This headache is a real pain in the neck!

Most headaches can be linked to a problem in the spine, and very often, not always, that problem is in the neck. It is amazing to me how often people will suffer with chronic headaches (even migraines) and continue to take pills to “manage” the pain without having their spine checked to see if there is a structural component to their headaches. Don’t trust your family physician to tell you if there is a problem in the spine. See a chiropractic physician, who is a spine specialist, to know if correcting the spine will get rid of the headaches, and not just “manage” them.

Let us tell you whether or not there is a problem in your spine. Call us today at 801-955-1555 to schedule a free consultation. We accept almost all insurances, so there is no reason to continue to suffer. Call 801-955-1555 today and let’s get you off of the pills. Ask for a free headache consultation when you call 801-955-1555 today.

Added Sugars May Be a Significant Contributor to High Blood Pressure.

Added sugars may matter more than dietary sodium when it comes to the risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular disease. A new study found that individuals whose daily intake of calories from added sugar account for 25% of their total caloric intake have nearly a three times greater risk of death due to cardiovascular disease. Open Heart, December 2014

Heart disease, cancer and stroke are all linked to obesity. Obesity is linked to intake of processed sugars. We eat way too many foods from boxes, bags and cans, all of which contain, if not sugar, other toxic chemicals that destroy our gut lining and lead to obesity and illness.

If you would like to find out if your health is being adversely effected by toxins, come to a free class and learn more. call 801-928-3595 to reserve your seats.

Syringomyelia, Arnold-Chiari malformation and Spinal Manipulation.

Syringomyelia is a disorder in which a cyst forms within the spinal cord, and Arnold Chiari malformations are structural defects that result in the cerebellum and brain stem being pushed downward into the spinal column.

Past research has reported that these conditions may be considered contraindications for spinal manipulation. However, a recent case study found skilled spinal manipulation to be both safe and effective in the treatment of an 18-year-old women with both of the above mentioned conditions who suffered from neck and left arm pain after a motor vehicle accident.

After four treatments in two weeks, she was asymptomatic, which continued at a one-month follow-up. The case illustrates the benefits of spinal manipulation for neck pain even in the presence of sryringomyleia and an Arnold Chiari malformation.
British Medical Journal, November 2014

Green Vegetables May Aid Heart Health.

According to a new study, eating more green vegetables may be beneficial to your heart. Researchers found that eating nitrate-rich vegetables (like spinach and broccoli) reduces the production of a hormone called erythropoietin that regulates red blood cell production in the body. The team claims the result is thinner blood without a compromise in oxygen levels, which may help prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.
The FASEB Journal, November 2014

The benefits of eating green vegetables can be negated by eating a lot of processed foods, grains, and sugars. If you need help knowing how to improve your health with nutrition, attebd a free class. Call 801-928-3595 to reserve your seats.

BPA-Lined Containers May Increase Blood Pressure.

Individuals eat and drink food from cans and plastic bottles lined with a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA) on a daily basis. Now, a new report suggests that drinking from such containers could lead to increased blood pressure. Researchers found that systolic blood pressure increased by approximately 4.5 mmHg after consuming two canned beverages, compared with consuming two glass-bottled beverages. The authors believe the findings should be important to healthcare providers, policy writers, and the general public with regards to the possible heart risks associated with BPA. Study author Dr. Yun-Chul Hong concludes, “I suggest consumers try to eat fresh foods or glass bottle-contained foods rather than canned foods and hopefully, manufacturers will develop and use healthy alternatives to BPA for the inner lining of can containers.”
Hypertension, December 2014

The main diet of Americans comes from bags, boxes and cans, and are full of toxins that destroy the gut lining making it difficult to absorb nutrients. This leads to over eating and obesity. Come to my free class to learn how you can reverse this damage and regain your health. Call us at 801-928-3595.

Higher Fast-Food Consumption Equals Poor Academic Outcomes.

The academic progress of children may be influenced by fast food intake, according to a new study. Investigators observed that children who consume fast food four-to-six times a week or every day score up to 20% lower on math, reading, and science tests during eighth grade than their peers who do not eat any fast food. Researcher Dr. Katy Purtell explains, “There’s a lot of evidence that fast-food consumption is linked to childhood obesity, but the problems don’t end there. Relying too much on fast food could hurt how well children do in the classroom.” Clinical Pediatrics, December 2014

Fast food is full of toxins that damage the liver, gut, pancreas and other vital organs. If you or a child have a weight problem, and find it difficult to resist fast food, come to one of my free weight loss classes and you will be amazed. go to www.drsnow.clubreduce.com or call 801-928-3595.

Dentists Get Neck Pain Too!

Surveys completed by 272 dentists (121 females and 151 males) in China revealed that 88% suffer from at least one musculoskeletal disorder, with neck pain being the most common complaint. The researchers cite work-related stress as the most prominent psychosocial factor related to neck pain. However, they also note that regular exercise — which has been demonstrated to minimize the effect of stress on the body — appears to be associated with decreased neck pain severity. BMJ Open, December 2014

Do your dentist a favor, if he has neck pain, have him give us a call. 801-955-1555

Can a Chiropractic Adjustment Reduce Resting Pulse Rate?

A recent small preliminary study revealed that skilled spinal manipulation to treat joint fixations in the neck lowered the pulse rate of three-quarters of the men and about a one-third of the women who participated in the study. While it’s unclear as to why males benefited to a greater degree than females, this finding adds to the body of evidence that enhancing nervous system function through spinal manipulation can improve body physiologies controlled by the nervous system, such as resting pulse rate.
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, March 2014

If you have high blood pressure, or a rapid pulse, call us at 801-955-1555. We will find out if there is a way to fix it naturally. Call 801-955-1555

Technology Use Can Increase Risk of Neck Pain.

Experts are concerned that the increasing prevalence of technology may result in more pain among frequent users. Dr. Kenneth Hansray recently studied the issue of poor posture and how it affects the body, especially when using a cell phone or smart device. When the neck is in a neutral position, the head weighs about 12 pounds (~5.4 kg). Dr. Hansray found that when the head is tilted 15 degrees forward, stress on the neck increases to 27 pounds (~12.2 kg), at 45 degrees it increases to 49 pounds (~22.2 kg), and at 60 degrees it increases to 60 pounds (~27.2 kg). He adds, “When you have such aggressive stressors on the neck, you get wear and tear on the spine… You can develop tears within the disk, or even get a slipped or herniated disk.” The take-home message is to watch your posture and make changes regarding how you use your technology to avoid pain. If you do suffer from problems, your chiropractor can help by addressing posture, giving you specific exercises, and providing therapy to reduce your pain. Surgical Technology International, November 2014

For more information, call 801-955-1555

Resolution of T4 Syndrome with Chiropractic Care.

T4 syndrome is a condition that typically presents with upper mid back pain, bilateral paresthesia, and numbness in the hands with no neurological or vascular signs. The cause appears to be related to lack of proper motion or joint fixations in the thoracic vertebra, which may refer symptoms into the arms. In a recent case study, a 64-year-old woman with symptoms consistent with T4 syndrome saw resolution of her symptoms following a course of chiropractic care that aimed to restore joint motion in her mid back.
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, September 2014

If you are having mid back pain, and tingling or numbness in one or both arms, call us today at 801-955-1555

Opioids for Back Pain?

A study published in the British Medical Journal notes that while half of regular opioid users do so for reasons related to back pain, there is scant evidence that opioids improve long-term outcomes for individuals with chronic back pain. For cases of acute back pain, the current evidence does not show that such medications speed up an individual’s return to work or improve function. British Medical Journal, January 2015

For back pain, call us at 801-955-1555

Avoid Back Strain at Work.

The American Council on Exercise offers this advice to minimize low back pain while at work: avoid sitting for long periods, take frequent breaks to walk and or stretch, use a pillow or support behind you low back while sitting, practice good posture, adjust your workstation to be ergonomically correct, exercise regularly, eat healthy, and avoid smoking. American Council on Exercise, December 2014

If you are interested in learning how to make your work station ergonomically correct, call 801-955-1555.

If you would like to know how you can improve your health, prevent injury, have more energy, quit smoking and be happier, call 801-928-3595.

Another Reason to Consider Chiropractic Care.

A new study reveals that the medication pregabalin, also known as Lyrica, is no more effective in controlling lumbar spinal stenosis-related pain in the low back than a placebo. Lyrica is approved to treat chronic pain associated with shingles, spinal cord injury, fibromyalgia, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy, but it is commonly prescribed for treatment of chronic low back pain syndromes. Lead author Dr. John Markman concludes, “Given the cost and potential side effects associated with pregabalin, it is critical that we understand the efficacy of this drug. This study convincingly demonstrates a lack of relief with pregabalin for the walking pain associated with lumbar spinal stenosis.” Neurology, December 2014

Chiropractic is non-invasive, restorative and preventative. If you have back pain and are taking pills for it, you are just covering up the problem. Eventually it will get so bad that you will not be able to cover it up and may need some very invasive treatment such as surgery. Give us a call at 801-955-1555 and let us help you take care of the cause of the pain. Stop the madness, call us now at 801-955-1555.

Low Back Pain & Incidental Spina Bifida Occulta.

A new case study demonstrated the benefits of chiropractic care for a 10-year-old boy with low back pain who was referred by his pediatrician after a fall three days prior. Examination and review of medical records revealed the patient also had a condition calls spina bifida occulta in his lower back. Spina bifida occulta is a bony defect in the vertebral column that causes a cleft in that column, but treatment is usually not required. He received skilled spinal manipulations without any adverse effects and was symptom-free after six visits. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, December 2014

If your child has back pain call for a free consultation, 801-955-1555.

Neck, Shoulder, and Back Pain Among High School Students.

Chinese researchers evaluated questionnaires completed by 3,600 high school students and found that 41.1% had experienced neck/shoulder pain and 32.8% had experienced back pain during the previous year. The researchers identified physical inactivity (increased sedentary behavior / low levels of physical exercise), heavy backpacks, mental stress, and insufficient sleep as risk factors for neck, shoulder, and back pain in the high school student population. Journal of the Chinese Medical Association, October 2014

If you have a teenage son or daughter that spends a lot of time on the computer or gaming, they fall into this group, and if they don’t already, they may develop neck, shoulder or back pain.

This is due in part to the posture that most will assume while playing games. Call us today at 801-955-1555 to see if your teen has some postural distortions caused by gaming posture. If so, we can help. call now 801-955-1555.

