Chiropractic adjustments as treatment for neck and back pain from arthritis is drug-free. It is certainly an effective way to treat your stiff and painful joints.  Moreover, most of what chiropractors do currently is gentler than “cracking backs or necks” into place. In fact, there are more than 100 techniques that chiropractors use to manually adjust the spine, joints and manipulate the muscles with varying degrees of force. Chiropractic adjustments restore joint mobility and function, resolves joint inflammation and reduces the pain.

Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustment

If you’ve had back pain or a stiff neck, whether from arthritis or an injury, you’ve likely considered seeing a chiropractor. Certainly chiropractors adjust the spine to improve pain and mobility, but the benefits may extend beyond the back and neck. Chiropractors try to improve the relationship between the spine and nervous system, which affects the function of all the organs and systems in your body.  For instance, it helps to minimize inflammation throughout the body and help to strengthen the immune system.

Chiropractic adjustments also help arthritic extremity (arms and legs) joints as well. If someone is having a problem in a knee joint that is causing them to walk awkwardly, it may lead to a secondary pain syndrome in the lower back. The real problem started in the knee which needs to be addressed by way of an adjustment.

Chiropractic Adjustments Offer an Alternative to Pain Medication

Adjustments can help keep painful joints more comfortable while also improving function and range of motion. Chiropractors use gentle manipulation to adjust your joints and manipulate muscles to return to their proper structure. With proper alignment, your body’s equilibrium is restored, which in turn helps increase the healing of your damaged joint tissues. In summary, the chiropractic adjustment works by restoring function which decreases the inflammation and the pain goes away. 

There are a lot of benefits to chiropractic adjustments. In order to see great results, though, you need to make sure you’re visiting the chiropractor on a regular basis.  Most definitely, improved posture is another benefit. Chiropractic adjustments, combined with at-home stretching and strengthening exercises, can be very helpful to those who suffer from degenerative scoliosis or other postural issues.  Degenerative scoliosis is a result of osteoarthritis (wear and tear arthritis) on the discs and joints of the spine.

Chiropractors are Portal of Entry Providers

Chiropractors are portal of entry providers in Florida and so are primary-care professionals which means you go directly to them.  During your first visit, the chiropractor should take a detailed medical history and perform a physical exam of every joint to determine what approaches are right for you. The doctor may also take an X-ray. Chiropractors also understand the importance of exercise and a healthy diet for your health. They will provide instructions on lifestyle changes and exercises that will help you maintain range of motion and reduce symptoms related to arthritis.

Research on How Chiropractic Adjustments Can Help With Arthritis

In the past, chiropractic got mixed reviews from physicians. Increasingly, studies in mainstream medical journals are demonstrating the benefits of chiropractic for back and joint pain. A 2017 review in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that spinal manipulation reduces lower back pain. And a 2013 study published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage found that patient education combined with 12 chiropractic treatments (twice a week for six weeks) were more effective for hip Osteoarthritis than a daily stretching program or patient education alone.

 

Dr. Natalie Meiri has treated patients for over 17 years with wear and tear osteoarthritis and inflammatory disease, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.  Dr. Natalie Meiri also adjusts arthritic joints of the extremities (arms and legs).  Too many people suffer with conditions that can be treated using natural and noninvasive treatments.  Get fast pain relief and function better from the best chiropractic clinic in West Palm Beach.  Contact Dr. Natalie Meiri today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about How Chiropractic Adjustments Can Help With Arthritis.

 

 

Chiropractic care has been proven to help people in all stages of life. Family chiropractic clinics like Meiri Chiropractic in West Palm Beach, Florida offer many benefits to patients of all ages, genders and backgrounds.

Some patients see a chiropractor for the health benefits or the treatment of injuries. Other people at a different stage in their life may get more positive results from being under the care of a family chiropractor.

A family chiropractor has many benefits for all ages! 

 

Family Chiropractor for Prenatal/ Pregnancy

 

Musculoskeletal concerns during pregnancy are due to mechanical changes from the growth and position of the baby and hormonal changes that result in less ligament stability. Firstly, hip and low back pain are common in pregnant women. Secondly, the pregnancy can cause myofascial problems in the neck, mid back and chest areas due to the shifting of her spine and the extra weight of the baby. Thirdly, knee and foot pain are common due to the change in weight bearing as well.

