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

A Common Cause of Knee Pain 

Many of our patients have been becoming more active this time of year with activities such as jogging and new exercise routines as a way to meet those New Year health resolutions.  Every year at about this time we see a greater number of patients complaining of knee pain due to increased activity.

There are several possible causes for the specific knee pain you may be experiencing.  If you have painbehind the knee cap you may notice that climbing stairs or walking downstairs increases that pain.  Paindeep inside the knee may become worse as you bend into a squatted position or remain seated for prolonged periods.  Knee pain on the sides of the knee is often related to walking on uneven terrain, repetitive twisting movements, or being active for extended periods of time.

Did you know that chiropractic adjustments to the feet and knees can make a positive impact on reducing or eliminating those knee pains you may be suffering from?

The knee is a “hinge joint” similar to the hinge on a door.  Unlike the hip or shoulder joints, which move in multiple planes of motion, the knee is designed to only move in one plane (flexion and extension).  Because of its limited range of motion, the knee is vulnerable when the ankle, leg or hip becomes abnormally rotated or misaligned.

The knees depend upon the feet, ankles, leg and hip bones and joints being properly aligned in order to maintain their healthy function.  When any of those bones or joints loses its healthy alignment, you may begin to experience symptoms of pain, stiffness or popping in the knee joint.

Do not allow your knee problem continue without having it checked for misalignments.  When knee joint misalignments are left uncorrected, the cartilage (meniscus) inside the joint will begin to erode and wear down.  This is known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis.

Maintaining healthy alignment of your feet, legs and hips is one of the most important things you can do to proactively prevent against degenerative arthritis in the knee joint.

Our clinic takes great pride in being equipped to successfully treat most musculoskeletal knee conditions.  We would love to help if you or someone you know suffers with knee pain or reduced function.  Please call to make an appointment for yourself or anyone you would like to refer for a knee 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 75071

(972) 540-5445

www.scott-chiropractic.com

Low Impact Exercises to Minimize Joint Pain

Cardio Exercises with Joint Pain

It should be no surprise by now that cardiovascular exercise is not only a good idea, but very important for our bodies. Getting that heartrate up helps keep a healthy weight, helps keep our cardiovascular system healthy, reduces the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, and vastly improves our mood! However, when facing the difficulties of joint pain can really put a damper on that cardio exercise! It’s hard to find motivation to move when it causes you pain. Luckily, there are some low-impact exercises out there that still allow you to get a little sweaty! Read on and don’t let joint pain slow you down!

Why It’s Still Important

Though joint pain can make you want to take a backseat and live the couch life, that cardiovascular exercise is still so important. It can even help decrease your pain! So while it may be tough to get started, studies show that after consistent exercise and training, those with musculoskeletal pain had a decrease in symptoms! In addition, consistent exercise can help with increasing energy levels. If your past excuses have included being too tired, you now can eliminate that reasoning!

Taking It Easy

Joint pain can really make you want to stop moving altogether, especially during flare-ups. While you should not stop moving, you should take it easy on joints that are bothersome. You do not want to cause a severe flare-up or exercise in a way that makes you not want to ever do it again. That being said, try some of these low-impact exercises to benefit from that increased heartrate:

• Swimming is the best way to get cardio exercise without hurting your joints. In addition to basically zero impact, the force of gravity is a lot less, too! The water actually supports your body. In addition to its cardio benefits, swimming also increases your strength and balance. If you’re new to swimming, consider joining a club or classes for beginners!
• Cardio machines like the elliptical and the stationary bike are also great for tender joints, like the knees. They allow you to go as hard or as easy as you like and the impact on your joints is minimal. These machines are popular, too, so gyms usually have a lot of them on hand.
• Walking is one more low-impact exercise that is very easily accessible. Almost anyone can find a space to walk in. Going for a brisk walk can get your heartrate up without slamming your joints. Some find that going for a walk with friends makes the activity seem more like socializing! On the other hand, many enjoy a nice, quiet walk by themselves.

