Chiropractors in Dale City VA

Bend at your knees!

in Chiropractor  by June 5, 2020 0 comments

We all do it!  In a rush just quickly bend over and twist to grab something and bam, something bad just happened.  Those may be hard to avoid but knowing how to lift properly can help you in the long run.  Your Woodbridge, Dale City VA chiropractor has some tips on proper lifting.  In the event the BAM happens give us a call.

 

Back pain and injuries from improper lifting techniques typically lead to three kinds of injuries to the muscles, vertebral discs, and joints.  Some injuries from incorrect lifting include:

Disc injury

Joint injury

Muscle injury

With improper lifting, you may experience a tear, rupture, or shift out of position of the soft cushions between your vertebrae, called discs.  If this injury does occur, the fibrous rings surrounding the soft leathery discs can bulge and even rupture.  This can cause the dislocated or ruptured disc to press against a nerve, causing pain and numbness to radiate down into you buttocks or leg.

Because of the numerous joints in your spinal column that connect all of the various bony structures, injury may occur.  A joint injury can be caused by a bad lift because it causes excessive strain on your joints, irritating tissue within them, and in some cases, locking them up.  As well, if you change position during a lift, you can place a lot of stress on your lower back muscles.  This added stress can easily strain and injure your back, usually in the form of a small twist or tear of a single muscle or group of muscles.

An important rule to remember when lifting is to never bend from your waist and then stand upright to lift an item from the ground.  Keep your back straight and crouch first by bending at the knees or hips.  This all depends on where the item is that you are lifting and allows your arms and shoulder muscles to do the brunt of the lifting, rather than your back.  Some simple lifting techniques include:

Make sure you have a place to put the object you are lifting.

If you need to turn while lifting the object, use your feet to pivot, not your back.

Your leg muscles should be the ones providing the power during your motion to stand erect, not your back.

Keep the object close to your body in order to maximize the use of your arms and shoulder muscles.

Keep your chest forward and bend at your hips, or knees, not your lower back.

When lifting, push your chest out, pointing forward.  Avoid twisting or turning during your lift as this will cause injury.

Lead with your hips, not your shoulders and keep your shoulders in line with your hips.

Don’t lift any objects that are obviously too heavy.

 

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

Map Link

Working from home is a pain in the neck!

in Chiropractor  by May 29, 2020 0 comments

Well most of you have been locked at home and it still doesn’t look like you will be returning to work any time soon.  As your chiropractor in the Woodbridge, Dale City VA area I am seeing more and more workstation related injuries.  Your kitchen table or couch end table was never designed to be used that way.  Here are some pretty generic ideas you can apply to your home work station.

The first step in setting up an office chair is to establish the desired height of the individual’s desk or workstation. This decision is determined primarily by the type of work to be done and by the height of the person using the office chair. The height of the desk or workstation itself can vary greatly and will require different positioning of the office chair, or a different type of ergonomic chair altogether.

Once the workstation has been situated, then the user can adjust the office chair according to his or her physical proportions. Here are the most important guidelines – distilled into a quick checklist – to help make sure that the office chair and work area are as comfortable as possible and will cause the least amount of stress to the spine:

Elbow measure

First, begin by sitting comfortably as close as possible to your desk so that your upper arms are parallel to your spine. Rest your hands on your work surface (e.g. desktop, computer keyboard). If your elbows are not at a 90-degree angle, adjust your office chair height either up or down.

Thigh measure

Check that you can easily slide your fingers under your thigh at the leading edge of the office chair. If it is too tight, you need to prop your feet up with an adjustable footrest. If you are unusually tall and there is more than a finger width between your thigh and the chair, you need to raise the desk or work surface so that you can raise the height of your office chair.

Calf measure

With your bottom pushed against the chair back, try to pass your clenched fist between the back of your calf and the front of your office chair. If you can’t do that easily, then the office chair is too deep. You will need to adjust the backrest forward, insert a low back support (such as a lumbar support cushion, a pillow or rolled up towel), or get a new office chair.

Low back support

Your bottom should be pressed against the back of your chair, and there should be a cushion that causes your lower back to arch slightly so that you don’t slump forward or slouch down in the chair as you tire over time. This low back support in the office chair is essential to minimize the load (strain) on your back. Never slump or slouch forward in the office chair, as that places extra stress on the structures in the low back, and in particular, on the lumbar discs.

