years, it is then impossible to straighten.

Don't let your childrens' spine develop like an unstaked tree: You don't wait until your children complain of toothache before taking them to the dentist, so why wait until they complain of backache before having their spine checked?

Depressed? See how depression can ease with chiropractic help

2011-09-30T09:54:00.001-07:00

http://whychiropractic.blogspot.com/2008/05/chiropractic-and-depression.html

Sick of being stressed?

2011-09-27T09:53:00.001-07:00

Find out how stress can directly influence illness. http://spiedigitallibrary.org/jbo/resource/1/jbopfo/v13/i4/p044028_s1?isAuthorized=no

How Chiro's heal

2011-09-27T09:52:00.001-07:00

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE http://www.planetc1.com/chiropractic-articles/chiropractic_healing.html

Back pain treatment options

2011-09-22T16:44:00.001-07:00

http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/lower-back-pain/lower-back-pain-symptoms-and-treatment-options

Autism – A Chiro’s perspective…

2011-09-21T20:11:00.001-07:00

http://www.chiro.org/research/ABSTRACTS/Autism_A_Chiropractic_Perspective.shtml

Fussy baby?

2011-09-20T09:32:00.001-07:00

Research has shown that gas is generally NOT the cause of infant fussiness. http://www.thefussybabysite.com/coping/treatments-for-colic/

One foot in front of the other

2011-09-14T20:11:00.001-07:00

Plan on hitting the road now that the kids are back in school? Be wise and listen to your body. Muscle strain is the most common cause of back pain for runners. Play it safe and have your spine checked out if you are experiencing severe pain.

Hut Hut Hike!

2011-09-13T10:46:00.001-07:00

Proof that chiropractic help prevents sports injuries. Visit: http://www.queenannechiro.com/athletes/proof-chiropractic-helps-prevent-sport...

Key Reasons Why to See A Chiropractor

2011-08-23T13:49:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ If you’re turning to alternative care and therapeutic treatments to manage your health, seeing a chiropractor offers many advantages. Chiropractic care’s goal is to improve spinal health in order to reduce pain, encourage the muscles and joints to perform in an optimal state and promote overall health.

A professional chiropractic examination is the first step in learning about why you are experiencing discomfort, pain, or poor health. The chiropractor will examine your spinal column with various tools and x-rays to determine if any spinal bones are not aligned properly. Spinal misalignments are the leading cause of pain and imbalances in the nervous system, and are known as ‘vertebral subluxations’. Vertebral subluxations are often the reason behind back pain, carpal tunnel, allergies, and even headaches.

Whether you’re suffering from knee pain, back pain, or even arthritis, here are the key reasons why you should pursue chiropractic care:

Chiropractic Care to Reduce Back Pain and Sciata

The most common reason people pursue chiropractic care is because of back pain; both lower and upper back pain can be attributed to spinal misalignments, and sciata is the most common. Sciata consists of pain, weakness, and even numbness in the lower back and legs. The chiropractor can work with you to improve posture, build up core muscle strength, and improve spinal health overall.

Chiropractic Care to Reduce Allergies and Headaches?

Vertebral subluxations often lead to allergies and headaches which are connected to the nervous system. When your nervous system is out of balance its cause may be spinal misalignments affecting the signals sent to various parts of the body. Headaches, migraines, and other common ailments are often linked to spinal bones that need adjustments.

Chiropractic Care to Eliminate Fatigue

Fatigue and stress are a problem for many people, and a professional chiropractic examination can determine why your nervous system is out of balance. Good spinal health often results in reduced stress levels and increased energy.

Chiropractic Care to Reduce Joint Pain

Knee pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder pain, neck pain, and arthritis are all joint problems readily addressed by a chiropractor. These are also linked to spinal misalignments and regular adjustments can help reduce pain and inflammation of these important joints.

Chiropractic Care to Reduce Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Millions of people suffer from fibromyalgia, a disorder that leads to chronic pain, neuropsychiatric problems, excessive fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction. Many of the symptoms of fibromyalgia can be treated with chiropractic care and treatment often consists of regular adjustments and massage therapy.

Vertebral subluxations are the leading cause of nervous system imbalances and pain in the body and can only be identified by a professional chiropractic examination. Pursuing chiropractic care to improve overall health can be a valuable way to reduce pain and many common ailments. Ongoing adjustments can help restore your body to an optimal state of health.

Source: chiropractorguide.com

Chiropractor Vancouver wa,Vancouver wa chiropractor,chiropractor camas wa,massage Vancouver wa,neck pain Vancouver wa

Neck and Jaw Pain Relief the Natural Way

2011-08-16T10:09:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ Neck pain is bad enough; throw in jaw pain and it’s like adding insult to injury! Neck and jaw pain frequently appear together because the muscles from the neck run up into the lower jaw. Tightness in either area affects the other, so your jaw pain can literally become a pain in the neck. Find out how millions have found natural relief for both their jaw and neck pain.

Other Jaw and Neck Pain Causes

Actually, most jaw pain doesn’t stem from temporomandibular joint problems; other causes of neck and jaw pain include:

Misaligned neck joint(s)

Disc bulging or degeneration in the neck

Bone spurs in the neck

Stress

Stress, whether emotional, physical or chemical, can cause the muscles of the neck to tighten involuntarily. This tension may be localized in the neck, or it may affect other connecting muscles, like those in the shoulders, back or jaw.

Chiropractic is the leading alternative health field in the world, thanks to its natural approach in working with the body’s inherent healing capabilities. Highly educated, specially trained chiropractic doctors are skilled in addressing the underlying causes of symptoms, rather than looking only at the symptoms. When the cause of your neck and jaw pain is corrected, the symptoms are relieved – often permanently.

It’s up to you: You can live with the pain in your neck and jaw, or you can take action today to relieve it once and for all by calling your Vancouver, WA Chiropractor. Make the call!

FYI

Most jaw pain is muscle-related and exacerbated by stress. For some people, the temporomandibular joint itself may be compromised, resulting in a locked jaw, clicking sounds in the joint, difficulty chewing, earaches and dizziness

Source: choosenatural.com

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Can Chiropractic Treatment Eliminate Balance Problems?

2011-08-08T09:20:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ Managing and preserving body position while remaining still or mobile is the principal function of good balance. Good balance helps a person to walk without wobbling, arise from a sitting position without slipping, and to climb stairs without stumbling.

Approximately 9 percent of adults, age 65 and older, report having difficulties with balance. Good balance is vital in aiding an older person to stay independent, and perform daily chores and activities. Dizziness, “wooziness,” and problems with balance are encountered by a large majority individuals as they age.

The label, vertigo, applies to the feeling that a number of people have that they, themselves, or their environment is spinning. About 40 percent of Americans will experience dizziness that is severe enough to go seek out a health professional. And, among older adults, falls are the leading cause of serious injury and deaths.

Balance and Inner Ear Problems

Three types of balance disorders that are most familiar are benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, labyrinthitis, and Meniere’s disease, but there are a variety of other kinds of balance disorders. Of these three, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is the most widespread. Its symptoms encompass a brief, intense experience of vertigo with a change in head position, when rolling over to the left or right in bed or when getting out of bed, or when looking up for an object on a high shelf. This problem is more disposed in people 60 and older, but it can also occur in younger individuals.

The reasons for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo are varied. It may be produced by an inner ear infection, head injury, or simply aging. Whereas it can be linked to other disease processes, frequently a simple Epleys procedure can fix the problem. Your Vancouver, WA Chiropractor has many years of experience in this procedure.

Labyrinthitis is an infection or agitation of the inner ear that produces dizziness and loss of balance. It affects adults of any age and the cause is currently undiscovered.

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

Age is not the only reason these conditions take place, but older individuals are more likely to encounter balance disorders. Depending on the cause of the balance disorder, care will vary. Sometimes, there’s a simple answer to balance disorders, such as simple exercises for vestibular rehab. A chiropractor is well-educated in assessing and treating a number of balance problems. Consult a health care professional, such as your Vancouver, WA Chiropractor, if you have encountered, or are currently experiencing, dizziness, vertigo, or other challenges with balance.

Not every balance disorders are created by complications in the inner ear. Some may involve other regions of the body like the brain or heart. Head injury, stroke, certain medicines, circulation problems, upper respiratory infections and other viral infections, stress, fatigue, smoking, alcohol use, high or low blood pressure, and heart disease are all influences that, along with aging and ear infection, may produce balance disorders.

Balance disorders produced by high blood pressure can generally be managed by less sodium intake, sustaining a healthy weight, and exercise. To assist in making the symptoms of dizziness less intense, frequently eating low-salt or salt-free foods, and staying away from caffeine and alcohol, will help.

