Sun, 15 Dec 2024 11:57:34 -0800WeeblyWed, 02 Oct 2024 22:19:46 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/spinal-decompression-for-low-back-pain     Low back pain is one of the most common health complaints and can stem from various causes, including muscle strain, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis. One emerging treatment method for low back pain, particularly when related to disc issues, is spinal decompression therapy.
     Spinal decompression is a non-surgical therapy that aims to relieve pressure on the spine and alleviate pain by gently stretching the spine. The principle behind spinal decompression is that by creating negative pressure within the spinal discs, it can encourage retraction or repositioning of herniated or bulging discs, as well as promote the movement of oxygen, water, and nutrient-rich fluids into the discs for healing.
     During a spinal decompression session, the patient is lying face down on our COX table. Traction is achieved with a flexion motion at first and then when tolerable a motorized distraction. This movement creates negative intradiscal pressure, pulling bulging or herniated disc material back into the disc. The therapy also increases blood flow, which aids in nourishing the damaged discs and supporting the healing process.
     Each session typically lasts 10-15 minutes, with most treatment plans requiring multiple sessions over several weeks while being reassessed along the way. Patients often report feeling a gentle pulling or stretching sensation, and the treatment is generally considered comfortable and relaxing.
     Spinal decompression therapy is most commonly used to treat conditions related to spinal disc problems, including:

1. Herniated or Bulging Discs: These occur when the soft material inside the disc pushes out through a crack in the tougher exterior. Decompression therapy can help reposition the disc material and relieve pressure on the nerves.
2. Degenerative Disc Disease: As people age, the spinal discs can wear down and lose their cushioning ability. Decompression may help reduce pain associated with disc degeneration by improving disc health.
3. Sciatica: This condition is characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs down the legs from the lower back. Sciatica is often caused by a herniated disc pressing on the nerve, and decompression therapy can relieve this pressure.
4. Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the nerves in the lower back. Decompression therapy may help alleviate the pain associated with spinal stenosis by creating more space around the nerves.
5. Facet Syndrome: This occurs when the small joints in the back of the spine become inflamed or irritated, leading to localized back pain. Decompression can reduce stress on these joints.

     Spinal decompression offers several potential benefits:

• Non-invasive: One of the biggest advantages of spinal decompression therapy is that it is non-surgical, meaning there are fewer risks and a shorter recovery time compared to back surgery.
• Pain relief: Many patients report significant reductions in pain after undergoing spinal decompression, particularly those with herniated discs or sciatica.
• Improved mobility: By relieving pressure on the spine, decompression therapy may restore flexibility and range of motion.
• Targeted treatment: The hands on approach allows Dr. Nelson to target specific areas of the spine and assess the movement throughout the process.

     While spinal decompression therapy offers many potential benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. People with certain conditions may not be good candidates for this treatment, including those with:

• Fractures
• Tumors or infections of the spine
• Recent spinal surgery with instrumentation (such as metal implants)

     Additionally, while decompression is generally considered safe, some patients may experience mild discomfort during or after treatment. Serious complications are rare.
     The effectiveness of spinal decompression therapy can vary from patient to patient, and its success often depends on the underlying cause of the low back pain. Some studies suggest that spinal decompression can provide relief for certain individuals, particularly those with disc-related issues.

     If you suffer from low back pain Spinal Decompression may help. Talk to Dr. Nelson about our spinal decompression table.

Dr. Nelson

]]>Mon, 26 Aug 2024 18:20:38 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/magnesium-supplements-benefits-types-and-usage
Magnesium is a crucial mineral that plays a vital role in numerous bodily functions. From supporting muscle and nerve function to maintaining heart health and bone density, magnesium is indispensable. Despite its importance, many people do not get enough magnesium from their diet.

Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. These reactions are essential for processes such as energy production, DNA synthesis, and muscle contraction. Magnesium also plays a key role in regulating blood pressure, controlling blood sugar levels, and maintaining healthy bones. Inadequate magnesium levels can lead to a range of health issues, including muscle cramps, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, and even anxiety.

Magnesium deficiency is more common than many people realize. The modern diet, which is often high in processed foods and low in whole grains and leafy greens, contributes to this problem. Some common signs of magnesium deficiency include:

• Muscle Cramps: Frequent cramps, especially in the legs, can be a sign of low magnesium.
• Fatigue and Weakness: Magnesium is crucial for energy production, so low levels can lead to persistent tiredness.
• Irregular Heartbeat: Magnesium helps regulate heart function, and a deficiency can cause palpitations or arrhythmias.
• Mood Disorders: Anxiety, irritability, and even depression have been linked to low magnesium levels.

