Articles - Tampa Chiropractor | Dr. Brad McHenry | The Health and Wellness Clinic of Chiropractic

Archive for Articles – Page 2

Feb
22

Benefits of Vitamin K1

Of the three K vitamins, vitamin K1 (phytonadione) is the one we get from plant foods, and is the most important one for proper coagulation of the blood (or “Koagulation” in German, which is the origin of vitamin “K”). Without vitamin K we would eventually bleed to death from any small wound or bruise. It may also help prevent both osteoporosis and atherosclerosis. It plays a role in reducing inflammation and regulating cell growth.

Consumption of vitamin K may also reduce your risk of contracting non-Hodgkin lymphoma. A study conducted by researchers at the Mayo Clinic found that those who had the highest intake of Vitamin K1 had the lowest risk of contracting the disease, slashing their risk by 45 percent.

Vitamin K1 is associated with higher bone mineral density, and thus is helpful in preventing osteoporosis and reducing the rate of bone fractures. It also reduces calcium buildup in the arteries, protecting against atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries.

Though deficiency in vitamin k is uncommon, newborn infants, people who are malnourished or those who suffer from alcoholism are at the greatest risk of deficiency. Also, as absorption of vitamin K (and all other fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, E and D) depends on bile, those who have had their gallbladder removed may be at risk of developing a vitamin K deficiency. Some signs of deficiency are easy bruising, increased menstrual bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding gums and blood in the urine.

It is a fat-soluble vitamin, and the best sources of it can be found in such green leafy vegetables as kale, collard greens, Swiss chard, broccoli, spinach, brussels sprouts, lettuce and parsley. It can also be found in vegetable oils, potatoes, tomatoes, oats and asparagus.

0 Categories : Food and Nutrition

Feb
19

Why Sleep Apnea is a Serious Condition

by Chiropractor

The latest research shows that having sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of death. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects at least 18 million Americans. In fact, sleep apnea is also associated with nearly double the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, as well as early death in men, particularly middle-aged and older men. An obstructed airway causes sleep apnea, which results in cessations in breathing during sleep. This can occur hundreds of times each night. Sleep apnea often results in lowered oxygen levels in the blood, and if untreated, can lead to poor sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and increased car accidents. Mounting research reveals it may lead to far worse consequences as well.

Even those with mild to moderate sleep apnea may see an increase of up to 17% in their risk of death. A long and large study conducted at Johns Hopkins University and published this year showed results that have real meaning for the average person. Over a period of 10 years, the researchers included more than 6,400 men and women between the ages of 40 and 70. Most of the participants snored, which is the main symptom of sleep apnea. The researchers monitored their sleep patterns as well as their breathing, heart rhythms, and brain activity while sleeping. The results revealed that about half had moderate to severe sleep apnea.

Next, the researchers tracked those with sleep apnea over the next eight to ten years, monitoring and recording the incidence of sickness and death. The main illnesses they found were high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. They made an incredible discovery: those who experienced just 11 minutes of severe sleep apnea per night, in which blood oxygen levels dropped to below 90% of normal, nearly doubled the risk of death among men. The researchers were not able to conclude the same for women, since the study included so few women with severe sleep apnea. In general, sleep apnea affects men more than women.

The researchers indicated that these results are serious and require attention by doctors as well as patients. “With such mounting evidence indicating the range of clinical effects of sleep apnea, awareness amongst health care professionals and the general community needs to increase,” said study lead author Dr. Naresh Punjabi, an associate professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore.

Anyone with the main symptoms of sleep apnea, including loud snoring, daytime fatigue, and difficulty concentrating should discuss their symptoms with a doctor. Lifestyle changes such as losing weight may help the problem. If you have a more serious case of sleep apnea, there is effective therapy, including Continuous Positive Airway Pressure devices that act as a sort of oxygen mask during sleep. According to accumulating evidence, not only can treating sleep apnea improve your quality of life, but it may save it as well.

For More Information

We would be happy to answer any questions you have about this article, general spinal health or your specific situation. To discuss your symptoms and concerns call (813) 818-7373.

How We Are Different

Dr. McHenry is a unique Tampa chiropractor who specializes in difficult cases that have not responded to other care. All treatment plans are highly individualized based on your specific history, needs and goals.

Areas We Serve

We are located near the Tampa communities of Town N Country, Bayport West, Tampa Shores, Bay Port Colony, Countryway, Westchase, Oldsmar. However, we see patients from a large radius around Tampa Bay because of the unique, customized therapies we offer.

