Dr. Mike's Blog: 2014

Friday, December 12, 2014

It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas- Christmas 2014

IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS
December 2014

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.
Well the holidays and the end of the year are here. Reflecting over the past year I am so blessed to have such wonderful patients. THANK YOU for trusting your health to me and for referring your friends and family. It's because of your loyalty that I am able to provide for my family doing something that I love doing. My hope is that you have a very Merry Christmas and a great
New Year. May you have good health and much happiness in 2015.

Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

Holiday Schedule
Norris Chiropractic will be open during the week of Christmas and New Years. I will be in all day Monday and Tuesday, and half-day Wednesday morning. If you, or someone you know, needs pain relief have them give us a call. "Because Nobody Has Time For Pain!"

Christmas Trivia
- Germany made the first artificial Christmas trees.
They were made of goose feathers and dyed green.
- Electric lights for trees were first used in 1895.
- Rudolph The Red-nosed Reindeer was actually created by Montgomery Ward in the late 1930's
for a holiday promotion. The rest is history.
- Jingle Bells" was first written for Thanksgiving and then became one of the most popular
Christmas songs.
- If you received all of the gifts in the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas,"
you would receive 364 gifts.
- In 1843, "A Christmas Carol" was written by Charles Dickens in just six weeks.
- Christmas became a national holiday in America on June, 26, 1870.
- More diamonds are sold around Christmas than any other time of the year.
- In Mexico, wearing red underwear on New Year's Eve
is said to bring new love in the upcoming year.

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.

Friday, November 7, 2014

Where Does the Time Go?- Happy Thanksgiving- Nov. 2014

Where Does The Time Go? November 2014
Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.

This month's newsletter includes an interesting commentary on something that we all can relate to ...aging.

The Truth about Getting Older
Do you realize that the only time when we like to get older is when we’re kids? If you’re less than 10 years old, you’re so excited about aging that you think in fractions. “How old are you?” “I’m four and a half!” You’re never thirty-six and a half. You’re four and a half, going on five! That’s the key.

You get to your teens, now they can’t hold you back. You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead. “How old are you?” “I’m gonna be 16!” You could be 13, but hey, you’re gonna be 16! And then the greatest day of your life…You become 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony. You BECOME 21!

But then you turn 30. Whoa, what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk! He TURNED; we had to throw him out. There’s no fun now, you’re just a sour-dumpling. What’s wrong? What’s changed?

You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you’re PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put the brakes on, it’s all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50 and your dreams are gone. But wait! You MAKE it to 60. Like you didn’t think you would!

So you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60.
You’ve built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it’s a day-by-day thing; you HIT Wednesday!

You get into your 80’s and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REACH bedtime. And it doesn’t end there. Into the 90s you start going backwards; “I was JUST 92.”

Then a strange thing happens. If you make it to 100, you become a little kid again. “I’m 100 and a half!”

Always remember, life is short. Enjoy the simple things. Laugh often, long and loud. Cherish your health and surround yourself with what you love.

If you need help getting through a physical challenge, I'm here to help.
That's what I love to do,
help people get out of pain.
“Because nobody has time for pain!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris
P.S. Have a great Thanksgiving.

HEALTH TIP:
Hydrotherapy Helps Reduce Stress.
Relaxing in a hot bath relieves sore muscles and joints, reduces stress and tension, and promotes a good night's sleep. Add some soft music, lighting and scented bubbles to create an inexpensive spa experience.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We only have today... let us begin” ~Mother Teresa

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.

Friday, September 5, 2014

Info for Pregnant Mothers & Parents- Sept 2014

INFORMATION FOR PREGNANT MOTHERS
& PARENTS
September 2014

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.
This month's newsletter includes some facts about pregnancy, children and medication.

A recent study published in the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) Pediatrics, found that the use of acetaminophen for pain relief during pregnancy may be associated with a higher risk for hyperkinetic disorders (HKDs) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)–like behaviors in children, the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP), points to low-risk, drug-free alternatives, such as chiropractic care, for pain relief and improved health of expectant mothers and their developing babies.

“Because risks associated with medications are magnified during pregnancy, experts are advising expectant mothers to look for non-pharmacological ways to deal with pain,” says Gerard Clum, D.C., spokesperson, F4CP, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the value of chiropractic care. “Doctors of chiropractic receive a minimum of seven years of education to clinically evaluate patients and provide gentle, hands-on manual and instrument care, as well as nutrition, ergonomics and exercise advice – all fundamental contributors to a healthy pregnancy and lifestyle.”

According to the report, children whose mothers used acetaminophen were:

13 % more likely to show ADHD-like behaviors
37 % more likely to be diagnosed with HKDs
29 % more likely to be prescribed ADHD medications

In a subsequent article in USA Today, experts also advised against substituting the use of acetaminophen with ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), as they may disrupt fetal development and cause further problems.

“Added stress to the body, weight gain and postural changes often cause relentless discomfort for expectant mothers,” says Dr. Clum. “Conservative options, such as chiropractic, can improve structural balance and help with conditions such as headaches, neck and back pain -- all too common during pregnancy.”

