Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic Care Chiropractic is a science at the service of Well-Being, which is based on the scientific fact that the Nervous System affects and influences every single function of the human body, thus conditioning the health and the quality of life of the human being. Chiropractic recognizes that the human body is a self regulating and healing organism, which is controlled by the Nervous System. Any Interference to a properly functioning nervous which chiropractors call a vertebral subluxation complex, is not good for the overall regulation and control of the body. This leads to the body’s inability to efficiently adapt to the normal stresses of the function of the body. Correction of Interference to the Nervous System and the correction of the vertebral subluxation complex which chiropractors call a Chiropractic Adjustment, is a good thing because it restore’s the normal adaptability and function of the human body. According to the World Federation of Chiropractic, the meaning of Chiropractic is “A health profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and the effects these disorders on the function of the Nervous System and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal adjustment and other joint and soft tissue manipulation.” Another definition of Chiropractic as described by the Association of Chiropractic Colleges describe it as “Chiropractic is a healthcare discipline that emphasizes the inherit recuperative power of the body to heal itself without the use of drugs or surgery. The practice of Chiropractic focuses on the relationship between structure (primarily the Spine) and function (as coordinated by the Nervous System) and how that relationship affects the preservation and restoration of health. In addition, doctors of chiropractic recognize the value and responsibility of working in cooperation with other health care practitioners when in the best interest of the patient.” What is Vertebral Subluxation Complex: A Vertebral Subluxation Complex is when a vertebrae, or group of vertebrae move out of there normal position and interfere with the normal function of the spinal nerves disrupting the normal communication between the brain and the body. This mis-communication may lead to a reduced efficiency for the body to adapt to normal stresses, eventually leading to dysfunction, illness, injury and disease. A Vertebral Subluxation Complex can be caused by various Physical, Emotional and Nutritional stresses that are put upon the body. A Vertebral Subluxation Complex can only be corrected with a chiropractic adjustment. A subluxation does not only affect nervous system function, but the increased mechanical stress on the other tissues involved will eventually cause damage. Aside from the nerves initially being effected, the first tissues that will start to break down will be the intervertebral disc, followed by changes in the muscles and ligaments causing adhesions and either Hypertonicity (Tightness) or Hypotonicity (weakness). Eventually the altered biomechanics, weight bearing and movement alterations can lead to arthritis and degeneration of the spine. Symptoms Associated With Vertebral Subluxation Complex Some of the most common symptoms of Vertebral Subluxation Complex include muscle tightness, reduced ranges of motion, poor posture, pain, reduced energy, difficulty in taking a deep breath, dizziness or balance problems, numbness or tingling into the arms and legs, Sciatica, Scoliosis, ear infections, torticollis, headaches, high blood pressure, digestive issues, colic, poor overall health and well-being. What is a Chiropractic Adjustment? A Chiropractic Adjustment is a very specific correction of vertebral subluxation complex performed by a chiropractor. It is designed to restore normal neurological function, and improve vertebral alignment, weight bearing and motion. There are many ways to adjust the spine, from techniques which are extremely gentle, which use specially designed hand tools or chiropractic tables, to more of a manual technique where audible “cracks or clicks” might be experienced. It is important to understand that a Chiropractic Adjustment does not need to be forceful. It needs to be a very specific and fast thrust, not a forceful one, to have an immediate effect on the spinal nerves to reduce pain and improve function. Dr. Mascetta reviews with every patient the level of care, or style of adjusting that they would like to receive. He will then devise a plan to include what the patient is comfortable with as long as it is clinically indicated. Benefits of a Chiropractic Adjustment. There are many benefits to receiving chiropractic adjustments. Here is a list of some of the more common benefits that have been clinically proven to be effective: Sciatica, Low back and Neck Pain, Headaches including tension and migraines, Colic, acid reflux and ear infections in children, Neurologic Conditions, Blood Pressure, Surgery prevention, Frozen Shoulder, Scoliosis, Improved Athletic performance, feeling of well being, energy and improved overall healthy. Also, reduced medications and less nursing home admissions in the elderly have also been recorded. Does a Chiropractic Adjustment hurt? In most instance patients experience an immediate reduction in pain that included an overall feeling of improved well being, a sensation of euphoria, and improved motion with less muscle tightness. Typically, no it does not! In most instances, patients experience an immediate reduction of pain that includes an overall feeling of improved well being, a sensation of euphoria, and improved motion with less muscle tightness. But, it is important to understand, that many times, the Chiropractor might be working with already inflamed tissues. In these situations, it is rare, but there is a possibility of experiencing an increased level of discomfort, soreness or pain. We explain to the patient, that if they initially feel soreness similar to a post exercise workout, then it is a sign that a proper adjustment was made and that they are just experiencing the body adapting to its new, but corrected position. We do not want a patient to experience pain following an adjustment. It is extremely rare that a chiropractor will make a condition worse, but if the patient continues to experience pain following care in the office, they will be re evaluated and a new course of care will be initiated, or a referral
