What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine that causes stiffness and pain. It is called an idiopathic disease because the cause of it is unknown. Scoliosis is more common in females and begins in childhood. However, merely 2 percent of the population is afflicted. If it is detected early, scoliosis treatment will prevent it from worsening over time.

Scoliosis is derived from the Greek term meaning curvature. People with scoliosis have a sideways curve in their spine that makes an “S” or “C” shape. The vertebrae can rotate at the thoracic level of the spine causing this curve and resulting in a hump near the rib cage. If the curve is more than 60 degrees it is considered serious. Usually this curve makes the waist or shoulders uneven. And unlike the normal curvature of the spine, adjusting your posture will not correct the problem.

In some instances, the degenerative diseases of the spine can cause scoliosis. Osteoporosis is when the bones soften and usually occurs in older people. This softening can cause the vertebrae to bend and shape the curve causing scoliosis or kyphosis (round back). If not treated properly, severe back pain, deformity, and difficulty breathing can be some symptoms that will arise.

How can Chiropractic care help?

Chiropractic care can help improve this condition. Your chiropractor looks at your overall health examining your spine as well as other factors of your lifestyle. To help identify the problem’s cause, your chiropractor will discuss symptoms and previous injuries, your family's health history, and recreational and work-related activities. Palpation, orthopedic, and neurological tests will be performed as well as x-rays to determine the extent.

Most exams for scoliosis include the Adam’s Forward Bending Test and have been adopted by many schools, whereas they test for this in physical education classes. It requires the person to bend at the waist as someone views the spinal alignment. If there is an abnormal prominence or hump you will be referred to a chiropractor. Your chiropractor will measure the length of the legs to determine unevenness. He/She can also perform a range of motion test that measures the degree to which the patient has mobility at the waist. If needed, your chiropractor will refer you to a specialist for further scoliosis treatment.

In most cases spinal manipulation, physiotherapy, and electric stimulation have not shown to be effective treatments. However, an orthopedic brace can be used to prevent the curve from worsening and does not limit physical activity. Moist heat will help alleviate some pain. In extreme cases surgery may be required but only after the continuous observation has shown that a brace is not helping. Spinal fusion and instrumentation is a surgery specialized for people with scoliosis whereas rods and hooks are inserted to help align your spine and prevent further curving.

Regular visits to your chiropractor, to observe the progression of scoliosis, are an integral part of living a full and happy life. Scoliosis can be treated in various ways to help alleviate pain and restore normal functionality. Regardless of the treatment used, physical therapy may be added to scoliosis treatment to increase muscle strength and mobility. If you have any questions about your physical limitations, consult your chiropractor.


http://www.chirocommunity.com/scoliosis.htm

Back injury problems due to improper lifting techniques are all too common, especially work related lifting injuries.  According to FamilyDoctor.org, the proper way to lift a heavy item is to get as close as possible to the item and use your legs and arms to lift, bending your legs and keeping the back straight as you lift up.  The heavy load should be held at chest-level to avoid straining your back muscles. Of course, these tips may be a little too late if you have improperly lifted a heavy item and have caused work related lifting injuries. Sometimes people who lift weights for exercise also hurt their shoulders, knees or cause a herniated disk, stretched ligament or sprain in the back, but work related lifting injuries are most common.  These injuries are often seen in jobs that require physical labor such as bending, lifting, moving and carrying heavy items.

SYMPTOMS OF  LIFTING INJURIES
If you injure your back or another area of your body through lifting something heavy, you will probably know it right away.  You may feel pain, stiffness or muscle spasms immediately and continued symptoms that might continue for several days or for several weeks. For work related lifting injuries, this may mean that you will be unable to perform your typical job duties and may need to file for workmen’s compensation as a result.  Ask your manager or human resources representative for more information.

TRADITIONAL TREATMENTS FOR LIFTING INJURIES
A doctor can generally diagnose injuries caused by lifting and may use additional diagnostic tools such as an MRI or an x-ray if a herniated disc is suspected.