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

If you can answer “yes” to any of the following questions, 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 our Vancouver, WA Chiropractic office today.

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Get Natural Relief from Migraine Headaches

2011-08-05T09:29:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ Migraine symptoms are those pounding, throbbing, stabs of pain that make loud noises unbearable and bright sunshine excruciating. Learn how more and more people are getting migraine relief from their migraine symptoms by using an all-natural approach that avoids drugs and their side effects.

Migraine Headache Management

For migraine headache sufferers, which are three times more likely to be female than male, the traditional migraine treatment options have been somewhat limited:

• Learn to live with it
• Bed rest in a dark room
• Over-the-counter drugs
• Migraine medications

While convenient, drugs numb your entire body to stop you from feeling the symptoms of a migraine. Side effects are common, such as kidney problems, liver damage or worse. Not to mention that migraine medications don’t address the underlying cause of your migraines.

Want a natural solution? Read on!

Underlying Cause of Migraine Headaches

Migraine headaches can be triggered from something we eat, such as chocolate, preservatives such as sulfites or flavor enhancers such as monosodium glutamate (MSG). And while rare, migraines can also be warning signs of various diseases.

Yet, many overlook one of the most common cause of migraines and many other types of headaches. Imagine a migraine solution that is safe, natural, enjoys a high success rate and has zero side effects.

Migraines From Structural Causes

A common cause of migraine headaches is from the moving bones of your neck. If spinal bones in the neck aren’t supporting your head properly, you might notice that you can’t fully rotate your head in one direction or the other. Or it’s uncomfortable to turn all the way to the right or the left. A malpositioned bone here, even if only slightly out of place, can affect nearby nerves, muscles and even the blood supply to your head. The result? Migraine headaches, cluster headaches and tension headaches. But there’s a simple solution.

Choose Natural Before Resorting to Drugs

These days, chiropractors are so successful with migraines, relief is practically routine. If you’ve tried chiropractic in the past, consider this. And if the idea of consulting a chiropractor for headaches is new to you, learn more.

Chiropractic is the world’s largest, most popular, alternative health care discipline. Chiropractic care is delivered by highly educated professionals who are licensed in every state, recognized by the federal government and most insurance companies.

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How is Bridge Chiropractic In Vancouver WA Different?

2011-08-01T09:50:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 What makes Bridge Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Vancouver WA different than other chiropractic clinics?

vancouver-wa-chiropractor-how-different.mov Watch on Posterous

Vancouver WA Chiropractor Dr. Paul Reed's practice focuses on the areas of chiropractic treatments (lower back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, spine pain, sciatic nerve pain )and family wellness. His passion is to share the powerful effects of chiropractic care and wellness.

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Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Herniated Disc Pain

2011-07-25T08:21:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Chiropractic care is often considered a form of alternative medicine. However, it has been proven time and time again to help individuals with pain that physicians sometimes fail to remedy. It has also been proven to be an effective alternative to surgery in some cases. Herniated disc pain is one of the many types of pain that chiropractors can often help patients manage when all other types of medicine have failed.

Herniated disc pain is created by compression or bulging of specific lumbar discs. This compression causes pressure, and sometimes even pinching on the nerves that run through the spinal cord. The compression or bulging can also cause irritation of the nerve. This creates the pain that individuals with herniated discs often experience.

While many methods offered by doctors can produce temporary relief, it very rarely provides any long-term relief. This is because the pain management techniques only focus on relieving the symptoms that are associated with herniated disc pain. Chiropractic care of a herniated disc focuses on lessening the cause of the herniated disc pain. While this method may take a little longer in regards to symptom relief, it is definitely more long term.

Chiropractic care for a herniated disc involves realigning the spine. Initially, treatment includes ice and a distraction technique. This technique is completely painless but it focuses on reducing the pressure and swelling within the lumbar disc. By reducing the swelling and pressure, there is less protruding material that can irritate, pinch, or compress the nerves in the spine. This helps to reduce the pain often associated with a herniated disc.

After the pain starts to subside, realignment begins. The realignment helps to restore the spine’s natural joint function. By doing this, natural movement is slowly restored and irritation and swelling subsides. The treatment success does vary from one patient to the next. However, most patients who undergo chiropractic care for herniated disc pain will see positive results.

Source: campanehealthcenter.com

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Are You Suffering From Restless Leg Syndrome?

2011-07-18T08:12:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 One of the most troublesome causes of poor quality sleep and/or not enough sleep is Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). Restless Leg Syndrome is a controversial condition in which even the medical community disagrees on its diagnosis, causes and treatments.

Here’s what we know: If you have the urge to move your legs at night, which MAY include seldom painful, but always very annoying sensation in one or both legs such as tingling or pins & needles, you MAY be suffering from RLS.

Part of the problem for RLS sufferers is that there is no test for RLS. Traditional medical treatments currently involve neurological medications and/or muscle relaxants with varying degrees of success.

Here is some information on more natural approaches:

Iron: Low iron stores in the brain will contribute to RLS symptoms so have a blood test for anemia and/or make sure your diet contains sufficient iron.

Caffeine and Tobacco: A diet low in caffeine is necessary during times when the RLS potential is worse. This means avoiding coffee, tea, certain sodas and chocolate. Caffeine can increase jitteriness and worsen your RLS symptoms. Tobacco in cigars, cigarettes and even Nicotine gum can also exacerbate the symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome.

Alcohol: Another recommendation sometimes heard is to stay away from alcohol and even sugar substitutes.

Foods: Eating several small meals and avoiding high sugar food may reduce symptoms. High protein foods like peanut butter are better than high sugar foods. Also try eating more whole grains, nuts, seeds, fish, fresh fruits and vegetables instead of processed foods especially those containing white flour and sugar.

Chiropractic Care: Many chiropractors believe that a part of Restless Legs Syndrome includes having pelvic instability, often with lower back subluxations. Exercise is very important to strengthen the pelvis, lumbo-sacral area and take pressure of the discs. A regular program of walking can be successful. Additionally, leg stretches at the beginning and end of each day which address the hamstring muscles can often provide relief.

Assessment of your musculoskeletal health is a great first step. Contact our clinic if you are not sleeping well or if you suspect RLS.

Source: restlesslegtips.com

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How Chiropractic Therapy Can Help Diabetics

2011-07-11T11:08:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Chiropractic treatments are designed to fix subluxations in the spine that may be contributing to nervous system imbalances. Various types of adjustments are performed on major joints and muscles in the body, and along the spinal column; most provide immediate results.

In a situation where a person has diabetes, the nerve imbalances may be the chief contributor to the blood sugar imbalances and metabolic problems.

A case study published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research in December 2006 shows that blood and urine sugar levels were improved significantly after the patient received chiropractic care. Chiropractic adjustments may be an important part of a treatment plan for diabetics because the adjustments may improve the relationship between the nervous system, brain and organs, thereby stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Blood sugar level imbalances can occur for a variety of reasons, including the types of food eaten, overall health, and metabolic efficiency. Problems with the metabolism may be linked to nervous system problems, stress and other factors, which is why chiropractic care may be the missing link for many people suffering from diabetes.

Other Benefits of Chiropractic Treatments

Many people who are diagnosed with diabetes are required to make significant lifestyle and dietary changes so that their condition improves naturally over time. These changes are designed to reduce excess stress on the body, improve the metabolism and restore healthy metabolic functioning. Adding chiropractic therapy to the treatment plan may help many diabetics achieve a state of better health and improve well-being.

In addition to restoring healthy blood sugar levels and functioning of the nervous system, chiropractic treatments may be an effective way to improve health overall. Countless studies have been published about the benefits of chiropractic treatment on the body and mind, and in the case of diabetes, simply reducing stress and improving health overall may help to reduce the effects of the condition.

Some of the key benefits of regular chiropractic treatments and adjustments include:

Improved posture
Better sleep
Improved blood circulation
Elimination or reduction of back and neck pain
Reduced risk of joint and muscle problems

Even though this type of treatment plan specifically for diabetics is still undergoing investigation, people who prefer an alternative approach to health and wellness may find this to be a valuable and effective treatment option.

Source: locateadoc.com

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DEALING WITH STRESS THROUGH CHIROPRACTIC

2011-07-08T08:41:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ Life is full of pressure, stress and frustration. Worrying about your job security, being overworked, driving in rush-hour traffic or up with a sick child all create stress. According to a recent survey by the American Psychology Association, fifty-four percent of Americans are concerned about the level of stress in their everyday lives and two-thirds of Americans say they are likely to seek help for stress.

