Gut Health and Probiotics

Gut Health and Probiotics

2,500 years ago, ancient Greek physician Hippocrates said that ‘all disease begins in the gut’. Whilst we’ve since proven that isn’t strictly true, he was certainly onto something. Most people generally have a basic-to-good understanding of the relationship between good/bad nutrition, gut health, and overall health. What may surprise you, though, is how interlinked the gut and your mental health are.

 Your gut influences around 70% of our immune system function, and 95% of our body’s serotonin is produced there too (this is the ‘happy’ hormone). If you’re eating a poor diet which is low in essential micro- and macro-nutrients such as probiotics, prebiotics and fibre, your gut biome will be disrupted, and so will all of the systems it supports. You’re likely to be more prone to sickness due to lowered immune system, and more mood and stress due to suppressed serotonin production. You’re also more likely to overreact to more nutrient-scarce food.

You are a walking, talking, microbial ecosystem. Bet you’ve never heard that one before, but it’s true! Our bodies are host to trillions of microbes, fungi and viruses living all over you both inside and out, in every nook and cranny – they actually outnumber your human cells 3 to 1. One of the most crucial colonies of microbes in our bodies lives within our gut; this is called the ‘microbiome’ or ‘microbiota’, and it helps to control your blood sugar, cholesterol, metabolism, absorption of nutrients, influences your bone strength, and supports your immune system. This microbiome is delicately balanced for gut health, but it is also super sensitive to change, disruption and imbalance.
The gut has been called ‘the second brain’, due to how closely it is linked to a wider physiology and the influence it has over it. This is in large part due to the positioning of the Vagus nerve, which run the entire length of your spine from brain to gut (this is one of the central nerves that chiropractic works to release tension on and improve communication across, too!). The neurons in our digestive systems exist in close proximity to these nerves, meaning that they are prone to influence our emotional state and vice versa. The most common example of this is the effect that stress has on the body. The ‘fight or flight’ response to stress, and all of the physiological reactions involved within that response, directly affects your microbiome and how well your gut works, which can trigger bowel issues. Such as people who suffer from IBS find that stress and/or anxiety.

So, whilst all disease may not begin in the gut, the gut certainly is very central to many of your bodily processes. Usually when something is going on in your body, your gut will be one of the first places to let you know about it. This also works in reverse; disrupting the natural balance of microbiota can have knock-on health and well being effects throughout the body. This is even true of the microbiota on your skin and elsewhere in and on your body. Important microbes can be affected by overusing antibiotics, hand sanitizers, bad diets and general ‘Western’ lifestyles.
The takeaway from this? It’s of equal importance to take excellent care of both your gut and your mental health, as they coexist in symbiosis. You cannot affect one without the other experiencing disruption.

Here are some food groups you should pay attention to in order to keep your gut in healthy balance.

Probiotics:
Where to get it: We have our own dairy and soy free product of Pure Probiotics 123 in powder, or Encapsulated. You will get probiotics from Yogurt, kimchi, miso, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha.
Probiotics support your immune system and contribute to the health of your guts microbiome.

Prebiotics:
Where to get it: Onion, garlic, leeks, chicory, Jerusalem artichokes (prebiotic king), bananas, asparagus, olives, plums, apples, bran, and almonds.
Prebiotics stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. It’s important to maintain a good balance of pro- and prebiotics, as they function in tandem with one another. Eating too much of one and neglecting the other can upset your gut (we told you it was sensitive!)

Fibre: Where to get it: fruit and vegetables, whole grains, pulses, beans and oats.
Health experts are constantly banging on about fibre, but for good reason. Fibre slows down the breakdown of sugars found in carbohydrates, which helps to stabilise your energy levels. It also helps the absorption of water in the gut so that it keeps the bowel moving at a healthy pace (which, by the way, should be at least once a day). You should be getting at least 30g of fibre a day from a variety of sources, as there are different types of fibre which hold different properties within your gut.

