to the top 10 questions about Chiropractic. inside: Answers Plus answers to questions people should ask, but don’t.
Gold Coast
Chiropractic
How your back works and why it hurts.
[ page 11 ]
How a pickpocket can help ease your back pain ... and 7 other tips to help relieve back ache. [ page 12 ] Is your headache really a pain in the neck? Wellness secrets of chiropractors.
[Your Logo Here]
[ page 13 ]
[ page 16 ]
Is homework damaging your child’s back?
[ page 19 ]
What do Tiger Woods, Lance Armstrong, and Carl Lewis have in common? [ page 23 ]
Plus much more, inside ....
Health Disclaimer All material in this magazine is provided for your information only and may not be construed as medical advice or instruction. No action or inaction should be taken based solely on the contents of this information; instead, readers should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their health and well-being. The information and opinions expressed here are believed to be accurate, based on the best judgement available to the authors. Readers who fail to consult with appropriate health authorities assume the risk of any injuries. In addition, the information and opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect the views of every contributor to this publication; we acknowledge occasional differences in opinion and welcome the exchange of different viewpoints. The publisher is not responsible for errors or omissions. Copyright © 2010 by [Name of your practice here] “the Copyright Holder” Ownership of copyright: The copyright in this booklet including without limitation the text, artwork, photographs and images is owned by the Copyright Holder and its licensors. For the avoidance of doubt, you must not adapt, edit, change, transform, publish, republish, distribute, redistribute, any portion of this booklet without the prior written permission of the Copyright Holder.
Contents ... Answers to the top 10 questions about Chiropractic ............................................
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About Us .............................................................................................................
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How to choose a Chiropractor ............................................................................
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Answering your questions about Chiropractic adjustment ..................................
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When you should not have a Chiropractic adjustment ........................................
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Conditions commonly treated by Chiropractic .....................................................
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Techniques and tools of the Chiropractic trade .................................................... 10 How your back works and why it hurts ................................................................
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How a pickpocket can help ease your back pain and 7 other .............................. 12 Headaches can be a pain in the back .................................................................. 13 Test your knowledge of anatomy .........................................................................
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Support systems: mattresses, chairs, and more .................................................. 15 Wellness secrets of Chiropractors .......................................................................
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Get relief from that aching head ........................................................................... 17 Chiropractic is for kids, too ..................................................................................
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Is homework damaging your childʼs ...................................................................
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Hot or cold? .........................................................................................................
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Chiropractic benefits for the elderly .....................................................................
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Carpel Tunnel Syndrome - more than just a nuisance ......................................... 22 What do Tiger Woods, Lance Armstrong, and Carl Lewis have in common? ...... 23 10 signs that you should see your Chiropractor .................................... Back Cover
Name of Your Practice Here Information about your practice or brief bio
Answers to the top 10 questions about Chiropractic What does a Chiropractor do? .............................................................................
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What are the advantages of chiropractic? ...........................................................
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Are Chiropractics licensed? .................................................................................
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Is Chiropractic safe? ...........................................................................................
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What kind of training do Chiropractors receive? .................................................
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Iʼve had surgery, can I still receive Chiropractic treatment? ................................
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Is Chiropractic safe for children or the elderly? ...................................................
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How often should I see my Chiropractor? ............................................................ 18 Do I need a referral from my GP to see a Chiropractor? .....................................
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Will you treat me on my first visit, or just ask a lot of questions? .......................... 22
Q “What does a chiropractor do?” A Doctors of chiropractic are health care professionals who specialise in musculoskeletal and nervous system conditions and the impact they have on a person;s overall health. Emphasis is placed on alleviating pain in the back, neck, joints and headaches -- and correcting conditions that cause this pain.
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About Us... Who am I? My name is Dr. [Your name here] and I have lived and worked in [town/ region] since [date]. I received my Bachelor of Science degree from [institution] in [year] and then graduated from [name of College of Chiropractic] in [year]. I am also a member of the [registration body] as well as a member in good standing of the [professional body].
Problems we solve
A little bit about my background
[Most are covered in this book, but here you can highlight one or two with personal case histories - without using names unless you get a written release first]
[This is where you tell a little bit about your personal self. Why you chose to become a Chiropractor. What makes you tick.] [This is where you also mention your family, etc., to let people know you are human. Remember: people buy off people they like.]
