A Chiropractor in West Palm Beach can help you with many ailments by way of adjustments. However, nutrition is certainly a significant factor in your healing. So some of your lifestyle choices outside of the doctor’s office can influence the effectiveness of treatment. By incorporating better nutrition, you can contribute to faster healing and get back to wellness.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Chiropractic and Nutrition: Inflammatory and Repair Phases of Musculoskeletal Injury.

 

What is the Inflammatory (Acute) Phase of Musculoskeletal Injury?

Firstly, the inflammatory response occurs during the first few days after your injury or trauma which includes edema (swelling). However, this inflammation is actually necessary for tissue repair. Secondly, this results in pain, redness, and heat. It is a result of vascular and cellular responses that release required chemicals for the healing. And the response allows for an increase in blood flow to the area causing edema.  Thirdly, the process “breaks down and digests” damaged cells and sets the stage for the next phase.  Fourthly, after chiropractic care has begun, some of the substances below may help expedite healing.

 

Proteolytic Enzymes

Supplementing with proteolytic enzymes may decrease the inflammatory response by breaking down inflammatory proteins. Again, the proteins cause vascular permeability (ability of a substance to allow gases or liquids to go through it) and pain. And the enzymes significantly improve local circulation by breaking down cell debris and fibrin prior to uptake by the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system. It keeps body fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections.  The helpful enzymes are derived from bovine (cow), pancreas (trypsin, chymotrypsin), pineapple skin (bromelain), or papaya.

Contraindications (reason not to take) to the use of proteolytic enzymes includes: increased bleeding tendency, systemic infection and allergy to the food sources its made from.

Bioflavonoids

Sometimes referred to as the P vitamin, bioflavonoids are not true vitamins. There are many bioflavonoids: citrin, erodictryol, flavones, hesperin, hesperidin, quercetin, quercetrin, and rutin. You can not produce bioflavonoids, so you have to include it in your diet. Bioflavonoids are generally found in tea, dark chocolate, most fruits and vegetables.

Bioflavonoids may significantly restrict vascular permeability to limit swelling.  Also, it may inhibit inflammatory prostaglandins (hormone-like substances that affect several bodily functions, including inflammation and pain).  Lastly, bioflavonoids are effective only before the peak of the inflammatory phase and will not reduce established edema.

 

Vitamin C

Supplementing with vitamin C along with vitamin E may reduce free radical processes in inflamed tissues.  Additionally, Vitamin C may support adrenal gland production of anti-inflammatory hormones and may have mild fibrinolytic (keeps blood clots from forming) and antihistamine (relieves allergy) effects.

 

Research

Numerous studies have proven the effectiveness of proteolytic enzymes for injury and inflammation. Lumbar disc prolapse patients treated with proteolytic enzymes showed improvement in orthopedic tests and decrease in pain medication usage.

In combination with bioflavonoids, vitamin C was included in some studies to help with inflammation. 

 

 

What is the Proliferative (Subacute/Repair) Phase of Musculoskeletal Injury?

Firstly, this phase begins as the inflammation settles down and your body begins to repair the damaged tissue by laying down new connective tissue.  Secondly, in this phase you likely will also have less pain. Thirdly, regeneration of disrupted muscle and connective tissue requires the availability of appropriate protein and non-protein substances to start.  Fourthly, nutrient cofactors (helper molecules) are required by synthesizing (combining) enzymes.

 

Healing Damaged Tissue

Deficiencies of certain nutrients should be corrected to allow optimal tissue growth.  These include:  sufficient nutritious calories, protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins A, B1, B2, C and E, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium.

Traumatic injury appears to increase requirements for protein (especially branched chain amino acids) and vitamin C.  Supplementation of arginine (amino acid, a building block of protein), glycine (amino acid), proline (amino acid from L-glutamate), vitamins A and C, pantothenic acid (B vitamin), and zinc may improve tissue healing.

 

Connective Tissue (cartilage) Repair

Mucopolysaccharides (glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans), the nonfibrous component of connective tissue, are composed of small amounts of protein and large amounts of specialized carbohydrates. These carbohydrates are synthesized by chondrocytes (cells found in cartilage) which produce and maintain the cartilaginous matrix. Some minerals are required as well for repair.

Manganese (mineral) is a required cofactor for the synthesis of mucopolysaccharides.

Chondroitin sulfate and other mucopolysacharides are available as supplements.

 

Chiropractic and Nutrition: Inflammatory and Repair Phases of Musculoskeletal Injury

Spinal and extremity (limbs) adjustments along with recommendations from your chiropractor regarding stretching and strengthening exercises, nutrition, and lifestyle changes can successfully treat a number of common, chronic and acute injuries. Besides from becoming a peak performance athlete, regular chiropractic care will help with digestion, improve sleep, and increase energy. Regular chiropractic adjustments help avoid many of the disorders that take shape as illness.

Are you looking to get out of pain fast, perform better and reduce injuries? Dr. Natalie Meiri, a chiropractor in West Palm Beach can definitely help you! Call 561-253-8984 today to make an appointment or to find out more about Chiropractic and Nutrition: Inflammatory and Repair Phases of Musculoskeletal Injury.

 

References: Handbook of Preventative and Therapeutic Nutrition by James M. Gerber,M.S., D.C., 2007

 

Video about Meiri Chiropractic

 

 

A Chiropractor in West Palm Beach can help you with many ailments by way of adjustments. However, the food you consume on a daily basis has a very large impact on your body and the thousands of underlying processes that go on inside it every day. Nutrition is certainly a significant factor in your health. So some of your lifestyle choices outside of the doctor’s office can influence the effectiveness of treatment. When you eat well, your immune system fights off illness better, you elevate your brain function, you lose weight and your energy soars. By incorporating certain foods into your diet, you can contribute to faster healing and continued wellness.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Chiropractic and Your Diet: Muscle Spasm and Cramps.

