For some people, winter means outdoor fun. Snowboarding, skiing, tobogganing, snowmobiling, hockey, ice-skating, or other cold-weather activity dominates their leisure time.

Still, various injuries can occur from outdoor sports, and the recovery can be lengthy. Here are some of the more common problems that tend to take place.

• Rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff is made up of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. A tear or impingement can result in significant pain, limited range of motion, swelling, and sleeping difficulties. A chiropractor often addresses this type of injury with ice, massage, short-term immobilization, stretching, exercise, and/or adjustments. Naturally, the stage of the recovery will determine the appropriate treatment.
• Knee injury. Knees take a lot of grief because they are crucial weight bearing joints. In fact, they rely heavily on surrounding tendons and muscles for strength and steadiness. Following a thorough analysis to determine the nature of the injury, a chiropractor will typically approach pain and inflammation by leg bracing, icing, cold laser treatment, massage, exercise, and/or adjustments. A common result? Stronger knees!
• Whiplash. Some people think whiplash occurs only in a car, but any fast-paced situation can whip the head back and forth. Naturally, the neck can sustain harm from this type of motion. The effects of whiplash may be felt immediately, but sometimes it takes days for the problem to surface. Whiplash severity varies from one individual to another; consequently, treatment is personalized to individual findings. Nonetheless, therapy often includes spinal manipulation, massage, and/or adjustments.
• Head injury. Head injuries are always considered serious and should be addressed immediately by emergency personnel. It is imperative to carry out the proper tests to rule out life-threatening conditions like fractures, swelling of the brain, and concussion. Once it has been determined the situation is treatable outside a hospital setting, a chiropractor can evaluate the injury and propose a course of therapy.

Yes, winter spells p-l-e-a-s-u-r-e for certain individuals. Even so, it is important to keep in mind that cold-weather sports can result in injury, especially when muscles are insufficiently prepared to engage in the activity.

Dr. Cao successfully treats many sports injuries, but she also teaches important strengthening techniques to help prevent future problems. So, call 508-752-5150 today and start feeling stronger!

Most of us hope to begin a New Year with resolutions that reap rewards.  So, in honor of 2012, here are some suggestions to consider:

• Sit/stand properly.  Some people assume a hunched position when standing, walking, or sitting.  Yet, poor posture can lead to painful consequences.  Therefore, try to keep your shoulders back, neck erect, and head high.  When muscles in this area develop imbalances, spinal problems can occur.

• Hydrate with water.  Certain individuals consume sugary drinks and believe they are adequately fulfilling their fluid requirements.  However, liquids such as these are unhealthy for a number of reasons.  Consequently, substitute a glass of purified water for one of the beverages.  As you grow comfortable with this routine, gradually increase your water intake until all sweetened drinks (e.g., soda) are no longer desirable.  It may take a little while to accomplish this resolution, but once you do, soda will be a distant memory.

• Commit to exercise. This to-do has been mentioned before, but it deserves repeating.  Cardio workouts such as treadmill walking and gentle aerobics are beneficial because they support the heart and encourage weight control.  Weight lifting builds muscle and helps the body maintain strength.  Stretching increases motion range and works to enhance flexibility.  Yoga and Pilates improve balance, boost mental clarity, and help prevent injuries.  In sum, properly performed exercise is great for the body and mind!  NOTE: Do not begin a workout routine without doctor approval.

• Schedule regular adjustments. Chiropractic adjustments counteract misalignment’s.  This encourages an enhanced nervous system, improves space in the joint and spinal areas, and results in fewer painful episodes.  Naturally, adjustment frequency is based on an individual’s needs.  Dr. Cao can determine the schedule that is best for you.

• Take good-quality supplements.  A fair number of people eat only what they like; subsequently, they do not get the required amount of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.  Because of this, high-quality supplements, particularly ones rich in whole foods, can be quite beneficial. When searching for a product, make certain to read the list of ingredients and choose one that is plentiful in antioxidants.

We’ve all heard it said, “New Year’s resolutions are meant to be broken.”  Okay, sometimes they are broken.   Nonetheless, if we try our best and fail, it makes no sense to stress about the situation.

Why?  We can always try again, and the next time we may meet with greater success.   It is only when we don’t try that we cannot accomplish our goals.

