Chiropractic Sports Institutes TIDBITS

Barriers to your golf game!!!

2012-01-20T13:22:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Amir Mahmud D.C., C.C.S.P.

I am going to take you all through a series of 4 blogs, exploring the different barriers that can affect your performance in a golf game. Whether you are a beginner, amateur or a professional you can benefit from these tips. So lets jump right into it. Here are the 4 key barriers that will hinder your performance in golf.

1. Flexibility
2. Postural Instability
3. Swing mechanics
4. Environmental/Mental performance

We are going to focus on flexibility today!!!

Did you know that lack of golf specific flexibility can put you at a risk of getting injured? When we talk about inflexibility we are talking more than just muscle tightness. Inflexibility includes muscle tightness, ligament and tendon restriction, and fascial restriction. Fascia is a type of connective tissue that surrounds muscles, groups of muscles, blood vessels, and nerves, binding them togather. It works the same way a surround wrap works when you wrap your sandwhiches. When the fascia in your body tightens up it can pull various structures in your body in different ways and compress them up to 2000 pounds per square inch.

Now that we have a general view of what can tighen up in your body, lets get more specific on various structures and body parts that we need to focus on in order to prevent injures and improve our golf game.

Leg Adductors: Generally speaking there are 3 adductor muscles in your body. Adductor Brevis, Longus and Magnus. Your adductor muscles are activated as you transition from the top of your backswing to the start of your downswing. If your adductors are too tight you will rotate too quickly and this generally means you will come over the top of the ball.

Hamstrings: The hamstrings are compsed of 3 muscles: Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus, and Biceps Femoris. Due to its attachment, a tight hamstring can alter your lumbar spine and pelvic motion. As a result of this you will have less motion in your spine and that directly relates to decreased club head speed.

Calfs: The calfs are composed of 2 muscles: Gastrocnemius and Soleus. When these muscles are tight there is tendency to move the torso up and down during a swing. ( Golf professionals refer to this as an inbality to maintain a consistent “spine angle”). Due to the tight calf muscles you also have a tendency to “toe up” during the back swing.

Chest and Shoulder: Tightness in your chest and shoulder can restrict you from extending your forward arm to climb past 9:00 on the vertical plane line during the back swing.

Paraspinal muscles: These groups of muscles are responsible for lateral bending and rotation of the spine.

• Lateral bending is essential for maintaining the extended arm parallel to the plane line. If you can’t laterally bend, your torso will move up and down as you swing your club.
• Spinal rotation is essential for generating club head speed. The higher your club head speed, the farther the ball will go. You need to be able to rotate your spine equally in both directions.

Psoas: This muscle is your primary hip flexor. When it is too tight it will initiate the quadriceps muscles during walking. As a result it will fatigue them much faster. A tight Psoas muscle can also affect your pelvic and lumbar motion due to its attachments.

Now that you know which muscles tend to get tight, the next step is to know which muscles are weak and need to be strengthened. That will be the topic of our next blog. If you are interested in having your posture and swing evaluated for biomechanical faults contact me and I will gladly walk you through the process.

Dr. Amir Mahmud is a Sports Chiropractors at Chiropractic Sports Institute. He is an expert at evaluating and treatment of golf injuries. If you are interested in having your swing evaluated call Dr. Amir at the Westlake office (805) 371-0737 and he will gladly help you out.

Want to hit your ball farther on the golf course this holiday season?

2011-11-08T17:42:00.000-08:00

To all you golfers, would you like to get a Structural and Functional evaluation of your Golf swing? If so, Dr. Amir and Dr. Ed are going through a Golf Injury Certification program and they will gladly help you out. Keep in mind we are not here to change your swing, but to evaluate your posture through a comprehensive exam in order to find faults in your biomechanics in order to prevent injures and improve your performance.

The evaluation will include the following points:

1. Flexibility
2. Posture
3. 3 Point Swing Analysis
4. Corrective stretches and exercises

During our evaluation we use a Swing-Light Trainer to provide a visual extension of the club shaft when the club shaft is behind your body. This will allow us to evaluate if you are too steep, too flat or right on the plane line. We will also measure various club head speeds with a Power Meter at the time of evaluation and then 4 weeks after you have worked on the corrective stretches and exercises. We compare your initial measurements to the standards for both amateur and professional golfers. This will give us a baseline of where you stand. We then re-measure your club head speed at the one-month point to see how much you have improved. As you golfers know, increased club head speed means increased distance on the course.

Combining the findings from your postural evaluation, flexibility, and swing analysis will allow us to find your biomechanical faults that WILL eventually predispose you to injuries. By correcting these faults we can prevent injuries from happening and keep you on the course.

If you are interested in having your swing evaluated call Dr. Amir at the Westlake office (805) 371-0737 or Dr. Ed at the Moorpark office (805) 531-1188 and they will gladly help you out.

Mild Hyperbaric Therapy Coming to CSI!

2011-10-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

Dr. Terry Weyman

After several successes using the Mild Hyperbaric Chamber to heal various sports injuries, I have made the decision to purchase one. I am constantly amazed at how fast injuries such as fractures, contusions, concussions and ligament/Tendon tears heal with the mild hyperbaric chamber. I have used them personally to recover from my Shoulder and elbow surgeries and now most recently, used it in my treatment protocol for my grade 3 ankle injury. In the past I have joined forces with Doctors, in the Valley, who had a unit to work with head trauma cases (concussions), knee and shoulder injuries as well as recovery from Chronic Fatigue and Ebstein Barr in some of my high level athletes who needed to compete. The results always blew me away. I recently used the Chamber at the FACTORY, thanks to Billy Miller, with again, tremendous results.

With the recent positive results of my ankle injury recovery and speaking to many Professional Sports Physicians, who use these on a daily basis, I have made the purchase and will be getting one in my office by the end of the month.

