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)

How can I prevent spraining my ankle?

March 28, 2010

Ankle sprains are becoming common.  Sprains occur when the ligaments of the ankle are stretched and pulled beyond their capacity.  This sometimes leads to partial tears or complete tears in the foot.  In 85% of ankle sprains, the Anterior Talofibular ligament is damaged by someone planting their foot, then rolling over the outside of their foot.  This inside of the foot is only sprained about 15% of the time.

In a total tear, stabilization of the foot is necessary along with R.I.C.E (rest, Ice, compression, elevation) for regrowth and restoration of the tissues.  The foot can still be checked for proper movement and can be manipulated safely but with caution.  Partial tears require R.I.C.E and stabilization is not normally necessary.  Exercises after the inflammation is gone along with getting the foot and ankle in their proper position helps and gets patients back walking normally quickly.

People with chronic sprains sometimes think it is normal to keep spraining their ankle.  This in NOT true!  The reason why someone sprains their ankle many times can be because of balance issues, pathological gait patterns and improper foot position.  Learning balance exercises, proper gait and getting the foot in the proper position can prevent future sprains and keep patients healthy and active for a lifetime.

We are extremity experts at Precise Moves Chiropractic.  We can help with any sports injury or extremity problem.  Please call us today to make an appointment for an exam and consultation!

Precise Moves Chiropractic has been serving the San Carlos, CA area since 2007!

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

Bursitis in our joints

March 27, 2010

Bursitis definition:
Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa.   The bursa is an area of fluid around a joint which functions like grease on a machine.  It helps our joints glide properly and protects us from unnecessary friction causing injury. Technically, there are 160 different bursae in our body.  Most common areas where bursitis occurs is by large joints such as the shoulder, elbow, hips and knees.  These are complex areas that are commonly flared up by most athletes who train hard.

Over the years there may be flare ups of the bursae because of added joint pressure, crystal accumulation or degeneration in the joint space. Infection affiliated with Rheumatoid Arthritis can also cause Bursitis.

Symptoms of Bursitis is pain, swelling and tenderness in the joint space.

How can this be treated?
In the case of an infection, a visit to your primary care physician may be necessary for inflammatory medication.  In the majority of cases, rest, ice and making sure the joint is moving properly to prevent unnecessary friction is recommended.  Once your body is moving correctly, the bursae can now go back to functioning normally.

We take great pride in helping people through this debilitating problem.  Proper treatment and rehabilitation can prevent future flare-ups.

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

Tips for Adhesive Capsulitis (frozen shoulder)

March 24, 2010

Causes:

The bones, ligaments and tendons around your shoulder joint are encased in a capsule of connective tissue. Frozen shoulder occurs when this capsule swells and thickens tightening the shoulder joint, restricting its movement and causes pain.

Frozen shoulder is often initially ignored when symptoms first occur because the pain subsides within a few days so people think it is just a short term problem.  It will come back and when it does it is more painful and lasts longer.  Scar tissue and inflammation re-occur and continue to restrict the shoulder from moving properly.

This problem takes a long time to see full results but it can be alleviated.

Frozen shoulder has three stages:

  • Stage one: The “freezing” or painful stage, which may last from six weeks to nine months, and in which the patient has a slow onset of pain. As the pain worsens, the shoulder loses motion.
  • Stage two: The “frozen” or adhesive stage is marked by a slow improvement in pain but the stiffness remains. This stage generally lasts four months to nine months.
  • Stage three: The “thawing” or recovery, when shoulder motion slowly returns toward normal. This generally lasts five months to 26 months.

Risk Factors:

  1. Age: People 40 or older are at risk
  2. Repetitive jobs especially jobs which require raising the arms over the head
  3. Injuries to the shoulder which causes improper movement of the shoulder adding to inflammation.

Treatment:

Inflammation must be decreased before exercises can really be beneficial.   Scar tissue must be broken and new healthy tissue must take its place.  Sound Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization can decrease scar tissue and increase mobility.  We can also train your shoulder to move properly to prevent further injury.

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

iPhone and iPod ergonomics!

March 19, 2010

Everyone has an iPhone, ipod, Blackberry or high tech phone these days.  Texting, internet searches and long periods of time are spent on these tiny gadgets.  Technology is great, but problems with fingers, wrists, forearms,  neck and back are becoming common place because of bad ergonomics and posture when using our new technology.

Go to any cafe or restaurant at lunchtime and you will see people on their cell phones or reading,  looking down for long periods of time and texting without taking a break. This can lead to neck, shoulder, arm and wrist pain.

