The Benefits of Stretching for Overall Health

Many people think of stretching as a pre- and post-workout activity to avoid muscle cramps and pain. But you don’t have to wait for a workout to incorporate stretching into your daily habits. Stretching has numerous health benefits and has even spurred on some routines and exercise programs of its own. Similar to yoga, stretching studios have been popping up all over the country with the aim to improve flexibility and relaxation. No longer just for professional athletes or entertainers, stretching studios bring the work of a personal trainer to you. This new stretching trend is also helping people increase their daily activity when it comes to getting more exercise, and stretching, of course, is helping folks recover from their other exercises. If you’re considering seeing a Bentonville chiropractor or if you’re already a long-time chiro aficionado, chiropractic care and stretching go hand-in-hand for healthy minds and bodies.

Improved Overall Health

Over 80% of Americans don’t exercise enough, according to one stretching expert. One great way to ease into an exercise regimen is to start with stretching, as it can increase muscle strength and flexibility, which plays a huge part in keeping our bodies aligned, moving properly, and out of pain. Tight, tense muscles run the risk of creating joining issues, strains, and tears—not to mention less serious but still disruptive issues, like soreness, weakness, tightness, and pain. When muscles aren’t stretched regularly, they run the risk of injury, which can leave you in pain and take you out of your exercise routine for weeks or even months. Furthermore, this situation can be exacerbated by injured muscles’ failure to support your joints and spine adequately.

If you’re considering making stretching a part of your health routine, Dr. Tom Niemela and his staff at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic in Bentonville, Arkansas can help you make the most of your stretching with natural, safe, and beneficial chiropractic care. In addition to preventing discomfort and injury to your body, stretching, like chiropractic care, can generate many health benefits like increased range of motion, better posture, and improved digestion, just to name a few. Stretching is also vital to your health if you work in a job where you’re sitting down or sedentary most of the time.

Tips for Stretching Properly

Stretching properly is essential to making your stretching routine count. Stretching incorrectly can not only prevent you from reaping the benefits, but could also exacerbate existing issues or cause new damage. Start out by stretching gently all over, as opposed to focusing on one part of the body or muscle group. Our muscles are all intertwined, so if you’re stretching to relieve pain in a specific part, it may help to stretch other muscles as well. Stretching should feel like slight to moderate tension as you hold positions for a period of time, but stretching should not cause strain or pain like you might feel from a workout.

If you’re looking to improve your overall health and reap the benefits of increased flexibility, relaxation, and mobility, book an appointment with Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic.

Sources

Opplert, J., Babault, N. “Acute Effects of Dynamic Stretching on Muscle Flexibility and Performance: An Analysis of the Current Literature.” Sports Medicine, 2018; 48: 299-325. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-017-0797-9

Raphael, R. “Stretching Studios Are the Next Big Boutique Fitness Trend.” 2018. https://www.fastcompany.com/90269526/stretching-studios-are-the-next-big-boutique-fitness-trend

Chiropractic Care for Tarsal Tunnel

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a common ailment of the foot that can cause pain and discomfort.  The tarsal tunnel is a narrow passageway located on the outside of the ankle.  Tarsal tunnel syndrome, otherwise known as tibial nerve dysfunction, often causes pain in the outer ankle, foot, and heel.  Sometimes, this pain can be so debilitating that it can affect mobility, even to the point of keeping you from doing the things you love.  While it can be uncomfortable, thankfully, there are options for pain relief from tarsal tunnel syndrome with the help of a Bentonville chiropractor.

What Causes Tarsal Tunnel?

Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, tarsal tunnel syndrome is also caused by nerve issues.  But instead of running through the arm and hand, the nerves related to the tarsal tunnel run through the leg, outside ankle, and foot.  Most commonly, pain associated with the tarsal tunnel is located in the bottom of the foot or heel.  In addition to pain, other signs of tarsal tunnel syndrome can include numbness, tingling, or a sharp sensation of shooting pain.  Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be caused by various issues, such as injury to and inflammation of the area.  Additionally, swollen tendons, varicose veins, cysts, or anything else that could compress the nerves can lead to tarsal tunnel syndrome.  Those born with flat feet, which naturally causes an outward tilt of the heel that can compress the nerves, are also more susceptible to tarsal tunnel syndrome.  Other health conditions such as diabetes or arthritis may also cause tarsal tunnel pain.  Whatever the cause, Dr. Tom Niemela is here to help.

Tarsal Tunnel Pain Relief Through Chiropractic Care

Believe it or not, the root source of foot pain could be the spine.  Spinal misalignments occur when vertebrae are twisted, turned, or out of place, and they can lead to a myriad of issues, including foot pain.  When the central nervous system isn’t able to communicate with the rest of the body because of nerve interference caused by spinal misalignments, the results are often pain and discomfort.  Inflammation of the tarsal tunnel can be a direct result of nerve interference related to spinal misalignments.  Prompt care of the root of the issue is best to avoid further pain and nerve damage.  Gentle and safe chiropractic adjustments from Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Niemela can remove spinal misalignments to restore proper nervous system communication once again.  When the spine is aligned, it can lead to decreased inflammation, relief from pain, and improved health across the board.  Additionally, other parts of the body can see improvement as well, such as joint mobility and increased musculoskeletal function, because chiropractic care isn’t only for the back and spine, but also for whole-body health.

If you or someone you love suffers from tarsal tunnel syndrome, you don’t have to suffer any longer with pain and discomfort.  Experience the benefits of chiropractic care for tarsal tunnel syndrome relief as well as for overall health and wellness.  Contact Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment and get on the road to healing with neurologically-based chiropractic care.

Source

Hudes, K., “Conservative management of a case of tarsal tunnel syndrome”, J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2010 Jun; 54(2): 100–106. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2875907/

5 Food Myths Debunked

Whether it’s conventional wisdom passed on from your parents or a trendy new diet hack from TikTok, we’ve all heard food and diet advice that just doesn’t stand the test of science. As holistic health experts here in Bentonville, we’re going to help you debunk some pesky food myths and explain how seeing a Bentonville chiropractor at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can help improve your health.

1.     Vitamin C helps prevent colds.

It seems an almost universal piece of wisdom that taking Vitamin C can prevent you from catching a common cold. Consuming excess citrus, especially orange juice, or taking Vitamin C might have positive impacts on your health, but, according to a Harvard Medical School article, it will have no impact on the prevention of the common cold.

2.     No carb diets are the best diet.

We’re willing to bet everyone has cut out carbs once in a while due to the varying recommendations of the latest diet trend. Choosing to eat a number of whole grains is essential to your health. In fact, a 2016 British Medical Journal study found there to be a 20-30% decreased risk of heart disease in men and women who regularly consumed a variety of whole grains.

3.     Don’t eat white vegetables.

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “eat a rainbow every day,” as a way to remind you to eat a colorful array of fruits and vegetables. This is good advice generally, but don’t throw away all your white veggies just yet. According to a piece published in Time, cauliflower, garlic, onions, mushrooms, and, yes, even potatoes are good sources of fiber, antioxidants, and potassium. Potatoes, especially, have gotten a particularly bad rap over the years for being a high-carb, high-calorie food, but potatoes are one of the most filling vegetables you can eat, due in part to the fibrous skin, and they come with their fair share of nutrients.

