How Golfers Can Benefit From Chiropractic Care

Does this sound familiar?

It’s a warm sunny day with a bit of a breeze, you are on the back nine about to sink a putt. When you swing, your back seizes up with severe pain. The beautiful day of golf turns into painfully riding in the golf cart back to the clubhouse, and you limping painfully to your car.

If you have ever strained your back during a golf game, you are not alone. It’s estimated of the 30 million golfers in the United States, 80% have experienced some sort of back pain. As fun as it is, swinging at golf balls puts an individual’s body in an awkward position, opening up the opportunity for injury.

While some golfers suffer through the pain by popping over-the-counter medications, others back away from playing as often, or stop altogether. There’s another way to combat back injuries caused by golfing, without meds. It’s not a magic wand, it’s chiropractic care!

Golfers are increasingly finding chiropractic care to be a valuable tool to help them deal with back injuries. Here are FORE! ways chiropractors can help injured golfers get off the couch and back on the green.

Consistent adjustments can avoid injuries in the first place.

Golfing, or any activity, is more enjoyable and causes less chance of injury if an individual’s body is in top condition and operating normally. Periodic spinal adjustments keep the body functioning at maximum capacity, and reduce the chances of being injured. If the neck and back are aligned correctly, awkward positioning such as a golf swing will have a less negative impact.

Chiropractic treatment can reduce a golfer’s pain.

Back injuries can be extremely painful, and many turn to pain medications to gain relief and comfort. By treating the origin of the pain instead of just the symptoms, a chiropractor helps their patients manage the pain through manipulations, instead of drugs. Over the course of a few treatments, pain is often drastically diminished and much more manageable.

A golf injury can heal quicker with chiropractic care.

Injuries to the back or neck can heal faster when chiropractors treat them than on their own. An experienced chiropractor can adjust the spine, and also work on the joints and surrounding tissue that can cause pain and hinder healing. Chiropractic evaluation considers the body as a whole. By treating the entire body, it promotes quicker healing of the injury.

Increased mobility can be gained with chiropractic visits.

Golfers who play often as well as those who only play a few times a year know mobility is essential to a good golf game. Stiff joints and a weak back not only mess with the golf game, but can be the very issues that end up causing an injury.

A chiropractic treatment schedule keeps the body loose and strong, and working in optimum fashion. This prevents injuries and increases the chances of playing the game of your life.

Golfers need to realize the sport can cause serious injuries just like "rougher" sports like football and rugby. It’s a good idea to stretch before playing, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion.

If you are a golfer, chiropractic care is a valuable tool in staying healthy. Regular adjustments and manipulations keep your body on track and performing with maximum mobility at the top of your game. If you do suffer an injury, a chiropractor can help you manage your pain and decrease the time it takes to heal.

Contact us today @ 780-455-2112 for more information on how we can help reduce the chance of injury for golfers, and promote healing.

What Chiropractic Patients Need to Know About Sitting While Working

It’s no big secret that exercise is good for you. Many articles and books have been written and studies completed on the subject of physical fitness. However, lately it’s been discussed as to whether that five mile run or spin class is really enough. Is our work environment undoing any positive effort we put into staying healthy?

The short answer is YES. Human bodies were not built to sit for long periods of time. Our twenty-first century workplace — working behind a desk, typing on the computer, endless video conferences — unfortunately stacks against us to keep us on our… well, not our feet.

There are four harmful results on a person’s body that stem from sitting at work.

Sitting for many hours each day takes a toll on our backs.

Working at a desk for many hours a day causes employees to stay in one position for an extended length of time. This puts a great deal of pressure on their backs. Over time, painful back problems can develop and, if left untreated, continue to worsen.

Sitting also takes a toll on our waistline.

Obesity is at an all time high in Canada and at least a good chunk of the reason is our sedentary lifestyle. Sitting for a long period (8 or more hours a day) decreases our metabolism, causing us to burn fewer calories. The time at our desks can end up packing on the pounds.

Sitting can increase the chance of developing a life-threatening disease.

