Decompression-Therapy
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Decompression Therapy: An Innovative Approach to Relieving Spinal Discomfort

Decompression Therapy: An Innovative Approach to Relieving Spinal Discomfort

In our fast-paced modern lives, many of us find ourselves struggling with various types of physical discomfort, especially related to our spinal health. Whether it’s due to poor posture, sedentary lifestyles, or injuries, spinal discomfort can significantly impact our daily lives. However, with advancements in medical technology, a revolutionary treatment known as decompression therapy has emerged as a promising solution for many individuals seeking relief from back and neck pain. In this article, we will delve into what decompression therapy is, how it works, and its potential benefits.

Understanding Decompression Therapy:

Decompression therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment modality that aims to alleviate pressure and discomfort on the spine. This therapy is primarily used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, and facet joint syndrome. It offers a safe alternative to surgery and provides a gentle and controlled approach to spinal decompression.

The Process of Decompression Therapy:

During a decompression therapy session, a patient is carefully positioned on a specialized table. The table is equipped with a computer-controlled traction system that applies gentle pulling forces to the spine. By doing so, decompression therapy creates a negative pressure within the affected spinal discs, encouraging the retraction or repositioning of herniated or bulging discs. This action helps to reduce pressure on nerves, enhance blood flow, and promote the delivery of essential nutrients to the injured areas.

The controlled traction force applied during decompression therapy can be customized to meet the specific needs of each patient. The therapy session typically lasts between 15 and 45 minutes, depending on the severity of the condition and the recommendations of the healthcare professional.

Benefits of Decompression Therapy:

  1. Pain Relief: One of the primary objectives of decompression therapy is to relieve pain associated with spinal conditions. By reducing pressure on nerves and improving blood flow, this therapy can significantly alleviate discomfort in the neck, back, and legs.
  2. Non-Invasive Approach: Unlike surgical interventions, decompression therapy is a non-invasive treatment option. It avoids the risks and complications associated with surgery, making it an appealing alternative for individuals seeking conservative treatment options.
  3. Improved Mobility and Function: By addressing the underlying causes of spinal discomfort, decompression therapy can enhance joint mobility and functional abilities. This improvement allows individuals to engage in daily activities with less pain and increased range of motion.
  4. Avoidance of Medication Dependency: Decompression therapy focuses on targeting the root cause of spinal pain rather than relying on medication to mask the symptoms. By reducing the need for pain medication, individuals can avoid potential side effects and long-term dependency.
  5. Cost-Effective Solution: In comparison to surgical procedures, decompression therapy is often more cost-effective. It reduces expenses related to hospital stays, post-operative care, and the recovery period.
Conclusion:

Decompression therapy offers a non-invasive and promising approach to relieving spinal discomfort. By gently decompressing the spine, this innovative treatment helps to alleviate pain, enhance mobility, and improve overall quality of life. Although decompression therapy may not be suitable for everyone, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide valuable insights into whether it may be an appropriate treatment option for your specific spinal condition. Remember, taking care of your spine is crucial, and exploring non-invasive alternatives like decompression therapy can be a significant step toward a pain-free and active lifestyle.

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Good Posture
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How Important is Good Posture?

How Important is Good Posture?

Posture refers to the way we hold our bodies when sitting, standing, or lying down. Good posture refers to the position in which our body is aligned correctly with minimal strain on our muscles and ligaments. Most people are not aware of the importance of good posture, which is why they tend to slouch and develop various postural problems. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of good posture and how it can benefit our overall health.

What Can Good Posture Do for Me?

  1. Reduces back pain: Poor posture can cause tension in the muscles and ligaments of the back, leading to chronic pain. Maintaining good posture while standing or sitting can help to reduce the strain on your back muscles, thus reducing the risk of back pain.
  2. Improves breathing: Good posture also helps to improve breathing. When you slouch, your lungs have less space to expand, which can lead to shallow breathing. On the other hand, maintaining an upright posture allows for better lung expansion, resulting in improved oxygen intake.
  3. Boosts confidence: Good posture can also have a positive impact on your self-confidence. Standing or sitting tall and straight can make you look and feel more confident, which can improve your overall self-esteem.
  4. Improves digestion: Maintaining good posture can also improve digestion. When you slouch, your organs become compressed, leading to digestive problems. On the other hand, sitting or standing up straight allows your organs to function optimally, leading to better digestion.
  5. Enhances circulation: Good posture also helps to improve blood circulation. When you slouch, your blood vessels become constricted, which can lead to poor circulation. On the other hand, maintaining an upright posture allows for better blood flow throughout your body.
  6. Prevents injuries: Good posture can also prevent injuries. When you maintain proper posture, your muscles and ligaments are less likely to become strained or injured. This is especially important for athletes and individuals who engage in physical activities.

