A spinal disc herniation, incorrectly called a "slipped disc", is a medical condition affecting the spine, in which a tear in the outer, fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus) of an intervertebral disc allows the soft, central portion (nucleus pulposus) to bulge out. This tear in the disc ring may result in the release of inflammatory chemical mediators which may directly cause severe pain, even in the absence of nerve root compression (see "chemical radiculitis" below). This is the rationale for the use of anti-inflammatory treatments for pain associated with disc herniation, protrusion, bulge, or disc tear.

It is normally a further development of a previously existing disc protrusion, a condition in which the outermost layers of the annulus fibrosus are still intact, but can bulge when the disc is under pressure.

Degeneration of the intervertebral disc, which is often called "degenerative disc disease" (DDD) of the spine,DDD is in fact a condition that can be painful and can greatly affect the quality of one's life. While disc degeneration is not a normal part of aging and for most people is not a problem, for certain individuals a degenerated disc can cause severe constant chronic pain.

Sciatica is pain caused by general compression and/or irritation of one of five nerve roots that are branches of the sciatic nerve. The pain is felt in the lower back, buttock, and/or various parts of the leg and foot. In addition to pain, which is sometimes severe, there may be numbness, muscular weakness, and difficulty in moving or controlling the leg. Typically, the symptoms are only felt on one side of the body.

Although sciatica is a relatively common form of low back pain and leg pain, the true meaning of the term often is misunderstood. Sciatica is a set of symptoms rather than a diagnosis for what is irritating the root of the nerve, causing the pain. This point is important, because treatment for sciatica or sciatic symptoms often will be different, depending upon the underlying cause of the symptoms.

Failed Back Syndrome or Post-laminectomy Syndrome is a condition characterized by persistent pain following back surgeries.

Failed back syndrome (FBS), more commonly referred to as "failed back surgery syndrome" (FBSS), refers to chronic back and/or leg pain that occurs after back (spinal) surgery. Multiple factors can contribute to the onset or development of FBS. Contributing factors include but are not limited to residual or recurrent disc herniation, persistent post-operative pressure on a spinal nerve, altered joint mobility, joint hypermobility with instability, scar tissue (fibrosis), depression, anxiety, sleeplessness and spinal muscular deconditioning. An individual may be predisposed to the development of FBS due to systemic disorders such as diabetes, autoimmune disease and peripheral blood vessels (vascular) disease. Smoking is a risk for poor recovery from such an operation as is anything that constricts the blood vessels.

In simple terms, spondylolisthesis describes the displacement of a vertebrae or the vertebral column in relation to the vertebrae below. It was first described in 1782 by a Belgian obstetrician, Dr. Herbinaux.[citation needed] He reported a bony prominence anterior to the sacrum that obstructed the vagina of a small number of patients. The term "spondylolisthesis" was coined in 1854, from the Greek "spondylo� for vertebrae and "olisthesis" for slip. [citation needed] These "slips" occur most commonly in the lumbar spine.
A hangman's fracture is a specific type of spondylolisthesis where the C1 vertebra is displaced anteriorly relative to the C2 vertebra due to fractures of the C2 vertebra's pedicles.

Back pain (also known "dorsalgia") is pain felt in the back that may originate from the muscles, nerves, bones, joints or other structures in the spine.

The pain may be have a sudden onset or it can be a chronic pain, it can be felt constantly or intermittently, stay in one place or refer or radiate to other areas. It may be a dull ache, or a sharp or piercing or burning sensation. The pain may be felt in the neck (and might radiate into the arm and hand), in the upper back, or in the low back, (and might radiate into the leg or foot), and may include symptoms other than pain, such as weakness, numbness or tingling.

Back pain is one of humanity's most frequent complaints. In the U.S., acute low back pain (also called lumbago) is the fifth most common reason for all physician visits. About nine out of ten adults experience back pain at some point in their life, and five out of ten working adults have back pain every year.

The spine is a complex interconnecting network of nerves, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments, and all are capable of producing pain. Large nerves that originate in the spine and go to the legs and arms can make pain radiate to the extremities.

A spinal disc herniation, incorrectly called a "slipped disc", is a medical condition affecting the spine, in which a tear in the outer, fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus) of an intervertebral disc allows the soft, central portion (nucleus pulposus) to bulge out. This tear in the disc ring may result in the release of inflammatory chemical mediators which may directly cause severe pain, even in the absence of nerve root compression (see "chemical radiculitis" below). This is the rationale for the use of anti-inflammatory treatments for pain associated with disc herniation, protrusion, bulge, or disc tear.

It is normally a further development of a previously existing disc protrusion, a condition in which the outermost layers of the annulus fibrosus are still intact, but can bulge when the disc is under pressure.

Spinal stenosis is a medical condition in which the spinal canal narrows and compresses the spinal cord and nerves. This is usually due to the natural process of spinal degeneration that occurs with aging. It can also sometimes be caused by spinal disc herniation, osteoporosis, or a tumour. Spinal stenosis may affect the cervical spine, the lumbar spine or both. Lumbar spinal stenosis results in low back pain as well as pain or abnormal sensations in the legs.

The main causes of cervical spinal stenosis (CSS) include cervical spondylosis, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), or calcification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.

CSS is more common in males than females, and is mainly found in the 40-60 year age group.

Signs of CSS include spastic gait; upper extremity numbness; upper extremity, lower extremity weakness or both; radicular pain in the upper limb; sphincter disturbances; muscle wasting; sensory deficits; and reflex abnormalities.

