Chiropractora

Archive for August, 2009

If you have a child of 6 to 8 years old that wants to start exercising and lifting weights, you may find yourself wondering what you should do. While some think it is perfectly fine for children to exercise, there are others that think differently.

The long and short of it is that yes, it is beneficial for your child to partake in exercise or a weight training regimen although there are a few things that you should keep in mind once this starts to happen.

No matter how you look at it, children aren’t miniature adults and therefore you can’t use the same methods with growing children that you can use with adults, as children are different from adults emotionally, anatomically, and physiologically.

All children have immature skeletons, as their bones don’t mature until they get 14 – 22 years of age. With girls, exercise during childhood can have very critical effects on bone health that can last for their entire lives.

Children are often times vulnerable to growth related overuse injuries such as Osgood schlatter disease. Children have immature temperature regulation systems due to their having a large surface area compared to their muscle mass which will cause them to be more susceptible to injury when they aren’t properly warmed up.

Children don’t sweat as much as adults do, so they will be more susceptible to heat exhaustion as well as a heat stroke. Due to their low muscle mass and immature hormone system, it makes it harder for them to develop strength and speed. Their breathing and heart response during exercise are also different from an adults, which will affect their capacity for exercise.

On the other hand, young boys and girls can drastically improve their strength with weight training although opposed to adults, neurological factors instead of muscle growth factors are mostly responsible.

When you consider programs for children, first and foremost you should obtain a medical clearance. The first approach to designing a program is to establish a repetition range of 8 – 12 and keep the work load appropriate for the range.

You should ensure that workouts are spread out enough to have at least 1 – 2 full days of rest between workouts. The main focus when working out should be on the form of every exercise performed, and not on the amount of weight being lifted.

Before weight training, warm up and stretching should be done. Start your children off with light loads and then make adjustments accordingly. No more than 3 non consecutive exercise sessions should be done in a week. You should also see to it that they drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise. Getting enough water is very important with exercise, as it is often times very easy to get dehydrated – especially with children.

Ronald Goodpaster
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/children-need-exercise-too-96722.html

Stenosis back pain originates in the spinal canal itself. Stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, and compresses the nerves inside it. This compression of the nerves can lead to stenosis back pain, numbness in the legs, and the loss of bladder or bowel control. If left untreated, stenosis back pain can eventually become paralysis.

It is estimated that approximately 400,000 Americans currently have spinal stenosis back pain. That number is expected to increase as Baby Boomers age.

Defining Stenosis Back Pain

You probably know that the spinal column protects your spinal cord, a bundle of nerves, from being injured. In spinal stenosis, the spine narrows in one or more of three places: space at the center of the spine; canals where nerves branch outward from the spine itself; a space between the spine’s bones (vertebrae).

Stenosis back pain occurs when the narrowing puts pressure on the nerves inside the spinal column. Although this can occur in younger people, it is most often a complaint of those over 50 years of age.

Causes of Stenosis Back Pain

Spinal stenosis back pain can be caused by a number of factors.

1. Age is a primary factor. As we age, bands of supportive tissue in the spine may harden and thicken. Our bones and joints may enlarge as they age. We may get bone spurs on the spine – places where bone surfaces bulge outward.

2. Arthritis is another cause of spinal stenosis and accompanying stenosis back pain. Either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may be to blame. Osteoarthritis is the more common of the two. This type of arthritis usually is seen in middle-aged and older people, and does not go away. Osteoarthritis can cause the bone spurs described above. Rheumatoid arthritis is usually seen in younger people, and is not usually a cause of spinal stenosis back pain.

3. Inherited factors may also lead to stenosis and stenosis back pain. Some genetic conditions, such as a small spinal canal or curved spine, can cause spinal stenosis.

4. Other causes for your stenosis back pain could include calcium deposits, fluoride accumulation, or injuries.

Symptoms of Stenosis Back Pain

Stenosis back pain usually occurs in the neck or back. In addition to the stenosis back pain, you may feel pain down one leg, or numbness, weakness, cramping, and pain in legs or arms as the nerves are compressed.

Stenosis Back Pain Test Problem

The problem with tests for spinal stenosis is that the conditions shares symptoms with so many other disease. The result has too often been costly misdiagnoses and unnecessary back surgery, according to Andrew Haig, M.D., associate professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Michigan Medical School.

The following 3 tests are used to diagnose the cause of stenosis back pain.

1. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) -radio waves to picture the spine

2. Computerized axial tomography (CAT) – X-ray series to picture the spine

3. Electromyogram (EMG)- a test that not only gives a picture of nerves, but also tests nerve function, showing if there is actual nerve damage

Best Stenosis Back Pain Test

Of the three, the oldest, Electromyogram (EMG) has been found to be the best. This test has been around as long as, or longer than the Baby Boomers themselves, but a study published in the January 2006 issue of “Spine” shows that it is by far the best of the three tests.

That study, done by the University of Michigan Health System, shows that the EMG test accurately determines the cause of stenosis back pain. As a result, low back pain is less likely to be misdiagnosed, as are other common neuromuscular conditions with similar symptoms. Back surgery undertaken to cure misdiagnosed stenosis back pain can be avoided with this stenosis back pain test.

Tests done in the U of M study by Dr. Andrew Haig and his colleagues showed a substantial difference between those who have spinal stenosis and those with other types of back pain. It showed that use of the EMG allows experts to clearly distinguish between spinal stenosis and low back pain.

“Most doctors think of EMG as a simple test and incorrectly believe that it is sensitive for nerve damage, but cannot differentiate spinal stenosis form neuromuscular disease,” explains Haig. “But as this study shows, that’s not the case. In fact, EMG is an excellent test for spinal stenosis and other neuromuscular disorders using strict evidence-based criteria.” (Spine, Vol. 30, No. 23)

Anna Hart
http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/stenosis-back-pain-test-122606.html

Technorati Tags: back pain, stenosis

Have you ever heard of wellness programs in the workplace? If so, there is a good chance that your employer feels strongly about the benefits of this type of program. However, wellness programs in the workplace are not common among every company in every industry. In fact, there are many companies that are behind the times when it comes to employee wellness.

In order to fully understand what wellness programs have to offer, you really need to know what benefits can come from this. Generally speaking, wellness programs are implemented in order to inform and assist employees in living a healthier lifestyle.

There are many different details that go into wellness programs in the workplace. Although not all wellness programs are the same, most of them are similar when it comes to several details. For instance, most wellness programs in the workplace touch on general health topics, dealing with mental and physical health, and even offering health screenings. With all of these factors being offered, it is easy to see why so many companies are considering a wellness program, or are taking a closer look at programs they currently offer.

So what is the point in offering wellness programs in the workplace? Remember that employees spend on average 47 hours per week at the office. And the fact of the matter is that this is only increasing as time goes on. In addition, technology such as laptop computers and cell phones are making it easier than ever before for work to follow employees home. In turn, all of this cuts into the amount of time that an employee can devote to their health and wellness. Not only will this put employees at risk for health problems, but it will also negatively affect their work performance. As you can see, a lack of health and wellness will burden both the employee as well as the employer.

Quality wellness programs in the workplace can go a long way in helping employees to lead a better life both in and out of the office. Studies have also shown that a wellness program can also help companies to increase their bottom line; and what employer is not interested in doing that?

There are many primary benefits that go along with wellness programs in the workplace. Some of the more popular ones include: increased productivity, lower health care costs, fewer physical injuries, reduced job turnover, and increased loyalty among many others.

Overall, wellness programs in the workplace are becoming more and more common. With so much to offer, it is safe to say that companies without these programs will be moving in this direction over the next few years. Remember, wellness programs in the workplace are beneficial for both employees and the employer.

John Payton
http://www.articlesbase.com/human-resources-articles/wellness-programs-in-the-workplace-121111.html

Most of us don’t know how to find a good chiropractor. Generally, when we are looking for a doctor, we just open up the yellow pages and let our fingers do the walking. Sometimes, we may ask our friends, family or co-workers for a recommendation, but face it, what works for them may not work for you. Finding a good chiropractor can be a very difficult decision, because this is a profession with an unusually wide variety of techniques and philosophies. Here are some tips on how to find a competent chiropractor best suited for you as an individual.

Do a phone interview. Take time out to interview your prospective chiropractor. If the doctor is not available when you call, then arrange a time when you can speak to the doctor. Take note of the doctors communication skills, he should be comfortable to speak with and eager to answer your questions. You may want to ask:

What the doctor’s feelings are about how chiropractics differ from other health professions?

What does the doctor see as his responsibility when performing a competent diagnosis?

How does the doctor feel about referring patients to other specialists?

What kind of techniques does this doctor offer?

What kind of experiences has he had with other patients with similar conditions to you?

What are the doctor’s fees or does the doctor take your insurance, or in case you have an HMO, do you need a referral?

What is doctor’s location and what are his hours of operation?

Avoid a chiropractor who:

Considers his profession as being opposed to the medical profession.

Denies responsibility to diagnose and refer patients in a good manner.

