Are you experiencing pain and stiffness due to poor posture? Chiropractors can help posture problems for you and your family. The position in which we hold our bodies is our posture. If we don’t have good posture while standing, sitting, or lying down, it will eventually lead to pain and dysfunction. This post is about Chiropractic West Palm Beach: How to Improve Your Posture.
Did you know postural asymmetry is a challenge to your homeostasis? Homeostasis is your body’s ability to maintain a stable internal environment. This is despite external changes. And this is achieved through various physiological mechanisms.
Postural asymmetry leads to areas of possible muscular imbalance, bony asymmetry and mechanical stress. In other words, bad posture leads to strains, shoulder pain, headaches, TMJ problems and back pain. Eventually, bad posture may lead to osteoarthritis (“wear and tear” arthritis). Without good posture, you will be fatigued. Bad posture can also cause you to loose some of your height. Furthermore, bad posture will affect your circulation, digestion and even bring on breathing difficulties. So the physical limitation of your lungs and abdominal organs caused by a loss of height due to bad posture causes a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and respiratory mortality. Lastly, you will appear less confident without good posture.
What Can You Do To Have Good Posture?
First, avoid excessive sedentary activities. For instance, sitting, reading, watching T.V., playing video games, and using a computer, etc. And try to practice proper ergonomics. There are also other activities such as gardening or even playing a musical instrument that can lead to bad posture. Moreover, activities that lead to bending and lifting can lead to back aches if done improperly.
Second, try to have good posture in all activities. “Good posture” refers to the position of your spine in your neck and back. Your spine runs from the back of your skull through your lower back. You have three natural curves to the spine in your neck, middle of your back, and lower back. When you are standing or sitting with good posture, your head, shoulders, and hips should all be in line with one another.
Many people struggle with poor posture around the natural curves to the spine…
Third, poor posture can occur in your neck when you hunch forward over a keyboard or workspace for long hours of the day. Next, this can cause you to roll your shoulders forward and hold your head too far forward. Poor posture can also be from slouching or hunching your back. Specifically, it can happen more when you are in an unsupportive chair or while driving. To have good posture, think of your ears, shoulders, and hips in a straight line with your body weight equally distributed across both legs.
Fourth, focus on keeping your head held up, shoulders back, and stomach tucked in. Also, when sitting, try to keep your legs bent 90 to 120 degrees perpendicular to the ground. And your weight should be evenly distributed over both hips. Next, your feet should be flat on the floor.
Fifth, good posture while sleeping is crucial. After all, you should be sleeping 8 hours a night. This is a long time to keep the same posture. So sleeping on your stomach can increase your back and neck strain. It’s best to sleep on your back on a firm bed. And side sleeping is acceptable. However, side sleepers should focus pillow support between the head and neck, not the shoulder.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help Correct Your Posture?
Chiropractic care can help you restore your healthy spinal curvature. And if you’ve been suffering from pain and stiffness due to poor posture, this will dissipate as well.
At your first visit, your chiropractor will start with an exam. During this exam, they will identify a diagnosis and any postural imbalances. Subsequently, your chiropractor will develop a treatment plan of correction through adjustments.
A chiropractor can also use soft tissue techniques/therapy to work on strained soft tissue, (e.g. muscles). Afterward, your chiropractor will guide you through strengthening exercises. This builds up your postural muscles. Ultimately, all this leads to posture correction.
Throughout the process, your chiropractor will teach you how to move to encourage a neutral spine/ good posture. This is important to prevent re-injury, maintain proper alignment and the health benefits of chiropractic care.
Dr. Natalie Meiri adjusts a patient
Chiropractic Care Adjusts More Than Just Bad Posture
Look great and move better. Find increased confidence from your good posture! People with good posture can expect more balance and coordination, energy levels, reduced stress/anxiety, and better athletic performance. Are you ready to have good posture, better health and a better life? Call 561-253-8984 today to make an appointment or to find out more about Chiropractic West Palm Beach: How to Improve Your Posture.