4.     Low-fat foods are better.

There might not be a more persistent myth than substituting low-fat options for naturally high-fat foods. High-fat foods like butter or salad dressings that contain healthy fats like olive oil or avocado have been shelved for low-fat substitutes like margarine and fat-free dressings. Fruits and vegetables often have fat-soluble nutrients in them that can only be activated by fat, meaning you’re not getting all the nutrients in low-fat options. Additionally, the lower-fat options usually have less-than-ideal substances in them that are worse options than the full-fat alternatives.

5.     Eating eggs will blow up your cholesterol.

For years, it seems the medical and diet community have been conflicted about the effect of eggs on your body’s cholesterol. But several studies have called into question the assertion that eggs are bad for your cholesterol. Eggs are an incredibly nutrient-dense food boasting a slew of vitamins and minerals such as zinc, vitamin D, antioxidants, and even choline, which is a chemical that boosts brain power. If you’re worried about cholesterol, saturated fat and trans fat have proven to be much more of a threat than eggs.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

You want to eat healthy and make the best diet choices, but did you know that seeing a Bentonville chiropractor can also positively impact your health?  Chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal health to improve overall health.  Your body’s function depends on how well the spine is communicating with the central nervous system. Spinal misalignments can lead to poor immune system function, lack of proper digestion, headaches, and even chronic pain. 

When you want to live your healthiest life, it’s important to eat right and receive regular adjustments from your local Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela.  Set up an appointment with Dr. Niemela and the team at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today.

Sources

https://www.bmj.com/content/353/bmj.I2716.full
https://www.thehealthy.com/food/common-food-myths/
https://www.livescience.com/50834-eggs-nutrition-facts.htm
https://time.com/50163/6-food-myths-debunked/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/cold-and-flu/can-vitamin-c-prevent-a-cold

How Chiropractic Care Can Help You Overcome Obesity

With more than 40% of Americans dealing with obesity, it’s no wonder that weight loss solutions and advertisements invade our conversations and news feeds constantly. We have been passively advertised on the best diets and foods and behaviors to avoid since we were young, and that advice seems to be constantly changing with new studies and information. Anyone who has tried to achieve and maintain a weight loss goal knows it can be deeply personal and frustrating. And it's never as easy as anyone says it is, despite it being a common New Year’s resolution year after year.

You know that a combination of a healthy diet and consistent exercise leads to a healthier life and weight loss, but did you know that chiropractic care can assist you in achieving your weight loss goals?

How Obesity Affects Your Body

Obesity is defined by having a BMI (body mass index) of over 30. It will be diagnosed by your healthcare provider, and unfortunately, being even a little obese can have negative impacts on your health. Chiropractic adjustments can support the building blocks of diet and exercise to alleviate weight-related pain and help you overcome obesity. When you get adjusted by a chiropractor, you’re helping your body “reset” so that your spine and nervous system can function optimally. When your spine and nervous system are functioning properly, your whole body benefits.

Extra weight can cause undue stress on your body, which decreases the effectiveness of your body’s core functionalities. When your body isn’t operating efficiently, you experience this as inflammation, joint or muscle pain, swollen limbs, inflexibility, and more. By seeing a caregiver like Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela, you can boost your weight-loss journey through precise chiropractic adjustments that restore proper alignment and functionality to your body.

Benefits of Chiropractic Adjustments

When you get adjusted from Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, you should be able to speed up and maintain a healthy weight loss. Adjustments will improve blood flow and circulation, which you should see as decreased swelling and inflammation. Your range of motion should also improve, opening you up to more comfortable and confident exercises. As you continue to lose weight, you should feel relief from back pain as your body does not have to support so much weight. Continuing chiropractic care while losing weight offers compounding benefits—the more your body is in alignment, the faster your body can heal and strengthen itself.

If extra weight has been keeping you from living the life you want to live and feeling as healthy as you want to feel, you should give yourself the gift of chiropractic care at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic. As a top Bentonville chiropractor, Dr. Tom is passionate about helping you restore your body naturally so you can enjoy life with the ones you love and passionately pursue your own hobbies and callings. If this sounds like someone you want to partner with in your holistic health care plan, book a consultation at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic.

Sources

https://www.obesityaction.org/community/article-library/chiropractic-care-who-knew/

https://www.obesityaction.org/get-educated/understanding-your-weight-and-health/what-is-obesity/

Chiropractic Care for Women Considering a VBAC

Many women feel like they have a perfect birth plan laid out before going into labor. But let’s face it, things don’t always go according to plan. In some situations, birthing interventions such as cesarean sections may be required for the safety of both mother and baby.  But turning to birth interventions too early has become an alarming trend. If you have already had a C-section, you may have been told that you will always have to have a C-section for every subsequent birth. Thankfully that is not true. If you want to try for a VBAC, or a vaginal birth after cesarean, chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor is a great option that can give women a better chance of achieving that goal. 

Birthing Interventions Versus VBACs

The birthing process in itself is a miraculous thing.  While birthing interventions are not all bad, studies have shown that interventions such as C-sections or the use of forceps or vacuums during delivery can lead to health concerns for babies, both short-term and long-term.  The top health concerns that may occur after birth interventions are problems with feeding and jaundice.  If a birthing intervention is necessary, then it can be lifesaving, and there’s no downplaying that.  But information is power.  Many women who are pregnant and about to give birth aren’t as informed about the process and may consent to a C-section soon than needed or purely out of fear.  If a baby is born vaginally, the risk of complications, such as lower body temperature, decreases drastically.  Know your options, and if you feel like trying for a VBAC is right for you, then explore all avenues, including chiropractic care, to find out how that possibility can become a reality. 

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Not only is chiropractic care great for your body while you are pregnant and dealing with the aches and pains of carrying around a baby, but it is also important during delivery and after delivery.  Whether it’s your first baby and you are trying for a natural vaginal birth or you are looking into a VBAC, chiropractic care helps prepare your body for the best possible birthing experience.  For a successful VBAC, it is essential that the pelvis and spine are in proper alignment to allow the baby to move into the proper birthing position.

Many women choose VBACs because of the quicker and easier healing process.  After delivery, the body is both preparing to feed your baby and also needing to heal from the birthing experience. Chiropractic care can not only improve your chances of successfully breastfeeding, but it is also great for improving overall health and wellness, including the recovery process.  Dr. Tom Niemela will assess the spine and gently and safely perform necessary adjustments to ensure that women can experience a healthier pregnancy, delivery, and recovery. 

For more information about how chiropractic care is a great option for both women seeking to be as healthy as possible during pregnancy and women seeking a VBAC delivery, contact Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic. He and his team would love to teach you more about the amazing benefits of chiropractic care for pregnancy and delivery. 

Sources

Choahan, N. “Birth Interventions ‘Negatively Impact Child’s Long-Term Health.’” The Sydney Morning Herald, 2018 Mar. https://americanpregnancy.org/health-fitness/chiropractic-care-during-pregnancy-1191

“Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy.” American Pregnancy, 2012 May. https://americanpregnancy.org/health-fitness/chiropractic-care-during-pregnancy-1191

Chiropractic Care Improves Cerebral Spinal Fluid Flow

The central nervous system plays a key role in how our body functions.  You may already know that the central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord.  But did you also know that cerebral spinal fluid is also an important part of the central nervous system?  Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela provides neurologically-based chiropractic care to improve the function of your central nervous system, including your cerebral spinal fluid, or CSF.

