Role of chiropractic in managing seizures in children with autism

Over a decade ago, Pistolese presented the results of a thorough chiropractic literature review that out of the 17 papers reviewed, 15 epileptic patients out of 15 reported positive outcomes resulting from subluxation-based chiropractic care. Since his paper, several studies have been published documenting similar results. Of the various theories that have been postulated to explain the apparent effectiveness subluxation-based chiropractic has in managing seizures, Amalu's work concerning cerebral penumbra applies most readily to autistic patient suffering from seizures.

The epilepsy-autism connection

Epilepsy is a general term that refers to the tendency to have recurrent seizures. A seizure is a temporary disturbance in brain function in which groups of nerve cells in the brain signal abnormally and excessively. During a seizure, disturbances of nerve cell activity produce symptoms that vary depending on the location and the amount of the brain affected. Seizures can produce changes in awareness or sensation, involuntary movements, or other changes in behavior. Usually, a seizure lasts from a few seconds to a few minutes.

Nearly a third of ASD children suffer from epilepsy. It has been reported that the risk of epilepsy in autistic children with severe intellectual and developmental disabilities is five percent at one year, 15 percent at five years, and 25 percent at 10 years. Significantly higher numbers occur when cerebral palsy is included as an additional comorbidity. A key fact to note is that epilepsy persists in the majority of patients into adulthood with remission in only 15 percent.

The evidence behind a chiropractic adjustment in treating seizures

First advanced over 20 years ago, the concept of reversing cerebral penumbra may hold the greatest explanation for the changes seen in ASD children under subluxation-based chiropractic care. Within the ischemic cerebrovascular bed, there are two major zones of injury: the core ischemic zone in which necrotic tissue is irreversible; and the borderline ischemic tissue, also known as "ischemic penumbra" (a term generally used to define ischemic, but still viable, reversible cerebral tissue). The penumbral zone is supplied with blood by collateral arteries anastomosing with branches of the occluded vascular tree and it is where pharmacologic interventions are most likely to be effective. According to Agamanolis, "Ischemia, in the penumbra, causes dysfunction due to ionic and metabolic dysfunction but is not severe enough to result in structural damage. Prompt restoration of perfusion in the penumbra by injection of thrombolytic agents may prevent structural damage in this area, thus limiting the neurological deficit."

According to Amalu, hyperafferancy plays a significant role in neuronal hibernation, whereby hyperafferant activation of the central regulating center for sympathetic function can cause differing levels of cerebral ischemia. He postulates that hyperafferant activation via the superior cervical sympathetic ganglia may also cause higher-center ischemia. In light of Kent's Dysafferentation Model of vertebral subluxation, we see the significance of Amalu's theory. The Dyafferentation Model describes those situations in which biomechanical dysfunction results in alteration in normal nociception and/or mechaninoreception. This is clearly evident as the intervertebral motion segment is especially endowed by nociceptive and mechanoreceptive structures. As Kent describes, "To use the contemporary jargon of the computer industry, 'garbage in - garbage out.'" Subsequently, abnormal afferent input to the CNS will lead to a plethora of efferent pathologies. Thus, when a chiropractor adjusts your spine and returns it to proper alignment, normal signals are allowed to flow to and from your brain. This can reverse higher-center ischemia and restore the brain-body balance in autistic patients suffering from epilepsy.

If your child suffers from seizures related to autism, consider visiting a subluxation-based chiropractor. According to the evidence provided in peer-reviewed literature, chiropractic care could possibly be a safe, drug-less option.

Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

A comparison between chiropractic management and pain clinic management for chronic low-back pain in a national health service outpatient clinic

    

A research study was conducted to compare outcomes in perception of pain and disability for a group of patients suffering with chronic low-back pain (CLBP) when managed in a hospital by either a regional pain clinic or a chiropractor. The trial was performed at a National Health Service (NHS) hospital outpatient clinic (pain clinic) in the United Kingdom. The patients with CLBP had been referred to a regional pain clinic (outpatient hospital clinic) and were assessed and randomized to either chiropractic or pain-clinic management for a period of 8 weeks. The study allowed for normal treatment protocols to be used. Treatment was administered in an NHS hospital setting. Randomization placed 12 patients in the pain clinic

and 18 in the chiropractic group, of which 11 and 16, respectively, completed the trial. At 8 weeks, the average improvement was 5.5 points greater for the chiropractic group (a decrease in disability by 5.9) than for the pain-clinic group (0.36). Reduction in mean pain intensity at week 8 was 1.8 points greater for the chiropractic group than for the pain-clinic group. This study suggests that chiropractic management administered in an NHS setting may be effective for reducing levels of disability and perceived pain during the period of treatment for a subpopulation of patients with CLBP.



Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

New Research Shows Positive Effects of Chiropractic For Serious Diseases

A recent study published in the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research is the first to show that correction of upper neck injuries is capable of reversing the progression of both Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.

"According to medical research, head and neck injuries have long been considered a contributing factor for the onset of both Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's disease," said Dr. Erin Elster, the lead researcher. "But this is the first research to show that correction of those injuries can have a dramatic effect on improving and reversing Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's disease."

Positive Effects of Chiropractic Wellness Care

The diagnosis of all included an initial MRI on each patient as well as a series of follow up MRI studies four months, one year and two years after beginning Chiropractic wellness care. The results showed that 91% of the Multiple Sclerosis patients and 92% of the Parkinson's patients had no new lesions and a reduction in intensity of the original lesions. The patients also reported an improvement in quality of life and a reduction of their symptoms.

Treating Subluxations

This research also indicated that any injuries to the neck should be taken care of early in life, especially problems such as trauma to the neck, whiplash and falls. Understand that relieving the immediate neck pain and discomfort does not necessarily fix the underlying problem. It is important to care for the ailment properly by treating the subluxations, including the internal functions. Otherwise, the patient could be more susceptible to Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's later in life.
People who leave subluxations in their neck and back, regardless of whether they feel pain or not, are potentially living with a dangerous time bomb of permanent neurological dysfunction that could be life threatening. Subluxations can be corrected, allowing people to live a healthy life without back pain.



Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

Doctors ignore back pain self-care guidelines and prescribe useless surgeries and meds instead

In today's current medical arena, the mass consumption of useless surgeries and medications is growing at alarming rates. A new study by Dr. Bruce Landon from the Harvard Medical School shows that many doctors today are ignoring back pain self care guidelines and are instead sending patients through unnecessary tests and addictive narcotic treatments.

"Doctors should realize that back pain is not a lifelong condition," says Dr. Bruce Landon, pointing out that patients suffering from back pain usually recover within a couple of months. Expensive CT and MRI imaging scans are being overused and are unnecessary in many cases as well.

In fact, the University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that back pain is usually caused by injury, strains from lifting, twisting, or bending that need Chiropractic Care to heal properly. Each year, 13 million or more Americans go to a doctor looking for back pain relief and many are being shuffled into a trap of excessive scans and medications.

Prescription narcotic abuse and over-diagnosis on the rise

The Harvard study looked at two time periods with a ten year difference. (1999-2000 and 2009-2010) In between the two time periods, they found that narcotic drug prescriptions rose from 19.3 percent to an astounding 29.1 percent. During that same time, the use of over-the-counter pain relievers went down from 36.9 percent to 24.5 percent. This shows an overwhelming migration - patients are being led toward harder prescription pain killers as doctors become loose and careless with their prescription writing hand.

The use of CTs and MRIs increased at a similar pace, from 7.2 percent to 11.3 percent. Orthopedic surgeons were consulted only seven percent of the time ten years ago, but the rate of people seeing these specialists doubled during that ten year period!