Studies show individuals with sedentary jobs have more health problems than their active counterparts. Cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes are both examples of health issues that arise more often in people who regularly sit down most of the day.

Sitting can cause premature death.

This may sound melodramatic, but it’s true. As we talked about above, sitting for prolonged periods of time puts you at greater risk of diseases that may end up killing you. A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, "found people who sat for over 11 hours a day had a 40% greater risk of dying within three years from any cause than people who sat less than 4 hours a day."

So, what should a sedentary office person do to improve their health and decrease the risk many hours of daily sitting causes?

Get on your feet! Schedule times during the day to stand up and walk around. If you can’t remember to do it, add an alarm on your cell phone. Even a couple minutes on your feet every hour will help balance prolonged sitting.
Learn to sit correctly. If you must sit, make certain your chair isn’t causing more damage. Select a chair that is height and angle adjustable. The seat should support your lower body, and the back should fit the curves of your spine. Special bonus points go to chairs with lumbar support and that rock.
Visit your chiropractor. Back problems brought on by a job behind a desk are not going to magically go away, and can get worse over time. Make a chiropractor appointment, get examined, and work to correct the issue.
Invest in a standing desk. A growing trend is to turn a sitting job into a standing job. Desks that are taller have the ability to keep you on your feet longer, which will provide many health benefits in the long run.

Good health is one of our greatest assets, and it pays to protect it. By understanding the risks of a sedentary working environment, we can be proactive in increasing activity and promoting our individual fitness.

If you or a loved one needs more insight on how chiropractic can guide you toward a healthier lifestyle, give us a call @ 780-455-2112. We’re here to help!

What Chiropractics Patients Need To Know About Low Back Pain

February 27, 2017/0 Comments/in Chiropractic Blog, Nutrition /by Kent Ferguson

Although chiropractic is dedicated to finding and correcting vertebral subluxations (also known as spinal misalignments), many patients seek chiropractic care to alleviate pain and other health-related symptoms. One condition that chiropractic patients seek relief from is consistent low back pain.

Even though low back pain plagues many people, finding the exact cause can be a challenge. However, chiropractors are spinal specialists that are trained extremely well to not only help alleviate your pain but also find the cause of the problem.

As you seek help from your local chiropractor, you’ll want to keep the following things in mind:

Prevention Is Key

Prevention is often the best cure for low back pain. When a patient sees a chiropractor, they’ll not only find relief for the low back pain they’re experiencing, but they’ll also learn ways to prevent such pain in the future. By using proper exercise and ergonomic techniques, they can ease their pain before it even starts. Amazing results are easily obtained simply by patients listening to the instructions given by their chiropractic doctor.

Treatment Options Are Available

Fortunately, there are many treatment options for low back pain. Based off of the diagnosis provided by your Doctor of Chiropractic, he or she will be able to suggest the ones that will benefit you the most. These treatments may include one or more of the following:

Spinal adjustments delivered either by hand or instrument like an Activator
Hot or cold compresses
Physical therapy modalities like Interferential Therapy or TENS
Massage Therapy or some other form of soft tissue work
Spinal decompression therapy

Getting Relief From Your Pain

If you were prescribed pain medication by a medial doctor before seeing your chiropractor, it may still be required to help reduce your pain levels. However, the good news is that you may be able to decrease your pain medication quicker than usual as spinal misalignments are corrected, nerve compression is alleviated and inflammation is reduced. That alone is well worth the investment of time and money to see your local chiropractor.

Rehab Through Exercise

As your care progresses from pain relief to rehabilitation of the spine, your chiropractor will recommend certain exercises to help strengthen your core muscles which, in return, will help stabilize and protect your lower back. Typically, these exercises are performed at the chiropractic office to make sure you understand how to do them without re-aggravating your original complaint. Once you’ve been educated on their purpose and know how to perform them correctly without supervision, you’ll be able to continue them at home in conjunction with the spinal adjustments you receive at the office during maintenance care.

Surgery May Be Avoided

Depending on your condition, you may be able to avoid surgery if you choose to see a chiropractor before your injuries or pain become worse. In some instances, a chiropractor can help you to avoid surgery entirely by helping correct the problem instead of just masking it through pain relief.

