Scoliosis and Chiropractic Care

The average reduction of thoraco-lumbar scoliosis was 17.2° and was maintained for 24 months.

Function improved 70% and pain was reduced by 60%.

BY Mark Studin DC, FASBE(C), DAAPM, DAAMLP

According to the Mayo Clinic (2009), " Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that occurs most often during the growth spurt just before puberty. While scoliosis can be caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, the cause of most scoliosis is unknown. Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but severe scoliosis can be disabling. An especially severe spinal curve can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly. Children who have mild scoliosis are monitored closely, usually with X-rays, to see if the curve is getting worse. In many cases, no treatment is necessary. Some children will need to wear a brace to stop the curve from worsening. Others may need surgery to straighten severe cases of scoliosis" (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/scoliosis/DS00194). They go on to say that signs and symptoms of scoliosis may include, uneven shoulders, "Signs and symptoms of scoliosis may include: uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other, uneven waist, [and] one hip higher than the other" (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009, http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/scoliosis/ DS00194/ DSECTION=symptoms).

"If a scoliosis curve gets worse, the spine will also rotate or twist, in addition to curving side to side. This causes the ribs on one side of the body to stick out farther than on the other side. Severe scoliosis can cause back pain and difficulty breathing. Go to your doctor if you notice signs or symptoms of scoliosis in your child. Mild curves can develop without the parent or child knowing it because they appear gradually and usually don't cause pain" (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009, http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ scoliosis/DS00194/ DSECTION=symptoms).

According to Lou et al. in 2010, three-dimensional lateral curvatures of the spine affect 2-3% of the adolescent population. According to ACT Youth who utilizes the 2000 US Census Bureau statistics, the number of adolescents in the United States is 41,747, 962. Averaging 2.5% of all adolescents having scoliosis equates to 1,043, 699 children facing issues as result of scoliosis. Lou et al. (2010) continue, "Brace (orthotic) treatment is recommended for growing children with curves of 25–45° Cobb angle. Surgery is the final treatment option for curves greater than 45° and its goals are to obtain safe correction, to produce a solid spinal fusion of the curve region, and to bring the spine and body into a more balanced position (p. 292). However, they conclude, " Although brace treatment for scoliosis has been used for more than fifty years, its effectiveness is still debatable... Most studies used the amount of curve progression (as measured by the Cobb angle) to determine the effectiveness of brace treatment. Some defined success as 5° or less curve progression" (Lou et al., 2010, p. 292).

While allopathic medicine is still entrenched in the debatable practice of bracing and eventually surgery with the eventual progression of scoliosis, there are proven solutions. Morningstar concluded in 2011 that as a result of chiropractic spinal adjusting and chiropractic spinal manipulation, a thoracolumbar curvature (scoliosis) averaged a 17.2° reduction that was maintained for 24 months, the length of the study. Across all spinal groups, an average of 10° reduction was realized that persisted for 24 months, again the length of the study. Morningstar also concluded that pain scales reduced by 60% at 24 months and function improved by 70% while respiratory capacity increased 7%. Although this was a limited study with 28 patients, it is the first scientific conclusion that documents and reflects the results of what chiropractors have been realizing in their offices for over a 100 years.

The real issue is that if adolescents have their curvatures reduced by 10°-17.2°, then bracing and surgery are not an option because they will not be indicated. As bracing has been deemed "highly questionable" in the literature and now the literature reflects chiropractic as a highly effective modality, the standard of care across professions should be chiropractic care for scoliosis as first line treatment and should be standardized in every discipline.

REFERENCES

1. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/scoliosis/DS00194

2. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/scoliosis/DS00194/DSECTION=symptoms

3. Lou, E., Hill, D., Hedden, D., Mahood, J., Moreau, M., Raso, J., (2010). An objective measurement of brace usage for the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Medical Engineering and Physics, 33(3), 290-294.

4. Retrieved from http://www.actforyouth.net/health_sexuality/demographics/

5. Morningstar, M. (2011). Outcomes for adult scoliosis patients receiving chiropractic rehabilitation: A 24-month retrospective analysis. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 10(3), 179-184.

MORE THAN A QUICK FIX!!!!!!

"The doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease."
                                                                       - Thomas Edison

  

 The future is now! Doctors of Chiropractic do just what Thomas Edison predicted!!!

