With School Around the Corner, Consider These Backpack Safety Tips

As school approaches once more, children, teens, and even college students are headed back to school with backpacks full of notebooks, pencils, paper, and seemingly endless school supplies.  As the school year progresses, their backpacks will continue to be full of books and homework as they go from class to class and from school to home.  Unfortunately, heavy or incorrectly positioned backpacks may be causing back pain among many children or adults.  An ill-fitting backpack can actually cause damage to the spine that can lead to chronic pain.  Before back pain can become an issue, be sure to consider these backpack safety tips from a Bentonville chiropractor.

Wear a Backpack Securely

Poorly fitting backpacks contribute to a lot of the back pain that students experience.  For a proper fitting backpack that will minimize the strain put on the body, ensure that both straps are on the shoulders and shoulder straps are adjusted to fit the student.  When students use just one strap to carry a backpack, it can lead to neck spasms or back pain because the weight of the backpack is not distributed evenly.  Backpacks that hang loosely instead of being fitted snugly to the body can cause spinal misalignments that lead to back pain.  Padded shoulder straps are recommended so that the backpack does not dig into the shoulders.  Should you suffer from spinal misalignments due to improper use of a backpack, turn to a Bentonville chiropractor for help.  Gentle adjustments can remove spinal misalignments to alleviate back pain.

Limit the Weight of a Backpack

Another problem among students today is the fact that they carry many heavy books from class to class, making their backpack extremely heavy.  A weighted down backpack will cause students to have to slump forward more to support the weight, leading to improper posture and thus back and neck problems.  Individual compartments inside a backpack can be beneficial for supporting the weight of a backpack.  Place heavier objects closer to the back and lighter objects farther out in the backpack to manage the weight properly.  It is also suggested that a backpack should weigh no more than 5 to 10 percent of a student’s body weight to prevent back problems, so help your student learn to prioritize what needs to be in their backpack each day and what doesn’t.

Make Chiropractic Care a Part of Your Regular Health Routine

If your child or teen complains of back or neck pain, following these backpack tips can help.  But if pain persists, consider chiropractic care from Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela.  Dr. Niemela can address the root cause of back or neck pain—spinal misalignments—to provide relief.  Gentle adjustments will not only help with pain, but they will also improve the health of the whole body.  Proper spinal alignment means the central nervous system can function as it should, without interference, which can relieve chronic pain, alleviate headaches, and even increase immune system function so your child can stay healthy all year long.

Consider all the advantages chiropractic care can have for you and your family this year.  Schedule an appointment with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic for decreased back pain and increased quality of life.

Sources

American Chiropractic Association.  “Backpack Safety Tips”. https://www.acatoday.org/patients/health-wellness-information/backpack-safety

Triano, J. “Backpacks and Back Pain in Children.” Spine-Health. https://www.spine-health.com/wellness/ergonomics/backpacks-and-back-pain-children.

Chiropractic Is Beneficial for Elder Health

While chiropractic has been practiced for many years, it has only more recently gained interest from many who have explored chiropractic care for improving their overall health and wellness.  Because of this, the older generation may not realize all that chiropractic care can offer, and thus, tend to avoid this lesser known method for improving health.  But those over the age of 60 can benefit greatly from chiropractic care.  Research supports chiropractic care for improving health as we age, and Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela focuses on increasing the knowledge of chiropractic care for the older generations so that they can experience all the incredible, safe, and natural benefits of chiropractic care for improving elder health.

Health Problems as We Age

Let’s face it, as our bodies age, we can’t do the things we once could.  Aging takes a toll on the body and our health.  For example, instead of being able to move with ease, arthritis and joint pain become a problem that can limit physical activity.  Hips and knees are among the first joints to experience problems because they are the joints we use most often.  The less we are able to move, the more troubles that can develop.  Muscles become stiff, joints can lock up, and this can lead to falls and injuries among the elderly.  In fact, falls are one of the most common issues that older adults face that can limit independence and lead to major injuries.  Those aged 60 and older also complain about feeling tired more often, yet many seniors are unable to sleep as well as they once could.  Overall, the older adult population simply doesn’t feel as healthy and mobile as they once did.  But Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Niemela can change that.

Improve Elder Health and Quality of Life with Chiropractic Care

For many, chiropractic care is associated with correcting back pain or headaches, but in reality, it is so much more than that.  Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic focuses on improving the health of the central nervous system to increase overall health of the body.  The body’s systems work together and rely on the central nervous system to send and receive messages.  People of all ages benefit from improved spinal health, and older people specifically will notice that chiropractic care improves the body’s innate ability to repair and heal itself.  Additionally, chiropractic care improves posture which increases balance and decreases the chance of dangerous falls among the elderly.  Under the expert care of Dr. Niemela, muscle tightness will also decrease.  Regular chiropractic adjustments will also remove nerve interference for improved immune system and digestive function.  It can also decrease sleep problems and increase overall energy levels so you can feel at your very best no matter your age.

Contact Arbor Vitae Chiropractic

If you would like to experience the incredible benefits of chiropractic care for yourself, set up an appointment with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today.  Safe and natural chiropractic adjustments can improve your comfort and overall quality of life, so give us a call today.

Sources

Hawk, C., Schneider, M.J., Haas, M., Katz, P., Dougherty, P., Gleberzon, B., Killinger, L.Z., Weeks, J. “Best Practices for Chiropractic Care for Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Consensus Update.” J Manipulative Physiological Therapies, 2017 May; 40(4): 217-229. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28302309.

Natural Relief from PCOS with Chiropractic Care

Do you suffer from PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome?  If so, then you know what a complex and complicated disorder it can be. PCOS affects approximately 1 out of every 10 women and causes a hormonal imbalance that affects a woman’s overall health and wellness.  There are many options for managing PCOS symptoms, but chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor is a natural solution to promote health and wellness as well as address symptoms of PCOS.  If PCOS has affected your life, it’s time to look into chiropractic care to keep your body at its healthiest.

Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS can be caused by a number of factors such as genetic traits, high levels of androgen or “male hormones,” or even high levels of insulin.  Whatever the cause of PCOS, it can lead to challenging and frustrating symptoms that can greatly affect quality of life.  One of the biggest concerns among women with PCOS is infertility, as this disorder can affect women’s ability to bear children.  Other symptoms of PCOS can include fatigue, weight gain, facial hair, headaches, and mood changes.  PCOS has also been linked to other health conditions as well, such as anxiety, depression, sleep apnea, low blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.  Many women may notice signs and symptoms of PCOS around the time of puberty, but for some, symptoms don’t develop until later in life.  While eating right, exercising, and getting the vitamins and nutrients the body needs can help with PCOS, it may not alleviate symptoms completely.  Natural chiropractic care from Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can get to the root cause of PCOS to bring about relief and true and complete healing.

Tell Me More About Chiropractic Care

You may associate chiropractic care with back or neck pain and wonder how in the world it can help manage PCOS symptoms.  The fact is that the spine plays an important role in the function of the central nervous system.  Spinal misalignments can lead to nerve interference and disrupt communication throughout the body.  When this happens, the body can’t function as it should, which can cause infertility issues, low blood pressure, insulin problems, and even contribute further to PCOS symptoms.  With regular chiropractic care from Dr. Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, spinal misalignments and nerve interference are removed, which can improve energy levels, increase the function of the reproductive system, improve sleep, and decrease common PCOS symptoms. 