"The most worrisome findings were the rapid rise in narcotic prescriptions," Landon wrote in the Harvard report. In 2008 alone, nearly 15,000 people died from narcotic overdoses. These drugs are obviously not helping patients, but instead leading to addiction and premature death.

Landon reports that the narcotic prescriptions are unnecessary most of the time and that back pain typically improves with proper chiropractic care and time. He believes primary care physicians should be doing a better job at managing back pain. This may be harder than it looks, according to the American College of Preventative Medicine. Less than 40% of physicians actually receive training in medical school to identify prescription drug abuse or recognize the warning signs of drug diversion, and an estimated 40% of primary care physicians find it difficult to discuss prescription medication abuse with patients.

Manual chiropractic therapies more effective

Core chiropractic care treats patients manually and is based on spinal manipulation and mobilization. In spinal manipulation, high velocity, short lever arm thrusts are applied to abnormal vertebra to improve their functionality, reduce nerve irritability, and restore range of motion. When treated early and often enough, this manual manipulation bypasses addictive narcotic medicines going hands on - providing direct relief through the muscle-skeletal knowledge of a chiropractor. Chiropractors also use mobilization techniques that encourage low velocity manipulations that involve stretching the muscles and joints with the goal of increasing range of motion. Study after study has proven Chiropractic Care to be the most effective treatment for Back Pain, Sciatic, Neuropathy, and Degenerative Arthritis.
Chiropractors also teach proper posture when sitting and standing as well as the proper way to pick up heavy objects. The goal is to disperse the weight evenly by exhibiting balanced posture, using the knees to bend down and keeping the back straight.

Chiropractic care also teaches better ways to sleep, which include using supports under the neck, lower back and knees. Maintaining the natural curve in one's back while sleeping is key.

Natural herbs and spices that fight inflammation

Other natural pain treatments include using spices like turmeric and ginger, that, over time, bring down inflammation in the body. These spices can be consumed regularly and without side effects. Bromelain, devils claw, and white willow bark extract are other safe pain relievers as well as topical capasaicin cremes.

In general, the rise in prescription narcotic drugs is tragic. Doctors nationwide need to take the lead and make natural pain relief options more readily available. There should be more accountability when it comes to the irresponsible prescribing of these drugs, which do more harm than all illegal drugs combined.



Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

Chiropractic Lowers Blood Pressure

Chiropractic adjustments work to harmonize the body's natural systems by realigning the spinal bones and removing pressure and congestion within the nervous system. This process decreases the physiological stress response and restores optimal function and healing to the body. Along with many other health issues, chiropractic care has shown to consistently achieve remarkable results in helping to stabilize blood pressure.
The nervous system is what allows our internal physiology to adapt to the stresses and demands of the external environment. The skull and spine surround and protect the nervous system and bear the consistent stress of gravity every day. When the external stressors become too great there is compromise in the spinal structure and resulting interference in the nervous system. This interference is termed subluxation. Subluxation causes the nervous system to move out of balance and towards sympathetic (fight or flight) dominance. This process increases stress hormone secretion, inflammatory processes, and blood vessel tone. For many individuals this results in higher blood pressure. Chiropractic adjustments remove subluxation and restore harmony to the nervous system allowing the body to stabilize and heal appropriately.

In 1988, a double blind study of 75 patients was performed to fully analyze the reports that chiropractic care could help stabilize blood pressure in patients. Within this study, one group of patients with elevated blood pressure received adjustments to the thoracic spine area. Another group received placebos (movements that seemed to be adjustments but were not), and a 3rd group received no treatment. The result was that the adjusted group experienced decreases in both systolic & diastolic blood pressure while no change was noted in either the control or placebo group.

A special chiropractic adjustment to the upper cervical region can significantly lower high blood pressure, a placebo-controlled study performed at the University of Chicago suggests. "This procedure has the effect of not one, but two blood-pressure medications given in combination," study leader George Bakris, MD, tells WebMD. "And it seems to be adverse-event free. We saw no side effects and no problems," adds Bakris, director of the University of Chicago hypertension center.