So, with that thought in mind, good luck and Happy New Year

Arthritis is a painful condition that affects the joints. There are different types of this debilitating illness; for example, inflammatory forms like rheumatoid arthritis are rooted in auto immune conditions and can surface at younger ages. In this situation, the immune system malfunctions and wears away at the cartilage surrounding the bone.

Osteoarthritis, amore common type of arthritis, takes place over time and tends to be the result of wear and tear. This kind of frequently occurs in more advanced years.

All types of arthritis, nonetheless, can be damaging. Because of this, employment can become disrupted, and normal activities can grow considerably limited. In fact, arthritis is a major cause of disability in the United States, commonly because of the stiffness and pain it causes. And, since arthritis can negatively impact an individual’sway of life, it can spur on depression, anxiety, and heightened stress, as well.

Chiropractic care is an effective treatment for arthritis symptoms. Adjustments work to restore alignment, and this correction often results in improved flexibility, better range of motion, enhanced joint mobility, and inflammation reduction. It’s important to mention that chiropractic care typically cannot cure arthritis, but it can diminish its devastating effects so that more normal activities can be resumed. Infact, research has indicated that this natural treatment has resulted in an impressive reduction of arthritis pain and stiffness. Furthermore, when used with other therapies like a sound nutrition program, exercise regimen,and appropriate supplements, the improvements can be dramatic!

Arthritis causing you pain? Then schedule an appointment with Healing Hands Chiropractic Care and get on a more comfortable road.

The last couple of times we focused on various foot problems that affect senior feet; this week we will end the series with a few tips to help prevent certain conditions from taking place.  Here are some thoughts.

• Wear comfortable shoes. Wearing shoes that have appropriate support, a low heel, and ample room (especially in the big toe area) can make a significant impact on foot health.  Pointy shoes or ones that pinch are particularly hard on feet.  Naturally, there will be occasions when many of us deviate from the ideal.  For the rest of the time, however, the right shoes can be the difference between foot pain and foot happiness.  Thus, try to keep utility in mind when you go on your shopping adventures.

• Regularly check foot size.  Believe it or not, our feet can change in size as we grow older.  For example, people with bunions  tend to realize a wider toe joint area.  Subsequently, shoes that once fit wonderfully may no longer be wearable.  At the same time, a number of individuals have different-sized feet.  For example, one foot may slip perfectly in a size 7 shoe, where the other foot needs a 7 ½ to feel comfy.  Independent of purchasing two different sizes, it is best to go with the larger size.  You can always buy inserts to make the bigger shoe feel smaller, but you can’t make a smaller shoe bigger (although shoe stretchers might help).

• Keep feet clean and dry. It is important to keep your feet clean and devoid of moisture when you put on your shoes (a mild soap is best).  You may even want to use an antifungal foot powder if your feet get sweaty.  If they still perspire, then consider implementing the wash/dry process more than once a day.  Fungal and bacterial infections nourish off of sweaty, warm places.  In the evening when shoes come off, it might make sense to rub an all-natural moisturizing lotion on the skin (so feet do not become cracked and dry).

• Trim toenails.  Long toenails can result in multiple problems.  What could occur?  They can curl over or under, become embedded under the skin, cause shoes to feel tight, result in infections, and ruin just about every pair of socks you own.  Subsequently, regularly trim toenails.  Nonetheless, you don’t want to cut them excessively short because sores may occur.  If toenails seem too thick to address on your own, regular visits with a podiatrist or other foot specialist can help ensure they remain at the proper length.

Foot health is extremely important because we depend on our feet to get us around.  Proper care encourages comfort and well-being in so many ways!

Scoliosis is a deformity characterized by an abnormal curve or curves in the spine.  Sometimes the defect is noticeable, but occasionally it is not visible to the naked eye.  The insidious nature of this potentially debilitating condition is that not only does the backbone curve, but sometimes the spine itself can rotate.  When this occurs, the twisted area becomes asymmetrical.  For example, certain people with thoracic scoliosis have one-sided shoulder blade/rib protrusion while the opposite side pushes inward.

Scoliosis is more prevalent in females and may be an inherited disorder, idiopathic (meaning the cause is unknown), functional (meaning the deformity occurred secondary to another problem in the body), or even the result on illness or injury; most times it is considered idiopathic.  It can be detected at almost any age, but many times it is diagnosed in adolescence.  Measurable growth typically occurs at this stage, so skeletal abnormalities are more likely to become visible.

