Dr. Mike's Blog

Tuesday, May 9, 2017

Healthcare is Your Responsibility- May 2017

HEALTH CARE IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
May 2017

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.

Often we want others to take responsibility for our medical decisions. Some don't want to be bothered while others don't think they have time to be concerned about health care decisions. It is common to procrastinate going to your general practitioner, dentist or chiropractor. I've put off seeing my dentist for uh... a year now. So I understand when some patients wait until they are in "real pain" before call me for an appointment. I once worked for an office that would call and charge people a fee when they missed an appointment. I think we are all responsible for our own health care decisions; which brings me to my office policy regarding missed appointments. More on that in a moment…

People often ask me if I am related to the tough-guy actor Chuck Norris. Chuck has become infamous because of internet websites dedicated to his rugged nature. See below for a partial list of his superpowers. Are we related... maybe? Well don't miss one of your appointments or I may have to call... Uncle Chuck.

They once made a Chuck Norris toilet paper, but it wouldn't take crap from anybody.
Chuck Norris has already been to Mars; that's why there are no signs of life there.
Chuck Norris is the reason why Waldo is in hiding.
Chuck Norris has counted to infinity... twice!
Chuck Norris can do a wheelie on a unicycle.
The Grim Reaper quit his job when he found out he had to confront Chuck Norris.
When Chuck Norris was born he drove his mom home from the hospital.
Chuck Norris has a diary. It's called the Guinness Book of World Records.
Chuck Norris can hear sign language.
A cobra bit Chuck Norris in the leg. After five days of excruciating pain... the cobra finally died.

No matter how long it has been since I've seen you,
I will still do my best to help you get out of pain.

“Because nobody has time for pain!”

Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH TIP:
Treatment for Hiccups

Most home remedies for hiccups are based on raising the levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, like holding your breath, slowly sipping water or breathing into a paper bag. They can work, but researchers don't really understand why.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:

"Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out." ~ John Wooden

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.

Tuesday, April 4, 2017

Happy Happy Happy!- April 2017

HAPPY, HAPPY, HAPPY!
April 2017

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here,

A while back my wife and I were eating breakfast in a crowded restaurant. A group of six came in, and was looking for a table but the only table available was for two. Even though we had already been served, my wife and I moved to the smaller table so they could sit together. When we went to check out the waitress said our tab was paid by the other party. One good deed led to another good deed.The rest of my day was good.

Research has shown that our emotions can affect our behavior and vise versa. For instance, if you wake up in a bad mood you will act badly and/or find things all day to reinforce the bad mood. Likewise, simply acting like you are mad will eventually put you into a bad mood. Subjects had their moods tested after acting mad, happy and indifferent. The results mirrored their activity. The mad were moody, the happy were happy and the indifferent could care less.

People who were diagnosed with depression were given precise instructions on how to act during the day. Acting happy even when they weren’t helped reduce depression. So the moral is "Acting right leads to being alright."

That said, here is an uplifting storyto brighten your day.

The Letter
When Mason's wife, Becca, got into metal engraving, Mason built her a workbench. It wasn't until after Mason passed away that his wife discovered a hidden love letter she'll cherish forever.

A short time after Mason passed; his step-son was repairing a leg on the bench when he came across the beautiful note taped underneath the bench.

Becca was quite moved by the message
and the note is now framed in their home.

"I love you Becca. Whatever day this is, I hope it's a good one. God truly answered my prayers the day he gave me you. I know that these days are the best I'll ever have, and I'm glad you're in them. I'm not sure if you'll ever see this, but if you do, just know that I love you very much. If there is one thing I want in life, it is to be as good to you as you are to me. If I can do that, I'll be the happiest man alive. I love you beautiful wife :)
- Mason"

So no matter how bad things get, no matter what trials you are having or what difficulty you encounter - remember a smile, a loving word or an act of kindness will help you as much as others.

As always if someone you care about
is in pain or having a health issue
help them out and give them my phone number.

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

HEALTH TIP:
Allergy Treatment

With allergy season upon us try this easy remedy. Stephen Tilles, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, told Time that when his own allergies get bad, he applies a cold washcloth to his face for a few minutes. “When the itching and irritation get really bad, it can really provide a quick moment of escape,” he said. I can confirm that this method works and even when you don’t have allergies, doing this is super relaxing, so you should try it anyway.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:

“Practice does not make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect.”
― Vince Lombardi

Friday, March 10, 2017

Fighting Arthritis- March 2017

FIGHTING ARTHRITIS
March 2017

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.