Evidence suggests that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, improves migraine and cervicogenic headaches. However, researchers have many theories. There are studies to explain beyond the “vascular dilation” and “muscle contraction” theories. This post is about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Headaches and Hormones, Part III of the Headache blogs.
West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Headaches and Hormones and Women
Hormones influence the nerve cells that react to increases in serotonin and “natural opioids” (natural pain-relieving substances). The concentration of levels of serotonin in the blood (plasma levels) have been found to increase significantly in women experiencing headaches. Specifically, migraine with aura (sensory disturbances) and those with tension-type headaches are effected. Interestingly, this increase was not seen in women with migraine without aura.
Migraines during menstruation seems to occur due to “estrogen withdrawal/imbalance”. A high percent of migraine attacks in women are associated with menstruation. With pregnancy, there is an increased level of estrogen. Subsequently, with menopause, there is a decreased level of estrogen. These changes show a pattern in headache manifestations. For example, migraine sufferers typically improve during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester. Moreover, this improvement is suspected to be related to sustained high levels of estrogen.
However, migraine prevalence definitely decreases with age. Nevertheless, menopause, however, may even trigger the onset or return of migraine. Again, some studies indicate that estrogen replacement therapy increases or exacerbates migraines. Accordingly, studies indicate estrogen alone or in combination with testosterone helps relieve migraine sufferers.
West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Headaches and Hormones and Menopause
How do menopause symptoms occur? After 12 months without menstruating, a woman is in menopause. The average age of menopause onset in the Unites States is 51.
Decreased circulating levels of estrogen with menopause appear to affect the central nervous system via the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a small but important area in the center of the brain between the pituitary gland and thalamus. It plays an important role in hormone production and helps to stimulate many important processes in the body. The hypothalamus controls body temperature, thirst, hunger, and other homeostatic systems. It is also involved in sleep and emotional activity.
So 95% of perimenopausal and menopausal women experience “hot flashes”. These flushing and sweating episodes are sudden in onset and last several minutes. A sensation of face and neck hotness extends to the front of the chest. The skin temperature may increase as much as 2-5° degrees more. Next, there may result wetting of clothing through excess perspiration. Physiologic responses that also occur include an increase in heart rate perceived sometimes as palpitations.
Furthermore, there may be symptoms of headache, dizziness, and nausea during the episodes. Many women have night sweats and also have difficulty falling asleep. And often awaken early without being able to fall back to sleep. Approximately 80% of women experience these episodes for more than 1 year. And as many as 20% of women have symptoms for more than 5 years.
Menopause and Joint Pain Leading to Cervicogenic Headaches
A common symptom often associated with hormonal changes is pain. More than half of women experience Arthralgia (pain in a joint) around the time of menopause. The causes of joint pain in postmenopausal women can be difficult to determine. This is because the period of menopause coincides with a rising incidence of chronic rheumatic conditions such as osteoarthritis. Nevertheless, the prevalence of arthralgia does appear to increase in women going through menopausal transition. Studies have shown this to result from reduction in estrogen levels. This may have to do with various interactions between sex hormones and pain processing pathways, immune cells and chondrocytes (cartilage cells).
Given a growing concern regarding estrogen replacement therapy, a search for alternatives in the management of menopause is prevalent. Many studies have found that the use of alternative therapies for menopause symptoms is common. And women who use them generally find them to be beneficial. Chiropractic intervention in the treatment of postmenopausal climacteric symptoms especially in the area of joint pain and headaches is effective.
Dr. Natalie Meiri adjusts a patient
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic for Headaches
Our spectrum of therapies at Meiri Chiropractic including adjustments, soft tissue techniques and therapeutic exercises (stretching and strengthening) will get you feeling better!
Your chiropractor will examine, diagnose and determine your best course of chiropractic treatment for headaches. Call us in West Palm Beach at 561-253-8984 to schedule an appointment or to find out more about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Headaches and Hormones.
