Ventura Acupuncture

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Chiropractic Seattle Style has treated plenty of foot pain sufferers, and knows all too well how prevalent painful foot problems are these days. Here’s why: We all know that movement is beneficial for the entire body, right? From our head to our toes, our good health is highly affected by how much physical exercise we get on a regular basis. So, why do so many individuals suffer from aches and pains in their feet? After all, our feet are made for walking, aren’t they? The answer, of course, is “yes,” but they aren’t designed for mistreatment.

The average, healthy individual takes 3,000-5,000 steps each day, not counting activities such as running and aerobic exercise. But, many times those steps are taken by people walking improperly, with clumsy gait patterns and bad posture.

Furthermore, a large number of individuals wear poorly-designed, improperly-fitting shoes. Walking and exercising on feet that are inhibited from performing as they were meant to cannot help but to create aches and pains not only in a number of places in the feet, but in other parts of the body, too.  For example, if a person over-pronates (walks like a duck) in a pair of poorly-made or unevenly-worn shoes, or in any pair of high heels, that individual is not only likely to develop foot and ankle challenges, but will more than likely experience challenges in the back, knees and legs.

The most common foot problem is Plantar Fascitis (heel pain), which is most frequently caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is an extraordinary, multi-tasking band of connective tissue that surrounds the muscles on the bottom of the foot, adheres the heel bone to the ball of the foot, supports the arch, protects the foot, and absorbs shock. It goes without saying, then, that the healthy function of the plantar fascia is crucial for pain-free walking and exercise.

There are many factors that can be considered reasons for the development of Plantar Fascitis. One factor is short and tight calf muscles. Undue stress on the smaller and weaker plantar muscles and fascia occurs when calf muscles get short and tight, exerting a strong pull on the back of the heel bone. What causes calf muscles to get short and tight? Besides running and jumping activities such as aerobics, volleyball, running, basketball, and tennis, the wearing of high heels can produce the problem.

Other factors that contribute to Plantar Fascitis include sudden strenuous activity after a period of prolonged inactivity, incorrect walking patterns (such as over-pronation), improper footwear, walking on hard or uneven surfaces (especially barefooted), and obesity.

Once developed, Plantar Fascitis is frequently difficult to manage and can become extremely painful and persistent. Plantar Fascitis won’t go away without proper treatment.

If you are suffering from the pain of Plantar Fascitis, your chiropractor will be able to determine the reason for your problem and what chiropractic treatment would be most appropriate. Such care might include ultrasound therapy, laser, joint manipulation, Graston technique, muscle stretching and strengthening exercises, special taping and, in some cases, orthotics.

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Dr. Jamie Phillips

Just the other day I read an article on sciencedaily.com how caffeine reversed memory loss in aged mice bred to develop symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. The article lead with the angle that “Coffee drinkers may have another reason to pour that extra cup.”  It went on to report on coterminous studies published online July 6 in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease that demonstrated that caffeine significantly decreased abnormal levels of the protein linked to Alzheimer’s disease, both in the brains and in the blood of mice that had developed symptoms of the disease.

But, before you opt to add an extra cup of coffee to your morning routine, let me, Dr. Jamie Phillips add that under “Related Stories” on the website were at least two articles reporting on studies that professed to prove the not-so-healthy effects of caffeine, “Morning Jolt of Caffeine May Mask Serious Sleep Problems,” and “Coffee Consumption Linked To Increased Risk Of Heart Attack For Persons With Certain Gene Variation.”

In my experience, I’ve noticed that there are more than likely studies that will confirm, or at least bolster, any angle of thought, in particular when it is about health and longevity. The “good/bad” studies related to caffeine certainly aren’t, by any means, the only ones. Nonetheless, it did get me to thinking about the likelihood that there will not ever be simply “one thing” that will absolutely assist we, humans, in living longer, healthier lives. We are dynamic, biological creatures. We aren’t raised in unnatural confinement We are free to engage in life. And, moreover, though Alzheimer’s disease apparently is on the rise, obviously none of us has been “singled out to develop symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease,” therefore caffeine isn’t going to be the “one thing” that is going to reverse or prevent it.

