A healthy lifestyle and regular chiropractic care is a great foundation for keeping yourself well both mentally and physically.  This is because chiropractic gets your nervous system functioning at its optimum. Particularly, when your autonomic nervous system is imbalanced you get symptoms such as high cortisol, high adrenalin, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), agitation, and anxiety most probably due to a hyperactive sympathetic nervous system. Moreover, if your neuroendocrine system (network of cells that produce and release hormones into the bloodstream) is not functioning at its optimum (e.g. due to diabetes, thyroid disease) it can make matters worse.

Chiropractic care and spinal manipulation regulate the autonomic nervous system at the peripheral level.  And this regulation projects to your central nervous system. In particular, it may activate the parasympathetic system to counterbalance the activity of the sympathetic system.  So your vagus nerve will be functioning at its optimum. Keep reading to find out about Exploring the Role of Chiropractic Care in Stress Relief and Emotional Health.

 

Your Nervous System

Firstly, your nervous system has a central nervous system and a peripheral nervous system. Secondly, the central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord.  Thirdly, the peripheral nervous system is made up of nerves that branch off from the spinal cord and extend to all parts of the body. Fourthly, your nervous system transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Lastly, your nervous system’s activity controls the ability to move, breathe, see, think, and all functions to live. 

 

Your Autonomic Nervous System

Your autonomic nervous system is a component of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary physiologic processes.  This includes heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, digestion, and sexual arousal. There are three anatomically distinct divisions: Sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric. 

 

Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS)

Activation of the sympathetic nervous system leads to the “fight or flight” response.  This response leads to a state of overall increased activity. Your blood pressure and heart rate will increase because your body is getting ready to physically react. Furthermore, glycogenolysis (release of glucose) occurs. This happens because you would require extra energy (glucose) for a “fight or flight” response.  In contrast, gastrointestinal peristalsis (part of digestion) ceases.

Your sympathetic nervous system innervates nearly every living tissue in your body. The origin of the sympathetic nervous system is found within the thoracic (mid) and lumbar (lower) segments of the spinal cord also known as the thoracolumbar division (T1 to L2).

Additionally, the following are more specific organ innervations (distributing of nerves for body function). Interestingly, it is said that the levels specified may be painful when the organ is involved (viscerosomatic pain):

 

• heart-C8-T5(T8)
• lungs-T3-T5(TIO)
• stomach-T5-T8(T9)
• pancreas-T7 -T9
• gallbladder, liver, spleen, caecum, and duodenum-T6-TIO
• appendix- T9-Tll
• kidneys- T9- L2

Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)

In the opposite way, your parasympathetic nervous system promotes the “rest and digest” processes. Your heart rate and blood pressure lower, gastrointestinal peristalsis/digestion restarts, etc. The PNS is significantly smaller than the SNS.  It innervates only the head, viscera (organs), and external genitalia.  Notably, the PNS is vacant in much of the musculoskeletal system and skin.  

The parasympathetic system originates from cranial nerves III, VII, IX, and X as well as sacral levels S2–4. While the sympathetic chain synapses closer to the spinal cord, the parasympathetic synapses at the target organ. A synapse is a junction between two nerve cells, consisting of a minute gap across which impulses (electrical signal traveling along the axon of a nerve cell) pass. 

The Enteric Nervous System

The enteric nervous system (ENS), also known as the intrinsic nervous system, controls the gastrointestinal tract. It contains complete reflex neural circuits that detect the physiological condition of the gastrointestinal tract.  Next it integrates information about the state of the gastrointestinal tract, and provides outputs to control gut movement, fluid exchange between the gut and its lumen, and local blood flow. 

It is the only part of the peripheral nervous system that contains extensive neural circuits.  Your ENS is capable of functioning independently of the remainder of the nervous system. Because of the extent of autonomy, the ENS has been called a second brain. Of course, the ENS has extensive, two-way, connections with the central nervous system (CNS). Similarly, the ENS works along with the CNS to control the digestive system for your body’s physiological demands.

The Vagus Nerve

The vagus nerve, cranial nerve X (CN 10), makes up about 75% of the PNS and provides parasympathetic input to most of the thoracic and abdominal viscera, with the sacral parasympathetic fibers innervating the descending and sigmoid colon and rectum. The vagus nerve arises from four nuclei (clusters of brain cells) in the brainstem: the dorsal motor nucleus, the solitary tract nucleus, the spinal trigeminal nucleus, the nucleus ambiguous.

Your vagus nerve is the longest and most complex of the cranial nerves.

The vagus nerve runs from the brain through the face and thorax to the abdomen. It is a mixed nerve. The vagus nerve has sensory ganglia (masses of nerve tissue that transmit sensory impulses) innervating the skin in the concha (middle external) of the ear. So the vagus also gives off cardiac, esophageal, and pulmonary branches. In the abdomen the vagus innervates the greater part of the digestive tract and other abdominal viscera.

Indeed, the vagus nerve has the most extensive distribution of all the cranial nerves. For instance, its pharyngeal and laryngeal branches transmit motor impulses to the pharynx (throat) and larynx (voice box). Secondly, its cardiac branches act to slow the rate of heartbeat. Thirdly, its bronchial branch acts to constrict the bronchi. Fourthly, its esophageal branches control involuntary muscles in the esophagus, stomach, gallbladder, pancreas, and small intestine, stimulating peristalsis and gastrointestinal secretions. 

 

 

Why Chiropractic Adjustments Can Correct Sympathetic /Autonomic nervous system Dysfunction

Chiropractic Subluxations (Misalignments) in your spine can cause neurodysfunction.  It can potentially cause direct mechanical irritation of your Sympathetic nervous system.  This model is based on the anatomic closeness and vulnerability of the posterior chain ganglion (masses of nerve tissue) between T1 and L2 (thoracic level 1 to lumbar level 2) to the posterior (further back) chest wall and costovertebral joints (joints that connect the ribs to the spinal vertebral column). This is part of your sympathetic chain which is located bilaterally (both sides) to your spine. The sympathetic chain extends from the base of the skull to the coccyx.