Magnesium supplements come in various forms, each with different levels of absorption and specific benefits. Here are some of the most common types:

• Magnesium Citrate: Highly absorbable and commonly used to relieve constipation due to its laxative effect.
• Magnesium Oxide: Contains a high percentage of elemental magnesium but is less bioavailable, meaning the body doesn't absorb it as well. It's often used for short-term relief of digestive issues.
• Magnesium Glycinate: Known for its high absorption and gentleness on the stomach, making it a good option for those with sensitive digestive systems.
• Magnesium Chloride: Often used in topical products like sprays and baths, it's also available in supplement form and is well-absorbed by the body.
• Magnesium Threonate: A newer form that is believed to cross the blood-brain barrier effectively, potentially offering benefits for cognitive function and mental health.

The recommended daily intake of magnesium varies by age, sex, and life stage, but for most adults, it ranges from 310 to 420 mg per day. Before starting a magnesium supplement, it's important to consider dietary sources of magnesium, such as leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Supplements should be taken with food to improve absorption and minimize the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort.
It's also crucial to choose the right form of magnesium based on individual health needs. For example, those looking to improve sleep might benefit from magnesium glycinate, while those dealing with constipation might find magnesium citrate more effective.

While magnesium supplements are generally safe for most people, taking too much can lead to side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping. Extremely high doses can cause more serious problems, including irregular heartbeat and low blood pressure.
Individuals with kidney disease or other chronic health conditions should consult a healthcare provider before taking magnesium supplements, as their bodies may have difficulty excreting excess magnesium, leading to a risk of toxicity.

Magnesium is an essential mineral that supports many critical functions in the body, yet many people do not get enough through their diet alone. Magnesium supplements can help fill this gap, offering benefits ranging from improved muscle function to better sleep and mood regulation. However, it's important to choose the right type of magnesium supplement and to use it responsibly to avoid potential side effects. By incorporating magnesium supplements wisely into your health regimen, you can support overall well-being and prevent the complications associated with deficiency.


Dr. Nelson


Visit Nelson Chiropractic located in the Kitsilano neighbourhood of Vancouver, BC.

]]>Mon, 19 Aug 2024 16:47:51 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/august-19th-2024
Back pain is one of the most common health issues affecting millions of people worldwide. It can range from a mild, occasional ache to severe, chronic pain that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. While there are various treatments available, chiropractic care has emerged as a popular and effective approach for managing back pain. This article delves into the nature of back pain, its causes, and how chiropractic care can play a pivotal role in alleviating discomfort and promoting overall spine health.

Back pain is a widespread problem, with estimates suggesting that up to 80% of people will experience it at some point in their lives. It can be classified into three main types:

1. Acute Back Pain: Lasts for a few days to weeks and is often caused by a sudden injury or muscle strain.
2. Subacute Back Pain: Persists for 4 to 12 weeks and can be due to unresolved acute back pain or other underlying issues.
3. Chronic Back Pain: Lasts for 12 weeks or longer and may persist even after the initial cause has been treated.

The causes of mechanical back pain can be related to lifestyle, medical conditions, or injuries. Some of the most common causes include:

• Muscle Strain: Overexertion, improper lifting, or sudden movements can strain the muscles and ligaments in the back, leading to pain.
• Herniated Discs: When the soft tissue inside a disc in the spine pushes out through a tear, it can press on nerves and cause pain.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: With age, the discs between the vertebrae can break down, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, resulting in pain.
• Osteoarthritis: This degenerative joint disease can affect the spine, causing pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility.
• Poor Posture: Slouching, sitting for long periods, or improper ergonomics can contribute to chronic back pain.

Chiropractic care is a healthcare discipline focused on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine. Chiropractors use a hands-on, drug-free approach to healthcare that includes patient examination, diagnosis, and treatment. At Nelson Chiropractic we use a variety of treatment types for the different causes: Spinal manipulation, Thompson Drop Technique, Cox flexion distraction spinal decompression, Extremity manipulation and Rehabilitative stretches and exercises.

Chiropractic care can be highly effective in managing and relieving back pain. Here’s how it works:

1. Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractors use controlled, sudden force to restore motion to vertebrae in the spine. This adjustment can help to improve spinal function, reduce nerve irritability, and restore range of motion.
   
   
2. Pain Relief: By restoring motion to the spine, chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pressure on the nerves, reducing pain and discomfort. Spinal decompression is particularly beneficial for those suffering from conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
   
   
3. Improved Mobility: Chiropractic care can help to restore movement in the joints and muscles of the back, allowing patients to move more freely and with less pain.
   