8 weeks after undergoing the procedure, 25 patients with early-stage high blood pressure had significantly lower blood pressure than 25 similar patients who underwent a sham chiropractic adjustment. "When the statistician brought me the data, I actually didn't believe it. It was way too good to be true," Bakris says. "The statistician said, 'I don't even believe it.' But we checked for everything, and there it was."

Compared to the sham-treated patients, those who got the real procedure saw an average of 14 mm Hg greater drop in systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure count), and an average of 8 mm Hg greater drop in diastolic blood pressure (the bottom blood pressure number). This was a greater effect than 2 powerful blood pressure medications given in combination.

In another double blind study, Dr. Yates examined the effects of upper thoracic chiropractic adjustments on blood pressure in 21 subjects with elevated blood pressure. Subjects in the active group (those getting adjusted) showed statistically significant decreases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Placebo and control groups demonstrated no such changes and did not differ significantly from each other. Results support that adjustment of thoracic region significantly reduces blood pressure of patients with elevated blood pressure.

Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

Does Ice Really Work? Cryotherapy: A Review of the Literature

Cold application (cryotherapy) is the simplest and most commonly used method for treatment of acute musculoskeletal injury. Among chiropractic practitioners it is the most often utilized (94.5%) passive adjunctive therapy.¹ The pathophysiological effects of cold have been well documented. Studies have shown that cold applications can reduce the metabolic rate of a tissue, decrease pain and swelling, and reduce muscle spasm.² Most health care practitioners are taught to use ice therapy for treatment of bruises, strains, sprains, or muscle tears and most are familiar with the rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) principle following acute soft tissue injury, yet there is little agreement in the literature on the optimum application technique for such care.

Cryotherapy has wide uses ranging from immediate care and rehabilitation to uses as a surgical adjunct to cryosurgery.² For the purpose of this paper, cryotherapy will be restricted to its uses in acute and rehabilitative care. Several papers reviewing the available literature have been published on the efficacy of cryotherapy.^3-11 The purpose of this paper is to present the findings of these and other studies as to the length, duration, frequency, mode of application, and contraindication of ice for acute soft tissue injury.

1. Uses: 

Cold therapy can be used to control pain and edema.^2,6,9,11 Cold cannot reverse edema once it has developed, however, if applied soon enough after injury can prevent it from occurring. Cold diminishes secondary hypoxic injury, so there is less free protein in the tissues decreasing the tissue oncotic pressure leading to tissue swelling. This is done in two ways: by decreasing metabolism (see later) and by lowering permeability. Decreased metabolism results in decreased secondary hypoxic injury and therefore less tissue debris. With less tissue debris, there is less free protein and a lower oncontic tissue pressure. It should be noted that there is some confusion concerning edema and inflammation. Edema is a sign of inflammation and using ice to control it is helpful, however, cold can also diminish the inflammatory response if used to try to remove the swelling once it has occurred and is not recommended for this use.² Cold has an analgesic effect for musculoskeletal pain although the mechanism is not well understood. Studies have shown that cold has an effect on nerve conduction velocity and can raise pain threshold and tolerance.^{13, 14} Another important effect of cold application is decreased metabolism.^2,6,9,11 Cold reduces cellular energy needs reducing the tissue requirements for oxygen. A body temperature kept at a subnormal level will require less blood. A lower metabolism will give an injured organ a better chance at survival. Cold therapy has been used in reduction of muscle spasm.^{2, 6,9, 11} Pain can lead to reflex muscular spasm, which are neurological in origin involving both gamma and alpha motor neurons. Cold applications help decrease gamma motor spasm and pain which allows the muscle to relax.²

