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

 

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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.
 

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

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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.

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
 

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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.
 

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"When walking in nature one receives far more than one seeks.”  ~ John Muir
 

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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.

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.

Merry Christmas from Norris Chiropractic- Goodbye 2013!- December 2013

GOODBYE 2013!
December 2013
Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.
As the year comes to an end I would like to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year celebration. This will be a short newsletter, but here are a few things which I think you should know going into 2014.
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
While the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) does not cover chiropractic services, there are many insurance companies which do.  Kaiser, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, ASHP, Healthnet and SCAN will continue to offer chiropractic care with a reasonable co-pay.  As always at Norris Chiropractic we accept cash and credit cards (MC & Visa).  If things are financially difficult... we can also set up a payment plan.  I want you to get the care you need.  We can worry about payment later.
JUNK IN JUNK OUT
During the holidays there are always plenty of treats and sweets to much out on.  These kinds of foods tend to lower our resistance to colds and flu... so be careful and eat lightly.  Fresh fruit and veggies have the opposite effect.  They can boost your immune system... so eat up!
HOLIDAY TRIVIA
See how many questions you can get right.
1.  In what city did Miracle on 34^th Street take place?
2.  Name the three reindeer whose names begin with a “D”? 
3.  What is the biggest selling Christmas song of all time?
4.  How many pipers piping did my true love give to me?
5.  What one reindeer is never mentioned in “The Night Before Christmas”?
6.  What is Frosty’s nose made of?
7.  Who wrote A Christmas Carol?
8.  Who lost $8,000 in the movie "It’s a Wonderful Life"?

Trivia answers:
1. New York   2. Dasher, Donner, Dancer   3. “White Christmas”   4. Eleven   5. Rudolph  
6. A button   7. Charles Dickens   8. Uncle Billy... there must be an Uncle Billy in every family!
 

Have a great December!
As always if you or someone you care about
is in pain, have them call for a consultation.
That's what I do, help people get out of pain. “Because nobody has time for pain!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

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HEALTH UPDATE:
Brain Power
Your brain sends electric messages at 270 miles per hour to every muscle and organ of the body via the spinal cord and nerves! Chiropractic adjustments mobilize the spine, allowing the nervous system to function optimally. I would call that being well adjusted.
 

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; 
nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude.”
~ Thomas Jefferson
 

Thank you, Everyone!- November 2013

THANK YOU, EVERYONE
November 2013

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.
In a few weeks we will be celebrating Thanksgiving.  It's my favorite holiday... feasting, football and a four day weekend.  However you spend the holiday please take time to reflect on the things you are grateful for and give thanks.

Here are a few fun facts about Thanksgiving:
- Thanksgiving is a holiday celebrated in the United States on the fourth Thursday in November. It has been an annual tradition since 1863, when, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of "Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwells in the Heavens".

- According to Guinness Book of World Records the heaviest turkey ever was 86 lbs.  The gigantic bird was raised by Philip Cook (no pun intended) of London in 1989.  That's a serious meal...please pass the gravy!

- Approximately 46 million turkeys are prepared each year for thanksgiving. I'm sure they are saying "Eat more chicken!"

- I love pumpkin pie.  But check this out... the largest pumpkin ever was the 2,032 lb. monster grown in 2012 by Tim Mathison of Morgan Hill, CA. Get the whipped cream ready!

- Pro football on Thanksgiving Day has been a tradition since 1934.  The Detroit Lions have played on turkey day the most times.  The Dallas Cowboys hold the record for the second most. Have some turkey and pumpkin pie then crash and watch the game.

As I look back over the last year I'm thankful for many things.  I give thanks to God for my faith, for my wife and daughter.  I give thanks to my friends and family for their love and support.
And of course I give thanks to all of you...my chiropractic family for allowing me to make a living doing what I love to do.  

Have a great Thanksgiving!

As always, if you or someone you care about is in pain, have them call for a consultation.
That's what I do -- help people get out of pain.
“Because nobody has time for pain!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

 

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HEALTH UPDATE:
Posture Is Important
Have you ever place your hands on the shoulders of someone who has been sitting a long time at a computer.  Usually their muscles are tight and tense.  As we do prolonged activity our posture begins to slacken.  The muscles tighten; blood flow decreases and the nerves begin to produce pain.  That's why millions of people have neck and shoulder pain and muscle spasm.  Chiropractic can help reduce these symptoms and free you from pain.

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
 "If you start a new job, work hard eight hours a day and don't worry about the little things. Soon you will be the boss working fourteen hours a day, worrying about everything!”  ~ Donald Trump
 

Maybe It Will Go Away- October 2013

MAYBE IT WILL GO AWAY.
October 2013

Hi Everybody, Dr. Norris here.
There is a sign in my office which says "Five Dangerous Words: Maybe it will go away!"
Every once in a while I see someone read it... smile and nod their head yes. It must be human nature to put things off, procrastinate and hope things will change on their own. Unfortunately our health usually gets worse when we avoid it.  I recently had a toothache which I ignored for weeks.  "I don't have time, it's not that bad... maybe it will go away, blah, blah, blah."  So you probably know how this played out.  My tooth became infected and it had to be pulled.
 I look back now and say "What was I thinking?"