 

What is a Muscle Cramp?

A muscle cramp is an uncontrollable and painful spasm of a muscle. Any muscle can be affected, but the muscles of the thigh, calf and foot are particularly prone.  This involuntary contraction (“charley horse”) of a muscle occurs suddenly and then does not relax.  You will have sudden, tight, and intense pain caused by a muscle locked in spasm. 

Additionally, there’s fasciculation, or muscle twitches, which are usually not painful the way a sudden cramp may be. And cramps and fasciculation are the result of muscles contracting involuntarily.

Many truly pathologic (caused by disease) causes exist, such as hypoparathyroidism, vascular insufficiency (circulation problems), and various kinds of trauma for muscle cramping.  Nevertheless, many incidents of muscle cramping have no known obvious cause. 

 

Muscle Cramps, positioning, and stretching

Perhaps there is a position you are in when the cramping occurs?  For instance, you may be doing repetitive plantar-flexion of your (extension of the ankle so that the foot points down and away from the leg) foot while sleeping or exercising which may “shorten” your muscle.  Then when there is further voluntary or involuntary contraction of the already shortened muscle, cramping occurs.   Ladies who wear high heeled shoes regularly may have this problem.

Of course, stretching of the muscle helps in both preventing and resolving the cramp.

 

Water and Electrolytes

Firstly, if you have muscle cramps during strenuous exercising you may be dehydrated. Simply increase your water intake.

Secondly, mineral imbalances or deficiencies may cause muscle cramping.  A decrease in potassium, perhaps due to a diet high in salt and low in fresh fruits and vegetables may negatively affect local circulation.  Furthermore, this hastens fatigue and increase irritability of muscle tissue.

 

Nutrition for muscle cramps

Increasing magnesium and calcium intake helps.  Moreover, if you are pregnant, this may help reduce leg cramping.

Cramping can be due to vascular disorders such as atherosclerosis (thickening or hardening of the arteries), intermittent claudication (narrowing or blockage in the main artery taking blood to your leg) or thrombophlebitis (a blood clot (thrombus) inside an inflamed vein).  Large doses of vitamin E may help.

 

Chiropractic Adjustments/Joint manipulation for muscle spasm, cramping and pain

Muscle spasms can be a response, which occurs as the body takes steps to protect itself after an injury.  Other neuromusculoskeletal causes could be arthritis and fibromyalgia

Adjustments allow your spine and extremity (limb) joints to restore normal motion, which in turn leads to reduced pain and a decrease in muscle spasms.

Without treatment, chronic muscle spasms can result in permanent damage, so treatment is important. At Meiri Chiropractic, soft tissue techniques is utilized along with adjustments to the spine and extremities.  Lastly, regular stretching and strengthening exercises are prescribed to prevent future muscle spasms.

Regular chiropractic care will stop muscle spasms and cramping.  And on-going adjustments may help patients remain pain free. 

 

Chiropractic and Your Diet: Muscle Spasm and Cramps

According to the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners’ (Nabco’s) Practice Analysis of Chiropractic 2015 “Chiropractic is based on the premise that the body is able to achieve and maintain health through its own natural recuperative powers, provided it has a properly functioning nervous system and receives the necessary health maintenance components. These components include adequate nutrition, water, rest exercise and clean air”.

Your chiropractor in West Palm Beach will adjust your spine and extremities  to stop the muscle pain, spasm and cramping.  Call Dr. Natalie Meiri, your chiropractor in West Palm Beach at 561-253-8984 to find out more about Chiropractic and Your Diet: Muscle Spasm and Cramps or to schedule an appointment.

 

References: Handbook of Preventative and Therapeutic Nutrition by James Gerber, 1993

 

 

 

A Chiropractor in West Palm Beach can help you with many ailments by way of adjustments. However, the food you consume on a daily basis has a very large impact on your body and the thousands of underlying processes that go on inside it every day. Nutrition is certainly a significant factor in your health. So some of your lifestyle choices outside of the doctor’s office can influence the effectiveness of treatment. When you eat well, your immune system fights off illness better, you elevate your brain function, you lose weight and your energy soars. By incorporating certain foods into your diet, you can contribute to faster healing and continued wellness.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at diet and nutritional changes, chiropractic care and  improving your hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol).

 

What is Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol)?

Ovewr 25% of adults in the USA have serum cholesterol levels over 200mg/dL  High levels of a certain type of cholesterol is linked to heart disease and stroke.  Cholesterol is a waxy substance made by your liver. It is used for important functions, such as making hormones, nervous system function and digesting fatty foods. However, too much cholesterol can cause plaques in blood vessels. Plaques can cause inflammation, rupture and cause clots, leading to a heart attack.

 

Some Facts about cholesterol

Ideal serum cholesterol values are below 200 mg/dl.  Values above 240 mg/dl require further analysis by your primary care doctor.  Coronary risk factors are: male gender, cigarette smoking, hypertension, severe obesity, diabetes, family history of premature (before age 55) coronary heart disease, diagnosed cardiovascular or peripheral vascular disease, low high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (below 35 mg/dl).

 

What can you do?

When dining out, avoid meat and cheese dishes, sauces, fried foods, and rich desserts.  Furthermore, look for entrees with the specifications that it is inline with the American Heart Association guidelines.  Seafood, salad entrees, and some ethnic cuisines (e.g. asian, middle eastern) are recommended.

 

Dietary Fiber

Soluble fiber lowers cholesterol by binding it to the small intestine. Once inside the small intestine, the fiber attaches to the cholesterol particles, preventing them from entering your bloodstream. So instead, cholesterol will exit the body through the feces.