Sleep Apnea Improves with Chiropractic Care.

A recent case study involved a 34-year-old man suffering from several years of obstructive sleep apnea who underwent a trial of chiropractic care. His sleep apnea caused daytime drowsiness, low energy levels, and loud snoring. The patient added that he was unable to breathe while sleeping without the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. After three months of chiropractic care that included skilled spinal manipulation and diet modifications, he reported an improvement in his symptoms and was able to discontinue the use of his CPAP machine.
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, February 2014

If you suffer from sleep apnea, we may be able to help. Call today at 801-955-1555 to schedule a free consultation.

Chiropractic and Rehabilitation for Radiculopathy.

A new case study demonstrates the effectiveness and safety of chiropractic care in the management of intervertebral disk bulges with radiculopathy. A 45-year-old woman with low back and right leg pain consistent with L4 nerve root entrapment received ten treatments of skilled spinal and extremity manipulation followed by exercise and myofascial therapy for an additional 12 visits. After treatment, she reported significant improvement in back and leg pain. The results suggest chiropractic care can be an effective and safe tool in management of such conditions.
Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, November 2014

Radiculopathy is a shooting or radiating pain down an arm or leg, or any other body part that is away from where the actual problem is. If you have this, call us at 801-955-1555. We can definitely help you. Call now for a free consultation, 801-955-1555.

Lower Injury Risk Among Elderly Who Visit Their Chiropractor.

A retrospective cohort study has revealed that the risk of injury to the head, neck, or trunk following a visit to the chiropractor is lower than following an office visit for evaluation by a primary care physician. The findings come from Medicare data on patients 66 to 99 years of age. The investigators found that the risk of injury was 40 incidents per 100,000 subjects who visited a chiropractor, as compared to 153 incidents per 100,000 subjects who received care at a medical doctor’s office. The finding supports the relative safety of chiropractic care for seniors. Spine, December 2014

Vibrations Increase Back Pain Risk!

A Chinese study involving 1,747 residents from two local communities found that occupational exposure to vibrations can increase an individual’s risk for nonspecific low back pain by nearly 50%.
Journal of Southern Medical University, December 2014

Case Study Reveals Benefit of Chiropractic for Wrist Pain.

In this case study, a 57-year-old woman with carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms in both wrists presented for chiropractic care. Her symptoms worsened during sleep and when she performed repetitive motions. Following a thorough examination, the woman received a course of chiropractic care that included spinal manipulation to treat joint fixations in her neck, as well as adjunctive therapies including soft-tissue manipulation, cold laser, icing, and exercises to strengthen her wrists. Her presenting symptoms improved based on subjective reports during the course of her care. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, December 2014.

Why Does Your Back Hurt?

The American Chiropractic Association offers the following explanation on what causes back pain: “The back is a complicated structure of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles. You can sprain ligaments, strain muscles, rupture disks, and irritate joints, all of which can lead to back pain. While sports injuries or accidents can cause back pain, sometimes the simplest of movements—for example, picking up a pencil from the floor— can have painful results. In addition, arthritis, poor posture, obesity, and psychological stress can cause or complicate back pain. Back pain can also directly result from disease of the internal organs, such as kidney stones, kidney infections, blood clots, or bone loss.” ACA, December 2014.

Chronic Low Back Pain Affects Decision-Making Abilities.

Compared with healthy controls, study participants with chronic low back pain (CLBP) performed poorly on simulations designed to measure real-life decision-making abilities. Because CLBP subjects demonstrated a reduced ability to learn from and adapt to such situations, the researchers believe that chronic pain may negatively affect areas of the brain involved in the decision-making process. Frontiers in Psychology, November 2014

Case Report Shows Benefits of Chiropractic Care for MS Patient.

A new case study notes positive outcomes for a 36-year-old woman with multiple sclerosis (MS) who received a course of chiropractic care. During her care, she showed functional and symptomatic improvement. Treatment included instrument and manual adjustment techniques to reduce spinal joint fixations and improve brain-body communication. While the results for this patient are encouraging, further research is needed to determine the full benefits of chiropractic care for individuals with MS. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, December 2014

What is the cost of not getting care?

First of all, let me assure you that most insurance companies pay for chiropractic care. But what is needed for your care to be covered. If you have a life insurance policy, than you have to die to cash in on that policy. If you have automobile insurance, (I hope that you do) you have to have an accident to cash in on that policy. For you to use your health insurance for your chiropractic care than you have to have a symptom. As I have discussed in multiple earlier blogs, symptoms are the last thing to show up when there is a problem, and the first thing to go away when the problem is being fixed. This means that after you begin care, the symptom will go away before the problem is completely corrected. Therefore you will have some out of pocket expense. If you choose to let the insurance company decide your level of health, than you will be using chiropractic as a very expensive aspirin, which after a while will stop working and you will be moving on to surgery.

With or without insurance, surgery is a very costly and risky prospect. You will no doubt have a deductible, or co-insurance as well as the down time for recovery. My research shows that the average out of pocket expense for back or neck surgery, with insurance, is $20,000. A very long and extensive corrective care plan in a chiropractic office (a years worth of care) would cost you roughly $5000. out of pocket with no down time for recovery. After that, maintenance care, which is 1 to 2 visits per month will cost you anywhere from $50 to $140 per month. That is 10 years of good quality chiropractic care with good health and no down time for the same price as a surgery that is risky, painful, and may or may not work.

So where is the cost of getting chiropractic care? “cost” is different than “price”. A price is something that you give in exchange for something of equal or greater value. With a price, there is no loss. A cost is a loss of value. You give something for something of lesser value. With chiropractic care you exchange your money for improved health and longevity. If you do not get chiropractic care, in order to save the money, than eventually you will be exchanging your money for pain, surgery, down time, and very possibly no benefit. Which one has a price and which one has a cost?

Most likely, that sudden pain didn’t happen all of a sudden.

People will often come in and tell me that the pain just started all of a sudden. Upon performing an X-ray, we see degrees of degeneration in the spine that tell us that the problem has been there for quite some time.

Unless there has been a trauma, nothing in the body happens all of a sudden. The degree of degeneration can give us an idea of how long the problem has been going on. The greater the degree of degeneration the longer it will take to correct.

Many times a problem can exist without symptoms until moderate to severe degeneration has occurred. This is why regular chiropractic checkups and care are essential.

If you have not had your spine checked for a while, call us today at 801-955-1555 to schedule your free consultation.

Slipped but didn’t fall.

During this time of year, we are all prone to slipping on the ice. I got out of my car this morning, and all though I didn’t expect it, the parking lot was covered with a thin sheet of ice caused by rain that had frozen. It is obvious that should we slip and fall, we could, and most likely will, cause injury. But what if we slip and don’t fall? We have all had that experience of catching ourselves and preventing a fall. Can that cause injury? Unfortunately the answer is yes. That jarring movement can cause misalignments in the joints of the spine. Luckily, there is no ligament damage with this type of injury, and one adjustment will usually take care of it. The serious problem occurs when we do not get our spine checked following such a slip. Then the subluxations are left and will cause gradual joint damage. Later, we may develop symptoms and not know what we did to cause them. At that point, the subluxation may take several adjustments to correct. The moral of the story is, get checked now. Don’t wait to have pain. It is far less expensive and much less time consuming to get your spine checked and adjusted on a regular basis than it is to wait until there is significant damage to correct.

What is a neuroma?

A neuroma is an inflamed nerve ending, and is very painful. They are common in the feet, and are called “Morton’s Neuroma”. They feel like a red hot ball of sharp pain, in between the knuckles of the toes, when you put pressure on the foot. These are usually the result of improper bio mechanics of the foot, or improper footwear.

Podiatrists regularly perform surgery for this condition. This results in down time for recovery, pain, and severe scarring. Chiropractic is very effective at relieving this condition by restoring proper bio mechanics of the foot. This results in “RELIEF”! If you have this condition, before you have surgery, let us see if we can relieve your pain. Call 801-955-1555 to schedule a free consultation.

Carpal tunnel almost cost me my profession.***

Brittany C. was in a car accident and as a result developed carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands. This made work very difficult as her job requires the use of small instruments.

Brittany was being treated by another chiropractor who though it wise to ad the use of homeopathic injections in her wrists to help her to heal.

After a few weeks, her symptoms were gone and she is able to work without the pain and tingling. If you have been in a car accident, or are suffering with carpal tunnel symptoms, give us a call at 801-955-1555 to schedule a free consultation to see if we can help you like we did Brittany.

Call today, 801-955-1555 because the pain will not go away unless what is causing it goes away. Let’s find the cause and get it fixed.

Call now 801-955-1555.

When is comes to low back pain, how low can you go?

Low back pain is the second most common reason for an emergency room visit, and costs industry billions in lost productivity each year. Let me try to give you some insight that will hopefully help you know if you have a problem that needs to be fixed.

There are times when low back pain may be just a temporary side effect. For instance, if you have a virus and with that virus you have a fever and body aches, then back pain may just be a side effect. If you have just started an exercise program and you have low back pain after the first day or two of your new program, then this may be a side effect.

If you have either of these and they last for more than three days, then you have a problem that needs to be checked. If you have low back pain that is recurring with or without activity, then you have a problem. If you have back pain that is not associated with either of the conditions mentioned above, you have a problem.

Too often people will ignore or try to explain away their back pain. This just leads to worse problems and greater expense. If you have back pain, call 801-955-1555 and come in for a free consultation. Low back pain can cause serious nerve damage in the legs and feet, not to mention the internal organs such as bladder, large intestine, prostate, uterus, and more. Don’t ignore the pain, get checked today! Call 801-955-1555. Sciatica is an extreme pain that radiates down the back of the leg, and usually starts as low back pain that is ignored. Call now 801-955-1555 and get checked.

It’s beginning to look a lot like whiplash.

As we enter this winter season, we will no doubt see many car accidents. Many will be somewhat minor in terms of vehicle damage. Do not let the minimal vehicle damage fool you. In an accident, your body can experience tremendous “G” forces in a manner of a fraction of a second, and this can cause damage that if not immediately, will eventually be debilitating.

Learn more about the hidden injuries sustained in car accidents. Call for a free brochure, 801-955-1555. Or you could just come in for a free consultation. Call today, and either way get the information that could literally save your life. Call 801-955-1555.

Is your chiropractor an expensive aspirin?

