Chiropractic Care Archives - Page 6 of 7

Prenatal Chiropractor and Pregnancy

When talking about health for babies and mothers, you’ve likely heard of the importance of B vitamins, namely B9 or Folate. A prenatal chiropractor will be able to guide you to making wise decisions in your health for the next 9 months of pregnancy and should know the role folate plays in the development of your child.

Folate plays a vital role in the healthy development of the neural system during and is essential for normal functions. This includes growing children, women getting chiropractic during pregnancy, and men as well. It is water-soluble, meaning it becomes active in the body when water is present. Excess folate is then excreted in the urine after being processed by the kidneys. Folate is very important when considering the impact it has on energy production and cell metabolism. When the body uses B vitamins like folate, it allows cells to produce energy needed for an array of different functions in cells and tissues.

The vitamin is actually more like a special enzyme, which allows your own DNA to make amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Proteins are needed for almost every function in the body, one of which is building muscle. As a developing fetus, it helps to ensure proper cell division, and as an adult it prevents you from developing a certain kind of anemia where the cell enlarges due to lack of iron. But did you or your prenatal chiropractor know that there are different sources and qualities of folate?

Folate is typically found in food products in the form of folic acid. If pregnant, a doctor may advise a folic acid supplement. But did you know folic acid is not the same as folate? Folic acid may be chemically altered in the body to become folate, but they have different effects on the body. Folate is a naturally occurring vitamin found in foods like beef liver, leafy green vegetables, and legumes (green beans, black beans, peanuts). Folic acid is a cheap synthetic form of B9 that the government mandated to be added to foods back in 1998. It was done to decrease neural tube defects, and has been very successful in that aspect.

But research is showing that this form is unusable in as much as 45% of the population due to a genetic defect that makes it impossible to convert folic acid to folate. Decreased folate in the body means an increased risk for heart disease, anemia, cancers, and developmental growth problems. One study also showed that high folic acid consumption was linked to cognitive decline later in life.

“So how can this be avoided?” By choosing whole foods with folate, you cannot overdose on this vitamin because naturally occurring foods with folate have balanced levels and contain other synergistic nutrients to help the body make energy as efficient as possible. When at the store, the only way to know what form you’re eating is by reading the label. Only then can you know what you’re eating and take a stand for the health of you and your baby if pregnant. Reach out to us if you are interested in finding a prenatal chiropractor.

April 4, 2017/33 Comments/by Dr. Sean Gimbert

Chiropractic Health Tips

New Spring Chiropractic wants every patient to reach a higher level of health and maintain better function and feeling. Being that we are all dynamic and unique individuals, every person does not need the same approach to their health and the care to get back to health. Realizing this truth, we strive to address complex issues with appropriate complimentary recommendations. One way of addressing certain problems falls under lifestyle guidance and modification. One of our chiropractic health tips is with the addition of certain vegetables and supplementation.

If you’re not aware, vegetables are essential in every person’s diet and should be a part of every meal if possible. They are packed with nutrients that you simply can’t replace with vitamins alone and add so much flavor in every recipe they’re used. There is exciting discoveries that support this fact even more, and I want to share how it choosing a special vegetable can help you in your pursuit of being healthier.

This vegetable is no other than broccoli and broccoli sprouts. These sprouts are packed with health promoting properties. Research has shown that eating these has been associated with decreased incidence, multiplicity, and tumor growth in animal cancer models. The vegetable has a highly studied metabolite called sulforaphane. It is a naturally occurring metabolite in broccoli and is a powerful antioxidant. Besides that, it is also antibacterial, and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. This equates to less free radicals (which advance the aging process), less sickness from infections, and heart-protecting factors, all in one vegetable!

Studies are being done to see its effects on vascular health, certain cancers, upper respiratory inflammation, as well as its effect on stomach harming bacteria called H. Pylori. The sprouts can be found in tablet form, or you can opt for broccoli florets for great health benefits too. So we recommend you to reach for these tasty green at your next meal. You may be protecting your long-term health of you and your family.

March 23, 2017/2 Comments/by Dr. Sean Gimbert

Structural Correction Video Example

Watch This Video To See An Example of a Structural Correction.