Proof - awards, recognition
Introductory offer
[What awards have you had? This is the part where you separate yourself form other Chiropractors. What makes you - and your practice - so special?]
[Do you offer a free first visit? What do you use as a carrot to get them to come see you?] [Also mention any guarantee you offer. What form of risk reversal do you provide?]
Patient Testimonial “To be honest, I was expecting to be disappointed but, all aspects of my life have improved since I started chiropractic. I am able to do my complete workout regimen, which includes jogging, weight lifting, and abdominal work without pain. My energy level has certainly increased.” [Replace with testimonial from one of your patients. Note: Must have release on file.]
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How to choose a chiropractor When selecting a chiropractor, take time to find a Doctor of Chiropractic who:
“...holistic, preventative care and counsel.”
Is recommended by your physician, other health care professionals or friends.
Has experience treating your specific condition or symptoms.
Is board certified if you need specialised care in areas such as such as chiropractic neurology, chiropractic rehabilitation, chiropractic orthopaedics or chiropractic paediatrics. Board certification indicates the Chiropractor has completed studies and testing beyond those required to be a Doctor of Chiropractic.
Is willing to work with your other physicians as part of your medical team.
Uses diagnostic tools such as x-rays, ultrasound and paraspinal digital infrared imaging.
Offers holistic, preventive care and counsel.
Will provide an initial consultation free-ofcharge.
Doesn’t claim that chiropractic treatment will cure an alphabet soup of medical conditions.
Q “What are the advantages of Chiropractic??” A Chiropractic is non-invasive, unlike procedures such as surgery. Drugs, particularly addictive painkillers, arenʼt part of the practice. Normally, the cost of treatment is far lower. And often, people who have run out of other medical options find chiropractic provides relief.
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Answering your questions about chiropractic adjustment. Q What is chiropractic adjustment?
Chiropractic adjustment, also called spinal manipulation, is a procedure used by Chiropractors to correct misalignments of the vertebrae of your spine. Untreated, these misalignments can interfere with neurological communication between your brain, tissues and organs.
Q What happens when you have a Chiropractic adjustment?
After identifying your condition via examination and testing, and determining that spinal adjustment is the best treatment for you, your Chiropractor will position your body so that only the affected area is isolated. Next, your Chiropractor will manipulate the joint, freeing it from its “stuck” position. In restoring the joint’s natural movement, inflammation and pain are reduced and your tissues begin to heal.
Q Is it true there can be a popping sound during an adjustment?
Yes, this harmless popping sound occurs when gas bubbles in the fluid surrounding the joint are released during the procedure. Have you ever cracked your knuckles? It’s the same thing.
“In restoring the joint’s natural movement, inflammation and pain are reduced ...“
Q Does this procedure hurt?
Some people are squeamish about spinal manipulation if they aren’t familiar with the procedure. When conducted by a licensed Chiropractor however, spinal manipulation is effective in reducing muscle and joint pain. Only rarely does chiropractic adjustment cause mild discomfort that typically goes away in a day or two.
Patient Testimonial “Ever since my rugby injury, I could not walk or stand in a normal fashion. I had received physio to no avail and thought Chiropractic would probably be of no benefit, which is why I left os so kong before visiting. I wish I had gone sooner. Now I am able to function at a normal level. I can take a walk, go to the gym and do all the little things we take for granted.” [Replace with testimonial from one of your patients. Note: Must have release on file.]
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When you should not have a Chiropractic Adjustment You should not have a chiropractic adjustment if you have:
“ Prior to treatment, your Chiropractor will take a detailed medical history ...“
A fracture.
cancer of the bone or bone marrow
severe spinal osteoporosis
tuberculosis of the spine
a disease of the spinal cord
severe arthritis
an infection in your bone or joint
acute gout
compression of your spinal cord or cauda equina (nerve roots at the end of your spine)
uncontrolled diabetic neuropathy
a bleeding disorder
pain down your leg or arm with increasing weakness, difficulty walking and bowel or bladder control problems.
Prior to treatment, your Chiropractor will take a detailed medical history. It’s important to give thorough answers, even if you’re not sure a health condition has any bearing on your chiropractic therapy. This will enable your Chiropractor to rule out treatments that aren’t appropriate for you.
