You can live a pain-free life without drugs or surgery. Please call (310) 318-9543 for an appointment.
Back Pain Treatment
There are many causes of back pain, and most pain can be relieved without addictive drugs, epidurals, or surgery. All of our patients receive a detailed examination which includes a chiropractic, orthopedic, neurological evaluation, and x-rays if necessary. The most common conditions we see are:
Back Strain
Sitting at the computer too long can cause a strain in the upper back, shoulders, and lower back. Looking down at your smart phone too long can also cause a strain in the upper and mid back. Usually with a simple back strain, a chiropractic spinal adjustment along with physio-therapy or massage therapy gets you back on track.
Back Sprain
Over-doing it at the gym, an injury at home, being involved in a car accident, or a sports injury can sprain the muscles and ligaments along the spine and mis-align the vertebrae. This causes inflammation of the nerves and muscles, resulting in pain and restriction of movement. A treatment plan using ultrasound, cold laser, or electric stimulation to reduce the inflammation and increase the blood flow to the area, and spinal mobilization and adjustments to restore mobility of the spine, is effective in healing the sprain.
Back Pain From Pregnancy
We receive many referrals from OB-Gyns in the south bay and UCLA Medical Center. Because taking pain medication while pregnant is not recommended, chiropractic care is a safe and gentle way to relieve back pain. Increased abdominal size causes a shift in the center of gravity. This puts a strain on the postural muscles, spine, and hip joints. This is further complicated by a hormone called Relaxin that is produced in the third trimester. Relaxin's function is to loosen the ligaments of the pelvis and birth canal during delivery. The result is increased postural strain on a now un-stable frame. Low back pain, hip pain, and sciatica respond well to my gentle chiropractic treatment. I work together with your Ob-Gyn to provide you with the best comprehensive care.
Lumbar Herniated Disc / Degenerative Disc
Between each vertebra of the spine are discs made up of fibrous and gelatinous material. These discs act like cushions and spacers. When a disc degenerates or breaks down, the inner core can leak out through the outer portion of the disc. This is known as a disc herniation or a disc bulge. The bulging disc can put direct pressure on a spinal nerve root. The nerve roots of the lumbar spine form the sciatic nerve that runs through your buttocks and down your legs to your toes. A pinched nerve in the lower spine can cause pain to radiate along the path of the nerve. This is called sciatica. Symptoms can range from buttock pain, groin pain, hip pain, hamstring pain, calf pain, or foot pain. You may also experience weakness in the legs, numbness or tingling in your toes. In extreme cases, loss of bladder or bowel control can occur. This may require surgical intervention. We perform a comprehensive orthopedic, neurological, and chiropractic examination and spinal x-rays. If necessary other diagnostic studies such as a MRI will be recommended to more accurately pinpoint the problem area.
Effective Non-Surgical Treatment for Lumbar Herniated Disc
We've helped hundreds of people avoid back surgery and return to their normal lives without addictive drugs or surgery. Our treatment protocol generally involves bio-electric medicine, spinal decompression, and spinal adjustments. The combination reduces inflammation, reduces nerve irritation, helps heal the disc, and restore mobility of the spine. In the next phase, we implement an exercise program under the guidance of the doctor and our personal trainer, to strength the back, legs, and core muscles.
Sacro-Iliac Joint Pain
The sacro-iliac joints are at the base of the spine, and about 2 inches to either side of midline. A dysfunction of the joint can cause pain. The most common causes are trauma like falling on your side or buttocks, over-doing it at the gym, or a car accident. Arthritis, or sitting with one leg crossed for long periods of time can irritate that joint as well. If the examination reveals that the joint is fixated or mis-aligned, a specific chiropractic adjustment usually restores function and relieves the pain in one or two visits. If the cause is trauma, the surrounding muscles and ligaments sprained as well. Physiotherapy and bio-electric medicine are used to heal the area.
Osteoarthritis
Low back pain from osteoarthritis typically hits you first thing in the morning. Your joints are stiff and sore. Throughout the day as you move, the pain usually gets better, however at the end of the day the pain usually becomes worse again. The segments of the spine, or vertebra, are stabilized by joints called facet joints. They allow movement of your back and neck by sliding on each other. They are coated by cartilage which allows a smooth movement of the joint. A small sack or capsule surrounds each facet joint and provides a lubricant for the joint. Each sack has a rich supply of tiny nerve fibers. When the joints become worn, the cartilage may become thin, and the bone underneath gets irritated. This causes bone spurs and enlargement of the joints. The condition that results is called osteoarthritis. Trauma to the back, such being in car accident, or a serious fall, can speed up the wear and tear process. This condition can be very painful. The body often tries to protect the area by tightening the muscles along the spine creating muscle spasms. This causes you to walk with a "crooked or out of posture spine". We provide you pain relief through advanced bio-electric therapeutic treatment, spinal mobilizations, and spinal adjustments. We are able to prevent further cartilage loss and help rebuild the damaged cartilage with a nutraceutical called ArthroAid Plus. ArthroAid Plus has been clinically proven to reduce inflammation and rebuild cartilage in the joints. Exercise is essential in relieving the pain of osteoarthritis. We customize a program for every patient.
Neck Pain Treatment
We provide relief for many types of neck pain. The most common conditions we see are:
Stiff Neck
A stiff neck is characterized by soreness and difficulty moving the neck, especially when turning your head to the side. You may also have a headache, shoulder pain, or arm pain, and it causes you to turn your entire body instead of just your neck when trying to look backward or sideways. It can be from muscle strain from sitting at the computer too long, or sleeping in the wrong position. There is usually an underlying problem in the spine and muscles. In many cases a muscle called the levator scapula is in spasm. It is located at the back and side of the neck and connects with the shoulder. This muscle is controlled by the third and fourth cervical (neck) nerves. We administer precise spinal mobilization or chiropractic spinal adjustments to the involved vertebrae, to allow the nerves and muscles to return to normal.
Sports and Auto Accident Injuries
Neck pain is the single most common complaint in whiplash trauma from a car accident. Often, the pain radiates across the shoulders, up into the head, and down between the shoulder blades. The muscles and ligaments are sprained, and the discs can be injured. A combination of chiropractic care, physio-therapy, and exercise therapy relieves the pain, heals the damaged areas, and strengthens the spine and surrounding muscles. Please see the auto accident page for more information.
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc in the neck can cause a variety of symptoms. The most common ones are pain in the arm or hand, numbness and tingling in the fingers, and grip strength weakness. The pain pattern from a herniated disc is called cervical radiculopathy. We work closely with your orthopedist or neurologist. Our treatment protocol is gentle spinal decompression and traction to heal the disc, and gentle chiropractic manipulation to reduce the joint dysfunction that may be adding to the nerve compression. Once the initial phase of pain relief is underway, we implement an exercise plan to strengthen the neck, shoulder, and upper back muscles.
Cervical Radiculopathy
The symptoms of cervical radiculopathy are pain, weakness or numbness in shoulders, arms, hands or fingers. Pain can be in one area only, like the shoulder, or progress along the entire arm. The type of pain can vary. You can have a dull, all over pain; or pain as severe burning or sharp. You may also feel tingling, "pins and needles", or numbness. Certain neck movements like bending the neck back, side to side, or rotating it may increase the pain. Any condition that injures or irritates the cervical nerves can cause cervical neuropathy. The most common causes are cervical herniated discs, cervical spinal stenosis, and cervical degenerative disc disease (osteoarthritis). We find the cause of your problem by a thorough exam, x-rays, and MRI, and then implement a treatment protocol based on the diagnosis.