Cruciferous vegetables

Where to get it: Broccoli, cauliflower, sprouts, cabbage, turnips, collards, kale, bok choy.
Cruciferous vegetables (brassicas) contain sulforaphane, which is a plant chemical currently being investigated for its anti-inflammatory properties.


For more information on gut health, or to schedule an appointment, please contact Family First Chiropractic and Wellness.

Dr. Elton Clemence is a Chiropractor at Family First Chiropractic and Wellness, located In Red Deer, AB 142 Erickson Dr ,www.family1stchiro.ca 403-347-3261 to book an appointment.

What is sciatica?

 40% of people will suffer with sciatica in their lifetime, but how can you avoid being one of them?

Sciatica is a term many people are familiar with as up to 40% of people will experience it in their lifetime. According to the National Institute for Health and Excellence.

What exactly is sciatica, what causes it and how can you prevent becoming one of them?

Sciatica is a name given to pain associated with irritation of the sciatic nerve, which is a large bundle of nerves that travels from your lower back and sacrum down the back of your leg.

Sciatica has a collection of symptoms that differ depending on your individual presentation.

Sciatica symptoms

Typically, the pain associated with Sciatica is a sharp shooting or burning pain that travels down one leg anywhere from your buttock to your foot, it is commonly combined with other symptoms such as:

 Lower back pain

 Pins and needles and numbness

 Muscle weakness

Is Piriformis syndrome the same as Sciatica?

Piriformis syndrome is a condition that may cause sciatica. Sciatica is due to compression by a herniated disc causing lumbar radiculopathy. Piriformis syndrome is a condition that causes sciatica nerve symptoms due to compression of the sciatic nerve around the buttock and the hip.

When Sciatica is an emergency?

In rare cases Sciatica can be a sign of something worse, if you experience any of the following symptoms it is important to go to the nearest hospital or call 911:

 You have sciatica in both legs

 You have a weakness or numbness in both legs that is severe and getting worse

 You have any numbness in or around your genitals and anus

 Your bowel or bladder habits are difficult to control, have increased in urgency or feel (and this is not normal for you)

What causes sciatica?

Sciatica is caused by a compression to the sciatic nerve somewhere along its pathway from the lumbar spine to the leg.

A chiropractor or medical professional can help you identify the cause of your sciatica.

According to National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) about 90% of cases come from a herniated disc (“slipped disk”) in your lower lumbar spine.

However, soft tissue, and other joint injuries can also create inflammation around the nerve along its pathway, irritating the nerve.

Who’s at risk?

Sciatica can affect anyone of any age group, but peak presentation is in the 5th decade; other risk factors are strenuous high activity lifestyle, for example:

 Frequent bending, heavy lifting or twisting

 Jogging/running and impact activities

 Whole body vibrations. Like operating machinery or long periods of driving.

Sedentary lifestyles can also contribute to developing back problems and associated symptoms as well as general health, obesity and smoking.

What can you do to relieve sciatic pain?

Sciatica can be self-resolving in 4-6 weeks but this is often aided by lots of painkillers to moderate the pain. Patients usually don’t want to rely on painkillers and want to find an alternative, or more natural ways to get better.

Symptoms vary from patient to patient, so Chiropractic treatment is designed for the individual's unique history and current symptoms. However, the overall goals of treatment are to lessen nerve irritation symptoms by correcting spinal misalignments, improve the health with home care exercises/stretches, and advise any lifestyle changes to enhance the healing process.

Tips to try:

 Regular Chiropractic care to keeps our bodies in motion.

 Our body’s like to move, try to stay active and avoid long periods of rest as this has been shown to increase pain.

 Carry on with your normal activities as much as possible.

 Gentle exercises and stretches of your legs and back advised accordingly by your Chiropractor, start gradually and stop if you feel increased pain.

 Massaging out tight muscles can also help take pressure off and reduce pain.

We can help

If you are concerned about your back or sciatic pain, and would like an expert opinion, please contact Family First Chiropractic (403) 347-3261, www.family1stchiro.ca

Dr .Elton Clemence

Family First Chiropractic

Is it time for a New Mattress?

