Dr. Mike's Blog

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:

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.

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

Tuesday, August 2, 2016

My! How the Time Flies-August 2016

MY! HOW THE TIME FLIES
August 2016

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris Here,
I just celebrated my 62nd birthday. As the title of this newsletter says, "My! How the time flies."
You would think in all my years I would have figured out most things by now... wrong.
Here is a list of some unanswered questions!

I never found out who let the dogs out
The way to get to Sesame Street
Why Dora doesn't just use Google Maps
Why we don't ever see the headline "Psychic Wins Lottery"
Why women can't put on mascara with their mouth closed
Why "abbreviated" is such a long word
Why lemon juice is made with artificial flavor yet dish-washing liquid is made with real lemons
Why they sterilize the needle for lethal injections
Why do you have to "put your two cents in" but it's only a "penny for your thoughts" where's that extra penny going to
Why do The Alphabet Song and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star have the same tune
Why did you just try to sing those two previous songs
And just what is Victoria's secret?
And do you really think I am this witty??

I actually stole this from someone who posted it online. Now it is your turn to steal it from me.

Norris Chiropractic Is Fighting Inflation
The cost of healthcare continues to soar. Insurance premiums are up 13%.
Medical procedures are up 9% and drugs cost up 10% to 20% from over 2014 prices.
In my office the cost for a cash office visit has remained the same since 2011. I will hold out as long as I can from raising costs so you can benefit from chiropractic care. Please tell your friends, family and all those you love that chiropractic works.

"Because Nobody Has Time For Pain!"

Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH ALERT:
Frigid Forearms
A cool shower can help on a hot day, but if that’s not accessible maybe just dunk your arms in cold water. In response to cold, your blood vessels constrict, which means less blood is getting chilled. But research suggests people can override this reflex by cooling only some parts of their bodies. A 2013 review looked at various extremities and found that submerging arms up to the elbow in cool water is the most effective method for dropping body temperature. A study of this technique during Army training found that it reduced the severity of heat illnesses during arduous work days.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
"It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver." ~Mahatma Gandhi

Thursday, July 7, 2016

The Starfish Story- July 2016

THE STARFISH STORY
July 2016

Hi Everybody, Dr. Norris here,

I recently came across this story which I had shared several years ago in one of my newsletters. Here it is again...I hope you enjoy it.

“The Starfish Story”

Once upon a time there was a wise man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work. One day he was walking along the shore when he saw a human figure moving along the beach. As he got closer, he saw that it was a young man that was reaching down to the shore, picking up something and very gently throwing it into the ocean.

As he got closer he called out, “Good morning! What are you doing?”
The young man looked up and replied, “Throwing starfish in the ocean.”
The wise man said "What?"
“The sun is up and the tide is going out, and if I don't throw them in they'll die.”
“But, young man, don't you realize that there are miles and miles of beach and starfish all along it.
You can't possibly make a difference.”

The young man listened politely. Then bent down, picked up another starfish and threw it into the sea, past the breaking waves and said “For this one, It made all the difference in the world!”

I remember reading that story, for the first time, many, many moons ago; I thought about that story many times as I was going through school. Every time I had to stay up all night studying, I would think of that story & why I was there. It made the sacrifice and lack of sleep clearly worth it.

The morning of my state board exams, I vividly remember waiting to take the test, with bags under my eyes, thinking about that story. It was still worth it. After I passed the exam with flying colors, I started throwing starfish back into the ocean... one by one. Not literally starfish of course, but helping suffering people get out of pain. It was exciting helping so many people. More exciting than I ever thought it could possibly be.

As the days turn into months and the months into years, most people grow tired of their job or “career”. Most can't wait to go home every day and eventually retire. Well, that never happened to me. I'm as excited today as the day I entered Chiropractic school.

Not too many people can say that & I owe it all to you. I honestly feel blessed to have such a group of patients that make intelligent decisions about their health. You also understand healing and fixing the real cause of your problem can take time. You've been a loyal chiropractic patient and are reaping the benefits, now and later in life. You finish what you start and your spine, muscles and nervous system will be healthier and younger because of it. Yep, you've made my practice a wonderful place to be and I want you to always feel I am your Chiropractor. Even if we don't see each other for a while,
I want you to always know your welcome and I'll be happy to see you. I'll always be here to help you.

I'm glad you're one of my starfish!
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH ALERTS:
Avoid Opiates At All Costs
Music fans worldwide were still mourning the death of iconic rock star Prince at age 57, when the tragedy was compounded by news that it was due to an opioid overdose. Medical Examiners announced that an autopsy had determined that Prince's death was an accident caused by fentanyl toxicity, a prescription opioid drug used to treat severe pain, carries a high risk for addiction and dependence; Prince was reportedly taking it for hip pain.

The U.S. is in the midst of an epidemic of opioid overdoses. Drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the U.S., according to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, and in 2014, 40 percent of the 47,055 fatal drug overdoses that occurred were related to prescription pain relievers. In fact, 78 people in the U.S. die every day from an opioid overdose, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:

"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it."
~Charles R. Swindoll

Friday, June 24, 2016

Working Out Problems- June 2016

WORKING OUT PROBLEMS
June 2016

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here,

How we deal with adversity says a lot about us and our character. Working out problems and finding the right way to respond is a challenge.
I found this story online about dealing with problems... I hope you enjoy it.

