How to Decrease Migrane Headaches

In her book, The Women’s Migraine Survival Guide, Christina Peterson, M.D., offers some advice on an array of migraine triggers that women (and men too!) with chronic migraines should learn about and avoid. Here are the most common:

Stress -Stress may be a trigger, says Peterson. When you’re under stress, take periodic breaks from difficult activities, alternating tough tasks that require brainpower with other jobs that are more physically oriented. For example, switch from analyzing problems to picking up needed office supplies or to another activity that’s a no-brainer.

Bright Lights – Bright lights and glare can cause migraines in some people. If you’re outside in bright sunlight, always wear a protective hat and sunglasses, or move to a shady area. If the sun is streaming into the room, it may seem nice. But when you’re susceptible to migraines, it’s best to put the blinds down to limit glare. If you can’t or don’t want to do that, and then move to another part of the room or to another room. Or put on your sunglasses or slap a ball cap on your head! (Yes, even though you’re indoors.)

Odors – Some people are very sensitive to odors, particularly those from heavy perfume or some cleaning items. You may find that strong aromas can trigger a migraine within several hours. If someone at work drenches herself (or himself) in cologne, tell your colleague you’re hypersensitive to aromas. Consider saying that you’re allergic to strong perfume, which is more likely to obtain the reaction you want, less heavy-handedness with the spray bottle.

Cigarette and Cigar Smoke – The odor of cigarette smoke is also a migraine trigger for some people. Fortunately, few workplaces allow smoking, but people do smoke in other locations. If you eat out, always sit in the “non-smoking” section. If there’s a wait to be seated, then wait, or go elsewhere. A few minutes’ inconvenience is worth it if you can avoid an agonizing migraine later on.

Loud Noises – Loud noises can trigger migraines in some people, and if you’re one of them, you may wish to carry earplugs with you to work. (Don’t wear them while you’re driving, of course!) Foods – Foods are a migraine trigger for some people, especially caffeine, chocolate, aged cheese (like Roquefort or Stilton), onions and garlic. Also, stay away from monosodium glutamate (MSG), a common food additive.

NOTE: Some people limit their migraines by using white noise machines at work. These devices make a “SSSSH” sound, and help block out noise chaos. Ongoing white noise will still enable you to hear your boss and other key sounds. If you avoid migraine triggers as best you can, but you still feel a migraine coming on, try icing the pain away. Also, give us a call; we will fit you in for an immediate appointment. Be sure to explain that it’s a migraine attack that’s coming on. Chiropractic adjustments may be able to stop a migraine “dead in its tracks.”

Finally, please remember, if you ever have any questions or concerns about your health, talk to us. Contact us with your, “Here’s what I was wondering about”, type questions, instead of “Guess what I just did”, statements. We’re here to help, and don’t enjoy anything more than participating in your life long good health!

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Sports Injuries & Children

While there is a certain amount of risk involved in participatory sports, parents, coaches and program supervisors share the ultimate responsibility for providing maximum safety in a healthy playing climate. A balanced, well-managed sports environment provides a fertile ground for the child’s natural growth and development, physically, emotionally and socially.

Even in the safest of settings accidents happen and children may get hurt. Knowing the types of injuries commonly sustained as well as why and how children get hurt, will enlighten parents, coaches, and other responsible parties to seek preventive safety measures, and help reduce the incidence of injury.

What are the most common sports injuries to children:

Sprains, strains, contusions, abrasions, and lacerations make up 60 percent of all sports injuries to children. Surprisingly, fractures account for less than 15 percent of injuries. As a general rule the younger the child, the less severe the injury. However, it is also true that the more rapidly children grow, the more susceptible they are to injury at bone growth sites. (knee, heel, shoulder, elbow, hip and back)

What are the causes of sports injuries in children:

Given the spontaneous nature of children, their limited degree of agility and the controlled chaos of children’s play, it is not surprising that falls twists and collisions, will inevitably result in strains and sprains, bruises and abrasions. There are some sports that yield specific injuries such as Gymnastics, Soccer and Baseball.