References:
Thomas Souza, (2018) Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor
Evidence suggests that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, improves migraine and cervicogenic (originating in neck) headaches. However, researchers have many theories. There are studies to explain beyond the “vascular dilation” and “muscle contraction” theories. This post is about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Migraines and Cervicogenic Headaches.
West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Migraines, Cranial Parasympathetic Nerve Reactions, and the Facial Nerve
First, the cranial parasympathetic nerve reactions occurs between neurons (nerve cells) in the pons (part of brainstem that links brain and spinal cord). Accordingly, this parasympathetic output is part of the nervous system that slows the heart, dilates blood vessels, decreases pupil size, increases digestive juices, and relaxes muscles in the gastrointestinal tract. So the parasympathetic nervous system controls the body’s ability to relax.
Second, this is regulated through your head and neck’s autonomic nervous system. And this is a component of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary physiologic processes. Lastly, this is referred to as the trigeminal-autonomic reflex. Moreover, this may be overstimulated in persons with cluster and migraine headaches.
Third, another structure involved in migraine headaches is the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG), a branch of the facial nerve. The SPG apparently contains a small percentage of trigeminal fibers (cranial nerve V). It appears that the SPG may start vasodilation of cerebral blood flow when the trigeminal ganglion is stimulated. And the trigeminocervical nucleus is a continuous column of neurons. This is formed by the caudal (back) end of the spinal nucleus of the trigeminal nerve and the dorsal (back) horn of the upper cervical spinal nerves (C1-C3). In other words, it is formed by nerves C1-C3 in your neck and cranial nerve 5.
Fourth, Scientists propose that chiropractic manipulation to these areas relieves headaches.
West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Migraines and Dopamine
Additionally, Scientist looked at the relationship between dopamine and migraine. And Dopamine is a neurotransmitter. This is a chemical messenger in the brain. It plays a crucial role in bodily functions: reward system, movement, attention and focus, mood.
In one study, they assumed that depression and pain is caused by an imbalance or a deficiency of neurotransmitters (serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine). Also, they found long-term relief for chronic headaches. In conclusion, Chiropractic adjustments can trigger the release of endorphins such as dopamine. Endorphins are natural, feel-good chemicals produced by the body. They act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers.
A 2014 report in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics (JMPT) found that interventions commonly used in chiropractic care improved outcomes for the treatment of acute and chronic neck pain and an increased benefit was shown in several instances where a multimodal approach to neck pain had been used(1). Also, a 2011 JMPT study found that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, can improve migraine and cervicogenic headaches. (2)
Dr. Natalie Meiri adjusts a patient
West Palm Beach Chiropractor : Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic for Headaches
Our spectrum of therapies at Meiri Chiropractic including adjustments, soft tissue techniques and therapeutic exercises (stretching and strengthening) will get you feeling better!
Your chiropractor will examine, diagnose and determine your best course of chiropractic treatment for headaches . Call us in West Palm Beach at 561-253-8984 to schedule an appointment. Start getting headache relief today! And check back for the next post: West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Migraines and Cervicogenic Headaches.
References:
1. Bryans R, Descarreaux M, Duranleau M, et al. Evidence based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with neck pain. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2014; 37: 42-63. 2. Bryans R, Descarreaux M, Duranleau M, et al. Evidence based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2011; 34: 274-89.
3. Thomas Souza, (2018) Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor
Evidence suggests that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, improves migraine and cervicogenic (originating in neck) headaches. However, researchers have many theories. There are studies to explain beyond the “vascular dilation” and “muscle contraction” theories. This post is about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Headaches, Part I.
West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Headaches Involving Serotonin and Sensory Input
Apparently, a neurologic event occurs associated with an imbalance of serotonin during headaches. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that works with bodily functions. This includes mood, sleep, appetite, anxiety, digestion, and sexual desire. So too little or too much serotonin may contribute to headaches. And it matters where it occurs. Typically, too little serotonin in your central nervous system is the primary cause of headaches.
Moreover, increased local vascular concentrations of serotonin may be part of an inflammatory cascade. These inflammatory chemicals include substance P. Substance P is a neurotransmitter found in the brain and spinal cord. It plays a role in transmitting pain signals. Ultimately, a neurogenic (originating from nervous system) vascular inflammation results. Truly there are numerous chemical reactions causing headaches.
