What you will learn:

1. What are trigger points and how do you get them
2. Things to consider before you start
3. A Step by Step Guide to relieve Trigger Point pain 
4. How to Avoid getting Trigger Points aka Muscle Knots
5. Final Thoughts: How Does a Chiropractor Treat Trigger Points

What are Trigger Points and How do you get them

Trigger points aka Muscle Knots are tight, painful knots that form when muscle fibers stay contracted for too long. They can cause deep, aching pain, limit movement, and even send discomfort to other areas of the body.  Trigger points are most often in your upper back, between the shoulder blades,  shoulders, or neck. They can also occur in other areas, including your lower back, glute area and your calves.  Anyone can experience these knots which can be the result of:

•  Repetitive motions either in work or through hobbies or sports
•  Poor Posture
•  Stress
• Inactivity
• Muscle injury that causes other muscles to compensate
• Being overweight or obese.

These painful knots can interfere with productivity, sleep, or just a sense of well being

Before You Start

Do not use these techniques if you have:

• Recent fracture, infection, open wound, severe osteoporosis, or blood-clotting disorder.
• Acute swelling, unexplained numbness, progressive weakness, or fever.
• Known cancer in the area, or are on heavy blood thinners (consult a clinician first).
• Pregnant? Avoid deep pressure on the abdomen/pelvis without clinician guidance.

If a technique increases sharp, electrifying pain, causes faintness, shortness of breath, or neurological symptoms, stop and see a medical professional.

Your At Home Step-by-Step Chiropractors Guide to Natural Pain Relief for Trigger Point Pain

Step 1 – Decide what “tools” you will need

·         You can use:

• Your fingers/thumb/knuckle
• A Lacrosse or tennis ball
•  A Pillow or towel for support if needed.

Step 2 – Find a comfortable position

•  Relax the general area of pain
• Take some relaxing slow breaths and try to loosen your shoulders and jaw to release tension

Step 3 – Find the Muscle Knot

• Feel around the area either with your fingers or if you are using a ball, roll it over the area.
•  Feel for a specific area that is more tender than the surrounding area and feel for a hard knot or nodule

Step 4 – Apply Pressure to the Muscle knot/Trigger Point

• Use a pressure that would be a 5-7 out of 10 on a pain scale – uncomfortable but tolerable
•  Press directly onto the muscle knot with your fingertip, knuckle or a ball apply a steady pressure
• Hold for 20-60 seconds depending on your tolerance – Remember to keep breathing
• The pain should begin to ease but continue pressing until you feel a clear reduction in pain
• Release the pressure slowly and rest for 10-30 seconds.
• Repeat this step from 1-3 times until you feel sustained relief.

Step 5 – Gently Stretch the Area

• As soon as you feel release, gently stretch the area for 20-30 seconds
• Do NOT bounce
• Move through a range of motion to further relax the area

Step 6 – After Stretching

• If the muscles in the area feet tight, apply heat to the area for 10-15 minutes
• If there is inflammation use ice for 10 minutes to help reduce swelling
• Make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid heavy use of those muscles for several hours

How to Avoid Getting Trigger Points aka Muscle Knots

• Make sure your posture is good at your desk – Make sure your monitor and chair height allow you to work comfortably
• Make sure to take small breaks by standing and moving at least once an hour
• Exercise to strengthen back, neck, and core muscles
• Sleep on a good mattress and use good pillow alignment
• Stay hydrated and balance your protein levels to your activity level
• Avoid chronic overload of specific muscle areas

Final Thoughts

Use this method anytime you feel a knot.  It can be used daily if needed for mild muscle knots/trigger points.  If the muscle knots/trigger points you experience are extremely tender or acute let the tissues rest for 48 hours between sessions.  Continue to apply this method when you start improving but you may be able to use it less frequently and with less pressure.  If you don’t make progress after a week or two or if it gets worse make an appointment to see a chiropractor. 

How Does a Chiropractor Treat Trigger Points

1. Spinal Adjustments – When a vertebra is out of place (out of alignment) it can irritate nerves and cause muscles to tighten which can result in trigger points.  Chiropractic adjustment re-align the spine relieving the nerve irritation and helping muscles relax.

2. Manual Muscle Therapy – Chiropractors can use myofascial release or trigger point therapy which involves gentle, sustained pressure or kneading to specific areas of the body to promote relaxation of the fascia (connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, organs, and bones) and improve blood flow.