Discs consist of an outer annulus fibrosus, which surrounds the inner nucleus pulposus. The annulus fibrosus consists of several layers of fibrocartilage. The strong annular fibers contain the nucleus pulposus and distribute pressure evenly across the disc. The nucleus pulposus contains loose fibers suspended in a mucoprotein gel the consistency of jelly. The nucleus of the disc acts as a shock absorber, absorbing the impact of the body's daily activities and keeping the two vertebrae separated. The disc can be likened to a doughnut: whereby the annulus fibrosis is similar to the dough and the nucleus pulposis is the jelly. If one presses down on the front of the doughnut the jelly moves posteriorly or to the back. When one develops a prolapsed disc the jelly/ nucleus pulposis is forced out of the doughnut/ disc and may put pressure on the nerve located near the disc. This will give one the symptoms of sciatica. Cervical vertebra with intervertebral disc.

There is one disc between each pair of vertebrae, except for the first cervical segment, the atlas. The atlas is a ring around the roughly cone-shaped extension of the axis (second cervical segment). The axis acts as a post around which the atlas can rotate, allowing the neck to swivel. There are a total of twenty-three discs in the spine, which are identified by specifying the particular vertebrae they separate. For example, the disc between the fifth and sixth cervical vertabrae is designated "C5-6".

Nerve Impingement Syndrome (NIS), or a Subluxation, occurs when a misalignment of one or more of the joints in the spine places pressure on a nerve. Nerves communicate from the brain through the spinal cord and nervous system. Pressure on the nerves can cause interference with the transmitted signal. This can cause pain and/or discomfort, as well as other symptoms.

In addition to pain, other symptoms of Nerve Impingement Syndrome Include:

• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Sleep Disturbances Sinus and Allergy Issues
• Mood Swings
• Digestive Problems

Are you among the thousands that are suffering needlessly because of a lack of understanding of your symptoms? If so, would not you like to relieve these symptoms and return to a happier, healthier lifestyle?

Cause... The misalignment of a joint is called Nerve Impingement Syndrome or a Subluxation. This can develop for a variety of reasons, including an accident trauma, poor posture or diet, lack of or incorrect exercise, a sports or repetitive motion injury, relationship or financial stress. It is the Subluxation that creates the Nerve Impingement Syndrome that prevents you from enjoying all of life pleasures.

Nerve Impingement Syndrome Facts:

• 80% of all childbirths result in Nerve Impingement Syndrome.
• 40% of all children fall on their heads by age 1, according to OSHA; this can result in Nerve Impingement Syndrome.
• Between the ages of 2 and 5 years old, children fall over 200 times; this can be a major cause of Nerve Impingement Syndrome.
• Within 2 years of receiving a drivers license, 70% of all teens are involved in an auto accident. Car accidents often result in Nerve Impingement Syndrome.
• Because there are so many causes of Nerve Impingement Syndrome, everyone at some time or another will suffer from NIS. In many cases, the symptoms do not appear for months or even years.
• When the body detects a problem, over time it compensates for it. This compensation causes PAIN. If left untreated, this condition could lead to the destruction of the joint and irreversible damage to the nerve, causing chronic pain, or worse.

Your Nervous System

Chiropractic care can be the key to detecting the cause of your problem. If detected early enough, Chiropractic adjustments can often return the joint to its normal position, releasing the pressure on the nerve and eliminating the Nerve Impingement Syndrome.

Your ProAdjuster Chiropractor''s job is to relieve as much Nerve Impingement Syndrome as possible. By allowing the nervous system to freely transport the nerve impulses throughout your body, you will begin to feel like new again; free to enjoy life to the fullest! Chiropractors work to achieve the highest level of function for your body, relieving the pain, eliminating the symptoms. With the help of modern technology, the job of improving your health just got easier. Many people learned the importance of proper nervous system function as they watched the story of actor Christopher Reeves unfold. He played Superman in the movies. A horseback riding accident damaged his spinal cord in a very dramatic way and the consequences were profound.

There is also a basic simple fact, that if one can grasp and remember, will make true sense on a very basic, instinctive level. This is called innate intelligence? the wisdom that our bodies know what is right. Breaking down the complexity of spinal anatomy, neurology and physiology into a simple, usable and reproducible idea would go something like this: The brain controls and regulates every system, organ, cell and tissue in the body through the nerves.

The nerves are our wiring system with hundreds of thousands of nerves running throughout the body. They transmit chemicals and electrical impulses to tell the body how to function. If they can do this without interruption from outside influences, then the body would have the ability to function at a near perfect state, which we can call health. If the nervous system is assaulted or interfered with however, it will either not be able to send a signal at all or only send a partial signal to its final destination. This might be a muscle, an adrenal gland, the stomach or another organ or tissue. The nervous system can be assaulted through obvious ways like direct and severe trauma as was the case with Christopher Reeves or, less obviously, through poor posture, sports, minor falls or simply bumping your head.

The brain controls and regulates every system, organ, and tissue in the body through the nerves.

 

- a nonsurgical procedure used to alleviate pressure off of herniated or degenerative disc and allow mobility of the surrounding joints. ( For more info visit www.trinityclinic.lcdtherapy.com. )

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A Breakthrough in Healing

Imagine thirty to forty years ago, if we told you that dentistry would be painless, that doctors would watch television to perform surgeries, that brain surgery for tumors could be done with a laser, that fetuses could be operated on within the uterus, that knife-less surgery could be performed- you would not have believed us. By the same token, would you believe us if we told you that Chiropractic treatments and reorientation of the nervous system could be done comfortably, while you were sitting in an upright position without any turning or sudden movements? Would you believe that newborns as well as the elderly with osteoporosis can be treated safely and gently?

Advances in computers and engineering technologies have been able to uniquely blend with Chiropractic in order to both analyze and treat the human body in such a way that was never before realized. The potential for the human being to end pain and to achieve their peak nervous system function has never been greater. Humans are consistently asking their bodies to perform at higher levels. Now we have the techniques and the technology to match the demand placed on the spine and the nervous system. We now have the capability to fine tune our own energy and enhance every aspect of our lives.

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Complex Technology, Simple Solution. The ProAdjuster.

