Is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Right For You?

Dr. Michael J. Paralovos, chiropractor at TOTALHEALTH of Naples Chiropractic and Functional Rehab discusses the different spinal decompression options most commonly available in Naples, FL.

To find out if you are a candidate for non-surgical spinal decompression and you live in the Naples, FL area, please call TOTALHEALTH of Naples to schedule a consultation 239.260.1426 or visit our website www.totalhealthnaples.com

Non-surgical spinal decompression is an optimal alternative approach to helping sufferers of low back and neck pain caused by herniated/bulging discs and the consequences of spinal stenosis (neuroforaminal and central canal).  Currently chiropractors tend to be at the forefront of this technology and advancement in healthcare.  This is likely due to the fact that chiropractors are the leaders in non-pharmalogical/surgical spinal health and wellness.   

So what is non-surgical spinal decompression?  This technology utilizes a computerized traction system to target damaged/herniated spinal discs that are limiting the patient from normal everyday activity.  The system is programmed to affect the disc lesion at a particular level, ie. if your herniation is at the level of the fifth lumbar disc then the decompression table will be set to that area, whereas traditional traction would give a non specific stretch in the entire lumbar region.  Once programmed, the patient will undergo intermittent loading and unloading cycles over the course of 15-30 minutes.  This repetitious protocol allows for nutrients to be pumped into the damaged disc and allow for waste by-products to be expelled.  The protocol is also designed to prevent any muscle spasticity from occurring.  Treatment plans can range anywhere from daily to weekly sessions for 2-4 weeks.

Now that you are familiar with the concept non-surgical spinal decompression, let’s focus on the differences of the types of tables that are commonly used in Naples, FL.  Though there are many manufacturers of this technology these are the big three: Vax-D, DRX 9000 and the Triton DTS. 

Vax-D was the first device on the market.  The Vax-D is diverse as it allows for treatment of the cervical and lumbar discs.  It also has the capability to perform the lumbar decompression prone and supine.  Through the years it continues to show progress and continues to attract people based on its reputation and effectiveness.  Generally this service is not covered by most insurance therefore the cost to the patient can range from $2500-$5000 on average.

The DRX-9000 is yet another big player in the spinal decompression arena.  Based on a similar concept to the Vax-D, the DRX-9000 comes with more features that can WOW the patient.  It comes with a built in DVD player to help pass the time by and it is equipped with bright flashing buttons to make it appear hi-tech.  The best feature of this device is it’s capability to lower the patient from a standing to recumbent position, this is ideal for the extreme acute cases.  Unfortunately the DRX-9000 is not diverse with its patient positioning and has limited program settings.  Due to the high cost of the device and limited insurance coverage the patient can expect to pay anywhere from $3000 and up.

The third decompression device is the Triton DTS.  This machine is manufactured by Chattanooga, one of the leading physical rehab companies in the industry.  Like the Vax-D the Triton DTS allows for cervical and lumbar decompression and also has the capability to perform the lumbar decompression prone or supine.  This is the most diverse table of the three as it can swivel to target a specific side, this is a key feature as most disc herniations are not symmetrical and are usually one sided.  It can raise or lower to assist with patient mounting and dismounting.  The Triton DTS is also diverse as it has multiple programming which can be beneficial to the patient depending on their degree of pain, limitation and prognosis.  Besides the effectiveness of the device on spinal disc problems, the Triton DTS tends to have shorter treatment time as it has advanced non-surgical spinal decompression with improved technology.  Triton DTS treatment has some insurance coverage but typically is more cost effective to the patient than most non-surgical spinal decompression units on the market.

You now have some information on the different types of non-surgical spinal decompression devices that are available in Naples FL.  Dr. Michael J. Paralovos, chiropractor at TOTALHEALTH of Naples has chosen to use the Triton DTS to help his patients with back and neck pain because he believes it is superior to the competition and more cost effective.  To find out if you are a candidate for non-surgical spinal decompression and you live in the Naples, FL area, please call TOTALHEALTH of Naples to schedule a consultation 239.260.1426 or visit our website www.totalhealthnaples.com

Also, check out TOTALHEALTH of Naples YouTube channel for a video demonstrating spinal decompression http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1P2Qed-f5c&feature=g-all-u as well as other videos on health and chiropractic.

Today's Fashion Can Be Tomorrow's Pain

High Heels and Back Pain

Mar 10, 2011 by Madeleine Edgar

PrintPrint

We all like to look tall, sexy and glamorous and we wear high heels to achieve that effect, but we don’t feel the effects on our bodies until later in life and don’t believe that we will suffer from those effects, even though our mothers had back pain and warned us about them!