3. Provide Stretching and Mobility Exercises – These exercises can help retrain affected muscles to prevent flare ups.

4. Other Therapies – A chiropractor may utilize therapies such as ultrasound, cold laser, electrical muscle stimulation, or heat or ice therapy to reduce inflammation.

Chiropractic health care not only helps release the muscle knot but reduces or eliminates future muscle knots by restoring balance, alignment, and proper muscle function.

If you live in or near the Lawrenceville area and are suffering with muscle knots/trigger points that keep reoccurring, make an appointment with us for a full evaluation and how chiropractic health care can help you

The post How to Relieve Muscle Knots Naturally: A Chiropractor’s Step-by-Step Guide for Lasting Trigger Point Pain Relief appeared first on Whole Life Health & Injury Center.

The 5 most common types of car accidents are shown below. When you look at them it all seems very obvious. What’s important about knowing the different causes of auto accidents is that it can make you more aware of situations that could result in a crash and try to find ways to avoid them. e.g. always look both ways at an intersection crossing, even if your light turns green.

Rear end collisions

These usually happen when you are stopped or have to suddenly brake.  If you are stopped, try leaving extra space between your car and the car in front of you.   That way if you see someone is coming too close or too fast you have some leeway to move your car forward giving them more space to stop.  If your car is rear ended, more space may help you avoid being pushed into the car in front of you which doubles the chance of being injured.

If you have to brake suddenly and someone is following too closely behind there may be no way to avoid being hit.  In this case, if at all possible try to brace your head against the headrest.  It could mean the difference between a severe and a less severe whiplash injury. 

One way to avoid having to brake suddenly is to leave as much space between your car and the car in front of you.  That way if they put their brakes on you have more time to brake without having to slam on your brakes.

T-Bone or Cross Traffic Accidents

It is estimated that 12-13 percent of all car accidents in the United States are T-bone type auto accidents.  These types of collisions account for about 18% of all fatal car accidents in which one or more person is killed.

This type of a car accident typically happens when someone runs a red light.  Even when your light turns green either look both ways before proceeding or pause for just a few seconds to make sure no one is speeding to get through the cross intersection. 

This can also happen at intersections with stop signs.  Always make sure to check both ways even if there it is a 4 way stop intersection.

Clipping other cars when merging

There are reasons why this happens.  Are you guilty of any of these?

1. Not checking your blind spot before trying to merge.

2. Trying to beat out someone without giving enough distance to merge in safely.

3.  Misjudging how fast an oncoming car is traveling.

4. Not using your turn signal to alert a merging car that you need to merge into traffic.

5. Not paying attention for the need for a sudden merge because of construction, end of a lane, the need for a sudden change of direction, etc.

Single Car Crashes

While many think that most car accidents happen between 2 or more car/trucks/motorcycles, single vehicle accidents are extremely common.  Some of the common causes of single vehicle accidents include:

1. Speeding – There are different reasons where speeding is a problem.  For one thing it increases that chance of colliding with an object.  In addition, speeding plays a role in rollovers.  “Speeding” is considered not only as driving about the post speed limit but driving faster for road and/or weather conditions such as fog, heavy rain, snow/ice, or road construction.

• Drunk Driving and Drowsy Driving– The Department of Transportation found that your risks increase 30 percent compared to a sober drivers, as those under the influence are more prone to speeding, swerving and losing control.  Being drowsy can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.

• Distracted Driving – In general, you’re more likely to drift off the road if you are using a cell phone, adjusting the radio or even trying to eat or drink while you are driving. In the process, you might hit a parked car, a median or barrier, or adjacent property.

• Mechanical Failure – The most typical problem is sudden tire “blow out” but any sort of unexpected mechanical failure that impacts steering, braking, or simple operation of the car can lead to an accident.  Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid unexpected mechanical failure.

• Swerving to Avoid Hitting an Object or a an Animal– From debris to vehicle parts and items that fell off a truck, when maneuvering around these obstacles you may end up hitting another object. Based on statistics from the NHTSA, losing control, running off the road and colliding with a median or guardrail is the most common cause of single vehicle crashes. Always scan the shoulder of the road for animals and be ready to slow down.

TWO

Listed below are 5 common causes of auto accidents. While this is not an exhaustive list, it is some of the most common. You’ll notice under #2, Distracted Driver, that there are actually many forms of distracted driving, not just texting

1.Tailgating

Driving too closely behind someone without leaving enough space to safely stop if need to stop suddenly.