Our body is an elegant, complex system that is based on homeostasis (balance). Consequently good health is cultivated by a healthy, balanced way of living, as opposed to our being briefly convinced by the latest health study and “doing” or “overdoing” one specific thing fooling ourselves into believing that it will reverse all of the other immoderate and unwholesome things we do to our bodies.

I believe, as a doctor of chiropractic in Santa Barbara, that every single day we have an opportunity to make healthy choices for our body, to decide what will help us to live longer, healthier lives. When it comes to what is good for our body, we know what truly “feels” right and what doesn’t. So, the if you reach for that extra cup of coffee or that second glass of red wine, I hope that you’ll keep this in mind. Neither one of those things is the “one thing” that will do “everything” for your age-related health issues.

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If you are experiencing back pain looking to a traditional healing technique may not automatically be the solution for you.  As a matter of fact, some natural methods will often be able to assist you in overcoming the pain, even when medical science is unable to do so.  One of the reasons why is because natural approaches tend to look for a cure for the actual cause of the problem while medical techniques treat just the symptoms.  If you’re curious about natural techniques that have been confirmed to be potent in relieving back pain and quite a few other afflictions, you don’t need to look any further than chiropractic and acupuncture.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been performed in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.  It is acquiring popularity many places around the world and for a splendid reason: Many sufferers have experienced relief from their back pain and quite a few other afflictions by visiting an acupuncturist on a regular basis.  In keeping with traditional Chinese acupuncture therapy, small needles are introduced into the body at distinct points that are said to affect multifarious areas of the body.  In traditional therapy, only the needles are used, though on occasion and in particular these days, small electrical currents are directed through the needles into the body.  Even though it may seem like it would hurt, it hardly ever does and, actually, most people experience relaxation and pleasurable sensations while undergoing acupuncture treatments.

Chiropractic

For over one hundred years, chiropractors, such as a Honolulu chiropractor, (also called doctors of chiropractic) have been treating men, women, and even children experiencing back pain and other health problems. A chiropractor cares for individuals who are suffering from musculoskeletal and nervous system challenges. Chiropractic medicine attends to the deviations of the vertebral column that impede the function of the nervous system. These misaligned vertebra can lessen resistance and immunity, therefore causing new health problems. A proficient chiropractor has superior observational and diagnostic skills that assist in detecting physical anomalies and joint complications. Many chiropractors complete neurological tests and orthopedic tests. Some will analyze the posture of an individual as a means of identifying postural irregularities, and may also observe a person’s gait to determine faulty movement patterns. Chiropractic management non-invasive, drug-free treatment as well as advice and education about the advantages of individual lifestyle changes, such as in exercise and nutrition.

So, if you are experiencing back pain, headaches, neck pain, hip pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, balance challenges, or arthritis, and you’ve tried a number of other things and they haven’t worked, it could be time for you to try chiropractic and acupuncture.  One way to find out  for sure is to make an appointment with a good chiropractor or acupuncturist, and to permit them to explain to you precisely what they can do for you.  More than likely you will experience some relief from your problem even after only one visit.  With subsequent visits, you will make more advancements and improvements, and you might just find that these natural treatments work best for your back pain.

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Arthritis is generally confusing to most suffers.Often the word, “arthritis,” inspires images of a future that includes crippled and twisted joints.  But, many conditions from benign to severe are listed under the term, arthritis. For our purposes we will limit this analysis to the most common forms of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis and Chiropractic Care

The most common form of arthritis has many names: osteoarthritis, degenerative arthritis, degenerative joint disease (DJD), and spondylosis if it is in the spine. This form of arthritis is not limited to humans, but occurs in all mammals, and is due to the breakdown of the cartilage that covers the joint surfaces. Degenerative changes in the joint occurs when joint cartilage is harmed and causes stress to the sensitive bone tissue that is ordinarily guarded by the cartilage. Sometimes the bone around the joint will proliferate and make osteophytes, or what are often called bone spurs. These spurs can create painful irritation to other tissues around the joint, in this way complicating the already painful condition.