Chiropractic Research

Chiropractic care has overall health benefits that simply cannot be ignored.  In fact, many women are experiencing the results for themselves.  Case studies show the effectiveness of chiropractic care in managing PCOS for women.  In one case study, a 30-year-old woman presented with PCOS, ulcerative colitis, neck pain, and infertility issues.  She sought chiropractic care for her symptoms and after just 14 visits, found relief from ulcerative colitis, resumed regular menstruation after 8 years of irregular cycles, and even became pregnant! 

You don’t have to suffer from PCOS symptoms any longer. Seek natural and safe relief with chiropractic care.  Schedule an appointment with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic and experience for yourself the incredible health benefits of chiropractic care.

Sources

Wells, B. “Alleviating Symptoms of PCOS with Chiropractic Care.” https://pcosdiva.com/2018/10/pcos-chiropractic-care/

Kent Metzger, Dana.  “Resolution of Infertility in a Patient with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Hypothyroidism, and Ulcerative Colitis Following Subluxation-Based Chiropractic Care: A Case Study & Review of Literature.”  Journal of Pediatric, Maternal, & Family Health.  2016.4 (2016): 68-74. http://icpa4kids.org/Chiropractic-Research/infertility-for-a-patient-with-polycycstic-ovarian-syndrome-resolves-after-adjustments.html

What Can Chiropractic Care Do for TMJ?

You are probably well aware that chiropractic care can alleviate back pain, neck pain, and even pinched nerves.  But did you know that it is also a safe and effective way to manage TMJ pain as well?  TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorders, is a chronic disorder that affects the jaw.  The point where the jaw connects to the skull can become painful and swollen or will sometimes make a clicking sound.  TMJ is an uncomfortable problem to have.  If you suffer from TMJ pain, you may have tried other methods for managing the pain without success.  But have you tried chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor?  You may be surprised at the outcome!

Symptoms of TMJ

TMJ symptoms will vary for everyone.  Some may have mild, annoying symptoms while other can experience extreme and chronic pain.  Symptoms of TMJ can include headaches, jaw pain, clicking or pain when moving the jaw, such as when chewing food or talking, neck pain, and even dizziness.  If not dealt with, TMJ can become increasingly more painful.  Some may experience chronic jaw pain.  While medication for pain may bring temporary relief, once the medication wears off, symptoms will return, sometimes even worse than before.  Chiropractic care, however, is a long-term solution for TMJ relief.  It gets to the root of the problem to bring about relief once and for all.  Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can provide natural and safe chiropractic care to ease pain and alleviate TMJ symptoms.

The Ins and Outs of Chiropractic Care for TMJ

Because the jaw is a joint, Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can perform an adjustment on the jaw to relieve tension.  Releasing the muscles surrounding the jaw can correct TMJ so that the jaw can function normally once again.  But sometimes the problem doesn’t just lie within the jaw.  Dysfunction of the spine caused by spinal misalignments can also cause tension within the body, including the jaw joint.  Gentle chiropractic adjustments can remove misalignments to reduce nerve interference and tension and alleviate pain associated with TMJ.  Continual chiropractic care is often needed to ensure that problems don’t return. With regular chiropractic care, you can experience not only relief from TMJ, but also improved overall health and wellness because the benefits of chiropractic care are numerous.

Chiropractic Case Studies

If you are still unsure of how chiropractic care can truly help alleviate TMJ symptoms, you can take a look at how chiropractic care has helped others find relief from TMJ.  Case studies have been conducted to explore the effectiveness of chiropractic care.  In one such case study, 14 patients with TMJ underwent chiropractic care for TMJ.  Upon receiving regular adjustments, all patients found that TMJ symptoms were significantly reduced or even eliminated completely.  Their rate of pain went from an average of 8.3 to 1.4. 

You don’t have to live with TMJ pain any longer.  Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to see how chiropractic care can help improve your quality of life.

Sources

“3 things you need to know about TMJ pain”, Canadian Chiropractic Association. 2018. https://www.chiropractic.ca/blog/3-things-you-need-to-know-about-tmj-pain/

Pavia, S, Fischer, R, Roy, R. “Chiropractic Treatment of Temporomandibular Dysfunction: A Retrospective Case Series.”  Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. 2015 Dec; 14(4): 279–284. 2015 Dec; 14(4): 279–284.

Manage Plantar Fasciitis Pain with Chiropractic

Plantar fasciitis is a leading cause of pain in the heel.  This type of heel pain is caused by small tears in the plantar fascia ligament of the foot.  Plantar fasciitis pain will only worsen as tears get larger, leading to more pain.  The sooner you seek care for plantar fasciitis, the sooner you can experience relief.  A great number of people across the country suffer from plantar fasciitis and many of these people are finding relief with chiropractic care.  You too can ease plantar fasciitis heel pain with regular visits to a Bentonville chiropractor.

Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Foot pain can come in all different forms.  If you aren’t sure if the type of pain you are experiencing is from plantar fasciitis, it helps to learn and be aware of the signs and symptoms.  These can include pain on the bottom of the foot near the center of the heel bone, pain when standing up after sitting for long periods of time, more significant pain after exercising, and increased pain in the morning when waking up.  If you have these symptoms, then you are most likely suffering from plantar fasciitis. This condition can be caused by a number of problems such as wearing the wrong type of shoes, exercising incorrectly, being on your feet all day, or it can even manifest itself as a result of other health conditions such as arthritis.  Because of the pain, you may try to change how you walk, but changing your posture and the way you walk can be more damaging to the body, causing pain and problems elsewhere as well.  If plantar fasciitis foot pain has affected your ability to stand, walk, or exercise, Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can help.

Chiropractic Care for Plantar Fasciitis Relief

Stress on the plantar fascia tendon is what initially leads to tears that cause plantar fasciitis pain.  One way to ease this pain is to relieve the stress placed on the foot and tendon.  Chiropractic care focuses on relieving stress on joints, ligaments, and tendons, including the plantar fascia, to relieve pain.  Additionally, because of the pain in your heel that leads to changing your gait, spinal misalignments can occur.  Spinal misalignments can also wreak havoc on the body, causing back pain, neck pain, or even hip and leg pain.  Dr. Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic will assess the spine, locate problematic spinal misalignments, and correct these vertebrae that are out of place with gentle chiropractic adjustments so that the body is in proper alignment and can function optimally.  Alleviate plantar fasciitis pain and avoid further musculoskeletal pain with regular visits to Dr. Niemela.

Positive Results with Chiropractic Care

Some people are skeptical of chiropractic care for plantar fasciitis relief.  But case studies show that chiropractic care produces positive results not only for easing plantar fasciitis pain, but also for improving overall health.  One such case study focused on a 10-year-old boy with plantar fasciitis pain that affected his ability to play football.  He sought chiropractic care for his symptoms and found relief after just 6 weeks of regular chiropractic visits along with stretching and exercise therapy. 

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis pain, experience relief with natural and safe chiropractic care.  Schedule a visit with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to find out what chiropractic care can do for you.

Sources

Stuber, K., Kristmanson, K. “Conservative therapy for plantar fasciitis: a narrative review of randomized controlled trials”. The Journal of Canadian Chiropractic Association, 2006 Jun; 50(2): 118–133. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1839987/.