2.Distracted Driver

Research at the American Automobile Association’s Traffic Safety Division says that between 25-50% of all motor car accidents are caused by distracted driving. Distracted driving includes:

• Talking on cell phones
• Texting
• Rubbernecking
• Driver fatigue
• Looking away from the road at scenery
• Engaging with passengers or children
• Adjusting the radio, cassette or CD player
• Reading books, maps, newspapers or other documents

3.Running a Red Light

Always check for traffic even if your light turns green

4.Aggressive Drivers Speeding and/or Weaving in and out of traffic

If you find yourself in traffic with an aggressive driver, try to keep your distance, changing lanes once it’s safe to do so. Do not attempt to pass an aggressive driver. If the driver is behind you, remain calm and adhere to all speed and safety laws – do not interact with the driver with gestures, words or other signals. If the situation escalates or you feel endangered, call 911 and report the aggressive driver.

5. Inclement Weather –

This includes rain, fog, and here in Georgia, occasionally snow or ice. Make sure you adhere to the basic speed law, traveling only as fast as conditions allow, and that you provide yourself with extra time to stop and additional space between you and the car in front of you.

THREE

While Whiplash is one of the most common accident injuries, there are many areas of the body that can be injured that Dr. Alexander can help with the healing process.

There are many injuries that are not considered “critical” or are not life threatening but that none the less can cause severe pain and have a major impact on your life

Some of the injuries that Dr. Alexander can help heal are any joints that have been thrown out of their normal position, spinal disks that have been injured, tendons, ligaments and muscles that have been bruised or torn, and help alleviate ongoing symptoms associated with whiplash injuries such as headaches, fatigue, etc.

No one wants to be in a car accident. Even a very minor fender bender can cause injury and in all cases its a major inconvenience. If you are involved in an accident, it is important to know what to do and what information to get.

Click below to request a ” What To Do If You Are In A Car Accident” card to keep in your glove compartment. When an accident happens, its often difficult to think clearly about how to proceed. This card will help.

Print the card below or call or click here to request a postcard copy from the office and keep it in your glove compartment.*

*DISCLAIMER: This is not offered as any sort of legal advice or information. It is given as some general thoughts when you have been involved in an accident.

The post Three Things to Know About Car Accidents appeared first on Whole Life Health & Injury Center.

Do You Know What To Do If You Are Involved in a Car Accident?

According to some statistics there are over 151 auto accidents every day in Atlanta and Fulton County, or about 6 every hour.  That doesn’t include all the surrounding cities and counties.  In Georgia, there were over 330,000 accidents in 2020, the last year with statistics. All you have to do is observe all the MANY accident attorney bill boards to know are LOTS of auto accidents.

9 Important steps to take if you are involved in a car accident, even a minor fender bender

1. Stop – Never leave the scene of an accident
2. If you are able, move your car to a safe spot.
3. Check to see if you or anyone else is seriously injured.
4. Call the police, even for a minor accident.
5. Exchange information.
6. Limits discussions of the accident with the other party (Never say you are OK.  You may have whiplash injuries that are not apparent immediately.)
7. If possible, take pictures of the scene and the vehicles.
8. Contact your insurance company and/or an attorney.
9. Make an appointment with our office to get checked for a whiplash or other injury – If left untreated they can lead to issues in the future.

Important Information to collect if you are involved in a car accident

1. Name of the other involved driver.
2. Their phone #
3. Their insurance company
4. Their insurance policy #
5. Their driver’s license #
6. Their license plate #

Check out and print the card below or call or click here to request a postcard copy from the office and keep it in your glove compartment.*

*DISCLAIMER: This is not offered as any sort of legal advice or information. It is given as some general thoughts when you have been involved in an accident.

Insurance facts to keep in mind

• Most medical insurance does NOT cover injuries from a car accident.

• If you have MedPay or Person Injury Protection as part of your car insurance, it will cover injury care even if you are at fault. (Most people are not aware if they have this extra coverage so check your policy and consider adding it if you do not currently have it.  It is the most inexpensive insurance you can purchase.)

• Whether you are at fault or not insurance companies will want to take statements immediately after an accident. This can be before you are aware of delayed symptoms from an injury. You may want to indicate you are not sure if you have any or the extent of possible injuries. 

• Insurance companies will try to get you to settle as soon as possible.  Resist settling until you are certain you have not sustained any injuries.  Whiplash injuries and symptoms often take several days to weeks to be realized.