Osteoarthritis
The segments of the spine, or vertebra, are stabilized by joints called facet joints. They allow movement of your back and neck by sliding on each other. They are coated by cartilage which allows a smooth movement of the joint. A small sack or capsule surrounds each facet joint and provides a lubricant for the joint. Each sack has a rich supply of tiny nerve fibers. When the joints become worn, the cartilage may become thin, and the bone underneath gets irritated. This causes bone spurs and enlargement of the joints. The condition that results is called osteoarthritis. Trauma to the neck, such as a car accident, can speed up the wear and tear process. This condition can be very painful. The body often tries to protect the area by tightening the muscles along the spine creating muscle spasms. This causes you to walk with a "crooked, out of posture spine", or hold your head and neck in a rigid position. We are able to provide pain relief through advanced bio-electric therapeutic treatment and spinal mobilizations. We are able to prevent further cartilage loss and help rebuild the damaged cartilage with a nutraceutical called ArthroAid Plus. ArthroAid Plus has been clinically proven to reduce inflammation and rebuild cartilage in the joints.
Laser Pain Relief
Call our office for a free consultation (310) 318-9543.
The Effective, Drug-Free, Safe Solution to Pain Relief
Multi Radiance Medical Laser Therapy reduces inflammation, repairs damaged tissue, and speeds up recovery from an injury.
Conditions that Respond Well Include
Neck Pain
Back Pain
Shoulder Pain
TMJ
Shingles Pain
Wrist Pain
Plantar Facsitis
Sciatica
Tennis Elbow
Foot Pain
Arthritis Pain
Fibromyalgia
Laser Pain Relief - Info
Our Multi Radiance Laser delivers more beneficial light to the target areas
compared to Class IV lasers and This Super-Pulsed Laser doesn't raise the skin temperature to dangerous levels, unlike Class IV Lasers.
Many of our patients have experienced long-lasting pain relief.
The number of treatments vary depending on the condition. Many patients experience significant pain relief after only a couple treatments.
Personal Training/weight Loss
Many patients can benefit greatly from working with our personal trainers, in addition to their chiropractic care. Following an injury, patients are often hesitant to become physically active because they fear re-injury. Dr. Tarcha and her team of personal trainers help patients safely rebuild strength and restore flexibility to the body. Your PPO or ILWU insurance will cover the cost in most cases. Please call our office for more information. (310) 318-9543.
Common Conditions
Back surgery can be avoided in many cases when a patient has been diagnosed with a mild, and even a moderate herniated disc. With specific, gentle chiropractic adjustments along with exercises to strengthen the core, many patients are able to return to living a normal life. Chronic shoulder pain or "frozen shoulder" can be avoided after a shoulder injury, when the proper exercise plan is implemented. Neck and upper back pain from sitting at the computer too long, or looking down at your smart phone can be eliminated. Dr. Tarcha adjusts the areas of the spine that are misaligned, and then shows you how to strengthen your neck, shoulder and upper back muscles. Knee surgery can be avoided in many cases after an injury, with proper strengthening exercises. After an injury, it's common for arthritic changes to develop in the joints. When arthritis becomes severe, knee replacement or hip replacement can sometimes be the only option. Staying fit, agile, and strong working with our team can help you avoid surgery. Osteoporosis can be prevented with regular weight bearing exercises and proper nutrition.
Personal Training for Weight Loss
We can help you lose weight in a safe, comfortable, and effective way. Dr. Tarcha and her team of personal trainers will assist you in choosing a more healthy diet, and customize a plan of cardio exercises, pilates, and weights.
Neuropathy Treatment
If you think you may have peripheral neuropathy, please call us at (310) 318-9543, for a consultation at no cost or obligation.
If You've Been Diagnosed with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy or Other Types of Peripheral Neuropathy, We Can Help.
The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are stabbing or burning pain in the hands or feet, tingling sensations, muscle weakness, difficulty in walking, difficulty in gripping objects, numbness and loss of sensation in hands or feet. A team of neurologists from the South Bay and Marina Del Rey and I, initiated a non-surgical, drug-free treatment for peripheral neuropathy over 10 years ago. Our treatment protocol is a combination of Bio-Electric Medicine and Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation. We use a device called Matrix ProElect DT specifically engineered in Germany for pain management and neuropathy, and specific chiropractic spinal mobilizations.
The Reason Our Therapy is So Effective in Treating Peripheral Neuropathy Is the Combination of the Two Procedures
It's estimated that 26.4% of patients with diabetes have diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and that noticing burning pain or tingling sensations are often the first sign to the patient that they have diabetes. (References: Hughes,RA. Peripheral Neuropathy. BMJ 2002). If diabetes is left untreated, it can result in serious complications like urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, uncontrolled diarrhea, and amputation of toes. Diabetes is not the only cause of peripheral neuropathy. Exposure to environmental toxins and pesticides, chemotherapy, and military chemical weapons are some of the other causes. We've treated post-chemotherapy patients and veterans. Many veterans returning from the first and second gulf wars developed unusual peripheral neurological conditions. We are able to offer them relief. We receive referrals from internal medicine and family practice physicians, neurologists, podiatrists, and rheumatologists. You don't need a referral, however.
The Bio-electric device has been proven to increase blood flow and oxygen to the tissues, decrease inflammation, and decrease pain.
Most importantly in the treatment of neuropathy, the latest research has shown that this therapy has the ability to regenerate damaged nerve tissue and nerve connections. (References: Odell, R, Sorgnard, R, Carney, P. Combined Electrochemical Treatment for Peripheral Neuropathy, Practical Pain Management, 2015; Carney, P Quantum theory treats neuropathy better than pharmacology. Pain Practitioner, 2015).
Chiropractic Manipulation of specific areas of the spine, has been proven to stimulate the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS).
The SNS is responsible for controlling our heart rate, blood pressure, and blood flow to all areas of the body, including our hands and feet. (References: Kingston, L, Claydon, L, Tumilty, S. The effects of spinal mobilizations on the sympathetic nervous system: A systematic review. Manual Therapy, 2014).
References
Odell, R, Sorgnard, R, Carney, P. Combined Electrochemical Treatment for Peripheral Neuropathy, Practical Pain Management, 2015
Carney, P Quantum theory treats neuropathy better than pharmacology. Pain Practitioner, 2015
Kingston, L, Claydon, L, Tumilty, S. The effects of spinal mobilizations on the sympathetic nervous system: A systematic review. Manual Therapy, 2014
Hughes, RA. Peripheral Neuropathy. BMJ 2002
Auto Accident
Your medical care can be covered at 100% in most cases. Please call our office at (310) 318-9543 and we can check at no cost or obligation.
Prompt Treatment for Auto Accident Injuries is Important
If you've been involved in a car accident, injuries need to be taken very seriously. Because symptoms of an auto accident injury can take weeks or months to manifest, it's easy to think that you're not as injured as you really are. Too often people don't seek treatment following an auto accident because they don't feel hurt. By far, the most common injury to the neck is a whiplash injury, which can sometimes be as serious as a herniated disc. Whiplash is caused by a sudden movement of the head, either backward, forward, or sideways, that results in the damage to the supporting muscles, ligaments and other connective tissues in the neck, upper and lower back. Herniated discs in the lower back are also a common injury, causing pain radiating into the buttocks or down the leg. Unfortunately, by the time more serious complications develop, some of the damage from the injury may have become permanent. Numerous studies have shown that years after whiplash victims settle their insurance claims, roughly half of them state that they still suffer with symptoms from their injuries. If you have been in a motor vehicle or any other kind of accident, don't assume that you escaped injury if you are not currently in pain.
Whiplash
The Four Phases of a Whiplash Injury
During a rear-end automobile collision, your body goes through an extremely rapid and intense acceleration and deceleration. In fact, all four phases of a whiplash injury occur in less than one-half of a second! At each phase, there is a different force acting on the body that contributes to the overall injury, and with such a sudden and forceful movement, damage to the vertebrae, nerves, discs, muscles, and ligaments of your neck and spine can be substantial.