Eat foods with high soluble fiber.  For instance, oats, oatmeal, oat bran, whole fruits (apples) and legumes (beans, peas). Additionally, supplemental phyllium husk (10g/dl), pectin (6 to 50 g/d) or guar gum (5 to 30 g/d) may be added to meals.

 

Nutrient Deficiencies

Hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol) can cause nutrient deficiencies.  These include vitamin C, chromium or copper (especially if you are taking zinc).

 

Supplements

Taking fish oils may help if your triglycerides are elevated. Oils high in docosahexaenioic acid (DHA) and low in Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) may be best for reducing LDL and keeping HDL levels high.  Calcium  2 g/d with meals may help bind your fats in the gastrointestinal tract.  Also, garlic, 9 g/d fresh ( e.g. 3 cloves), 600 mg/d powder or 18 to 25 mg/d oil is helpful.

 

Lifestyle changes

Triglycerides are fats from the food we eat. Most of the fats we eat (e.g. butter) are in triglyceride form.  So extra calories, alcohol and sugar in your body turn into triglycerides. Your body stores them in fat cells throughout your body.

High triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia) can put you at a higher risk of heart and vascular (blood vessel) disease. 

Weight management, restriction of alcohol (zero if hypertriglyceridemia), aerobic physical activity, simple sugar restriction, and eating fish several times a week are recommended.

 

High density Lipoprotein Deficiency

Cholesterol alone can’t mix with or dissolve in your blood. Instead, your liver packages cholesterol with triglycerides and proteins called lipoproteins. The lipoproteins move this fatty mixture to areas throughout your body. Moreover, the types of  lipoproteins include: low density lipoproteins (LDL) and high density lipoproteins (HDL). 

For adults, a normal triglyceride level is below 150 mg/dL. Your total cholesterol looks at a combination of triglycerides, HDL and LDL numbers. If your triglycerides and LDL cholesterol are high, but your HDL is low, you have an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. 

 

What to do if you have low levels of High density lipoproteins (HDL)

You have low HDL if your HDL is below 35 mg/dl.  You can do the following to correct this:  Stop smoking, cut back on coffee, do moderate physical exercise, loose weight if necessary, use moderation with drinking alcohol, avoid sugar, garlic oil (18mg/d from three cloves) may help.

Olive oil reduces LDL and heart disease risk.  Soybeans reduce LDL and triglycerides. 

 

With all the above suggestions, please first check with your doctor who is managing your high cholesterol. 

 

 

Chiropractic and Your Diet: High Cholesterol and Lipid Problems

According to the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners’ (Nabco’s) Practice Analysis of Chiropractic 2015 “Chiropractic is based on the premise that the body is able to achieve and maintain health through its own natural recuperative powers, provided it has a properly functioning nervous system and receives the necessary health maintenance components. These components include adequate nutrition, water, rest exercise and clean air”.

Your chiropractor in West Palm Beach will adjust your spine to improve the relationship between the spine and nervous system, which affects the function of all the organs and systems in your body. She will educate you on how to prevent future suffering by learning and implementing a lifestyle for health self enhancement.  In this regard, we may give take home exercises, recommend ergonomic changes and nutritional changes.  Call Dr. Natalie Meiri, your chiropractor in West Palm Beach at 561-253-8984 to find out more about Chiropractic and Your Diet: High Cholesterol and Lipid Problems  or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

A Chiropractor in West Palm Beach can help you with many ailments by way of adjustments. However, the food you consume on a daily basis has a very large impact on your body and the thousands of underlying processes that go on inside it every day. Nutrition is certainly a significant factor in your health. So some of your lifestyle choices outside of the doctor’s office can influence the effectiveness of treatment. When you eat well, your immune system fights off illness better, you elevate your brain function, you lose weight and your energy soars. By incorporating certain foods into your diet, you can contribute to faster healing and continued wellness. 

Meiri Chiropractic offers chiropractic care as well as tips for healthy living, including a diet plan. We can help you make good eating choices. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how diet changes and chiropractic care can help improve your hypertension (high blood pressure).

What is Hypertension (high blood pressure)?

Hypertension is a systolic (pressure when your heart pushes blood out) blood pressure greater than 130 mmHg and/or a diastolic (pressure when your heart rests between beats) blood pressure greater than 80 mmHg. High blood pressure develops when blood flows through your arteries at higher-than-normal pressures. According to the Centers of Disease Control, nearly half of adults have hypertension (48.1%, 119.9 million).  Unfortunately, about 1 in 4 adults with hypertension don’t have their hypertension under control (22.5%, 27.0 million).  Moreover, some don’t even know they have it!

The above figures pertain to the 90 percent of all hypertension cases labeled as “primary,” or “idiopathic”(unknown cause).  In other words, hypertension is not secondary to the disease but is the disease. So these don’t have a cause, such as hypercalcemia, hyperaldosteronism (due to adrenal disease), renovascular (due to kidney problems) disease, drug iatrogenesis (effects of conventional drug), hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. 

What happens if Hypertension isn’t managed?

Chronic hypertension accelerates the development of atherosclerosis (thickening/hardening of arteries) and is thus a major risk factor for stroke and myocardial infarction (heart attack). Additionally, the physiologic consequences of continued high blood pressure contribute to the development of congestive heart failure, hypertensive retinopathy (eye disease), and hypertensive kidney disease. Furthermore, hypertension combined with  diabetes, smoking or dyslipidemia (imbalance of lipids), increase your risk for cardiovascular disease tremendously. 

 

Nutritional/Natural Therapies for Hypertension

 

Weight Loss 

Weight reduction is usually helpful.  Indeed, there is an average rise of 6.5 mmHG systolic blood pressure for every 10% increase in body weight over ideal weight.  This is especially true if weight gain is due to body fat and not muscle. To be effective, weight loss usually requires a combination of lowered caloric intake in addition to more calories utilized.  Indeed, a moderate exercise program is important.