 Health is an ongoing process; one that evolves as we age. If you look around at our society, you can see a rampant crisis of health problems. People are looking for answers, and in many cases, are not getting them. It is my opinion that the main cause of these issues is that for many years prevention of disease and illness was scoffed at by society. If someone felt good, no problem, nothing to worry about. We are now realizing that health maintenance is the key to good health. Rather than wait for the health crisis, let's attempt to prevent the crisis from occurring to begin with.

   Chiropractic health care focuses primarily on the examination and treatment of the spine and pelvis to determine if some part of the body's structure is malfunctioning. And, if so, what can be done to correct the structure to return the body to the best possible physiologically state?

   Think back how many times you have received treatment for an illness, and after feeling a bit better, you stopped treatment. That was usually a simple case of being fooled by our childhood training that if there were no symptoms, we were well. In reality, the short-term treatment only helped to temporarily alleviate the symptom, part of the condition, but never really addressed the cause of the problem. It is this fact that makes chiropractic care so beneficial.

YOU NEED A MASSAGE!!!!!!!

No, Really!! Many people think of massage as just a way to pamper yourself and not an important component of maintaining your maximum health.

Chiropractic care is considered a holistic approach to medicine. Holistic means we're treating each person as a WHOLE, rather than just individual symptoms. In an age of technical and, at times, impersonal medicine, massage and chiropractic offer a drug free, non-invasive and humanistic approach based on the body's natural ability to heal itself. While chiropractic and massage therapy offer considerable benefits individually, they are better together!

 Though most chiropractors address the muscles during treatment with physiotherapy and manual therapy techniques, massage is often the ideal adjunct to the chiropractor's treatment. Massage therapy is based upon the same premise of the body having the ability to self-heal and regulate. If the muscles of the body become imbalanced, for example. it can lead to a variety of problems. If muscles are shortened and tightened on one side of the body, the muscles on the opposite side may become overstretched, which can cause pain, weakened circulation, and other problems. But worse, this tightness may also pull the bones the muscles are attached to, sabotaging the work of the chiropractor to realign the body. A massage therapist can soften and stretch the muscle groups, relieving stress on the opposing muscle groups and strengthening weaker muscles, which complements the work of the chiropractor. In practice, we have found that a massage in conjunction with a chiropractic adjustment not only prepares the body better, but helps maintain the adjusts better.

WHAT OTHER BENEFITS ARE THERE TO MASSAGE THERAPY WITH CHIROPRACTIC CARE?

• Enjoy faster recovery since multiple components of the pain/problem are being addressed. The recovery is usually more complete
• Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs
• Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow, the body's natural defense system
• Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles
• Reduces spasms and cramping
• Increases joint flexibility
• Reduces muscle adhesion
• Releases endorphins, amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller
• Improves range of motion
• Relieves pain for migraine sufferers and decreases need for medication
• Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion
• Assist with shorter and easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays

 Massage extends the benefits of chiropractic care. Chiropractic Care extends the benefits of massage. The choice seems pretty simple. And now you know why you can feel guilt -free about getting that much-needed massage.

FRESH FIBER FIRST

Want to drastically change your energy levels, mood, and overall health??? Here is a short and sweet tip!!!

FRESH FIBER FIRST

FRESH- organic or local foods that are well washed

FIBER- the fruits and vegetables that you are going to strive to eat

FIRST- when you eat your fresh fiber

If you can make a commitment to eat some form of fresh raw and uncooked veggies and fruit at the beginning of each meal in your day. (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) you will notice a significant change by the weeks end! This is a very easy strategy for making a positive lifestyle change that can be implemented on a long term basis. The best part about Fresh Fiber First is you are not taking anything away! Keep eating what you are eating after you get your fresh fiber first!

When you start eating natural foods on a daily basis your body begins to crave it. If you had a choice on what foods your body craves wouldn't you rather it be natural foods?

Here are a few strategies that may help you in this transition period.

• Make a mental commitment. Commit in your mind to try Fresh Fiber First for one whole week.
• Don't get down on yourself or give up if you don't meet your goal. Instead celebrate and congratulate yourself every time you eat better! 
• Pre-Plan. It can be tough to get fresh or organic foods when you are on the run. Pre-planning and packing your own lunch or knowing what is for dinner will help.

