Naturally Improving Sleep in Children

It’s common knowledge that being a parent is exhausting at times, particularly in the first few years of your child’s life. But if your kids have trouble sleeping, the whole household can feel the negative effects of exhaustion. Kids can struggle to fall asleep, stay asleep, or get quality sleep for a number of reasons, but poor sleep can also bring about additional issues. Behavior problems, trouble concentrating, and mood swings can all come about when children are sleep-deprived. Additionally, developmental challenges can come about from a lack of sleep, meaning children may struggle to meet important milestones and perform age-appropriate activities and skills. Because of this, it’s extremely important to deal with any sleep troubles and help your child get the amount of rest and high-quality sleep they need for their health—and yours.

Causes of Childhood Sleep Troubles

For most children, sleep troubles don’t have one singular cause. Sometimes, respiratory issues, neurological problems, behavior issues, poor sleep habits, lack of routine, improper sleep training, and more can contribute to children having trouble sleeping. Occasionally, hormonal imbalances may be the cause of sleep troubles, as the sleep-inducing chemicals that the body naturally produces are not plentiful or produced at the proper time of day. A poor diet, lack of exercise, and poor overall health can also contribute to challenges with sleep. Sometimes, going through some sleep training and improving a child’s diet and activity levels will be enough to see drastic improvements in sleep habits. But if that isn’t effective or doesn’t help as much as anticipated, chiropractic care is a great option.

Pediatric Chiropractic for Improved Sleep

Pediatric chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela has experience working with kids of all ages, from the tiniest newborns to teens and young adults. He practices neurologically-based chiropractic care in Bentonville, which helps the central nervous system to function better, thus improving all the systems of the body. A spinal misalignment can wreak havoc on the nervous system, which impacts the hormone production that can impact sleep, among other things. Inflammation, muscle spasms, and interrupted sleep cycles can all play a role in childhood sleep disturbances, but chiropractic care can help with all of those things.

Pediatric chiropractic consists of gentle, specific adjustments that activate the nervous system and help the body regulate and work as it should, allowing children to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, all the while getting a higher quality sleep than they may have ever experienced. Studies have proven that chiropractic care is a safe, natural, and effective method to improve sleep habits in children and adults alike.

If you’re interested in learning more about the vast benefits of pediatric chiropractic, or if you are finally ready to face those sleeping challenges head-on, contact Dr. Tom Niemela and his team at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic in Bentonville.

Sources

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

Vernon, L.F. “The Chiropractic Subluxation and Insomnia: Could there be a Connection?” Journal of Sleep Medicine & Disorders, 2015 Oct; 2(5): 1032. http://www.jscimedcentral.com/SleepMedicine/sleepmedicine-2-1032.pdf

What It Costs: Traditional Health Care vs. Chiropractic Care

It is a fact of life that healthcare comes with a hefty bill in a lot of cases. When you visit the doctor, you not only owe a copay or payment in full, but you may have additional bills for medications, treatments, and even surgeries. You may be worried that going to the chiropractor will simply add another bill to this list, especially if your chiropractor tells you that you’ll need to visit multiple times a week to begin with. But the good news is that the benefits of chiropractic care eventually start to lower your other costs of healthcare by improving your wellbeing. Setting up recurrent visits with a Bentonville chiropractor can be a wise investment that helps you control long-term costs, in addition to getting much healthier.

Traditional Healthcare Costs

Your basic preventative trips to the doctor may not be overly expensive if you have a good insurance plan, leaving you with minimal out of pocket costs. But if you are prescribed medication or have to go to additional visits, the costs begin to add up quickly. And in many cases, medication does not actually address the root cause of an issue, but only helps alleviate symptoms. This means that many conditions worsen over time and require even more medical intervention, like surgeries or hospital visits that can quickly become difficult to afford. In addition, you may need to take time off work or lose out on money-making opportunities because of these chronic issues.

Preventative Expenses

It may seem daunting to add even more expenses to your list of healthcare costs, and at first it may seem overwhelming to pay for consistent adjustments at a chiropractor. In many cases, the diagnostic scans used in office can raise the cost even further. But rather than thinking of these as cumulative costs, chiropractic care should be thought of as an investment, as it offers preventative care.

Your overall health is heavily impacted by the health and alignment of your spine, and any misalignments can lead to a variety of illnesses and injuries. When Dr. Tom Niemela evaluates your spine, his goal is to perform adjustments that realign it and allow your body to function optimally moving forward. This allows the body to heal quickly and prevent illness and injury more effectively than it otherwise could have. Chiropractic care allows your body to work well enough that many of your doctor visits and medical expenses can be eliminated. Once you are at this point, the need for adjustments becomes less frequent as well.

How Does the Cost of Chiropractic Compare?  

We aren’t the only ones who have noticed this difference. A study of North Carolina workman’s compensation claims spanned 19 years and found that the average claim for medical care was $21,000, while the average for chiropractic care was only $663. The injured workers who saw a chiropractor were also able to go back to work more quickly than those using traditional medical care.

If you have hesitated to see a chiropractor because of the cost, it is important to consider the investment in your health and what your medical bills may look like after your spine is in alignment. Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic will work with you to achieve overall health, allowing you to be proactive and avoid more expensive care in the future. Reach out today to make the investment in yourself.

Sources

“Cost of Chiropractic Care Compared to Family Physician.” International Chiropractors Association. 2008. http://www.chiropractic.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/6-Chapter-5.pdf

Maltby, J.K., Harrison, D.D., Harrison, D.E., Betz, J.W., Ferrantelli, J.R., Clum, G.W. “Frequency and Duration of Chiropractic Care for Headaches, Neck, and Upper Back Pain.” Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, Aug 2008. https://getgreaterlifechiropractic.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Microsoft-Word-2008-1274_frequency.doc.pdf.

Back Pain, Shoes, and Spinal Health

Back pain is one of the most common complaints in our country. Between our poor posture, staring at screens all day, sleeping in strange positions, and more, it’s no wonder that our spines are not as healthy as they could be. The lack of spinal health can not only bring about frustrating back pain, but it can also bring a slew of health issues, chronic pain, and debilitating ailments along with it.

One of the best recommendations for someone suffering from back pain is to see a chiropractor. That can make a huge difference in not only your overall comfort and pain levels, but also your total health. Another quick lifestyle change you can make that can have a huge impact is the shoes you wear.

How Can Shoes Cause Back Pain?

Any number of things can bring about back pain, including your shoes. When you wear shoes that don’t fit well, have poor support, or slide around easily, you have to change your gait. Although it may seem slight, this change in how you walk can wreak havoc on your spinal muscles, often causing tightness, soreness, and even a shift in your spinal alignment. When you have to squeeze your toes to keep your shoes on or walk funny to avoid pain from your shoes, problems arise. Certain shoes also affect the tightness of your calf muscles or the arch of your foot, both of which can lead to leg or foot pain as well as back pain. High heels, flats with little arch support, thin flip flops with no cushion, and poorly fitting shoes are all problematic when it comes to your spinal health.

If you find yourself wearing one of the above-mentioned shoes the majority of the time and have recurring or chronic back pain, it might be time to visit your local shoe store or hop online to purchase some new shoes. You don’t have to wear unattractive yet comfortable shoes constantly, but switching out your more stylish shoes for ones with more support just a few times a week can bring about huge benefits to your spinal health. You can also consider insoles or alternating your shoes when you can to minimize the strain on your back and decrease your pain.