You can achieve maximum health for your body now and in the future beginning with a simple anatomical concept. The nervous system (the brain and all the nerves) controls every function of your body. If this network is interfered with, pain ensues, as does bodily malfunction, resulting in sickness and diminished overall health. The something? you can do to improve performance and maximize health is to maximize the health of your nervous system. There are several ways to do this. The number one way is allowing a doctor of Chiropractic using the ProAdjuster equipment to analyze and treat your nervous system.

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How does the ProAdjuster work?

To better understand, let's examine the idea of palpation. When a Chiropractor palpates your spine, they are checking for joint fluidity, motion and or rigidity. Improper motion effecting the nerve function is called a subluxation. In a similar fashion to palpation, the ProAdjuster can determine whether the vertebra's motion is too rigid or too fluid. The spine should not be too rigid (hypo-mobile). However, instead of utilizing the doctor's judgment as to what areas are hyper-mobile or hypo-mobile, the ProAdjuster measures precise levels of motion. Therefore, the ProAdjuster can isolate a problem area faster and more accurately than manual procedures.

Combine Tradition with Technology

If you have ever flinched at something, you know exactly what is meant by this. The piezoelectric sensor in the ProAdjuster instrument responds and registers information faster than your body's ability to react. Therefore, a precise and accurate picture of the extent of rigidity or fluidity of each vertebra is reflected.

A light force is introduced into the vertebra to check motion, it is reflected back to the piezoelectric sensor, which measures the reflective force, sending it to the computer for interpretation, all before the muscle can respond in its normal way. Isn't that incredible? This is the same technology and same type of instrument that NASA engineers have used in the space program in order to evaluate the integrity of the ceramic cooling tiles on the outside of the space shuttle. The aviation industry, as well as civil engineers have used this technology in order to test metal fatigue in aircraft and bridge spans.

Chiropractors are now able to use this highly sophisticated technology applied to the human body in order to determine proper function. We can have the same level of care given to our bodies as multi- million dollar spacecraft. Doesn't that give you a sense of being special and give you a higher level of confidence?

How can anything so gentle and comfortable change my spine?

The ProAdjuster utilizes a precise oscillating force with uninterrupted motion. It is able to increase the mobility of the spinal segments by reducing or enabling motion in the abnormal areas. In other words, the ProAdjuster is unsticking? the joint. Have you ever seen a woodpecker tapping in an oscillating fashion on a tree? It is hard to believe, but you can watch them bore right through the hardest wood! The ProAdjuster taps in much the same way but uses soft tips that are comfortable to the human body and do not create damage.

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ProAdjuster Results

First, our doctors will engage in a one-on-one conversation with you to determine your medical history and the possible causes of your problem. The adjustment and treatment procedures then can be customized to fit each patient's needs.

The next step in evaluation and treatment is to utilize the ProAdjuster's sophisticated computerized analysis to pinpoint the problem areas. The information is then charted graphically on a computer monitor, so your doctor can detect the problem areas on each and every visit.

Your doctor will now begin treatment with the ProAdjuster. By applying the ProAdjuster's resonant force impulses precisely to the affected areas, you will receive gentle, effective treatment to that specific area, thereby reducing the subluxation. This will relieve the pressure on the nerve, allow the nerve to heal and restore the nerve's ability to transmit signals to and from the brain more freely. Most importantly, it will help relieve the pain! In addition, your doctor may again take the readings after the adjustment with the ProAdjuster to compare the results. That's putting analysis on a whole new level!

If you are looking to enjoy more quality time with your family, have more energy and less fatigue, perform better at work and live life to the fullest with less limitations, then give Chiropractic and the ProAdjuster a try! You'll be very glad you did!

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Regenerative Joint Therapy (RJT) is a safe, non-surgical treatment for chronic pain using injections to stimulate healing.  It has been used for decades on patients in pain from aging, overuse or injury.  Pain from auto accidents, athletic injuries, and overuse injuries often arise from injury to the soft tissues in the body. These soft tissues which include ligaments, muscles, tendons and joint capsules are also called "connective tissues� because they connect to bones, thereby supporting the bony skeleton. Regenerative Joint Therapy causes these connections to be repaired, rebuilt and strengthened. It is for this reason that Regenerative Joint Therapy has also been called ligament reconstructive therapy or stimulated ligament repair.

 COMMON INJURIES TREATED WITH RJT

 

• Whiplash Injury to the Neck, Upper Back, Shoulders and Low Back
• Tension and Migraine Headaches
• TMJ Syndrome
• Low Back Pain from Lifting or Work-Related Injuries
• Postural Strain of the Neck and Back
• Overuse Injuries such as Tennis Elbow, Shoulder Tendonitis, Achilles tendonitis and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Fibromyalgia and Myofascial Pain
• Sacroiliac Joint Disorders
• Muscle Tightness, Strain and Spasm
• Arthritis Pain-Knee, Hands, Neck and Back
• Herniated and Degenerative Discs  
• Pinched Nerves and Sciatica
• Weak, Loose, and Unstable Joints (Hypermobility/Subluxations/Dislocations)
• Athletic Injuries, New and Old

These represent soft tissue injuries, which can often become chronically painful. Normally, these injured muscles, tendons, and ligaments go through a repair and healing process, which takes about four to six weeks. But, what happens when the low back pain, neck pain, and headaches from a whiplash injury just will not bet better? Or, the athletic injury that continues to cause nagging pain and is preventing you from staying active, especially keeping you from the sport you enjoy the most? What about the pain where you cannot pinpoint a specific injury, but think it may be due to some repetitive tasks at work, or from overdoing it while working around the houses.  Anti-inflammatories and medications are often given to treat these injuries, but they may actually slow or stop this healing process.

 

When rest and pain medications fail, and usually they do because they only mask or cover up the underlying problem, other types of treatment is often tried. One method of treating these kinds of injuries is a specific flexibility and strengthening program, tailored to the individual and the areas of weakness. A physical therapist can administer therapeutic treatment, teach an exercise program, and provide the education to the individual to allow them to follow their program at home, giving them independence in their recovery.