Long lasting or chronic stress suppress the immune system, which in turn increase the susceptibility to illness, especially to immune-related disorders or cancer. Emotional stress also leads to hormonal imbalances that interfere with immune system function.

If you reduce stress, you will help to maintain balance and health. This is the underlying theory of several treatment ideas such as meditation, guided imagery, biofeedback, and yoga. Other methods include dietary changes, herbal medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure. Each of these methods can be used independently or in combination with any other. The fact is that something needs to be done to reduce stress levels!

Some “Relaxation Therapies” are better than others to reduce stress. These are forms of mind and body medicine that have one thing in common; they facilitate deep relaxation and reduce stress. A basic premise in mind and body medicine is that chronic stress can contribute to illness, and that relaxation restores the physical and mental functioning that improves one's health. More important than the stressors themselves is our ability to cope with them.

Chiropractic care relieves stress on your spine and helps promote a healthy spine and body. Coupled with relaxing exercises, exercise and relaxed breathing, chiropractic care can help you deal with your stress in a healthy and proactive way.

Source: genesis.com

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Back Pain Vancouver WA Chiropractor Treatment

2011-06-22T15:44:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 If you’ve been wondering if back pain exercises are safe and effective for relieving back pain, you’re not alone! Back pain, especially lower back pain, is one of the most common causes of missed workdays. And since traditional back pain treatment options focus only on alleviating the pain, rather than uncovering and addressing the cause of the pain, back pain tends to return again and again. So using physical therapy or exercises for back pain may seem like a healthier alternative – but is it?

Back Pain Causes

Most back pain stems from discs that have begun to degenerate, pressing on nearby nerves, or joints that attach the vertebrae to one another, which have begun to function incorrectly. These issues can stem from “wear and tear” associated with aging, trauma and various types of stress – including physical stress like poor posture, chemical stress like smoking or eating unhealthfully or emotional stress like anxiety or anger. When these misalignments infringe on areas reserved for the nerves, irritation and inflammation occur, resulting in back pain.

Back Pain Treatment

Regardless of the cause of back pain, traditional medicine tends to approach it in one of these ways:

· Bed rest

· Pain relievers or other strong medications

· Surgery

· Physical Therapy

Bed rest prolongs the problem and can make back pain worse. Pain relievers mask the symptoms, do nothing about the underlying causes and carry risks of side effects. Surgery is risky and drastic.

Back Pain Exercises

What about physical therapy? Without the risks associated with medication and surgery, back pain exercise would seem like a good alternative, and the idea of strengthening the back muscles is appealing. Unfortunately, there are two things wrong with this notion: first, stronger back muscles don’t do anything to correct the structural misalignments that cause the pain. And second, exercising already stressed and strained structures simply exacerbates the problem.

While moderate exercise is extremely beneficial in maintaining overall health, including back health, it’s not a good approach to safely relieving back pain. But the good news is, there’s another alternative that does safely relieve back pain, with no drugs or surgery. Find out more.

Back Health

Effective back pain relief is possible when you find out specifically what’s going on structurally and address the causes as well as the symptoms.

Chiropractic means back pain relief to millions of delighted patients around the world; in fact, more people seek chiropractic care than any other form of alternative healthcare. That’s due in part to the fact that chiropractic is made up of trusted healthcare professionals with advanced degrees who meet strict state oversight and licensing demands. But it’s also because, quite simply, chiropractic works!

Give chiropractic a try for your back pain – your insurance is likely to cover it, and there’s bound to be a ChooseNatural.com chiropractor conveniently located near you. Just give them a call to schedule an initial consultation.

Don't rely on back pain exercises alone. Call your vancouver wa chiropractor today to get started. All you have to lose is that annoying pain in your back!

Source: choosenatural.com

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Summer Sports and Your Back

2011-06-14T14:33:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 It’s summertime and the days are warmer and longer. Hopefully, this motivates you to get out and get some additional exercise – softball, baseball, football, basketball, tennis, golf, volleyball, surfing, swimming, or another one of your favorite sports.

Whatever sport you participate in, preventing summertime sports injuries depends upon being in good condition, or at the least, performing proper stretching/warm-up before participating. It’s a good idea to develop and maintain a year-round workout routine that includes the stretching and strengthening of your muscles to keep your body and back ready for action. When your body is not in condition and cannot move easily and safely with adequate range of motion, your back becomes more vulnerable.

Here are some reminders and suggestions for preventing sports injuries.

Understand Your Body’s Condition During the Day

Not all of us can be full-time athletes. We must work to earn a living. Working in an office, for example, can put your body at a disadvantage if you sit for long periods of time. The human body was not designed to be at rest for hours at a time. Long periods of inactivity can cause the core muscles of the body to weaken. It is these core muscles that are responsible for supporting your back. Whether you sit for long periods of time at the office or perform manual labor such as lifting heavy boxes, just turning your body slightly can cause your back to work harder. Remember to take a break during your working hours to stretch your muscles and rotate your joints to keep your body moving. Stay aware of your body’s positioning throughout your workday. Don’t forget to use your hips, knees, and ankles and not let your back take all of the stress. If necessary, request or hire an ergonomic expert to help you to reduce the stress and strain on your body from working in non-neutral postural positions or those that involve repetitive motions. Taking care of your back at work will help to minimize injuries when you exercise, work around the house, or play a sport.

Start Slowly

As summer arrives, it is natural for people to increase their level of activity. If you have not been keeping a regular fitness regime all year, jumping into an activity that puts added force on the body can be harmful. Start slowly with a conditioning program to prepare your body for action. Many muscle and joint injuries have occurred because the body was not conditioned for a particular activity.

Vary You Daily Workout Regimen

If you really enjoy a particular sport or exercise that utilizes specific muscles or joints, make sure that you do not forget about the rest of the body. Exercises that emphasize a particular set of movements can cause an imbalance between muscle groups. Remember that the body’s muscles and joints are designed to work together as a whole. If you focus too much on one of muscle groups, the other muscles excluded will become weaker, thus increasing the chance of injury.

Don’t Forget to Take Rest Breaks

Whether you are at work or working out, you should take a break every so often (20-30 minutes) to give your muscles a chance to relax. This releases unnecessary tension around the joints and helps to prevent injuries. Giving your joins a temporary break from their work positions will allow you to feel better throughout the day and perform better. When possible, find a place to lie down with your knees bent and head propped up. This will help relax your back muscles as well as all of your other joints.

Keep Your Spine Moving

When you sit for long periods of time, the movements of your back are limited mostly to moving forward and back. Your spine was designed to move in many directions and it is in our best interest that it stays that way. Don’t forget to rotate and bend your spine in several directions during the day to keep your spine in motion. Trunk rotations are a great exercise to help you keep your spine healthy – keep the rotations smooth and easy and do not over rotate.

Keep Your Body in Alignment

Remember the song we sang when we were little? The song that says, “Your hip bone is connected to your leg bone / Your leg bone’s connected to your knee bone,” and so forth. The body is a complete system of connected parts. The ends of the bones come together to form the joins. The muscles work to move the bones. Tendons hold the joints together. You couldn’t move a finger without these joints, bones, tendons, and muscles working properly. We often take the spine for granted and ignore the importance of it until it’s too late. Your back has 26 movable bones and several joints that allow you to move in several directions. For your spine to work to the best of its ability, it needs to be in perfect alignment with the other bones and joints. The muscles around the spine help to hold the bones in place. If your muscles are working harder than necessary to keep your spine aligned, then you will feel discomfort or pain and not be able to perform your job or favorite sport as well as you would like.

Remember to take time out to keep your spine in alignment. Yoga and Pilates help with spine alignment. If you feel that you have sustained an injury to the spine or another joint, see a chiropractor. In addition to regular exercise, regular chiropractic maintenance adjustments can help keep you aligned and in tip-top shape.

Source: cerritoschiropractic.com

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Using A Chiropractor in Personal Injury Cases

2011-06-09T08:19:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Chiropractors focus on providing correct physical alignment to maintain health. They treat health problems associated with the body's muscular, nervous and skeletal systems - especially the spine.

Chiropractors focus on providing correct physical alignment to maintain health. They treat health problems associated with the body's muscular, nervous and skeletal systems - especially the spine. According to chiropractic medicine, if the spine is not aligned, or if the muscular or nervous systems become compromised by an accident, a person may experience pain, discomfort or other health concerns. Car accident victims often seek the care of a chiropractor immediately after an accident. Many prefer chiropractic care for whiplash type injuries effecting the neck and spine to other types of treatment.