 

Alcohol Restriction

Alcohol restriction reduces blood pressure and risk of stroke in heavy drinkers. Similarly, for “casual” or responsible drinkers it should limit to no more than 2 drinks per day

 

Sodium Restriction

Decreasing sodium intake may help 20% to 50% of hypertensives. Low-renin hypertension (low levels of an enzyme called renin) accounts for an important subset of the hypertensive population. Blood pressure regulation is the main function of the enzyme renin. Additionally, this is associated with salt-sensitivity, diuretic response and is common in black patients. Therefore,  low/no salt diets are useful in hypertensive patients with normal or low renin levels.

Mild Sodium Restriction (2500 to 4500 mg/day) is for drug-controlled mild hypertension only.  This may enhance herbal diuretic therapy for hypertension. It entails no salty foods, table salt or salty seasonings.  So minimal salt is allowed in cooking.

Obviously, moderate sodium restriction (1500 to 2500 mg/day) produces better results than mild.  No salt at all may be used in cooking or eating.  And most processed foods must be avoided.

 

Modification of Dietary Fat Intake

Lower total fat and saturated fat may reduce viscosity (thickness) of  blood.  Saturated fats are found in animal-based foods like beef, pork, poultry, full-fat dairy products and eggs. Increasing polyunsaturated fats (vegetable oils, fish oils, etc) may affect vascular and renal prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are compounds in the body made of fats that have hormone-like effects.

The Pritikin diet with exercise may reduce blood pressure by 21/11 mmHg in nonmedicated patients and by 7/5mmHG in medicated patients.  Fatty fish and fish oils in large amounts may reduce blood pressure up to 15/7 mm Hg.

 

Drug/Nutrient Interactions

Diuretics (water pills) are a class of medications that remove water and electrolytes from the body by increasing urination. They’re often used to treat hypertension. Some diuretics for high blood pressure cause sodium excretion.  Also, they cause potassium, magnesium and sometimes calcium loss.  Others may even cause potassium conservation so requires limitation of dietary potassium. 

 

Potassium Therapy

Higher potassium intake may vasodilate or assist sodium and water excretion.  Intake of 5000 to 7000 mg/day (vs 2000 to 4000 mg/d RDA) produces 3% to 10% drop in blood pressure. There are contraindications if you are taking potassium diuretics or have kidney disease.

 

Calcium Therapy

Higher calcium intake may help relax vascular smooth muscle and increase sodium excretion.  Calcium, 1000 to 2000mg/day for at least 2 months may reduce diastolic pressure by 4-9mmHG and systolic pressure by 6 to 13 mmHG.

 

Magnesium Therapy

Magnesium deficiency can contribute to hypertension. Interestingly, many diuretics deplete magnesium as well as potassium.  Magnesium, 360 mg/d for 6 months reduces blood pressure 12/8 mm Hg in depleted patients.

 

Exercise Therapy

Exercise has an effect on blood pressure as well as contribute to weight loss and stress reduction. Try three to five sets of 10-minute exercise bouts with 3 minutes of rest in between. This reduces blood pressure 25% for 4-10 hours.  Regular aerobic exercise and moderate circuit weight training for 10 weeks reduces blood pressure 14/15 mm Hg.

 

Stress Reduction

Identify and minimize sources of stress and explore relaxation therapies.  Stress reduction and meditation have been shown to be effective for hypertension.

 

Heavy Metal Detoxification

Cadmium and lead accumulation may contribute to hypertension. Vitamin C and nutrient minerals may help lower your  body burden of these toxic metals.

 

Research on Chiropractic Spinal Adjustments and Hypertension

Firstly, research on chiropractic spinal manipulation in the treatment of chronic hypertension  was published in the May 2007 issue of the Journal of Human Hypertension by Bakris and colleagues. In this research, 50 hypertensive patients, blood pressure reductions were -17/-10 mm Hg in the treatment group receiving upper cervical (neck) chiropractic spinal manipulation versus -3/-2 mm Hg in the placebo group.

Secondly, hypertension is a multifactorial condition that is among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Regulation of your  blood pressure greatly depends upon the activity of the autonomic nervous system. So changes in the autonomic nervous system can lead to hypertension. In addition to nervous system control and individual physiologic state, even various genes can directly influence autonomic responses. The complexity of blood pressure shows the need for alternative interventions such as chiropractic.

Thirdly, chiropractic focuses on the more natural forms of healing, and looks for ways to encourage the body to heal itself. Your chiropractor may recommend lifestyle changes that can help lower high blood pressure including, regular exercise, weight loss, healthy eating, and not smoking along with your adjustments.

 

Chiropractic and Your Diet: High Blood Pressure

According to the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners’ (Nabco’s) Practice Analysis of Chiropractic 2015 “Chiropractic is based on the premise that the body is able to achieve and maintain health through its own natural recuperative powers, provided it has a properly functioning nervous system and receives the necessary health maintenance components. These components include adequate nutrition, water, rest exercise and clean air”.

Your chiropractor in West Palm Beach will adjust your spine to improve the relationship between the spine and nervous system, which affects the function of all the organs and systems in your body. She will educate you on how to prevent future suffering by learning and implementing a lifestyle for health self enhancement.  In this regard, we may give take home exercises, recommend ergonomic changes and nutritional changes.  Call Dr. Natalie Meiri, your chiropractor in West Palm Beach at 561-253-8984 to find out more about Chiropractic and Your Diet: High Blood Pressure or to schedule an appointment.

 

References: Handbook of Preventative and Therapeutic Nutrition by James M. Gerber,M.S., D.C.

 

*With all the above suggestions, please first check with your doctor who is managing your hypertension.