The key is to make sure you follow the recommendations of your chiropractor after a thorough consultation and examination are performed. Part of the examination procedures may require X-rays or MRIs. These not only benefit the chiropractor when he or she is developing your treatment plan but will also give you the peace of mind that the problem will be found.

The bottom line is that a chiropractor is the ideal professional to consult with for any unexplained pain in the musculoskeletal system. They’re not only well-qualified to treat conditions like low back pain but also achieve great results in a very affordable and effective manner. If you or a loved one are suffering from low back pain, gives us a call. We’re here to help!

This article is copyrighted by Blogging Chiros LLC for its Doctor of Chiropractic members and may not be copied or duplicated in any manner including printed or electronic media, regardless of whether for a fee or gratis without the prior written permission of Blogging Chiros, LLC.

Edmonton Chiropractor – Understanding the Good Effects of Chiropractic Care

March 1, 2011/in Chiropractic /by Kent Ferguson

Understanding the Good Effects of Chiropractic Care

Thousands of individuals have reported more manageable and pain-free lives because of the many advantages of chiropractic care. You will find that the alternative treatment is one of the best ways save money, get well and avoid drastic measures like surgery and heavy drugs. Here are some of the known benefits of chiropractic care that will help you decide.

Reducing Pain

Chiropractic care is very popular for relieving problems and pain in the neck and back. The joints can benefit as well from treatment, so people suffering from arthritis for several years can get better for life, without having to resort to strong medications and surgery. Pain relief is provided for all areas of the body.

There is reduction of pain in the back, knees, feet and legs, since spinal pressure is lowered significantly. Stiff areas also become better, with less muscle spasms in various regions. You will find that you are able to move better. Range of motion can increase and you get to have better coordination to assist in activities of daily living. The person experiences increased energy as well.

Enhanced Healing

Many individuals who have been in accidents or are recovering from serious illnesses get to experience faster healing processes because of chiropractic care. The body begins to heal as it should because pressure is relieved throughout. Relief from chiropractic care is sometimes very quick, with some patients getting benefits immediately after their first session. The doctor has the ability to realign limbs and joints, thereby giving you fast relief.

It is quite normal to experience some slight pain or discomfort during your first few sessions, since the body may have been too stress or unconditioned for such as long time. The doctor may be able to tell you when to expect feeling more comfortable about treatment. Chiropractics can treat a variety of conditions and illnesses, and can also be used as a supplementary treatment to enhance the healing process.

Affordability

Chiropractic is one of the most cost-effective ways to heal faster and get rid of stiffness and pain in the joints and muscles. There are several agencies that immediately require you to undergo drastic treatment measures that cost thousands of dollars.

In chiropractic treatment, the prices vary but there is frequently no need to invest heavily in equipment or medications, since sessions and therapies are all you need.

Over time, the costs may lower as your body requires less treatment. Long treatment courses may also give you the benefit of lower overall costs. A lot of professionals accept payment plans and insurance while those that only accept cash may be willing to give you special discounts.

Less Risk

When investing in chiropractic care, you do not need to worry about painful treatments like surgery and steroid courses that usually leave you inactive for several weeks or months at a time. The risks in chiropractic care are very low.
If you get a qualified professional, you can be sure that treatment courses are efficient and effective. The treatment course also can last only for a few sessions, depending on your response to treatment and your current condition.

Edmonton Chiropractor – Types of Chiropractic Care For Various Health Needs

February 15, 2011/in Chiropractic /by Kent Ferguson

Types of Chiropractic Care For Various Health Needs

What is Involved in Chiropractic Care?

There are a wide variety of chiropractic care suited for all types of ailments or medical condition. It can be used to address general health care or treat specific types of condition. Therefore, chiropractic care also has its own share of specialized branches just like any areas of medical profession. In cases wherein misalignment (termed as subluxations in chiropractic industry) is detected, chiropractors perform mild adjustments to provide relief for patients on the area where the misalignment was found.