Try this simple plan of eating Fresh Fiber First. Your energy levels will shoot up. You will have less highs and lows throughout the day because of the continual energy you are feeding yourself. People stuck at a certain weight have shed another 5-10 lbs by using this strategy. Try it for a week and see the difference!!!!!

CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

One thing that we all have in common is that we all have spines! We all have nerves! All of our bodies can benefit from chiropractic care. From newborns to long lived ones! A body at rest will remain at rest, a body in motion will remain in motion. Chiropractic care can help anyone of any age!

Kids have spines, just like adults.  Kids also have stresses to their spines, just like adults.  Mechanical stresses such as poor posture, heavy book bags, learning to walk, and even the birth process can affect the growing and developing spine.  Chemical stresses such as junk food, medications and pollution also affect the body. These stresses on the spine can cause subluxations (nerve interference) which can negatively affect overall health.  With gentle, specific chiropractic adjustments, nerve flow is restored, as well as a greater level of health.  There are numerous studies that show the benefits of chiropractic for children who suffer from ear infections, allergies, asthma, ADHD, and bed wetting – just to mention a few.

As we age our muscles weaken, our joints become less  flexible, and our tissues overall become less hydrated.  Decades of wear and tear on our joints lead to  arthritis.  Our  digestive tract also becomes weaker and more  susceptible  to  damage and bleeding. Since these are also  common  side-effects of anti-  inflammatory medications it is  important to limit their use. Although the  aging process is  inevitable, we can do a lot to slow down  the process with proper natural  prevention.

Chiropractic care and healthy lifestyle habits are  the best protection. Once arthritis and degeneration have set it they  are not reversible. Chiropractic may help in pain  relief, pain management, maintaining   function,  and in preventing further  degeneration. Treatment is gentler  according to  condition and patient tolerance.

 

Routine chiropractic care has a number of benefits which are especially important for maturing adults:

• spinal and extremity pain relief
• decreased stiffness and muscular spasms
• increased mobility and range of motion
• increased balance and coordination
• increased sense of well being
• increased energy
• enhanced tissue healing
• decreased tissue inflammation
• increased joint health
• decreased arthritis and arthritic joint pain
• minimized spinal stress and subsequent degeneration
• minimized risk of fall injuries 

Please click the following link for additional information!

For more information on adult chiropractic care
http://www.dcdoctor.com/pages/rightpages_wellnesscenter/babyboomers/chirocare.html

For more information on children's chiropractic care
http://chirotips.com/children_chirorpactic.htm

A Common Question About Chiropractic Care

One common question most people have regarding chiropractic care is what conditions do chiropractors treat? This is a misleading question since chiropractic is not a specific treatment for any condition. Instead, rather than treating a specific disease or condition, chiropractic focuses on the inherent ability of the human body to heal itself.

There are many types of chiropractic healing techniques. Some of the chiropractic approaches focus on the spine only. Other chiropractors utilize care for the spine and other parts of the body such as the arms, legs, and muscles. Also, many chiropractors focus on specialties such as rehabilitation, nutrition, weight loss, and family care. 

As compared to other forms of heath care, chiropractic is one of the safest methods of care available. It is also useful to know that some chiropractors only work with patients until they are out of pain, while other chiropractors offer their patients additional options for the overall holistic improvement of health. If you are unsure of the type of care a chiropractor offers, always ask ahead of time, and find one that is right for you!

Fight the Flu with Chiropractic!!!!

Spinal adjustments have a positive effect on your immune system according to a growing number of researchers. Subluxations in the spine result in interference with your nervous system. What does that mean? Your brain can't communicate with your body. Since the nervous system controls all functions of the body, including your immune system, simple adjustments can help give your immune system that EXTRA boost it needs to fight off that flu and colds! So next time you are not feeling your best and want to cancel that chiropractic appointment, DON'T!!! That is the best time for an adjustment! Get that immune system going full speed to help your body fight off and recover from illness.

Be safe while shoveling snow this season!!!!

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Ice, Snow, Salt and Slick Spots EVERYWHERE!  Here is some great information on keeping yourself safe and healthy for the winter season.

