F = M x A (??-Remember this?)

Photo by E. Quinn: High Sierra Meadow

F = M x A 

Remember that formula you learned in high school physics, “Force is equal to Mass times Acceleration (F = M X A)?” This is the basis of the effectiveness of the Activator adjusting instrument. A hand-held tool that delivers a metered impact in less than 3/10 of a second, the Activator instrument creates sufficient force (F) to precisely re-position, or adjust, bones, because of its high acceleration (A). The patient, however, doesn’t feel the adjustment as forceful, because it is so quick. Just a quick but firm “tap” in the right place by a trained Activator Chiropractor makes the adjustment, relieves pain, and restores equilibrium to the affected joint.

Hip Replacement

Photo by E. Quinn: High Sierra Wildflower Garden

Hip Replacement

As they heal from hip replacement surgery, patients often come in with pelvic or low back discomfort. The repaired hip is relieved from long - standing pain in the affected joint, but post- surgery gait disturbances inevitably happen while the hip is healing. Gait disturbances have a destabilizing effect on the pelvis, often reverberating to the lumbar spine. Activator chiropractic offers gentle, corrective support and relief.

Texting Syndrome

Photo by E. Quinn: Pywiack Dome, across Tenaya Lake, Yosemite High Country, Yosemite National Park, CA

Texting Syndrome

More patients are coming in now with hand soreness and pain, often localized in the middle joint of the thumb, at the base of the thumb, or in the muscles that join the thumb to the hand. It’s no surprise that these parts are being overworked by frequent texting. I’ve noticed that the rate and intensity with which some texting is done is pretty amazing. Texting syndrome may soon surpass carpal tunnel syndrome in the litany of hand complaints. Be kind to your hands! 

Simple Strengthening For the Low Back

Strengthening the muscles that support the low back is an essential part of relieving low back pain and keeping a healthy, resilient, less vulnerable low back. Sometimes physical therapy is prescribed, and can be very helpful. However, when the underlying framework---your bones and joints---is skewed, or out of proper alignment, exercising will be less effective. Before beginning an exercise regimen, it is important to get your frame checked and balanced. This is my specialty, as an Advanced Proficiency Rated Activator Chiropractor. I then show patients simple strengthening exercises to help their adjustments hold and lessen the vulnerability of their low back.   

MSG---Just Say "NO!"

Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavor enhancer commonly added to many fast foods, canned & processed foods, salad dressings, bouillon cubes, seasonings, etc., is an excitotoxin which can over-stimulate the heart, be a trigger for migraine headaches, and has been associated with facial pressure or tightness and paresthesias such as burning, tingling, or numbness. Some people react to it more strongly than others. It is definitely wise to avoid if you are a migraine sufferer. 

How Well - Educated is Your Doctor of Chiropractic?

The D.C. (Doctor of Chiropractic) is a 4 - year doctoral degree. Prerequisite for entry into the doctoral program, most chiropractic colleges require an undergraduate degree with rigorous science training in Anatomy, Biochemistry, Embryology, Microbiology, Physics, Physiology, Mathematics, and Statistics, virtually identical to the basic science requirements for entry into medical school. After being admitted to a  chiropractic college, science training continues with Neuroscience, Physiology, Pathology, Clinical Medicine, and Physical & Differential Diagnosis. During the final 2 years of a 4 - year professional program, chiropractic education specializes in Musculoskeletal Conditions and Diagnosis, with a full year of Clinical Internship under the supervision of licensed D.C.’s, whereas in medical schools, specialization becomes directed more into Pharmacology and Surgery.

Enthesopathy---What Is It?

Tenderness or soreness in the area where a tendon attaches to bone is called “enthesopathy.” It is a specific part of a musculoskeletal diagnosis, and may extend the time needed for a condition to heal. Some insurances, including Medicare, may allow additional treatment to resolve the problem.