Good Posture is Essential for Maintaining Optimal Health

In conclusion, good posture is essential for maintaining optimal health. It can improve back pain, breathing, digestion, circulation, and prevent injuries. So, whether you’re sitting at a desk or standing in line, remember to maintain good posture to reap its numerous benefits.

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Muscles, Nerves and Chiropractic Care

Muscles, Nerves and Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal system disorders, particularly those affecting the spine, muscles, and nerves. The aim of chiropractic treatment is to restore the normal function of the musculoskeletal system, alleviate pain, and improve overall health and wellbeing.

How Important are Muscles and Nerves?

Muscles and nerves are essential components of the musculoskeletal system, and they play a vital role in maintaining posture, movement, and coordination. When there is a disruption in the normal function of muscles and nerves, it can lead to various health problems, including pain, stiffness, and weakness.

Chiropractic Care for the Musculoskeletal System

Chiropractors are trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal system disorders, including those affecting muscles and nerves. They use a variety of techniques to restore the normal function of muscles and nerves, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and exercise therapy.

Spinal adjustments are a cornerstone of chiropractic care. They involve the use of precise force to manipulate the spine and correct misalignments, or subluxations, that may be causing pain or other symptoms. By correcting these misalignments, chiropractors can relieve pressure on nerves and improve the function of muscles and joints.

Soft tissue therapy is another important aspect of chiropractic care. This type of therapy involves the use of massage, stretching, and other techniques to relieve tension and tightness in muscles and other soft tissues. By reducing tension in muscles and improving blood flow, soft tissue therapy can help to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Exercise therapy is often prescribed as part of a chiropractic treatment plan. It involves the use of specific exercises to strengthen weak muscles, improve range of motion, and prevent future injuries. By improving the function of muscles and joints, exercise therapy can help to reduce pain and improve overall health and wellbeing.

Chiropractic care with muscles and nerves can be an effective treatment for a wide range of musculoskeletal system disorders, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint pain. It is a safe and non-invasive treatment option that can provide long-lasting relief from pain and improve overall health and wellbeing.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your muscles or nerves, consider chiropractic care as a safe and effective treatment option. A chiropractor can assess your condition, develop a customized treatment plan, and provide the care and support you need to achieve optimal health and wellbeing.

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Benefits-of-Stretching
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5 Benefits of Stretching

5 Benefits of Stretching

Stretching is an often overlooked aspect of physical fitness, but it is essential for maintaining flexibility, improving range of motion, and preventing injury. Regular stretching can have many benefits for your overall health and well-being, and it is something that everyone can do regardless of age or fitness level. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the benefits of stretching and how you can incorporate it into your daily routine.

  1. Improves flexibility – A Primary Benefit of Stretching

One of the primary benefits of stretching is that it can improve your flexibility. As you stretch, you are lengthening your muscles and increasing your range of motion. This can be especially helpful for athletes or anyone who engages in physical activity, as it can help prevent injuries and improve performance. Improved flexibility can also help with everyday activities such as reaching for objects or bending down to tie your shoes.

  1. Reduces muscle tension and soreness

Stretching can also help to reduce muscle tension and soreness. When you stretch, you increase blood flow to your muscles, which can help to relieve tension and soreness. This is especially important after a workout or any activity that requires physical exertion. Stretching can help to reduce the risk of muscle strains or injuries and can also help you recover more quickly after exercise.

  1. Improves posture

Poor posture can cause a wide range of health problems, including back pain, headaches, and even digestive issues. Stretching can help to improve your posture by lengthening tight muscles and strengthening weaker muscles. By improving your posture, you can reduce your risk of developing these health problems and also look and feel better.

  1. Reduces stress and promotes relaxation

Stretching can also be a great way to reduce stress and promote relaxation. When you stretch, you activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s rest and relaxation response. This can help to reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and even improve sleep quality.