In conclusion, altered spinal and costovertebral mechanics are hypothesized to irritate the sympathetic ganglia.  In turn, this induces segmental sympathetic “hypertonia” (increased tone). The target organs within the segmental distribution are then theoretically affected. The outcome is the organs have dysfunction in autonomic regulation and function as a result of altered sympathetic function. 

 

Why Chiropractic Adjustments Can Correct Autonomic Dysfunction: Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS)

In contrast to the sympathetic chain, the parasympathetic system, with its origins in the brain, brainstem, and sacral segments of the spinal cord, does not have anatomic proximity to the spinal joints. Models of mechanically induced dysfunction of the parasympathetic system have dysfunction in cranial (head), cervical (neck), and pelvic (pelvis) mechanics as potential sources of entrapment or tethering of the parasympathetic fibers. Altered cervical, cranial, or cranio-sacral mechanics are likely to induce traction of dural attachments and the cranial nerves as they exit through the dura (membane surrounding brain and spinal cord) and skull foramina (opening in skull).  Indeed, the parasympathetic nervous system regulates the upper cervical (neck) region.  So a cervical or cranial manipulation/adjustment results in a parasympathetic response (lowering of heart beat, reduction of blood pressure, pupil constriction).

 

 

Exploring the Role of Chiropractic Care in Stress Relief and Emotional Health

In one research study, scientists found Chiropractic and spinal manipulative therapies along with vagal nerve stimulation may therefore be regarded as treatment options for depression (2).

The chiropractic treatment goal in mechanically induced autonomic dysfunction is to identify the sites of joint dysfunction and apply appropriate manual therapy to balance tension/misalignments.

Chiropractic therapy works on the nervous system, stimulating it to release various chemicals and hormones that regulate blood pressure and flow, calm the brain and reduce inflammation. Many studies have explored chiropractic cranial and vertebral adjustments, and spinal manipulative therapy in relation to autonomic functions. In conclusion, chiropractic adjustments may improve autonomic imbalance.

In conclusion, chiropractors focus on the evaluation and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal (NMS)-based disorders.  However, chiropractors also help treat the multiple potential causes of ill health including chronic stress and your emotional health/wellness. The chiropractor holistically views the human being as a dynamic, integrated, and complex living being who has an innate capacity for self-healing. Successfully reduce your stress and its consequences with natural chiropractic care!

 

Do you know anyone who would benefit from chiropractic care? Call your chiropractor serving West Palm Beach, Jupiter, North Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and the surrounding areas at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to learn more about Exploring the Role of Chiropractic Care in Stress Relief and Emotional Health .

 

References:

(1) Thomas Souza, (2018) Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor

(2) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8023121/

(3) Bergman, Thomas. Peterson, Lawrence. Chiropractic Technique Principles and Procedures 2011. Third Edition

 

 

A West Palm Beach Chiropractor Can Help Snapping Hip Syndrome. Snapping hip syndrome is a condition that causes a snapping or clicking sound in the hip when it moves. Read on to find out more about what Snapping Hip Syndrome is and how a West Palm Beach Chiropractor can help.

 

A West Palm Beach Chiropractor Can Help Snapping Hip Syndrome:

Hip Anatomy

The hip, like the shoulder, is considered a ball-and-socket joint. It is formed by the head of the femur (thigh bone) which sits in what’s called the acetabulum, a part of the pelvis. The head of the femur is large (ball) and the acetabulum (socket) is deep.  The soft tissues (refers to non-bony structures that connect, support, or surround other structures) in your hip are:

• the muscles, which allow you to move.
• the tendons, which connect your muscles to the bone.
• the ligaments are bands of tough elastic tissue around your joints. They connect bone to bone, give your joints support, and limit their movement.
• the fascia – stretchy, thin, white fibrous tissue. All your muscles are enveloped in fascia.
• the bursae – fluid-filled pads that act as cushions at the joints. Bursae reduce friction between the surfaces of a bone and soft tissue.

 

Snapping Hip Syndrome Causes

Other than “snapping”, many patients do not have pain.  Snapping hip syndrome is due to either an intraarticular (within the joint) or extraarticular (not within the joint) problem.  Intra-articular causes include loose bodies, synovial chondromatosis (benign bone tumors), hip subluxation (dislocation) and osteocartilaginous exostoses (bumps of bone) and hip labral (dense fibrocartilaginous ring) tears. 

However, the most common cause includes a thickening of the posterior (back) border of the iliotibial band over the greater trochanter of the hip.  And less often, a thickening of the tendon of the iliopsoas (muscle group in front of the spine and connects to the lower limbs and flexes the hip), the iliofemoral ligaments, or the long head of the biceps femoris (one of hamstring muscles) tendon in the hip or pelvic area. So these thickened soft tissue structures are “snapping” over bony prominences or bursae. 

 

Snapping Hip Syndrome Treatment at a West Palm Beach Chiropractic Office

Firstly, treatment focuses on restoring normal mobility to the hip joint and pelvis. Indeed, if painful and/or irritating to you the strengthening is particularly important. So stabilization through therapeutic exercise seems to reduce the “snapping” occurrence. And Stretching is less important for snapping hip syndrome, but also utilized.  

Secondly, chiropractic manipulative therapy to the hip joint, pelvis and associated regions. 

Thirdly, gentle myofascial release and/or post isometric relaxation techniques to the soft tissues (e.g. muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia) involved.

Fourthly, electric muscle stimulation, ice and heat therapies for pain relief and inflammation reduction.

Finally, recommendations for prevention of further dysfunction for the spine, pelvis, and hip. 

