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Can Chiropractic Help with Torticollis in Infants and Children?

What is Torticollis?

Torticollis, also known as Wry Neck, occurs when a neck muscle is contracted or in spasm, causing the head to turn to one side and the chin to rotate to the opposite side. Torticollis can be congenital (present since birth) or acquired. Torticollis in infants is commonly acquired by positions in the womb, and the birthing process (especially cesarean, vacuum extraction, and forceps deliveries). In some cases, the cause of  torticollis is unknown.

 

What are Common Symptoms of Torticollis in Children?

The most common symptom of torticollis is the rotation of the head to one side, and rotation of the chin to the opposite side. Other symptoms include discomfort and pain, decreased neck range of motion, tight neck muscles, and difficulty breastfeeding on one side. Chronic torticollis in infants can result in the flattening of one side of the head (plagiocephaly) due to consistent sleeping positions when lying on their backs. In serious congenital cases, face asymmetry, hearing difficulty, vision problems, and developmental delays can occur.

 

How can Chiropractic Help Children with Torticollis?

Pediatric chiropractic adjustment is a natural, gentle, safe, and effective method to correcting misalignment in the neck region. Such misalignment can lead to muscle imbalance, causing one side of the neck muscles to become contracted over time and even other developmental issue due to the impact on the nervous system. Call our office at 404-355-5499 for more information on how our pediatric chiropractor can help your child with torticollis.

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What are Wobble Chairs?

What’s the deal with the chairs that wobble that you see around the office? Yes,  they are fun, especially when your favorite song plays through our speakers; however, there are therapeutic advantages to the chairs. The wobble chairs are designed to create proper mobility in the lumbar, sacral,and pelvic regions. The unique design of the chair allows for 360 degrees of rotation, lateral (side to side), forward,and backward flexion. The different ranges of motion are also beneficial for the intervertebral discs, especially those in the low back.The combined movements create disc mobility, and disc re-hydration to combat the daily loads of impact on each disc.  The movements produced by the wobble chairs also aid in delivery to nutrients to the disk, and assist in carrying away waste products.

 

wobbleNow that you understand the benefits behind the wobble chair, it’s time to make sure you are utilizing them correctly in order to maximize the benefits. First, make sure you have an upbeat song. We always have fun jams playing in the office, so that should be the easiest step of them all. Seriously, after you set a timer (we recommend 3 minutes), make sure to stabilize your balance by holding on to the arms of the chair. Slowly move the pelvis through a variety of motions including front to back, side to side, circular and figure eight movements. As stability and comfort of the chair, feel free to increase the speed of the different motions. So wobble, like nobody is watching, for your health’s sake.

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CrossFit Terminus Separating Itself as a Top CrossFit Gym in Atlanta

What is the name of your business and what is its function?

CrossFit Terminus is a full-service strength and conditioning facility dedicated to quality coaching.  We strive to help individuals become a better version of themselves by providing excellent service and unparalleled coaching in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

How long have you been in Atlanta?

We opened in August 2013 and have always been in Old Fourth Ward. In late 2016 we plan to open up our brand new state of the art facility off Memorial in Reynoldstown.

What do you like most about Atlanta?ter

We love the diversity of our community, and we intentionally welcome all people with open arms and support each person’s goals, whether those goals are to build muscle, lose weight, or simply have a healthier body.

Also, the name Terminus represents our love for our city.  When Georgia decided to build a railroad line from the Midwest down to modern day Atlanta, a stake was put into the ground just a few miles away from the gym, which became known as Terminus, literally meaning “End of the Line.” Contrary to popular belief, we did not take the name Terminus from the AMC show The Walking Dead, although it was a nice coincidence!

What separates your business from the others and makes it the best?

We are here to share our passion for fitness and create a community based on the pursuit of fitness.  Our goal is to foster unbreakable bonds with an open-minded environment, and we strive to create greatness inside and outside our community. We are committed to providing excellent customer service, maintaining open communication, and never losing focus on helping individuals achieve balance and success inside and outside of the gym.

Who is your ideal client?