There is research to support the role of chiropractic treatment of the pregnant low back patient. Adjustments during pregnancy are safe and an excellent alternative to drugs for pain management. “Softer” approaches can also be utilized such as various soft tissue techniques and mobilization. A family chiropractor in West Palm Beach will gently adjust the pregnant woman’s spine, hips, knees and feet.

Of all the changes she will experience in this stage of life, consistent care from a family chiropractor in West Palm Beach is always a good choice. Stiffness and pain can be decreased through regular care. Than the pregnant woman can sleep better at night and feel more energized during the day. Her range of motion will increase to help with delivery of the baby as well. As eating right and exercising during pregnancy is important, so is chiropractic care. When you are pregnant, you need all the help you can get. After all, when the baby is born, mom will need to be in top physical shape to continue the next part of her joyful journey.

 

Family Chiropractor for Infants and kids

 

A Canadian study of pediatric visits to alternative care practitioners indicated that the majority of patients presented with non-musculoskeletal complaints such as respiratory and ears, nose and throat (ENT) related symptoms. Furthermore, studies from Denmark seem to indicate that chiropractic manipulation is effective at improving or resolving infantile colic. Infantile colic describes excessive crying of unknown cause in otherwise well infants. It appears Colic affects up to 20% of infants.

As your child grows, sports- related injuries are relatively common. Prevention is a major goal in working with children and adolescents. Similarly, when injured, the proper diagnosis, treatment, and rehab is the goal. Lastly, many children experience “growing pains” and posture related discomfort. And they find relief by seeing a family chiropractor in West Palm Beach.

With adolescents, back pain accounted for about 33% of visits to a family chiropractor in countries outside the United States. Neck and headache pain accounted for approximately 40% of visits.

 

Family Chiropractor for Younger Adults

Whether you sit at a desk all day at work, perform manual labor, chase after small children, or are an athlete, the repetitive tasks in our days can eventually lead to spinal misalignments and joint dysfunction throughout your body. Untreated, these can cause a ripple of destruction to your health. Pain, headaches, dizziness, low energy, difficulty sleeping, and weakened immune health are all possible symptoms.

Regardless of your activity level, you should check in with a family chiropractor regularly to address issues while they are small. Consistent care is better than allowing your pain to finally bring you into the family chiropractor clinic. Adults seek chiropractic clinics due to neck and back pain, arm and leg pain, disc problems, hormonal (menopause, premenstrual pains) issues, osteoarthritis, pinched nerve, headaches, sciatica, fibromyalgia, and immune disorders. Why not seek care while the problem is minor and small? Once you are in pain your body has already been struggling for awhile. Therefore, it takes longer and more adjustments to get it healthy again.

 

Family Chiropractor for Older Adults (Elders/Seniors)

Studies suggest that the older adult population (over 65) represents 12-17% of most chiropractic practices in the U.S.A. These patients also account for 1/3 of patients who purchase prescription medications. The majority of older adults have signs and symptoms that reflect the accumulation of life-long environmental impact combined with decreased function of most organ systems. Among these systems include the neuromusculoskeletal system in which Chiropractors are specialists in.

The ultimate goal with older adults are to prevent or delay functional decline and restore and/or maintain function to allow as much independent living as possible. It is clear the ability for the older adult to remain independent has a significant effect on his or her perceived quality of life. In conclusion, it is true and logical that normal aging does result in some decreases in function. However, all decreases in function are not age related and so require intervention. In fact, many neuromusculoskeletal conditions are treatable and preventable through chiropractic care.

At Meiri Chiropractic, we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you or your loved ones have. We have been offering effective chiropractic care in Palm Beach County since 2006. Many of our patients reviews note our excellence. We are your best bet and are here for you. Call us today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about the Family Chiropractor Has Many Benefits for All Ages.

 

References:

Thomas Souza,  (2001) Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor

 

        Video on same post

 

 

 

 

Meiri Chiropractic

561-253-8984

 

A common source of pain and disability is soft tissue injury with its resultant fibrosis and loss of elasticity and strength. Soft tissue injury and fibrosis may result from acute or repetitive trauma to muscular, tendinous, myofascial, or ligamentous tissue.  Therefore,  adjustments of the joint without attention to the supporting and controlling effects of the soft tissues (i.e. muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia) will likely result in recurrence of joint dysfunction (misalignment of joint).  The reason being, abnormal soft tissue patterns and presentations may persist after joint function has been restored.  Accordingly, any soft tissue problems need to be treated along with the joint dysfunction. 

