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Chiropractic Blog

By Admin 01 Dec, 2017

The opioid crisis has brought national attention to the problem of drug addiction caused by the increased availability of narcotic drugs for pain management. This has led many victims to seek out alternative therapies for both temporary and chronic pain.

Fortunately, there are many proven therapies that rely on a more holistic approach to both pain relief and overall health without the use of opioid drugs. Pain can arise from many sources, including injury, illness, anxiety, physical condition and a compromised connection between the body and the brain.

Here are a few therapeutic choices that can serve as either an alternative to pain medications or be used in conjunction with traditional drug therapy.

By Admin 03 Oct, 2017

If you spend time on social media, you may have already seen warnings about a new condition known as “text neck.” This is a relatively new problem brought on by the explosion of smart phones and other electronics in daily life.


While text neck is a real problem that can cause permanent damage, it is also the subject of many misconceptions. Understanding both why text neck occurs and how it impacts your body can help you make a more informed decision on its treatment.


Understanding How Text Neck Develops


Text neck is the informal name for a type of posture that develops when people spend too much time with their heads hunched downward. Your spine is a flexible and adaptive part of your body. In order to give your head the support it needs, your spine may eventually begin to settle into this hunched position, as it has been trained to do. This leads to text neck, a disorder where the natural inward curve of your neck flattens out.


Once your neck is more comfortable resting in this position, it will affect your overall posture. You may notice your shoulders slumping forward and your head dropping naturally when you relax. This is self-reinforcing behavior, and it will get worse over time if ignored.


Exploring the Health Risks of Text Neck


As mentioned earlier, your spine is remarkably flexible. The poor posture that comes with text neck is not always associated with pain, despite the occasional sensational headlines. You may experience headaches and neck or upper back pain, but many people slouch through life with no significant complaints.


On the other hand, poor posture may still have an impact on your daily life. Upright posture is associated with greater confidence and lower fatigue, while a hunched back can lead to depressive symptoms. When you walk through life with your head down and your shoulders forward, you may not be living up to your full potential.


The question you must ask, then, is whether or not text neck is something you can or should ignore. If you do experience regular pain around your neck, seeking treatment is a necessity. If you want to present yourself confidently to the world, poor posture will only cause bad first impressions. In other cases, you may be worried about long-term deterioration as you hunch farther and farther forward.


Changing Your Texting and Reading Habits


Whatever your reasons for repairing your posture, the good news is that it can be fixed. The first step is to take a conscious look at your phone and computer habits. You don't need to give up your phone, but do start paying attention to the way you use it. Note how you sit when you pull your phone out, and how long you stare at the screen between breaks. Sometimes, all it takes is awareness to begin making changes.


If you aren't sure how to sit or stand with an electronic device, it may help to consult with your local chiropractor. A specialist will review your posture and show you where the problems are occurring. With an expert's guidance, you can go out into the world confident that your new habits are healthy ones.


Treating Text Neck Through Chiropractic Care


Besides changing your relationship with technology, there are also physical therapies available to bring your neck back to its natural curve. At Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center,  we focus on developing a healthy spine, as well as the nerves and muscles that rely on it.


If you are tired of slouching, getting headaches and feeling depressed, then addressing a case of text neck may be all it takes to get you feeling better.

By Admin 02 Aug, 2017

Some jobs are more hazardous than others, but hardly any job is totally safe. Even if there are no physical hazards, the repetitive motions of typing or the tension you can harbor in your muscles when dealing with hostile customers can cause damage over time that eventually turns into injuries and other problems. So whether you have a job with a manual component or whether you work from your own personal office every day, you'll need to look out for signs that your body is under too much strain.


Going to the chiropractor regularly can help you deal with the stress and minimize its effects, making you less likely to develop injuries and helping you to heal naturally when you have pain or other symptoms. Here are three signs that your job might send you to a chiropractor.


C hronic or Acute Pain


This symptom is one of the most obvious ones, so let's get it out of the way first. Pain is the body's way of letting you know that things really aren't okay and something may be terribly wrong. Of course, pain could just mean you've broken a nail, but if you don't know where your pain is coming from and why and you don't have a treatment plan, you shouldn't take it lightly.


Taking pain seriously is especially important if you're experiencing pain related to the musculoskeletal system. Back pain and neck pain can be symptoms of problems such as subluxations that can worsen considerably if ignored, so taking the hint and going to the chiropractor right away is by far the best option.


Hand or Arm Problems


Whether you work at an assembly-line job, type at a desk all day or work in a trade such as construction, you can't do without your hands. But they're so necessary that they're also likely to take the brunt of strain in the workplace, meaning that even if you don't bludgeon them with a blunt instrument, your hands can develop injuries through overuse or careless use.


Carpal tunnel syndrome is a popular example of an injury that can develop over time if you use your hands a lot; it can be due to bad posture or sometimes just because you're pregnant or have a genetic predisposition for it. Carpal tunnel is a nerve problem, but it's only one of many that can occur between your hands and your central nervous system.