2. Application:
Length: This is a major point of contention among authors. Method of application and body part treated seem to add to the confusion. After a literature review in 1977, McMaster³ concluded that cold should be applied for at least 20 minutes and preferably 30 minutes to ensure the lowering of deep tissue temperature to effect a beneficial change at the site of injury. In 1996, Swenson et al.⁵ reviewed the literature and found a consensus of treatment at 20-30 minute repeated every 2 hours, for up to 48 -72 hours during the acute inflammatory phase In 2000, MacAuley¹⁰ did a systematic search of a convenience sample of 45 sports medicine textbooks and concluded that there is little consistency among the textbooks on how ice should be applied, but by his own admission these were general textbooks and did not include specialist text on cryotherapy. MacAuley⁹ also published a literature review in 2001 and found a consensus of repeated applications of 10 minutes per session but did not include a conclusion for frequency and length of treatment. Many of the reviewed articles used ice massage as mode of application, which requires less time for cooling. Knight and Londeree^5,15 concluded in their study that the duration time can be extended to at least 45 minutes without any increased risk of frost-bite or other severe complications.

Duration: The length of time that intermittent applications of cold packs is determined by the severity of the injury and the body part to be iced, however, the sooner after injury cryotherapy is initiated, the more beneficial the reduction in metabolism will be.^{2, 5, 11} The consensus among authors is for 12 to 72 hours post injury.

Methods of Application: NOTE: Most searches found a consensus of 10-15o C (50-59o F) as the optimum temperature range for reduction of cell metabolism without causing cell damage.^9,10,11
Ice packs. Crushed, shaved, or chipped ice usually in a plastic bag applied directly to the injured area.² Several authors agree that some form of protection be used to prevent frostbite.^5,9,16 Knight¹ suggest, since ice pack temperature is 0 o C (32 o F) and frostbite risk is at -25 o C (-13 o F), that ice packs can be applied directly to the skin to maximize the effectiveness of the cold application. Most agree that ice packs are the most efficient for ice therapy.

Cold-gel packs. A gelatinous substance enclosed in a vinyl cover containing water, and antifreeze (such as salt). Since gel pack are chilled to far below 0 o C (32 o F), they may cause frostbite.²
Chemical cold packs. These consist of two chemical substances, one in a small vinyl bag within a larger bag. Squeezing the smaller bag until it ruptures and spills its contents into the larger causes a chemical reaction producing the cold. They are ideally utilized for emergency use, however they do not adequately lower the body temperature to therapeutic levels.²

Ice immersion. A container is filled with ice and water, and the body part is immersed in it. Immersion is recommended for extremities.²

Ice massage. A cube of ice is rubbed over and around the underlying muscle fiber until numb. Most suggest the cube be prepared in an 8-10 ounce paper cup and applied with constant circular motion around the site to prevent frostbite.¹⁷ This search did not yield any studies advising length of time, however, studies have shown ice massage to decrease muscle temperatures much sooner than ice bag treatment.^16,17

3. Precaution:
Frostbite. The risk of freezing the skin seems to be minor above -10 o C (14 o F), whereas the risk is pronounced below -25 o C (-13 o F).¹⁸ Although frostbite has been classified by degree^20,21, it may be more usefully classified as superficial or deep. (20, 22) Superficial frostbite affects the skin and subcutaneous tissues; deep frostbite also affects bones, joints and tendons. Factors other than temperature are involved with frostbite. The length of application, body part involved, and the method of cooling are some other considerations. Since the temperature of an ice pack is 0 o C (32 o F), the chance of causing frostbite is lessened, however the length of time is still a consideration.⁵ Gel packs are chilled to far below 0 o C (32 o F) and should be used with caution. The body part involved is also a factor: fatty tissue does not cool as fast as lean.²³
Nerve palsy. Nerve palsy is more likely to occur in areas where large nerves are situated directly beneath the skin. Injury can occur if cooled to below 10 o C (50 o F). Care must also be taken with the application of compression in conjunction with cold therapy. Most of the reports of nerve palsy also included varying levels of compression. Although nerve palsy is a concern it is considered rare.^2,4-6,9,24


