Monthly Archives: April 2010

Burner Syndrome is more common than you think!

April 26, 2010

This injury is most common with football players but it can happen with anyone who falls onto their shoulder pushing their head to the opposite side of their body.  It can also occur when people stretch their neck muscles and nerves beyond their capacity.  Symptoms of burning or stinging pain in the shoulder or neck occurs.  It is often followed by pain which may radiate down to the arm or hand.  Numbness and weakness of the shoulder or arm may happen immediately or over time.

Treatment begins with icing the injury if there is edema and muscle therapy is begun after the swelling is down.  Low force chiropractic adjustments are greatly helpful and Sound Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy (S.A.S.T.M.) can improve movement of the neck and decrease the affects of scar tissue after the injury.

It is important to start rehabilitation quickly in order to keep motion in the neck and prevent stiffness which will make for a slower recovery.   Exercise programs to improve strength and flexibility are administered once the body is stable.

At Precise Moves Chiropractic we are very successful with burner syndrome and numerous sports injuries.  If you have hurt yourself, have limited motion or are not functioning at the level you would like, give us a call…we can help!

By Dr. Amie Gregory | Posted in San Carlos California | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Comments (0)

6 tips for managing Ankylosing Spondylitis

April 24, 2010

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?

Ankylosing Spondylitis (“AS”) is also known as Mari Struempell disease or Bechterew’s disease.  This is an inflammatory arthritis that results in fusion of the spine, pelvis and sacral joints.  It can affect other joints in the body as well.  Spondylitis is defined as inflammation of the joints of the body.   When AS forms on bones, it begins to grow more bone and eventually fuse the joints together causing pain, stiffness and decreased movement in the body.

Symptoms:

Joint pain in the low back is the most common symptom but may be ignored and called “growing pains” because signs and symptoms can occur at 15 years of age or younger.  Other symptoms are

1. Stiffness especially in the morning in the Sacroiliac joint and spine,
2. Aches in low back which interrupt sleep
3. Pain that goes down the legs and groin area
4. Pain in the morning, after waking up
5. Aches in buttock, neck, shoulders, hips and upper back
6. Weight loss and fatigue
7. Eye inflammation, heart, lung, nervous system, bowel dysfunction
8. An increase of the curve of the thoracic spine may occur.

What can be done to decrease the symptoms of AS?

A. Flexibility exercises to keep the muscles and tissues moving as much as possible.
B. Keep weight within normal limits to keep the strain off of the joints of the body
C. Avoid quick movements which may inflame the body
D. When pain and stiffness occur, use heat.
E. Swimming, yoga and pilates is the best exercise for AS
F. Omega 3 rich diet.

What can your doctor do to help with this problem?

1. X-rays can show fusion of the joints to confirm the diagnosis of AS
2. Assist with an exercise program to keep mobility and correct posture
3. Massage and muscle therapy included in the treatment plan to increase flexibility

Keeping proper movement and flexibility in your body can drastically decrease the affects of AS.  Chiropractic care that incorporates soft tissue work can keep you healthy and functioning at the highest level possible.

This was presented by Dr. Amie Gregory, D.C. of Precise Moves Chiropractic in San Carlos, CA

By Dr. Amie Gregory | Posted in General Health | Tagged , , , , | Comments (0)

Bicycle Safety Tips & Workshops

April 23, 2010

Summer is almost here, which means it is time to check your breaks, inflate your tires and lubricate your chain. You’ll be pulling out your bicycle helmet too, I’m sure, but what else can you do to keep yourself safe as the you ride this summer.

Well, here’s where you can find out!

Free Bicycle Safety Workshops at four Peninsula library branches and one community center. If you register before the workshop, you’ll be entered to win a $25 gift card from a local bike shop.