 

Another type of treatment is manual therapy, in which a therapist uses his hands to break up or release adhesions, muscle spasms and restricted fascia (connective tissue). Acupuncture may only give temporary relief. In a significant number of cases, despite a reasonable treatment plan and consistent effort from the individual, residual pain and dysfunction may persist. Chronic pain is often quite disabling and may affect job performance, recreational activities and activities of daily living. Along the way a doctor may state that "you just have to live with it...there is nothing you can do about it� or say that surgery is the only option. That news is frustrating and discouraging.

 Regenerative Joint Therapy WORKS 

Although you may not have heard about Regenerative Joint Therapy until now, it has been used to treat pain and injuries for more than sixty years and the results have been amazing. In studies conducted on pain patients, up to 85-90% of patients receive good-to-excellent results in pain relief and improved function.  We are finding similar statistics in our practice as well.   Also, the use of pain medications can be greatly reduced or even eliminated after treatment. This is good news, because pain medications can be costly and have potentially serious side effects with chronic use. But, the best part of all is that Regenerative Joint Therapy produces long-lasting relief through stimulating the body's natural healing response. Most other types of treatment provide only temporary relief. Regenerative Joint Therapy is an alternative to surgery in many cases, thereby avoiding dysfunctional scar tissue and lengthy rehabilitation. George Hackett, M.D., a prolotherapy pioneer, proved that strengthening connective tissue relieves soft tissue pain and a research study in the respected medical journal, Lancet, demonstrated the effectiveness of prolotherapy.

                       Before RJT                                                          After RJT

            Ligaments loose and damaged                                    Ligaments healed and strengthened

 HOW DOES Regenerative Joint Therapy WORK?

 Regenerative Joint Therapy works on a very simple principle: injecting the Regenerative Joint Therapy solution at the sites of pain and weakness stimulates the body's own healing mechanism to repair and rebuild injured tissue into a stronger, more supportive, less painful tissue than it was before treatment.  

When injuries to the connective tissues (ligaments, tendons, and muscles) occur, the area may not heal completely, due to poor blood supply to these tissues and from lack of proper treatment. For this reason, ligaments heal very slowly. If left untreated, damaged ligaments become loose, allowing bones in the joint to swing out of alignment causing pain, muscle spasms, and eventually arthritis. The attachment sites or anchor points of ligament to bone are the weak links. Connective tissue cells called fibroblasts are deficient, as seen under microscope. This deficiency of fibroblasts leads to loose ligaments and weakened tissues.  As a result, the normal supportive function of the ligaments, which was present prior to injury, is lost. Therefore, joint stability is reduced.

 

Small pain fibers in these damaged ligaments transmit pain impulses to the brain when stretched. Through a subconscious reflex, the surrounding muscles go into a tight and painful spasm in an attempt to stabilize the joint. This causes the region to feel tight, stiff, achy, burning, tingling, numb, fatigued, and painful. The individual will often notice painful knots in the affected muscles. These muscles become tight and painful as they try to compensate for the weak and damaged underlying tissue structures. The muscle spasms reduce blood flow, causing even more pain. Not only are these symptoms local, but they are often referred (transmitted) through nerve pathways into the legs and feet, arms and hands, and head (headaches). In other words, pain felt in the head, arms, or legs may be due to instability in the neck or back.

 

For example, weakness or injury to the ligaments in the neck may interfere with the sympathetic (automatic) nervous system, causing a group of symptoms called Barre-Lieou Syndrome. This syndrome consists of one or more of the following: dizziness, visual blurring, loss of balance, ringing in the ears, runny nose, salivation, trouble swallowing, hoarse voice, nausea, vomiting, nervousness and headaches. These symptoms are caused by instability in the neck and can be eliminated by prolotherapy.

 Medications and other forms of passive treatment such as ultrasound, ice, heat, massage, acupuncture and manipulation may give minimal lasting benefits because the primary problem, the loose and injured ligaments, is not being addressed. Stretching and strengthening exercises usually can provide some relief from chronic pain, but this is often only temporary. When these exercises have failed to increase the support sufficiently to diminish pain and improve function, the chronic pain cycle ensues. Regenerative Joint Therapy should be initiated as soon as possible, before the problem progresses and becomes widespread. 

The most basic Regenerative Joint Therapy solution contains a naturally occurring sugar (dextrose) derived from corn combined with an anesthetic (lidocaine). Other common, natural substances can also be used effectively. This solution does not contain cortisone, which is known to decrease inflammation, but will also slow or stop the healing process.   Acute pain may be relieved with cortisone, but repeated use causes a weakening of the tissues and chronic pain develops. 

Regenerative Joint Therapy AND THE THREE STAGES OF HEALING

INFLAMMATORY	FIBROBLASTIC	MATURATION
Increased blood flow, swelling and pain.  Immune cells remove damaged tissue.   Occurs during 1st week	Swelling and pain begin to subside and new blood vessels form.  Tissue repair cells (fibroblasts) form new collagen.   Starts at day 2 or 3 and continues for 6 weeks.	New blood vessels mature, tissue is stronger and pain subsides.  Collagen density and diameter is increased.     Continues from week 6 to 18 months after injection.