Degenerative joints most often occur in the lower neck and lower back, the knees, hips, and fingers. Previous trauma, certain occupations and activities, weight, diet, and heredity all appear to affect both the onset and severity of DJD.

Pain and/or stiffness in the affected joints are primary indicators of DJD. If the weight-bearing joints, such as the hips or knees are involved, ones mobility can be affected notably in the more advanced stages of the condition.  As a last resort joints can be surgically replaced with synthetic devices. This should be done only in severe cases where the joint is appreciably worn and movement is unattainable without severe pain.

Prevention is unquestionably the best option, beginning at an early age.

* Making sure that all injuries to joints are appropriately treated will help to avoid future problems.
* Shoes with proper support and shock absorption should be worn by those whose jobs require extended periods of standing or walking.
* Excess body weight can create increased stress upon the weight bearing joints of the body.

* Care should be taken to guard knees from pain aad strain when kneeling on hard surfaces.

* Eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables as they have natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are crucial for the health of the joints, as well as the rest of the body.

Recently there have been some studies that offer proof that the nutritional supplement, Glucosamine, can help with DJD and can possibly help rebuild joint cartilage. However, it must be used over a long-term period and does not work in all conditions.

Chiropractic adjustments help to restore proper mobility and function to the spinal joints. Chiropractic care is not only safe, but extremely effective in relieving the debilitating pain of arthritis. Your Chicago chiropractor is highly trained when it comes to arthritic pain relief. Other forms of chiropractic care may include joint mobilization, massage, ultrasound, cold laser, or electro-therapy, all of which may be helpful in the relief of painful and stiff joints. Occasionally, a brace is required to stabilize the joint and relieve pain. A chiropractor may suggest exercises such as stretching, yoga, tai chi and other gentle mobilizing activities to help maintain arthritic joints.

Gout

An elevated level of uric acid in the blood and the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints produce gouty arthritis. The most common joints are the big toes, the knees, ankles and wrists, and is often characterized by excruciating pain and swelling. Most people who develop gout are predisposed through heredity, though episodes are generally brought on by binge eating of the wrong foods, when dehydrated or fasting, or after a major surgery or illness. Foods that must be avoided include a natural substance called Purines that are metabolized in the liver to form uric acid. People with this condition cannot effectively metabolize uric acid, thus the proliferation in the bloodstream and the subsequent joint problems. The foods most associated with high purine content are: red meat especially organ meat, certain seafood, legumes, mushrooms and other foods as well. There are other dietary restrictions that must be followed including refraining from drinking alcohol.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease of systemic origin. The principal cause is not known, but it is thought to be due to a problem with the immune system. The most common joints affected are the small joints of the hands and fingers, the feet, knees, and shoulder, though other areas of the body can be affected as well. The condition is most often associated with morning stiffness that is aggravated by motion. Often people complain of general malaise and fatigue, and the disease in its more advanced forms can affect many of the other body systems. Rheumatoid arthritis can be easily identified through specific blood tests. Though, currently, there is no cure, in addition to medication and vitamin and diet therapy, treatment should include chiropractic adjustments to mobilize joints and help to relieve the pain and stiffness prevalent in this disease. Additional modalities such as ultrasound, heat, electro-therapy, and massage may also be helpful. Your Chicago chiropractor is dedicated to assisting people in getting relief from the pain and suffering associated with arthritis.

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Scoliosis: An Introduction

When the body is looked at from behind, a normal spine looks straight without much alteration from side-to-side.Scoliosis is a condition that is often associated with a lateral, or side-to-side, curvature of the spine.This condition frequently gives the appearance of the person leaning to one side but it should not be confused with bad posture. Characterized by both lateral curvature and rotation of the vertebra, this puzzling deformity oftentimes causes a characteristic “rib hump” in the mid or thoracic spine. This is produced by the vertebrae in the zone of the major curve rotating toward the concavity and pushing their attached ribs posterior thus creating the characteristic rib hump seen in thoracic scoliosis. If the thoracic curve and rib rotation are severe, more than 70 degrees, pulmonary and cardiac function can be impeded. This intensity of curve and subsequent cardiac and pulmonary changes are frequently seen later in life in untreated severe idiopathic infantile and juvenile scoliosis patients and, as such, present a threat to life.