Ulnar nerve problems can also develop in the wrist or elbow due to bad posture, and thoracic outlet syndrome can cause shoulder, arm and chest pain as well as numbness in your hand. With so many things that can go wrong due to overuse and strain, having your musculoskeletal system cared for by a professional is a must.


Signs of Increasing Stress


Generalized stress can manifest in many ways, such as:


•    Migraine or tension headaches
•    Tense muscles, such as shoulder and jaw muscles
•    Difficulty relaxing or sleeping


If you've been under more pressure than usual, even if you don't notice wrist problems or back pain, you should definitely have regular chiropractic appointments to help handle the stress and prevent injuries from developing. You might also want to consider taking up a relaxing practice such as yoga or delegating some tasks to a subordinate.


Yes, your job is important, but your health is important too. In fact, in addition to musculoskeletal problems, constant stress can lead to plenty of other health conditions such as heart problems and high blood pressure, so helping your body to relax and heal is immensely important.


Contact  Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center for more information about the benefits of chiropractic care or to discuss becoming a new patient. Whether you have back problems already or whether you want to provide preventive care to help your body stay healthy, we're here for you!

By Admin 30 May, 2017

If you suffer from intense low back pain, strengthen the muscles in your core. Your core muscles can weaken due to many things, including childbirth, obesity, and disease. A weak core forces the muscles in your back to work harder to perform daily tasks, such as sitting, walking, and bending. Over time, pain develops in your upper or lower back.


By learning more about your core and how it affects your back, you can alleviate your pain.

How Can a Weak Core Affect Your Back?


For most people, the core describes the large muscles found in the middle of the abdomen. However, the core is so much more than one group of muscles. In fact, your core includes the large and small muscles in your chest, abdomen, pelvis, hips, and buttocks. The core also extends to the paraspinal muscles in your back.
The paraspinal muscles are the second layer of muscles in your back. The muscles travel along the sides of the spine and do many important things for you. For example, your paraspinal muscles:

  1. Allow your spinal bones to move freely when you bend, flex, or arch your back
  2. Control how far and deep your abdominal muscles go during movement
  3. Work with your abdominal muscles to keep your upper body upright


When your abdominal muscles weaken, the paraspinal muscles are forced to work harder to support your body. Over time, the muscles begin to ache from the tension created on your spinal nerves and other tissues. The aches can quickly become painful spasms that travel throughout your back, especially your lower back, buttocks, and legs.

You can overcome the pain you experience with the right tips.

How Can You Strengthen and Stabilize Your Core?


Before you move forward with strengthening your core, consider a few things first. Until you become stronger in your core, avoid exercises that specifically target or isolate your abdominal muscles, such as sit-ups and crunches. Although helpful, isolated core exercises can strain your lower back and paraspinal muscles.
If pregnancy weakened your abdominal or pelvic muscles, consult with a doctor before you engage in any core exercises. During pregnancy, the large muscles traveling down your abdomen separate to accommodate the growth of your baby. The muscles can remain separated in some women and cause pain when targeted.
The pubic bone and its ligaments can also weaken during pregnancy. Core exercises like side lunges and leg scissors can trigger pain in the pubic region. A doctor may offer unique treatments like therapeutic exercise to improve your core and back pain. Therapeutic exercise targets different body areas without creating stress and strain.
If you can move forward without complications, you can try the simple exercise below. The exercise targets the areas between your shoulders and buttocks.

Here's what you do:

  1. Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart. Be sure to keep your feet straight and place a small bend in your knees.
  2. Take a deep breath, then gently exhale. Tighten your abdominal muscles as much as you can during the exhale.
  3. Hold your back straight and relax your shoulders.
  4. Raise your arms and place them in front of your body.
  5. Move your arms up and down slowly as if you're performing the "dog paddle" in a swimming pool. The movements should be small and precise.
  6. Perform step 5 for about 20–30 seconds, then lower your arms to rest.
  7. Repeat the exercise two more times, or until you feel tired.


You should feel the muscles tighten in your shoulders, arms, abdomen, buttocks, back, and pelvis. If your pain becomes worse during and after performing the exercise, stop and contact a chiropractor  for further assistance.


To learn more about your unique situation and to find permanent treatment, schedule an appointment  with the Downtown Chiropractic and Orthotic Center today.

By Admin 28 Mar, 2017

Are you struggling with constant back pain, achy joints or a stiff neck? You aren't alone. Every day, people suffer with chronic neck and back pain that could be easily treated with chiropractic care. Keep reading for some of the benefits of regular chiropractic care


Relieve Pain

The most obvious benefit is that it may relieve the pain you've been living with every day. Pain relief can help you get back to your everyday activities such as exercise or other routine functions that may have been suppressed because of chronic pain.


Better Sleep

Many people suffer sleep problems as a result of back pain. If you find yourself tossing and turning each night or losing sleep because of the aches and pains in your neck or back, you may benefit from chiropractic care, which can help lessen nighttime pain.


Better Posture

Another benefit of regular chiropractic care is improved posture. This benefit can actually have a long-term effect, as better posture can of course reduce your back pain. It also helps prevent other issues that may arise as a result of untreated poor posture.