  

Are you looking for the best chiropractor in West Palm Beach? Dr. Natalie Meiri can definitely help you.  Call 561-253-8984 today for an appointment or to find out more about A West Palm Beach Chiropractor Can Help Snapping Hip Syndrome.

 

 

Having your head on top of the neck allows the best view of the surroundings. However, biomechanically, this lever arrangement creates a potentially damaging position for injury events. It forces the head to move quickly into extreme ranges of motion during whiplash for example. In addition to the cervical spine (neck) itself, soft tissue and neural (nerve) structures may be damaged in whiplash injuries. Similarly, in a more insidious manner when a forward head position or an “incorrect sleeping posture” is maintained for prolonged periods damage occurs as well.   So poor ergonomics can lead to postural pain or stiffness. Studies show approximately 80% of people experience neck pain during their lifetime, and 40% deal with it annually. Here are 3 causes of neck pain and stiffness a chiropractor can help with to learn about.

 

1. Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Torticollis verus Pseudotorticollis

If your head is held in neutral (posture when the joints are not bent) in pain and you are unable to move it, it could be pseudotorticollis. In “classic torticollis” the neck is deviated/twisted in one direction.  Pseudotorticollis has no known cause. However, an exam must be performed to rule out any number of causes for classic torticollis. And causes for classic torticollis include CNS (central nervous system) infection, tumor, and basal ganglion (group of neurons/nerve cells in the brain involved in voluntary movement) disease.  Finally, congenital (born with it) torticollis is due to birth trauma (i.e. breech delivery).

Torticollis is an acute or chronic often painful condition characterized by involuntary intermittent or sustained contraction of the muscles of the neck.  This causes the head to tilt or turn sideways, bend forward or backward. For instance, these muscles could be the sternocleidomastoid (muscle located at the base of your skull on either side of your neck, behind your ears and goes to the sternum and clavicle) or trapezius (either of a pair of large triangular muscles extending over the back of the neck and shoulders and moving the head and shoulder blade).  In Pseudotorticollis, the person is unable to move the head in any direction without pain. This could happen due to incorrect sleeping posture.

So Torticollis (called also wryneck) may occur secondary to an injury or a preexisting condition (such as a musculoskeletal abnormality or a neurological disease) but is often of unknown cause.  In pseudotorticollis, there is no history of injury/trauma and no obvious cause except perhaps you “woke up with it”.

2. Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Neck Pain Due to Cervical Facet Joints

The facet joints are on either side of the back of each vertebra in the cervical part of the spine (neck). The vertebral bodies make up the bony building blocks of the spinal column. There are two facet joints at each level of the vertebral column (spinal column).

Facet joints provide stability to the spinal column while allowing movement. Encased with capsules the synovial fluid within protects and lubricates the facet joints.  Moreover, irritation of the facet joints is the cause. The facet joints become inflamed and may cause pain, soreness and stiffness. Similarly, your deep cervical (neck) muscles may also be spasmed and be a contributing factor.

 

3. Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Neck Pain from Arthritis

Primary Osteoarthritis occurs usually in middle-aged to elderly people (>45 years old). It is more prevalent in women (female to male 10:1). Primary means this osteoarthritis develops due to aging and the wear and tear that comes along with it. Often initially asymptomatic, you will have a gradual increase in joint stiffness and pain. Primary osteoarthritis is due to progressive degeneration of the joint or joints involved by an accumulation of microtrauma.  A microtrauma is an injury resulting from repetitive stress to tissues.

 

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.

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: 3 Causes of Neck Pain and Stiffness

Do you know someone who needs chiropractic care? Contact Dr. Natalie Meiri of Meiri Chiropractic in West Palm Beach today for chiropractic treatment for neck pain or stiffness or another ailment. Call 561-253-8984 to learn more about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: 3 Causes of Neck Pain and Stiffness or to schedule an appointment.

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories: West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Bicyclist Versus Motor Vehicle Accident

 

This was a 58 year old female patient with neck, back and left wrist pain following a Bicyclist Versus Motor Vehicle Accident.  To be HIPAA compliant, I will call her Selma instead of her real name.

Selma came to my office in a lot of pain. She had gone to the hospital after the accident.  There she was tested, given a prescription for drugs and then was released.  This was Selma’s second car accident.  At the hospital, they had told her chiropractic was not appropriate at this time. However, Selma had been a regular chiropractic patient for many years.  Selma knew she needed to get chiropractic care as soon as possible.  She had experienced the benefits of chiropractic following her first car accident. So Selma came in the next day to my office.  

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Bicyclist Versus Motor Vehicle Accident: Selma’s History

Selma fell off her bike when hit by a car from behind. She suffered multiple lacerations/contusions and a concussion besides from her neck, back, and left wrist injury. Selma stated she did loose consciousness (was wearing a helmet) after hitting her head. And she had headaches due to this accident that were constant.

Selma’s pain started right after the car accident and got progressively worse.  Moreover, she had difficulty sleeping due to the pain. Selma was taking NSAIDS (e.g aspirin) and/or acetaminophen (e.g. tylenol) prescribed by the hospital and icing which helped a little.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Bicyclist Versus Motor Vehicle Accident: Selma’s Examination

Selma presented to my office with her neck forward in antalgia (away from pain) and guarding/holding her left painful wrist with her uninjured right hand. 

Upon examination, I found positive tests for sprains in her cervical (neck), thoracic (mid back), and lumbar (low back) spine.  A sprain is a joint injury in which some of the fibers of a supporting ligament are torn or ruptured.  However, the continuity of the ligament (ligaments connect bones to bones within a joint) remains intact.

Selma’s left wrist diagnosis was a strain. Tendons connect bones to muscles. A strain is an overstretching and tearing of musculotendinous tissue (tendons connect bones to muscles). 