There are two forms of Hyperbaric Therapy. Mild and Steel Chambers. A mild hyperbaric chamber (up to 1.3 atmospheres) verses a steel chamber which goes (up to 3atmospheres). The steel chambers are used more for Diving accidents and medical emergencies and even snake bites, while the Mild Hyperbaric is one of the most sought after and used therapies for various Neurological conditions such as Autism, Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Traumatic Brain Injury, Cerebral Palsy, Sport Injury, scar reduction, Chronic Fatigue and more.

I am so excited to bring this cutting edge therapy, along with the specific Erchonia Cold Laser protocols used in side it, to the Conejo Valley. The research shows that soft tissue wounds heal up to 60% faster in the chamber. This has been true with my injuries as well as the Athletes I have placed in the chambers in the past. Many of my NFL, MLB and procycling colleagues have been using the Chamber for years to get their athletes back on the field as fast as possible, now that therapy and proven protocols will be at CSI!

Come and check out the New CSI performance Clinic as well as meet the staff at CSI Westlake or CSI Moorpark. Thing CSI when it comes to your Sports Injury needs. www.gotcsi.com

I AM BACK! Grade 3 Ankle injury

2011-10-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

Well, it’s the start of week 5 and I am back to work full time with NO LIMP! Yes, its true, I am not only out of the boot, but walking like a normal person with a normal looking foot! HOWEVER, before you start speculations, I still have a long way to go for lateral stability and full function but for now to get back to work with no altered gait is HUGE! I am out of the boot, but still wear the Aircast ankle brace and compression sock. By the end of the week I will mold and get into a custom Bauerfeind Malleoloc brace. This brace is made of carbon fiber and is strong, light and protective.

I continue to work in the pool for 1-2 hours (3x a week) swimming and doing my functional training. I started at 5.5’of water and now I am working the foot at the 3.5’ level. My routine continues with forward and backwards walking, balancing with eyes open and closed, toe raises and then light jumping in a star pattern. I also continue to use the Mild Hyperbaric Chamber and Acupuncture after my pool workout.

As of Last Friday, I have added Physical Therapy with my trainer at the CSI Performance Center, Aaron Kleefish, and its coming around so fast. I am training on the off days of the pool. When you do it right, work hard and have a good team who thinks out of the box, you get out of the box results!

My goal is to Snow ski in January with no complications or restrictions!

Dr.Terry Weyman is the clinic Director of CSI. We will be opening the CSI performance Clinic on NOV 1st! This will be a top notch performance and recovery center, with the latest training equipment, pilates and a mild Hyperbaric Chamber! Come and check us out at www.gotcsi.com

It takes work to heal- Complex tear of Ankle

2011-10-06T17:27:00.000-07:00

Dr. Terry Weyman

Ever wonder how the professional athlete comes back from "major and career ending injuries faster than the regular person"? Its because the hard work that make them the top 1 percent of all the athletes does not stop when they leave the field. They are willing to do what it takes to get where they want to go. You would never hear a Pro say "I don't have time to rehab, or, if my insurance doesn't cover it, I can't do it, or, my favorite, I can't do all of that, I have to work for a living". Professional athletes realise something, their body is their most valuable asset and without it working in perfect order, they can't go to work. They can't make money or live the life they want to live. Well, this journey I have taken to heal faster, but functional, has shown me many things. One, it takes a lot of work and time. Second, the money spent is far less than the money that I would lose in the long run with a bum ankle. Third, Anyone who values their body can do it!

As many of you know the standard for this kind of injury is bed rest with a cast for 2 weeks, then non wt bearing crutches for the next 4 weeks, then build into wt bearing and begin rehab to get the range of motion back. This is the standard that most Doctors (MDs and DCs) as well as Athletic Trainers and PTs go by. HOWEVER, when talking to colleagues of mine who work with NFL, MLB and Pro Cycling teams the rules change. Why, because their clients HAVE to get back to work and they can't have residual weaknesses. Why wait for scar tissue to build up then go to a PT to break it down in an attempt to get movement? Instead, under close watch, rehab the joint under light load and allow the scar to build in a functional manner.

MY days:

As you know I am back to work 3 days a week. M-W-F. These work days are long so I am using tue and thurs to recover and rehab. HOWEVER, to get through a full day requires extra work. I start my day on my Marc Pro for 45 min (http://www.marcpro.com/ Promo code: gotcsi) Then I eat breakfast and take my subacute supplements. I lather Traumeel on my leg (LA MDs are injecting Traumeel into joints now), put on my compression socks and walking boot, grab my crutches and head to the office. At the office I am not using the crutches to go from room to room but when I leave for lunch I use them. During my lunch hour, I hop in the Hyperbaric Chamber with the Erchonia Cold Laser and do the protocols for bone and ligament repair. More Traumeel, then sock back on and boot. Eat/supplements and its back to the office for my afternoon patient load. At the end of sometimes a 12 hour day, I get adjusted by one of my CSI Doctors, Dr. Amir Mahmud, to pull out the kinks from my altered gait and to restore neurological flow. Afterwhich I seek out my Acupuncturist, Dr. Shari Philips, who is kind enough to stay late. After an hour of Acupuncture its home for some Ice, rest and light Marc Pro. Finish up my paperwork from the day, take my Joint reconstruction supplements and then Kinesio tape my ankle for bed.

On Tue and Thurs the fun really happens. After breakfast, I go to the local pool and begin my exercise routine. Each day I add a little.

1. I swim 8 laps, adding one lap per day. 25 meter pool
2. Walk the width of the pool (competition regulation size) 10 times. Each day I
move 6" down towards the shallow end. I started with the water at shoulder level
Now its chest high. Each day adds a little more body weight to foot. I want
NO pain! I walk slow, concentrating on perfect gait.
3. Balance 30 seconds eyes open, 30 eyes closed on "bad leg". Same as #2, move
each day alittle more towards shallow end. NO PAIN
4. Walk backwards 5 times, same rules as 2.

