Dr Davis' Back & Wrist Pain Blog

How Does Spinal Degeneration Happen?

San Francisco Chiropractor Comments:

Patients are often surprised when they see the level of spinal degeneration that they have on x-ray or MRI. The first question is always "How did this happen to me?"

Well...spinal degeneration is the opposite of generate, which means "grow".

When we stop growing we begin to degenerate...and this happens to everything.

So is spinal degeneration normal?

Yes, to a certain extent...just like a certain amount of tread wear on a tire is normal as long as the conditions are right...such as a normal front end alignment, good brake pads and shocks, normal road conditions, and of course your driving habits.

The most common form of spinal degeneration is from abnormal wear and tear...or what chiropractors call subluxation degeneration, which comes from spinal misalignment's (vertebral subluxations) that are left undetected and uncorrected. And for the most part, this process starts when we are very young.

What happens is, the spinal bones lose their normal position which creates abnormal forces on the spinal structures such as the spinal discs, ligaments, facet joints, and vertebral end plates. These abnormal forces (along with a cascade of inflammatory and chemical responses) cause the structures to breakdown prematurely leading to spinal degeneration and degenerative disc disease (DDD).

In addition, lifestyle choices we make (I refer to this as our "context")  such as the food we eat , the amount of exercise we get, smoking, drinking, stress, rest, etc., can also contribute towards spinal degeneration. The healthier the lifestyle, the better.

Side Note: The typical American diet (and 70% of us are overwight or obese) is rich an animal protein,  processed foods, chemicals, and toxins, which can lead to chronic inflamation, obesity, and spinal degeneration.

In a nutshell...we reflect the quality of our context. Just like the pond in your backyard reflects the quality of it's context...or a river, or an ocean, or the planet.

So what can I do to make sure my spine does not degenerate prematurely or if it already has, slow the degeneration down?

The first thing you should do is get a spinal exam from a chiropractor...one that specializes in posture. You want to find out if you have a short leg also, foot pronation, or a rotated pelvis...these are all part of a good spinal exam. If you are out of alignment, follow your chiropractors recommendations to fix the problem...then get checked every so often to maintain the changes.

Depending on the severity of your condition and your desire to change (the primary factor), your chiropractor can help you modify your lifestyle choices and get you on the right track.

As I chiropractor and family doctor, I want to teach my patients about the causes of vertbral subluxation, as well as treat the subluxations themselves. This way the changes are more permanent.

So, Yes...spinal degeneration can happen quick....especially when we get older. But chiropractic and a healthy lifestyle can slow it down and help you enjoy a long active life :-)

Dr. Eben Davis is clinic director of Executive Express Chiropractic in San Francisco. To schedule an appointment call 415-392-2225.

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Back Pain, Obesity, and Chiropractic

San Francisco Chiropractor Comments:

Almost 70% of Americans are either overweight or obese, and millions suffer with chronic back pain...is there a connection? I think so.

After-all...the spinal bones, spinal discs, ligaments, muscles, and tendons, are designed to function best with a more normal body weight. When we over-load the spine and it's supporting structures over an extended period of time it will cause them to breakdown and malfunction.

 

Here are some of the musculoskeletal disorders that are associated with obesity:

• Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)
• Herniated Discs
• Bulging Discs
• Spinal Stenosis
• Sciatica
• Chronic Back Pain
• Facet Syndrome
• Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)

Is it possible that if an obese back pain patient were to lose weight the back pain would go away?

It's not only possible, but the reverse is also often true.

Many times, if an obese patient does not lose weight the back pain will persist...even if the patient is undergoing chiropractic care, or acupuncture, or physical therapy.

In fact, many obese patients are so de-conditioned because they have been unable to exercise (or unwilling to) that back pain treatments cause even more pain. Managing this is an art.

So how does an obese patient fix their back pain?

In my 20 years as a chiropractor in San Francisco I have helped hundreds of obese patients with back pain. I have always found that it is best to do a combination of chiropractic care, aerobic and strentgh training, and plant based nutrition therapy or some other form of nutrition based weight loss (not a quick fix program).

If we can do all these lifestyle modifications together...slowly at first...we can make long term permanent changes in a patients body weight and back pain.

And here's the deal...usually the back pain is the least of an obese patient's health care concerns. Obesity is a primary cause of most killer diseases such as heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes.

Often times we work closely with medical doctors, nutrition counselors, and physical therapists...and sometimes a chiropractor manages everything. I have done both.

So anyway...YES, there is a direct connection between back pain and obesity...and a chiropractor skilled in lifestyle modifcation programs can help get an obese patient back on track. A chiropractor is a great first step. 

