Currently viewing the category: "chiropractor"

McKenzie Exercises for Low Back Pain Relief

By On · Add Comment · In back extension exercises, chiropractic, chiropractor, herniated disk, inflammation, low back pain, McKenzie exercises

People suffering from low back pain, specifically from herniated disks, might find temporary relief by doing McKenzie back exercises. These low back extension exercises utilize a light pumping action at the low back to help squeeze disk bulges back into the intervertebral spaces.

McKenzie exercises, unfortunately, do not work for everybody–in fact, possibly only ~ 50% of herniated disk low back pain sufferers will respond to extension (some respond better to flexion) movements. The only way to know is…to try. So gently get down to the floor (please work on breaking inflammation with several ice bag applications beforehand, otherwise you might not get back up without help), and push your upper torso upward, while leaving your hips on the ground. Do in a pumping action as demonstrated in the video.

Go slowly. If it is going to work, you’ll feel the improvement rather quickly. You can try two sets of ten pumps, but if the pain gets worse after several pumps, discontinue the practice.

It is of utmost importance to call a chiropractor right away if you are suffering from severe low back pain (especially with numbness and/or tingling). But you can try these low back exercises to see if they provide any pain relief. Low back pain is no fun and it can linger–don’t suffer; call your local neighborhood chiropractic office today.

Stretches for Chronic Whiplash Neck Pain

By On · Add Comment · In auto accidents, cervical acceleration-deceleration (CAD), chiropractor, chronic neck pain, inflammation, rear-end collisions, scalene stretches, West Hollywood sports chiropractic office, whiplash

The most common chronic neck pain condition I see in my West Hollywood sports chiropractic office is related to untreated or incompletely treated whiplash injuries. In cervical acceleration-deceleration (CAD) automobile accidents, the most common being rear-end collisions (a common occurrence in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills), the head is translated (accelerated) in one direction, usually backward, and then snapped forward (decelerated) in the opposite direction. This can cause small micro-tears of the scalene muscles at the front of the neck, leading to inflammation, spasmodic guarding, and severe pain.

Far too many people fail to get their whiplash neck injuries treated properly following a motor vehicle accident. Either they don’t see a chiropractor at all, or the treating chiropractor (watch out for mills, people) neglects this important area, primarily the scalenes. It is not uncommon for me to see people with 10+ years chronic neck pain from the scar tissue and adhesions built up in this area.

Aside from effective chiropractic care to relieve the chronic neck pain caused by an auto accident, the scalene muscles need also be worked. But you can help your cause at home by doing the stretches outlined in the video below. The scalene muscles attach from the front of the cervical spine to the collar bone, so when tight, they can cause a forward head carriage, impingement on the nerves going into the arms (causing numbness and tingling), and neck pain.

Watch the video below for the best stretches for the scalene muscles to relieve pain from a whiplash neck injury.

Chiropractic for Migraines: A Good Bet

By On · Add Comment · In auras, chiropractic adjustment, chiropractor, Los Angeles chiropractic clinic, migraine headaches, migraine medication, MSG, subluxation, tension headaches, TMJ syndrome

Was recently asked to say a few words about migraines and what to do about them. First it’s important to understand what migraines are. Migraines are severe headaches that have an unknown etiology–in other words, we are not exactly sure what causes them.

The symptoms of migraines are moderate to severe pulsating headaches, usually on one side of the head, with associated nausea, and very often with an aura–transient visual, sensory, language, or motor disturbances signaling the migraine will soon occur. Many people have a sensitivity to light, such that they have to draw the shades and spend the day (or days) in a dark room lying in bed. Women tend to be effected more than men by a 3:1 ratio.

I see plenty of migraine sufferers in my Los Angeles chiropractic clinic.  However, more often people come in complaining of migraines when in fact they have tension headaches instead. Tension headaches are a little easier to treat, since they are most often due to musculoskeletal issues (subluxation, muscle tension, etc). I have to ask incoming “migraine” sufferers if they have been diagnosed by a medical doctor, and if they are on medication. If the answer is no, my experience is that many of these people are having severe tension headaches, which can certainly be bad.

Most migraine sufferers have been dealing with their severe headaches for quite some time, and they have visited other doctors. While not a hard, fast rule, it is what I most often observe. When I ask about medication, if they tell me that they’ve tried Excedrin, and that it helps, that’s a pretty good indication that we are dealing with migraines. If they say that regular pain meds, like Tylenol or Advil work, then it’s probably not a migraine. Again these are not definite rules, just observations.