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0 Categories : General Health

Feb
16

Chiropractic for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

by Chiropractor

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), named from the carpal bones in the wrist that form a tunnel around the nerve leading to the hand, is an injury usually caused by repetitive and forceful movements that result in swelling around the tendons and pinching of the median nerve, causing painful tingling, lack of muscle strength and control in the hand, and pain shooting from the hand up to the shoulder. CTS is a risk to most workers, such as those who work on the computer and also store and assembly line workers, who receive micro-traumas to their hands and wrists on a daily basis due to awkward positioning, forceful and repetitive movements, and stressful activity.

The usual treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can extend to heavy medication and surgery, however there are alternative methods of treatment that can alleviate the symptoms and effects arising from CTS. Chiropractic treatment for CTS has been studied against conventional non-surgical medical treatment and was found to be effective. This offers an alternative to sufferers who are intolerant to ibuprofen, or those who simply wish to avoid treating with medication.

The median nerve in the wrist, which when trapped causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, connects to the spinal cord through the openings in the bones in the areas around the lower neck. If these bones in the spinal cord lose their ordinary position or motion, this can cause problems in the wrists or fingers. Through chiropractic treatment, these bones can be reset to the correct position and can help to treat CTS.

If Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is detected early, then surgery can be avoided, and chiropractic treatment is the leading method of non-surgical treatment. Chiropractic treatment usually involves various methods, with a combination of rest, ice, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation, including:

By chiropractic manipulation therapy of the elbow and upper spine, where the joint’s soft tissue undergoes manipulation;
Nutritional supplements in the diet such as B6, a vitamin that has had long-term promotion in its treatment of CTS;
Electro-acupuncture treatment; bracing, a technique that has had extensive success, by limiting extension and flexion in the hand, and with compression on the median nerve may encourage recovery and ease the swelling in the tendons;
Exercises for the wrist and hand designed to encourage recovery;
Reassessing the ergonomics of the work place to minimize stress the best way as possible.

Recent studies concluded that using manual therapy intervention such as soft tissue mobilization (STM) has been found to help improve the signs and symptoms of CTS, with improvements to nerve conduction latencies, wrist strength and motion.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can become a serious health problem, and if left too long may require surgery. If it’s caught early, then chiropractic treatment is an effective, drug-free method to ease the symptoms and pains caused by CTS, and provide long-term relief from CTS.

For More Information

We would be happy to answer any questions you have about this article, general spinal health or your specific situation. To discuss your symptoms and concerns call (813) 818-7373.

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0 Categories : Conditions

Feb
15

What is Spinal Decompression Therapy?

by Chiropractor

Spinal decompression therapy is a treatment option for people with long-term back pain, sciatica, leg pain, degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, numbness and other conditions that have not responded to initial treatments such as manipulation and physical therapy. All of these conditions may be the result of compressive forces on your vertebrae, which can cause spinal misalignment and compressed discs.

Compressed discs can lead to herniation or bulging of the discs, thus pressure on the nerves. In addition to the pressure and compression, the nerve itself may not be able to receive the nutrients it needs to heal and work properly. Often, surgery is used to decompress the spine, which is invasive, painful, and carries significant risks. Medications to reduce pain are also often used, but they do not treat the source of the pain and only mask it.

Spinal decompression therapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical alternative that offers gentle spinal decompression through the use of specially designed, FDA-approved equipment. Prior to treatment, patients are thoroughly examined both manually and through the use of imaging technology in order to determine which spinal discs are compressed, and if the treatment is suitable and has a high likelihood of success.

Patients are placed on a decompression table in a comfortable posture that depends on which area of the back needs treatment. The treatment applies a specific force to the compressed discs, and a computer alternates the decompression force with relaxation periods. Usually, there is a series of 15 one-minute alternating decompression and relaxation cycles, for an individual treatment time of 30 minutes. This process serves to gently elongate the spine and to create a vacuum that pulls the disc back into its proper location and shape within the vertebrae. Realigning the discs in this manner can reduce pain and promote healing. However, it may take up to 20 treatments for complete relief.

Not everyone is a good candidate for spinal decompression therapy. Research has shown it to be very effective for some patients but not for others, and it is not entirely clear which people it will work best on. Therefore, it is important to work carefully with your chiropractor to be sure you have a good chance of successful treatment. Your chiropractor may precede each treatment with soft tissue muscle work to reduce the body’s natural reflex reaction and prepare the muscles for the traction forces. He or she will also work with other health professionals as needed to determine the precise nature of your back pain and the type of treatments that are most likely to resolve your pain at its source.