• It is always advisable to consult with an accident attorney even if you do not end up using their services as they can advise you on the best course of action.  Many attorneys will consult free of charge.

What you need to know about Whiplash injuries

Whiplash is the most common injury in a car accident.  It is caused by a severe jerk to the head moving backwards and forwards or from side to side.

Whiplash can injure bones in the spine, disks between the bones, ligaments, muscles, nerves and other tissues of the neck.  It usually causes the vertebrae of the neck to be knocked out of alignment which can lead to other nerve interference issues and pain often located away from the neck.

It is important to consult with Dr. Alexander who is experienced in treating whiplash and other auto accident injuries after any car accident, even a minor one.

Untreated, whiplash can cause long term effects.

Common Symptoms of Whiplash include:

• Neck and shoulder pain
• Loss of range of motion
• Back pain
• Headaches
• Tingling and/or numbness in arms
• Fatigue
• Dizziness

Emergency room or medical doctors are usually not trained to diagnose and treat a whiplash injury.  These injuries typically do not show up on x-rays which is what most medical doctors use to determine an injury has occurred.  Chiropractors are specially trained to test for and treat whiplash injuries.

Muscle relaxers and/or pain medication will only cover up the symptoms on a temporary basis.  They do not treat the injury itself.

Dr. Alexander is experienced in diagnosing and treating whiplash injuries using adjustments to correct spinal misalignments and laser and/or ultrasound therapies to help heal soft tissue injuries.

The bottom line…Know what to do at the scene if you are involved in a car accident, call our office to schedule an accident injury assessment, and consult with an attorney if needed.

The post What to do if you are involved in a Car Accident appeared first on Whole Life Health & Injury Center.

If you are experiencing intense pain, burning or tingling, numbness or weakness that runs through your buttocks and/or down the back of one leg and may or may not be accompanied by lower back pain, there’s a good chance you may be suffering from sciatica.  This debilitating condition makes it difficult to stand, sit, lie down or walk.

Many people are unfamiliar with Sciatica so it is important to understand What is Sciatica, What is the Most Common Cause of Sciatica, What Are Other Causes of Sciatica, and importantly, How Chiropractic Treats Sciatica.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a general term for the condition described above, i.e.  intense pain, burning or tingling, numbness or weakness that runs through your buttocks and/or down the back of one leg and may or may not accompanied by lower back pain.  This is a relatively common condition with about 40% of the population suffering from sciatica at some point in their lives. 

This condition is known as sciatica because it is caused by an irritation or damage to the sciatic nerve.  The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the body and is about the size of a finger.  It runs from your low back down through the buttocks and along the back of each leg to the foot.

You can feel pain at any point along the sciatic nerve but typically is felt through the buttock and down the back of the leg and into your foot and/or toes.  For this reason you could feel pain, tingling, or numbness in your feet that is actually the result of an issue with the main sciatic nerve.

What is the Most Common Cause of Sciatica

In most cases, sciatica occurs when a lumbar (low back) vertebra is out of alignment or a disk herniates or bulges and there is pressure on the sciatic nerve.  When a disk herniates the soft core of the disk protrudes or bulges into the spinal cord causing pressure on the nerve.  This causes the nerves to send involuntary signals that cause a sensation of tingling, numbness, burning or pain. 

What Are Other Causes of Sciatica

• Arthritis of the spine that occurs over time can compress or rub on the sciatic nerve.
• A back injury that causes inflammation in the lower back can trigger sciatic pain.
• Pressure on the low back from obesity.
• Poor posture while sitting or walking can place undue stress on the nerve
• A tumor that presses on the sciatic nerve or some other disease process that results in inflammation or damage to this large nerve.

How Chiropractic Treats Sciatica

Chiropractic is almost universally recognized as very effective conservative treatment for sciatica. 

Through a combination of techniques chiropractic can provide genuine, sustained relief for the pain of sciatica by relieving and eliminating the pressure that causes the pain without the need for surgery or drugs. By correcting the problem at its source, chiropractic helps people suffering with sciatica return to a normal, active life..