The woman featured in the video reported to the office after falling off a horse and fell on her head. She developed a number of problems, including mood changes, irritability, neck pain, lower back pain, headaches and chronic pain that would prevent her from normal sleep. But through precise examination and diligent analysis of her x-rays, the doctor was able to create a three dimensional representation of her neck and determine the degree of structural shift present. The doctor was then able to gently correct the shift, resulting in a reduction of all her symptoms.

Our office focuses on doing just this. We start by doing a thorough exam including any necessary diagnostic images needed to determine the amount of structural shift present in your spine. If structural shift is found to be present in the spine, this will help our doctors know how to best care for your needs by delivering the most precise adjustment possible.

When thorough exams and analysis of diagnostic imaging is coupled with precise and safe adjustments, the results can be similar to what is shown here with this woman. Blood flow increases to the brain stem, nerves are able to function better due to less irritation, and fluid flow is increased in vital areas of the brain and spinal canal.

Her results were quite amazing. She was able to return to her previous activities and stated she felt better than the entire previous year before getting treatment. The great news is that you may also be able to have results like this. If you are wondering if Structural Chiropractic care can help you, please give us a call. We would love to be able to help you reach you health goals today.

March 15, 2017/6 Comments/by Dr. Sean Gimbert

Precise corrections for low back pain

With all the options available in healthcare today, we are often asked what makes Structural Correction a good choice for certain conditions like low back pain. There are many reasons why we are unique, but a major reason is the analysis we provide on each and every person we see in our office. A test can never be useful without high accuracy, and is vital when dealing with health issues. This begins with a detailed analysis to find out exactly where the source of the problem is coming from. The doctors at New Spring Chiropractic will find out whether the location of pain or discomfort is the source of pain or if the problem is caused is coming from somewhere else.

If pain happens in one place, but is caused by a problem in another area, this is called referred pain. A common example of this can happen during a heart attack. “What is a common symptom for males having a heart attack?” A male may have pain in his arm, but the pain is not coming from his arm in this case. The heart of the problem (pun intended) is the heart organ itself, not the arm. low back pain can also have referred pain. In our office, sometimes the pain is caused by problems in the low back, from another area, or multiple areas that contribute to the overall pain felt by an individual.

One of the ways we can develop a better understanding of an individual’s source of low back pain or neck pain is with our on-site imaging facility. Through our digital analysis, we are able to create a three-dimensional recreation of the area of concern and form what is called a Vector. This vector, a specific point in space with a directional component, allows us to perform very precise and gentle care. We call it image-guided adjustments.

The benefits of added precision typically equates to less visits, faster recovery, and longer relief after the corrections have taken place. Plus, objectively measuring different health parameters allows the doctor to track a person’s progress throughout care without any guessing involved.

Just like an acrobatic plane or high speed dragster requires fine tuning to achieve top performance, so does your body. Anything less could mean big or small setbacks in your life So, “will you settle for anything less than precision when dealing with low back pain?”

March 9, 2017/0 Comments/by Dr. Sean Gimbert

Healthy Skin All Year Round

“Wow! Can you believe how great the weather is today? ” Being in Palm Coast, this is a common phrase we hear and say thanks to the wonderful climate we enjoy year round. Snowbird or not, you know exactly what I mean. The sunshine we love is like a medicine to many. We laugh and play in it, it can give us a new spring in our step, and its a great way to get those vital nutrients like vitamin D. But when you go outside, I hope you take protective measures from getting overexposed to those ultraviolet rays to maintain healthy skin. This should be a combination of the right protection, which include choosing the right clothing at the right time, and sun screen when necessary.
First, it is important to realize that the major consensus is that sunscreen tends to inhibit the production of vitamin D, which is made when the skin is exposed to the sun’s rays. So if you have limited time in the sun, it may be best to wait 20 minutes before applying sunscreen. This is unless you easily burn or have an established condition or medication that effects the skin. If you are on any medication, be sure to check the label. It may advise against prolonged or excessive sun exposure due to how the medication is metabolized in the body.
It is also vital to know the effects of some sunscreens could be harmful to you and your loved ones depending of what’s in the bottle. This will require you to look at the ingredient list, but these tips will help you make an easy and fast decision when comparing different brands and lotions. The most important ingredient to look for is what blocks UVB rays. The ones you want to see listed (typically the first ingredient) is either Aluminum Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. These are considered nanoparticles and generally are not absorbed by healthy skin and aren’t energized by the sun, which can cause skin damage when that occurs.
Others are less safe. Why? Many are considered to be what is referred to as hormone disrupters. This basically means they can alter the normal balance of hormones in your body. That is not something considered safe or healthy for anyone! Unsafe ingredients include: Avobenzone Octocrylene, and Oxybenzone.
Lastly, having a good ratio of UBA to UVB protection is important. Why UVA? These rays are also harmful to the skin and cause advance the aging process, making healthy skin prone to wrinkles, dark spot, and increases your risk of skin cancer.