Q “Are Chiropractors Licensed?” A
Like most other health care practitioners in Australia, Chiropractors are licensed at the state level, by a state board of chiropractic examiners. In Queensland Chiropractors must be registered with the Chiropractors Board of Queensland (you can check if a Chiropractor is registered by visiting their website at www.chiroboard.qld.gov.au). Most states also require Chiropractors to complete a number of hours of continuing education each year to maintain their licenses. 8
Conditions commonly treated by a Chiropractor
Headaches
Herniated discs
Joint pain
Pinched nerve
Sciatica
Fibromyalgia
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Scoliosis Spine curves to one side, difference in height of shoulders or hip, head not centred over torso, teens and adults may have pain
Throbbing, dull or sharp pain, pain that persists, auras (sensations such as light or warmth that often precede migraines), restricted neck motion, light sensitivity
Symptoms differ per the location of the affected disk but may include lower back pain, pain in one leg, numbness in the back, chest arm or leg, muscle spasms Pain, stiffness, sensation of warmth, swelling, tenderness Sharp pain, numbness, tingling sensation, muscle weakness. Sharp pain that travels from your buttocks to your leg. Widespread pain lasting longer than three months, fatigue in muscles and tendons, a number of tender spots on the body, morning stiffness, short-term memory loss, headache, insomnia.
Your Chiropractor can treat a range of conditions ... from headaches to sciatica to fibromyalgia to carpel tunnel syndrome ...
Tingling, burning sensation, pain or numbness in fingers, palm of the hand, wrist or forearm, finger stiffness in the morning, weak grasp.
Patient Testimonial “I had a very sore neck and shoulders. I was under a lot of stress and suffered from headaches daily. I had suffered for many years and purchased a bottle of pain killers before coming into the office. Two and a half months later, the bottle is unopened (NO HEADACHES) and the ball of stress in my neck and shoulders is gone.” [Replace with testimonial from one of your patients. Note: Must have release on file.]
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Techniques and tools of the Chiropractic trade Doctors of Chiropractic use more than 55 different procedures and methods. Practices you may experience include:
Chiropractic Adjustments
restore motion to joints, reducing pain and enabling the injured tissue to heal.
The Activator Technique
involves use of a small device to apply pressure or gentle force to misaligned vertebrae.
Mysofacial treatments
use massage or pressure to relieve pain from knotted muscle fibres called “trigger points.”
“ Doctors of Chiropractic use more than 55 different procedures and methods . . .”
Flexion-Distraction
treatments use a motorised table to gently stretch and relieve pressure on your spine while your Chiropractor focuses on problem areas.
Applied Kinesiology
helps balance tense or loose muscles that pull a bone out of alignment. A combination of massage and manipulation is typical of this technique.
Logan Basic Technique
uses sustained, gentle pressure at the sacrum, located at the base of the spine, to correct the spine.
Cox Flexion Distraction
relieves lower back pain through stretching or traction of the spine.
Q “Is Chiropractic Safe?” A While no form of medical treatment is totally without risk. Because it is drug-free and noninvasive, chiropractic has an exceptional safety record.
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How your back works and why it hurts Your back has an important job. It supports your head and torso, enables you to bend, twist and stretch and provides protection for your spinal cord.
Vertebrae
Your spine comprises 33 bones called vertebrae. Vertebrae contain canals for nerves, intricate joints and are attached to muscles and ligaments. Because your vertebrae are not all the same and have different functions, they’re defined in the following three segments.
Cervical vertebrae in your neck are smaller and more delicate, so you can move your head freely, in a number of directions.
Thoracic vertebrae connect with your ribs and provide some flexibility.
Lumbar vertebrae located where your lower back curves, do heavy lifting, providing support for the body and important mobility. Because they carry the bulk of the weight and have a major role in bending at the waist, they’re most prone to pain and injury.
The sacrum and coccyx are actually fused vertebrae. The sacrum is the larger, shieldshaped bone that supports the lumber vertebrae and protects the pelvic area. And your coccyx, a reminder of our very early ancestors, is a tail.
Disks
It’s likely you’ve heard the terms ruptured disc and herniated disk. Disks are fluid-filled sacs that fit between each of your vertebra, serving as shock absorbers, holding your vertebrae together and making it easier to move. Sometimes disks slip out of position or rupture. This causes pain, particularly if it presses on a nerve.
Spinal Cord/Nerves
Made of nerve fibres, the spinal cord has the critical job of sending messages to and from the brain and the rest of your body. Sometimes these nerve fibres become irritated because of conditions such as a herniated disk, misaligned disk, injury or degeneration of the vertebrae. When this happens you may well feel symptoms like pain, headache, tingling, numbness or weakness. Your chiropractor has a number of techniques for relieving these symptoms.