Dr. Eben Davis is clinic director of Executive Express Chiropractic San Francisco

 

 

Patient Review of Executive Express Chiropractic

San Francisco Chiropractor Review: This week our featured patient is Ashley Gibson. Ashley found Executive Express Chiropractic on Yelp searching for a doctor that could provide Graston Technique for her sprained ankle. Ashley was unable to function and the ankle pain was working it's way into her knee, low back, and neck. Ashley is better now and very thankful. Hear what she has to say about us.

To schedule an appointment for Graston Technique in San Francisco or chiropractic care at Executive Express Chiropractic call 415-392-2225

Click here for more Reviews of Executive Express Chiropractic

Chiropractic is a Family Affair

San Francisco Chiropractor Comments:

 We decided Executive Express Chiropractic should be open on Saturdays so that we could make our services more available to families. After-all...many of the spinal problems adults present with happened from spills and falls that occurred during childhood.

I had my first chiropractic adjustment when I was about 12 years old...now I wish it would have been sooner. When we are growing and our body's are developing, it is very important to make sure that the spine is in it's optimal position. 

The nervous system (brain, spinal cord,and nerves) controls and coordinates all bodily function, including growth and development. The bones of the skull and spine house and protect the brain and spinal cord. The nerves, which are branches off the spinal cord, exit from in between the bones of the spine and connect to every cell, tissue, gland, and organ in the body controlling their function.  

The Central Nervous System

When the bones of the spine lose their normal (protective) alignment they can offend and irritate the same nerves they protect when the are in proper alignment. Chiropractors call this condition a Vertebral Subluxation...it's what we treat.

So...how many times do you think you fell when you were a kid?

I have a 5 year old daughter and I can tell you that I'm glad I get to adjust her frequently because the amount of spills and falls she takes is amazing, and I don't want them to come back and haunt her later.

My wife gets adjusted frequently too...as does the rest of my family.

Regular chiropractic is also a very smart choice for the elderly. As we age, we lose flexibility and motion (a primary cause of spinal degeneration) which chiropractic adjustments can help to maintain and restore.

Sure, there are special treatment considerations for children and elderly patients, but chiropractic is very safe and gentle, and there is nothing to be afraid of. The force is very light...but effective.

Chiropractors have very low malpractice insurance rates...why is this?

Well...there is only one reason since all insurance is based on occurence. It's because chiropractic is very safe and there just aren't that many injuries. And that's a fact.

So anyway, in my opinion chiropractic should be a family affair. Find yourself a chiropractor that is open on Saturdays and bring your whole family in. And ask your chiropractor about a Family Discount.

Nothing will give you a higher return on investment (ROI) than investing in your health and the health of your family.

To schedule an appointment at Executive Express Chiropractic call 415-392-2225 or schedule an appointment on-line. Mention this blog post for a complimentary consultation. Ask about our Family Discount.

Executive Express Chiropractic is open M-F 9-6pm and Saturday 9-1pm. We validate parking at the SF Embarcadero Center.

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How does spinal decompression work?

San Francisco Spinal Decompression Doctor Comments:

Spinal disc decompression with machines such as the DRX9000 is no longer a novelty. 

Six years ago we became the first clinic in San Francisco to offer DRX9000 nonsurgical spinal decompression therapy. Now there are decompression therapy machines all over the Bay Area.

Why is this? Well...it's not because they don't work, I'll tell you that!

In fact, the success rates are fantastic as long as the spinal decompression doctor is skilled at setting herniated disc patients up (on the spinal decompression machine) properly and managing chronic back pain and neck pain patients. This comes with experience....it's an art.

Spinal decompression machines are designed and built to treat neurovascular compression syndromes such as herniated discs, bulging discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and facet syndrome.

Disc decompression therapy actually isolates on a specific spinal segment such as L5-S1 (which is the most common lumbar disc to herniate) and does the following:

• Enlarges the disc space.
• Elongates the spine.
• Repositions the spinal disc.
• Pulls the herniated or bulging disc fragments back to the center of the disc and off the spinal cord and nerves.
• Re-hydrates the disc (pumps out waste products and brings in nutrients).
• Strenghtens the spinal ligaments.
• Reduces intradiscal pressure.

It sounds great...how come medical doctors don't refer herniated disc patients out for spinal decompression therapy?

Some do...In fact, some medical doctors have the DRX9000 or similar decompression systems in their clinics.

At our San Francisco Spinal Decompression Center we get medical referrals all the time. We have also treated many medical doctors, dentists, nurses (hear one our patients tell her DRX9000 story), and health care providers with decompression therapy.

It sounds to good to be true?

