Posts filed under ‘Chiropractic’
GrastonThe Graston Technique:
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is a soft tissue diagnostic and therapeutic method that has been used since 1993. Unique to the technique is the use of the “Graston Instruments”. These are stainless steel instruments of varying shapes and sizes. All the instruments have a beveled edge which is applied to the areas to be treated allowing detection and treatment of areas of scar tissue or adhesions in muscles, tendons and ligaments.
In the normal healing process our bodies repair injured soft tissues with the formation of scar tissue much the same as a scrape on the knee. Scar tissue is not as pliable or flexible as normal healthy tissues. Over time we can build up this fibrous scar tissue in areas that are over stretched or injured. This can lead to pain and improper function of those same areas. The Graston instruments glide along the surface of the skin and underlying soft tissues. When knots of soft tissue are encountered the instruments act like a stethoscope amplifying the texture of those areas. The same instruments can be used to loosen up these restrictions. Follow up care includes stretching exercises to promote proper realignment of the fibers of the treated area.
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Though not appropriate for every patient condition, I am finding the technique is very helpful for many of the common conditions we treat. Clinical trials have shown the effectiveness of the Graston Technique in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, Lateral epicondylitis ie. (tennis elbow), post-surgical low back pain, and plantar fascitis. If you have not experienced the Graston Technique and still have any lingering discomfort or stiffness, please ask us whether you may be helped by this effective treatment.
Spinal Decompression Therapy:
Non-Surgical Relief from Neck or Back Pain
When a disc is “decompressed” negative pressure is created within the disc which allows for the reintroduction of water, oxygen and nutrients into the disc. This heals the disc from the inside out. Decreased pressure within a damaged disc allows the disc to re-hydrate which restores the normal height to the disc and reduces nerve irritation associated with a damaged disc.
Spinal Decompression Therapy is a pain-free alternative to surgery that has shown a very high rate of success at reducing and even eliminating back and neck pain. If you suffer from chronic or acute low back or neck pain you owe it to yourself to call our office today to make an appointment to see if you’re a candidate for DTS Spinal Decompression Therapy.
Our office is dedicated to offering the latest in state of the art therapies for treating pain in the lower back and neck, sciatica, pinched nerves and bulging or degenerative disc diseases. We believe that the combination of yoga, chiropractic and massage care including DTS Spinal Decompression Therapy with other physiotherapies is the most advanced non surgical and pain-free alternative available today.
Pillow Talk
If you are not sleeping the quality of your daily life can be compromised greatly.
In the 25+ years of practicing as a massage therapist and chiropractor I’m frequently asked, “what kind of bed and or pillow should I get”. My standard answer to the type of bed is, the firmer the better. Though not true for everyone this general rule of thumb it is a safe bet for almost all. I don’t vouch for any specific brand but do think that it’s worthwhile to spend the extra money on a firmer mattress.
In regards to a pillow my answer has changed through the years. Through personal trial and error and the experience of many of my patients I’ve come to the conclusion that water pillows are the most versatile and best way to support your neck and head when sleeping. I’ve tried a variety of different style of pillows including the standard “chiropractic pillow” with built in neck support, kapok or feather filled pillows. None of these can match a water pillow for proper neck support.
I’ve never wanted to be a pillow or mattress salesman (though I’m sure those that are take satisfaction in their work) but, because so many patients describe waking up stiff and sore I decided to provide water pillow at my cost to whomever needs one. I think there are different brands but we have been providing “ChiroFlow” pillows to our patients for a some time now with great success. The biggest complaint we’ve had is that our patients spouse has stolen the pillow and they are back for a second one.
If you choose to shop for a pillow elsewhere here are a few tips that may help you find the right pillow to get the restful sleep you are seeking:
- 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.
- 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, call and make an appointment. We treat spinal problems that can interfere with a restful night’s sleep.
FIBROMYALGIA SYNDROME
What is FMS?
Fibromyalgia means pain in the fibrous tissues of the body ie. muscles, ligaments and tendons. FMS is a chronic widespread pain throughout these tissues. FMS patients often describe their condition as if they’ve have a flu that isn’t going away. It is more common in women, though men can develop it as well.
What Causes FMS?
At this time there are no known causes of FMS. Many sources have been considered including viral,traumatic, hormonal and nutritional deficiencies. None of these have turned out to be the underlying cause of FMS, though they may be associated with it.
How Is FMS Diagnosed?
Because there is no laboratory test or any diagnostic imaging that will definitively reveal FMS, the diagnosis is made after a thorough history and physical examination. To meet the diagnostic criteria patients have: A) Widespread pain in both sides of the body and above and below the waist for a minimum of 3 months. B) Severe pain to light pressure on at least 11 of 18 specific tender points. C) Several of the many commonly associated symptoms with FMS including, fatigue, recurring diarrhea or constipation, sleep disorder, chronic headaches &/or jaw pain, memory impairment, menstrual cramping, numbness or tingling in the fingers or toes, morning stiffness, skin or chemical sensitivities, marked sensitivity in the fingers & toes to cold, dizziness or lightheadedness.
Treatments for FMS
1. Chiropractic Adjustments:, may be helpful in managing FMS by reducing tension in the joints of the spine and relieving postural strain.
2. Therapeutic Massage: also helps to relieve symptoms of FMS by decreasing muscle tension and helping to manage stress.
3. Light Exercise: has been shown to help manage FMS symptoms and prevent worsening. Restorative Yoga poses are a wonderful way to personalize an exercise program to help stretch and strengthen.
4. Improving the Quality of Sleep: Because poor quality of sleep may contribute to the disorder, improving it may reduce the symptoms. Traditional medical treatments and medications are intended to help with this. Other solutions include good sleeping postures, avoiding eating or drinking before bed.
5. Other alternative therapies: Acupuncture, biofeedback, acupressure have all been shown to also help manage FMS symptoms.