Patient Testimonial “I was very skeptical about Chiropractic. But, I was at the point of not being able to turn my head without pain and difficulty especially when driving. Now I can turn my head with ease - and without pain.” [Replace with testimonial from one of your patients. Note: Must have release on file.]
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How a pickpocket can help ease your back pain and 7 other tips to help relieve back ache. First, the 7 tips: #1 Maintain good posture when sitting or standing. #2 Watch your weight; excess weight places additional strain on your back. #3 Warm up before doing physical work or exercise. #4 Stay active and follow a regular pattern of exercise to keep your muscles and joints flexible.
“How can a pickpocket help ease your back pain? . . . by removing your wallet . . .”
#5 When lifting, bend at your knees, hold the object close to your body and lift from your legs. #6 Avoid sleeping on your stomach, which can strain your neck and back. #7 If you to spend long periods of time in a chair at work, talk with your Chiropractor about the best ergonomic options. How does the pickpocket help? The pickpocket helps by removing your wallet or by stealing your handbag, which is throwing your spine out of alignment. Tip: carry your wallet up front or carry a smaller handbag. Before going out: clear out cards and extras you do not need for that trip. Regularly clean out receipts and other items you have put in there. When carrying a bag over a shoulder, swap sides regularly.
Q “What kind of training do Chiropractors receive?” A Chiropractors are five year university trained healthcare professionals, equipped with the skills and knowledge to provide care especially tailored to the requirements of each individual. These rigorous educational requirements for chiropractors are similar to the requirements for your family doctor.
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Headaches can be a pain in the back Very often the pain you feel as a headache is actually referred pain from your neck. Referred pain is pain that develops in one part of the body but is felt in another. A common example of referred pain is the arm pain many people feel before or during a heart attack. Pain that originates in your neck.
Stress
Stress is the top culprit, causing muscles and ligaments in the neck to tighten. When this happens, your vertebrae can be thrown out of alignment, and nerve fibres and blood vessels that are connected with those in your head may become inflamed. Ouch!
Poor posture Poor posture is another cause of neck and head pain. Although your head and spine have a natural alignment that provides maximum support, many people have a tendency to lean forward, especially when looking at a computer or television screen, driving, or compensating for the heft of a backpack. When you lean forward, the weight of your head—somewhere between 12 and 15 pounds—strains muscles of the back of your neck and can pull your spine out of alignment.
Signs that your headache originates in your neck are:
You have regular headaches of varying length and degrees of pain, with no consistent cyclical pattern.
Pain is felt on one side of your head.
Your headache is preceded by pain in the neck or shoulders.
You have a history of neck injury, such as whiplash.
Arthritis
Arthritis in your neck (the cervical section of your spine) causes headaches, neck and back pain. This is due to degeneration of the vertebrae, which is common when we age.
Patient Testimonial “Being an athlete, things get thrown out of kilter on a pretty regular basis. Different problems will arise, whether it is stiff, sore muscles or sore joints. A friend recommended Chiropractic. I told him it I thought it was quackery, but he convinced me to give it a go. I hate to have been wrong, but I love the results. Now I am a regular patient.” [Replace with testimonial from one of your patients. Note: Must have release on file.]
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Test your knowledge of anatomy True or False?
Did mum get it right, when she said: “ Don’t crack your knuckles, it will give you arthritis!” ?
T
F
Dimples of Venus is the name of a scallop dish served frequently in Italy.
T
F
You have 206 bones in your body; a quarter of them are in your feet.
T
F
You can take a horse with an aching back to a veterinary chiropractor.
T
F
Don’t crack your knuckles! It will give you arthritis.
T
F
The first cervical vertebra is called atlas, named for Atlas, of Greek mythology, who carried the world on his shoulders.
T
F
Giraffes have seven neck vertebrae, just like a mouse, whale or human.
Answers below
False: the Dimples of Venus are the two small indentations on your lower back. True: in fact, half of your bones are in your hands and feet. True: more than 1,200 veterinary chiropractors worldwide treat horses, dogs, cats, farm animals and more. False: that knuckle-popping sound is simply the release of gas bubbles due to a change in pressure. (Sorry, mum, but you can’t win ‘em all.) True: Zeus punished Atlas by making him carry the earth and skies on his shoulders. True: all mammals, except the two-toed sloth and the manatee have seven vertebrae.