Phase 1
During this first phase, your car begins to be pushed out from under you, causing your mid-back to be flattened against the back of your seat. This results in an upward force in your cervical spine, compressing your discs and joints. As your seat back begins to accelerate your torso forward, your head moves backward, creating a shearing force in your neck. If your head restraint is properly adjusted, the distance your head travels backward is limited. However, most of the damage to the spine will occur before your head reaches your head restraint. Studies have shown that head restraints only reduce the risk of injury by 11-20%.
Phase 2
During phase two, your torso has reached peak acceleration – 1.5 to 2 times that of your vehicle itself – but your head has not yet begun to accelerate forward and continues to move rearward. An abnormal S-curve develops in your cervical spine as your seat back recoils forward, much like a springboard, adding to the forward acceleration of the torso. Unfortunately, this forward seat back recoil occurs while your head is still moving backward, resulting in a shearing force in the neck that is one of the more damaging aspects of a whiplash injury. Many of the bone, joint, nerve, disc and TMJ injuries that I see clinically occur during this phase.
Phase 3
During the third phase, your torso is now descending back down in your seat and your head and neck are at their peak forward acceleration. At the same time, your car is slowing down. If you released the pressure on your brake pedal during the first phases of the collision, it will likely be reapplied during this phase. Reapplication of the brake causes your car to slow down even quicker and increases the severity of the flexion injury of your neck. As you move forward in your seat, any slack in your seat belt and shoulder harness is taken up.
Phase 4
This is probably the most damaging phase of the whiplash phenomenon. In this fourth phase, your torso is stopped by your seat belt and shoulder restraint and your head is free to move forward unimpeded. This results in a violent forward-bending motion of your neck, straining the muscles and ligaments, tearing fibers in the spinal discs, and forcing vertebrae out of their normal position. Your spinal cord and nerve roots get stretched and irritated, and your brain can strike the inside of your skull causing a mild to moderate brain injury. If you are not properly restrained by your seat harness, you may suffer a concussion, or more severe brain injury, from striking the steering wheel or windshield.
Injuries Resulting From Whiplash Trauma
Whiplash injuries can manifest in a wide variety of ways, including neck pain, headaches, fatigue, upper back and shoulder pain, cognitive changes and sciatica, low back pain. Whiplash symptoms commonly have a delayed onset, often taking weeks or months to present. There are, however, a number of conditions that are very common among those who have suffered from whiplash trauma.
Neck Pain
It is the single most common complaint in whiplash trauma, being reported by over 90% of patients. Often this pain radiates across the shoulders, up into the head, and down between the shoulder blades. Whiplash injuries tend to affect all of the tissues in the neck, including the facet joints and discs between the vertebrae, as well as all of the muscles, ligaments and nerves. Facet joint pain is the most common cause of neck pain following a car accident. Facet joint pain is usually felt on the back of the neck, just to the right or left of center, and is usually tender to the touch. Facet joint pain cannot be visualized on x-rays or MRIs. It can only be diagnosed by physical palpation of the area. Disc injury is also a common cause of neck pain; especially chronic pain. The outer wall of the disc (called the annulus) is made up of bundles of fibers that can be torn during a whiplash trauma. These tears, then, can lead to disc degeneration or herniation, resulting in irritation or compression of the nerves running through the area. This compression or irritation commonly leads to radiating pain into the arms, shoulders and upper back, and may result in muscle weakness. Damage to the muscles and ligaments in the neck and upper back are the major cause of the pain experienced in the first few weeks following a whiplash injury, and is the main reason why you experience stiffness and restricted range of motion. But as the muscles have a chance to heal, they typically don't cause as much actual pain as they contribute to abnormal movement. Damage to the ligaments often results in abnormal movement and instability.
Headaches
After neck pain, headaches are the most prevalent complaint among those suffering from whiplash injury, affecting more than 80% of all people. While some headaches are actually the result of direct brain injury, most are related to injury of the muscles, ligaments and facet joints of the cervical spine, which refer pain to the head. Because of this, it is important to treat the supporting structures of your neck in order to help alleviate your headaches.
Brain Injury
Believe it or not, mild to moderate brain injury is common following a whiplash injury, similar to the forces on the brain that football players receive. The human brain is a very soft structure, suspended in a watery fluid called cerebrospinal fluid. When the brain is forced forward and backward in the skull, the brain bounces off the inside of the skull, leading to bruising or bleeding in the brain itself. In some cases, patients temporarily lose consciousness and have symptoms of a mild concussion. More often, there is no loss of consciousness, but patients complain of mild confusion or disorientation just after the crash. The long-term consequences of a mild brain injury can include mild confusion, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, irritability, forgetfulness, loss of sex drive, depression and emotional instability. Although less common, the nerves responsible for your sense of smell, taste and even your vision may be affected as well, resulting in a muted sense of taste, changes in your sensation of smell and visual disturbances.
Dizziness
Dizziness following a whiplash injury usually results from injury to the facet joints of the cervical spine, although in some cases injury to the brain or brain stem may be a factor as well. Typically, this dizziness is very temporary improves significantly with chiropractic treatment.
Low Back Pain
Although most people consider whiplash to be an injury of the neck, the low back is also commonly injured as well. In fact, low back pain is found in more than half of rear impact-collisions in which injury was reported, and almost three-quarters of all side-impact crashes. This is mostly due to the fact that the low back still experiences a tremendous compression during the first two phases of a whiplash injury, even though it does not have the degree of flexion-extension injury experienced in the neck.
Effective Treatment We Provide
We employ several Chiropractic Care techniques such as Atlas Orthogonal, Palmer, Diversified and Sacro-Occipital techniques to restore the normal movement and position of the spinal vertebrae. It is by far the single-most effective treatment for minimizing the long-term impact of whiplash injuries. We also use massage therapy, personalized exercise rehabilitation, electric muscle stimulation, and other soft tissue rehabilitation modalities. We work closely with orthopedists, neurologists, and other medical specialists in the area if further treatment is required.
Atlas Specific Chiropractic Treatment
The Atlas is the first vertebra of the spine.
The head or cranium is positioned on top of the Atlas. When the alignment is correct, the term Orthogonal is used, which means at right angles or neutral. This area is also referred to as the cranio-cervical junction. This junction is an important gateway between the brain and the spinal column.
When the Atlas mis-aligns several things happen.
It causes the head to tilt. The body instinctively tries to correct this so that the eyes are always level. Because the spinal column is flexible, the vertebra then re-adjust slightly all the way down your back, posture becomes altered, spinal nerves get irritated, and pain or internal problems can result anywhere in the body.
Cranio-Cervical Syndrome occurs as a result of injury to the structures that connect the head to the neck.
Mis-alignment can cause abnormal tension on the spinal cord, spinal nerves, and blood vessels. This interferes with normal brain function, normal spinal nerve function, and can cause several different types of pain patterns throughout the body.
Football player Jim McMahon suffered from Cranio-Cervical Syndrome
Football player Jim McMahon suffered from Cranio-Cervical Syndrome and received relief from an atlas adjustment.
Recent, ongoing research studies are showing that trauma to the head and neck, causing a mis-aligned Atlas, can affect the cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) flow in the brain.
There is a possibility that this abnormal pooling of the CSF can result in neuro-degenerative conditions like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Lou Gehrig's disease or ALS, and Alzheimer's disease. (References: Damadian MD, Raymond, Rosa DC, Scott: "The Cranio-Cervical Syndrome (CCS): The Vulnerability of the Human Neck and it's impact on Cerebrospinal Flow: 2013 Symposium; Raymond V. Damadian, David Chu: "The Possible Role of Cranio-Cervical Trauma and Abnormal CSF Hydrodynamics in the Genesis of Multiple Sclerosis". 2011 Paper).