FAQ
Insurance Do I need a referral from an MD? Most of the time you do not. On very few rare occasions you may need to have a referral due to certain insurance but we will do everything on our end to reach out to your family doctor to obtain it for you. Do you accept insurance? Yes, we accept most all insurances. In most cases we even offer affordable financial options. Call us at (210) 545-7000 for more information. Treatments What conditions do you treat? We treat a wide range of conditions associated with back, neck, and joint pain, including but not limited to herniated discs, pinched nerves, scoliosis, sciatica, and chronic pain. For a full list check our Services Page or call (210) 545-7000 to schedule a consultation. How many treatmment sessions will I need? Every patient and condition is unique and will require a specific treatment plan custom-tailored to each patient. For a consultation call (210) 545-7000 or visit our Contact Page. Are your treatments safe? All of the treatments offered at South Texas Spine & Joint Institute are widely recognized as one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints. Although we have an excellent safety record, no health treatment is completely free of potential adverse effects. The risks associated with chiropractic, therapy, lasers, etc, however, are very small. Many patients feel immediate relief following treatment, but some may experience mild soreness, stiffness or aching, just as they do after some forms of exercise. Current research shows that minor discomfort or soreness following certain treatments typically fades within 24 hours. It is important to look at the risk in comparison to all other treatments available for the same condition. Can my child receive care? Yes, children can benefit from various non-invasive therapies as well. Children are very physically active and experience many types of falls and blows from activities of daily living as well as from participating in sports. Injuries such as these may cause many symptoms including back and neck pain, stiffness, soreness or discomfort. Chiropractic care is always adapted to the individual patient. It is a highly skilled treatment, and in the case of children, very gentle. This page has answers to some of the most common questions we receive. If your question isn’t answered here, feel free to ask using our contact form.
Laser Therapy
Laser Therapy Science Laser therapy is a medical treatment that uses focused light to stimulate a process called photobiomodulation (PBM). During PBM, photons enter the tissue and trigger a biological cascade of events that leads to an increase in cellular metabolism, which can decrease pain and inflammation and accelerate the healing process. Treatments Experience Pain Relief and Reduced Inflammation associated with: Neck Pain Back Pain Shoulder Pain Sciatica Arthritis TMJ Plantar Fasciitis Sports Injuries Soft Tissue Damage And Much More… https://practiceinsidersedge.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/Video/Medical%20Animation%20about%20Laser%20Therapy.mp4 If you are in pain, schedule a treatment today. CALL (210) 545-7000 South Texas Spine & Joint Institute can help get you back on track. 5 Reasons You’ll Love Deep Tissue Laser Therapy 1. It Works The number 1 reason you will love laser therapy? It works! When you are suffering from a painful injury or condition, deep tissue laser therapy can provide powerful pain relief, promote tissue repair, and reduce swelling– even when other therapies have failed. 2. It’s Fast Deep tissue laser therapy treatments are very fast – typically lasting between 4-7 minutes, depending on the size of the area treated. The results are often fast too, with many patients reporting pain relief and improved range of motion after the very first treatment. 3. It Lasts The therapeutic benefits of deep tissue laser therapy extend far beyond the treatment itself. After each treatment, patients can expect notable pain relief, with the effects lasting longer after each treatment. 4. It’s Safe Deep tissue laser therapy can be used on most patients with minimal contraindications. With over 1 million treatments performed worldwide each month, it offers a safe alternative to opioid pain killers and surgical intervention in many cases. 5. It’s Proven There is a significant body of evidence supporting the use of deep tissue laser therapy as both an adjunct and a standalone treatment for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. From head to toe, researchers have concluded that laser therapy is effective for reducing pain, increasing range of motion and improving overall quality of life for patients suffering from many common and difficult-to-treat conditions Frequently Asked Questions WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE? Laser therapy treatments must be administered directly to skin, as clothing or topical dressings interfere with delivering light to tissues beneath the skin. Patients will feel a soothing warmth as the therapy is administered. Many patients receiving LightForce Therapy Laser treatments report enjoying the experience, especially when the massage ball treatment head is used to deliver what is often referred to as a “laser massage.” Patients receiving treatments with higher-power lasers also frequently report a rapid decrease in pain. For someone suffering from chronic pain, this effect can be particularly pronounced. HOW LONG DO TREATMENTS LAST? With LightForce lasers, treatments are quick, usually 4-7 minutes, depending on the size, depth, and chronicity of the condition being treated. High-power lasers are able to deliver a lot of energy in a small amount of time, allowing therapeutic dosages to be achieved quickly. HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED? Patients generally see results after 3 to 5 treatments. Clinicians will develop specific plans of care based on the diagnosis and the tissues that are involved. Chronic conditions often require more therapy than acute.