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Bicyclist Versus Motor Vehicle Accident: Selma’s Emergency/Hospital Imaging/report

Selma’s imaging (e.g. x-rays, Cat-scan) reports for her head and spine all stated no fractures found and “unremarkable” from the hospital/E.R. 

I would order further imaging (e.g. MRI) if there was no improvement after 12 visits or possibly sooner if necessary.

 

Whip-lash, Post-Concussion/traumatic Brain Injury and Chiropractic Care

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 10 million people are affected annually by traumatic brain injury (TBI).  And it is an injury that will possibly surpass many fatal diseases as the primary cause of death and disability in the future.

Post-Concussion Syndrome (traumatic brain injury), is an alteration in brain function caused by an external force. Symptoms include: headache, cognitive/emotional symptoms (e.g. foggy, unstable feeling), physical signs (loss of consciousness, amnesia, neurological deficit), Balance problems, behavioral changes (irritability), cognitive impairment (e.g. reaction times slowed), sleep disturbances.

Conventional treatment for Post-Concussion Syndrome/ traumatic brain injury (TBI) involves medication and education/ support.  There are case studies reporting improvement in TBI symptoms through chiropractic management.

The current research suggests that spinal misalignments (chiropractic subluxation) can change the way the central nervous system (CNS) processes sensory motor integration. TBI is known to cause cognitive (thinking) changes leading to abnormal brain function. Moreover, the symptoms seen in TBI are influenced by a combination of sensory information such as balance, visual processing, motor control and proprioception. And the current research demonstrates improvement in sensory integration following chiropractic spinal manipulations.  Indeed, there is a cause for chiropractic research to investigate these sensory integration functions.

Whiplash Injuries

Whiplash is defined (by the Quebec task force on whiplash) as “bony or soft tissue injuries” resulting “from rear-end or side-impact, predominantly in motor vehicle accidents, and from other mishaps” as a result of “an acceleration-deceleration mechanism of energy transfer to the neck” as Selma had in her bicycle accident.

Chiropractic treatment/management of whiplash injuries is effective. Chiropractors are quite diverse in their manual treatment approaches for the evaluation and management of concussions and whiplash injuries. Patients who have sustained a concussion may find chiropractic therapy important as a part of their recovery because of the presence of cervicogenic (neck) components.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Bicyclist Versus Motor Vehicle Accident: Selma’s Treatment

Firstly, starting at 3 times a week and then 2-3 times a week, Selma’s treatments included chiropractic adjustments/manipulation to her neck, mid back, left wrist and associated regions. Secondly, soft tissue therapy (myofascial release, pressure point and various post isometric relaxation procedures) and modalities (cold/heat therapy and electric muscle stimulation) were administered as needed. Thirdly, nutritional recommendations were made for as well. Fourthly, therapeutic exercises were prescribed and continued at home.  Lastly, Selma did see her primary Care physician to monitor the concussion and was provided advice for cognitive and physical issues.

Selma’s condition improved slowly, but steadily.  After a few months of care she got her range of motion/function back in her neck, back and left wrist.  Her headaches also dissipated.

Chiropractic helps you heal without invasive surgical procedures or drugs as in Selma’s case. It restores your mobility, functionality and overall health!

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Bicyclist Versus Motor Vehicle Accident

At Meiri Chiropractic we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you have.  Chiropractic is a holistic and natural way to not only treat existing conditions, but to keep your body in its best working condition.  Meiri Chiropractic has been offering effective chiropractic care in Palm Beach county since 2006.  Many of our patient reviews note our excellence.  Call us today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Bicyclist Versus Motor Vehicle Accident. 

 

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Chiropractor West Palm Beach: How Does Proper Breathing Help Your Posture and Back and Shoulder Pain?How do you properly breathe?  Can my lungs affect my posture? How can breathing exercises help to alleviate back and shoulder pain? Can my chiropractor teach me the breathing exercises and adjustments that will help with my back and shoulder pain?  These are the questions that will be addressed in Chiropractor West Palm Beach: How does proper breathing help your posture and back and shoulder pain?

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Paradoxical Breathing

Chronic overload of the anterior (front) and lateral (side) neck muscles (e.g. scalenes) can occur with paradoxical breathing. Paradoxical breathing occurs when the chest wall or the abdominal wall moves in when taking a breath and moves out when exhaling. This is the opposite of normal breathing movement.

Paradoxical respiration is a common source of abuse and overload of the neck muscles.  For instance, this is often seen following abdominal surgery or by people protruding the abdomen for cosmetic purposes.  Furthermore, if you are practicing paradoxical breathing you will be “always out of breath,” or feel like you are “running out of breath” when talking.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach:Proper Breathing/ Respiration

Proper breathing should be practiced by those used to paradoxical breathing. In normal contraction of the diaphragm muscle ( located below the lungs, is the major muscle of respiration), it pushes the abdominal contents down toward the pelvis. Next, this will cause protusion of your abdomen.  Therefore, this will increase the volume of your lungs during inhalation.  This is especially true in the lower chest.  Additionally, normal resting inhalation should cause the contraction of the diaphragm with expansion of the lower thorax.  And the elevation of the rib cage.  In the end, this results in increased of lung air volume.

In contrast, in paradoxical respiration, the chest and abdominal functions oppose each other.  So paradoxical respiration effort produces less than necessary air in your lungs.  And the muscles of the neck and upper chest (e.g scalenes, sternocleidomastoid, intercostal muscles of ribs) overwork to get sufficient air.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Learning to Breath Normally

Firstly, if you breathe paradoxically, you must learn to synchronize diaphragmatic (abdominal) and chest breathing. Poor inhalation results in the abdomen moving in while the chest moves out.

Secondly, you can learn to identify the poor pattern by placing one hand on the abdomen and one hand on the chest while taking a deep breath. So to practice normal diaphragmatic breathing, exhale fully with one hand on the chest and the other on the abdomen. When respiration is coordinated, the chest and abdomen move in and out together.