What Is CSF and Why Does It Matter?

Cerebral spinal fluid surrounds the brain to protect and cushion this essential organ. Not only does CSF surround and protect the brain from the hard surface of the skull, but it also acts as a barrier, keeping out waste and letting in nutrients. Additionally, the buoyancy of this fluid keeps the brain from deforming under its own weight.

But there’s more to the importance of CSF as well. Studies now point to the fact that several neurological conditions, such as Multiple Sclerosis and chronic migraines, can be linked to the flow of CSF.  Additionally, Atlas Displacement Complex, known as ADS, can also be a serious disorder that is linked to poor cerebral spinal fluid flow.  ADS is caused by the atlas compressing blood vessels, which in turn causes CSF waste to build up, essentially causing a clog.  This can lead to all sorts of issues such as toxicity, headaches, inflammation, and a myriad of other health problems.

CSF and Spinal Misalignments

Our bodies rely on proper CSF flow to let in nutrients and keep out waste.  We can notice a decline in health if we aren’t getting proper flow of this vital fluid.  Spinal misalignments can be at the root of poor CSF flow.  Injuries or lack of physical activity can lead to misalignments in the spine, as can poor posture or repetitive trauma.  When our spines are not in proper alignment, it disrupts the function of the central nervous system and can cause a disruption of CSF flow.  Our bodies normally replenish 1 cup a day of CSF that has been absorbed through normal use.  However, spinal misalignments can interrupt the flow, causing CSF to build up in the brain.  When this happens, brain function can suffer.  Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can help overcome this interruption.

Chiropractic Care for CSF Flow

At the root of many CSF flow problems are spinal misalignments.  Chiropractic care can not only address the issue at the source, but it can also prevent other related issues from occurring.  Dr. Niemela will gently and precisely adjust the spine to remove misalignments, therefore restoring proper flow of CSF. Not only can proper function of the central nervous system improve CSF flow and brain function, but it can also vastly improve your overall health.  Visit Dr. Niemela at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to see how regular chiropractic care can positively improve your quality of life.

Sources

Koerte, I.K., Schankin, C.J., Immler, S., Lee, S., Laubender, R.P., Grosse, C., Eftimov, L., Milde-Busche, A., Resier, M., Straube, A., Heinen, F., Alperin, N., Ertl-Wagner, B. “Altered cerebrovenous drainage in patients with migraine as assessed by phasecontrastmagnetic resonance imaging.” Investigative Radiology, 2011 Jul 1; 46 (7): 434-440.  https://miami.pure.elsevier.com/en/publications/altered-cerebrovenous-drainage-in-patients-with-migraine-as-asses

Louveau, A., Smirnov, I., Keyes, T.J., Eccles, J.D., Rouhani, S.J., Peske, J.D., Derecki, N.C., Castle, D., Mandell, J.W., Lee, K.S., Harris, T.H., Kipnis, J. “Structural and functional features of central nervous system lymphatics.” Nature, 2015 Jul 16; 523(7560): 337–341. https://www.nature.com/articles/nature14432

Work Ergonomics for Optimal Efficiency

When we’re comfortable and free from pain, we tend to be more productive and effective at work. Whether we sit at a desk all day long or work a job that requires manual labor, our physical health and comfort are hugely important. Nowadays, more and more people are working from home in less-than-ideal office spaces, which may be causing back pain, neck pain, and other discomfort that impacts their work and productivity.

In order to make the most of your time in your home office, regular office, or other work locations, you need to explore ergonomics and make sure the space and equipment are working well for you.

Making Your Space Work

To start out, consider where and how you spend most of your time. If you’re like most people, you’re sitting at a desk or table at a computer. You want to ensure that your chair is comfortable and supportive, but also allows you to move around easily, if needed. Your desk should be a good height for your chair and your body. Having it too high or too low can cause strain in the shoulders, wrists, neck, and back. Ideally, your feet can sit flat on the floor comfortably with your body at about a 90-degree angle. Your forearms should be parallel to the floor, and the top of your monitor should be at the same level as your eyes.

Hunching forward or leaning forward can cause neck pain, headaches, back pain, and more. Additionally, sitting in an uncomfortable chair or one that doesn’t offer lumbar support can cause discomfort and strain. Try your best to maintain a balanced and neutral position when working. Avoid crossing your legs or ankles, sitting on one leg, or leaning to the side. Be sure to get up and stretch frequently, and take breaks from staring at your computer screen.

If you use a computer mouse, make sure you are using your entire arm and shoulder to move it rather than just your hand and wrist. Make sure your wrist is relaxed and you are not resting your entire arm on the desk. You should also aim to use an ergonomic keyboard if possible. If you spend a lot of time on the phone, be sure to utilize a headset or headphones so that you’re not leaning your head to one side to hold the phone in place.

Maximizing Efficiency and Minimizing Pain

All of the above tips will not only maximize your efficiency while working, but you’ll also minimize the pain that comes from poor ergonomics. Improved posture is always going to benefit you in terms of reducing main and optimizing overall health, so be sure to make changes where you see fit to your work ergonomics. If you’re still dealing with pain or are struggling to overcome bad posture, seeing a chiropractor is going to help a great deal. Dr. Tom Niemela is a Bentonville chiropractor who has helped countless individuals break free from back and neck pain, in addition to finding relief from other ailments. To learn more about how chiropractic care can help you, contact Dr. Niemela and his team at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic.0020

Sources

Andrews, K. “Ten Tips for Improving Posture and Ergonomics.” https://www.spine-health.com/wellness/ergonomics/ten-tips-improving-posture-and-ergonomics?source=pop-block

Triano, J., “Office Chair: How To Reduce Back Pain.” https://www.spine-health.com/wellness/ergonomics/office-chair-how-reduce-back-pain?source=pop-block. 

How Can Chiropractic Help with Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is just a scientific word for nerve damage, and it can refer to any type of nerve damage throughout the body. Most people have heard the terms “peripheral neuropathy,” which refers to nerve damage outside of the central nervous system, and “diabetic neuropathy,” which is nerve damage that results from diabetes complications. Neuropathy is not one singular health condition, but it instead covers a wide range of issues relating to the peripheral nerves.

Diagnosing Neuropathy

Most people diagnosed with neuropathy will have undergone a physical examination, blood work, a discussion of medical history, and a neurological assessment. Occasionally, imaging tests, nerve function tests, and other diagnostic assessments will take place, primarily to explore the extent of the neuropathy and possibly determine the cause or origin. Common causes include diabetes, autoimmune diseases, infections, tumors, trauma or injury, hereditary disorders, vitamin deficiencies, alcoholism, certain medications, and exposure to toxic chemicals or poisons.

Symptoms of neuropathy will depend on the type of nerves that are damaged. Sensory nerve damage, motor nerve damage, and autonomic nerve damage are all types of peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms include numbness, prickling, or tingling in the hands and feet; a general spreading of those feelings throughout the legs and arms; muscle weakness; lack of coordination; pain at times when you shouldn’t feel pain; sensitivity to touch; heat intolerance; blood pressure changes; and problems with digestion or the bowels or bladder. Not all of these symptoms will be present in every individual with neuropathy, but if you’ve experienced more than one of these, a thorough assessment and diagnosis will help you understand the symptoms more completely.