Resting eye level

Close your eyes while sitting comfortably with your head facing forward. Slowly open your eyes. Your gaze should be aimed at the center of your computer screen. If your computer screen is higher or lower than your gaze, you need to either raise or lower it to reduce strain on the upper spine.

Armrest

Adjust the armrest of the office chair so that it just slightly lifts your arms at the shoulders. Use of an armrest on your office chair is important to take some of the strain off your upper spine and shoulders, and it should make you less likely to slouch forward in your chair.

 

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

 

Maplink

Carpal Tunnel Injury

in Chiropractor  by April 10, 2020 0 comments

This blog is for all of you who have turned their kitchen table into a workstation for the time being.  Or the ones rolled into a couch with a laptop.  Either way be careful of those wrist angles and long periods of use.  Your Woodbridge, Dale City VA Chiropractor has some information on the most common wrist injury.

CTS typically occurs in adults, with women 3 times more likely to develop it than men. The dominant hand is usually affected first, and the pain is typically severe. CTS is especially common in assembly-line workers in manufacturing, sewing, finishing, cleaning, meatpacking, and similar industries. Contrary to the conventional wisdom, according to recent research, people who perform data entry at a computer (up to 7 hours a day) are not at increased risk of developing CTS.

What Is CTS?

CTS is a problem of the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand. CTS occurs when the median nerve gets compressed in the carpal tunnel—a narrow tunnel at the wrist—made up of bones and soft tissues, such as nerves, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. The compression may result in pain, weakness, and/or numbness in the hand and wrist, which radiates up into the forearm. CTS is the most common of the “entrapment neuropathies”—compression or trauma of the body’s nerves in the hands or feet.

What Are the Symptoms?

Burning, tingling, itching, and/or numbness in the palm of the hand and thumb, index, and middle fingers are most common. Some people with CTS say that their fingers feel useless and swollen, even though little or no swelling is apparent. Since many people sleep with flexed wrists, the symptoms often first appear while sleeping. As symptoms worsen, they may feel tingling during the day. In addition, weakened grip strength may make it difficult to form a fist or grasp small objects. Some people develop wasting of the muscles at the base of the thumb. Some are unable to distinguish hot from cold by touch.

Why Does CTS Develop?

Some people have smaller carpal tunnels than others, which makes the median nerve compression more likely. In others, CTS can develop because of an injury to the wrist that causes swelling, over-activity of the pituitary gland, hypothyroidism, diabetes, inflammatory arthritis, mechanical problems in the wrist joint, poor work ergonomics, repeated use of vibrating hand tools, and fluid retention during pregnancy or menopause.

How Is It Diagnosed?

CTS should be diagnosed and treated early. A standard physical examination of the hands, arms, shoulders, and neck can help determine if your symptoms are related to daily activities or to an underlying disorder.

Your doctor of chiropractic can use other specific tests to try to produce the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.  The most common are:

Pressure-provocative test. A cuff placed at the front of the carpal tunnel is inflated, followed by direct pressure on the median nerve.

Carpal compression test. Moderate pressure is applied with both thumbs directly on the carpal tunnel and underlying median nerve at the transverse carpal ligament. The test is relatively new.

Laboratory tests and x-rays can reveal diabetes, arthritis, fractures, and other common causes of wrist and hand pain. Sometimes electrodiagnostic tests, such as nerveconduction velocity testing, are used to help confirm the diagnosis. With these tests, small electrodes, placed on your skin, measure the speed at which electrical impulses travel across your wrist. CTS will slow the speed of the impulses and will point your doctor of chiropractic to this diagnosis.

What Is the CTS Treatment?

Initial therapy includes:

Resting the affected hand and wrist

Avoiding activities that may worsen symptoms

Immobilizing the wrist in a splint to avoid further damage from twisting or bending

Applying cool packs to help reduce swelling from inflammations

Some medications can help with pain control and inflammation. Studies have shown that vitamin B6 supplements may relieve CTS symptoms.

Chiropractic joint manipulation and mobilization of the wrist and hand, stretching and strengthening exercises, soft-tissue mobilization techniques, and even yoga can be helpful. Scientists are also investigating other therapies, such as acupuncture, that may help prevent and treat this disorder.