Chiropractors are often used in the field of personal injury. Soft tissue injuries such as strain and sprain of the ligaments and muscles surrounding the neck, back and spine can be quite debilitating and could take many months to resolve. Chiropractic treatment can be a first line of evaluation and treatment for these types of injuries. Radiographs ordered by a chiropractor can provide important information concerning whether there has been a serious compromise to any of the disks within the bone structure of the spine. If so, chiropractors will refer the patient out to an orthopedic surgeon for further evaluation and treatment.

Chiropractors, unlike orthopedic surgeons, are considered "holistic practitioners", which means they look at the whole body in diagnosing and treating a patient. They also try to help patients avoid disease through preventive care. Chiropractors are not medical doctors and therefore are not licensed to prescribe drugs or perform surgery. However, they do perform diagnostic work as well as treatment. In this regard, they are not unlike physical therapists that work under the instruction of an orthopedic physician.

Chiropractors have the option of earning "diplomate" certification that involves more specialized training. Areas of study include orthopedics, neurology, sports injuries, occupational and industrial health, internal disorders, nutrition and other specialty areas.

Source: guides.gottrouble.com

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Chiropractor Vancouver WA- How Often?

2011-05-23T10:10:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 How often and how early should you see a chiropractor?

Bridge-HowOften.mov Watch on Posterous

Vancouver Chiropractor Dr. Paul Reed's practice focuses on the areas of chiropractic treatments (lower back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, spine pain, sciatic nerve pain )and family wellness. His passion is to share the powerful effects of chiropractic care and wellness.

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Vancouver-WA-Chiropractor-Back-Pain

2011-05-16T11:38:00.001-07:00

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http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Dr. Paul Reed of Bridge Chiropractic is a chiropractor who specializes in helping his patients with back pain and who is serving in Vancouver WA.

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Natural Carpal Tunnel Pain Relief

2011-05-16T08:28:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms generally begin with tingling or numbness in the palm of the hand or fingers and often quickly escalate to include a burning sensation, shooting pains in the arm and weakness in the hand that can cause you to drop things and be unable to do your job. As if the pain wasn’t enough, the inability to click a mouse, hold your fork or pick up your child makes life frustrating and depressing. Like other carpal tunnel sufferers, you’ve probably tried everything from rearranging your workstation to anti-inflammatory medications to immobilizing the joint with carpal tunnel braces or carpal tunnel exercises with no results except increased frustration. You may even know people who have had carpal tunnel release surgery(CTR) – over 200,000 people in the U.S. have the surgery every year, most of them women – and you know that most of them experience a return of symptoms with a few years of surgery. But now more and more people are getting better relief from carpal tunnel symptoms with an all-natural approach that doesn’t include surgery or drugs… or their side effects. Learn how!

The Big Picture

Your wrist and the band surrounding it contain many tiny bones, and if one or more of these bones becomes misaligned, it can irritate the tissues, causing the swelling that exerts pressure on the median nerve. What’s more, a misalignment further up the arm, in the neck or even in the upper spine can be the initial “culprit”, creating a domino effect of misalignments down the arm, compromising function all the way into the wrist and hand, resulting in the painful burning sensation and weakness associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. The problem is complex, but the solution is simple!

Carpal Tunnel Treatments

Depending on the severity of the carpal tunnel symptoms, treatment often includes one or more of the following:

• Over-the-counter drugs
• Prescription medications
• Exercises
• Splints or braces
• Surgery

Unfortunately, none of these carpal tunnel treatments addresses the underlying cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, and none of them provides permanent relief from the pain and disability it causes. In fact, even after a “successful” surgery, many patients experience a return of their symptoms within two years – simply because the surgery treats only the symptoms, not the underlying cause of the problem.

Fortunately, there is a safe, all-natural solution that alleviates the painful symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome while correcting the underlying problem.

Natural Healing

Rather than using drugs or surgery to treat symptoms, chiropractic works with the body’s own natural healing abilities to restore optimal health and function. Carpal tunnel relief may seem outside the scope of chiropractic, but it’s actually right up a chiropractor’s alley! Get Carpal Tunnel Relief - NOW!

Source: choosenatural.com

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LADIES NIGHT-Celebrating Women & Health

2011-05-03T13:50:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Announcing Ladies Night!

An Evening Celebrating Women & Health. May 13th @7pm

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Neck Exercises to Aid Whiplash Treatment

2011-04-29T08:41:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Doing mobility exercise when you have whiplash could speed up your recovery. By doing these exercises, you relieve the tension in your neck area and increase your physical strength. Nonetheless, before you engage yourself in any form of exercise, make sure you have consulted with your doctor first to determine if the routines are appropriate for your current condition:

Exercise 1
Stand up straight. Bend your head forwards, not moving your shoulders or any other part of your body, just your head. Then lift your head gently backwards, making sure you’re facing forward again. Repeat this routine five times.

Exercise 2
Stand up straight, tilt your head backwards so that you are looking upwards in the ceiling. Slowly move your head back, facing forward again. Repeat this routine five times.

Exercise 3
Stand up straight and look forward. Bend your head sidewards gently, trying to get your right ear to meet with the tip of your right shoulder. Repeat the routine, with the left ear meeting the left tip of the shoulder. Repeat the routine ten times, alternating the right and the left.

Exercise 4
Stand up straight and look forward. Imagine following a horizontal line that goes left, and turn your head on the left slowly. Keep your head at an eye level, then slowly again turn your head back in front. Repeat the step, this time turning your head to the right. Repeat the routine ten times.

Exercises for you neck is important in whiplash cases so that it wouldn’t be stiff. Gaining mobility in your neck will speed up your recovery and improve your strength. It may hurt at the beginning, so do it gently at first. Over time, you’re going to notice that the pain will subside.

Source: whiplashcure.com

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A program of strengthening can improve your fitness level

2011-04-20T06:40:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Exercise is a vital part of improving and maintaining normal, comfortable back function. It is important to exercise regularly so you can maintain your fitness level. Regular exercise is important to prevent back pain and injury. A program of strengthening, stretching and aerobic exercises will improve your overall fitness level. Research has shown that people who are physically fit are more resistant to back injuries and pain, and recover quicker when they do have injuries, than those who are less physically fit. In addition, consider maintaining an average weight for your height.

The following exercises are recommended for people who currently are not experiencing back pain. Modifications to this exercise regimen are necessary if you have back pain. Do not continue to perform an exercise which produces pain. Seek the advice of a doctor or physical therapist.

What exercises help maintain a healthy back?

Exercises for a healthy back can be divided into three basic groups:

1. Strengthening: repeated muscle contractions until the muscle becomes tired.

2. Stretching or Flexibility: slow, sustained lengthening of the muscle.

3. Aerobic: steady exercise using large muscle groups.

All of these exercises should be performed slowly and comfortably to avoid injury. When performing strengthening and flexibility exercises, remember to breathe naturally and without holding your breath; exhale during exertion and inhale during relaxation.

Strengthening exercises

Strengthening exercises help increase muscle tone and improve the quality of muscles. Muscle strength and endurance provide energy and a feeling of wellness to help you perform daily, routine activities. Adequate strength of abdominal and back muscles helps stabilize the spine, allows proper spinal movement and makes it easier to maintain correct posture. Strong hip and leg muscles are important to perform proper lifting techniques and body mechanics. Here are some good strengthening exercises:

Curl Ups-Upper Abdominal: While lying down with arms at your sides and knees bent, tilt your pelvis to flatten your back. Raise your shoulders and head until your shoulder blades clear the floor. Hold for 5-10 seconds, and repeat 10 times.

Oblique Trunk Raises: Lie on the floor with your back flat. Raise your head and bring shoulder toward opposite hip, reaching with your hands, as shown. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times, and then switch to the other side and repeat 10 times.

Prone Trunk Raises: Lie face down with arms beside your body. Tighten your buttocks and lift your head and shoulders straight up from the floor as high as you can comfortably go. Hold for 5-10 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Prone Alternate Arm/Leg Lift: Lie on the floor, face down with a towel roll under your forehead, stretch arms outward over your head. Place a pillow under your pelvis and abdomen. Keep your right knee straight, and lift your leg 1-2 inches above the floor, along with the left arm, as shown. Hold for 5 seconds. Alternate with the other knee and arm. Repeat 10 times, each side.