Most people seek chiropractic care when they have pain. Yes, I said “most”, because, believe it or not, there are people who see a chiropractor on a regular basis regardless of the presence or absence of pain.

Pain is nothing more than a symptom, but we are programmed in our society to focus on the symptom. This is the medical model, and because insurance companies are owned and operated by medical doctors, it is the insurance model. If you do not have symptoms, you do not need care. If you do have symptoms, than care should be focused on getting rid of the symptom and nothing more.

Because of how we have been programmed we go to a chiropractor when the “pain relievers” do not work, and we ask the chiropractor to get rid of our pain. We give it a few shots, and in most cases the pain will be better if not gone, and we think that we are cured, or at least as good as we will get.

Unfortunately, many chiropractors have lost sight of the basic principles upon which chiropractic was found. Mainly this has happened because of third party payers (insurance companies) who only pay for care associated with symptoms.

So, to many people and to many chiropractors, chiropractic has become just an expensive aspirin. But for some patients and some chiropractors who understand the workings of the human body, chiropractic is a way of life, a way of healthy living.

To learn more, come to my free workshop on Thursday nights at 7:30pm. Call my office at 801-955-1555 to reserve your seats. Or you may want to just come by and see the office and ask me some questions. I am happy to oblige, and will even offer you a free spinal screening when you come by. Just call 801-955-1555 to let us know when you want to come by.

Raise your hand if it hurts.

Studies show that passive joint mobilization (When another person causes your joints to move while you do nothing) is effective treatment for osteoarthritis in the hands. The study indicated that this type of treatment helped to reduce pain and improve function (mobility) of the hand. (Jorge H. Villafane, PT, MSc, PhD, Guillermo B. Silva, MSc, PhD, Alessandro Chiarotto, PT Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics Vol. 35 Number 9 Pages 735-742)

If you are suffering from pain in your hands, call us at the Head, Neck and Back Pain Relief Center of West Valley, 801-955-1555. There is no reason that you should suffer, so call today 801-955-1555. If you mention the key phrase, “Hand Shake” then you will receive your consultation, examination and any needed X-rays for only $48.00. But you must call 801-955-1555 and use the phrase “Hand Shake”.

Insurance and Vegas.

If you go to Vegas and gamble, who do you think will win? The house always wins! That is why they can afford all of the big buildings. We are deceiving ourselves if we think that it is any different with insurance. Face it, insurance companies are like any other business. They are in business to turn a profit, and they cannot do that paying out huge payments for medical bills. This is why we have co-pays, deductibles and managed care. The insurance companies have calculated just how best to mitigate their risk and set the terms of your policy to make sure that they make a profit on your money. I’m not saying that they are evil, or that they are doing anything wrong, I just don’t think that we realize what insurance is. We have in our mind some idea that the insurance company is interested in our health, and quite simply, they are not. So when we allow insurance companies to decide what healthcare we do or do not get, we lose. Plain and simple, we lose because we still pay our co-pay and deductible, and we wind up no better off health wise and in many instances, worse off. Use your health insurance for catastrophic events, but not for routine healthcare. Because they just do not cover true healthcare.

We accept most major medical policies, and all auto policies. However, we also recognize that they will not pay for restorative care, but only relief care, so we customize our care plans so that anyone who truly desires to get well can. Call us today for a free consultation. 801-955-1555. We can talk with you about your condition, your insurance, and what we can do to help restore your health. Call now 801-955-1555. Mention this blog and receive free x-rays. Call 801-955-1555 now.

Maybe it “WON’T” go away!

Often people come in to my office after suffering with a particular pain for months. They usually make the statement that they kept telling themselves that “maybe it will go away.” I had one patient recently that had suffered for 20 years with low back pain, all the while telling himself that it might go away. Common sense should tell us that a problem will not go away until what is causing the problem goes away.

We pride ourselves on finding the cause and correcting that. This allows the body to heal itself, and when the cause is gone, the pain will go away.

If you or someone you love are still waiting for a particular pain to go away, call us at 801-955-1555. We will find the cause, and if it is something that we can treat, we will correct the cause and the pain will go away. But we cannot know if we can help you without checking to see what is causing your pain first, so call 801-955-1555 and schedule a free consultation. We are on panel with most insurance companies, and work great with those we are not on panel with.

Call us today and get on track to get rid of your chronic pain. 801-955-1555 call today and say you want the pain to go away.

Colic and Chiropractic

A three week old baby boy was brought to my office because his poor mother was unable to put him down since he had been born. He was constipated, and would cry horribly unless she held him and bounced him gently up and down while she was pacing the floor.

An examination of his spine revealed a few subluxations (misalignments). After a very gentle adjustment to his spine, they were sent home.

Fifteen minutes later, this young mother called me and told me that on the way home he had pooped so much that it filled his pajamas to the neck. After cleaning him up, she was able to lay him in his crib and for the first time since he had been born he was able to sleep. And so was she.

If you have a child or know someone who has a child suffering like this, please call today 801-955-1555 and let’s find out if chiropractic can help them. Just call and say that you have a fussy baby and we will get you in and check your baby and if needed treat your baby with a gentle adjustment for only $29. Call 801-955-1555 today and ask for the “Fussy Baby special”.

When the crunch happens.

No matter how minor a car crash is, you should be checked by a certified automobile accident occupant injury specialist. You may have soft tissue injuries that, if not treated,could lead to debilitating pain and long term damage. Call us today for a free consultation at 801-955-1555. If you are injured, your insurance will cover your examining and treatment. So call now 801-955-1555 and tell us that you got crunched.

19-Year-old has frequent dizzy spells.

A 19-year-old young man presented to my office, two months prior to him leaving on a 2 year service mission for his church, complaining of frequent dizzy spells. He had been to his primary care physician who sent him to an ear nose and throat specialist. They were unable to find the cause of his dizzy spells. A history taken when he came in revealed that he had been involved in an automobile accident a few years prior. A chiropractic examination and X-rays demonstrated, among other things, that his Atlas (the first vertebrae in the spine that the skull actually sits on) was rotated and shifted to one side. After a few weeks of treatment in my office, the dizzy spells are gone and he is ready to go on his mission with confidence. If you or a loved one suffers with dizziness or vertigo, call our office at 801-955-1555 and schedule an appointment to see if we can help. I will pay for your initial consultation, examination and any needed X-rays. You will only need to pay $48.00 for your adjustment. Call today 801-955-1555, and say that you want to take advantage of Dr. Snow’s dizzying offer. You will receive a Consultation, examination and any needed X-rays with no out of pocket expense to you. Dr. Snow will cover the cost of that. You will only need to pay $48.00 for your first adjustment. But call now because this offer won’t last. Call 801-955-1555.

Federal law prohibits us from making this offer to medicare/medicaid recipients.

Migraines Gone!!

A thirty year old woman underwent surgery on her neck for a herniated disc. She presented to my office one year after the surgery, and had suffered for that entire year with crippling neck pain and migraine headaches. We found through examination that she had structural abnormalities and vertebral subluxations in her neck. This had caused some degeneration of her inter-vertebral discs. After a course of care in my office consisting of spinal manipulation and physio-therapies, she now reports that she is pain free and is able to function normally on a daily basis as a busy mother and customer service rep for a large company. Don’t allow yourself or a loved one to suffer one day more. Call 801-955-1555 today to find out if I can help you. Mention this article, and receive your consultation, examination, needed X-rays and your first adjustment for only $49. Call 801-955-1555 to schedule, but you must mention this article. Just say that you read about Dorothy O. Call now!

Physical Fitness Can Prevent Some Musculoskeletal Injuries.

Brazilian researchers found that out-of-shape workers in jobs with light physical demands are 3.19 times more likely to suffer from neck, shoulder, or upper-back injuries when compared with co-workers who are in shape. However, physical fitness appears to have no protective effect for workers in jobs with heavy physical demands. Cadernos De Saud Publica, October 2014. Get relief today! Call 801-955-1555

Work-Related Back Pain Risk Factors Can Lead to Back Pain During Retirement.

French researchers followed over 1,500 older men for a decade and found that those who worked at jobs with high amounts of bending and twisting were 50-70%
more likely to experience back pain during retirement than their peers who retired from jobs that didn’t involve such occupational exposure to bending and twisting. The researchers advise that companies should take greater measures in the workplace to decrease or
eliminate biomechanical hazards such as bending and twisting in order to help ensure better health for their employees later in life. International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, September 2014

Is your job a pain in the back? Get relief now, call 801-955-1555

Effective Relief for Sacroiliac Pain.

The sacroiliac joint is located at the base of the spine at the junction of the sacrum and pelvis. Dysfunction in the sacroiliac joint can result in pain in the immediate area and even refer pain to the hip, groin, buttocks, or thigh. In a 2012 study, 32 women with sacroiliac joint syndrome found immediate pain relief after a single chiropractic treatment and significant reduction of pain both 48 hours and one month following treatment. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, January 2012 Get relief today by calling 801-955-1555.

Trigeminal Neuralgia Resolves Following Chiropractic Care.

This case study involves a 77-year-old female with a seven-year history of severe right-sided trigeminal neuralgia. Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from the face to the brain. Chiropractic care was used to correct joint fixations, and the patient was advised to take omega-3 fatty acid and vitamin D supplements. After six visits, the patient noted a significant improvement in pain and after four months, she discontinued her previously prescribed medication. At six months, she was pain-free. The case demonstrates the benefit of chiropractic care in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, November 2014

Get relief from your pain now. Call 801-955-1555

1 in 5 Americans Experience Chronic Pain.

A new survey involving roughly 35,000 households in the United States reveals that nearly 20% of Americans suffer with chronic pain. Among individuals with chronic pain, more than two-thirds have constant pain, while more than 50% say their pain can be unbearable and excruciating at times. Medications only relieve about a third or less of the chronic pain and can be completely ineffective in treating some types of chronic pain. The author suggests a variety of potential interventions, including physical and occupational therapy, exercise, dietary changes, weight loss, massage and psychotherapy, acupuncture, yoga, and chiropractic services to help patients manage chronic pain. Journal of Pain, October 2014

Pain relief is just a phone call away. Call us at 801-955-1555

Thoracic Adjustments Help Low Back Pain Patients.

Chronic low back pain patients who received spinal manipulation treatment in the mid-back region of the spine reported improved range of motion and function when compared with a control group. Furthermore, the patients who received thoracic spinal manipulation also scored lower on the Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ). This is good news because higher FABQ scores have been correlated with reduced activity levels, avoidance behaviors, prolonged disability, and adverse physical and psychological effects. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, November 2014

How Common is Back Pain in Kids?