Arthritis is a common ailment that affects many of us as we age. In simple terms arthritis is a disease which causes inflammation and degeneration of the normal joint surface. It most often occurs in weight bearing joints such as the hips, knees and ankles, but is also found in the hands, spine and pelvis. There are many causes and kinds of arthritis with the most common type being osteoarthritis also known as degenerative arthritis. It usually starts by trauma and overuse, which leads to the destruction of the joint cartilage. This roughened surface thins out and begins to cause pain and dysfunction. For the most part arthritis can't be fixed. But it can be managed. It is similar to diabetes in that there are strategies which can slow down and provide relief of symptoms.

Here are the best recommendations to help manage arthritis.

LIFESTYLE
People with arthritis know that there are certain activities which aggravate their condition. It may be prolonged weight bearing like standing and walking, or repetitive use of a body part like using computer keyboards. It may be something you are not aware of. My mother-in-law asked me about pain in her thumbs. I asked if there was something that provoked her pain... as she thought about it for a moment then my father-in-law said "It's that game she plays all the time!" She had been playing a handheld video game which used her thumbs. She didn't even realize this is what was causing her arthritis to flare-up. Smoking is also a habit which increases arthritic conditions. So simply put, if an activity causes an increase of your symptoms... don't do it! Or at least do less of it.

EXERCISE
Strength, flexibility and endurance exercises are beneficial for people with arthritis. Exercises which are tolerable help reduce the stiffness and improve function. Too much will increase pain so balance is needed. Movement is recommended. I often give people exercise programs to help degenerative conditions.

TREATMENT
At some point a flare-up will occur. When it does it is important to get some treatment to help reduce pain, stiffness and improve function. Arthritis responds well to chiropractic because alignment helps restore mobility. Massage therapy and physical therapy can also help reduce symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medication may be considered on a short term basis.

NUTRITION
Junk food, fried food and alcohol have been shown to increase inflammation in people with arthritis. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, seeds, nuts and lower fat meats has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. There are also nutritional supplements which can help reduce the degenerative process. Joint health formulas are common at most health food stores.

So consider this advice and as always,

if you or someone you care about is in pain or is having a health issue please call.

“Because nobody has time for pain!”

Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH TIP:
Say Yes To Nuts & No To Bacon.
Gorging on bacon, skimping on nuts? These are among food habits that new research links with deaths from heart disease, strokes and diabetes. Overeating or not eating enough of foods and nutrients contributes to nearly half of U.S. deaths from these causes, the study suggests. “Good” foods that were under-eaten include: nuts and seeds, seafood rich in omega-3 fats including salmon and sardines; fruits and vegetables; and whole grains.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"If you really want to do something, you'll find a way. If you don't, you'll find an excuse."
~ Jim Rohn

Friday, February 10, 2017

Some Random Thoughts- February 2017

SOME RANDOM THOUGHTS
February 2017

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.

Here are some of the healthcare issues I have been reading about over the last few weeks.
I hope you find them interesting and beneficial.

CSF & LYMPH

Two of the spinal elements we often overlook are cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) and lymph. CSF is a nutrient rich fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It is produced in the sheath which covers those structures and flows up and down with the movement of our body. When our spinal bones become misaligned the flow of CSF can become hindered. It doesn't flow normally thereby decreasing the nutrients necessary for healthy tissue.

The lymph system is a network of ducts and nodes throughout our body which flushes toxins into our organs where they are broken down and eliminated. Like CSF there are lymph nodes and ducts along the spinal cord. And like CSF, lymph can become hindered by spinal misalignment. The lymph fluid can accumulate and pool irritating the sensitive nerve tissue of the spinal cord.

Having you spine checked by a Chiropractor can identify areas of misalignment and irritation.
Proper treatment will restore the normal flow of SCF and Lymph fluid... keeping you healthy.

CHIROPRACTIC FOR ANIMALS?

People have known the benefits of chiropractic for over a hundred years. But now people are seeking chiropractic care for pets. This first started about 10 years ago when riders and veterinarians noticed that race horses had sensitive areas along their backs. Using crude methods of manipulation seemed to help the horse's pain and let them perform better. Remember some of these horses are worth millions of dollars and anything that can help them run faster is very valuable. Soon Vets were being trained and assisted by chiropractors in treating horses at many racetracks. Then people began to request treatment for their dogs and cats. Now chiropractic, acupuncture and massage therapy for animals is commonplace. Ask your veterinarian for more information about holistic care for animals.