Daniels, C.J., Morrell, A.P., “Chiropractic management of pediatric plantar fasciitis: a case report”. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. 2012 Mar; 11(1): 58–63. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3315855/.

Ease Sinus Pain and Pressure with Chiropractic

If you suffer from sinus issues, then you know how painful it can be. Sinus problems can lead to intense feelings of pain or pressure in the face and even headaches. When sinus pain kicks in, you can think about nothing else but finding relief. Reaching for medication is often the first response, but it may not be the best response. Medication only acts as a temporary fix as symptoms return, sometimes even worse than before, after discontinuing use. Medications also come with the risk of side effects that only add to your discomfort and pain. But without medication, what other options do you have? One effective option to relieve sinus pressure and pain is chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor. It is both natural and safe and can bring about long-term relief so you can feel your best once again.

What Causes Sinus Problems?

Inflammation of the sinuses, or hollow cavities in the skull, is usually the source of sinus pain. Fluid in the sinuses can cause infection and inflammation. Sinus issues can be caused by a simple common cold or recurring allergies. For some people, sinus problems come and go while others may experience chronic sinus pain. Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela may be able to help you find lasting relief from annoying sinus issues.

What Can Chiropractic Do for My Sinus Pain?

The function of the central nervous system is imperative for how the body functions overall. The better our nerves can transfer messages from the brain to the body’s systems and vice versa, the more in sync and healthy the body will be. Spinal misalignments cause nerve interference that can lead to all sorts of chaos within the body. Spinal misalignments can be the root cause of sinus inflammation and pain. Removing spinal misalignments not only reduces inflammation, but it also increases immune system function. When the immune system is in optimal health, it can easily fight off colds or infections that could lead to sinus issues. With regular chiropractic care from Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, you can experience health and wellness that will have you feeling great.

Chiropractic Research for Sinus Health

Chiropractic research and case studies support chiropractic care for reducing sinus pain and pressure. With regular visits to a chiropractor, many people are able to improve the immune system response and thus increase the body’s ability to fight infection. Not only will this alleviate sinus issues, but it will also improve overall health and wellness. It can alleviate chronic pain, improve digestion, and increase your quality of life. You will be amazed at what a difference chiropractic care can make for how the body functions and how all its systems work together.

If sinus issues have you feeling miserable, fight back with chiropractic care. Set up an appointment with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to not only improve sinus conditions but also improve your overall health.

Source

Boone, W.R., Oswald, P., Holt, K., Beck, R., Singh, K., Ashton, A. “Physical, Physiological, and Immune Status Changes, Coupled with Self-Perceptions of Health and Quality of Life, in Subjects Receiving Chiropractic Care: A Pilot Study.” Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2006 Jul: 1-6. http://icpa4kids.org/Chiropractic-Research/physical-physiological-and-immune-status-changes-coupled-with-self-perceptions-of-health-and-quality-of-life-in-subjects-receiving-chiropractic-care-a-pilot-study.html.

Chiropractic Care for Sleeping Difficulties

If you just can’t seem to get a good night’s sleep, there’s good news with chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor.  A lot of times, back pain can cause many to not be able to sleep.  Additionally, other health concerns such as headaches or chronic pain can also lead to many sleepless nights, and these can be linked back to spinal health. Sleep is a necessary part of staying healthy, as the body needs to rest and repair itself as we sleep each night.  Without proper sleep, we may be more susceptible to sickness, loss of energy, and an inability to concentrate.  If you feel drained each day from losing sleep, you can rest easy once again with chiropractic care.

Am I the Only One Who Suffers from Sleeplessness?

While you may feel the only one who seems to have sleepless nights, it’s actually more common that you may think.  Approximately 60 million people are affected by insomnia across the country each year.  Men, women, and children alike can find it difficult to sleep well at night.  Because sleep is such a crucial part of building a healthy body, the growth and development of children can be severely affected by a continuous lack of sleep.  For instance, children who don’t have regular, age-appropriate sleeping habits are more likely to suffer from ADD, hyperactivity, or stunted brain growth.  For adults, insomnia brings about a whole other set of problems.  Without adequate sleep, many find it hard to concentrate, perform well at their jobs, or simply feel exhausted and cranky all the time.  It can be hard to know what makes it hard to sleep, but sometimes it can be contributed to sleep apnea or insomnia caused by high levels of stress, anxiety, worry, or depression.  Whatever your cause of restless nights, the sooner you address the root cause, the better you will feel. Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela wants to help you do just that.

How Can I Address the Root Cause of Sleeping Difficulties?

Medication is one of the first things people turn to when having trouble sleeping.  But the problem is that medication is only a short-term fix.  Sleep problems typically return after discontinuing medication use.  There are also harmful side effects associated with sleeping aids and other types of medication.  Thankfully, there are other options, such as natural and safe chiropractic care.  Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic uses neurologically-based chiropractic care to get to the root of sleeping difficulties.  Spinal misalignments cause nerve interference that leads to chaos within the body, often causing insomnia or difficulty sleeping.  Gentle and specific chiropractic adjustments can alleviate misalignments to restore function so that the body can get the rest it needs each and every night.  For instance, in the case of a five-year-old boy, chiropractic care helped him develop healthy and normal sleeping habits for his age after struggling for a long time to get the sleep his body needed. 

You don’t have to stress about losing sleep or being exhausted anymore. Now, you can rest easy with chiropractic care.  Call Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today to schedule your appointment.

Sources

Cawthra, L. “Chiropractic management of a 5-year-old boy with sleep disturbance and challenging behaviour: an evidence-based case report.” http://rcc-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Cawthra-L_Case-report_0315.pdf.

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. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2010.03.003

Chiropractic Care Reduces the Need for Birth Interventions That Can Cause Short- and Long-Term Health Effects for Children

Birth interventions are common nowadays and are sometimes a medical necessity for the health of mom and baby. But sometimes, convenience plays a part in our decision to undergo these interventions, the most common ones being induced labor with hormones, delivery with vacuum or forceps, or a Cesarean Section.  The problem with these birth interventions is that they can lead to health concerns for children both immediately following birth and later in life.  A recent study out of Australia is causing many health professionals to rethink their positions on birth interventions.  This study looked at the effects of birth interventions on children from the first 28 days of life all the way until five years of age.  Researchers followed over 500,000 women from 2000-2008 who had low risk, healthy pregnancies to discover what types of interventions were used during birth and what the overall health effects were on their children. 

The Study Findings

The study concluded that birth interventions did, in fact, put children more at risk for health concerns.  Babies that were born through other methods besides spontaneous vaginal births were more at risk for jaundice and feeding problems within their first 28 days of life.  Cesarean births also led to lower temperatures in babies that required medical intervention to correct.  Both medical professionals and parents should be aware of the risks associated with birth interventions, especially C-Section births, in order to make informed decisions based on the risk-reward factors. 

The long-term health effects of birth interventions were also significant in children up to age five.  This study found that children who underwent birth interventions of any kind were more at risk for health concerns such as diabetes, eczema, obesity, or respiratory problems such as pneumonia or bronchitis.  Most parents assume that medical interventions are always a necessity.  While there is a time and a place for everything, parents should be educated on their options in order to make informed decisions before, during, and after delivery.  One of the best choices a woman can make is to be proactive during pregnancy to prepare the body for delivery in order to prevent birth interventions as much as possible.  It is important for women to understand that chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor is one of the best ways to prepare the body for a healthy, safe, and natural delivery.

Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela practices neurologically-based chiropractic that can help prepare women’s bodies for birth, ultimately making the birthing experience easier for both mom and baby.  When your body is prepared, it can significantly decrease the need for birth interventions during delivery.  One of the most common reasons for a C-Section is a baby in the breech position. Chiropractic care has a 92% success rate in turning breech babies into proper position so that you can avoid a Cesarean birth.  Chiropractic care can also make you more comfortable during pregnancy by ensuring the spine and hips are in alignment.  This not only takes the pressure off of your hips and back, but also makes more room for the baby in the womb.  Studies have shown that one of the many benefits of chiropractic care is that it can even reduce labor time by 25%-30%!

If you are pregnant and considering your prenatal and birthing options, be sure to include chiropractic care into your regular regimen for a healthier pregnancy and delivery.  Contact Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to set up an appointment today.

Sources

Borggren, C.L. “Pregnancy and Chiropractic: A Narrative Review of the Literature.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2007 Spring; 6(2): 70-74. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2647084/.

Choahan, N. “Birth Interventions ‘Negatively Impact Child’s Long-Term Health.’” The Sydney Morning Herald, 2018 Mar. https://www.smh.com.au/national/birth-interventions-negatively-impact-child-s-long-term-health-20180325-p4z66i.html.

Can Chiropractic Care Help Manage Seizures?

Epilepsy is a disorder that affects the lives of over 180,000 people across the nation.  This condition causes seizures or convulsions that impact the activity of the brain.  Epilepsy can affect men, women, and children alike.  It can make people feel out of control, but there are methods that can help manage seizures.  If you experience seizures, no matter how often and whether they are associated with epilepsy or not, chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor can help decrease how often seizures occur and their severity.

The Causes of Seizures

For some, the cause of seizures can be related to other health issues.  For children, lack of oxygen at birth, childhood trauma, congenital conditions, and Autism can cause seizures.  In adults, strokes or severe infections can lead to seizures.  Often times the causes of seizures is simply unknown. When you don’t know the exact cause of seizures, it can be difficult to know what to do to manage this condition. 

What Are My Options for Seizure Treatment?

The first option for treating epilepsy and seizures is usually medication.  While medication can be beneficial for many, the problem still remains that over 30% of those taking medication experience no change at all in their seizures.  Medication also comes with additional risks, such as potentially harmful side effects that can cause even more problems.  Other methods for managing seizures include stimulating the vagus nerve.  This nerve has been linked to seizure disorders.  A technological device implanted into the body can electrically stimulate the vagus nerve to reduce seizures, but the thought of having an invasive procedure to implant this device can be scary.  Many don’t want to resort to invasive procedures if they don’t have to.  So what else can be done?  Neurologically-based chiropractic care from Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can be a noninvasive, natural method for managing seizures effectively, safely, and with no negative side effects.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care

If you only associate chiropractic care with easing back or neck pain, you’re missing out on the amazing benefits of chiropractic care for overall health.  Because the vagus nerve has been associated with seizure disorders, neurologically-based chiropractic care with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic only makes scientific sense.  Chiropractic care focuses on removing spinal misalignments that can cause nerve interference, affecting the vagus nerve and leading to dysfunction.  Pressing on the side of the neck and addressing problem areas in the upper spine are two ways to stimulate the vagus nerve.  Healthy nerve function through chiropractic care can address the root cause of seizures and can reduce instances of seizures. Studies have also found that chiropractic care can significantly impact those with epilepsy.  One study looked at seventeen people with seizure disorders.  After no change from medication, fifteen people decided to undergo chiropractic care and experienced positive results. 

If you or someone you love is affected by epilepsy or another seizure disorder, consider natural and safe chiropractic care.  Call Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae chiropractic today to schedule a consultation. 

Sources

“Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders: A Review of Literature Relative to Chiropractic Care of Children.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2001 Mar-Apr; 24(3): 199-205. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11313616.

Koubeissi, M. “What Is Vagus Nerve Stimulation?” 24 Feb 2015. www.epilepsy.com/article/2015/2/what-vagus-nerve-stimulation.

Coburn, W. “Seizures and Epilepsy – Could Chiropractic Care Be the Answer?” www.chiropracticbalance.com/dr-coburns-blog/seizures_and_epilepsy_-_could_chiropractic_care_be_the_answer.

Decrease Chances of Falling in Elderly with Chiropractic

Each year, on average, 1 out of 3 elderly people suffer from a fall.  Approximately 25% of these falls lead to serious injuries.  As we age, the risk of falling increases.  For those over the age of 65, the number one cause of death is a serious injury from a fall.  Falls among the elderly can not only affect their quality of life, but they can also affect their loved ones, as the result of a serious fall can require long hospital stays or around the clock care.  Many elderly people not only worry about the health implications of falling, but also have a psychological fear of falling itself that can affect their ability to live life normally.  But the fear of falling doesn’t have to overwhelm you or those you love.  Chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor is a proven method for reducing chances of falling and increasing independence and overall quality of life among the elderly.

Why Do Falls Increase As We Age?

The problem with aging is that muscle tone and mobility decrease.  Many elderly people also experience balance problems.  Poor posture is a top cause of imbalance that leads to falls.  If we don’t stand or walk correctly, we increase our risk of falling significantly.  Our muscles also tend to atrophy as we get older, so we lose strength and control.  Wear and tear on joints and muscles can also lead to chronic musculoskeletal pain.  This type of pain is at the very top of the list of reasons that cause falls among the elderly.  Additionally, other health concerns such as dizziness or vertigo among the elderly can also cause falls.  When older adults are faced with so many health concerns, it is no wonder that their fear and risk of falling increases.  But Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can help improve overall health to give the elderly back their confidence in their ability to move so as to decrease the chances of falling.

The Risks Associated with Falling

It may not just be the fall itself that scares the elderly population, but the health implications that come with a fall that can be just as terrifying.  For instance, a fall for those over the age of 65 can lead to serious injury, surgery, or even hospitalization.  Even after a recovery period, the elderly may not regain back full mobility after a fall, which can drastically affect their independence and ability to live life as they once did.  It can be incredibly hard to depend on others for help when you are used to doing things for yourself.  Because of this, the fear of falling itself increases as we age, which can, in turn, lead to a greater chance of experiencing a fall.  You don’t want to spend your life in fear of what may happen when and if you fall.  Instead, seek chiropractic care from Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to experience the benefits for your health and mobility.

How Chiropractic Care Decreases Risk of Falls

Chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal health to improve overall health among both the young and old.  It can improve posture to increase balance, as well as correct spinal misalignments that can cause vertigo and dizziness.  Gentle adjustments will also improve blood flow so muscles won’t atrophy and become weak.  Increasing blood flow will increase muscle control so that the elderly can feel more in control as they move and are able to prevent possible falls.  Dr. Tom Niemela also focuses on musculoskeletal care to decrease chronic pain and increase range of motion.  The benefits of chiropractic care can alleviate fear of falling so that the elderly can experience optimal health and an improved quality of life. 

If you feel out of control of your body due to aging and have a fear of falling, consider chiropractic care.  Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to see for yourself what chiropractic care can do for you.

Sources

Dougherty, P.E., Hawk, C., Weiner, D.K., Gleberzon, B., Andrew, K., Killinger, L. “The Role of Chiropractic Care in Older Adults.” Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 2012; 20: 3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3306193/.