Occasionally, patients whose symptoms fail to respond to conservative care may require surgery. The surgeon releases the ligament covering the carpal tunnel. The majority of patients recover completely after treatment, and the recurrence rate is low. Proper posture and movement as instructed by your doctor of chiropractic can help prevent CTS recurrences.

How Can CTS Be Prevented?

The American Chiropractic Association recommends the following tips:

Perform on-the-job conditioning, such as stretching and light exercises.

Take frequent rest breaks.

Wear splints to help keep the wrists straight.

Use fingerless gloves to help keep the hands warm and flexible.

Use correct posture and wrist position.

To minimize workplace injuries, jobs can be rotated among workers. Employers can also develop programs in ergonomics—the process of adapting workplace conditions and job demands to workers’ physical capabilities.

 

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

Map Link

What is Sciatica?

in Chiropractor  by March 20, 2020 0 comments

Sciatica is one of those terms I hear from patients all the time as your Woodbridge, Dale City VA Chiropractor.  It is fairly generic for any pain into the leg.  Dr Google has helped with that overuse of the term.  To help you better understand sciatica and what it is here is some information.  Unfortunately, I am only helping Dr Google but these are the facts.

Sciatica describes persistent pain felt along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, down through the buttock, and into the lower leg. The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the body, running from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of each leg. It controls the muscles of the lower leg and provides sensation to the thighs, legs, and the soles of the feet.

Although sciatica is a relatively common form of low-back and leg pain, the true meaning of the term is often misunderstood. Sciatica is actually a set of symptoms—not a diagnosis for what is irritating the nerve root and causing the pain.

Sciatica occurs most frequently in people between the ages of 30 and 50 years old. Most often, it tends to develop as a result of general wear and tear on the structures of the lower spine, not as a result of injury.

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

The most common symptom associated with sciatica is pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, from the lower back and down one leg; however, symptoms can vary widely depending on where the sciatic nerve is affected. Some may experience a mild tingling, a dull ache, or even a burning sensation, typically on one side of the body.

Some patients also report:

  • A pins-and-needles sensation, most often in the toes or foot
  • Numbness or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot

Pain from sciatica often begins slowly, gradually intensifying over time. In addition, the pain can worsen after prolonged sitting, sneezing, coughing, bending, or other sudden movements.

How is sciatica diagnosed?

Your doctor of chiropractic will begin by taking a complete patient history. You’ll be asked to describe your pain and to explain when the pain began, and what activities lessen or intensify the pain. Forming a diagnosis will also require a physical and neurological exam, in which the doctor will pay special attention to your spine and legs. You may be asked to perform some basic activities that will test your sensory and muscle strength, as well as your reflexes. For example, you may be asked to lie on an examination table and lift your legs straight in the air, one at a time.

In some cases, your doctor of chiropractic may recommend diagnostic imaging, such as x-ray, MRI, or CT scan. Diagnostic imaging may be used to rule out a more serious condition, such as a tumor or infection, and can be used when patients with severe symptoms fail to respond to six to eight weeks of conservative treatment.

What are my treatment options?

For most people, sciatica responds very well to conservative care, including chiropractic. Keeping in mind that sciatica is a symptom and not a stand-alone medical condition, treatment plans will often vary depending on the underlying cause of the problem.

Chiropractic offers a non-invasive (non-surgical), drug-free treatment option. The goal of chiropractic care is to restore spinal movement, thereby improving function while decreasing pain and inflammation. Depending on the cause of the sciatica, a chiropractic treatment plan may cover several different treatment methods, including but not limited to spinal adjustments, ice/heat therapy, ultrasound, TENS, and rehabilitative exercises.

 

An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Cure

While it’s not always possible to prevent sciatica, consider these suggestions to help protect your back and improve your spinal health.

 

  • Maintain a healthy diet and weight
  • Exercise regularly
  • Maintain proper posture
  • Avoid prolonged inactivity or bed rest
  • If you smoke, seek help to quit
  • Use good body mechanics when lifting

 

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

Map Link

Scoliosis information

in Chiropractor  by March 13, 2020 0 comments

I see tons of patients with scoliosis as your Woodbridge, Dale City VA Chiropractor.  Even though it is a common finding there is still a lot of questions about it.  One thing is almost everyone has a slight scoliosis because your heart is in the way.  But for those of you with a different type here is some information.