  • East Palo Alto Library:
    Thursday, April 22 at 6:30 p.m.
    To register, call (650) 591-8286 x 237, or email victorino@smcl.org
  • Belmont Library:
    Sunday, April 25 at 3 p.m.
    To register, call (650) 591-8286 x 237, or email victorino@smcl.org
  • Colma Community Center:
    Wednesday, April 28 at 6:30 p.m.
    To register, call (650) 985-5690, or email brian.dossy@colma.ca.gov
  • Brisbane Library:
    Tuesday, May 4 at 7 p.m.
    To register, call (650) 591-8286 x 237, or email victorino@smcl.org
  • Millbrae Library:
    Wednesday, May 5 at 7 p.m.
    To register, call (650) 591-8286 x 237, or email victorino@smcl.org

The 90-minute workshop will include information on current traffic laws for bicyclists and drivers, Bike to Work Day 2010, bicycle maintenance, maps and safety booklets.  Visit
“Safe Bicycling in San Mateo County” for a practical guide in biking to work, or combining public transit and biking to work.
For more information, email: gina@commute.org

In the meantime, here are some great bicycle safety times.

1. Get a rear light. If you’re riding at night, use a flashing red rear light. Bike shops have red rear blink lights for less than $15. If you already have one, make sure the batteries are working!

2. Wear a reflective vest or a safety triangle. High quality reflective gear that you can get at any bike shop  makes youmore visible, even in the day time. When you hear a car/truck approaching, straighten up to make your reflective gear more noticeable.

3. Choose wide streets. Ride on streets whose outside lane is wide enough that it can fit both a car and your bike side by side. That way a car may speed past you and avoid hitting you, even if they didn’t see you!

4. Choose slow streets. The slower a car is going, the more time the driver has to see you.

5. Use back streets on weekends. Because some people still drink and drive, it’s safer to ride along neighborhood streets..

6. Get a mirror. Get a mirror and use it. If it looks like a car doesn’t see you, hop off your bike and onto the sidewalk. Mirrors cost $5-15.

7. Don’t hug the curb. Allow space between yourself and the curb so you have someplace to go to avoid getting hit. This also enables turning across or from your lane to better see you.

By admin | Posted in General Health, San Carlos California | Tagged , , , , , , | Comments (0)

Reasons for “Turf Toe”

April 21, 2010

What is Turf Toe?
Turf toe is pain occurring at the base of the big toe.  Most commonly it happens where your big toe bends when you are walking or running.  Turf Toe happens after a after constant slamming of your toe down when running, jumping or walking.  This can be a repetitive injury that can keep re-occuring throughout life if a person does not learn how to prevent it.  This injury is frequently seen with athletes who play football, rugby, soccer, wrestling or any sport that promotes “pushing off” quickly with resistance.

Keeping the foot healthy and moving properly with the use of stiff sole Orthotics when necessary can prevent the symptom of Turf Toe.   It is common to have bracing during athletic performances to prevent excessive hyperextension of the toe.  This is fine but what about when we are not working out?

Chiropractic adjustments along with proper Orthotics can prevent Turf Toe.  Jamming your foot into the ground constantly will jam up the foot joints making it impossible for your foot to function the way it is supposed to.  We will Make sure that all 26 bones in the foot are moving properly.  This will make sure that there is not any added pressure to the big toe and prevent chronic flare ups from occurring.

If you have this problem, please call our office today for a consultation!

By Dr. Amie Gregory | Posted in General Health | Tagged , , | Comments (0)

The Affects Of Tight Hamstrings

April 18, 2010

A lot of patients that come into my office have tight hamstrings and think it is normal to feel a pull in the back of their legs when bending forward.  This is not normal.  Sure, there may not be any problems right now but in time, the muscle can cause several dysfunctions.  Tears, low back and sciatic pain (because the muscle attaches to the lower portion of the hips), and pain or tears in the back of the knee may occur.  The hamstring muscle is really three muscles.  The semitendinosis, semimembranosis and biceps femoris.

What causes hamstring tightness?
Sure, genetics can play a part but in most cases it is caused by improper or not enough stretching.  There are easy stretches that only take about 6-10 minutes and can prevent tears and problems in the future.  Stretching before and after an athletic event helps in maintaining a flexible muscle so it is recommended to do so every time you engage in a sport.  Here is a common stretch that is easy to do.