Thirdly, you should note the proximity of the hands during exhalation and during inhalation. The hands should move up and down together. You should practice this throughout the day.  Similarly, taking a count of 3 in and 3 out, then a pause and repeat may help.

Fourthly, you can practice this while sitting and/or supine (lying down face up).

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: How Does Proper Breathing Help Your Posture and Back and Shoulder Pain?

Movement of the chest wall during breathing is a process that requires coordination of the muscles, spine, sternum and ribs.  The objective of chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy to enhance breathing is to increase the motion of the thoracic cage (mid back), mobilize the ribs, and to affect nervous system activity.  Researchers have found certain breathing techniques have been proven to enhance the functioning of the heart and lungs, improve mental wellness, decrease stress, increase energy and concentration, and promote better sleep.  Not breathing properly, particularly paradoxical and/or shallow breathing, can significantly affect posture by creating tension in your upper body.

Incorrect neck posture causes elevated, rounded shoulders.  And not being able to move your shoulders smoothly will eventually cause pain and dysfunction in your shoulders as well. Finally, all of this leads to the posture in your thoracic spine (mid back) becoming a hyperkyphosis (hunchback). 

Meiri Chiropractic offers spinal manipulation to the lower cervical spine (neck), upper thoracic spine (mid back), and costovertebral joints (ribs) for posture/breathing problems. Furthermore, trigger-point therapy and post-isometric relaxation techniques (soft tissue technique) utilized for the hypertonic/spasmed musculature have been beneficial for our patients. We also offer constitutional homeopathic treatment in conjunction with chiropractic.

Meiri Chiropractic, a Chiropractor in West Palm Beach can help posture/breathing problems for you and your family. Contact Meiri Chiropractic at 561-253-8984 for the best care in West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, and North Palm Beach and surrounding areas today.

 

Pelvic Crossed Syndrome is a muscle imbalance syndrome. Muscle imbalance Syndrome is when some of your muscles become shortened/tight and overactive or weak and inhibited.  Inhibition means that the neural (nerve) connection is absent, bypassed, incomplete, weak, or overridden. Moreover, this often happens to specific muscles. Typically, postural antigravity slow-twitch muscles tend to tighten and shorten.  In contrast, the phasic fast twitch muscles usually weaken and elongate. Read on to learn more about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Pelvic Crossed Syndrome.

Obviously, there are some differences in muscle strength which cause a normal imbalance. After all, not all muscles are equal. The smaller muscles tend to react rapidly and strongly to a stimulus and are called phasic. Similarly, the larger muscles hold our posture and are called tonic.  And then certain movement patterns are notable.  For example, internal (inward) rotation of the shoulder is stronger than external (outward) rotation of the shoulder.  Additionally, the size and number of the muscles used for the particular movement matters.  Alternatively, position also makes your balance of muscles stronger or weaker.  However, there is another point of view clinically in regards to muscle imbalance; weakness and tightness.  This type of muscle imbalance is dysfunctional and needs evaluation and treatment for correction.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: What is Pelvic Crossed Syndrome?

Firstly, in Pelvic crossed syndrome there is an imbalance between the shortened tight hip flexors (e.g. iliopsoas, rectus femoris) and the tight lumbar erector spinae muscles (back extensors).  So tight erector spinae and a tight iliopsoas muscle (hip flexor that’s made up of the psoas major, psoas minor, and iliacus muscles) with the weak and/or inhibited gluteal muscles will alter the pattern of hip extension during gait. A tight psoas may result in decreased hip extension as well. And imbalance is seen in weakened and/or inhibited (restrained function) gluteal and abdominal muscles. 

Secondly, the tight hip flexors cause a slight flexion of the hip and an anterior (forward) pelvic tilt.  Therefore, there is an increased lumbar lordosis (low back inward curve) with a concentration of pressure on the posterior (back) portion of the spinal disk (cushion of fibrocartilage between spinal vertebral bones) and decreased pressure on the anterior (front) spinal disk.

Thirdly, this would lead to compression of the lumbar spinal facet joints and increased pressure on the posterior disks.  Ultimately, this would lead to more wear and tear and degeneration of the area. 

Fourthly, this imbalance will cause problematic movement patterns especially in the L5-SI spinal region and cause hypermobility (excessive abnormal “motion” in the joints), irritation and pain. 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Pelvic Crossed Syndrome Can Lead to a Pelvic Lateral (Side) Tilt

The hamstrings are often tight in this syndrome in order to lessen the pelvic tilt or are working harder due to weak gluteal muscles.  And with weakness of the gluteus medius (muscle in outer surface of pelvis), tightness of the ipsilateral (same side) quadratus lumborum (low back muscle) and/or tensor fasciae late (hip muscle) this can alter the lateral (side) lumbopelvic (low back and pelvis) mechanics.  Furthermore, this affects the gait and normal patterns of hip abduction (movement of hip away from midline).  A tight quadratus lumborum could cause an increased elevation of the pelvis during gait.  Finally, all this will lead to an increased movement of the pelvis. And you will develop a oblique/ lateral tilt in your pelvis. 