The bad news is untreated spine problems are typically progressive and degenerative.  To put it another way, if a person does not intervene, over time spinal problems get worse not better.  Arthritis, disc disease and chronic muscle conditions are the result of problems which were not addressed when they could have been treated and cured.  These chronic problems require more treatment and relief is sometimes temporary.  When the condition becomes severe the best that can be hoped for is to manage the pain.
 
The good news is that if treated early most conditions respond quickly to care. Chiropractic adjustments, therapy treatments, exercises and life style changes often help even chronic problems.
So if you notice a kink, ache, knot, tweak, ouchie or owie, don't ignore it too long.  Whatever you do don't say those five dangerous words.

As always if you or someone you care about is in pain
have them call for a consultation.
That's what I do... help people get out of pain.
“Because nobody has time for pain!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris
 

 

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HEALTH UPDATE:
Benefits of Laughter
"Laughter increases endorphins, which increases oxygenation of the blood, relaxes arteries, increases heart rate, decreases blood pressure all which have a positive effect on cardiovascular and respiratory ailments, as well as an increased immune system response.  ~ American Journal of Medicine, 1995

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
 "Health is a large word. It embraces not only the body, but the mind and spirit as well.”   
~ James H. West

Are You Getting Enough Rest?-September 2013

ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH REST?
September 2013

Hi Everybody, Dr. Norris here.
Almost everyone I talk to says they are busy, busy, busy!  That goes for me too.  Thankfully, Norris Chiropractic has grown each year for the last six years.  I've been blessed to be able to help a lot of people doing what I love to do while providing for my family, but... I haven't had much time off for over a year.  Yes even chiropractors need some down time.  So I will out of the office the second week of September for some rest and relaxation.

This started me thinking about everyone else.  I know many of you are working longer and harder, and then going all out on the weekends.  Are you getting enough rest?  Here are some signs that you may need a break and some recommendations on how to do it.

Our immune system can become compromised by a lack of rest.  Colds we get over and over again, or an illness you can't seem to kick are signs you may need more rest.  Your temperament can be affected.  We can become short-tempered, anxious and irritable.  We can become distracted and careless when we are too busy.  This leads to injuries and painful conditions that can flare-up.  And of course feeling tired is probably the most telling sign that rest is needed.

So what to do?
-Make sure your getting enough sleep each night.  Research indicates most people require 6-8 hours of sleep.  You may be able to get by for a short time on less but it will eventually catch-up with you. The symptoms mentioned above will start to appear.
-Take a nap.  *NASA found that a 29 minute nap is the perfect amount of time to recharge.
-It may seem contrary but daily exercise is also recommended to help you rest.
  I notice that when I stop my workouts I don't sleep as well. Exercises and stretching will allow your body
  to tolerate stress and activity better. 

-Taking time off.  Americans work harder and longer than most other countries.  Because of this we need to rest and recharge from time to time. Even a long weekend can be helpful. When you do take time off beware of a trap...going on vacation and doing so much that you don't rest. Lying by the pool and reading a good book may be what you need versus running all day at an amusement park.
-Treat yourself to a massage.  For the last two years I've had a deep tissue massage once a month.
  It has been one of the best decisions I've ever made.
-Breath... breath... breath... Rhythmic breathing can be very therapeutic and relaxing.
  Here is a simple breathing exercise which will help you unwind.
    1. Find a quiet, dark, comfortable place to lie down.
    2. Arrange for at least 15 minutes of uninterrupted silence.
    3. Take three deep breaths. Concentrate on feeling your lungs fully inflate.
    4. Now slowly breath in through your nose, as much as you can and feel your stomach raise up.
    5. Slowly let as much air out through your mouth as possible.
    6. The breath in and out should take about 10 seconds.
    7. Repeat this breathing technique for 10 breaths.
    8. Remain motionless and breathe normally for 2 to 10 minutes. Don’t be surprised if you fall asleep.
 

I hope these recommendations are helpful.
If you or someone you care about is stressed out or in pain...
have them call for a consultation.
That's what I do, help people get out of pain.

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

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 HEALTH UPDATE:
Adjusting Your Attitude
"Change surroundings and take a journey. Have an adventure.  Strictly avoid frightening ideas.
Indulge in cheerful conversation and amusements.  Listen to relaxing music.
~ A. Cornelius Celsus, Roman Physician, 25 BC
 

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
 "Without passion you don't have energy, without energy you have nothing.”
~ Donald Trump