Stretching/flexibility exercises

Flexibility is the ability to move your arms and legs through their full range of motion. Stretching will help improve your flexibility. Adequate flexibility of tissues around the spine and pelvis allows full, normal spinal movement, prevents abnormal force on the joints and decreases the possibility of injury. Stretching also prepares muscles for activity; stretching should be done before and after each vigorous workout to prevent muscle strain and soreness and to help avoid injuries. When performing flexibility exercises, stretch as far as you can and hold the stretch. Each stretching exercise should be performed slowly, with no sudden jerking or bouncing. Bouncing can injure or strain a muscle or joint. Here are some good stretching exercises:

Lying Down Hamstring Stretch: Lying down with knees bent, raise one leg, and supporting the back of thigh with your hands, attempt to straighten the knee until a comfortable stretch is felt in back of the thigh. Hold for 20-30 seconds, and repeat 2-3 times. Repeat with other leg.

Double Knee to Chest Stretch: Lie on the floor with your back relaxed and straight. Pull both knees toward your chest until you feel a stretch in your lower back, do not bounce. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 5 times.

Standing Backward Bend: Stand straight with your hands on your waist. Bend backward, arching your back as far as you comfortably can while keeping your balance. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 5 times.

Quadriceps Stretch: Resting one hand on an object for balance, bend one leg, bringing your foot up behind your thigh, as shown. Grab the top of your foot and pull the foot toward your buttock until a stretch is felt in front of the thigh. Hold for 20-30 seconds. Repeat 2-3 times for each leg.

Aerobic exercises

Aerobic exercise provides cardiovascular conditioning; it strengthens the heart and lungs and improves the body's ability to use oxygen. Some other benefits of aerobic exercise includes increased energy levels, improved mood, better sleep habits and decreased blood pressure. Aerobic exercise also burns calories and improves your metabolism, helping with weight loss. Some examples of aerobic exercise include:

Jogging = Cycling = Skating = Rowing = Swimming = Walking = Dancing

In general, to achieve maximum benefits, you should gradually work up to an aerobic session lasting 20 to 60 minutes, 3 or 4 times a week. Please check with your doctor or physical therapist before starting any aerobic program. Your exercise routine should consist of a 5-minute warm-up (including stretching exercises) before the aerobic activity and 5 to 10 minutes of a cool down (stretching and slower activity) after the activity. Here are some precautions with aerobic exercise:

Jumping rope puts too much pressure on the discs and should be avoided.
Running can be done as long as it doesn't increase lower back pain.
When walking or running, wear supportive, well-cushioned shoes and walk or run on a level surface.

What about pain during exercise?

Do not ignore pain. If you feel increased pain or pain spreading to the legs, do not continue the activity. If you continue to perform the activity while you are in pain, you may cause unnecessary stress or damage to your joints. Seek the advice of a doctor or physical therapist. Fear of pain can cause unnecessary inactivity, so it is important to learn to "read" your body and know when you need to stop or modify an activity.

Source: mayfieldclinic.com

Bridge Chiropractic

Dr. Reed

massage vancouver wa, vancouver wa chiropractor, vancouver wa chiropractic, back pain vancouver wa,neck pain vancouver wa

Protect Your Back When Weeding

2011-04-08T08:23:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Weeding and other gardening chores can quickly tire even strong backs. One of the most common mistakes gardeners make while weeding is working too hard in the back and not moving from the hip joint.

Sit on a Bucket to Weed Your Garden

One of the most popular positions for extended weeding sessions is to sit. If you have knee, hip or back pain, sitting will help you avoid putting pressure onto those areas. But even sitting and weeding can take its toll on your back if you don't know how to move efficiently. Grab a bucket and I'll show you what I mean.

Hands and Knees Weeding to Protect Your Back

When weeding on all fours, the goal is keep your whole spine long. Because you will need to shift around while you work, keeping a long spine requires watching and feeling how your shoulders are bearing responsibility for reaching, grasping and supporting your body weight. Also, be aware of any pockets of muscle tension along your trunk. Once you become attentive to unnecessary tension, you can relax out of it.

Protect Your Back While Standing and Weeding

One easy thing you can do to make standing and weeding your garden comfortable for your back is to prop your elbow against your leg. This will create an external brace, which will help stabilize your body posture when you bend and reach for the weeds. It is also helpful to use a wide stance, which will create a stable base of support for you as you work.

Back Saving Techniques for Sitting on the Ground to Weed

For those with flexible hip joints and relatively healthy lower backs, sitting on the ground is an option when weeding the garden. Sit with your legs bent, positioning one in front and the other in back. Try to anchor your sitting bones into the ground equally. This will bring your pelvis and spine into an upright position.

As with other weeding positions, keeping a long spine will help you avoid back strain and conserve your energy for when physical exertion is really necessary to get the job done.

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Source: backandneckabout.com

Bridge Chiropractic

Dr. Reed

massage vancouver wa, vancouver wa chiropractor, vancouver wa chiropractic, back pain vancouver wa,neck pain vancouver wa

Vancouver WA Chiropractic - Quality of Life

2011-03-31T02:54:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Bridge Chiropractic is a chiropractic office serving in Vancouver WA, Battle Ground and Salmon Creek. We will help relieve your pain and give you back your quality of life.
Chiropractor, chiropractic, back pain, stress, spine, scoliosis

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massage vancouver wa, vancouver wa chiropractor, vancouver wa chiropractic, back pain vancouver wa, neck pain vancouver wa

Why, as a student, Chiropractic can give you an edge

2011-03-23T10:32:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Studies show that chronic stress physiology can lead to chronic changes in cognition. Cells in the hippocampus (the part of our brain that retains facts and responsible for focus and concentration) actually shrink!

Interestingly research also shows that chiropractic adjustments have the same positive effect that exercise has on the brain (namely increasing the size of hippocampal cells).

The model is simple,

1. A healthy brain needs constant proprioceptive input and stimulation from all joints of the body (especially the spine).
2. When the spine and its articulating joints lose normal motion or position (we call this a subluxation), proprioceptive input is reduced and the brain stimulates stress centres- makes you stupid and less focused.
3. Chiropractic adjustments restore normal motion and position thereby improving proprioception to the brain and nerve function to the body.
4. Brain experiences less stress and more cognitive ability- you stay smart, sharp and stress-free.

How’s that for a sure-fire way to stay on top of your grades and experience health and wellness at the same time.

So how do you know when you need a spine and nerve system check-up? Here are some sure fire student signs and symptoms.

1. You have a hard time focusing and concentrating for more than 10-15 mins at a time.
2. You constantly fidget or change position when you study.
3. You can’t get comfortable at all studying.
4. You are sore from your studying position either during or after your studying period.
5. You are experiencing anxiety or nervousness and can’t put a finger on it.
6. You are experiencing pain and discomfort in neck and shoulders or mid-back or lower back areas.
7. You are having headaches.

If any of these apply, call our office. We will thoroughly examine and assess you for subluxations and help get you back on top of your game

Source: entertogetwell.ca

Bridge Chiropractic

Dr. Reed

chiropractor, chiropractic, vancouver wa chiropractor, vancouver wa chiropractic, back pain, health, spine

The Life Of A Mother - How To Reduce Your Daily Pain

2011-03-18T08:17:00.001-07:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic. com/ 360-574-5944

Sandy Smith woke up to the annoying and familiar sound of the alarm clock. It was another day and the beginning of another hectic week. She rolled from her stomach onto her back and unburied herself from beneath the old, down-filled, pillows. Sandy reached over and pressed the snooze button in an attempt to steal five more minutes of peace. As Sandy stretched, she felt the pain, a stiff ache that had unfortunately loomed over her body every morning for quite some time.

Once out of bed, Sandy leaned over and tried to concentrate on making the perfect hospital corners. She slightly lifted the large, squishy mattress, and tucked the corners just right, trying to ignore her stiff muscles and joints. She shuffled into the bathroom and brought her toothbrush to her mouth. Hunched over the sink, trying to avoid the tired reflection staring back at her, Sandy brushed her teeth. Her motions were slow this morning,

and she had no time to concern herself with a little pain.

"Here they come," Sandy thought to herself as she heard the pitter-patter of four little feet running down the hallway. The kids were awake, eager to begin the day. Sandy threw on a skirt and sweater, pulling her brown high heels out from the back of the closet.

"Ow," Sandy exclaimed. The pain in her back sent a sharp signal to her brain that the day was not going to run smoothly. She clomped down the hall to retrieve the hairbrush stuck in her daughter's long hair, and her feet found Barbie. Her heels had little traction and she grabbed the banister for support.

Realizing she was late, Sandy bent over to scoop up her 2-year-old. Her back seemed to yell at her, and she suddenly realized her toddler was becoming heavier every day.

After cereal and burnt toast, Sandy marched her girls to the bus stop and waved good-bye as she turned toward her car, angry with herself for sleeping those five extra minutes. She would have to face Monday morning gridlock and suddenly felt the beginning of a headache that would stay with her all day.

