Topic of the Week: Chiropractic: A Manual Therapy for Chronic Asthma

Many chronic asthma sufferers have turned to chiropractic care to help treat or prevent asthma attacks or symptoms. Asthma is a chronic lung disease that involves inflammation and swelling in the lung’s airways. The inflamed airways of an asthmatic are extremely sensitive and often react strongly to allergens and other irritants. With asthma, the muscles surrounding the airways become too tight - a situation known as bronchospasm. Asthma, notes the UC Davis Health System, is episodic, may be accompanied by sinus problems, is usually seasonal and may be reversible.

What is the role of chiropractic care in treating chronic or long-term, asthma? An article published on the Dynamic Chiropractic website describes a case study in which one young patient with asthma experienced a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of asthma attacks with chiropractic care - a clinical outcome reported by many chiropractors and chiropractic patients.



How Chiropractic Care May Help

As mentioned above, asthma is an abnormal constriction of the lung’s airways. To understand how chiropractic care - spinal adjustments, specifically - may help treat asthma, it is important to understand why the lung’s airways constrict. Airway constriction may be caused by many different factors, including a communication problem between the nerves and the bronchial muscles (i.e., the bands of muscle that surround your airways). It is thought by some in the chiropractic community that physical pressure on a spinal nerve (in the upper thoracic spine, or mid-back) may affect the nerve signal that controls bronchial muscle tone.

The idea is that by adjusting the spine and restoring normal spinal joint motion, any nerve interference that may be causing bronchial constriction can be resolved and lung function restored. This is one theory in the chiropractic community of why spinal adjustments may help relieve asthma symptoms in chronic asthma sufferers.



What the Evidence Says

Research evidence into the effects of chiropractic care on chronic asthma are mixed. Some studies show favorable effects while others fail to draw any significant conclusions about the benefits of chiropractic care for this health problem. One study, published in 2008 in the Chiropractic Journal of Australia, reports that a multi-modal chiropractic treatment approach may help reduce asthmaassociated symptoms in selected cases. A review article, published in 2013 in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, notes that the use of manual techniques (e.g., chiropractic care, osteopathic medicine, and massage) on children with respiratory diseases (including asthma) appears to be beneficial. Another review article published in 2012 in the journal Clinical Chiropractic, states that chiropractic care may be a viable alternative care method for asthma sufferers. Still, there is some research evidence that fails to show significant benefits of chiropractic care for asthma. Many of these studies conclude that larger randomized controlled studies are required to examine the effects of chiropractic care and other manual therapies on asthma.



Other Helpful Natural Treatments

Chiropractic care is just one part of a comprehensive natural treatment approach to chronic asthma. According to the American Chiropractic Association, other helpful measures include using air filters to improve the air quality in your home, avoiding sulfites and monosodium glutamate (MSG) in foods, eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fish or fish oil), supplementing your diet with vitamin C, covering your bedding (e.g., mattresses and pillows) with dust covers and using hypoallergenic bed linens to minimize your exposure to dust mites.

Exercise-induced asthma - coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath during or after exercise - is another form of the condition that may respond well to natural treatment approaches. If you suffer from this problem, your chiropractor can prescribe for you an individualized exercise plan that will reduce the likelihood of asthma symptoms during physical activity.

Your chiropractor will also explain to you how this exercise plan fits in with your overall asthma treatment plan.



Conclusion

Your chiropractor can further counsel you on the possible merits of chiropractic care for chronic asthma. Some research evidence does indeed show that chiropractic spinal adjustments may be helpful for this health problem - a conclusion that many chiropractors have already drawn from their clinical experience. Ask your chiropractor about a natural, comprehensive, and individualized approach to treating your asthma.





Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - Wellness ExpressTM

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Exercise of the Week: Pelvic Rotations - Leg Straight

Topic of the Week: Zap Your Zits Using Natural Methods

Acne vulgaris, or simply acne, affects 40 to 50 million Americans and almost 85 percent of all people develop acne at some point in their lives, states the American Academy of Dermatology. Many observers note that acne is a disease of Western civilization, that it is rare in indigenous cultures (except in those individuals or groups who adopt Western dietary and lifestyle habits).

Acne is an often distressing and persistent health problem, especially among teens. Acne lesions most commonly appear on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders, and can cause significant emotional distress and skin scarring.
Conventional approaches to acne treatment vary considerably from more natural methods. In this edition of the Wellness Express, we will examine the factors that lead to acne and discuss several powerful natural methods of resolving this health problem. Ask your chiropractor about his or her thoughts on this health topic before making any treatment decisions about your - or your child’s - acne.

Important Factors to Consider
When it comes to acne and its underlying causes, there are 3 important factors to consider: bacteria, sebum, and terrain. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:
• Bacteria: Bacteria, specifically Propionibacterium acnes, is linked to the skin condition acne. In people with acne, this bacteria generates byproducts that weaken the cell walls of follicles and cause inflammation.
• Sebum: Sebum is the oily and waxy product of sebaceous glands, which are primarily located on the scalp and face. Sebum helps lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair. P. acnes proliferates in sebum, altering the skin and forming plugs, called comedones. The sebum produced in people with acne is of poor quality, and P. acnes bacteria living off this poor quality sebum generate further acne-inducing byproducts.
• Terrain: Terrain refers to the skin itself, specifically the health of the skin and the factors that influence the development of skin diseases. Improper diet (more on this later) can start a cascade of events that narrow the sebum canal and pores leading to acne.

What Are Conventional Therapies?
The conventional medical treatment of acne attempts to inhibit sebum production, kill bacteria, reduce inflammation and boost skin cell turnover, notes the Mayo Clinic. Some of the most common conventional acne therapies include the following: over-the-counter topical treatments, prescription topical treatments, antibiotics, oral contraceptives (in women) and other prescription medications. Listed below are several of the most potent natural treatment methods. Natural approaches are designed to encourage healthy bacteria (in both the skin and colon), promote healthy sebum production and reduce inflammation.

Natural Method #1: Fasting
Fasting can be an extremely helpful natural approach to acne. A fast presents an opportunity to reduce dependence on addictive substances (sugar, caffeine, nicotine) and step away from foods that can aggravate or worsen acne, such as chocolate, cola, coffee, nuts, milk products and greasy or salty foods. Dairy products and carbohydrate-rich foods (bread, bagels, chips), notes the Mayo Clinic, may be particularly likely to trigger acne. Therapeutic fasting plays an important role in decreasing the burden of acne-inducing foods on your body and optimizing wellness, and it can be helpful for treating and preventing acne, especially when it is combined with a well-rounded treatment plan that targets acne’s fundamental cause. Fasting can also be an excellent way to identify food sensitivities.