Whatever exercise you choose, just make sure you are thinking of your joints! To get the best benefits from your activity, try to exercise for thirty minutes, three or four days out of the week!

****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

What is bursitis and how it is treated?

What is bursitis and how do you treat it?

In our bodies, the bursa is a sac filled with lubricating fluid, located between tissues such as bone, muscle, tendons, and skin, which decrease rubbing, friction, and irritation. Bursitis is a painful condition that affects these sacs when the bursae become inflamed and is more common in adults, especially in those over 40 years of age. The most common locations for bursitis include the shoulder, elbow and hip, but you can also develop the condition in your knee, heel, and the base of your big toe.  The greatest symptom of this condition is pain, but if you have bursitis, the affected joint may feel achy or stiff, hurt more when you move it or press on it, and may look red or swollen.

What Causes It?

Bursitis is often caused by a repetitive, minor impact on the area, or from a sudden, more serious injury. Age also plays a role, because as tendons age they are able to tolerate less stress, less elasticity, and are easier to tear. Overuse or injury to the joint at work or play can also increase a person’s risk of bursitis. Examples include: throwing a baseball or lifting something over your head repeatedly, leaning on your elbows for long periods of time, extensive kneeling for tasks such as scrubbing floors, and prolonged sitting, particularly on hard surfaces. In addition, an abnormal or poorly placed bone joint can put added stress on a bursa sac, causing bursitis. Stress or inflammation from other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis and thyroid disorders can also increase a person’s risk.

When to See a Doctor

 Consult your doctor if you have:

• Disabling joint pain
• Pain for more than one to two weeks
• Excessive swelling, redness or bruising in the affected area
• Sharp or shooting pain, especially when you exercise or exert yourself

How is Bursitis Treated with Chiropractic Care?

The purpose of treatment is resting the affected joint to protect it from further trauma. Treatment of bursitis can be difficult and so chiropractors can combine, apart from the core spinal/joint manipulation, several different alternative remedies to efficiently manage the condition. Bursitis can be treated in a number of ways. These include, but are not limited to manual therapy (massage or acupuncture), a stretching/rehabilitation plan, therapeutic taping, ultrasound, electric stimulation, nutritional advice or through a prescription for foot orthotics.

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

Thumb Arthritis

A Solution for Thumb Arthritis

There is a tiny bone in the carpal (wrist) area known as the trapezium.  The trapezium is directly above the first metacarpal (the long bone for the thumb), where the thumb connects to the wrist.  This joint is known as a “saddle joint” because it has a unique shape similar to a horse’s saddle.  The saddle shape provides this joint a much greater range of motion compared to the other thumb and finger joints.  It is at this joint where thumb arthritis occurs.

 

This thumb joint is the most common joint in the entire body to become arthritic in the greatest number of people.

 

Because there is such broad motion at this “saddle joint”, it gets the heaviest workout.  We use our thumbs to grip and hold most objects, and the thumb is always opposing the four fingers.

 

The fingers oppose the thumb four against one.

 

After a period of time the thumb may lose its healthy alignment where it connects to the carpal region.  This misalignment will irritate the joint and cause the cartilage surfaces to become worn.  This wearing of the cartilage is referred to as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis.

 

It is a common misconception that arthritis cannot be treated through chiropractic.  Practically every patient we treat has some form of arthritis.  If you break the word down to its root meaning, arthritis means “joint inflammation”.  When two bones become misaligned relative to each other, the joint at which they connect becomes irritated and inflamed.

 

Adjusting the small wrist and hand bones will restore healthy alignment and function to the irritated joints.  In addition to pain relief patients often experience increased strength, range of motion and greater ability to grip objects for longer periods of time without pain and fatigue.

 

Arthritic pain and dysfunction can be helped with chiropractic care.  If you or someone you know is dealing with arthritic pain, we recommend a chiropractic evaluation to determine if there is a solution that can provide relief and restore healthy function to their hand.