The value of a good night sleep goes far beyond the price of a new mattress. Here are some things to consider when purchasing a mattress. Your back will thank you!

How well did you sleep last night or throughout the week?

Quality of sleep has definite impact on quality of life, interactions socially or with family, and most importantly your general mood. Sleep deprivation is not only lack of sleep. It is also the quality of sleep throughout the night. Waking up every couple of hours effects the quality of sleep. At the work place Sleep deprivation can lead to decreased productivity, increased sick days, and increased risk of injury due to poor response time and accuracy.

Back pain can also be attributed to a poor night’s sleep. British Chiropractic Association (BCA) study in 2011 reported that 41% woman and 36% men claimed that back pain contributed to their back lack of sleep. If your consistently woken up with neck and/or back pain? You want to examine the quality of your mattress. The average night's sleep is eight hours (one third of a day), one sleeps for one third of one's life. If you live, say, 75 years, that's 25 years asleep, or 9,125 days. This clearly is a reason why your mattress play such an important role in maintaining your musculoskeletal (MSK) health. Here are some Tid Bits when purchasing a new mattress.

1       Beds tend to deteriorate after Ten years. So waking up with a sore neck or back on repeated occasions, and mattress is over Ten years old. Consider buying a new mattress.

2       Chronic low back pain. Medium-Firm mattresses are better when compared to soft mattresses. Studies show that the quality of sleep can improve by 55% and back pain decreased by 48%.

3       Adjustable bed according to an individual preference is associated with quality of sleep.

4       Mattresses that promote skin warming may improve the quality of sleep by reducing early morning awakening and enhancing a deeper sleep.

5       Soft mattresses decrease excessive compressive forces on your joints. However, mattresses that are more firm help maintain proper posture.

Keep in mind that each individual has a different body type. Saying this, take the time to try out the bed before buying and see if it’s right for you.

Make sure you explore all the options and do the research to meet your specific needs. A good night’s sleep will ensure you can continue your daily activities and quality of life. Consider these tips before your purchase of your next mattress. Your back depends on it.

Dr. Elton Clemence D.C.

Dr. Elton Clemence practices at Family First Chiropractic located at 142 Erickson drive in Red Deer. Call us today to book an appointment (403)347-3261 or visit us at www.family1stchiro.ca

Chiropractic and Sleep Issues

Sleep problems can be defined in 3 different ways:  insomnia, disturbed sleep, and restless sleep.  Insomnia is the inability to fall asleep.  Disturbed sleep is the inability to stay asleep for a full night’s rest.  Restless sleep is when you can fall asleep and stay asleep, but the quality of sleep isn’t good.  The end result of any of these types of sleep problems is that you wake up tired, or even exhausted.

 

Poor sleep, especially if it’s chronic can manifest in many ways: § slower healing from injuries or disease

§  inefficient or ineffective functioning throughout the day 

§  impaired social relations

§  increased pain sensitivity

§  weakened immunity

§  reduced mental acuity; poor memory

§  irrational logic or behaviour

§  clumsiness, poorer coordination

§  irritability and hypersensitivity

 

Sleep issues rarely occur independently.  They are usually secondary to other, perhaps greater, issues.  Just like the vertebral subluxation complexes (VSCs) that chiropractors detect and correct for in their treatments, sleep issues can have physical, mental or chemical causes.  The causes can also be subdivided into external or internal factors.

 

 

 

Physical causes of sleep problems are those that affect the body in terms of discomfort or pain.  

External Physical Causes: §  poor sleeping conditions (bed, pillow) §  irritating lights, noises, odors §  bedmates moving around

Internal Physical Causes: §  pain inside the body (backache, shoulder pain) §  organ dysfunction (waking to urinate, sleep apnea)

 

When your mind can’t relax enough to fall asleep or to get enough deep sleep, this is characterized as a mental cause of sleep problems.

