Healthy Tips for a Healthy Spine

spine The following tips can help you take better care of your spine:

  1. Make sure you have an appropriate supportive mattress that keeps the spine in a neutral position and supports the spine's natural curves. The best sleeping positions are on your back or side (with pillow support).
  2. When standing for extended periods, rest one foot on a small stool to maintain spinal curvature and relieve pressure. The knees should be bent when bending forward. Low-heeled shoes may help by maintaining spinal curvatures and cushioning your weight.
  3. Use chairs that promote good posture and support your back. Placing a lumbar support in the lower portion of your back may help support your spine's natural curve. Readjust the seat of your car so that your knees are level with your hips.
  4. When bending forward, bend at the knees and hips, but keep your back straight. This will help to keep your spine's curvature in proper alignment. When lifting, keep your spine straight while using your legs to do most of the work. Hold the objects being lifted close to your body to keep the weight on your spine to a minimum.


The ABC's of Subluxations

Vertebral subluxations are displacements of the spinal bones (vertebrae) that causes nerve system interference resulting in body malfunction (muscular and skeletal) that can lead to symptoms and disease and reduce a person's ability to adapt to his or her environment. Subluxations may be caused by trauma, repetitive microtrauma, poor sleeping habits, poor posture, strenuous exercise, injuries, auto and work-related accidents, sports, slips or falls, and in some cases, the birthing process itself.

Chiropractic adjustments are very helpful in correcting subluxations and restoring optimal health.

The Four Phases of Spinal Degeneration caused by Subluxation

Phase one: This phase is simply represented by the misalignment and malfunction of the spine. No recognizable tissue degeneration has occurred and the misalignment is completely reversible and preventable through regular care.

Phase two: This phase is represented by the spinal misalignment and malfunction with some tissue (disc) degeneration. Some bony deposition may begin to occur. Complete return to normal cannot always be expected under chiropractic care, but this phase usually gets remarkably better.

Phase three: occurs when vertebral subluxation complex is left uncorrected and can be described by significant calcium deposition. The discs are decreased in height causing a myriad of potential problems. A return to 100 percent normal is rare, yet the degenerative process will often slow or halt all together with appropriate chiropractic care.

Phase four: This phase is represented by fusion of the spine, massive disc degeneration and nerve destruction. This immobilization has untold permanent health conditions associated with it. Return to normal is not possible, yet the chiropractor can adjust the spine, protecting other less affected areas of the spine and nerve system.

DTS-Decompression Therapy System (a traction based procedure)

Is it right for you?
Decompression Therapy is a highly successful treatment for patients suffering from bulging, herniated, degenerative, or ruptured discs as well as sciatica and many failed back surgery cases.
This treatment helps patients avoid the risk of anesthesia, surgical complications, and potential of failed back surgery.
Decompression Therapy begins with a series of sessions typically 3-4 times per week. After treatment, your doctor may prescribe specific exercises designed to help you regain control and strengthen the co-contractor muscles which are responsible for lower back stabilization.