For tension headache sufferers, chiropractic care is phenomenal–I would say the success rates is in the 90 percentile. If the headaches originate from TMJ syndrome, then this needs to be addressed. Either way, a chiropractor is a pretty good choice for treatment.

For true migraines, the results of chiropractic are about 50/50. That’s because sometimes migraine headaches are set off by certain foods–wines, cheeses, and other substances like MSG for example–or are vascular in nature. However, saying that, it is still a good idea to try chiropractic for migraine sufferers because it does, in fact, help some people.

I have a young man that sees me for chiropractic care who suffers from migraines a few times per year. He has auras, so he definitely knows when the migraine is coming. If he gets in early enough, the chiropractic helps cut the headaches off at the pass. If he does not, then he suffers for about three days, totally incapacitated–can’t work, can’t socialized, done.

We believe that by adjusting the spine, it allows blood vessels to open and flow freely. Further, chiropractic adjustments free the nervous system from functional interference and thus migraine sufferers get a return to normal function both vascularly and neurologically, thereby clearing up the headache.

So my advice to people suffering from migraines is to get into a chiropractor right away when symptoms first arise. If it turns out chiropractic alone doesn’t do it, you might want to get checked by a medical doctor and get some migraine medication, which I understand from some of my clients that take them, they work pretty well in conjunction with the chiropractic care.

Hope that helps, Double L. Thank you for the great question.

Women Over 50: Health Choices

By On · Add Comment · In breast reduction, calcium, chiropractic, chiropractor, cosmetic surgery, exercise, health, hormone replacement therapy, infections, vitamin D

Ladies: Are you over 50 and considering a boob-reduction?  Hope you’re healthy then, because a recent study shows that you’re at an increased risk for infection. That’s right. And on top of that, women over 50 also have a higher rate of wound-healing problems as compared to younger women, leading to a higher rate of repeat surgery to remove areas of dead skin (debridement). Something to think about if you’re considering a slash to the sag.

The study conducted at Johns Hopkins University looked at 1,192 women who had breast reduction surgery between 1999 and 2009 and found that the post-surgery infection rate for women over 50 was 2.7 times higher than for those under 40.
Researcher believe that the differences are due to age-related changes to hormone levels. Yes, of course! And the reason is that they found older women on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) were less likely to have post-surgery infections. Further, women who had undergone hysterectomy or removal of the ovaries, both of which result in large decreases in hormone levels, had higher rates of infection. Accordingly, the study’s authors conclude that doctors should investigate any factors that might effect hormone levels in women considering breast reduction surgery, and that hormone replacement therapy might be warranted in women with reduced hormone levels.
So why would I say “hope you’re healthy?” Because health isn’t simply which chemical or hormone we’re missing. When the body is in a state of wellness, it’s missing nothing. Why not instead encourage older women to do some things that might improve their health overall? Why not encourage younger women now to maintain their health to their best ability?
Spoke to a lovely lady this evening in my practice who told me that she does what she does cosmetically because it makes her feel better about herself, which in turn, motivates her to do other right things for herself (like exercise and eat well, etc). While I certainly understand where she’s coming from on an emotional level, I’d say it’s somewhat illogical reasoning: You alter yourself through surgery so that you feel better about yourself, and then you exercise and eat well?
Ladies, your body is yours to do what you deem appropriate. But I assure you that by doing the right things:

  • Exercising regularly
  • Drinking lots of water
  • Eating whole, natural foods
  • Supplementing with vitamin D and calcium
  • Visiting your chiropractor regularly
  • Getting regular body work
  • Being aware of your body (through gyno checkups and breast self-exams)
  • Minimizing alcohol and tobacco use
  • Practicing safe sex
  • Getting plenty of rest
…you should be healthy for years to come. And if you are in your fifties and pick up these habits now, your highly intelligent body will rebalance itself. If you don’t feel better about yourself then, it’s time for me to hang up my hands (sorry, I’m a chiropractor: it’s all I could think of…). At the very least, if you decide to get that breast reduction after all, then you’ll be in the best shape to handle the surgery.

iPad Neck is Real

By On · Add Comment · In Apple, chiropractor, chronic neck pain, iPad, iPad necking, massage therapist, neck flexion, tablet technology

I’ll bet Steve Jobs didn’t consider this one: Apple technology might just be the origin of a new pain syndrome–iPad neck.  I’m serious.  iPad neck is walking into my office, and for a little while it’s had me confounded.  But I see it all now.  iPad technology is perfectly positioned for creating stiff necks.