Q “I’ve had surgery. Can I still receive Chiropractic treatment?” A Your Chiropractor can make accommodations for most types of surgery, including spinal fusions, breast reductions or enlargements, and many other types of surgery.
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Support Systems: mattresses, chairs, and more It’s all in the details. Pillows and shoes may not seem like a big deal—but they can make a major difference in the way your body feels and functions.
Mattress
If you’re like most people, you spend about a third of the day sleeping. The quality of your mattress impacts the quality of your sleep and the health of your spine. Your mattress should be firm enough to provide adequate support, yet offer enough “give” to conform to your spine’s natural curve. When sleeping on your side, the mattress should support your waist, but sink slightly where your shoulder and hips rest.
Pillow
The pillow you use should maintain the alignment of your spine. Avoid pillows that position your head and neck unnaturally—it should remain level with your spine. If you sleep on your side, it also can be beneficial to sleep with a pillow between your legs.
Computer/desk chair
Do you spend more time sitting at your desk than in bed? If so, it’s important for you to have a chair that provides proper support. Special ergonomic chairs are excellent but can be costly. If you’re selecting a regular desk chair, select one that allows you to adjust the height. You should be able to rest comfortably, with both feet flat on the floor and thighs parallel to the floor. Adjustable armrests should enable you to rest your arms without pushing your shoulders up. Remember to stand up every hour or so to stretch your legs.
Computer Screen
The computer monitor should be directly behind the keyboard so you can look straight at the screen without turning your neck. Set the screen so your line of vision is about threequarters of the way up the screen when you look straight at the monitor. The keyboard should be low enough that your shoulders are relaxed and your arms are comfortably near your body.
Shoes
Painful feet or feet that aren’t being supported properly put stress on the joints in your ankles, knees, hips and lower spine. Chiropractic adjustment of your feet can help alleviate the pain. Your Chiropracotr may also recommend specific shoes or shoe inserts to provide better support. When selecting shoes, choose models that have index finger’s width between your toe and the tip of the shoe. Your heel should fit comfortably against the back of the shoe and not slide when you’re walking. Toss old shoes—their worn structure won’t provide adequate support.
Patient Testimonial “Prior to chiropractic, I suffered severe low back and occasional headaches. I always thought the problem was muscular but through chiropractic I found that it was skeletal. I find that when I'm adjusted on a consistent basis I have increased flexibility and speed. Chiropractic has been a tremendous help for me.” [Replace with testimonial from one of your patients. Note: Must have release on file.]
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Wellness secrets of Chiropractors Sure, you’ve heard the healthy lifestyle mantra before. But following good wellness practices such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and getting enough sleep can add more than a decade to your life and improve your quality of life, too.
Mum got it right
Mum knew what she was doing when she said, “Stand up straight!” Good posture can help prevent or alleviate a host of bone and joint problems. (But, seriously, do I have to admit that . . . to her?)
“Laugh often and spend time in the company of fun friends.”
Reduce stress
Stress has a negative impact on our physical and mental health. Explore methods of managing stress that are effective for you. Common steps include:
Regular exercise Walking, stretching, working out at the gym— all ease your stress;
Relaxation techniques Deep breathing, meditation, visualization or stretching exercises;
Make time to do something you enjoy Reading, playing the piano, playing golf, working on the stamp collection, daydreaming —it’s your choice; and
Laugh often and spend time in the company of fun friends.
Q “Is Chiropractic safe for children or the elderly?” A Yes. Both children and the elderly can benefit form Chiropractic care. For more information see these related articles in this magazine: ʻChiropractic is for kids, tooʼ on page 18; ʻIs homework damaging your childʼs back?ʼ on page 19; and ʻChiropractic benefits for the elderlyʼ on page 21.
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Get Relief from that Aching head For temporary relief: use acupressure.
Using a circular motion, gently massage at the bottom of the bones behind your ears.
Pinch the skin just above your nose and push up so you feel pressure at eyebrow level.
With your thumb and index finger, squeeze the plump pad between thumb and index finger on the palm of your other hand.