"I love Mondays," Sandy said to herself as she sat in traffic. She reached for her cell phone, cradling it between her neck and head. Her conference call would need to be conducted in the car, and her headache only worsened.

Thirty minutes later, Sandy pulled into her parking place. She sprang from her car, heaved her over-stuffed leather bag over her shoulder, and scurried through the office doors.

MONDAY MADNESS

Sandy's Monday morning was filled with telephone calls and last minute deadlines. She tried to type and talk at the same time, constantly crossing and re-crossing the left leg over the right. She began breathing erratically when she realized her deadline would not be met. The lunch hour was approaching, and it suddenly occurred to Sandy that she had not taken a break all morning. Her computer screen appeared blurry and her wrists were stiff.

The remainder of Sandy's day was much of the same, and she could not wait to take off her shoes. After skipping lunch and sitting through meetings, Sandy drug herself to her car, threw her bag in the back seat and started the stressful trek home. That night, after the kid’s devoured dinner, Sandy longed for a long hot shower. The girls were in the bathtub, and she winced as she reached over to carefully lift her toddler onto the floor. By this time, her neck and joints screamed in pain and Sandy wanted nothing more than to climb into bed.

It was eleven at night and Sandy was finally lying down. Her bed and pillows did not seem comfortable, and she felt for only an instant that her neck needed a little more support. She drifted off to sleep out of sheer exhaustion.

A NEW DAY

Does Sandy remind you of anyone? The more stressful our lives become, the less we focus on the "moment." When we aren't conscious of how we sleep, breathe, stand, lift, bend or sit, our bodies can take a beating that results in lingering pain. We often avoid the early signs of discomfort we feel in our back, shoulders or neck until we are unable to ignore the pain. By reading the tips below, you can learn to make even the busiest days pain free.

§ When you wake in the morning, start the day with a couple of stretches. Stand up and stretch your arms above your head. Do the "hug your best friend." Wrap your arms around your body, and turn as far as you can to the left, then to the right.

§ When performing everyday routines such as brushing your teeth, remember your posture. Do not hunch over the sink; stand up straight.

§ Don't bend from the waist when you lift a child. Squat with your back straight. Keep the child close to you and use your arms and legs to lift.

§ Hold the telephone with your hand or use the speakerphone. Cradling the phone between your head and shoulder can lock up the spinal joints in the neck and upper back, eventually causing pain.

§ While in the office, make sure your chair fits correctly. There should be two inches between the front edge of your seat and the back of your knees. The chair should tilt back so you are able to rest while reading from a computer screen.

§ Many people suffer from tension headaches. Adequate lighting and document holders by your computer can help reduce the risk of a headache. Materials placed on a desk cause you to constantly raise and lower your neck while you're typing at your keyboard.

§ Do not wear high heels. The weight of the foot is not evenly distributed, which not only causes sore feet, but also added spinal stress.

§ Do not carry a heavy bag with its strap over your shoulder, unless you place the strap over your head on the side opposite the bag. Wearing a shoulder strap over one shoulder unevenly places the weight of the bag on one side of the body, potentially causing shoulder and back pain. Or better yet, carry a bag with a handle rather than a strap.

§ Do not consistently cross the same knee over the other. This habit can eventually cause misalignment of the spine.

§ Even if you remain sitting for the majority of your workday, you deserve a break. Get up from your desk and move around, stretching arms and legs as much as possible to avoid postural and spinal stress. Try to practice deep and even breathing to keep yourself calm and keep adequate oxygen flowing through your system.

§ Bath time can be fun for the kids but stressful on any parent. Make certain to bend from the waist and not the back when bathing your children. Use your legs when you lift your child.

§ It is important to get a good night's rest. Choose a comfortable mattress and pillow that adequately support the weight of your head and body.

Source: amerchiro.org

Bridge Chiropractic

Dr. Reed

chiropractor, chiropractic, vancouver wa chiropractor, vancouver wa chiropractic, back pain, health, spine

March Madness Party!!!

2011-03-10T08:45:00.001-08:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-594 MARCH MADNESS PARTY!!! Wednesday, March 16th, 7-10pm at Bridge Chiropractic. 13712 NE 20th Ave, Vancouver, WA
Come Hang Out & Watch The Game with Pro Basketball Player Dan Dickau! Free Exam & Free X-rays, Kids Basketball Games, Raffles, Snacks, Food & Drink!

Bring A Guest Or Refer A Patient And Be Entered Into The Raffle

Raffle Prizes include:

Signed Basketballs by Dan Dickau

Camp And/or Personal Training By Dan Dickau

Massage Gift Certificates And More!

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Vancouver Chiropractor can relieve a child's growing pains

2011-03-10T08:30:00.001-08:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 According to the pediatric community, a significant number of children are inflicted with growing pains. In rare cases, pain can become severe and symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, loss in weight and limping may arise.

Tackling Growing Pains with the Chiropractic Approach

On September 2006, Research update from the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) reviewed a case study of a 3-year-old boy who underwent chiropractic care. The young boy was suffering from leg and lower back pain. In addition, he experienced headaches and bed wetting.

A chiropractic examination revealed the presence of subluxations and the boy was subsequently adjusted. After the first adjustment, the patient did not complain of leg pain for 3 days, and by the last visit, the child had, and remained symptom-free for almost 3 weeks. The author's conclusion of this study was, "This case report provides supporting evidence of the effectiveness of chiropractic care in children with growing pains."

If your child is suffering from growing pains, don’t hesitate to bring your child to any of our clinics for an examination.

Source: chiropractic-first.org

Bridge Chiropractic

Dr. Reed

chiropractor, chiropractic, vancouver wa chiropractor, vancouver wa chiropractic, back pain, health, spine

Chiropractic Care Helps Ear Aches

2011-03-03T09:04:00.001-08:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 Ear problems can be excruciatingly painful, especially in children. With 10 million new cases every year, ear infections (otitis media) are the most common illness affecting babies and young children and the number one reason for visits to the pediatrician—accounting for more than 35 percent of all pediatric visits.

Almost half of all children will have at least one middle ear infection before they're a year old, and two-thirds of them will have had at least one such infection by age 3. The symptoms can include ear pain, fever, and irritability. Otitis media can be either bacterial or viral in origin, and frequently results from another illness such as a cold. For many children, it can become a chronic problem, requiring treatment year after year, and putting the child at risk of permanent hearing damage and associated speech and developmental problems.

Chiropractic Care Can Help...

Doctors of chiropractic are licensed and trained to diagnose and treat patients of all ages and will use a gentler type of treatment for children. Call us today to talk about your child's ear infections.

Standard treatment for most cases of otitis media is with antibiotics, which can be effective if the culprit is bacterial (antibiotics, of course, do nothing to fight off viruses). But, according to many research studies, antibiotics are often not much more effective than the body's own immune system. And repeated doses of antibiotics can lead to drug-resistant bacteria that scoff at the drugs, while leaving the child screaming in pain.

Frequent ear infections are also the second most common reason for surgery in children under 2 (with circumcision being the first). In severe cases—for example, when fluids from an ear infection haven't cleared from the ear after several months, and hearing is affected—specialists sometimes prescribe myringotomy and tympanostomy, more commonly known as "ear tubes." During the surgical procedure, a small opening is made in the eardrum to place a tube inside. The tube relieves pressure in the ear and prevents repeated fluid buildup with the continuous venting of fresh air. In most cases, the membrane pushes the tube out after a couple of months and the hole in the eardrum closes. Although the treatment is effective, it has to be repeated in some 20 to 30 percent of cases. And this kind of surgery requires general anesthesia, never a minor thing in a small child. If the infection persists even after tube placement and removal, children sometimes undergo adenoidectomy (surgical removal of the adenoids)—an option that is effective mostly through the first year after surgery.

Before yet another round of "maybe-they'll-work-and-maybe-they-won't" antibiotics or the drastic step of surgery, more parents are considering chiropractic to help children with chronic ear infections. Dr. Joan Fallon, a chiropractor who practices in Yonkers, New York, has published research showing that, after receiving a series of chiropractic adjustments, nearly 80 percent of the children treated were free of ear infections for at least the six-month period following their initial visits (a period that also included maintenance treatments every four to six weeks).