7 Methods To Cure A Sinus Headache At Home
It starts with pressure. You feel it in your face. You feel it behind your eyes. You can’t breathe. Your upper teeth hurt. Your ears feel full. Then, the throbbing in your head begins. Oh, the throbbing! You already know what it is…another sinus headache. So, you go to your doctor who gives you a prescription for another antibiotic that never seems to help. Pain medications and decongestants rarely give you any relief. You find yourself frustrated and miserable. What is one to do when nothing works to ease the pain and pressure? In order to understand why conventional treatments do not seem to help your sinus headache, you must first understand why these headaches are occurring and what exactly is a sinus headache. A sinus headache is a type of headache that comes on when the sinus cavities located in your forehead and face become inflamed. Sinus cavities are basically air pockets in the bone of your skull that allow for the air you breathe in to be filtered and humidified, and the mucus your body produces to drain. When the mucus that typically drains from these cavities is prohibited from doing so, congestion can occur, which will increase the pressure in the sinus cavities, thereby producing one terrible headache. When you lean forward or lay down, the mucus that is trapped in your sinuses moves around the cavity, causing the pain and pressure in your face and head to increase. Hence, the throbbing you feel. There are four different pairs of sinuses in your face. The frontal sinuses are located in your forehead, the sphenoid sinuses are in the bones behind your nose, the ethmoid sinuses are located between your eyes, and the largest pair of sinuses are located in your cheekbones and are called the maxillary sinuses. If the locations in your face and head that were just described are where you feel a great deal of pressure or pain, then you may be the victim of a sinus headache. So, why don’t antibiotics and decongestants your doctor prescribes cure your sinus headache? In order for antibiotics to be effective against an infection of any type, including a sinus infection, the cause of the infection must be bacterial in nature. Bacterial infections only make up about 5% of the infections located in your sinuses! Unfortunately, the other 95% of sinus infections are either viral or fungal, and antibiotics have no effect on killing either. Decongestants will help with the swelling of the nasal passages, thus making it easier to breathe. But, they are not a cure for sinusitis (infection of the sinuses) or allergies. Therefore, when you take a decongestant, you may feel relief for a short time, but once the effects of the drug wear off and the symptoms return, you need to take the medication again. This is a vicious cycle that really gets you nowhere when it comes to eliminating a sinus headache. So, now that you know where and what your sinuses are, what a sinus headache actually is, and why conventional methods do not work, what can you do to ease the pressure and pain when the conventional methods of treatment fail? The good news is that there are many ways to treat a sinus headache naturally from your own home! The seven following treatments are easy things you can do to stop the pain from a sinus headache: Method 1: Keep Your Body Hydrated! If you are prone to sinus headaches, here’s yet another reason to drink up the water! Water helps to thin out congested mucus. The thinner the mucus, the easier it is to drain. It really is that simple. A good rule to follow is to drink half your weight in ounces a day. For example, if you weigh 150 lbs, you should be drinking at least 75 ounces of water per day! Not only is it important to drink water, but it is equally important to avoid drinks that will dehydrate you rapidly. Alcoholic drinks, soda, and even tea will decrease your hydration level quickly. For every drink you have that depletes your hydration, you need to replace that much in water, plus your daily required water intake. So, if you have a 20-ounce soda and weigh 150 lbs, you need to drink 95 ounces of water to keep your hydration at its best! Method 2: Steam Your Sinus Headache Away with Cinnamon! Cinnamon is an herb that works as an anti-inflammatory to help with nasal passages and sinus cavities that have become swollen. Cinnamon also works as a strong antiseptic to combat bacteria and viruses. Boil two cinnamon sticks in water, then let them simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat, and place a towel over your head and the pot to trap the steam. Breathe in the steam. Your nasal passages will open and congestion will lessen. The pressure from your sinus headache will lessen within minutes. Do this once a day until your sinus issues are gone. Method 3: Get Rid of the Dry Air! In order for the mucus to drain properly from your sinuses, the air cannot be too dry. Dry air irritates the sinus passages and causes congestion in the sinuses to build due to inflammation and slow drainage. Putting moisture back in the air with a humidifier is a great way to eliminate sinus headaches that are enhanced from dry air. Keeping your home environment properly humidified prevents irritation of the nasal passages and allows for drainage of mucus to happen. Therefore, you keep the pressure from sinus headaches away. Method 4: Drink Apple Cider Vinegar! Apple cider vinegar is a common household item. Its usages range from a strong cleaning agent to countless health benefits. Apple cider vinegar can also be used to combat an oncoming sinus headache! Antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals are all contained in organic, unprocessed apple cider vinegar, and it acts as a strong body detoxifier. It is thought that apple cider vinegar acts to
