, , ,

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.

/2 Comments/by
, ,

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.

/1 Comment/by
, , ,

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.

/by
, , ,

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.

/by
, ,

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/

/by
, , ,

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.

/by
thoracic-outlet
, , ,

Can Chiropractic Help with Sciatica During Pregnancy?

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is pressure and or irritation on the sciatic nerve that results in pain along the distribution of the nerve (buttock, down the back of the thigh and leg). The quality of pain can vary from sharp, dull, achy, to burning.

What Causes Sciatica?

Pressure on the sciatic nerve from a herniated disk, misaligned vertebra, or spinal degeneration. Based on individual anatomy, the piriformis muscle can irritate the sciatic nerve resulting in similar symptoms as sciatica, and is termed “Piriformis Syndrome”. In pregnant women, different factors can attribute to sciatica symptoms. Weight gain, uterus expansion, increased lordotic curve (due to the growing belly), and the position of the baby can all put additional pressure on the sciatic nerve during pregnancy.

How Can Chiropractic Help?

Chiropractic adjustments provide a non-surgical, non-invasive, and safe treatment for sciatica for both mom and baby. Spinal adjustments help correct misaligned vertebrae and reduce nerve irritation that can promote sciatica symptoms and muscle tension. Chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe and effective, and it provides benefits to both mom and the developing baby. To find a chiropractor trained and specialized in prenatal and pregnancy care, call our office at 404-355-5499.

/1 Comment/by
, , , , , , ,

Breaking Down the 3 Phases of Chiropractic

by Dr. Adam Podraza

 

Picture walking onto a construction site, and the contractor shows up with no blueprints or plans. He says he is going to show up every day, view the progress thus far, and make all decisions on what to do as he goes. Is that a fool-proof plan that will lead to successful results? Unfortunately, it is not.

Before even lifting one hammer, the contractor should explain in detail the different stages of construction, what to expect during each stage, and when you should expect the job to be completed.

Chiropractic care is, and should be, the same way. Your Chiropractor should have a plan for your care and explain the three phases in detail, so you can fully understand what to expect during each phase and where you are throughout the process.

Phase 1: Crisis (Relief) Care

Most people begin in this phase, unless they have been under care for a significant amount of time or if their spinal structure is in excellent condition. The primary objective of Phase 1 is to eliminate pain and have patients function as they did before the pain started. First, a thorough examination is done to reveal the areas of spinal dysfunction. Then, a care plan is created with two objectives in mind: eliminate or reduce discomfort/dysfunction and stabilize your condition in the shortest time possible. Each plan is personalized depending on the presenting condition of the patient. Phase 1 typically takes 4-6 weeks and is confirmed through objective testing.

Phase 2: Corrective (Rehabilitative) Care

This phase is centered on maintaining the progress that has been made in the relief phase while also strengthening the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. With the areas of stress in the spine diminishing, it is important to give the body the time it needs to adapt all of the surrounding structures and tissues to their position of optimal function. The frequency of visits reduces during Phase 2 because the body is starting to hold the adjustments longer and is becoming more stable. This phase typically lasts 6-8 weeks depending on the patient’s progress.

Phase 3: Wellness Care  

Wellness is the third and final stage of Chiropractic care. This phase is meant to maintain your improved health and spinal function while also preventing the return of any condition we have corrected throughout this adjusting process. At this point – depending on a person’s goals- specific suggestions can be made to take a patient’s health to the next level, such as on the topics of fitness, mindfulness, and nutrition. Please understand that if during this process you suffer an injury or setback, you may need to begin with Crisis Care initially to support your body, and that is perfectly okay. The good news is that your body has gone through this process in the past, so it will be ready to move through the phases more quickly!

/by
Noise When Chiropractor Adjusts You
,

What is the Noise When Chiropractors Adjust You?

Noise When Chiropractor Adjusts You

Many people think when they receive a chiropractic adjustment that either their bones are cracking, grinding, or popping. Well, I have good news! For this article we’ll answer the question “What is the noise when chiropractors adjust you?” so you’ll know once and for all what you’re hearing.

Eggs are cracked and popcorn is popped but chiropractic adjustments gently move the vertebra back into it’s proper position without damage.

Similar to how you hear noise when you release your knuckles; anytime you move a joint past its end range of motion there will be sound.

As we setup for the chiropractic adjustment, the space inside the spinal joint is being increased, and the pressure within is dropping. Due to the pressure drop, carbon dioxide is released and this is the noise you hear during your adjustment.

These adjustments are 100% safe and effective which is why Corrective Chiropractic in Atlanta has the best results for the correction of vertebral subluxation.

/by
thoracic-outlet
,

Are Chiropractic Adjustments Painful?

Are Chiropractic Adjustments Painful

“Are chiropractic adjustments painful?” This is the most common question I hear from people in Atlanta coming in for their first adjustment.

Many people come to the chiropractor scared to have their body adjusted, which I completely understand. However, once people receive their first adjustment they usually say “that was it?” or “I never realized how locked up I was”.

Our goal at Corrective Chiropractic is to make sure you understand 2 important steps:

  1. Why we are adjusting?
  2. What to expect during the adjustment

We are one of the only chiropractors in Atlanta to specialize in corrective care so we want to make sure you are fully knowledgeable and understanding of your case.

/by