Anatomy

The spine discloses four normal curves: the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral, all of which are apparent from a side view of the trunk. In the lower spine there is a natural “C-shaped” curve called swayback or lordosis, while the thoracic curve in the chest region has a “reverse C” called a kyphosis. Increased kyphosis in the thoracic area is called hyperkyphosis, while elevated swayback is termed, hyperlordosis. Changes from normal that are visible from a side view regularly accompany scoliosis changes. Postural exercises can eliminate some round back deformities that are simply due to bad posture. A small number of people with kyphosis have more rigid deformities than the postural type, which are seen in conjunction with vertebral deformity. This kind of deformity, called Scheuermann’s kyphosis, is much more problematic to treat than postural kyphosis, and it’s cause is unknown.

Even a layman can help to identify a child or fully-grown individual with scoliosis just by looking at the person in a standing position, preferably without a shirt and in , and observing the following:

• One shoulder may be higher than the other.

• One scapula (shoulder blade) may be raised or more pronounced than the other.

• There may be more space between the arm and the body on one side when the arms hang loosely at the side.

• One hip may seem to be more elevated or more pronounced than the other.

• The head is not in plumb with the pelvis.

• One side of the back appears more elevated than the other when the individual is analyzed from the rear and asked to lean forward until the the spine is horizontal.

The child or adult should be sent to a healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor, for further assessment once scoliosis is identified. your chiropractor would be happy to help.

There are various roots and many kinds of scoliosis, but the most prevailing, by far, is Idiopathic Scoliosis, which accounts for about 85 % of all cases. “Idiopathic” means “no known cause” and is witnessed with equal prevalence in boys and girls in the mild or low curve magnitudes. This disorder can be sub-classified into infantile, juvenile and adolescent cases, based upon the age of onset. Idiopathic Scoliosis may be due to genetic or hereditary influences as it often runs in families. Though it is unknown why, girls are five to eight times more likely than boys to have their curves develop in size and require treatment. The most common time for the development of Idiopathic Scoliosis is during adolescence when children are ending the last major growth spurt. It is smart to have this age group examined by a professional on a regular basis because young people are reluctant to permit their body to be looked at by parents or other adults.

If a scoliotic curve is found in the growing adolescent, it is crucial that the curves be monitored for development by periodic examination and from time to time standing X-rays. In ninety percent of instances, the scoliosis is mild and does not require active treatment, though| increases in spinal deformity demand evaluation to determine if a brace or other therapy is required. In a small number of individuals, surgical treatment may be needed.~Surgery may be required for a small number of patients.

Brace therapy (orthosis) is recommended for both juvenile and adolescent children when an increase in their scoliosis or kyphosis is identified, or when new symptoms of moderate scoliosis or abnormal kyphosis are discovered. There are many kinds of braces, all made to prevent curves from increasing through acting as a buttress for the spine during active skeletal growth. Bracing is effectual in preventing curve progression in a significant number of skeletally-immature adolescents. However, braces normally will not make the spine perfectly straight, and cannot always keep a curve from progressing.

Scoliosis has no simple solution. The majority of cases, even though often monitored, are not actively treated. The usual medical treatment for moderate conditions is a brace, whereas severe cases in some cases are treated surgically. You may want to see your local chiropractor first.

Specialized exercise, electric stimulation of spinal muscles, nutritional programs, and chiropractic treatments are among a number of modalities offered in addition to bracing. It appears that the best results have been supported with a multi-faceted approach to the management of this affliction.

There are chiropractors, that have years of experience treating scoliosis conditions.

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Is It Safe To Adjust Children? FAQ#7

Today’s moms and dads are more worried than ever about the detrimental effects pharmaceuticals have on their children. Parents want to know if there is more that they can do for their child than to give them pharmaceuticals.

Many children’s pharmaceuticals often not only mask a child’s symptoms, but can produce serious side effects. Today, parents are looking for health care options for their children that assist and maintain their child’s natural ability to be healthy.