Tries to sell you on his “miracle cures” or any other technique that only he knows how to do or has learned in some “school of thought.”

Insists you have x-rays done as a routine or requirement, or insist on having an EMG scan or other expensive test that is often not necessary.

Uses scare tactics or if he sounds like he’s making a sales pitch on you.

Has a dirty, littered or foul smell in his office.

Cold calls you to announce their presence in your area and tries to make you a free appointment.

All depending on the seriousness or extremity of your condition, you may need to see the chiropractor several times before your condition can be relieved. This is a good reason to choose a chiropractor that works within a reasonable driving distance with hours that suit your schedule. It’s important to have a chiropractor that you can rely on to get into fairly quickly without having to wait a month or so to get in.

On your first visit to the office, what is your general impression? Any doctor’s office should have a clean and professional appearance. The office staff should be able to treat you with the courtesy, respect and professionalism that are expected of a medical establishment. Many offices require you to fill out forms about your general medical history and the problem that brought you to them for the doctor to review with you during a private interview. You should be able to discuss your problem in detail, followed by having vital signs taken, and a number of other neurological and orthopedic tests. You should also have an analysis of your musculoskeletal system functions and structure, to determine if your problem is within the scope of chiropractics. If the doctor insists that other laboratory tests are necessary, ask why. He should be able to provide a clear and concise explanation that makes sense and that is easy for you to understand. The doctor should be able to explain your problem, treatment options and customize a treatment plan that you are able to understand. If he is unable to do this, then he is not the right doctor for you.

The length of treatment varies with each individual. Although your condition may resemble your best friends, it does not mean you will heal as quickly as she did. Everyone’s musculoskeletal system is different and responds differently to treatment. This is why it’s important to do your own research and interviews before settling with a chiropractor. Never let anyone pressure you into seeing a particular doctor.

James Calvin
http://www.articlesbase.com/advertising-articles/your-body-needs-alignment-how-to-choose-a-chiropractor-74824.html

While there are a lot of rumors about carpal tunnel syndrome and computer use, it is hard to find a definitive answer on what, if any, actual link there is between the development of carpal tunnel syndrome and the use of computers.

Does computer use increase one’s chances of developing carpal tunnel syndrome? If you do a “search” on the internet, you can find several stories that say no, and just as many that say yes . . . sometimes even from the same source! While there are still some conflicting beliefs on how the use of computers affects a person’s chance of getting carpal tunnel syndrome, the injury seems to be more prevalent than ever before.

There is a general belief that working for extended periods of time using a computer will lead to an increase in carpal tunnel syndrome, and that jobs such as data entry lead to higher risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. Since carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by constant repetitive or static motion of the hands and wrists, logically this would make sense. There are several studies that initially suggested that the repetitive motion and static flexion involved when using a computer causes irritation and swelling of the flexor tendon sheaths, resulting in the impingement of the median nerve and the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. Though this is not conclusively proven in studies, what is proven is that any task that involves excessive use of the hands in activities that require duration, repetition and force does in fact cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by anything that involves excessive unidirectional movement patterns that require too much force, duration and repetition, as the overused muscles actually become stronger, shorter and tighter than their opposition, the extensor muscles. The stronger flexor muscles begin to compress the carpal tunnel and the median nerve within. The tendons that pass through the carpal tunnel (a small area between the carpal bones and the transverse carpal ligament in the wrist) can become swollen from doing the same movement over and over, like typing on a computer for extended periods of time.

Some people might think that carpal tunnel syndrome is a new condition of the information technology age, born from long hours of computer keyboarding, but carpal tunnel is not new, it just seems to appear more often because the nature of work has changed. More jobs are highly specialized and require the overuse of only a small number of muscles repeatedly, leading to a muscle imbalance. If one muscle group is overused, then the opposing muscle group must be underused. It is basic common sense.

Because of the underlying assumption that computer use contributes to carpal tunnel syndrome, concern from the government and employers continues to grow. Ironically, studies out of the Mayo Clinic released by the government seem to actually show that using a computer does not increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. There are arguments over why this is.

The test showed that those who worked a long period of time every day with computers had the same percentage of becoming afflicted with carpal tunnel syndrome as everyone else. One of the suggestions for the reasoning is that the continued use of computers would only affect people who did not practice appropriate form. People who are employed to work with computers are generally better trained in how to type from home row, how to keep their wrists straight, use ergonomic keyboards, chairs, screens, mouse and know how to use good posture.