What is scoliosis?

Because we walk on 2 feet, the human nervous system constantly works through reflexes and postural control to keep our spine in a straight line from side to side. Occasionally, a lateral (sideways) curvature develops. If the curvature is larger than 10 degrees, it is called scoliosis. Curves less than 10 degrees are often just postural changes. Scoliosis can also be accompanied by lordosis (abnormal curvature toward the front) or kyphosis (abnormal curvature toward the back). In most cases, the vertebrae are also rotated.

In more than 80% of cases, the cause of scoliotic curvatures is unknown; we call this condition idiopathic scoliosis. In other cases, trauma, neurological disease, tumors, and the like are responsible. Functional scoliosis is often caused by some postural problem, muscle spasm, or leg-length inequality, which can often be addressed. Structural scoliosis does not reduce with postural maneuvers. Either type can be idiopathic or have an underlying cause.

What are the symptoms of scoliosis?

Scoliosis can significantly affect the quality of life by limiting activity, causing pain, reducing lung function, or affecting heart function. Diminished self-esteem and other psychological problems are also seen. Because scoliosis occurs most commonly during adolescence, teens with extreme spinal deviations from the norm are often teased by their peers.

Fortunately, 4 out of 5 people with scoliosis have curves of less than 20 degrees, which are usually not detectable to the untrained eye. These small curves are typically no cause for great concern, provided there are no signs of further progression. In growing children and adolescents, however, mild curvatures can worsen quite rapidly—by 10 degrees or more—in a few months. Therefore, frequent checkups are often necessary for this age group.

How is scoliosis evaluated?

Evaluation begins with a thorough history and physical examination, including postural analysis. If a scoliotic curvature is discovered, a more in-depth evaluation is needed. This might include a search for birth defects, trauma, and other factors that can cause structural curves.

Patients with substantial spinal curvatures very often require an x-ray evaluation of the spine. The procedure helps determine the location and magnitude of the scoliosis, along with an underlying cause not evident on physical examination, other associated curvatures, and the health of other organ systems that might be affected by the scoliosis. In addition, x-rays of the wrist are often performed. These films help determine the skeletal age of the person, to see if it matches an accepted standard, which helps the doctor determine the likelihood of progression. Depending on the scoliosis severity, x-rays may need to be repeated as often as every 3 to 4 months to as little as once every few years.

Other tests, including evaluation by a Scoliometer™, might also be ordered by the doctor. This device measures the size, by angle, of the rib hump associated with the scoliosis. It is non-invasive, painless, and requires no special procedures. A Scoliometer™ is best used as a guide concerning progression in a person with a known scoliosis—not as a screening device.

Is scoliosis always progressive?

Generally, it is not. In fact, the vast majority of scolioses remains mild, is not progressive, and requires little treatment, if any.

In one group of patients, however, scoliosis is often more progressive. This group is made up of young girls who have scolioses of 25 degrees or larger, but who have not yet had their first menstrual period. Girls generally grow quite quickly during the 12 months before their first period and if they have scolioses, the curvatures tend to progress rapidly. In girls who have already had their first periods, the rate of growth is slower, so their curves tend to progress more slowly.

What is the treatment for scoliosis?

There are generally three treatment options for scoliosis—careful observation, bracing, and surgery. Careful observation is the most common “treatment,” as most mild scoliosis do not progress and cause few, if any, physical problems. Bracing is generally reserved for children who have not reached skeletal maturity (the time when the skeleton stops growing), and who have curves between 25 and 45 degrees. Surgery is generally used in the few cases where the curves are greater than 45 degrees and progressive, and/or when the scoliosis may affect the function of the heart, lungs, or other vital organs.

Spinal manipulation, therapeutic exercise, and electrical muscle stimulation have also been advocated in the treatment of scoliosis. None of these therapies alone has been shown to consistently reduce scoliosis or to make the curvatures worse. For patients with back pain along with the scoliosis, manipulation and exercise may be of help.

Most people with scoliosis lead normal, happy, and productive lives. Physical activity including exercise is generally well-tolerated and should be encouraged in most cases.