Chiropractic care is that option because it aids a child’s nervous system in functioning at peak performance. The immune system is directed by the nervous system. When it is functioning optimally, children stay healthier.  In the case of children’s health, “the best offense is a good defense.” Everyday, children are exposed to massive amounts of airborn, food-born, and contact bacteria. So many bacteria, in fact, that it would be impossible to immunize them against them all. Your Camarillo Chiropractor has both knowledge and experience with colds, sore throats, ear infections, fevers, colic, asthma, tonsillitis, allergies, bed-wetting, infections, pains, falls, stomach-aches, and the hundred and one little (and big) things children go through as they grow up.

Almost all illnesses that affect children are avoidable. Chiropractic treatment assists in removing interferences to the natural healing power that runs through your child’s body. When that power is released, the healthy results that take place many times appear to be profound.

Furthermore, a child has less tendency to be injured at play or in sports when his or her spine is in alignment. In addition, children who are brought in regularly for chiropractic care more often than not don’t experience as many “growing pains” as other children.

Today, we are finding at your Chiropractor that more and more moms and dads are bringing their children to us for general childhood health concerns. All children are deserve the right to express their entire potential. Chiropractic treatment for children at your chiropractor is safe, gentle and effective.

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pediatric chiropractic

Earache is the most common purpose for office visits to pediatricians. More than 70 percent of children will have had at least one earache by the age of three, and nearly one-third will have had three or more earache incidents. Although, what might be unforeseen is that earache is also the most common reason for children under the age of five years to be brought to the chiropractor’s office.

How Chiropractic Care Relates to Earache and Ear Infections

A pediatrician who determines that a child with an earache has a middle ear infection will normally prescribe antibiotics as a typical course of treatment. Advanced study, however, has concluded that such practices are often ill-advised. The cause of the child’s middle ear infection may not be due to bacteria, and since antibiotics are only effective against bacterial pathogens, frequently there will be no positive reaction. This is because numerous cases of middle ear infection can be generated by a virus, and viruses do not respond to antibiotics. This may be the reason why children develop chronic ear infections.

One of a number of assessments that a Honolulu chiropractor can make is whether the earache or ear infection is caused by inflamation of the small nerves in the spine, called free nerve endings.

When these nerve endings are irritated, an abnormal tension is created in the small muscles of the neck. This muscle tension can put pressure on the lymphatic drainage ducts resulting in inadequate drainage from inside the ear, thereby keeping the body from being able to naturally correct the problem. In addition, balance can also be affected.

Inadequate drainage of lymphatic ducts can be discovered by a chiropractor if there is elevated tension in the neck and paraspinal muscles on the side with the earache. In addition, the chiropractor will check to see which spinal vertebrae are either slightly out of alignment or not moving within their normal range. There are many reasons for such aaffliction due to the many bangs, jolts, and falls almost all children encounter growing up. Restoration of normal lymph drainage is normally accomplished with a short regimen of treatments that include spinal adjustments and manipulation of the neck muscles. If your child is experiencing the pain of an earache or an ear infection, call your Honolulu chiropractor as soon as possible.

Advanced Research and Guidelines

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), ear infection, the most widespread childhood illness after the common cold, accounts for nearly 30 million doctor visits each year. What’s more, at least 6 million courses of antibiotics are unnecessarily prescribed for the affliction.Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released new guidelines for treating pediatric ear inflammation, and expressly recommended a period of “watchful waiting” since, in many cases, infections clear up on their own, without medication.

The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) endorses the AAP on the guidelines and reiterates that chiropractic treatment is a “good first option” for treating ear infection conservatively. “Doctors of chiropractic have been treating children for decades with great success – helping them to avoid painful ear infections, antibiotic overuse and resistance, and ear tube surgery,” said ACA President Donald Krippendorf, DC. “Particularly when dealing with young children, drugs and surgery should be an absolute last resort.”