In addition, a doctor may prescribe short-term bed rest and anti-inflammatory pain medicine such as ibuprofen to help manage pain. Ice packs may also reduce swelling and pain.  You may be prohibited from working or lifting items for a certain amount of time if the issue is caused by work related lifting injuries.

HEALING LIFTING INJURIES THROUGH CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT
While traditional treatment methods may help improve the symptoms of a lifting injury, a skilled chiropractor can help treat the issue and re-align the bones, joints and muscles to shorten the severity of the symptoms and improve the condition of the spine, joints and muscles.  This is called spinal manipulation and adjustment.

In addition, hydrotherapy like  heat and ice treatments,  help reduce pain and swelling and using active release therapy to get tight, tense muscles to relax and release.  This can reduce muscle spasms and pain.


Resources:  http://fremontchiropractic.com/

Physical pain is a common occurrence for many Americans. A national survey found that more than 25% of adults experience pain lasting more than one day. Pain is a response of the nervous system which can occur in various natures such as an achy, sharp, dull, or throbbing sensation and which can be localized or all over. It is an alert for us that there is some type of injury or illness present in the body which needs our attention. Most pain dissappates after the underlying condition is resolved; however, some experience recurring or chronic pain. For those who have tried medications or surgery without any results or who want a more natural method of relieve, especially women who are pregnant or anyone who has experienced a bad reaction due to medication, acupuncture could be the natural pain reliever for you.

Acupuncture is among the oldest healing practices in the world and the most widely practiced forms of alternative medicine in the country. Acupuncture is divided into two philosophies. The first being the Eastern idea which is a 5,000 year old Chinese system of natural healing (no drugs-no surgery) which is concerned with restoring proper energy flow to the various organs, glands and tissues of the body on the premise that most diseases are the result of malfunction due to disrupted energetics. The Western idea is the use of needles to stop pain by blocking nerve pathways, as well as, the release of your body’s own natural drugs-known as endorphins and enkephalins.

Acupuncture treatments are typically performed by inserting approximately 10 needles into the channels of energy which are called meridians, located throughout the body just underneath the skin surface. Needles are left in places typically for 15-20 minutes. Sessions are performed three times a week for the first two weeks in order to determine the effectiveness of the bodies response. If there is a good response, treatment will be continued until the problem is resolved. Very commonly acupuncture can be used with fingertip pressure, electrical stimulation, and numerous other techniques which do not involve using an actual needle.

Acupuncture can be used in the treatment of numerous health conditions, most of which are related to pain management. There are over two thousand conditions which can be treated with acupuncture. Back pain is the most common condition treated, followed by joint pain, neck pain, severe headaches/migraine, and recurring pain. Typical ailments reported in literature also include carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, myofascial pain, osteoarthritis, neuralgias, trigeminal neuralgia, tics, spasms, muscular rheumatism, neuralgia of the shoulders and arm, tennis elbow, osteoarthritis, rheumatism, ulcers, stomach problems, diarrhea, hepatitis, asthma, bronchitis, shortness of breath, coughs, certain types of heart trouble, abnormal blood pressures, hemorrhoids, lumbago, bladder irritation, bed wetting, certain kidney problems, female disorders, impotence, glaucoma (sometimes), weak eyesight, hay fever, loss of smell, tonsillitis, loss of hearing, skin conditions, and even nervous and psychiatric factors based on the fact that mental problems often arise from physical disorders.

Acupuncture is quickly becoming known for its effectiveness and efficiency in alleviating many kinds of pain and many Americans are taking advantage of this process. According to the 2007 National Health Survey, approximately 3.1 million Americans stating using acupuncture in the past year. Though it is most commonly sought out by adults, it is used with growing frequency for children. According to estimates, about 150,000 children in the U.S. underwent acupunture in 2007. Additionally, there are relatively few complications or side affects due to acupucture treatment. Acupuncture is drawing more Americans towards this form of pain management since it has fewer adverse side affects than many standard drug treatments used, such as anti-inflammatory medications and steriod injections. In a recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine which was conducted over the past decade, it found that acupucture outperformed standard pain care and sham treatments when used by people suffering from osteoarthritis, migraines, and chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain.

