April 2014
Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.
Most of the patients I see in my practice have some kind of painful condition. The pain is what prompts them to call for an appointment. When they come in I evaluate them and determine a diagnosis based on their symptoms, the examination findings and my clinical experience. Once I tell them what the diagnosis is their next question is usually "How can I cure it?" Some conditions if treated properly will fully resolve... and never come back. Problems like a strained muscle, inflamed tendon or bruised soft tissue can be cured.
But unfortunately some conditions even if treated with the best possible health care will not go away. Chronic diseases such as arthritis, disc degeneration and scar tissue can't be cured... but they can be managed. What I mean is the pain and symptoms can be reduced and sometimes even removed for awhile, but they will return at sometime in the future.
Let me give you an example. I injured my low back years ago while playing football. Yes even doctors have pain and no, I did not play with a leather helmet. Because of my injury I now have spinal arthritis also known as spondylosis. Most of the time, the things I do don't cause my pain, but every now and then I do something that causes a flare-up. Some care helps me through the painful episode and after awhile it calms down. Will it come back again? ...Yes... because eventually I will overdo it again. So what can we do to reduce the number of flare-ups and what can we do when the condition is aggravated?
#1 KNOW YOUR LIMITATIONS
Assess what activities cause your condition to become symptomatic and limit those activities. As we get older just about any prolonged posture can cause pain. Take driving for instance. Instead of driving straight through to your destination, stop every 1-2 hours and walk around a bit. Does yardwork or housework bother you? Just go at it easier and allow for rest periods.
#2 STRENGTHEN & STRETCH
Improving strength and flexibility will make your flare-ups less severe and shorter in length. You don't have to go crazy with hours of pumping iron or running a marathon. Simple stretches and a leisurely walk will do wonders for your body. Find an exercise routine that works for you and your lifestyle and just do it.
#3 PREVENTATIVE TREATMENT
Being proactive with regular chiropractic care and other measures such as massage therapy will lessen your inevitable flare-up. At the first sign of symptoms... get treatment. Because after thirty-five years of providing care for painful conditions I can assure you the longer you wait... the longer it takes to get relief. Well I hope this advice is helpful to you. Feel free to ask me about any questions you may have.
As always if you or someone you care about
is in pain or having a health issue
have them call for a consultation.
That's what I love to do, help people.
is in pain or having a health issue
have them call for a consultation.
That's what I love to do, help people.
“Because nobody has time for pain!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris
HEALTH TIP:
That's A Lot Of Muscles!
There are nearly 650 skeletal muscles in the human body! With repetitive micro-trauma muscles become tight, scar tissue forms and this traps chemical pain receptors. With regular chiropractic care, the goal is to restore and maintain proper motion of bones and muscles to prevent pain and dysfunction.
QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"When walking in nature one receives far more than one seeks.” ~ John Muir
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases or, medical problems. It is not intended to replace your doctor's recommendations. The information is provided for educational purposes only. Response to care and nutritional benefits may vary from one person to another.