Mood Boost

When you feel better, your mood may improve. It's as simple as that. Regular chiropractic care can lessen pain and in turn give your mood a boost.
With regular visits to your chiropractor, you may see an overall improving in your quality of life. To learn more about chiropractic benefits, call Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center.

By Admin 15 Nov, 2016

If you would like to reproduce this article, please contact Dr. Bobker at info@ftlaudchiro.com


As a recreational runner for over 30 years I can attest to the stress relieving and posture enhancing impact of custom foot orthotics. I credit these shoe inserts for alleviating my chronic heel pain (Achilles tendinitis), improving my athletic performance and for being instrumental in allowing me to be like the Energizer Bunny, “still going…” As a Chiropractic Physician, the profound personal benefit I have experienced wearing Custom Foot Orthotics have made me a passionate proponent of their use; encouraging me to develop an expertise in their proper use. My profession is uniquely qualified in understanding the relationship of how faulty foot mechanics impact the entire body. We commonly prescribe Custom Foot Orthotics as an effective pain remedy for people who suffer from metatarsalgia, foot neuromas, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, shin splints, reoccurring knee, hip, back or neck pain. Athletes of all types have long understood their performance enhancing impact. For the past 17 years I have successfully assisted hundreds of patients to achieve a more pain-free lifestyle from the ground up through the application of Custom Foot Orthotics.


From my experience most people are in the dark when it comes to choosing the foot orthotics that will work best for them. Most are blind to the fact that there is a science and art to prescribing, fitting and dispensing corrective foot appliances. Those seeking the improved comfort and support provided by orthotics may be overwhelmed and confused by the diversity of types and prices. The seemingly endless variety can range from prefabricated off-shelf inserts purchasable at local retail store kiosks to laboratory created “custom” versions prescribed by clinicians. This article was written to shed light and aide those consumers searching for foot orthotics to make a more informed decision about which version would best suit their health needs.
Custom foot orthotics work on feet the way braces work on teeth; exerting gentle pressure to mechanically reposition the foot muscles, joints, and ankle into a more ideal alignment. They are purposely applied to the body’s foundation to minimize stress forces (excessive pronation or supination), improve structural support (fallen arches) and balance weight distribution from the ground up; ultimately serving to improve whole-body posture and relieve pain. Unlike the prefabricated store bought inserts, Custom Foot Orthotics must be prescribed by a clinician. The most accurate custom foot orthotics should be meticulously crafted in a laboratory from a mold of each foot. To create the most corrective custom appliance available, the prescribing doctor provides the orthotic lab with a cast (impression) of each foot, taken with the feet held in the most ideal foot-ankle alignment. This casting method called Non Weight Bearing Sub-talar Neutral, corrects for the negative foot-ankle postural effect of gravity and body weight. Orthotics made in this way provide the most therapeutic benefit because they are posted (pitched or tilted) a few degrees to correctively align each foot at the ankle (neutral alignment). By supporting a more ideal alignment of the body’s foundation these custom foot appliances have the broadest impact.


It should be noted that many clinicians fit custom foot orthotics by using a less precise casting method, known as Step-In-A-Box. This method requires that the standing patient step each gravitationally misaligned (non-neutral) ankle-foot into a box of foam. Next, these weight bearing foot impressions are sent to a laboratory where the orthotics are usually hand-picked from a collection of pre-made off-shelf templates. The step-in-a-box variety of custom foot orthotics are less precise (not truly custom) because they are not formed directly from a mold of each foot and depend upon guess work regarding contour and corrective posting. With foot orthotics of this nature, the right and left inserts are commonly just mirror images, thus not accounting for the unique requirements of each foot.   Prefabricated “custom” foot orthotics, whether chosen off-shelf from a store kiosk or selected from a batch of pre-manufactured models in a lab should not qualify as “truly” custom foot orthotics. Unfortunately, in this manner many unsuspecting consumers may waste money as they are deceived into purchasing overpriced “custom” orthotics that in reality may not provide the best therapeutic result.