  1. Enhances athletic performance

Finally, stretching can enhance athletic performance by improving flexibility, reducing muscle tension, and improving posture. This can lead to better athletic performance and a reduced risk of injury. Many athletes incorporate stretching into their warm-up and cool-down routines to help prepare their bodies for physical activity and aid in recovery.

Consider Adding Stretching Into Your Daily Routine

Incorporating stretching into your daily routine can have many benefits for your overall health and well-being. Whether you are an athlete or simply looking to improve your flexibility and reduce muscle tension, stretching is a simple and effective way to do so. Consider incorporating stretching into your daily routine, whether it’s through yoga, Pilates, or a simple stretching routine, to reap the many benefits of this simple yet powerful practice.

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Why is Chiropractic the Best Option for Back Pain?

If you are in Atlanta and you are experiencing back pain, then you must see a chiropractor as soon as possible. The reason why we are urging you to hurry is that this pain can lead to several other complications concerning the nerves and the skeletal muscles present in the back.

Although there are many over-the-counter medicine types which you can use to alleviate the pain, there is nothing better than treating it with chiropractic care. This article is intended to give you all the reasons why this way of treatment is the best option. However, before stating those reasons, let us quickly get through the causes of the back pain.

What causes back pain?

In terms of causes, anything that puts a strain on the spinal cord and the skeletal muscles supporting it can cause the pain. This is because like every organ in our body, these organs can only take a certain amount of strain. The pain is basically an indication that your back has experienced strain beyond its limit. If we state the mainstream reasons for that strain, then they would be the following:

  • Heavy, unbalanced lifting which targets the lower back muscles
  • Ruptured spinal disks
  • Poor posture
  • Osteoporosis
  • Arthritis

Having stated the main causes, let us know how they are treated by a chiropractor.

  1. Spinal Adjustments

    In this method, a chiropractor places his or her palm on the affected area and applies a certain amount of force. This technique is meant to realign all the muscles of the spine which are causing the pain.

  2.  Massage Techniques

    Sometimes, a chiropractor recommends massage techniques in addition to the spinal adjustments. One of those massages is the MFR which stands for Myofascial Release. It differs from the rest of the soft tissue manipulations in targeting the scar tissues.

  3.  Physical Therapy

    After the alignment of the spinal cord and the muscles surrounding it, a chiropractor advises his or her patient the exercises which are a part of physical therapy. These exercises target the core muscles and the back muscles thus increasing the stability of the core for maintaining proper posture.

These were the techniques which are used by the chiropractor to treat back pain. As you can see, in all of the three techniques no surgical instruments are involved. This means that the back pain is only cured through encouraging natural movement and alignment in the spinal bones and the skeletal muscles.

That being said, there are several other benefits of chiropractic care:

  • It is far better than using medications,
  • It can prevent back pain in the future,
  • It is cost-effective,
  • There is no need for special diets for it,
  • It can prevent disk herniations and can effectively cure it,
  • It is safer than other cures available.

Back pain affects more than 80% population in the USA. And as much as $50 billion is spent each year on treating it. However, even then, the symptoms still are observed to remain. Thus, this makes a good case for you to only seek care from a chiropractor who is readily available in your city Atlanta.

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Stretches to Relax the Back

According to chiropractic team at the Corrective Chiropractic of Sandy Springs, Buckhead, Atlanta, and Decatur, stretches are a great way to release built up tension of back muscles. Muscle strain and stress are typically due to over usage from heavy lifting or over-straining, and/or poor posture habits, which can cause some back muscles to remain inactive. There are back exercise options in the form of stretches can gradually relieve the accumulated stress in your back muscles, and thus, prevent and reduce pain.It is ideal to combine the mentioned stretches with corrective chiropractic care.

Back Wheel

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In other words, this exercise is simply rotating backward. But no matter how simple it may seem, if you do it in a wrong way, it would cause you more problems that alleviating the existing ones.

Steps to do it properly:

  1. Stand in front of a sturdy support in front of you. That could be a pole or a door frame.
  2. Hold the object with your hands.
  3. Spread your feet shoulder-wide.
  4. Rotate first to the left and hold the stretch for about 15 seconds without letting off the object.
  5. Repeat the exercise to the right.
  6. After completing both the left and right stretches, leave the object and stand straight to relax.
  7. Repeat the stretches for 15 times in 3 sets.