Some Common Causes of Atlas Mis-alignment
Car accidents which cause your neck to snap backward, forward, or side to side.
Concussions from sports injuries.
Impact from contact sports, like hockey and football.
Birth Trauma.
The Atlas can misalign when the head and neck pass through the birth canal.
Bumping your head, or an object falling on your head.
Horseback riding accidents.
Skiing accidents.
Sleeping on a pillow that's too high, causing your neck to flex forward.
Symptoms of Cranio-cervical Syndrome
Headaches
Drop attacks
Difficulty walking
Dropping things
Vertigo
Ringing in ears
Neck Pain
Fatigue
Loss of color vision
Loss of coordination
Blurred vision
Double vision
Dizziness
Loss of concentration
Numbness and tingling in hands and feet
Loss of balance
Back pain
Dementia
What To Expect on Your Visit
What To Expect on Your Visit
We perform a thorough orthopedic, neurological, and chiropractic evaluation, as well as x-rays. If further diagnostic testing is required, we send our patients to an Upright MRI facility in West Los Angeles in which you are seated in an open, comfortable unit. The upright MRI is more sensitive in detecting mis-aligned vertebrae, changes in your brain and cerebro-spinal fluid, and herniated discs. If the exam indicates that the Altas is mis-aligned, the treatment protocol is to correct the problem with a combination of gentle procedures. Usually with trauma or with a long term problem, neck muscles are tight and in spasm. This has to be relieved, otherwise the tight muscles will pull the vertebra back out of place. We accomplish this with massage, ultrasound or electric muscle stimulation. Then, the Atlas will be gently corrected either using a hand held percussion device, or manual spinal correction. No forceful neck twisting is necessary. It's essential that you return in two days for follow up care. Depending on the severity of the problem and the length of time the atlas has been mis-aligned, patients may need up to 3 weeks of treatment. Damadian MD, Raymond, Rosa DC, Scott: "The Cranio-Cervical Syndrome (CCS): The Vulnerability of the Human Neck and it's impact on Cerebrospinal Flow: 2013 Symposium Raymond V. Damadian, David Chu: "The Possible Role of Cranio-Cervical Trauma and Abnormal CSF Hydrodynamics in the Genesis of Multiple Sclerosis". 2011 Paper.
Cranial Facial Release
Dr. Tarcha is a certified Cranial Facial Release Specialist. She has helped patients suffering from migraine headaches, sinus congestion, deviated septum, post-concussion syndrome, Trigeminal Neuralgia, and other neurological conditions. The majority of patients that come to our office for this procedure are looking for relief from migraines or sinus problems. Migraine sufferers have tried Imitrex, herbal remedies, Botox, traditional chiropractic care, acupuncture, and diet modifications, with no relief. Sinus sufferers have tried everything from nasal sprays, Neti pots, de-congestion medications like Claritin, and sinus surgery. Many who have tried surgery, are still left with the same symptoms of post-nasal drip, trouble breathing, and congestion after paying thousands of dollars. The average costs of these surgeries like turbinate reduction, septoplasty, and balloon sinuplasty range from $9000 to $15000. Our non-surgical treatment is a fraction of the cost and less invasive. Please call our office for more information, and insurance questions. (310) 318-9543.
What Is Cfr and Why It Works
Cranial Facial Release (CFR) is an advanced endo-nasal "Balloon Assisted" cranial adjusting technique. It is a specialized technique that was derived from an earlier form of endo-nasal cranial adjusting called Bilateral Nasal Specific (BNS) pioneered by Dr. Richard Stober in the 1960's and 70's. CFR was originated by Dr. Adam Del Torto, DC and is an offshoot of BNS, but is much more specific and much less invasive. The objective of CFR technique is to unlock cranial fixations and induce mobility in the cranial system – primarily targeting the sphenoid bone, with the purpose of facilitating normal cranial respiratory motion and normal cranial function. This technique is performed by inserting tiny balloons in the nose (specifically the naso pharynx) that are quickly inflated to mobilize the bones of the face and cranium. It is a very fast procedure and feels similar to the sensation of jumping into a swimming pool and having water shoot up your nose – it isn't exactly painful, but not the most comfortable sensation either – but it's quick! The whole process takes about 2 to 3 seconds, and is performed in a series of 4 individual days of treatment over a 7-10 day period.
Research Studies
This concept was supported by research performed in the late 1930's by Dr. A.D. Speransky, M.D., Director of Research at the All Union Institute of Experimental Medicine and author of the book, A Basis for the Theory of Medicine. Through his research, Dr. Speransky determined that "slight mechanical torque on the control centers of the brain, and especially the pituitary-hypothalmus complex caused destructive pathologies throughout the entire body". This was a 10-year study during which Dr. Speransky was able to identify over 80 specific disorders that he could directly attribute to this "mechanical torque" phenomena. CFR cranial balloon adjusting in conjunction with post-inflation CFR manual cranial adjusting procedures are specifically directed at reducing mechanical dural torque on the brain and pituitary gland. These studies lend support to the concept that CFR adjusting procedures enhances both brain and pituitary function, optimizing the primary two control systems of the body. The majority of people who come in for CFR treatment are often last resort patients looking for sinus relief. They have been through the gamut of conventional medical procedures without success, and are looking for a more conservative alternative approach to care that is cost effective and works! For things like breathing disorders, sinusitis, snoring, sleep apnea, deviated septums, migraine headaches, vertigo, facial pain (Trigeminal Neuralgia), facial paralysis (Bell's Palsy), TMJ disorder, Post-Concussion Syndrome, seizures, neurological disorders, and more. It has also been used successfully in the treatment of infants with craniometaphyseal dysplasia (infantile skull deformities), hydrocephalus, and children with learning disorders – which is primarily what Dr. Stober used it for.
CFR Success in Treating Professional Athletes Gains Media Attention
To understand how CFR works, it is important to realize that the skull is NOT one solid bone.
It is made up of 22 individual bones that actually move every time you breathe – or at least they are supposed to. But cranial fixations are a common occurrence and often times the root cause of many chronic neurological conditions and recurrent pain syndromes that don't respond to conventional chiropractic adjusting procedures. Frequent causes of cranial aberrations and sutural fixations are things like head trauma, birth trauma, uneven bite force (TMJ disorder), bruxism, etc., yet these conditions are seldom detected and rarely addressed by chiropractors.
It is important to realize that cranial motion is not "gross osseous movement"
It is more of an expansion & relaxation type of movement, with each cranial bone having its own specific direction of motion. This "cranial respiratory motion" works in direct conjunction with "sacral respiratory motion" and is the key mechanism by which Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) is produced in the choroid plexus and circulated throughout the brain and spinal cord. This is essential to normal brain function which is essential to normal body function, embodying the basic scientific and philosophical foundation of chiropractic.
Cranial Facial Release
What differentiates Cranial Facial Release from other endo-nasal techniques is that CFR is based on SOT (Sacro Occipital Technique) protocols with emphasis being placed on clearing everything below the level of the Atlas before adjusting the cranium. By "clearing everything below the Atlas" we are referring to the methods by which we locate and remove spinal subluxations and reduce torque off the dura before it enters into the cranial vault using SOT procedures and conventional chiropractic adjusting techniques. Relieving Dural Torque is a primary objective of CFR technique, as it plays an intricate role in cranial function and more importantly brain function. But relieving dural torque has an even greater effect on body function than just optimizing brain function. By reducing dural tension at its anterior attachment (at the diaphragma selli, which engulfs & ensheaths the base of the pituitary) it reduces mechanical torque on the pituitary gland and helps facilitate normal endocrine function.
