Tag Archives: chiropractic care

Researching Chiropractic: Constipation, Cerebral Palsy, Ear Conditions and more

Chiropractic clinical case histories have been a regular feature of our patient newsletter since its inception. There seems to be no limit to the health problems that respond positively to chiropractic care. How many people suffering, reliant on medication and drugs, and facing a life of limitation could be helped by chiropractic care?

Probably most of them.

Constipation

The patient, a 54-year-old woman, had been experiencing constipation for the past eight months, with less than three bowel movements per week. Along with this, she also complained of bloating in her stomach but without any pain. Chiropractic adjustments were performed on her C1, C2, T6, L4, and sacroiliac joints to address any vertebral subluxations. After receiving one month of care, the patient was able to have at least one bowel movement per day. (1)

Cerebral Palsy in an infant

An infant diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy was brought to a chiropractic clinic at the age of 3½ weeks. The baby boy had suffered from encephalopathy, a brain damage caused by low oxygen during birth. It took 30 minutes for the ambulance to arrive, and the infant was already 70 minutes old when he reached the hospital. The doctors had informed the parents that their child might be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. However, after starting chiropractic treatment twice a week, adjustments were made to his sacrum, atlas, and cranium. As he progressed, the frequency of visits reduced to once a month over a period of five years. The patient’s mother also provided physical therapy sessions at home. As a result, the patient can now walk, talk, and function like any other normal child, although with slight developmental delays. The patient is no longer wheelchair-bound. (2)

Ear Conditions

Five individuals, ranging from infancy to five years old, were battling with persistent otitis media despite having been on antibiotics for no less than half a year. Each of these patients then embarked on a regime involving chiropractic care. Remarkably, they all showed signs of recovery within the time frame of 3 days to 8 weeks, with the results being highly satisfactory. Among the five, three patients had misalignment at the atlas vertebra; one manifested a dislocation at the occipital bone, while another had both atlas and axis vertebrae out of place. In addition to this, comprehensive spine adjustments were performed on them. [3]

Sciatica and Back Pain

A 30-year-old woman suffered from upper back pain and sciatica. She also had scoliosis and significant pelvic rotation. Medical interventions such as physical therapy failed to make significant improvements to her complaints.

Vertebral subluxations were found at the levels of C2, T6, and Right Ilium.

She was seen twice a week for six weeks and once a week for six weeks. After care, she reported a resolution of sciatica, a significant decrease in upper back pain, and marked improvements in neck and lower back ranges of motion. [4]

Do you know someone with these issues?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

  1. Acosta B. Resolution of Chronic Constipation in a 54-Year-Old Female Following Chiropractic Care: A Case Study & Review of the Literature Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, Volume 2024 Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research. January 2, 2024, Pages 1-7
  2. Rubin D, Taylor C. Chiropractic Care & Long Term Follow Up of an Infant with Cerebral Palsy: A Case Report & Review of the Literature. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health Chiropractic, Volume 2023Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic ~ December 12, 2023 ~ Pages 35-42
  3. Fysh PN. Chronic recurrent otitis media: case series of five patients with recommendations for case management. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics 1996 1(2):66-78. 
  4. Hamstead A. Reduction of Upper Back Pain & Resolution of Sciatica Following Chiropractic Care to Reduce Vertebral Subluxation in a 30-Year-Old Female with Scoliosis: A Case Study Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research ~ January 16, 2024 ~ Volume 2024 ~ Pages 8-14

Chiropractic Care When You Are Feeling Down

In today’s fast-paced world, mental well-being is as crucial as physical health, yet it often receives less attention. While traditional mental health interventions focus on psychotherapy and medication, emerging evidence suggests that chiropractic care can also play a vital role in managing mood disorders and improving overall mental wellness. This holistic approach to health care, primarily known for addressing musculoskeletal issues, might offer a surprising benefit to those feeling mentally down.

The spine is a central conduit of nerve impulses throughout the body, and misalignments, known as subluxations, can disrupt this system, potentially affecting mood and mental health.