Repeat 3 times.

I dry off and head to the hyperbaric for an hour of Hyperbaric (HBOT) therapy with the laser. Then Today I added something new. I paid a visit to the Neurotropia Brain Training Center. They work alot with the REDBULL athletes. What their machine does best is work with athletes who have anxiety and how to increase hand eye coordination, but it also helps "remap" the brain after injuries. What does this mean? When ever you have an injury there is a mental component that goes with this injury. Hence, the fear of return to play, guarded gait, lack of fight and overall fear of reinjury. I wanted to start work on this component now and not wait till its deep seated. The initial test showed I had some effects already, so I am glad I began when I did. (Gotta work on getting this technology over to CSI!)This process took another hour.

After lunch, I went home, rested and iced. Then Before Dinner, I was at it again, using a vibratory percusser to loosen the lower leg muscles to create blood flow to the foot. I went back on the Marc Pro for 45 min, then Kinesio tape for the remainder of the night.

That is my week. ARE YOU WILLING TO DO ALL OF THIS? Don't forget I have 2 young boys, sole income provider for my family and I am still working. Its because of ALL of this that I must do what I am doing. I don't have time and can't afford to be down, Plus, I AM WORTH IT. The money I am spending I will get back by being back to work full time in a short amount of time.

Make sure you are willing to do what you don't want to do, so you TOO can achieve what you want to achieve!

This is my schedule for the next two weeks. I will continue to work 3 days a week. My plan is to go back to full time (5-6 days a week) at week 5! OH did I mention because of the healing that I have witness, CSI has just purchased a HYPERBARIC CHAMBER!.

Want to learn more about this amazing tool and its uses, research HBOT therapy, mild hyperbaric Chambers. I have used it on numerous high level athletes with amazing results, now, it will be available to everyone at CSI.

Dr.Terry Weyman is the clinic Director at CSI, for more information go to http://www.gotcsi.com/

Grade 3 ankle injury.. a small light at the end of the tunnel

2011-10-02T21:05:00.000-07:00

Dr.Terry Weyman

Well, today marks the two week point and a small light is beginning to shine. I am continuing my daily routine of supplements; however, I am now adding more bone and joint remodeling supplements instead of those for acute care. I am still using crutches to keep the pressure off the bone contusions and injured ligaments where ever I go.

I am telling you all, if you get an injury such as this, find a Hyperbaric Chamber and get in it. BUT the chamber ALONE is not the key. The key is adding Cold Laser therapy in the chamber! Using specific protocols, within 30 minutes the pain in my ankle was at least 50% less and the passive range of motion gain is huge. This devise has made a big difference in my success so far!

With any injury such as this, proprioception, balance and strength are lost very quickly. So, today, I went to the local pool and began my rehab. I wanted to work on keeping the proprioception (joint awareness) intact and to restore/maintain proper biomechanics. The work out took 45 min and was so worth it. When I started my ankle and foot hurt bad, by the time I was done, they felt so much better. Here is what I did.

1. I Swam laps for 15 min, with minimal kicking. This allowed my injured ankle to work with the water and begin to loosen up with no weight bearing or stress. Swimming is a great work out to work the entire body. It not only gets your heart beating (aerobic activity) but it’s a great full body workout. When you have an altered gait, (due to a walking cast/boot and crutches), your back and hips are affected. Swimming will help work out these “kinks” and keep your body in good alignment.
2. Next, I went to where the water was just below my mouth and stood on the injured leg with my foot flat in perfect posture. Now the water is supporting most of my body weight. I stood on the injured leg and just balanced. 1 minute with my eyes open and 1 minute with my eyes closed (repeated 10 min). By letting the water push me around, I am beginning to work on regaining my stability.
3. Next with the ankle loosening up I started doing light toe raises (20) then walked the width of the pool 5 times and repeated for 20 minutes. When I first did the toe raises my ankle was weak and I felt apprehensive. By the time I was done I felt stronger and there was no pain. The pool ROCKED.

When I was done, I crutched home, then went on the Marc Pro, ice and rested. After the pool my spirits went up. I know this is a long process and it will take a lot of hard work, but what is the alternative, a life time of weakness and instability? NOT WORTH IT. Put the time in now and reap the rewards in the future!

Dr. Terry Weyman is the clinic director of the Chiropractic Sports Institute, for more information go to www.gotcsi.com

Day 10 Of Grade 3 Ankle injury

2011-09-29T17:48:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

Well, Yesterday I got my MRI. You know its bad when the Radiologist is waiting out side of the MR scanner with a look on her face like "you did it good this time". She waved me into her office and said "I have not seen one this bad in a long time!" Great, just what I wanted to hear!

Complete Tear of the Anterior Tablofibular Ligament (main lateral stabilizer)

Avulsion fracture and partial tear of the deltoid Ligament (main medial stabilizer)

Partial tear of the Peroneal tendons (Both of them), partial tear of the Posterior tibial tendon

Partial tear of the calcaneal talar lig

6 bone contusions including a subchondral fracture of sustentaculum tali

Well, is that all? Here is the good news. I was able to go back to work on day 3 and put in a 12 hour day. I have cut my work days to just Mon, Wed and Friday so I can recover on the off days (tue, thur and weekend). Its a compromise I made. I need to work, I love my patients and I love what I do. So, if I am going to work, I need to work on recovery as well. I am not going to lie, this is hard. It will take alot of effort. Most people would take the time off, lay in bed as prescribed and take the 12+ weeks. I need to go to work for mental as well as to pay bills, but more importantly, I would go crazy staying in bed for that time!

It takes a lot of work, to heal and work. You have to combat the extra stress you are putting on the joints by standing with tissue recovery therapy to equal it out. The injury wants to heal and scar up. I NEED it to heal and scar up. There is a fine line between pushing through and ending up with permanent damage and pushing through and being ok in the end.