   
4. Holistic Approach: Chiropractors often provide advice on exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle changes to support long-term back health. This holistic approach addresses the root causes of back pain rather than just the symptoms.
   
   
5. Non-Invasive Treatment: Unlike surgery or medication, chiropractic care is non-invasive and focuses on natural healing. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking to avoid the risks associated with more invasive treatments.

Numerous studies have supported the effectiveness of chiropractic care for treating back pain. Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association has shown that spinal manipulation can be an effective treatment for acute lower back pain. Additionally, a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that chiropractic care, combined with exercise, was more effective in treating neck pain than medication.

If you are experiencing back pain that persists for more than a few days, or if your pain is severe, it may be time to visit Nelson Chiropractic. Chiropractic care is particularly beneficial if your back pain is related to spinal misalignment, poor posture, or muscle strain.

Back pain is a common and often debilitating condition, but it doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Chiropractic care offers a safe, non-invasive, and effective option for managing and alleviating back pain. By focusing on spinal health and overall well-being, chiropractic care can help individuals regain their mobility, reduce pain, and improve their quality of life. If you’re suffering from back pain, consider consulting Nelson Chiropractic to explore how this approach can benefit you.


Dr. Nelson


Visit Nelson Chiropractic located in the Kitsilano neighbourhood of Vancouver, BC.

]]>Tue, 20 Jun 2017 16:21:24 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/nutrition-calcium     Most people are aware Calcium is an important mineral for bone health. However, how much to take and good sources of Calcium are often not known. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in your body and is used for a variety of function including: nerve transmission, muscle contraction, vascular control and hormonal balance. The majority of Calcium is stored in our bones but is released to maintain function of your nerves, muscles and circulatory system. Calcium deficiency shows no obvious signs and symptoms because it starts with weakened bone. Calcium is related to certain cancers, kidney stones, cardiovascular health and even weight issues. Too much Calcium can have side effects as well.

     For both men and women, starting at 4 years old the recommended daily intake of Calcium is 1000mg. Between 9 and 18 it rises to 1300mg for peak bone growth and density. Women 50+ and men 70+ should increase their intake to 1200mg per day. Unfortunately Calcium isn't readily adsorbed into our blood streams. Vitamin D and Magnesium can help the process and are often grouped together in supplementation. Vitamin C, E and K and boron also assist with Calcium absorption. Groups at risk for Calcium deficiencies include: Post menopausal women, Amenorrheic women (lack of period) including the female athlete triad, Vegetarians and the lactose intolerant. Many foods that are high in Calcium are dairy products and fortified foods such as orange juice and soy products. Fish and leafy green vegetables are good non-dairy non-fortified sources of Calcium. Caffeine, alcohol, high sodium and/or protein diets negatively effect Calcium levels by either blocking absorption or increasing excretion. Fruit and vegetable intake can reduce Calcium excretion.

     Calcium supplementation comes in several forms, mainly Calcium carbonate and Calcium citrate. Calcium carbonate requires stomach acid for absorption so it is best taken with food. Calcium citrate does not require acid so it is better for people with low levels of stomach acid, inflammatory bowel disease or absorption issues. It is best taken in doses of less than 500mg multiple times a day as absorption decreases as the amount consumed increases.

     Calcium is important for bone health, specifically the prevention of osteoporosis. Adequate Calcium intake coupled with Vitamin D and weight bearing exercise provides the best defense against weak bones. There are several other diseases that have potential benefits from adequate Calcium intake including: reduced incidence of Colon cancer, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy). Taking too much Calcium can lead to a higher chance of getting kidney stones. Also, there is a potential link between excessive Calcium intake and Prostate Cancer, but it hasn't yet been clearly demonstrated.

     Calcium is an important mineral that we need to get enough of for more than just our bones. It is very difficult to tell when we do not have enough Calcium stored in our bodies as symptoms usually show up much later in life. The most abundant sources of Calcium in our diets are typically dairy, fortified foods and leafy greens. Vegetarians should consider supplementation.