The connection between chiropractic adjustments and improved mental health lies in the body’s response to treatment. Adjustments to the spine can reduce physical pain, which in itself is a significant factor in mental distress. Chronic pain is a known contributor to depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life. By alleviating this pain, chiropractic care can indirectly lift one’s mood and enhance feelings of well-being.

Moreover, chiropractic adjustments may influence the body’s biochemistry. Research suggests that spinal adjustments can lead to hormonal changes, including increases in endorphins and cortisol, which are associated with pain relief and mood elevation. These hormonal shifts can provide a natural boost to one’s mental state, particularly for those dealing with stress, anxiety, or mild depression.

A critical piece of evidence supporting the link between chiropractic care and improved mental health comes from a study published in the “Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research.” This research found significant improvements in psychological health in participants following chiropractic adjustments, with reductions in depression and anxiety scores. The study underscores the potential of chiropractic care as a complementary approach to traditional mental health treatments.

While chiropractic care is traditionally associated with physical health, its benefits may extend far beyond, offering a complementary solution for those feeling mentally down. By addressing the physical discomfort and promoting hormonal balance, chiropractic adjustments can play a role in improving mental wellness. As always, it’s essential to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate care plan for your specific needs. Integrating chiropractic care with conventional mental health interventions might provide a holistic path to improved well-being.

Make an appointment with us today.
517-627-4547

What is a Subluxation?

From a chiropractic perspective, a subluxation is defined as a misalignment of the vertebrae, regarded as a key cause of health problems through its impact on the nervous system. Unlike the medical definition, which emphasizes partial dislocation of any joint, chiropractic subluxation focuses specifically on the spine and its influence on overall health. Chiropractors believe that these spinal subluxations can interfere with the body’s self-healing capabilities by disrupting the flow of nerve impulses between the brain and the rest of the body.

Subluxations are thought to result from various stress factors that can be physical (such as poor posture, accidents, or repetitive motions), chemical (like poor nutrition or substance abuse), or emotional (stress, anxiety). These stressors can lead to changes in the spinal tissues, causing vertebrae to move out of their normal position and potentially affect nerve function.

Symptoms of a subluxation may not be as immediately apparent as those of a medical subluxation and can vary widely among individuals. Some may experience back or neck pain, while others may have systemic issues such as digestive problems, headaches, or fatigue, suggesting that the effects of subluxations can extend beyond the immediate area of misalignment to influence overall health.

The chiropractic approach to removing subluxations is through adjustments, a specialized technique designed to correct vertebral misalignments, thereby restoring proper nerve function and promoting the body’s natural healing processes. Chiropractors use their hands or specific instruments to apply controlled force to the spine, aiming to realign the vertebrae to their proper position.

Research and clinical studies support the chiropractic assertion that addressing spinal subluxations can have a positive impact on overall health. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics highlights the potential benefits of chiropractic adjustments in improving nerve function and reducing pain (3).

In summary, from a chiropractic standpoint, a subluxation is not just a physical misalignment but a significant health concern with the potential to affect the nervous system and overall well-being. Chiropractors emphasize the importance of correcting these subluxations to maintain health and prevent disease.

Chiropractic Care for Menstrual Cramps: A Natural Remedy

Menstrual cramps, medically termed dysmenorrhea, is a condition experienced by many women around the world. These painful sensations in the lower abdomen or pelvis are often accompanied by aches in the lower back and thighs, affecting the daily life and well-being of countless individuals. While over-the-counter medications can provide some relief, an increasing number of women are turning to alternative therapies, like chiropractic care, for a holistic approach to their discomfort.

menstrual cramps

Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the spine’s structure and the body’s function, regulated by the nervous system. A misaligned spine can interfere with this connection, potentially leading to various health concerns, including menstrual discomfort. A chiropractor’s primary objective is to correct these misalignments, known as subluxations, through spinal adjustments.

There are several ways in which chiropractic care can benefit those suffering from menstrual cramps:

Improved Nervous System Function: The spine houses the spinal cord, a crucial part of the central nervous system. By realigning the spine, chiropractors can enhance nerve function, ensuring that every body part, including the reproductive system, works optimally.

