Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Vertigo - Issaquah Chiropractor alleviates dizziness and nausea

VERTIGO

Vertigo is the sensation of that either your body or the environment around you is moving, when both are fixed in stationery positions. It may even feel as though your body or the world around you is spinning.

True vertigo is different from the feeling of lightheadedness that comes with fainting. In addition to the feeling of motion, it may include nausea or vomiting, ringing in the ears, and sweating. You may also experience visual disturbances, feelings of weakness, difficulty walking or talking, or a feeling of reduced consciousness. Each episode can last from several minutes to several hours and may be constant or intermittent.

Vertigo may result from any number of causes or as a symptom of another illness or injury, such as whiplash, an inflammation of the inner ear, a tumor (acoustic neuroma), a decrease in blood flow to the brain, neck injury or head trauma, headache (especially migraines), or multiple sclerosis.

How Can Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Help Those with Vertigo?

The NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Associating) technique that is utilized at The Balanced Spine involves a gentle touch and a controlled correction to the first vertebra of the spine, commonly called the Atlas. This adjustment often corrects any misalignments in the spinal column which irritate the nerves that run from the brain and spinal cord to the blood vessels in the head.

Often, cervical spine misalignment that is the result of severe trauma, an injury or an accident causes nerve function between the brain and body to be compromised. The balance centers of the brain are influenced by the nerves in the upper cervical region. Recent research has revealed that vertigo, dizziness and balance symptoms may result from this type of misalignment.

The NUCCA doctors at The Balanced Spine can conduct specific diagnostic tests on your spine and perform a thorough spinal exam to locate any misalignments. Our offices are uniquely equipped with state-of-the-art technology and chiropractic technique to investigate symptoms and treat pain and discomfort. Foremost on the doctors’ minds is returning their patients to optimal health and potential. Through MyoVision™ analysis and SpineMaster™ data, the doctor at The Balanced Spine can determine the nature and severity of a patient’s subluxation or the pressure and irritation on the nerves around the spine.

Next, through a gentle correction to the upper cervical vertebrae, performed by hand the NUCCA practitioner can realign the spine. This type of adjustment generally relieves any nerve interference, balances the body, resulting in improvement or total relief of the symptoms associated with vertigo.

There is no need to suffer the symptoms of vertigo any longer. Schedule your free consultation today to discover if NUCCA chiropractic can help alleviate your vertigo.

http://www.thebalancedspine.com

(425) 369-1040 Issaquah, WA

(425) 437-9974 Redmond, WA

TMJ/TMD - jaw pain relieved by Redmond NUCCA chiropractor


TMJ/TMD/Jaw Pain treatment at The Balanced Spine

What is TMJ/TMD?

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder—also called Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)—refers not just to one but to a number of conditions that cause pain in the face, head, or jaw area. The TMJ is located just in front of the ears, and are the two hinged jaw joints that attach the lower jaw (mandible) to the bones at the sides and base of the skull (temporal bones). These joints allow the jaws to open, close, move side-to-side, and rotate in movements such as chewing, swallowing, or speaking.




What causes TMJ/TMD?

There can be multiple causes for TMJ/TMD. Trauma to the face, jaw or spine, neurological dysfunction of the Fifth Cranial Nerve (this nerve controls the jaw muscles), clenching the teeth, bone abnormalities, arthritis of the TMJ are potential causes for the TMJ disorder.

What are the symptoms of TMJ/TMD?

The symptoms of TMJ/TMD may include headache, tension in the jaw/face/neck muscles, jaw stiffness, pain or clicking sound when the mouth opens or closes. TMJ, which may be chronic (long-lasting) or temporary, affects more than twice as many women as men and most often appears between the ages of 20 and 50.

NUCCA chiropractic treatment and TMJ/TMD

There are significant indicators in the nervous system that help us understand why NUCCA chiropractic care is so effective in helping people with TMJ/TMD. Here at The Balanced Spine the doctors practice an exclusive form of chiropractic care called NUCCA, (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association). The NUCCA approach targets resolving the underlying cause of the symptom and removing that nerve interference from the spine. The NUCCA procedure which is a light and gentle touch applied at the atlas, the top bone in the neck, balances the spinal column and skull to alleviate this spinal stress or nerve interference, and allows for the healing process to be optimized. ¬¬NUCCA is the only technique that corrects based on precise measurements of the relationship between the skull, C-1, and C-2 to the pelvis using X-rays.

The most likely link between the spine and TMJ/TMD is the fifth cranial nerve. The fifth cranial nerve exits the spinal cord and wraps up through the skull to where it controls the muscles of mastication (chewing). This nerve is very susceptible to injury when the bones at the top of the spine misalign (subluxate). If one, or both, of the fifth cranial nerves (there is one on each side) becomes irritated or impaired, it may begin to send too many or too few neurological impulses to the muscles of the jaw, causing the muscles to tighten and even pull the jaw out of place resulting in TMD. Correcting the spine will help return the nervous system to proper function, the muscles will be rebalanced and the patient can get relief and recover from the TMJ disorder. There have been many patients at The Balanced Spine who have felt their jaw shift back into place during a NUCCA chiropractic correction.