It is known that back pain occurs in children, but its development in this age group isn’t well understood. A new study finds that 13-38% of children ages 6-12 years old report back pain at least once per year and 5-23% report a minimum of two episodes of back pain per year. The findings reveal that back pain is not a common problem in children and health professionals should be watchful if a child presents with constant or recurring back pain. Further study is needed regarding the circumstance surrounding the appearance of back pain in childhood as well as how bio-psycho-social factors affect its onset and recurrence. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, November 2014

If your child has back pain, call 801-955-1555.

Providers Should Consider Vitamin D for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain.

Because vitamin D deficiency is very common and has been associated with a myriad of health problems, many Chiropractors recommend vitamin D supplements to their patients as part of a healthy lifestyle. For patients with chronic non-specific musculoskeletal pain, vitamin D supplementation is known to help reduce symptoms and has little-to-no documented side effects. The Lead South Australia, November 2014. Start feeling better today, call 801-955-1555.

A Brief Introduction.

Chiropractors are healthcare providers who primarily perform skilled manipulations (adjustments) to the spine and/or extremities. Their goal is to correct or improve alignment, reduce pain, and support the body’s natural ability to heal itself. In addition to adjustments, Chiropractic care may also involve other treatments such as heat and ice, electrical stimulation, relaxation techniques, rehabilitative and general exercise, counseling about diet and other lifestyle factors, and dietary supplement recommendations. NIH: National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, September 2014 Find out if chiropractic can help you. Call today for a free consultation. 801-955-1555

Neck Pain is a Very Common Problem for Flight Attendants.

After interviewing 105 cabin crewmembers from a major international airline, researchers found that 30% of those they spoke to currently suffered from neck pain. Without proper treatment, the researchers warn that mechanical neck pain can not only get worse, but may also lead to other symptoms such as headache or vertigo. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, November 2014. Learn what is causing your neck pain and get relief today! Call 801-955-1555

Can Internet Use Cause Neck and Back Pain?

Teens who spend more time on the internet than most of their peers are twice as likely to report sleep-related problems. Among adolescents, difficulty sleeping has been observed to increase a child’s risk for obesity, chronic conditions, and musculoskeletal pain, including both neck and back pain. The authors of the study advise parents to limit the time their teens spend online, especially if it interferes with getting adequate sleep. Swiss Medical Weekly, December 2014. Find out if chiropractic can help you with your chronic pain. Call 801-955-1555 for a free consultation.

Spinal Manipulation Reduces Oxidative Stress in Cells!

Twenty-three chronic neck or back pain patients received spinal manipulation twice a week for five weeks. Pre- and post-treatment blood tests showed an increase in the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). SOD and GPx have been observed to decrease oxidative stress in cells. Oxidative stress is associated with reduced telomere length, a biomarker of biological aging. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, December 2014 Find out if you have spinal problems that could be causing you to age prematurely. Call us today at 801-955-1555 for a free consultation.

Adjust Your Monitor!

After following 559 office workers for one year, researchers have determined that the best predictor for the onset of neck pain is perceived muscle tension. Of the top three factors associated with perceived muscle tension, only monitor height is modifiable, with the other two being female gender and history of neck pain. So, if you work in an office setting, adjust your monitor so it’s at eye level. Journal of Occupational Health, December 2014. If you would like Dr. Snow to present a free presentation on ergonomics at your business, call us at 801-955-1555 to schedule that free 30 minute presentation.

Be a Smart Patient.

Playing an active role in your health is very important when scheduling a procedure at the doctor’s office or hospital. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions: ask questions or tell your doctor you need more information, share complete medical and family history, keep a record of all medications and vitamin supplements, and talk to your provider about learning more about your condition or surgery. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, December 2014

Energy Drinks Equal Unhealthy Behaviors in Adolescents.

Researchers at the University of Minnesota and Duke University have found an association between the consumption of sports and energy drinks and higher consumption of sugary drinks and smoking. Healthcare professionals are concerned about this growing cluster of unhealthy behaviors among adolescents and believe that a push for healthy hydration habits is needed. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that energy drinks should not be consumed, as they offer no health benefits and over-stimulate the nervous system. Journal of Nutritional Education and Behavior, May 2014

Backpacks Can Lead to Back, Neck, and Shoulder Pain!

Backpacks can pose a threat to kids’ backs, necks, and shoulders if used improperly. In 2013, there were more than 5,400 backpack-related injuries treated in emergency rooms in the United States. Dr. Scott Bautch, a member of the American Chiropractic Association’s Council on Occupational Health, advises that a backpack should weigh no more than 5-10% of a child’s weight. Additionally, the backpack should never be wider or longer than the child’s torso and should not hang more than 4 inches (~10 cm) below the waistline. American Chiropractic Association, July 2015

Smoking Compromises Spinal Disks.

As if there were not enough reasons to quit (or never start) smoking, a new study finds that nicotine can reduce the presence of the natural lubricant called glycosaminoglycan in the spinal disks by between 50-65%. When normal function is hindered, the cartilage in the disks can begin to wear down, leading to the painful condition called degenerative disk disease. PLOS ONE, August 2015

Adjustments Resolve Breastfeeding Problems.

A mother brought her four-week-old baby in for a chiropractic consultation regarding the baby’s inability to effectively latch onto her left breast when trying to breastfeed. Following an assessment, the infant received gentle adjustments to the neck and jaw to reduce muscle tightness and improve range of motion. The baby was then able to breastfeed on the left breast without issues. Further research is warranted to fully understand the implications of birth trauma and impaired function or dysfunction in breastfeeding. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic, July 2015

The rule of thumb for a car crash:***

The vehicle with the most lug nuts wins. Although nobody actually wins. Regardless of what vehicle you are in, if you have been in a crash you need to be checked by a certified professional.

Do You Need a Different Pillow to Ease Neck Pain?

Do you suffer from neck pain during sleep or upon waking? Experts from Harvard Medical School recommend sleeping on your back or side, never using a pillow that is too tall or too firm, and using a pillow that keeps your neck straight if you are a side sleeper and supports the normal forward curve of your neck when sleeping on your back. Harvard Medical School, July 2015

Why do medical doctors dicourage patients from seeing chiropractors?

The American Medical Association will do almost anything to prevent people from utilizing alternative and complementary medicine. The medical profession does not want any competition for dollars in the health care arena. For years, the medical profession targeted the chiropractic profession, an alternative to conventional medicine. The “party line” used by all medical practitioners was “they are quacks”. They told patients that chiropractic was non-scientific. Even today, many medical practitioners will try to scare patients away from seeing a chiropractor. They will say that it is unsafe, and may cause a stroke. What they fail to tell the patient is that the incident of stroke from a chiropractic manipulation is 1 in 4 million. They do not tell the patient that over 400 thousand people die each year from complications of conventional medical care. Or they may try to act as though they are knowledgeable about chiropractic, and tell the patient what the chiropractor may and may not adjust. Only a chiropractor is qualified to determin what is or is not safe to adjust. In 1987, the AMA was found guilty of illegally trying to destroy the chiropractic profession. A judge ruled that the American Medical Association, the American College of Surgeons, and the American College of Radiology violated the Sherman Anti-trust laws of the United States by organizing a national boycott of doctors of chiropractic by medical doctors. (Chiro.org) Alternative medicine is rapidly growing with consumers willing to pay out of pocket and much to the chagrin of pharmaceutical companies and the AMA.

Chiropractic Promotes Health.

Chiropractic is mainstream medicine, but it is natural health care, why? Because it focuses on restoring the body’s own recuperative ability and then allowing the body to heel. Where does health come from? Health is not in a bottle or a syringe. Health does not come from the removal of an organ. Health is the optimal function and well being of the individual. Life choices that lead to a feeling of well being, and the optimal function of the organs will lead to health. Regular chiropractic care is one of those life choices. It releases the flow of nerve energy allowing the organs to function optimally.

WEST VALLEY DOCTOR HAS RECOMMENDATION TO HELP PREVENT THE FLU.

We are all concerned about the outbreak of the swine flu. Now there is concern about “Tamiflu”, the antiviral drug used to treat the swine flu. Researchers are telling us that the use of this drug will lead to a drug resistant strain of the virus. The active ingredient in the Tamiflu drug is excreted in urine and feces, and does not break down in the water treatment process. This leads to a concentration of this drug in our water ways. As birds drink this water, it will kill the non-resistant strain of the virus, and allow the restant strain to proliferate uninhibited.

Interesting news comes out of Korea, where there have been no human cases of bird flu reported. Scientists there have cured the bird flu in chickens by giving them Kimchi, a Korean cabbage dish.

Scientists at Seoul National University reported that the same protective power is present in sauerkraut and kosher garlic dill pickles. The Korean scientists say that it is the lactobacilli that gives these foods their antiviral effect.

A study done during the 1999/2000 flu season in Norway showed that Elderberry (available in health food stores) reduced the duration of the flu by 4 days.

Retroscreen Virology, a leading British medical research group associated with Queen Mary College, University of London, found that Sambucol (a syrup containing the active ingredient in Elderberry) was 99% effective against the avian flu.

(Maryann Napoli 2006 Centers For Medical Consumers. medicalconsumers@earthlink.net)

Utah Auto Accident Attorney Says LDS Church is Reason for Low Settlements in Utah.

As I stated in my last blog, a local auto accident attorney claimed that in his opinion the LDS faith had a lot to do with the low settlements awarded by juries here in Utah.

According to him, it has to do with the pioneer history and the great difficulties and hardships endured by the early pioneers. The jurors are less likely to have empathy for the victim of an auto accident. “They just need to tuffin up” they might think.

Consequently, in cases where there is little damage to the vehicle, the jurors may have difficulty seeing how the victim could have been injured. Often they will compare their own life experiences or those of an ancestor to the victim’s and think they are just being weak and whiny. This has lead to low settlements in cases where the victim truly is injured, and is seeking only to take care of the expenses incurred as a result of the accident.

It is important to note that the amount of property damage occurring in an automobile accident does not and cannot be used to determine the personal injury suffered by the occupants of the vehicle. It is just as true that one occupant’s injury cannot be used to determine how injured a second occupant in the same vehicle should have.

In a future blog, I will discuss more, the seriousness of the “soft tissue” injuries that occur in an automobile accident.

Salt Lake Auto Accident Attorney Offers a Discount to Auto Accident Victims.