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Source: acatoday.org

Bridge Chiropractic

Dr. Reed

chiropractor, chiropractic, vancouver wa chiropractor, vancouver wa chiropractic, back pain, health, spine

Vancouver Chiropractor VS Breathing Problems

2011-02-24T08:25:00.001-08:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic. com/ 360-574-5944

Breathing Problems

Do you have friends, family members or co-workers who suffer from breathing problems? Then tell them, “You’re not alone!” Millions of people worldwide deal with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other breathing problems on a daily basis. These conditions can drastically limit the activities in which these people can participate. The vast majority of these people turn to pills or inhalers in an effort to counteract the effects of these breathing troubles. Unfortunately, these medications don’t do anything to “resolve” the problem – they simply mask the symptoms and provide temporary relief rather than actually curing the cause of the issues. Thankfully, there are numerous patients who have had their breathing troubles minimized or even eliminated through safe, natural chiropractic care!

A Gentle, Accurate And Efficient Checkup

A thorough examination can determine if the breathing troubles your friends or family members are experiencing are a result of misalignments in their spine. The tests performed during this examination are gentle, accurate and efficient. Our highly trained and experienced team will then provide your friend with a thorough report to explain what has been found in their case. Help your friends make 2011 healthier and better than 2010. They really have nothing to lose!

You might not think that Chiropractic can help with breathing problems but consider this story. A patient brought in their daughter for me to find out why she had chest pain. She had been to her pediatrician already who didn’t think there was any thing wrong. I examined her and decided there was a problem in her mid back area, probably because of the heavy back pack she had to carry and began to treat her. She didn’t get better. That is unusual because children usually respond very quickly under Chiropractic care. Usually 2 or 3 visits and they are better and on their way. Obviously, something else was going on.

During my chiropractic consultation and with further questioning, I found out that this young girl was worried about what high school she was going to go to and it was affecting her breathing. She wasn’t sleeping well and had all the symptoms of being under a lot of stress. This included very shallow and rapid breathing. We addressed her improper breathing and she quickly responded. Now the 2 or 3 visits worked and she was fine. So what about breathing?

Obviously, you know that if we don’t breathe, we don’t live. Our bodies depend on oxygen to run all the functions inside us. Our lungs are nice and big to bring in as much oxygen as possible. However, most of the time, we only use a portion of our full lung capacity. When we are at rest, we take several small breaths and then periodically we will take a large deep breath, filling our lungs. When we exercise, we breath deeper and more rapidly. This is a normal function of our lungs and the muscles that cause our lungs to be able to obtain that air.

I’m sure you are aware of the diaphragm as a muscle that is involved in the breathing process. There are many other muscles which help to fill the lungs and to force the air out of the lungs as well. These include the muscles between the ribs, intercostal muscles and extra helper muscles in the upper chest and into the neck, the scalenes. These extra muscles are not greatly involved in the resting process but more so with exertion.

The problems start when we are under stress and take rapid shallow breaths, using these extra muscles more than normal and fail the use the diaphragm to take the deep filling breaths. The extra helper muscles get fatigued and then neck pain, chest pain and other symptoms can occur. Education on deep abdominal breathing as well as stress reduction goes a long way to help these problems.

Try this exercise. Lie down and put one hand on your upper chest and the other on your stomach or abdominal area. Which hand is moving? If the hand on your chest is moving the most you are doing too much shallow breathing, using the extra helper muscles. Concentrate on taking deep breaths with your diaphragm. In other words, breathe in by pushing your stomach out and not moving the hand on your chest. This is hard to do initially but with practice you will actually bring in more air to the deeper areas of your lungs and feel better. By doing this exercise frequently, you will retrain your body to breath correctly. This will help reduce stress. Give it a try and enjoy the fresh air.

Bridge Chiropractic

Dr. Reed

chiropractor, chiropractic, vancouver wa chiropractor, vancouver wa chiropractic, back pain, health, spine

Bedwetting Relief with All-Natural Chiropractic Care

2011-02-17T09:11:00.001-08:00

http://www.bridgechiropractic.com/ 360-574-5944 We know you might be thinking, “Don’t chiropractors just treat people with bad necks and backs? Or people who have been in accidents or who have had some type of injury?”

Not at all and this is why chiropractic care has become the most popular alternative health discipline. Chiropractic offers bedwetters a drug-free and all-natural approach to reduce, or even eliminate, the incidence of bedwetting…and it works!

How does chiropractic care help to stop bedwetting?

Chiropractic care locates spinal misalignments that can affect the nerves that travel to the bladder and communicate with the brain.
Chiropractic adjustments are safe and natural; there are no side effects!
Chiropractic adjustments attempt to restore proper function to the nerves that control the muscles that are responsible for bladder control. These adjustments can be effective in reducing or even eliminating the number of “wet” nights.

Bedwetting Relief, the Natural Chiropractic Approach

All of the chiropractors at Bridge Chiropractic are caring and compassionate professionals, who understand the embarrassment and shame associated with childhood and teenage bedwetting. In fact, there’s a good chance that quite a few have had first-hand experience with it themselves, either as a bedwetter or as parents of one.

Chiropractors can’t claim for certain that they can help someone who is a bedwetter. However, they do know that there is a good chance that chiropractic can help stop bedwetting, or at least reduce the frequency of “wet” nights, if the bedwetting is related to a spinal misalignment.

Several research studies have explored the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments on bedwetters. In one such study, 25 % of children who received chiropractic adjustments experienced a 50 % or greater reduction in the number of wet nights. None of the children in the control group experienced this same result.

If you could be dry 50% or more of the time, wouldn’t you give chiropractic a try? Listen to the testimonials of those who have taken the “leap of faith” and found that all-natural chiropractic care is effective in reducing or eliminating the incidence ofbedwetting in their homes.

Ingredients

1 bag of fresh spinach
Mozzarella cheese
Pizza sauce

Steam spinach in a microwave-safe dish, with a few teaspoons of water. Puree spinach and mix with pizza sauce. Place over pizza crust and cover with cheese. Bake in the oven (or toaster oven) at 350 degrees for 3-7 minutes.

*You can use English Muffins or Pre-made pizza crust from the store.

*The kids can use a cookie cutter to cut their size of pizza dough.

In 1952, a crusading book entitled Obsolete American Mental Health Systems made startling claims that both chiropractic and osteopathy were far superior to so-called "orthodox" procedures in the handling of mental ills. Written by John Stevenson, who was for many years a prominent figure in labor management in the State of Michigan, it made such direct comparisons as these:

"Under our present state mental health programs, seventy-five to ninety-five patients of every one hundred patients who enter state mental hospitals are doomed to an asylum prison for life, depending on which state the patients are confined in. The patient may be located in a state hospital where the average mental cure is the lowest per annum, beginning with Michigan, which has about one per cent cures per annum. Ranging across the nation to Massachusetts, we find approximately twenty-five per cent cures or satisfactory discharges. This costs the taxpayers $16,000,000 per annum in Michigan alone. Across the nation, involving every state, the total runs into hundreds of millions of dollars of the taxpayers' money...

"Investigation reveals that the private sanitariums of the chiropractic profession show from 60 to 65 per cent satisfactory discharges per annum as against 1 per cent to approximately 25 per cent discharges from state mental hospitals." (Italics author's.)

Stevenson charged that organized medicine maintains what amounts to a virtual monopoly over most state mental systems and mental hospitals, and stated: "There are very few hospitals employing chiropractors and osteopaths and they only in limited numbers. The legislators and governors of almost every state have failed to legislate osteopathic and chiropractic doctors for state mental hospital staffs. The medical doctors and their associated psychiatrists would probably walk out of our state mental hospitals if our state legislatures enacted laws allowing chiropractic or osteopathic doctors to practice in- state mental hospitals. The medicos would probably strike, the same as labor does when there's an unsettled issue with management." (Italics author's.)

Stevenson also called for what he termed a "Tripartite State Mental Health System" in which each state should have at least one mental hospital operated exclusively by chiropractors and one operated exclusively by osteopaths, in addition to the medically-operated setup. He has not progressed far in his campaign to date.

Over the years the increase in mental ills, ranging from those that do not incapacitate to those that re-quire total care and in many instances restraint, has been steady and frightening. In 40 years prior to 1931, the total of inmates in U. S. state mental institutions climbed 460 per cent as compared with a population increase of only 110 per cent. In 1926, we had approximately 500,000 mental cases; by 1946, the total had reached almost 10,000,000, a twenty-fold increase in two decades. Both alcoholism and drug addiction—indications of emotional disturbance in the opinion of many authorities—have increased alarmingly.

In World War II, the chief reason for draft rejections and medical discharges by our armed forces was not, as might be supposed, some major killer such as heart trouble or cancer. Instead, it was mental illness. According to the U. S. Public Health Service, there are between 20 million and 30 million persons in this country who are "borderline" mental cases on the verge of "nervous breakdown."