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Feb
13

Choosing the Right Keyboard and Mouse Pad

by Chiropractor

Computer work has become the backbone of most of our daily lives. But with its rise in the workplace, there has been a concurrent increase in injuries associated with repetitive computer work, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive strain injury. Incorrect usage of a keyboard or a mouse can be the culprit, since unnatural keyboard positions exert stress on the muscles, tendons and ligaments in the hands and wrists. An unsupported wrist can be the cause of wrist fatigue, and if your wrist is resting in the incorrect position, extensive typing, can pose a threat.

Ergonomic equipment can help to minimize the risks of injury during extended computer work. If you are a frequent computer user, it might be worth investing in an ergonomic mouse pad or keyboard.

When looking for an ergonomic mouse pad, there are some key features to take into consideration. Look for a mouse pad that allows you to maintain your natural hand position. It needs to imitate the position the wrist has when at rest, by providing an angled surface. Also, make sure the mouse pad has a non-slip grip to ensure it remains in place under normal movement. Purchasing an ergonomic mouse pad and choosing one made from soft material or filled with a soft gel can help to remove the pressure from the tendons and nerves. Hard materials cause compression and pressure on the tendons and nerves in the wrist, and can lead to pain and discomfort. Most importantly, check that the pad is comfortable, offering a good position for your wrist at rest and good freedom of movement while working.

When it comes to keyboards, a wrist rest is a good investment, since it’s designed to give your wrists a break after typing for long periods of time. If you’re typing incorrectly, it helps to alleviate the pain associated with repetitive strain injury or carpal tunnel syndrome. A good wrist rest helps to keep your wrists off the edge of the hard desk and can also help to prevent incorrect posture during typing. Before buying a wrist rest, make sure you know the height and width of your keyboard. There are many styles available on the market, and it’s important to find the wrist rest comfortable for you. It needs to be the same height and width of your keyboard and it’s key to find a wrist rest that conforms to the shape of your wrist. When placing the wrist rest against the edge of the keyboard, there shouldn’t be a gap between the two. Adjust the position so that the wrist rest is set at the edge of the desk.

For More Information

We would be happy to answer any questions you have about this article, general spinal health or your specific situation. To discuss your symptoms and concerns call (813) 818-7373.

How We Are Different

Areas We Serve

Your Initial Consultation is Complimentary

0 Categories : Preventative Care

Feb
9

What is Chiropractic Cold Laser Therapy?

by Chiropractor

Cold laser therapy (also called Low Level Laser Therapy or LLLT) involves the use of light (a specific wavelength and frequency of coherent light, generated from a low-wattage therapeutic laser) to stimulate the body’s cells and cause them to accelerate the healing process. The therapeutic use of lasers (LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation) is not a new idea; they have been used to stimulate healing since 1967.

The term “cold laser” refers to the specific wavelength of light used, which is usually in the 630 nm to 980 nm ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum. This wavelength allows for the least energy to be absorbed by surface tissue (meaning that the patient does not experience any sensation of heat or warming), while allowing the healing properties of the light to facilitate wound and tissue healing. Low-level laser therapy has been shown to reduce inflammation and accelerate the body’s own healing mechanisms. When cells are exposed to laser light, cell functions are stimulated, improving immune system function, increasing collagen synthesis and enhancing tissue regeneration.

In chiropractic practice, cold laser therapy has been show to be effective in treating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and bursitis. The use of laser therapy also accelerates the healing of connective tissue disorders such as sprains, strains and tendonitis, and has proven effective in reducing or managing chronic or acute pain in the neck, thoracic regions or lower back. Lasers have also been used to effectively treat muscle injuries or bruises, and neurological injuries such as herniated or ruptured discs. Chiropractors also commonly use laser therapy to increase the patient’s range of motion, and to build or increase the strength of damaged muscle tissue. In many cases the use of cold laser therapy has cut rehabilitation time following an injury in half.

Obvious benefits of cold laser therapy over drugs or surgery are that it is safe, pain- and drug- free, non-invasive, and has no known side effects. The results are quickly perceived by patients, and laser therapy can be used immediately after an injury. Cold laser therapy has also been studied in over 3000 clinical trials, with proven clinical results. If you are interested in finding out whether it could be of benefit to treat your conditions, consult with your chiropractor.

Resources:

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Feb
8

The Dirtiest Places in Your House

by Chiropractor

Before setting off on a cleaning frenzy, it’s important to understand that not all germs are created equal. The germs you may find on your keyboard, while numerous, may not be as dangerous as the few isolated germs found on the toilet seat or in your washer.