I had a lunch meeting with an Auto Accident Attorney last week. He serves people all along the Wasatch front. In our conversation, he informed me that the customary fee for representation in an automobile accident case is 30% of whatever is recovered. This means that the victim does not have any out of pocket expense up front, and really none at the end. The attorney just keeps 30% of what they recovered for the victim.

What is even greater is that this particular attorney told me that for cases that he is able to settle without litigation, he would give the client/patient a 20% discount on his/her services. This is great for the client.

It was also interesting to hear his take on why litigating a case in Utah is so dangerous, and why he thinks that the LDS church has something to do with the low judgments given by Utah Juries. I will save that information for my next blog.

A Magna, Utah woman’s hopes of having a baby have improved.

A Magna, Utah woman has suffered from dysmenorrhea for years. This is a condition in which she was unable to have a regular menstrual cycle. In fact she had to take medications each month for her cycle to start. So what does this have to do with chiropractic?

This woman came to me for back pain. In examining her, we found several postural distortions, and subluxations. As we worked to correct these conditions, the proper nerve supply to her reproductive organs was restored, and she now has regular cycles monthly without the use of drugs.

She and her husband have not been able to have any children, but now they have hope of being able to.

West Valley Woman with frozen shoulder was helped by Chiropractic.

The shoulder joint is enclosed with a capsule of connective tissue. This capsule helps to support the joint, and keep it lubricated. Sometimes adhesions can form in the capsule, which causes a very painful condition known as adhesive capsulitis. You probably know it as “frozen shoulder syndrome”.

With this condition, the patient will have greatly reduced range of motion in the shoulder, and tremendous pain upon movement. This condition can lead to the complete loss of the use of the affected limb.

A West Valley Woman came to our clinic with this condition. She also had severe neck pain, upper back pain, and headaches. After her examination, X-rays, and a few weeks of conservative chiropractic care, she was free from headaches, had reduced neck pain, and a little more movement in her shoulder. It was determined that she was a candidate for a procedure known as Manipulation under Anesthesia.

In this procedure, the patient is put into twilight sedation, and then manipulated. The patient sleeps through the procedure, and so there is no apprehension, or muscle guarding. With this patient we were able to mobilize her neck and shoulder much better, then when she was awake. This altered the adhesions in her shoulder joint and neck.

On the Monday following this procedure, the patient informed us that it had been a complete success. She had regained the strength and almost all of her range of motion in her shoulder. She is also now out of pain.

West Valley Chiropractor Helps woman regain the use of her arm.

A West Valley, Utah Chiropractor, Dr. Mark Snow treated a local woman who had lost most of the range of motion in her right arm, and much of the strength as well.

This patient had what is known as adhesive capsulitis. The shoulder joint is surounded by a capsule of connective tissue. This helps to support the joint, as well as keeping it lubricated. In adhesive capsulitis, adhesions form in this capsule, and cause tremendous pain and loss of movement.

Dr. Snow treated this patient with a procedure known as Manipulation Under Anesthesia. In this procedure the patient is put into a twilight sedation , and then the joint can be manipulated without muscle gaurding, or aprehension on the part of the patient. “The procedure was a complete success” the patient declared the Monday following the three day procedure the week prior.

This patient had also suffered from upper back and neck pain as well as headaches, all of which were also resolved through this pro

Flu Shot

Here we are in the cold and flu season, and we are hearing all the hype about the late coming flu vaccine. Well, we would all be a lot better off if it never got here in the first place. What they do not tell you about the flu shot, is that they started making it last year. The flu virus mutates every year and they do not know what the flu virus is or how it looks until it gets here from asia. So the vaccine this year that they sarted making last year is most likely not effective against the strain that we will see. More over, getting a flu shot is allowing all kinds of toxic chemicals to be injected directly into your body causing the body to react in various ways. The side effects of which can include autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Take your chance with the flu. Take good vitamin supplements to build your immune system, and wash your hands frequently. If you get it, you will be sick for a while and then you will be truly immune to that strain. You can email me at drmarksnow@westvalleyfamilyclinic.com to ask any questions that you may have.

The Straw That Broke The Camel’s Back

It is amazing how many people come in to my office in terrible pain, and when asked what started it they say something like, â€œI just bent over to pick up a piece of paper.â€ Nothing ever happens all of a sudden in the body. This is characteristic of a classic case of subluxation degeneration. A problem has existed for months or even years without symptoms, and finally when they bent over that was just enough to put the weakened system over the limit.

Thinking that something like this happens all of a sudden is like waking with a tooth ache, and going to the dentist. The dentist finds a cavity, and you think it developed over night while you slept.

The problem has been there for a while without pain, and once care begins it will still be there even though the pain subsides. This is another reason that proper examination and x-rays are critical. These are objective ways to monitor progress. Follow up x-rays should be taken between 30 and 90 days after beginning care.

Once the problem is properly taken care of, then maintenance care is critical to prevent further problems from developing. If you would like to ask me any questions, feel free to email me at drmarksnow@westvalleyfamilyclinic.com. To listen to my recorded messages, go to http://www.westvalleyfamilyclinic.com/media.

Type 2 Diabetes

Insulin grabs glucose(sugar) in the blood, and carries it to the cells. The surfaces of the cells have receptor sites on them to allow the insulin to attach, and unload itâ€™s glucose into the cells to be used. In our society, we eat foods that are high in fats and simple sugars, and most of us do not get enough exercise. This lack of exercise causes a reduction in the amount of recepter sites for insulin. This reduces the amount of glucose (sugar) that can be removed from the blood. We wind up with elevated sugar levels in the blood, and starving cells. A regular exercise program is essential to the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. We also need to supplement our diet with products that cause our body to better metabolize the sugars that we eat. If you have any questions, feel free to email them to me at drmarksnow@westvalleyfamilyclinic.com.

Arnica

One of my â€œAsk The Doctorâ€ clients wrote to me yesterday asking about a natural analgesic known as Arnica Montana. He is an avid runner, and was looking for something to deal with the aches and pains associated with a long run.

Arnica is a wild flower that grows in high elevations. It is in the sunflower family. In the United States, it is found in the mountains of the Northwest. This plant works well as a natural anti-inflammatory. It is best used topically. In the field, one can poor boiling water over the flowering head, remove the excess water, and then apply the flowering head hot to the injured area. Leave it in place until it cools, and then repeat 2 to 3 times.

This herb can also be taken orally, however there are some risks. overdosing with this herb can lead to vomitting, diarrhea, and mucos membrane hemorrhage.

It also acts as a cardiac muscle stimulant, and therefore can be an effective treatment for cardiac insufficiency. Again, it is necessary to be careful with this as overdosing can lead to cardiac muscle palsy following overstimulation.

Other names of this herb are, Mountain Tobacco, Leopardâ€™s Bane, Wolfsbane, Arnica Flowers, and Arnica Root.

If you have any questions, you can write them to me at drmarksnow@westvalleyfamilyclinic.com.

Why take “whole food” based supplements?

What is the difference between food based supplements and synthetic supplements? Most supplements that you can buy in the grocery store are synthetic vitamins. What that means is that they have been made in a laboratory. They have been able to look at the chemical structure of a nutrient like vitamin C, and then they mix those chemicals together in a lab and call it â€œVitamin Câ€. In fact, it is not a complete vitamin C, but is only ascorbic acid.

The complete vitamin C complex has many more factors to it such as bioflavinoids, quercitin, rutin, K and J factors as well as other substances, which we are unable to replicate in a laboratory. So what is wrong with taking supplements which are made in a laboratory?

The problem is that our bodies are the ultimate laboratories. If we take into our body a â€œpartialâ€ supplement, then the body will recognize the deficiency, and it will add the missing substances to make the vitamin whole and usable. This will lead to a deficiency in the body. Whole food based supplements are not made in a laboratory, but are concentrated from whole foods known to have a high concentration of the needed nutrient.

For instance, Optimal 2 vitamin mineral antioxidant formula from Optimal Health Systems contains acerola cherry, which is a rich source of vitamin C. Remember that these are concentrated, so for you to get the same amount of vitamin C by eating the cherries, you would be eating constantly. Because whole food based supplements are complete, they require a lower dose to be even more effective than the higher doses of synthetic vitamins.

Now a word about enzymes. Enzymes are the bodyâ€™s chemists. They re the guys that make all of the essential chemical reactions in the body happen. Our bodies have a store of enzymes. Most of our diets are deficient in enzymes, and therefore the bodyâ€™s store of enzymes is many times drained, and we are unable to utilize the nutrients that we take into our bodies. Whole food based supplements are complete with enzymes that not only help to utilize the supplement, but also other nutrients that we take in in the way of food. The more processed our foods are the more that we need to supplement our enzymes.

If you are wondering if you have a vitamin deficiency, take a free online nutritional assessment at http://sfhc.optimalhealthsystems.com. You can listen to this blog as a podcast at www.westvalleyfamilyclinic.com/audio/nutrition1.mp3. My Odeo Channel Just claiming my podcast on odeo. Until next time, hereâ€™s to your health, thank you.

Allergies And Arthritis

Allergies are reactions, by the body, to substances which are typically harmless. These reactions can range in severity from full on watery eyes, runny nose, and sneazing to mild reactions which do not produce any â€œnoticableâ€ symptoms. Usually known as a sensativity these milder reactions are very dangerous because they can cause degenerative processes which are unnoticed until marked damage has occured. Leaky gut syndrome, a condition in which the lining of the intestine allows the passage of large molecules into the blood stream is believed to be one of the causes of allergies. These larger molecules can become attached to â€œselfâ€ tissue, and fool the body into recognizing that â€œselfâ€ tissue as a pathogen. The body then builds an immunity to that tissue, and begins an assault on it. This tissue could be the joint linings, causing an arthritic condition. This is why many arthritic conditions are known as â€œauto-immuneâ€ diseases. People with conditions such as arthritis, psoriasis, and intestinal disorders should be checked for allergies. If you have any questions, please address them to drmarksnow@westvalleyfamilyclinic.com.

I Think That I Slept Wrong.

No doubt that we can put ourselves in some very awkward positions in our sleep, and can wake up feeling stiff and sore from it. However, this should be the exception, and not the rule. Often I have people tell me that they wake up every morning with stiffness in their lowback, or neck, and that they think it is because they are sleeping wrong. Well, if thatâ€™s the case then they need to go back to sleeping school. We donâ€™t sleep wrong every night. To say that is just a way of brushing aside the obvious, and trying to ignore the fact that there is a serious problem. If you are waking up with pain and stiffness on any regular basis, then you need to get checked. Please address any questions that you may have to drmarksnow@westvalleyfamilyclinic.com.