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 ALERT:
Fight Mental Decline with Activity
Even in your 70s and beyond, simple activities including web-surfing, playing games, and socializing may help stave off mental decline. That's the conclusion of a recent study. Those activities appeared to help prevent mild cognitive impairment. That condition involves problems with memory, thinking and attention that don't interfere much with daily life but which increase risks for developing Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:

"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony."
~ Mahatma Gandhi

Monday, December 5, 2016

Christmas Trivia Time- Decemeber 2016

CHRISTMAS TRIVIA TIME
December 2016

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here,
It's time for my annual Christmas trivia quiz. Have fun!

In the song "Jingle Bells" who was seated by my side?
This famous hotel magnate was born December 25, 1887?
This singer/songwriter was also born on Christmas day 1946? hint... he loves margaritas!
Which country created eggnog?
This state has the "World's Tallest Living Christmas Tree"?
After Joseph, Mary and Jesus left Bethlehem, they went to what country?
In "Jingle Bell Rock" everyone is dancing & prancing.Where do they do it?
The movie "It's a Wonderful Life" takes place in what city?
In "A Charlie Brown Christmas,: what does Lucy want for Christmas?
What river did General Washington cross on December 25, 1776?

How did you do? The answers are at the end of this December newsletter.

8-10 correct - you are a true Christmas Elf
5-7 correct - you are an average holiday fan
3-4 correct - you need to put your phone down and concentrate
0-2 correct - you are Scrooge!

Have a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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 ALERT:
Spice Up Your Diet
Studies from Japan show that eating a red pepper-spiced meal
may boost metabolism up to 30 percent.
Reuters, July 2006

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
Even though we're a week and a half away from Thanksgiving,
it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.
~Richard Roeper

Quiz Answers:

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

What Are You Thankful For?- November 2016

WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR?
November 2016

Hi everybody, Dr. Norris here.

It's the time of year when we Americans stop and think about what we are thankful for.
It may be our family, our friends or our financial status. These are all good things to be grateful for. I've had some health challenges this summer requiring intervention and recuperation,
so understandably, I'm very thankful for the doctors, nurses and caregivers who helped me in a time of need. I'm also thankful for my friends and patients who were concerned and prayed for me. Finally I'm extremely thankful for Cindy, my wife, and Amanda, my daughter, who have been with me every step of the way. It has been said that our health is one of the most important things we have.
Often we take it for granted until it is threatened. Don't do that, rejoice every day you have and be thankful for them.

THE SCOURGE OF SCAR TISSUE

When soft tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia) that is injured or inflamed finally heals, the result is scar tissue adhesions. For example a strained muscle will usually heal in about a month, but that injured muscle develops scarring which has a different character than normal muscle. It does not contract like normal muscle. It has more nerve endings and therefore pain that normal muscle does not. There is less circulation in scar tissue. Simply said, these adhesions are painful, non-elastic and do not function normally. Muscle strains, joint sprains, inflammation of various soft tissues and even surgical scars will heal, but they can still cause symptoms.

So what can be done about this? The earlier treatment is started on scar tissue the better the results. Massage techniques, therapy modalities, stretching and soft tissue manipulation have all shown to reduce scarring and normalize tissue. I recently purchased a high speed vibro-massage device called Rapid Release. It is used for treating spasms, tendonitis, adhesions, nerve entrapment, contracted muscles and many other painful conditions. The treatment is quick and painless.
Let me know if I can help.

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 UPDATE:
Go Easy On Energy Drinks.
Most of us have consumed energy drinks at one point or another, either because of a looming deadline or during a late night out. Although energy drinks are often perceived as harmless, a new case report links the beverages to acute liver damage, after a previously healthy man developed hepatitis from consuming too many. He consumed 3-4 per day for 3 weeks and developed acute hepatitis requiring hospitalization. So take it easy!

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
During my recent surgical pre-op, I overheard the nurse ask a neighboring patient,
"Are you diabetic?" The older gentleman stated flatly "No. I'm Irish!"
Thank you sir...this lightened my mood a great deal.

Managing Vs. Curing- September 2016

MANAGING VERSUS CURING
September 2016

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.

This month's newsletter is a repeat from several years ago.

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 me 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 yard work 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 ALERT:
Don't Forget These Foods
Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating neurological condition in which car keys can become perpetually lost and the dearest loved ones can turn into strangers. Researchers at the American Academy of Neurology in search of an elusive cure, have identified a number of powerful foods that could help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Berries, salmon, olive oil, spinach, maple syrup and beets. So eat up.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"So many people spend their health gaining wealth,
then have to spend their wealth to regain their health."
~A. J. Materi