 

When the injured tissues are injected with small amounts of the Regenerative Joint Therapy solution, a reaction begins, starting a three-stage healing process (see table above). Prolotherapy initiates the first stage (Inflammation). Stages two (Fibroblastic) and three (Maturation) will then follow automatically.  In stage one, the body sends in special cells, which help to clean up the debris and damaged areas. These cells respond as if another injury has occurred resulting in a controlled inflammation and increased blood flow. This process takes a week. In stage two, the body begins the process of repair and healing. This is accomplished by the addition of tissue repair cells called fibroblasts, which are deficient in the injured tissue. Fibroblasts increase in number at the sites of injection, and over the course of four to six weeks, secretes a substance called collagen, which is a very strong and relatively inelastic substance and the most abundant protein in the body. The new collagen makes the ligaments thicker, denser and stronger, providing more support to the joints primarily where the ligaments anchor or attach to bone. The strength of the injected ligaments can increase up to 40% above normal. Stability is increased as pain and muscle spasm decrease. In stage three, the newly formed tissue continues to mature for one to three years. Improvement, therefore, may continue for up to three years after the last treatment. If, during the three stages of the healing process, anti-inflammatory drugs, ice, compression and/or immobilization are used to reduce pain and inflammation, complete and normal healing will be inhibited. Most people are taught that inflammation is bad and don't realize that, without inflammation, no healing will occur.  

So, in essence, Regenerative Joint Therapy strengthens ligaments and decreases pain by stimulating the body's own repair and healing mechanism to go into action at the areas stimulated. There is no masking of pain as tissues heal naturally and become stronger, without forming scar tissue. It is for this reason that Regenerative Joint Therapy gives long-lasting relief lasting months to years. Several treatments spaced apart by about three to four weeks are usually required to get the full benefit from Regenerative Joint Therapy. 

Because there are very few doctors who perform Regenerative Joint Therapy, patients typically just accept the pain or have surgery. While surgery has its place, many patients and doctors are not aware that prolotherapy may relieve their pain and postpone or prevent the surgery they thought they needed.

Although research and studies are proving its efficacy, is at this time considered by most insurance companies to be "alternativeâ€�, and is not usually covered.  

WHAT ABOUT THE PROCEDURE ITSELF?

 

 Regenerative Joint Therapy is a very safe procedure when performed by a trained and highly skilled physician who has an in-depth knowledge of anatomy and experience using this injection technique. The use of needles involves risks, but complications from Regenerative Joint Therapy are rare. The solutions used have been shown to be safe and, as stated previously, do not contain cortisone. The most common side effect is discomfort due to the injections, as well as temporary soreness, stiffness, and occasional bruising.  Although injection discomfort cannot be eliminated, it is well tolerated in most cases.  Local anesthetic is used prior to the injections to decrease discomfort.  If necessary, pain can also be reduced by the use of prescription oral medications for pain control and sedation taken prior to the treatment. Most patients prefer not to be sedated because it makes them feel groggy and because a driver is required to and from the appointment. Topical freeze sprays or anesthetic cream can also reduce needle discomfort.

 Depending on the area treated and the number of injections, which is usually just a few for small areas or many for larger areas, one may return to usual activities during the next day or two. The actual treatment may last anywhere from a few minutes if there is only one site of tenderness such as the elbow, to thirty minutes, if a large region such as the back and neck are being treated together. The soreness and bruising that may occur following the injections is normal and gradually lessens over several days.  Approved prescribed drugs or plain Tylenol may be taken for this discomfort. However, no anti-inflammatory drugs may be taken during the treatment period because these will interfere with the healing process that prolotherapy initiates. A goal of Regenerative Joint Therapy is to get the patient off all pain medications. Specific natural supplements may be recommended to enhance healing and alleviate pain. 

CAN Regenerative Joint Therapy CURE EVERYTHING? 

Regenerative Joint Therapy (RJT) is not an overnight cure. It cannot "cure� a painful condition, nor always eliminate 100% of one's pain. There are some areas that the therapist cannot safely reach with a needle. The vast majority of patients completely treated by Regenerative Joint Therapy (usually two to ten sessions) will receive at least 50% relief of their pain. Many even report complete resolution. These results are excellent, considering that chronic pain is exceedingly difficult to treat by any means.  It is also important to know that prolotherapy only strengthens tissues. No structures are weakened and no scars are formed. Therefore, no bridges are burned in the process.

A good history and a thorough examination are necessary to select the best candidates for prolotherapy prior to treatment. The motivation to want to get better and complete the necessary treatments is vital. Patience and time are important to obtain the benefits from prolotherapy. Chronic pain problems do not occur overnight and they do not heal that way either. If the pain is enough to affect one's life, then prolotherapy may be indicated.  

COMMON QUESTIONS 

Do the injections hurt?

 The use of a needle is always accompanied by some degree of discomfort. It varies from patient to patient, but is usually well tolerated. It helps to stay very relaxed by not tensing the muscles and focusing on deep breathing.  Local anesthetic is used to decrease discomfort. 

Are there any risks?  

Anytime a needle is used to penetrate the skin into the deeper tissues, there is always the chance that inadvertent puncture of arteries, nerves, spinal fluid or lung tissue may occur. Complications are rare and are greatly minimized by the skill of the well-trained prolotherapist. The solutions used in Regenerative Joint Therapy are very safe and the amounts used are well within manufacturer's guidelines. However, since Regenerative Joint Therapy is a procedure with some risk to the patient, all patients are asked to read and sign a consent and waiver form prior to the procedure.

 Should I eat before I come?  

 A light meal and plenty of water are recommended about 1-2 hours before the procedure. Water improves cell hydration and lessens the discomfort of the injections, while food diminishes the likelihood of dizziness. Patients report even less discomfort when they drink water right up to the time of the injections.

How many treatments are needed?  

Three to six treatments for a given area is about the average needed.  A few patients respond quickly to just a treatment or two, but most patients require more to stimulate the healing properly. Some patients who respond slowly may need 10 or more treatments and stronger solutions may be used to improve the response. The longer the duration of the pain and disability and the more severe and widespread it is, the more treatments will be needed to stabilize the joints. After the first session, successive treatments follow at intervals of two to six weeks.  Re-assessment of structural healing usually occurs at the fourth session to determine if more treatments are necessary or desired. Staying on a consistent schedule of treatments will decrease the chance that early benefits are lost.