4. Contraindication:
Cold Hypersensitivity and persons with vasospastic disorders are contraindicated for ice therapy. Cold sensitive patients may risk local burns or systemic complications with ice therapy.⁵ Vasospastic disorders are conditions in which the vessels of the extremities do not dilate properly.² Conditions such as Raynaud’s Phenomenon are regarded as absolute contraindications.^2,4,5


Conclusion
Ice therapy is indicated for soft tissue trauma and rehabilitation. Crushed ice in a bag is applied directly to the skin (thorough a towel or directly) for 10-20 minutes per session immediately after injury for a period of up to 2 weeks

 

Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

New Review of the Scientific Evidence Supporting the Use of Spinal Manipulation for Acute Low Back Pain

              


The October 2010 issue of The Spine Journal includes a new review of the scientific evidence supporting spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) for low back pain.  The results were quite favorable and reflect a growing body of evidence supporting SMT over medications and other conservative options.  SMT research demonstrates “equivalent or superior improvement in pain and function when compared with other commonly used interventions, such as physical modalities, medication, education, or exercise, for short, intermediate, and long-term follow-up.”  The authors conclude by recommending that other health care providers consider SMT as a viable option if self care or education fails to provide pain relief.

A review of national and international guidelines conducted earlier this year by Koes et. al. pointed out the disparities between guidelines with respect to spinal manipulation and the use of drugs for both chronic and acute low back pain.  Another review of guidelines published in June 2010 also noted a great degree of similarity between guidelines and that “Recommendations for management of acute LBP emphasized patient education, with short-term use of acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or spinal manipulation therapy.” Although there is always a need for more evidence, the evidence over the last few years is providing much stronger support for SMT and that evidence is slowly finding its way into major clinical guidelines both in the United States and internationally



Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

Chiropractic Post-surgical Care

Every practicing chiropractor has had the experience of helping patients who suffered from failed back surgery.  Treating these patients, although common, is only sparsely documented in the scientific literature.  Two recent papers have made a significant contribution to this needed area of research.  The first study (August 2011) was a retrospective study of 32 patients who had postsurgical low back pain.  Cox flexion distraction technique was used with an average of 14 treatments over a two month period.  There were marked reductions in pre post pain scores and no adverse effects were noted. 

The second study was a case series of 8 patients that had residual low back pain following total disc replacement.  The purpose of this study was to assess potential adverse effects of spinal manipulation for those with disc replacement.  The post treatment effects included some stiffness or transient increase in discomfort but were no different than other back pain patients.  No significant adverse effects were noted.  The authors went on to note that “Although the purpose of this study was not to establish the clinical efficacy of spinal manipulation in patients with disc prosthesis, several clinical outcomes were assessed to better document the clinical presentation of each patient. In some cases, patients benefited from spinal manipulation and demonstrated clinically-significant (15-20%) improvement in pain and disability scores”.

CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study showed improvement for patients with low back pain subsequent to lumbar spine surgery who were managed with chiropractic care.

Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

Exercise and Brain Health

From a Chiropractic standpoint, exercise is
vital for maintaining a healthy spine.
It invigorates the muscle to give muscle tone,  gives movement to the joints to increase Range of Motion, and now we see
that it also stimulates health Brain function.  Check out this short synopsis below. 
The U.S. public continues to set new levels for sedentary lifestyle and obesity.  Many of our schools have removed classes in physical education.  City planners omit designs for bike paths and sidewalks.  Ironically, at the same time we have the strongest evidence in human history of the critical role of exercise in supporting human health. 

Research published in the last few months (2012) provides a deeper understanding of how exercise improves cognitive function in healthy human brains. Other research addresses the value of exercise in the management of damaged brains and more evidence is emerging that exercise can significantly prevent age related cognitive decline.  New studies continue to support the belief that both dementia and Alzheimer's can, to some extent, be prevented or the progression curtailed with an appropriate exercise regime.  Animal research demonstrates even greater potential for exercise or exercise in combination with diet to enhance brain health.  These treatment and prevention regimes will no doubt be used in future human research. 

