How can work affect your back pain?

How Can Work Affect your Back Pain?

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people miss work, and it’s no secret that work often contributes to back pain. In recent years, several media outlets have warned the public about the pain and debilitation which results from sitting for too long. But standing for too long also imperils the back, as well as the legs and feet. Chiropractors often treat cashiers, hairdressers, nurses, security screeners, custodians, and other people who are on their feet all day, but preventive measures are necessary to stop the problem from recurring.

How Standing Affects the Back

Problems in the lower limbs will have consequences further up. When peoples’ feet are painfully swollen or their leg muscles are failing, their posture is likely to get worse. They often subconsciously tilt their pelvises in an attempt to use their back muscles to compensate for tight or overworked muscles in the pelvic region, legs, or core, putting their lower backs out of alignment and increasing wear on their facet joints. Wear to the back muscles also puts uneven pressure on the spinal discs, allowing them to become misshapen and inhibiting their function as shock absorbers.

Good Habits While Standing

Ideally, workers should be able to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. It’s good to switch about every half hour. While standing, it may be helpful to put one foot up on a bar. In either position, desk workers should position the top of their screens to be at eye-level and tilted slightly up. They also should also put the keyboard and mouse on the same level and stand about twenty inches away from the screen. Knees should be bent slightly and be positioned directly below the hips.

The Importance of Foot Care

To prevent lower back pain, the feet are especially important to care for. Blood pooling in the lower extremities can lead to vascular problems, which come with their own pain and can encourage bad posture. People with Chronic Venous Insufficiency should consider compression stockings. Many chiropractors now offer customized foot orthotics, which provide the feet with more support, and patients are generally discouraged from wearing flat shoes. Anti-fatigue floor mats have been shown to decrease foot and lower back pain. Patients are also advised to move their feet when turning to reach something, as opposed to twisting their torsos.

How Chiropractic Helps

Chiropractic care will likely include some sort of therapeutic exercise as well as pain relief. Squats are recommended for many patients as a way to strengthen core and leg muscles and to improve hip flexibility. Traction, either with a machine or suspension, can reverse the pressure in spinal discs. Adjustments will put joints back in place, removing pressure from the surrounding muscles and nerves. Therapeutic massages, electric muscle stimulation, and ultrasound therapy also help to reduce muscle inflammation and deliver more nutrient-rich blood to injured soft tissues.

Scott Chiropractic and Wellness

Matthew Scott, DC

5080 Virginia Pkwy Ste 550

McKinney, TX 75071

(972) 540-5445

www.scott-chiropractic.com

*****This is not intended to replace the services of a doctor. It does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Information in this newsletter/website is for informational purposes only & is not a substitute for professional advice. Please do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating any condition.

Pregnancy Aches and Pains

Pregnancy Aches and Pains: How Chiropractic Can Treat Them

Aches and pains during pregnancy are part of the experience. From the moment of conception, a woman’s body goes through a plethora of changes. During these discomforts of back pain, pelvic pain, and postural adjustments, chiropractic care is among the popular alternative medicine therapies for providing relaxation and relief.

Body aches are a common complaint throughout pregnancy. Whether the pain is affecting a specific area such as pelvic pressure, or the patient feels sciatic nerve pain in the lower back and legs, chiropractic care will help maintain spinal health and correct misaligned joints. Chiropractic is a non-invasive, safe, and beneficial way to support your body in the midst of this magical time.

Subluxations and Irritations during Pregnancy

Commonly known as joint dysfunctions, subluxations of the spine occur when two or more vertebrae become restricted and block the body’s ability to communicate with itself. Most pregnant women seek out chiropractic treatment for localized back pain, sciatica (radiating leg pain), as well as headaches, neck pain, or posture imbalances. When the body begins to gain weight in the abdomen, the muscles will work harder and a rotation of the pelvis will force the body to unnaturally adapt to additional stress that has been placed on the spine – resulting in negative joint function and poor nerve communication.

How Can Chiropractic Help?

Chiropractors are trained to locate and treat joint dysfunctions with spinal adjustments and hand manipulation. By applying a gentle, targeted movement to the body’s spinal column and extremities, the chiropractor will restore proper joint function and improve nerve communication throughout the body. Chiropractors who are trained to work with pregnant women may use adjustment tables and use techniques that avoid undesirable pressure on the abdomen. These adjustments are designed to re-establish balance and alignment to the pelvis and spine, leaving the patient pain-free and able to enjoy the remaining weeks of pregnancy.