 When will benefit from the injections occur?  

Regenerative Joint Therapy does not result in immediate relief of pain. Some patients report improvement in as little as two weeks following injections, but it is not expected that any significant relief will be obtained until four to six weeks after the first treatment. Some patients report significant improvement in their symptoms after just the first two treatments. Others may not receive much benefit at all until they have had further treatments.  As ligament strength and joint stability improve, results become more noticeable with decreased pain and improved function. Improvement may continue for up to three years after the last prolotherapy treatment. 

What can I take for the pain during recovery?  

Typically, post-injection stiffness and soreness can be expected and is necessary for the healing process to begin. This will last for the first few days. Heat usually soothes the soreness, but ice will slow the healing prolotherapy stimulates.  No anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) medications may be used once treatment begins because they interfere with the healing process that the prolotherapy injections started. An exception to this is for those who take a baby aspirin each day for their heart. Regular use of narcotic drugs should be avoided because they will inhibit the immune system and slow the healing. Tylenol may be used for a short period of time. If you are not sure whether a medication you are taking interferes with your prolotherapy treatment, bring it to our attention and we will help you out.   Remember, it is important to treat the source of the pain through strengthening the damaged areas rather then just cover it up with chronic pain medications.  Specific supplements to assist the healing process may be recommended.

Should I exercise following Regenerative Joint Therapy? What should I avoid doing?  

Controlled exercise and mobilization of the treated area promotes tissue healing and results in faster recovery after the treatment. For this reason, movement and exercise are recommended as soon as possible. The amount will depend on your level of fitness before and on how many areas were treated. Frequent high-velocity chiropractic adjustments should be avoided because they do not allow the joints treatment with prolotherapy to stabilize. Massage and other similar therapies are compatible with prolotherapy.

  

When should I return to work?  

In most cases, depending on your job, you may return to work or school the same day as your treatment. If, however, your job places a great deal of stress on the treated area or if you have significant post-injection discomfort, you should not return to work the same day. A few days is recommended before returning to strenuous athletic activity

 What is the chance I will get better? Get worse? How long will it last?  

Statistics show that 85-90% of all patients treated with prolotherapy receive at least a 50% benefit when treated between two and ten times. There is no evidence of a condition becoming permanently worse from receiving Regenerative Joint Therapy treatments. Also, because actual healing occurs with Regenerative Joint Therapy, it is anticipated that long-lasting or even permanent relief of one's pain can take place. If an area is re-injured, Regenerative Joint Therapy treatments may be necessary in the future. 

Will my insurance cover prolotherapy?  

In most cases it will not be covered, as it still is considered by insurance companies to be an "investigational� or "alternative� type of treatment. We will discuss your particular situation regarding insurance coverage of Regenerative Joint Therapy and the fees involved before you proceed with treatment.  .

 INSTRUCTIONS PRIOR TO TREATMENT 

• Stop taking all anti-inflammatory medications, except for baby aspirin taken for the heart, including Naprosyn, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Cortisone-like drugs, Relafen, Motrin, Advil, Aspirin products, Vioxx, Celebrex, Nuprin.

IMPORTANT:

Please tell us in advance if you are taking blood thinners (e.g. Coumadin) or if you have allergies to fish, corn, sugar, anesthetics, latex or painkillers. 

�   Eat a light meal one to two hours prior to your treatment, and drink water up to the time of your appointment..

�    Try to decrease or quit smoking as it will impair the healing process.

�    Bring any old x-rays or radiology studies to your appointment if available.

INSTRUCTIONS FOLLOWING TREATMENT

• DO NOT take anti-inflammatory medications after the injections. These drugs will interfere with the healing process that prolotherapy stimulates.
• You may take Tylenol or other approved medications for relief of injection pain following treatment. You should start taking the recommended daily supplements beginning the day of your treatment.
• You may use heat for soreness (heating pad, warm moist towel, hot shower or bath). However, refrain from the use of ice during the first week as it may impair the healing. Bruises that occur are normal and will gradually disappear.
• After the injected anesthetic has worn off (usually in a few hours), you may have a temporary increase in stiffness and pain. Not only is this expected, but it is also necessary to signal the start of the healing process. This should last only one to three days. Some patients experience episodes of pain during the first two to three weeks after treatment. This is normal and should not cause alarm. Drinking water following treatment will decrease pain and improve cell function.
• Depending on your job and the area treated, you may be advised to reduce your activities after treatment, but as a rule, you are encouraged to return to your usual activities as soon as you feel able.
• The injections you receive do not contain any cortisone or steroid medications. Instead, they may contain some of the following substances: dextrose (corn extract), zinc, calcium, lidocaine, and/or sarapin (anesthetics) and vitamin B-12.
•  Regenerative Joint Therapy injections are intended to provide you with long-lasting relief of your pain. In many cases your pain will be greatly diminished and not return unless you re-injure yourself. An average of three to six treatment sessions, between two to six weeks apart are usually required to adequately treat the problem and stimulate the healing. More treatments are necessary for difficult problems. Each treatment builds on the previous one and too much time between treatments may slow improvement. Complete relief of pain cannot be guaranteed.
• Pain relief is usually first noticed at about two to six weeks following the injections. Joint strength and stability will increase with each treatment and continues for one to three years after the last treatment. The process of healing, increasing joint strength and pain relief is gradual and patience is required to realize the benefits of Regenerative Joint Therapy.

 

 

• You can resume your previous activities as soon as they are tolerated.   Avoid high impact activities on the areas treated. You are encouraged to exercise in order to strengthen areas of weakness and for general fitness. The more active and fit you are, the quicker and easier your recovery will be. A physical therapy/exercise program may be prescribed if areas of weakness are found during your examination.