To help prevent recurrence: call your chiropractor for an appointment (our number is: XX XXXX XXXX)
“For temporary relief: use acupressure”
Patient Testimonial “It is most gratifying for me to know that there is a great team spirit and support by YOU and staff for my personal well-being over and above the exceptional chiropractic care. THE goals and objectives achieved have been very rewarding.” [Replace with testimonial from one of your patients. Note: Must have release on file.]
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Chiropractic is for Kids, too Always on the go, kids are magnets for falls, sprains, strains and sports-related injuries. Chiropractic is an invaluable therapeutic option for children because it is noninvasive and is medication-free. In fact, chiropractic is used so commonly with children that a survey conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics (in the USA) revealed that approximately two million children receive chiropractic manipulations each year.
“Chiropractic is an invaluable therapeutic option for children because it is non-invasive and is medication-free.”
Many childhood health complaints that are brushed off as “growing pains” may be able to be traced to the spine. Regular chiropractic checkups may be able to identify these problems and may help avoid many of the health complaints seen later in adults.
Q “How often should I see my Chiropractor?” A Your Chiropractor should prescribe an initial treatment plan of no more than three of four
weeks, unless your condition is extremely severe or is the result of an accident. After the initial phase of your treatment, the goal is to stretch your visits without any pain between visits without making the mistake of only seeking Chiropractic treatment when the pain becomes intense or unbearable, which can result in more damage, as well as more timeconsuming and costly treatment than regular visits. 18
Is homework damaging your child’s back? You’ve probably picked up your child’s backpack and wondered if it was full of rocks. What you may not know, however, is that a heavy backpack can be harmful to your child. Almost 6,500 children are taken to the emergency room each year because of backpack-related injuries in the USA alone, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. And emergency room physicians are seeing more than just back pain caused by heavy backpacks. Injuries are almost as common in the knee, leg, ankle, shoulder, wrist, elbow, hand, head and neck.
Following are ways you can make your child’s backpack less of a burden on his or her body.
The weight of the backpack should be no more than 10 percent to 15 percent of your child’s weight.
Remind your child to always use both straps.
Select a backpack with a waist belt or
frame that places the weight of the pack on your child’s pelvis, rather than the shoulders.
Tighten the straps so the pack is held close to the body.
Make sure the straps and the side of the backpack that rests against the child’s back are well padded.
Pack heavy items at the bottom of the
pack and balance the load as much as possible.
Choose a pack with wheels for pulling. Patient Testimonial “The care is excellent! Myself and my husband have both been clients for several years, but had never considered Chiropractic care for our daughter, having put the pain in her knee down to ʻgrowing painsʼ. After several tearful episodes we decided to ask whether it may help, so booked an appointment. It did and she is now pain free.” [Replace with testimonial from one of your patients. Note: Must have release on file.]
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Hot or cold? Ice packs and heat pads are commonly used treatments for pain and swelling, but which one is the right one to use for your injury?
Ice is effective in reducing pain and inflammation. Use heat when you want to relax aching muscles.
Use Ice Treatment for acute injuries, where swelling is a problem, during the initial 48 hours after injury (e.g. sprained ankle). An ice pack will help reduce swelling and pain. You can also use ice treatment for chronic conditions, such as cumulative trauma disorders or overuse injuries, use an ice treatment after activity to help control inflammation. Do not use ice treatment prior to activity. Use heat treatments for chronic conditions, such as overuse injuries, before participating in activities to help relax and loosen tissues, and to stimulate blood flow to the area. Do not use heat treatment after activity or on an acute injury. When using heat treatments use use a moderate heat for a limited time to avoid burns. Never leave heating pads or towels on for extended periods of time, or while sleeping.
Q “Do I need a referral form my GP to see a Chiropractor” A No. Chiropractors are primary healthcare practitioners, so you do not need a referral from your family doctor in order to see a Chiropractor.
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Chiropractic benefits the elderly Chiropractic treatment is an ideal treatment option for the elderly. As we age, we experience more stiffness, reduced mobility, depression, and a general feeling of ill health. These problems may be the direct results of very specific physical conditions such as arthritis, poor circulation, osteoporosis, the result of falls and accidents, or simply the results of general wear and tear. Given this set of circumstances, medication-free, noninvasive chiropractic treatment is ideally suited to most older people. In working with the elderly, chiropractors use gentle techniques appropriate to the aging body. Ongoing wellness and preventive care are important elements of treatment. This may include recommendations on exercise, nutrition and lifestyle modifications.