A prevention oriented practice requires exercise recommendations beyond simply stretching or specific exercises for post injury rehabilitation.  Weekly aerobic exercise is a necessity.

Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

Health Center Evaluates Chiropractic

Check out the summery article below.  It once again shows not only the benefit of Chiropractic Care, but also the cost savings compared to other forms of treatment for back related conditions.  Any time a true analysis is done to check these factors, Chiropractic Care has shown to be the better alternative.  This is just one more article confirming the facts. If you have any father questions please call Bode Chiropractic Today!

There has been conflicting research and an ongoing debate regarding the cost value of chiropractic.  At the center of the debate is the question:  Does chiropractic add to or reduce the total cost of care?  The most recent and better designed studies suggest that chiropractic care can not only reduce the immediate cost of an episode of care, but reduce the recurrence of subsequent bouts of conditions such as low back pain.  These musculoskeletal conditions are a heavy financial burden on society often requiring expensive tests to pinpoint the exact diagnosis. 

A 2012 study offering on-site chiropractic care versus off-site physical therapy concluded that “[These results suggest that] chiropractic services offered at on-site health centers may promote lower utilization of certain health care services, while improving musculoskeletal function.”  Additionally, patients who receive chiropractic treatment often have a more conservative, less invasive treatment profile which can significantly reduce the overall cost of treatment.


Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

Whiplash Update

This past year a substantial number of peer reviewed publications addressing whiplash associated disorders (WAD) have appeared in the scientific literature.  These manuscripts examine a broad spectrum of topics including neurologic sequela, psychological issues, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, prognosis and compensation.  Patients respond favorably to chiropractic management of the initial whiplash symptoms, as well as the sequela of WAD, e.g. headache, postural changes and biomechanical problems.  Some of the more important findings of the recent research include the following:

• Postural changes: Mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) patients were compared with WAD subjects and a “similar pattern of balance impairment was present in patients with whiplash injury with and without MTBI. However, the impairment was greater for stance and complex gait tasks in WAD patients with MTBI.” Another systematic review of whiplash studies found that “the decreased postural stability in people with neck pain appears to be associated with the presence of pain and correlates with the extent of proprioceptive impairment, but appears unrelated to pain duration.” A third study evaluated postural sway in WAD patients and concluded that the “Increased magnitude of the slow sway component implies an aberration in sensory feedback or processing of sensory information in WAD.”
• Biomechanical changes: In a comparison between WAD and asymptomatic subjects, the WAD group “revealed a significantly reduced clavicle retraction and scapular upward rotation as well as decreased cranial angle.”
• Pathophysiological changes: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed muscle fatty infiltrates in the cervical extensors.  These changes “occur soon following whiplash injury and suggest the possibility for the occurrence of a more severe injury with subsequent [post traumatic stress disorder] PTSD in patients with persistent symptoms.”
• Symptoms/Sequela:  “Subjects with self reported whiplash injury had significantly more headache and musculoskeletal complaints than those without…”
• Prognostic signs: One study compared those patients who recovered from WAD within three month with those that did not.  They concluded that “the recovered group had significantly better scores on all health outcome measures; SF36 Physical Component Score, SF36 Mental Component Score and the PCS (p<0 .001="" affected="" age="" and="" being="" health="" helplessness="" independent="" li="" non-recovery="" of="" older="" p="" poorer="" pre-injury="" predictors="" r="" significant="" status="" the="" were="" work="">
• Psychological: Anxiety and depression are characteristics often associated with WAD.  One longitudinal study concluded that “This is the first published study with a prewhiplash prospective evaluation of psychological status. Our findings are in conflict with previous research suggesting whiplash to be the cause of associated psychological symptoms rather than their consequence. Self-reported whiplash injury was clinically relevant as it independently increased subsequent disability pension award. The strength of this effect, even in the absence of neck pain, suggests the ascertainment of this diagnostic label, or factors associated with this, are important predictors of disability.”  Another study concluded that “It appears that important psychological factors (fear avoidance beliefs and pain amplification) do have some influence on self-ratings of disability in chronic WAD sufferers.”

Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa 

Chiropractic boosts brain-body Coordination

The brain is the master control system for the entire body. It sends and receives a complicated frequency of signals with the body that dictate the function of the body. When there is interference in this neurological feedback loop, it alters the environment the brain perceives itself to be in; this consequently changes the adaptation process the brain orchestrates throughout the body. Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to enhance the sensorimotor integration of the brain with the body.

Many experts have hypothesized that increased stress cycles in the body produce the environment for dis-ease and eventually disease within the body. Stress can come from a variety of sources in the mental/emotional form, chemical form, and physical realm. When the body is under increased stress it responds by increasing its sympathetic tone. This means the body shunts itself into "fight or flight" survival based mode by altering cardiovascular & endocrine function to get itself ready for dynamic activity.

Increased sympathetic tone causes a release of stress hormones such as adrenalin, epinephrine, and cortisol. This is the same response we get when we are anxious or exercising. This is okay if it is for a short period of time; however, when the stress lasts longer than expected it exhausts the body and causes a state of dis-ease to manifest.

When the brain sends information to the organs, muscles, and tissues of the body, this is called efferent neurological flow. In return, the afferent flow of information includes all the messages sent to the brain from skin, muscle, joint, and organ receptors. This afferent/efferent neurological loop is how the body is able to respond and adapt appropriately to its environment.

The ramifications of increased stress hormones in the body include overworked adrenal glands, lowered immunity, decreased digestive functions, fatigue, & blood pressure disturbances. Increased cortisol levels also cause ligament laxity by stripping critical proteins from the tendon and ligament structures. This causes joint weakness throughout the body, including the spine and extremities, making them much more susceptible to injury.

Subluxation is a term used to describe mechanical compression and irritation to spinal joints and nerves. Subluxation scrambles the neurological feedback loop by causing altered rhythms of neurological flow. Subluxations are caused by trauma, poor posture, or increased chemical and emotional stresses.

Subluxations are a physical stress on the body and therefore increase the sympathetic tone, so the body shunts its energy toward the fight or flight system. If the subluxation(s) are not corrected they continue to produce this increased stress response. This increases cortisol and causes greater joint & ligament laxity in the spine and extremities making them more susceptible to injury. Additionally, increased long-term stress on the body greatly accelerates the degenerative processes of the spine and joints leading to osteoarthritis.

Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to normalize spinal afferent/efferent processes to their proper resting tone. This is like hitting the reset button on the computer when it is malfunctioning. The computer is allowed to pause and reprocess itself. Chiropractic adjustments stop the stress response and restore normal hormonal and cardiovascular function to the body. This allows the body to reset itself and begin healing the damage that was done in the body due to chronic stress cycles.

Research performed by Taylor and Murphy demonstrated that chiropractic adjustments enhanced sensorimotor integration, the body's ability to sense where it is in space and effectively coordinate complex movement patterns. This improves function in both the brain and the body. Improved spatial intelligence translates into better physical and mental balance, coordination, and mobility. Chiropractic adjustments make you think and move with better speed, skill, and finesse.


Go see Dr Garrett Bode or visit his other links and websites:  http://www.bodespinalcenter.com/ or see our latest press release (Click Here). [Chiropractor Oldsmar], Chiropractic Tampa, 33635, Chiropractor Tampa, Bode Chiropractic Accident & Wellness Center, Oldsmar, 33635, Neck Pain, Low Back Pain, Auto Accidents, Headaches. Link Link BodeChiropractic.Blogspot.com http://fl.local.yahoo.biz/chiropractortampa