So far, what I am doing is working and I have a lot of people to thank for it. I am surrounded by other health care professionals with the same vision, they too work with high level athletes who, at times, can't rest the way they should.

On work days, here is my regiment. Are you willing to do what it takes, to get where YOU want to go?

Wake up early, take my supplements of proteolytic Enzymes, joint and bone care, omega 3 and Vit C. I repeat this process 4-5 times a day

Laser and light vibratory percusser to stimulate blood flow after supplementation and relax foot, coupled with light, non painful, passive ROM

Compression sock and boot. I can only walk when I have BOTH on.

Lunch time, more supplements, I head to the hyperbaric chamber for an hour. Inside I follow my Laser protocols for bone injury and ligament/tendon repair

Acupuncture, then light PT with passive ROM

Compression socks and boot back on for my after noon.

Chiropractic Adjustments to keep my pelvis and back aligned with my altered gait (don't want any new patterns to form) as well as keeping all the nerves to my ankle decompressed and firing

Evening, more acupuncture, followed by RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation)

Good meals during the day, give the body what it needs

Before bed, more supplements to allow healing to take place while I sleep

Kinesio tape (see photo) before bed to aid in lymphatic drainage at night and to reduce over night swelling

That is during my work day, during my off days, I do the same thing, but add, Home Marc Pro use http://www.marcpro.com/ (use promo code GOTCSI). I do this to flush fluid through my ankle and foot. I want circulation to flow, capillary dilation/formation to happen and debris to be flushed out. This is a tool every athlete should have and it has helped tremendously. I am using the Marc Pro for 45 min every other hour while at home on top of the acupuncture, hyperbaric and laser work.

The world of Injury recovery is fascinating and their is so much out there. When injured, care for your body as it cares for you. Don't sit on the couch, make healing a full time job. Your body will thank you down the road and you will be able to continue your life after you heal. Its a lot of work, but worth it!

Dr. Terry Weyman is the owner of the Chiropractic Sports institute, for more information go to www.gotcsi.com

1 week Post Grade 3 Ankle Injury

2011-09-25T15:33:00.000-07:00

By: Dr.Terry Weyman

Well, today marks the day one week ago this "journey" began. The reality of the injury has also set in. This is no quick fix and sometimes coming to terms with the reality of any injury is half the battle. Acceptance is also important since it displaces some of the false hope and doesn't allow the evil post injury depression to get its strong hold. No depression here, reality yes, depression no. I am confident in my choice of action, the team I have selected and the progress i have made so far.

The pain and lack of mobility is still there at a pretty high level. I went back to work last week on Wed and Friday. The ankle and foot were very sore but I survived. However, since I made the descision to go back to work early, that meant I had to increase the therapy to combat the extra stress I was causing. That meant an hour of therapy before work, two hours at lunch and an hour after work. If you want the rewards, you must be willing to do the work!

Since the swelling still comes and goes and the pain is still at a fairly high level, I am waiting no longer to find out exactly what I have done. I am getting an MRI tomorrow. Most athletes wait 6 weeks because that is what their insurance company states as "their rule". This is not "MY" rule. I want to know now what is up so I can make sure I do everything I can. An MRI will show what Ligaments are torn, the severity of the fractures and how the healing is doing at this early point.

The first two weeks are Crucial, according to the research studies I have read, in setting up the overall outcome of any injury rehabilitation. How you handle the first 2 weeks can be the difference between a successful outcome or long term complications such as Chronic Joint instability, Severe bone stress, RSDS (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy) or Chronic impingement. Surgery still is not out of the question for me since I have disrupted the entire lateral ligament complex. An MRI will show any positive signs or negative signs which will also enable me to make the proper decisions. Again, I don't want to wait weeks before I make these critical decisions.

The good news is, the therapy so far is working. The combination of the laser and Hyperbaric Chamber have been key. I am able to get 30-45 degrees of pain free ROM in the chamber when used with the cold laser. When I am doing this after Acupuncture the results are even better. I can tell the difference on the days I use Acupuncture and Hyperbaric/Laser when compared to the days I just use stim, ice and massage.

On the weekend, I am unable to get to the Chamber or have Acupuncture so my hourly routine, which seems to be working well so far, is as follows:

Take my supplements 4 times a day, 20 min prior to my therapy sessions

Using my home Hwave unit, I am pumping fluid through my ankle at a very light rate for 30 45 min every other hour

I am using a Percussor (strong vibration therapy) at the base of my foot to again stimulate circulation along with the laser set for healing, tissue recovery and neurological support. I also use the percusser to losen my calf and relax protective guarding to allow increased circulation to the injury.

I continue to do my push ups and situps daily to maintain the core strength necessary to maintain spinal health since I am using crutches. Also, when I am not doing the above therapy I am on the couch with ice, my leg elevated and in my boot to keep my foot at 90 degrees to maintain neutrality on the injured ligaments. When ever I am up, I have the compression socks and boot on. Again, resting the ligaments these first two weeks is so important. Take a small passive step so I can take aggressive steps in the future.

My goals are:

pain free ROM

then Passive weight bearing

full weight bearing

walking without crutches

transitional drills

running and jumping

I know not to move to the next step until the current step is completed. How long it takes you to finish each step is up to each individual and each injury must be given individual attention. For me, I am still stuck at the first level. That is ok, some levels take longer than others, Patience and persistance is important. Have you even noticed that people will spend more time, money and give more care to their "prized automobiles" or to their "priceless airlooms" then the do to their bodies? You only get ONE body, how priceless can you get? Treat your health and your body as if its the ONLY ONE LIKE IT ON EARTH, because it is!

Tomorrow is MRI day, I am looking forward to this as it will give me more direction and a better time frame. Well, enough typing, my timer just went off, time for more work:-). Keep smiling, keep moving forward and loving life!