External Mental Causes: §  disturbed body clock from shiftwork, irregular sleep schedules §  ignoring sleep cues by watching TV, using the computer, etc

Internal Mental Causes: §  stress, worry, thinking too much § overexcitement, over fatigued §  depression, mental disorders §  dreaming too much, or nightmares

 

Sometimes the hardest causes to pinpoint are those that are electrochemical in nature.  These can alter body chemistry, enzyme functioning, and electric activity in the body.

             

            

External Electrochemical Causes:

§  medications and foods, stimulants

§  chemical irritants, off-gassing

§  electromagnetic fields from smart meters, hydro power lines, electronic devices

 

Internal Electrochemical Causes:

§  chemical imbalance from hormonal changes, disease processes

§  electrical imbalance along acupuncture meridians

When it comes to sleep issues, wellness chiropractors follow a five-step approach to helping patients.

 

1.      Listen.  We listen to patients to see if the case history can uncover the underlying cause(s) of the sleep issues, and whether it is physical, mental or electrochemical.  

2.      Simple Steps First.  If there are simple changes a patient can do to discontinue the cause(s) of the sleep issues, we will bring these up.  Most commonly it is addressing habits like sleep routines, sleep location, diet, and exercise.

3.      Chiropractic Examination.  This is especially important for chronic sleep issues, because the same stressors that result in sleep problems also cause Vertebral Subluxation Complexes (VSCs).  VSCs occur when stressors become imbedded in the spine and create problems in the body’s ability to take care of itself.  These problems can manifest as pain, dysfunction, hypersensitivity, and impairs healing.  

4.      Chiropractic Spinal Adjustments if Indicated.  Specific chiropractic adjustments can undo VSCs, allowing for better nerve transmission, resulting in more effective brain functioning, organ functioning and healing.  An adjustment to the upper neck area (C1 in particular) has the most direct impact on the sleep centre in the brainstem.  Other areas that may need help are those related to the area of pain, malfunctioning organs, compensatory areas, and perhaps elsewhere whose connection may not be fully understood at the time.  The goal of chiropractic adjustments is to help the body function the best it can, to improve the internal condition of the body, and to improve the resilience of the body (and mind) to external stressors.

5.      Keep in Mind the Bigger Picture.  As Holistic health practitioners, chiropractors keep an open mind that some causes cannot be easily avoided or resolved, even with an optimally functioning nervous system.  Some patients need to consult with other health professionals to overcome or manage challenges affecting their sleep, such as acupuncturists, counsellors, medical doctors, or massage therapists.  Other patients need the support of family, friends, or social services.  

 

For those who are suffering from sleep problems, there is hope.  It may take more than one type of health professional to get to the root of the problem and change it, and it may take some time and effort, but better sleep is possible.  If what you’ve tried isn’t helping, be open to other options out there.  To find out if chiropractic care may be right for you, please call Dr. Clemence's office for a complimentary consultation.

 

 

Learn more about Dr. Elton Clemence at the clinic at www.family1stchiro.ca or call us at 403-347-3261 for consultation and to set up a time to have your spine and nervous system checked.

Arthritis and Joint Pain

350 million people worldwide are affected by arthritis. Painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints are common side effects. Arthritis can affects both young and elderly people. The most common form, osteoarthritis also known as degenerative joint disease. Osteoarthritis is usually caused by repetitive joint trauma and more common in the elderly. Other forms such as Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis are a form of an autoimmune disease found in the younger population ranging from 30-60yrs of age.

How can you manage arthritis?

 

Weight bearing exercise can help reduce the pain and stiffness of arthritis because it maintains mobility and keeps muscles strong enough to support joints. A balanced diet and a healthy weight are also vital, as well as is learning proper biomechanics. Helps patients avoid putting too much pressure on them. And when used alongside conventional medicines, complementary therapies such as chiropractic can be enormously beneficial in relieving the pain of arthritis. Whatever type of arthritis you're dealing with, you might well be relying on pain relief medication to function from day to day. But long-term non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs) are worth noting. Studies show side effects can range from Kidney damage, Liver damage and heart disease.