Natural Method #2: Eliminating Refined Sugar From Your Diet
If you change only one aspect of your diet to help treat your acne, let it be the elimination of refined sugar. According to a 2007 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, a low glycemic-load diet improved acne lesions in young males.5 Another study, published in 2008 in the journal Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, states that diets with a high glycemic load may aggravate some of the factors (such as sex hormones and insulin growth factors) associated with acne development.6 A further study, still, published in 2009 in the International Journal of Dermatology, reports that the hormonal effects of certain dietary components, including glycemic index levels, can control the effect of diet on acne risk.

Botanical Medicines
Botanical medicines have long been used to help control or eliminate acne. Botanical medicines can have strong effects on the body and should always be used with caution (and only under the supervision of your chiropractor or other healthcare professional). Botanical medicines that have historically been used topically to help treat acne include tea tree oil, azelaic acid and Calendula succus. Botanical medicines that have historically been used internally to help treat acne include chastetree (for hormone imbalances), gugulipid, Oregon grape, usnea, and gumweed.

Considerations
Speak with your chiropractor before using any therapeutic approach to help treat your acne. Your chiropractor can instruct you on the safest and most effective way to use natural approaches to help resolve your acne, as well as suggest other treatment approaches that may be more appropriate for your specific health circumstances.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - Wellness Express NewsYM

Exercise of the Week: Pelvic Rotations - Cross Over

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Topic of the Week: The Role of Chiropractic in Treating Childhood Bedwetting

Childhood bedwetting, also known as nocturnal enuresis, is a relatively common phenomenon affecting approximately 5 million children in the United States alone, reports the Cleveland Clinic. The Clinic also notes that, of individuals over the age of 18, about 2 to 3 percent experience nocturnal enuresis. This health problem, which involves the accidental release of urine during sleep, occurs with greater regularity in boys and commonly occurs even after children have been toilet-trained. Bedwetting, though not a serious health condition, can cause significant stress, shame, or embarrassment for the child and concern among adults. In this edition of the Wellness Express newsletter, we will take a closer look at childhood bedwetting to determine what causes this problem and how natural approaches, including chiropractic care, can help resolve it.

Types & Causes of Bedwetting
The two principle types of bedwetting are primary and secondary nocturnal enuresis. Primary nocturnal enuresis, the most common form of bedwetting, is diagnosed when a child has reached the age where he or she should stay dry through the night but continues to wet the bed 2 nights per week on average, with no long periods of dryness.
Secondary nocturnal enuresis is diagnosed when a child (who has wet the bed in the past) begins wetting the bed again after a dry period of 6 months or longer. In many cases, secondary nocturnal enuresis is associated with other medical or psychological health concerns. According to the Mayo Clinic the true underlying cause of bedwetting is still a mystery but a number of factors may play a role, including small bladder size, inability to recognize a full bladder, a hormone imbalance, stress, urinary tract infection, sleep apnea, diabetes, chronic constipation and structural problems in the urinary tract or nervous system.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help
To those who are unfamiliar with chiropractic care, it might not be immediately apparent that chiropractors treat childhood bedwetting or that chiropractic adjustments and care may be helpful for non-spinal conditions. However, many young patients who suffer from bedwetting have been helped with chiropractic care. Some research studies (along with the clinical experience of many chiropractors) suggest that chiropractic care is indeed helpful for this health problem. According to a 2009 case series published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, chiropractic care was responsible for a 67 percent resolution rate of primary nocturnal enuresis in children and teenagers with this condition. Another study, published in the same journal, draws a similar conclusion: chiropractic treatment for primary nocturnal enuresis appeared to be an effective therapy in 46 children with this condition.
A case study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics states that lumbar spine manipulation was successful in resolving an 8-year-old boy’s primary nocturnal enuresis, and that the resolution of his condition happened in a way that was independent of time or placebo effect. Another case study, published in 2010 in the Chiropractic Journal of Australia, notes that chiropractic car (spinal and cranial adjustments, specifically) helped eliminate bedwetting, asthma, and allergy symptoms in a 4-year-old boy.

A Holistic Approach to Bedwetting
A holistic, or comprehensive, approach to bedwetting involves first ruling out any major medical causes. Your child’s environment, psychological well-being, toileting skills, medication and supplements are all factors that his or her chiropractor will take into consideration before developing a treatment plan to address the bedwetting. Other natural treatment and prevention approaches (besides chiropractic care), notes Dr. Ray Sahelian, a medical doctor and author, include restricting fluid intake before bed, using an alarm device that sounds when your child wets the bed and having your child assist with clean up in a non-punitive manner.

Considerations
Bedwetting can cause your child considerable embarrassment. This health problem may lead to fear avoidance behavior, such as skipping sleep-overs, camping trips and other group activities because they are concerned about the possibility of bedwetting in a vulnerable situation.
Your chiropractor can counsel you further on the merits of natural approaches to bedwetting for your child.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - Wellness Express NewsTM

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Exercise of the Week: Pelvic Rotations - Knees Together

Topic of the Week: 4 Reasons to Take a Break from Your Computer Screen

Let’s face it: many of us spend a lot of time in front of our computer screens - in some cases, probably too much time. It can be difficult to break away from the computer screen but there are a number of compelling reasons to carve out some screen-free time in your life every week. According to the Mayo Clinic, avoiding screens (television, computer, etc.) is an important health habit, particularly for children, as too much screen time has been linked to the following problems: obesity, irregular sleep, behavioral issues and impaired academic performance.
In this edition of the Wellness Express, we will take a closer look at how reducing your computer screen time can benefit your health. Your chiropractor can expand upon these health benefits to give you a more comprehensive picture of the merits of this important health habit.

Reason #1: It Can Save
Your Spine & Joints Reducing your screen time can have a hugely beneficial effect on your spine and joints. Sitting for prolonged periods in front of a computer screen can (in the absence of perfect posture) place a significant amount of strain on your spine and its supporting structures. The Spine Health website states that the leading contributor to neck pain is forward head and shoulder posture - a posture that computer users commonly adopt when working at a computer for hours on end. Sitting in front of a computer can also place a tremendous amount of stress and strain on your mid and lower back joints and tissues and may lead to chronic back pain. Spending more time away from your computer screen can reduce the burden on your spine and improve the health of your spinal joints.

Reason #2: It Can Ease the Burden on Your Eyes
Staring at a computer screen for hours at a time places a large burden on your eyes and may lead to a problem called Computer Vision Syndrome, or CVS. According to the American Optometric Association, CVS may cause eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes, and it is most commonly caused by poor lighting, computer screen glare, improper viewing distances, poor posture, uncorrected vision problems or any combination of these factors. A review article published in 2005 in the journal Survey of Ophthalmology states that proper lighting, anti-glare filters, ergonomic positioning of your computer monitor, and frequent breaks from your computer screen may help boost your visual comfort, or ease the burden on your eyes.

Reason #3: It Can Help You Keep Your Weight in Check
Limiting screen time can be an effective anti-obesity tool. Devoting some or all of the time to physical activity that you would have otherwise used to compute can have a profoundly beneficial effect on your weight. The Harvard School of Public Health notes that sedentary activities, including using computers, burn very few calories, replace more active pursuits and promote obesity by changing what and how people eat. It is this unfavorable alteration in diet that may be most significant for weight gain, even more so than the reduction in physical activity, states the School.