Most chiropractic adjustive techniques (adjustments) impart a thrust to move a joint into proper alignment of the body to normalize function.  In contrast, many manual therapy procedures (joint mobilization, traction, and soft tissue techniques) are designed to affect physiologic processes to normalize function without using a thrust. This post will focus on soft tissue manipulation (STM) techniques. STM techniques are defined as those physical methods applied to muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and other connective tissues with the goal of therapeutically affecting the body.

Indeed, various and numerous forms of STM exist within the profession of chiropractic. Firstly, all STM techniques are not equivalent. Secondly, while all are often recommended for the relief of pain, all STM techniques are not interchangeable.  Thirdly, although all STM techniques have some effect on the soft tissues, one may be more appropriate or effective for a particular condition.

 

Various Soft Tissue Manipulation Versus Massage Along With Chiropractic Care: the Restrictive Barrier Concept

Probably the most well known soft tissue technique is massage (methodical, friction and kneading of the body upon bare skin). Subsequently, some chiropractors do not use manual therapy (non thrust techniques) and refer their patients for massage (i.e. deep tissue) because of the exclusiveness of  adjustments (thrust techniques). And in the chiropractic practice, one of the functions of massage is to relax your muscles.  This prepares the irritated region for adjustments. 

So massage is great for pain reduction, relaxation, improved circulation and even softens superficial fascia. However, massage is not soft tissue manipulation therapy which crosses the restrictive barrier. Many conditions require the restrictive barrier to be found and accurately engaged to provide  functional improvement.  The barrier concept provides an important distinction between massage procedures and other STM techniques.

You cannot get whichever therapy (massage) you prefer and expect the same  outcome.  Some soft tissue injuries/conditions may require a soft tissue manipulation technique beyond massage for restoration of full functional and/or structural improvement.  Furthermore, when considering the use of treatment of certain soft tissue conditions a working knowledge of the fundamental principles behind them is necessary and helpful. 

 

 

Education

Chiropractors have far more education than a massage therapist. A chiropractor has to complete a four-year undergraduate degree and then must finish a four-year doctorate of chiropractic program. All chiropractic programs teach a comprehensive program incorporating elements of basic science (e.g., physiology, anatomy, and biochemistry), clinical science (e.g., laboratory diagnosis, radiographic diagnosis, orthopedics, neurology, and nutrition), and clinical intern experience.

During their education, chiropractors also have to complete a residency program that includes hands-on training, pass several board exams, and pass certification tests. In conclusion, government inquiries and comparative evaluations have determined that the coursework and hours of instruction in the basic sciences are very similar between chiropractic and medical schools. Chiropractic students on average spend more hours in anatomy and physiology and fewer hours in public health. In the clinical arena chiropractic students have very limited training in pharmacology and critical care, but have significantly more training in clinical biomechanics, neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis, manual therapy, and exercise rehabilitation.

 

Part II of this post will discuss some various soft tissue manipulation techniques utilized at Meiri Chiropractic such as:

 

 FUNCTIONAL TECHNIQUES

Strain-counterstrain

Positional release technique

MRT, Myofascial release technique

 

MANUAL RESISTANCE TECHNIQUES

MET, Muscle energy technique

PIR, post isometric relaxation

PNF, proprioceptive neuromusculoskeletal facilitation

Ischemic compression

Trigger point therapy

Receptor-tonus technique

 

BODY WALL REFLEX TECHNIQUES

Acupressure point stimulation

Chapman lymphatic reflexes

Bennett vascular reflexes

 

If you just need to relax and treat yourself, you should head to a massage therapist. However, if you have more serious complaints, such as back/neck pain, frequent headaches, TMJ pain or even arm and leg pain, you may get more benefits from chiropractic soft tissue manipulation techniques. Call Meiri Chiropractic today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to learn more about various soft tissue manipulation versus massage along with chiropractic care: Part 1 in West Palm Beach.

 

 

References:

Bergman, Thomas. Peterson, Lawrence. Chiropractic Technique Principles and Procedures

2011. Third Edition

Hammer, Warren.  Functional Soft Tissue Examination and Treatment by Manual Methods.

Third Edition

 

 

 

        Video on same post

 

Meiri Chiropractic

561-253-8984

 

 

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories:

 A Chiropractor Can Help Failed Back Surgery Syndrome 

This was a 87 year old patient who presented to my office with low back pain and pain in both legs. To be HIPAA compliant, I will call him Henry instead of his real name.   Henry had  a laminectomy nearly 10 years ago on his low back. A laminectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a portion of the vertebral bone called the lamina, which is the roof of the spinal canal. Also known as decompression surgery, a laminectomy enlarges your spinal canal to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. It is a major spine operation with residual scar tissue and may result in Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) which was the case with Henry. FBSS patients  have new or persistent pain after spinal surgery for back or leg pain.