Dr. Terry Weyman specializes in tissue and injury recovery. He has worked with Professional and high level Amateur Athletes for over 21 years. He can be reached at www.gotcsi.com

Grade 3 Ankle Rehab continues!

2011-09-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

I know a daily blog, means a daily blog, but I confess, I missed yesterday. However, Yesterday was busy and turned out to be a great day. Today is day 3 since the diagnosis and day 4 of the injury and already the injury is making a positive turn

Ever wonder how the pros bounce back so quick and the "common man" doesn't? Are they superheros? Do they have something the average person doesn't have? Yes, you could argue they have the resources and financial means to make things happen, but is that all? I hear so many times "they just get a shot and they are good to go", Really? NO! There is another world out there with the emphasis on tissue recovery, injury rehab and wound management. The difference between the pro and the "common man" is the pro thinks "I have to get back tomorrow to make a living" and they are willing to put in the work. They also are surrounded by professionals whose job is to get them back. They view their body as the biggest and most precious commodity they have and will do what it takes to get it back to working order. They don't let insurance dictate their health, they know they will lose more money by being out then they will spend on getting better. This is the line that most "common people" don't cross. They don't put together a team to get well and do what it takes to do so. This is what I have done and so far I am already weeks ahead of schedule!

The day begins:
Yesterday I decided I needed to get back to work, more for mental than physical. I needed to be in an environment that invoked positive attitude and healing. I started the day with my nutritional cocktail of Proteolytic Enzymes (zymain), Omega 3, Ligaplex and joint support. http://bit.ly/healingsupplements This cocktail is so important. Again, you would not build a house or repair a fence without the necessary tools and supplies. When you are injured you need the necessary chemicals at hand to make the repairs. If you don't supplement your diet where is the body going to get what it needs? From your diet! If you diet doesn't have it the body will find them but this takes time and time is not what you have. Let me tell you, I am taking these supplements 4 times a day and my urine is clear. What does that tell you? My body is using everything I am giving it. Again, have the biochemicals on hand so your body can take what it needs!

I put on my compression socks, again KEY, to keep the joint supported and fluid being pushed through the foot with any movement. http://bit.ly/compressionsocks I then put my boot on and go to work. Its only Wed and I am back to work!

Lunch hour treatment continues
I grab a quick bite of protein and veggies and head to Dr. Shari Phillips, Acupuncturist, to get needled up. Acupuncture is so important to keep circulation moving through the injury. The goal this first week is to flush out "stagnant blood" and bring in new blood that is rich in the biochemistry and oxygen. By using Acupuncture and Stim you can target the area you want to work on and enhance the circulation without compromising the integrity of the joint.

After Acupuncture its off the Hyperbaric Chamber, for some Cold Laser (using the Erchonia Cold Laser) and ROM exercises while inside the chamber for maximum benefit. I am in there an hour. Performing passive ROM exercises while using the Erchonia cold laser. Within 30 min the I can feel the ankle joint losen and soften and my foot begins to work in a more controlled manner.

The swelling is going away fast and the blood is coming to the surface. My foot is turning black and blue faster than I expected and in the chamber today I was able to flex my foot 30 more degrees in dorsi flexion than the previous day! So far so good!

This is week one. The point of week one is to provide nutritional support for healing since a majority of healing happens in the acute phase (the first week). To provide adequate amount of O2 and blood flow through the injury and to establish pain free passive range of motion.

Week two will be anther story. For now what I am most happy about is I was able to go to work 3 days after the accident with modified wt bearing in the walking boot. I had minimal pain and discomfort and my foot and leg are feeling good. Now its off to Hwave for another 45 min, take my supplement cocktail and rest. Tomorrow we do it all over again!

A special thanks goes to my team. Without them this would not be possible. Dr. Shari Phillips, who is an extrodonary Acupuncturist with advanced knowledge in Orthopedicts and Nutrition. She can be reached at info@shariphillipsacupuncture.com. To My Doctor at CSI, Dr. Amir Mahmud, for his skill as a Sports Chiropractor, getting adjusted is key to biomechanical as well as Neurological well being. Dr. Grace Hameister, the "Laser Guru" This Doctor is the guru when it comes to Lasers and tissue healing. She is also so well versed in Hyperbaric Chambers and combo therapy. She has helped many Pro Athletes as well as trained some o f the Top Athletic Doctors in the field. I am so blessed she is my friend and is helping out. She can be reached at docnextdoor@yahoo.com. Rob Bolton and Billy Miller for allowing me to use their Hyperbaric Chamber. If you need one call on "The ELite Factory" in Westlake, Awesome place to train and heal.

Day 1 rehab- Grade 3 ankle injury

2011-09-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

Dr.Terry Weyman

Woke up with a very swollen and non functioning foot. First order of business, bring nutrients to the injury in a non wt bearing, stressless manor. Introducing the Hwave!http://doiop.com/h-wave By using the home Hwave I can stimulate capillary dilation without stressing the muscle. Bringing healing nutrients is vital to recovery as well as flushing out stagnant debris that will inhibit the healing process.

Bring on the nutritional Calvary!

I started my morning with my cocktail. Proteolytic Enzymes, Ligaplex, Joint support and omega 3s. Also, checking my diet http://doiop.com/reduceinflammationwithdiet Nutritional support is something that many athletes forget or tend not to focus on, yet it is SO important. You would not put the best parts on your race car then put junk gas in the tank would you? Supplements are just that, they give added nutrients when your body needs them. In this case, my body is trying to heal, so I am giving it the nutrients it needs to rebuild. Another analogy, when you are building a house and its foundation time, you bring in a lot of cement, when its roofing time, you bring in a lot of tiles, not one at a time. Same thing here. Give your body the building blocks it needs to repair.