Lee, A., Lee, K., Khang, P. “Preventing Falls in the Geriatric Population.” The Permanente Journal, 2013 Fall; 17(4): 37-39. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3854807/#.

The Nervous System Response: Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic

When most people think of chiropractic care, they often think of it in terms of improving musculoskeletal health, such as decreasing back or neck pain.  While chiropractic care does address musculoskeletal issues, it can actually do so much more.  Neurologically-based chiropractic care focuses on the health of the nervous system, which is composed of both the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.  These systems are important to how our bodies respond in certain situations.  However, unbalance between the two systems can lead to problems for our body and our health.  Chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor helps keeps the central nervous system in check so that we can experience improved overall health and eliminate dysfunction within the body.

What’s the Differences Between Sympathetic and Parasympathetic?

The sympathetic part of the central nervous system is more like the green light on a traffic light.  It means it’s time to go.  This system fires up our “fight or flight” response when we feel stressed.  When the sympathetic system is activated, it can cause pupil dilation, increased heart rate, and higher blood pressure. Essentially, it puts the body in survival mode and informs that body that it’s time to fight or run.  While this response is necessary at times, too much of the sympathetic response can cause even more stress on the body and lead to an inability to focus or concentrate.  When this system doesn’t know how to shut down, it can also lead to other concerns such as anxiety, forgetfulness, sleep disturbances, and fatigue.  The parasympathetic system, on the other hand, is the exact opposite response.  This system slows the body down and allows the body to be calm and relaxed in order to repair itself.  When the parasympathetic system is activated, the body can repair cells and heal from sickness, injury, or just the stress of a typical day.  This response is vital for optimal health and function of the body.  So what can we do to ensure balance between these two systems?  Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can help keep these systems in check.

Stress Puts the Body in Overdrive

Any type of stress on the body can cause the sympathetic system to go into overdrive.  It can be any type of emotional, physical, or chemical stress that affects the body.  Emotional stress may be dealing with relationships or the environment around us, while chemical stress can come from our diet and anything else we put in or on our bodies.  Physical stress can be caused by trauma or injury to the body which can lead to spinal misalignments and dysfunction within the body.  Whatever type of stress you may be experiencing, it can be causing the sympathetic system to react too often, putting additional stress on your body.

Restore Balance Through Chiropractic Care

Stress on the nerves that leads to imbalance of the nervous system can be corrected through chiropractic care.  Gentle spinal adjustments can remove nerve interference that causes the sympathetic system to take control.  Alleviate tension and stress with regular chiropractic care from Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela.  This will bring the body back into balance so it can begin to repair and heal itself and so you can experience rest and relief.

For balance within the body, improved immune system function, better digestion, and overall increased health and wellness, consider chiropractic care from Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic.  Schedule a consultation today.

Sources

Gibbons, P.F., Gosling, C.M., Holmes, M. “Short-Term Effects of Cervical Manipulation on Edge Light Pupil Cycle Time: A Pilot Study.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2000 Sep; 23(7): 465-469. http://www.jmptonline.org/article/S0161-4754%2800%2981597-3/abstract.

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/.

Chiropractic Care Benefits Children with Developmental Delays

Children with developmental delays may exhibit a lack of motor skills, speech issues, or other conditions such as dyslexia or dyspraxia.  ADD, or Attention Deficit Disorder, can also lead to developmental delays.  Parents and children alike can experience frustration with developmental delays, often feeling hopeless or without options.  But studies in chiropractic care show promise for benefitting children with developmental delays.  Upon first hearing about chiropractic care, you may not associate it will anything other than back pain or headaches.  But the reality is that chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor is beneficial for improving the quality of life for many, including children with developmental delays. 

Primary Causes of Developmental Delays

We may not always know what causes developmental delays in children, but for many, the root cause of these delays can be linked to spinal misalignments.  A spinal misalignment, or subluxation, is a vertebra of the spine that is out of place even the tiniest bit.  Proper spinal alignment is important to how the body functions and how well it communicates with the brain.  When even one vertebrae is slightly out of place, it can disrupt nerve communication and lead to chaos within the body.  This type of nerve communication can affect speech, motor function, and overall health and development of children.  Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractor can address spinal subluxations to restore alignment and function of the central nervous system to improve developmental delays.

Chiropractic Care Removes Misalignments

For many parents, chiropractic care for their children may seem scary or unsafe.  But gentle chiropractic adjustments from Dr. Niemela are incredibly safe and are a gentle and effective solution for improving your child’s health.  After examining the spine, Dr. Niemela will gently and precisely adjust the spine to correct misalignment with no twisting, cracking, or popping.  This restores nerve communication and ensures that the body can once again function without interruption or dysfunction so that your child can concentrate better, have smoother, more fluid movement for motor skills, and experience an improvement in overall health and wellness.

Chiropractic Helps Those with Developmental Delays

Case studies prove that chiropractic has safely and effectively worked for other children with developmental delays and it can help you, too.  In one case of a 4-year-old boy, chiropractic care significantly improved his speech and fine motor skills.  After being diagnosed with dyspraxia at age one, he was just beginning to be able to form sounds and words.  But after 4 months of regular chiropractic care, his vocabulary increased to over several hundred words!  Additionally, 157 children between the ages of 6 and 13 experienced a decrease in developmental delays and improvement in overall performance through chiropractic care.  Not only that, but the health benefits of chiropractic care are exceptional.  Your children can perform well and feel great with regular visits to a Bentonville chiropractor.

There is hope for children experiencing developmental delays with chiropractic care.  To learn more about it, contact Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic.

Sources

Cuthbert, SC., Barras, M. “Developmental delay syndromes: psychometric testing before and after chiropractic treatment of 157 children.” Journal of Manipulative Physiological Therapy, 2009 Oct; 32(8):660-9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19836603.

Troy, J., Dennis, T., Cade, A. “Developmental advancements following chiropractic care in a four-year-old child with dyspraxia and associated developmental delays: A case report.” Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, 15(1). http://jccponline.com/developmental-advancements.html.

Arbor Vitae Chiropractic Awarded Two Big Honors

Arbor Vitae Chiropractic is excited and honored to announce that we were recent recipients of two big awards!  Not only was Arbor Vitae’s founder Dr. Tom Niemela awarded Bentonville’s “Owner Under 30” award, but Arbor Vitae Chiropractic was also awarded Small Business of the Year! These two notable awards show our dedication to serve our neighbors and impact the health and wellness of the Bentonville community through providing excellent chiropractic care.  Dr. Niemela knows that neurologically-based chiropractic care in children and adults can improve overall health and quality of life, and he is honored to educate his neighbors about this life-changing fact.  He has dedicated his knowledge and skills to ensuring that his practice members receive the best in chiropractic care to stay healthy for their whole lives.

A Small Business with Big Impact

In June of 2016, Dr. Niemela and his wife Brooke opened Arbor Vitae Chiropractic.  While most chiropractic offices average about 100 visits per week, Dr. Niemela and his wife were able to see 162 practice members by the end of the very first week!  At the end of their first year in business, they were serving over 400 practice members per week and increased to 600 by their second year.  Dr. Niemela and his wife Brooke continue to run the office full time, but they know they could not serve at such a high level without the help of their team. They are honored to be able to add jobs to the Bentonville community while also helping their practice members live a healthier, fuller life.