Think about iPad technology: Flat tablet computer that can be placed on a table or other flat surface (coffee tables, beds, even on bent legs while lying in bed).  But such a device laid horizontally flat forces the neck into a flexed position–that is, chin toward chest.  And used propped-up against the legs while lying in bed…well, that’s extreme flexion, and guaranteed over time to cause neck pain and stiffness.

Listen, there are three common activities that are killers, and guaranteed to cause chronic neck pain: watching T.V. in bed, long-term reading or studying (otherwise known as student-neck), and now iPad necking.  The prolonged neck flexion required by these activities will cause neck pain and stiffness.

When the neck remains flexed it causes a strain on the deep neck muscles, which have to remain contracted to counter the neck flexion.  I know it would seem as if the extensors (muscles along the spine on the back of the neck) relaxed during neck flexion, and they do, so why do iPad neckers feel pain in the back of the neck?  They do so because the deeper neck muscles contract to keep the head flexed, and these muscles refer pain to the back of the neck.

Okay, no problem…a chiropractor or massage therapist can work it out.  It would seem so…but what about when the pain remains after several treatments?  It means the client is unknowingly iPad necking every night.  So any bodywork practitioners reading this better ask your clients if they are working the iPad like they just spent $500 (which basically means ‘every waking moment’, so they can get their money’s worth).

Once iPad necking has been established, you’ll have to enter the rabid dog cage and tell that person they’ll have to give up iPad necking in bed at night and maybe even take a week’s break altogether to bring some much needed relief to the poor beaten up neck.  Please wear gloves and a beekeepers helmet, because taking an iPad from a user is like taking chocolate from a premenopausal junkie.  Expect shrieking.

Anyway, that’s my observation.  iPad neck is real.  I’m seeing more and more of it in my office everyday (read this L.A. Times article on iPad users using in bed).  And while the latest technology is certainly good for some things, tech designers aren’t often schooled in spinal biomechanics.  Maybe they should be.

Los Angeles Chiropractic: Wrist Stretches and Forearm Workouts

By On · Add Comment · In carpal tunnel syndrome, chiropractor, cubital tunnel syndrome, flexor retinaculum, Los Angeles sports chiropractic, median nerve compression, wrist exercises, wrist extensions, wrist stretches

Most people coming into my Los Angeles sports chiropractic office with numbness and tingling of the hands and fingers believe they have carpal tunnel syndrome.  Interestingly, many of them have been told that by a doctor.  The problem is that they are being told it’s carpal tunnel syndrome, even when it is not.

So let me help: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a paresthesia of the median nerve; as a result it is felt as numbness and tingling in the first three digits of the hand–the thumb, forefinger and middle finger (see picture on right).

Numbness and tingling in the last two digits (ring and pinky fingers) is NOT carpal tunnel syndrome.  I will trust that my clients who tell me their GP has diagnosed their 4th and 5th digital numbness as carpal tunnel syndrome just misunderstood what the doctor was saying, because I know the good doctor would not say that…right, doctors?  Right?

OK, numbness and tingling in the last two fingers is called cubital tunnel syndrome, and it involves the ulnar nerve.  If you are reading this and you currently have numbness/tingling in your hand(s) or fingers, please visit your local sports chiropractor’s office.  If you live in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills or West Hollywood, chiropractic is just a phone call away.

As a gift, watch the video below to learn one way to beat carpal or cubital tunnel syndromes.  And then call your sports chiropractor–no need to suffer.

Los Angeles Chiropractor: Home Stretches to Relieve Neck Pain

By On · Add Comment · In chiropractic adjustments, chiropractor, chronic neck pain, levator scapula, Los Angeles sports chiropractic, neck stretches, upper back pain, upper trapezius

Last month, I posted twice on how to relieve neck pain.  Whereas the first post dealt with the anatomy of neck and upper back pain, and the second with techniques I do in my Los Angeles sports chiropractic office, this post describes things you can do on your own, at home, to take a proactive role in correcting your chronic neck problems.

In the video below I demonstrate two outstanding neck stretches that focus on the upper trapezius and levator scapulae muscles.  Although these two have similar attachment points and functions, they require slightly different movements.  It is important to follow the steps laid out in the video–miss one, and you won’t get the proper stretch.  If you have trouble getting down the nuances of each stretch, just do the basic stretch I show first–believe me it’ll do wonders.