All of these factors can help decrease instances of carpal tunnel syndrome, which in turn can help keep the number of injuries down. On the other side of the equation, computer use by individuals who hold their wrists and fingers improperly, put unequal pressure on their hands, don’t use ergonomic tools or proper posture may become afflicted with cause carpal tunnel syndrome more frequently than those using appropriate form and proper ergonomic tools.

This may certainly be the reason why the belief that computer use causes carpal tunnel syndrome remains strong, even when testing suggests otherwise. Individuals trained in how to properly use a computer will know what or what not to do in most cases. Computer users engaged in a good ergonomic prevention program at work will know which stretches and exercises to perform, know how to use good posture and utilize the latest ergonomic equipment, and hence not experience the same injuries and muscle imbalances as say someone who does not use appropriate form, ergonomic tools or perform muscle balancing exercises and stretches.

While the studies suggest that extensive use of a computer does not contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome, even that piece of information should come with its own caveat, that being that proper use of a computer appears to not increase the chances of carpal tunnel. But people certainly need to learn to use proper posture, use good ergonomic equipment and know appropriate stretches and exercises to perform because excessive use of the computer without proper hand positions or use of poor equipment leads to imbalances in the hands, wrists, forearms and shoulders that can contribute to the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome.

With carpal tunnel syndrome being so prevalent in the past decade, it is best to take all preventative methods available and implement them into one’s daily work regimen. It is easier to prevent an injury than having to address it once it is already present. Prevention is the cure for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Jeff P. Anliker, Lmt
http://www.articlesbase.com/medicine-articles/carpal-tunnel-syndrome-and-computer-use-99709.html

The synovial joints are made up of capsule ligaments, tendon sheath that is the liner of synovium, tendons, cartilages, and synovium. Fluids pass through these joints. The synovial joints connect with the bones, which structured scaffolds of the body joins with additional bones.

The joints produce fluids, which lubricates them. The fluids contain itself within the capsules, which promote movement. Movement is limited by bone structures. Flexible sectors can also limit movement, as well as connective tissues and inelastic mechanisms.

When the synovial joints are interrupted, it affects the ligaments. The ligaments will limit movement of abnormal joints. Ligaments induce movement amid two bones that make it easy for a collection of muscles to contract, expand, and stimulate the nerves. The nerves expand to CNS. (Central Nervous System) Bones attach to the muscles via tendons. Tendons are thin and stronger than the muscles, which the tendons permit the muscles to converge by pulling it through small openings.

Bursa acts a servant to the joints and muscles, since it precludes friction from traveling amid the two progressing exteriors. Bursa is a sac filled with fluids, which if bursa rubs against another joint it causes inflammation. Bursitis can set in if rubbing causes inflammation and the sac fills with fluid. Bursitis usually targets the elbows and shoulder, yet the pain extends to the back. When the bursa fails, it can cause swelling, pain, fevers, and numbness, stiffness of the joints, fatigue, and limited mobility.

The human skeleton is made up of 206 bones. Inside the skeleton system is the cranium, jaw, collar bone (Clavicle), shoulder blade (Scapula), sternum, (breast bone) ribs, humerus, spine, radius, ulna, pelvis, carpals, (wrist bones) metacarpals, (palm bones) phalanges, finger bones, femur (Thigh bones), patella (knee cap), tibia (Shin bone), fibula, tarsals (ankle bone), metatarsals (Foot bone), and phalanges. (Toe bones) When the skeleton structure is interrupted, it can cause back pain.

Most cases of back pain are treated with bed rest, foot elevation, ice packs, compression, and so on. Many diseases can cause back pain, which the cause is found in disruptive blood vessels, soft tissues, etc. The problem can lead to excessive bleeding, which slows the healing process. R.I.C.E is a rule of structure one should keep in mind when treating back pain at home. If you have tension in the muscles, you can use this structure to reduce back pain. Rest is essential if you have tension in the muscles. Rest includes putting your feet up and relaxing the spinal column.

Ice packs are used to relieve pain as well. You can wrap ice in a damp, soft cloth and apply it to the area. Keep the pack on the area up to fifteen minutes. You can place an ice pack on the injured region every hour. If you have injured your knee, then elevate the leg before applying your ice pack. Rest and Ice packs starts R.I.C.E, which continues to compression. Compression reduces looseness of the muscles. In addition, if blood escapes into injured blood vessels, you can compress the area to apply pressure. Avoid applying pressure surpassing the volume, which the blood from the arterial system needs room to flow smoothly. Elevation involves keeping the leg a distance from the floor. You can elevate the legs to reduce lower back pain. Lie flat on the back and elevate the leg in a supporting chair. You can also place a pillow between the knees to reduce back pain.