Enhanced Pelvic Alignment: A misaligned pelvis can exacerbate menstrual pain. Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct any misalignment in the pelvis, which can alleviate tension and pain during menstruation.

Reduced Muscle Tension: Chiropractic care often incorporates soft tissue techniques and stretches, which can relieve muscle tightness in the lower back and abdomen associated with menstrual cramps.

Research indicates a positive correlation between chiropractic care and reduced menstrual discomfort. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that many patients experienced relief from dysmenorrhea after spinal adjustments (2).

Chiropractic care can serve as a safe, natural, and effective alternative to traditional medications, offering relief to many who suffer from the recurring pain of menstrual cramps.

Call us to make an appointment today! (517) 627-4547

Why Should You Return to See a Chiropractor?

The importance of maintaining optimal spinal health cannot be overstated. Many individuals experience immediate relief after their initial chiropractic session, but it’s essential to recognize that consistent chiropractic care offers long-term benefits that go beyond momentary comfort.

Regular chiropractic adjustments can help in preventing future injuries. Just as we exercise to keep our muscles robust and engage in activities promoting cardiovascular health, ensuring our spine is in its best condition is equally vital. Chiropractors emphasize the proactive maintenance of spinal health, which can prevent the onset of issues before they become more pronounced and difficult to correct.

Moreover, consistent chiropractic visits can improve posture, especially for individuals who spend extended periods sitting or engaging in repetitive tasks. Poor posture not only affects our appearance but also leads to an array of health issues, such as back pain, neck pain, and decreased lung capacity. Regular adjustments can help realign the spine and promote better postural habits.

Another noteworthy benefit is the enhancement of the body’s overall function. The nervous system is the primary communicator within our body, and any misalignment can hinder this communication, leading to decreased bodily function. Chiropractic care ensures that the spine, which houses the nervous system, functions optimally, ensuring the entire body operates at its peak.

Furthermore, a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care can boost the immune system, which is crucial for fighting illnesses and infections (1).

While immediate relief from pain or discomfort following a chiropractic adjustment is undoubtedly beneficial, the long-term advantages make regular visits invaluable. Whether you’re aiming to prevent future injuries, improve your posture, enhance your body’s overall functionality, or boost your immune system, returning to see a chiropractor is a decision that can significantly improve your quality of life.

Call today for an appointment. 517–627-4547

1.Teodorczyk-Injeyan, J. A., Injeyan, H. S., & Ruegg, R. (2006). Spinal manipulative therapy reduces inflammatory cytokines but not substance P production in normal subjects. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 29(1), 14-21  

Chiropractic and Childhood Sports Injuries

Childhood Sports Injuries

Participation in sports is highly beneficial for children, promoting physical fitness, coordination, and teamwork skills. However, it also carries the risk of injuries, which can significantly impact a child’s overall well-being. Chiropractic care has emerged as a valuable complementary approach for managing childhood sports injuries. 

Childhood sports injuries can range from sprains and strains to more severe conditions like fractures and concussions. 

Chiropractic care focuses on but is not limited to musculoskeletal disorders, including sports injuries. Chiropractors employ a holistic approach to care, aiming to restore proper alignment and function of the spine and other joints in the body. By doing so, they alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote the body’s natural healing process.

Several studies support the efficacy of chiropractic care in managing childhood sports injuries. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics examined the effects of chiropractic intervention on ankle sprains in young athletes. The results indicated that chiropractic treatment significantly improved pain reduction, range of motion, and functional ability compared to a control group (6).

Chiropractic care offers a holistic and evidence-based approach to managing childhood sports injuries. By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances, chiropractors can help children recover from injuries, prevent future occurrences, and enhance their overall sports performance. However, it is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each case.

A NOTE FROM Dr. C.  As sports season is now underway..take a moment to have your child evaluated to make sure your child is in good shape.  Then plan on having checks through the season to nip any issues in the bud.

Contact us at 517.627.4547 to schedule an appointment. 