Chiropractic Care for Neuropathy

Although neuropathy is difficult to reverse, substantial improvements can be made in relieving symptoms. While some medical doctors will prescribe medication to help neuropathy sufferers, that will not provide actual healing or a long-term solution. Additionally, the medications can cause more harm than good and bring about a number of dangerous and frustrating side effects.

Rather than simply attempt to cover up the symptoms for temporary relief, here at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic in Bentonville, we always aim to get to the root cause of the problem and help you heal from the inside out. Chiropractic care focuses on improving the health and function of your entire body, starting with the central nervous system. When your spine is misaligned, the spinal cord—the primary means of communication between your brain and body—has pressure on it that interrupts the messages being sent from your brain. The neural pathways are impeded and the peripheral nerves are no longer able to communicate with the brain, causing dysfunction, damage, and a number of problems.

When Dr. Tom Niemela adjusts your spine with his precise, gentle, and specific chiropractic technique, your central nervous system is able to work more optimally and enable the rest of your body to do the same. This brings new life and rejuvenation to the peripheral nerves, allowing them to recover from their damaged state and minimize your neuropathy symptoms.

You don’t have to suffer in silence or deal with the chronic pain of neuropathy any longer. Dr. Niemela and his team at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic in Bentonville want to help you find relief and freedom from neuropathy. Contact Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today to learn about the countless benefits of neurologically-based chiropractic care and how it can help you defeat your neuropathy pain.

Sources

Bova, J., Sergent, A. “Chiropractic Management of a 24-Year-Old Woman with Idiopathic, Intermittent Right-Sided Hemiparesthesia.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2014 Dec; 13(4): 282–286. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4241474/.

How Chiropractic Can Help with Hormonal Imbalances

Our hormones are responsible for so many functions in our body, including metabolism, growth, sexual development, and even respiration. The endocrine system is responsible for releasing hormones, but when the endocrine system is not functioning properly it can lead to hormonal imbalances in your body. These hormonal imbalances can be strange or frustrating at first, especially if you haven’t had a recent event or injury that provides a clear reason for the changes. Hormonal imbalances can cause you to experience things like fluctuations in your body temperature, excessive thirst, mood swings, irregular heart rate, sexual challenges, and even sleep trouble. Dr. Tom Niemela at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic is here to help women and men address hormonal imbalances in a natural, non-invasive way through neurologically-based chiropractic care.

You may have recently had your hormone levels checked and learned that one or more is out of balance. There are a number of reasons why your hormones can be imbalanced, including genetics, stress, and even environmental factors. When your body isn’t able to function properly, it can substantially affect your health and wellness. Your Bentonville chiropractor can help get at the root cause of your hormonal imbalances by finding out where there may be obstructions in your body’s ability to function properly.

Chiropractic Care for Hormonal Imbalances

Your brain sends all the signals to your body telling it what to do next, and that includes the endocrine system and your hormones. Your nervous system runs from your brain and into your spine to send messages out to the rest of your body through your nerves. Your spinal column is made up of joints called vertebrae, and these nerves run right through your spine. When you have a misalignment in your spine, like a vertebra that is slightly out of place, it can put pressure on nearby nerves and cause them to send mixed signals to your body. Chiropractors are unique doctors who are trained and skilled in identifying these misalignments and restoring your vertebrae and joints to their proper position so your body can function properly.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Improvements

In addition to gentle chiropractic adjustments, your Bentonville chiropractor may also recommend stretches and exercises to help keep your body flowing and to help reduce your stress. Stress is a known cause of hormonal imbalance, so being mindful of things that are causing stress in your life can help you address those better in the future. Practicing mindfulness and taking moments out of your day to focus on exercising can help restore hormonal balance and improve wellness. Dr. Tom Niemela may also talk to you about improvements to your diet that may help you to balance your hormones naturally. There are certain foods that are healthier for the body and also help to improve hormonal balance, instead of using medications that can come with uncomfortable side effects and sometimes do more harm than good.

If you are experiencing a hormonal imbalance, don’t hesitate to visit Arbor Vitae Chiropractic and learn more about how chiropractic care can help you. Book an appointment with Dr. Tom Niemela online or call us to learn more about getting started with us today.

Sources

Colombi, A., Testa, M. “The Effects Induced by Spinal Manipulative Therapy on the Immune and Endocrine Systems.” Medicina (Kaunas), 2019 Aug; 55(8): 448. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6722922/

Welch, A., Boone, R. “Sympathetic and parasympathetic responses to specific diversified adjustments to chiropractic vertebral subluxations of the cervical and thoracic spine.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2008 Sep; 7(3): 86–93. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2686395/

The Importance of Rest for Our Health and Wellness

We all know that sleep is good for us and stress is bad for us. But when it comes to applying these truths to our lives, it can be quite difficult. If you have a lot of daily responsibilities, you may tend to go to sleep late and wake up early, minimizing the amount of sleep you’re able to get each night. Additionally, with all the duties of your daily life, in addition to all the chaos and uncertainty that the past year has brought, it can be extremely challenging to reduce your stress. So how do you find the balance and ensure you are as healthy as possible?

The key lies in rest. Rest, in this case, not only includes sleep, but also relaxation, self-care, and down time. It involves fighting the pull of your to-do list, closing out those social media apps, and encouraging your body and mind to find peace, solace, and rest.

The Science of Rest

If you’ve been around Arbor Vitae Chiropractic or spoken with Dr. Tom Niemela or any of his team members, you’ve likely heard a bit about the autonomic nervous system. The two parts of the ANS need to find a balance in order for our bodies to work optimally and for us to achieve true health. Most of us are firing our sympathetic nervous system a lot, which triggers our “fight or flight” response and keeps our bodies ready to act, react, and keep pushing through obstacles. This is important, but in order for our bodies to “rest and digest,” we need to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. It’s this system that allows us to slow down, process things both physically and emotionally, and heal from sickness, injury, or mental distress.

While the sympathetic nervous system increases our heart rate, brings more blood to the limbs, and allows us to deal with any potential “threats” or sources of anxiety, it needs to be shut off regularly in order for our bodies to function optimally. The parasympathetic nervous system, in contrast, will redirect blood flow which lowers our blood pressure, activates the digestive system to reduce digestion troubles, and slows our heart rate to reduce physical stress.

How Chiropractic Care Improves and Maximizes Rest

When you are constantly in a state of extreme stimulation and your sympathetic nervous system is on high alert, your body cannot rest, recuperate, or heal. Chiropractic care minimizes interruptions in the nervous system, which brings about more effective neural transmission and communication throughout the entire body. This allows your body to shift back to a parasympathetic state more naturally and with more ease, bringing about more restful relaxation and more healing, both mentally and physically. Chiropractic care can also minimize issues that interrupt your rest, such as mental health struggles, digestive issues, and sleep disturbances.

Dr. Tom Niemela is a neurologically-based chiropractor who is passionate about bringing improved health and wellness to the entire Bentonville community. He does this through chiropractic education, precise and scientific adjustments, and encouraging healthy lifestyle habits among his practice members. If you want to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic and how it can help you rest better, contact Dr. Niemela and his team at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic.