If you have chronic neck pain, it would be wise to visit a chiropractor.  With chiropractic adjustments, massage and neck stretches, your neck problems should clear up nicely.  If you are in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills or West Hollywood, come get your neck pain relief at my sports chiropractic office–you’ll be happy you did.

Los Angeles Chiropractor on Low Back Pain

By On · Add Comment · In Beverly Hills, chiropractic, chiropractic adjustment, chiropractor, Los Angeles, low back pain, West Hollywood
Low back pain is the most common ailment walking, er…limping into my Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and West Hollywood chiropractic office. Of all the spinal regions of the body, the lumbar spine, or low back is the most complicated when having to determine the source of pain.

Low back pain can be musculoskeletal, meaning from the joints, muscles or tendons (other tissues, too, but mainly these); or it can be from organic causes. Organic causes of low back pain include, but are not limited to cardiovascular disease, cancer, digestive disorders, kidney stones, and sexually transmitted diseases. Every one of these requires medical attention.

If your issue is caused by a musculoskeletal problem, then nobody better than a chiropractor to help relieve your low back pain. Chiropractors address more structures and tissues than any other bodywork specialist. We adjust the joints, work out muscle tension, strengthen weak muscles, lengthen short/tight muscles, and correct foot dysfunction. Furthermore, chiropractors are doctors, which means you’ll get an accurate diagnosis AND treatment that goes beyond a drug quick-fix (I’m not knocking it, just clarifying the difference in solutions) in the same office (no out-referral).

When it comes to assessing and treating low back pain, nobody does it better than a chiropractor. Watch the video below to see a chiropractic adjustment for low back pain in action. If you are having low back pain, especially if it’s been around for awhile, do not hesitate, go see a chiropractor for a real solution.

Pain Relief and Chiropractic Wellness in West Hollywood

By On · Add Comment · In chiropractic, chiropractic adjustment, chiropractor, cracking bones, health, Los Angeles, nervous system, pain, rehabilitation, subluxation, wellness

Some people have no idea of what goes on in a chiropractic practice. “Cracking bones” is what the typical non-chiropractic person says a chiropractor does. But there is no truth to that. Cracking bones is not something we do, neither intentionally nor unintentionally–bones are pretty strong; I haven’t met a chiropractor, yet, strong enough to do that.

In my Los Angeles chiropractic office we focus on pain relief, rehabilitation of injured areas like shoulders or knees, and then we place a major importance on using chiropractic care in a wellness sense. By freeing up stuck spinal joints (subluxations), the nervous system is allowed to function unimpeded, with no restrictions, which allows the body to operate at its most optimal level, and thus enhancing health.

Check out the video to get a better understanding of how I use chiropractic care to help people from Hollywood stars to athletes to accountants get the most out of their bodies, their health and their lives. If you are ever in the Beverly Hills or West Hollywood areas of Los Angeles, and you need a chiropractic adjustment, please come visit my office for highest quality chiropractic care available.

I Adjust My Girls

By On · Add Comment · In Beverly Hills, children, chiropractic adjustment, chiropractor, Los Angeles, nerves, subluxation, West Hollywood

Yup, I adjust my children. Children need chiropractic, too. Keeps them healthy and functioning properly. Subluxations cause nerve dysfunction and dysregulation, so adjusted children function at their highest capacity and potential.

Delilah fell down the stairs Wednesday–did her best Chevy Chase tumbling impression. Three year olds are pliable and rubbery, so she’s okay. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t recommend it, but…well, it happens. Thursday my wife brought her by the office for an adjustment. Check out the pics and you be the judge. Violet got her’s too!

If you’ve got kids, the best thing you can do is get them started on chiropractic care early. Just saw a beautiful 16-week-old boy, Conner, in my office today. He wasn’t all too pleased with my hands on him, but it’s important to get him used to it now. Once he begins doing his own stair stunts, he’ll be primed and ready for his after-tumble adjustments.

So visit your local chiropractic office today (if you are in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills or West Hollywood, I’m your chiropractor) and get yourself and your children adjusted. It’s great for you and incredible for them. Believe me–my family’s living it!

Are You A Part of the Disabled Generation?