The standard of care for prescribing, fitting and ultimately creating the most efficacious Custom Foot Orthotics is all about the clinician taking the necessary time to attain the most therapeutically wearable cost-effective inserts. Practical and utilitarian concerns such as the size and types of footwear (i.e., sport, dress, heel height) typically worn should be addressed. Unfortunately, many people are misguided into wastefully purchasing orthotics that are mismatched or ill fitted to their footwear; often “throwing away good money after bad.” In my practice we request orthotic candidates to report with a shopping bag of their typically worn shoes to best ensure the inserts chosen are a qualified match. Consideration must be given to those who possess sensitive feet. In my practice we weed out the “princess and the pea” types by allowing those who may be potentially sensitive, to test drive sample inserts. A thorough health history (i.e., diabetes, joint pains, etc.), foot exam (i.e., Achilles/ heel problems, hammer toes, bunions, foot arches, calluses, etc.), shoe preferences (i.e., dress or sport varieties) and postural distortions (i.e., unleveled hips, scoliosis, etc.) are important considerations for choosing the style and specifications for orthotic construction. In order to achieve optimal comfort and utility, customization also includes determining the orthotics’ length (i.e., 1/2, 3/4, or full), firmness of construction material (i.e., EVA, Plastazote, Leather & Cork, Polypropylene Thermoplastics, etc.), type of cover (i.e., Spenco), and heel cupping (flanging). Other accommodations such as metatarsal padding, neuroma bar, Morton’s extensions, heel lifts, heel spur hole-pad, etc. may be added as needed. Attention to these details often requires a close working relationship with the laboratory pedorthist (a licensed professional, trained to manufacture foot orthotics). We even consult with the lab pedorthist about each cast and provide him with a video of the patient’s foot alignment and gait to ensure even more accuracy and comfort. A custom orthotic clinic should be questioned about the laboratory practices and processes involved in their manufacture. Because of the clinical decision making and meticulous steps involved in creating the best custom appliances one can expect them to be priced from $400.00 to $500.00 per pair.


In summary, corrective insoles can be transformational in their ability to improve posture and alleviate pain throughout the body. However, it is important to understand that just like feet, not all foot orthotics are created equal. Those seeking the health benefits of appliances which so intimately hug and support our feet are advised to make a knowledgeable decision. In order to achieve the best outcome, my advice is to become an educated consumer and consult with a skilled foot orthotic clinician.

By Admin 15 Nov, 2016

Just like cats and dogs, humans innately feel the urge to release joint stiffness and discomfort by stretching. One just has to point to the popularity and devoted following of body lengthening fitness techniques like Yoga and Pilates to justify nature’s drive to stretch. The need to stretch and be elastic is so important that the lack of flexibility may be considered a health liability. Being inflexible leaves us more susceptible to pain, injury and disability. Gentle stretching to improve flexibility serves to nurture joint health by promoting the flow of blood and lymph. While the importance of body elasticity as a measure of fitness is well established, many people still neglect to include stretching in their workouts. Fortunately for stretching slackers, a gentle body lengthening technique exists, called Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) for achieving optimum flexibility and joint health.  


After all, people are mechanical in nature. Structurally we are made up of bones which act as levers, joints which form fulcrums for movement and soft supporting tissues (i.e., muscles, tendons, ligaments, fasciae) which serve as pulleys. All joints contain specialized nerve receptors called proprioceptors which allow us to automatically sense joint position/movement, a process known as proprioception. Flexibility is a vital measure of health as it effects movement, balance, coordination, posture, athletic performance, circulation and ultimately susceptibility to musculoskeletal pain/injury.
Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) is a safe and powerfully effective body lengthening technique for optimizing health. Specially-trained massage therapists, chiropractic physicians, physical therapists, athletic trainers and sports medicine doctors apply AIS therapeutically to treat pain and improve joint function. AIS is commonly applied to rehabilitate joint pain/surgery, enhance athletic performance or just to optimize wellness. AIS is a unique stretching skill because it incorporates the principles of both musculoskeletal anatomy (isolating specific muscles) and neuroscience (the stretch reflex) to maximize myofascial release, improve flexibility and enhance circulation. Unlike the more commonly utilized “static stretching” which can be painful and counterproductive, AIS is specific, gentle (non-bouncing) and incremental in nature; making for a softer, safer and ultimately more rewarding stretch. AIS can restore flexibility and soft tissue aeration in such a gentle manner that it is used to effectively treat/rehabilitate recent sprains/strains, arthritis, heel/elbow tendinitis, frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis, whiplash, Lumbar & Cervical Disc problems, post-operative joint pain, etc. Professional and non-professional athletes are devoted enthusiasts due to its ability to improve athletic performance and treat/prevent joint injuries. Patients of all types and all ages can benefit from AIS’s ability to improve and optimize health. Discover the therapeutic benefits of Active Isolated Stretching and make it a regular part of your fitness/wellness routine.


Dr. Glen Bobker, Chiropractic Physician

The Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center

www.stretchawaypain.com

By Admin 21 Jan, 2016

A new technique for repairing damaged bones is growing in popularity, and it is referred to as PEMF therapy. PEMF stands for Pulsed Electromagnetic Field. The reason why this method is so effective is the fact that it works on the cellular level. Every cell gets a boost in energy, and this leads to an immediate difference within the blood cells. Ask your chiropractor if this technique is right for you, and make sure to ask about all the additional benefits you can receive.


The Advantages

PEMF therapy is great for helping patients get a good night’s sleep. It also increases the speed by which bones and tissue get repaired. RNA and DNA get stimulated, which creates a balance within the immune system. Inflammations also get reduced, and extra damage done around the body is lessened as well. You will not receive excessive stress around other areas of the body because this therapy specifically targets the region in question.

Every patient’s case is different, so you will need to speak with a professional chiropractor  to see if this treatment is ideal for your needs. A chiropractor can work with you to find an ideal frequency for the PEMF therapy to see what works best for your body. To learn more, visit Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center in Fort Lauderdale.