Treating scoliosis is dependant on different factors.  For example, some people have minor curves that do not cause pain; in this situation, a wait and see approach might be reasonable.  Others have slight to moderate curves that affect their daily lives; in this situation, treatment is warranted.  Regrettably, extreme cases can manifest gross deformities and have the potential to impact internal organs; in this situation, surgery is an option.  Almost all abnormal curves result in some degree of height loss.  Naturally, the greater the curve measurement, the more substantial the loss will be.

Chiropractic care has realized impressive results in addressing scoliosis, particularly in young people.  One such example is of a young man who had a 21 degree curve.  During several months of treatment, his curve corrected and he grew several inches.  A common goal is to stop progression; nonetheless, some patients have achieved complete correction!  Chiropractic care is an effective method in treating a number of scoliosis cases.

How can you tell if a loved one has scoliosis?  X-rays are often the preferred diagnostic tool.  Still, there less sophisticated ways that could help determine if a problem exists. One suggestion is to have the suspected person bend over to touch his/her toes.  If one side of the back appears elevated, then scoliosis might be present.  Other indications are uneven hips, slanted shoulders, and unequal leg lengths.  Early recognition is important in treating abnormal curves; the sooner the problem is addressed, the greater the possibility the condition will not progress to more serious levels.

If you fear a child or family member has scoliosis, make an appointment with Healing Hand Chiropractic Care today.  Our office will conduct a thorough assessment and recommend the most effective therapy for the respective situation.  Naturally, no two cases are exactly alike, but chiropractic treatments have helped certain scoliosis sufferers avoid painful and costly surgery.

Hmm, now that’s something that can help everyone stand taller!

Many thoughts rush through our minds as the holidays approach.  And, during this hectic period, we sometimes confront stress and fatigue instead of comfort and joy.  Since this festive season is meant to be happy, here are a few tips to reduce anxiety.

• Remember to exercise. When we deviate from our normal schedule, exercise is occasionally put on the back burner.  However, regular exercise has multiple benefits, and relief from stress is one of them.  Consequently, be sure to work out as regularly as possible.  Naturally, if you miss one session, it’s not going to upset your overall routine.  Yet, if you become accustomed to forgoing workouts, it will be more difficult to get back into the groove, and you could find yourself with increased angst.

• Party sensibly.  Mostly everyone indulges at some level during the holidays; actually, it’s part of the fun!  Nonetheless, try to keep food indulgences at acceptable levels.  For example, if the office is celebrating with a potluck lunch, perhaps try a little bit of everything you think you might like, but don’t go back for seconds.  Sometimes it’s the second and third helpings that add on the pounds.

• Limit certain drinks. Yes, wine, martinis, cosmos, coffee drinks, eggnog, beer, and other tasty liquids seem to go down considerably more smoothly during celebratory times.  Still, when we overdo it, our bodies pay the price.  Because of this, make a concerted effort to sip drinks instead of downing them too quickly.  What should we do if we’ve reached our limit and still desire something wet?  Purified water is a great choice!  Actually, this fluid should be consumed throughout the day.

• Plan ahead.  Occasionally it feels as though there are not enough hours in the day.  With parties, shopping, cooking, wrapping, and everything else we have to do, these feelings seem to magnify during the holidays.  Therefore, plan ahead.  Maybe start shopping and/or wrapping early, cook leisurely and freeze certain items, and then have fun when it comes time to enjoy.  When we properly plan, we are less apt to feel overwhelmed.

• Amend fatty ingredients. Perhaps you’re in charge of preparing multiple high-calorie dishes.  If this is the case, then consider cutting back on some of the fat.  For instance, use low fat ricotta instead of the whole milk variety in your lasagna or stuffed shells; the dish will still be wonderful.  Or, use unsweetened applesauce for half of the butter measure in homemade cakes and cookies; they’ll be yummy, anyway.  Or, use whole grain crackers, whole grain breads, whole grain pasta, and whole grain rice when making appetizers, stuffing, meals, and desserts.  Whole grains are considerably more wholesome, and they’re less likely to make you feel overstuffed.

The above are a few thoughts to limit stress during the holidays.  Even so, if tension still finds you, schedule an appointment with Healing Hands Chiropractic Care.  An adjustment or therapeutic massage could be just what you need to feel better!

Therapeutic Massage Therapy is a hands-on technique that leaves the body renewed and revitalized.  Undeniably, the treatments are relaxing, comforting, and soothing.  But is physical enjoyment the only advantage to this ancient practice?  Absolutely not!  Therapeutic massage has multiple benefits.  Let’s look at a few.