How To Dismiss Tech Neck in 6 Easy Steps
Chances are that within the last few days, at some point, your neck has had some sort of pain or discomfort. You have also probably noticed that this neck pain has been coming on more frequently than it used to. A couple of years ago, you might’ve gotten a little stiffness in your neck after sleeping in a weird position or on a bad mattress. But now…now you notice that there isn’t a day that goes by that you aren’t finding yourself rubbing your sore neck! You’re probably thinking, “Why YES! That’s exactly what’s going on! My neck hurts all the time! Why is this happening?” Most likely, you have become victim to something that is used so much and so frequently, that you probably have no idea how much harm it is actually causing you. Something you are constantly using in some way or another without the least hint that it’s altering your posture and affecting muscles and nerves in your body. So what is this unknown, pain-causing culprit? The answer is a simple one…technology! That’s right. The cause of that achy neck is none other than your phone or tablet that you are constantly using to keep up with everything from the Kardashians to your work email. Chiropractic physicians are quite aware and have been paying attention to this most recent trend in our society. This epidemic of constant, chronic neck pain has become such a regular occurrence in chiropractic offices, it has been labeled “tech neck.” Tech Neck is the pain you experience from the strain in your neck of constantly leaning forward while looking at your phone, tablet, or any other technological device. This strain on your neck is the result of the weight of your head pulling the muscles in your neck forward and causing a significant amount of tension to be put on your spine. Your body is an amazingly constructed machine. The natural curves designed in the spine are made to hold your head with no strain, provided that the posture of your body stays aligned properly. Being that your head weighs about 10-12 pounds, this is pretty remarkable. However, with every degree forward your head is tilted, that 10 pounds of weight become a bigger burden to support. Staring down at your phone or tablet at a 60-degree angle puts a significant amount of pressure on your spine to hold your head up. That 10 pound becomes more like 50-60 pounds. Now, imagine staring down at your phone or tablet for a couple of hours with 60 pounds around your neck. That’s the equivalent of stacking two cinder blocks on each shoulder and carrying them around all day! So, now you’re probably thinking, “Wow! That’s a lot of weight!” It sure is a lot of weight. Way too much for the muscles in your neck to have to hold up! It’s no wonder your neck hurts and you feel exhausted at the end of the day! You’ve probably carried enough bricks around to build the foundation of a house! Are you wondering what you can do to stop this terrible neck pain and prevent it from getting worse? Well friend, here’s what you need to do. Below is a very simple list of steps that, if you follow, the weight on your neck and shoulders will be lifted…literally! Step 1: Pay Attention to Pain…and Put Your PHONE Down! Let’s just go ahead and state the obvious. Now that you understand what’s causing your neck pain, you know what you need to do. Put it down. When you start to feel that first little twinge of ache come on, stop what you are doing and listen to what your body is saying. It’s telling you it’s tired of carrying those cinder blocks and it needs a break! Pain is your warning that an injury is coming. The stronger the pain, the worse the injury. Paying attention to that first twinge in your neck and shoulders could prevent you from developing a more serious and permanent injury! When you put the phone down, you will feel relief almost immediately. So, now you’re thinking, “What? I’m on my phone all the time! There’s no way I can just put it down! Alright, so limiting the time you spend on your phone is an excellent way to avoid tech neck altogether. Having set times for breaks while using your device is key. A good rule to follow is that for every 30 minutes you spend on your phone or tablet, spend 3 minutes with the device down! Get up and move around on a regular basis. This will give your cervical muscles, or neck muscles, time to relax without fatiguing from supporting all the weight for long periods of time. Step 2: STOP Looking Down. Raise that Device UP! Again, with the obvious. You may notice that once the fatigue of the muscles in your neck starts to set in, you automatically will look up. Your body, that wonderful machine, needs to relieve the pressure that is being put on your spine from all the weight. By keeping devices at eye level, the tension of the neck musculature will be lessened. Constantly looking down will cause the natural lordosis or inward curvature of the neck to straighten over time. This curvature is important because it not only allows for the weight of the head to be supported, but it also allows for the vertebrae, or bones in the neck, to articulate properly and allow for proper blood flow to the brain to occur. Your cervical lordotic curve also works with the other curves in the spine to allow you to stand and walk without using a great deal of energy from your muscles. When this curve begins to straighten, or worse, reverse, degenerative changes occur to the bones, the discs that work as shock absorbers between the bones also start to wear out, and the
My Newborn Won’t Stop Crying! Can Chiropractic Care Help With Colic?