“As evidence continues to expose the dangers connected to the use of acetaminophen and other NSAIDS, especially during pregnancy, it becomes evident that pharmaceuticals should not be a primary option,” concludes Dr. Clum. “Natural approaches – such as chiropractic care – should be the first choice for achieving better health throughout all stages of life, including pregnancy.”

Children respond very well to chiropractic care. Conditions such as chronic earaches, spine pain and headaches are often resolved with treatment. Because of my desire to help children I offer complimentary chiropractic care for those under 12 years when an adult is also treated.

If you or someone you care about is suffering,
call me for a consultation.
That's what I love to do, help people.
“Because nobody has time for pain!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH TIP:
Vitamin D & Cognition Link
Older adults who are severely deficient in vitamin D may be more than twice as likely to develop dementia or Alzheimer’s disease than those who don’t have a deficiency, according to the largest study of its kind. There has been a growing body of research on the disease’s connection with vitamin D — the main sources of which are sunshine, supplements, egg yolks and oily fish like salmon and sardines. September issue of the journal Neurology.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"Baseball is ninety percent mental. The other half is physical."
~ Yogi Berra, New York Yankee Great

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.

Thursday, August 14, 2014

The Neck and Headache Connection- August 2014

The Neck and Headache Connection
August 2014

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.
This month's newsletter includes some facts about the connection between your neck and headaches.

Patients with headaches also commonly complain of neck pain. This relationship is the rule, not the exception and therefore, treatment for headaches must include evaluation and treatment of the neck to achieve optimum results. "Cervicogenic headaches” are headaches caused by a problem in the neck. This has been an accepted term because of the intimate connection between the neck and head for many years. There are many anatomical reasons why neck problems result in headaches.

Some of these include:

The first 3 nerves exiting the spine in the upper neck go directly into the head. They penetrate the muscles at the top of the neck near the attachments to the skull and therefore, any excess pressure on these nerves by the muscles or spinal joints will result in irritation and subsequent pain.
The origin of the 5th cranial nerve called is located in the upper cervical region. It innervates sensation to the back of the head up to the top. Therefore, problems located in the upper neck will often result in pain radiating up from the base of the skull/upper neck over the top of the skull to the eyes and /or face.
The 11th cranial nerve that innervates the upper shoulders and muscles in the front of the neck arises from the spinal cord level in the neck. Injury anywhere in the neck can result in spasm and pain in these large muscle groups.
Pressure or irritation to nerves in the neck can affect facial muscle strength/movements, taste, tongue and throat movements, and stomach complaints such as nausea.

There are many causes of headaches including tumors, trauma/concussion and disease. But the most common cause is stress and spasm of the neck and upper back from spinal misalignments. Therefore, an examination of the neck, upper back, and cranial nerves must be performed. Tender points located between the shoulder blades, along the upper shoulders, on the sides of the neck and particularly, at the base of the skull are commonly found. Tenderness on the sides of the head, in the temples, over the eyes, and near the jaw joint is also common. Chiropractic adjustments applied to the fixated or misaligned vertebrae in the spine often brings very satisfying relief to the headache sufferer. Exercises that promote movement in the neck, as well as strengthening exercises are also helpful in reducing this type of headache pain.

So if you or someone you care about is suffering,
have them call me for a consultation.
That's what I love to do, help people get out of pain.

“Because nobody has time for pain!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH TIP:

Water is good... and essential!
"Water makes up about 60-70% of our body and plays a role in virtually every function, from keeping our blood flowing and skin healthy right down to our ability to blink our eyes," says Wendy Bazilian, Dr.P.H., R.D., author of The SuperFoodsRx Diet.
"Water is our most important nutrient."

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"You can observe a lot by just watching."
~ Yogi Berra, New York Yankee Great

Thursday, June 5, 2014

For Your Information- June 2014

FOR YOUR INFORMATION
June 2014

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.
This month's newsletter is a few random bits of information about me, chiropractic and health in general.

MY BIG MILESTONE
It is amazing, but next month I will turn 60. I have been blessed with good health for most of my life...
but sometimes I do feel my age. Although I'm still able to swim 3 times per week, walk my dog 2 times per week, do gardening and household repairs, it takes longer to recuperate from activity. So I have decided to start taking Thursday mornings off from work. I will still be in the office Thursday afternoons from 2:00 until 6:00pm.

INSURANCE CHANGES
I recently attended a yearly continuing education course. The speaker told us that insurance companies are in many cases increasing co-pays, increasing deductibles and decreasing covered services. Thankfully, chiropractic care is still being offered by most carriers because many people ask for it. Nevertheless, my office overhead is low, so my fees are some of the lowest in the AV area. If you or your loved ones need care, I will work with you to make it affordable.

HOW ABOUT AN EXTRA LARGE LATTE
Randy Gardner is the holder of the scientifically documented record for the longest period a human
has intentionally gone without sleep not using stimulants of any kind. In 1964, Gardner, a 17-year-old high school student in San Diego, California, stayed awake for 264.4 hours (11 days 24 minutes). After staying up for a week and a half straight, Gardner had begun to hallucinate and lost entire chunks of his cognitive ability and concentration. I think I need to go take a nap.