By Admin 01 Dec, 2017

The opioid crisis has brought national attention to the problem of drug addiction caused by the increased availability of narcotic drugs for pain management. This has led many victims to seek out alternative therapies for both temporary and chronic pain.

Fortunately, there are many proven therapies that rely on a more holistic approach to both pain relief and overall health without the use of opioid drugs. Pain can arise from many sources, including injury, illness, anxiety, physical condition and a compromised connection between the body and the brain.

Here are a few therapeutic choices that can serve as either an alternative to pain medications or be used in conjunction with traditional drug therapy.

By Admin 03 Oct, 2017

If you spend time on social media, you may have already seen warnings about a new condition known as “text neck.” This is a relatively new problem brought on by the explosion of smart phones and other electronics in daily life.


While text neck is a real problem that can cause permanent damage, it is also the subject of many misconceptions. Understanding both why text neck occurs and how it impacts your body can help you make a more informed decision on its treatment.


Understanding How Text Neck Develops


Text neck is the informal name for a type of posture that develops when people spend too much time with their heads hunched downward. Your spine is a flexible and adaptive part of your body. In order to give your head the support it needs, your spine may eventually begin to settle into this hunched position, as it has been trained to do. This leads to text neck, a disorder where the natural inward curve of your neck flattens out.


Once your neck is more comfortable resting in this position, it will affect your overall posture. You may notice your shoulders slumping forward and your head dropping naturally when you relax. This is self-reinforcing behavior, and it will get worse over time if ignored.


Exploring the Health Risks of Text Neck


As mentioned earlier, your spine is remarkably flexible. The poor posture that comes with text neck is not always associated with pain, despite the occasional sensational headlines. You may experience headaches and neck or upper back pain, but many people slouch through life with no significant complaints.


On the other hand, poor posture may still have an impact on your daily life. Upright posture is associated with greater confidence and lower fatigue, while a hunched back can lead to depressive symptoms. When you walk through life with your head down and your shoulders forward, you may not be living up to your full potential.


The question you must ask, then, is whether or not text neck is something you can or should ignore. If you do experience regular pain around your neck, seeking treatment is a necessity. If you want to present yourself confidently to the world, poor posture will only cause bad first impressions. In other cases, you may be worried about long-term deterioration as you hunch farther and farther forward.


Changing Your Texting and Reading Habits


Whatever your reasons for repairing your posture, the good news is that it can be fixed. The first step is to take a conscious look at your phone and computer habits. You don't need to give up your phone, but do start paying attention to the way you use it. Note how you sit when you pull your phone out, and how long you stare at the screen between breaks. Sometimes, all it takes is awareness to begin making changes.


If you aren't sure how to sit or stand with an electronic device, it may help to consult with your local chiropractor. A specialist will review your posture and show you where the problems are occurring. With an expert's guidance, you can go out into the world confident that your new habits are healthy ones.


Treating Text Neck Through Chiropractic Care


Besides changing your relationship with technology, there are also physical therapies available to bring your neck back to its natural curve. At Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center,  we focus on developing a healthy spine, as well as the nerves and muscles that rely on it.


If you are tired of slouching, getting headaches and feeling depressed, then addressing a case of text neck may be all it takes to get you feeling better.

By Admin 02 Aug, 2017

Some jobs are more hazardous than others, but hardly any job is totally safe. Even if there are no physical hazards, the repetitive motions of typing or the tension you can harbor in your muscles when dealing with hostile customers can cause damage over time that eventually turns into injuries and other problems. So whether you have a job with a manual component or whether you work from your own personal office every day, you'll need to look out for signs that your body is under too much strain.


Going to the chiropractor regularly can help you deal with the stress and minimize its effects, making you less likely to develop injuries and helping you to heal naturally when you have pain or other symptoms. Here are three signs that your job might send you to a chiropractor.


C hronic or Acute Pain


This symptom is one of the most obvious ones, so let's get it out of the way first. Pain is the body's way of letting you know that things really aren't okay and something may be terribly wrong. Of course, pain could just mean you've broken a nail, but if you don't know where your pain is coming from and why and you don't have a treatment plan, you shouldn't take it lightly.


Taking pain seriously is especially important if you're experiencing pain related to the musculoskeletal system. Back pain and neck pain can be symptoms of problems such as subluxations that can worsen considerably if ignored, so taking the hint and going to the chiropractor right away is by far the best option.


Hand or Arm Problems


Whether you work at an assembly-line job, type at a desk all day or work in a trade such as construction, you can't do without your hands. But they're so necessary that they're also likely to take the brunt of strain in the workplace, meaning that even if you don't bludgeon them with a blunt instrument, your hands can develop injuries through overuse or careless use.


Carpal tunnel syndrome is a popular example of an injury that can develop over time if you use your hands a lot; it can be due to bad posture or sometimes just because you're pregnant or have a genetic predisposition for it. Carpal tunnel is a nerve problem, but it's only one of many that can occur between your hands and your central nervous system.