Reason #4: It Can Help You Recharge Your Batteries
One of the most important (and least discussed) reasons to step away from your computer screen from time to time is the restorative effect this action can have on your energy levels and sense of well-being. It is easy to fall into a pattern of checking email dozens of times every day, communicating with your friends or contacts via Facebook and Twitter in near real-time and watching movies or playing games in your free time. But this may not be the most beneficial habit, both in terms of time management or its effects on your physical, mental and social health.
Excessive screen time can be isolating, in some cases, drawing you away from activities or events where real human contact (not to mention natural light!) could enrich your life and improve your health.

Conclusion
Computers are an extremely important tool that have reshaped how we live and operate in the world. Computers allow us to enjoy many benefits that were previously unavailable in the pre computer era and have become nearly indispensable to our way of life. However, like many things in life, moderation may be the key. Here is one simple exercise you may consider trying: pick one day every week and go screen-free for a full 24 hours. After a few weeks of doing this, you may notice a boost in your energy levels and quality of life. Ask your chiropractor for other ideas about how to step away from your computer screen for improved health and well-being.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - Wellness Express NewsTM

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Topic of the Week: Chiropractic Approach to Rib Cage Injuries

Rib cage injuries - any injury that affects your ribs or their supporting tissues - are notoriously painful and difficult to treat using conventional methods. Each breath can be painful with a rib cage injury, which can make this health problem a major source of discomfort for the injured individual. Because the ribs attach to the spine, rib injuries have been a special area of interest for chiropractors since the early days of the profession. Your chiropractor is knowledgeable about the underlying causes of rib cage injuries and is trained to address these health problems using natural, noninvasive and effective treatment approaches. In this edition of the Wellness Express, we delve deeper into rib cage injuries and how chiropractic care can successfully address these problems.
What is the Rib Cage?
The rib cage is an arrangement of bones in the upper body that surrounds the thoracic cavity and is made up of 24 ribs, 12 thoracic vertebrae, the sternum (breast plate) and xiphoid process (the small, palpable bone directly below the sternum). Cartilage, fascia, ligament, and muscle are other tissues that help form the rib cage and allow it to perform its main functions: protecting the heart and lungs from trauma, assisting respiration, and providing an attachment point for numerous muscles.

According to a 2006 study published in the journal Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology, subtle differences exist in the rib cages of men and women, most notably that rib cage volume is about 10 percent smaller in females than in males who are the same height, and that in females the ribs grow longer in relation to the spine and sternum than in males.
Most Common Rib Cage Injuries
Certain rib cage injuries occur with greater frequency than others. The following is a list of three of the most common rib cage injuries:

• Intercostal Muscle Strain: Strains or microtears of the intercostal muscles - groups of muscles that run between the ribs - are one of the most common rib cage injuries or problems. Any activity that involves aggressive torso twisting or arm swinging (e.g., golf and tennis) may cause intercostal muscles strains.2

• Rib Fracture: One of the most common rib cage injuries, rib fractures occur when force exerted on a rib bone overwhelms the rib’s ability to withstand it. According to the Mayo Clinic, the leading cause of rib fractures is chest trauma, which may occur during a fall, motor vehicle accident, or contact sports injury.

• Costovertebral Subluxation: Irritation and discomfort can occur at the point where a rib attaches to the thoracic spine, at a location known as the costovertebral joint. Dysfunction at this joint, notes the Spine Health website, may cause upper back pain. Chiropractors are trained to look for costovertebral joint problems first when assessing possible causes of rib cage and upper back pain.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Conventional medical treat of rib cage problems typically involves rest, prescription strength painkilling medication, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, icepacks, and activity avoidance. This treatment approach may be used for anything from rib fractures to bruised ribs. Chiropractic care takes a different approach however, using natural, conservative methods to speed recovery time and reduce pain The following is a list of possible treatment approaches your chiropractor may use to help heal your rib problem:

• Chiropractic Adjustments: Costovertebral joint adjustments involving the hands or a tool to help restore normal joint movement and reduce discomfort in the affected joint(s).

• Cold Laser (Low-Level Light Therapy): A painless treatment modality that works at the cellular level to help heal injured tissues and relieve pain or discomfort.

• Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization: A manual medicine technique that uses specialized tools to help reduce scar tissue and promote healing of damaged tissues.

• Taping Procedures: The use of elasticized tape to help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation in and around the injured area.

• Trigger Point Therapy: A type of soft tissue therapy that helps eliminate tight and painful nodules within a muscle.

• Stretching Exercises: Key rehabilitative exercises that help restore normal tissue tone in the muscles that act on or support the rib cage.

• Hot/Cold Therapy: The use of hot or cold compresses (used in isolation or sequentially) to encourage the healing of injured rib tissues.

Note: The type of treatment your chiropractor uses to treat your rib problem will depend on the nature of your problem and what therapies you will best tolerate, based on your pain levels.

Considerations
In some (rarer) cases rib pain may indicate a more serious underlying health problem that should be evaluated by a healthcare professional promptly to help prevent a worsening of your health. Talk with your chiropractor as soon as possible if you develop rib cage pain or discomfort.

Disclaimer: Information contained in Wellness Express NewsTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - Wellness Express NewsTM

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Exercise of the Week: Seated Upper Back Extensions

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Exersie of the Week: Seated Twist

Topic of the Week: Noise Pollution: How it Can Affect Your Health

Noise pollution is any environmental noise - from vehicles, machinery or other noise producers - that is irritating, distracting or physically injurious. It is widely known that listening to high decibel sounds over a prolonged period can cause hearing impairment but the effects of noise pollution on human health are significantly greater than hearing issues alone.

The possible underlying causes of these wide-ranging health problems, notes a 2005 article published in the journal Environmental health Perspectives, include booming population growth, loss of rural land to urban sprawl, inadequate anti-noise regulations, the electronic nature of our lives, busier airports and an increasing number of vehicles on the road.

Talking with your chiropractor is one of the best ways to better understand how noise pollution affects your health. Your chiropractor can counsel you on how best to avoid the negative health affects of noise pollution, including simple strategies you can employ in your daily life, both at work and at home.

Increased Stress Levels
Community noise exposure – from industry, transportation and neighbors - may cause increased stress levels in people of all ages. According to a 2001 study published in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, children may be particularly susceptible to increased stress levels from noise pollution. In this study, researchers discovered that children living in noisier areas experienced higher levels of overnight urinary cortisol (a stress marker), showed elevated heart rate reactivity to a stressor and rated themselves higher in perceived stress symptoms than children who lived in quieter areas.

Another study, published in 2001 in the International Journal of Epidemiology, notes that chronic aircraft noise exposure is associated with greater levels of annoyance and perceived stress in children, along with poorer reading comprehension and ability to maintain focus or attention.