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Does it Hurt to Get Adjusted

Not too long ago sports injuries were usually limited to professional athletes, boys participating in school sports programs, and the occasional male “weekend warrior. Today, men and women of all ages participate in regular sports and fitness activities. The vast majority of both sexes play golf, tennis, basketball, and/or participate in aerobic activities like running. No matter what the activity, however, there is always the risk of injury.

Nearly all of injuries generally fit into two categories: 1) traumatic injury, such as a slip, fall, or collision and, 2) repetitive stress or overuse injury.

Traumatic Injuries

As the name implies, this kind of injury causes the type of incapacitation and debilitation most frequently associated with trauma. Most traumatic injuries are to the ligaments, the tissue that connects bone to bone, and to body muscles, although fractures and dislocations do take place at times, in particular with contact sports. A strain is any injury to either a muscle or its tendon, and a sprain is damage to ligaments.  Sprains and strains most frequently occur in the ankles, knees, and shoulders, and not as commonly in the low back and neck. Because the spinal cord and/or spinal nerves can be affected, injury to the neck and low back can be quite serious.

Traumatic injuries can extend from a mild “muscle pull” or ankle twist to a serious problem needing surgery. It is contingent upon the amount of tearing of the tissues, the area of the body, and the age of the person. Some degree of swelling occurs with almost all sprains and strains. However, with certain injuries, especially those of the ankle and knee, there can be some internal bleeding as well. With all strains and sprains competent management is very important, particularly during the initial stages of the injury to insure correct healing and avoid future disability. Therapy from a competent health-care professional, such as your Santa Barbara chiropractor, is highly advisable.

Listed below is an acronym for the post-injury management of sprains and strains specifically if no professional aid is available: PRICE
P    Protect injury to avoid more damage
R    Rest the damaged body region
I     Ice injury to diminish swelling, bleeding, muscle spasm, and pain
C    Compress injury with a specifically designed or elastic bandage to support injured tissues
E    Elevate the injury, particularly when the damage is to ankles and knees

As formerly mentioned, proper evaluation and care are essential to a thorough recovery. A chiropractor can find out the extent of your injury and start needed recovery treatment. When knowledgeable treatment is supplied during the various stages of healing, nearly all individuals who have suffered sprain and strain injuries will recover. If not treated carefully, some sprains and strains can result in long-lasting problems such as joint instability, painful or weak joints and muscles, and lack of mobility. Expert care of your sports injury by a chiropractor with years of experience in sports injury management will insure that your injury recovers properly. If you have sustained a traumatic injury, call your Santa Barbara chiropractor.

Repetitive Stress, or Overuse, Injuries

These injuries are becoming more and more common, expressly among individuals involved in sports such as golf, tennis, bowling, and any other activity that requires the same motion over and over (repetitively). An action as uncomplex and healthy as running, particularly on a treadmill, can also be a factor.

Essentially, overuse or repetitive stress injuries happen when a person is occupied in a repetitious activity that causes a very small strain to tissues, expressly tendons and muscles, that by itself would not generate a problem, but performed many times has an accumulative effect.  Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most common kinds of overuse injuries. Over time the muscle or other affected tissue undergoes changes that no longer let it to function correctly, resulting in pain, stiffness and disability. Definite factors predispose a person to these kinds of injury. A portion are “intrinsic,” i.e., the factor is found within a person’s own body. Other factors are “extrinsic,” which is to say that the factors are external and can frequently be changed or controlled by the individual.

Some of the most prevalent intrinsic factors for injury

Age is the mostcommon intrinsic factor for injury. The older a person is, the easier it is for that person to get injured. Congenital abnormalities are another factor. There are those who are born with joint or muscle problems. And, finally, previous injuries are a factor as they frequently prevent the joints or muscles from functioning properly.

Extrinsic factors for injury

Extrinsic factors are numerous.  For instance, sports equipment can insufficient–an inappropriate grip size of tennis racket or worn-out running shoes are prime examples, even a playing surface can be a factor, e.g., a too-hard surface for soccer or an uneven treadmill. Incorrect technique in any sport, such as an unsuitable golf grip is, as they say, an injury waiting to happen A further factor is poor conditioning. Some individuals are injured because they aren’t in shape. Elevated frequency or extended duration of an activity, without developing slowly, can create the conditions for injury. Insufficient flexibility can cause injury if someone is too stiff to do an activity correctly. Lack of warm-up, like stretching and properly preparation, is a frequent factor in injuries.  And, finally, and maybe surprising to some, stress is a factor. Being tired or stressed can create tense, inflexible muscles that are too tight for most activities.