Orthodox healers have consistently held the position that no connection exists between nervous breakdown and the nervous system. Their claim has been that there was no detectable difference between the nerves of the mentally calm and the mentally distraught. This position seems to be contradicted by the fact that chiropractic has had much success with "nervous breakdown" patients, who are so numerous and pre-sent a multitude of symptoms, such as irritability, insomnia, emotional flare-ups, muscular twitches, digestive disturbances popularly referred to as "nervous stomach," headaches, and a general apprehension about "cracking up."

Chiropractors state that clinical experience with many thousands of nervous patients has definitely established a direct connection between the nervous system and these disorders, demonstrating that the latter are not always of purely emotional origin. They also state that the physical alterations they are able to stimulate in the nervous system through spinal adjustment are highly successful in eliminating nervous symptoms, including those of long duration. This was stressed in a recent series of articles in the National Chiropractic Association journal titled "The Connection Between Nerves and Nervousness" and written by Dr. Herman S. Schwartz, President of the National Chiropractic Psychotherapy Council and author of the popular self-help book The Art of Relaxation.

Now it appears that there is definite laboratory evidence of chemical differences between the nerves of persons who are tired and irritable and those who are rested and calm. The Swedish nuclear physicist Dr. Torbjoern O. Caspersson recently perfected a fantastically precise device which can detect changes in the protein content of individual human cells amounting to no more than one ten-thousandth of a gram in a cell of one-millionth of a meter in diameter. He has described as "profound" the chemical differences between the cells of persons who are tired and the cells of those who are rested.

Since tension and exhaustion almost invariably ac-company "nervous breakdown" symptoms, the importance of the above discovery is obvious. According to Dr. Schwartz, Dr. Caspersson's findings "put to an absolute end the old argument—that since there are no visible nerve changes inside neurotics, the malady is strictly `mental.' "

If chiropractic can do anything for patients with emotional and nervous disorders, then its record is worthy of attention. For, according to the Federal Security Agency's pamphlet The National Mental Health Act and Your Community, ". . . from 30 to 60 per cent of all patients consulting all doctors do so primarily for complaints due to emotional disorders ..." And the U. S. Public Health Service, in a June, 1948, statement, admitted frankly that, "Our knowledge (of mental illness) is limited and many of our conclusions rest on slender foundations. We must learn more about the causes, treatment, and prevention of mental illness if we hope to improve the mental health of the people."

A valuable guide to the subject is a public-information booklet written by Dr. Schwartz with the technical and editorial collaboration of George W. Hartmann, Professor of Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University. It is entitled 350 Nervous and Mental Cases Under Chiropractic Care and was published by The Chiropractic Research Foundation of Webster City, Iowa.

Dr. Schwartz cogently sums up chiropractic's approach to mental illness. He says: "It is logical to ask how chiropractors correct nervous and mental conditions without resorting to psychiatry. The answer is that chiropractic is a neurological approach to these problems, operating on the independent assumption now an established scientific fact-that much emotional illness stems from nerve irritations maintained by distortions in the spinal column. By correcting these subluxations, the chiropractor eliminates intense and persistent pains of obscure origin which mental cases suffer. A person with a cinder in his eye sometimes shows temporary lack of emotional control. So does one who has his corn stepped on heavily. Perpetuate excitation with a less obvious source of trouble and one begins to understand why some of the mentally ill suffer."

Of the 350 patients in the Schwartz survey, 212 or 60.5 per cent were "apparently cured" through chiropractic, 87 or 25 per cent "much improved," 28 or 8 per cent "somewhat improved," 19 or 5.5 per cent revealed "no change," and 4 or 1 per cent were "worse."

Thus in 93.5 per cent of these patients improvement was noted ranging from apparent cure to some betterment of the condition.

"The summation here," observed Dr. Schwartz, "is that the chances are about 9 in 10 that `nervous' cases of the sort considered, benefit from whatever the chiropractor does for them. Interestingly enough, every one of the 350 cases studied revealed subluxations of variable magnitude in spinal analysis." (Italics author's.)

The Schwartz study becomes even more impressive when it is noted that of the patients studied 33 per cent had been in mental institutions and another four per cent were on the verge of being committed at the time chiropractic was first applied to them. More than 55 per cent had received general medical care, 13 per cent had undergone some form of shock therapy, and six per cent had had psychiatric treatment. Of the entire 350, all but five had had at least some degree of medical and psychiatric attention. Under such treatment, 27 or 8 per cent of the entire group had worsened, 33 or 10 per cent had shown some improvement, and 285 or 81 per cent had shown no change either for better or for worse.

Following are several cases from the Schwartz study:

General nervousness: G. I., age 26, married. Subject was employed as an assistant hotel manager. Du-ration of illness: 15 months. Subject complained of sick headaches, pains in his neck and behind his ears. He was extremely nervous and given to violent out-bursts of temper without provocation. Inability to get along with people spelled a grave defect in his work and lessened job security. Subject's illness stemmed from a personal fight overseas in which he was knocked down. The medical officer who examined him at point of discharge from service heard the specific complaints. Eye glasses were recommended but brought no relief. Subsequently, under chiropractic care, the subject received 10 adjustments and was discharged in 1947 as apparently recovered. He re-enlisted in the Army and at last report was handling administrative duties capably without a sign of previous distress.

Neurasthenia: Male student, age 23. Illness was of 18 months' duration. Subject complained of severe head and back pains and imagined that he was suffering with a brain tumor. His mental condition was believed to have been precipitated by trying war experiences. Subject served in counterespionage for several years. This duty was of a consistently dangerous nature and held him in a state of high nervous tension over prolonged periods. Following the war, subject spent two months in a veterans facility and showed only partial improvement in this time. A throat specialist referred the case to a chiropractor in February, 1949. Subject responded favorably to the first of a series of adjustments and within six weeks was discharged as apparently recovered.

Schizophrenia: Male student, age 22. Violent and under guard. Suffered acute hallucinations. Accused family of trying to throw him into a lion's den. Under care of a number of M.D.'s who diagnosed case as acute mania. Papers signed for subject's commitment. Mother refused to have him committed. Patient came under chiropractic care in highly excitable state. M.D. administered anesthetic to facilitate vertebral analysis. Immediate improvement noted following first adjustment. Subject recovered in four weeks. Returned to college to complete studies.

Noting that "A community hospital belongs to all the people," Dr. Schwartz called for the inclusion of chiropractors on the staffs of such institutions. "In many forward-looking institutions," he wrote, "a therapeutic `team' consists of a psychiatrist, psychologist, general medical practitioner, psychiatric nurse, social worker, and clergyman, all combined on the principle that the diversity of patient problems requires an organization of specialized skills. Add a chiropractor to the lineup, and the `team' would be complete ..."

One of the best-known chiropractic institutions dealing with the mentally ill is Forest Park Chiropractic Sanitarium in Davenport, Iowa. Its record in mental cases appears far superior than that of many, if not all, orthodox institutions. As far back as 1934, through the efforts of Hon. A. W. Ponath, County Judge of the Probate Court of Richland County, Wahpeton, North Dakota, 10 patients from the State Hospital at James-town, North Dakota, who had all been diagnosed as hopeless and incurable cases of dementia praecox, were sent to Forest Park in a test of what chiropractic could or could not accomplish. All of the 10 were chronic cases, and eight of the ten had been in the North Dakota state mental institution for from five to ten years. The remaining two were acute cases who had been mentally deranged for only a short time.

With these ten mental patients—all of whom had been diagnosed by state-employed medical doctors and psychiatrists as hopelessly incurable—Forest Park appears to have achieved 80 per cent complete recovery. The two acute cases were completely recovered by the end of the second month of treatment. Of the eight chronic cases, six were returned home as free from symptoms within one year.

Judge Ponath subsequently published a report titled Facts—What Chiropractic Has Done for Insanity in which he compared the overall records at Jamestown, N. D., (under medical supervision) and Forest Park (chiropractic). He found that during the years 1922-1934 the state mental hospital achieved 27.18 cures or satisfactory discharges, as compared with 65 per cent of the chiropractic institution over the same period.

Judge Ponath concluded, "And if this record, 65 per cent, can be obtained on cases where the large percentage are classed as incurable and had already spent much time in insane asylums and other sanitariums, how much more chiropractic could do if given the opportunity to handle the patients immediately after being brought to an insane asylum, rather than months or years later when their constitution has been run down by deterioration or prolonged mental disability or both."

According to a recent survey by the National Chiropractic Association, of a total of 2,556 cases of mental illness reported to the Association, 1,702 were completely restored to normal through chiropractic, 431 were partially restored, and 423 obtained little or no benefit.

Source: www.oldandsold.com

Bridge Chiropractic

Dr. Reed

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