Keep R.I.C.E. in mind when you have tension on the back, or have sustained an injury. However, if you injured your back or joints seek medical help immediately.

Shane Woods
http://www.articlesbase.com/non-fiction-articles/synovial-joints-and-back-pain-89136.html

Millions of people struggle with back pain and fail to get lasting relief and the primary reason is a lack of knowledge and understanding about back pain.

In our work with over 20,000 back pain sufferers here at The Healthy Back Institute, we have identified several questions that are common among nearly all, back pain sufferers. And unfortunately, for many, these people continue to struggle with back pain because their questions never get answered or they get the wrong information.

So the purpose of this article is to educate and inform anyone suffering from back pain by answering these common questions and by giving specific recommendations and actions to take.

Question #1 – Is my excess weight causing my back pain?

While excess body weight is a factor, it by itself typically isn’t enough to create a condition that would cause back pain. Excess body weight in the form of excess body fat can worsen a pre-existing condition and can also make recover more difficult.

Also, it’s important to understand that if you are overweight it’s very likely that your muscles are out of balance. When your muscles are out of balance, it forces your body to function and move in an unbalanced way and this places uneven pressure, strain and wear tear on your body. And it’s this process that is responsible for creating any conditions or physical dysfunctions that are causing the pain. Unfortunately, most people aren’t even aware when this is happening with their body.

Action to take:

Don’t worry so much about your weight right now. First focus on eliminating your back pain by identify the muscle imbalances that are throwing your body out of balance and work on improving and correcting them. Then, once your back is feeling better you can focus more on losing weight.

Question #2 – I’ve tried everything but nothing has worked, what should I do?

First off, while it may seem like you’ve exhausted every possible treatment, it’s not likely that you’ve tried everything. So unless you’ve given up and plan on living the rest of your life in pain, you need to make the decision to be open-minded and continue to identify and experiment with other available treatment options. But, before you try any other treatments, it’s important that you understand why what you’ve already tried hasn’t worked.

The reason nearly all back pain treatments fail to deliver long-term relief is because they treat just the symptoms and fail to address the actual, underlying cause. For example, let’s talk about back surgery. While removing a piece of a herniated disc may, if you’re lucky, reduce or eliminate your pain, the fact is it didn’t deal with what caused the disc to herniate in the first place.

In fact, a study published in the June 2004 issue of Spine, an international journal for the study of the spine, found that 40% of people who underwent back surgery had no decrease in their pain even though their doctor/surgeon had assured them of the results.

So in order for you to get long-term, lasting relief you need to identify and address the underlying cause of your pain.

Action to take:

Identify the underlying cause of your pain by identifying the muscle imbalances that are creating your physical dysfunctions and conditions. Make sure any treatment you are given or perform addresses both the symptoms (condition and pain) and the cause (muscle imbalances and dysfunctions).

Question #3 – My doctor not to exercise, what should I do?

Find a new doctor. Too many research studies have shown that people with back pain who avoid exercise and activity, end up suffering longer and have a more difficult time getting relief.

While you may need to rest for a few days initially to let things settle down, after that you will get better results by staying active because by continuing to move you keep your blood circulating and your muscle active, which will prevent them from getting weaker.

But that’s not enough.

Even though staying active may help; it’s not enough to get rid of the underlying cause of the pain. In order to do that, you must identify and address your imbalances and dysfunctions.

And the generic exercises that almost every back pain sufferer receives from their healthcare professional, may or may not help… it can even worsen the condition. And the reason is, these exercises do not address the specific muscle imbalances and dysfunctions that are responsible for their pain.

Action to take:

If your doctor or healthcare professional hasn’t taken the time to educate about the effect of muscle imbalances and importance of performing targeted and specific, corrective exercises and stretches, it’s time to look elsewhere.

Unfortunately, the number of healthcare professionals who are educated and trained in the art of identifying and addressing muscle imbalances is small and finding one can often be difficult. If you have trouble finding someone in your area, please feel free to contact us here at The Healthy Back Institute by calling 800-216-4908 and we’ll do our best to help you.

Conclusion

If you’re a back pain sufferer, you well know that these are just a few of the many questions that you may have. The fastest way for you to get lasting relief from back pain is to become an expert on it and your body and you do that be educating yourself.

I strongly encourage you to learn as much as you can about back pain, how it develops and the various treatment options that are available. And lastly, stay focused and don’t give up.

Steve Hefferon
http://www.articlesbase.com/diseases-and-conditions-articles/3-common-back-pain-questions-answered-94284.html