 

Chiropractic: holistic pain relief

 

     With regular Chiropractic treatment, you can take the edge off your pain, and increase mobility making life more manageability. Increased joint mobility, enables patients to enjoy their favourite activities with less restriction. In fact, according to William Lauretti, DC, professor at New York Chiropractic College, chiropractic patients with arthritis often improve without the need for pain medications.

One study, conducted in 2013 and published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, the official journal of the Osteoarthritis Research Society International, actually found that 12 chiropractic treatments in combination with a patient education program were more effective for hip osteoarthritis than a daily stretching program or patient education alone. And in 2010, a British analysis of nearly 100 studies found that chiropractic manipulation was helpful for a variety of conditions, including knee osteoarthritis.

How does chiropractic work to ease arthritis?

 

If the structure of a joint is not right, it’s unable to work as it is supposed to. This is where chiropractic shines by maximising the function of an arthritic joint. The resulting in decreased pain and better ability to cope in everyday activities.

At Family First, your chiropractor will take a detailed medical history, including a physical examination of every joint and X-rays if necessary. In this way, we will develop a treatment approach that is specific to your issues, always taking the time and care to listen to your concerns and how your arthritis is affecting your life.

Other treatment protocols such as ultrasound or muscle stim. In addition to chiropractic care can also be used to manage joint inflammation and mobility.

The help of a personalised treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes, you can find freedom from pain and retain more mobility and independence. Elderly people can perform their daily activity, younger people can stay active at work, meet the physical demands of looking after young children, and of course have the energy and ability to enjoy their hobbies.

If you have any questions feel free to email Dr. Elton Clemence at the clinic at www.family1stchiro.ca or call us at 403-3473261 for consultation and to set up a time to have your spine and nervous system checked.

 

New Years Resolutions

A recent study showed that last year only 8% of us managed to achieve their New Year goals, meaning of us 92% didn’t. This got me thinking. How come only 8%? And how did that 8% do it, while still living a normal working life?

Digging deeper, I found a common pattern behind their success. And before you ask, no, the successful 8% were not all unemployed! Below I list the reasons why some were able to maintain enthusiasm, motivation and most importantly, self-discipline.

Make your Goals Specific

People proclaim “this year I’m going to get in shape” but what does that actually mean? Rather leave out the gray area and specifically tell yourself your goal is to reach a certain weight, run three miles a day, or do an extra three reps in the gym will help massively to stick to your resolution.

Rule for Success 1 – State your Goals!

Measure Progress

“If you can’t measure it, you can’t change it.” Keep record where you began. With a specific goal in mind, stick with your resolution and measure progress along the way. These feedback loops is a great source of motivation as you can reflect on past records and see where you’ve reached.

Rule for Success 2 – Keep a Record of your Progress

Schedule It

Have you ever told someone you just simply ‘don’t have time’ to hit the gym, or ‘don’t have time’ to eat healthy? Truth is nobody has time, we make time. A good tip is to treat these resolutions as appointments; you wouldn’t often re-schedule an appointment so why reschedule a spin class? That which is scheduled gets done. Rule for Success 3 – Put it in the Diary

Get up when you Slip Up!

Slip-Ups happen. Just don’t treat these slip-ups as meltdowns or an excuse to give up. Acknowledge the mistake and continuing on the path to your goal. It’s about developing the right skills and having the patience that inevitably lead to success.

Rule for Success 4 – Perseverance is the Key

Chiropractic

How many of you know the positive effects Chiropractic can have on our bodies and mind? Regular adjustments help us to move easier, sleep better, be more motivated, make us feel better and create happiness in ourselves. All this, partnered with your New Year’s resolutions, will give us a fantastic, healthy and determined start to the New Year.

Rule for Success 5 – Look After Your Body: It’s the Only Place You have to Live!

Will 2018 be the year you join the Elite 8% or part of the 92%?