In terms of the treatment approaches, there are three main ones that chiropractors focus on.

Stage #1: Relief Chiropractic

This type of chiropractic care is done on patients who suffer from any form of pain or discomfort, regardless of cause. The purpose of this treatment is to provide immediate relief from any undesirable sensation. The length of treatment period largely vary according to the extent of the damage acquired by the patient and how it can be corrected.

Stage #2: Corrective Chiropractic

This is a more advanced type of chiropractic care. It is performed on patients who suffered from spinal problems over a long period of time and have developed into a more complicated condition that have been neglected of proper treatment. For corrective chiropractic care, the process usually extends on a long term treatment. The length in itself is determined by the extent of the damage and how the patient responds to the treatment given.

Stage #3: Maintenance Chiropractic

As the name implies, this type of chiropractic care is intended to sustain any form of treatment already administered to a patient with spine problems. In some cases, chiropractic treatment are continued even after the initial treatments have proven successful. The idea behind this type of chiropractic care is to prevent the possibility of the condition’s recurrence, especially in the case of your spine.

Importance of Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that helps one achieve overall health. It focuses on an internal healing system that addresses any spinal problems that cause interference on the activities of your nerves and cells. This explains the growing popularity of chiropractic care for its focus on attaining the normal functions of the body.

As for your different health needs, there are different types of chiropractic care available. Hence, initial consultation with a chiropractor is necessary to evaluate the extent of the damage and what specific chiropractic treatment to correct them. By restoring your body’s normal functions, you are enabling your body to naturally heal.

Also, it helps prevent further damage caused by the presence of such dysfunction in your health system. As soon as you start feeling any abnormalities in your body, seek the help of a nearby chiropractor to prevent the worsening of your condition and improve overall health.

Edmonton Chiropractor – Common Myths on Chiropractic Care

February 1, 2011/in Chiropractic /by Kent Ferguson

Common Myths on Chiropractic Care in Edmonton

Some people are still scared of trying alternative treatments, particular chiropractic care, because of misconceptions and myths. Here are some common myths you might have heard about chiropractic care:

Myth: Chiropractic is Painful

Chiropractic is generally painless. A lot of patients immediately feel relieved and relaxed after treatments. Some even describe the procedure and experience similarly to getting a massage. Patients that have long been struggling with neck pain and back pain may feel some discomfort, but their visits become more relaxing and comfortable over time.

Most adult patients look forward to chiropractic treatments. Chiropractic treatment on kids and infants are also generally pain-free, although children may feel apprehension and fright at first.

A session may last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the condition treated and the affected areas. Patients will feel discomfort or mild pain depending on the severity of the condition, as well as their personal tolerance for pain.

Myth: Chiropractic is Dangerous

Chiropractic is very safe. Chiropractic adjustments are considered to be one of the safest therapies for neck and back pain and problems. The risk for developing severe complications from spinal manipulation is actually rare. Spinal manipulation is encouraged by most doctors, before patients are recommended to undergo surgery. The alternative treatment is also considered as an initial option before taking strong drugs like steroids and antidepressants.

Myth: Chiropractors are Less Capable Compared to Medical Doctors

Chiropractors actually go through very strict and demanding training and education. These courses are very similar to the ones taken by medical doctor, except for subjects like surgery and pharmacology. Chiropractors are required to study for 2 to 4 years first as an undergraduate, before completing 4 to 5 years of academic studies at a chiropractic college.

The qualified professionals are then well-equipped in subjects such as pathology, radiology, biomechanics, differential diagnosis, physiology, chiropractic adjustive techniques and other health concerns. There are also State and National Board Examinations to ensure qualification. Continuing education is required for all practitioners too.

Myth: Chiropractic is Pricey

Chiropractic is considered to be both effective and cost-effective. Chiropractic can be vastly more affordable compared to undergoing major medical interventions like surgery and getting on long term drug taking programs. Chiropractic care patients discovered that they have significantly reduced their expenses for inpatient visits, health care programs and medications.

Evaluation sessions are also quick and cheap. Patients may only need to visit their chiropractors a few times every year or so, depending on the development in the condition. Once patients have successfully gone through a treatment program, they will be given an option to continue being treated or to go for periodic visits.