By On · Add Comment · In arthritis, baby boomers, chiropractic, chiropractor, disability, musculoskeletal, pain, spine

Walking around in pain? Disabled? You’re not alone: Twenty percent of Americans have a disability, according to new reports out of the Centers of Disease Control (CDC). The CDC reports that the number of people with disabilities rose 7.7% over a six year period. From 1999-2005, the number of disabled Americans has reached 48 million. Pretty pathetic considering most of the top disabilities have a sound solution. Let’s take a look:

  • Arthritis was the leading cause of disability, affecting 8.6 million people
  • Back and spine problems were next at 7.6 million people
  • Heart related disabilities knocked down 3 million people
  • Women were more disabled than men
  • And the CDC predicts that the overall numbers will continue to rise as baby boomers age

What makes this scenario sad is that most of the disabilities hobbling our countrymen are treatable or preventable. Arthritis, low back pain, neck pain and other musculoskeletal pain conditions are all effectively treated by chiropractic care. But are doctors recommending it to their patients? Seeing that less than twenty percent of the population is taking advantage of chiropractic care, it’s not surprising that the numbers of disabled are so high.

Fortunately, the younger generations are turning to chiropractic to prevent future disabilities. I see it in my own practice. Baby boomers come, but not as much as Gen Xers and Millennials. I guess what grandma and grandpa tended to pass on, kids are embracing. Very smart youngsters, very smart. You don’t have to take on the family legacy and fulfill the CDC’s prediction of “more disabled” by 2030. On the contrary, if instead we do what the CDC recommends to stop the trend–that is, focus on “disability prevention” through safe, effective chiropractic care, then I’m certain these numbers will come down.

I think the younger generation gets it–Keep getting adjusted by your chiropractor for health, wellness, prevention and pain relief, and leave the baby “disability” boom behind.

Chiropractic Superstars

By On · Add Comment · In chiropractic, chiropractor, ESPN the Magazine, Jerry Rice, low back pain, NFL, Philadelphia Phillies Cole Hamels, San Francisco 49ers, The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP)
Two more sports superstars plugging chiropractic:

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher and World Series MVP, Cole Hamels, has been using chiropractic since 2005. He originally went to see a chiropractor for low back pain that had been plaguing him since high school. Hamels has also used chiropractic to relieve him of an elbow injury that disrupted his 2007 season.

Says Hamels, “I felt a difference right off the bat. A lot better than my physical therapy and the prescription drugs the doctors were giving me.” Hey, that’s a progressively-minded young man. Hamels also does yoga, spins (bike-riding), and has a supplement tray in the locker room filled with vitamins and fish oils. Nice.

Also speaking out for chiropractic is NFL legend and former San Francisco 49er, Jerry Rice. Rice was named the national spokesman for chiropractic by The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP); he has been featured in full-page advertisements in ESPN the Magazine with positive statements on how chiropractic helped him become one of the greatest receivers in the game. According to the F4CP, Rice’s ESPN ad is the beginning of a comprehensive public relations effort for the chiropractic profession.

Booyah! See the video below to hear Rice’s words on how chiropractic helped him. Rice also talks about chiropractic’s role in his success on Dancing With The Stars.

Thank you Cole Hamels and thank you Jerry Rice. As more and more athletes step up and tout the miraculous benefits of safe, effective chiropractic care, the more the general public will feel inclined to try it. And the better off we’ll all be.

LT–Find a Chiropractor!

By On · Add Comment · In chiropractic, chiropractor, Dallas Cowboys, Dancing with the Stars, Emmitt Smith, injuries, Ladanian Tomlinson, NFL, San Diego Chargers, sports, The Six Keys to Optimal Health

Just heard on ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown, the analysis show preceding Monday Night Football: NFL analyst and Former Dallas Cowboy running back (and Dancing with the Stars champ) Emmitt Smith giving current San Diego Charger LaDainian Tomlinson advice on how to bounce back from injuries and prolong his career, the wise Mr. Smith suggests trying chiropractic.Yes! You heard right. From one future Hall of Famer to another, chiropractic is the way to go to stay healthy, strong, and preserve one’s skills in a highly demanding and physically grueling sport.

Woowee! What a plug for chiropractic! Why am I so ecstatic? Because what we’ve mostly heard in the past about chiropractic from major media outlets has been less than gracious. But now a major sports star with mass appeal says on national television to go see a chiropractor, and I say bravo.