Small changes, big benefits

Did you know that small change in your life can have massive benefits in many different ways, both in short and long term? It takes 30 days to make a habit, or change to a new behaviour. It’s only 30 days that’s not so long is it?

So instead of trying to make big life changes in one day. Try starting one thing. Just one behaviour or action that you are doing every day that you would like to change in order to become a better person or live a healthier life.

Here are some examples of some small changes;

·        Feeling stressed in the morning? If so get up 5 minutes earlier than you usually do. This can help you to not start the day in a rush!

·        Drink water instead of fuzzy drinks.

·        Here’s an oldie, but a goodie. Walk or cycle to work or to the local grocery store instead of taking the car.

·        Skip that afternoon everyday Grande Caffe Latte. This will save you $3.65 a day or $18.25 in a five day work week. Through the year this small change will save you a whooping $876. Health wise you won’t be consuming that 200 calories a day.

Small changes lead to saving money and health benefits. So what small change will you make?

Dr. Elton Clemence practices at Family First Chiropractic located at 142 Erickson drive in Red Deer. Call us today to book an appointment (403)347-3261 or visit us at www.family1stchiro.ca

Once you go chiro..

One of the most misunderstood beliefs about chiropractic is that once you start, you have to keep going back forever.  It's true, many Chiropractic clients choose to continue care on a regular wellness care after experiencing great results, but they do so simply because preventative maintenance makes sense - the body functions better without nerve interference.

Here are some other things that you don't have to maintain/prevent for the rest of your Life, but also make good sense... brushing your teeth, going to the gym, taking your vitamins, eating your veggies, changing the oil in your car or saving for retirement.  Somewhere along the road, you discovered on your own accord that these activities ADD to your Life as opposed to subtract from it, and it's the same for clients who choose to get adjusted for maintenance purposes.

No one can make you do something you don't want to.  Just like regular car tune ups or staying physically fit, the choice to keep your spine and nervous system free from damaging stress for the rest of your life is totally your decision... as are the benefits if you do and the consequences if you don't.

 If you have any questions feel free to email Dr. Elton Clemence at the clinic at www.family1stchiro.ca or call us at 403-347-3261 for consultation and to set up a time to have your spine and nervous system checked.

Secret Golf Tip Only the Pros Know!

Golf is no doubt one of the best games in the world. However, playing the game can be frustrating at times. If you feel the same as I do about the game, what could be even more frustrating is not knowing why you’re not reaching your full potential?

Regular golfers are consistently trying to improve their score. Whether it’s improving their swing or the distance of their drives. Golfers can find it hard to perform at their highest level. When their body is not functioning at its optimal level and what’s concerning is that they don’t even know it!

Common physical restrictions that can affect your swing:

·         Limited shoulder flexibility – Due to loss of posture

·         Restricted hip rotation – Causing you to sway and slide

·         Pore core strength –Due to a reverse spine angle due to restricted thoracic (mid back) movement.

·         Limited ankle dorsiflexion- Causing early extension

Players may not even know that there are limitations in their swing. This will cause their swing to be not  as effective during play. Despite how much practice time at the driving range and putting green.

Pain also affects swing and should avoid the following:

·         Bend at the knees(squat) when retrieving the ball

·         Slow down your backswing. This will minimize rotational stress on the lower back at the top of the backswing

·         When lifting your golf bag use proper mechanics when lifting bag.

·         Consider putting with a longer shaft

·         Make sure that your weight is properly shifted to the right foot during the back swing, arms and shoulders are kept within the plane of the swing at the top of the back swing

·         Make sure that your shoulder and hip turn stays centre while pivoting on the backswing.

How can wear and tear, whether it’s from Golf or other sports causing pain be diminished and stopped from returning?

The pros secret tip is…….Chiropractic!

This is what Venus Williams had to say about chiropractic treatment:

“Chiropractic gives me the flexibility I need to keep in the game”

This is what Tiger Woods had to say about chiropractic treatment:

“Being a Chiropractic patient on a regular bases has made me a better golfer. I’ve been going to Chiropractors for as long as I can remember. It’s as important to my training as my practice swing.”