Chiropractors Do Something Unique

We, chiropractors, do something other primary healthcare providers aren’t trained to do. We are specially trained to locate stress in your body that can interfere with your health. These stressors are called subluxations. Subluxations are tiny, commonly occurring misalignments or distortions of your spine and structural system that can interfere with the nerves that carry messages throughout your body. 

Subluxations are dangerous because they may impinge (“pinch”) the nerves that connect your brain and spinal cord to your muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, discs, glands, and other internal organs. This can diminish your overall body function.

How can you tell if you have a subluxation? Some subluxations are associated with pain or malfunction, but many don’t cause pain or apparent symptoms. 

For example, imagine you have a vertebra out of position, causing nerve pressure that affects nerves going to the stomach. Your digestion may be impaired, your stomach may be “nervous,” and you may have ulcers or other conditions, yet you feel no back or spinal pain. This is because not all nerves carry pain messages.

Your heart, lungs, kidneys, intestines, bladder, eyes, ears, throat, and other internal organs are connected to our brain by many nerves that emit from your brain and spine. The connected systems will suffer if these nerves are irritated by a subluxation.

For over a hundred years, the recorded benefits of subluxation correction include the successful treatment of ear infections, asthma, allergies, cancer, heart disease, ADHD, autism, headaches, backaches, digestive problems, vision, and hearing problems, as well as improvement of overall immunity, balance, brain function, concentration, IQ, energy-and many more.

Contact us at 517.627.4547 to schedule an appointment. 

Chiropractic Care is as Easy as 1, 2, 3

Number 1

Your body possesses a healing ability that can dwarf the feats of the world’s greatest doctors. Your body is the world’s greatest doctor. Numerous studies and clinical reports show that your body can heal any disease or condition. The same power that can heal a cut is capable of treating cancer. No better healer exists than your wisdom-filled being. The body, however, needs to be permitted to express its healing potential to its maximum.

Number 2

Subluxations interfere with your ability to reach your healing potential. These tiny misalignments in your spine interfere with the nerves that make up your body’s communication pathways, limiting the body’s ability to perform its job optimally.

Number 3

Chiropractors are specially trained to locate and correct or adjust subluxations. This frees your body’s healing potential. Our goal is to permit your body to function better – not to ‘treat’ a symptom of malfunction. DC means Doctor of Chiropractic, but many people say it stands for “Doctor of Cause.” When your chiropractor switches on your internal doctor, you have more energy for healing, and you come closer to reaching your inner potential. This is why it is crucial for everyone, young and old, to be checked for subluxations by a Doctor of Chiropractic.  For some, it may be the difference between a life of high energy, vitality, and good health and a life of fatigue, low energy, and disease. It can make all the difference in the world!

Schedule an appointment with us today!

(517) 627-4547

Researching Chiropractic: Fibromyalgia, Scoliosis, & Meniere’s Disease

Chiropractic clinical case histories have been a regular feature of our patient newsletter since its inception. There is no limit to the health problems that respond positively to chiropractic care. 

Fibromyalgia in a 64-year-old

A 64-year-old woman with fibromyalgia was medically diagnosed 6 years before beginning chiropractic care. In addition, she complained of sleep apnea, loss of coordination, glaucoma, degenerative disc disease, and changes in bowel habits. 

Using X-ray and other tools, an upper cervical subluxation was discovered at her atlas (C1) vertebrae. 

She received upper cervical care for three months. At the time of this study, she reported 80% relief from symptoms and an improvement in energy level. (1)

Scoliosis in a 10-year-old girl

This was the patient’s first time under chiropractic care. Analysis revealed a 16.2-degree right thoracolumbar scoliosis, measured from her 12th thoracic vertebra to her 6th lumbar vertebra.

She was adjusted for three months. X-rays, taken at 3 months, showed a 28.4% improvement in her scoliosis (a decrease of 4.6 degrees). (2)

Meniere’s Disease 

A forty-eight-year-old woman, a retired registered nurse, was diagnosed with right unilateral Meniere’s Disease (MD). Her symptoms included many episodes of dizziness with nausea and vomiting as well as drop attacks. She also had low-frequency hearing loss, tinnitus, and a sense of ear fullness with pain. 