After my cocktail and healthy breakfast of fresh fruits, yogurt and protein, I go back on the Hwave to drive those nutrients to the injury site. Keeping my ankle elevated I stay on my machine for 30+ minutes.

CARDIO TIME

With sitting, comes a decrease in cardio output. I don't want this. I want blood flowing and my heart and lungs to work to aid in the healing process. How do you do this and not stress out the ankle joint? Good ol push ups and sit ups. 5 sets of 20 with a 1 min rest in between. I use the perfect sit up http://doiop.com/perfectsitup to keep my core in shape and not stress my ankle. Keeping the core strong is vital since I am on crutches and don't want my back affected in this process with my altered gait.

Next step, heading to the office for some therapy. Even though its day 2 there is a lot that can be done. Restoring passive ROM, Acupuncture to stimulate circulation to flush out old blood then onto the hyperbaric chamber with the Erchonia Cold Laser to get more O2 to the area to stimulate healing. Getting well sometimes is a full time job, but what are the options? You only get one body and I can't afford to be down or have a weak ankle in the future.

For stability, to decrease swelling and to aid in compression, I put on my CSI compression socks. These are so important for stability and healing any lower extremity injury. http://doiop.com/compressionsocks

Ok, I am out, got my socks, crutches and desire. Heading to the office to keep the plan in motion. Talk to you tomorrow.

Thanks to my crew, Dr. Shari Philips Acupuncture (shariphillipsacupuncture.com), Rob Bolton at the Elite Factory (hyperbaric chamber), Dr. Amir Mahmud (CSI Sports Chiropractor)

Severe Grade 3 Ankle injury- The rehab begins

2011-09-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

By Dr. Terry Weyman

48 hours ago I was at a Motocross track watching my son, Tyler, practice. It was an awesome day, the track was great, Tyler was riding great an smiles were everywhere. Then it all changed. Tyler was doing a jump section that involved 2 big doubles, the first one 40+ feet and the second 80+ feet. He was coming up on two riders on 450s who were not as skilled. He passed the first rider and committed to the second jump to pass the second rider. When Ty was in the air the second rider bobbled in front of Ty and his bike kicked him into the line that Tyler was committed to. Tyler landed right on him in a horrific crash. I was standing on the opposite side of the track and took off running with one thought in mind, to get to my son. Ty hit the other rider with such force that the subframe of the other riders 450 bikes was bent at a 45 degree angle. God was watching over both of those riders as both got up and checked out ok with only minor bumps and bruises. Myself, not so lucky. In the frantic run I stepped on the edge of the track and snapped my ankle on the 10" lip. I kept running till I got to Ty and checked him out. He had pain in his hip and wrist, which later dissipated with quick therapy at CSI, however, my ankle continued to swell. Once I got us home I was unable to put weight on it and I knew I was in trouble.

The following day I went to an orthopedic friend of mine, Dr. Pierre Durand who took Xrays and examined my Ankle. The good news, nothing broken. The bad news, I ruptured all the main ligaments in my ankle. I have a grade 3 tear (full rupture) of the ATF (Anterior Talar Fibula lig), the PTF (posterior Talar Fib) and an avulsion fracture of the Deltoid Lig. I was told to wear a boot, 24/7 (yes even to sleep) for 2 weeks, then stay in the brace for 6-8 weeks. After this begin rehab for another 4+ weeks. For those of you who are not good in math, that is 3+ months before I can rejoin my life!

The purpose of this blog, is to track my recovery. To show you that the body is an amazing thing, given the right tools and the right knowledge it can heal and do amazing things. I am at the start, You will follow me all the way to the end. I will do things out of the box as well as in the box. To just sit and do nothing for 8-12 weeks is not an option. We do things different at CSI and now you will see it first hand. Share this blog to others who have had similar injuries. Follow along as my team works on me. This may not be reality TV, but its Reality Blogging, healing style.

New Research links Postural function to health

2011-09-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

Dr.Terry Weyman

Posture is no longer something that is pure visual or something your parents remind you of “sit up straight now” but an inter relation to your physical health. In the Journal AJPM the Authors noted that “posture and normal physiology and function are inter-related”.

Most Medical physicians do not address posture when they talk about the overall well being or health of their patients yet the Doctors of this study discover “significant evidence points to the point that posture affects physiology and function of the human body”. “Observations of the striking influence of postural mechanics on function and symptomatology have led to our hypothesis that posture affects and moderates every physiologic function from breathing to hormonal production. Spinal pain, headache, mood, blood pressure, pulse, and lung capacity are among the functions most easily influenced by posture” stated Norman Shealy MD.

Seek out Chiropractic care not because you have back pain, seek out chiropractic care for true health. When you have good posture you have more than a healthly look, you have a healthy body!

Dr.Terry Weyman is the clinic director at Chiropractic Sports Institute, wwww.gotcsi.com

“The Foot bone is connected to the Thigh bone…”

2011-09-07T14:21:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

Come on everybody, sing alone, “the thigh bone is connected to the, hip bone”! As fun as that song was, there is so much truth to it. As humans, our skeletal frame is kinetic, which means it’s all connected and moves as a whole unit. As with a race car or a bike, the more aligned it is the better it moves. The more you understand this concept, the more you can put it to use when it comes to your health and athletic performance.

Fall is here and that means school sports are upon us. The football fields are in full swing, the soccer fields are packed, Cycling is at its best and the Dew Tour is in full swing for the action sport athletes. One thing all these sports have in common is balance and lower body coordination. For ultimate balance you need to look down, down to your feet.

Our feet are the foundation to our physical movement and balance. The feet are the first joints that withstand forces thru our body during movement. These forces, if altered, can cause a dramatic effect on how the rest of the body is going to move, leading to different pain syndromes. If the foundation is not able to stabilize the rest of the body, then it is not long before we start to see wear and tear on other parts of the body.

