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.

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.

Cold Weather Affects on Your Body

 
Cold Weather Affects On Your Body

Your teeth chatter, your body shivers, and despite all your efforts to bundle up from head-to-toe, you can’t prevent it, the cold weather has arrived. Every person reacts differently to thermal stress. Age, fitness level and underlying diseases play a major part in someone’s reaction to cold. All these reactions are an attempt by your body to preserve heat, although not a very successful one.


With cold weather comes more impaired immune systems, and that’s pretty much an invitation for the common cold. In addition, the cold weather can affect your body in ways that never crossed your mind. Besides leaving you vulnerable to viruses, here are other ways the cold weather affects your body.

Migraines – With temperature change comes the falling of barometric pressure, also known as atmospheric pressure that is most noticeable in drastic shifts of the weather and temperature. The pressure can be so intense with cold weather that it can lead to sinus issues and migraines.

Muscle and Joint Stiffness – Our bodies, which are about 70 percent water, can become more sensitive in colder weather. As temperatures drop, our bodies can lose elasticity, and it becomes harder to stretch. Colder temperatures can also cause painful changes in joint fluid thickness.

Weakened Hair and Nails – Cold temperatures can warp hair cuticles and make hair scales weak causing split ends to form while blood circulation slows down in cold weather causing your nails to become weak and brittle.

Depression – Season Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression with a season pattern, occurring most often in months when there is less daylight. It is most common between the ages of 18 and 30 and affects more women than men. People with SAD may have abnormally low levels of serotonin and high levels of melatonin, which affects sleep quality and happiness.   

Vasoconstriction – When temperatures hit 50 degrees Fahrenheit, your blood vessels narrow to reduce blood flow near the body’s surface. Sometimes the blood vessels dilate and burst which causes redness and can also numb your hands.

Heat loss in cold, wet weather increases the risk for hypothermia, frost bite and other cold injuries. Heat loss can occur in warm temperatures through conduction. For those of you who live where the winters are bitter and brutal, it is important to pack on the layers when taking a trip outside. For those who experience warm winters, swimming or sitting in cool or cold water can cause the body to lose heat very quickly, so think twice before taking dip to cool down.

***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 Matt Scott, DC  5080 Virginia Pkwy Ste 550 McKinney, TX 75071 www.scott-chiropractic.com  (972) 540-5445

Backpack Safety for School Age Children

Just like children, backpacks come in all shapes and sizes.  That's why we've created an easy to follow list when selecting the appropriate backpack.

 

1.  Choose size over style.

 

If your child wears a backpack that's too large for their frame, chances are they will haul around more than is safe for their spine. 

 

Use your child's back as the tape measure.  The top of a backpack should not go above your child's shoulders and the bottom of the bag should sit 1 to 2 inches above their beltline.  The width of the backpack should reach shoulder blade to shoulder blade.

 

2.  Don't over pack.

 

The first step in correctly packing a backpack is getting the right size bag as discussed in point number one.  A bag larger than a child's back is too easily overstuffed with sports equipment, toys, science projects, snacks, and if there's room, the all important books. 

 

Make sure the backpack weighs no more than 15-20% of your child's total body weight when full.

 

Begin packing the backpack by laying large, flat items at the back of the bag so they lay flat against your child's back.  Then layer smaller books and items on top.  Don't forget to utilize small pockets and compartments to better distribute the weight.  Show your child where each item is so they can re-pack properly after school.  

 

3. Use both straps.

 

Adjust both shoulder straps so the backpack fits snug against your child's back, but make sure it isn't too tight or cutting into their shoulders.  As impossible as it may seem, make sure your child uses both shoulder straps.  It's the best way to avoid spine or back injury.  Your child should be comfortable carrying a fully packed bag if it is adjusted and worn correctly.

 

If your child's backpack fits improperly or isn't worn correctly, it can lead to poor posture and eventually childhood back problems.   Make sure you select the best-fitting bag for your child to help protect their spine.

 

We encourage all parents to bring their children in periodically for chiropractic care.  Chiropractic is safe and effective for kids of all ages and it will help to maintain optimal spine posture and overall health.