Chiropractic Care Can Help

By making different shoe choices on occasion and visiting your local Bentonville chiropractor, you will likely see huge improvements in your back pain pretty quickly. Regular chiropractic care helps to keep your spine in proper alignment, keep your muscles flexible and healthy, and keep your entire body in proper balance so that everything can function properly. If you’re experiencing back pain, neck pain, or any other health concerns, trust that Dr. Tom Niemela at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can help. His gentle and specific chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pain, improve health and wellness, and optimize overall body function so you can be at your healthiest. Contact Dr. Niemela and his team at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic in Bentonville to set up your consultation and get on the road to health and pain-free living.

Sources

Lisón, J.F., Pérez-Soriano, P., Llana-Belloch, S., Sánchez-Zuriaga, D., Salvador-Coloma, P. “Effects of Unstable Shoes on Trunk Muscle Activity and Lumbar Spine Kinematics.” European Journal of Physical Rehabilitation Medicine, 2016 Aug; 52(4): 440-446. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25854301/

Stewart, K. “The Best and Worst Shoes for Back Pain.” Everyday Health, 2016 Dec. https://www.everydayhealth.com/news/best-worst-shoes-back-pain/

How Chiropractic Affects Balance

Those of us who are healthy, able-bodied adults tend to take for granted how much of our body is working together to keep us balanced and upright during our day-to-day activities. We enjoy standing up, walking, and running around without dizzy spells or falling over, often without being aware of how amazing that is. Balance and coordination are key to helping us go about our day seamlessly and it is only when our balance is impaired that we may seek out help to avoid more trips and falls. If you begin to notice issues with balance in your day to day activities, Dr. Tom Niemela can help.

What Affects Balance and Coordination?

The brain is responsible for communicating with the rest of the body about how to maintain balance, coordination, and muscle control. Your brain communicates to your body through the spinal cord, and when any part of your spine is out of place, or misaligned, your balance and coordination may be affected.

One main signifier of balance problems is dizziness. You may experience lightheadedness, have difficulty walking, feel like the room is spinning, or even faint. Dizziness can result from poor communication from the brain to the rest of the body, specifically with the muscles that help keep you upright. Ear infections, deteriorating eyesight, poor posture, and poor circulation can all contribute to dizziness and loss of balance.

Poor Balance in Older Adults

Older adults tend to experience more difficulties with balance due to a natural deterioration of the senses and loss of muscular strength. Experiencing a fall can significantly impact the health and daily activities of older adults, and falls brought on by a loss of balance and dizziness are not uncommon. Proper alignment in the neck and spine can help positively impact balance and coordination in people of all ages, including older adults. Seniors can help improve their balance with gentle chiropractic adjustments that remove misalignments in the spine and strengthen muscles and other soft tissue that supports the spine and neck, which contributes to good balance and improved posture.

Proactive Chiropractic Care for Balance

Chiropractic care is about properly aligning the spine to improve communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Regular visits to your Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can support your musculoskeletal system and encourage balance and coordination in your daily life. Because the spine is the communication hub for the rest of the body, chiropractic care can help restore healthy communication to your muscles, nerves, and the rest of the body. Through chiropractic care, you may also experience improved circulation, which also increases the health of your musculoskeletal system.

When you get under regular chiropractic care at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, you will begin to notice significant improvements in your balance and coordination because your brain is able to effectively communicate with the rest of your body. Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Niemela helps eliminate any interruptions in the line of communication, such as misalignments and weakened muscles that support the spine. Additionally, chiropractic care can significantly improve your health and well-being overall because your body will be functioning and communicating at its best.  Schedule an appointment with Dr. Niemela to see for yourself how chiropractic care can improve your balance, posture, health, well-being, and more.

Source

Strunk, Richard; Hawk, Cheryl. “Effects of chiropractic care on dizziness, neck pain, and balance: a single-group, preexperimental, feasibility study” (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2786230/)

Chiropractic Care for a Working Lifestyle

The past few months have brought about many changes to our daily lives. People who once worked in an office are now trying to figure out how to effectively and comfortably work from home. Many of those who work in retail have been asked to work longer hours with more physically demanding responsibilities. These changes can take a toll on your body and can wreak havoc on your physical comfort and pain levels.

If you sit or stand for hours on end or if your job is labor intensive in any way, you are probably no stranger to stiff joints, aching muscles, and back or neck pain. Thankfully, Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can provide excellent chiropractic care that will ease your discomfort, speed up healing from pain and injuries, and increase your stamina and overall health and comfort.

How Does Chiropractic Help When I Sit or Stand All Day?

When you remain in the same position for the majority of the day, your muscles try to adapt to make that position comfortable. But this can cause big problems when you eventually change positions or when you simply stay in that same position for countless hours every day. Your posture can be affected by pain, which leads you to change how you sit or stand, which then brings about even more pain.

Back and neck pain from sitting and standing all day can also bring about headaches, neck stiffness, sciatica, aching joints, carpal tunnel, and more. It can also decrease your ability to concentrate, cause blurry vision, lessen the effectiveness of your immune system, and more. Thankfully, all of these things can be improved upon with regular chiropractic care.

Chiropractic care can help ease the strain and pressure on your muscles surrounding your spine, allowing them to better adapt to changing positions during the workday. Additionally, chiropractic adjustments will help restore proper alignment to the spine, minimizing nerve interference and muscle tension, allowing your body to both function and feel substantially better.

When you need increased stamina for full days of sitting or standing, chiropractic care can help with that too. When your spine is properly aligned, all the messages traveling from your brain to the other parts of your body will travel as intended, without any interruptions due to compressed nerves. This means you will experience better blood circulation, increased energy and focus, and, of course, less pain and more overall comfort.

Bentonville Chiropractor Can Help Those with a Working Lifestyle

If you have a job that requires a lot from you physically, whether that’s constant sitting, walking and standing for hours on end, or intensive manual labor that takes a toll on your comfort, Dr. Niemela can help. Arbor Vitae Chiropractic serves the entire Bentonville area with neurologically-based chiropractic care for the whole family. The gentle and precise adjustments bring about relief from pain and illness, as well as an increase in comfort and overall health. To learn more about how chiropractic care can help you or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Niemela and his team, contact Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today.

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

Oakley, P.A., Chaney, S.J., Chaney, T.A., Maddox, A. “Resolution of Chronic Headaches Following Reduction of Vertebral Subluxation in an 8-Year-Old Utilizing Chiropractic Biophysics Technique.” Journal of Pediatric, Maternal, and Family Health, 2011 Aug: 82-86. https://www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2017/09/10/resolution-of-chronic-headaches-following-reduction-of-vertebral-subluxation-in-an-8-year-old-utilizing-chiropractic-biophysics-technique/.

What We Can Learn from the 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic has made 2020 quite an interesting year so far. We are still learning more about this virus and state and federal legislatures are still making decisions regarding social distancing, shelter-in-place orders, and the reopening of businesses. Although this is a unique time and will certainly go down in history as an important era, we can look even farther back in our country’s history to learn how best to proceed.