Sources

Hardy, K., Pollard, H. “The Organization of the Stress Response, and Its Relevance to Chiropractors: A Commentary.” Chiropractic and Osteopathy, 2006; 14: 25.  www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1629015/.

Welch, A., Boone, R. “Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Responses to Specific Diversified Adjustments to Chiropractic Vertebral Subluxations of the Cervical and Thoracic Spine.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2008 Sep; 7(3): 86-93. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2686395/.

How to Find a Good Chiropractor

At the beginning of a new year, we often set new goals, begin new habits, and embark on new journeys. One common New Year’s resolution is to improve our health. This can be approached in a variety of ways, from being more active to eating healthier to drinking more water, or perhaps it’s a combination of all these things. If you want to maximize your efforts to improve your health and want to be proactive in your health maintenance, you should add chiropractic to that list of new experiences to have this year.

It’s important to note, however, that not all chiropractors are the same. Just as some doctors and dentists may be “better” or more aligned with your personality and preferences, chiropractors are similar in that way. Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela is passionate about helping people learn about and experience the benefits of chiropractic care, and he wants the entire community of Bentonville to be educated about chiropractic. If you live or work near Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, Dr. Niemela and his team would love to serve you in their office, but if you’re not local, you should still know how to find a good chiropractor in your area so that you have a positive experience and discover the path to true health and wellness.

Look for a Chiropractor Who Educates

The science behind chiropractic is very intricate, which is why chiropractors spend years getting their doctorate degrees. But a good chiropractor will break down all the medical terms and explain chiropractic to you in a way that makes sense, and they won’t hesitate to answer your questions about why they do or don’t do certain things in their practice. You want a chiropractor who isn’t just going to adjust you and send you on your way, but rather someone who will take the time to explain the benefits of chiropractic and how your body responds to adjustments. This education should not be a sales pitch, but should instead be about truly teaching and informing.

Look for a Chiropractor Who Focuses on Function, Not Just Feeling

It’s no secret that most people go to a chiropractor because of pain or discomfort, and it’s important that those ailments are addressed. But the main goal of a good chiropractor is not just to remove your pain with a quick fix—that’s what traditional medicine tries to do and it ends up causing more issues long-term. Instead, a quality chiropractor will focus on improving the overall function of your body and its many systems, meaning everything works more efficiently and your body simply functions more optimally. This will, undoubtedly, improve symptoms and pain as well, but the primary goal is about long-term health management and a healthier body.

Look for a Chiropractor Who Gives Back

You know that not all chiropractors are the same in their practices, but they can also be vastly different within their communities. Some chiropractors show up to work, give adjustments, and go home. But passionate and caring chiropractors will get involved in their communities and give back to those in need. They will be at festivals and local events, sharing information about the benefits of chiropractic, and they will raise money and collect donations for various organizations and needs across their cities.

It’s not enough to simply Google “chiropractor near me,” and head to the first one that pops up. Do your research and ensure that the chiropractor you’re visiting is going to educate you, is going to focus on your overall health, and is going to contribute positively to your local community. If you live in or near Bentonville, Dr. Tom Niemela and his team at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic would love the opportunity to serve you with neurologically-based chiropractic care. Contact Arbor Vitae today to set up your consultation.

Sources

Haneline, M. T., & Cooperstein, R. (2009). “Chiropractic care for patients with acute neck pain: results of a pragmatic practice-based feasibility study.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 8(4), 143–155. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1556370709001126.

Kent, C. “Neuroimmunology and chiropractic.” The Chiropractic Journal. October 1995. https://insightcla.com/neuroimmunology-and-chiropractic/.

New Year’s Resolutions for Health-Focused Individuals

It’s almost 2021 which means it’s time to start planning all those New Year’s resolutions! Each year, people come up with goals for healthier living and a more fulfilling life, though many become overwhelmed by these plans and give up too early, or they completely forget about them altogether. There are ways to develop resolutions that can feel achievable and ones that actually help you focus on your health without getting stressed out or overwhelmed. Here are some suggestions for putting together a list of New Year’s resolutions that will help you move into the New Year as a happier, healthier you!

Determine Your “Why”

Before you decide how you’re going to meet your new year’s resolutions, start with asking yourself “why.” Determining the reasons behind your goals will help keep you motivated as you go about achieving those goals. The more detailed you are, the more you will be able to truly understand and value the benefits of completing your goals. For example, if you want to start eating healthier, then part of your “why” might include feeling more energized throughout the day and to combat digestion issues. You can also brainstorm how your feeling more energized and experiencing less discomfort after eating meals may improve your connections and relationships with family and friends.

Set Specific Goals

The more specific your goals are, the better you will be able to achieve them. Instead of simply listing a New Year’s resolution as “getting better sleep,” brainstorm more specifically about how you can achieve that goal. You may want to set a specific, measurable number of hours of sleep you hope to achieve on weeknights and have a checklist or app that helps you keep track of your daily successes. Be realistic with yourself on what you can achieve and also give yourself the space and grace to slip up every now and then.

Include Others

Part of what makes completing New Year’s resolutions so much fun is being able to share your joy with others. Find neighborhood workout buddies who may have similar step goals as you, or join a fitness app where you can meet others virtually who have similar goals. You can also participate in exercises or practices that include other people for more accountability. For example, one of your goals may be to address your chronic back pain head on by incorporating chiropractic care into your weekly or monthly routine. Scheduling these in advance can help you stick to your commitments and feel successful every time you go.

At Arbor Vitae Chiropractic in Bentonville, Dr. Tom Niemela wants to help you achieve all your goals that get you to a healthier, happier you in 2021. There are a number of ways chiropractic care can complement or be incorporated into your new year’s resolutions. In addition to providing accountability and support, your Bentonville chiropractor can talk with you about what you’re struggling with, such as what’s affecting your ability to get a good night’s sleep or why you feel like your back pain never goes away. Chiropractic care is about more than just your spine; it’s about helping remove obstacles and interferences so you can experience optimal functioning and a truly healthy life, so start the New Year off well with a focus on health, being proactive, and improving your life one step at a time.

Sources

Kingston, J., Raggio, C., Spencer, K., Stalaker, K., & Tuchin, P. J. “A review of the literature on chiropractic and insomnia.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2010; 9(3): 121–126. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1556370710000647.

Relieving Tendonosis with Chiropractic Care

If you participate in an activity that requires repetitive movements like with tennis or golf then you might be familiar with the term tendonitis. People who play a lot of tennis or golf even refer to this as tennis elbow or golf elbow, since the repetitive motions cause pain and inflammation in your tendons.

Tendons are what connect muscles to bones and when they become inflamed due to repeated stress from certain activities it is called tendonitis. Tendonosis, however, actually refers to a type of injury to the tendon where overuse or trauma can lead to long-term damage. When a tendon is repeatedly worn down or torn and doesn’t have time to heal, it can lead to tendonosis.

Both tendonitis and tendonosis can affect your wrists, elbows, shoulders, and knees. Your Bentonville chiropractor can help determine which of these root causes is bringing about your pain and develop a treatment plan that works for you.

Here are the main differences between tendonitis and tendonosis.

Difference in Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of tendonitis include pain and difficulty moving the joint, like in your elbow after many rounds of tennis or golf. You will likely also notice swelling in the area and the skin may be warm to the touch. Tendonitis can be diagnosed through a physical exam of the area and the inflammation can even be detected on some diagnostic imaging tests.