No Pain Does Not Mean No Problem.

Often I find people who have no complaint of symptoms, but have broblems in their spine. It is not uncommon to find moderate to severe degeneration in the spine of someone who has no history of symptoms. It is interesting how these people seem surprised to find out that they are so bad off and yet have no symptoms. How often have we gone to a dentist for a routine check up and found out that we had cavities even though we didnâ€™t have a tooth ache?

Even more surprising to me is how often people will put off taking care of a problem because there are no symptoms. We tend to think that if there are no symptoms, then there is no problem.

The leeding cause of death in the United States is heart disease. 47% of the time, the first sign of heart disease is death. How many of us would put off taking care of a heart problem, which was detected in a routine examination prior to the developement of symptoms?

Some might say, â€œwell, thatâ€™s different, thatâ€™s the heart weâ€™re talking about.â€ It really is not any different, and here is why. If you took your car in for itâ€™s routine maintenance, and where told that the transmision had a problem and needed to be fixed before it left you stranded, you would probably get it fixed. But, what if you were told that there was an electrical problem which was causing a short in the communication between the computer and your transmission. If not fixed, then eventually it would also ruin your transmission. Would you get it fixed? Well, when there is misalignment of the spine, which interferes with the nerves carying information from the brain to the body, it will eventually leed to the breakdown of one or more organs.

Donâ€™t rely on symptoms to determine your health, get checked by a chiropractor, and if there is a problem, get it fixed. The problem with waiting until there are symptoms, is that while you are waiting the degeneration continues to get worse. When you do go to get it fixed, it will take longer, cost more, and may not be able to be completely corrected.

What is Up With Insurance And Chiropractic Care?

In 1969 the American Medical Association was found guilty, in a court of law, of conspiracy for trying to wipe out the Chiropractic profession. The conspiracy continues today.

Chiropractic began as a cash for service type of business. Insurance companies would not recognize chiropractic as a viable health care profession. Chiropractors did very well in this business model however. People got results, and they were willing to pay for it. The number of people seeing chiropractors sky rocketed. This of course cut into the pockets of the medical profession, hence the conspiracy.

In the late 1970’s, and early 1980’s the medically owned and operated insurance companies started to allow chiropractors to panel with their companies. After their admission into the private insurance sector, the chiropractic profession was quickly and easily made into insurance junkies. Claims were paid quickly, and generously. Patients also began to rely on their insurance companies to pay for their chiropractic care. Again, the number of visits to chiropractors grew, and people loved it. They got great care, great results, and at no additional cost.

In the mid 1990’s, things began to change. First, insurance companies began to restrict what codes chiropractors could use, herding them into a tight coral. Then they began reducing reimbursement on those codes and continuing to eliminate codes narrowing the options. They also started to increase deductibles, and co-pay amounts making it more expensive for the consumer.

People were not used to paying for their chiropractic care anymore. They had become acclimated, and it was foreign and uncomfortable to have to start laying out the cash for their chiropractic care. Consequently, people stopped going to the chiropractor, and because the chiropractic profession as a whole had become so dependant on the insurance companies, this reduction in payments caused thousands of chiropractors to go belly up.

Today, it is necessary for chiropractors to return to somewhat of a cash basis for practice in order to survive. Many chiropractors refuse to become panelled with insurance companies, but are willing to bill the insurance for whatever out of network benefits the patient might have. The balance of the care is paid for in cash by the patient.

Medicare has paid for chiropractic for years, however it has not been on even keel with the medical profession. At first, medicare would require X-rays to be taken in order to diagnose a subluxation, which is what chiropractors treat. The problem is that medicare will not pay for a chiropractor to perform an examination or X-rays. Chiropractors practice physical medicine, which means that they typically use modalities such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound, traction, etc. Medicare will not pay a chiropractor for these services. Medicare greatly limits the amount that a chiropractor can charge for the services that they do cover, which is only an adjustment. Because medicare is a federally funded program, it is difficult for chiropractors to treat any patient who is on medicare on even a cash basis and be profitable.

If socialized medicine is introduced into this country, it will most likely follow the medicare model. This will be a mortal blow to the chiropractic profession. The medical profession is still trying to wipe out the chiropractic profession by covertly limiting the chiropractor’s ability to make a living.

What do the calluses on your feet have to do with your back pain?

The calluses on your feet tell a tale of how you walk, or your gate. Your gate is partly determined by the structure of your feet. Your feet, being your foundation, effect everything above. So a proper chiropractic examination will include a look at the feet, because problems there can, will and do cause problems in the ankles, knees, hips, low back and even headaches.

If you feel that you have tried everything, including chiropractic, but still are suffering, give me a call at 801-955-1555. I will give you a free foot examination to see if there is a problem there that may be preventing you from truly healing. If your foundation is bad, the structure that it sits on is bad. Let’s see what is going on that is preventing you from feeling well. Call 801-955-1555. There is no cost and no obligation. All you get is a free foot exam and free advice. Call now, 801-955-1555 and say that you want your feet checked.

I’ve heard of Carpal Tunnel, but what is Tarsal Tunnel?

Carpal Tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the tunnel, in the wrist, made up of bones, muscles and ligaments, through which the nerves and blood vessels pass is narrowed by inflammation of surrounding soft tissues. This condition responds very well to physical medicine like that provided by a chiropractor. I have had many patients who have avoided surgery by following a physical medicine regime. Tarsal tunnel is a similar condition which happens in the feet. The symptoms are the same, pain and numbness, in the toes. Like carpal tunnel syndrome, tarsal tunnel syndrome responds very well to physical medicine.

If you suffer with pain and numbness in your fingers or toes, and would like to know if chiropractic can help, call us at 801-955-1555 to schedule a free consultation. Surgical intervention for these conditions is painful, requires a long recovery, and if effective only give temporary benefits. Call us now at 801-955-1555 and let us see if we can give you permanent relief without the pain and long recovery of surgery.

Many people with these conditions suffer what is called a double crunch syndrome. Call us now at 801-955-1555 to find out if you have this condition.

Give the gift of health

Sometimes people are afraid to try chiropractic because they are not sure of the cost. Most insurance companies have chiropractic coverage. Even Medicare and Medicaid cover chiropractic. So there really is no reason to not see a chiropractor to find out if we can help. But for those who may still be a bit leery, here is a great deal.

If you have a friend or a loved one (or even yourself) who suffers with some type of chronic pain, you can give them a gift this holiday season that may very well change their lives forever. Call us at 801-955-1555 and find out how you can give up to $250.00 worth of services for only $25.00. That is correct, give up to $250.00 worth of services for only $25.00.

Unfortunately, due to federal guidelines, we cannot offer this discount to patients who receive Medicare or Medicaid benefits. For all others, with or without insurance, call us today at 801-955-1555 to get up to $250.00 in services for only $25.00.

Discount certificate has no cash value, and cannot be used by more than one person. Call now 801-955-1555.

Believe it or not, Chiropractors do not treat back pain!

Back pain, neck pain, sciatica, headaches, all types of pain are symptoms of a problem. That is all they are, symptoms. The problem is what is causing the pain. It is like having your hand on a hot stove. You feel the pain caused by that, and if you were to only treat the pain with some type of pain blocker, than you would still have the problem of your hand cooking on the hot stove. Likewise, if a chiropractor were to only rub or “pop” the area that you say hurts, than the problem may not get taken care of. Chiropractors are trained to locate misalignments in the vertebral column, which are known as subluxations, and to correct those misalignments. The subluxations can apply pressure to nerves and tissues causing pain either in the area of subluxation, or in an area remote to the subluxation. Subluxations can also cause alteration in the bio-mechanical structure of the spinal column thereby causing altered posture and associated muscle tension. By finding and treating the subluxation, the problem is solved and consequently the pain will go away, whether or not it is in the area of treatment.

If you would like to see if you have subluxations that could be causing your symptoms, than call today 801-955-1555 to schedule a free spinal screening. I will sit down with you, talk with you about your symptoms and then do a free check of your spine. Call now, 801-955-1555. Quit treating the symptom and find the cause. Call 801-955-1555.

“I don’t know where this pain came from.”***

A 14 year old girl presented to my office today complaining of low back pain that she has had for one year. She did not understand what could have caused her low back pain. In my consultation with her, I discovered that she was involved in a car crash one year ago, and neither her nor her parents thought that she was hurt.

This X-ray of her low back clearly shows that her spine has shifted to the left, and is no longer straight up and down. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of getting checked following even a minor car crash. If she had been checked following the crash, the auto insurance would have paid for her care. Because if the delay, her parents will be responsible for the cost of her care.

If you have been in a crash, call me now at 801-955-1555 and let’s get you checked. Don’t put it off, because the injuries will not go away by themselves. They will only get worse. Call now 801-955-1555 to schedule your free consultation.

Hidden injuries of whiplash.

Here is what happens in a low speed impact car crash. The x-ray on the left is a normal neck viewed from the side. You will notice the curve forward. The x-ray on the right is an altered curve in the neck from a motor vehicle accident wherein there was minimal damage to the vehicle. Luckily this person sought care immediately, whereas many people will think that little damage to their car means little damage to them and will not seek care. 5 to 10 years down the road, the patient will be suffering from debilitating headaches or arm pain and numbness, or maybe real severe neck and shoulder pain. By that time there would be significant degeneration to the spine because of this altered neck curve.

If you have been in a car crash, even a minor car crash, call us today at 801-955-1555 to get your spine checked. Even if you have no symptoms following a crash you should be checked. Call now at 801-955-1555 to schedule a free consultation.

Resolution of Urinary Incontinence Following Chiropractic Care.

recent case study documented the effectiveness of chiropractic care for a patient suffering from urinary incontinence. The case involved a 63-year-old woman with a recent history of urinary incontinence and spinal pain. She received chiropractic treatment in addition to exercises and traction. During the course of 22 visits, she experienced complete resolution of urinary incontinence, improvements in spinal alignment, and near resolution of spinal pain. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, August 2014

The nerve supply to the bladder comes from the lower back. Misalignments in the lower back can interfere with that nerve supply and effect the function of the bladder. Call today to see if you have misalignments in your lower back that could be effecting your bladder or other organs. 801-955-1555

Don’t let your back give you any heartburn.