West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Headaches involving Sensory Input and Skull structures
Firstly, dysfunction of brain stem control of various sensory input could be a major factor for headaches. For example, parts of the cranial (skull) blood vessels and the dura (membrane covering the brain) may be dysfunctioning. These are innervated (supplied) by the trigeminal nerve (5th cranial nerve). This nerve plays a crucial role in providing sensory and motor functions to your face and head.
Secondly, posterior fossa structures (back of the skull) are innervated by the C2 (neck spinal nerve 2) nerve roots. Next, input from the trigeminal-innervated structures pass through a group of nerve cells called trigeminal ganglion. These synapse in the trigeminocervical nucleus (cranial nerve 5 and neck complex). Information is then sent through the spinal cord nerve tract called the trigeminothalamic tract. And this is after decussating (crossing over) in the brainstem.
Thirdly, control of this nociceptive (sensation of pain) information is believed to come from various brainstem nerve cell bodies. Therefore, the convergence of afferent (incoming) information come from cervical spinal nerves. Next, together with the trigeminal nerve in the trigeminocervical nucleus may serve to explain a referred pain mechanism.
West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Headaches involving Anatomical Structures
Anatomically, the trigeminocervical nucleus is a continuous column of neurons. This is formed by the caudal (back) end of the spinal nucleus of the trigeminal nerve and the dorsal (back) horn of the upper cervical spinal nerves (C1-C3). In other words, it is formed by nerves C1-C3 in your neck and cranial nerve 5. As a consequence, the result may be either referral to the head and face from irritation in the neck. And/ or referral of neck pain from dysfunction of intracranial pain-sensitive structures (e.g., intracerebral blood vessels causing head pain). Therefore, structures innervated by CI-C3 including C2-C3 intervertebral disk annular fibers, deep muscles, joints, ligaments, and connections to the dura mater may be sources of referred pain to the head. Scientists propose that chiropractic manipulation to these areas relieves headaches.
Dr. Natalie Meiri adjusts a patient
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic for Headaches
Our spectrum of therapies at Meiri Chiropractic including adjustments, soft tissue techniques and therapeutic exercises (stretching and strengthening) will get you feeling better!
Your chiropractor will examine, diagnose and determine your best course of chiropractic treatment for headaches . Call us in West Palm Beach at 561-253-8984 to schedule an appointment. Start getting headache relief today and check back for the next post: West Palm Beach Chiropractor: The Science Behind Headaches, Part II.
References:
Thomas Souza, (2018) Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor
Headaches are troublesome to you. You may loose time from your work and social life. Financially, it causes a burden on your wallet and the health care system. They say almost $14 billion is lost annually due to loss of productivity. A research study found that headaches effect your quality of life more than other conditions such as osteoarthritis (wear and tear arthritis), hypertension and diabetes. Moreover, even children experience a decrease in their quality of life due to headaches. It has been said that up to 12% of children ages 5 to 15 and 30% of teenagers experience migraine headaches. Furthermore, women report more headaches than men. And statistics show over 35 million Americans have suffered from migraine headaches.
Chiropractic Care in West Palm Beach: Facts about Headaches
Firstly, headaches are one of the most common ailments. Many link their headaches to the flu, excessive alcohol drinking, low blood sugar and menstruation/menopause. In other words, many people are aware of the cause of their headaches.
Secondly, many people resort to over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Truly, headaches may be the most common reason for the use of OTC pain medications.
Thirdly, when a person goes to the doctor it is due to severe pain. The headache has become incapacitating (affecting work/life). Also, you may be worried that there maybe a life-threatening cause (e.g. tumor).
Fourthly, you may seek evaluation and treatment after head trauma. Additionally, headaches are often a complaint following whiplash (e.g. motor vehicle accident).
Lastly, almost 50 percent of people with headaches look for alternative management. And Chiropractic care was the most common alternative therapy sought by these patients.