Acupucture is becoming an increasely popular form of alternative healthcare in the U.S. due to its efficacy of treatment, few adverse side effects, and natural method. On average, a very high percentage of patients will respond satisfactory to acupuncture treatment; however, some patients do not respond due to a variety of reasons. Advanced age, severity of condition, irreversible tissue damage, etc., are deterrents to recovery. However, in conjunction with chiropractic, physical therapy, and acupuncture, the odds are very favorable for a good response.

By: Dr. Seyoung Kim, as seen in Brag Book Magazine Fall/Winter 2013 Issue

Many severe attacks of back pain develop from something as insignificant as bending over a bathroom sink, reaching to pick up a small item, sneezing, or reaching into a low cabinet. Usually, there has been a series of small accidents leading up to this cause for the back injury. Heavy lifting, falls, or severe strain are early precipitation factors in many back injuries. Usually they have occurred previously and have been forgotten.

Faulty spinal dynamics are often a cause of severe back pain. Faulty spinal alignment, over a period of time, will cause gradual weakening of disc fibers and other ligaments. In this weakened condition, all it takes is a simple movement, such as reaching into the cupboard, for an injury to occur.

When such an incident occurs:

1. Lie down immediately in any position that is comfortable.
   
   
2. Place an ice pack directly to the area of pain, cover with a towel, and keep in place for 20-30 minutes. (If you do not have an ice pack, place 6-10 ice cubes in a plastic bag.) This will hurt at first, but after several minutes the area will be desensitized and you will feel better. Do not remove the pack for 20-30 minutes. Reapply the ice as instructed by your doctor.
   
   
3. Call your chiropractic physician and make arrangements to go to the office as soon as possible. In some cases, it may be suggested that you remain at home in bed for a period of time.
   
   
4. Do not sit in a recliner of any kind, as this will aggravate the condition.
   
   
5. Maintain a positive outlook. Under chiropractic care, back injury conditions usually respond favorably. However, it takes time, so be patient. Let your chiropractic physician determine what is best for your situation.
   
   

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Our Body & How It Works

 The human spine is made up of small bones called vertebra. The vertebra are stacked on top of each other to form a column. Between each vertebra is a cushion known as a disc. These disc are there to support the stress you put on your body. The vertebra are held together by ligaments, and tendons attach muscles to the vertebra. The neck supports the weight of your head and the lower part of the spine holds most of the body's weight. Even a minor problem with the bones, muscles, ligaments, or tendons in these areas can cause pain when a person stands, bends, or moves around.

 If you're experiencing back pain, you are not alone. Eight out of ten adults will have lower back pain during their lifetime. And most will have more than one episode of acute low back pain. Next to the common cold, back pain is the second most noted reason for missed work in the U.S. Common causes for back pain include poor muscle tone in the back, muscle tension or spasms, back sprains, ligament or muscle tears, joint problems, or a combination of these factors. Sometimes nerves from the spinal cord can be irritated or pinched due to a disc being compressed. This may cause numbness, weakenss, or tingling in the arms or legs. People who are in poor physical condition or do work that includes heavy labor or long periods of sitting or standing are at greater risk for low back problems. These people also get better more slowly. Emotional stress or long periods or inactivity may make back symptoms seem worse.

If your pain is minor, you may get relief from over the counter medications such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen, along with rest and applying a cold pack to the affected area. However, if your symptoms are severe, keep you from performing your daily activities, and do not subside within a few days, you will need to seek professional care. If you don't tolerate strong pain medication or have numerous side affects associated with prescription medications and want a natural alternative for treating your symptoms, chiropractic may be right for you.