Soccer players who are hit by the ball, fall and come into contact with other players, often suffer from sprains, bruises, knee, ankle and shin injuries.

Gymnastics is growing in popularity with training starting as early as age 3. Although the risk of injury seems proportionate to the skill of the athlete, the greatest number of injuries occur during floor exercises and tumbling, with other injuries resulting from upsets on the balance beam and uneven parallel bars. The most common injuries to gymnasts are spinal injuries

A characteristic complaint of single-sport athletes, particularly baseball players is that the injury is directly related to the frequency and intensity of the pitch. “Little League Elbow” results in pain, stiffness and reduced range of motion. Swimmers and skaters may also be at risk for developing an overuse syndrome because of repetitive stress on particular joints.

How can my chiropractor help?

The role of the Chiropractor is crucial in preventing sports injuries in children. Prior to any sports involvement, the child should undergo a Pre-Participation Evaluation. This consists of a routine medical history and physical examination with emphasis on a neuromusculoskeletal evaluation. All of which are helpful in determining the readiness factor of the child for the sport in question.

The examination may uncover special medical problems that may prevent the child from participating in sports. Additionally such an evaluation should indicate which activities are more suited to a child with special medical considerations such as juvenile diabetes or asthma and previous sports injuries or other clinical problems that may prevent the child from participating in sports.

How else can I protect my child against sports injuries.

Although parents may not be able to soften the blow from an athletic injury, they can minimize serious injury by taking some basic preventative measures.

  • Determine the child’s physical maturation level and match the child’s size with an appropriate sport. Most competitive children’s sports are organized according to chronological age rather than physical skill or maturation. Slower maturing children are often at greater risk of injury because they are competing with peers who may be larger and physically more developed.
  • De-emphasize winning. When it comes to sports, children primarily want to have fun. Secondarily they may want to win. Parents who emphasize winning, place undue stress on children and rob them of the joy of simply participating.
  • A child who is stressed, who is trying to meet parents’ and coaches’ unrealistic expectations are more susceptible to injury than a child who enters the playing arena with the confidence that comes from positive and encouraging adult attitudes.

Remember that overused injuries can be caused or aggravated by:

  • Growth spurts
  • Inadequate warm up
  • Excessive activity – for example, increased intensity, duration or frequency
  • Improper technique

Unsuitable equipment for example, non-supportive athletic shoes.Another common sports injury is reinjury. Reinjury occurs when you return to the sport before an injury has sufficiently healed. You are at a much greater risk for reinjury when recovery isn’t complete. Returning to the playing field before you have completely healed, places stress upon the injury and forces the body to compensate for the weakness which may put the person at greater risk for injuring another body part.

Summing up

Sports involvement is one way children can implement fitness as an integral component of their lifestyle. To be successful, the elements of the child/sports equation must add up to fun, fitness and safety. Parents, coaches, sponsors, and chiropractors must actively help to create an esteem-building experience that will be memorable for the child long past the moment of play.

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Protect Your Children From Sport Injuries

How exciting to have summer around the corner! Whether your child is on a sport team or not, it’s likely that they are hopping on bikes, romping on playgrounds, and throwing together tag games with friends. When kid’s activity increases, injuries and accidents naturally increase.

Many parents believe children are less likely to be injured because they think their kid’s bones are pliable, and they will “bounce back.” It is quite the opposite says John M. Purvis, MD, a clinical assistant professor of orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation at the University of Mississippi Medical School. Because children’s muscles, bones, ligaments, and tendons are growing, says Purvis, they are more likely to be injured than adults.

Teenagers are also susceptible to injury because the bone structure has not fully matured. Growth plates-areas of growing tissue near the end of long bones – gets injured more easily than tendons and ligaments. Until the end of adolescence, what might only be a sprain in an adult could be a serious injury in a high school player.