Colic: it’s every new parent’s worst nightmare. A digestive condition that leads to comfortless crying in babies and young kids, colic can feel impossible to treat and even harder to live with. What most people don’t know, though, is that chiropractic care can help treat colic and promote comfort and wellbeing in kids and toddlers of all ages. What is Colic? The term “colic” is a common one, and most parents have heard it tossed around for years. You might be surprised to learn, though, that there’s not a true medical definition for colic. Generally understood as “inconsolable crying,” colic applies to any baby that cries for an extended period. Here’s how The American Pregnancy Association defines colic: “According to many experts, colic is inconsolable crying in an infant that lasts many hours a day, starting in the second week of life and lasting until about three months of age. About 40 years ago, a pediatrician named Dr. Morris Wessel conducted a breakthrough study on excessively fussy children. The definition he chose to use to describe colicky babies was not considered scientific, but it stuck with physicians. His description of a colicky infant was a child who cried for more than 3 hours a day, for more than three days a week, for over three weeks. This is often referred to as the “Rule of 3’s” and these rules came to be known as the Wessell Criteria, which is now used in most current studies of babies with colic.” The Signs and Symptoms of Colic How do you know if your baby has colic? What’s the difference between a colicky child, and one who is just fussy? Here are a few key facts about colic: First of all, a colicky baby is not a sick baby. Colic is a digestive condition that, while sometimes challenging to treat, can be resolved. Some pediatric experts believe that all babies experience colic, although the differentiation between one case and another comes down to the degree of discomfort and crying. According to Wessell’s Criteria, an estimated 20-25% of babies experience “colic.” Colic has many physical signs. Most colicky babies pull their legs up to their chest. They may also stretch their legs, clench their fists, beat the air, or pass gas repeatedly. Another surefire sign is a baby with a distended abdomen. Although gas is not the cause of colic, it’s a symptom – as babies gulp air as they cry. Colic crying generally increases in the evening hours and is at its worst 6-8 weeks after birth Colic can self-resolve. In most cases, it ends for 50% of babies at three months of age, and 90% of babies by the time they reach nine months. What Causes Colic? As a parent, it can be wrenching to watch your baby grapple with colic. The discomfort is evident, and many parents feel powerless to provide relief for their little one. The first step in doing this, though, is understanding what causes colic. Here are a few of the primary factors: Children that are naturally sensitive and require more attention Children with underdeveloped or immature nervous systems Kids who become overwhelmed easily or are sensitive to stimulation Breastfed babies who may be vulnerable to something in their mother’s diet Bottle-fed babies who are reacting to the proteins in their formula Babies who eat too quickly or who are being overfed Babies whose mothers smoked throughout their pregnancies Babies who gulp air when they cry or feed, and who are not burped afterward Babies with low birth weight or acid reflux In some cases, a baby can have a single risk factor. In other cases, babies may experience several of these issues at once. If your baby is experiencing any of these, don’t fret. There are improvements you can make to your little one’s condition. They don’t have to be in pain forever. 2 Big Ways Chiropractic Care Helps With Colic The fact that chiropractic care helps babies with colic find relief is not a theory. Instead, there is ample scientific evidence to back the claim up. According to one 2012 study published in the Journal of Manipulative Physiological Therapy, “One hundred four patients were randomized. In parents blinded to treatment allocation, using 2 or fewer hours of crying per day to determine a clinically significant improvement in crying time, the increased odds of improvement in treated infants compared with those not receiving treatment were statistically significant at day 8…In this study, chiropractic manual therapy improved crying behavior in infants with colic. The findings showed that knowledge of treatment by the parent did not appear to contribute to the observed treatment effects in this study. Thus, it is unlikely that the observed treatment effect is due to bias on the part of the reporting parent.” With that in mind, here is how chiropractic care can help your baby with a case of colic: 1. Chiropractic Care Stimulates the Digestive System Colic originates in the digestive system. Fortunately, chiropractic care stimulates and activates the digestive system, offering remarkable benefits for babies and young children. Compared to other treatment options, like the administration of anti-gas medication, chiropractic care provides a holistic, more effective method of treatment that can lessen or resolve the issue entirely. 2. Chiropractic Care Improves Body Function Chiropractic care works with the body, never limiting the body’s natural functions. This allows specific systems to “get out of their way,” so to speak. While many parents are nervous about the idea of taking their baby in for adjustment by a chiropractor, chiropractors are specially trained to deal with infants and will provide a gentle, comprehensive adjustment that can help your baby’s body thrive. Chiropractic Care: Your Go-To for Colic If your baby has a sore, sad tummy, chiropractic care can help. For more information or to book your first appointment today, contact ou team now. We’ll be happy to answer all your questions and help you settle on a treatment plan for your little one.