There are quite a few factors that are extrinsic and, consequently, within a person’s control. Nevertheless, most people must have assessment by a qualified health care professional to ascertain their overall body health, the type of injury, and the resolution to the problem. If left untreated, sports injuries can greatly affect a person’s life and limit a favorite activity. Treatment such as joint manipulation, massage, bracing, and specific exercises is frequently needed to stabilize the condition. A chiropractor is a good source of help. Call a chiropractor if you’re either thinking of beginning a new activity, you’re feeling pain related to a current sports activity, or you’ve sustained a sports injury. Your Santa Barbara Chiropractor has years of experience helping people just like you.

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Santa Barbara Chiropractor: 10 Most Frequent Questions

Regulating and maintaining body position while staying still or moving is the principal function of good balance. Good balance helps someone to walk without faltering, arise from a sitting position without slipping, and to climb stairs without slipping.

Approximately 9 percent of adults, age 65 and older, report having challenges with balance. Good balance is vital in aiding an older person to stay independent, and perform daily chores and activities. Many older individuals, however, experience dizziness, “wooziness,” and problems with balance.

The label, vertigo, applies to the sensation that a number of people have that they, themselves, or the things around them are spinning. About 40 percent of Americans will encounter dizziness that is consequential enough to go seek medical assistance. And, among older adults, falls are the prevailing cause of extreme injury and deaths.

Balance and Inner Ear Conditions

There are quite a few kinds of balance disorders. Three familiar types are benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, labyrinthitis, and Meniere’s disease. Of these three, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is the most prevalent. Its symptoms involve a brief, intense feeling of vertigo with a change in head position, when rolling over to the left or right in bed or when getting out of bed, or when looking up for something on a high shelf. This affliction is more likely to occur in persons 60 and older, but it can also happen in younger individuals.

There are diverse causes for benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. It may be caused by an inner ear infection, head injury, or simply aging. Even though it can be connected with other disease processes, many times a simple Epleys procedure can fix the condition. Your Santa Barbara Chiropractor has many years of experience in this procedure.

Labyrinthitis is an infection or iirritation of the inner ear that cause dizziness and loss of balance. It affects adults of any age and the cause is unknown.

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

Although people who are older are more likely to encounter balance disorders, age is not the only reason these problems happen. Treatment for balance disorders varies depending upon the reason. Many times, there’s a simple resolution to balance problems, such as simple exercises for vestibular rehab. A chiropractor is well-educated in analyzing and treating many of balance problems. Call a health care professional, such as your Santa Barbara Chiropractor, if you have encountered, or are currently experiencing, dizziness, vertigo, or other challenges with balance.

Although some balance disorders are created by problems in the inner ear, other disorders may involve another part of the body, such as the brain or the heart. Head injury, stroke, certain medicines, circulation problems, upper respiratory infections and other viral infections, stress, fatigue, smoking, alcohol use,  high or low blood pressure, and heart disease are all influences that, in addition to aging and ear infection, may cause balance disorders.

Balance disorders caused by high blood pressure can usually be managed by less sodium intake,cultivating a healthy weight, and exercise. To aid in making the symptoms of dizziness less intense, generally eating low-salt or salt-free foods, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol, will help.

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

If you can answer “yes” to any of these questions, you should discuss the symptom(s) with your chiropractor:

• Do you have the feeling of being “unsteady?”

• Does the room seem to spin around you?

• Is there ever a time when you feel as if you are moving when you know you are standing still?

• Do you lose your balance and/or fall?

• Do you feel as if you are falling?

• Does your vision ever become “blurred?”

• Do you ever feel disoriented, or lose a sense of time, place or identify?

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Call your chiropractor today.

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