Chiropractic Care in West Palm Beach: Natural Treatment/Management of Headaches
The vast majority of headaches are benign (not life threatening). The most common include: migraine, tension-type, cervicogenic and cluster headaches. Typically, patients are diagnosed through their history and examination. Nevertheless, imaging (e.g. X-ray/ MRI) may be needed to rule out more serious causes.
Research indicates a definite relationship between cervical (neck) and spinal dysfunction and headaches. Many studies show improvement with chiropractic manipulation. And there is definite advantages with chiropractic versus the use of medication. For example, the Duke University study that completed a process begun by the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research for chiropractic. So this study not only supported chiropractic joint manipulation, but also supported soft tissue procedures/ techniques for headache relief.
Other natural therapies suggested in research are: exercise, nutritional/supplement recommendation, and physiotherapy.
Dr. Natalie Meiri adjusts a patient
Chiropractic Care in West Palm Beach: Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic for Headaches
Our spectrum of therapies at Meiri Chiropractic will get you feeling better!
First, you will receive chiropractic adjustments to your neck and spine. Second, various soft tissue techniques and exercises (stretching and strengthening) will be provided. Third, recommendations on diet and nutrition that trigger headaches are necessary.
Meiri Chiropractic serving West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, North Palm Beach and the surrounding areas offers chiropractic care for headaches. Your chiropractor will examine, diagnose and determine your best course of chiropractic treatment for headaches . Call us in West Palm Beach at 561-253-8984 to schedule an appointment or to find out more about Chiropractic Care in West Palm Beach: Relief From Headaches. Start getting headache relief today.
References:
Thomas Souza, (2018) Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor
Did you know Chiropractors treat nonspinal joints such as the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)? Applying manual hands on care and procedures to the nonspinal/peripheral joints is a special skill. And this skill is taught in all accredited chiropractic schools. Irritation to the TMJ structures can cause symptoms such as ear pain, tinnitus, vertigo, subjective (patient’s perception) hearing loss, hyperacusis (increased sensitivity to sound), tongue pain, and muscle pain. Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain is about TMJ pain causes and how chiropractic can help.
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Temporomandibular Joint pain (TMJ) Anatomy
The TMJ is composed of:
–Synovial cavity– space between the bones in a synovial joint that’s filled with synovial fluid (nourishing thick fluid).
–Articular cartilage– specialized type of connective tissue that covers the ends of bones in joints. It provides a smooth surface for joint movement.
-Articular capsule– fibrous connective tissue encloses the joint capsule
–Several ligaments- ligament is a band of tissue that connects bones and joints. Ligaments hold the TMJ in place and help move it properly.
–Disk- articular fibrocartilaginous structure located between the mandible (jaw bone) and the temporal bone (sides of skull).
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain Causes
TMJ problems can be due to developmental abnormalities, intracapsular diseases, and dysfunctional conditions:
-Developmental abnormalities include hypoplasia/hyperplasia (under or over development of TMJ)
-Impingements (pinching) of the various TMJ structures (e.g. coronoid process, synovial fold)
-Ossification (calcification) of TMJ ligaments (e.g. stylohyoid ligament; Eagle syndrome).
-Intracapsular (located within a capsule) diseases (e.g. disk adhesions/displacements, degenerative arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, infections, and gout)
Certainly, chiropractic can be helpful for the conditions above. However, chiropractic excels in treatments of extracapsular (outside the capsule) conditions. Indeed, these include myofascial pain syndromes and muscular imbalance. Moreover, even capsular sprain, hypomobility (decreased movement), and hypermobility (increased movement) can be relieved through chiropractic care.
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Temporomandibular Joint Pain (TMJ) and the Cervical Spine (Neck)
There are definite clinical relationships between neck pain, headache, orofacial (mouth and face) pain, and abnormalities of chewing and swallowing. For example, a dysfunction in the TMJ and the atlanto-occipital (C0 and C1 joint) joint connection can cause head and neck pain.
