Resolutions for the New Year

Resolutions for the New Year
January 2013

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris Here.

Every January millions of Americans make a promise to improve their lives.  Most resolutions involve improving health such as: eating better, losing weight and working-out more.  How many of these promises are kept?  Not many.

For almost 20 years now I've been swimming three times a week at Eastside pool in Lancaster.  The pool will be packed for the next three weeks.  By the middle of February the lanes will be empty.  I'm sure you have noticed this if you workout at a gym.  Because of this I would like to offer you a few short term, easy-to- keep resolutions which may encourage you... instead of disappointing you.
First, the shorter the time involved the more likely we are to keep to a resolution.  Given this fact these recommendations are short-term.  If you notice benefits hopefully you will want and be able to continue.

#1.  A 3 Day Detox: As I mentioned above many of us want to eat better.  A short detox diet can help to jumpstart better eating habits.
Here is the 3-day-detox plan:        

• You can eat as much uncooked fruit, melon and vegetables as you want.Except for corn, potatoes and avocados.
• Fruit smoothies and salads are your friend. 
• You can make a dressing of vinegar, citrus juice and spices.  As a last resort you can use a non-calorie dressing. 
• The uncooked food will help cleanse your system. 
• No carbs, meat, dairy, sugar or fat/oil of any kind. 
• You can drink 100% vegetable juice, black coffee or tea and at least 2 liters of purified water to flush out your system. 
• If you have blood sugar issues, a small glass of fruit juice should help. 

After 3 days you should be lighter and healthier. Just go easy on the pancakes.

#2.  Start Moving.  Statistics show the healthiest people do some kind of exercise.  Walking, golf, swimming, jogging, cycling and aerobics classes are all good options.  Ideally the activity should be done 30-45 min. 3-5 times per week.  The simplest and most functional activity is walking. Commit to walking for at least one week.  After a week see how it goes, grab a friend and move it, move it, move it!

#3. Don't Worry, Be Happy.  With the way things are going politically, socially and economically it is easy to be depressed.  But make no mistake about it stress and worry can have negative physical effects on people.  Our immune system is depressed when we are depressed.  It has been said that complaining involves the past, self-pity involves the present and worry involves the future.  With that said take one day at a time... let the past go, enjoy the present and prepare for the future.  For one week keep a journal and write down the things that you are most thankful for that day or what good things happened.  Then read the previous entries each day.  Even if you are not happy seeing the good things in your life will help you see why you should be happy and hopefully help you act like you are happy... it may become a habit.

#4. Get Something Done.  Many of us feel like we never get things done and that can produce a sense of frustration.  Pick the one thing that you really want to get done... a task which you can and will finish within one week.  Then just get it done.  You will feel empowered and motivated to do more.
For me it's finishing the book I started 4 months ago... only 50 pages to go!
 

I wish you a healthy and happy new year.
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

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Health Update:
Why Does My Back Hurt?

An activity requiring long periods of sitting, standing or repetitive bending and lifting can lead to back pain.  With regular chiropractic care, proper stretching, massage therapy and good activity habits, you can decrease your risk of back pain.
Call Dr. Norris for a consultation today. (661) 435-7237
 

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Quote Of The Month:

“Diseases are penalties we pay for from over indulgence, or from our neglect of the means of health.”  
~ Edward Bulwer-Lytton

Christmas- Dec 2012

HOLIDAY TIME
December 2012

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.

This year went by so fast... hard to believe it is almost 2013!  Looking back my family and I have been truly blessed this year.  Cindy, Amanda and I went on a cruise in May to the Caribbean.  We snorkeled in the Bahamas and were able to see Miami and Key West for the first time.

I have been able to do some fishing in my spare time.  My wife, Cindy has continued to do mobile notary work and make my home a great place to be.  My daughter, Amanda continues to work for me and has been teaching an art class.  She hopes to be able to expand her teaching next year.

Finally... I've been very blessed by all of the wonderful patients I have been fortunate to see this year.  From long-time friends to new patients you are all a part of my family.  Thank you for trusting your health to me.

I hope you and yours have a Merry Christmas.

Oh... and a mishap free new year...
 

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

 

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HEALTH UPDATE:
We are about 1 centimeter taller in the morning than in the evening.  Why?  Gravity and atmospheric pressure compress your body.  With these forces squishing you it actually compresses the discs in your spine causing you to shorten.  After a good night's sleep the discs can regain their height because your body is lying down.  Guyton Physiology

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
“Be up before daybreak, for such habits contribute to health, wealth and wisdom.” ~ Aristotle

Mission Statement- Nov 2012

OUR MISSION STATEMENT
November 2012

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris Here.