Additional benefits of chiropractic care include:

·  Controlling symptoms of nausea

·  Reduction in time of labor and delivery

·  Potential prevention of cesarean delivery

Before seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy, it’s best to obtain your doctor’s approval first. Chiropractic care is not recommended if you’re experiencing vaginal bleeding, placenta abruption, ectopic pregnancy and/or moderate to severe toxemia.

Scott Chiropractic and Wellness

Matthew Scott, DC

5080 Virginia Pkwy Ste 550

McKinney, TX 75071

(972) 540-5445

www.scott-chiropractic.com

*****This is not intended to replace the services of a doctor. It does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Information in this newsletter/website is for informational purposes only & is not a substitute for professional advice. Please do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating any condition.

Is Your Diet Aging You?

We’ve all heard the saying, “you are what you eat.” No doubt, the foods we ingest have a big impact on what we see in the mirror — and we’re not just talking about a few extra pounds around the mid-section. I’m just going to give it to you straight. Plain and simple, your diet could be (prematurely) aging you. But, here’s the good news. A few changes to your eating habits now can help to keep your skin looking youthful, and your body healthy for many years to come. It all starts with making better choices.

Want to look like a million bucks? You have to eat better.

Experts say poor quality foods (like trans fats) cause inflammation. And aging is basically a chronic inflammatory state, says Dr. Timothy Harlan, an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Tulane University, in an interview with Web MD. You can absolutely look older because you are eating crap.

Too much sugar and processed carbohydrates like pasta, bread, and baked goods — you know, everything we love — can actually damage your skin’s collagen. (Collagen is what keeps your skin springy and resists wrinkles.) These foods can also affect your overall health. They have been linked to heart disease and diabetes. If you want nice skin (and good health), you’re just going to have to eat more fruits and veggies.

This means you will need to eat less of these…

• Anything deep-fried in oil can create (or add to) inflammation in your body. Trans-fats can raise your LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and lower your HDL (“good” cholesterol). This can increase your risk for heart disease. So stay away from the French fries and potato chips! They aren’t just bad for your skinny jeans…
• Sugary pastries and sweets (like donuts and cookies) are packed with sugar, which may cause wrinkles, and can even lead to acne. Who wants to deal with that?
• Fatty meats are high in saturated fats. Try to choose something leaner, like a tenderloin cut when you can. Look for ground beef that is at least 95% lean. Or better yet, choose ground chicken or turkey breast. You should also try to stay away from the processed meats like hot dogs, bacon, and pepperoni.
• Moderate drinking might be good for your heart (the jury is still out on this), but heavy drinking revs up the aging process. Moderate drinking is defined as one drink per day for women, and two drinks for men.

Instead, choose a heart-healthy, Mediterranean-style diet.

This means eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein. These foods help fight (rather than cause) inflammation and keep you looking young and fresh. Experts say we should eat whole foods, closest to their natural state. Greens like romaine lettuce, broccoli, spinach, and arugula are all great options. Tomatoes, watermelon, grapefruit, and asparagus are also good, not to mention delicious! Fish like salmon and tuna make the grade, as well as black beans, chickpeas and oatmeal.

“All foods in moderation are part of a healthy lifestyle. It is essential for your intake to be balanced. Too much or too little of anything is unhealthy and can result in decreased immune function,” says local Registered Dietician Pam Neumann, MPH, RD, LD. “Those gaps and lack of balance — combined with inadequate physical activity — can become problematic as we get older.”

Scott Chiropractic and Wellness

Matthew Scott, DC

5080 Virginia Pkwy Ste 550

McKinney, TX 75071

(972) 540-5445

www.scott-chiropractic.com

This is not intended to replace the services of a doctor. It does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Information in this newsletter/website is for informational purposes only & is not a substitute for professional advice. Please do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating any condition.

Sports Injuries: Spondylolisthesis

Sports Injuries: Spondylolisthesis

As long as sports are being played, there will always be a risk for injury. The injury that most often occurs in gymnasts, football players, and weight-lifters is a crack or stress fracture in one of the vertebrae, called spondylolysis. This fracture occurs because of overstretching (hyperextension) of the lumbar spine from overuse. When the vertebra fails to maintain its proper position in the spine – and the vertebra starts to shift or slip out of place – this condition is called spondylolisthesis.

