Scoliosis? Are You Sure?

       Kiera, a 13 year old girl, came to our office with her mother.  A month prior to her visit at our clinic she had been diagnosed with scoliosis during a routine sports physical by another physician.  Naturally, her mother was concerned. 

     Upon first appearance, it was easy to see why she'd been given this diagnosis. Her right shoulder was noticeably higher than the other, making it look like she had a sideways spinal curvature in her upper back.  Adam's Test - the gold standard test to check for scoliosis - was negative.   What we did find were misalignments in her right foot and pelvis, as well as a 40 degree difference in hip rotation between right and left (watch video), a huge difference in scapula height, and a second rib that was not functioning.  
 
     All of these things were corrected with painless chiropractic joint manipulation.  Immediately after the treatment, everyone in the room could see the difference, as both shoulders rested evenly.  

     In Kiera's case, a malfunctioning foot caused a malfunctioning hip.  This caused her pelvis to be out of alignment, which in turn affected her upper back and shoulder girdle, making it appear that she had scoliosis.  The change really was something to see and we were excited to be part of the solution.  But we don't take the credit.  God did a marvelous job designing our bodies.  "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made..." Psalm 139:14

Chronic Ankle/Foot Pain Improved in One Adjustment

In the 30-second video above you can watch Dr. Rudkin perform a painless foot adjustment on Ginger, who has suffered with chronic foot and ankle problems for years. Keep your eye on her left foot as Dr. Rudkin tests it for movement before and after the adjustment. The result is pretty amazing. 

When normal foot mechanics break down, it causes a subconscious change in the way we walk and bear weight.  This causes joints to wear out prematurely, especially the knees and hips.  If you suffer with foot, knee, or hip pain, it's time to have the structure and function of your feet evaluated.  

We are always innovating and learning new techniques to stay on the cutting edge and provide you excellent care.  We hope you enjoyed this short video and would love to hear feedback.   

5 Benefits of Walking that Every Chiropractic Patient Should Know

1.) Help with Weight Management    and Weight Loss                                                                       Excess weight is a major contributor to lower back pain. It places undue stress and pressure on the joints in the lumbar spine.   Over time, this stress and pressure causes damage to the joints.  Damaged joints become arthritic joints -- also known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis.  

Walking is an excellent low impact exercises that helps you to lose weight and also helps to keep joints and soft tissues healthy.

 

2.) Better Mobility and Flexibility
Age and flexibility seem to be inversely proportional to each other -- as our age increases, our flexibility decreases.  Walking helps to increase our mobility and our flexibility.

3.) Relief of Back Pain

What is the number one cause of disability worldwide?  Answer: back pain.  It is estimated that Americans alone spend upwards of $50 billion a year on back pain remedies.  

Walking is recommended by the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) to help ease back pain. Walking not only helps to ease back pain, it helps to prevent it too.   Even walking for just 30 minutes a day 3 to 5 times a week is beneficial.
 

4.) Spinal Disk Rehydration

Between each of your vertebra is a small, fluid filled disc that acts as a cushion. These discs have a tendency to dehydrate with age, which can lead to back pain and mobility issues.  Fortunately, walking walking helps to keep them hydrated by forcing water into them.  This helps them to keep up their work as shock absorbers.

5.) Improved Circulation

Good circulation is integral to spinal health as well as a properly functioning central nervous system. Walking increases your circulation allowing your blood to carry vital nutrients to your spine, organs, and your entire body. 

Walking is beneficial for whole body wellness. It can help you reduce your risk of many serious health conditions including diabetes, heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure.  So commit to walking just 30 minutes a day, 3 to 5 days a week. You will be astounded at the difference it will make.

 

We hope you're having a great summer! Enjoy your time with friends and family. 

Dr. Shawn A. Rudkin