Many years ago, a farmer had the misfortune of owing a large sum of money to a village moneylender. The moneylender, who was old and ugly, fancied the farmer’s beautiful daughter. So he proposed a bargain. He said he would forgo the farmer’s debt if he could marry his daughter.

Both the farmer and his daughter were horrified by the proposal. So the cunning money-lender suggested that they let providence decide the matter. He told them that he would put a black pebble and a white pebble into an empty money bag. Then the girl would have to pick one pebble from the bag.

If she picked the black pebble, she would become his wife and her father’s debt would be forgiven. If she picked the white pebble she need not marry him and her father’s debt would still be forgiven. If she refused to pick a pebble, her father would be thrown into jail.

They were standing on a pebble strewn path in the farmer’s field. As they talked, the moneylender bent over to pick up two pebbles. As he picked them up, the sharp-eyed girl noticed that he had picked up two black pebbles and put them into the bag. He then asked the girl to pick a pebble from the bag.

Take a moment to ponder this. What would you recommend that the girl do?

The girl put her hand into the moneybag and drew out a pebble. Without looking at it, she fumbled and let it fall onto the pebble-strewn path where it immediately became lost among all the other pebbles.

“Oh, how clumsy of me!” she said. “But never mind, if you look into the bag for the one that is left, you will be able to tell which pebble I picked.”

The moneylender dared not admit his dishonesty. The girl changed what seemed an impossible situation into an extremely advantageous one. Most problems do have a solution, sometimes we just need to think in a different way.

Dealing with pain can be a challenge.
What is the best remedy? Can I afford it? Who do I trust for advice?

I am always available for advice regarding painful conditions. I promise to give it to you honestly and without an agenda. We appreciate your patronage and will continue to provide quality affordable health care to the Antelope Valley.

Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH TIP:
Not All Fats Are Created Equal
There are good fats, like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels, and reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke. These include: avocados, olives, nuts and seeds. And then, there are bad fats, like saturated and trans fat, which can put you at greater risk for heart disease. These include: fatty meats, fast food and margarine. So eat the good fat, not the bad.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
“Today, more than 95% of all chronic disease
is caused by food choice, toxic food ingredients,
nutritional deficiencies and lack of physical exercise.” ~Mike Adams

Friday, May 6, 2016

Why Norris Chiropractic-May 2016

WHY NORRIS CHIROPRACTIC?
May 2016

Hi Everybody Dr. Norris here,

I was recently driving around the valley running some errands, when I noticed how many chiropractic offices there are in the Antelope Valley now. When I moved here in 1985 there were about 8 offices here. In Palmdale, there were 3 offices; and in Lancaster, 5 offices. Now there are approximately 40 offices, valley wide.

My patients are loyal despite having many options from which to choose. You have blessed me and my family by trusting us with your health care. I appreciate it more than you will ever know
so THANK YOU!

With that said, what separates my practice from those other 39 offices?
Well let me give you three distinctive differences.

EXPERIENCE
While there are many excellent doctors of chiropractic in town, my 35+ years of experience in helping people with painful conditions gives me an advantage.
My experience in athletic training, sports medicine and injury rehabilitation allows me to provide a wide range of services not usually associated with chiropractic care. In addition I am a Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) trained in evaluating Worker's Compensation cases. During my career I have provided care for high school, collegiate, Olympic and professional athletes as well as thousands of patients seeking relief from pain.

PATIENT COMFORT
Even though I am a doctor... I am also a patient. When I go to the doctor there are several things that frustrate me: trying to get an appointment, doing paperwork and waiting forever to see someone.
So when I opened my current office, I vowed to change things. In my office you can usually get a same day appointment. The paperwork is minimal and I don't over book, which keeps your wait short. There are chiropractic offices in town that have a normal wait time of 30-45 minutes.
At Norris Chiropractic we understand that your time is valuable. Most patients are in and out
within a few minutes.

EXPENSE
In the Antelope Valley fees for some chiropractic services are as high as $120 a visit. Because my overhead is low I can offer my office visit for $30. There are some offices which may offer prices in this range but they demand a prepay plan making you sign-up for multiple visits. In my office you come in when you need to or want to. No hard sell.
We also accept many insurance plans including Kaiser, Blue Cross Anthem, Blue Shield and Aetna.

Thank you for choosing Norris Chiropractic.
We appreciate your patronage and will continue to provide quality, affordable health care to the Antelope Valley.

Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Norris

HEALTH TIP: Magic Berry
Blueberries have more antioxidants—those magical molecules that can help prevent a host of maladies—than 40 other common fruits and vegetables. The antioxidant plant pigments that make blueberries blue, guard against heart disease, cancer, and age-related blindness and memory loss. They’re also tops when it comes to preventing urinary tract infections, thanks to the antioxidant epicatechins, which keep bacteria from sticking to bladder walls.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
“Life expectancy would grow by leaps and bounds
if green vegetables smelled as good as bacon.”
~Doug Larson