It is not surprising to learn that many people suffer from muscle fatigue, low back strain, vertebral disc damage, and even spinal fractures during the winter season. Some of these injuries result from excessive stress to spinal structures and others by slip and fall accidents. 

A study published by Brad Coffiner at Cornell University’s ergonomic department indicated “…when handling heavy snow with a shovel, the L5/S1 disc has been identified as the weakest link in the body segment chain. The most severe injuries and pain are likely to occur in the back region.” Recognizing the low back is especially susceptible to strain or injury, it would be prudent to review steps to prevent injury.

The Basics
Snow shoveling can be compared to weight lifting, and in some cases, the aerobic aspect of this activity is similar to a workout on a treadmill! So … to help your body function on demand consider the following tips:

• Be heart smart! Don’t eat or smoke before shoveling snow. Avoid caffeinated beverages. These are stimulants and may increase heart rate and cause blood vessels to constrict.
• If you experience pain of any kind, stop immediately and seek assistance.
• Pace yourself during shoveling activities. Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water. Snow shoveling is strenuous work, and it is important to re-hydrate your body often.
• If the ground is icy or slick, spread sand or salt over the area to help create foot traction. Be aware that some areas may be uneven and could cause you to slip, trip, or fall.

Dress for Success!

• Consider the weather when choosing outerwear. Dress in layers. Wear clothing that is easy to move in.
• Wear a hat—a great deal of body heat is lost through the head.
• If it's icy cold, consider breathing through a scarf, but don’t let it obstruct your view.
• Proper boots are essential for keeping feet warm and dry while appropriate soles provide traction. Good boots can help you maintain your balance!
• Choose gloves that will keep your hands warm, dry, and blister free—consider thicker gloves, which allow for a good grip on the shovel’s handle.

Select a Shovel That's Right for You
Shovels are made from different materials and come in many shapes and sizes.

• Choose a shovel that is ergonomically correct—a shovel with a curved handle. Many hardware stores and home centers stock ergonomically designed snow shovels. These shovels help you to keep your back straighter reducing spinal stress.
• Consider a shovel with a plastic blade instead of metal—plastic is lightweight—isn’t the snow heavy enough?
• Sometimes a smaller blade is better. You will not be able to shovel as much snow per shovel load, but the load will weigh less, which puts less strain on the spine.
• Get a shovel made to push snow. It is far easier to push snow than to lift it. There are shovels made expressly for pushing snow. See what is available at your hardware or home center store.

Once you have your shovel, you might want to consider spraying a bit of silicon lubricant on the blade. This can help keep the snow from sticking to the shovel. The snow will slide off the shovel blade.

Technique. Technique. Technique

• Warm muscles work better. So take some time to stretch to prepare your body for activity.
• Just like with a golf club, hand placement on the shovel handle is very important! Don’t put your hands (grip) close to one another. Create some distance between the hands. This will give you more leverage and make it easier to lift snow.
• Think about good posture and maintaining the natural curve of your spine.
• Address your task directly. Stand with your feet about shoulder width apart to maintain balance. Try to keep the shovel close to your body. Bend at the knees—not the waist or back. Tighten your stomach muscles as you lift the snow. Lift with your legs—not your back. Do not twist your body. Dump the snow in front of you. If you need to move the snow to the side, move your feet—do not twist! According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, “If you must lift the snow, lift it properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs. Do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to dump it. Holding a shovelful of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once; do it piecemeal. Shovel and inch or two; then take another inch off. Rest and repeat if necessary.”
  
• Don’t throw snow over your shoulder! Go forward with the snow.
• Fresh snow is lighter in weight—so clear snow as soon as it has fallen. Snow becomes dense as it compacts on the ground. Wet snow is very heavy. One shovelful can weigh 20 pounds or more!
• Pace yourself. Take frequent breaks to stretch your back and extremities.

Snowblowers
A snowblower is a terrific piece of machinery, but if it's not used correctly, you can strain or injure your back. Snowblowers are designed to remove snow at a particular rate of speed. Pushing or forcing the equipment to go faster is defeating its purpose —to do the work for you!

Community Involvement
Not everyone is able to shovel snow or operate a snowblower. Consider the disabled and some in our senior populations. Fortunately, many communities across the United States have organized volunteers to help people who need assistance during the winter season.