The doctors at The Balanced Spine have been working specifically with TMJ/TMD specialists with whom we have been able to achieve excellent results. In fact, one post-graduate dental collage (Las Vegas Institute of Advanced Dentistry) recommends that its dentists co-care with a NUCCA doctor when challenged with complex TMJ/TMD cases. Many patients find that they can manage their TMJ/TMD while others find that co-operative care with their dentist or doctor achieves the best results.

Whether you have a terribly complex case or just some minor tension in the jaw, we take these issues seriously and it is highly likely that your jaw will improve under NUCCA chiropractic. The TMJ/TMD has a reputation of being a highly complicated and frustrating problem to fix. Begin the treatment of the TMJ/TMD with us or add NUCCA chiropractic care to what your dentist/surgeon is already doing and begin to find relief from this painful problem.

If you or someone you know is suffering from TMJ/TMD/Jaw Pain call and schedule an appointment today.

http://www.thebalancedspine.com

(425) 369-1040 Issaquah, WA

(425) 437-9974 Redmond, WA

Monday, May 24, 2010

Herniated Discs - NUCCA treatment and pain alleviation

HERNIATED DISCS

Discs are sponge-like substances that are located between each of the vertebrae in the spine. They act as “shock absorbers” for the spine, cushioning the vertebrae and allowing for the type of movements that help you twist, bend and rotate.

As the spine ages, the center of the disc may lose some of its water content, causing it to have less of a cushion effect. As the disc continues to deteriorate, the outer layer may tear, allowing tissue matter from the center of the disc to escape through the tear into the area where the nerves and spinal cord reside. This condition is known as a ruptured or herniated disc.

Symptoms of a herniated disc differ based on the size and location of the herniation , but may include: low back pain, leg pain (usually in one leg), muscle weakness, tingling sensation in the buttock, knee, ankle, foot or thigh, pain in the thigh, and in extreme cases, weakness that affects both legs and/or loss of bowel or bladder control.

Causes of herniated discs include the natural degeneration of the spine, as described above, injury to the discs resulting from poor lifting posture, repetitive movements, sports, and back strain. The doctors at The Balanced Spine place utmost priority in discovering the specific nature of your injury and returning their patients to optimal health. Our doctors conduct a thorough examination to determine the cause of the patient’s condition. The Balanced Spine is uniquely equipped with state-of-the-art technology and chiropractic technique to investigate symptoms and treat pain and discomfort.

How Can Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Help Those with Herniated Discs?

Here at The Balanced Spine we practice an exclusive form of chiropractic care called NUCCA, (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association). The NUCCA approach targets resolving the underlying cause of the symptom and removing that nerve interference from the spine. The NUCCA procedure (a light and gentle touch applied at the atlas; top bone in the neck), balances the spinal column and skull to alleviate this spinal stress or nerve interference, and allows for the healing process to be optimized. ¬¬NUCCA is the only technique that corrects based on precise measurements of the relationship between the skull, C-1, and C-2 to the pelvis using X-rays.

Since many disc disorders result from spinal trauma to the cervical spine, any injury to the neck area or brain stem can lead to interference with the brain's control over the postural muscles of the spine - resulting in muscle weakness or spasms. Spinal muscles in spasm often lead to compression of the vertebrae and, therefore, compression of the discs between the affected vertebrae.

The NUCCA approach can determine whether a cervical injury exists, realign the spine through a gentle correction applied with the hands, and reduce any nerve irritation and pain resulting from the herniated disc.

Once the spine is properly realigned, and the body comes back into a state of balance, vertebrae and disc pressure are relieved and the herniated discs are able to heal.

We have a superb selection of products at The Balanced Spine which help improve your posture and take the pressure off your disc. Ask about the right one for you, as well as instruction on proper ergonomics concerning your work space.

Schedule your free consultation today at one of our convenient locations in Issaquah or Redmond, WA. You do not need to live with the pain of a herniated disc anymore.


http://www.thebalancedspine.com/
(425) 437-9974 Redmond, WA
(425) 369-1040 Issaquah, WA

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

NUCCA treatment for Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's Disease


NUCCA treatment for multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease

A link between head trauma and the later development of Parkinson’s disease (PD) or Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has been documented by NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) chiropractor Erin L. Elster, D.C. (1) Dr. Elster discovered a strong association between head trauma and the subsequent development of PD in retrospective case-controlled studies and found this association to be stronger than that of other environmental agents long suspected as risk factors for PD.

Over a period of five years 81 MS and PD patients were treated in Dr. Elster’s private NUCCA chiropractic office; an uncontrolled, non-randomized environment, but abundant in patients who had experienced at least one head or neck trauma prior to the onset of the disease. Of the 81 MS and PD patients, 78 recalled having experienced a head or neck trauma; 39 patients being involved in auto accidents, 29 patients experiencing sporting accidents such as skiing or football, and 16 patients reporting falls on icy sidewalks or down stairs. The duration between the traumatic event and disease onset varied from two months to 30 years.