The Spanish Flu Pandemic of 1918

In 1918, the Spanish flu pandemic ravaged the entire world. It killed millions of people and the death rate was extremely high. A source out of Iowa stated that medical doctors treated 93,950 patients who had the Spanish flu, and 6,116 of them died from the illness. That’s 1 in 15. Due to the extreme number of sick individuals, medical doctors were stretched thin and there simply weren’t enough of them to treat every patient. Chiropractors during that time were not nearly as respected as they are today, and they were not even considered real doctors, as the states refused to grant licensure to most of them. However, due to their education and the extreme need for medical care, many chiropractors were assigned flu patients to treat. In the same area in Iowa, chiropractors treated 4,735 patients with only 6 deaths. That’s 1 in 789, which is vastly different from the results that the medical doctors had.

Why Is Chiropractic So Important in a Pandemic?

Just as the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic taught us, chiropractic has a level of effectiveness that traditional medical care simply cannot compete with. While there is absolutely a time and a place for medicine, chiropractic care is something that should be utilized in any and all situations, including in a global pandemic. Chiropractic care has been shown to improve immune system function by 400% and those under regular chiropractic care consistently show an immune system response of 200% better than non-chiropractic patients. In addition to helping protect you against getting sick in the first place, chiropractic can help you heal quickly and more fully if you do get sick.

Central Nervous System Function

Bentonville chiropractors are focused on the central nervous system and how well the body functions as a whole. Although we’ve learned a whole lot more about how the body works since the 1918 flu pandemic, even back then, chiropractors understood that chiropractic adjustments increased white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infectious cells. Chiropractic adjustments improve communication between the brain and other systems of the body, allowing everything to function properly and optimally.

Just as chiropractic care was effective and necessary back in 1918, it is essential in today’s world of the coronavirus pandemic. Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela and his team are continuing to serve our practice members and our community with safe, natural, and effective chiropractic care during these trying times. The team is taking all necessary precautions to ensure safety and cleanliness in our office, and we would love to serve you soon and help improve your overall health and immune function.

Sources

Riley, G.W. “Osteopathic Success in the Treatment of Influenza and Pneumonia. 1919.” Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 2000 May; 100 (5): 315-319. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10850018/

How to Get a Good Night’s Sleep

One of the most important things we can do for our bodies is to get a full, restful night of sleep to recover from our long days. Not only does sleeping well promote a healthy lifestyle, but we spend about one third of our lives asleep, so it might as well be enjoyable! But many people struggle to sleep comfortably, due to pain or anxiety that disrupts their rest. While sleeping is natural, there are things we can do to make it easier and more restful. A body in alignment is more likely to fall asleep easier, sleep more soundly, and not wake up throughout the night. As a chiropractor focused on spinal alignment and overall wellbeing, Dr. Tom Niemela shares some tips for improving sleep habits.

Adjust Your Pillows

Most of us sleep with at least one pillow, but using pillows strategically is a useful way to aid the body in sleeping well. Pillows can reduce stress on joints and encourage alignment. Pillows under the knees (or between them, for those who sleep on their side) help to maintain the natural curve of the spine while keeping hips in alignment. If you’re most comfortable sleeping on your stomach, a small pillow under your pelvis can align the spine as well. For pillows under your head, try not to put your arms under the pillow. The pressure can lead to nerve irritation and cause stress in the shoulders and neck. A few carefully placed pillows may make the difference in how much you toss and turn.

Sleep Positions

When getting in bed, the goal should be to keep the feet, body, spine, and head as aligned as possible, meaning a neutral position is best. Sleeping on your back is the most highly recommended practice, but sleeping on your side can also keep your natural curve intact. If you sleep on your back, try to keep your arms in front of you and your knees bent to relieve pressure on your shoulders and hips. While some people find it most comfortable, sleeping on your stomach actually compresses the spine and leaves you in an unnatural position, so it’s recommended you avoid this if possible.

Chiropractic Care for Better Sleep

Even with the proper pillows and sleep position, some of us will still experience trouble sleeping. Many suffer from insomnia, a disorder classified by a lack of an ability to sleep at night. You may also deal with stress, anxiety, worry, fear, or depression, all of which can keep you up at night. If you struggle to fall asleep because your brain won’t seem to shut off, Dr. Niemela can help.

If your spine is misaligned, even a neutral sleep position will not be enough to reverse the disruption in the central nervous system. This disruption can lead to all of the issues mentioned above that can wreak havoc on your sleep. And if you’ve been sleeping one way your whole life and suddenly change it, the spine may try and revert to old curvatures out of habit. Regular adjustments from a Bentonville chiropractor can encourage proper alignment of the head, spine, hips, and feet, leading the body to sleep better as it is in a more neutral state.

If you suffer from trouble sleeping or simply want to improve your spine for even better sleep, make your first appointment at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today. Dr. Tom Niemela will assess and adjust your spine to improve not only your sleep, but also your overall health.

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

Visiting the Chiropractor During Coronavirus Pandemic

A novel form of Coronavirus, known as COVID-19, has spread rapidly across the globe, as well as across the media. It is hard now to turn to any news source without hearing about the pandemic and its worldwide effects, as well as recommendations from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) on ways to prevent further spreading in your community. Some of these measures are good health advice in general, such as washing your hands and minimizing how much you touch your face. The most talked about recommendation is “social distancing,” which is basically not leaving your house or interacting with people unless it’s absolutely necessary for your health or safety. It is recommended, however, that you keep up with all essential health care appointments, which includes visits to a Bentonville chiropractor. Arbor Vitae Chiropractic recognizes that chiropractic care has immune boosting benefits and will continue providing care to practice members during this critical time.

The Neuroimmune Connection

Chiropractic care focuses on the central nervous system, which controls messages sent from your brain to other parts of your body. In addition to this vital task, the central nervous system also controls your body’s immune system. The immune system is devoted to holding off any foreign illnesses, and when working properly, it allows your body to stay healthy in the face of disease, including when viruses are running rampant. In a situation such as we’re seeing with COVID-19, the health of your immune system will play a large role in your susceptibility to sickness, as well as the ability to heal quickly and fully if you do contract the virus.

Our bodies have something called the vagus nerve, which extends up past the top of the neck, which highlights the connection between these the central nervous system and immune system. The interaction between these is known as the inflammatory reflex arc. This indicates that anything being misaligned or otherwise off in the neck and spine can lead to diminished capabilities of the immune system. A gentle adjustment from Dr. Tom Niemela can align the spine, boosting your immune system. Research has shown that not only does chiropractic care encourage higher immunity, preventing sickness in the first place, but it can also help the body recover more quickly when illnesses do take hold. In one study, a young boy showing symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and headache underwent regular chiropractic adjustments. Within an hour of an adjustment, his fever began to lower, and some of the musculoskeletal symptoms he was experiencing subsided. Where medicinal options did not improve this boy’s health, chiropractic adjustments provided both short-term and lpng-term relief.

Commitment to Care During COVID-19

One of the reasons COVID-19 has caused chaos so quickly is that there is no existing cure, either through traditional medicine or alternative practices. Depending on severity and an individual’s health, symptoms can be addressed, but the main goal as of now is to prevent spread of the disease. Where spreading has already happened, the focus is on keeping vulnerable individuals safe. Much of the outcome will be dependent on our immune systems doing their job, preventing us from getting sick, and if we do get sick, helping us to recover. Immunity is more important than ever at this time, and chiropractic care can help improve immunity, so now is not the time to miss appointments for adjustments.