What are those effects? Let’s start at your feet

• High heels throw the weight of your body forward onto the heads of your metatarsal bones. Your toes are continually extended and cannot contact the ground in the way they were meant to. Eventually this will lead to corns, a dropped metatarsal arch and even pinching of the nerves between your toes.
• Next come your ankles. They are continually plantarflexed (the foot is pointed downward) and this prevents the heel contacting the floor first, as it is meant to do. Your calves will be tight and this can lead to rupture of the Achilles tendon when unexpected strain is put on it, in sports or walking on uneven ground in bare feet. The ankle is in a very unstable position laterally (sideways) as the base of the high heel is often narrow and this can lead to sprained ankles.
• Your knees will be slightly flexed, not extending at the point of weight bearing to transmit the body weight directly down through the leg bones (more likelihood of developing osteoarthritis) and not getting the required extension at the hip joint.
• The hip joints do not move through the range of movements needed for walking, so all the strain falls on a small area, which tends to wear out more quickly (osteoarthritis again!)
• The pelvis. High heels tend to exaggerate the position the pelvis is already in-tilted up or down, which in turn increases the lordosis (inward arch) in the lower back or makes the lower back too flat contributing to spasms of the back muscles, back pain and uneven wear on the discs and facet joints of the vertebrae. It is very difficult to find the optimum position for the pelvis in high heels.
• The rest of the spine has to compensate often by rounding the upper back (kyphosis) to rebalance the body and the head often pokes forward to correct the centre of gravity, creating neck pain.                 
• Your brain will be thoroughly confused. The normal walking pattern is to put alternative heels to the ground first. When your toes touch the ground first, the right and left hemispheres get the wrong messages and this upsets the communication between the two hemispheres.
• Your skeleton cannot support you efficiently so your muscles will struggle to hold you up (often causing pain) let alone being free to allow to you do all the other things you do 

If you are suffering from back pain or neck pain, (possibly from your high heels!) chiropractic can help.  Please call Total Health of Naples and book an appointment with Dr. Michael J. Paralovos, chiropractor in Naples, FL. 

239.260.1426

www.totalhealthnaples.com

Article written on Mar 10, 2011 by Madeleine Edgar  source is http://www.naturaltherapypages.com.au/article/high_heels_and_back_pain

• 
  

4 Treatments For Low Back Pain

4 Treatments For Low Back Pain...
Check out this great article from O Magazine written by Dr. Oz.  It discusses the benefits of chiropractic, physical therapy and stress relief to help ease low back pain.

http://www.oprah.com/health/Dr-Oz-Treatments-for-Low-Back-Pain

If you or someone you know is suffering from low back pain, please call Total Health of Naples to see if chiropractic can help!  Dr. Michael J. Paralovos of Total Health of Naples is a licensed chiropractor in Naples, FL. 

239.260.1426

www.totalhealthnaples.com

5 Tips for Choosing the Best Chiropractor in Naples, FL

5 Tips for Choosing the Best Chiropractor in Naples, FL

Chiropractic is a profession with a large variety of practice philosophies and techniques, so selecting a good chiropractor can be a challenge.  Total Health of Naples Chiropractic and Functional Rehab can help you select a chiropractor in Naples by giving you a few helpful tips.

 1.     Competency and Experience:

When searching for a chiropractor in Naples, it is a great idea to check the credentials of the chiropractor.  Though all chiropractors receive the same education and are required to hold a state license, they must also complete continuing education every 2 years.  Many chiropractors go above and beyond the required continuing education.  They may hold post doctorate certificates or specialties that keep them current with the latest research and protocols.  You should be able to find their resume / Curriculum Vitae on their website.

 2.    Ask Your Friends and Family: 

A recommendation from a friend or family member is a great resource when choosing a chiropractor in Naples.  If your friend or family member has been completely content with the service and results that they received from their chiropractor, you may want to call their chiropractor for an appointment.  A referral is always a great way to choose the best chiropractor for you in Naples! 

3.     Meet the Doctor: 

It is a great idea to schedule a meeting/consultation with the chiropractor to determine whether you are a good match.  Is the chiropractic office clean and inviting?  Does the chiropractor look like he/she leads a healthy lifestyle?  Do you “click” with the chiropractor and staff members?  These are important questions to ensure you are making the right decision for your health. 

4.     Things to Look For: 

·         A chiropractor who performs a thorough examination and gives you a diagnosis

·         A chiropractor that will refer you to another physician if they are unable to help your condition

·         A chiropractor who has access to MRI, Bone Scans, CT and other diagnostic tests if necessary

·         A chiropractor that sets goals for treating your condition and re-evaluates during the course of treatment

·         A chiropractor who will dismiss you when your condition has been properly treated

5.    Things to Watch Out For: 

·         A chiropractor that uses scare tactics to sell you a extensive chiropractic care plan

·         A chiropractor that isn’t up front with you about your insurance or finances

·         A chiropractor that doesn’t sufficiently answer any questions that you have

·         A chiropractor that neglects to refer you to another physician if your problems don’t improve
 

Michael J. Paralovos is a chiropractor in Naples at Total Health of Naples.  Give us a call at 239.260.1426 or visit our website for more information www.totalhealthnaples.com

Neck pain study reinforces use of chiropractic, other conservative options

If you suffer from neck pain, TOTALHEALTH of Naples at 239.260.1426 or visit us online at www.totalhealthnaples.com

A new study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine finds spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) and exercise more effective at relieving neck pain than pain medication. The research reinforces the use of conservative care options like chiropractic as a first line of defense against pain, according to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA).