Spondylolisthesis is a condition that affects the lower vertebrae. It develops when one of the lower vertebras to slip forward onto the bone directly beneath it. This condition can be painful and sports aside, the causes vary based on age, heredity, and lifestyle habits. Spondylolisthesis patients who have severe or “high-grade” slips may experience tingling, numbness, or weakness in one or both legs. These symptoms result from pressure on the spinal nerve root as it exits the spinal canal near the fracture.

Symptoms

It’s important to know that spondylolisthesis may not cause symptoms for years after disc slippage has occurred. However, symptoms may include:

• Persistent low back pain
• Stiffness in your back and legs
• Low back tenderness
• Thigh pain
• Tight hamstring and buttock muscles
• Difficulty standing and walking

Diagnosis

Like any condition, physical exams are the first step in diagnosing spondylolisthesis. If you have this condition, you are likely to have difficulty raising your leg straight up or outward during simple exercises. If the pain is severe, the doctor may recommend an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan to clearly display the soft tissue structures of the spine (including the nerves and discs between the vertebrae) and their connection to the cracked vertebrae and (if any) disc slippage.

Non-Surgical Treatment

The treatment for spondylolisthesis depends on the severity of pain and vertebral slippage, but non-surgical treatments can help ease pain and guide your bones back into their appropriate location. In addition to ultrasound therapy, electrical muscle stimulation, hot-and-cold therapy, and massage, your doctor may recommend a physical therapy regimen. During physical therapy, an individualized treatment plan is developed to keep you pain-free and assist you in healing. At first, the exercises you perform may include gentle stretches or posture changes to reduce back pain, hamstring pain, or other leg symptoms. However, as your legs get stronger, more vigorous exercises will be introduced to the process such as stationary biking or swimming. The goal of each exercise is to improve flexibility, strength, endurance, and the ability to return to your daily activities. 

Scott Chiropractic and Wellness

Matthew Scott, DC

5080 Virginia Pkwy Ste 550

McKinney, TX 75071

(972) 540-5445

www.scott-chiropractic.com

This is not intended to replace the services of a doctor. It does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Information in this newsletter/website is for informational purposes only & is not a substitute for professional advice. Please do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating any condition.

Natural Energy Boosters to Beat Summer Fatigue

Beat Summer Fatigue with these Natural Energy Boosters 

Stretch

Stretching has been proven to increase blood flow to the body and help it function better.  The additional blood flow supports the body systems which increases energy and stamina.  Stretching helps to provide relaxation and reduces the risk of injury.

Wind Down

About one hour before bed turn off the TV, put work away, take a warm bath and journal your day.  This will allow your body to prepare for a restful night’s slumber.  By winding down before bed you will sleep better and wake up more energized.

Breathe

When you begin to feel stressed during the day, just breathe.  Find a comfortable position by leaning back in your chair and place your hands on your abdomen. Inhale for four counts. Your abdomen should rise as you inhale.  Exhale very slowly for eight counts.  Do this inhale/exhale exercise until you feel the stress leave your body. Deep breathing will help to bring a higher level of energy, focus and concentration.

10 Minute Walk

Working in front of a computer for eight hours a day can be a big energy drainer.  Create the habit of periodically taking a 10 minute walk.  As you walk reflect on all of the things and people in your life you are thankful for.  Doing this everyday will be a mental and physical energy builder.  You may burn a few calories as well.

Get Some Sun.

In a landmark study, scientists at the University of Edinburgh in the UK suggest that time in the sun lowers blood pressure and improves overall health.  According to Phil Rice, a virologist at St. George's Hospital, University of London - sun exposure can prolong life and prevent infectious disease.

Be Well Adjusted

In addition to all these simple energy boosters, a periodic chiropractic adjustment has been shown to improve energy and stamina allowing you to perform at an optimal level of health and function.  If it has been a while since you’ve received a chiropractic wellness adjustment we encourage you to call our office and schedule an appointment.

****Disclaimer: This content is solely for informational purposes and should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. It is recommended that you seek professional advice by a licensed health care professional.