If you don’t know who Emmitt Smith is, suffice it to say that he is the NFL’s all-time leading rusher and three time Super Bowl winner. He’s a league MVP and a Super Bowl MVP. It doesn’t get much better than that. And Mr. Smith danced his way into the general public’s consciousness when, in 2006, he won the third season of Dancing with the Stars.

If you’ve read my book, The Six Keys To Optimal Health, then you know what Emmitt Smith has said about chiropractic, “After that season (where he was hobbled by a hamstring injury), I decided to invest in me, to keep me going.” He went on to say, “You can have a Ferrari body, but your wheels need balancing. I felt if I took care of my body, I could still function when I got older.” So Emmitt Smith chose chiropractic, and he’s encouraging LaDainian Tomlinson to do the same.

And I’m encouraging all of you to do the same too. If you want to live pain free, with proper biomechanical functioning, and optimal overall health, choose chiropractic–it works!

Fall Asleep

By On · Add Comment · In bodywork, chiropractor, elderly, exercise, falls, health, medications, meditation, sleep, women

You know how I feel about adequate sleep–I think it’s absolutely crucial. Not only does getting a proper amount do amazing things for your health, but not getting enough can be simply disastrous. Check out the latest findings from the California Pacific Research Institute in San Francisco: Women over 70 who get less than adequate sleep are more likely to fall; and falls cause fractures as well as some deaths.

According to the study, which followed 3,000 women over 7o for a number of years, women who slept no more than five hours per night were at the greatest risk of falling and seriously hurting themselves. They were, in fact, likely to have two or more falls a year. Women who slept between five and seven hours were the next most likely to fall, and they did 40% more than the best rested. The women who slept the most, over seven hours, had the least risk of falling.

Although the study looked at women solely, it is by no means a female phenomenon. Men are at the same types of risk when not rested, and in light of the numbers of older people falling every year, it’s something to think about. Many people have trouble sleeping that’s for sure. Every reason to take up regular exercise, meditation and get some regular bodywork in. Each one of these practices should help regulate the natural sleep cycle. And I also think very highly of melatonin supplementation. No, it’s not going to work immediately over night, but try it for a few weeks or months and I’ll bet it helps.

There’s nothing like a good night’s sleep, so if you aren’t getting yours it would be wise to make changes, no matter what your age. And if you are having sleep difficulties, speak to your doctor about any medications you are taking that might be contributing. Otherwise go to the gym, stay away from stimulants (coffee, cocaine) close to bedtime, meditate twice a day, and visit your local chiropractor–she might be able to help–and you should be catching proper z’s in no time. And when you finally do, you’ll find that your balance is as steady as a rock.

Mixed Martial Arts Champ Jake Shields Thanks Chiro

By On · Add Comment · In athletes, chiropractor, EliteXC, fighter, health, In Motion Chiropractic, Jake Shields, mixed martial arts, sports, welterweight
Minutes after winning the EliteXC welterweight championship Saturday night, mixed martial arts fighter Jake Shields thanked his chiropractor at In Motion Chiropractic. Booyah!!!

That’s right! When you want to function at your optimal best and reach the top of your game, look no farther than your neighborhood chiropractic office. Elite athletes like the spry Mr. Shields choose chiropractic as a way to maintain their health and gain an edge in their sports. This was evident in the rapid defeat of Nick “The Goat” Thompson within 1:03 of the start of the bout Saturday night. Shields used a modified guillotine choke to subdue the burly Thompson. It was a quick and decisive victory for Shields who is now 21-4-1.

Good job, Jake, but I wouldn’t expect anything less from a regular chiropractic client. You know that chiropractic is the quintessential body-care system for great health and functioning. You join the ranks of other elite athletes who have been using chiropractic to keep their million dollar bodies lean, mean and firing sharp machines. This list includes:

And now the tough-as-nails Jake Shields. Congratulations on the big win, Jake! And congratulations for using chiropractic–you know the power. Smart man.

An Abdominal Matter

By On · Add Comment · In abdominals, chiropractic, chiropractor, core, hip flexors, pain, sports

Here goes something interesting: I’ve been experiencing an unusual pain in my midsection for about a month now. It’s not the first time, either. I started experiencing the same thing several months ago, but it went away. So, naturally, being a chiropractic sports physician, I’m wondering what the heck is going on.

First, I thought it might be tight hip flexors since I do a lot of sitting when I write and my chair is not the greatest; that means, like everybody, I start to slouch as I get tired. So I see my chiropractor and have some hip flexor work done, but the pain doesn’t go away.