The Canadian Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends encouraging all ages of children to follow these guidelines:

  • Be in proper physical condition before they play a sport.
  • Know and follow the rules of the sport.
  • Wear appropriate protective gear and properly fitted shoes whatever the sport.
  • Know how to use athletic equipment – for instance, how to adjust the bindings on snow skis.
  • Always warm up before playing.
  • Avoid playing when tired or in pain.

You can help your children reduce their risk of injury by teaching them these safety guidelines.

Please don’t forget we’re always here, using the science of Chiropractic to help your body heal and maintain the great health you deserve!

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Confidential Auto Accident Injury Report

THIS FREE REPORT REVEALS LITTLE KNOWN INFORMATION ABOUT HIDDEN INJURIES. BEFORE YOU SPEAK WITH ANYONE OR SETTLE YOUR CASE, READ THIS ENTIRE REPORT AND DISCOVER THE TRUTH ABOUT HOW “SOFT TISSUE INJURIES” HAVE RUINED THE LIVES OF HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF CANADIANS JUST LIKE YOU!

In this insider’s report you will learn:

  • Why so many people needlessly suffer from headaches, neck and back pain.
  • Why taking pills, and resting may never fix your injury.
  • How to get help for your pain and suffering right NOW!
  • What may happen if you don’t get natural treatments NOW!

WARNING: ‘Soft tissue injuries’ are potentially debilitating and will strike hundreds of thousands of Canadians this year. As a result, many people will suffer for the rest of their lives due to misinformation and inappropriate care! That’s bad news. The good news is that you don’t have to continue suffering.

“SOFT TISSUE INJURIES’ ARE OFTEN MISUNDERSTOOD AND DIFFICULT TO DETECT. MANY VICTIMS WHO SEEK OUT HELP FOR THEIR PAIN ARE TOLD TO TAKE IT EASY AND REST. JUST RESTING USUALLY CREATES SCAR TISSUE AND PERMANENT DAMAGE. SCIENCE HAS SHOWN THAT TAKING EXCESSIVE TIME OFF WORK OR RECREATION CAN MAKE IT HARDER TO GET BACK INTO THE SWING OF THINGS.”

A car accident can strike any person at any time, robbing them of their most basic and important possession: their good health, both physical and mental.

Let’s go back to your accident site immediately after the collision…..

Most people state they feel dazed and confused immediately after an auto accident. If you’re conscious, you begin to realize you have been involved in an accident. You will start to ask a series of questions.

Am I okay?What’s the condition of my car?
Are my passengers okay? Are the other people okay?

 

If any person involved is not suffering from an apparent life threatening injury or appears to have no broken bones or major cuts, then most often an ambulance is not called.

Here’s where the problem begins…..the attention immediately begins to shift towards the automobile damages and of course WHO IS AT FAULT?

All of your daily habits, responsibilities and leisure time will be wiped away by the complications that will be created by this accident. The prior stresses you might have been dealing with will not compare to the hassles and inconvenience an auto accident victim experiences.

Not only are auto accidents an inconvenience and a hassle, you may have noticed that since the accident, you have not been feeling like your normal self. You are experiencing obvious pain and symptoms like:

Muscle stiffness Sciatica
SpasmsDifficulty concentrating
Neck pain Fatigue
HeadachesMemory loss
Numbness and tinglingIrritability
Mid back pain Difficulty sleeping
Low back painand many other problems

 

Or worse, you may be injured and feel nothing at all! Either way, you might find yourself at the local hospital.

The emergency room technicians are trained to detect life-threatening conditions and provide appropriate care. If your injuries do not fall into this category, after the evaluation you’ll be sent home with pain/sleep medication and anti-inflammation medication.

During your initial days of taking these medications, you will be instructed to call your insurance company to speak to an insurance adjuster regarding your car accident. These are highly trained individuals who deal with accident claims all day long. They know you have been to the hospital and released and they want to settle this case as soon as possible.