6 Ways Chiropractic Care can Help Reduce Headaches
In the U.S. and across the world, headaches after one of the most common chronic disorders people face. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), almost 50% of the adult population has experienced a headache at least once within the past year. Additionally, 9 out of 10 Americans suffer from headaches at some point in their lives. Furthermore, headache disorders, which are categorized as recurrent, severe bouts of headache pain, can cause disability, decreased quality of life, financial difficulty, and even an inability to work. If you’re a headache sufferer, you know exactly how debilitating a bad headache can be. Whether you get migraines or routine headaches, you’ve probably wondered time and time again how to stop theme, and what you need to do to reclaim your quality of life. Luckily, the answer may be more straightforward than you’d imagine: Chiropractic care. Chiropractic care addresses the root cause of many headache disorders, promoting healthy alignment in the spine, and ensuring comfort down the road. Here’s what you need to know. What Causes Headaches? Headaches, like joint pain or allergies, have dozens of causes. Because of this, the root issue underlying a problem can be quite tricky to pin down. Common headache triggers include the following: Food allergies Environmental stimuli, such as noise, lights, or stress Behaviors (including insomnia, low blood sugar, excessive exercise, nail-biting, etc.) Physical problems (including neck injuries, spinal misalignment, or strains) Tension Joint irritation Teeth grinding If you already know what triggers your headache, you’ve got a great place to start. If you don’t, you may have to do some investigative work to determine the cause. Consider keeping a headache journal detailing what you were doing or eating before your headache began. Over time, you’ll be able to identify patterns that expose the root causes of your headaches. Chiropractic Care and Headaches If you suffer from headaches, chiropractic care could be an excellent option for getting some relief. According to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), “Research shows that spinal manipulation – one of the primary treatments provided by doctors of chiropractic – may be an effective treatment option for tension headaches and headaches that originate in the neck. A 2014 report in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics (JMPT) found that interventions commonly used in chiropractic care improved outcomes for the treatment of acute and chronic neck pain and increased benefit was shown in several instances where a multimodal approach to neck pain had been used. Also, a 2011 JMPT study found that chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, improves migraine and cervicogenic headaches.” Since the vast majority of headaches are caused by muscle tension or spinal misalignment, chiropractic care is an excellent treatment approach. In addition to addressing the hazards of our sedentary lifestyle, chiropractic care also reduce joint irritation and muscle tension, leading to fewer headache days in a given month. 6 Ways Chiropractors Address Headache Pain If you’re suffering from recurrent headaches, you need relief. Fortunately, chiropractors are familiar with these particular difficulties and will go above and beyond to ensure you get the career you need. Here are six ways your chiropractor may approach and treat your headaches: Perform spinal manipulations and ongoing chiropractic adjustments. These manipulations and adjustments seek to resolve stress in the system, improve the function of the spine, and restore movement and mobility to your neck, upper back, and shoulders. Provide nutritional advice. In some cases, recurrent headaches are a sign that your body is getting too much of something or not enough of something else. In these cases, your chiropractor may recommend a change in your diet, or the addition of supplements, like B vitamins or Iron. Your chiropractor may also consider your hydration, as this is a critical factor in headache prevention. According to the ACA, people who drink at least eight 9-ounce glasses of water each day will avoid dehydration and be much less prone to headaches in the future. Offer advice on posture. Postural problems are a significant underlying cause for many headaches. If you fit into this category, your chiropractor will likely correct your daily ergonomics (work postures), and recommend a variety of exercises and relaxation techniques meant to improve strength and posture. Recommend complementary therapies. These therapies will work alongside your chiropractic adjustments. They may include heat therapy, acupuncture, and massage. Perform x-rays. X-rays are advanced images and will rule out fractures, injuries, or other causes that could be underlying your headache pain. Perform deep neck flexor exercises. These exercises seek to actively move your joints and muscles in controlled and guided ways. This restores mobility and decreases tension. Of course, no two headache disorders are precisely the same. This may mean your chiropractor will take more or fewer approaches to treat your unique pain, depending on the underlying cause and the circumstances surrounding your headaches. No matter what the case may be, it’s essential to work with your chiropractor to come up with a treatment plan that suits your condition and your life. Kick Your Headaches to the Curb Headaches are uncomfortable, unpleasant, and an interruption to your daily life. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with them. Instead of suffering through yet another headache this year, book an appointment with a chiropractor today. A chiropractor can help you identify the root cause of your headaches and come p with a treatment plan to address them. Within a few months of chiropractic care, most patients see a dramatic decrease in the frequency and severity of their headaches. Could you be one of them? Contact our office to book your first appointment today!