If you have any problems following the treatment, an increase in your pain or wish to ask questions about Regenerative Joint Therapy 

Trinity Spine and Neurology Center

(405)848-7246

Dr. Alvin Philipose, DC 

 

 

IN SUMMARY 

Regenerative Joint Therapy is an effective treatment for a multitude of conditions (refer to page 1).  There is no other treatment that replaces Regenerative Joint Therapy for strengthening weakened and damaged ligaments. It works by stimulating the body's own healing process at the sites of injection. Healing occurs slowly but surely, and naturally. Multiple treatments are usually necessary to achieve maximum joint stability and long-lasting pain relief.  The goals of Regenerative Joint Therapy are to decrease pain and to improve the person's overall ability to function at work, at home, and during competitive and recreational activities.

 EDUCATIONAL IMAGES:

 

                                   

     NORMAL LIGAMENTS                                            INJURED LIGAMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Physio-Therapy is the evaluation and treatment of physical disabilities designed to improve physical strength, range of motion and ability.

From the initial evaluation through recovery, each patient has a highly skilled rehabilitation team who share a common desire: to restore daily comfort and function. The therapist will review the patient's past history and the physician's referral, perform a comprehensive evaluation and develop an individualized treatment program.

Treatable Conditions:

• Muscle and Joint Pain
• Post-Operative Conditions
• Weakness or Loss of Motion
• Soft-Tissue Injuries
• Chronic Pain/Fibromyalgia
• Sports Injuries
• Industrial Injuries

Program Goals:

• Return the patient to their previous level of function.
• Relieve pain and discomfort through hands-on manual treatment.
• Facilitate return-to-function through stretching, therapeutic exercise, strengthening, thermal and electro modalities.
• Develop the patient's understanding of his/her condition through aggressive education and prevention programs.
• Encourage recovery and independence through patient responsibility in a home exercise program.

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What is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic healthcare is a branch of the healing arts based on the scientific fact that our nervous system controls or influences the function of every cell in our body. Interference to the nervous system (caused by the Vertebral Subluxation Complex or Nerve Impingement Syndrome) will effect how the nervous system relates to the cells to which it travels.

The term "Chiropractic" comes from the Greek words "cheiro and praktikos" meaning "done by hand." The Chiropractic model of health is centered on the philosophy that the human body, being knit together in a wonderful way, will heal itself given the right opportunity and circumstances. Doctors of Chiropractic (DCs) essentially promote the healing process by minimizing nerve interference.

When do you need a Chiropractor?

The purpose of the Chiropractic approach to healthcare (the wellness model) is to uncover your health conditions, not merely cover up your symptoms. The absence of symptoms (pain) does not equal good health! The clearest way to illustrate this is by reviewing the statistics on heart attacks. Research reveals that in approximately 33% of all heart attacks, the first symptom of the attack is death!

Wellness care encompasses several aspects of overall health, which can be physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.

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Chiropractic Education

Most people are unaware that today's Doctors of Chiropractic undergo virtually the same intense education process as Medical and Osteopathic students for the first two years of professional school. Medical students and Chiropractic students alike, spend a tremendous amount of time studying anatomy, physiology, neurology and other basic sciences. The main difference during the first two years is that Medical students have a heavy emphasis on pharmacology (study of prescription drugs) and Chiropractic students emphasize nutrition and natural alternatives to drugs.

The programs take a different turn after the first two years. Medical students prepare for the “trade� by rotating each month to different medical specialties such as pediatrics, orthopedics and family medicine.

The second two years of education for Chiropractic students focuses on learning the tools of their trade? Chiropractic treatment today can be effective using manual and computer controlled care, such as with the ProAdjuster.

Both doctors of Medicine and Chiropractic are very well trained to treat their respective patients utilizing the skills of their professions. The most promising and encouraging change in today's treatment environment is that many healthcare clinics provide both Chiropractic and Medical care for their patients.

The Chiropractic model of health is centered around the philosophy that the human body, being knit together in a wonderful way, will heal itself given the right opportunity and circumstances.

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Arthritis, Pregnancy, Children & Chiropractic

Does Arthritis Limit Your Life?

Arthritis pain and the limits it places on your life may soon be eliminated. Arthritis is a condition of the entire body, but it is most often seen in the joints. A friend, loved one or even you, may wake up with body stiffness, joint aches or experience pain that limits activity.

It is estimated that most people over the age of 50 have some form of the problem (usually osteoarthritis). Many people much younger can also suffer the effects of arthritis. It is sometimes traced to stress placed on the body, more specifically spinal stress, that causes wear and tear on the joints.

The body's natural defense can often be seen on x-rays of the spine, where spurring or bone growth has developed as a way to build up and protect a weakened area. The standard approach for many people is to treat the symptoms of pain and joint discomfort with drugs. This is only a temporary fix at best. Wouldn't it make more sense to find the cause of the problem? Ask your doctor how ProAdjuster technology can be a part of successfully alleviating your arthritic condition.

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Children and Chiropractic

Children are very active. They can spend an endless amount of time jumping, running and playing hard. But, sometimes all of this physical activity can put an undue stress on spinal nerves, which can lower a child's resistance to a number of maladies.

We think nothing of having our children's teeth and eyes checked on a regular basis, yet many times we neglect the importance of a spinal check-up. The spine is home to the spinal cord. It is the most amazing bundle of nerves that controls every function in the body. Even the slightest misalignment can cause interference in this process and leave the child vulnerable to a host of issues.

Childhood should be a time of fun, growth and preparation for a healthy adulthood. Many times children spend this joyous time plagued with adult-type problems such as fatigue, nervousness, poor concentration, headaches, back pain or irritability, just to name a few. Ask your doctor how a natural approach to health utilizing ProAdjuster technology can be a wise investment in your child's future.

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Going the Distance with your Pregnancy

Pregnancy is extremely hard on the lower back as well as on the neck and shoulders. Examine the spine of an expectant mother from the side and it's easy to understand why they're in pain. Due to the increased development of the breast tissue, the shoulders are rounded forward, placing tremendous pressure on the neck and shoulders. The weight of the growing child places the lower back in a strenuous position.