These non-invasive techniques may be used in combination with Chiropractic adjustments to help eliminate sciatic pain:

• Decompression Therapy – Helps heal bulging discs putting pressure on the sciatic nerve
• Ice Therapy (Cryotherapy) – Provides relief by helping to reduce inflammation
• Low Light Laser Therapy – Stimulates the cell mitochondria to promote healing
• Ultrasound Therapy – Increases circulation to help reduce inflammation and increase healing

(…An alternative to surgery when sciatic pain is the result of disc herniation is chemonucleolysis with chymopapain. Since this enzyme is effective only in very specific circumstances, proper patient selection is crucial. Five criteria for selection are presented, emphasizing that since chemonucleolysis is not conservative treatment, it should be reserved for patients whose pain is unrelieved by conservative methods…)

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2327588/

The post Chiropractic Helps Sciatica: Fact or Fiction? appeared first on Whole Life Health & Injury Center.

Heartburn or Indigestion? Are antacids the solution or the problem?

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Forget the gym, gardening is a great form of exercise.  Not only do you get some fresh air and sunshine but you have the satisfaction of creating a pleasant outdoor environment.  By following the Yard Work Safety Hints, Tips for Safe Equipment Use , Simple Stretches for Everybody and What To Do If Your Start To Hurt outlined below you can get a great workout, have the satisfaction of a natural yard or garden oasis, and reduce or eliminate strains, muscle aches and potential injuries.

Yard Work Safety Hints

Gardening involves bending, twisting, reaching, pulling and/or pushing, getting up and down, walking, etc.  The major muscles of the back, upper legs, neck, shoulders, arms and wrists are all getting a workout but they can also be getting overworked which can lead to back, neck and muscle pain, and in some cases injuries.  Following the Yard Work Safety Hints can go a long way to protecting yourself from back pain.  Most of these hints are simple and common sense but often the simplest precautions can have the greatest impact.  They are always a reminder to keep in mind when you head out to the garden.

Here are some safety hints for avoiding injuries.

• To avoid back pain from gardening ALWAYS remember to bend your knees when picking up or pulling anything.
• Avoid bending over at your back when doing any kind of gardening as this puts undue strain on your back. 
  • If you need to do work at ground level, squat, kneel or sit on the ground. 
  • Make sure there is nothing sharp sticking up. 
  • It’s best to cover the ground to avoid insect bites. 
  • Use a turned over bucket as a seat or get a garden chair.
  • Use knee pads or a padded cushion if you are going to be kneeling while working.
• Wear shoes, gloves, and preferably long pants and shirts to protect your skin. 
• Make sure to use sunscreen if you are working the sun.
• Make sure to drink PLENTY of water.   You will most likely lose a lot of water through sweat if you are working hard in the heat.
• Use the proper tools.
• Use a wheelbarrow or a wagon to move heavy bags and/or yard debris.
• Use two or more people if moving something bulky and heavy
• Remember to warm up before gardening/yard work.  (See Simple Stretches for Everybody below)

Tips for Safe Equipment Use

Many people are turning to the state-of-the-art weed trimers, leaf blowers, hedge clippers, etc. to help out but the repetitive motions when using these and other equipment can lead to mechanical problems with the body.  It can result in back and neck pain as well as more serious muscle strains and tears if not used properly. Always make sure to follow usage instructions and Tips for Safe Equipment Use in mind.

• If your equipment comes with a strap make sure to use it. 
  • Place the strap on the shoulder on the opposite side of your body from the device. 
  • This normalizes your center of gravity and reduces stress on your back
• To balance the muscles being used, switch the side on which you are operating the equipment often.  Also alternate your stance and motion.
• Take frequent breaks as you may experience muscle fatigue when using any of these devices for extended periods of time.
• Consider using electric-powered items, especially if you experience back or neck pain, as they tend to be lighter than the gas engine powered ones.
• When lifting, bend your knees and hold the equipment close to your body.

Simple Stretches for Everybody

Gardening and yard work are a form of exercise

• When stretching, remember to breathe slowly and rhythmically, do not bounce or jerk.  Stretching should NOT be painful.
• Either sit or stand and with your knee straight, prop your heel on a step or stool.  Hold onto something if you need to stabilize your balance.  Bend forward until you feel a slight pull in the back of your thigh.  Hold for 15-20 seconds then repeat with the other leg.
• Stand up, balance yourself (use a support if needed), bend your knee and reach behind you and grab the front of your ankle. Pull your heel towards your buttock until you feel a slight pull in the front of your thigh.  Hold of 15-20 second, repeat and then change legs.
• Weave your fingers together above your head with your palms up.  Lean slightly to one side to stretch your upper body.  Hold for 10 seconds then switch sides.  Do this 3 times.