So, what does Chiropractic do to improve our game?

Chiropractors focus on the spine and nervous system, making it easier to twist, move and perform at your optimal level. After Chiropractic care you are more flexible, pain free, and may see an instant improvement in your swing!

Pros such as Rory Mcilroy and Tiger Woods have regular Chiropractic treatment to keep them performing at their best. Getting regular adjustments. Keep muscles balanced, our nervous system functioning, and maintain proper biomechanical structure. Which gets athletes functioning at an optimal level and gets them to the next level.

Nike has published a video involving Rory Mcilroy daily workout regiment, and most importantly Rory receiving Chiropractic care (adjustments) at 0.33 and 0.43 part of the video. Check it out below!

https://youtu.be/cM1z4e8GD74

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome

 Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common of the “entrapment neuropathies”—compression or trauma of the body’s nerves in the extremities and the cause of patients loses in medical bill and time off work.

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition involving the median nerve. The median nerve originates in the cervical spine and runs into the forearm then the hand. If the median nerve were to get compressed somewhere along the nerve path CTS occurs. It is commonly thought that the nerve only gets trapped at the carpal ligament. This is a narrow tunnel at the wrist made up of bones and soft tissues, such as nerves, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. However, the nerve can also become impinged in the neck, elbow, or forearm. This could be a reason why all carpal tunnel surgeries sometimes don’t get the results as expected. 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 extremities.

 Patient’s experience burning, tingling, itching, and/or numbness in the palm of the hand, thumb, index, and middle fingers. These are the most common symptoms. Since many people sleep with wrists flexed. Symptoms often first appear while sleeping. As symptoms progress, 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 muscle atrophy at the base of the thumb, and are unable to distinguish hot from cold by touch. Usually 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 common in assembly-line workers in manufacturing, sewing, finishing, cleaning, meatpacking, and similar industries, as well as pregnant women.

In addition patients that have smaller carpal tunnels than others, which makes the median nerve compression more likely. CTS can also 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. All of which could cause CTS.

CTS should be diagnosed and treated early. A Chiropractic examination of the hands, arms, shoulders, and neck can help determine if your symptoms are related to daily activities or to an underlying structural disorder. Doctors of Chiropractic are able to use other specific tests to try to reproduce the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Chiropractic adjustments of the spine and extremities where the nerve pressure occurring is the treatment of choice. Other recommendations include stretching and strengthening exercises soft tissue mobilization techniques, resting the affected hand or wrist. Immobilization of the wrist through a splint and applying cold packs to reduce swelling due to inflammation is also recommended. Proper posture and movement as instructed by your doctor of chiropractic can help prevent CTS recurrences. For the majority of carpal tunnel cases come into Family First. If you or someone you know is suffering from CTS, feel free to email the clinic at www.family1stchiro.ca or call us at 403-347-3261 for consultation and to set up a time to have your spine and nervous system checked.

Dr. Elton Clemence is a Chiropractor at Family First Chiropractic and Wellness, located In Red Deer, AB 142 Erickson Dr ,www.family1stchiro.ca 403-347-3261 to book an appointment.