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Pelvic Crossed Syndrome Causes Dysfunctional Movement

In pelvic crossed syndrome, the pelvis is unable to perform normal hip extension.  Moreover, to extend the hip, it is necessary for the pelvis to be tilted anteriorly (forward). However, the anterior pelvic tilt during gait may cause hypermobility (excessive motion) of the L4 and L5 spinal segments.  Consequently, because of the abnormal motion pattern the lower lumbar spine can no longer work as the central point (fulcrum of lever where bones meet) around which movement occurs. The new central point is established in the lower thoracic (mid back) and upper lumbar (low back) area.  Ultimately, combinations of tight and weak muscles in the syndrome lead to abnormal movement patterns that changes the biomechanics of joints.  And this can lead to degenerative (wear and tear) changes and/or fixated joints.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor:  Causes of Pelvic Crossed Syndrome

While there are many reasons for muscle imbalance, the most common cause may be chronic overuse or traumatic injury.  Without proper treatment, there is a muscle elasticity change.  Of course, having a sedentary lifestyle without a variety of movements also causes imbalance.  Your connective tissue will shorten over time if left in the same position for long. Indeed, forced movements, stress, and even fatigue can lead to muscle imbalance.  Next, this can even affect your central nervous system.  Your nervous system remembers these imbalances of abnormal movement patterns.  Also, even though appearing often together, a muscle that is tight, shortened and overactive is not the same as muscle spasm. This Tightness is due to hypertrophy (overgrowth) of the connective tissue.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Pelvic Crossed Syndrome Evaluation and Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic

Generally, practitioners test muscle strength to evaluate imbalance. With pelvic crossed syndrome which is a muscle imbalance syndrome, some Researchers (e.g. Vladimir Janda) introduced using movement patterns as part of the evaluation. 

First, when the patient first presents, it’s important to get them out of pain.  So the total treatment of the chronicity should begin with restoring as much joint motion by chiropractic adjustments/manipulation as possible and substantially decreasing pain before balancing the muscular system.

Second, for treatment of the muscle imbalance, post-isometric relaxation and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) techniques are utilized.

Third, proprioceptive (sense that lets us perceive the location and movements of our body parts) training is incorporated.  This is done with various balance activities (e.g. wobble boards, exercise balls, trampolines).  Studies show these types of activities help the nervous system on a subconscious level regarding the new correct movement pattern.  The result is improvement of gait, coordination, body posture, and stabilization.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Pelvic Crossed Syndrome

Do you suffer from Pelvic Crossed Syndrome? We offer excellent Chiropractic care in West Palm Beach, Florida. At Meiri Chiropractic, we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you have. Indeed, Chiropractic is a holistic and natural way to not only treat pelvic crossed syndrome, but to keep your body in its best working condition. We have been offering effective chiropractic care in West Palm Beach since 2006. Many of our patients reviews note our excellence. Call us today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Pelvic Crossed Syndrome.

 

 Reference: Warren Hammer, Functional Soft Tissue Examination and Treatment by Manual Methods 3^rd edition

 

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Do you have pain and burning over the outer border of the distal (closest to foot) calf and dorsum (top) of the foot and ankle?  Perhaps you also have numbness and paresthesia (pins and needles)?  These are all symptoms of superficial peroneal nerve entrapment and neuropathy. 

If you are exercising, you may experience a loss of sensation or pain along the lateral calf.  Additionally, swelling may occur locally in your foot.  At other times, the pain may localize to a distal part of your leg. Read on to learn about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Ankle/Foot Pain Due to Superficial Peroneal Neuropathy.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Ankle/Foot Pain Due to Superficial Peroneal Neuropathy: Causes

Runners involve the superficial peroneal nerve frequently due to repetitive stretching during inversion (turning sole of foot inwards) and plantar flexion (turning foot towards sole of foot), causing the nerve to push up against the fibula neck (top part of outer of 2 leg bones). 

You may have had a lateral (side) ankle sprain.  This may have also stretched and damaged the superficial peroneal nerve at the level of the fibular head (top of side leg bone). Similarly, a previous problem with this nerve may create a weakened peroneal muscle. And the peroneal muscle is essential for ankle positioning (especially for inversion) and stability. Next, this results in recurrent ankle sprains. 

Other causes may be:

-prolonged knee crossing (especially if you have recently lost a large amount of weight)

-tight knee band or cast

-repetitive trauma

-ganglions, cysts, or tumors

Anatomy of the Superficial Peroneal Nerve

Firstly, the superficial peroneal nerve originates from the common peroneal nerve along with the deep peroneal nerve. The superficial peroneal nerve is the smaller of the two common peroneal nerve branches.

Secondly, the common peroneal nerve arises from spinal nerves L4 through S1. Furthermore, the common peroneal nerve branches out from the sciatic nerve, which is composed of fibers from spinal nerves L4 through S3.

Third, the sciatic nerve terminates at the popliteal fossa of the knee.  It divides into the common peroneal and tibial nerves as it wraps around the top of the fibular bone.

Fourth, after separating from the common peroneal nerve, the superficial peroneal nerve courses through the peroneus longus muscle. The superficial peroneal nerve provides motor stimulation to the peroneus longus and peroneus brevis muscles (group of muscles that run along the outside of the lower leg and attach to the bones of the foot).

Fifth, the superficial peroneal nerve leaves the peroneal muscles on the anterolateral (front and side) aspect of the lower leg above the ankle joint.

Sixthly, the medial and intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerves appear from the superficial peroneal nerve. And these nerves provide sensory innervation to the leg’s anterolateral aspect, the dorsum (top) of the foot, and the dorsal (top) aspect of the toes, except the 1st interdigital space (between toes), which is innervated by the deep peroneal nerve. 

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Ankle/Foot Pain Due to Superficial Peroneal Neuropathy-Examination

Usually patients are diagnosed by the physical (orthopedic, neurological etc.) examination. Sites of possible entrapment of the superficial peroneal nerve located during your exam could include:  deep fascia of leg, extensor digitorum longus muscle and extensor hallucis longus muscle (lower leg muscles that move the foot and big toe), superior and inferior extensor retinaculum (thickened fascia located at the ankle joint).

However, your doctor may order a nerve conduction study in a difficult unremitting case.  Often, you may also need an x-ray.

 

Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic for Superficial Peroneal Nerve Pain

First, soft tissue techniques will be rendered to the contracted fibrotic muscle, fascia and collagen at entrapment/dysfunctional sites. Second, chiropractic adjustments (chiropractic manipulative therapy) to the foot, ankle, leg, knee and associated restricted joints along the kinetic chain is important.