Remember, injured people feel less injured under the influence of medications.

Despite the effects of the medications, you still feel injured and simply not the same person. As each day goes by, the injuries continue and the body produces dysfunctional scar tissue at the sites of the injury.

This continued incorrect healing process begins the initial step of future conditions, the most common being post-traumatic osteo-arthritis.

This form of arthritis over time can ruin your posture giving you a slump or hump back appearance. It causes the vertebrae discs in your spine to degenerate and create scar tissue formation leading to chronic stiffness, pain, numbness and spasms.

Remember, the purpose of medication is to numb the pain not correct the injured problem.

The next step for the general practitioner will be to refer you to a physical and or a massage therapist. Four to eight weeks later, you are done with physical and or massage therapy. You are still in pain and the injury feels worse! At this point, the doctor is at a loss as to why you’re still hurting. You will be referred out to an orthopedic surgeon.

Current medical research states that most soft tissue injuries occurring from auto accident patients do not require surgical intervention. Only in the last few years have facet joints been identified as a cause of whiplash pain, so not much is known about how long they take to heal after an injury. Some research shows that the facet joints may be responsible for those whiplash patients with long-term discomfort.

Only a small fraction of all soft tissue injuries caused by auto accidents require the need for surgery. You will be told that, “there is nothing we can do, you may have to live with this for the rest of your life”.

This is a big mistake, don’t let this happen to you!

The insurance claims adjuster you talked to earlier, will call you as soon as they receive your doctor’s report. The claims adjuster’s interpretation of these reports is that the doctors are finished, and your pain will eventually go away so let’s settle this claim now.

That would be a gigantic mistake.

Many auto accident victims receive multiple-care from hospitals, clinics and medical doctors. While the underlying damages and pain is hidden or numbed with drugs, patients settle their cases. If you do, you may experience pain, numbness, headaches muscle stiffness, fatigue and other problems including arthritis, for many months ahead. Nothing is more important than your health once you start to lose it.

How are theses hidden injuries detected?

When you have been in an auto accident, you need a doctor who is trained and specializes in the biomechanics of the human body. That means he or she can perform routine physical examinations with orthopedic and neurological tests, as well as special chiropractic tests that assess those hidden functional soft tissue damages.

Many healthcare practitioners overlook many damaging injuries from whiplash. Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are thrown or “snapped” back and forth very quickly at speeds as slow as 5mph. Whiplash is the most common injury in auto accidents.

Your neck is made up of nerves, gland, tubes, blood vessels, lymph nodes, and 48 different joint. It also “holds” your brain stem, spinal column, discs, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fluids. The chances of you becoming a whiplash victim in an auto accident are real.

In addition to disc and other soft tissue damage, whiplash causes spinal misalignment and irritation, stretching or impingement to the nerves and spinal curve.

Whiplash is a biomechanical injury.

Proper evaluation and treatment by a chiropractor may make the difference between true recovery (healing and strength) vs. lingering pain (sickness and disability).

My name is Dr. Krisjan Gustavson and I have successfully treated thousands of patients just like you over the past 19 years. I am well trained in the diagnosis and treatment of auto accident victims.

My primary responsibility is giving you the time and care you need and deserve.

In my clinic, I use a variety of equipment and techniques. These include Ultra sound, Thermal Therapy, the Cox table.

If you have been injured, and not sure if you’ve suffer from soft tissue damage, call us.

If you have been injured and are not receiving the care you need, call us.

If you have been injured and not sure what type of treatment will help you, call us.

If you have been injured and not sure where to turn, call us.

WE CAN HELP TO GET YOU OUT OF PAIN.
382-0018

MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What if my car sustained only minor damage?
A: Documented studies done by specialists Charles Caroll, M.D., Paul McAtee M.D., and Lee Riley, M.D. revealed that, “The amount of damage to the car bears little relation to the force applied to the cervical neck (spine) of the occupants. In other words, the severity of the injury to the passengers is not necessarily related to the damage directly to the vehicle. Most insurance adjusters love to convince you differently. Be careful!