 

 ***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

Heel Spurs and Heel Pain

Heel Spurs & Morning Heel Pain

Some people experience sharp, stabbing foot pain immediately upon awakening and getting out of bed.  Heel pain first thing in the morning is a sign that you may have a heel spur.

 

The morning foot pain associated with a heel spur normally lasts about 10 minutes or less before it begins to calm down; however the pain pattern may become worse over time until it eventually becomes constant.

 

Each foot has 26 movable tarsal bones which are arranged into a network of arches.  However when you lose the healthy alignment of one or more of those bones you may begin to develop foot pain.

 

Two of the most common foot conditions that develop as a result of misalignments are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.

Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the soft tissues on the bottom of the foot (the plantar fascia) become overstretched, irritated and inflamed.  The classic symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis include pain on the bottom of the heel and sometimes into the arch of the foot.

 

Attaching from the heel to the five toes, the plantar fascia spans the entire plantar surface of the foot.  Due to misalignments of the tarsal bones and altered foot function, this tissue becomes overstretched and develops micro-tears near its attachment at the heel bone.

 

If the tarsal bones aren’t realigned in a timely fashion, the foot will begin to develop a bony heel spur near the attachment site of the plantar fascia.

 

It’s important to note that a heel spur does not cause pain by itself.  Rather it’s the irritation, micro-tearing and inflammation of the connecting plantar fascia that results in heel pain.

 

As plantar fasciitis remains untreated and is allowed to progress into a chronic condition, a heel spur may develop and continue to become larger and more prominent over time. Common symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis accompanied by a heel spur, includes morning heel pain first thing upon standing up.   

Specific chiropractic adjustments to the foot bones will correct the underlying mechanical problem, improve foot function and ease tissue stress.  Getting your feet adjusted is an effective, non-surgical solution for alleviating the pain associated with plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.

 

***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
972-540-5445www.scott-chiropractic.com

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

Self Massage Technique for Hand Pain

Easy Self-Massage to Alleviate Hand Discomfort

If you experience stress or fatigue in your hands it wouldn’t be uncommon for most to deem it unnecessary to call in for a checkup, however it could be an indicator of an underlying hand problem. 

 

In the meantime I’d like to give you a simple self-relaxation technique you can use to relieve your hand tightness and fatigue.  Keep in mind however these relaxation techniques will not correct the underlying problem, rather it will merely provide short-term relief to help you better cope with hand symptoms.

 

To apply this self-massage technique you will use one hand to massage the other.  To avoid any confusion I will guide you through this simple technique for massaging the right hand.  You may do this on yourself as you read the instructions using your left hand to massage your right hand.

 

There are two major areas of the palm that we will focus on:

1. The fleshy muscle pad on the thumb side of your hand (aka thenar pad)
2. The fleshy muscle pad on the pinky finger side of your hand (aka hypothenar pad)

There are several small muscles that make up these two prominent muscle pads on the palm surface of your hand.  Massaging these two fleshy pads periodically throughout the day can help keep your hand relaxed and functioning as you continue to work. 

 

You should use the thumb of your left hand to gently stroke the thenar pad on your right hand.  One of the best methods to work this muscle group is to stroke from the crease at the central portion of your hand (known as the palmar crease) outward toward your thumb.

 

Massage the thenar pad area for approximately 30-60 seconds and then take a short break. 

 

Now you should perform a very similar process to the hypothenar pad on the pinky side of your right hand.  Again you should work the muscle group by starting near the palmar crease and stroking outward toward the edge of your hand.  You may also massage by starting near the wrist and stroking outward toward the pinky finger.

 

Keep in mind that these massage techniques are not supposed to cause pain.  They also are not meant to diagnose or treat any hand condition you may have.  These gentle massage techniques are merely to help you temporarily relax your stressed and fatigued hands.

 

Again if you have been suffering with hand symptoms (even mild symptoms) we highly recommend that you schedule for a hand evaluation at our clinic.