Scott Chiropractic and Wellness

Matthew Scott, DC

5080 Virginia Pkwy Ste 550

McKinney, TX 75071

(972) 540-5445

www.scott-chiropractic.com

How to Treat and Recover from an Ankle Sprain

Quick Recovery From an Ankle Sprain 

Caring for a sprained ankle immediately following the injury will ensure a quicker and better recovery compared to just waiting it out.  After suffering a sprained ankle, people all too often attempt to “walk it off”.

When a sprain occurs, the heel and ankle bones become forcibly rotated into an abnormal position. These bones and joints lose their healthy alignment.  This forceful movement causes abrupt stretching and micro-tearing of the ligaments in the ankle.  As a result, the ankle will become swollen, painful and it may even bruise.

There are specific measures you should take immediately after injuring an ankle as the result of a sprain.

The first thing you should do is to apply ice over the painful, swollen areas.  You can simply apply a bag of crushed ice over the ankle and use an elastic bandage to secure the ice in place.

For more severe sprains, one of the best icing methods is to submerge the foot and ankle into an ice bath.  An ice bath can be made by filling a bucket with enough cold water to completely submerge the foot and ankle and then add several ice cubes.

In either case you should ice the affected ankle for 15-20 minutes, repeating every 60-90 minutes as needed.

Two other measures you should take after spraining an ankle is elevation and compression.

Keeping the foot elevated above the level of the heart will facilitate a quicker reduction in swelling.  At nighttime you can use a pillow to prop the foot to maintain that elevation.

Between periods of icing, an elastic bandage can be wrapped around the ankle to reduce swelling and to provide support.  Be certain to begin wrapping the elastic bandage around the foot and work upward toward the ankle.  The compression should be snug, but not too tight where circulation to the foot becomes compromised.

Very Important…

As soon as possible after an ankle sprain, you should come in to our office for a chiropractic foot and ankle evaluation.  A gentle chiropractic adjustment will reset the alignment of the heel and ankle.  Restored ankle alignment will ease the tension and pressure from the injury, allowing the body to heal and regain its function much faster.

****Disclaimer: This content is solely for informational purposes and should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. It is recommended that you seek professional advice by a licensed health care professional.

Scott Chiropractic and Wellness

Matthew Scott, DC

5080 Virginia Pkwy Ste 550

McKinney, TX 75071

(972) 540-5445

www.scott-chiropractic.com

Why do I get shin splints?

The Cause of Shin Splints 

"Shin splints" is a catch-all term for lower leg pain that is usually caused from abnormal stress to the muscles, tendons, ligaments and bones in the lower extremity.

There are a number of factors contributing to shin splints such as overpronation of the foot, inadequate stretching, wearing worn or poorly fitting shoes, or excessive stress placed on one leg or hip.  Another common finding associated with shin splints is a misalignment of the talus (ankle bone).

When you run, the talus naturally rotates relative to the tibia & fibula (the two lower leg bones).  After prolonged stress to the foot and ankle, the talus will often lose its healthy alignment becoming locked in an abnormally rotated position.  This is a misalignment problem and it causes great stress on the soft tissues between the tibia and fibula.

This talus misalignment will cause pressure between the two lower leg bones.  As a result the fibula will splay apart from the tibia.  This slight spreading apart of the two lower leg bones will cause significant stress and strain on several of the muscles and supporting soft tissues in the leg and calf.

Continued running will exacerbate this condition causing the leg pain to become unbearable.  Runners and other athletes may have to discontinue all activity for a period of time until the pain subsides.  However there is a very effective solution for shin splints without having to discontinue your activities in most cases.

Specific chiropractic adjustments to the ankle and foot joints will alleviate much of the stress on those strained leg muscles, tendons and ligaments.  When the talus regains its healthy alignment, that stretching force between the tibia and fibula becomes relaxed.

The fact that we adjust the feet and ankles is unique for chiropractors.  Where most chiropractors focus mostly on the spine, we also attract many patients for conditions involving the feet, knees and other extremity joints.  Our foot patients love getting their feet adjusted!

****Disclaimer: This content is solely for informational purposes and should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. It is recommended that you seek professional advice by a licensed health care professional.

Scott Chiropractic and Wellness

Matthew Scott, DC

5080 Virginia Pkwy Ste 550

McKinney, TX 75071

(972) 540-5445

www.scott-chiropractic.com