To determine the nature of the subluxation (misalignment of the upper cervical spine from the neural canal) two diagnostic tests were performed: paraspinal digital infrared imaging and laser-aligned radiography according to IUCCA protocol. Upper cervical subluxations were found in all 81 cases. After administering treatment to correct their upper cervical injuries, 40 of 44 (91%) MS cases and 34 of 37 (92%) PD cases showed symptomatic improvement and no further disease progression during the care period.

At The Balanced Spine the doctors successfully treat patients with MS and PD regularly. Similar to Dr. Elster’s method of determining the nature of a possible subluxation the doctors at The Balanced Spine conduct a thorough examination using, among other determinants, MyoVision™ thermography, Spine Master™ precision posture measurement, and leg-length discrepancies. The Balanced Spine is uniquely equipped with state-of-the-art technology and chiropractic technique to investigate symptoms and treat pain and discomfort. Foremost on the doctors’ minds is returning their patients to optimal health and potential.

The Balanced Spine practices an exclusive form of chiropractic care called NUCCA, (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association). The NUCCA approach targets resolving the underlying cause of the symptom and removing that nerve interference from the spine. The NUCCA procedure; a light and gentle touch applied at the atlas, the top bone in the neck, balances the spinal column and skull to alleviate this spinal stress or nerve interference, and allows for the healing process to be optimized. ¬¬NUCCA is the only technique that corrects based on precise measurements of the relationship between the skull, C-1, and C-2 to the pelvis using X-rays.

Schedule your free consultation today at one of our convenient locations in Issaquah or Redmond, WA. Find symptom relief with us today.

http://www.thebalancedspine.com/

(425) 437-9974 Redmond, WA

(425) 369-1040 Issaquah, WA


(1) J. Vertebral Subluxation Res. - JVSR.Com, August 2, 2004, “Eighty-One Patients with Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease”, Erin J. Elster, D.C.

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Fibromyalgia symptoms a thing of the past

Prior to The Balanced Spine? “I had some inexplicable neck and upper back pain for a number of weeks, and the situation was not resolving itself. It was interfering with my exercise habits and activities.”



The experience? “Terrific! The team at TBS is very easy to work with, and they care a lot about their patients.”


Accomplishments? “In just a few weeks, nearly all of my neck and back discomfort has been resolved. I’m shocked at how effective the treatment has been.” –Jack C.

Prior to The Balanced Spine? “I have had neck problems and fibromyalgia for several years. It was to the point that my husband actually noticed it more than I did. I just lived with it.”


The experience? “I’ve had a very positive experience. I like that the focus is on actually healing, rather than ongoing manipulations for the rest of my life.”


Accomplishments? “It actually exceeded my expectations. I honestly didn’t realize how bad I had been feeling until I started feeling better. I have more energy, I sleep better, and I have a better attitude.” –Suzie C.

http://www.thebalancedspine.com/

Focus on wellness

Prior to The Balanced Spine? “I felt a lot of tension in shoulders, lower-back, slouching a lot. I felt spine was off-balance a bit. Wanted to get adjusted.”



The results? “I feel a lot more conscious about posture, etc. It’s been very informative and helpful. Lots of feedback from the doctor. I learned lots of stretches to help heal my lower back pain.”


Achievements? “A lot of feedback that made me aware of wellness levels at each appointment, i.e. chart on travel card.” –Karen L.


Prior to The Balanced Spine? “Lots of time and effort and money has been spent trying to deal with physical pain. The focus (in prior care) was on vigorous spinal adjustments on knees, hips or shoulders.”


The results? “I like the focus of overall health and healing – of assisting my body in healing. The ‘small’ adjustments have actually made discernable improvements in both pain and function.”


Achievements? “Coming three times a week and filling ou the travel card has kept my focus on daily decisions that support my health. Willpower to overcome has been nudged out in favor of the intention to be balanced.” –Judy D.
 
http://www.thebalancedspine.com/

A 36-hour headache...ick!

Before TBS? “I had a lot of neck and shoulder pain as well as migraine headaches. My head tilted to the left and one leg was slightly shorter than the other. In addition, lower back pain and other pains in hips and thighs when getting up from a chair. Basically, I was a mess!”



The results? “It’s been pleasant, non-invasive and I never liked the traditional adjustments (cracking, etc.) from other chiropractors over the years. I don’t know how Dr. Schallmann uses the gentle neck manipulations to improve how I feel but I know it works!”


Achievements? “My posture has greatly improved as well as my head doesn’t tilt to the left like it did. Dr. Schallmann suggested I stop taking Tylenol meds at night as a preventative, and I did. I feel the same in the morning without Tylenol as when I took it. I hate taking medications.” –Eve D.

Before TBS? “I experienced headaches lasting 36 hours at times. Once to twice monthly for the last 10+ years and increasing.”


The results? “First 6 weeks, headaches are almost gone. If one comes on I come in and it’s gone within the hour.”


Achievements? “I feel happier to find a cause of my discomfort and a solution.” –Madey W.

http://www.thebalancedspine.com/