To understand how the foot is working we need to look at the Gait Cycle. The Gait Cycle is a term that represents the period of time between successive ipsilateral(same side) heel strikes; that is, it begins when the heel first strikes the ground and ends the moment that the same heel strikes the ground with the next step. So what happens to the foot that can cause pain during the gait cycle? Two of the most important motions that occur during the gait cycle are pronation and supination.

Pronation refers to the inward roll of the foot during normal motion and occurs as the outer edge of the heel strikes the ground and the foot rolls inward and flattens out. A moderate amount of pronation is required for the foot to function properly, however damage and injury can occur during excessive pronation, more commonly know as hyperpronation. An easy way to check if you are hyperpronating is to look at the back of the Achilles tendons. If they are bowing inwards, you are hyperpronating! Also look at your shoes, either dress or athletic, look at the wear pattern and see if it is even with the other foot. Is there excessive wear or is the bottom of the shoe wearing evenly. If your foot pronates excessively then this will flatten out the arch and stretches the muscles, tendons, and ligaments underneath the foot. This condition leads to Achilles tendonitis, plantar fascitis, medial knee pain, lateral hip pain (bursitis and ITB syndrome) and lower back pain.

Supination is the opposite of pronation and refers to the outward roll of the foot during normal motion. A natural amount of supination occurs during the push-off phase of the running gait as the heel lifts off the ground and the forefoot and toes are used to propel the body forward. However, excessive supination, which is called hypersupination (excessive outward rolling) places a large strain on the muscles and tendons that stabilize the ankle, and can lead to chronic ankle sprains.

Prevention and Treatment

1)A comprehensive gait analysis must be done to determine if your foot is either over pronating or supinating. Have a skilled Doctor watch you walk, evaluate your shoes, check your alignment to insure your kinetic chain is functioning at its best

2) Specific Biomechanical adjustments to the foot, ankle, knee, and low back to help restore normal motion through out the body.

3)Specifically made orthotics (if needed) are tailored to your foot and to the kind of activities you like to participate in. Sometimes, just changing shoes or an over the counter insert is fine, but make sure the selection is right for your condition.

4) Specific exercise and stretches to help restore strength and flexibility to the Foot. DON’T forget this step. The lower body must be given proper therapy to achieve specific goals for your sport. Old patterns must be broken and new proprioceptive goals must be achieved for ultimate success.

Taking care of your feet and fixing any of the above biomechanical faults, maybe the most important goal to achieve maximum output for your sport. If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, please, listen to your body, and don’t wait for it to lead to something else.

Dr. Terry Weyman is the clinic Director of the Chiropractic Sports Institute and is the Sports Chiropractor on staff at Pepperdine University in the Athletic Training room. For More information go to CSI website at www.gotcsi.com

Golf Like the Pros!!!

2011-07-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Amir Mahmud

Summer is here and we are all ready to play in the sun. Whether your sport is golf, soccer, beach volleyball, lacross or tennis you have to prepare properly in order to avoid injuries and improve your game. Today we are going to take a closer look at golf. Did you know that there are 40 million golfers worldwide and out of those, 28 million live in the USA? With so many people interested in this growing sport let’s see how you can improve your game and what you can do to avoid injuries.

The first step you need to take if you are just starting out in this sport is to take lessons. You need to have a trained professional teach you the basics and then you can go from there. The point of this article is not to teach you how to play golf but to teach you what to do in order to avoid injuries and improve your game. So, let’s jump right into it.

There are 4 barriers to proper performance in golf:

Flexibility:

If you are lacking proper flexibility your performance will decrease and you are at a higher risk of getting injured.

Flexibility, especially golf specific flexibility can give you a huge advantage over a person who is not flexible. You want to have full active range of motion in your paraspinals, hamstrings, hip adductors, calfs, Shoulder girdle muscles (rotator cuff and pecs), wrist and forearms. Let’s take a closer look at a few of these muscles groups and how restrictions in them can affect your game

i. Paraspinals: Paraspinal muscles are involved in spinal rotation: The more spinal rotation that you have the more club head speed you can generate and therefore the farther you can hit the ball.

ii. Hamstrings: Hamstrings are closely related to your pelvis due to their attachment at the Ischial Tuberosity. If you have tight hamstrings the rotation in your pelvis and lumbar spine will be decreased. As a result, your club head speed can be decreased.

iii. Hip Adductors: Your adductors are activated during the transition of weight transfer from the top of the backswing to the start of the down swing. If you have tight adductors it can cause you to “come over the top” during the downswing.

iv. Calf muscles: Tight calf muscles can cause you to move your torso up and down when you are swinging your club. This can significantly affect your accuracy.

So now you can see how flexibility is essential for improved performance. Also keep in mind that if you are interested in hitting longer and more powerful shots you need to increase your club head speed and the only way to increase your club head speed is to increase your range of motion.

Postural Instability:

Any type of postural instability can predispose you to injuries. When we are talking about stability we are mainly looking at 3 factors.

1. Proper alignment of the back knee over the back ankle
2. Strong Gluteal muscles which will help with the stability of the hips and knees
3. Quadriceps muscles that can support the transfer of body weight into the back leg at the top of the back swing

Swing Mechanics:

The swing mechanics is where your golf instructor comes into play. If you have improper swing mechanics you WILL eventually have some sort of injury. The most common type of injury for your average golfer tends to be lower back sprains/strains and elbow injuries from repetitive hyperextension at the end phase of the swing.

Environmental performance:

This category can be broken down into two sections

1. Mental aspect:

Inability to concentrate during your swings is what causes most of the frustrations that golfers have. The ability to focus right before striking the ball is what separates professionals from amateurs. Here is how the Pro’s do it. Right before they strike the ball they hold an image of the target in their mind. Now you might think that you are doing the same. But if you think about it you are also thinking about your body position, trying to keep your eyes on the ball, making sure you don’t bend your elbow, making sure your legs are properly placed. All of that can distract you from the main goal, which is hitting the target.

