Friday, September 7, 2012

How Long Until I Feel Better?-Sept 2012

HOW LONG UNTIL I FEEL BETTER?
September 2012

Hi Everybody, Dr. Norris here,

Statistics tell us that 80% of people will have at least one incident of disabling spine pain in their lifetime.  If you drive you are statistically speaking going to have an accident every seven years.  If you participate in a sport, it’s not if but when you will be injured.  If you are reading this, you have sought-out some kind of medical care… so please listen up!       

Most spine problems fall into one of three categories.  By far the most common spinal problem is a simple misalignment.  The medical term is a “spinal subluxation”.  Many things can cause this condition.  Something as simple as bending or twisting can cause your back or neck bones to be misaligned or “go out”.  Fortunately a subluxation is easy to repair.  Doctors of Chiropractic are trained (8 years of college) to find and fix these conditions.  Most people respond favorably after the first treatment.  The problem is usually stabilized after 2-5 visits.

The next category of spinal condition is a little more serious and involves tissue damage.  A muscle can be strained or a joint can be sprained.  The soft tissues are inflamed, painful and swollen.  There can be spasm and nerve symptoms such as numbness and tingling.  This condition usually occurs following some kind of trauma.  A fall, car accident, sports injury or lifting awkwardly can cause this condition.  A series of chiropractic treatments will allow for the tissue to heal faster and better than rest alone.  Stretching and strengthening exercises may also be prescribed to stabilize the injury.  Most patients heal within 2-4 weeks.

Finally the last category is chronic degeneration.  Again there can be many reasons for this type of spinal condition.  A serious injury that did not heal properly, repetitive micro-trauma or postural issues over many years are the most common causes of chronic spinal problems.  Chiropractic treatment can reduce the intensity and length of a flare-up.  Treatment can also delay the degenerative progress.  There are lifestyle, nutritional and activity changes, which can also improve function for people with these issues.

No matter what category you find yourself in, I will always take the time to explain what is going on, how to best treat it and how long it will probably take.  If you or someone you care about is suffering with a painful condition have them call me and I will give them a complimentary consultation to see if chiropractic care can help.
 
“Because nobody has time for pain!”
 Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris
 
HEALTH UPDATE:

The average human head weighs 10-12 lbs.  Try picking up a 10 lb. weight and hold it away from your body.  Your muscles will quickly fatigue.  Remember you hold your head up all day long, not just a few minutes.  This is why your neck can be sore at the end of the day.  Postural exercises, massage therapy and chiropractic care can help reverse this stress.
Call Dr. Norris for a consultation today. (661) 435-7237


QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
“Without health, life is not life;
It is only a state of suffering.”
             ~ Francois Rabelais