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Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic is a science at the service of Well-Being, which is based on the scientific fact that the Nervous System affects and influences every single function of the human body, thus conditioning the health and the quality of life of the human being. Chiropractic recognizes that the human body is a self regulating and healing organism, which is controlled by the Nervous System. Any Interference to a properly functioning nervous which chiropractors call a vertebral subluxation complex, is not good for the overall regulation and control of the body. This leads to the body’s inability to efficiently adapt to the normal stresses of the function of the body. Correction of Interference to the Nervous System and the correction of the vertebral subluxation complex which chiropractors call a Chiropractic Adjustment, is a good thing because it restore’s the normal adaptability and function of the human body. According to the World Federation of Chiropractic, the meaning of Chiropractic is “A health profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and the effects these disorders on the function of the Nervous System and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal adjustment and other joint and soft tissue manipulation.” Another definition of Chiropractic as described by the Association of Chiropractic Colleges describe it as “Chiropractic is a healthcare discipline that emphasizes the inherit recuperative power of the body to heal itself without the use of drugs or surgery. The practice of Chiropractic focuses on the relationship between structure (primarily the Spine) and function (as coordinated by the Nervous System) and how that relationship affects the preservation and restoration of health. In addition, doctors of chiropractic recognize the value and responsibility of working in cooperation with other health care practitioners when in the best interest of the patient.” What is Vertebral Subluxation Complex: A Vertebral Subluxation Complex is when a vertebrae, or group of vertebrae move out of there normal position and interfere with the normal function of the spinal nerves disrupting the normal communication between the brain and the body. This mis-communication may lead to a reduced efficiency for the body to adapt to normal stresses, eventually leading to dysfunction, illness, injury and disease. A Vertebral Subluxation Complex can be caused by various Physical, Emotional and Nutritional stresses that are put upon the body. A Vertebral Subluxation Complex can only be corrected with a chiropractic adjustment. A subluxation does not only affect nervous system function, but the increased mechanical stress on the other tissues involved will eventually cause damage. Aside from the nerves initially being effected, the first tissues that will start to break down will be the intervertebral disc, followed by changes in the muscles and ligaments causing adhesions and either Hypertonicity (Tightness) or Hypotonicity (weakness). Eventually the altered biomechanics, weight bearing and movement alterations can lead to arthritis and degeneration of the spine. Symptoms Associated With Vertebral Subluxation Complex Some of the most common symptoms of Vertebral Subluxation Complex include muscle tightness, reduced ranges of motion, poor posture, pain, reduced energy, difficulty in taking a deep breath, dizziness or balance problems, numbness or tingling into the arms and legs, Sciatica, Scoliosis, ear infections, torticollis, headaches, high blood pressure, digestive issues, colic, poor overall health and well-being. What is a Chiropractic Adjustment? A Chiropractic Adjustment is a very specific correction of vertebral subluxation complex performed by a chiropractor. It is designed to restore normal neurological function, and improve vertebral alignment, weight bearing and motion. There are many ways to adjust the spine, from techniques which are extremely gentle, which use specially designed hand tools or chiropractic tables, to more of a manual technique where audible “cracks or clicks” might be experienced. It is important to understand that a Chiropractic Adjustment does not need to be forceful. It needs to be a very specific and fast thrust, not a forceful one, to have an immediate effect on the spinal nerves to reduce pain and improve function. Dr. Mascetta reviews with every patient the level of care, or style of adjusting that they would like to receive. He will then devise a plan to include what the patient is comfortable with as long as it is clinically indicated. Benefits of a Chiropractic Adjustment. There are many benefits to receiving chiropractic adjustments. Here is a list of some of the more common benefits that have been clinically proven to be effective: Sciatica, Low back and Neck Pain, Headaches including tension and migraines, Colic, acid reflux and ear infections in children, Neurologic Conditions, Blood Pressure, Surgery prevention, Frozen Shoulder, Scoliosis, Improved Athletic performance, feeling of well being, energy and improved overall healthy. Also, reduced medications and less nursing home admissions in the elderly have also been recorded. Does a Chiropractic Adjustment hurt? In most instance patients experience an immediate reduction in pain that included an overall feeling of improved well being, a sensation of euphoria, and improved motion with less muscle tightness. Typically, no it does not! In most instances, patients experience an immediate reduction of pain that includes an overall feeling of improved well being, a sensation of euphoria, and improved motion with less muscle tightness. But, it is important to understand, that many times, the Chiropractor might be working with already inflamed tissues. In these situations, it is rare, but there is a possibility of experiencing an increased level of discomfort, soreness or pain. We explain to the patient, that if they initially feel soreness similar to a post exercise workout, then it is a sign that a proper adjustment was made and that they are just experiencing the body adapting to its new, but corrected position. We do not want a patient to experience pain following an adjustment. It is extremely rare that a chiropractor will make a condition worse, but if the patient continues to experience pain following care in the office, they will be re evaluated and a new course of care will be initiated, or a referral will be
Our Team