Facing Challenges Head On

Dr. Niemela and his wife opened their chiropractic practice when they were 26 and 21 years old, respectively.  Because they were part of the younger millennial generation, they had to work extremely hard to prove themselves to the community.  But they didn’t let any challenges stand in their way.  They built up a reputation of commitment and dedication by sharing their message all over the community at Farmer’s Markets, local pop-up shops, and expos, something they still continue to do today with the help of their team.  Not everyone understands the science of neurologically-based chiropractic care, but with open and honest conversations about what they do and why they do it, Dr. Niemela and Brooke were able to change the minds of the people of Bentonville and build bridges within the community to create the successful practice they have today.

Giving Back to the Community

For the Niemelas, it’s not just about running a successful business, but it’s about serving their community as well.  That is why they make it a priority to give back through fundraisers and acts of service.  In 2017, Dr. and Mrs. Niemela partnered with Sheep Dog Impact Assistance to feed over 80 veteran families, and they carry on this tradition each year.  They have also teamed up with NWA food bank to collect over 1,200 cans of soup and have sponsored numerous community events such as Children’s Advocacy Center Glow Run, Bentonville Debate & Forensics Team, Vintage Market Days, Little Craft Show, Small Business BingoFest, and many more.

About Arbor Vitae

Arbor Vitae means “tree of life” in Latin.  This name stands for the health, life, and control that chiropractic care can give you with Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Niemela.  When you are living your healthiest life, you are able to experience life to the fullest by spending time with family, hanging out with friends, or enjoying your favorite hobbies or activities.  Here at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, we strive to see each practice member branch out and grow in health to enjoy life to its fullest!

If you are interested in learning about how chiropractic care can help your body function at high levels of health, please contact the staff at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic for more information today.

Chiropractic Care for Tech Neck

Not a day goes by that we don’t use technology of some sort.  From cell phones to laptops to tablets and everything in between, technology is all around us.  Technology is a great tool that we can utilize for many aspects of our life, but it can also lead to health concerns.  Technology is used so frequently in today’s world that it has led to neck, back, and shoulder problems because of the constant bending over or straining to look at our technological devices.  It is so common that it even has a name: tech neck.  Tech neck is poor posture from being hunched over and staring at a screen. It often leads to pain or other health concerns from the misalignments of the spine that result from it.  Text neck is another similar condition that comes specifically from looking down at mobile devices.  If you spend a lot of time on the computer, phone, or tablet and are suffering the consequences, a Bentonville chiropractor can help correct improper posture to alleviate pain.

Symptoms of Tech Neck

Staring a screen all day causes forward head posture that often leads to annoying aches and pains.  The neck is meant to support the head, but for every inch our head is forward, it adds 10 pounds of pressure to the neck in an effort to support the head.  This leads to the signs and symptoms of tech neck or text neck, such as shoulder pain, pain or tenderness in the neck, muscles stiffness, headaches, or tingling in the neck and shoulders.  It is extremely important that the spine, neck, and head are in alignments so that the entire body is properly supported.  Visits to Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can correct poor posture to alleviate the painful symptoms of tech neck.

What Can Chiropractic Do For Me?

Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, specifically spinal alignment.  Because tech neck stems from poor spinal health, chiropractic care is a great option to alleviate the frustrating symptoms that can occur.  Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic will perform an assessment to locate spinal misalignments.  Gentle adjustments will correct posture, ensure proper alignments of the head, neck, and spine, as well as relieve muscle stiffness and tension.  Regular chiropractic care will not only decrease pain and discomfort, but it will also improve range of motion so that you can be comfortable once again.

How Can I Prevent Tech Neck?

Even if you have been to the chiropractor and your tech neck pain has eased up, you may still have to work at a computer or use your phone throughout the day.  So how can you keep tech neck or text neck from returning?  Regular chiropractic care from Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can keep your posture in check to eliminate strain from tech neck.  Not only that, but chiropractic care also has incredible health benefits that will improve your overall health and improve the overall function of the body.  Don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic if you suffer from tech neck to experience relief through chiropractic care.

Sources

Maltby, K., Harrison, D.D., Harrison, D.E., Betz, J.W, Ferrantelli, J.R., Clum, G.W. “Frequency & Duration of Chiropractic Care for Headaches, Neck and Upper Back Pain.”Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2008 Aug: 1-12. 

Morningstar MW, Pettibon BR, Schlappi H, Schlappi M, Ireland TV. “Reflex control of the spine and posture: a review of the literature from a chiropractic perspective.” Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 2005 Aug 9; 13:16. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16091134.

Alleviate Numbness and Tingling with Chiropractic Care

Do you often have a sensation of pins and needles in your arms or legs?  Does it feel like your extremities are “asleep” on a regular basis?  If so, these tingling and numbness sensations can be extremely annoying, and sometimes even a sign of a larger issue.  For some, these feelings can occur after sitting too long, while sleeping, or while holding your arms over your heads for any length of time, such as when blow drying or styling your hair.  Most of the time, a numbness or tingling feeling isn’t usually a big concern, but because it can be frustrating and even painful, it is helpful to know that there is a solution available with chiropractic care.

Why Do I Have Numbness and Tingling?

Numbness and tingling can occur for any number of reasons.  Some of the more common reasons include carpal tunnel syndrome and multiple sclerosis.  Lack of blood flow can also cause the pins and needles sensation, which is often caused by a pinched nerve or poor circulation.  More serious health concerns such as a stroke, seizures, or diabetes can also lead to this uncomfortable feeling in your extremities.  But no matter what the cause, chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor can alleviate the numbness and tingling so you can experience relief.

Chiropractic Care Addresses the Root Cause

A lot of the time, the cause of a numbness or tingling feeling is associated with the nerves.  Chiropractic care focuses on improving the function of the central nervous system, including your nerves, which makes it an obvious choice for finding relief.  Spinal misalignments can lead to improper blood flow, pinched nerves, carpal tunnel syndrome, or even migraines due to nerve interference.  Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela addresses the root cause of nerve interference through gentle chiropractic adjustments to remove misalignments.  Removing misalignments will improve blood flow, relieve pinched nerves, or even bring about carpal tunnel relief to alleviate the numbness and tingling sensation that has you on edge.  As an added bonus, chiropractic care also improves overall health and quality of life so that you can live your best life.

It Has Worked for Others and Can Work for You!

When some people first discover chiropractic care for numbness and tingling, they may be skeptical, wondering how chiropractic care can fix the issue.  But case studies and chiropractic research show how chiropractic has worked for others and how well it can work for you, too.  One such case study looked at a 24-year-old woman who suffered for two years from paresthesia, or numbness and tingling, in her right arm.  She found full relief after only one week of chiropractic care!  In another case study, 162 people sought chiropractic care for nerve-related pain caused by radiculopathy.  Over 85% of those who were under chiropractic care found relief from numbness and tingling after just nine visits to the chiropractor.

No longer do you have to live with that irritating numbness and tingling sensation.  Contact Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to set up a consultation and being to address the root cause of your problem.

Sources

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

Christensen, K. D., & Buswell, K. (2008). Chiropractic outcomes managing radiculopathy in a hospital setting: a retrospective review of 162 patients. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 7(3); 115–125. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2682943/

Pinched Nerve Pain? Chiropractic Can Help!