Ulnar nerve problems can also develop in the wrist or elbow due to bad posture, and thoracic outlet syndrome can cause shoulder, arm and chest pain as well as numbness in your hand. With so many things that can go wrong due to overuse and strain, having your musculoskeletal system cared for by a professional is a must.


Signs of Increasing Stress


Generalized stress can manifest in many ways, such as:


•    Migraine or tension headaches
•    Tense muscles, such as shoulder and jaw muscles
•    Difficulty relaxing or sleeping


If you've been under more pressure than usual, even if you don't notice wrist problems or back pain, you should definitely have regular chiropractic appointments to help handle the stress and prevent injuries from developing. You might also want to consider taking up a relaxing practice such as yoga or delegating some tasks to a subordinate.


Yes, your job is important, but your health is important too. In fact, in addition to musculoskeletal problems, constant stress can lead to plenty of other health conditions such as heart problems and high blood pressure, so helping your body to relax and heal is immensely important.


Contact  Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center for more information about the benefits of chiropractic care or to discuss becoming a new patient. Whether you have back problems already or whether you want to provide preventive care to help your body stay healthy, we're here for you!

By Admin 30 May, 2017

If you suffer from intense low back pain, strengthen the muscles in your core. Your core muscles can weaken due to many things, including childbirth, obesity, and disease. A weak core forces the muscles in your back to work harder to perform daily tasks, such as sitting, walking, and bending. Over time, pain develops in your upper or lower back.


By learning more about your core and how it affects your back, you can alleviate your pain.

How Can a Weak Core Affect Your Back?


For most people, the core describes the large muscles found in the middle of the abdomen. However, the core is so much more than one group of muscles. In fact, your core includes the large and small muscles in your chest, abdomen, pelvis, hips, and buttocks. The core also extends to the paraspinal muscles in your back.
The paraspinal muscles are the second layer of muscles in your back. The muscles travel along the sides of the spine and do many important things for you. For example, your paraspinal muscles:

  1. Allow your spinal bones to move freely when you bend, flex, or arch your back
  2. Control how far and deep your abdominal muscles go during movement
  3. Work with your abdominal muscles to keep your upper body upright


When your abdominal muscles weaken, the paraspinal muscles are forced to work harder to support your body. Over time, the muscles begin to ache from the tension created on your spinal nerves and other tissues. The aches can quickly become painful spasms that travel throughout your back, especially your lower back, buttocks, and legs.

You can overcome the pain you experience with the right tips.

How Can You Strengthen and Stabilize Your Core?


Before you move forward with strengthening your core, consider a few things first. Until you become stronger in your core, avoid exercises that specifically target or isolate your abdominal muscles, such as sit-ups and crunches. Although helpful, isolated core exercises can strain your lower back and paraspinal muscles.
If pregnancy weakened your abdominal or pelvic muscles, consult with a doctor before you engage in any core exercises. During pregnancy, the large muscles traveling down your abdomen separate to accommodate the growth of your baby. The muscles can remain separated in some women and cause pain when targeted.
The pubic bone and its ligaments can also weaken during pregnancy. Core exercises like side lunges and leg scissors can trigger pain in the pubic region. A doctor may offer unique treatments like therapeutic exercise to improve your core and back pain. Therapeutic exercise targets different body areas without creating stress and strain.
If you can move forward without complications, you can try the simple exercise below. The exercise targets the areas between your shoulders and buttocks.

Here's what you do:

  1. Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart. Be sure to keep your feet straight and place a small bend in your knees.
  2. Take a deep breath, then gently exhale. Tighten your abdominal muscles as much as you can during the exhale.
  3. Hold your back straight and relax your shoulders.
  4. Raise your arms and place them in front of your body.
  5. Move your arms up and down slowly as if you're performing the "dog paddle" in a swimming pool. The movements should be small and precise.
  6. Perform step 5 for about 20–30 seconds, then lower your arms to rest.
  7. Repeat the exercise two more times, or until you feel tired.


You should feel the muscles tighten in your shoulders, arms, abdomen, buttocks, back, and pelvis. If your pain becomes worse during and after performing the exercise, stop and contact a chiropractor  for further assistance.


To learn more about your unique situation and to find permanent treatment, schedule an appointment  with the Downtown Chiropractic and Orthotic Center today.

By Admin 28 Mar, 2017

Are you struggling with constant back pain, achy joints or a stiff neck? You aren't alone. Every day, people suffer with chronic neck and back pain that could be easily treated with chiropractic care. Keep reading for some of the benefits of regular chiropractic care


Relieve Pain

The most obvious benefit is that it may relieve the pain you've been living with every day. Pain relief can help you get back to your everyday activities such as exercise or other routine functions that may have been suppressed because of chronic pain.


Better Sleep

Many people suffer sleep problems as a result of back pain. If you find yourself tossing and turning each night or losing sleep because of the aches and pains in your neck or back, you may benefit from chiropractic care, which can help lessen nighttime pain.


Better Posture

Another benefit of regular chiropractic care is improved posture. This benefit can actually have a long-term effect, as better posture can of course reduce your back pain. It also helps prevent other issues that may arise as a result of untreated poor posture.