Our ideal client is anyone who is willing to better him or herself by practicing patience, hard work, and commitment.  We are here to help all kinds of people regardless of their athletic background achieve their fitness goals.

Is there something that people in the community do not know about your business that they should know?

We believe the biggest misconception of CrossFit Terminus is that we are solely interested in a ‘competitive’ environment.  In reality, our goal is to help people in all walks of life become better versions of themselves.  We love seeing people become more confident and better prepared for the unknowns of every life.  We want people to take fitness as a long-term approach, striving for health over the course of a lifetime.

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What are the Benefits of Breastfeeding?

August is National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, promoting the benefits associated with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding has rewarding benefits for both mom and baby, but at times, it can be equally as challenging. What are the benefits, and why is it worth the many obstacles that moms face while breastfeeding?

Research suggest that breastfed babies have lowered risk of asthma, childhood obesity, ear infections, eczema, and SIDS. Breast Milk includes hormones and antibodies that are utilized to support the baby’s proper immune system functions and nutritional needs. Breastfeeding promotes bonding and reduces health risks for mothers. Breastfeeding benefits for mothers include a decreased risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, osteoporosis, and promotes emotional health and postpartum weight loss. Breastfeeding is also more economical and environmental friendly.  

With anything in life, one typically ask if the journey is worth the trouble or work that it demands. Although breastfeeding has the obvious benefits, many mothers and babies struggle along this journey. The incidence of latching and breastfeeding issues continue to rise with time. Common issues range from latching difficulties, little or decreased milk production, and discomfort of the mother.

For those who struggle with breastfeeding, there are other options to consider before you withdraw. Latching issues could be related to misalignments in the baby’s upper neck, resulting in discomfort while feeding. Chiropractic adjustments safely correct spinal misalignments,making latching a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for the baby. Milk production issues and discomfort, can be addressed with other health care experts from lactation consultants, La Leche League, Midwives, and primary care providers.  

For more information about how chiropractic care can help with breastfeeding difficulties for your baby and you, contact Corrective Chiropractic at 404-355-5499.

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Are Actemainophens Safe During Pregnancy?

What is an Acetaminophen?

Acetaminophen is an active ingredient in over the counter and prescription drugs. It is commonly used to treat pain and reduce fevers. Many pregnant women use common over the counter actemaniophens such as Tylenol and Excedrin to treat back pain, headaches, toothaches, the common cold, fevers, and muscle aches.

 

Are they safe to use?

Unlike other over the counter and prescription drugs, actemaniophens are technically considered safe to use during pregnancy because the side effects are minimal for the growing and developing fetus and mother compared to other drugs. However, although it is deemed fairly okay to take, most medical doctors recommend minimizing the use of actemaniophens throughout pregnancy.  

 

What are the risks?

All drugs, prescription and over the counter, have associated side effects that vary with individual cases. To see a list of common side effects of actemaniophens, visit https://www.drugs.com/sfx/acetaminophen-side-effects.html. For pregancy and actemaniphen warnings, visit https://www.drugs.com/pregnancy/acetaminophen.html. Both links provide information on known side effects and interactions. However, new data is now showing a link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and an increased risk of hyperactivity in children. According to a new study, prenatal exposure to acetaminophen is associated with an increased risk of having children with hyperactivity, emotional and behavioral symptoms. To read the entire study, Association of Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy With Behavioral Problems in Childhood, go to http://archpedi.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=2543281.

 

What are other options?

There are natural and safe options for symptoms that acetaminophen are commonly used for. Musculoskeletal symptoms such as back pain, headaches, and other muscle related aches, can be addressed with prenatal chiropractic care. Chiropractic care has been proven to safely and effectively treat such symptoms. The only “side effects” associated with prenatal chiropractic care is decreased pain, increased energy, more room for baby to grow and develop, and shorter labor and delivery times. Call our office at 404-355-5499 to schedule an exam with our prenatal chiropractor, Dr. Samaira. If outside the metro Atlanta area, please visit http://icpa4kids.org/Find-a-Chiropractor/ to find a prenatal and family chiropractor in your area.