Q: I’ve been to the hospital and walk-in clinic. Do I really need to see Dr. Gustavson?
A: You need a doctor that focuses in the treatment and diagnosis of auto accident injuries. Usually hospitals will check vital signs and release the patient with pain relief medication. They normally do not treat the underlying improper musculoskeletal biomechanics that can and often do lead to future pain. If you are still having problems, you should get a second opinion. If your M.D. has given you pills, you must understand that pills do not correct structural or soft tissue damage. There are special therapies designed for that, and we offer these modalities at our clinic.

Q: I definitely feel injured from my accident. If I have a history of related types of aches and pains, and records of treatment, will this harm my case?
A: No. This is why you need to see a doctor who is familiar with these circumstances. There is always a reason why you may feel injured or differently following an accident. My job is to specifically identify your new injury or the flare-up of an old injury.

Q: Do I need an attorney?
A: It is always important to take care of your well-being as soon as possible. Your first priority is to get checked by a doctor and begin if needed the appropriate treatment. After that you will have enough information to decide if you want to hire an attorney or not. Remember the responsible party’s insurance company has many attorneys. If necessary, we can refer you to a reputable and qualified attorney.

Q: If I need treatments for this injury, do I have to pay for it myself?
A: In most cases the patient is reimbursed for any out of pocket expenses by their insurance. However, every case is different. My Chiropractic Technicians would be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the fees.

Q: What type of treatment will I receive if you accept me as a patient?
 A: You will receive specific chiropractic spinal manipulation to the spinal joint and associated soft tissues. There are numerous chiropractic spinal manipulative techniques. The technique that is best suited for your condition will be determined to maximize your recovery. We may also use modalities such as ultrasound, electrotherapy, neck or lumbar traction, surface EMG and cryo/thermal therapy. All patients are given a program of rehabilitation exercises.

Q: Do I need a referral to see you?
A: No. Chiropractors are primary care givers and you do not need a referral from your medical doctor to book an appointment at my clinic.

MASSAGE THERAPY for WHIPLASH ASSOCIATED DISORDERS

Massage therapy is an effective approach to pain management and rehabilitation with a broad number of applications. Shakeira Wynde has been effective in treating and providing relief for a wide range of disorders such as migraine headaches, tendonitis, arthritis, osteoporosis, sports injuries, auto injuries, as well as many other common conditions related to soft tissue and joint dysfunction.

Muscles move our bodies. The muscle and skeletal system make up 60% of the mass of the human body. Apart from its obvious role in the support and motion of the body, muscle is also involved in biochemical and biomechanical activities. Soft tissue is the main consumer of our body’s energy. Soft tissue can be a source of a great deal of pain and dysfunction. This dysfunction can be the result of trauma, such as sports or motor vehicle injuries, illness, emotional stress and mechanical stress such as poor posture.

Benefits of massage therapy treatment are the reduction of spasms, the improvement of range of motion and strength, and prevention of fibrosis (scar tissue). The prevention and treatment of fibrosis and contracture (abnormal shortening of muscle and soft tissue) is a primary treatment goal following tissue damage, inflammation or immobilization.

In May 2002, an Annals of Internal Medicine study concluded that “in daily practice, manual therapy (massage & chiropractic) is a favourable treatment option for patients with neck pain compared with physical therapy or continued care by a general practitioner.”
* May 21, 2002/volume 136/number 10/page 713-722.

The Quebec task force on whiplash associated disorders examined over 10,000 studies. Below are a few of the highlights that the study found

  • Massage is the most frequently used therapy for musculoskeletal problems and is particularly useful in controlling pain.
  • Both active and passive massage therapy relieved neck and shoulder symptoms effectively.
  • Numbers of painful points on palpation of the neck and shoulder regions decreased significantly after active and passive massage.
  • Deep heat and massage can improve blood circulation and thus reduce pain.
  • According to the Physical Medicine Research Foundation in BC, “in the early phases of whiplash, short courses of cervical manipulations or mobilization therapies have been shown to be of benefit.
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How Heavy is Your Child’s Backpack?