 

Child Posture

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This is one of the most effective yoga postures which can stretch your back. Yoga is known for its miraculous effects on both the mind and the body, so after sitting for too long or working vigorously, you should perform this stretch.

Steps to do it properly:

  1. Come in the ‘horse position’ with both hands and knees on the ground.
  2. Slowly start extending your palms in front of your body.
  3. After reaching a certain distance, bring your hips towards the ground and sit on your toes.
  4. You can bring your hands nearer if you cannot sit properly; however, you shouldn’t bring them too close to lose the stretch experienced in the back.
  5. Hold this position for as long as you can. Note your timing.
  6. Repeat the exercise 15 times in 3 sets, extending the stretch time after every rep.

 

Spinal Twist

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This particular stretch is made for twisting the back muscles and extending the glutes to loosen them. The preferable time to do it is in the morning; however, you can do it anytime during the day.

Steps to do it properly:

  1. Lie down on the yoga mat or floor with your face to the ceiling.
  2. Extend your arms away from either side of your body so that you lie in a “T” position.
  3. Bend your knees upward with your toes on the mat/floor.
  4. Gently bend the knees first to the right completely twisting your back so that the knees either touch or come near to the ground and hold this stretch for about 15 seconds.
  5. Keep your shoulders intact to the floor/mat during step ‘d’.
  6. Repeat the stretch to the left for the same duration as stated above.
  7. Do 15 reps in 3 sets. After each rep, increase the timing of the stretch by 2 seconds.
  8. Relax between the sets.

A stiff back can be a hurdle in your daily activity. You can perform the afore-mentioned stretches advised by your Sandy Springs Chiropractor, Dr. Callerina Natori and keep yourself fit. Request your appointment now!

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What is the Best Mattress for Your Back?

As a chiropractor, I am faced with questions regarding proper mattresses and pillows almost on a daily basis. The average adult gets anywhere from 6-8 hours of sleep per night, which is 42-56 hours weekly, or 2,184-2,912 hours each year. In other words, we spend a significant time of our life sleeping; therefore, it is important to have proper support when doing so. Recently, I was in the market for a new mattress and found myself asking the same questions patients ask me all the time: What is the best mattress for my back? Like most markets in America, there are countless options when shopping for a mattress. Do I need firm or soft support? Pillow top or memory foam? Stationary or adjustable foundations? Name brands from Sealy, Serta, Tempur-Pedic, to revolutionary brands such as Casper? The options are limitless and can in fact be overwhelming, at least from my point of view. When you consider the investment (money and time spent sleeping), the selection of a particular mattress is a firm decision, no pun intended.

Just as characteristics of mattress may vary, the variety of spinal support varies per individual. I hope my shopping experience can provide some insight on finding the best mattress for your back.

Steps to Finding the Best Mattress

First thing, you must get out there and test drive different mattress from brands, materials, and firmness. Although a five minute test in the store doesn’t provide the optimal sleep experience, you will get a feel for what type of mattress is comfortable for your needs. From a spinal support perspective, a firmer foundation provides ideal support and allows your spine to be in a neutral position when sleeping on your back or side. The ideal mattress will conform to the natural curvature of the spine and evenly distribute pressure. For simplicity purposes, any firm mattress that allows the spine to remain in neutral position is the most important characteristic when finding a mattress that is best for your back. Other qualities come down to personal preference.

After trying out different styles, research the mattresses online. Consumer reviews provide another perspective on product quality and overall experience. Some things to consider include coil count (the more the better) and the breathability and heat retaining properties. Also research the type of materials used for chemical and allergen exposure. Daily and close contact with such chemicals and allergens may have adverse health reactions for some individuals.

Lastly and most importantly, whichever mattress you decide to invest in,  ensure there is a window of time or a trial period to test out the product. Many distributors like Mattress Firm, department stores such as Macy’s and Sears, and direct companies including Casper and Bear, allow consumers to test out the mattress for 30-100 days. The true testament of the mattress will be determined after multiple nights of sleep. Such trial periods allow for proper mattress assessment and provide the option to exchange and in some cases, even return the product. My personal experience supports this time period. My first few nights on my new mattress were far from dreamy. At one point I wanted to throw the mattress out the window; however, after a few nights to allow my body to adjust to the change, I now am satisfied with my decision. The point of it all, once you have made your purchase, be patient and allow your body time to adapt to your new mattress.