Firstly, a biomechanical relationship exists between the cervical (neck) spinal segments and movements of the TMJ.
Secondly, tension in the deep cervical (neck) fascia (three-dimensional matrix of loose connective tissue) that surrounds bone, muscle, visceral organs, and skin can cause TMJ dysfunction. This is because the fascia helps to shape and support your TMJ.
Thirdly, activity of the hyoid (U-shaped bone in the neck) bone muscles play a part in TMJ health. So the hyoid bone moves during respiration, mastication, swallowing, and phonation. These are functions affected by the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Fourthly, structures of the shoulder girdle can contribute to TMJ dysfunction.
Lastly, postural stresses, muscle tone, malocclusion/dysfunction of the teeth can affect the TMJ.
Dr. Natalie Meiri
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Treatment for TMJ at Meiri Chiropractic
First, spinal adjustments to your neck and manipulation/mobilization to the TMJ and cranium (skull). Second, muscle stretching and soft tissue therapy, along with exercise, the use of modalities (i.e. heat therapy, electric muscle stimulation) and rehabilitation/ home exercises as necessary. Third, postural advice/ recommendations.
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Temporomandibular Joint Pain (TMJ)
Do you have TMJ pain or dysfunction? Call 561-253-8984 today to make an appointment or to find out more about Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Temporomandibular Joint Pain (TMJ).
Cranial manipulation is the science and technique of the therapeutic application of forces through manipulation by hand to correct cranial dysfunction. It is a form of alternative medicine that involves the gentle manipulation of the bones and tissues of your skull.
The cranium (skull) is made up of 22 individual bones that are capable of misaligning and causing acute and chronic health issues. Indeed, Imbalances in the cranial bones can occur during birth, head and spinal injuries from falls, accidents and other trauma. Cranial Dysfunction can lead to:
-Interference in Cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) flow
-Blood pressure disturbances
-Irritation of sutural nerve pathways
-Cranial nerve entrapment
-Impeded vascular circulation to the brain
-Endocrine dysfunction
-Sensory disturbances
-Neurologic disorganization
-TMJ dysfunction
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Cranial Manipulation Facts
Firstly, Cranial manipulation was developed in the mid 1930s. However, there is a lot of controversy over. Many mistakenly look at the cranium as a fused structure. Nevertheless, both the original osteopathic and chiropractic developers believed the cranial bones moved. Today, cranial manipulation is practiced by both chiropractors and osteopaths.
Secondly, the idea that cranial bones are fused in early life is untrue. The process of ossification (bone fusion) does start in your 20’s. However, your cranial sutures remain open all through your life. Moreover, there is some motion and flexibility which may last into your senior years.
Thirdly, your cranial bones are connected and are bound together by connective tissue. This tissue is called the sutural ligament or membrane. And this ligament remains non-ossified (non-bone tissue).
Fourthly, nerve fibers go along with the collagenous connective tissue in your cranium.
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Cranial Motion
There are 3 theories about cranial motion:
First, the hypotheses regarding cranial motion is there is a continuous, rhythmic, oscillating motion within the dural tube. And the dural tube is a tough, fibrous sheath that encases the brain and spinal cord. It is part of the meninges. The meninges are a protective membrane that cover the central nervous system. Furthermore, dysfunction in the “dural tension” system leads to abnormal conditions that are found and correctable.
Second, your cranium moves naturally without notice. It’s motion follows the pressures of the vascular and cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) circulation.
Third, the idea is that the cranium does not move much. Specifically, the stresses and pressures that can be influenced by cranial dysfunction accumulate in the joints and bones.
Dr. Natalie Meiri
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: How does Cranial manipulation work?
Firstly, Cranial manipulation works with palpation of the pulsations. And these are the rhythmic (8 to 14 oscillations per minute) cranial movements. In other words, the pulsations inside the dural tube. These pulsations help the circulation of CSF.
Secondly, afterall, the CSF bathes and nourishes your central nervous system. So the rate, rhythm and amplitude of the cranio-sacral (cranium and sacrum) movement is important.