Third, therapeutic exercise will be given for stretching and strengthening.

Lastly, if trauma or swelling is involved, ice, compression, elevation, and physical therapy modalities are utilized to reduce swelling.  

 

Are your suffering from leg, ankle or foot pain from Superficial Peroneal Neuropathy?

We offer excellent Chiropractic care for Superficial Peroneal Neuropathy. At Meiri Chiropractic, we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you have. Indeed, Chiropractic is a holistic and natural way to not only treat leg, foot and ankle pain, but to keep your body in its best working condition. We have been offering effective chiropractic care in West Palm Beach since 2006. Many of our patients reviews note our excellence. Call us today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Ankle/Foot Pain due to Superficial Peroneal Neuropathy.

 

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories:

Chiropractic West Palm Beach: Adjustments While Trying to Conceive

 

This is my clinical pearl story about Chiropractic West Palm Beach: Adjustments While Trying to Conceive. I helped this patient with more than her back pain. Her chief complaints were neck and back pain.  She was a 37 year old female patient. To be HIPAA compliant, I will call her Martha instead of her real name. 

Martha’s neck and back pain had come on 10 years ago following a car accident.  She had received physical therapy and massage care previously. Recently, she was under a lot of stress due to her job as a registered nurse.  She hadn’t been eating right or sleeping well either.  Furthermore, Martha couldn’t exercise due to her neck and back pain. Martha felt all these factors contributed to her infertility problems. 

In regards to her infertility she stated there was no known reason as to why she wasn’t conceiving.  Martha and her husband had been trying for years to get pregnant to no avail.  The doctors could find no reason why they were not conceiving. Even with in Vitro Fertilization (IVF) she was still not conceiving. She thought perhaps if she got some stress and pain relief through chiropractic adjustments it might help. 

 

Chiropractic West Palm Beach: Adjustments While Trying to Conceive–

Martha’s Examination

Upon examination, Martha tested positive for her neuromusculoskeletal neck and back pain condition. 

 

Chiropractic West Palm Beach: Adjustments While Trying to Conceive- Chiropractic, Homeostasis and Fertility

Chiropractors are neuromusculoskeletal system (spine and limbs) specialists.  We do not treat infertility. However, an important principle of chiropractic is that because the nervous system is highly developed in the human being and influences all other systems in the body, it therefore plays a significant role in your health”. (1)

Simply put, chiropractic spinal adjustments take pressure off your nervous system and help your body to function optimally. Adjustments help your body seek homeostasis, which is the state of steady internal, physical, and chemical conditions maintained for optimal survival. And fertility and conceiving is definitely important for optimal function and survival.  Indeed, improper nervous system function, poor nutrition, high stress, and poor lifestyle habits may effect your fertility.  

Chiropractic “Manual procedures and, specifically, the adjustment is applied to address local NMS (neuromusculoskeletal) disorders and to improve NMS function. A consequence of improved NMS function may be improvement in the body’s ability to self-regulate, thereby allowing the body to seek homeostasis and improved health”. (1)

At Meiri Chiropractic, we take a holistic approach. We counsel patients on nutrition, exercise and changes to lifestyle.  Therefore, chiropractic care is one of your best options to help your body function in harmony.

 

Martha’s Treatment and Outcome

Firstly, Martha’s treatments included chiropractic adjustment/ manipulation to her spine (neck and back). Secondly, soft tissue therapy (myofascial release, pressure point and various post isometric relaxation procedures) was rendered as necessary. Thirdly, modalities (cold/heat therapy and electric muscle stimulation) were administered. Finally, exercises for stretching, strengthening, and better posture were recommended.

I recommended avoidance of alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and taking some supplements. Martha practiced proper fluid and diet intake (e.g. increased organic fruits, vegetables, no processed foods). She started to walk with a friend for exercise and went back to the gym as well. Martha even started a meditation/deep breathing routine for relaxation.

Martha’s neck and back pain was much improved within a few weeks.  She followed up with her doctor to continue her medical procedures in In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF).  And yes, she did eventually get pregnant within a year.  Afterwards, she did come in for Chiropractic care during and after her pregnancy.

 

Chiropractic West Palm Beach: Adjustments While Trying to Conceive

A West Palm Beach chiropractor can adjust your spine, putting everything back in place. Realigning your spine alleviates pressure off your nerves and helps your body function at its best.

Are you looking for the best female chiropractor in West Palm Beach? Dr. Natalie Meiri can definitely help you.  Call 561-253-8984 today for an appointment or to find out more about Chiropractic West Palm Beach: Adjustments While Trying to Conceive.

 

References:

Thomas Bergman, David Peterson, Chiropractic Technique Principles and Procedures, 3rd edition, 2011 (1)

 

This post is about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Abdominal Muscle and Fascial Injury.  Symptoms of abdominal muscle and fascial injury include being painfully flexed over (bent forward).  And you can’t seem to straighten up due to the injury. Additionally, pain on bending to the opposite side of the injury is common. Read on to learn more about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Abdominal Muscle and Fascial Injury.

 

Causes of Abdominal Muscle and Fascial Injury

 

Firstly, abdominal muscle and fascial injuries are common in tennis or football players. Secondly, a tennis player hitting an overhead stroke with the ball slightly behind them and reaching back may whip the body forward.  This may contract the rectus abdominus muscle into injury.  Thirdly, football players due to repetitive movements, like twisting and turning may get this injury as well. Fourthly, anyone can incur this injury through the following:

–Overuse/Repetitive movements involving the abdominal muscles and fascia

-Sudden/Fast movements, twisting, or jumping

-Muscle fatigue/Strenuous activity

 

Abdominal Muscle and Fascia Anatomy

Almost all the muscles that originate or insert into the pelvis may be strained including the rectus abdominis, external oblique, latissimus dorsi, gluteus maximus and medius, tensor fasciae latae, sartorius, quadratus lumborum, iliocostalis lumborum and transversus abdominis muscle. The various soft tissue structures that may get injured include:

 

• the muscles, which allow you to move.
• the tendons, which connect your muscles to the bone.
• the ligaments which are bands of tough elastic tissue around your joints. They connect bone to bone, give your joints support, and limit their movement.
• the fascia – stretchy, thin, white fibrous tissue. All your muscles are enveloped in fascia.