Dr. Nelson
]]>Tue, 28 Feb 2017 23:56:18 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/pain-thresholds     Our bodies can act in funny ways. One minute you feel great, and the next moment you can have sharp lower back pain seemingly from no where or from a simple movement. Pain is felt in the brain in response to nervous system input. Once you reach the pain threshold you feel it. Before that point you might have felt no indication of a problem. Everyone is unique and different situations for the same person can provide a range of responses. There are many factors that influence pain and the threshold at which you feel it including: genetics, stress and coping mechanisms, gender, previous injuries, weight and psychological factors. Obviously there are some factors that we can and can not influence.
     Genetics, gender and many psychological factors are out of our control. People can have more pain receptors, or in the case of redheads, a mutation in the pain receptor gene. Women are more sensitive to pain but are equal in their ability to tolerate pain intensities, with the big exception of childbirth. People affected by depression and anxiety can be more sensitive to pain.
     There are aspects of pain that we have control over. The brain perceives pain based on input from the nervous system. We can't change the input from the nerves but we can change the perception. Reducing stress and using coping mechanisms such as breathing practices, biofeedback and relaxation. Meditation can also reduce the experience of pain. People who smoke, are sedentary and/or are over weight experience more pain. A plan to quit smoking, exercise and eat healthy can reduce pain significantly. Previous injuries can condition the brain to feel more pain especially when those injuries effect the nervous system directly or indirectly. Getting old injuries healthy and maintaining a proper exercise and stretching routine can go a long way to improving pain.

Dr. Nelson
]]>Mon, 21 Nov 2016 17:44:32 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/sciatica     I often have people come to my office with lower back pain and say "I have Sciatica". It is true that Sciatica can cause lower back pain, but that is not the only symptom and Sciatica is not the only thing that can cause lower back pain.
     So what is Sciatica exactly? Sciatica is an irritation of the Sciatic nerve. The Sciatic nerve is comprised of the lower three nerve roots that come out of your lumbar spine L4, L5 and S1 as well as two sacral nerve roots S2 and S3. Irritation can happen as a spinal nerve exits the spinal canal, on the sciatic nerve itself or further down the line as the nerve splits and innervates muscles and skin. The Sciatic nerve sends signals to contract muscles and receives signals from nerves about touch, temperature and pain. The symptoms of Sciatica include: Lower back and/or leg pain, burning and/or electric like pain, weakness in muscles of the lower leg, loss of reflexes and numbness, tingling or pins and needles. The pain and numbness often happen in specific patterns associated with the nerve root that is involved, sometimes there are more than one levels effected. It can be subtle or completely disabling.
     There are actually several different causes of the irritation of the nerve giving different symptoms and prognosis. Herniated discs cause Sciatica when the disc puts pressure a nerve root. Facet syndrome is an irritation of the facet joints that can also affect the a nerve root and cause the symptoms of Sciatica. Piriformis syndrome is an entrapment of the Sciatic nerve from the piriformis muscle. Each of these causes are treated differently.
     The most important step is proper diagnosis, finding which area is irritating the nerve. Chiropractic care can help with Sciatic pain by reducing pressure on the nerve at any of these sites. If you suspect that you have Sciatica call your chiropractor today for a proper assessment.

Dr. Nelson]]>Mon, 21 Nov 2016 17:24:37 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/activity-can-lower-your-health-care-costsPhysical activity is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle. It has numerous benefits ranging from prevention of chronic diseases to improved brain, bowel and muscular function. Physical activity helps prevent muscle and joint pain and dysfunction.  These benefits can positively impact your wallet. Time off work, muscle and joint rehabilitation and medications can be costly. Exercise can be done relatively inexpensively.

Physical activity can help prevent chronic diseases such as: heart disease (cholesterol and blood pressure control) , stroke, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and colon and breast cancer. It increases your metabolism, burning more fat and aids in losing weight. It reduces stress, anxiety and depression and improves your mood and energy levels. Activity helps promote digestion and regular bowel movements. It helps build and maintain bone density, as well as improve brain function in older adults. And of course activity helps with balance, cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness, which may help prevent injury and lead to a longer and higher quality life.
There are so many benefits, we just have to put in the time. Consistency is key with exercise, not the type or intensity(to some degree). Invest in your health: go for a walk at lunch time, take the stairs at the office, bike to work, stick to your exercise routine. Find something you enjoy, that will make it easy. Take a friend or your children.