I was recently asked on a form I was filing "What is your mission statement?" So I wrote: To provide quality affordable health care to the Antelope Valley. To do this I have prepared myself with three college degrees (BS Phys Ed, MS Sports Medicine and Doctorate in Chiropractic).  To stay on top of changes I attend 30 hours of yearly continuing education courses.  To provide affordable care I keep my overhead low.  This allows me to keep my fees low.  At Norris Chiropractic, children under 12 are treated free with a paying parent.  But the bottom line is I really enjoy helping people get out of pain...
 

Because nobody has time for pain!

 

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.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris
 

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A DOG'S PURPOSE

We all get a lot of junk e-mail.  I received this story from a friend via e-mail and I was surprised how great it was.  Because I'm a dog person and I have had to put down a few pets it was tough to read.
Thanks to Mike F. for the story.

A veterinarian was called to examine an old dog named Belker who was very sick.  The dog's owners and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker.
The examination revealed Belker was dying of cancer.

As arrangements for euthanasia were being made, the owners told the vet they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure.
They felt he might learn something from the experience.  As the family surrounded their beloved pet and Shane petted the old dog for the last time the boy seemed unusually calm.  The adults wondered if the boy understood what was going on.
Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The adults sat together for a while, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animals’ lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who was listening quietly, piped up, "I know why."  What he said was amazing and a comforting explanation that we can all learn from.  He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life... like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?"  The Six-year-old continued,

"Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."

Things we can all learn from dogs:
-Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply.
-When loved ones come home,
  always run to greet them.
-Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
-Play daily.
-Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
-On warm days, stop and lie on your back on the grass.
-Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
-Be loyal.
-Enjoy every moment of every day!
 

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HEALTH UPDATE: Here is some Thanksgiving Day advice.  Turkey is low in fat and an excellent source of protein.  Left-over roasted turkey can be mixed with nutritious vegetables and made into casseroles and soups.  Just go easy on the potatoes and rolls.  And remember just because pumpkin is a vegetable doesn't mean you should have three helpings of pumpkin pie.
Norris Chiropractic, November 2012.

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
“This Thanksgiving: Eat More Beef.”
~ Zackey Farms Turkeys (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

 

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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

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH:

“Without health, life is not life;
It is only a state of suffering.”
             ~ Francois Rabelais

Some Thoughts on Insurance and Chiropractic Care
August 2012

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris Here.

With the recent changes to health care I wanted to answer some questions many patients have had regarding insurance and chiropractic care. The details of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act also known as ObamaCare are slowly being revealed but the full ramifications of the law will not take effect for another few years.

There are pros and cons of the new law.  People will have greater protection from cancellation and dependents can stay on a plan with their parents.  For those of you who have insurance coverage keep it.  Because I have already seen that some people are having trouble getting new policies.  Also be prepared for premium increases if you have not already seen them.  Some employers will cancel or reduce benefits because the costs will go up.

The experts are not sure if the new insurance plans will cover Chiropractic care.  They believe that if allowed chiropractic treatments will be very limited.  I have already seen this with many insurance plans.  Deductibles and co-pays are increasing and allowable services are being cut.  Medicare does not pay for maintenance or well care, they only pay for injuries and that coverage is limited.  Medi-Cal is even more restrictive.

So what does all this mean for you the health care consumer?  Well… be prepared to spend more money for your health care and expect to get less coverage.  Now some good news!  I still accept most insurance plans.  Including Kaiser, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, ASHP, United Healthcare and union plans.  I also have reasonable fees for patients without insurance.

Now days everyone is being forced to make hard financial decisions. If you are in need of chiropractic care and for some reason you can’t afford it, please let me know.  We can work something out.  I want everyone to get the care they need.  Oops… now I sound like a politician!

Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

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HEALTH UPDATE
Exercise: Pick an Activity You Enjoy.
A huge mistake people make when exercising is forcing themselves into an activity they do not care for. If you are a swimmer then swim. If you are not, then it is probably best to stay out of the pool. People are most successful starting an exercise program if they get to participate in an activity they like and choose. Of course, it is okay to try something different but if you do not enjoy it, then it will not be long until you quit your new exercise program. So have fun with your exercise!

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH
"Life is not merely to be alive, but to be well."
~Marcus Valerius Martial

What is Whiplash? July 2012

WHAT IS WHIPLASH?
 July 2012

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here.  I hope you and your family are well.  It is hard to believe we are going into the second half of 2012 already.  This month I want to tell you about injuries from auto accidents and give you some advise on how to cope with them.  So here we go.

Insurance statistics show that if we drive we will have an accident every seven years.  The most common injury from an auto accident is whiplash.  This type of injury was first identified in pilots who were injuring their necks while landing planes on aircraft carriers.  Their heads were snapped forward and back as they came to a sudden stop.  That is the same mechanism of injury in an auto accident.  When a vehicle is struck the occupants are jolted towards the impact.  Unfortunately the neck and upper back receive most of the force.