 

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

Map Link

Ankle Injuries!

in Chiropractor  by March 6, 2020 0 comments

I have been seeing a few of those horrible looking boots in my office.  The one you get to stabilize and ankle injury.  My biggest concern is the boot being thicker than your shoe and the boot screwing up your low back.  Of course, those are on people who are being treated for an ankle injury.  For those of you who are going it alone, much like your Woodbridge, Dale City VA Chiropractor would, here is some things that may help you.

Ankle Rehabilitation Program1

As described in Human Locomotion, the following is a sample ankle sprain rehabilitation plan.

Phase 1. The patient is unable to bear weight.

  1. A) Compressive wrap with U-shaped felt balance around fibula. Change every 4 hours.
  2. B) Patient actively abducts/adducts toes for 5 seconds, repeat 10 times.
  3. C) Write out alphabet with toes, 5 times per day.
  4. D) Stationary bike, 15 minutes per day.
  5. E) Ankle rock board performed while seated (off weight-bearing), 30 circles, performed clockwise and counterclockwise 2 times per day. Perform on uninjured ankle while standing for 3 minutes. The standing rock board performed on the uninjured ankle has been shown to increase proprioception in the contralateral limb.
  6. F) Mild Grade 3 and 4 mobilization of the joints of the foot and ankle.

Phase 2. Patient can walk with minimal discomfort, and the sprained ankle has 90 percent full range of motion.

  1. A) Mobilize all stiff joints in the lower extremity and pelvis.
  2. B) Thera-Band exercises in all planes, 3 sets of 25 in each direction.
  3. C) Double-leg and then single-leg heel raises on the involved side, 3 sets of 10 reps, performed 2 times per day.
  4. D) Standing closed-eye balance, 30 seconds, 5 times per day.
  5. E) Standing single-leg ankle rock board, performed for 1 minute, 5 times per day.
  6. F) Closed kinetic chain exercises. (The sprained ankle is positioned securely on the ground while the patient pulls a resistance band forward and to the side. The patient then rotates 180° and the exercise is repeated by extending and abducting the uninvolved limb.)

Phase 3. Patient can hop on involved ankle without pain.

  1. A) Run at 80 percent full speed, avoid forefront touch down.
  2. B) Minitrampoline: 3 sets of 30 jumps forward, backward, and side to side. Begin on both legs, progress to single limb.
  3. C) Plyometrics performed on a 50cm and a 25cm box, positioned one meter apart. Jump from one box to the ground and then to the other box, landing as softly as possible. Perform 3 sets of 5 repetitions.

Resource:

Michaud, T. 2011. Human Locomotion: The Conservative Management of Gait-Related Disorders. Newton Biomechanics.

 

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

Map Link

Yes you need to stay hydrated in the winter!

in Chiropractor  by February 28, 2020 0 comments

Hydration is just as important in the winter as it is in the summer.   You may not feel thirsty or feel like drinking but you still need water for almost all your normal body functions.  So, keep shooting for that 100 ounces of water a day.  Your Woodbridge, Dale City VA Chiropractor has some information to help keep you motivated.

  1. Drink!

Good old H2O is critical for rehydrating when the body experiences fluid loss, such as when we sweat.  Even though many gyms like to keep pricey sports drinks and protein shakes stocked on their shelves, most of the time, water will do the trick just fine. Shoot to sip seven to 10 ounces of fluid every 10 to 20 minutes during exercise to stay properly hydrated.  If you’re working out for longer than an hour or doing a particularly intense exercise (like running a marathon or participating in a tough training session), you will probably need to replace electrolytes too—this is where a sports drink or electrolyte-enhanced water comes in handy.  However it’s also important to be wary of overhydration: Too much water can lead to hyponatremia, which is when excess water in our bodies dilutes the sodium content of our blood.   “It is most often caused by long duration exercise and either drinking fluid at a rate that is more than fluid losses or only replacing fluid losses with hypotonic fluids like water,” CamelBak hydration advisor, Doug Casa, says.