The staff at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic and Dr. Tom Niemela are committed to serving our practice members during this time. While the news can be overwhelming, you can take action by taking control of your own health, which includes visiting us in Bentonville for adjustments.

Sources

Cuoco, J. A., Fennie, C. N., & Cheriyan, G. K. (2016). “Hypothetical Link Between Osteopathic Suboccipital Decompression and Neuroimmunomodulation.” Journal of Neurology and Neuroscience, 7. https://www.jneuro.com/neurology-neuroscience/hypothetical-link-between-osteopathic-suboccipital-decompression-and-neuroimmunomodulation.php?aid=10151.

Gergen, D., Okins, N. “Resolution of Fever in an 11-year old Male Following Chiropractic Adjustments to Reduce Vertebral Subluxation: A Case Report & Review of Literature.” Journal of Pediatric, Maternal, & Family Health Chiropractic, Volume 2016; Issue 4: 127-130. https://www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2017/09/10/resolution-of-fever-in-an-11-year-old-male-following-chiropractic-adjustments-to-reduce-vertebral-subluxation-a-case-report-review-of-literature/

Cohn, A. “Chiropractic and the Neuroimmune Connection.” Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2008 Sept 30; 1-5. https://www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2017/09/05/chiropractic-and-the-neuroimmune-connection/

Basso, E., Potrzebowski, S. “Resolution of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis & Improved Immune Function in a 16 year old Undergoing Chiropractic Care: A Case Study.”  Journal of Pediatric, Maternal, & Family Health Chiropractic, Volume 2014; Issue 4: 65-69. https://www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2017/09/10/resolution-of-juvenile-idiopathic-arthritis-improved-immune-function-in-a-16-year-old-undergoing-chiropractic-care-a-case-study/

Feeling Stressed? Chiropractic Care Can Help

There’s no doubt about it: life can be pretty stressful at times.  Finances, relationships, work, and more can cause us to feel overwhelmed and stressed.  But as you probably already know, too much stress is bad news for our health.  It can take a toll on our overall health, weaken the immune system, and overload our body’s systems. Many sicknesses have even been directly linked to high stress levels! There are three main types of stress that our body can experience: emotional stress, physical stress, and chemical stress.  All three types of stress usually contribute to your feelings of stress, but no matter what has you feeling down and out, it’s important to address it before things get worse.  Rest assured, a Bentonville chiropractor can help you manage stress to lower your stress levels and improve your health.

Chemical, Physical, and Emotional Stress

These three types of stress can be extremely harmful to the body.  In fact, stress can lead to dysfunction and chaos.  Many health concerns can be traced back to high stress levels, leading us to the conclusion that addressing stress is an important part of staying healthy.  Emotional stress is something everyone has probably experienced in their lifetime as situations can arise that cause us to feel stressed out.  Whether it’s due to family, friends, relationships, or money, too much emotional stress is harmful to both the mind and the body.  Chemical stress is related to what we put in our bodies.  Drinking too much alcohol, smoking, or even taking medication on a regular basis put harmful chemicals into the body that can cause a negative reaction.  Sometimes even breathing in harsh cleaning chemicals or breathing air pollution can introduce unhealthy chemicals into the body. Certain foods add more chemical stress to the body as well, particularly those that are highly processed. Physical stress is just that, stress because of something physical that has occurred.  For instance, repetitive motion over time such as lifting heavy objects or moving equipment can take a physical toll on the body.  Sports injuries or accidents may also cause physical stress.  Any type of long-term stress, whether physical, chemical, or emotional, can have severe consequences for our health and should be addressed immediately.  Thankfully, Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can help.

Chiropractic Care Reduced Stress Levels

Dr. Niemela focuses on providing neurologically-based chiropractic care to improve the function of the central nervous system for whole body health.  What many people don’t realize is that spinal health is important to how the body functions as a whole.  Misalignment of the spine causes nerve interference, disrupting necessary communication.  When this happens, our body can’t communicate, leading to health issues such as inflammation, infection, a weakened immune system, or even higher stress levels.  When spinal misalignments are removed, the body is better equipped to deal with stress and can effectively lower stress levels to improve health.  Multiple case studies have shown that over 70% of people undergoing regular chiropractic care experienced a significant decrease in stress levels, showing the overall effectiveness of chiropractic care in improving our health and addressing stress before chaos ensues.

If too much stress has you feeling down, whether physically or emotionally, Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can help.  Gentle, safe, and effective chiropractic adjustments are a great way to ensure the body is in sync once again.  Be sure to contact Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment.

Sources

Jamison, J. “Stress: The Chiropractic Patients’ Self-Perceptions.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 1999 Jul-Aug; 22(6): 395-398.  www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10478772.

Won, E., Kim, Y.K. “Stress, the Autonomic Nervous System, and the Immune-kynurenine Pathway in the Etiology of Depression.” Current Neuropharmacology, 2016; 14(7): 665-673.  www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27640517.

Chiropractic Care for Your Young Athlete

Sports are a great outlet for many kids, not only allowing them to stay active, but also providing social connections and teaching them about teamwork and working hard toward achieving a goal. But as with any activity, there are risks that come with playing sports. Some of these risks are elevated in younger people whose bodies and brains are still developing. If your child plays sports of any kind, visiting a Bentonville chiropractor can be an important way to help them perform at their best and care for their bodies.

Athletes Benefit from Chiropractic Care

No matter the age, athletes seek chiropractic care for the many benefits, primarily, to improve function of the musculoskeletal system. Focusing on things like range of motion, joint movement, and good muscle health are crucial for any athlete to perform his or her best. Chiropractic care is known to alleviate mobility issues, restrictions, and other physical issues that may affect athletic performance.  Visiting Dr. Tom Niemela and the staff at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can also help reduce the risk of injuries by strengthening joints, muscles, and the spine, which have been proven to reduce the risk of injury during sports. Not only that, but chiropractic care can also reduce healing time if an injury does occur.  Children and teenagers are already faster to heal than adults, and with the help of chiropractic care, you can take full advantage of the body’s natural ability to heal. Even professional athletes utilize chiropractic care to ensure they are performing at their best.

Children Benefit from Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is known to be beneficial across age groups, including young children. Adjustments by a trusted Bentonville chiropractor play a critical role in overall health and wellbeing, addressing any misalignments of the spine that affect the central nervous system and lead to a variety of health issues. This care can be preventative, but it can also help realign the spine after a bad fall or collision that commonly occur in sports. Not only can injuries be addressed and abilities be improved, but promoting an overall healthy lifestyle can help children grow into healthy adults. Problems that manifest in children are likely to carry into adulthood, and the chances of this increase if the problems are not addressed. As an example, if a child suffers from tight neck muscles, they may enter adulthood and begin to experience neck pain and headaches. Additionally, good habits like regularly visiting a chiropractor will carry over into adulthood and promote good habits for a lifetime.

By bringing your young athlete to Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, you will be setting them up for a great performance now and into the future. Dr. Niemela will gently assess and adjust your child’s spine to ensure optimal health and an improved athletic performance. Whether they have suffered an injury or not, schedule a visit now so your child can experience the benefits.

Sources

Alcantara, Joel, et al. “The Quality of Life of Children Under Chiropractic Care Using PROMIS-25: Results from a Practice-Based Research Network.” The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, vol. 24, no. 4, 2018, pp. 378–384., https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/acm.2017.0141.