For adults, excessive workplace noise is a major influencer of stress levels and other health considerations. According to a study published in the Journal of Occupational & Environmental Medicine, industrial workers who are exposed to chronic noise experience higher cortisol levels at the end of the workday and higher levels of accumulated fatigue and post-work irritability compared to industrial workers who are not exposed to chronic and excessive noise.

Cardiovascular Problems
The two major cardiovascular problems that appear to be associated with chronic noise exposure are hypertension (i.e., high blood pressure) and ischemic heart disease (i.e., reduced blood supply to the heart). One study, published in 2009 in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicine, found an association between residential road traffic noise and hypertension in men. Another study, published in 2007 in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, states that exposure to road traffic noise may be linked to high blood pressure in individuals between the ages of 45 and 55, and that associations appear to be stronger with higher noise levels.

Noise, especially traffic noise, is a major psychosocial stressor and some research studies indicate that chronic noise-related stress is a risk factor for ischemic heart disease. According to a study published in 2003 in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicine, annoyance and disturbance caused by road traffic noise is associated with a greater incidence of ischemic heart disease.

Sleep Disruption
Sleep disruption is a major problem associated with noise pollution. A 2007 review article published in the Southern Medical Journal reports that the potential health effects of noise pollution are “numerous, pervasive, persistent and medically and socially significant,” Noise may interfere with sleep, concentration, communication, and recreation. Another study, published in 2004 in the journal Noise & Health, states that noise from airplanes or vehicles experienced during sleep may be perceived by your brain as danger signals and cause the release of stress hormones.

Conclusion
Noise pollution is a growing problem that continues to be overlooked by mainstream health care. Contemporary society ignores the negative health effects of noise pollution in much the same way that the use of tobacco products was ignored in the 1950s. Chiropractic care is a complementary alternative approach to health care that considers all possible contributors to poor health. Ask your chiropractor about strategies you can use to protect yourself from noise pollution and its many negative health effects.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - The Wellness ExpressTM

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Exercise of the Week: Seated Upper Back Extension

Topic of the Week: Chiropractic: A Non-surgical Approach to Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal curving of the spine, such that the spine resembles either the letter “C” or “S” when viewed from behind. Most people have a completely straight spine from side to side with natural curves in the neck and lower back but individuals with scoliosis have excessive spinal curvature and in unusual directions. Chiropractic care can be helpful in treating this condition and keeping any symptoms or discomfort at bay.


According to a 2001 article published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, most chiropractors use similar methods to treat scoliosis, including specific functional exercises and joint manipulation, as well as similar treatment frequency and duration. Your chiropractor is a musculoskeletal health expert who understands how to treat scoliosis using natural, non-surgical means.

What is Scoliosis?
As mentioned above, scoliosis is a sideways curving of the spine and it occurs most commonly in girls during the growth spurt immediately before puberty. The Scoliosis Association states that about 10 percent of all teens have some degree of scoliosis. Though scoliosis is found in both boys and girls; the condition is more likely to progress in girls. Scoliosis can be classified as either idiopathic (i.e., arising spontaneously from an unknown cause) or congenital (i.e., existing from birth). The majority of scoliosis cases – greater than 80 percent, according to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) - are idiopathic. In some cases, contributing factors to scoliosis may include postural problems, muscles spasms and leg-length discrepancies. Not everybody who has scoliosis experiences pain or discomfort but scoliosis can cause pain, reduce lung and heart function and lower quality of life (due to a limiting of activity). The ACA notes that about 4 out of 5 people with scoliosis have curves less than 20 degrees - a situation in which scoliosis tends not to progress or cause serious problems.

Who Develops Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a common health problem, affecting about 2 to 3 percent of people in the United States, notes the National Scoliosis Foundation. Scoliosis can occur at any age, but it most commonly develops in boys and girls - mostly girls - between the ages of 10 and 15. Scoliosis can be inherited, and it is common for adolescents whose parents and siblings are affected to develop scoliosis as well. Adults may also develop abnormal spinal curves, though it is less common than in adolescents. According to the Scoliosis Research Society, possible factors leading to scoliosis in adults include wear and tear changes in the spine, deformities that appear later in life, osteoporosis, old fractures, slipped vertebrae and infections.

The Chiropractic Perspective
Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach to the management of scoliosis. Many chiropractors use specific joints adjustments, soft tissue work and functional exercises to help relieve scoliosis-related symptoms and prevent a progression of the condition. New research indicates that a well-rounded chiropractic treatment approach may have lasting health benefits for individuals with scoliosis. According to a 2011 study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 28 scoliosis patients receiving chiropractic rehabilitation treatment approach may have lasting health benefits for individuals with scoliosis. According to a 2011 study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 28 scoliosis patients receiving chiropractic rehabilitation treatment experienced reductions in pain and disability (as well as beneficial changes in spinal curves) up to 24 months after treatment.

Chiropractors try to identify early changes in spinal curvature to help halt potential progression and symptoms in susceptible individuals. Early intervention is extremely important in chiropractic scoliosis treatment. In mainstream health care, scoliosis is often left unaddressed until significant cosmetic and structural changes have occurred, which makes it difficult to control the condition without aggressive and invasive treatments (such as bracing or surgery).

Some of the most common approaches used by chiropractors to help treat or prevent a worsening of scoliosis include gentle, focused spinal adjustments, physical therapy modalities (such as electrical muscle stimulation), specific home stretching and strengthening exercises, exercises to improve posture, breathing exercises and foot care (to ensure a stable base of support for the spine).

Conclusion
Your chiropractor understands the intricacies of scoliosis and how best to care for your spine. If you are concerned about scoliosis, or if other family members have been diagnosed with this health problem, consider visiting your chiropractor for a full and thorough spinal examination. Your chiropractor can give you the care you need and the exercises that will keep your scoliosis from progressing.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - The Wellness ExpressTM

Exercise of the Week: Seated Glut Stretch

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Exercise of the Week: Pelvic Rotations - Leg Straight

 



Topic of the Week: The Top 5 Daily Habits for Lifelong Health

The habits you perform each day have a cumulative effect on your immediate and long-term health. The choices you make (e.g., the type of food you eat, how often you participate in exercise, etc.) play a significant role in determining your health status and quality of life, especially in your later years. Developing constructive health habits as early as possible may help you avoid chronic disease, maximize your longevity and enable you to live independently well into old age. This edition, we takes a look at 5 key habits you can cultivate each day to realize excellent lifelong health. To be sure, this is just an abbreviated list of beneficial health habits – a list designed to be a starting point that you can build upon over time. Your chiropractor is one of the strongest advocates for your health and he or she can make other helpful suggestions about simple, yet important things you can do each day to ensure optimal well-being.