Tendonosis does not have swelling or inflammation as a main symptom. Instead, the actual tissue that makes up the tendon is slowly damaged over time, which can cause pain that increases with time and use. You will likely notice tenderness in the affected area and it can be painful to touch or even move the body part or joint it’s impacting.

Difference in Approaches to Treatment

Because tendonitis is usually less serious than tendonosis, it can often be treated at home with the trusted R.I.C.E. method of resting, icing, compressing, and elevating. Allowing for enough rest in between activities can give the tendons time to heal, and using ice therapy on the area helps to ease inflammation and soothe pain.

While the main goal of treating tendonitis is to reduce inflammation, treating tendonosis has multiple goals. Goals for tendonosis treatment include preventing further injury or damage to the tendon and helping to prevent further breakdown of the tissue. Tendonosis treatment can also involve techniques to improve the amount of collagen in the tendon so it has a better chance of healing.

Difference in Recovery

Tendonitis is usually a milder experience and once the inflammation goes down the pain symptoms go away. Tendonosis, however, can take longer to heal, especially when the pain becomes chronic. While many people are able to fully recover fully, it is important to catch tendonosis early before the tendon is badly damaged. Taking care of yourself when you do experience short bouts of tendonitis can help prevent tendonosis from developing.

Chiropractic Care for Long-Term Relief from Tendonosis

The best way to provide long-term relief from tendonosis is to do your best to prevent it in the first place! If you have frequent spells of tendonitis, be sure to talk to Dr. Tom Niemela at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic about how chiropractic care can help. Contact us now or visit us online to schedule an appointment and learn more about how to take care of your tendons and joints so you can continue to enjoy your favorite activities!

Source

Bass, E. “Tendinopathy: Why the Difference Between Tendinitis and Tendonosis Matters.” International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, 2012; 5(1): 14–17. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312643/

Dealing with Holiday Stress in a Positive and Proactive Way

The coldest months of the year are upon us and the holidays are in full swing. While this time of year can be quite magical and enjoyable for many, for others, it’s a time of stress, anxiety, and constant challenges. If you are someone who struggles a lot this time of year, trust that there are some solutions to change this season once and for all. Here are a few positive changes you can make now to enjoy the upcoming holidays as much as possible.

Minimize Triggers

Being mindful is half the battle in managing your stress levels. Pay attention to what your triggers are and do your best to minimize those things. If you have to face something stressful, such as a get-together with family members that frustrate you, prepare yourself ahead of time to take everything with a grain of salt. Make good choices to keep yourself mentally healthy beforehand so that you can handle any situations with a positive attitude. Also, if you feel yourself getting burned out, remember that it’s okay to say no to certain events and commitments this time of year. You will enjoy yourself more if you set some boundaries for yourself and stick to them.

Eat Well and Drink Water

Eating a well-balanced diet and consuming enough water is absolutely vital in managing stress and staying joyful. Especially during the holidays when sweets, alcohol, and over-consumption are the norm, do your best to set limits for yourself and stick to them. The more you nourish your body with quality foods, the more balanced your emotions will be, leaving you better equipped to manage stress. When your body is well-nourished and well-hydrated, you will sleep better, find it easier to be joyful, and handle stressful situations much better.

Stay Active

This time of year can be hard on physical activity levels. With the colder weather, shorter days, and cloudier skies, it can be hard to be active outdoors and maintain a healthy activity level. Exercise is a great natural mood-booster, and it’s a great way to manage and reduce stress, so try your best to get up and moving on a regular basis. Even if you’re traveling or stuck indoors for days or weeks on end, getting your heart rate up is great for managing stress and keeping you as healthy as possible.

Continue Chiropractic Care

It can be difficult to take care of yourself this time of year, between all the traveling, holiday closures, and busy calendars. But you know as well as we do how important chiropractic is to your overall health and wellbeing, so prioritize getting adjusted over the next few months to keep your immune system functioning well and to keep yourself as happy, healthy, and pain-free as possible.

To learn more about how neurologically-based chiropractic care can help you be proactive in your health and manage your holiday stress, contact Dr. Tom Niemela and his staff at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic in Bentonville, AR. Now is the most important time of the year to maintain your care schedule and keep getting adjusted, so be sure not to miss an appointment with Dr. Niemela and the Arbor Vitae team.

What Makes Us Different

Chiropractors are highly educated experts on the central nervous system and musculoskeletal system. But just like with other doctors, you may have had a negative experience with a chiropractor in the past that has made you hesitate to visit one again. Here at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, we want you to know that we are vastly different from many other chiropractors, and in the best way possible. Here are some of our foundational philosophies that make us stand out from other chiropractors and medical doctors, and why our practice members keep coming back and referring others to us.

An Emphasis on Education

We know you could walk into just about any chiropractic office and get adjusted and out the door with little to no effort on your part. But here at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, we are committed to more than just quick fixes. We want you to know the why and how of chiropractic care, and we want you to truly understand the intricacies of how your body’s function is improved through regular chiropractic care. We want you to be educated on the science behind our techniques and how your body responds to adjustments, so we spend a great deal of time right off the bat investing in you and your chiropractic knowledge.

A Commitment to the Community

Dr. Tom Niemela and the whole team at Arbor Vitae love to get involved in the local community. We want to make an impact on our neighbors and friends, as well as other local businesses, so we do our best to get involved in community events and help everyone we can. We are extremely passionate about chiropractic, and the incredible effect it can have on a person’s overall health and wellness, so we attend events in Bentonville and surrounding towns to share information about the many benefits of chiropractic care. In addition, we do our best to give generously to organizations and causes that are near and dear to our hearts.

A Focus on Function

We all want to feel good and healthy and pain-free. We desire that for you, too. But we also know that there is so much more to health and wellness than just feeling good. Science and experience have shown us that true function is far more reliable when it comes to staying healthy than just how you tend to feel. Our chiropractic technique aims to help your body self-heal from the inside out, so that sicknesses and injuries are less severe and less frequent, and a properly functioning body will help all your body’s systems work more optimally, helping you avoid sickness, disease, and injury well into the future.

Arbor Vitae Chiropractic Is About You and Your Wellness

Whether you’ve had a bad experience with a chiropractor in the past or have never visited a chiropractor, take a leap of faith and come visit us in Bentonville. We are all about you and your health, and we would love to serve you and your family with neurologically-based chiropractic care. Contact us today and let us show you how different we are from other chiropractors and how we can help you get on track with your health today.

Sources

Haneline, M. T., & Cooperstein, R. “Chiropractic care for patients with acute neck pain: results of a pragmatic practice-based feasibility study.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 8(4), 143–155. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1556370709001126.

Fernández-Carnero J, Fernández-de-las-Peñas C, Cleland JA. “Immediate hypoalgesic and motor effects after a single cervical spine manipulation in subjects with lateral epicondylalgia.” J Manipulative Physiol Ther,  2008 Nov-Dec; 31(9): 675-81. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19028251.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Non-Cardiac Chest Pain

It’s no surprised that the fourth leading cause of emergency room visits in the country is chest pain. This experience can be frightening, and most people’s minds jump right to a heart attack or other life-threatening issue. It may be comforting to know that only about 5% of chest pain is a result of a heart attack, while the rest is non-cardiac. However, that doesn’t mean other chest pain shouldn’t be taken seriously. It is important to understand the underlying cause of this type of chest pain. At Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, Dr. Tom Niemla often works with those who experience non-cardiac chest pain to bring about relief through chiropractic care.