Grimston, S.K., Engsberg, J.R., Shaw, L., Vetanze, N.W. “Muscular Rehabilitation Prescribed in Coordination with Prior Chiropractic Therapy as a Treatment for Sacroiliac Subluxation in Female Distance Runners.” Chiropractic Sports Medicine, 1990 Jan; 4: 2-8. 

Stump, J.L., Redwood, D. “The Use and Role of Sport Chiropractors in the National Football League: A Short Report.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2002 Mar-Apr; 25(3): E2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11986584.

Infant GERD and Chiropractic Care

Even on good days, infants are prone to behaviors like crying, spitting up, and unpredictable moods. Anyone with children knows that it can be overwhelming trying to determine what your baby needs and what their various signals mean. Often, the answer is simple: changing their diaper, feeding them, or picking them up. But in some cases, it may be a more serious issue, like infant GERD. Being able to recognize the symptoms your infant is exhibiting can make it easier to get the proper care for their relief (and yours!). Infant GERD could be the cause of some of your child’s issues, and a Bentonville chiropractor at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can help.

What Is Infant GERD?

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, also known as GERD, is caused by food backing up in the esophagus instead of traveling to the stomach as it should. About one in five adults suffer from GERD, and slightly less than the two-thirds of infants will experience symptoms. Doctors believe their likelihood of developing infant GERD is due to underdeveloped digestive systems, meaning that, thankfully, symptoms often resolve as children age.  In severe cases, doctors may call for testing to diagnose GERD in infants, but most cases are diagnosed through simple recognition of symptoms. Symptoms may include changes in appetite, excessive crying, and recurring, forceful, or large volume of spitting up. Medications are typically prescribed to provide short-term relief of symptoms, but these can come with harmful side effects. In infants, it can be hard to justify trading one concern for another. Visiting Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can offer an alternative way to manage your baby’s GERD.

Chiropractic Care for Infant GERD

The central nervous system is the body’s mechanism for communication, allowing messages to be sent and received between the brain and body. Any misalignments in the spine can cause nerve interference, stopping proper communication through this channel. A disruption in this process can cause other bodily systems to break down, leading to health concerns like infant GERD. The digestive tract relies on messages being sent properly throughout the body, and when this is stopped by something like a spinal misalignment, efficiency is compromised. This can lead to reflux and other symptoms of infant GERD. Dr. Tom Niemela will gently examine a baby’s spine to determine where these disturbances may be occurring and correct them, allowing the body to return to normal function.

Is Chiropractic Care Effective in Children?

As a parent, making decisions on behalf of your baby can be stressful, especially knowing that health in childhood can impact lifelong health. Arbor Vitae Chiropractic values practice members of all ages and is committed to providing all individuals with safe and effective care. Dr. Tom Niemela regularly adjusts infants, as chiropractic care has proven to be effective for all people of all sizes, but it is particularly effective and helpful for those infants who are suffering from GERD. Studies show chiropractic care can help babies stop use of medication, improve sleep schedules, and overcome various intestinal issues and colic. One case study shows a 3-month-old who suffered from infant GERD and related issues whose symptoms were completely alleviated after regular chiropractic care.

If your baby needs relief from infant GERD, schedule an appointment with Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela today to seek relief.

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.” J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2008 Dec; 52(4): 248–255. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2597889/

The Importance of Getting Enough Sleep

We’ve all experienced what happens when we go just one night without enough sleep: fatigue, headaches, emotional volatility, and more. It’s no secret that an inadequate amount of sleep can wreak havoc on several areas of our lives. A lack of sleep can take a toll on your mental and emotional health, as well as your physical health. Not getting enough sleep can be hard after just one night, but a chronic lack of sleep can lead to long-term health consequences as well. And sadly, many of us are not getting the sleep our bodies need. If you are one of the many people this applies to, you may be surprised to learn that visiting a Bentonville chiropractor may improve your sleep quality. Visiting Dr. Tom Niemela and the staff at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can help prioritize your health in the midst of your busy life.

Why Do We Need Sleep?

Sleeping gives our bodies a chance to rest. A lowered heart rate, improved blood pressure, and healthier breathing pattern allow us to conserve energy and refuel for the next day. While our body is at rest, our brain is doing work to refresh physical and mental functionality. This can be especially important for children, whose brains are developing and growing substantially on a daily basis. Without this rest, natural processes are interrupted and the body loses its ability to regulate and heal where needed. The recommended amount of sleep for an adult is 7 to 9 hours per night, but this can vary depending on age and health factors. Falling short on getting your necessary sleep over time can cause noticeable consequences to your health. If you are experiencing a pattern of poor sleep, seeking help may be important in helping your body repair itself each night.

Consequences of Not Sleeping

Besides just causing you to be tired and irritable, there can be very real health issues brought about by a lack of sleep. Because your body can’t heal as necessary, not getting enough sleep can cause poor function in your immune system and leave you susceptible to illnesses. Not sleeping can also lead to poor memory and focus or even more severe issues like anxiety or depression. Chronic health problems can arise after prolonged periods of not sleeping, such as diabetes and heart disease. While some people simply lack time to sleep, others may suffer from insomnia and similar syndromes that make falling and staying asleep difficult. Whatever issues you are facing, it has been proven that chiropractic care can improve sleep patterns.

Chiropractic Care for Sleep Issues

Regular chiropractic care can help with a long list of health issues, and sleep can similarly improve your overall health. Case studies show a link between chiropractic care and improved sleep patterns. In one case, regular visits to the chiropractor helped a five-year-old boy return to healthy sleeping habits.

If you think you can benefit from improved sleep but need a little help achieving that, contact Dr. Tom Niemela at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic today and begin working towards better sleep and optimal health.

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 & Your Child’s Brain

When most people think about their child’s health, they think about the physical ailments that need to be addressed because there is some symptom or issue that surfaces. Physical well-being is certainly a large part of health and is important to maintain. If you’re looking to prioritize health in the new year, you should invest in not only your physical needs, but also in taking care of your brain as well. What many people don’t know is that often times, your brain health and brain development is tied to physical elements such as your back and spine. Visiting a Bentonville chiropractor can help focus on your child’s spinal well-being, which is known to have positive effects on brain function.

Brain Development

There is nothing more complex than the human brain, and defining its development is its own field of study. One of the foundational understandings has to do with early brain development, particularly in the first three years of life. The brain actually begins development on the right side, which deals with emotions, processing, and morals; it then further develops on the left side, which is where reasoning, problem solving, and language occur. Communication between the brain and the body is important for a developing child’s brain. The brain communicates with all systems and parts of your body, one of the most important being the nervous system, which is responsible for transmitting messages to and from the brain. Because the spine is directly connected to the nervous system, a spinal misalignment can cause a delay in development for children and cause lifelong learning issues. A healthy nervous system is the key to a healthy brain, and a healthy brain allows children to grow into healthy and intelligent adults. 

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Any misstep in the nervous system can have negative effects on a person’s overall health, and the nervous system relies on the brain and spine to work together seamlessly. When a spinal misalignment interferes with nervous system function, it can no longer work with the spine as intended, and this is where many health issues come into play. Results can range from pain and headaches to immune system issues and more, but they can also come in the form of long-term effects on brain development. Chiropractic adjustments are a natural way to allow the body and brain to develop together, and they are proven to be safe in young children, even newborn infants suffering from birth-related spinal trauma. Regular chiropractic care in children is a part of maintaining healthy growth and development for their brains, as well as having positive effects on the whole body!