The Science of Laser Technology for Pain Relief
Call our office to see if Laser Pain Relief Technology can help you. (310) 318-9543.
Laser Technology is a natural and drug-free solution to pain.
We use the most advanced Multi Radiance Laser, which has proven success in relieving pain without the risks and complications of surgery or drugs. It is painless and non-invasive. The beneficial effects are often felt after only 3-5 treatments. Most patients report immediate relief after the first treatment.
The most common conditions that respond well to Laser Pain Relief Treatment
The most common conditions that respond well to Laser Pain Relief Treatment are: Back pain, Neck pain, Shoulder soreness, Tennis elbow, Foot and Ankle pain, Sciatica, Arthritis, Muscle spasms, and Shingles pain.
Dr. Theresa Tarcha has been helping people in the South Bay live pain-free lives for over 25 years.
She has helped thousands of people avoid back surgery with safe chiropractic care and laser treatment. She is the current President of the California Chiropractic Association, Los Angeles Southwest District (Southbay). She holds continuing medical education seminars throughout the year for chiropractors in the Los Angeles and Orange County districts.
Shingles Pain Relief with Laser Treatment
If you are suffering with pain from shingles, please call or text our office. (310) 318-9543. Same day appointments are available.
Low Level Laser Treatment is very effective for shingles pain relief.
It quickly and safely relieves the excruciating pain that comes with shingles. A recent study published in the Journal of Practical Pain Management states that ALL of the patients noticed immediate improvement of their pain within the first three treatments. Some reported as much as 95% relief of their pain. (References: Randolph V. Merrick, MD, FAAFP, ABFM, Fred Kahn, MD, FRCS, Fernanda Saraga, PhD. Journal of Practical Pain Managment, Vol. 13, Issue #6, 2014).
Shingles pain is caused by a virus called Herpes zoster.
This is the virus that originally gave you chickenpox as a child. The virus then hides in the nerves next to your spine, called the dorsal root ganglia. It can remain dormant for years without causing problems, however it can be triggered to erupt again. That eruption results in a rash, blisters, and the burning, searing pain called shingles. (Kind of like a mini version of the Kilauea Volcano eruption in Hawaii).
We use the latest technology in Low Level Laser Treatment (LLLT).
It is a drug-free, non-invasive, pain -free therapy. LLLT uses red and infrared light in the form of laser and super-pulsed light emitting diodes. It's safe, doesn't produce heat, and there are no known side-effects. It relieves pain by stimulating the body's own anti-inflammatory processes, and stimulating endorphins. Inflammation that aggravates the nerves in shingles is quickly reduced with the laser pain treatment. (References: Chung H, Dai T, Sharma SK, et.al. The nuts and bolts of low- level laser (light) therapy. Annals of Biomedical Engineering. 2012:40).
The pain of shingles can persist in some people, after the blisters and rash disappears.
This is called Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN). It's a common complication of shingles that affects 50% of individuals over the age of 50. PHN is described as a constant sharp, burning, stabbing pain. It interferes with sleep, work, and other activities of daily life. It can last from 30 days to long after the rash disappears. In some cases, the pain lasts for many years. In addition to quickly reducing pain during the blister phase, Low Level Laser Treatment has been shown to reduce the likelihood of getting PHN afterwards. (References: Moore KC, Hira N, Kumar PS, Jayakumar CS, Ohshiro T. A double-blind crossover trial of low level laser therapy in the treatment of post herpetic neuralgia. Laser Therapy. 1988;1:7-9).
Pinched Nerve In Your Neck? the 3 Most Common Causes
One of the most common conditions I treat is the infamous pinched nerve.
Patients describe a stiff and sore neck, pain in their shoulder, arm or hand, or numbness and tingling in the fingers. They describe the pain as sharp, stabbing, burning, or a dull ache.
The medical term for this condition is called cervical radiculopathy.
It's an irritation or compression of a nerve root, where it exits the spine. These nerve roots branch and spread down into the shoulder and arm. The symptoms can come on suddenly, or develop gradually over time.
Causes
The neck, or cervical spine, is a complex network of vertebrae, discs, joints, nerves and the spinal cord. This structure is surrounded by ligaments, muscles, tendons, veins, arteries, and lymph nodes. Prolonged tension and stress on your neck, such as looking down at your phone or looking up at your computer can cause a pinched nerve your neck. Physically demanding jobs that require lifting, pushing or pulling can sprain and strain your neck. This causes inflammation and dysfunction in the vertebrae and nerves in your neck. As we age, this dysfunction can get worse. Prolonged inflammation to an area increases sensitivity to nerve tissues. Prolonged inflammation to the joints of the neck vertebrae can lead to arthritis. If left untreated, joint dysfunction can progress. The 3 most common conditions of this progression, that cause a pinched nerve are:
Herniated Disc:
This is when the inner gel-like material bulges out of the disc, pressing on the nerve root. This is often seen in people between the age of 25-45.
Cervical Degenerative Disc Disease
Our discs wear down slowly as we age, normally. But if we've had trauma to the neck such as a car accident or sports injury, the degenerative process speeds up. The discs become thin, and bone spurs develop. This can result in pinching of the nerves that exit between the vertebra. This is often seen in people over age 45.
Cervical Spinal Stenosis
This usually occurs when the neck vertebrae continue to degenerate. The main spinal canal that houses the spinal cord becomes narrow. The canals or foramen where the spinal nerves exit also become narrow, causing compression of the neural structures. This is often seen in people over the age of 56.
How To Avoid Neck Pain and Text Neck
If you're like most people, you probably spend a little too much time hunched over a smartphone or other mobile devices, doing everything from socializing with friends to setting up important meetings. Unfortunately, this overuse can put your neck at an increased risk for poor posture and a painful condition commonly called text neck. If you have text neck or have noticed more neck pain after using mobile devices, here are some tips to treat it.
Practice good posture
The average head weighs 10 to 12 pounds. But did you know that weight more than doubles when your head is tilted forward just 15 degrees? Worse yet, many people who text with their chin near the neck are tilting the head forward 60 degrees, which increases the load to about 60 pounds. With that in mind, try to keep your head and spine in neutral positions with the ears directly above the shoulders throughout the day. For example, hold your phone or tablet up a little higher, closer to eye level to minimize stress on your neck. If you have a desk job, remember basic things such as using a chair that helps your back stay upright, keep your feet flat on the floor, and position your monitor at eye level to avoid looking up or down too much.
Improve strength and flexibility
Performing some neck exercises and stretches on a daily basis can help treat text neck as well as reduce the risk of painful recurrences. When your neck muscles are strong and flexible, they're better able to hold good posture and less likely to have a painful spasm. Keep in mind that muscles in your chest, shoulders, and back play key roles in posture as well. For example, people with text neck also tend to have tight and weakened chest muscles from hunching over too much. Many of these muscles work together, so it's a good idea to keep all of them strong and flexible.
Take breaks
Movement is good for the spine, including your neck. When possible, try to take frequent breaks from staring at phones, tablets, and computers. If you have a job that requires talking on the phone a lot, consider getting a headset to avoid holding or cradling the phone by your head for long periods of time—it puts less stress on your neck and has the added bonus of allowing you to move around more.
Turn technology in your favor
There are phone apps available that can detect when your phone is being held at a bad angle for your neck. When the app senses a bad angle, it alerts you to hold the phone up higher. Other ideas could include setting reminders on your phone for taking breaks throughout the day and using a pedometer to track steps and activity levels—becoming more active and spending less time looking down at a screen is a good thing. If you have arm pain, tingling, or weakness in addition to neck pain, that could be a sign of a pinched nerve. Chiropractic treatment is very effective in resolving this problem. I hope these tips help you find relief from neck pain while you're busy keeping pace in today's digital world, and as always, stay healthy.