  • Sit on the floor with one leg straight
 and the other bent with the foot pressing against the inner portion of the outstretched leg
  • Keep your back straight as you lean forward through the hips 
to one the straight leg side
  • Hold (don’t bounce) for 25 to 30 seconds
  • Switch sides

Doing these exercises will prevent injuries and keep you low back loose preventing injuries.

By Dr. Amie Gregory | Posted in General Health, San Carlos California, San Carlos Chiropractor | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments (0)

How can I take care of Vertigo and dizziness?

April 17, 2010

Vertigo and dizziness can be scary but there are a couple of maneuvers that can help.

Vertigo happens sometimes when we change position of our head rapidly.  This can happen when changing from a sitting position to standing or from a laying down to standing position.  It can even happen if we turn our head too fast.

Sometimes this problem is because of a blocked nerve in the upper portion of our neck which goes to our inner ear.  It can also be caused by a mass of particles in the inner ear.  In either case, it can be taken care of and you can get your life back!

The Epley Maneuver is helpful with this problem.  It reconfigures the fluid in the ear and allows the inner ear to function.  How this works is a patient is taken from the seated position to laying down on his/her back with the affected ear facing down.  This is held for about 20-30 seconds and then the head is rapidly moved to the other side.  It is again held in this position for 20-30 seconds.  After staying in this position, the patient is then put on their side.  Then the patient is turned to face the floor.

After this maneuver it is recommended to remain in an upright position for 24 hours (or as long as you can sit comfortably).

Chiropractic adjustments to the top of the neck are safe and also help greatly with vertigo or dizziness.  Since the head is moving properly and the nerves are functioning normally, the ear works the way it should and the equilibrium is maintained.  Performing both the Epley Maneuver and adjusting the neck gets great results!

Call our office today if you have this problem!  We can help!

Precise Moves Chiropractic
San Carlos, CA
650-353-1133

By Dr. Amie Gregory | Posted in General Health, San Carlos Chiropractor | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Comments (0)

Whiplash and chiropractic

April 6, 2010

Whiplash is an injury to the cervical spine (neck).  In a whiplash injury the joints between the spinal bones (vertebrae), discs, muscles, ligaments and nerves may be irritated or damaged.

When does whiplash occur?
Whiplash is commonly seen with car accidents but it can happen in any case where a person is hit from behind.  This can be from sports or even if someone playfully pushes you from behind a little too hard.

Symptoms of whiplash can happen within a two week period.  It doesn’t necessarily happen right after the incident.  Pain in neck, arm, hand and/or shoulders is common.  Limited neck movement, swelling, stiffness, dizziness, ringing in the ears, blurred vision, concentration or memory difficulty, insomnia may also occur.

How do you know if you have whiplash?
Most of the time you will have discomfort and not be able to move properly.  After car accidents it is common to take an X-ray.  It will show the bone positions in the neck and soft tissue swelling in the neck.   After a car accident it is common for most hospitals to take a CT Scan or MRI to see if there is any serious soft tissue or cervical disc damage.

How can whiplash be helped?
Well, first the swelling needs to be diminished.  Ice packs help this problem tremendously.  Then after the swelling is down, we can start working with getting the scar tissue and damage in the soft tissues of the neck repaired and functioning properly.  Gentle adjustments to the neck allow the neck to keep its curve and move without promoting more damage.  During treatment, exercised to strengthen the neck are performed.

In the past cervical collars were immediately put on patients after a car accident.  This is not recommended unless there is a severe injury with a lot of instability in the neck.  Normally, if a collar is worn and there is no severe damage, the muscles and ligaments in the neck weaken and this can promote further injury.

We have helped several patients that have come in with whiplash.  Soft tissue repair and neck adjustments can get you back to normal.  Just because you have a car accident and were hurt doesn’t mean you have to live your life in pain and dysfunction.  We can help!

Call our office today!

Precise Moves Chiropractic
San Carlos, CA
650-353-1133

By Dr. Amie Gregory | Posted in General Health, San Carlos Chiropractor | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments (0)

San Carlos CA Events & Happenings for April 2010

April 3, 2010

Spring Classes Starting Soon!