When you visit Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, your children will be in the capable hands of Dr. Tom Niemela and other skilled staff members who want to keep them happy and healthy. Schedule your appointment now to begin prioritizing your child’s brain development today!

Sources

Alcantara, Joel, et al. “The Quality of Life of Children Under Chiropractic Care Using PROMIS-25: Results from a Practice-Based Research Network.” The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, vol. 24, no. 4, 2018, pp. 378–384., https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/acm.2017.0141.

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/.

Speech Delays in Adolescents and How Chiropractic Can Help

Children learn to speak as a result of watching, listening, and learning from their parents, siblings, and others. They become enthralled with the prospect of mimicking the strange sounds people use to communicate with one another. Once they’ve learned how to speak, a whole new world of possibility has opened up because the child has developed the ability to express his or her feelings and thoughts with words. Eventually, in most cases, all of these parts come together with the only differing factors being the timing in which a child is able to grasp the skill of speech. 

When a child takes longer than most kids to speak, we typically consider them to have a speech delay. This is not necessarily anything to be concerned about, but there are definitely steps to take and resources to utilize that can assist parents and other caregivers in offering their children the support they need in their speech development. At Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, we seek to connect our practice members to the help they need to address speech delays of various sorts. 

What Causes Speech Delays in Children?

It can be difficult to pinpoint the exact root cause of a speech delay without evaluating several very different factors. A first thought to consider would be speech delay as a result of a physical issue with either the mouth or the ear. If a child can’t form words properly with his tongue and mouth, he won’t progress in his speech capacity. Similarly, if a child has trouble hearing, she won’t be able to produce words as she intends to. Intervention in the form of speech therapy is often applied in these cases. Other children struggle to speak due to a bigger picture issue or illness, but this isn’t always our first thought. 

How Can My Bentonville Chiropractor Help with My Child’s Speech Delays?

Chiropractic caregivers see a link between the health of the spine and how functional a child’s speech is. Dr. Tom Niemela is skilled and experienced in helping to provide relief to children who are frustrated in their speech development journey. The spine and the brain are interconnected through the central nervous system. When a chiropractor adjusts practice members, the individual’s spine becomes properly aligned. When there is no longer interference between the brain and the spine, the brain can properly send the signals it needs to. These signals are what are responsible for speech occurring. If the problem your child faces regarding their speech is at all related to behavior, chiropractic can help with this as well. 

Give Chiropractic Care a Try to Address Your Child’s Delays

Many individuals are surprised when they learn that chiropractic adjustments can help their children to improve their speech. When you begin to think about the body’s synergistic manner of healing itself, chiropractic care becomes much more than an answer for back pain. Several case studies can speak to the success of implementing chiropractic care to help improve a child’s speech delays. If your child is experiencing difficulty in engaging in communication through speech, consult with your Bentonville chiropractor today to find out how chiropractic adjustments with Dr. Tom Niemela can benefit their development and overall health. 

Sources

Dorough, A. “Early intervention: Improvement in motor developmental speech delay in a 2-year-old male following chiropractic care: a case report”. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics 2018; 17(2):1444-1448. http://jccponline.com/Dorough.pdf

“New Research Sheds Light on Chiropractic, Speech & Developmental Delay”, The Chronicle of Chiropractic; 2016. http://chiropractic.prosepoint.net/142701

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; 2014. http://jccponline.com/developmental-advancements.html

Chiropractic Care Can Enhance Joint Health

Chiropractic adjustments are an amazing way to promote lasting joint health in the lives of adults and adolescents alike. Dr. Tom Niemela is committed to offering his practice members an increased quality of life with the means of simple spinal adjustments in targeted areas. In the case of joint health, a regular regimen of appointments with your Bentonville chiropractor can reduce your reliance on other means of joint pain management, such as prescription medications and expensive and invasive medical treatments. 

What Are Some of the Common Causes of Joint Pain?

Chronic Pain - Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Osteoporosis

Many adults suffer from arthritic conditions, particularly as they age, which cause their joints to function with less than optimal mobility and flexibility. Arthritis can affect almost any of the joints in the body, from the smallest ones in the fingers to some of your largest and most essential joints for general function. Fibromyalgia is an often painful condition in which the body struggles to produce normal nervous system communication. It causes individuals to feel pain in their joints, as well as other symptoms such as memory issues, fatigue, and trouble sleeping. Osteoporosis plagues at least 20% of all women over the age of 60, and the statistics only become bleaker as age increases. 

Injury 

All sorts of acute injuries can cause joint pain and discomfort. Most of these injuries in adults are related to workplace injury, automobile accidents, and other traumatic events. Workplace injuries for those who work in traditional office settings tend to be milder and relate to repetitive stress. But for individuals who work in more hazardous conditions, injuries might result from malfunctioning equipment, spilled materials, uneven flooring, and other types of “accidents-waiting-to-happen.”  These most commonly affect the shoulders, knees, and elbows, and luckily all can be improved upon with the use of chiropractic adjustments. 

In younger adults and adolescents, joint injuries can often be the result of participation in various types of sports. Chiropractic care has shown tremendous results in the rehabilitation process of many types of sports injuries, both in youth leagues and the pros. Once the acute pain and harm to the body has been addressed and repaired medically, chiropractic intervention can be vital in the proper restoration of the joint to its former health.

Inflammation Induced Pain – Lupus, Lyme Disease, Tendinitis, Bursitis

Pain that occurs as a result of inflammation in the joints tends to be chronic and responds poorly to other forms of pain management. When chiropractic care is utilized for inflammation-based joint pain problems, practice members tend to see results in just a matter of weeks. 

How Can Arbor Vitae Chiropractic Help Keep Your Joints in Great Shape?

Chiropractic is a tool that can be used to keep your joints and your entire body in optimal health and functioning as you need it to in order to live your life to the fullest. At Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, our team is dedicated to utilizing neurologically-based chiropractic care to reduce your pain and reverse many painful conditions. Our practice employs a groundbreaking technique of chiropractic adjustments, called Torque Release Technique, or TRT. This innovative approach can be game-changing in the management of your joint health and joint pain. Contact us today to learn more about chiropractic and joint health or to set up an appointment.

Sources

“Facts and Statistics.” International Osteoporosis Foundation. https://www.iofbonehealth.org/facts-statistics

“What to Know About Joint Pain.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/joint-pain#symptoms

Is Chiropractic Care Beneficial for Men’s Health?

It is a common problem for men to hold out going to the doctor until absolutely necessary.  But this idea of not going to a doctor until the pain is unbearable or something feels off is not beneficial for men’s health.  We can’t always rely on how we feel to tell us what is going on in our body.  Often times, pain and sickness are the last symptoms to manifest themselves.  A proactive approach to healthcare is ideal to prevent health conditions before they become a major concern.  Chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractorc is proven to both prevent underlying health conditions as well as improve overall health for men. 

What Problems Affect Men’s Health?