Yes it does...but here's the deal:

Spinal decompression is NOT a Magic Bullet. Spinal decompression is a lot of work. It takes 20-24 one hour sessions on average and there is quite a bit of home care, exercises, and work by both the patient and provider.

And...it's possible you could go through the entire process and not get better. It's possible...but not likely. Success rates are excellent.

So where do I sign-up?

Not so fast...you first have to be qualified by a spinal decompression doctor...not everyone is a candidate for spinal disc decompression. Here's what you need to do:

If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area you can call Executive Express Chiropractic at 415-392-2225 and ask for a complimentary consultation (mention this blog post).

If you do not live in San Francisco you can visit our recommended chiropractors page (most are spinal decompression doctors)  or send me an email at ebendavis@yahoo.com and I will do my best to steer you in the right direction.

Click here to read the Spinal Decompression Special Report

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San Francisco Spinal Decompression Review

Every week at Executive Express Chiropractic we feature a "Patient of the week" who has achieved outstanding results with our unique brand of chiropractic and spinal decompression. This week we profile Jeremy Robards. Jeremy had tried back surgery (failed), physical therapy, and numerous epidural injections, none of which helped. Jeremy in now Pain Free and enjoying life. Congrats Jeremy :-)

To schedule an appointment at our San Francisco Spinal Decompression Center call 415-392-2225.

Upper Back Pain From Slumping Over At Your Desk?

San Francisco Chiropractor Comments:

Sitting for long hours at your computer can lead to upper back pain and pain between the shoulders. Most of the time the pain will go away on it's own. However, if you are sitting for long periods without taking adequate breaks throughout the day, and doing this day in and day out...the upper back pain can become chronic and severe.

Tall people are particularly vulnerable to upper back pain from frequent slumping over at their desk. This is because most workstations and chairs are designed for smaller people which forces tall people into a more flexed (bent over) position.

And people that have poor posture, such as a kyphosis or Forward Head Posture, will develop symptoms faster from slumping, than someone with good posture.

But be careful...because if YOU slump for too long...you too will develop poor posture.

So what can be done...what's the best way to prevent computer related ( from slumping) upper back pain in the first place?

Well...the best way I know of is to take frequent breaks...say a 7-10 minutes break every hour. Get up out of your chair and do some spinal stretches or walk around. Don't get locked-in for hours at a time without taking breaks.

Plus, the more physically fit you are, the better you are able to resist the negative forces of sitting for long periods. So workout 3-4 times per week and get plenty of rest.

A cervical pillow really helps also. Because a cervical pillow will support the neck and allow the neck muscles to rest and recover from a hard days work. Soft pillows are a no-no.

Regular chiropractic adjustments can also help the spine maintain a more normal alignment. In addition, your chiropractor can prescribe specific spinal exercises that are designed to counter long hours of sitting.

You also want to drink plenty of good clean water to keep the spinal discs hydrated (1/2 your body-weight in oz per day). Soft drinks and coffee are diuretics and actually cause you to lose water. 

A good chair and proper ergonomic set-up are key also. Your chiropractor can help you with this.

Icing the upper back before and after long periods of sitting will also help prevent upper back pain.

So there you go. Sure upper back pain from slumping over your desk and computer can be a real drag...but it doesn't have to be that way.

Take care of your body and it will take care of you :-)

Dr. Eben Davis is clinic director of Executive Express Chiropractic (415-392-2225) in San Francisco

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What does ice do for a musculoskeletal injury?

San Francisco Chiropractor Comments:

Have you ever wondered why chiropractors, physical therapists, and sports trainers use ice to treat musculoskeletal injuries (see how-to-ice back and neck video below)?

Sure the ice feels good...so it is a natural analgesic. Ice also reduces swelling and muscle spasms. But how does it do this...what is actually happening?

I came across this explanation online. I think it explains the physiology behind what ice therapy does for soft tissue injuries  rather well:

Ice shrinks the tissues and the blood vessels so that less fluid runs into the injured tissues. Less fluid in means less fluid leaking out ; which is what causes swelling and bleeding. Swelling increases pain as the swollen tissues press on nerve endings. Also, less tissue swelling & blood flow inhibits the release of the inflammatory cascade--a very complex set of proteins etc (like interleukins and tissue necrosis factor) that also lead to more warmth, tenderness, swelling, and bleeding. So even if you don't get as much pain relief as you'd like, the cold is still inhibiting all the other things going on.

So, in a nutshell...applying ice to a musculoskeletal injury (such as back or neck pain, knee pain, wrist pain) will reduce pain, swelling, inflammation, and muscle spasms, promote healing, and help prevent further injury. 