 

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Back To School Tips: Backpack Safety

Despite the hot temperatures, it is hard to believe that summer is near an end and the kids are returning back to the classrooms. Despite your child’s age, the number one school supply is the ultimate backpack. There are many different options of backpacks that vary with different themes, styles, accessories, and so forth; however, the most important quality of a backpack is the safety. Nearly 5,000 annual emergency room visits are related to backpack injuries. On the other hand, most backpack related injuries are not emergencies; however, consistent overweight loads can lead to pain, and compensation to the neck, shoulders, upper back, low back and hip regions. Such heavy and consistent loads lead to not only musculoskeletal symptoms, but will also have a direct influence on the posture and structural development of children.

 

Back Pack Size

Not all backpacks are created equal. There are many sizes, materials used, and other factors to consider. To ensure proper size, search for a backpack designed for your child’s age, height, and weight. Backpacks made for children typically are made of lighter material and are smaller in size. The length of the backpack should be the length of the child’s torso, with the bottom being two inches below the waist. The overall backpack size will ensure proper fitting of the backpack on the child’s spine.

 

Overall Back Pack Weight

When in hunt for the perfect backpack, look for one that offers multiple compartments. A backpack with many compartments allows for equal distribution of items, in order to balance the load. Heavier items should be packed lower, towards the back, and closer to the body. The weight of the backpack should never exceed 15% of the child’s weight.

 

Fitting of Backpack

Having the perfect size backpack that has equal and proper weight would be of little value if the fitting of the backpack was improper. The backpack should be worn on both shoulders to ensure proper weight distribution. Preferably, a waist strap should be utilized to promote additional weight disruption. With minimal space between the spine and the backpack, proper fitting would be worn as close to the body.

 

For further information on backpack safety, check out the National Safety Council’s guide on backpack safety here http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/backpack-safety-for-kids.aspx. Any additional questions regarding backpack safety, or for a complimentary backpack safety check for your child, please contact Dr. Samaira at 404-355-5499.

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Who is Thunderbolt Power Yoga? Q & A with Carly Grace

What is the name of your business and what is its function?

Thunderbolt Power Yoga, a Heated Power Vinyasa Yoga Studio offering a range of classes suitable for all-levels.

How long have you been in Buckhead?Thunderbolt_LoyallHartPhotography0051

Thunderbolt Power Yoga opened in September 2014!

We are about to celebrate our two year Birthday!

What do you like most about Buckhead?

We love the community in Buckhead and we have benefitted from partnerships with like-minded local businesses on many occasions.  Many of the yogis at Thunderbolt celebrate our tight knit community and champion the quality of yoga instruction and customer service that we provide.  

What separates your business from the others and makes it the best?

There are many yoga studios in the Atlanta area, and each has its unique character.  Carly Grace Hinchman, TPY Studio Owner & Founder, ends each of her classes with the mantra, “Be audaciously playful.”  Our community is fun-loving, empowering, and seeks to lift one another up in spirit and in life.

Who is your ideal client?

An experienced yoga student who is hoping to experiment with inversions or challenging poses to enliven her practice, or a true beginner who is looking to improve performance in a sport or whom wants to start practicing yoga as part of a healthy lifestyle.  

People have all sorts of reasons for coming to class.  Anyone who is ready to sweat and have fun is an ideal client!

Is there something that people in the community do not know about your business that they should know?

We use a infrared radiant energy to heat our yoga room, rather than the alternative forced air systems offered in many studios. We adhere to a strict no cell phones in the room policy to keep the environment and yoga room clutter free.  We strive to help each student truly begin a life long yoga practice.