  1. Sip on sports drinks and coconut water.

When we sweat, we lose electrolytes, which are minerals found in the blood that help to regulate (among other things) the amount of water in the body. Research suggests and sports drinks, such as Powerade and Gatorade, can help prolong exercise and rehydrate our bodies because they contain electrolytes, which plain old water does not.  While an ordinary workout may not require electrolyte-replenishing, those participating in longer and more intense periods of exertion, such as running a marathon or going through a particularly intense workout, will benefit from a good dose of electrolytes mid-workout.  Not in to sports drinks, or want a more natural alternative? Water-enhancing electrolyte tablets, coconut water, or a homemade sports drink could be potentially effective substitutes.

  1. Turn to fruit.

Many fruits are a great source of both electrolytes and fluids, though the dose of electrolytes can differ from fruit to fruit.  Bananas and dates are known for having high levels of the electrolyte potassium, making them a great option for refueling during an intense workout (for example, a long run).  To stay hydrated while keeping up electrolytes, it’s important to drink water while munching on fruit (fruit contains some water, but not as much as your water bottle).

  1. Weigh yourself.

Hop on the scale before and after exercise. For each pound lost during activity, drink an additional 16 ounces of fluid. If your body weight change is three percent or more, you may be experiencing significant to serious dehydration.  Losing a few pounds of body weight after exercise can put strain on the body and result in uncomfortable side effects like muscle cramps, dizziness, and fatigue.  To prevent sweating away the water that keeps us hydrated, have a water bottle at the ready.

  1. Check the toilet.

If you’re taking a mid-set break to hit the loo, check on the color of your urine to make sure you’re staying hydrated. When properly hydrated, urine should be pale yellow in color. Though it may be tricky to keep an eye on it, try to watch the urine stream, since the color of urine will dilute when it hits the toilet water. Store this handy, dandy urine color test in your phone or wallet to make sure your piddle is up to snuff—dark yellow urine may indicate dehydration.

  1. Tame thirst.

Whatever you’re drinking, be it water, juice, or sports drinks, make sure to take a sip or two whenever you feel thirsty. Even if you’re not feeling totally parched, mild thirst is still a sign of impending dehydration.

  1. Pay attention to your muscles.

Lean muscle tissue contains more than 75 percent water, so when the body is short on H2O, muscles are more easily fatigued. “Staying hydrated helps prevent the decline in performance (strength, power, aerobic capacity, anaerobic capacity) during exercise,”Casa says. When your muscles feel too tired to finish a workout, try drinking some water and resting for a bit before getting back at it.

  1. Pinch yourself. (No, really.)

Go ahead, pinch yourself! Skin turgor, which is the skin’s ability to change shape and return to normal (or more simply put, it’s elasticity), is an easy way to check your hydration (though not 100 percent reliable for everyone).    Using your pointer finger and thumb, simply pinch the skin on the back of your hand (not too hard!) and hold for a few seconds. When you let go, if the skin takes a while to return to its normal position, you may be dehydrated.

  1. Keep dry mouth at bay.

One of the first signs of dehydration is dry mouth. If your mouth starts feeling like the Sahara, head to the water fountain (or take a sip from your reusable water bottle!). A short water break between sets or during quick breaks from cardio can help stave off exercise-induced dehydration.

  1. Stop if you get the dizzies.

Feeling lightheaded during a workout is a sign of dehydration and a signal to tone it down a notch.  Though willpower sometimes makes us want to push ourselves through a few more reps or another mile, feeling dizzy is an indicator that it’s time to hydrate.” Due to the decreased plasma volume with dehydration during exercise,” Casa says, “the heart must work harder to get blood to the working muscles.” When there’s not enough water in blood, both blood volume and blood pressure drop, resulting in dizziness.

 

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

Map Link

Why your cold gets worse as the day goes on…

in Chiropractor  by February 7, 2020 0 comments

You ever wonder why your cold seems to go away around 11 AM than come steaming back around 5 PM.  Every time I get sick, I take it as an immune system test.  Of course, I am super human so I should heal quicker.  No meds just going to let it run its course and be better in a day or two.  Well by day two around noon I am sending braggadocios test “Feeling great”, “thinking about running a quick marathon”…   Then around 4:30 pm I am like crap I can’t go home like this.  As your chiropractor in the Woodbridge, Dale City VA area I have some information for you on this topic.