NO WONDER THINGS GO WRONG
The human spine is comprised of 32 bones, 64 spinal nerves, 31 cartilage discs, hundreds of muscles and ligaments. It needs to be flexible enough to bend, twist and rotate, while being sturdy enough to protect the spinal cord. When these structures don't function properly the result is pain, spasm, postural weakness, numbness and tingling. My education and experience has allowed me to help people with these kinds of physical problems.

So if you or someone you care about is suffering,
have them call me for a consultation.

That's what I love to do, help people.

“Because nobody has time for pain!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH TIP:
Avoiding Headaches
One of the most common causes of headache is tight neck muscles. At the onset of a headache gently stretching the muscles on either side of the neck can often provide significant relief. If you have questions about these stretches feel free to ask Dr. Norris.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"Be careful of the toes you step on today,
for they may be connected to the foot
that kicks you in the rear tomorrow.”
~ Anonymous

Thursday, May 8, 2014

What is Sciatic and How is it Treated? - May 2014

WHAT IS SCIATICA AND HOW IS IT TREATED?
May 2014

Hi Everybody, Dr. Norris here.
One of the more stubborn conditions I treat is sciatica. My patients usually want to know: What is it? How did it happen? And how can I get rid of it? So let me answer those questions as simply as possible.

Sciatica is lower extremity pain associated with irritation of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve originates from the spinal nerves which exit the low back. The nerves bundle together and travel through the buttocks and down the back of the thigh into the lower leg, foot and toes. Usually one side is affected, but symptoms can vary from pain, numbness, tingling and weakness. Although these symptoms usually occur at the buttock or thigh, they can be anywhere down the lower extremity.

A variety of things can cause sciatic nerve pain. Any pathology which puts pressure, irritation or inflammation on the nerve can cause sciatica. The most common causes are spinal misalignments, muscle spasm, sprain/strains and disc bulges. Bone, muscle and discs can put pressure on or "pinch" the sciatic nerve which produces symptoms.

Fortunately, a series of treatments usually provides relief and reduces pressure on the nerve. I recommend a course of muscle stimulation therapy, massage, spinal adjustments and gentle exercises. Heat packs, cold packs and anti-inflammatory medication can also help control pain. The sooner treatment is started the faster the sciatica is resolved. Most conditions respond within 2 to 8 treatments.

So if you or someone you care about
is suffering from sciatic pain,
have them call me for a consultation.
That's what I love to do, help people.

“Because nobody has time for pain!”

Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH TIP:
Analgesic Creams
There are hundreds of analgesic creams which are used to reduce pain.
They usually contain menthol and/or capsaicin, a pepper derivative.
The cream works by stimulating the nerves in the skin which lessens the underlying soft tissue pain.
If you have questions about these creams feel free to ask Dr. Norris.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"I'd give my right arm to be ambidextrous .” ~ Graffito

Thursday, April 3, 2014

How Can I Cure It?- April 2014

"HOW CAN I CURE IT?"
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.

“Because nobody has time for pain!”
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.

Monday, March 3, 2014

Did You Know? - March 2014

DID YOU KNOW...?

March 2014

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.

There are a lot of misconceptions, misunderstandings and outright fibs regarding the art and science of Chiropractic. Allow me to resolve a few of them.

Chiropractic is the largest non-medical healthcare profession in America. Despite this only around 15% of the population utilizes chiropractic care.
Most people seeing a Doctor of Chiropractic are seeking relief of neck and back pain. They may not be aware that ankle sprains, wrist injuries, shoulder pain, earaches and jaw pain usually respond well to chiropractic treatments.
While in school, Chiropractors receive more training in x-ray and therapy than medical doctors. Students in medical training only take these classes as additional elective courses.
While the scope of practice changes from state to state, in California, Doctors of Chiropractic are not allowed to prescribe medication. We can prescribe therapy, nutritional advice, exercises and diagnostic tests such as MRIs.
Most professional sports teams employ chiropractors. NFL, NBA and PGA tour athletes have access to chiropractic care. They report improved performance and quicker healing from injuries. Olympic athletes have utilized chiropractors for over 30 years. When you are one of the best athletes in the world you want the best healthcare treatments available... that includes Chiropractic care.

Chiropractic doctors are trained to treat health problems naturally with manual treatments, therapy and exercises. Feel free to ask me about your health questions.

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.

“Because nobody has time for pain!”

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH TIP: The best way to stop a muscle cramp.

Muscle cramps are usually caused by fatigued or dehydrated muscles especially when they are quickly contracted. When a cramp happens... slowly stretch the muscle. If it's the calf muscle pull your foot back, if it's the hamstring straighten and stretch your leg. After a few seconds the cramp will subside. Then drink cool water to rehydrate. Gentle massage and an ice pack will help lessen the residual soreness.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:

"You can either hold yourself up to the unrealistic standards of others, or ignore them and concentrate on being happy with yourself as you are.” ~ J. Jacques

*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.