Preventive programs are also available to help people get rid of back, spine and neck problems before major interventions are required.

Edmonton Chiropractor – Common Misconceptions on Chiropractic Care

January 15, 2011/in Chiropractic /by Kent Ferguson

Common Misconceptions on Chiropractic Care in Edmonton

Despite continued research efforts by health experts to unravel more about chiropractic care, there are still many who fail to understand aspects of this treatment method. Lack of information automatically results to the formation of myths and misconceptions.

Here are common misconceptions on chiropractic care and the truth behind them:

Myth #1: Chiropractic Care Benefits Are All Placebo!

There are just too many studies that have now proven that chiropractic are treatment is effective and not just a placebo effect. A placebo effect is the belief that the benefits one experiences from a particular treatment are only psychological in nature and not actually “real.”

What anyone needs to know about chiropractic care is that it is a therapy that is focused on your body’s muscoskeletal system. Therefore, it addresses problems that are associated with those parts of your body to improve functions. The Big Idea behind chiropractic care is to restore the body’s natural ability to heal and retain normal function. Even a casual search of Google will yield dozens of case studies proving the healing benefits of chiropractic treatment.

Myth #2: Chiropractic Care is Dangerous!

This is one of the most widespread form of chiropractic care misconception. Many fear to undergo it because they believe it can damage the body and expose them to more serious risks or illness. Worse thing is, some people still think that chiropractors are not licensed doctors.

First and foremost, chiropractic is a professional healthcare field and chiropractic doctors (or chiropractors) are also considered medical professionals. There are degrees offered for chiropractic, which is an alternative medicine recognized in the medical field, and often requires rigorous educational training.

It employs adjustment procedures that help restore mobility or function on certain areas of the body such as the backbone, spine, neck, among others. Often, chiropractic care is coupled with relaxation techniques and nutrition plans for a more effective result.

It is pretty much unanimously agreed that chiropractic treatment is safer than the risks associated with taking prescription pain killers, the risk of addiction to these medications, and most certainly the risks are dramatically less than surgery complications.

Myth #3: Chiropractic Treatment Hurts!

Chiropractors who perform adjustments on patient have undergone years of training and clinical experience. Therefore, there is no need to fear any form of pain that you can experience during adjustment. In rare cases, a certain amount of discomfort might happen but it is hardly substantial enough to result into any feeling of pain and is nothing compared to the recovery associated with surgery. Since the treatment is manually applied, there are several factors that could potentially alter the sensations experienced along with the treatment procedure. In short, chiropractic treatment does not hurt.

Myth #4: There Are Negative Side Effects

In connection to what’s discussed above, you must not fear any serious side effects from chiropractic adjustments. There are some who believe that chiropractic care could result to stroke or even as far as death.

On the contrary, chiropractic care is recognized in the medical field as one of the safest form of healthcare. This also explains why more and more people are turning to this method of treatment as compared to the more dangerous surgeries or drug interventions.

Myth #5: Chiropractic is Expensive

Chiropractic has been studied and been found to be one of the most affordable options for treating back pain compared to the cost of medications and surgery. I read somewhere that chiropractic treatment costs 90% less than a typical back surgery.

Edmonton Chiropractor – How to choose a Chiropractor?

January 2, 2011/in Chiropractic /by Kent Ferguson

Choosing An Edmonton Chiropractor For Optimum Chiropractic Care

Do you want to benefit from the rehabilitative capabilities of this form of alternative medicine? For patients, it is important to know the proper guidelines of choosing a chiropractor to find someone who is a good “fit” with you.

What Are 5 Things You Should Look For?

1. Respect for the Patients Time!

It is so frustrating to show up on time for a schedule appointment only to wait… and wait… and wait… for the doctor. This situation is unacceptable in my opinion.

Sure, things go wrong and live interjects its unexpected ups and downs at times. In such cases, I always inform the patient that I am running late and give them the option to reschedule. However more important to me is to minimize this situation from happening in the first place! So when you choose a chiropractor, make sure you are dealing with someone who values their patients time as much as their own.