Pinched nerve pain can come out of nowhere.  Maybe you twisted or turned the wrong way and experienced a sharp pain in your back or neck.  Maybe you were injured when playing sports and now you have residual pain.  Maybe you simple woke up with pain in your neck or back.  All of these could be instances of pinched nerve pain.  Any little movement can aggravate the problem area, causing sharp pain.  But what is the cause of pinched nerve pain?  Spinal misalignments, or vertebrae that are turned, twisted, or out of place, are most often the root cause of pinched nerve pain.  Vertebrae that are out of place can put pressure on or compress nerves that lead to the numbness, tingling, or pain you are experiencing.  As soon as you suspect pinched nerve pain, get in contact with a Bentonville chiropractor to find safe, natural, effective relief.

Chiropractic Care Relieves Pinched Nerve Pain

If not addressed, pinched nerve pain can come and go for weeks at a time, leaving you feeling frustrated and uncomfortable.  Don’t wait to get the help you need to experience relief.  Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela is experienced in pinched nerve pain and can have you back to living your best life in no time.  Chiropractic care focuses on correcting spinal alignments that affect other conditions or pain.  Usually, spinal misalignments are the source of nerve pain.  With regular visits to Dr. Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, you can find the relief you have been searching for.   After assessing the spine, Dr. Niemela will perform gentle and precise adjustments to correct vertebrae that are out of place and restore proper spinal alignment to decrease pressure on the nerves.  The benefits of chiropractic care even extend beyond alleviating pinched nerve pain.  Removing spinal misalignments also removes nerve interference that keeps the body and brain from communicating properly, leading to dysfunction and pain in other areas of the body as well.  But when misalignments are removed, the body can function at high levels of health so you can be happy, healthy, and comfortable once again. 

Experience Long-Term Relief

Medications may ease pain for a short amount of time, but sadly, pain often returns even worse than before once the medication wears off.  Thankfully, neurologically-based chiropractic care is a long-term solution that addresses and corrects the root cause of nerve pain.  Not only that, but use of medication over long periods of time can damage organs, specifically the liver that metabolizes the medication.  Too often, we reach for medication out of habit or convenience instead of seeking a safer, more natural solution.  Chiropractic care is both safe and effective, and it addresses the root cause of pain or dysfunction.  We only have one body, so it essential that we do everything we can to take care of it to the best of our ability. 

Don’t let pinched nerve pain keep you from doing the things you love.  Instead, find relief when you schedule a consultation with Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Sources

Dishman, R.W. “Static and Dynamic Components of the Chiropractic Subluxation Complex: a Literature Review.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapy, 1988 April; 11(2): 98-107. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3290377.

Owens, E.F. “Chiropractic subluxation assessment: what the research tells us.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 2002 Dec; 46(4): 215-220. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2505023/?page=1.

Vernon, H. “Historical overview and update on subluxation theories.” Journal of Chiropractic Humanities, 2012 Dec; 17(1): 22-32. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3342797/.

Proactive or Reactive Health: Which Is Best?

In life, sickness or illness seem to hit when we least expect them, at the most inconvenient times.  When this happens, our first reaction is to go to the doctor or get medication for a quick fix.  In more severe cases, we may even consider invasive procedures to correct a health problem.  But what if there was another way? Instead of reacting to a health problem that arises, it’s best to be proactive, working towards preventing health concerns before they arise.   Chiropractic care is a proactive approach to your health that aims to address problem areas and improve your overall health.  Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela focuses on whole-body health through chiropractic care so you can take a proactive stance to your healthcare.

The Downfalls of Reactive Healthcare

Reacting to your health concerns may be the first response, but it’s not always the best.  Medications can be a short-term solution, but the problem typically returns, maybe even worse than before, as soon as medications wear off.  Taking medicine is only a temporary fix that masks the symptoms instead of addressing the root cause of the issue.  Medications can also have unwanted side effects that only further complicate matters.  In truth, it can often leave us wondering if there is a better, more effective solution.  And there is!  Regular visits to a Bentonville chiropractor are a natural and safe method for getting to the root of your health issue to improve your health.

Self-Care Is Best: Be Proactive!

It is necessary that you take care of yourself if you want to live an overall healthy life.  We need to listen to our bodies and be sure that we are doing all we can to give our body what it needs.  That means eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep at night.  It also means we should ensure that our body can function at high levels of health.  Chiropractic care focuses on improving the central nervous system so that the body’s systems function smoothly and correctly.  Regular adjustments from Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic are a great way to make sure our bodies are getting what they need to stay healthy and fight off sickness before it can manifest itself.  This proactive approach to your health is incredibly beneficial for allowing you to live a healthy and happy life.  It is so beneficial that sports teams have even begun to implement chiropractic care into their daily regimens so players can be at their best all season long.

Chiropractic Care Is Proactive

What many don’t realize is that spinal misalignments can have a negative effect on your overall health.  In fact, misalignments of the spine, or subluxations, will disrupt nerve communication, meaning the body’s systems can’t communicate with each other as they should.  This only leads to chaos and dysfunction.  It can cause small but irritating problems such as frequent headaches, colds, or sinus problems, or it can even be the cause of larger health issues such as digestion problems or infertility.  Gentle chiropractic adjustments can correct spinal misalignments to restore communication once again so that you can stop sickness in its tracks.

If you are ready to take a proactive stance to your health, then contact Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today.  The sooner you start, the faster you can see the amazing results.

Source

Miners, A. L. (2010). “Chiropractic treatment and the enhancement of sport performance: a narrative literature review.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 54(4), 210–221. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2989393/.

Find Relief from GERD with Chiropractic

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, otherwise known as GERD, is severe acid reflux that occurs when the contents of the stomach are forced back up from the stomach and into the esophagus. A special valve known as the lower esophageal sphincter is responsible for keeping food in the stomach once it passes through the esophagus.  In the case of those with GERD, this valve may not be doing its job correctly.  It does not fully close which, in turn, allows stomach substances to pass back up into the esophagus. GERD can be extremely irritating as it can cause significant discomfort as well as painful heartburn. Other symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, burning in the chest, the sensation that food is stuck in the esophagus, and nausea.  If not treated, symptoms of GERD can worsen and lead to other major health concerns.  But you don’t have to accept this type of severe acid reflux as a part of your life.  Chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor is a proven and effective method for treating GERD that many people are not aware of.

Non-Invasive Relief for GERD

If you suffer from GERD, chances are you have seen a doctor about your symptoms.  Doctors may recommend something as simple as a change in your diet to reduce acid reflux.  Avoiding fried or fatty foods and eliminating alcohol and caffeine can help alleviate symptoms.  Other lifestyle changes such as exercising more can also reduce symptoms of GERD.  However, if these options don’t work, many turn to medications or even invasive surgical procedures in an effort to find relief.  But medications are only a short-term solution that don’t actually fix the problem and can also lead to unpleasant side effects.  Medications can even have a negative effect, actually making GERD worse instead of better.  In extreme cases, medication or surgery may be necessary, but before you turn to these more invasive options, consider consulting a Bentonville chiropractor.  Chiropractic care is a natural and safe method for managing GERD that brings about long-term relief through non-invasive means. It is likely the best option for you and certainly should be considered.

How Can Chiropractic Manage Symptoms of GERD?