Getting Relief from Neck & Back Pain with Natural Healing

Chiropractic is the most popular, drug-free healthcare in the world. Modern Chiropractic, discovered in 1895 by Dr. D.D. Palmer, is a system which helps release serious stresses from the body, known as subluxations. A subluxation is a tiny distortion in your spinal stucture that can effect your nerves, muscles, energy, brain functions, internal organs, disc, bones, tendons, ligaments, posture, and overall health. Stress is the cause of subluxations, for example, physical stress such as poor posture, accidents, sitting or standing for prolonged periods in the same position, and other physical traumas.

 Chiropractic focuses on the problem and enhancement of your body vs. only focusing on the treatment of symptoms. Your chiropractor will help you get relief from your pain, discomfort, and other symptoms by performing a spinal manipulation, a method of using the hands to apply force to the back to adjust the vertebra of the spine, which helps to correct the subluxations. Other treatments which can be performed in conjunction with the spinal manipulations are traction therapy, massage, soft tissue therapy and acunpunture-all which are proven to help aid the healing process. By releasing the stresses of the body, your chiropractor will help to increase the function of your brain, strengthen you immune systems defense abilities, and improve your energy level. Through the use of the spinal manipulation, your chiropractor will help activate your body's natural healing abilities, allowing your body to function at its best.

 Until you feel better, your chiropractic physician may recommend some changes in your daily activities to help facilitate a speedy recovery. When dealing with severe back pain, you should avoid: heavy lifting, lifting when twisting, bending forward, and reaching, and sitting for long periods of time. You should rest your body from activities which can cause physical stress including heavy cardio exercise and lifting weights. However good these may be for you, they are not recommended while under care. A gradual return to normal activities and exercise will be recommended, but the most important goal is for you to return to your normal activites as it is safe.


Prevention
 
The best way to prevent neck and back problems is to stay fit. Through proper diet, exercise, healthcare and awareness, you can help to maintain overall health and avoid unneccasary stresses which could lead to injuries.
 
A balanced diet will keep your body functioning correctly and improve your health. Healthy eating begins with learning how to eat smart. Your food choices can reduce your risk of illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, as well as defend against depression. Additionally, learning the habits of healthy eating can boost your energy, sharpen your memory and stabilize your mood. Eating organic foods and avoiding processed items, as well as proper hydration can help lead to a satisfying, healthy diet.

A regular exercise routine is key to maintaining proper back and neck posture and support. There are many exercises that can be done to condition the muscles of your body and back which helps provide much needed support to the spine. Cardio exercise along with a weight lifting and stretching routine are highly recommended and adds to your general health. Remember, you should consult your physician about the exercises that would be best for you after recovering from a previous injury.

Maintaining proper healthcare is important. It is highly recommended to consult your physician for a yearly check-up, as well as, going to your chiropractic physician for a monthly maintenance visit. Doing so, even when feeling well, will help to correct small misalignments which can slowly build over time and develop into a serious injury later on.

Be aware of your daily routine and the stresses that can be caused from it as well as your family history and your own previous injuries. For many of us, our daily routine can consist of sitting, standing, or driving for extended periods, heavy labor and lifting, and even emotional stress. Over time, these actions can wear on your body, weakening it, and increasing your susceptibility to injury. Here are a few key points to follow daily in order to prevent injury: keep all lifted objects close to your body; use a chair with good lower back support and stretch as often as possible when sitting for long periods; alternate resting one foot on a low stool when standing for long periods; use a pillow behind the small of your back and stop often to walk a few minutes if driving for an extended period; and sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees or sleep on your side with your knees bent and a pillow between them.


Are you or someone you know suffering from neck or back pain? Contact Dr. Seyoung Kim located at 5583 NW Expressway in Oklahoma City at 405-773-3131 or visit www.kimchiropractic.com for more information.   

*Article written by Dr. Seyoung Kim for BragBook Magazine-Issue 6: Spring 2012.