Mood Boost

When you feel better, your mood may improve. It's as simple as that. Regular chiropractic care can lessen pain and in turn give your mood a boost.
With regular visits to your chiropractor, you may see an overall improving in your quality of life. To learn more about chiropractic benefits, call Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center.

By Admin 15 Nov, 2016

If you would like to reproduce this article, please contact Dr. Bobker at info@ftlaudchiro.com


As a recreational runner for over 30 years I can attest to the stress relieving and posture enhancing impact of custom foot orthotics. I credit these shoe inserts for alleviating my chronic heel pain (Achilles tendinitis), improving my athletic performance and for being instrumental in allowing me to be like the Energizer Bunny, “still going…” As a Chiropractic Physician, the profound personal benefit I have experienced wearing Custom Foot Orthotics have made me a passionate proponent of their use; encouraging me to develop an expertise in their proper use. My profession is uniquely qualified in understanding the relationship of how faulty foot mechanics impact the entire body. We commonly prescribe Custom Foot Orthotics as an effective pain remedy for people who suffer from metatarsalgia, foot neuromas, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, shin splints, reoccurring knee, hip, back or neck pain. Athletes of all types have long understood their performance enhancing impact. For the past 17 years I have successfully assisted hundreds of patients to achieve a more pain-free lifestyle from the ground up through the application of Custom Foot Orthotics.


From my experience most people are in the dark when it comes to choosing the foot orthotics that will work best for them. Most are blind to the fact that there is a science and art to prescribing, fitting and dispensing corrective foot appliances. Those seeking the improved comfort and support provided by orthotics may be overwhelmed and confused by the diversity of types and prices. The seemingly endless variety can range from prefabricated off-shelf inserts purchasable at local retail store kiosks to laboratory created “custom” versions prescribed by clinicians. This article was written to shed light and aide those consumers searching for foot orthotics to make a more informed decision about which version would best suit their health needs.
Custom foot orthotics work on feet the way braces work on teeth; exerting gentle pressure to mechanically reposition the foot muscles, joints, and ankle into a more ideal alignment. They are purposely applied to the body’s foundation to minimize stress forces (excessive pronation or supination), improve structural support (fallen arches) and balance weight distribution from the ground up; ultimately serving to improve whole-body posture and relieve pain. Unlike the prefabricated store bought inserts, Custom Foot Orthotics must be prescribed by a clinician. The most accurate custom foot orthotics should be meticulously crafted in a laboratory from a mold of each foot. To create the most corrective custom appliance available, the prescribing doctor provides the orthotic lab with a cast (impression) of each foot, taken with the feet held in the most ideal foot-ankle alignment. This casting method called Non Weight Bearing Sub-talar Neutral, corrects for the negative foot-ankle postural effect of gravity and body weight. Orthotics made in this way provide the most therapeutic benefit because they are posted (pitched or tilted) a few degrees to correctively align each foot at the ankle (neutral alignment). By supporting a more ideal alignment of the body’s foundation these custom foot appliances have the broadest impact.


It should be noted that many clinicians fit custom foot orthotics by using a less precise casting method, known as Step-In-A-Box. This method requires that the standing patient step each gravitationally misaligned (non-neutral) ankle-foot into a box of foam. Next, these weight bearing foot impressions are sent to a laboratory where the orthotics are usually hand-picked from a collection of pre-made off-shelf templates. The step-in-a-box variety of custom foot orthotics are less precise (not truly custom) because they are not formed directly from a mold of each foot and depend upon guess work regarding contour and corrective posting. With foot orthotics of this nature, the right and left inserts are commonly just mirror images, thus not accounting for the unique requirements of each foot.   Prefabricated “custom” foot orthotics, whether chosen off-shelf from a store kiosk or selected from a batch of pre-manufactured models in a lab should not qualify as “truly” custom foot orthotics. Unfortunately, in this manner many unsuspecting consumers may waste money as they are deceived into purchasing overpriced “custom” orthotics that in reality may not provide the best therapeutic result.


The standard of care for prescribing, fitting and ultimately creating the most efficacious Custom Foot Orthotics is all about the clinician taking the necessary time to attain the most therapeutically wearable cost-effective inserts. Practical and utilitarian concerns such as the size and types of footwear (i.e., sport, dress, heel height) typically worn should be addressed. Unfortunately, many people are misguided into wastefully purchasing orthotics that are mismatched or ill fitted to their footwear; often “throwing away good money after bad.” In my practice we request orthotic candidates to report with a shopping bag of their typically worn shoes to best ensure the inserts chosen are a qualified match. Consideration must be given to those who possess sensitive feet. In my practice we weed out the “princess and the pea” types by allowing those who may be potentially sensitive, to test drive sample inserts. A thorough health history (i.e., diabetes, joint pains, etc.), foot exam (i.e., Achilles/ heel problems, hammer toes, bunions, foot arches, calluses, etc.), shoe preferences (i.e., dress or sport varieties) and postural distortions (i.e., unleveled hips, scoliosis, etc.) are important considerations for choosing the style and specifications for orthotic construction. In order to achieve optimal comfort and utility, customization also includes determining the orthotics’ length (i.e., 1/2, 3/4, or full), firmness of construction material (i.e., EVA, Plastazote, Leather & Cork, Polypropylene Thermoplastics, etc.), type of cover (i.e., Spenco), and heel cupping (flanging). Other accommodations such as metatarsal padding, neuroma bar, Morton’s extensions, heel lifts, heel spur hole-pad, etc. may be added as needed. Attention to these details often requires a close working relationship with the laboratory pedorthist (a licensed professional, trained to manufacture foot orthotics). We even consult with the lab pedorthist about each cast and provide him with a video of the patient’s foot alignment and gait to ensure even more accuracy and comfort. A custom orthotic clinic should be questioned about the laboratory practices and processes involved in their manufacture. Because of the clinical decision making and meticulous steps involved in creating the best custom appliances one can expect them to be priced from $400.00 to $500.00 per pair.