The major zones of filth in the average person’s home are

The kitchen sink (and sponges)
The toilet
The bathtub
The washer
The phone
The trash bin

The kitchen sink is one of the dirtiest places in the house, if not the most, with over half a million bacteria living per square inch in the drain. The combination of food residues, small pools of warm water and wet sponges provides ideal growth opportunities for a host of bacteria.

Recent studies have shown that the toilet, which was thought to be a haven for a multitude of germs, is in fact relatively germ-free. Unfortunately, the few germs that are found there are of the more virulent type, generally E. coli.

As for the bathroom, one would think that the place where one goes to get clean would be clean itself. However, most bathtubs and shower floors are left damp and warm after use, ideal environments for staphylococcus bacteria.

The washer is for most people another unexpected place to find germs. However, most clothes are not washed at temperatures that would kill germs and few washing machine detergents are designed as germicides. Soiled underwear not washed separately can spread E. coli to the entire load.

Electronics that are handled regularly, such as phone, keyboards and mice, have a propensity for letting bacteria survive for relatively long periods of time. Since they regularly come into contact with hands, which are perfect carriers for a multitude of germs, they provide excellent residences for a host of bacteria.

Lastly trash bins, whether indoors or outdoors, provide sheltered conditions and residues for bacteria to grown on. As people tend to avoid cleaning them as often as they should, trash receptacles become perfect locations for germs.

Most breeding grounds for germs can be eliminated with a simple rule: Keep it dry. More effective, cheaper and safer than slathering on anti-bacterial cleaners, dryness can kill virtually all of the germs populating your house. Be disciplined about wiping down your sinks and tubs, eliminating any pools of water, however small. Dry out your sponges fully and wipe down your phones and keyboards on a monthly basis. For those areas were E. Coli is a risk, use small amounts of bleach to kill the bacteria and wash underwear separately.

Most importantly of all, don’t over disinfect as this may cause more serious risks to your health. Living in an aseptic environment is far more damaging that living with a host of generally mild bacteria.

For More Information

We would be happy to answer any questions you have about this article, general spinal health or your specific situation. To discuss your symptoms and concerns call (813) 818-7373.

How We Are Different

Areas We Serve

Your Initial Consultation is Complimentary

0 Categories : General Health

Feb
8

6 Tips for Healthy-Looking Skin

by Chiropractor

We all want to look young and beautiful, no matter what our age, and keeping your skin in good condition goes a long way toward that goal. There are a number of things you can do to keep your skin looking supple and glowing that don’t involve expensive treatments or surgery!

1) Drink more water– This may be the number one tip in achieving healthy-looking skin. Controlled climates such as homes and offices with heat and air conditioning tend to be very drying to the skin. Most people are actually chronically dehydrated, and this leads to an increased in lines and wrinkles, much as a grape becomes a raisin! Optimally, you should drink between 2 and 3 liters of water every day, which will make your tissues more plump and resilient, reducing fine lines and wrinkles. If you can’t stomach that much water, other beverages are fine, but beware of any that contain lots of sugar or caffeine, as an excess of these substances is not good for your health.

2) Cleanse and exfoliate – At the end of the day, after being subjected to the elements, including sun, wind, climate, etc. (not to mention makeup), you need to give your skin a good cleanse. Dead cells can accumulate on the skin’s surface, making it look dull and lifeless. Start by removing all makeup with a gentle cleanser, such as a little plain yogurt on a cotton ball, which removes makeup without the use of harsh chemicals. Then treat it to a light apricot kernel scrub, which can remove those dead cells and expose the fresh ones underneath.

3) Eat healthy – A diet high in fruits and vegetables, particularly the ones with high amounts of antioxidants such as Vitamin C, and low in sugar, unhealthy fats and processed foods, has been shown to promote younger looking skin. Red peppers, strawberries and avocados are among the foods highest in antioxidants and healthy fats.

4) Wear protective clothing – We all know that too much sun exposure is bad, exposing our skin to damage from free radicals. Chemicals in some commercial sunscreens can be almost as bad for you as too much sun and keep you from getting an adequate amount of vitamin D to boot! The best option is to wear protective clothing as much as possible. This includes long-sleeved shirts and hats with wide brims.

5) Moisturize – One way to keep your skin from drying out is to apply a good moisturizer once in the morning and again before bed, after your cleansing routine. Look for a moisturizer that does not contain any SLS (sodium lauryl/lauryth sulfate) or parabens, neither of which are good for you. The best are those containing olive oil, aloe or vitamin E.