Chiropractic care consisted of twelve visits over six days. She returned for a reevaluation four months later. All her complaints were relieved, except hearing loss, though it did improve. (3) 

Do you know someone with any of these issues?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

Sources:

  1. Bennett CB, Tedder NT. Improvement in a Patient with Fibromyalgia Following Knee Chest Upper Cervical Specific Care: A Case Report. Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research Issue 1, March 15, 2012, Pp. 27-30
  2. Michael T. Burcon. Resolution of Long Standing Intractable Bilateral Meniere’s Disease & Multiple Health Challenges Following Upper Cervical Specific Chiropractic Care: A Case Report Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, Volume 2023Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research ~ Volume 2023 ~ March 21, 2023  ~ Pages 1-6
  3. Fedorchuk C, Wetterlin JK, McCoy M. Correction of Subluxation Using CBP Technique and Improvement of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Case Report

Researching Chiropractic: Correcting issues in toddlers

Chiropractic clinical case histories have been a regular feature of our patient newsletter since its inception. How many people suffering, on drugs, and facing a life of limitation could be helped by chiropractic care?   Probably most of them.

Autism in a 3-year-old

The child was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. He had delayed developmental milestones, an inability to eat solid foods, was unable to gain weight, and had a limited vocabulary of a few words. Additionally, he had an aversion to being touched, had sleep deprivation, and suffered from constipation. Past history included a difficult pregnancy, labor, and delivery for the patient’s mother. The child was fully vaccinated. 

Vertebral subluxations were found upon examination and corrected by the chiropractor. 

By his third chiropractic visit, he was comfortable with the doctor touching him and his parents reported that he is not usually comfortable with even his grandmother touching him. His parents reported that he had been trying to say his first words and had improvements in constipation, behavior, and sleep habits.

Adjustments continued and over a 2-month period, the child continued improvements in sleep patterns, behavior, sensitivity to touch, expansion of vocabulary, constipation, and retained primitive reflexes following chiropractic adjustments. The patient continues chiropractic care. (1)

A two-year-old boy with Developmental Delays and Otitis Media

A two-year-old boy was first brought in for chiropractic care because of an altered ability to crawl and developmental delays. He also had a middle ear infection with effusion (OME). His birth had been traumatic and he had been fully vaccinated.

Positive responses to care began after six visits. His mother reported he began climbing a lot more and that he also had started using pronouns. He began pointing to things and tried to say the name of them. His vocabulary had exploded since beginning chiropractic care. The child’s speech and movement improved after being adjusted over a two-year period. His ear infection resolved. (2) 

A Five-Year-Old with Sensory Modulation Disorder and Constipation

The patient is a 5-year-old girl with a history of birth trauma, developmental delays, sensory processing, sleep difficulties, and other functional disorders.  The child had been fully immunized.

Following chiropractic adjustments, the patient’s nervous system was able to function at a higher level, resulting in improved bowel function, mood, ability to concentrate and engage with her environment, less-fragmented more-restful sleep, improved mood, and ability to focus. (3) 

Dr Charmaine here: recently had a 2 yr old girl come to the office for digestion and sleeping issues. After her second adjustment, her mom was reporting that she was a much happier child and the initial issues were now resolved.

Do you know someone with any of these issues?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

Sources:

  1. Drew R, Scupham EM. Improvement in a 3-Year-Old Boy with Autistic Spectrum Disorder Undergoing Chiropractic Care to Reduce Vertebral Subluxation: A Case Study & Review of Literature. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health Chiropractic, Volume 2023 Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic ~ Feb. 1, 2023 ~ Pages 7-13
  2. Adams-Sajdak T, Resolution of Otitis Media & Developmental Delays Following Chiropractic Care in a Boy with Birth Trauma: A Case Study & Review of the Literature Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health Chiropractic, Volume 2023 Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic ~ February 21, 2023 ~ Pages 14-20
  3. Yoshimura R, Lathrop JM. Improvement in Sensory Modulation & Functional Disorders in a Female Pediatric Patient Undergoing Chiropractic Care. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research. May 5, 2015, Pp 108-118.