Henry had the laminectomy on his L4-L5 vertebra due to a dropped foot.  Although, his dropped foot improved after the surgery, he had pain in his low back and legs which he didn’t have prior to the surgery.  Foot Drop is a term used to describe difficulty lifting the front part of the foot. Common causes are L4-L5 radiculopathy (nerve compression), caused by either a herniated disc, degenerative disc and/or foraminal spinal stenosis, and peroneal peripheral neuropathy in the leg.

 

Henry’s Medical History

 

Henry was active in his younger years playing tennis and golf almost every day.  In addition to the laminectomy, Henry had a left total knee replacement a few years ago. He started going to the gym since his knee replacement, but his back and leg pain kept getting worse.  Henry was on numerous drugs for the pain and for his high blood pressure. 

 

His internist had ordered a doppler ultrasound to rule out a circulation problem in his legs. Henry had tried acupuncture without any success.  Furthermore, the physical therapy treatments at home seemed to help some, but not enough.  Therefore, Henry came to see me. Henry wanted to feel better and go back to the gym.

 

Henry’s Exam and Imaging

Upon examination, Henry had positive tests for both hips, right knee, both ankles, mid and low back.  X-rays taken in my office showed osteoarthritis (wear and tear arthritis) in his thoracic spine (mid back), lumbar spine (low back), hips, right knee and both ankles.  I would send Henry for further imaging (i.e. magnetic resonance imaging, MRI) or a electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction study (NCS) if there wasn’t any improvement within 12 visits.

 

 

Henry’s Chiropractic Treatment for Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: Low Force Techniques Were Considered to be Safer

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 From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories:

Low Back and Hip Pain From Prolonged Sitting and the Relief of Chiropractic Care

Author: Natalie Meiri, D.C.        Posted: 11/27/20

 

This was a 39 year old male patient with a chief complaint of low back pain. To be HIPAA compliant, I will call him Justin instead of his real name. Justin had an information technology job for over 10 years so always sat in front of a computer. While sitting at a computer all day can obviously cause various neuromusculoskeletal problems, he felt it even more after COVID-19 started.  This was due to having to work at home.  At the office he took regular breaks throughout the day with different tasks.  However, at home every meeting was via the internet which kept him continuously sitting.  He tried taking some over the counter NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), but continued to have low back pain so he came to see me.

 

On his intake he indicated pain in his lumbar (low back) spine without any referral into his legs.  Upon examination, there was no pain with lumbar range of motion (measurement of the amount of movement around a specific joint or body part) except with flexion (to bend forward).  This was almost impossible due to pain.   However, all his left hip ranges of motion reproduced pain in his low back.  Above all, an orthopedic test for the left hip also reproduced the same pain in his low back.  It was also apparent that his problem was also in his left hip with his chiropractic alignment assessment.  Findings on his x-rays were mild degenerative joint disease/osteoarthritis (wear and tear type arthritis) of both his low back and hips. 

 

 

Low Back and Hip Pain From Prolonged Sitting and the Relief of Chiropractic Care: Justin’s Treatment

 

Justin’s chiropractic treatment consisted of chiropractic manipulation/ adjustments of the lumbar spine, left hip and associated regions.  Associated regions that were adjusted were his cervical (neck) and thoracic (mid back) spine which were misaligned (subluxations or intersegmental dysfunctions) due to the condition he had. The realignment of the neck and mid back was helpful for his low back/hip condition because the upper half of the body can contribute strongly to the musculoskeletal problems in the lower half of the body and vice versa.  Additionally, soft tissue therapy (myofascial release, pressure point, and various post isometric relaxation to patient tolerance) and modalities (cold/heat therapy and electric muscle stimulation) were administered. Finally, he was given therapeutic exercises to continue his treatment at home. 

 

Low Back and Hip Pain From Prolonged Sitting and the Relief of Chiropractic Care: Ergonomics and Posture

 

To avoid repetitive injury again, recommendations were made on the importance of good posture and ergonomics at his home work station.  Firstly, Justin’s undesirable posture was corrected such as his “head forward” posture at his desk. Justin’s head, neck, and/or shoulders were bent forward excessively when working at his computer, placing the upper half of the body in a round-shouldered, slumped position.  When he worked at his desk, it was important to place the computer monitor at eye level. 