Best wishes on your ideal mattress hunt. Please comment below and share your favorite mattress type.

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Protect Your Spine While Travelling
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How To Take Care Of Your Spine While Traveling

Protect Your Spine While Travelling

As the summer months approach many people will be leaving Atlanta and heading to the beach. As much as an advocate I am of traveling and refreshing, it’s important to make sure you are actively caring for your body. So, for this article we’ll discuss how to take care of your spine while traveling.

Easy Steps to Follow

Many of you who have been through our corrective care program would like to not destroy your spine so here are some simple steps to use while being on that plane and sleeping in hotel beds.

1) Before you get to your hotel request a cervical or memory foam pillow. If your hotel does not have this than it is important to bring your own. These pillows help support the neck while sleeping and maintain its proper curvature, especially for those of you who have corrected their spine at our office in Atlanta.

2) Before leaving your house for the airport make sure to drink a bunch of water and bring healthy snacks. When traveling at high altitude our body becomes dehydrated. It’s important to keep our internal system hydrated and well nourished. Airplane food or convenience store food, for those driving, is not “real” food and has usually been created by man. If it has been artificially created then there is a strong likelihood your body does not know how to process this.

3) Bring lacrosse balls or grab Yoga Tune Up balls from our office and sit on them regularly. Place them on your gluteus muscle and make sure it does not get too tight. It will be uncomfortable for a bit but this means that it is working. Also, place those balls on your back while flying on the plane or driving.

4) Personally, when i travel I like to do at least 1 yoga class while on vacation to help stretch my body and improve energy. There is a great free app for your phone called Omfinder, which tells you where and when all the classes are in the location you will be staying and about the class.

Also, check out YogaGlo.com for videos you can do at your hotel while traveling so you don;t have to leave your resort. However, even though it is convenient to not leave your hotel, it is nice to try new yoga classes such as Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga or Yoga On The Beach or in the mountains.

5) Whether traveling by car or plane, please make sure to create movement in your body and either stop to stand up and stretch or walk around the plane to increase circulation.

Your Turn

Where do you plan on traveling this summer?

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Sciatica

Sciatica Chiropractor in Atlanta

Sciatica is a debilitating  pain that begins in the lower back and runs or shoots down one or both legs. Sciatica pain will often get worse with long periods of sitting or standing.

One cause of sciatic pain can be due to bulging, degenerative, herniated or ruptured spinal discs.

Spinal disc problems often occur over time and the pain and symptoms then begin from a number of causes, like picking up the newspaper. This can cause a decrease in space for the sciatic nerve, thereby causing inflammation and irritation to the nerve.  Coughing, sneezing or other kinds of movement can be painful. When not properly taken care of, the sciatic pain can then extend down one or both of your legs. Even though you feel the pain in your leg, the problem area is often the lower back!

Pills, medications and muscle relaxers won’t correct the problem that is causing your sciatica pain.  Medications only mask the pain and can allow the problem to progress.

There’s Hope

Taking action by getting specific chiropractic adjustments can significantly improve motion in the lumbar joints of your lower back.  In response the sciatic nerve has less irritation and the pain is relieved for many people.

Your first step is a consultation and thorough examination in our office. If we think we can help, we’ll tell you. And if we don’t think we can help, we’ll tell you that too and refer you to someone we think can. Call today.

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Whiplash

Whiplash Chiropractor in Atlanta

You’re sitting at the corner like always watching for the stoplight to change. You hear tires squealing behind you followed by the sound of metal crumpling against metal. Your body and your car are suddenly being vaulted forward!

You’ve just been rear-ended!

In only a moment, your body is smashed against your seat. Your head, isolated by your neck muscles, is slower to react.

Then, everything changes directions and your body moves forward engaging your seat belt. Suddenly your head is ripped backwards! There’s nothing you can do to stop it.

The smallest fender bender can cause a whiplash injury. Pain and symptoms from a whiplash injury can be immediate, take a couple days, or may be delayed for months before causing problems.  So what’s next?

Call our office today for a consultation and examination!

Restoring proper motion and position of individual spinal bones, with specific chiropractic adjustments, can help promote healing caused by a whiplash injury.

“The longer you wait,” says Dr. Austin Cohen, “the more unseen damage there is and the longer it seems to take to recover.”

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