The range of conditions that can be helped is extensive and includes back, neck and joint pain, headaches and migraines, as well as helping to alleviate the pain and problems caused by the following :
Arthritis - osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis;
Poor Circulation, particularly in the hands, legs and feet;
The after effects of operations, falls,
Although chiropractic cannot reverse the effects of arthritis or degenerative diseases, by keeping the body aligned, treatment can help to reduce further damage.
bumps, and accidents;
Dental and denture associated pain, and;
Chiropractic care can help alleviate pain, improve joint function, boost mobility, increase balance and coordination, and decrease stiffness. Although it’s not a fountain of youth, chiropractic can do wonders in improving your comfort and quality of life; many people find that chiropractic treatment helps them to maintain their mobility as well as retain their health and well being.
General symptoms of declining health, including poor mobility.
Patient Testimonial “Growing old is a pain in more ways than one. At the urging of my daughter I decided to have a Chiropractic consultation, all the while thinking to myself that it was probably going to be a waste to time - and money. I still have some aches and pains now and then, but by and large the regular treatments I receive have given me my life back.” [Replace with testimonial from one of your patients. Note: Must have release on file.]
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: more than just a nuisance The carpal tunnel is a passageway through your wrist. Nerves and muscles from your hand and fingers pass through this tunnel and up the arm. Sometimes, however, the important median nerve that supplies motion and feeling to your fingers and hand gets pressed or squeezed. When the nerve function is impaired by this pressure, you have carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). What causes CTS? Many people believe too many hours spend a keyboard cause CTS, however, a study at Mayo Clinic found this is not the case. In fact, any number of factors can cause the condition, including:
Naturally narrow carpal tunnels
Arthritis
Retention of fluid during pregnancy
Diabetes
Thyroid conditions
Obesity
Regular use of vibrating hand tools
Inadequate work ergonomics
Injury
The symptoms of CTS are numbness, burning, itching or tingling in your hand or fingers. In severe cases, carpal tunnel syndrome can make it difficult to grasp objects or to feel hot or cold. Women are three times more likely to have the condition than men. It is rare in children. Your chiropractor can diagnose and treat CTS. He or she may prescribe resting the hand and wrist for a period of time, applying a splint to immobilize the wrist, stretching or strengthening exercises, icing the wrist or joint manipulation.
Q “Will you treat me on my first visit, or just ask a lot of questions?” A Whenever practical, we will provide Chiropractic treatment on your first visit, after all, we recognise that it is your desire for some immediate relief, as well as for a return to wellness, that has caused you to seek us out. However, we will only do so after a factfinding consultation and then only if we deem it safe to do so. In some cases, for your safety and well-being, we may require x-rays or other examinations prior to treatment. 22
What do Tiger Woods. Lance Armstrong, and Carl Lewis have in common? (Hint: it’s not athletics and it has nothing to do with women) Many Chiropractors use a method called Active Release Technique (ART) to treat carpal tunnel syndrome and other injuries to soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves) damaged by repetitive activity. ART is used by many professional athletes, including Tiger Woods, Lance Armstrong, and Carl Lewis, to treat a host of soft-tissue conditions. With ART, your Chiropractor will:
Examine the soft tissue of the injured area to find scar tissue or adhesions that bind the tissues, causing pain.
Apply tension to specific areas while having you move as directed. This will help restore natural texture, length and to the inflamed tissue. It’s common for people to get immediate relief from this treatment.
“ART is used by many professional athletes, including Tiger Woods, Lance Armstrong, and Carl Lewis ...”
Lance Armstrong Testimonial “The most important man on the team may have been the Chiropractor. I could not have won without my Chiropractorʼs help.” Lance Armstrong, from his book ʻEvery Second Countsʼ Lance is a professional Road Racing Cyclist best known for winning the Tour de France a record seven consecutive times,
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10 signs that you should see your Chiropractor ... Chronic pain in your joints, muscles or head. Your job requires you to sit for long periods of time or to perform repetitive physical tasks. An injury to a muscle, joint or spine hasn’t healed with medications or physical therapy. Sharp pain shoots from your hip down your leg. Pain, aching, a burning sensation or stiffness comes and goes in parts of your body. You want to address joint or muscle pain without drugs or surgery. The soles of your shoes consistently wear differently. The hem of your skirts or pants hang unevenly. Your head is positioned forward rather than directly over your shoulders. One of your shoulders is lower than the other.
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