 

 

Secondly, his chair and desk were a problem. The chair needed an addition of a lumbar pillow or roll to maintain the normal lumbar lordosis (curve).  The lack of an armrest for adequate elbow support created a drag on his shoulders. And the low desk top increased flexion (bending) of his spine.  He got a different chair with armrests and also elevated his desk which created more adequate knee room. Justin’s feet now rested solidly on the floor or on some type of footrest and not dangling. While flexibility and comfort were important, his seating provided support of the normal spinal curves. In particular, the cervical and lumbar lordosis were supported with a minimum of muscular energy on his part.

 

Thirdly, he was to arrange his work station to be able to change positions as needed for specific tasks and as needed to provide adequate circulation and nutrition to his body structures. Twisting movements were to be avoided especially when leaning forward. A headset was beneficial since he spent a significant amount of time talking or listening on the telephone. Lastly, frequent breaks were recommended to stand momentarily, walk a few feet, or change the activity. 

 

Justin recovered quickly…

And he made the recommended necessary ergonomic corrections.  Consequently, he didn’t re-injure himself at his home work station. 

 

At Meiri Chiropractic in North Palm Beach, we offer low back and hip pain relief.  We are a low back and hip pain chiropractor located in West Palm Beach, but also serve Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Juno Beach, and North Palm Beach.  We also examine, diagnose and treat many other conditions, injuries and ailments .  Call us in West Palm Beach today to learn about low back and hip pain from prolonged sitting and the relief of chiropractic care or to make an appointment.

 

Meiri Chiropractic

5601 Corporate Way, Ste 102

West Palm Beach, FL 33407

tel: 561-253-8984

 

 

Whether you’re a high school all-star, professional in the big leagues or even a little league player, sports injuries occur when engaging in sports or exercise. Over training, lack of conditioning, and improper form or technique can lead to this. Also, failing to warm up increases the risk of sports injuries. Staying fit by eating right and exercising is very beneficial for your health and overall well-being. Bruises, strains, sprains, tears, and broken bones can result. Soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia (band or sheet of connective tissue), and bursae (fluid-filled sac) may be affected. Therefore, you certainly don’t want an injury to set you back! Here are 5 common sports injuries a chiropractor can help with to learn about.

 

1. Contusion

Contusion is the medical term for a bruise. You may think of a bruise as a black-and-blue spot. So when small blood vessels get torn and leak blood under the skin, you get a bruise/contusion. A contusion is the result of a direct blow or an impact, such as a fall. For instance, it can happen in kickboxing class to your hand due to improper glove/equipment.  The contusion may even be on your face. TMJ (temporomandibular) pain maybe a result of injury to the jaw or face (for example, a fall or hit that affects the chin).

 

2. Ankle Sprain

You may simply step on an uneven surface or land on the outside heel while running/jumping and get an ankle sprain.  Moreover, if you keep getting subsequent sprains, ligament laxity (looseness of a limb or muscle) plays an important role.

The vast majority of ankle sprains are due to plantar flexion (movement in which the ankle and foot bends forward or downward) and inversion (bending the ankle and foot inward toward the mid-line of the body).  Furthermore, these sprains involve the lateral (outer side) ligaments (fibrous connective tissue that connects bones to other bones). In a sequence of injury: the anterior talofibular (ankle bone and long, thin and side bone of the lower leg) ligament, calcaneofibular (heel bone and long, thin and side bone of the lower leg) ligament, and the posterior talofibular (rear ankle bone and long, thin and side bone of the lower leg) ligament which are the lateral (outer side) ligaments. The more rare eversion turning (movement where ankle/foot bends inside-out) sprain damages the medial (toward middle) ligament complex referred to as the deltoid ligament.

3) Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints)

The pain of shin splints along the tibia (shinbone) is most likely caused by overuse.  Hyperpronation of the foot (when the ankle bone turns inward and the rest of the foot turns outward) and tight heel cords, especially in joggers and runners, have been implicated. Several theories have been proposed, but nothing definite has been proven.  The American Medical Association limited the definition to musculotendinous (muscle-tendon) inflammations, and excluded stress fractures (tiny cracks in a bone).  Shin Splints are also common in dancers and military recruits.