 

***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

Tips on How to Avoid Foot Problems while Standing Around

Avoiding Foot Problems from Standing Around

Two common activities that affect the health of your feet are stance and gait.  The weight of your body pushes downward thus driving your heels and feet into the ground.

 

Standing in one spot for several hours at a time can be especially stressful to your feet and your entire body. Common symptoms that develop may include foot pain, knee pain and lower back pain.

 

If you must stand in the same position for a prolonged period of time, we recommend that you keep your legs and feet moving periodically throughout that time. You can bend your knees, march in place, dance in place or take small steps in either direction. Moving around while standing in one spot will improve circulation and alleviate sustained pressure and stress from your feet, knees, hips and spine.

     

The healthier your feet, the better they will absorb the stress your body experiences from prolonged standing.  When the 52 bones that comprise both of your feet are in their healthy alignment, they will certainly help to protect your legs and back and reduce the potential for injuries.

 

However when your foot bones lose their healthy alignment, the feet will not do as good of job in absorbing shock while standing and walking.  This will cause greater stress on your knees, hips and spine.  Foot misalignments and dysfunction are a leading cause of back pain.

 

There are four major misalignment patterns that may affect your feet:

1. flat feet
2. high arches
3. pronation (walking too much on the inside arch of your foot)
4. supination (walking too much on the outside edge of your foot)

You may not be aware that you actually have a misalignment or structural problem in your feet.  In many cases a foot may appear to be normal at first glance, but a thorough examination could indicate differently.  Just because your feet look healthy doesn’t mean that they actually are.

 

It is our goal to provide the most complete care possible for you as our patient.  If we haven’t already evaluated your feet and you would like us to do so, please mention that to us during your next appointment.  People don’t typically think of the chiropractor first when it comes to their feet, so we appreciate you for helping us spread the word about chiropractic foot care to your friends and family.

 

***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 

Three Motions to Avoid with a Shoulder Condition

The shoulder is an interesting joint because it has such a broad, unrestricted range of motion.  Because of its versatility, this mobile joint may become compromised by extreme ranges of motion.  There are few movements or arm positions that are potentially dangerous if you have a preexisting shoulder problem.  In fact there are three particular positions or movements to avoid if you have had a previous shoulder condition.

1. Working for prolonged periods with your arms overhead
2. Reaching behind your body to lift an object
3. Sleeping with your arms overhead

Let’s take a look at each of these potentially injurious shoulder motions.

 

Working With Your Arms Overhead

 

Working with your arms overhead for short periods is generally acceptable; however when you must work with your arms overhead for prolonged periods of time it may cause great stress and strain to the muscles, nerves and blood vessels in the shoulder region.  When this happens you may experience symptoms of numbness and tingling in your hands.

 

Reaching Behind Your Body to Lift an Object

 

 

Have you ever reached behind your car seat to pick something up while you were sitting in the front seat?  This type of motion compromises the shoulder joint and can lead to injury.  If you’ve ever injured your rotator cuff, this motion may be exceptionally dangerous and should be avoided.

 

Sleeping With Your Arms Overhead

 

When you sleep in this position it’s not uncommon to develop tingling or numbness sensations in your hands.  This is very similar to working with your arms overhead.  The only difference is that while sleeping with your arms overhead, your shoulders may remain in that compromising position for several hours.

 

Healthy Posture

 

The healthiest position for your shoulders is to remain in as neutral and relaxed posture and range of motion with whatever activity you are participating in.  If you must place your shoulders and arms in an awkward position, be sure to limit the time and amount of strain you exert on your shoulders while in that compromising position.

 

Chiropractic Care for Shoulder Injuries

 

Our practice has a great record of success when it comes to treating shoulder conditions.  Chiropractic adjustments to the shoulder joint and spine can relieve stress and strain from stretched, irritated or torn shoulder muscles and ligaments.  Whether you’ve had a rotator cuff injury or just a simple shoulder pain or strain, you should consider coming in for a shoulder adjustment.