Our Team Dr. Christopher C. Mascetta, DC, CCSP Dr. Christopher C. Mascetta is a Board Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician who has been in practice since 1997. He has owned and operated his own private practice, Ridgefield Chiropractic & Wellness Center, L.L.C since 2000. Ridgefield Chiropractic & Wellness Center, LLC is an integrated chiropractic center which utilizes Chiropractic Care, Physical Therapy Modalities, Physical Rehabilitation, Computerized Gait Analysis, Custom Orthotic Therapy, Acupuncture, Naturopathic Medicine and Massage Therapy to ensure that his patients receive the care and relief that they deserve. Dr. Mascetta received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Science from the State University of New York at Cortland. He then received his Doctorate of Chiropractic Degree from Parker College of Chiropractic in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Mascetta is enrolled with the Carrick Institute of Graduate Studies where he is working toward a board certification in Chiropractic Neurology with the American Board of Chiropractic Neurology. Dr. Mascetta is a Board Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician through the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians. Dr. Mascetta has specialized training in the evaluation and treatment of sports related injuries, conditions, and physical fitness. He has a firm understanding of the function of the body during movement from high-level athletics to everyday activities. He can help optimize athletic performance by applying an advanced understanding of musculoskeletal function and performance enhancement. In his practice, individualized care is offered that extends beyond spinal adjustments to include direct treatment of muscles, joints, and connective tissues. His goals as a sports chiropractor are to provide faster recovery from injury, getting athletes back to play sooner, provide accessibility to a wider range of treatment options, provide expertise in high performance athletics and preventative strategies, guidance in sports nutrition, provide preventative exercise, and to integrate treatment with their training and sport of choice. Dr. Mascetta’s practice though is not only limited to athletes. He works with many different patients of all ages, activity levels and conditions. For Dr. Mascetta’s patients who choose not to participate in athletics, they experience the same level of benefits customized to their individual needs. His advanced training will allow for faster evaluation of injury or source of pain, which allows for reduced treatment duration, lessening the number of visits needed for care. He will also provide corrective exercises and instruction on proper ergonomics to help reduce the risk of injuries, while enhancing recovery of current conditions. He has a special interest in the prevention of injury and disease through proper nutrition, exercise and ergonomics. He combines his chiropractic care with very specific soft tissue work, combined with low level cold laser therapy, physiotherapeutic modalities, physical rehabilitation, nutritional therapy and ergonomic training to treat many difficult cases. Dr. Mascetta works very closely with the medical community to further assure the highest quality of care. As stated earlier, Dr. Mascetta works with many different athletes, at all ages and levels. But as a former motocross rider, he has a very strong interest in providing care for the Motocross Community. He provides mobile chiropractic care services to motocross riders at all levels. In 2007 he started a new practice called MotoCare Chiropractic and began providing chiropractic care at the local amateur motocross events where he himself used to race. Today, Dr. Mascetta continues to provide mobile chiropractic care and continues to work with many of the best riders in the world. He has provides care at the national level working with riders competing in the Monster Energy Supercross and FIM World Championship, Lucas Oil Outdoor Pro Motocross and Amsoil Pro Arenacross, Professional Championship Series. Dr. Mascetta has been featured in the following publications https://news.hamlethub.com/ridgefield/ http://www.racerxvt.com/article/better-days https://thumpertalk.com/articles/trailside-911-what-to-do-when-riding-disasters-strike33-r440/ https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.newstimes.com/news/amp/A-match-made-in-motocross-3833601.php https://townvibe.com/ https://picgra.com/tag/townvibe https://www.theridgefieldpress.com/ https://www.publicaccessstudios.com/ https://m.newstimes.com/ https://news.hamlethub.com/ridgefield/ Dr. Stephanie DeSousa, NDNaturopathic Physician Dr. Stephanie Sousa Cardoso is a licensed naturopathic physician. As a graduate of the University Of Bridgeport College Of Naturopathic Medicine, one of the six nationally accredited naturopathic medical schools in the country. She also has additional training from the Canadian Academy of Homeopathy, she was trained to prevent, diagnose, treat and manage acute and chronic conditions. In addition, she completed her undergraduate studies at Western Connecticut State University and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Promotion Studies with a concentration in Wellness Management. She is a member of the Connecticut Association of Naturopathic Physicians. Marilyn Jackson L.Ac, Acupuncturist and Clinical Herbalist Marilyn Jackson, L.Ac., Dipl.OM is a board-certified acupuncturist and clinical herbalist, based in Connecticut. She opened her private practice in Los Angeles in 2018 with a mission to help people with the power of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Marilyn completed an intensive 4-year Master’s training program at Emperor’s College in Southern California that combined TCM and western biomedicine. The program required hundreds of hands-on clinical hours treating patients, including rotations at the Roy and Patricia Family Cancer Center at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center in Burbank working with patients undergoing cancer treatment. Early on in her graduate education, Marilyn knew she wanted to focus on women’s healthcare once she saw how powerful an effect TCM had on common female ailments like symptoms of PMS, irregular cycles, fertility, and symptoms associated with menopause. She studied under women’s health specialists in her clinical rotations, treating a variety of complex conditions. Once in private practice, Marilyn is grateful to have worked alongside some of the top women’s health experts and acupuncturists in Los Angeles.In 2020 when the world changed, Marilyn started working with patients remotely, learning that the benefits of TCM could be achieved successfully outside of the traditional office setting. She moved to Connecticut with her family where she now treats patients locally and continues to offer remote options to patients everywhere. She is offering free 15 minute consultations to new patients interested in acupuncture. You can learn more about Marilyn and her offerings here: https://www.marilynjackson.co/ Lucy Peralta-Hayes MMP, LMT, CEIM Lucy Peralta-Hayes is a graduate of Finger Lakes School of Massage in Mt. Kisco, NY. During her time at the Finger Lakes School, she was trained in multiple modalities.