Men and women are made very differently.  Therefore, what affects men’s health may not be a specific concern for women.  Thankfully, Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela can improve men’s health and target specific concerns through neurologically-based chiropractic care.  Many men enjoy physical activities, such as working out or playing sports.  These types of physical activity can take a toll on their bodies over time.  They can cause musculoskeletal problems such as wear and tear on the joints and muscles.  They can also make men more prone to injuries both during those physical activities and otherwise.  Many men are also more susceptible to chronic back pain because of office jobs that require a lot of sitting or physical jobs that require a lot of heavy duty lifting.  Chronic back pain can affect a man’s ability to perform daily tasks or do the things he loves because of the intensity of the pain.  Other common health concerns for men can include incontinence, erectile dysfunction, hypertension, diabetes, or colon cancer.  While this can sound daunting, it’s good to know that chiropractic care can enhance overall health and in turn reduce many health concerns that are plaguing men in today’s society.

Chiropractic Care for Men’s Overall Health

Men may feel that simply popping pills once in a while is sufficient enough to address common injuries or pain that can affect their health. But medicine is only a temporary solution.  Pain often returns, sometimes even worse than before, when medication wears off.  For a long-term solution to health concerns, consider neurologically-based chiropractic care.  Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic focuses on improving spinal health to eliminate and alleviate pain.  Spinal misalignments can set the stage for a multitude of health problems.  When the central nervous system can’t communicate with the body because of nerve interference from misalignments, it can throw the body into a whirlwind of dysfunction.  It can cause joint pain, make you more susceptible to injury, lead to chronic back pain, or even be at the source of incontinence or erectile dysfunction. Gentle adjustments from Dr. Niemela will restore spinal alignment to improve not only the function of the spine but also of the entire body. 

Men can benefit greatly from being under regular chiropractic care.  If you want to improve your health so you can keep doing the things you love, consider chiropractic care for boosting men’s’ health.  Contact Dr. Tom Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to set up a consultation. 

Sources

Bakris, G., Dickholtz, M., Meyer, P.M., Kravitz, G., Avery, E., Miller, M., Brown, J., Woodfield, C., Bell, B. “Atlas Vertebra Realignment and Achievement of Arterial Pressure Goal in Hypertensive Patients: A Pilot Study.” Journal of Human Hypertension, 2007 May; 21(5): 347-351. http://www.chiro.org/research/ABSTRACTS/Atlas_Vertebra_Realignment.shtml.

Grimston, S.K., Engsberg, J.R., Shaw, L., Vetanze, N.W. “Muscular Rehabilitation Prescribed in Coordination with Prior Chiropractic Therapy as a Treatment for Sacroiliac Subluxation in Female Distance Runners.” Chiropractic Sports Medicine, 1990 Jan; 4: 2-8.

Technology in the Office

Utilizing the latest technology in our office is one way that Bentonville chiropractors provide the very best in care and ensure optimal health and function.  Specific and precise adjustments are scientifically proven to remove nerve interference so that your central nervous system, consisting of the brain and spinal cord, can communicate fully with the rest of the body.  Neurologically-based chiropractic care from Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela is aided by technology in the office to provide more accurate spinal adjustments so that all practice members are given the best chance at health and wellness.  With the use of an integrator and thermography technology, Dr. Niemela is able to do just that.

Integrator

The integrator is a chiropractic tool used in the Torque Release Technique to remove spinal misalignments.  Once a predetermined amount of pressure is reached, the integrator is released, delivering torque and recoil that releases stress placed on a vertebra to allow it to move back into its proper place.   It is precise, gentle, specific, effective, reliable, and fast, a combination that no adjustment done by hand can fully provide.  The combination of torque and recoil allows for three dimensional adjustments to maximize the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments.

Thermography

Thermography is a technological tool that measures the temperature around the spine to more accurately locate spinal misalignments.   Our thermography technology is similar to typical thermography equipment that you’ve seen elsewhere, but ours is specifically made for use in medical facilities to look at temperatures around the spine. In general, the temperatures of the muscles on either side of the spine should be equal.  A thermography scan will locate inequalities in muscle temperatures, which shows us that the muscles are more stretched out or condensed than they should be, which is indicative of spinal misalignments. Nerve interference from spinal misalignments leads to increased blood flow to the area, and this increase in blood flow is what creates a higher temperature. Thermography shows Dr. Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic where exactly the spinal misalignments are, allowing for more precise and effective adjustments.

Why Is This Type of Technology Necessary?

While chiropractic adjustments can be performed without the use of technology, the integrator and thermography allow Dr. Niemela to take his skill and expertise to the next level.  With neurologically-based chiropractic care enhanced by technological tools, it allows for your health to be taken one step further. 

Chiropractic adjustments to remove nerve interference are very beneficial for targeting specific concerns such as chronic pain or dysfunction within the body, especially with issues like digestion problems, constant headaches, or even high blood pressure.  But even beyond correcting what is ailing our bodies, chiropractic adjustments can also increase our overall health and wellness by improving the body’s ability to effectively communicate. This can boost the immune system, improve musculoskeletal function as well as leave us feeling great all around.  This ability to boost health and wellness is only improved with the technology we have in the office.  If you are interested in learning more about what chiropractic care can do for you, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic. 

Sources

McCoy, M. “Paraspinal Thermography in the Analysis and Management of Vertebral Subluxation: A Review of the Literature.” Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2011 July 14, pp.57-66. https://www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2017/09/05/paraspinal-thermography-in-the-analysis-and-management-of-vertebral-subluxation-a-review-of-the-literature/

Stillwagon,D.C. , Ph.C., Kevin L. Stillwagon, D.C.Vertebral Subluxation Correction and its Affect on Thermographic Readings: A Description of the Advent of the Visi-Therm as Applied to Chiropractic Patient Assessment.” Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, Vol 2, Num 3, pp.1-4. https://www.vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2017/09/10/vertebral-subluxation-correction-and-its-affect-on-thermographic-readings-a-description-of-the-advent-of-the-visi-therm-as-applied-to-chiropractic-patient-assessment/

Chiropractic Care for Ulcers

Ulcers are quite common in the US and affect up to 4 million people each year.  On average, 1 in 10 people will develop an ulcer at some point in their lives.  There are three types of ulcers that can occur.  A peptic ulcer is the most common and occurs in the lining of the stomach or in the small intestines.  Another type of ulcer is a gastric ulcer, which develops in the stomach itself.  An ulcer in the small intestine is known as a duodenal ulcer.  Ulcers are in no way dangerous or life threatening, but that doesn’t negate the pain that can come with an ulcer.  Ulcer pain is often described as a dull or burning sensation located somewhere between the belly button and chest.  This type of ulcer pain can affect your daily life, including your ability to sleep, eat, work, or even perform simple daily tasks.  If ulcer pain has left you feeling frustrated and defeated, there’s hope for relief with chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor.

Why Do I Get Ulcers?

Ulcers are caused by bacteria that gets into the stomach, lining, or small intestines.  This bacteria can then damage the lining and allow acid and juices from the stomach to get through the lining and form a sore, or ulcer.  Snacking or eating can sometimes make an ulcer feel better, but other times it will make it feel worse.  Over the counter medication like aspirin or ibuprofen can actually cause ulcers.  Other medications for ulcers can help alleviate pain for a short time, but ulcers can return once medication has been stopped.  Chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractor is a natural solution for relief from ulcers that gets to the root of the problem.