How To Prevent Osteoporosis
Postmenopausal osteoporosis can be prevented by taking steps as early in life as possible. A woman's peak bone mass is typically achieved by the age of 30. The amount of bone that is obtained at one's peak, and how much is retained thereafter, is influenced by several factors. Here is a list of ways to prevent osteoporosis.
Genetics and osteoporosis
It's important for women to know their genetic predisposition to osteoporosis. Genetics plays an important role. It's estimated that about 75% of an individual's peak bone mass is influenced by genetics. There are genes that code for Vitamin D receptors and for estrogen receptors that both significantly affect peak bone mass. If one is genetically predisposed to osteoporosis, then exercise, diet and regular bone mass testing are even more important.
Exercise and osteoporosis
Weight bearing exercise (which refers to activity that one performs while on their feet that works the bones and muscles against gravity) and muscle contraction combined, have been shown to effectively increase bone density in the spine, and prevent osteoporosis. It's recommended that an individual perform 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise 3 to 4 times weekly to increase bone mass. In a study by Dalsky in 1988, jogging, walking, or stair climbing at 70-90% of maximum effort three times per week, along with 1,500 mg of calcium per day increased bone density of the lumbar spine by 5% over 9 months. A note of caution for people with osteoporosis or low bone mass. Care must be taken when exercising especially with regard to posture and body mechanics. Activities that require twisting of the spine or bending forward from the waist (such as conventional sit-ups or toe touches) may be dangerous. Individuals already diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis should discuss their exercise program with their chiropractic doctor or medical doctor to avoid fractures.
Diet and osteoporosis
Adequate calcium intake is critical in keeping bones strong. Vitamin D is also critical, as it helps ensure absorption and retention of calcium in the bones. Calcium can be found in many foods: dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese, dark green vegetables, grains, beans, and some fish. Vitamin D comes from being out in the sun, fish, liver, and fortified foods like milk, orange juice and cereals. Magnesium is also important, and works in conjunction with calcium. Magnesium rich foods include dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, beans, avocados, yogurt, bananas, and chocolate. The proper balance and adequate intake of these can help prevent osteoporosis.
Common causes of secondary osteoporosis
Taking over the counter antacids that contain aluminum can increase your risk of getting osteoporosis, as well as thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Gastrointestinal disorders such as malabsorption and irritable bowel syndrome, endocrine disorders such as diabetes mellitus, Cushings disease, hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism can cause osteoporosis.
Diagnosing osteoporosis
The gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis is a DEXA scan (dual energy x-ray absorption). It's basically a x-ray through one of the bones of your spine, and it takes about 10 minutes. It can indicate if you are at risk of sustaining a fracture. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, bone mineral density testing is recommended for all women over the age of 65, postmenopausal women under 65 who have risk factors, women who have had abnormal spine x-rays, long term steroid use, and hyperparathyroidism (over active parathyroid gland).
Supplements
If your diet is not ideal, or if your blood tests show a vitamin and mineral deficiency, supplements of the above mentioned nutrients are necessary to prevent osteoporosis. Seeking out a high quality product is essential, since there are virtually no FDA regulations and testing standards in the vitamin industry.
American College of Physicians Recommends Conservative Care over Opiods.
Re-posted from "Healthcare moving towards more conservative care methods, like chiropractic care" ChiroOne Wellness, Chicago, IL.
We're in the middle of one of the biggest drug crises in history—the opioid epidemic.
Pain meds are being prescribed at an alarming rate for patients suffering from acute and chronic pain, which has opened up the gates for overuse and abuse. In 1991, the number of opioid prescriptions was 76 million, but in 2011, that number quadrupled to 219 million. There were 17,000 deaths in 2011 because of opioid prescriptions alone—this number also increased four-fold over the past two decades.
Why is this happening?
As human beings, we're geared to root out immediate solutions to what we feel are immediate problems, but those fixes don't usually fix anything. Medication is often no more than a Band-Aid—a quick fix. You feel better—often for a short-lived amount of time—and that's great, but pain happens for a reason: to alert you to a problem. When you mute it, you essentially quiet the messenger trying to tell you about the real trouble, and that trouble remains unaddressed.
I certainly agree that medication can be a necessary treatment, but, by and large
prescription and over-the-counter medication not only mask the real problem, they can also introduce a whole new litany of new ones like side effects and dependency. Plus, the more a drug is used, the more resistant the body becomes, making the medication less effective and putting a prescribed patient at risk of misuse.
In response to this prescription opioid crisis
the American College of Physicians (ACP) has released new guidelines for the treatment of low back pain—a condition that affects up to 80 percent of Americans during at least one point in their lives. As per this guideline, doctors are directed to use noninvasive, non-pharmacological treatments first. Prescription opioids should be a last resort.
A more conservative, natural approach to lower back pain is the bedrock of the chiropractic profession.
Chiropractic care is a hands-on, drug-free approach to healthcare, and spinal adjustments have been shown to effectively and safely reduce back pain. A trial conducted by the ACP concluded that spinal manipulation showed better long-term pain relief results than other options like exercise, yoga, acupuncture and massage. All of these can be great for relief, however, chiropractic is the way to go for actively combating the root of the problem. By correcting subluxations, the body is able to do what it naturally wants to—heal.
As a chiropractor
I commend the American College of Physicians for updating their clinical guidelines to reflect a more conservative, solution-orientated approach to low back pain. These new guidelines by the ACP mark another important moment in chiropractic history, because chiropractic care is getting more recognition as a valuable and effective approach to treating pain and focusing on overall wellness. As mainstream treatment moves in a more conservative direction, more and more patients will be able to get the hands-on, drug-free care that will really change their lives for the better.
Chiropractic: a Better Option for Migraines and Pregnancy
Reference: Alcantara J and Cossette M. Intractable migraine headaches during pregnancy under chiropractic care. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice 2009; 15:192-7.
An estimated 30-40% of women
with migraines feel their symptoms worsen during pregnancy, likely because of hormonal changes. These women often wonder whether it's safe to continue their current migraine medications, or if they should seek conservative treatments like chiropractic care.
At least one migraine drug should be avoided during pregnancy,
according to new FDA warnings, because the drug (valoprate) was tied to lower IQ scores in children. The FDA warnings are based on a new study that children whose mothers took valoprate drugs during pregnancy had lower I.Q. scores at age six compared to children exposed to other antiepileptics.
Valoprate products already had labels warning of fetal risks and birth defects. In 2011
the FDA announced interim results from the Neurodevelopmental Effects of Antiepileptic Drugs (NEAD) study that demonstrated that children exposed to valoprate had cognitive deficits at age three. Many of these children continued to have lower IQ scores at age six, prompting the FDA to strengthen its existing warning labels.
Valproate medications
"Valproate medications should never be used in pregnant women for the prevention of migraine headaches because we have even more data now that show the risks to the children outweigh any treatment benefits for this use," explained Russell Katz, MD, who directs the FDA's research on neurology products. The FDA recommended that women consult with their health-care provider before stopping any medications.
Case Study of Chiropractic for Migraines In Pregnancy
The findings from the NEAD study
The findings from the NEAD study are enough to make many women wary of relying on migraine medications during pregnancy. Instead of risking the potential effects of drugs, women often opt for natural treatments in pregnancy such as chiropractic care.
One case study demonstrates how chiropractic can safely ease headache in pregnancy.