 

Blame It on Hormones

Research shows that our bodies are on a 24-hour clock called a circadian rhythm. Hormone levels fluctuate, increasing and decreasing within this daily cycle. Cortisol, a hormone made by the adrenal glands, helps regulate blood sugar levels, metabolism, and blood pressure. It also helps the body manage stress.

In addition, cortisol helps your immune system function properly and reduce inflammation. In other words, it helps you fight off infection and sickness.

More cortisol circulates in your blood during the day, which suppresses your immune system. This means that your white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infections, are less active during the day.

At night, there is less cortisol in your blood. As a result, your white blood cells readily detect and fight infections in your body at this time, provoking the symptoms of the infection to surface, such as fever, congestion, chills, or sweating. Therefore, you feel sicker during the night.

 

Day versus Night

A couple of other things to consider are the natural differences we experience during the day and at night:

Position of Your Body: Pressure in your body is continually changing. Gravity has a lot to do with how your body adapts and feels. Laying down will always cause your cold or flu symptoms to become worse.

Keeping your body upright can make a world of difference for your congestion and breathing, by helping to drain mucous from your airway. During the day you are naturally more upright, as you go about your routine, while at night you eventually lay down to sleep.  Try adding an extra pillow to raise your head higher and promote sinus drainage.

Distractions: Your daily life can be extremely hectic, with little time for yourself. Going from one task to the next doesn’t leave much time to dwell upon your symptoms. At night, however, you tend to wind down and relax, which is when your immune system kicks into gear.

As you have heard many times, the best thing to do when you are sick is to rest. Otherwise, you will be stressing out and elevating your cortisol levels.

 

Tips to Help You Fight Illness:

 

  • Stay hydrated: Drinking fluids is the best thing you can do, along with getting plenty of sleep. Flushing out the infection or bacteria attacking your immune system will help you recover faster.

 

  • Be prepared: Having all your essentials near you at night, such as tissues, medicine, and water on your bedside table, will be a lifesaver. Saving your energy and getting the most rest possible will do wonders.

 

  • Support your immune system: For your immune system to fight off infection from colds and flu, it needs to be strong.  Taking vitamin C, drinking hot tea, and getting plenty of sleep are all things that can help strengthen your immune system.

 

 

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

Map Link

Piriformis pain

in Chiropractor  by January 24, 2020 0 comments

Low back pain is a very common complaint I see as your Woodbridge, Dale City VA chiropractor.  Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is one of the most common causes but piriformis syndrome is right up there.   It is a pain that starts in the buttock and usually shoots in to the back of your thing.

Anatomy

The piriformis muscle originates from the anterior (front) part of the sacrum, the part of the spine in the gluteal region, and from the superior margin of the greater sciatic notch (as well as the sacroiliac joint capsule and the sacrotuberous ligament). It exits the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen to insert on the greater trochanter of the femur. Its tendon often joins with the tendons of the superior gemellus, inferior gemellus, and obturator internus muscles prior to insertion.

The piriformis, pyramidal in shape, lying almost parallel with the posterior margin of the gluteus medius.

It is situated partly within the pelvis against its posterior wall, and partly at the back of the hip-joint.

It arises from the front of the sacrum by three fleshy digitations, attached to the portions of bone between the first, second, third, and fourth anterior sacral foramina, and to the grooves leading from the foramina: a few fibers also arise from the margin of the greater sciatic foramen, and from the anterior surface of the sacrotuberous ligament.

The muscle passes out of the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen, the upper part of which it fills, and is inserted by a rounded tendon into the upper border of the greater trochanter behind, but often partly blended with, the common tendon of the obturator internus and superior and inferior gemellus muscles.

The piriformis muscle crosses over top of the sciatic muscle and if the muscle spasms it will compress the sciatic nerve and cause pain in to your buttock and leg.  Once you have been properly diagnosed by your chiropractor or healthcare provider it is time to start treatment.

Treatment

Now that we know what the piriformis is and how it can cause us pain by compressing the sciatic nerve stretching it is one of the first things you should try.  Video

Lie on the back with the legs flat. Pull the affected leg up toward the chest, holding the knee with the hand on the same side of the body and grasping the ankle with the other hand. Trying to lead with the ankle, pull the knee towards the opposite ankle until stretch is felt. Do not force ankle or knee beyond stretch. Hold stretch for 30 seconds, then slowly return to starting position. Aim to complete a set of three stretches.