 

 

 

 

A Chiropractor in West Palm Beach can help you with many ailments by way of adjustments. However, the food you consume on a daily basis has a very large impact on your body and the thousands of underlying processes that go on inside it every day. Nutrition is certainly a significant factor in your health. So some of your lifestyle choices outside of the doctor’s office can influence the effectiveness of treatment. When you eat well, your immune system fights off illness better, you elevate your brain function, you lose weight and your energy soars. By incorporating certain foods into your diet, you can contribute to faster healing and continued wellness. 

While taking a multi-vitamin/ multi-mineral supplement, fish oil supplement, probiotics and supplemental calcium (for women) is a good idea, your daily vitamins, minerals, and micro-nutrients should be mostly obtained by eating a nutritious diet.  Moreover, include as much fresh food as possible. And avoid processed or fast food as much as possible.  You may prevent cancer and help your body fight toxins by doing all of this. 

Your diet for general wellness and reducing inflammation in your body could start by following the modified basic four food guide.  Meiri Chiropractic offers chiropractic care as well as tips for healthy living, including a diet plan. We can help you make good eating choices so that you stay fit.

 

What is the Modified Basic Four Food Guide?

Firstly, food group guides have been used to help classify foods eaten into groups.  These groups represent elements of a balanced adequate diet.  However, the following doesn’t apply to pregnant or lactating women.

Secondly, serving size may be adjusted to match your calorie needs (e.g. athletes).  U.S. Adult Intake for calories are the following:

men: 1200 to 5000 kcal/day range, 2500 average

women: 700 to 3000 kcal/day range, 1500 average

Thirdly, when establishing your regular diet consider the basic food groups. Moreover, you may find it easier to eat a well-rounded diet by noting this reference.  Each group can provide you with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that your body requires to stay healthy.

Summary of Modified Basic Four Food Guide

 

Dairy Products- 2-3 servings per day

Dairy products are excellent sources of protein, vitamin B12, calcium and zinc.  You should seek low fat sources. Additionally, yogurt and kefir contain beneficial probiotics, which help keep your digestive system healthy. If you are lactose intolerant or just don’t tolerate dairy you should of course avoid it.

Animal Proteins, 2 servings per day

Animal proteins are excellent sources of protein, vitamin B6, B12, iron, zinc, chromium, and selenium. You should seek low-fat sources. Lean meats include all beef, poultry, and fish.  Eggs are also in this group. And if you are vegetarian, you can get protein from plants (increase plant protein servings).  

Plant Proteins, 2 servings per day

Plant proteins (legumes, nuts, seeds) are excellent sources of vitamin B6, folic acid, magnesium, iron, copper manganese, chromium, and dietary fiber.  Also, tofu (calcium sulfate set) is a great source of calcium.  A half-cup of firm tofu delivers 860 milligrams of calcium, or 66% of the recommended daily intake.

Whole Grain Products, 4 or more servings per day

Whole grain products (not white flour, white rice, etc.) are excellent sources of vitamin B6, manganese, chromium, selenium and dietary fiber. And refined grain products are missing the above nutrients.  Therefore, a  majority of grain foods you eat should be whole grain, cutting out processed and packaged products as much as possible. Grains make up a wide range of foods such as wheat and corn.  Lastly, if you are gluten sensitive try oats, rice, and quinoa. And you can eat grains whole or ground into flour to make bread, pasta, noodles, and cereals. 

 

Total Fruits and Vegetables, 4 or more servings per day.

The following special subcategories apply:

 

Dark Green Vegetables,  1 or more servings per day

Includes broccoli, brussels sprouts, dark lettuces and cabbages, spinach, dark leafy greens (collards, turnip greens, etc). These are excellent sources of vitamins A, E, and C, calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, chromium and dietary fiber.

Vitamin C Foods, 1 or more servings per day

Includes citrus fruits, tomatoes, peppers, melons, strawberries, dark green leafy vegetables.  These are excellent sources of vitamin E, folic acid and dietary fiber.

Polyunsaturated Oils, 1 Serving per day

Includes most non-tropical plant and fish oils.  This is an excellent source of vitamin E and essential fatty acids.  You should avoid rancid oils that have been heated or stored too long (beyond shelf life).

 

 

Chiropractic and Your Diet: Modified Basic Four Food Guide

According to the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners’ (Nabco’s) Practice Analysis of Chiropractic 2015 “Chiropractic is based on the premise that the body is able to achieve and maintain health through its own natural recuperative powers, provided it has a properly functioning nervous system and receives the necessary health maintenance components. These components include adequate nutrition, water, rest exercise and clean air”.

Your chiropractor in West Palm Beach will adjust your spine to improve the relationship between the spine and nervous system, which affects the function of all the organs and systems in your body. She will educate you on how to prevent future suffering by learning and implementing a lifestyle for health self enhancement.  In this regard, we may give take home exercises, recommend ergonomic changes and nutritional changes.  Call Dr. Natalie Meiri, your chiropractor in West Palm Beach at 561-253-8984 to find out more about Chiropractic and Your Diet: Modified Basic Four Food Guide or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

 

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

Soft Tissue Manipulation (STM) techniques are defined as those physical methods applied to muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and other connective tissues with the goal of therapeutically affecting the body. This post is about Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) which is a form of soft tissue manipulation technique.

What is Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)?

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a specialized manual therapy technique that involves the use of handheld instruments to diagnose and treat soft tissue dysfunctions. For instance it helps chronic postural related problems, neck/back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder pain, sciatica, foot pain/ plantar fasciitis, hip/knee problems, tennis elbow, hand pain and many other soft tissue injuries.  It is a non-invasive procedure that aims to improve musculoskeletal function, mobilize adhesions/scar tissue, reduce pain, and enhance the body’s natural healing processes.