6) Quit Smoking – The increased number of wrinkles that appear on the faces of smokers is yet another reason to quit. Smoking constricts the tiny blood vessels that supply oxygen and important nutrients that nourish the skin. It also damages the collagen and elastin that keep skin strong and elastic.

0 Categories : General Health

Feb
6

What are Spinal Pelvic Stabilizers?

by Chiropractor

Spinal pelvic stabilizers are specially designed orthotics that help stabilize and balance your feet. They can have a significant effect on your entire body’s performance and efficiency, reduce pain, and contribute to an overall sense of well-being.

How can something made just for your feet accomplish all this?

Our feet form the foundation of our entire body. They provide support for walking, standing, running, jumping, and reaching. In addition, your feet help protect your bones, spine and tissues from stress while moving around. It seems quite logical that your feet can perform these tasks better when their bones, muscles, and arches are in their proper, stable positions. For example, neck pain could be the result of a spinal misalignment that is caused by an imbalance in your feet. Your body’s joints and muscles work most efficiently when they are in balance, and balanced feet provide the foundational balance needed to support many of our daily activities.

Your feet contain three arches that support the weight of your entire body. If one arch is compromised, the other arches try to compensate. This results in additional stress, leading to pain, discomfort, and further compromise. Another common foot problem is flattening of the arches, which is known as pronation, which leads to rotation of the legs.

Spinal pelvic stabilizers balance the foundation of the pelvis and spine and help address structural problems of the feet. If they are properly fitted they can control pronation and supination. In this way they reduce unnatural stress and abnormal forces, and promote healthy functional and structural relationships between your feet and the rest of your body.

These devices also provide improved shock absorption. This reduces repetitive stress on your muscles and joints, allows better function, and reduces arthritic symptoms as well.

Pelvic stabilizers are a cost effective and long-term intervention for many kinds of foot and posture problems. They are worn inside your shoes, and they guide your feet into a more normal pattern as they are used for moving around.

Your chiropractor will use impression images of your feet to create custom-made flexible spinal pelvic stabilizers for your feet and your feet alone. You may wish to ask your chiropractor about the flexibility of the stabilizers that will be created for you. Some technologies use more rigid materials to force the foot into a supposedly ideal position, while most people prefer some flexibility for comfort, controlled support, and better movement from the feet on up through the body.

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Feb
4

Are You Sitting Properly?

by Chiropractor

If you are an office worker you probably spend at least six or seven hours a day sitting on the job. Add more time sitting in the car, at dinner and lounging with some late night TV and the total hours of sitting rockets up to somewhere around ten hours.

When is the last time you thought about how you sit? Probably never or a long, long time ago.

Promise yourself that you’ll take a critical look at how you sit after you read this article. If you are sitting and reading this online, go ahead and freeze right now and really think about how you are sitting.
Compare your sitting position to this checklist.

Sit with your legs uncrossed with ankles in front of the knees.
Place both feet firmly on the floor. Get yourself a footrest if your feet don’t reach.
Your knees should be lower than your hips and the back of your knees should not touch the seat.

If your chair has an adjustable backrest, move it to support the arch in your low back. If you don’t have a backrest, ask your employer about getting one or invest in it yourself.

Get up and move around every hour. Take a break from sitting even if you cannot stop working. Make a phone call standing up or close your office door and lie down for a few minutes on your stomach. At the very least, shift your sitting position occasionally.

Good posture is important for long term health and disease prevention just like daily tooth brushing. And, similar to tooth brushing, habits are formed early and can be hard to break later in life.

Good sitting posture reduces the stress and strain on ligaments. Ligaments are responsible for holding the joints together, so ligament stresses can make you prone to joint injuries. Proper posture also reduces muscle fatigue. When muscles are able to work efficiently they use less energy and don’t get tired as easily. Abnormal motions or positions that are repeated over and over again on a daily basis are contributors to degenerative arthritis and joint pain.

Most adults would readily agree that posture is important. Most of that group would also admit that they don’t actively think about posture…it just happens. For the next 30 days, make an effort to really think about your posture and pause a couple times per day to compare your current position to the checklist provided above. It takes about 30 days of focus to break an old habit or develop a new one, so if you concentrate on your sitting posture for 30 days, you’ll be well on your way to a lifetime of better musculoskeletal health.

For More Information

We would be happy to answer any questions you have about this article, general spinal health or your specific situation. To discuss your symptoms and concerns call (813) 818-7373.