Don’t miss out – sign up today for a class to enrich your life!  Most classes begin the weeks of April 5th and 12th.  There are plenty of classes to choose from for all ages and interests.  How about a Pilates class?  Call us for information about our “Try It” program.  How about Kids Carpentry for your budding builder? With the fine weather coming, all sorts of fun sports classes will be out on the fields.  Here’s a list of just some of the new, very cool classes we have for you:

  • Musical Theater for Tots
  • Skateboard Art
  • Parent’s Helper
  • MTA QuickStart Tennis Festival
  • Salsa Dance Workout
  • Zumba Fitness
  • Vegetarian Recipes from the Indian Pantry
  • Green Living Discussion Series

Register at www.RecConnect.net or call the Recreation office at the Youth Center, 802-4382, for more information.  You can view the Spring/Summer Recreation Guide online or stop by the Youth Center to pick up a copy.

Have You Signed Up for Summer Camps Yet?

Check out the vast array of specialty camps we have this summer-Science, Art, Lego, Math Review, Mandarin, Spanish, Kids Cooking, Magic & Wizards, Chess, Eric Carle Study, Dance to Fitness, Sum’s Up, Shakin’ it up with Shakespeare, Kids’ Carpentry, Drumline Experience, Super Searching on the Web and more.  Looking for Adventure Day Camps?  We have those too:  Wee Woodsmen (age 4-5); Burton Adventure (age 6-8); Arguello Adventure (age 9-12) meet for 2 week sessions June 21-August 13.  We suggest you register soon before your favorite camp is filled.  We also offer tons of Sports Camps including Fencing, Soccer, Basketball, Indoor Rock Climbing, Ice Skating, Golf, Sailing, Gymnastics, Tennis, Baseball, Flag Football, Skateboarding and more.  Whew!  Go to www.RecConnect.net to register or call the Recreation office at 802-4382 for more information.  We want you ‘Making a Splash’ with US this summer!

Auditions for San Carlos Children’s Theater Summer Production

SCCT’s summer production will be “Les Miserables”.  Auditions for youth age 8-18 will be held April 14, 17 or 20 at the Youth Center.  Sign up online for an audition appointment at www.sancarloschildrenstheater.com.  For more information, call 594-2730.

The ‘Fun Calendar’ of San Carlos, CA Activities

  • 4/1/2010
    Maximize Your Memory Lecture
    Adult Center, 650.802.4384
  • 4/6/2010
    Travel Presentation by Collette Tours
    Adult Center, 650.802.4384
  • 4/7/2010
    Pathfinder Hike to Monte Bello OSP
    Start at Adult Center, 650.802.4384
  • 4/9/2010
    Spring Luncheon at Adult Center, 802-4384
  • 4/9/2010
    Walt Disney Family Museum Trip
    Adult Center, 802-4384
  • 4/10/2010
    Star Gazing at Crestview Park,
    Bob Black 650.592-2166
  • 4/10/2010
    Special Needs Dance,
    Laureola Park, 802-4383
  • 4/12/2010
    Free Composting Workshop
    Adult Center, 802-4384
  • 4/13/2010
    AARP Driver Safety Program, Adult Center, 802-4384
  • 4/14/2010
    Auditions for SCCT Production
    www.sancarloschildrenstheater.com
  • 4/15/2010
    AARP Driver Safety Program
    Adult Center, 802-4384
  • 4/ 17/2010
    Auditions for SCCT Production
    www.sancarloschildrenstheater.com
  • 4/17/2010
    Star Gazing at Crestview Park,
    Bob Black 592-2166
  • 4/21 /2010
    Health & Wellness Lecture
    Adult Center, 802-4384
  • 4/22-5/1
    Chicken’s Ball Show “One World”
    www.2010chickensball.org
  • 4/28/2010
    AYSO Signups,
    Youth Center,
    www.sancarlosayso.org
By admin | Posted in San Carlos California | Tagged | Comments (0)