Like headaches and pain, heartburn is a symptom, an indication that something is wrong. Drug companies would have you believe that heartburn is caused by too much acid in the stomach, because the antacids that they sell will fix that. However, too much acid in the stomach is also, just a symptom. The questions that you should be asking is, “do I really have too much acid?” and “Why do I have too much acid?” Believe it or not, heart burn can be caused by too little acid in the stomach. This causes foods to sit too long in the stomach and creates bloating that can then lead to acids being pushed up into the esophagus causing heartburn. A simple test would tell you if you have too little acid. 30 minutes before each meal, take a table spoon of pure apple cider vinegar. No doubt this will burn a bit at first, but see if that lessens your heartburn. Apple cider vinegar is a strong acid, and will help in the breaking down of the foods that you eat.

There may be a bio mechanical reason for your heartburn. This would be a hiatal hernia. The hiatal valve is the valve between you stomach and esophagus. If the esophagus slips down into that opening, this can keep the valve open and allow acid to run up your esophagus while you are asleep. this is known as acid reflux disease. To find out if you have this, take a dose of Pepto Bismol before bed, and first thing in the morning check your tongue. If it has black on it, then you have acid reflux. The bismuth in the Pepto Bismol turns black when acted upon by the acid in your stomach, so if the acid runs up your esophagus at night, it will leave a black film on your tongue.

A hiatal hernia can effectively be treated by a soft tissue manipulation performed by a chiropractic physician.

H-pylori is a bacteria that can infect the stomach causing an increase in acid secretion. This is usually treated with antibiotics by your medical physician. Interestingly, the Bismuth is Pepto Bismol will also kill the H-Pylori bacteria.

If you do actually have too much acid in your stomach, than there is something causing your stomach to secrete too much acid. This could be something dietary or there could be something stimulating the nerves that go to the stomach causing the cells to secrete excess acid.

A thorough chiropractic examination would find subluxations (misalignments) in the spine that would put pressure on nerves and cause this problem. Chiropractic treatment would remove the subluxation and restore normal function to the stomach.

Call us today at 801-955-1555 to schedule a free consultation.

Are you at risk?

The number one killer in the United States is Heart disease. 45% of the time, the first sign of heart disease is cardiac arrest and death. What other disabling ailments could we possibly have without knowing it until it hurts us tremendously. All too often, people present to my office in extreme pain only to find out that they have a spinal condition that has been present for 20 to 30 years and has progressed to such a point that it will cause them much suffering and cost them a great deal of money to take care of. Do you have this same condition? If you would like to know, call my office for a free consultation today. Call My office at 801-955-1555 and ask for a free spinal risk assessment.

Does your job have the four risk factors for developing back pain?

A study of 400 dentists identified these four risk factors for development of back pain, which are common with other professions.

Awkward posture at work.
prolonged standing or sitting.
strenuous position of the upper limbs.
the use of vibrating tools.

If your job has these risk factors you might be experiencing upper or even lower back pain. If you are experiencing back pain, you do not need to change your profession, but call us immediately at 801-955-1555 to correct the problem before it causes irreversible degenerative changes.

Neurofeedback, an effective treatment for migraine sufferers.

In a study of migraine sufferers, 70% of participants receiving biofeedback in conjunction with their medical treatment experienced a 50% reduction of their pain. The benefits of treatment lasted over one year, and was greater relief than with medication alone. Neurofeedback is an EEG biofeedback in which audiovisual feedback is used to condition the brain to produce specific wavelengths. (Stokes and Lappin, Behavioral and Brain Functions 2010, 6:9)

If you suffer from migraine headaches, you may benefit from this type of treatment. For a free consultation with the doctor, call 801-955-1555 today.

High-Fructose Corn Syrup May Make You Hungrier.

Investigators found that consuming HFCS-rich foods and drinks appears to increase activity in a region of the brain involved in the reward process, which may stimulate overeating.
American College of Neuropsychopharmacology Meeting, December 2014

Anti-Smoking Campaign Successful and Cost-Effective.

The 2012 Tips From Smokers campaign has been highly successful and cost-effective, according to a new report published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. According to the report, the campaign spent $480 per smoker who quit and $393 per year of life saved. Smoking is the leading preventable cause of disease and death in the United States, killing almost 500,000 Americans every year. Dr. Thomas Frieden, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adds, “There is no question the Tips campaign is a ‘best buy’ for public health — it saves lives and saves money.” American Journal of Preventive Medicine, December 2014

Why are Chiropractors so Highly Rated By Patients?

According to the American Chiropractic Association, “Chiropractic physicians are the highest-rated healthcare practitioners for low-back pain treatments with their patient-centered, whole-person approach that provides greater interaction and communication for appropriate diagnosis and developing more cost-effective treatment planning.” American Chiropractic Association, June 2014

Risk Factors for Musculoskeletal Complaints Among Computer Users.

Ergonomic assessments and interviews with administrative employees indicate that the following are risk factors for the development of musculoskeletal pain in office workers: poor workstation ergonomics, advancing age, smoking, lack of work satisfaction, and a prior-history of musculoskeletal complaints. Scientific World Journal, October 2014

Preventing Low Back Pain in Children.

It’s believed that decreasing the prevalence of back pain in the pediatric population could lead to a lower risk for back pain when they reach adulthood. While it may take decades to know one way or the other, researchers sought to see if back pain prevention training over the course of a school year could lead to a lower risk for first-time and recurrent episodes of back pain among elementary school-age children. The intervention consisted of education that emphasized back awareness and exercises focused on the movement of the spine that children were asked to perform daily. While adherence to exercise was poor and further studies are needed to confirm these findings, the researchers found that total incidences of back pain and first-time incidences of back pain in the intervention group were significantly lower during the study when compared with children in a control group. Physical Therapy, December 2014

Chronic Low Back Pain Common Among Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Athletes.

For jiu-jitsu practitioners, chronic low back pain is a surprisingly common ailment. Among a sample of 72 recreational and professional jiu-jitsu athletes in Rio de Janeiro, 80.6% reported they regularly experience lower back pain. Physical Therapy in Sport, August 2015

Musculoskeletal Pain and Farming.

Canadian researchers surveyed 2,595 farm workers across the Saskatchewan province and found that 85.6% experienced musculoskeletal pain in at least one body part during the previous year. The most common site was the lower back (57.7%), followed by the shoulders (44%) and the neck (39.6%). In all, 27.9% of those polled claimed musculoskeletal pain impacted their ability to perform normal work activities. Journal of Agromedicine, July 2015

Can Migraines Be Caused By a Neck Problem?

For some patients with migraine headaches, treatments aimed at alleviating nerve compression in the neck may lead to reduced headache severity and frequency, or even lasting relief. This adds to a growing body of research that some patients with migraine headaches may benefit from treatments intended to improve cervical function, such as chiropractic care. Eplasty, June 2015

Fibromyalgia: causes and therapies.

Fibromyalgia has many different causes, but the main element is a disruption of the central nervous system. This can be caused by traumatic brain injury (TBI) from anything as simple as a slip and fall that either jars the head and neck or causes a strike of the head on a hard object to an automobile accident causing whiplash, toxic chemical exposure, allergies or even poor nutrition. This alters the body’s ability to enter a restful recuperative state. Recovery from fibromyalgia must address multiple factors and be individually orchestrated. These factors should include toxicity, myofascial adhesions, musculoskeletal function and central nervous system function. Braincore neurofeedback is an effective method of addressing central nervous system dysregulation and helping the body to again reach restful states that are healing.

Spinal Manipulation Helps Patients with mid-back Pain!

A review of the existing literature related to the non-invasive, non-drug treatment of thoracic spinal pain found that spinal manipulation, a treatment performed by doctors of the chiropractic, is the only treatment with critically appraised and relevant research demonstrating that it results in statistically significant reductions in thoracic spinal pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, July 2015

Exercise-at-Work Programs Can Reduce Musculoskeletal Pain Risk.

Can a ten-minute workout cut an individual’s risk for job-related musculoskeletal pain? Researchers asked two-hundred female healthcare workers to participate in ten-week study in order to find out if increasing an individual’s physical capacity with exercise can reduce physical exertion at work, a known risk factor for work-related musculoskeletal pain. One group engaged in an at-home exercise routine while the other participated in a workplace exercise program. Each group was asked to exercise for ten minutes a day, Monday through Friday. After ten weeks, both groups experienced reductions in workplace exertion. However, the at-work exercise group achieved greater gains, possibly due to better adherence. The results of this study suggest companies can reduce their employees’ risk for musculoskeletal complaints by instituting an at-work exercise program. Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, July 2015

Is Your Child’s Backpack Too Heavy?

For students, backpack use is associated with a higher risk for musculoskeletal pain, particularly in the shoulders and back. Irish researchers analyzed backpack usage among 529 ten-year-old children and found that 63.4% experience musculoskeletal discomfort related to backpack carriage. The researchers then weighed each child as well as their school bag and found that on average, the mass of a child’s backpack is about 18% of their bodyweight. Many published guidelines recommend that a backpack’s load be no greater than 10-15% of a child’s weight. Applied Ergonomics, June 2015

Resolution of Daily Headaches.

A 13-year-old patient with a complaint of daily headaches presented for a trial of chiropractic care. His doctor of chiropractic utilized spinal manipulation to treat cervical and thoracic spinal joint fixations, which a thorough examination had revealed to be the possible underlying cause of the adolescent’s chief complaint. The patient reported his headaches resolved during the course of treatment, which consisted of eight visits over two months. This case documents the potential benefits of chiropractic care in the management of headaches in adolescents. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, April 2015

Which Factors May Prolong Whiplash Recovery?

Whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) are the most common injuries that result from automobile collisions in Japan and many Western countries. However, there is sparse data as to what presenting factors, if any, may indicate whether or not a patient may achieve a satisfactory recovery after just three months of treatment. Japanese researchers surveyed 127,956 men and women and found that WAD patients with symptoms including dizziness, numbness or pain in the arms, and lower back pain had the greatest potential for a slower recovery. The ability to identify which patients may require a longer course of treatment may help manage both patient and doctor expectations and aid in the recovery process. PLOS ONE, July 2015

High-Fiber Diet During Pregnancy Reduces Asthma Risk in Offspring.