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Hip Pointer

Strain and contusion (bruise) of the muscles attached to the iliac crest (top part of ilium/hip bone) are referred to as a hip pointer injury.  This may lead to abdominal muscle spasm and pain. There may be swelling and ecchymosis (discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath).  Hip pointer causes include traumatic contusion of the iliac crest and contact sports.  Pain is immediate and acute. And you may flex toward the side of your injury.  Next, swelling may present over the hip area with pain in both the hip and abdominal muscles.

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Chronic Abdominal Fascial Strain

You may have groin pain above the inguinal ligament (ligament located in the groin area) due to a fascial strain.  And this injury is usually seen in runners. Moreover, it may end up as a chronic problem. 

 

West Palm Beach Chiropractor: What is a Sprain or Strain?

 

A sprain is a sudden or violent twisting injury of a joint with stretching or tearing of ligaments.  And a strain occurs when a muscle is overstretched or torn. This usually occurs as a result of fatigue, overuse, or improper use. Furthermore, damage to your attached tendons can also occur with a strain.

 

Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic in West Palm Beach for Abdominal Muscle and Fascial Injury

Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic includes:

-Chiropractic manipulative therapy- to the spine, pelvis and associated regions. 

-Gentle myofascial release and/or post isometric relaxation techniques- to the soft tissues (e.g. muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia) involved.

-Electric Muscle Stimulation, Ice and Heat Therapies for pain relief and inflammation reduction.

-Therapeutic exercise- with  gentle stretching and a long-term goal of restrengthening (e.g abdominal muscles).

Finally, recommendations for prevention of further injury. This involves a routine of stretching and warming up prior to activity.

 

Getting regular chiropractic care from a West Palm Beach chiropractic center can give relief naturally from an already existing injury, or even offer injury prevention. Chiropractic is a holistic and natural way to treat existing injuries and to keep your body in its best working condition.

Contact Meiri Chiropractic today at 561-253-8984 to make an appointment or to find out more about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: Abdominal Muscle and Fascial Injury or/and other ailments.

 

 

Your ability to function, maintain mobility and independence is an important goal as you age. This not only affects your quality of life, it also affects your life span.   Indeed, exercise is beneficial in numerous ways. Individuals who exercise regularly have a better chance at preventing or slowing the effects of many chronic diseases including congestive heart disease, coronary artery disease, diabetes, intermittent vascular claudication, osteoarthritis and more.

 

It is a fact that a regular exercise program combined with an appropriate diet is important for avoiding obesity and its many problems. Additionally, exercising has been shown to improve balance and decrease the chance of falling as you age. Furthermore, with exercise muscle mass is increased, which provides some protection from falls. Finally, a sedentary life will often cause a downward spiral in overall health.

 

With all that exercise does for you, it also helps your joints. Read on to learn about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Exercise and Osteoarthritis.

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Exercise and Osteoarthritis

 

Firstly, prolonged rest decreases and prolongs recovery from injury. Secondly, moderate exercise does not increase the chance or progression of arthritis. Thirdly, adults can benefit from exercise in strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance.  Fourthly, osteoarthritis (wear and tear arthritis) pain often responds to toning exercises even though existing degenerative changes (as appears on X-ray) remain.

Researchers have found out the following about athletes and osteoarthritis:

Runners older than 60 years old running 3 hours per week for 12 years showed no greater prevalence of Osteoarthritis than non-runners.  However, the runners showed a 40% greater bone density of vertebral bodies (spinal bones) than non-runners.  Unfortunately, radiographic (x-ray imaging) evidence demonstrated genu varum (bow legged) in the knees if there was a history of long distance running.  Moreover, the ability to repair articular damage decreases with age.  Similarly, the healing response is less efficient as one ages for injuries such as knee ligament or meniscal injury and so there is a higher risk of developing degenerative changes.  In conclusion, a more varied exercise program may be a solution (e.g. elliptical machine along with running).

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Types of Exercise
 

So moderate activity is beneficial to your joints. And as mentioned above, even with Osteoarthritis noted on X-ray, you will improve symptomatically with toning exercises for the involved joint(s).

For weight-bearing joints, it is often helpful to begin with non-weight-bearing activities. For example, pool (aquatic) training is a great choice.  Muscles must function against the resistance of water while the load applied is decreased.  Certainly, this is due to the buoyancy of the water. So there is no direct impact loading of body weight as would occur with walking, jogging, or running. Alternatively, bicycle riding is also recommended.  Bicycling allows a range of motion with minimal loading of your joints. This targets both goals of decreasing impact loads to the knee and toning of muscles around the knee joint.

 

Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Exercise, and Osteoarthritis

The ultimate goal is to delay functional decline and restore and/or maintain optimal function to allow as much independent living as possible as you grow older. It is clear that the ability to remain independent has a significant effect on your quality of life. Chiropractic Care combined with an exercise regimen will keep you functioning optimally and pain free.

 

Research on How Chiropractic Adjustments Can Help With Arthritis

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.

 

Are you looking for excellent chiropractic care in West Palm Beach? Dr. Natalie Meiri can definitely help you.  Find out more about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Exercise  and  Osteoarthritis.  Call 561-253-8984 today for an appointment.

 

References:

Thomas Bergman, David Peterson, Chiropractic Technique Principles and Procedures, 3rd edition, 2011