IASTM may have come from gua sha, an ancient Chinese medicine therapy. This therapy used common items, such as spoons, coins, or pieces of bamboo to scrape across the affected soft tissue. Additionally, this was meant to create sha (chi energy and/or petechiae), which helped overcome blood stagnation by improving circulation.

IASTM- Benefits and Goals

 

1. Stimulates tissue healing and regeneration– By increasing blood flow IASTM promotes the body’s natural healing processes. IASTM brings oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to the tissues, accelerating the healing process and reducing inflammation.
2. Improves tissue extensibility and flexibility– By breaking up collagen cross-links, scar tissue, and decreasing adhesions IASTM restores proper tissue extensibility and flexibility. Furthermore, this improves range of motion and enhances joint function.  Ultimately, it alleviates pain associated with restricted movement.
3. Modulates pain perception– By stimulating sensory nerve receptors in the skin and underlying tissues it helps modulate pain signals. So IASTM provides pain relief and provides a sense of relaxation.
4. Breaking down scar tissue and adhesions– Chronic overuse, injury and surgery can cause Scar tissue and adhesions. Next these can restrict mobility, reduce circulation and cause pain. Similarly, IASTM breaks down and remodels scar tissue. Finally, improved tissue mobility and function occur.

What to Expect?

Firstly, contemporary IASTM utilizes ergonomically designed stainless steel instruments that have various curves.  These instruments have smooth edges and come in different shapes and sizes to accommodate different areas of the body.

Secondly, the intention is to find areas of scar tissue and break them up. 

Thirdly, gentle pressure to the affected area is applied while gliding the instrument over the skin. The unique design of the instrument allows for precise targeting of specific tissues, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia. The outcome is a smoother muscle contraction, decreased tension, pain relief and healing.

 

Soft Tissue Manipulation Procedures and Chiropractic Adjustments at Meiri Chiropractic in West Palm Beach, Florida

Probably the most well known soft tissue technique is massage (methodical, friction and kneading of the body upon bare skin). Subsequently, some chiropractors do not use manual therapy (non thrust techniques) and refer their patients for massage (i.e. Swedish, deep tissue) because of their exclusiveness  to adjustments (thrust techniques). And in the chiropractic practice, one of the functions of massage is to relax your muscles.  This prepares the irritated region for adjustments. However, they are NOT the same procedure. It fact, massage and manual therapy are a different code in insurance billing ( e.g. medicare). 

What’s the Restrictive Barrier Difference?

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

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

Third, indeed, at Meiri chiropractic, we are specialists rendering our own services (adjustments along with manual therapy) after examining and diagnosing you. And Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Along with Chiropractic Adjustments are utilized at Meiri Chiropractic!

 

Call your West Palm Beach Chiropractor at 561-253-8984 to find out more about Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Along with Chiropractic Adjustments or to make an appointment.

 

 

 

 

From Dr. Natalie Meiri’s Clinical Pearl Stories: Chiropractic Helps You Overcome Addiction

 

Author: Natalie Meiri, D.C.           Posted: 8/9/23

 

This was a 25 year old male patient with a chief complaint of acute right sided cervical (neck)/thoracolumbar (mid/lowback) spine and right shoulder pain. To be HIPAA compliant, I will call him Kenny instead of his real name. Currently, Kenny was in an alcohol and drug rehab facility. He stated there had been a “chiropractor at the facility yesterday who gave him a 15 second crack which did nothing for him”.

 

Kenny had a history of multiple car accidents and falls over the years. He even had an injury last year where he had to have stitches to his right shoulder when he fell off a roof.  Kenny had been to a chiropractor in the past who combined the adjustment with soft tissue techniques and physiotherapy which gave him some relief.  Furthermore, being a recovering alcoholic, he couldn’t take any drugs for the pain. This was why he presented to my office.

 

Kenny’s Examination and Imaging

Upon examination he had painful spasmed muscles and tenderness all around the right shoulder, thoracolumbar (mid/lowback) spine, and cervical (neck) spine. Also, Kenny’s range of motion was limited. He wasn’t able to raise his arm past his head and could not bend forward at the waist due to pain.

His sensory examination showed a pattern of numbness and pain down his arms and legs in multiple dermatomes (areas of skin on your body that rely on specific nerve connections in your spine). Kenny had positive tests to indicate he had sprained and strained his neck, back and right shoulder.  Then he remembered during the exam he had recently been in yet another car accident. Additionally, he had chronic neuropathy in his neck and back.

His cervical (neck) x-rays showed loss of cervical lordosis (straightening) consistent with cervical myospasm for a sprain.  His thoracic x-ray showed a curvature with a  right convexity (abnormal curve) consistent with thoracic myospasm. If he wasn’t responding to care in a month, I would order a M.R. I. (magnetic resonance image).

 

Substance abuse, addiction and Chiropractic

Firstly, substance abuse and addiction are universally recognized as diseases that disrupt and damage neurotransmitters in the brain, causing a disturbance to production levels of chemicals.  Misalignments (chiropractic subluxation/fixation) in the spine interfere with normal functioning of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. Chiropractic adjustments correct and normalize functioning in the nervous system.  Moreover, chiropractic care eases stress, and anxiety. Ultimately, chiropractic affects an addict’s thoughts and emotions to improve positively.  Without improvement, the feelings of anxiety, depression, and mood swings results in an uncontrollable compulsion to consume the substance of addiction.

 

Secondly, Chiropractic can help addicts work through pain holistically and learn healthy alternatives for pain management.  Indeed, pain is especially common in those suffering from prescription drug addiction, and often leads people to abuse medications in an attempt to control discomfort.  In fact, for many individuals suffering from addiction, physical pain is one of the primary causes of substance abuse. Developing a rehabilitation plan that treats the physical and mental dependence on drugs or alcohol is important.