 

 

4) Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) /Golfers Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

“Tennis elbow” is due to repetitive movements requiring forceful wrist extension (straightening arm so that the elbow joint is open), radial deviation (movement of bending the wrist to the thumb), and supination (movement where palm or forearm faces up). Other sports and occupational activities are also possible causes besides from tennis such as meat cutters, plumbers, and weavers. With tennis, novice players with poor backhand technique account for most cases. With professional players, forehand and serving may be the cause. The more frequently an individual plays, the higher the risk of developing tennis elbow.

With golfer’s elbow, you may feel medial (inside) elbow pain following a repetitive activity such as hammering or use of a screwdriver. In athletes, the inciting activity usually involves wrist flexion (bending) and pronation (palm or forearm faces down) such as in serving and overhead strokes. Golfing or throwing may also cause symptoms. You may also complain of pain or weakness on gripping.

 

5) Hamstring strain

Perhaps you were sprinting or jumping and you over contracted the hamstrings while in a position of stretch.  You may be an athlete who feels a sudden pull or pop at the back of the thigh following a forceful knee extension maneuver. The hamstrings are a group of three muscles that run along the back of your thigh. They allow you to bend your leg at the knee. Tendons and aponeurosis (a sheet of pearly white fibrous tissue) connect the muscles with the structures (i.e. bones ) to be moved. Tearing of the hamstrings occurs most often at the junction of the muscle and aponeurosis . Avulsion of the ischial tuberosity (sitting bone) apophysis (natural protuberance from a bone for the attachment of muscles) is possible in younger athletes.

 

5 common sports injuries a chiropractor can help – Recovering from a Sports injury

While ice and rest from the inciting activity are a start.  And you may try a drug for fast pain relief for the moment. This is not a long term solution.  A sports injury chiropractor serving West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter, Juno Beach and North Palm Beach can help you with the 5 common sports injuries a chiropractor can help with to get you back to your sport.  Even better, prevent future injuries and achieve peak performance by ensuring proper alignment on a regular basis with chiropractic. Contact Meiri Chiropractic today on the 5 common sports injuries a chiropractor can help with and/or other ailments you may have.

 

 

Meiri Chiropractic

5601 Corporate Way, Ste 102

West Palm Beach, FL 33407

561-253-8984

 

    

Many chiropractic doctors offer natural adjunctive therapies and supplementation proven to effectively augment chiropractic treatment. Read on to learn how homeopathy is a natural alternative treatment used by chiropractors.

Homeopathy is a system of medicine that has been used by millions of people worldwide for over 200 years.  It is prescribed and recommended by health care providers in over 65 countries.  Furthermore, homeopathic medicines are used in extremely dilute concentrations that are nontoxic. And when administered according to homeopathic principles, are safe in infants, pregnant women, children, and adults.  While homeopathy is not a substitute for allopathic (conventional) medicine, it is effective and beneficial for a wide variety of acute and chronic problems such as: allergies, coughs, colds, influenzas, stress, digestive problems, migraine headaches, insomnia, arthritis pain, muscle pain, sports injury pain, chronic fatigue, premenstrual syndrome, and menopausal trouble.  Indeed, Homeopathy helps patients reduce healing time and minimize their pain naturally. 

 

 

Homeopathy is a natural alternative treatment used by chiropractors….Why a natural alternative?

Patients have asked for years about natural, reliable treatments without the unwanted side effects.  Conventional drugs are made from synthetic substances which can cause toxic side effects.  Homeopathic medicines are composed of natural herbal, mineral and animal substances.  Above all, non-invasive and non-toxic, it works by stimulating a natural healing reaction in a person. The FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) regulates the remedies/medicines and pharmacies.

What does research and experience tell us?

For two centuries, homeopathy has been systematically proven by scientists.  Moreover, this is by doctors’ observations of thousands of successfully treated cases.  Today, an increasing number of scientific studies are being conducted on homeopathy.  And there are 1000s of preclinical and clinical positive outcome studies. 

 

Celebrities that use homeopathy are numerous. For example, Cindy Crawford (super model) and Roger Daltrey (The Who) first discovered homeopathy because of an illness their child had.  And they found that homeopathy worked where conventional medicine had not. Next, Robin McGraw, (wife of “Dr. Phil” McGraw) used it for hot flashes of menopause.  Additionally, “Cher” (singer/actress) used it for recurrent pneumonia and chronic fatigue. Finally, Tina Turner writes in her autobiography, “Life in the fast lane wore me down, changes in my diet and homeopathy saved me.”