For more information please check out: http://www.thunderboltpoweryoga.com/

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What Are the Benefits of Prenatal Chiropractic Care

There are numerous benefits associated with prenatal chiropractic care, including a safer, easier, and more comfortable pregnancy and birth, along with added benefits for the unborn baby. Physically, a mother’s body experiences many changes over the course of 9 months. As her weight and stomach size increases, the center of gravity shifts, producing more compensation on muscles, ligaments, and joints. This commonly results in low back pain, sciatica, headaches, and even non-musculoskeletal issues such as acid reflux and digestive issues. Ligament tension and pelvic misalignments not only lead to discomfort during the pregnancy, but they can potentially impact the birthing process, as well. Published research and collaborative studies to show the efficacy and safety of chiropractic care in pregnancy can be found at: http://icpa4kids.org/Chiropractic-Research/Pregnancy-and-Adjustments/

Nervous System

The nervous system is the master controller of the body and administers the development of the baby in the womb. Chiropractic care corrects misaligned vertebrae that interfere with the functions of the nervous system. Chiropractic adjustments allow the nervous system to work at its best, promoting proper growth and development of the baby.

“Chiropractic care throughout pregnancy removes interference to the mother’s nervous system, enhancing baby development and uterine function. It balances her pelvis, eliminating undue tension to muscles and ligaments, thereby allowing for optimal fetal positioning”

Dr. Jeanne Ohm

Managing Symptoms

Chiropractic care is a safe (for mom and baby) and natural way to manage common symptoms associated with pregnancy. Common symptoms that many expectant mothers experience include muscle soreness, low back pain, headaches, sciatica, morning sickness, acid reflux, indigestion, constipation, and others. Chiropractic care does not cure any of the common symptoms; however, taking pressure of the nervous system allows the body to adapt to the overwhelming physical and hormonal changes, resulting in decreased intensity and duration of symptoms.

Delivery and Postpartum

Chiropractors trained in prenatal care are equipped with the Webster Technique, which is a type of adjustment that re-aligns the sacrum and pelvic bones and reduces tension of the Round Ligament. Proper positioning of soft tissue and bone structures allows for adequate room for the baby to grow, develop, and position in preparation for birth. Although the Webster Technique does not turn breech babies, many breech births are avoided after correcting misalignments and reducing tension of the Round Ligament, both of which create more room for a baby to turn naturally on her or his own. When the baby is in proper position, and the mother’s pelvic bones and ligaments are at ease, the delivery is much safer and efficient for mom and baby. A further advantage of prenatal chiropractic care is that fewer complications tend to arise during delivery (cesarean section, vacuum extraction, forceps), allowing for a more smooth transition and recovery for all parties involved.

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The Need for Probiotics When Taking Antibiotics

When we feel those sinus-like symptoms start to kick in, our society tends to turn
very quickly to antibiotics. These antibiotics eliminate the harmful bacteria
that are intruding on our systematic physiological flow (“anti”- against, “biotic”- living organisms).
Unfortunately, they also destroy the thriving bacteria that keep our guts strong.
We have so much concern with bacteria in and on our bodies that we go to extreme
lengths to eradicate them- all of them (which means destroying the destructive
and beneficial little buggers alike).

Here is a run-down of what happens when antibiotics are introduced to the body:

 

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Now, please do not misunderstand me- I believe antibiotics can have their place in our lives (i.e. in emergency situations). However, when we take them, we have to be so intentional about also giving our bodies plenty of probiotics to help support our gut’s natural ability to rid itself of harmful illnesses. In Joyce Killian’s article “The Overlooked Role of Probiotics in Human Health” in Life Extension Magazine, April 2012, she explains the impact that probiotics have on a person’s overall health. Our bodies depend on these organisms for healthy immune functioning (as the gut is host to more than 70% of the immune system), decreased inflammation, and gut flora balance. Probiotics also group together to line the intestinal walls, hence acting as a shield against the determined and harmful bacteria that want to escape into the body. Protecting the gut is foundational to a healthy and thriving body.

 

 

Food sources of probiotics

Sauerkraut
Kombucha (fermented tea)
Fermented vegetables
Organic Keifer (from grass-fed animals)
Organic Whole Fat Plain Yogurt (from grass-fed animals)

 

For personalized health plans and nutritional advising, contact us! We would love to chat with you about ways to help improve your health, so you can live a thriving life!

404-355-5499

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