Having your head down for long periods of time starts to put an added burden to your neck muscles, ligaments and bones! It is a good idea to place your phone at a level where your eyes are even with the screen and you are not looking down.

When tweeting, SMSing or emailing, take a break once in a while and stretch your forearms, fingers and neck.  Every 20 minutes is recommended.  This is going to help you prevent long term stress leading to problems later on.  While taking this break practice looking far and near to exercise your eyes and keep your lenses in shape.

At Precise Moves Chiropractic, we can help you with any problems you may have with your neck, back, hands, forearms and any joint in your body!  We will provide proper exercises and ergonomic advice to keep your body healthy and functioning properly.  Don’t hesitate to call and make an appointment today. 650.353.1133. We’ll help show you how to make the most out of new technology while remaining pain free.

Precise Moves Chiropractic, San Carlos Chiropractor

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

Can chiropractic help when I am pregnant?

February 27, 2010

Yes! You will be glad to hear that chiropractic adjustments can significantly reduce labor time. Mothers giving birth for the first time have averaged 24% shorter labor time and repeat pregnancy labor times decreased 39% (Fallon, 1991). Chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy can also reduce the likelihood of experiencing back pain during pregnancy (Diakow, 1991). You can be adjusted and relieve stress and dysfunction in your body until the birth of your child (Penna, 1989).

During pregnancy, weight-bearing changes occur when we have an added load to our abdomen. This can cause an added stress to the low back, hips and other areas of the spine. Chiropractic treatments help your body stay relaxed and comfortable and may also help facilitate your birth.

Here is how we can help:

Sacral misalignment can cause twisting and tightening of pelvic muscles and ligaments. This can prevent the baby from tipping comfortably into the proper position in preparation for child birth. Chiropractors using the Webster Technique can address this situation naturally by adjusting your pelvis and reducing the tension on your muscles and ligaments. The baby will innately move into the proper position and you will save yourself from a cesarean birth. It has even been successful with twin births as well!

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

Increasing Energy & Stamina When Dieting

February 24, 2010

Wondering how to keep active while lowering your calorie intake?  Here are some healthy tips!

Balance is key!  If on a minimum of 1,200 calories per day, 50-55% should be coming from carbohydrates, 15-20% from protein, and 25-30% fat.

Ensure that you eat a high fiber, low refined carbohydrate diet:  For example, if you’re going to eat bread, select 100% whole wheat. Stay away from “white” and “enriched” bread and foods

Eat smaller, frequent meals rather than a few, large meals:  It is recommended to eat 3 meals and 2-3 healthy snacks per day. We are not talking snicker bars here! Try an apple or a half a cup of blueberries. This will help maintain blood sugar levels while increasing your satiety.

Stay hydrated: Hydration is vitally important. Drink water prior, during and after exercise.  Men on average should consume about 13 8-oz servings of water per day. Women should consume about 9 8-oz servings.

Decrease your caffeine intake: Consume less than 400mg of caffeine per day. If you need caffeine, consume 2 oz every 2 hrs is the best dose of caffeine for energy. Opt for smaller cups of coffee instead of one large one: your body can only process a limited amount of caffeine at a time.

Increase your physical activity: increase your maximum aerobic capacity through your exercise. Exercise improves your mood immediately and it is great for your heart!

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How to prevent bruising

February 22, 2010

In a recent article in Bottom Line Health, there are 2 main causes of bruising.

1. Aging: Getting older our skin becomes thinner and more vulnerable for injuries.

2. Medications: Aspirin, ibuprofen and warfarin (Coumadin) cause thinning of the skin. This allows bruising easily if you bump or scrape yourself.

Here are some suggestions that can help you stop bruising so easily.

Eat a flavonoid-rich diet: Citrus fruits, blueberries, blackberries, green tea, and onions are full of antioxidants which help you to fight off disease and illness as well as strengthen your cell membranes. Even if you are a “chocaholic”! Flavonoids exist naturally in cacao. Though cacao is not as sweet as chocolate, it can stop the urge to eat another sweet and help your metabolism at the same time!

Grape skins contain high amounts of flavonoids as well as polyphenols. Red and white wine contain flavonoids but red wine has been observed to contain higher levels of flavonoids.

Get enough Vitamin C: Elderberry or bilberry are great sources of vitamin C. They are high in flavonoids as well! Studies have shown them improve circulation, eye health and reduce viruses.

Finally, as with everything else… Exercise: Poor circulation contributes to bruising, exercising helps get your circulation pumping! You can walk, skip, jump, run or do anything that gets your heart pumping faster.

This is a message from Dr. Amie B. Gregory at Precise Moves Chiropractic in San Carlos, CA

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