Chiropractic care and improving spinal health are important in ensuring that the body can function as it should.  Spinal misalignments can disrupt nerve communication, which in turn disrupts the natural flow of the body that can lead to all kinds of health concerns and dysfunction, including things like GERD.  In fact, chiropractic care has been shown to reduce dependency upon medicine in those who suffer from GERD.  A case study of an infant who had been diagnosed with GERD found that with regular chiropractic care, she was able to go off all medication and find complete resolution after just three months of chiropractic care.  The central nervous system plays a vital role in how well the body can function.  Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can perform gentle chiropractic adjustments to remove spinal misalignments to bring about optimal health and wellness.

Before considering invasive options, turn to chiropractic care to alleviate the often annoying and painful symptoms of GERD.  Set up a consultation with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today.

Sources

Alcantara, J., Anderson, R. “Chiropractic Care of a Pediatric Patient with Symptoms Associated with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Fuss-Cry-Irritability with Sleep Disorder Syndrome and Irritable Infant Syndrome of Musculoskeletal Origin.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 2008 Dec; 52(4): 248-255. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2597889/.

Angus, K., Asgharifar, S., Gleberzon, B. “What Effect Does Chiropractic Treatment Have On Gastrointestinal (GI) Disorders: A Narrative Review of the Literature” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 2015 Jun; 59(2): 122–133. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4486990/

Can Chiropractic Help Manage Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s is a disease that affects the dopamine in the brain.  Dopamine is a necessary chemical needed for proper brain function and body movement.  It is what allows the muscles of the body to move smoothly and easily.  Those affected by Parkinson’s are unable to produce the amount of dopamine needed for proper body movement.  Over 1.5 million people are affected by Parkinson’s and a staggering 60,000 more are diagnosed with this disease each year.  Signs of Parkinson’s include shaking or trembling of various parts of the body, especially when not moving, stiff muscles, slow movement and response time, as well as balance concerns.  This disease only worsens over time, leading to more severe loss of control.  As it progresses, Parkinson’s can also lead to difficulty eating and swallowing, loss of bladder control, and even loss of mental function that can cause dementia.  While Parkinson’s at its worst stages is devastating both for those suffering and for family members, there are methods for slowing the progress of the disease and addressing symptoms to improve quality of life.  In recent years, chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor has been known to do just that.

Improving Spinal Health Can Decrease Symptoms of Parkinson’s

After receiving a Parkinson’s diagnosis, some may look for treatment methods to address commonly occurring symptoms.  Medications are the most common form of treatment, but they aren’t proven to work for everyone.  Some may also undergo deep brain stimulation in an effort to increase function of the brain with electrical impulses.  For many, this can prove to be scary and invasive.  But chiropractic care is a safe alternative that is natural and effective without the risks of harmful side effects.  The goal of chiropractic care is to improve the function of the central nervous system, composed of the brain and spinal cord and the driving force behind everything that occurs in the body.  Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela will improve spinal health to increase the function of the central nervous system and the brain by removing spinal misalignments that cause nerve interference.  When the body can’t communicate properly, it causes dysfunction that results in worsening symptoms of Parkinson’s.  Many people with Parkinson’s have seen significant results and improvements when spinal misalignments are removed and necessary communication is restored.

Parkinson’s Research

Many case studies have been conducted to study the effects of chiropractic care on those who suffer from Parkinson’s.  In one study, a 68-year-old woman who had complained of tremors, loss of motion, and back pain from Parkinson’s found almost complete relief after being under chiropractic care.  A similar study linked the Atlas vertebrae of the spine to possible key signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s.  In fact, a 63-year-old male with Parkinson’s symptoms saw a decrease in pain as well as improved motor function after being under regular chiropractic care. 

If Parkinson’s has affected your quality of life or the life of someone you love, there is hope to slow down progression and reduce symptoms with chiropractic care.  Contact Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to find out more about chiropractic care for Parkinson’s.

Sources

Landry, S. “Upper Cervical Chiropractic Management of a Patient Diagnosed with Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease: A Case Report.” Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, 2012 July: 63-70. 

Norton, M., Callahan, M. “Reduction of Symptoms Associated with Parkinson’s Disease Subsequent to Subluxation-Based Chiropractic Care: A Case Study.” Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2013 Dec: 120-130. 

Chiropractic Care Is Beneficial After Experiencing Concussions

An injury to the head either from direct impact or intense shaking is called a concussion.  A concussion is considered a Traumatic Brain Injury and should be treated carefully.  If you have been in a car accident, suffered a head injury while playing sports, or experienced a fall that affected the head, you may have suffered from a concussion as well.  Both children and adults alike can get a concussion from trauma to the head.  Recovering from a concussion can take time, but a Bentonville chiropractor can aid in the recovery process for a faster, easier healing period. Additionally, chiropractic care can improve your overall health to prevent future concussions.

Be Aware of Signs and Symptoms

Concussions can be harmful to your health, especially if left untreated.  Signs of a concussion may be hardly noticeable at all, while at other times the symptoms are severe.  Either way, at the first sign that something is wrong, don’t hesitate to seek treatment.  Look for signs of dizziness, confusion, loss of balance, memory problems, blurry vision, drowsiness, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea or vomiting, delayed reaction time, unequal pupil sizes, irritability, abnormal eye movement, and seizures.  Some symptoms will appear right away after trauma to the head, while others may not develop until later or at all.  If you have experienced a head trauma of any kind and notice any of these symptoms after injury, consult a doctor immediately. 

After Consulting a Doctor, Visit a Chiropractor

When concussions occur, the brain comes into contact with the skull, causing bruising on the brain.  Most concussions won’t cause brain damage, but they do require time to fully heal and recover.  Multiple concussions can increase the likelihood of brain swelling after an injury to the head, which could prove to be fatal.  To promote healing after a head injury, consult with a Bentonville chiropractor.  Chiropractic care increases blood flow and oxygen to the injured brain to speed up the healing process.  Not only can chiropractic care with Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic improve blood flow to help bruises on the brain heal faster, but it can also remove spinal misalignments that may affect how the body functions.  When the spine is in proper alignment, there is no nerve interference causing dysfunction within the body so that the body can function at high levels of health to heal itself efficiently.

How Do I Know Chiropractic Works?

Research shows that chiropractic is a natural and effective method that has helped many people heal faster after a concussion.  In one particular study, a 31-year-old woman suffered from dizziness, nausea, neck pain, and headaches due to a concussion from a fall.  After just 8 visits to a chiropractor over two and a half weeks, she experienced total relief from concussion symptoms.  Chiropractic is such an effective method not only for optimal healing after a concussion, but also for the overall health of the whole body. Because of this, most sports teams across the nation have implemented chiropractic care into their regular sports regimens. 

If you or someone you love has suffered from a concussion, contact Dr. Tom Neimela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic for faster healing time as well as improved overall health of function of the body. 

Sources

Gergen, D.M. “Management of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Symptoms in a 31-Year-Old Woman Using Cervical Manipulation and Acupuncture: A Case Report.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2015 Sep; 14(3): 220-224. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4685187/.

Shane, E.R., Pierce, K.M., Gonzalez, J.K., Campbell, N.J. “Sports Chiropractic Management of Concussions Using the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 2 Symptom Scoring, Serial Examinations, and Graded Return to Play Protocol: A Retrospective Case Series.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2013 Dec; 12(4): 252-259. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3838718/.