What To Do If You Start To Hurt

If you start to feel any tightness or strain in your muscles, it’s a sign that you need to take a break. Check to make sure you are using any equipment correctly and assess if you are lifting and/or carrying correctly. Make sure you are staying adequately hydrated, especially in hot weather, as even mild dehydration can affect your muscles. Water is the best way to stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol as it will contribute to dehydration.

If you start to feel any pain, STOP working! Sit down and apply ice to the affected area. Ice will help take down any swelling, it helps numb the pain, and encourages increased blood flow to the area. If you don’t have an ice pack, a bag of peas is a great substitute as it will conform to the shape of the area, particularly if there is neck pain. Because the muscles in the back are large you can ice for up to 60 minutes. Make sure you do not put ice directly on your skin. An ice pack or a ziplock bag with ice will work.

Low back pain is one of the the most common results of improper use of equipment, over working, improper lifting and carrying techniques, etc. when doing yard work or gardening. If you are still in pain after a day or two, make an appointment to see your chiropractor to make sure you have not moved a bone or joint out of position. Dr. Alexander has helped 1,000’s of people get back pain relief.

Happy Gardening!

The post How to Avoid Back Pain While Gardening appeared first on Whole Life Health & Injury Center.

The Definition of an Allergy

In its most basic definition, an allergy is an overreaction by the immune system to a substance that would normally be considered a neutral substance to the body and not cause any reaction.

Why the Increase in Allergies?

Modern life assaults our bodies from without as well as within.  We are exposed to chemicals in the air we breathe, the water we drink and food we eat. 

Consider this.  At the turn of the last century bread making required only whole grains, water, butter, baker’s yeast and a little sweetener to help the yeast rise.  Today a modern loaf of bread may contain more than 100  different ingredients, including preservatives, coloring agents, insecticides, pesticides and fungicides, as well as chemical residues from various packaging and cleaning procedures.  These can sensitize an immune system and cause us to react negatively to many other substances. 

Our bodies are still biologically programmed to reside in a much simpler environment.  Is it any wonder that the number of people complaining of allergic reactions has increased dramatically.

What are Other Symptoms of Allergies?

Besides the common symptoms of sneezing, watery eyes, hives and itchy skin, the next most common symptoms allergic people can experience are:

• dizziness

• queasiness
• cramps
• diarrhea
• vomiting
• a tingling sensation in their mouth
• swelling of their tongue or face

In the most extreme situations, allergies can result in anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction marked by constriction of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing. In severe cases it may cause swelling of the throat that completely blocks the airway.

But allergies can also be the root cause for a wide range of ailments not usually associated with allergies.  These include issues such as:

• Gastrointestinal problems like indigestion, constipation, ulcers, etc
• Headaches
• Backaches
• Arthritis
• Brain symptoms like brain fog, depression, attention-deficit disorders
• Skin problems such as boils, slow healing wounds, eczema, etc.
• Kidney and bladder infections

Traditional Methods of Dealing with Allergies

Traditional Western medicine regularly recommends taking over-the-counter antihistamines and/or decongestants to address any symptoms short term as a first resort to common allergy reactions.

The next step is trying to identify the offending allergens.  (Allergens: those elements that cause a negative allergic reaction).  This is typically done through skin scratch tests where small amounts of various substances are scratched into your skin with a needle to see if there is a reaction. 

If a food allergy is suspected there are two approaches.  One is a blood test which has mixed reviews on how reliable they are.  The usual recommendation is to do an elimination diet where you cut foods out of your diet and then introduce them back one a time to try to determine what’s bothering you.  That is usually a very time consuming and frustrating process that may or may not identify what’s bothering you.  This elimination approach may also be used for other types of issues.

Once allergens have been identified allergy shots are typically prescribed.  This involves injecting small amounts of the offending substances and work by gradually exposing your immune system to the specific substances you’re allergic to.  The intent is to train your body not to react or cause symptoms.  This process can require regular doctor visit over several years. 

What are Alternative Allergy Treatments

Some treatments people have tried are:

• Herbal supplements that act as natural antihistamines or decongestants
• Acupuncture and/or chiropractic
• Nasal saline using a Neti pot to clear allergens from the nose
• Using a variety of essential oils
• NAET

What is NAET

NAET is a very successful and non-conventional way to address allergies.  This approach was developed by Dr. Devi Namburdripad looking for a way to overcome her own serious allergic reactions to foods.  Per the ncbi.nln.nih.gov*… NAET is a non-invasive, drug-free, holistic treatment, based on a combination of knowledge and techniques borrowing from Western medicine (allopathic) and traditional Oriental medicine (e.g. chiropractic, kinesiology, and acupuncture).