Osteoporosis- the silent thief

What is Osteoporosis
Our bones are living tissue that are continuously being broken done and replaced. Osteoblasts builds bone and Osteoclasts break down bone. Osteoporosis happens when the building of new bone can’t keep up with the removal of old bone tissue. The causes extreme bone loss. Bones become severely weak and brittle. Simple bending or twisting motion with patients with osteoporosis could cause bones to completely fracture. Even coughing could cause stress fractures amongst these patients. Highest risk areas are hip, wrist and spine. Also weight bearing bones such as the pelvis, femur and lumbar vertebrae are mainly affected by Osteoporosis.
Facts and Statistics
Fractures from osteoporosis are more common than heart attack, stroke and breast cancer combined. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will suffer from an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime. Over 80% of fractures over the age of 50 are caused by osteoporosis and amongst these patients they were never offered proper screening or treatment post fracture. Each year osteoporosis causes 70-90% of 30,000 hip fractures in Canada. Each hip fracture costs the $21,285 in the first year of hospitalization and $44,156 if the patient is institutionalized. According to Osteoporosis Canada the overall cost in 2010 to our health care system while treating osteoporosis and fractures in Canada is a staggering $2.3 billion. This includes acute care costs, prescription drugs and out care costs. The cost is expected to rise to $3.9 billion as of 2012. Due to the proportion of Canadians were assumed to be living in long term facilities because of osteoporosis.
High risk Areas
Highest risk for fractures due to osteoporosis are hips, wrists and spine. Just as importantly weight bearing bones such as the pelvis, femur and lumbar vertebrae are also at risk with osteoporosis.
Men versus Woman
Women and men alike begin to lose bone in their mid 30’s. However, woman as they approach menopause lose bone at a greater rate, from 2 to 3 percent per year, this is due to the lack of estrogen during perimenopause and menopause as woman approach the age of 40.
Symptoms of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is often called the “silent thief” because over time become porous without any symptoms. Patients will not know that they have osteoporosis until bones become so weak and brittle. That simple stress on the body such as bending over or even simply coughing can cause a complete fracture. In addition, fractured vertebral body could cause the vertebrae to collapse. Collapsed vertebrae may initially cause low back pain, loss of height or spinal deformities such as stooped posture. Loss of 2cm (3/4”) as measured by healthcare provider or 6 cm (2 ½”) overall from when patient was younger may also indicate spinal fracture.
Testing
Since they are few symptoms alerting patients that they are developing osteoporosis, Bone Mineral Density (BMD) are used as safe, painless and accurate way to measure density of bones. BMD tests can tell a patient if they have osteoporosis or not and how likely they will develop this disease in the future. This important information can help a patient make decisions to prevent falls or further bone loss.
Prevention
Osteoporosis is the most commonly developed because of lack of exercise. Weight bearing exercises like walking with wrist and/or ankle weights is a safe way to avoid and treat the disease. Performing balance exercises to improve balance and coordination and walking with walking poles, can help prevent falls and fractures. Nutrition is another, adequate amount of calcium, and vitamin D is needed to maintain bone health. For those over 50, Canada food guide recommends 3 servings of milk and alternatives (2 servings for adults)-yogurt, cheese, puddings and calcium fortified beverages. If your lactose intolerant or prefer avoiding dairy, try soy, almond and rice beverages. When adding supplements, the recommended dose for patients between the age of 19 to 50 is 1000mg, 50+ 1200mg this includes for pregnant or lactating woman is 1000mg. An important nutrient that protects patients against falls and fractures is vitamin D. It helps build stronger bones by increasing the absorption of calcium and improves muscle function. This will help balance and coordination to prevent falls. Osteoporosis Canada recommends routine vitamin D supplementation for Canadian adults year round. Adults between the 19-50 years of age,
including pregnant or breast feeding women, require 400-1000 IU daily. Those over 50 or younger adults that are at a high risk whether with osteoporosis, multiple fractures or a condition that affect vitamin D absorption. Should intake 800-2000 IU daily. If taking over 2000 IU of vitamin D daily should be done under medical supervision. Combination of weight bearing exercises and proper nutrition will benefit your body and keep your bones healthy.
At Family First Chiropractic and Wellness Dr. Elton Clemence, D.C can help patients with Osteoporosis. We use non-surgical and hands, nutrition advice and exercise plans when treating Osteoporosis and it related injuries. For more information on Osteoporosis, or to schedule an appointment, please contact Family First Chiropractic and Wellness.
Dr. Elton Clemence is a Chiropractor at Family First Chiropractic and Wellness, located In Red Deer, AB 142 Erickson Dr ,www.family1stchiro.ca 403-347-3261 to book an appointment.