What Causes Non-Cardiac Chest Pain?

While we associate chest pain with the heart, there are actually a number of health issues that can cause chest pain. Distorted ribs can affect your ability to move and breathe properly, while lower back problems can cause your ribs to move out of place to begin with. Shoulder or neck pain may also contribute because of their proximity to the chest.  People who have had previous open-heart surgeries are also at risk of more chest pain.  Whatever the cause of your pain is, a Bentonville chiropractor can help by identifying the underlying cause for your discomfort and working to naturally address those root causes.

Can Chiropractic Care Provide Relief?

Since rib displacement, back problems, and shoulder or neck pain can all contribute to chest pain, it makes sense to see someone who specializes in the musculoskeletal system when looking to address this type of pain. The gentle adjustments performed at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can remove pressure on the ribs and tension in the surrounding areas, as well as restore mobility in the neck, shoulders, and spine.

One common cause of chest pain is misaligned vertebrae that lead to muscle issues. When one vertebra is shifted to one side, twisted, or moved out of place, the muscles on either side of the vertebra have to adapt to this change by shortening or lengthening. This is the cause of a lot of dysfunction and pain in the chest area.

While chest pain often sounds scary, a medical doctor is not always needed to resolve these simpler issues that can be addressed by a skilled Bentonville chiropractor.

Have Others Experienced the Benefits?

A number of studies show that regular chiropractic care can lead to a reduction of non-cardiac chest pains. In one instance, a 45-year-old man began seeing a chiropractor and after 3 weeks, his pain was resolved. Another man found relief not just from chest pain, but also from recurring breathing issues and anxiety after a few months of care.

If you are experiencing non-cardiac chest pain, you don’t have to turn to expensive doctors and emergency room visits. You can turn to Dr. Tom Niemela and Arbor Vitae Chiropractic for safe and effective care that focuses on finding and resolving the underlying cause of your chest pain. In addition to relieving this pain, you will also be able to focus on your overall health and wellness. Book your consultation today to begin experiencing the benefits of chiropractic care for yourself!

Sources

Cooper, S.R., Pfefer, M.T. “Management of Non-Cardiac Chest Pain with Chiropractic Care: A Case Report and Brief Review.” Topics in Integrative Health Care, 2011; 2 (3). http://www.tihcij.com/Articles/Management-of-Non-cardiac-Chest-Pain-With-Chiropractic-Care-A-Case-Report-and-Brief-Review.aspx?id=0000308.

Living with Chronic Pain: How Chiropractic Can Help

If you suffer from chronic pain, you know the significant impact it can have on your daily life. From sleep struggles to challenges performing simple tasks, the physical ramifications are far-reaching. But even more than that, perhaps, are the mental frustrations that chronic pain brings. It can be hard to rest your mind when your body is ailing, and it can be overwhelming to feel sad, uncomfortable, and frustrated at all times. Your quality of life is greatly affected and your overall wellbeing is impacted substantially when chronic pain is part of your life. While medication and lifestyle changes can sometimes relieve chronic pain to a certain extent, they may not bring about long-lasting and permanent solutions, leaving you back at square one when it comes to fighting your pain. Whether you have chronic back pain, neck pain, pain throughout your body, or pain in another centralized location, there is hope. Thankfully, Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can offer an alternative method of improving health that utilizes safe, natural, and effective chiropractic care.

The Role of Chiropractic in Health and Healing

Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela practices neurologically-based care at his practice, Arbor Vitae Chiropractic. His education and experience have been focused on the function of the central nervous system and how it impacts the overall health and wellness of the body, as well as the role chiropractic plays in the proper function of the body’s many systems.

Simply put, the brain sends messages to the body’s systems telling them how to operate and what to do, and those messages travel through the spinal cord and into the many nerves throughout the body. When one or many systems don’t receive those messages properly or completely, dysfunction occurs, which can bring about pain.

When the spine is out of alignment, even with the slightest twist or turn of one single vertebra, the nerves that run through it can be impeded with pressure, impacting the messages being sent through it. When messages are obstructed due to misalignments, the body does not function properly and various systems can be out of whack or completely misfiring. Chiropractic care is all about restoring proper alignment to the spine, therefore restoring proper function of the central nervous system and all subsequent systems of the body. This not only improves overall health and wellness, but it can also resolve pain, disease, and dysfunction across the entire body.

Getting to the Root

Chronic pain is often mysterious in its origin, and this can lead individuals to suffer from it far longer than necessary. Thankfully, Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela is passionate about and committed to getting to the root cause of any pain or discomfort you’re feeling with the aim of improving the problem at its point of origin. This doesn’t simply cover up a problem or pain point, but rather corrects the issue and resolves it fully, bringing about whole-body health and wellness from the inside out.

To learn more about how Dr. Niemela can address your chronic pain and give you hope and relief, get in touch with him and his team at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic in Bentonville, AR.

Sources

Cofano, G.P., Anderson, B.C., Stumpff, E.R. “Chiropractic Care of Acute Low Back Pain and Incidental Spina Bifida Occulta: A Case Report.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2014 Jun; 13(4): 273-277. http://www.journalchiromed.com/article/S1556-3707(14)00096-0/fulltext

Chung, J., Brown, J., Busa, J. “Resolution of Hypertension Following Reduction of Upper Cervical Vertebral Subluxation: A Case Study.” Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, 2014 Jan: 1-6. https://www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2014/01/02/resolution-of-hypertension-following-reduction-of-upper-cervical-vertebral-subluxation-a-case-study/.

Achieving Wellness: How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Wellness is a word that is commonly thrown around nowadays. Whether it’s in regards to our emotional wellness, physical wellness, or social wellness, it’s something we hear quite a lot. It’s true that there are multiple components to our overall wellness, but it can be overwhelming to want to improve our wellbeing when so many different factors are coming into play.

Many of us view the term health as an absence of disease, but we tend to think of wellness as more than that, more in line with truly thriving than just not being sick. Wellness, as mentioned above, does have several components that all interact to bring about our complete wellness, but we can achieve wellness in different areas by making lifestyle changes, improving how we take care of ourselves, and utilizing wellness resources and services that are available to us.

One such resource that is available is a local chiropractor, who is a type of wellness expert. While chiropractic does tend to focus primarily on the physical aspect of complete wellness, the benefits that come from chiropractic care are much more far-reaching than just physical improvements. At his practice in Bentonville, chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela strives to educate his practice members and community on the many benefits of chiropractic care for your overall health and wellness.

Dimensions of Wellness

Multiple dimensions of wellness exist that all contribute to our complete and overall wellbeing: physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, environmental, social, and occupational. Experiencing wellness refers to holistic health and satisfaction across all of these categories. However, experts recognize that improving all of these categories simultaneously can be extremely overwhelming, and they confirm that selecting one dimension to focus on is hugely beneficial.

At Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, we know that your physical wellness is linked to many other areas of your wellness. When you aren’t feeling well, it’s hard to feel good in other areas of life. Additionally, it feels more manageable to tackle the physical aspect before diving into the emotional or spiritual realms of wellness. The good news is that chiropractic care has a substantial impact on your physical health, but it also can bring peace, healing, and wellness to other areas of your being.