A 24-year old women who had suffered from migraines her whole life had noticed her symptoms worsening during pregnancy. In addition to her headaches, she suffered from nausea and sensitivity to light and noise. She tried a host of conservative and medical treatments to no avail, and decided to see a chiropractor while 32 weeks pregnant.
The patient was treated
with a multimodal treatment plan that included chiropractic spinal adjustments, trigger point therapy, massage therapy, and lifestyle changes. The women felt her symptoms improve within one week of treatment. The case study suggests that chiropractic can offer a safe alternative for women searching for effective migraine relief in pregnancy.
Chiropractic Care: First Choice for Back Injury Treatment
Seeing a chiropractor first following a work injury to the low back significantly reduced the likelihood of surgery.
Approximately 42.7% of workers who first saw a surgeon had surgery, in contrast to only 1.5% of those who saw a chiropractor. (Early Predictors of Lumbar Spine Surgery after Occupational Back Injury: Results from a Prospective Study of Workers in Washington State. Benjamin J. Keeney, PhD, Deborah Fulton-Kehoe, PhD, MPH, Judith A. Turner, PhD, Thomas M. Wickizer, PhD, Kwun Chuen Gary Chan, PhD⋄,*, and Gary M. Franklin, MD,MPH. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2013 May 15; 38(11): 953–964).
Whiplash Injury Awareness
The most common cause of a whiplash injury is from a car accident.
When you are involved in a rear-end collision, your neck snaps backward and forward, injuring your spine, tendons, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and inter-vertebral joints. Typically, you don't feel much pain right away, but as the day wears on, and especially the next day, the pain gets worse.
The most common symptoms are headaches
neck pain, shoulder pain, upper and lower back pain, and difficulty in concentrating. Other symptoms that can occur are blurred vision, ringing in ears, pain radiating down arms or legs, jaw pain, and irritability.
Getting the proper chiropractic exam and treatment as soon as possible is essential.
A thorough evaluation including x-rays will assess the extent of the injury and identify any fractures. If a herniated disc is suspected, a MRI may also be done.
When your neck is snapped backward and forward, the muscles and ligaments get sprained.
They tighten-up and pull the vertebrae in a straightened position. The normal position of your neck vertebrae is a gentle curve. Then the joints in-between each vertebra get mis-aligned. They can't glide smoothly when you turn your neck or bend forward or backward. When your spine is mis-aligned, your spinal nerves that exit in between each vertebra can get pinched or irritated.
If left untreated, this abnormal movement accelerates the development of bone spurs in your neck.
Bone spurs result from a build up or thickening of calcium around a joint. To get a better understanding of this process, an analogy can be made with getting callouses on your hands or feet. Constant abnormal rubbing of the skin causes the thickened skin.
Chiropractic spinal manipulation to re-align the vertebrae, along
with physio-therapy modalities will reduce your pain, speed up the healing process, and help prevent permanent damage to your spine.
Dr. Tarcha has 29 years of experience helping patients recover from whiplash injuries and preventing permanent damage.
She uses state of the art diagnostic and treatment methods. She can be reached at (310) 318-9543.
Thanksgiving Travel and Deep Vein Thrombosis: Knowing the Signs Can Save Your Life
Thanksgiving is one of the most busiest holidays for travel
whether it's taking a road trip or a plane flight. Sitting for several hours in a car or plane can lead to deep-vein thrombosis (DVT).
DVT's can form in the legs when blood pools and clots from prolonged sitting
Movement is important for circulation in the legs. The contraction and relaxation of the leg muscles helps pump blood back to the heart.
DVT's are a serious problem and can easily lead to death if not detected early and proper treatment given.
The clot from the leg can travel to the lung and cause a pulmonary embolism (PE). The combination of DVT's and PE is currently the third leading cause of cardiovascular-related deaths in the U.S. resulting in 100,000 deaths annually. (References: Surgeon General's Call to Action to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism. Rockville, MD: Office of Surgeon General; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2008; Goldhaber SZ, Bounanmeaux H. Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. Lancet, 2012 April 10;379(9828): 1835-1846).
The sign that you may have a DVT in your leg are a red, swollen area that is tender to the touch.
The most common area is the calf. The signs that you may be having a PE are: difficult breathing or hyperventilating, dizziness, anxiety, chest pain, cough, sweating, or shock.
To help prevent DVTs from happening on a long road trip, take several breaks and get out of the car. Walk and stretch your back and leg muscles.
On a plane, get up often, walk, and stretch. If you think you are experiencing the symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, seek emergency treatment as soon as possible.
Neurosurgeon Recommends Chiropractic Care for Pregnancy Back Pain
Re-printed from an article by Matt Ammerman, MD, neurosurgeon.
For many women, pregnancy is a wonderful experience.
There are, however, many changes and challenges the mom-to-be can expect, and back pain is one of them. The development of back pain during pregnancy primarily relates to the weight gain associated with the growing fetus. The extra weight gained adds stress to the pregnant woman's spine.
The discs or cushions within the spine serve as effective shock absorbers but can fail due to weight gain.
A pregnant woman may experience low back pain depending on either the amount or intensity of activity she is undertaking.
The next common cause of low back pain is weakening of the abdominal muscles that results from the growing uterus.
The abdominal muscles (core muscles) tend to thin out or separate, giving the pregnant woman less abdominal strength. These muscles are what hold us upright and in a vertical position, so once they are weakened or separated a necessary support structure is lost, and the back muscles, discs, and bones have to work overtime. Pain is most recognized with moving and activity and is relieved when resting.
As the baby grows during pregnancy,
a pregnant woman may notice her posture changing, particularly the back flexing forward as her center of gravity shifts — this is not normal for spinal alignment. Ideally, the spine is balanced, but a flexed forward spine, also known as kyphosis, is well known to cause low back pain. Kyphosis is common in the aging spine but occurs in a pregnant woman from the constraints placed on her from her growing baby.
The third major cause of low back pain in pregnant women is hormonal changes.
To prepare for the passage of the baby through the birth canal, a hormone relaxes the ligaments in the joints of the pelvis. These changing hormones can cause the ligaments to become lax or weaker. Ligaments hold the bones from moving too much, and their weakening may result in back pain.
Lastly, an often overlooked cause for pain in the low back is stress.
With effective management, limiting stress as much as possible may relieve or lessen the pain. How can a pregnant woman ease her back pain? Chiropractors, physical therapists, and acupuncturists play a role in treatment of pregnant women with back pain. Pregnant women should talk with their doctor if their back pain persists and should never take pain medications unless advised by a doctor. Aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) and narcotics are not usually recommended.
New Research Shows Concussions Can Affect the Pituitary Gland
Concussions can affect many parts of the body and result in a variety of symptoms. New research indicates that concussions can affect the pituitary gland, and that decreased pituitary function can emerge months or years after a concussion. (References: Foley CM, Wang DH. Central diabetes insipidus following a sports related concussion. Sports Health,2012;4(2):139-141; Ives JC, Alderman M, Stred SE. Hypopituitarism after multiple concussions. J Athletic Training, 2007;42(3):431-439; Wilkinson CW, Pagulaya KF, Petrie EC, et al. High prevalance of chronic pituitary and target organ abnormalities after blast related mild traumatic brain injury. Front Neurol. 2012:3:11). An injury to the head can act like a pituitary gland dimmer switch. The pituitary gland is often called the "Master Gland" and is located inside your skull. It sits in a little saddle- like structure in the sphenoid bone called the sella tursica. This master gland controls other glands like the thyroid and adrenals. It affects hormones like human growth hormone, anti-diuretic hormone, thyroid hormones, estrogen, and testosterone. A mal-functioning pituitary can cause fatigue, reduced sex drive, changes in appetite, food cravings especially salt, and feeling unusually hot or cold.
Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation Helps.