Then I realize that I haven’t been working out my abdominal muscles lately, as I’ve been focusing on my core. But, guess what? A strong core doesn’t mean the abs can be neglected. Ah yes, I see. Much of what I learn about the body I learn on myself. Abs are important.

I’ve worked on my abs for years, understanding their function. Yet, for some reason, over the last several months I’ve neglected them assuming that my abdominal core workout would be sufficient. Big mistake. I’ve revisited my usual abdominal workout and, lo and behold, my midsection pain has gone away. Interesting.

So listen to what I say here: A strong core also needs conditioned abdominals; otherwise, too much pressure is placed on the hip flexors and the other muscles of the abdominal core. You don’t have to experience it on your own to get it. Learn from my experience. I make it my business to understand the human body as best I can. And I can then pass that info on to you. So work out your core and your abs. That’ll keep you working well for years–guaranteed.

Social Connections Help Surgical Outcomes

By On · Add Comment · In anxiety, bodywork, chiropractic, chiropractor, exercise, fitness, friends, maintenance, massage therapy, pain, social circles, social support, socially connected, surgery, well-being

No, no, no…this story is not about who you know, but about how large your social circle is. People who are heavily connected–those with lots of friends and strong family ties–do better before and after surgery, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons. Socially connected people feel less pain and anxiety before going under the knife, and they spend fewer days in the hospital and use less pain meds following surgery than their more isolated peers.

The study looked at 605 patients at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System and the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor who underwent major surgery of the chest or abdominal area. The original study actually sought to determine the benefits of massage therapy on surgery patients, but also collected information on the subjects social support networks. They grouped people according to how many close friends and relatives they had, how often they saw them, and whether they attended a place of worship or other social function at least once a week. Participants with large social networks were less likely to exhibit anxiety or feel pain before the surgery or afterward, and required less opiate drugs. As an aside, the research team found that massage relieved pain equivalently to a 1 milligram dose of morphine.

Well, two thoughts here: First, I’m not surprised by these findings but am pleased that this sort of thing has finally been looked at. Far too little time is spent on the mental and emotional components of health and healing. I speak about the social connection aspect of achieving fitness in my upcoming book, The Six Keys To Optimal Health–it seems obvious to me: The more connected you are to others and society as a whole, the more your health will flourish. Further, exercising in groups of two or more does wonders, as people who take advantage of this connection tend to work out more often and push themselves a little harder.

The second thought has to do with the findings on massage. Let’s see, regular bodywork–working out the stresses and tensions of muscles, tendons, joints and ligaments–helps reduce pain? You don’t say? Not only is this one of the major premises of my book, nothing is more obvious to a chiropractor. That’s precisely why we get such great results in chiropractic offices helping people who are in pain; because everybody–and I mean everybody–needs regular maintenance care to work out the wear and tear that accumulates in the body from daily living. Just as a car needs its oil changed and its tires rotated regularly, the human body needs its own regular bodywork.

Bravo! Great study. Heed the results folks–your social life is important in more ways than one. It greatly enhances your mental and emotional well-being, it’s fun, and it positively affects your physical health. And regular bodywork is as good as a shot of narcotic. Whoa! Now that’s a party.

Are Chiropractors Real Doctors?

By On · Add Comment · In celebrities, chiropractic, chiropractor, medical doctors, professional athletes, quacks
In the latest episode of The Dr. Nick Show (Episode 5) we discussed the question: Are chiropractors real doctors? Consider these knocks against my esteemed profession:

  • Not Educated–Chiropractors complete 4485 hours of study, MDs 4248. Chiropractors get more anatomy, neurology, diagnosis, x-ray, and orthopedics. Medical doctors, on the other hand, get no chiropractic training at all. Hmmm. See the full academic curriculum at my chiropractic alma mater.
  • Quacks–A quack is a person who pretends, professionally or publicly, to skill, knowledge, or qualifications he or she does not possess–sounds like those Dr 90210 boys.
  • Shamelessly sell themselves–Uh huh. And what’s this? Or this? Or this? Hey, I got nothing against shameless selling–wanna buy a book?
  • Not Recognized–Chiropractors are not recognized by any worthwhile institution outside of the Supreme Court, the federal government, state governments, Medicare, the Veteran Administration, and most insurance companies–
  • Not Prestigious–Chiropractors practice all over the world, and treat people from all walks of life including professional athletes, attorneys, auto mechanics, bankers, celebrities, doctors, farmers, mothers, psychologists, and on and on and on….
  • Just Not Real Doctors–doctor in Latin means teacher. Chiropractors have historically been the quintessential teachers of health and wellness, so chiropractors are literally doctors. If any other health care professional treats but does not teach, then perhaps they might need to reconsider the title.