Dr. Nelson

]]>Tue, 14 Jun 2016 22:44:24 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/injury-and-prevention-overtraining     Overly sore muscles, fatigue all the time and limited benefits/gains from working out are the classic signs of overtraining. Before you jump up and declare 'I have that problem' consider how the body naturally functions. We break muscles down and build them back up stronger, the same happens in many areas of our body with different tissues. Over training is one end of the spectrum, under resting is the other. The vast majority of overtraining cases are in professional athletes, people who have the time and are paid to train harder and longer. There are several reasons why you have symptoms resembling overtraining: your workout program has shifted into an intensive phase, seasonal and weather changes affecting performance and energy levels, returned to exercise too aggressively and under resting.
     A good training program will vary workout intensities and types, this is called periodization and is practiced for maximal workout benefits. Weight lifting periodization goes through anatomical adaptation (improved strength via nervous system response), hypertrophy (increase muscle mass), strength and power (strength with speed) phases. As you move through different phases you weights, reps and sets will change, but so will your muscles response to the type of workout. Muscle soreness in the hypertrophy phase is very common.
     Seasonal and weather changes affect our mood and energy levels. If you train outdoors it will affect your times running, cycling, rowing, etc.
     I am definitely guilty of returning to an exercise program after a period of time off and expecting a seamless transition. It's a big mistake we can easily fall into generally resulting in really stiff muscles. Try magnesium chloride brine to limit muscle soreness.
    The training mistake most likely confused with overtraining is under resting. This can be from not enough sleep, persistent dehydration and unhealthy eating habits. Rest is very important for recovery and is when you are actually gaining the benefit from exercise. It is important to stay hydrated as many aspects of metabolism require water. releasing stored fat to be burn actually uses up water, if your goal is to lose weight, stay hydrated. We all know the expression 'you are what you eat', don't be surprised by lack of recovery if you skip the fruits and veggies.

Dr. Nelson]]>Mon, 06 Jun 2016 23:56:19 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/health-posture     Posture effects many aspects of our life: muscle tension, emotional state, health and how we are perceived. No wonder so many people ask me about posture. First off I want to dispel some common myths. Poor posture does not lead to the extreme hunched forward posture you can observe in some elderly people. Poor posture can contribute but those extremes are the result of severe osteoporosis. Bad posture is not genetic nor does it cause scoliosis. There is a genetic component to our spinal curvatures, however that may only give us a predisposition for bad posture rather than the outcome. Scoliosis is a complex issue that can have many origins, but posture is not a contributing factor.
     Why does bad posture happen? Reciprocal innervation is a reflex that inhibitors the an muscle during a contraction. This reflex is present in subtle forms with posture. If your shoulders are rolled forward activating the pectoral muscles which in turn inhibit the rhomboids and trapezius (back muscles) creating a feed forward situation where they gradually decrease opposition to the pectorals. Basically bad posture creates bad posture. Holding postures over long periods of time, even when relaxed, creates tight muscles and weakness in the opposite muscles. In turn we become more susceptible to injury.
     Poor posture, standing and sitting, has a number of health implications beyond structural pains. Compression of the thoracic and abdominal regions can reduce lung and gastro-intestinal function. Lung function can be reduced by as much as 30% reducing your ability to absorb oxygen. The G-I tract uses peristalsis to move food through the system slowing digestions and potentially backing you up.
     Our body is constantly rebuilding itself, but it does so in the way we use it. If we are constantly in bad postures, sitting and not getting enough exercise then we slowly lose our ability to stand up straight for long periods of time.
     Bad posture can effect our emotional state, it is linked to higher rates of depression and decreased energy. A recent study showed a link between increase testosterone and decreased cortisol (bad stress hormone) with good posture.
     People with poor posture are perceived as less important and less confident. They are look overweight compared to an upright posture.
     Fortunately posture can be improved over time. The first step is awareness. Know when and where you have poor posture and catch yourself slouching. Secondly begin strengthening your mid back. I will have more on this later so stay posted.

Dr. Nelson
]]>Thu, 02 Jun 2016 00:12:23 GMThttp://nelsonchiropractic.ca/blog/nutrition-vitamin-e     Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin group that includes alpha, beta, gamma and delta forms of tocopherols and tocotrienols. Alpha tocopherol or d-alpha tocopherol is the active form. It is an antioxidant that is found in cereals, meat, poultry, eggs, vegetables and fruit. Vitamin E is also involved in immune function, cell signaling, regulation of gene expression, and other metabolic processes.
     The antioxidant function of Vitamin E has been researched with mixed results. Antioxidants help protect cell membranes and fats from oxidation, which can cause damage to cells. Antioxidants are thought to protect from chronic conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Vitamin E has been studied in respect to Coronary Heart Disease, Cancer, Eye health and Cognitive function. Vitamin E is likely not the sole factor in protecting against these ailments as there are studies that show benefits and studies that show no relationship.
     Fat soluble vitamins can be stored and accumulated in fat cells. There is a risk of excessive consumption. The recommended daily intake is 22.5 UI/day which can be achieved on a balanced diet alone. The upper limits of vitamin E intake are 1500 UI/day and are not recommended unless consulting with a physician.
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