Chiropractic Care for Relief from Ulcers

For some, simply changing what you eat or drink can help relieve ulcer pain.  Others may find relief after quitting smoking or drinking alcohol, both of which will exacerbate ulcer symptoms.  But when nothing else has worked, it’s time to find something that will, and that something is chiropractic care.  Instead of invasive procedures such as surgery for ulcers, Dr. Tom Niemela will focus on alleviating ulcer pain through noninvasive neurologically-based chiropractic care.  Spinal misalignments cause nerve interference which affects how the brain and body communicate.  When communication is interrupted, dysfunction occurs and disaster can strike in the form of ulcers.  Thankfully, gentle, precise adjustments from Dr. Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic can alleviate nerve interference to bring about relief from ulcers.

Case Studies of Chiropractic Care for Ulcers

There are many studies that support chiropractic care for ulcer relief.  One such case study focused on 11 individuals between the ages of 18 and 44 who had been diagnosed with ulcers and then were under regular chiropractic care. Another 24 other individuals with ulcers were treated with medicine.  This study found that those who underwent chiropractic care found relief ten days sooner than those who took medicine.

If you or someone you love is suffering from ulcer pain, don’t wait any longer to experience relief.  Contact Dr. Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to schedule your consultation.

Sources

A Pikalov, A & V Kharin, V. (1994). Use of spinal manipulative therapy in the treatment of duodenal ulcer: A pilot study. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics. 17. 310-3.

Top 3 Exercise Myths Debunked

This time of year, many are thinking about their health and determining ways to take care of themselves all throughout the year.  Of course, exercise is usually at the top of this list.  Making exercise a priority can be difficult because of time restraints, but just like regular chiropractic care, it should be incorporated into your regular routine.  There are some exercises, however, that can do more harm than good. Here are the top 3 exercise myths that many people believe and the real truth behind these myths.

Myth #1: Exercise Burns Tons of Calories

Exercise gets your heart rate up and makes you sweat; that’s for sure. This can make you feel like you are burning lots of calories each time you work out.  But actually, each exercise session only burns a moderate amount of calories.  For example, it can take 5 minutes of working out to burn off the calories in a banana or 30 minutes of exercise to burn off the calories from bread or a bagel! When you realize this, it can feel frustrating to invest in exercising.  But remember, it’s all about balance.  Exercising should be combined with eating right for the best results.  Digestion also plays a key role in keeping your body healthy.  Chiropractic care from a Bentonville chiropractic can improve digestion and help you get the most out of exercising and eating right for a healthier you.

Myth #2: 15 Minutes of Exercise a Few Days a Week Is Adequate

Sometimes we just want to get exercising out of the way for the day as it's not always enjoyable.  While it can seem enticing to just invest 15 minutes, it’s simply not enough.  Research shows that in order for exercising to truly be effective, it should be for 30 minutes at least three times a week.  Exercising any time of the day is great for your body, so do what works for you, as long as you’re getting a solid 30 minutes in each time. Sometimes, aches and pains can get in the way of our ability to exercise.  Thankfully, chiropractic care is great for improving joint mobility and musculoskeletal function.  Regular adjustments from Dr. Tom Niemela can be beneficial for helping you get moving each day and can even help make your workouts more effective.

Myth #3: Strength Training Isn’t as Beneficial as Aerobic Training

Both aerobic training and strength training are necessary for a healthier body.  Aerobic training focuses on improving cardiovascular health, while strength training improves muscle mass and helps trim off body fat.  Lifting weights can also help prevent conditions like osteoporosis.  So don’t be afraid to get in that weight room and strength train.  If lifting weights is difficult for you or leads to conditions like pinched nerve pain, be sure to consult with Dr. Niemela of Arbor Vitae Chiropractic to find relief. 

Make sure to use proper techniques when exercising to avoid injury and pain.  If you do experience discomfort, know that chiropractic care is a great way to alleviate chronic pain as well as ensure you are taking care of your whole body.  Contact Dr. Niemela today to schedule your consultation.

Sources

Darren, E.R., Warburton, C., Whitney, N., Shannon, S.D. “Health benefits of physical activity: the evidence.” CMAJ. 2006 Mar 14; 174(6): 801–809. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1402378/.

Yeomens, S.G., “Exercise and Chiropractic Therapy.” Spine Health.  https://www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/exercise-and-chiropractic-therapy

Discover the Difference Between Salutogenesis and Pathogenesis for a New Approach to Health This Year

Have you ever wondered why some people can be exposed to sickness and not get sick? Maybe every child in a school classroom has had some type of illness from sharing germs, yet one kiddo appears to escape it all. An effective, all-natural approach to healthcare may be what’s making all the difference between getting sick and staying healthy. This healthcare approach involves not just looking at what’s wrong with the sick, but also examining what helps keep the others healthy. This revolutionary method is practiced by Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela and can make all the difference for your health and wellness this year.

Salutogenesis vs. Pathogenesis

Pathogenesis is probably the approach most are familiar with. Pathogenesis is related to how we feel. Sometimes we can feel when we are getting sick or we know something just isn’t right. When this happens, we usually reach out to a doctor for medication that will alleviate our symptoms. But honestly, medication is not usually the fix-all solution we are looking for.  Sadly, we can’t always rely just on how we feel, especially in a world where chronic health conditions are becoming more and more prevalent because of underlying conditions. So instead of looking for a solution after we get sick, Dr. Niemela’s approach is to address health and wellness from the get-go with a proactive approach. It promotes whole-body health and addresses potential health concerns before they can manifest themselves. This salutogenesis approach is a holistic method designed to optimize the function of the entire body and can take your health to a whole new level.

Chiropractic Care Is Proactive

Bentonville chiropractors can and do alleviate back and neck pain, but that’s not all they do. At Arbor Vitae Chiropractic, Dr. Tom Niemela focuses on neurologically-based chiropractic care that improves the function of the central nervous system, which leads to increased health and wellness. Spinal misalignments can cause nerve interference that disrupts communication within the body, leading to all sorts of chaos, including sickness. With gentle and precise chiropractic adjustments, Dr. Niemela can remove misalignments to allow the body to communicate as it should so that it can fight off sickness and alleviate chronic pain.  With proactive chiropractic care, many are able to see amazing results in their overall health, even warding off potential health problems before they begin.

Chiropractic Case Studies Supporting Salutogenesis

In 2014, a case study was conducted to show that taking care of the body as a whole does significantly more for alleviating stress than just looking at specific symptoms. Other case studies have also supported the salutogenesis approach to healthcare. Those who take care of their whole body, practice self-care, have healthy habits and healthy relationships are more likely to stay healthier than those with physical, mental, and emotional problems. Consider chiropractic care for a new approach to your health care this year and see what it can do for improving your overall health and wellness.

To learn more about salutogenesis, schedule a consultation with Bentonville chiropractor Dr. Tom Niemela at Arbor Vitae Chiropractic.

Sources

Heim, E. “Salutogenesis versus pathogenesis–a new approach to an old wisdom.” Schweiz Med Wochenschr. 1994 Jul 23; 124(29): 1267-75. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8066413.

Zielinski, E. “Salutogenesis: The Authentic Wellness Model for Health.” 2015 June. http://icpa4kids.org/Wellness-Articles/salutogenesis-the-authentic-wellness-model-for-health.html