In this day and age in which we are all so pressed for time, it’s nice knowing your chiropractor respects your time.

2. Respect for the Patients Well Being!

If something is clearly wrong and needs fixing, make sure you are dealing with a practitioner who will tell it to you straight. I once visited a dentist who had found something wrong with my teeth but seemed too timid to just tell me the extent of the problem. I’d rather know so I can understand my options!

I promise to respect your well being when you come in to my clinic, which means a detailed exam so we can understand the extent of your problem. Then I’m going to tell it to you straight and leave it up to you to decide how you wish to proceed. Run, not walk, from any practitioner who won’t shoot straight with you in plain English.

When it comes to your pain, you need solutions and straight talk. That’s the secret to getting you better fast.

3. Recommendations and Referrals!

In an ideal world, a recommendation from a friend or family member is helpful place to start your search for a good chiropractor. (This isn’t always possible, I realize.) Second best is ask your doctor if he has patient reviews or letters of recommendation. Often these will be posted on his or her website.

4. The Warning Signs!

On top of knowing what qualities to look for in a chiropractor, here are a few danger signs that you should warn you to avoid a chiropractor if s/he exhibits them:

* Avoid chiropractors who require you to sign a long-term treatment contract. Although chiropractic care is relatively safe, you have no reason to be tied up to a particular chiropractor for any long-term treatment unless your condition requires for it.
* Avoid chiropractors who discourage you to opt for other preventive treatments outside of chiropractic care, such as acupuncture or massage. A qualified doctor who is concerned about your health and recuperation must be open to the best possible means of treating your disease or condition.
* Doctor is making claims that even you believe is not feasible at all or or who employ scare tactics to convince the patient to agree on a treatment plan.

These are usually some tell-tale signs of a chiropractor who is less concerned about the patient’s welfare and is only aiming to attain monetary benefits.

5. Speed Of Service!

When I first opened my clinic, I used to spend waaaaaaay too much time with new patients. I used to think that time spent with a patient equated to “good service in the eyes of my patients. Boy was I wrong! It wasn’t until a patient said to me nicely: “You know, if you wouldn’t mind speeding things up, I might actually come in more often.”

I finally understood that just like no one likes to wait longer than necessary at a Bank or to order your Starbucks, likewise people wish to get in and out of their doctors office in a timely fashion. This is what I strive for, whenever possible, and my patients have told me repeatedly that they appreciate such efforts.

In summary, those are the 5 things to look for when choosing a chiropractor! If you have further questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

Edmonton Chiropractor – Benefits of Pregnancy Chiropractic Care

December 15, 2010/in Chiropractic /by Kent Ferguson

Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

More pregnant mothers are turning to chiropractic treatments during their pregnancy.

Why Do Pregnant Women Need Chiropractic Care?

When a woman becomes pregnant, her body undergoes a variety of physiological and endocrine changes as the baby inside her womb starts to develop. Due to these changes, the pregnant mother could suffer from cases of misalignment in her joint or spine that results in either one or a combination of the following:

• More prominent curve on her back,
• Enlargement of the abdomen,
• Pelvic changes,
• Changes in posture.

Due to these changes, some women experience chronic lower back pains throughout their pregnancy. Fr others this might mean having difficulty attaining proper balance and alignment. Hence, chiropractic care will help correct them and enable you to develop a better posture that puts less pressure on your body.

All trained chiropractors have been briefed about using the procedures on pregnant women, hence it is generally safe and gentle.

There are also chiropractors who specialize in chiropractic treatment for pre-natal and peri-natal care for women. Therefore, additional training is required in order to ensure the safety of both baby and mother. Doctors who undergo chiropractic care on pregnant women adjust the intensity of their treatment procedures according to how far into their pregnancy stage the woman is. In some cases, chiropractors suggest stretching and exercise routines the expectant mother.

Edmonton Chiropractor – Your First Chiropractic Care Visit: What to Expect

November 15, 2010/in Chiropractic /by Kent Ferguson

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