Ice really is a miracle treatment. Ice will not put a bone back into it's proper alignment, you need an adjutment for that. But ice will sure make a chiropractic adjustment easier to administer to an injured spine or extremity.

Plus, ice is 100% natural...so there are no side effects other than some discomfort from the cold at the beginning of treatment.

Side note: There are some people that can't handle the coldness of ice....but this is the exception, not the rule.

We recommend the gel packs you can get from your chiropractor or at the drug store. Keep them in your freezer at all time because you never know when you might need them.

Never ice for less than 10 minutes or more than 20 minutes...15 minutes is perfect. With a new injury you can ice every couple of hours for maximum benefit.

And don't forget to get checked-out by your chiropractor if you injure your spine or extremities...you might need more than just ice.

If you would like a complimentary ice instruction, you can stop by Executive Express Chiropractic (415-392-2225) any time and ask. Just mention this blog post.

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San Francisco Chiropractor Patient Review

Spinal Decompression Testimonial: Every week at Executive Express Chiropractic we profile a "Patient of the week" that has achieved outstanding results at our clinic. This week we are proud to profile Menka Quinto. Menka was suffering with severe back pain and neck pain and had tried many other forms of treatment with no success. Check out the video to hear what she has to say.

To schedule an appointment at Executive Express Chiropractic for spinal decompression or chiropractic...call 415-392-2225.

Has Chronic Back Pain Taken Over Your Life?

San Francisco Chiropractor Comments:

We have been helping patients with severe chronic back pain for almost 20 years at Executive Express Chiropractic (formerly Front Street Chiropractic) in downtown San Francisco.

Chronic back pain is defined as back pain that has lasted for over 90 days.

The #1 predisposing factor to chronic back pain is a previous episode of back pain. When you consider that 85% of all Americans will have back pain at some point in their lives, it's a miracle everyone does not have chronic back pain.

Why does back pain become chronic and persist with one person and go away with someone else?

Well...that's a great question, for which there are many opinions. Since this is my blog, and I have 20 years experience treating thousands of patients with chronic back pain, I will give you mine.

I have noticed...and there are many exceptions...that in general, patients that live a healthier lifestyle, have a more normal body-weight, exercise frequently, eat right (especially a plant based diet), manage stress well, and have a stable family and work life...tend to recover quicker from back pain, and are less likely to develop chronic back pain.

Note: Smoking, drugs, or excessive drinking is a turbo-booster for chronic back pain. 

And...there is often times more to back pain than just the physical part (bone out of place, too much body-weight, etc). There is frequently an often overlooked mental component to chronic back pain...which is why we recommend visualization techniques, meditation, and yoga for our spinal decompression and chronic back pain patients.

Anyway, I believe health is a spontaneous occurrence when the conditions are right. When we eat right, exercise, get plenty of rest, maintain our spine, refrain from excessive drinking and drug use, and have a positive mental attitude, our body makes happy cells. Happy thoughts become happy molecules.

Health Update: Recent research suggests that people that sit all day but workout, are still at risk for chronic back pain and other health problems. Sitting all day also inceases the risk of heart attack. It seems we need to move around way more than we think. An hour a day at the gym 3x per week on the weights is not enough (great huh?).

So what can you do if you have chronic back pain that has taken over your life?

Well, at Executive Express Chiropractic we will first determine if there is a physical component to your back pain. Physical meaning a bone out of alignment putting pressure on a nerve. Is there a short leg? Is the pelvis rotated? Is there a herniated or bulging disc? Spinal degeneration? Do you have poor posture?

As part of our initial intake we will cover lifestyle "Red Flags" such as smoking, obesity, excessive alcohol or drug use, etc.

Physical, chemical, and mental stresses cause what chiropractors treat...Vertebral Subluxations.

Our San Francisco chiropractors will work to correct the subluxations with chiropractic and spinal decompression (if indicated) and teach you about what causes them with education about lifestyle choices.

If we can help you to adjust the factors that are responsible for creating the conditions of health, we can work together to break the chronic back pain cycle...which can be difficult at times. 

Chiropractic adjustments, Nonsurgical spinal decompression, Active Release Technique (ART), Deep Tissue Laser Therapy, Graston Method, Exercise, TLC, and Lifestyle Modification...That's our magic formula for chronic back pain.

Will it work for you?

We sure hope so...it's better then the alternative. Who knows...you might just get your life back.

Check out the Executive Express Chiropractic YouTube Channel to listen to what some of our patients have to say.

To find out if you are a candidate for chronic back pain treatment at Executive Express Chiropractic call 415-392-2225 or request an appointment online on our secure server.

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