• Circulation Enhancer.  Therapeutic massage enhances blood circulation; an improved circulatory system assists the body in ridding harmful toxins.  At the same time, nutrient are better absorbed, oxygen in the blood increases, infection-fighting cells become better able to do their job, headaches ease, skin elasticity improves, muscles become stimulated, and even high blood pressure may decrease to more manageable levels.  In short, therapeutic massage supports a healthy immune system!

• Helps Depression.  Depression is a serious condition that warrants immediate medical attention.  A qualified doctor specializing in this area (i.e., a psychiatrist and/or psychotherapist) should be the first line of therapy.  Nonetheless, massage therapy is a wonderful complement to other treatments.  Why?  It aids nighttime sleep, heightens concentration, decreases anxiety, increases energy, reduces fatigue, improves alertness, promotes calm, and augments overall contentment.

• Stress Release.  Assorted studies have suggested that massage therapy is a wonderful stress releaser and anxiety reducer.  Individuals who suffer a loss of some type, experience problems at work, fret over academic classes, care for loved ones, seem overwhelmed by challenges, and suffer from illness often experience a reduction in stress/tension symptoms following massage therapy.  In fact, medical school researchers in top facilities have suggested that nearly 90% of doctors’ visits in the family practice environment are attributable in one way or another to stress.  If stress does encourage assorted ailments, then the regular use of therapeutic massage decreases the odds.

• Pain reliever.  Therapeutic massage has been shown to ease the strain and pressure associated with certain musculoskeletal conditions.  Lower back pain reduces, neck and shoulder stiffness ease, spasms decrease, and muscles relax.  In fact, the more frequent the treatments take place (e.g., monthly, weekly), the greater the benefits.  Even individuals suffering from chronic joint pain often realize a reduction in symptoms.  An added bonus?  Flexibility and range of motion improve.

Multiple studies have indicated that therapeutic massage is extremely beneficial for many different conditions.  Premature infants perform better when massaged and even autistic children realize fewer unpredictable episodes.

Healing Hand Chiropractic Care integrates therapeutic massage as part of our wholistic wellness program.  Regular implementation of this invaluable ancient practice will not only enhance your pampering pleasure but improve your health picture, as well.

The snow is here, and skiing and snowboarding are in full swing.  In fact, many people rush off with the entire family every opportunity they get to revel in these exciting activities.  Still, there are some precautionary steps every sports enthusiast should take to help prevent injuries.  Let’s look at a couple.

• Conditioning: Preparing beforehand is extremely important when participating in almost any activity; however, some individuals negate this essential step.  What muscle groups should be worked?  Actually, all areas are significant.  Nonetheless, the legs hold up the body, so strength exercises that augment leg muscles are important when preparing for skiing or snowboarding.  Back and abdominal muscles lend to posture and balance, so workouts that incorporate stretching and strengthening in these areas foster a strong core.  Even buttock muscle should be targeted to contribute to stamina and endurance.  Being in fine physical shape makes you feel healthier and helps circumvent mishaps at the same time.  (And don't forget pre-slope warm-ups, they really make a difference!).

• Proper Equipment: Some people head out the door with ill-fitting equipment: and that can spell TROUBLE, particularly on various joints.  Boots that are too high, loose, or tight can sabotage the efforts of even the most seasoned of skiers and snowboarders.  Concurrently, bindings that do not allow for the right amount of flexibility/maneuvering might also be a problem.  And, naturally, skis need to be sized correctly to allow for optimal stability and performance.  Some individuals choose ski or snowboard equipment just because it feels okay, but this approach can result in diminished success and potential injury.  Therefore, it always makes sense to incorporate the expertise of a professional when choosing outdoor gear.

Special Notes:

1. Keep in mind that most equipment requires periodic tune-ups.
2. Ski and snowboard helmets help prevent head injuries.
3. It is unwise to embark on any activity level that you are inadequately prepared to confront (e.g., Black Diamond Slope).

Well, you've done everything you can and still have aches?  Healing Hands Chiropractic Care is here to help.  Our staff not only works to improve range of motion and reduce pain, but we can also provide valuable instruction on how to successfully ready your body for activity.

So, as you brave the cold this winter season, be sure to properly prepare, and Happy Skiing!