Dr. Ray Alexander at the Whole Life Health Center has been practicing NAET for over 25 years and has helped 1,000’s of patients find relief from their allergy symptoms.

Call our office if you are suffering from allergies. Dr. Alexander offers a FREE phone consultation or to schedule a full evaluation.

Testimonials

Here are some of their testimonials on the effectiveness of NAET:

“As a child I was always sick…As a young adult I continued to have many of the same problems. Twelve years ago, I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I have had sinus surgery twice. A year ago I was sick all the time.. My daughter-in-law heard about NAET treaments and sent me the information that she located on the internet.  I started to see Dr. Alexander soon afatern.  That was a year ago.  I cannot believe how much better I feel”.  Marilyn J. – Lawrenceville, Ga

Two ears ago I could eat almost nothing without my skin turnng bright red. I itched all over. I dreaded eating. After being treated for my food allergies with NAET, I can eat anything I want. I am so grateful! I have energy to do thing I enjoy, such as walking, stretching. I even have enough energy to ice skate, which I began seven months ago. People I know have noticed my increased energy. It was a long haul, but Imade it! Thank you so much, Dr. Alexander and office staff. Stephen McM – Lilburn, Ga.

“I started NAET about 6 months ago.   The difference in how I feel is amazing.  After being diagnosed with chronic fatigue, fibyromyalgia, interstitial cystitis, irritable bowel, extensive food and environmental allergies, etc. and going from doctor to doctor I finally turned it over to Dr. Alexander.  This was the best decision that I have made towards recovery in life.” Joan M. – Lawrenceville, Ga.

• ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. The National Center for BiotechnologyInformation (NCBI) is part of the United States National Library of Medicine (NLM), a branch of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It is approved and funded by the government of the United States

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“I was thinking about calling you a couple months ago.  I had this horrible pain down my left arm and then I started to feel pain and a tingling sensation in my elbow.  When my fingers started to feel tingly and kind of numb I was convinced I must be having a heart attack.  I went to the emergency room and was relieved to find out it wasn’t a heart attack but they had no idea what it could be.  I went to see a neurologist, an orthopedist, an internist, etc.  They did all these different tests; blood tests, MRIs, CAT scans, etc.  I spent tons of time and money and no one could figure out the problem.  They gave me pain killers and muscle relaxants but nothing worked.  I wasn’t able to sleep.  It was awful.  Finally, I went to a local chiropractor.  Do you know what it was?  I had a “pinched” nerve in my neck.  After doing some traction and a few adjustments the pain, tingling, and numbness were gone!” Her last comment…”I should have called you right away!!  It would have saved me a lot in pain & suffering, time, and money!”

It’s common for us to leap to the worst case scenario when we have unexplained pain.  And I cannot stress enough  that if you ever even suspect you may be  having a heart attack, go to the emergency room IMMEDIATELY or call 911.  If it is a heart attack, minutes count.

The question then is, why would you go to a Chiropractor if you have tingling and/or numbness in your elbow or fingers, or if you have a pain running down your arm?  The answer is because more often than not that pain, tingling, or numbness is caused by a nerve that is being irritated or pressed on in some way.  This is often referred to as a “pinched” nerve.  While a true pinched nerve, or compression lesion, is rare (causing only between 10-15% of spine related problems), the term “pinched” nerve is commonly  used because it is a descriptive way of explaining what occurs.

An easy way to picture what is happening is to think of your nerves as being like microscopic garden hoses.  Messages between your brain and all parts of your body run smoothly through this “hose”.  Just as the flow of water slows or stops if you “pinch” a garden hose, so does the flow of information to and from your brain slow or stop.  This results in pain, tingling, and/or numbness.

One of the most  common areas for nerves to get “pinched” is the neck. Another common site is in the carpal tunnel.  This is an area in the wrist that all finger flexor tendons and the median nerve pass through.  The brain cannot distinguish between the beginning, middle, or end of the nerve.  It only registers that it is not receiving a signal from the hand, therefore the hand is where the tingly or numbness are found.