***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

101 Causes of Physical Stress and How to Maintain Your Health

Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror while you were performing some daily activity such as talking on the phone or sitting at your desk?  If you really took the time to evaluate your body mechanics (or posture), more often than not you would probably observe a few things that you could work on.

 

From holding the phone to your ear using your shoulder as your head is bent to one side – to sleeping on your stomach as your head and neck is rotated – to crossing one leg over the other all day long, every day as you sit behind your desk – it’s no wonder why so many people need chiropractic care.

 

There are well over 101 things you encounter daily that may cause undue stress to your body.  These abnormal body postures and positions are responsible for many of the aches and pains that patients commonly develop. 

 

It would be next to impossible to maintain perfect body posture in all of your activities.  That’s one of the reasons why chiropractic care is so vitally important in keeping you and your family healthy.

 

Part of maintaining healthy alignment and body function is to keep your chiropractic appointments as recommended.  If you initially came to our office with a condition or health issue we may have recommended a specific schedule of care to correct your alignment in order to restore your health. 

 

Once your body has reached stability we recommend that you return periodically for a wellness or maintenance adjustment.  Some of our patients refer to this as getting a “tune-up”.

 

How often your body will require a wellness adjustment is relative to your specific condition.  There are many factors that contribute to your prescribed wellness plan.  Some of those factors may include your current state of health, your activity level, prior injuries, age, overall health, etc.

 

Our goal is to help you to improve your health as best possible.  Diet, exercise, and being aware of and maintaining proper body posture are all key elements to your overall health.  We encourage you to embrace your own health and do everything you can to preserve your wellness.  

 

If you ever have any questions about how to use proper posture or body mechanics with activities you commonly participate in, we would be delighted to give you the necessary advice. 

 

Also if you have a friend or family member who is suffering from a health condition that you think may be related to their life activities or stress we encourage you and thank you for referring them to us for a health evaluation.

 

***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 75070

(972) 540-5445

www.scott-chiropractic.com
 

Here is the proper way to protect your back when picking up your golf ball.

Protect Your Back Using the "Golfer's Lift"

Over 80% of Americans will suffer debilitating back pain during their lifetime. This means that you have a high chance of experiencing an injury that could cost you time away from work or life as you know it.

 

Many times injuries to the spine are caused by incorrect posture, poor lifting habits and other movements you perform on a routine basis.  To help avoid a possible injury you need to ensure that you always use proper body mechanics while bending over to pick up even the lightest of objects.

 

You need to understand the potential problems that can occur from lifting while bending over.  It’s common for people to bend at their waist without bending their knees.  Bending over or lifting objects without using proper body mechanics may compromise your spine which can lead to back problems.

 

Many times it’s while someone is lifting a small, lightweight object that they experience a new injury in their lower back. It’s common for people to use caution while lifting heavy items but ignore proper posture while picking up their pen that fell to the floor.  

 

The “golfer’s lift” is a great way to reduce stress on the back while picking up small, lightweight objects.

 

Have you ever noticed professional golfers when they retrieve the ball from the hole? They often bend over while standing on one leg as the other leg swings behind them acting as a counterbalance.  Because the lower back stays relatively straight using this lifting technique, this helps prevent lower back injuries.  Think about how many times golfers bend over to pick up the golf ball. That is why this lift is commonly referred to as the golfer’s lift.

 

Here’s how to properly use the golfer’s lift in 3 easy steps.

 

Step 1-Stand near the object as if you were going to bend over and pick it up.

 

Step 2-Hold onto something to support you as you bend over.  Golfer’s often use their club for support. A table or chair would work great as a support.

 

Step 3-As you bend over to pick up the object, bend one leg slightly (the supporting leg) and slowly lift the other leg backward as you bend over.  Try to avoid bending too far at the waist without the free leg moving with your upper torso.

 

Step 4-As you slowly come back up with the object in hand, also bring your leg down until you are standing upright..

 

If you experience pain while practicing the golfer’s lift, discontinue using this lifting method. However if that is the case you should mention that on your next appointment and we can discuss other alternatives for lifting small objects.

 

 

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 75070 (972) 540-5445