 

Thirdly, many addicts report that, in an attempt to manage pain, they began misusing prescription pain medication.  A tolerance often builds in people who suffer from long-term pain. Therefore, they start taking more of the medication to manage discomfort. So identifying and relieving pain without the use of prescription medications is key.  Alternative therapy programs have shown to support and enhance the outcome of treatment for substance abuse and chemical dependence. In conclusion,  detox, counseling, and physical rehabilitation (chiropractic care) are all necessary elements of addiction recovery programs. 

 

Kenny’s Treatment at Meiri Chiropractic

It is common to have pain and neuropathy in your shoulder and spine after a car accident. 

Chiropractic manipulative treatment techniques rendered to Kenny’s right shoulder and spine treated the sprain/strain.

Our other therapies, such as soft tissue techniques, therapeutic exercise, electric muscle stimulation, ice/ heat therapies and homeopathic consultations provided additional relief. It took a few months of care, but Kenny was pain free and got his range of motion back.  Kenny is continuing his chiropractic care in his hometown following his discharge/graduation from the addiction facility.

 

 Chiropractic Helps You Overcome Addiction

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.  We have 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 Chiropractic Helps You Overcome Addiction.

 

 

Chiropractic physicians are “primary contact providers” which means you can go directly to your chiropractor for an examination, diagnosis and treatment. In Florida, there is a large scope of practice besides from spinal and extremity (limb) adjustments (chiropractic joint manipulation): various manual therapies, physiologic therapeutics, exercise, nutritional/dietary counseling, and natural medicine (e.g. homeopathy).  Although there is a great difference in each chiropractor’s practice, nearly all utilize manual therapy with an emphasis on adjusting techniques.

 

What is Manual Therapy?

Manual therapy includes all procedures that use the hands to mobilize, adjust, manipulate, create traction, or massage the somatic (joint or soft tissue) or visceral structures of the body.

The aim is to get joint motion through either nonthrust techniques (mobilization) or thrust techniques (chiropractic adjustment/ thrust manipulation). Furthermore, these procedures improve range of motion as well as the quality of motion.  So by normalizing function, the pain goes away. Indeed, manual therapy is a treatment for Neuromusculoskeletal disorders with joint pain and dysfunction. 

 

 

The Chiropractic ADJUSTMENT

 

Central to the practice of chiropractic, it is the chiropractor’s specialty. Moreover, adjusting procedures are a key distinguishing feature of chiropractic practice. Chiropractors commonly use such procedures to influence joint and neurophysiologic function.

However, most chiropractors do not limit their practices to solely adjustments. Many conditions require additional therapy (e.g. electric muscle stimulation, soft tissue techniques, therapeutic exercise, ice/heat therapy, lifestyle/nutritional/ergonomic counseling, homeopathy).

 

Chiropractic Technique

 

More than 100 different named chiropractic technique systems have been developed within the chiropractic profession. These systems are a wide variety of diverse procedures: thrust and nonthrust joint manipulation/adjustment, soft tissue manipulation, manual or motorized traction, etc. And they all involve force, leverage, direction, amplitude, and velocity.

Many chiropractors do not equate an adjustment with a thrust. In fact, some chiropractic technique systems do not incorporate thrust procedures at all.  However, it is the thrust attribute that is a central distinguishing feature of the chiropractic adjustment. What’s more, the amplitude and velocity of the adjustive thrust vary depending on the patient’s need and condition (e.g high velocity–low amplitude (HVLA) force of controlled velocity, depth, and direction).

Certainly, the adjustment is a specific form of direct articular manipulation, using either long-or short-leverage techniques with specific contacts characterized by a dynamic thrust of controlled velocity, amplitude, and direction.

 

Some Techniques

 

Flexion Distraction (COX) Technique/Motorized Lumbar Distraction/ Manual or Motorized Cervical Traction

 

First, Flexion-distraction is a mechanically assisted form of joint mobilization or distraction. It has been advanced in chiropractic by the work of chiropractor James Cox.

Second, Motorized Lumbar (low back) Distraction can be used to assist in the production of lumbar traction. Traction to the lumbar spine is applied in the prone (face down) position while the pelvic section of the table produces continuous passive motion in the long axis of the spine.

Third, Manual Cervical (neck) traction can be applied manually or with mechanical assistance. Manual cervical traction is generally accomplished with the patient in the supine (face up) position.

Fourth, Traction and Distraction techniques restore normal physiological range of motion to the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid back) and lumbar (low back) spinal joints. The manipulation is a gentle, non-force adjusting procedure that works with the body’s natural design to aid in healing.

Finally, these techniques transfer metabolites into the spinal disc, decrease intradiscal pressure and decompress inflamed or compressed spinal nerve roots.

 

Diversified Chiropractic Technique

This is one of the most commonly used techniques in chiropractic. It involves application of “a short (low-amplitude), quick (high-velocity) thrust over restricted joints (one at a time). Of course the goal is to restore normal range of motion in the spine and extremity joints.

Musculoskeletal disorders, Migraine headaches, Pregnancy-related issues, ​inward curvature of the neck are all conditions which respond to this technique. 

 

Thompson Technique

Thompson Technique uses an adjusting table with a pneumatically driven, segmented drop system.  Next using minimal force, the doctor thrusts at high speed, allowing the fast drop to carry the joint through its range of motion. It is a gentle and effective technique.

 

Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT)

It was developed by Bertrand DeJarnette, DC. SOT believes adjusting one segment of the spine can cause change in another.

Dr. DeJarnette theorized that structural changes of the cranial bones could affect the movement of cerebrospinal fluid. Thus, SOT addresses the positioning of the cranial bones using a method called craniopathy.