Thirdly, Cranial manipulation addresses the sutural asymmetry and muscle tightness surrounding the painful area. And Examination of cranial dysfunction includes location of skull asymmetries, palpation of skull contours and the sutures. Specifically, the sutures can widen, narrow and be tender to palpation.
Chiropractor West Palm Beach: Meiri Chiropractic
Patients who could benefit from cranial manipulation have many disorders: jaw/TMJ pain, jaw clenching (bruxism), vertigo, swallowing difficulty, chewing difficulty, migraines/ headaches, sleep apnea, chronic sinus, and post concussive disorders. Do you need a chiropractor in West Palm Beach for cranial manipulation? Call 561-253-8984 today.
References:
Bergman, Thomas. Peterson, Lawrence. Chiropractic Technique Principles and Procedures 2011. Third Edition
You may have had some trauma or injury involving your hip? Perhaps you have thigh pain from a sudden movement? Moreover, as a weight bearing joint, the hip is commonly affected by degenerative joint changes and soft tissue damage. Or you may think your pain is in the low back or buttocks when it is in fact due to your hip. Also, your hip pain may not be coming from your hip at all! This post is about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: 4 Causes for Hip Pain.
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.
1) Referral of Pain
Hip joint pain can be actually be coming from the L3 nerve root segment (low back nerve root). So the pain is a referred pain from the nerve at the L3 level of your low back. Of course, hip joint innervation is from segments L2 to S1.
Alternatively, hip pain can be the result of referral from the facets (small joints in between the vertebrae in the back of the spine) of the lower lumbar spine.
Furthermore, the knee also refers pain to the hip area. And the hip can refer pain to the knee.
2) Muscle Strain
The muscles working across the hip joint are subject to strain, either through overuse (chronic strain) or overstress (acute strain or trauma). A strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched or torn. Commonly strained hip muscles include: sartorius, rectus femoris, iliopsoas, hamstrings, and the adductors.
3) Bursitis
Trochanteric bursitis presents as pain felt primarily over the lateral (away from body) hip region. Additionally, this can be a result of overuse or direct injury. You may find tenderness at a specific point over the inflamed greater trochanter. The greater trochanter is a bony prominence located at the upper end of the femur (thigh bone) area of the hip. Typically, bursitis hip pain is often aggravated by going up stairs. Bursitis pain is usually described as deep and aching pain that began insidiously (came on gradually and without noticeable symptoms). Getting in and out of a car repeatedly can sometimes trigger hip brusitis.
4) Nerve Entrapment
Firstly, entrapment of several peripheral nerves can occur in association with hip pain and dysfunction. For instance, the femoral nerve lies close to the femoral head (top part of the thigh bone that fits into the hip socket). Indeed, trauma or swelling may produce entrapment. Subsequently, this can cause weakness of your hip flexors and tenderness in the groin area.
Secondly, another example would be the sciatic nerve entrapment. This occurs when the nerve passes through the piriformis muscle. Subsequently, the sciatic nerve may be compressed by the piriformis muscle. As a result, a sciatic radiculopathy (nerve root injury) with related motor and sensory changes may present.
Thirdly, the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve is prone to entrapment near the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS). The ASIS is a bony projection on the ilium bone in the pelvis. The nerve passes through the lateral end of the inguinal ligament (band of connective tissue in the groin that connects the abdomen to the pelvis). Entrapment of the femoral cutaneous nerve creates a condition called meralgia paresthetica. It is characterized by a burning pain in the anterior and lateral (front and side) portions of the thigh.
A 2017 review in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that spinal manipulation reduces lower back pain.
A2013 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.</p>
Are you looking for hip pain relief from a West Palm Beach chiropractor? Call 561-253-8984 today for an appointment. Find out more about West Palm Beach Chiropractor: 4 Causes for Hip Pain and feel better today.
References:
Thomas Bergman, David Peterson, Chiropractic Technique Principles and Procedures, 3rd edition, 2011
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.
Dr. Natalie Meiri adjusts a patient
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).
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
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.
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.