Overall Takeaways:

If on medicine, check label before prolonged sun exposure.
Based on your skin pigment levels, you may or may not require more time in the sun to absorb Vitamin D.
The best times to be outside is between 10am- 2pm. You will absorb more Vitamin D generally during that time.
Choose sunscreens with Aluminum Oxide or Titanium Dioxide
Avoid sunscreens with Avobenzone Octocrylene, and Oxybenzone.
UVA rays are harmful too and your sunscreen should protect against both UVA and UVB.
Limit excessive exposure to the sun this season by choosing clothing with UVA/UVB protection.

March 2, 2017/3 Comments/by newspringadmin

Headache Relief Palm Coast

Things are not always as they appear. Even though someone or something may appear to be fit or healthy from the outside, looks can be deceiving. This is often true of pain conditions and headache.

Have you ever heard the phrase, “his/ her mood is just a facade”? You know, that someone who acts like they are always on top of the world in public, but once they are out of the spotlight, they behave completely different? Or to be more literal, the storefront that appears to be made of stone anchored in the ground but in reality is faux rock plastered to plywood backing. It appears to be sturdy, but meets a dismal fate when a major storm tests its limits. We just recently witness this truth with the powerful winds and rain of Hurricane Matthew here in Palm Coast. Well, our bodies can play a similar trick on us as well if we aren’t careful.

The complexities of our inner working are amazing and humbling. With each passing year, we understand more and more about the delicate balance of health and sickness, the Ying and Yang of life. All wish to be healthy in function and feeling, but our understanding of treating and eliminating conditions have been a continual evolution. One such is in the cause and relief of headaches.

For instance, think of an apple. We used to buy an apple and be able to simply say It’s an apple. Not anymore. Now we have organic, non-organic, genetically modified, and so on. So even though you think you’re buying a Plane Jane Apple from the store, you could be getting into something different under the skin.

You may be thinking, “What does this have to do with my headache in Palm Coast?” Though headaches may appear to be similar from the outside, careful attention must be taken not to incorrectly diagnose the cause of a headache. Your health and money could be on the line.

We can gather much about a person’s health from looking at them from the outside. One of our exam tools utilizes information gathered from objective markers based on a person’s outside appearance or Status. This is an important factor linking our findings with a person’s concerns or health goals. But this is not sufficient for a thorough and complete exam. We must look at the integrity and function of the inside structures in order to have a more complete understanding. Attention to detail is key. This is why we use advanced imaging when necessary.

Research now suggests that significant headaches are an indicator of diminished or poor brain health. If you are suffering from regular headaches, there may be an underlying structural cause that needs to be addressed. If true, it is possible your nerves and blood vessels may be functioning at a level that is insufficient to keep up with your bodies demand for oxygen and biologic processes.

If this sounds like what you’re going through currently, we would be happy to discuss your concerns and our care options. Consider contacting New Spring Chiropractic in Palm Coast for Headache Relief now.

February 23, 2017/3 Comments/by newspringadmin

Pinched Nerves Are Like An Alarm

Our bodies are amazing in the capabilities they possess to grow, heal, and maintain the delicate balance of live. We live, move, and exist in our bodies. One of the intelligent ways our bodies function is through our nerves. Grey’s anatomy states, “The nervous system controls and coordinates all function in the body”. This means that the meal you ate this morning could not be digested without your nerves. It even goes as deep as the cellular level. Our nerves act like a network of connections that allows our brain to talk to your cells, tissues, and organs.