The study was conducted at Northwestern Health Sciences University.
The study divided participants into three groups that received either SMT from a doctor of chiropractic (DC), pain medication (over-the-counter pain relievers, narcotics, and muscle relaxants) or exercise recommendations.
After 12 weeks, about 57 percent of those who met with DCs and 48 percent who exercised reported at least a 75 percent reduction in pain, compared to 33 percent of the people in the medication group.
After one year, approximately 53 percent of the drug-free groups

The study also found that despite experiencing limited pain relief, people in the drug group continued using a higher amount of medication more frequently throughout the follow-up period. This finding underscores concerns raised in an April 2011 government report that indicated prescription drug abuse in the U.S. has reached crisis level.

still reported at least a 75 percent reduction in pain; compared to just 38 percent pain reduction among those who took medication.

"Doctors of chiropractic have long cautioned against the overuse of medication to treat musculoskeletal pain," said ACA President Keith Overland, DC. "We continue to promote drug-free, conservative interventions for neck pain patients before referral for medical management that may result in side effects. Patients deserve to know that there are natural, drug-free options when it comes to pain relief."

Source: American Chiropractic Association

Back pain sufferers show quick response to chiropractic

If you suffer from Low Back Pain, please call TOTALHEALTH of Naples at 239.260.1426 or visit us online at www.totalhealthnaples.com

Patients with low back pain (LBP) undergoing chiropractic treatment who respond to treatment are likely to improve very quickly, study findings show.

This appears to be true for those with acute (<4 weeks) and chronic (>3 months) pain.
The researchers found that treatment response on the Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) scale 1 week after treatment was a good indicator of outcome.

Indeed, patients with chronic and acute LBP who were "much better" or "better" on the PGIC scale at 1 week were four to five times more likely to be improved at both 1 and 3 months after treatment than patients who had not improved at 1 week.

The team also points out that "an important and unique finding in this current study is that although 123 (23%) of the patients with acute LBP and 71 (24%) of the patients with chronic LBP were diagnosed by their chiropractors as having radiculopathy, this finding was not a negative predictor of improvement."

Cynthia Peterson (University of Zurich, Switzerland) and colleagues investigated the outcomes of 523 patients with acute LBP and 293 with chronic LBP receiving chiropractic treatment.
After 1 week of treatment, 65% of patients with acute pain and 32% of patients with chronic pain reported that they were either "much better" or "better." The respective rates were 81% and 59% at 1 month and 88% and 69% at 3 months.

The most consistent factor predicting outcome was self-reported improvement at 1 week, which was independently associated with improvement at 1 month (odds ratio [OR]=2.4 for acute LBP and 5.0 for chronic LBP) and 3 months (OR=2.9 and 3.3, respectively).

Among the patients with chronic pain, other prognostic factors included trauma onset as the reason for LBP, a history of LBP episodes, and the Oswestry baseline score ‑ for every 1-point increase in the baseline Oswestry score, patients with chronic pain were 6% less likely to improve at 1 month.
These findings could help practicing chiropractors "make more confident decisions about patient prognosis based on how quickly individual patients respond to their treatment," the researchers report in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics.

"Chiropractors can also expect most of their patients with acute and chronic pain to continue to improve at least up to 3 months after the start of treatment, even if they are no longer being treated."

If you suffer from Low Back Pain, please call TOTALHEALTH of Naples at 239.260.1426 or visit us online at www.totalhealthnaples.com

Article written by Lucy Piper, Senior MedWire Reporter

The source of the article is from Medwire news with permission from Springer Healthcare Ltd. ©Springer Healthcare Ltd.

Non Surgical Spinal Decompression        

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is a revolutionary new technology used primarily to treat disc injuries in the neck and in the low back. This treatment option is very safe and utilizes FDA cleared equipment to apply distraction forces to spinal structures in a precise and graduated manner. Distraction is offset by cycles of partial relaxation. This technique of spinal decompression therapy, that is, unloading due to distraction and positioning, has shown the ability to gently separate the vertebrae from each other, creating a vacuum inside the discs that we are targeting. This "vacuum effect" is also known as negative intra-discal pressure. The negative pressure may induce the retraction of the herniated or bulging disc into the inside of the disc, and off the nerve root, thecal sac, or both. It happens only microscopically each time, but cumulatively, over four to six weeks, the results are quite dramatic. The cycles of decompression and partial relaxation, over a series of visits, promote the diffusion of water, oxygen, and nutrient-rich fluids from the outside of the discs to the inside. These nutrients enable the torn and degenerated disc fibers to begin to heal. For the low back, the patient lies comfortably on his/her back or stomach on the decompression table, with a set of nicely padded straps snug around the waist and another set around the lower chest. For the neck, the patient lies comfortably on his/her back with a pair of soft rubber pads behind the neck. Many patients enjoy the treatment, as it is usually quite comfortable and well tolerated. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is very effective at treating bulging discs, herniated discs, pinched nerves, sciatica, radiating arm pain, degenerative disc disease, leg pain, and facet syndromes.  Dr. Michael J. Paralovos of Total Health of Naples offers spinal decompression - call today to book your appointment for non surgical spinal decompression - 239.260.1426. www.totalhealthnaples.com Source:  American Spinal Decompression Association