Some of the more well-known supporters of homeopathy are the royals.  For example, the former Queen Elizabeth of England and HRH Prince Charles and more recently Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

 

Sports stars/athletes who use homeopathy include: Jose Maria Olazabal– (pro golfer), for rheumatoid polyarthritis (arthritis in multiple joints);  James Ellingon, the British Olympic sprinter, used homeopathy for muscle and joint pain before his competitions; the soccer star David Bekham used homeopathy for his broken foot before competing in the World Cup; Paul O’Neill, former right fielder for the Yankees; Arnie Kander, strength and conditioning coach of the NBA Detroit Pistons.

 

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories:

A Chiropractor Can Treat a Dancer’s Injuries and Improve Their Performance

Author: Natalie Meiri, D.C.    Posted: 10/25/20

This was a 25 year old patient with multiple chief complaints due to ballet and contemporary dancing.  To be HIPAA compliant, I will call her Alice instead of her real name.  Alice had “stiffness” in her low back, both hips, both knees, and both ankles with numbness/tingling into both feet/toes.  Alice had been a professional dancer for 4 years and knew the stiffness was from ballet and contemporary dancing.  Even though it had been a year since the strenuous dancing, she felt the same “stiffness”.  So she came to see me and found out how A Chiropractor Can Treat a Dancer’s Injuries and Improve Their Performance.

 

She noted on her intake that she needed a “realignment” since she felt “out of alignment”. Furthermore, she checked off in her intake form: her condition interfered with her sleep, work, recreation, daily routine and was painful to sit, stand, walk, bend or lie down.  She also noted her pain “comes and goes”. There had been no falls or trauma to cause her condition.  Alice was very fit and lean having been a dancer, ate a balanced, nutritious diet, but needed to do the other activities (good night’s sleep, exercise)  to keep healthy.  She also wanted to take dance classes again, which she was unable to do currently due to her condition.

 

Alice’s Examination and X-rays

Upon examination, she had positive tests for the low back, both hips, both knees, and both ankles.  After that, I took some x-rays of her low back. Findings on her low back x-rays were decreased lumbar lordosis (normal inward curve of the low back was straight) consistent with lumbar myospasm (muscle spasm).  Alice had myalgia and myositis (muscle pain and inflammation) in her low back.  In addition, she had the decreased lordosis (loss of normal curve) probably acquired during her dancing years. Her hips, knees and ankles were given the diagnosis of segmental dysfunction (chiropractic misalignments/ subluxations) at those specific joints. 

 

Even though Alice did not have any falls (trauma) during her professional dancing years, she did have repetitive stress injuries.  These stress injuries occurred from repeating the same movements over and over again.  Moreover, a lot of these dance positions created poor posture for the spine contributing to the decreased lordosis in Alice’s spine. For instance, Alice spent many hours in the ballet pointe position in which the body is balanced on the extreme tip of the toes.

 

Alice’s Treatment

Alice’s chiropractic treatment consisted of chiropractic adjustments of the lumbar spine, both hips, knees, and ankles.  I also adjusted  her cervical (neck) and thoracic (mid back) spine.  This was to improve her overall posture/ alignment, nervous system function and optimize her dance performance. Additionally, soft tissue therapy (i.e., myofascial release, pressure point and post-isometric relaxation) and modalities (cold/heat therapy and electric muscle stimulation) were administered. Finally, Alice was given therapeutic exercises to continue her treatment at home. 

 

Alice was already at a dance class after her first visit! Gradually her stiffness, pain and numbness/tingling subsided.  She also gained the normal lordosis back in her low back along the way.  She continued treatment for several months.  Then Alice returned once a month on a regular basis to prevent future injuries and help her dance performance.

 

Many professional dancers are seeing their chiropractors on a regular basis. Your properly aligned spine and extremities (arms and legs) can boost your dance performance and also prevent future injuries.  Meiri Chiropractic in West Palm Beach offers comprehensive alternative treatment options for recreational and professional dancers. And while a chiropractor can treat a dancer’s injuries and improve their performance, it is imperative that you work with an experienced chiropractor.  Contact us today to learn more or to schedule your appointment.