Some messages sent by the nerves are perceivable by our thoughts (ie, our 5 senses), while others are not. Just know your nerves are always working. Thinking again about that morning meal you had: did you have to concentrate on sending thoughts to your stomach and intestines to digest your food? Of course not! Your body knew you ate food because of receptors in your digestive system. These receptors communicated with your brain, and your brain responded with another message guiding the chemical process of breaking down and absorbing the nutrients in the food. This beautiful symphony of communication is possible with your Autonomic Nervous System, autonomic meaning automatic and out of your conscious control.

But sometimes, we do feel things thanks to our nervous system. This is because of the other type of nerves that do relay sensations to our brain. The unwelcome effects of these nerves have been felt by many, whether falling on the beach here in Palm Coast and having pain in your knee as a result, or something serious like a pinched nerve. But, while not something we want to feel, how worse would it be if we had no sense of pain at all? There is a name for that: Congenital Insensitivity to pain.

You may be thinking, “I certainly wouldn’t miss the pain I’m feeling right now! Sign me up for no pinched nerve!” But this natural alarm system has a vital function. We wouldn’t know when we are damaging our body and could keep injuring something till it was completely worn out or do something that is life-threatening. This would be horrible for a young person. While not feeling the pain of one thing, you couldn’t know if you broke a bone, burnt your hand, or sliced your hand on glass, for example.

The excellent thing to remember is that there is help if you are suffering from pain like a pinched nerve. New Spring Chiropractic sees conditions on a regular basis caused by nerve irritation, and our focus allows detailed investigation into what could be causing the pain. So if you feel like your internal alarm system has gone haywire, we would love to talk to you about your concerns and our care options.

Thank you for taking initiative in your health and learning about your amazing body. Feel free to share any comments below!

Also, you can contact us below to schedule a complementary consultation. As always, Our consultations are simply a conversation, never a commitment!

February 14, 2017/0 Comments/by Tech Support

Chiropractor Near Me or Far Away Driving Tips

Cars are a thing of our society that almost everyone uses, especially here in Palm Coast. Whether you commute to work outside of town, or stay near to your home, you likely spend many hours over the course of a year in your car. Me being a Chiropractor, near to my heart is helping my patients get great results. We want to help you protect spine and nerves while not in our office, and having proper driving habits is an important thing to consider. We focus on correcting structural concerns in the office, but our patients are taught the importance of protecting the care we give by living in a way that reduces the stress on the ligaments, joints, muscles, and discs of your spine. These all are in an amazing balance, and most of the time they work in harmony to handle our dynamic lives which is full of motion and activities.

A simple, great way to help you drive in a healthier way is what I call, “Set yourself, Set your mirror”. First, you have to make sure you are sitting in an ergonomic position that is the best for your neck, mid back, and lower back. This starts with sitting with you head held high and in line with your shoulders in a normal position, not hunched forward. You will likely find your head gently resting upon the head rest when you bring you head into this position. If you cannot bring your head to this position, just do the best you can. This starting point is something most know and realize, but it is easy to forget when focusing on the road around you. Think about it, if you are in the car for 30 minutes during your drive to work, but your head is in a less than optimal position, you are setting yourself up for failure in the long run. Plus, if you go from your car to another position of sitting, this improper way of sitting can begin to compound. This may end up requiring you to seek outside relief and ask yourself “Is there a Chiropractor near me?”

Next, check your shoulders. They should not be rounded when extending your arms to the steering wheel. If they are, try either moving your seat forward or bringing your steering wheel back towards you. Remember, you should be able to reach and rest your wrists on the top of the steering wheel without moving your shoulders off the back of the driver’s seat.

Then, make sure your low back and bottom is going to be best for your drive. The low back should maintain its natural curve when sitting in the car, just like when you are standing. If you have a lumbar support, this should be set appropriately. You also need to have your bottom touching the back of the seat, not sliding it forward. The more forward your bottom sits, the more stress you will put on your discs in your low back.

Once you are positioned correctly, next is to set your mirrors. With you head held high, position your mirror with the top of your visual field to the top of the rear window, ie, as high as it can go without seeing the headliner. This is a simple trick to make you adjust your sitting position if you happen to shift during the course of your drive. It’s like a constant reminder to sit up. If you begin to slouch for whatever reason and look into the rearview mirror, you won’t be able to see out the back like you need! So have fun on your next drive, and remember to keep you head held high!

By the way, if you ever think, “I need to find a chiropractor near me” we always offer complementary consultations. Our consultations are simply a conversation, never a commitment.