“Pinched” nerves can be caused by a herniated disc, bone spurs, or joint disease, but are most usually caused by nerve tissues irritated by the rubbing, stretching, or scraping of spinal joints (vertebra) that are out of place or alignment.  The initial irritation can be caused by such things as falls, car accidents, improper lifting, poor posture, sports injuries, sitting too long, repetitive work, sudden or violent movement, chemical exposure, emotional stress, or lack of exercise.  In the case of Carpal Tunnel the nerves usually get irritated because of a repetitive motion that causes the nerve to be rubbed over and over again in the same place.

By adjusting or returning the vertebrae in the neck to their proper position, chiropractic can relieve the pressure that is irritating the nerve.  Chiropractic manipulation of the wrist, elbow, and sometimes the upper back can relieve the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.  Several studies have shown chiropractic is just as effective as conventional medicine in the treatment of Carpal Tunnel without the need for injections or surgery.

Typically if the “pinched” nerve is in the neck the pain/tingling/numbness will be felt on the outside of the hand.  With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome the index and middle fingers, and sometimes the thumb are affected.

If you, or someone you know, experiences pain, tingling, or numbness is your arm, elbow, hand, fingers, etc., try Chiropractic first.  You could save thousands of dollars, hours of time, and the agony of uncertainty!

Call our office for a Chiropractic evaluation if you or anyone you know is experiencing ongoing arm, elbow, hand, or finger pain, tingling and/or numbness.

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The issue of bone and joint health is so important and yet so ignored that the years 2000-2010 were declared the Bone and Joint Decade.  One of the key goals  of that initiative was to raise awareness of the increasing societal impact of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders.  The cost in the U.S. alone is estimated to be $254 BILLION and is the leading cause of disability in our country.  Over 35 million people, or 1 in 7, will be affected by some form of musculoskeletal problem.

There are 8 key joint areas in your body: neck, spine, shoulders, arms/elbows, hands, hips, knees, and leg/foot.  Each of these areas can suffer from arthritis or other diseases or injuries.  Here are some of the most common injuries.

NECK: 

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries, and while usually associated with auto accidents, it can occur whenever the head is forcibly thrown forward and then backward.  Symptoms include neck pain/stiffness, headaches, pain in the shoulders or low back, pain, tingling or numbness in the arm/hand, dizziness, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, difficulty sleeping/concentrating/remembering, or irritability/fatigue.  If you have any sort of accident where you suspect whiplash it is important to have it checked as soon as possible.  Most whiplash injuries do not show up on a regular x-ray and emergency room personnel are not trained to identify these injuries.  A chiropractor is specially trained to diagnose and treat whiplash injuries.

SPINE: 

Strain and sprains to the low back.  These can be caused by improper sitting or lifting, over-exertion or trauma.  In some cases this can lead to a bulging disk which can result in numbness, tingling, or pain down the leg.  Many studies have shown chiropractic to be the best treatment for low back pain.  Through adjustments and proper exercise, you can ease the pain and, in extreme cases, avoid surgery.

SHOULDERS, ELBOWS, KNEES: 

Injuries to these joints are usually caused by sports activities.  Those that involve overhead motion, eg. swimming, tennis, pitching  cause repetitive strain on the shoulder.  Tennis or golf elbow can cause pain to radiate down the arm.  Tine tears in the tendons cause them to become swollen and sore.  Injuries to the ligaments and cartilage are the most common form of knee injuries.  ?The best prevention is to know your limits.  If you start to feel discomfort, discontinue the activities for a while and put ice on the affected area.  If the pain continues or increases, seek medical or chiropractic care.

HIPS:  

Broken hips are actually a fracture of the leg bone just below the hip joint.  Osteoporosis is the leading cause of this injury in a fall.  Engage in weight bearing exercise like walking and get plenty of calcium (we recommend MCHC calcium supplements) to keep  bones healthy and strong.

WRISTS/HANDS: 

Repetitive motion and vibrations can lead to nerve pain known as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.  By relieving the pressure on the nerve, chiropractic can be a conservative approach to this problem , without the need for drugs or surgery.

While these injuries are caused by diverse means, there are some common ways  to limit them.  Keep your muscles strong, don’t overdo your activities whether they are sports or chores, make sure to get enough calcium to keep your bones strong, bend your knees when lifting or ask for help, and stop when you feel discomfort.  For pain and/or swelling first try ice therapy.  If that doesn’t help and you experience intense pain or pain that doesn’t subside in a couple of days, check with us for recommendations or seek medical care.

The post This Condition Will Effect 1 Out of 7 People This Year, Could You Be One of Them? appeared first on Whole Life Health & Injury Center.

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