Spinal stenosis is an abnormality characterized by a narrowing in the area between the vertebrae, the canals (areas where nerves branch from the spine), or the spinal region; pain is a classic symptom.  The condition tends to be more common in older people.  Nonetheless, even individuals in their 30’s or 40’s can become affected.  A main reason people over 50 are more susceptible to the condition is because the potential for skeletal degeneration increases as we age.  Arthritis, bone spurs, and thickened spinal tissue may all contribute to spinal stenosis.

Even though people in advanced years are more apt to have this problem, as mentioned earlier, younger individuals can also be afflicted.  When this happens, congenital reasons may be to blame.  For example, some younger sufferers could have had an unusually small spinal column at birth or curves in the spine.  Non-congenital reasons for the condition in people under 50 include injury or disease.

Does spinal stenosis always produce symptoms?  No.  Individuals in the earlier stages may not experience anything troublesome and only discover the condition after tests were run for other reasons.  When symptoms do appear, they usually begin as back and/or limb pain, buttock discomfort, and leg or arm numbness.  Some people with narrowing in the lumbar region may have difficulty controlling their bladder and/or bowels.

How is spinal stenosis diagnosed?  Usually by CAT scan, MRI, or X-rays.

How is it treated?  There are several ways to approach this condition.  Conservative therapies are often preferred.

How can chiropractic care help?  Non-invasive chiropractic treatments have shown impressive results with mild to moderate spinal stenosis.  A combination of stretching and manipulation help to decrease pain and improve flexibility.  In more challenging situations, traction devices may also be used.  Increasing the vertebrae space often results in decreased pressure on the surrounding nerves, thus pain reduction.  Once discomfort is minimized, strategic exercises help maintain the positive changes.  Even Western medicine has recognized the benefits of chiropractic care when attacking spinal stenosis.

So, if you are feeling pain, whether it be due to spinal stenosis or a number of other conditions, schedule an appointment with Healing Hands and start healing!

Our feet mean so much more to us than we realize.  They bear the brunt of our weight, are instrumental in keeping us balanced, and help us get around.

How do they accomplish all of this?  Well, each foot has a medley of tendons, muscles, ligaments, and, not to mention, twenty-six bones and thirty-three joints.  In essence, feet have an important job when it comes to our comfort and well-being.

Unfortunately, as we become older, the likelihood of foot problems tends to increase.  Years of stress and sometimes even abuse can take a toll on this pivotal body part.

What are some troubles that occur?  Here are a few.

• Fungal Infections.  Fungal infections may present themselves in the form of dry, patchy spots, blistering, red areas, itchiness, and other unsightly or uncomfortable manifestations.  Feet are susceptible to this type of condition because they spend so much time enclosed.  Fungus typically needs moisture to grow, so sweaty, warm shoes provide an optimal environment.  If you believe you have a fungal infection, go toe to toe with the issue and see your doctor; it’s very important to stop this problem before it spreads.

• Ingrown toenails.  Ingrown toenails are relatively common.  The situation occurs when the periphery of a nail grows under the skin.  As this happens, the toenail becomes increasingly more difficult to remove.  Naturally, the affected toe is often painful.  Don't drag your feet on this one, it is best to see a podiatrist as soon as you notice the condition; he/she will be better able to cut the nail with minimal damage.  If you take matters into your own hands, you could end up injuring the surrounding skin (and infection might set in).

• Corns and calluses.  Corns and calluses are thickening tissue.  This takes place when toe joints or other parts of the feet consistently rub against something (in this case, footwear).  Corns and calluses may or may not be painful.  A podiatrist or other medical professional educated in foot care can shave the area so it becomes smoother.  Even so, if the underlying problem causing the friction is not addressed, the condition may recur.  Sometimes fancy footwork, like shoe orthotics, can help.

• Edema.  Edema is fluid retention.  This may happen in different parts of the body but often occurs in the feet, ankles, and lower legs.  When the feet are affected, shoes may feel too small or could become difficult to wear.  The reasons for edema are varied and could include too much salt in the diet, diuretic use, injury, varicose veins, and even heart, liver, and kidney problems.  Because of this, see your doctor if your feet are swelling.  Once the cause and treatment plan have been determined, then supplemental remedies, like limiting salt use, elevating the feet, and wearing supportive stockings, may be wise.

Next week we will look at another common foot problem that affects a fair number of seniors: bunions.  But until then, put your best foot forward and enjoy the summer!