Blood supply to the brain and the pituitary gland is controlled by a group of nerves called the sympathetic nervous system.
These nerves originate in our upper back area, emerging between the first five thoracic vertebrae. Another group of nerves that control blood supply to the brain originate in the upper neck area, and is called the superior cervical sympathetic ganglion. If the impact of a sports injury or car accident misaligned the vertebra, those nerves can be pinched or affected. Correction of upper neck upper back spinal mis-alignments or fixations may be helpful.
There is a narrow stalk of tissue that connects the brain to the pituitary gland.
This stalk has to pass through a tough membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord called dura matter. The dura matter extends all the way down the spine to the sacrum and coccyx. Cranial, upper cervical, sacral, and coxxygeal chiropractic manipulation may help normalize dural mechanics, thereby reducing mechanical stress on the pituitary gland.
Chiropractic Cranial Facial Release Helps.
Cranial adjusting using Cranial Facial Release corrects problems in the skull that may occurred from an injury.
A forceful blow to the head can disrupt the alignment of the cranial bones. The most important bone in the cranial system is the sphenoid bone, where the pituitary gland sits. Cranial Facial Release helps normalize the flow of cerebral spinal fluid, and helps normalize blood flow to and from the brain. The goal is to optimize brain function.
Dr. Tarcha is a certified Cranial Facial Release Practicioner, and has been helping patients live healthy, pain-free lives for over 25 years.
Piriformis Syndrome: a Pain In Your Butt
Patients come into my office bent over in severe pain, often leaning on their spouse for support and staggering to walk.
Sometimes they had experienced this pain before, and had a MRI that showed bulging discs. The discs may not be the culprit.
The piriformis muscle is a small muscle in your buttock area that lies underneath the larger gluteus muscles.
The sciatic nerve can run under or through this muscle. If the piriformis goes into spasm, it's like a rubber band tightening around the sciatic nerve. This can cause severe pain in your buttocks, hips, thighs, and lower back.
The detailed exam I perform can determine whether or not the piriformis is involved.
X-rays or an MRI may be necessary to rule out a more serious problem.
The majority of these patients respond well to my chiropractic and Matrix Bio-electric treatment.
Many are pain-free after a few visits, and don't need pain medication, epidurals, or surgery.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy–new Hope for Prevention
She can be reached at (310) 318-9543 or email: DrTTarcha@gmail.com.
What is CTE?
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a disease that's been in the news lately regarding head trauma with NFL players and other athletes. It is a progressive degenerative disease of the brain found in athletes, military veterans, and others with a history of repetitive brain trauma or concussions. Early symptoms include changes in personality, moodiness, depression, confusion, and headaches, and progress to memory loss, impaired judgment, paranoia, aggression, and eventually progressive dementia. In 2005, a Pittsburgh pathologist named Bennet Omalu published the first evidence of CTE in an American football player, former Pittsburgh Steelers Mike Webster. The movie "Concussion" with Will Smith is about this story.
Research indicates that CTE can start with head trauma in high school athletes.
Dr. Ann McKee is the director of the CTE Center at Boston University and the the chief neuropathologist for the Veterans Affairs ALS Brain Bank. She is a pioneer in CTE research. Among her findings is that CTE can appear in some players while they are still very young: "Ex-Missouri State player Michael Keck had severe CTE by the time of his death at 25," said Dr. McKee. "High school football and rugby player Eric Pelly died 10 days after his fourth concussion. He was 18 years old, and his brain should have been pristine, but his brain showed early-stage CTE. Of the brains we have in the Brain Bank, there are 87 that are former NFL players. And 83 of those—95 percent—had CTE." Dr. McKee states: "There is a huge effort afoot to educate. She also stated at a recent neurological symposium that "managing the acute injury is the best way to prevent this disease."
Our Specialized Chiropractic Treatment manages the acute injury and may prevent further damage to the brain.
Cranial Facial Release may be a promising treatment for the prevention CTE. The procedure optimizes brain function by facilitating cerebro-spinal fluid flow, increasing vascular flow to and venous drainage from the cranium, mobilizing cranial bones, and unlocking cranial fixations. This often times improves symptoms related to various neurological disorders. Post-concussion syndrome responds favorably to CFR treatment. Atlas Specific Treatment is also promising for the prevention of CTE. Recent studies by Dr. Raymond Damidian and Dr. Scott Rosa in New York, have shown that a pooling of cerebro- spinal fluid in the brain has been linked to CTE. They have demonstrated through MRI studies, that a chiropractic adjustment to a mis-aligned Atlas vertebra helped restore normal cerbro-spinal fluid flow. Dr. Tarcha is a certified Cranial Facial Release Practicioner and also provides Atlas Specific treatments. She has been providing care for post-concussion athletes, motor vehicle accident patients, children and adults, for over 25 years.
Dr. Tarcha is offering a free consultation to see if you or your child is a candidate for this treatment.
Cranial Facial Release–relief for Sinus Conditions, Snoring, Migraines, Post-Concussion Syndrome and More..
I will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Please call (310) 318-9543.
Dr. Tarcha is a certified Cranial Facial Release Specialist.
The treatment involves inserting tiny balloons in the nose and inflating them briefly. The process opens the breathing passage ways, unlocks cranial bones that may be fixated or misaligned, increases cerebral spinal fluid flow to the brain, increases blood flow to the brain, and optimizes brain function.
Sinus conditions, snoring, and headaches have improved with this treatment.
Neurological conditions such as Trigeminal Neuralgia, Bell's Palsy, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson's Tremors have also responded favorably to this procedure.
Sciatica Relief
Sciatica is a term that describes symptoms of pain, numbness, and/or weakness that radiates down the leg.
The symptoms usually follow along the sciatic nerve, which starts in the lower back and goes down to the buttocks and leg. Another term for sciatica is lumbar radiculopathy.
The vast majority of sciatica symptoms result from lower back disorders between the L4 and S1 levels that put pressure on or cause irritation to a lumbar nerve root.
Most commonly, sciatica is caused by a disc problem, such as a herniated disc that is pressing against a nerve root.
It can also occur when a disc degenerates, which releases inflammatory proteins that irritate the adjacent nerve.
Another cause of sciatica is when a muscle called the piriformis puts pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Sciatica symptoms are typically felt on only one side of the body.
They may include a combination of leg and foot pain, weakness, tingling or numbness. Sciatica pain is often described as searing or sharp, as opposed to achy or throbbing. Depending on where the sciatic nerve roots are compressed, symptoms may be felt in different areas of the leg and into the foot.
Sciatica is a symptom of an underlying condition.
We determine what the underlying condition is through a detailed examination and diagnostic tests. We then correct the problem using non-surgical, drug-free treatment protocols. We've have help thousands of patients return to their normal daily activities…..pain free.
Chiropractic Care Treats the Cause
Please don't settle for masking the symptoms.
Chiropractic removes interference and nerve irritation in your spine, allowing the body to heal itself.
New Hope for People Suffering From Whiplash, Concussions and Head Trauma.
Whiplash injuries
concussions, and head trauma from auto accidents and contact sports, can result in a condition called cranio-cervical syndrome. The trauma can cause mis-alignment of the Occiput (base of skull), the Atlas (first neck vertebra) and the Axis (the second neck vertebra).
The most common symptoms are pressure headaches
neck pain, vertigo, concentration and memory problems, nausea, loss of balance, ringing in the ears, facial pain, difficulty walking, and sudden dropping of things from the hands.
We provide gentle atlas-specific
upper-cervical chiropractic treatment that can re-align the atlas, axis, and occiput into the orthogonal or normal position.
We utilize advanced digital x-rays
Upright MRI scan, and a thorough chiropractic and neurological evaluation to identify the cause of your symptoms.