So there you have it. If you still think that chiropractors aren’t real doctors…well, you’re certainly entitled to your opinion; however, let me be the first to tell you that the world is not flat, it does revolve around the sun, women can vote, and that club you’re carrying went out of style millennia ago. Unghhhh!!!

Another Fitness Update

By On · Add Comment · In acidophilus, cardio, chiropractor, overtraining syndrome, weight lifting, yoga

So I’m staying true to my commitment. I’ve been working out regularly but not overdoing it. I always try to be cautious of overtraining syndrome–a real and dangerous situation where pushing yourself too hard, too often, really takes its toll–therefore it has been 3-4 times per week only.

I have added a new component to my physical regimen, though. Having committed to doing one yoga class per week, in addition to my already daily practice, I was starting to feel a bit slacker-like, since I hadn’t yet gotten the ball rolling. But as good fortune has it (or perhaps an energetic force of attraction), I retouched base with an old friend–yoga therapist, Arun Deva. I have since started working with this phenomenal practitioner, really focusing on my specific dysfunctions (tight hip flexors, tight quads, tight shoulders, and some postural stuff). So far, so good–can’t say enough about it. My low back and pelvis are opening up and it feels like we’re taking it to the next level. I have greater range of motion in my gait, and I just feel looser all around. Nice way to walk through life, I’d say.

I’ve been going to the gym every week–usual weights and cardio. And I’ve been practicing my handstands; however, my yoga therapist says right now it’s a practice in futility, at least until I open up my quads and hip flexors, and thus gain more control of my pelvis.

“No!” I said, “I want to do them regardless.”

“Keep dreaming,” he said. For now, I’ll just have to put this goal to the side–all things in due time.

Nutritionally, I’ve been taking my vitamins every day. Vitamins B and C, essential fatty acids, and calcium/magnesium. I’ve also started taking acidophilus to replenish my good bacteria (especially since I realized what I had lost along with my appendix). I take it about 3-4 times per week. Sometimes I forget; it hasn’t yet been lodged into my consciousness and made a habit. I’ve also finished one bottle of chlorophyll and did one five day round of apple cider vinegar with baking soda. Mmmmmm. Delicious. Not.

Ah yes, one last thought. Last week while lifting, I jumped in to an exercise too quickly, without sufficiently warming up and I tweaked my pec (chest muscle). Good reminder that warming up is essential. Also, build-up to your heavier weights, even if with just one preliminary set done at a lighter weight. Anyway, I think I prevented a more serious injury by 1) icing immediately and doing it several times the next day, 2) light stretching and 3) light massage. So if you feel a tweak, ice right away and get it treated as soon as you can get in to see your chiropractor. Till next time.

Chiropractic Patient – NY Yankee’s Johnny Damon

By On · Add Comment · In adjusted, adjustment, chiropractic, chiropractor, Johnny Damon, New York Yankees

Look who’s singing chiropractic’s praises now – Johnny Damon of the New York Yankees!

The Yankee’s center fielder has this to say about chiropractic care: “Without chiropractic, I wouldn’t be able to play consistently throughout the season. I’ve been under the care of a chiropractor for eight years. I first went [to a chiropractor] because my body was really out of whack from the constant grind of a 162-game schedule.” – taken from interview with To Your Health magazine.
But like many people, Damon was a little nervous about being adjusted at first: “Initially, I admit that I was a little freaked out about the whole neck [adjustment] thing, but now, chiropractic is a must for me.” If you haven’t checked it out yet, read my latest article on what makes the Pop!ping sound during a chiropractic adjustment.
It’s not just Johnny Damon utilizing the incredible power of chiropractic to his advantage but the whole NY Yankees team: “Last year, we had tons of back problems [on the Yankees]. There is no way we could get back and ready for another season without chiropractic.”
He sums it up this way: “Maintaining your health just leads to a better way of life for each individual. Chiropractic, specifically, can improve your posture, your circulation and just really benefit your quality of life in the long run.”
Thanks Johnny – I couldn’t have said it better myself.
Copyright © 2013 Dr. Nick Campos - All Rights Reserved.