SOT addresses pelvic subluxations by blocking. This involves blocks placed beneath the pelvis with the patient lying face-up. Above all, SOT integrates with other chiropractic systems, allowing for use of a variety of techniques within the SOT system.

 

Instrument Adjusting

A small handheld spring-loaded adjusting instrument is used.  It delivers a controlled and reproducible impulse to the spine and extremities.  This is an alternative to manual manipulation of the spine or extremity joints. Surely, Instrument Adjusting has grown to become one of the most commonly used in today’s practice (National Board of Chiropractic Examiners Survey, 2000). Similarly, this technique offers the flexibility to perform a chiropractic adjustment on a variety of patients, regardless of age or condition.

 

 

Chiropractic in West Palm Beach: Various Adjustments and Techniques

 

Dr. Natalie Meiri is a graduate of New York Chiropractic College (NYCC).  And all the techniques above are part of the NYCC curriculum.   In addition to joint manipulation and adjustment to the spine and peripheral joints, at Meiri Chiropractic, we use soft tissue procedures, hot and cold modalities, stretching exercises, rehabilitation exercises, and homeopathic consultations.

At Meiri Chiropractic in West Palm Beach we spend the time necessary to examine, diagnose and treat every neuromusculoskeletal condition and various ailments you have. Through regular chiropractic visits, you can get pain relief and improve function. 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 in West Palm Beach to make an appointment or to find out more about Chiropractic in West Palm Beach: Various Adjustments and Techniques.

 

 

 

A common reason why you have joint fixation/ chiropractic subluxation and dysfunction is due to the soft tissue surrounding your joints.  Injury to this soft tissue can result in fibrosis and loss of elasticity and strength.  Acute (sudden and intense) and repetitive trauma to muscular, tendinous, fascia or ligamentous tissue results in fibrosis (thickening or scarring of the tissue). Read on to find out Why You Should Get Chiropractic Care After an Injury.

 

Inflammatory Response

Whatever injury you experience, an inflammatory response happens which accumulates extracellular exudates (pus) and blood. Exudate is fluid that leaks out of blood vessels into nearby tissues. This fluid is made of cells, proteins, and solid materials.  Platelets (clotting cells) then release thrombin (enzyme in blood plasma which causes the clotting of blood) converting fibrinogen into fibrin.  Then this organizes into collagenous scar tissue.  In conclusion, a variety of soft tissue and articular (joint) adhesions result.

The adhesions can be often excessive in the case of traumatic neuromusculoskeletal injuries.  Therefore, early chiropractic treatment will limit the extent of the inflammatory response leading to the articular adhesions. So the goal in this phase of treatment would be to reduce pain, muscle spasm and to promote early pain free repair. 

Connective Tissue Repair

Firstly, the exudates that form from injury and inflammation set the stage for the next step in the process of connective tissue repair. Exudates provide the basis for the development of granulation tissue (new healing tissue) and scar formation.  Secondly, the formation of granulation tissue is predominantly carried out by the proliferation of fibroblasts (connective tissue producing cells).  And collagen tissue is produced and placed in the repair area. Thirdly, at first, the collagen is not well placed and additional collagen cross linkages along lines of stress are deposited to improve strength in the area.  Fourthly, the repair and remodeling process may take months.  However, without treatment, it may result in less than optimal healing of the involved tissue.  This will mean less range of motion and strength in the injured area.

 

Myofascial Cycle

Painful conditions triggering persistent muscle hypotoncity (decreased muscle tone) are additional sources of restricted joint motion.  Muscle spasm/contraction  may be a source of pain and muscle hypotoncity.  Moreover, the joint’s surrounding muscles may splint and block (passive) joint movement.  The muscle splinting may be a protective reaction to the injured area. Continued persistent contractions after awhile may develop into muscle contractures.  And this is due to adaptational shortening and loss of elasticity from disuse.

Furthermore, muscle strain may lead to pain which leads to muscle splinting and vasoconstriction.  And this leads to retained metabolites and edema (inflammation). Vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) ischemia (inadequate blood supply) leads to joint dysfunction and myofascial syndromes.  Additionally, sustained contraction of muscles leads to fibrous reactions and finally soft tissue contractions, persistent join and somatic (body) dysfunction.

 

Muscle Strain

Muscle strain leads to pain, which leads to muscle splinting, which leads to retained metabolites and edema (inflammation). 

Ailments capable of producing acute muscle contraction or muscle strain are:  physical trauma, structural inadequacies, visceral (organ) disease, emotional distress/tension, uncoordinated movements, exposure to cold, Repetitive use, chronic postural stress, exposure to cold.

 

Immobilization

Inappropriate immobilization (preventing movement) slows the process of recovery.  It leads to a loss of strength, flexibility and potential intra-articular (joint) adhesions.  Immobilization also leads to dehydration of the joint causing further problems. Chiropractic adjustments will increase flexibility and restore motion after an injury. Then your pain and inflammation will go away. Indeed, immediate and appropriate chiropractic care provides the best chance for optimal healing and an early return to your sport or life activities. 

 

Why You Should Get Chiropractic Care After an Injury: Chiropractic Restores Motion

Spinal and extremity (limbs) adjustments along with recommendations from your chiropractor regarding stretching and strengthening exercises, nutrition, and lifestyle changes can successfully treat a number of common, chronic and acute injuries. Besides from becoming a peak performance athlete, regular chiropractic care will help with digestion, improve sleep, and increase energy. Regular chiropractic adjustments help avoid many of the disorders that take shape as illness.

Are you looking to get out of pain fast, perform better and reduce injuries? Dr. Natalie Meiri, a chiropractor in West Palm Beach can definitely help you! Call 561-253-8984 today to make an appointment or to find out more about Why You Should Get Chiropractic Care After an Injury .