How Chiropractic Care Improves Wellness

Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Niemela focuses on the alignment of your spine, which houses your spinal cord—the communication highway for the central nervous system. When the spine is misaligned, the vertebrae puts pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves, leading to interference in the neural pathways, which eventually bring about dysfunction across various systems of the body.

Not only can proper alignment of the spine bring about relief from back and neck pain, headaches, digestive troubles, and blood pressure woes, but it can also restore proper hormonal balance and minimize mental health challenges, among other things. Chiropractic care aims to revitalize function of the entire body, from chemical to physical processes and more, bringing about optimal health and more whole-person wellness.

True and lasting wellness is about so many different things coming together for your overall health, satisfaction, and peace, and that includes physical, emotional, and other dimensions of wellness. Dr. Tom Niemela can help you take another large step toward holistic wellness with neurologically-based chiropractic care in Bentonville. Contact him and his team at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today to learn more and schedule your consultation.

Sources

Leboeuf-Yde, C., Pedersen, E.N., Bryner, P., Cosman, D., Hayek, R., Meeker, W.C., Shaik, J., Terrazas, O., Tucker, J., Walsh, M. “Self-reported nonmusculoskeletal responses to chiropractic intervention: a multination survey.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2005 Jun; 28 (5): 294-302. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15965403/

Thiel, H.W., Bolton, J.E. “Predictors for immediate and global responses to chiropractic manipulation of the cervical spine.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2008 Mar; 31 (3): 172-83. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18394493/

Can Chiropractic Care Help with Erb’s Duchenne Palsy?

Unless you or a loved one suffer from Erb’s Duchenne Palsy, you may not be familiar with the condition and its effects on the nerves in the upper arms. Also known as Erb’s Palsy, this injury to the upper arms is very often a result of birth trauma, especially when shoulder dystocia occurs. Those with Erb’s Palsy often experience a lack of movement in the hands, arms, and fingers as a result of the initial injury. In some cases, this leads to nerve damage and long-term paralysis, though for most people the paralysis resolves over time. No matter how severe the case is, a Bentonville chiropractor may be able to help restore mobility to those with Erb’s Palsy.

What Causes Erb’s Duchenne Palsy?

Between the C5 and C6 cranial nerve is an area of the neck known as the Erb’s point, which can be injured in numerous ways. A common one is during birth when a baby’s head and neck are pulled on to help them pass through the birth canal, while another is due to the pressure from baby’s arms during a breech delivery. However, Erb’s Palsy can begin at any age if there is trauma to the upper trunk region. When this occurs, symptoms may include a lack of ability to move the arms, stiff and crooked arms, loss of control of the arms, or a loose appearance of the arms. Some people will feel mild pain, while others will have severe cramping accompanied by stiffness, circulatory issues, or strained muscles. All of these issues are a result of the nerve damage caused to the Erb’s point in the neck.

Improving Nerve Function

Nerves are controlled via the central nervous system, which is composed of the brain and spinal cord and allows the body to send communication to control proper functioning. In many cases, nerve issues can be caused or exacerbated by issues in the spine that allow dysfunction to occur throughout the body. This can be the case for those that suffer an injury to the Erb’s point if they have also experienced a nerve interference.

A visit to Dr. Tom Niemela at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic in Bentonville can help to identify any spinal misalignments and undergo adjustments to correct these issues. Once the misalignments are addressed, nerve interference may be reduced and the nerves in the upper arms can begin to function properly, relieving you of pain and improving arm function.

The Impact of Chiropractic Care

In addition to improving overall health, chiropractic care has been shown to offer relief from Erb’s Palsy in a variety of cases. A 2-month-old girl underwent a series of treatments before seeking chiropractic care, when she was able to completely resolve her issues with regular adjustments. While some are able to resolve issues early like this girl, even children who suffer for years have benefitted from regular chiropractic care.

If you or a loved one has Erb’s Duchenne Palsy, Arbor Vitae Chiropractic offers safe, natural, and effective care in Bentonville. Make your appointment with Dr. Tom Niemela today to begin finding relief.

Sources

Harris, S.L., Wood, K.W. “Resolution of infantile Erb’s palsy utilizing chiropractic treatment.” J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1993 Jul-Aug;16(6):415-8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8409790

Hyman CA,   Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics. Oct. 1997;2(2) pp. 157-60. http://icpa4kids.org/Chiropractic-Research/chiropractic-adjustments-and-erbs-palsy-a-case-study.html

Autoimmune Diseases & Chiropractic Care

Our immune system is designed to protect us from foreign substances and invaders that can make us sick or hurt. For those with an autoimmune disease, their body isn’t able to fight off illness in the same way. These people react differently to various triggers than the rest of us might. This can make even normal, daily activities dangerous, as anything can trigger a serious illness. Many of these autoimmune diseases can be addressed in a safe, non-invasive way by visiting a Bentonville chiropractor for regular adjustments. Not only does chiropractic care improve overall health, but it can also strengthen the immune system when you need it most.

The Nervous and Immune Systems

Most of our body’s processes are controlled by the central nervous system, including our immune system. When functioning properly, the immune system is able to prevent bacteria, viruses, and toxins from entering the body and causing illness. But unfortunately, sometimes the immune system will work against your body instead of protecting it. These autoimmune diseases are not only common, but also varied—there are over 80 identifiable autoimmune diseases today. Autoimmune diseases are actually more common than cancer or heart issues today.

You may not notice you have an autoimmune issue at first, as many can begin the same way a common cold or flu might. But as they worsen, especially when left untreated, autoimmune disorders can become serious health issues. Extreme fatigue, chronic flu symptoms, respiratory issues, joint stiffness, and muscle pain are all common symptoms of the most common autoimmune diseases. While there are some medical options to address these symptoms, regular chiropractic adjustments by Dr. Tom Niemela are a holistic method to improve your health.

Managing Autoimmune Disease with Chiropractic Care

One thing that can be difficult about autoimmune disorders is that there is no known cause of these issues. This can make it difficult to address the root cause, and many people turn to medication that masks pain to stay on top of symptoms. Some of the medications that are considered the most helpful, however, are also known to suppress the immune system, leaving many people without good options. One of the best options is to improve the immune system and focus on the body’s ability to heal itself is chiropractic care.

Chiropractic focuses on restoring spinal alignment and function, which allow the central nervous system to function optimally. The immune system benefits from the alignment, combatting some of the symptoms of autoimmune diseases. One study showed a woman who suffered from both lupus and fibromyalgia making great progress after consistent chiropractic care. She gained the ability to walk on her own, her balance improved, and she reported a decrease in pain and fatigue.

If you are suffering because of an autoimmune disease, there are options that can help you regain some normalcy and health. At Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, Dr. Tom Niemela and his team will restore your spinal alignment and give your immune system the support it needs to protect you. Contact us today to take the first step toward an improved quality of life.  

Sources

“Chiropractic and Autoimmune Diseases.” The Wellness Express, Nov. 2010: 3. 

Hunt, J.M., “Upper cervical chiropractic care: case study of a patient with loss of ambulation and debilitating pain.” Michigan Association of Chiropractors, Apr 2016. https://www.chiromi.com/aws/MAC/pt/sd/news_article/120625/_PARENT/layout_details/false