 

***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

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
 

A Solution for Golfer's Elbow

A Solution for Golfer's Elbow

Those who suffer with golfer’s elbow know exactly how painful it can be.  You may not be aware of this but golfer’s elbow affects more than just golfers.

 

Golfer’s elbow is also known as medial epicondylitis.  The medial epicondyle is the name given to a small bump on the inner side of the upper arm bone (humerus) where it connects to the forearm bone (ulna) at the elbow.  Muscles that control the wrist and hand movements connect to the medial epicondyle.  Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow) occurs when the tendons to those muscles become stressed and irritated.

 

You may be wondering why these tendons become stressed and irritated.  It’s generally due to poor body mechanics while using the arms and hands during certain repetitive activities (such as swinging a golf club).  Golfer’s elbow is the common name given to this painful condition, however other repetitive activities such as throwing a ball, swinging a racquet or using hand tools can also contribute to medial epicondylitis.

 

If you develop pain on the inner side of your elbow that worsens with repetitive hand and arm activities, you may be suffering from golfer’s elbow.

 

Gentle chiropractic adjustments to the elbow, shoulder and wrist can greatly improve this debilitating condition.

 

Sometimes patients wonder why adjustments to the shoulder and wrist are necessary to correct this condition.  It’s because the forearm and upper arm bones connect to both the shoulder and wrist.  Therefore merely treating the elbow may only act as a band-aid and may not allow the elbow condition to become fully corrected.

 

You should also evaluate your body posture and mechanics as you engage in repetitive activities or sports that you practice in on a regular basis.  It may even be helpful to video tape yourself as you perform those activities.  You may be surprised by what you’ll learn when watching yourself on video.

 

After you’ve completed your chiropractic treatments and your elbow has become fully stabilized, it would be a good idea to return periodically for a “fine-tuning” chiropractic adjustment to help maintain healthy alignment and function.

 

***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

How to avoid Plantar Fasciitis

Keeping Your Plantar Fascia Healthy to Avoid Fasciitis!

There are 206 bones in the human body and 52 of them are in your feet.  Most people tend to take their feet for granted – walking, running, hiking, etc., until one day they’re out of commission.

 

The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that spans the surface on the bottom of your foot.  It connects from the heel to all five toes.  This fibrous tissue commonly becomes stressed and irritated during the spring months as people become more active outdoors.

 

Studies show that nearly 3 out of 4 people will suffer with disabling foot pain at some point during their lifetime.

 

Plantar fasciitis (pain at the bottom of the heel) is commonly the result of chronic misaligned bones in the foot.  When one or more of the 26 foot bones lose their healthy alignment it causes undue stress and irritation on the plantar fascia.

 

After your feet have been adjusted there are a few stretches that can be helpful in alleviating the stress your feet and plantar fascia may experience.

 

Here are two stretches that can be helpful in reducing the stress you experience in your feet while walking or running.  These two stretches are very similar to each other, but they are distinctly different in that they stretch two separate muscles.

 

Both stretches will affect the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia.  These two stretches are commonly referred to as a calf stretch or “runner’s stretch”.  The difference between the two is that one will be performed with the knee locked straight into extension and the other with the knee bent/flexed. 

 

The first stretch with the knee extended will affect the primary calf muscle known as the gastrocnemius (photo on left).  The second stretch with the knee flexed will affect the deeper muscle known as the soleus (photo on right). 

 

It is important to stretch both of these muscles on a regular daily basis, especially after prolonged periods of walking or running.  However if you experience any pain in your ankle or lower extremity while doing these stretches, you should discontinue immediately.  Pain may be indicative of a potential health problem and you should have that evaluated.

 

If you have experienced foot pain or stress and haven’t had your feet adjusted, then you may want to consider getting a checkup at our clinic this spring.  We will evaluate your feet for imbalances and misalignments of the 26 bones.

 

When there is an alignment issue or an underlying condition with the foot structure, we can often detect those problems during an examination.    

 

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