Here’s a simple & inexpensive solution to a common problem…

If you take a moment to look into your child’s backpack, you may find a couple of textbooks, a notebook, gym clothes, lunch, etc. It all adds up to back strain. Kid’s today carry heavy school loads, and these equal heavy back loads.

Although the packs may be too heavy, your child may be reluctant to forego the convenience offered by them. Children often travel a distance to school, then between classes with little time to unload and reload again at their lockers.
Dr. Russell Windsor, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon says, “We are seeing students in fourth and fifth grade who are complaining about backaches, fatigue, and physical stress. They just don’t have the body strength to remain erect under these very substantial loads, and it puts their skeletons under substantial duress.” “Children are carrying far too much weight in their backpacks and improperly: slung over one shoulder,” “We’re concerned that the damage that is inflicted now will be showing up 30 years later in even more serious back injuries.”

If your child is going to continue using his or her backpack, consider this advice:

Guidelines created by The Canadian Chiropractic Association state that students should carry no more than 10% of their body weight in a backpack. Although backpacks slung over one shoulder may be fashionable, this posture puts further stress on the back and spinal cord. Children should support the pack with both padded shoulder straps to balance the weight and prevent shoulder, neck, and back problems. Better yet, give your children a Backpack on wheels…they look cool, hold a ton of stuff, and reduce and often eliminate neck and back pain and strain!

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7 Keys to Optimum Liver Health

Simple tips for taking care of this vital hard working organ.

When one considers all of the incredible functions the liver performs in the body, one begins to understand why taking good care of this important organ can have a positive effect on overall health and vitality. A healthy liver clears much of the bacteria and toxins from the body. It plays a vital role in digestion and fat regulation, hormonal balance, detoxification and circulation. Below is a breakdown of some of its many duties.

(AND YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE BUSY!)

  • Metabolizes protein, fats and carbohydrates, thus providing nutrients and energy
  • Creates bile, which breaks down fats
  • Stores fuel for the body in the form of glycogen, which readily converts to glucose (quick energy)
  • Metabolizes drugs and breaks down alcohol
  • Stores vitamins, minerals and sugar
  • Filters the blood and helps remove harmful chemicals and bacteria
  • Regulates the body’s ability to clot
  • Helps assimilate and store fat-soluble vitamins such as A,E,D, and K (it can store enough vitamin A to supply an adult’s needs for up to 4 years and enough vitamin D and B12 to last for 4 months!): stores cooper and iron
  • Stores extra blood, which can be quickly released when needed
  • Helps maintain electrolyte and water levels
  • Creates immune substances, such as gamma globulin
  • Regulates levels of sexual hormones; manufactures estrogen and testosterone

7 KEYS TO OPTIMUM LIVER HEALTH

1. Eat a whole, natural diet consisting of a variety of high-quality fresh food. Lower your fat intake and eat less refined cooked oils and fats.

2. Reset the digestive system whenever possible. Don’t eat too late at night or too early in the morning. Don’t eat when not hungry, and never overeat.

3. Liver flushes and drinking lemon water keep the liver moisturized and free flowing.

4. Keep the eliminative channels open and free. Exercise to eliminate toxins via the lungs and skin, and try to keep your bowels moving regularly.

5. Massage the liver area at least once a day to help remove congestion.

6. Try to release emotions-such as worry and anger that can get stuck in the liver-in a constructive way.

7. Antioxidants such as vitamins E and C, beta-carotene, zinc, and selenium protect against toxins.

Remember to be smart when it comes to your health! And don’t forget, if you ever have any questions or concerns about your health, talk to us.

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