 

Lie on the floor with the legs flat. Raise the affected leg and place that foot on the floor outside the opposite knee. Pull the knee of the bent leg directly across the midline of the body using the opposite hand or a towel, if needed, until stretch is felt. Do not force knee beyond stretch or to the floor. Hold stretch for 30 seconds, then slowly return to starting position. Aim to complete a set of three stretches.

Lie on the floor with the affected leg crossed over the other leg at the knees and both legs bent. Gently pull the lower knee up towards the shoulder on the same side of the body until stretch is felt. Hold stretch for 30 seconds, then slowly return to starting position. Aim to complete a set of three stretches.

These stretches work great for after care and between visits but active care may be needed by your chiropractor to help eliminate any other causes of the sciatic compression.

 

 

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

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Headaches

in Chiropractor  by October 11, 2019 0 comments

Headaches don’t always need drugs to help them.  Studies show that 9 out of 10 Americans suffer from headaches.  As your Chiropractor in the Woodbridge, Dale City VA area I see quite a few of those lucky 9.  Chiropractic care can help with headaches and in a lot of cases make them go away for a long period of time.  Here is some headache information from the ACA.

Research shows that spinal manipulation – the primary form of care provided by doctors of chiropractic – may be an effective treatment option for tension headaches and headaches that originate in the neck.

A report released in 2001 by researchers at the Duke University Evidence-Based Practice Center in Durham, NC, found that spinal manipulation resulted in almost immediate improvement for those headaches that originate in the neck, and had significantly fewer side effects and longer-lasting relief of tension-type headache than a commonly prescribed medication.

Also, a 1995 study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal manipulative therapy is an effective treatment for tension headaches and that those who ceased chiropractic treatment after four weeks experienced a sustained therapeutic benefit in contrast with those patients who received a commonly prescribed medication.

 

Headache Triggers

Headaches have many causes, or “triggers.” These may include foods, environmental stimuli (noises, lights, stress, etc.) and/or behaviors (insomnia, excessive exercise, blood sugar changes, etc.). About 5 percent of all headaches are warning signals caused by physical problems.

Ninety-five percent of headaches are primary headaches, such as tension, migraine, or cluster headaches. These types of headaches are not caused by disease. The headache itself is the primary concern.

“The greatest majority of primary headaches are associated with muscle tension in the neck,” says Dr. George B. McClelland, a doctor of chiropractic from Christiansburg, VA. “Today, Americans engage in more sedentary activities than they used to, and more hours are spent in one fixed position or posture. This can increase joint irritation and muscle tension in the neck, upper back and scalp, causing your head to ache.”

 

 

What Can You Do?

The ACA suggests the following:

If you spend a large amount of time in one fixed position, such as in front of a computer, on a sewing machine, typing or reading, take a break and stretch every 30 minutes to one hour. The stretches should take your head and neck through a comfortable range of motion.

Low-impact exercise may help relieve the pain associated with primary headaches. However, if you are prone to dull, throbbing headaches, avoid heavy exercise. Engage in such activities as walking and low-impact aerobics.

Avoid teeth clenching. The upper teeth should never touch the lowers, except when swallowing. This results in stress at the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) – the two joints that connect your jaw to your skull – leading to TMJ irritation and a form of tension headaches.

Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to help avoid dehydration, which can lead to headaches.

What Can a Doctor of Chiropractic Do?

Dr. McClelland says your doctor of chiropractic may do one or more of the following if you suffer from a primary headache:

Perform spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustments to improve spinal function and alleviate the stress on your system.

Provide nutritional advice, recommending a change in diet and perhaps the addition of B complex vitamins.

Offer advice on posture, ergonomics (work postures), exercises and relaxation techniques. This advice should help to relieve the recurring joint irritation and tension in the muscles of the neck and upper back.

“Doctors of chiropractic undergo extensive training to help their patients in many ways – not just back pain,” says Dr. McClelland. “They know how tension in the spine relates to problems in other parts of the body, and they can take steps to relieve those problems.”

Doroski Chiropractic Neurology

3122 Golansky Blvd, Ste 102

Woodbridge VA 22192

703 730 9588

Map Link