In summary, corrective insoles can be transformational in their ability to improve posture and alleviate pain throughout the body. However, it is important to understand that just like feet, not all foot orthotics are created equal. Those seeking the health benefits of appliances which so intimately hug and support our feet are advised to make a knowledgeable decision. In order to achieve the best outcome, my advice is to become an educated consumer and consult with a skilled foot orthotic clinician.

By Admin 15 Nov, 2016

Just like cats and dogs, humans innately feel the urge to release joint stiffness and discomfort by stretching. One just has to point to the popularity and devoted following of body lengthening fitness techniques like Yoga and Pilates to justify nature’s drive to stretch. The need to stretch and be elastic is so important that the lack of flexibility may be considered a health liability. Being inflexible leaves us more susceptible to pain, injury and disability. Gentle stretching to improve flexibility serves to nurture joint health by promoting the flow of blood and lymph. While the importance of body elasticity as a measure of fitness is well established, many people still neglect to include stretching in their workouts. Fortunately for stretching slackers, a gentle body lengthening technique exists, called Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) for achieving optimum flexibility and joint health.  


After all, people are mechanical in nature. Structurally we are made up of bones which act as levers, joints which form fulcrums for movement and soft supporting tissues (i.e., muscles, tendons, ligaments, fasciae) which serve as pulleys. All joints contain specialized nerve receptors called proprioceptors which allow us to automatically sense joint position/movement, a process known as proprioception. Flexibility is a vital measure of health as it effects movement, balance, coordination, posture, athletic performance, circulation and ultimately susceptibility to musculoskeletal pain/injury.
Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) is a safe and powerfully effective body lengthening technique for optimizing health. Specially-trained massage therapists, chiropractic physicians, physical therapists, athletic trainers and sports medicine doctors apply AIS therapeutically to treat pain and improve joint function. AIS is commonly applied to rehabilitate joint pain/surgery, enhance athletic performance or just to optimize wellness. AIS is a unique stretching skill because it incorporates the principles of both musculoskeletal anatomy (isolating specific muscles) and neuroscience (the stretch reflex) to maximize myofascial release, improve flexibility and enhance circulation. Unlike the more commonly utilized “static stretching” which can be painful and counterproductive, AIS is specific, gentle (non-bouncing) and incremental in nature; making for a softer, safer and ultimately more rewarding stretch. AIS can restore flexibility and soft tissue aeration in such a gentle manner that it is used to effectively treat/rehabilitate recent sprains/strains, arthritis, heel/elbow tendinitis, frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis, whiplash, Lumbar & Cervical Disc problems, post-operative joint pain, etc. Professional and non-professional athletes are devoted enthusiasts due to its ability to improve athletic performance and treat/prevent joint injuries. Patients of all types and all ages can benefit from AIS’s ability to improve and optimize health. Discover the therapeutic benefits of Active Isolated Stretching and make it a regular part of your fitness/wellness routine.


Dr. Glen Bobker, Chiropractic Physician

The Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center

www.stretchawaypain.com

By Admin 21 Jan, 2016

A new technique for repairing damaged bones is growing in popularity, and it is referred to as PEMF therapy. PEMF stands for Pulsed Electromagnetic Field. The reason why this method is so effective is the fact that it works on the cellular level. Every cell gets a boost in energy, and this leads to an immediate difference within the blood cells. Ask your chiropractor if this technique is right for you, and make sure to ask about all the additional benefits you can receive.


The Advantages

PEMF therapy is great for helping patients get a good night’s sleep. It also increases the speed by which bones and tissue get repaired. RNA and DNA get stimulated, which creates a balance within the immune system. Inflammations also get reduced, and extra damage done around the body is lessened as well. You will not receive excessive stress around other areas of the body because this therapy specifically targets the region in question.

Every patient’s case is different, so you will need to speak with a professional chiropractor  to see if this treatment is ideal for your needs. A chiropractor can work with you to find an ideal frequency for the PEMF therapy to see what works best for your body. To learn more, visit Downtown Chiropractic & Orthotic Center in Fort Lauderdale.

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