Eat a Whole Foods Diet
The food you put into your body (or don’t put into your body) is one of the most important daily health decisions you make. It is true that there are an overwhelming number of dietary ideologies but if you are not sure what to do - if you are not sure what dietary strategies are most appropriate for you and your health goals - talk with your chiropractor. Your chiropractor has the nutrition background to make relevant and helpful dietary recommendations. In the meantime, consider eating whole foods (i.e., food that is not packaged, processed, polished or refined) as often as possible.
Whole foods contain fiber, antioxidants and many other phytochemicals that can improve your health. According to a 2000 study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, a diet abundant in whole and unrefined foods may help protect you from chronic disease, improve your cholesterol profile and enable optimal colon function. Examples of nutrient-dense whole foods include dark green-, yellow-, and orange-fleshed fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains.

Move Your Body & Joints
Some amount of physical activity every day is extremely important in keeping you healthy and pain-free. It is important to understand that you do not have to run a marathon to get the many health benefits exercise offers; any exercise that gets your heart pumping and your muscles working can yield important health gains, including improved cardiovascular fitness, improved weight control and enhanced mood and energy levels. Introducing variety into your daily exercise routine is also important for strengthening your heart, toning your muscles and preserving your joints’ range of motion. Consider mixing in some strength training, endurance training and movement-based activities (e.g., yoga, tai chi, Pilates, gyrotonics, etc.) to experience the full array of health benefits possible through physical activity. Your chiropractor can counsel you on the finer details of an exercise plan that will be both sustainable and enjoyable for you.

Drink a Sufficient Amount of Good Water
Drinking plenty of good water is an important health action you can take every day to achieve and maintain optimal health. Every system in your body relies on water. Water helps flush toxins from your organs, transports nutrients to your cells, and keeps sensitive environments (e.g., ear, nose, throat) moist. Without sufficient water, you may become dehydrated – a condition in which your body struggles to perform normal functions, and which causes fatigue.

So, just how much water should you drink each day? The answer depends on climatic conditions, activity level and gender, but hard numbers for total daily water intake do exist for average, healthy adults living in temperate climates. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 3 liters (about 13 cups) of water for men and 2.2 liters (about 9 cups) of water for women is an adequate daily intake to prevent the harmful effects of dehydration.3

Remember to Breathe!
It is important to take time out of your day - even just a few minutes each day - to focus on your breathing. Breathing awareness (also known as full conscious breathing) is a potent stress neutralizer and an effective restorative health technique. A study published in the Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing states that relaxed breathing is a basic technique to control or manage stress. Slow diaphragmatic breathing, breath meditation, nasal breathing and yogic abdominal breathing are all unique breathing techniques that can help keep your stress levels in check.

Build Your Community
Building and maintaining healthy, positive relationships with family and friends is an important habit you can work on almost every day. Strong and consistent social bonds may help you live longer by encouraging good health behaviors, improving your cognition and providing you with a sense of place or belonging in the world - a fundamental human need.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - The Wellness ExpressTM

Food Combining for Good Health

Most people are aware of the worldwide epidemics of diabetes and obesity. The World Health Organization definition of overweight is a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 25. Obesity is defined as a BMI equal to or greater than 30.1 Worldwide obesity has doubled since 1980. In 2008, 35% of adults aged 20 and older throughout the world were overweight and an additional 11% were obese. Further, more than 347 million people worldwide have diabetes.2 In other worlds, one out of every 20 persons has diabetes.


What's going on? Why be concerned? These conditions do not exist by themselves. Both contribute to additional severe health issues. Obesity is the leading cause of pediatric high blood pressure and increases the risk of coronary heart disease. Uncontrolled diabetes, over time, can lead to kidney disease, heart disease, disorders of the nerve system, and blindness.

In the face of these life-threatening epidemics it's important to look for any good news. The good news is that both obesity and diabetes can be addressed with lifestyle-related changes. A suboptimal diet and lack of exercise are causes of both conditions. This is well-known. It is also well-known that maintaining a healthy diet and getting regular exercise prevents obesity and prevents or delays the most common type diabetes (type 2 diabetes).

A healthy diet consists of regularly consuming food from all major food groups and consistently eating only that amount of food necessary for your daily energy requirements. If you're interested in losing weight and then maintaining the best weight for your body, a daily calorie intake between 1800 and 2100 calories is good for most men, and a daily calorie intake between 1700 and 1800 calories is good for most women.3 There is a third component of healthy eating that regulates how your body uses the food you eat. This additional component is known as food combining.

Food combining involves combining protein and complex carbohydrates at each meal. This important step is the key to a healthy, optimally functioning metabolism. When your metabolic processes are working efficiently, you’re burning carbohydrates for energy. Your blood insulin levels are steady throughout the day. In contrast, without food combining, your digestive processes send unregulated amounts of glucose into the blood stream every time you eat a meal. The result is frequent swings in insulin levels and storage of these glucose molecules (broken-down carbohydrates) as fat. Long-term, over months and years, such eating patterns can lead to being overweight, obesity, and diabetes.

Putting the dietary principle of food combining into practice is easy. All that's required is paying attention to meal planning. The result of this simple series of steps is better health for you and your family, now and in the future.

1WHO Fact Sheet No. 311 (March 2013): http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs311/en/

2Danaei G, et al: National, regional, and global trends in fasting plasma glucose and diabetes prevalence since 1980. Systematic analysis of health examination surveys and epidemiological studies with 370 country-years and 2.7 million participants. Lancet 378(9785):31–40. 2011

3Campbell KL, et al: J Clin Oncol Reduced-Calorie Dietary Weight Loss, Exercise, and Sex Hormones in Postmenopausal Women: Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Oncol 30(19):2314-2326, 2012







Chiropractic Care and a Healthy Diet

Consuming a healthy diet on a regular basis is an important lifestyle choice. Such a diet, in combination with regular vigorous exercise and a sufficient amount of rest, will help you and your family achieve good health in the short-term and in the years to come. Chiropractic care is an additional lifestyle choice that helps you and your loved ones get the most benefit out of all your other healthful activities.
By helping ensure that your body's master system, your nerve system, is functioning at its best, regular chiropractic care helps your digestive system, cardiovascular system, and musculoskeletal system do their jobs properly. As a result, the food you eat is put to the best possible use, the exercise you do builds stronger muscles and bones, and the rest you're getting provides maximum relaxation. Regular chiropractic care makes all the difference in achieving your goals of long-term, vibrant good health.

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Exercise of the Week: Pelvic Rotations - Cross Overs

Topic of the Week: Cranial Bones & Chiropractic Care: A Connected Approach

Your skull is a bony structure composed of two distinct parts: your cranium and your mandible (i.e., your jaw). Your cranium is made up of eight separate bones that lock together like puzzle pieces to create a protective shell for your brain. The proper alignment of your cranial bones may be important for optimal health. Even very small changes in cranial bone alignment or function may cause significant health problems, such as vertigo, notes a 2009 study published in the journal Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine.