How We Are Different

Areas We Serve

Your Initial Consultation is Complimentary

0 Categories : Preventative Care

Feb
2

Chiropractic/Manipulation Therapy for Shoulder Pain

by Chiropractor

Shoulder pain is a common complaint that patients present with to both primary care physicians and chiropractic practitioners. There are several underlying conditions that may cause discomfort in this area, many of which may be assisted by chiropractic treatment and manipulation. A proper diagnosis is important in order to determine what kind of treatment is indicated in each case.

Commonly observed causes of shoulder pain include:

Bursitis or tendinitis of the rotator cuff (inflammation of the shoulder joint, also called impingement syndrome, since the inflammation impinges on the ability of the shoulder to move fully)
Frozen shoulder (restriction of joint movement by the shoulder capsule, also known as adhesive capsulitis)
Rotator cuff tear (tearing of the shoulder tendons away from the bone). The rotator cuff refers to the group of four muscles and tendons that are responsible for moving the shoulder joint
Shoulder dislocation and shoulder instability (repeated dislocation, which may follow the initial occurrence as a result of the weakening and tearing of shoulder ligaments)
Synovitis (inflammation of the synovium that protects joint bones from rubbing together)
Calcific tendinitis (calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons)
Referred pain from the neck or elsewhere in the body
Arthritis (wearing away of shoulder cartilage)
Fractures

The precise nature of chiropractic treatment for shoulder pain depends on which of the above diagnoses is made by your practitioner, but will likely include some degree of manipulation to ensure correct spinal alignment (especially in the neck) and improved shoulder mobility and function. Additional measures such as heat and ice packs, stretching and strengthening exercises, anti-inflammatory medication, rest and cortisone injections may also be discussed. Furthermore, your chiropractor will want to look at your overall health, diet and lifestyle to see if any improvements can be made to assist with your healing process. Chiropractors are specialist health care professionals who deal with shoulder pain on a daily basis.

Signs that you should your chiropractor about your shoulder include the following:

Pain when carrying objects
Shoulder pain at night and when resting
Being unable to raise your arm
Pain that persists beyond a few days and is unimproved by rest and painkillers
Warmth, redness and/or swelling of the shoulder and/or fever, which may indicate infection
Bruising around the shoulder area

0 Categories : Chiropractic

Feb
1

6 Diseases Related to Obesity

by Chiropractor

Obesity and the diseases associated with it cost a staggering percentage of health care dollars. It is estimated that $168 billion is spent each year in the U.S. alone to treat obesity-related diseases. These diseases include Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), high cholesterol, gallstones, osteoarthritis and more.

Type 2 diabetes is a disease most commonly caused by obesity. Though it used to develop primarily in adults, it is now quite common in children as well, with the recent increase in the rate of childhood obesity. Blood sugar levels become elevated due to the insulin resistance caused by obesity and greatly increase the risk of developing diabetes.
Heart disease can develop as a result of fatty deposits building up in the arteries, and hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) is 10 times more common among the obese than in the population with normal body weight. Fat tissue also requires blood to survive, so more blood vessels are created, putting greater strain on the circulatory system, increasing blood pressure and making the heart work harder to circulate that extra blood.
Those who are obese have an increased risk of cancer, especially cancer of the colon, breast, prostate, gallbladder and uterus.
Obesity adversely affects both the metabolism and endocrine system, often resulting in metabolic syndrome, the fastest-growing obesity-related health problem. This refers to a group of risk factors that increase your risk of more serious diseases, such as coronary heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Symptoms include excess weight particularly located around the middle of the body, insulin resistance, low HDL (“good”) cholesterol and high triglycerides.
Women who are obese can suffer from a number of reproductive health problems, including infertility, uterine cancer and PCOS. Because obesity causes disruption in the menstrual cycle and the endocrine system that is responsible for the delicate balance of hormones necessary for successful ovulation, studies have found that even a modest reduction in body fat of between 5 and 10 percent is often enough to restore ovulation and fertility.
Osteoarthritis has grown increasingly common as the rate of obesity has increased. The excess weight adds to increased wear and tear on the joints, particularly on the knees and hips. Obese women are nine times more likely to suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee, often leading to the need for a total joint replacement. However, researchers have found that losing as little as 11 pounds can reduce the risk of knee osteoarthritis by half.

The increased risks of these six diseases alone are good reasons to lose weight if you are obese. Even losing a little has been shown to have a positive effect on your health, and it can significantly reduce the amount you spend on health care every year.

0 Categories : General Health

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