According to a newly published study, women who consume a diet high in fiber during pregnancy may reduce their offspring’s chances for developing asthma. The study followed forty women from pregnancy through their child’s first birthday and found the progeny of the women who ate a high-fiber diet were significantly less likely to visit a doctor as a result of respiratory complaints during their first year of life. Nature Communications, June 2015

Back Pain Associated with Knee Pain.

According to researchers at the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in Iran, patients with knee complaints are significantly more likely to also have a history of lower back pain. Though the researchers were unable to conclude whether or not the relationship between back pain and knee pain is causative in either direction or if both may be secondary to another issue, they do recommend that doctors consider a patient’s back pain history when assessing and managing knee pain complaints. The Journal of the Pakistani Medical Association, June 2015

Marching Band and Color Guard Members at Risk for Musculoskeletal Pain.

Electronic surveys completed by 1,379 collegiate marching band and color guard members indicate that athletes aren’t the only individuals on the field at risk for musculoskeletal injuries. According to researchers, one in every four responders has sustained a musculoskeletal injury as a result of participating in either marching band or color guard activities. The researchers speculate the repetitive nature of the activities they perform during both practice and events may be a likely risk factor for injury. Medical Problems of Performing Artists, June 2015

Night Shifts and Back Pain.

Working the night shift may increase an individual’s risk for disabling back pain if they also have trouble sleeping. Researchers analyzed data provided by 5,008 workers and found the relationship between disturbed sleep, night shifts, and back pain was especially strong when workers engaged in shifts extending more than eight hours. American Journal of Industrial Medicine, June 2015

Medical Laboratory Techs at Risk for CTS!

After interviewing more than two hundred laboratory technicians and attendants in a university hospital setting, Saudi researchers report that more than 90% of medical laboratory technicians they questioned frequently experience symptoms commonly associated with carpal tunnel syndrome such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the wrist and/or hand. Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences, April 2015

Back Pain a Problem for New Mothers.

For many new mothers, back pain can be a daily companion even up to their child’s first birthday. Researchers followed-up with 1,574 new mothers one year postpartum and found that 77% experienced back pain to some degree during their day-to-day lives. While most of those with back pain were only mildly affected by it, 35% of the this group reported that back pain had a moderate-to-severe effect on their ability to perform daily activities. PLOS ONE, June 2015

The Importance of the Spine for Brain Health.

According to 1981 Nobel Prize winner Dr. Richard Sperry, “90% of the stimulation and nutrition to the brain is generated by the movement of the spine.” Stanford University, June 2015

Possible Benefits for Those with Fibromyalgia.

A new study reveals the benefit of chiropractic treatment in the management of fibromyalgia. During a three-month study, 120 women with severe fibromyalgia received treatment that included education, cognitive behavioral therapy, and an exercise component. One half of the group also received chiropractic adjustments to the cervical spine during this time. Outcome assessments showed the group who also received chiropractic care experienced greater overall improvement when compared with the group who did not receive spinal manipulative therapy. The researchers conclude that adding chiropractic care to current treatment plans for fibromyalgia patients may improve their overall results. Rheumatology International, July 2015

Above-Average Height May Be a Risk Factor for Back Pain Among Women.

An analysis of data from two long-term studies indicates that women taller than 170 cm (~5’5″) may have a 19% greater risk for back pain than shorter women. Because no association was found between above-average height and back pain among males, the researchers suspect the increased risk could be related to either hormonal issues or body mechanics exclusive to the female gender. BMJ Open, June 2015

Manual Therapies Help Patients TMJ/TMD.

An analysis of eight published studies concludes that manual therapies are an effective treatment for patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). In particular, the report notes the efficacy of myofascial release and massage on the masticatory muscles as well as spinal manipulative therapy and mobilization applied to the upper cervical spine. Such treatments are commonly performed by doctors of chiropractic. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, June 2015

The Importance of Good Posture While Lifting Weights.

For weight lifters, maintaining a straight back throughout the lifting motion may reduce their risk for a low back injury. Researchers monitored the backs of both novice and experienced weight lifters and found that novices tended to flex and extend their backs to the limits of their natural range of motion while experienced lifters maintain a more neutral spinal posture throughout each lift. The researchers speculate that by approaching the limits of their back’s range of motion, novice lifters may be placing greater loads on the muscles and ligaments in their backs, possibly increasing their risk for injury. Journal of Biomechanics, June 2015

Long-Term Chiropractic Care and Parkinson’s Disease Management.

Ten years ago, an elderly man sought chiropractic care for low back pain, loss of balance, and trouble initiating gait. At the time, he had recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and was prescribed medication to help manage the condition. The patient’s initial chiropractic treatment plan included spinal manipulative therapy three times per week for four weeks. Once his presenting symptoms improved, he found that the combination of chiropractic care delivered once a week and medical therapy worked best to manage his Parkinson’s disease symptoms so that he could maintain an active lifestyle that included playing sports several days a week. Further research is needed to determine the role of chiropractic care in the co-management of patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, June 2015

Seizures & Developmental Delay Respond to Chiropractic Adjustments.

Recently, a two-year-old male with seizures, behavioral issues, and cognitive developmental delay following a head trauma presented for a trial of chiropractic treatment. A thorough examination revealed a spinal joint fixation in the boy’s upper cervical spine. The child received a series of three adjustments performed over a period of five and a half months to correct the fixation, and over the course of treatment, his parents noted both a cessation of seizure activity and an improvement in his behavior and cognitive development. This case study suggests that chiropractic care may benefit patients with a similar history and symptoms. Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, May 2015

Chronic Disabling Low Back Pain Linked to Psychosocial Risk Factors.

Japanese researchers followed 3,811 workers across a variety of industries for one year and found that those who had recent reports of back pain at the start of the study were three-to-four times more likely to suffer from chronic disabling low back pain a year later if they considered their work unrewarding, were dissatisfied with their daily life, or experienced anxiety. The research suggests that companies can reduce the impact of low back pain in the workplace by instituting programs to address these three key psycho-social risk factors. Industrial Health, June 2015

Improving Mood, Posture, & Balance.

An elderly male suffering from severe postural alterations, depression, back pain, balance issues, and chronic tiredness presented for chiropractic care. He received chiropractic treatments over the course of nine weeks that resulted in significant improvements in each of his ailments. The case supports the benefits of chiropractic care and its effects on physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, May 2015

Cervical (neck) Dysfunction May Influence Tension-Type Headache Frequency and Duration.

A one-month study involving 72 patients with tension-type headaches found that headache frequency and duration were both associated to some degree with pain sensitivity in the neck. This suggests that tension-type headache patients could benefit from treatments focused on improving cervical function. Journal of Neurology, March 2015

Parents Seek Alternative Care for Kids.

Recent research suggests that about 60% of parents who have children with chronic neurological conditions have sought chiropractic, massage, and other complementary therapy treatments to help their children live a normal, pain-free life. PLOS ONE, April 2014

Heavy Smartphone Use Can Lead to Hand and Wrist Problems!

If you are a heavy smartphone user and experience wrist pain, you may want to reduce your reliance on handheld devices. Researchers examined the wrists and hand complaints of 102 adults and found that those who spent the most time interacting with their devices had enlarged median nerves in their dominant hand, reduced pinch strength, and reduced hand function when compared with low/non-smartphone users. Muscle & Nerve, April 2015

Back Pain a Problem for Many Female College Athletes.

While past research has looked at the prevalence of low back pain among collegiate female athletes who participate in sports that place specific demands on the lower back, like rowing and skiing, a new study looked at the relationship between back pain and other sports played on the university level. The data set included female athletes from a variety of schools who participated in the following sports: basketball, soccer, volleyball, tennis, badminton, swimming, track and field, shooting, and karate. Among those who responded, 39% reported having experienced low back pain during the previous twelve months, and back pain accounted for 27.9% of missed training sessions and 13% of missed competitive matches. European Spine Journal, May 2015

Mobilization with Movement Effective for Common Shoulder Condition.

A randomized study involving 42 patients found mobilization with movement to be superior to sham manual contact (no mobilization) in regards to the treatment of shoulder impingement syndrome. The study’s primary outcome measures included pain intensity, pain during active range of motion, and maximal active range of motion. The findings support this commonly used chiropractic technique in the management of shoulder impingement syndrome. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, April 2015

Back Pain and Sleep Difficulties.

After following both chronic and new-onset back pain patients for six months, researchers report that two out of three patients with low back pain experience difficulty sleeping, typically during the week following an episode of back pain. Therefore, to ensure back pain patients have the best opportunity to achieve restful sleep, it’s important for them to follow their doctor’s advice in regards to maintaining a healthy spine and making recommended lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of re-injury. Clinical Journal of Pain, May 2015

TMD (commonly known as TMJ) Patients May Benefit from Cervical Care.

For patients with temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD), a visit to the chiropractor may yield benefits. Researchers examined the cervical function of 37 TMD patients and 20 healthy controls and found that those with TMD exhibited impaired cervical range of motion. Moreover, those with both TMD and headaches tended to have even greater difficulty rotating, flexing, or extending their necks. Cranio, May 2015

Cervical Dysfunction May Play Role in Perimenstrual Migraines.

Forty percent of women will suffer from migraine headaches during their lifetime and half of women who regularly experience migraines report an association between headache occurrence and menstruation. In an effort to better understand this relationship, researchers analyzed cervical function in 40 women with perimenstrual migraines and 46 healthy controls. They found the necks of those with perimenstrual migraines demonstrated reduced rotational ability, greater stiffness, reduced muscle length, and a higher likelihood of pain during stretching. The authors of the study suspect that cervical dysfunction may play a role in perimenstrual migraine incidence and suggest further studies to better understand this relationship. Physiotherapy Canada, May 2015

Migraine Patients May Benefit from Care Focused on the Neck.

An analysis of the neck muscles of sixty women (thirty with a history of migraines and thirty women without a history of such headaches) found that those who suffer from migraines have a much lower pain threshold in their cervical muscles. This suggests a possible connection between the function of the neck and the presence of migraines, and that treatments aimed at restoring normal cervical function may benefit the migraine patient. Pain Medicine, April 2015

Getting Help with Heavy Lifting Reduces Back Injury Risk!

Due to the high prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries in the hospital work environment, in 2011 the state of California enacted a law requiring hospitals to implement safe patient-handling policies and programs designed to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injury among nurses and other hospital staff. In hospitals that adopted policies requiring a team approach to lifting patients vs. allowing nurses to first attempt the task on their own, researchers found a nurse’s risk for a low back injury dropped nearly 50%. Research in Nursing and Health, April 2015

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