Your chiropractor is trained to care for the health of all your joints, including the joints that connect your cranial bones. Numerous techniques have been developed by chiropractors around the world to help treat cranial joint dysfunction. Your chiropractor can counsel you on how he or she will approach your cranial bone problem and what you can expect from this (often extremely gentle) kind of care.

Cranial Bone Anatomy & Function
A common misconception about the cranium is that it is one solid structure.
In fact, your cranium is composed of eight separate bones, including the following: one frontal bone, two parietal bones, two temporal bones, one occipital bone, one sphenoid bone and one ethmoid bone. The joints that connect your cranial bones are known as “suture” joints - a type of fibrous joint found only in your cranium.

Your chiropractor, using various techniques, may be able to feel a small but perceptible degree of movement in the joints that connect your cranial bones. A 2002 study published in the Journal of Craniomandibular Practice states that cranial bone movement can indeed be measured and documented on x-ray. This is an important finding that helps validate the work chiropractors have done in treating cranial joint problems throughout the years.

Your cranial bones have several important functions, including protecting your brain from traumatic injury, protecting your organs of sight, hearing and balance, and providing a base for various muscles to attach to. Some practitioners also believe that your cranial bones play an important role in the rhythm and movement of your cerebrospinal fluid - a clear, colorless fluid that helps protect your brain from injury, among other functions.

What Can Cause Cranial Bone Problems?
Cranial bone problems may arise for a variety of reasons. Trauma associated with falls, workplace accidents and sports are a common cause. According to a 2010 study published in the journal Craniomaxillofacial Trauma & Reconstruction, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of at least one type of cranial bone - temporal bone - trauma.
Some practitioners believe that cranial bone problems, including cranial join restrictions and misaligned skull bones, may be caused by bumps experienced during childhood or even as a result of a difficult birth involving forceps, suction or vacuum extractors.

Chiropractic Care for Cranial Bones
Chiropractors have long devoted significant attention to the proper movement and function of cranial bones and joints. Chiropractic care for cranial bones usually involves subtle and gentle adjustive and mobilization techniques to help remove any restrictions between these bones and restore proper joint alignment. The beneficial health effects of cranial work - as it is most commonly performed by chiropractor - appear to be many and varied. According to a 2007 study published in Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, a specific type of cranial work may be a helpful adjunct therapy in the care of adults with asthma. Another study, published in 2009 in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, reports that gentle cranial work may be helpful in treating lower urinary tract symptoms and boosting quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients. Still another study, published in 2011 in the journal Clinical Rehabilitation, found that gentle cranial work helped significantly reduce pain in patients with fibromyalgia.

Considerations
Every chiropractor has a unique approach to treating cranial joint dysfunction. Your chiropractor can explain in greater detail how he or she can help restore optimal function in your cranial joints. Ask your chiropractor about the beneficial health effects of cranial adjustments and mobilization to learn more.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - The Wellness ExpressTM

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Exercise of the Week: Pelvic Potations - Knees Together

Topic of the Week: The Surprising Health Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

Fasting - abstinence from all or certain kinds of food or drink for a set period - has been prescribed by natural health practitioners, including many chiropractors, for decades. New research is providing valuable information about this traditional health practice, showing us the many (often surprising) ways fasting can benefit our health and well-being. Intermittent fasting is a special type of fasting that involves alternating between periods of fasting and non-fasting (water consumption is allowed and encouraged during the fasting period; tea and coffee may also be allowed in some cases).

The schedule for intermittent fasting can range from every other day (also known as alternate day fasting) to once every other week (for a 16- to 24-hour period) and depends on your specific health goals. You should always consult your chiropractor before starting a fast. Your chiropractor possesses advanced nutrition knowledge and can counsel you on all aspects o fasting, including helping you determine whether you are a good candidate for this natural health approach.

Decreased Cardiovascular Risk
Your cardiovascular system (i.e., your heart and blood vessels) may significantly benefit from intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting (also known as reduced meal frequency) boosts cardiovascular function and helps minimize several risk factors for coronary artery disease and stroke, including high blood pressure, states a 2005 study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry. The authors of this study also note that the cellular effects of intermittent fasting and caloric restriction on the cardiovascular system (and the brain) are comparable to those of regular physical activity (i.e., exercise). Chronic heart failure is a leading cause of death in many countries around the world. According to a 2009 study published in the Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, long-term intermittent fasting and caloric restriction help accelerate the recovery in individuals with chronic heart failure. Persistent intermittent fasting, note the study authors, helps boost blood vessel density around damaged heart tissue and dramatically improves the long term survival rate following chronic heart failure.

Reduced Weight & Decreased Diabetes Risk
Intermittent fasting is a powerful health technique and eating strategy to help you lose weight and reduce your chances of chronic disease, including diabetes. A 2013 study published in the British Journal of Diabetes & Vascular Disease states that intermittent fasting encourages weight loss in obese individuals and that limiting calories in this specific way can reverse type 2 diabetes. The authors also state that intermittent fasting is a cost effective way to achieve these results and is associated with a low risk of side effects or adverse results. Another study, published in 2005 in the Journal of Applied Physiology, reports that intermittent fasting improves the action of insulin (i.e., how quickly glucose or sugar is removed from the bloodstream) in healthy men. Note: If you are a diabetic interested in intermittent fasting, you should always consult your physician before trying this treatment approach.

Improved Cognitive Function
Some studies indicate that intermittent fasting and caloric restriction help improve cognitive function awareness, reasoning, perception, and judgment. According to a 2009 study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, caloric restriction (i.e., a diet low in calories) contributes to enhanced memory performance in healthy elderly individuals. The authors of this study note that improved insulin sensitivity and decreased inflammation may be responsible for this result.

Improved Longevity
Intermittent fasting and caloric restriction are thought by some researchers to play an important role in longevity, or lifespan. A 2006 study published in the journal Ageing Research Reviews states that intermittent fasting and caloric restriction can lengthen the health-span of your nervous system by protecting your neurons (i.e., nerve cells) against genetic and environmental factors that would otherwise cause their death during aging. Other reasons that intermittent fasting may help you live longer include reduced inflammation throughout your body, decreased free radical damage, and increased human growth hormone (HGH) production- HGH plays a role in slowing the aging process.

Considerations
Fasting, including intermittent fasting, may not be appropriate for everyone. Ask your chiropractor if fasting is right for you and your specific health goals and concerns. Your chiropractor can answer any questions you might have about fasting, including the conditions under which this therapeutic activity can best be performed.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - The Wellness ExpressTM

Exercise of the Week: Pelvic Rotations

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Topic of the Week: Chronic Constipation: How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Constipation is a major cause of discomfort for millions of people. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that over 4 million people in the United States experience frequent constipation, resulting in about 2.5 million doctor visits each year.
Chronic constipation - having three or fewer bowel movements per week – is also common. A 2007 study published in the journal Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics reports that symptoms of chronic constipation are often severe and bothersome and that many patients are frustrated with conventional (i.e., medical) treatment options that are just not effective or long-lasting.
Chiropractic care has long been used by chronic constipation sufferers to help promote regularity and reduce discomfort. Your chiropractor has numerous strategies he or she can use to treat your chronic constipation, including spinal adjustments and dietary advice. This newsletter looks at the issue of chronic constipation in closer detail and explains how chiropractic care is an effective and conservative approach to this extremely common health problem.