Simply put whiplash is a sprain/strain of the cervical spine and associated soft tissues.  Because ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves can be damaged symptoms can vary widely. Most common symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, headache, shoulder pain/stiffness, dizziness, fatigue, jaw pain, arm pain, arm weakness, visual disturbances, ringing ear noises, and sometimes back pain.  The most effective initial treatment is rest, ice and pain therapy.  Because the bones of the neck fit together like a jigsaw puzzle there is not much room for error.  Even a slight misalignment can produce significant symptoms.  After the first few days of rest and therapy, spinal manipulation is the only way to put the spine back in place. Eventually exercises will help to strengthen and stabilize the injured area.

Some studies have concluded that this type of spinal injury can take up to 12 months to fully heal.  In my experience most treatment takes 2-4 months depending on the severity of the injuries.  The sooner treatment starts the faster and better you will heal.

Please be careful out on the highways… but if an accident happens don’t hesitate to call me for an evaluation.  I work with several competent attorneys who can help you if necessary.

Have a great summer. Thanks for trusting your health to us at Norris Chiropractic.

Dr. Michael Norris

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH
"Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We only have today. Let us begin." ~Mother Teresa

GOD SAVE THE QUEEN!

April 2012
 
Dear Patients and Friends,
Hello Dr. Norris Here.
 
Because of recent negative publicity our government has generated, a certain country has decided to take things into their own hands. Here is a recent correspondence sent to our State Department.
 
To the citizens of the United States of America from Her Sovereign Majesty Queen Elizabeth II:

In light of your immediate failure to financially manage yourselves and also in recent years your tendency to elect incompetent leaders in the USA and therefore not able to govern yourselves, we hereby give notice of the revocation of your independence, effective immediately.

Her Sovereign Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will resume monarchical duties over all states, commonwealths, and territories (except Kansas, which she does not fancy). Your new Queen, will appoint a Governor for America without the need for further elections.  Please note Sir Elton John is the top candidate.  Congress and the Senate will be disbanded. A questionnaire may be circulated sometime next year to determine whether any of you noticed.

To aid in the transition to a British Crown dependency, the following rules are introduced with immediate effect:

1. The letter 'U' will be reinstated in words such as 'colour,' 'favour,' 'labour' and 'neighbour.' Likewise, you will learn to spell 'doughnut' without skipping half the letters.  Generally, you will be expected to raise your vocabulary to acceptable levels.

2. Using the same twenty-seven words interspersed with filler noises such as 'like' and 'you know' is an unacceptable and inefficient form of communication.
 
3. July 4th will no longer be celebrated as a holiday.

4. You will learn to resolve personal issues without using guns, lawyers, or therapists. The fact that you need so many lawyers and therapists shows that you're not quite ready to be independent. Guns should only be used for shooting grouse. If you can't sort things out without suing someone or speaking to a therapist, then you're not ready to shoot grouse.

5. Therefore, you will no longer be allowed to own or carry anything more dangerous than a vegetable peeler. Although, a permit will be required if you wish to carry a vegetable peeler in public.

6. All intersections will be replaced with roundabouts, and you will start driving on the left side with immediate effect. At the same time, you will go metric with immediate effect and without the benefit of conversion tables.
 
7. The former USA will adopt UK prices on petrol (which you have been calling gasoline) of roughly $10/US gallon. Get used to it.

8. You will learn to make real chips. Those things you call French fries are not real chips, and those things you insist on calling potato chips are properly called crisps. Real chips are thick cut, fried in animal fat, and dressed not with catsup but with vinegar.

9. The cold, tasteless stuff you insist on calling beer is not actually beer at all. Henceforth, only proper British Bitter will be referred to as beer, and European brews of known and accepted provenance will be referred to as Lager.

10. Hollywood will be required occasionally to cast English actors as good guys. Hollywood will also be required to cast English actors to play English characters.

11. You will cease playing American football. There are only two kinds of proper football; one you call soccer, and rugby. Those of you brave enough will, in time, be allowed to play rugby (which has some similarities to American football, but does not involve stopping for a rest every twenty seconds or wearing full Kevlar body armour like a bunch of nancies).

12. Further, you will stop playing baseball. It is not reasonable to host an event called the World Series for a game which is not played outside of America. You will learn cricket.

13. You must tell us who killed JFK. It's been driving us mad.

14. An internal revenue agent from Her Majesty's Government will be with you shortly to ensure the acquisition of all monies due (backdated to 1776).

15. Daily Tea Time begins promptly at 4 p.m. with proper cups, with saucers, and never mugs, with high quality biscuits (cookies) and cakes.

God Save the Queen!
 
Uh… you know... like… get real… April Fools! 

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HEALTH UPDATE

Following an injury you should use a cold pack for the first 48 hours to reduce pain, swelling and inflammation.  After 48 hours it is OK to use a heat pack for reducing spasm.  If you use heat on a fresh injury there will be increased bleeding, which slows healing and recovery.  So if in doubt… use a cold pack.
American Red Cross.

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH

 "Well done is better than well said." ~Ben Franklin