 

 

Meiri Chiropractic

5601 Corporate Way, Ste. 102

West Palm Beach, FL 33407

561-253-8984

 

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories:

A Chiropractor Can Treat Thumb Carpometacarpal Arthritis

Author: Natalie Meiri, D.C.  Posted: 10/17/20

This was a 59 year old patient who enjoyed sewing and “machine quilting”. To be HIPAA compliant, I will call her Milly instead of her real name. Milly was a patient who was treating with me for her neck and back problems for many years.  Then one day, she told me her thumbs were hurting constantly. Her pain ranged from moderate to severe and was becoming disabling. Her hands felt stiff and weak.  Furthermore, she was loosing dexterity in her hands. Gripping and pinching activities aggravated her condition and she would even drop objects.  Milly wasn’t able to sew or “machine quilt” due to her thumb(s) condition.  That’s when I told her that A Chiropractor Can Treat Thumb Carpometacarpal Arthritis!

 

Her thumbs had been hurting for over 10 years on and off, but now it was consistent, severe pain. She didn’t know how it started and couldn’t remember any injuries to her thumbs. Therefore, she had seen an orthopedic hand surgery specialist who told her it was “bone on bone” arthritis.  He diagnosed it as osteoarthritis at her trapeziometacarpal joints (joint at the base of thumb close to wrist) — also known as the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint seen on her x-rays on both hands.  Moreover, he said she would need surgery if conservative treatments failed. 

 

Milly didn’t want surgery if at all possible, but was in severe pain.  Therefore, she got a cortisone (steroid) injection and was given a hand splint to wear. This gave her some relief for a few months. But then due to the pain, she got another cortisone injection. Yet again a few months later, the same pain was back. She came to see me after the second injection, since she knew continuous and repeated steroid injections have been shown to weaken the joint capsule and the surrounding area.

 

 

Milly’s examination

Upon examination, she had limitation of range of motion, muscular weakness and positive tests for thumb carpometacarpal arthritis of both hands. Milly’s x-rays of her hands showed  carpometacarpal joint space loss and degenerative arthritic findings worse in her right than her left hand. The carpometacarpal joint of the thumb is formed by the trapezium bone of the wrist and the first metacarpal bone (metacarpals are long bones within the hand that are connected to the carpals, or wrist bones, and to the phalanges, or finger bones) of the thumb.

 

More precisely, Milly had osteoarthritis of her carpometacarpal joints of her thumbs. Osteoarthritis is a “wear and tear” arthritis with inflammation of bones in a joint due to a reduction of cartilage. The “bone on bone” reference made by her orthopedist refers to the increased severity of osteoarthritis in a joint. In a healthy joint, cartilage aids in the movement of the joint between the two bones. “Bone on bone” refers to this lack of cartilage because of advanced osteoarthritis.

 

Milly’s chiropractic treatment

The goal of Milly’s treatment was firstly to relieve pain. Secondly, conserve and restore the mobility of the carpometacarpal joints of her thumbs.  Finally, to preserve and strengthen surrounding musculature. 

 

Treatment consisted of:

-Chiropractic manipulation or mobilization of the carpometacarpal joints of her thumbs, and associated regions consisting of her hands and wrists.                             

-Soft tissue manipulation (myofascial release, pressure points, postisometric relaxation) to the muscles and soft tissues (i.e., tendons, ligaments) involved.

-Home exercises for self stretching and strengthening muscles.

-Nutritional support for osteoarthritis were recommended  (i.e., glucosamine sulfate, boswellia, horsetail, SAM (S-adenosylmethionine), Vitamin E, Niacinamide, Vitamin C) along with the homeopathic consultations in which specific remedies for Milly’s condition were prescribed.

Milly gradually got pain relief and improved function in her thumbs so she could resume sewing and “machine quilting”.  It took almost a year of treatment before Milly was completely pain free and had full mobility of her thumbs. 

A Chiropractor Can Treat Thumb Carpometacarpal Arthritis

Thumb carpometacarpal arthritis is found primarily in postmenopausal females over 50 years old, due to hormonal and structural factors. However, since I treated Milly, I have also treated a number of patients that were men with similar problems in their hands from osteoarthritis.  Sometimes the patient’s cause for the thumb/hand pain was due to certain hereditary conditions (joint ligament laxity and malformed joints), injuries (sprains), diseases that change the normal structure and function of cartilage (i.e., rheumatoid arthritis), and jobs that put high stress on the thumb joint.

 

Meiri Chiropractic in West Palm Beach offers a range of treatments to bring pain relief for a variety of conditions. A West Palm Beach chiropractor can treat thumb carpometacarpal arthritis naturally.   Contact us to learn more or to make an appointment with a chiropractor serving West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens and North Palm Beach today.