What is Chronic Constipation & How is it Caused?
Constipation, including chronic or long-term constipation, is a symptom, not a disease. According to a 2009 study published in the British Medical Journal, chronic constipation is a common and debilitating condition involving consistent difficulty with defecation. Chronic constipation is most common in children, women (especially pregnant women) and adults over the age of 65. This health problem is also common after childbirth or surgery. Constipation occurs when your colon absorbs too much water or when its muscle contractions become sluggish. Both circumstances cause stool to pass through your colon more slowly than it should, causing your stool to become hard and dry and difficult to eliminate.
A poor diet - especially a diet lacking in fiber - is the most common cause of constipation. According to UCLA’s Center for Neurobiology of Stress, other possible causes of chronic constipation include structural problems in the colon, certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, etc.) and certain medications, including medications for blood pressure, pain and seizures. Travel, sedentary living and dehydration are additional factors that may cause constipation.

The Role of Chiropractic Adjustments in Treating Constipation
Chiropractic adjustments may play a significant role in relieving chronic constipation. A 2001 study published in the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association states that weekly chiropractic adjustments may help eliminate chronic constipation in addition to treating low back pain and improving general well-being.
Another study, published in 2007 in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, reports that manual medicine techniques (including sacral area adjustments and abdominal massage) may cause a dramatic improvement in bowel function in some cases of chronic constipation. Because constipation occurs frequently in the very young, many studies examining the role of chiropractic adjustments on constipation have focused on this group. According to a 2008 study published in the journal Clinical Chiropractic, a trial of full spine chiropractic care (involving high velocity low amplitude thrusts and activator technique) in constipated children produced improved bowel movement frequency and decreased straining, pain and rectal bleeding.

Chiropractic Dietary Approach
Your chiropractor understands the importance of a healthy diet in treating and preventing chronic constipation and can counsel you on beneficial dietary habits for this health purpose. Some general strategies your chiropractor may employ to help eliminate your chronic constipation include boosting your consumption of high-fiber foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables, beans, wholegrain breads), limiting your intake of low-fiber foods (e.g., ice cream, cheese, processed foods), drinking an appropriate volume of water and reducing your caffeine intake

Other Natural Approaches
Your chiropractor can share with you other natural approaches that may help with chronic constipation, including exercise, dietary supplements, warm baths, abdominal massage and other home remedies. Always speak with your chiropractor before using diet and other approaches to treat your chronic constipation. Chronic constipation may be a sign of a more serious underlying health problem that only your healthcare provider can diagnose.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - The Wellness ExpressTM

Chiropractic Care for Short-Term and Long-Term Health

Chiropractic care is the one form of health care that keeps on giving. Chiropractic care certainly helps people to recover from short-term health problems, but this powerful method of healing also helps people stay well and assists in preventing new problems from developing.


Your chiropractor treats a wide variety of musculoskeletal problems. Neck pain, back pain, pain that travels from the neck to the arm and hand, pain that travels from the back to the leg and foot, headaches, and muscle spasms are conditions commonly treated by chiropractic care. Your chiropractor also treats many types of exercise- and sports-related injuries, such as rotator cuff injuries, tennis elbow, wrist sprains, knee injuries, ankle sprains, and shin splints. Repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome are also treated by chiropractic care. Also, chiropractic care may be a valuable addition to treatment for sleep disorders, digestive problems, menstrual cramps, asthma, and various allergies. Chiropractic care may also be of great assistance during pregnancy, in helping to relieve neck pain and back pain and to ease the process of delivery.

Chiropractic care can be beneficial for so many health problems owing to the fact that chiropractic care directly affects the functioning of your nerve system. Your nerve system, consisting of your brain, spinal cord, and nerves that branch out to the rest of your body, is your master physiologic system. Your nerve system, by sending signals to every cell, tissue, and organ in your body, controls all the other systems. Your heart relies on the nerve system so that it can pump blood at the right time and in the right amount.1 Your small intestine relies on the nerve system so that it can complete the digestion of food and transmit usable nutrients to the bloodstream.2 Your white blood cells and other immune system agents rely on the nerve system so that they can quickly identify and destroy foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses.3

But your nerve system can break down, in a sense, if spinal nerve interference is present. Such nerve interference, caused by irritation and inflammation of spinal nerves, is caused by loss of full mobility of spinal vertebras. Limited spinal motion irritates the muscles that move the spinal bones and the ligaments that hold those bones together. Inflamed spinal muscles and spinal ligaments cause spinal nerve inflammation. The immediate result is distortion in the quality and flow of information sent from the brain to the rest of the body. Too much or too little information is sent to the cells, tissues, and organs. The messages they receive are the wrong messages, or the messages arrive at the wrong time. The outcome is decreased functioning and/or inappropriate functioning of many other physiologic systems. Thus, spinal nerve interference is one of the primary causes of the many problems that may bring a person to his or her chiropractor's office.

Chiropractic care helps reduce and remove nerve interference by restoring increased functioning of your spinal column. The direct result is improved overall functioning of the rest of your body. By directly focusing on your spine and nerve system, your chiropractor can help restore quality of life and overall health and well-being.

Chiropractic Care Is Comprehensive Care


Following a complete evaluation, which includes a history and physical examination, your chiropractor will design a care plan that will meet your specific health needs. Your care plan will include chiropractic care focusing on improving function of your spinal column. Your care plan will likely include additional recommendations, such as stretches, exercises, and nutritional planning. Your chiropractic care plan may, depending on the circumstances, include strategies for reducing stress and obtaining proper rest.

Your chiropractor is a holistic practitioner who has expertise in many areas of health care. Chiropractic care is well known for its ability to treat musculoskeletal problems such as neck pain, back pain, and headaches. As chiropractic care focuses on the nerve system, your chiropractor may be of benefit in the overall care plan for many other conditions.

1Muller MD, et al: Mental stress elicits sustained and reproducible increases in skin sympathetic nerve activity. Physiol Rep 2013 Mar 1(1). pii: e00002.


2Zhou G, et al: White-matter microstructural changes in functional dyspepsia: a diffusion tensor imaging study. Am J Gastroenterol 108(2):260-269, 2013

3Straub RH, et al: Role of neuroendocrine and neuroimmune mechanisms in chronic inflammatory rheumatic diseases-The 10-year update. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2013 May 31 doi: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2013.04.008 [Epub ahead of print]

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Exercise of the Week: Alternating Oblique Crunches

Topic of the Week: Tea Time: Tea Types and Their Health Benefits

After water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world and its health effects can be wide-ranging. Tea, which is prepared by pouring hot water over the cured leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, contains a class of natural chemicals called polyphenols. A 2002 study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition states that tea polyphenols may help disrupt the development of several chronic diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Improved weight control, reduced blood pressure and heightened mental alertness are other possible health benefits of tea. Talk with your chiropractor about what tea may be most appropriate in addressing your health concerns.