The nine months of pregnancy brings many hormonal changes that relax the ligaments which stabilize the lower back and pelvis. As the pelvis rotates down in the front, the muscles of the lower back become short and tight, causing an increase in pressure on the pain sensitive joints of the lower back, producing achy lower back pain.

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Your X-Rays

X-rays provide information that will assist your doctor in planning your treatment. X-rays can reveal fractures, spinal misalignments, joint and bone disease and other facts regarding your health status.

X-rays or radiographs are not always necessary. Your doctor will decide if your specific case warrants their use. If your doctor decides x-rays are appropriate, it is important for you to know that several safety precautions are utilized to make today's x-rays extremely safe.

If taken, your doctor will typically review your x-rays during your report of findings. Your x-rays will become a very valuable part of your health records.

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Chiropractic Facts & Figures, Your X-rays

1. Chiropractic Care is Safe and Effective.

The safety of Chiropractic care has been well documented in professional journals of all kinds. Serious side-effects of Chiropractic manipulative therapy occur with approximately one out of every one million adjustments. Compare this to the serious side-effects of medicines and surgical errors to put safety in perspective. Research reveals that some 100,000 people die each year from effects of prescription drugs that were prescribed by their doctors. This isn't meant to be M.D. bashing,? It's just the simple truth about the safety of prescription medications, as reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association (April 1998). The article continues to say, Discovering new dangers of drugs after marketing is common. Overall, 51% of approved drugs have serious adverse effects not detected prior to approval. Merely discovering adverse affects is not by itself sufficient to protect the public. Each year prescription drugs injure 1.5 million people so severely they require hospitalization and 100,000 die making prescription drugs the 4th leading cause of death in the United States? So the question was about the safety of Chiropractic care?

2. Chiropractors are real Doctors.

Doctors of Chiropractic (D.C.) comprise the second largest health care profession with over 50,000 practitioners in the U.S. They earn the title doctor? along with Medical Doctors (M.D.), Doctors of Osteopathy (D.O.), and Dentists (D.D.S. and D.M.D.).

The educational process leading to the title Doctor of Chiropractic is quite similar to that of an M.D. and D.O. In order to obtain a D.C. degree, a student must complete several years of pre-chiropractic studies at a college or university, followed by four academic years of Chiropractic education (totaling a minimum of 7 years of study). The Chiropractic student's last year is spent in a clinical internship (similar to M.D. or D.O. rotations?). During this time the Chiropractic intern, under the supervision of a licensed D.C., will consult, examine and treat patients in a clinic setting. Upon graduation and earning the Doctor of Chiropractic degree, a state licensing exam must be passed in order to practice.

Chiropractic students study many of the same textbooks as Medical and Osteopathic students. As a matter of fact, a Chiropractic student accumulates more course hours in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics (how the body moves), neurology, and nutrition than their Medical and Osteopathic colleagues.

3. Chiropractic is part of a wellness lifestyle.

Chiropractic care is like Å“orthodontics? for the spine. Clinically, repeated Chiropractic adjustments train? the vertebrae to maintain their proper alignment and movement. Like the time required for braces to achieve correction depends on an individual's teeth and mouth structure, the time required for proper structural positioning to occur depends on the condition of the patient's spine, their job and other daily lifestyle activities.

Think of your spinal adjustments like maintaining your car. It's recommended that you change your car's oil every 3,000 or so miles. For how long you ask? For as long as you own the car! While some individuals drive 3,000 miles in a week, others do so in a month or two. The point is, however, that we change our oil on a regular basis. The same goes for caring for your spine. Whether to get adjusted weekly, monthly or quarterly depends on each patient's specific health condition. Remember, An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!Don't let your car's engine fall out before changing its oil!

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How Does Acupuncture Work?

The basis of this healing system works on the principle that all beings have within them a life or energetic force called qi (pronounced chee). When qi flows evenly along pathways (called meridians or channels) throughout the body, good health is the result, but when factors such as lifestyle, diet or change in weather cause an imbalance, qi becomes blocked, stagnant or imbalanced, and sickness results.

To strengthen the flow of qi or remove blockages in the meridians, an acupuncturist inserts a number of tiny, sterile, flexible points at specific areas (called acupoints) along the channels. There are thousands of acupoints along the meridians, which are each associated with different specific internal organs or organ systems. TCM proponents believe that acupuncture stimulates the body's internal regulatory system and nurtures a natural healing response.

Although Western science has not yet proven the notion of qi, a large body of evidence is accumulating indicating that acupuncture leads to real physiologic changes in the body. Numerous studies have shown, for example, that Acupuncture stimulates nerves in the underlying muscles. Researchers feel that this stimulation sends impulses up the spinal cord to a relatively primitive part of the brain known as the limbic system, as well as to the midbrain and the pituitary gland.

The signaling seems to lead to the release of endorphins and monoamines, chemicals known as natural pain-killers that block pain signals in the spinal chord and brain, and allows the body to self-heal its internal organs.

In one study, researchers using brain scans discovered that acupuncture can alter blood circulation within the brain, increasing the blood flow to the thalamus, the area of the brain that relays pain and other sensory messages. Hundreds of studies are now ongoing in the U.S. and elsewhere seeking to prove the usefulness of acupuncture for various ailments.

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Still Not Sure about what Acupuncture is?

Some people may have an initial uncertainty about this 5,000 year old treatment that has been proven effective over and over again. Additionally, if one has not had personal contact with a friend or relative who has benefitted from this type of preventative, and less invasive treatment than treatment of symptoms with drugs which always cause some type of side effect(s), there may be fears such as "will it hurt a lot".

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The Utilization of a noninvasive laser to increase blood flow to the muscles, discs, and other structures around the spine.

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