Green Tea
Green tea is made from the unoxidized leaves of Camellia sinensis and contains the greatest concentration of antioxidant polyphenols. This tea, which has been cultivated for centuries in India and China, is known for its broad flavor palette, which ranges from sweet and nutty to grassy and vegetal. Traditional uses of green tea, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, include improving heart health, regulating blood glucose levels, improving cognitive processes and healing wounds. A 2008 review article in the Journal of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine reports that green tea can help combat cancer, heart disease, and liver disease. This article also notes that green tea may help enhance exercise and weight loss and help treat diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, skin disorders, hair loss and iron overload.

Black Tea
Black tea is more oxidized than other tea types, including green, white and oolong teas, which helps give it a strong flavor. Because black tea retains its flavor longer than many other teas, it has historically been used as an article of trade and even as a type of currency in some regions at certain points in time. Black tea is the most commonly consumed tea in the United States, United Kingdom and Europe, notes the National Cancer Institute. Black tea has numerous health benefits, including the ability to reverse endothelial dysfunction (i.e., problems with the inner lining of a blood vessel) in people with coronary artery disease, according to a 2001 study published in the journal Circulation. Black tea may also be beneficial in preventing cancer. According to a 2006 study published in the journal Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry, black tea polyphenols help regulate cancer cell growth, survival, and spread.

White Tea
White tea is a lightly oxidized tea that originated in Fujian, China. Many varieties of white tea exist today and this tea is now cultivated throughout China and South Asia (including India and Sri Lanka). White tea is often best described as smooth, earthy, and very sweet. The light oxidation of this tea means that it is high in antioxidants. White tea has historically been used for promoting relaxation and general well-being. Other more specific health benefits associated with white tea include improved cardiovascular function, antibacterial and antiviral action. A 2009 study published in the journal Experimental Dermatology even states that the topical application of white tea extracts may offer protection against the detrimental effects of UV light, including oxidative damages to DNA.

Oolong Tea
Oolong, a traditional Chinese tea, is a semi-oxidized tea known for its sweet, milky flavor and floral aroma. Oolong teas possess a smoother flavor than some other teas and may be gentler on the stomach. Some of the most well known oolongs are grown and harvested in Fujian, China as well as the mountains of Taiwan. Oolong teas are used for a wide variety of health purposes, including the prevention of cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis and tooth decay. Oolong teas, which are believed to boost immunity, may also be helpful in treating obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis and certain skin conditions. According to a 2003 study published in the journal Diabetes Care, oolong tea may help lower plasma glucose levels in type 2 diabetics and may be an effective supplement to oral hypoglycemic agents in treating type 2 diabetes.

Disclaimer: Information contained in The Wellness ExpressTM newsletter is for educational and general purposes only and is designed to assist you in making informed decisions about your health. Any information contained herein is not intended to substitute advice from your physician or other healthcare professional. Copyright © - The Wellness ExpressTM

Taking Care of Older Joints (and Younger Joints, Too)

Chiropractic Care and Musculoskeletal Joint Flexibility

Chiropractic care is designed to, among other benefits, improve flexibility of spinal joints. Loss of spinal vertebral motion leads to spinal muscle tightness and pain, which in turn may result in numerous other physical problems. For example, headaches, lack of restful sleep, and increased irritability may all have a common cause in loss of spinal flexibility. By helping increase mobility in your neck, mid back, and lower back, chiropractic care improves your body's overall functioning, including balance and coordination. By helping remove ongoing sources of musculoskeletal irritation, chiropractic care reduces internal physiologic stress. The many benefits may include improved peace of mind, enhanced interpersonal communication, and a better ability to respond effectively to your home and work environment.

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Many people experience increasing musculoskeletal joint stiffness as they get older. Shoulders, knees, and ankles don't seem to be as flexible as they once were. It seems more difficult to bend over and pick up a dropped object. It may be uncomfortable to turn your head around to see the car in the next lane that's right in the center of your driver's blind spot. The bad news is that, left unattended, your joints do get stiffer as you get older. Left on their own, your joints will likely lose full mobility. The good news is there's plenty you can do about it. You can regain and retain much of your youthful flexibility if you are willing to be proactive.
First, some basic physiology. Joints such as the shoulder, knee, and ankle are lubricated by synovial fluid. Synovial fluid keeps joints moist, provides oxygen and nutrition, and washes away toxic end-products of normal metabolic processes. The joints in your spine are also lubricated and maintained in this way. But aging reduces the amount of available synovial fluid. Also, normal aging processes increase the viscosity of the remaining synovial fluid. You have less available lubricant and the lubricant that you do have is thicker. The result is stiffer joints, pretty much from top to bottom.
The specific countermeasure to such physiologic aging is to keep active. This is a pretty challenging prescription in a world in which most of our time is spent seated. Our bodies were designed for hard, physical work. But as we've transformed from an agrarian to an industrial society, and more recently from an industrial to a service-based society, the nature of our work has changed dramatically. The vast majority of our work is now done seated at a desk. When we're not typing on a computer keyboard or reading a spreadsheet, we're at home watching TV, playing games on our computing devices, or very rarely, reading. None of these activities involves active motion. If we want to take care of our bodies, we're going to have to be proactive about creating the time to do so.
We're going to be creating time for exercise. Almost any type of exercise causes synovial fluid to be more available, pumping synovial fluid into joint spaces and helping to lubricate joints.^1,2 Exercise increases your internal core temperature, which in turn decreases the viscosity of synovial fluid. The overall result is increased joint flexibility. This benefit is often experienced immediately. The benefit will be long-lasting provided that you continue to exercise regularly.
Thirty minutes of exercise per day, 5 days per week, will assist most of us in maintaining as much joint flexibility as possible. Alternating a cardiovascular exercise day with a strength training day is an optimal program.³ Yoga provides a total body workout which incorporates cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility. Ultimately, the types of exercise you do are less important than the long-term consistency. Regular, vigorous exercise, done over months and years, will provide great benefit, not only in terms of improved joint flexibility, but also in terms of overall health and well-being.

¹Seco J, et al: A long-term physical activity training program increases strength and flexibility, and improves balance in older adults. Rehabil Nurs 38(1):37-47, 2013
²Garber CE, et al: American College of Sports Medicine position stand. Quantity and quality of exercise for developing and maintaining cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, and neuromotor fitness in apparently healthy adults: guidance for prescribing exercise. Med Sci Sports Exerc 43(7):1334-1359, 2011
³Micheo W, et al: Basic principles regarding strength, flexibility, and stability exercises. PM R 4(11):805-811, 2012