2. Environmental aspect:

You might not have had thought of this but the environment plays a big role in your performance on the golf course. Anything from pollen in the air, the pesticide that is used on the course and the temperature/ humidity can all affect the way your body reacts. For example, if your body reacts to an external stimulus and your allergies act up then your muscles WILL react and tighten up. As a result you will not be able to swing with your full potential due to the restricted range of motion.

If you are interested in having your swing evaluated come on in and we will gladly help you. Keep in mind we are not here to change or fix your swing but we are here to find any predispositions to injuries.

Dr. Amir Mahmud is a Sports Chiropractor at CSI (Chiropractic Sports Institute) in Westlake Village. Dr. Amir has vast experience working with athletes both professional and Amateur. He is the current Team Doctor for the Newbury Park HS Lacrosse team, Ventura Country men’s Rugby team, and travels with the Mobile CSI Sports Medicine team caring for athletes across southern California. He can be reached at (805) 371-0737. www.gotcsi.com

Blue 42, Blue 42, SET HIKE

2011-07-21T19:06:00.001-07:00

By Dr. Ed Green

That's right football season is near. Now is the time to make sure that you are ready to handle the rigors of football especially the dreaded two-a-days. This article will touch on some of the more important things one should prepare themselves to make sure they are healthy and ready for the season.

One of the first things we want to work on is our flexibility. Being more flexible will decrease our chances for injury. I recommend the following several stretches to be done pre play and then some to be done post play. For sports that require fast twitch muscle firing I would not recommend doing static stretching. You should more do stretches that mimic the sport that you are about to play.

Stretches to be done PRE-GAME

1) Karaokes. For about 20yds
2) Bounding for about 20 yds
3) Butt kickers for about 20 yds
4) Quick Feet drills for about 20yds
5) Double leg high jumps standing in place 3 sets 6 reps
6) Moving lunges at least 10 per leg.

Stretches to be done POST-play( Each stretch hold 15-20 sec)

1) Hamstring stretches standing and seated
2) Quadricep stretches stand and side lying
3) Figure 4 Gluteal stretches
4) Calves standing and on all fours.
5) Chest stretches for pectoralis major and minor
6) Neck stretches

These gentle stretches will help increase flexibility and decrease injury. Also a muscle which is more flexible means a muscle that is strong and faster.

Second is hydration:

The following is an excerpt taken from an article written by Dr. Terry Weyman which gives great information on how much hydration one should have and what are the possible side effects.

... Your body needs about 1 ml of water for every calorie that you expend. For example, if you burn 4,000 to 5,000 calories per day (moderate to aggressive athletic workouts), you would need between 4 to 5 liters of fluid to replace what was lost and to keep the biochemistry in proper balance. Monitoring body weight before and after training is the best way to keep up with your body’s fluid needs, which sweating increases.

Although a 2% weight loss due to dehydration may not cause any “symptoms”, it does decrease physical and mental performance.

Water Loss as % of Body Weight
2% - Difficulty in controlling normal body temperature
3% - Reduced muscular endurance time
4%-6% - Reduced strength, power, endurance and heat cramps
6% - Severe heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke

During exercise, especially in the heat, some of the water that naturally circulates through your body is used by your sweat glands. Inadequate fluid balance can result in a chain reaction that can be severely detrimental to your health. The first step in this reaction is a decrease in blood volume, which increases the heart rate in an attempt to get the fluids to the vital organs. The body’s next reaction is to constrict the blood vessels in order to maintain proper blood pressure. However, this reaction will cause the body temperature to rise due to the heat produced by the working muscles which can’t be transported to the skin’s surface. This leads to heat illnesses such as heat cramps, exhaustion and heat stroke.

Too avoid these symptoms make sure that you are drinking plenty of fluids before, during and after all practices and games. Drinking before the game is not enough, you need to start several days prior and continue throughout the season.

The next order of business is to make sure that your body is ready to start your training. All athletes have to go through a physical to get cleared for sports. As we all know this is not an extensive physical and leaves a lot to be desired. So my opinion is all should see there Chiropractor or physical therapist and have a full body range of motion and joint stability exam performed. These only take 10-15 minutes and will show areas of the body that are weak and need to be worked on. By addressing these areas NOW we can prevent further more serious injuries down the road. The last thing we all want is to get injured in the middle of the season and not be able to compete.

This is just a brief article on some of the more important things one shoulder think about before starting your football season. If there are any questions about what was written or you want to come in and or your bring your player in for a sports evaluation, please call our offices.

We here at CSI wish all our athletes and all competitors the best in this upcoming football season.

Dr. Ed Green is a Certified Sports Chiropractor and is the clinic director of Chiropractic Sports Institute in Moorpark. A College Football player himself he understands the athlete, especially the football player. Dr. Ed has many tips for the player not only on how to compete at your best but how to avoid injury. He can be reached at the Moorpark office, 805-531-1188

Sunglasses, not just for fashion but a VITAL part of your athletic equipment

2011-07-15T09:12:00.000-07:00

By. Dr. Terry Weyman

When I was a young kid, I was a beach lifeguard. One of the days I chose fashion over performance and wore a trendy pair of cheap sunglasses (but they were cool). Later that night I kept seeing spots and those spots kept getting worse. After seeing the Eye Doctor I realized in ONE day I had burned my retina and would have permanent damage. ONE DAY. Ever since that day, I have looked at sunglasses in a whole new light!

Being a Sports Chiropractor I am out in the sun a lot! Whether it’s on the side of a Motocross track, in a feed zone of a major bike race, or on a lake running a slalom course, I protect my eyes FIRST.

Your eyes are one of the most important organs for sport. Why? Well, your head follows your eyes and consequently, your body follows your head. Your eyes are so instrumental in initiating all quick movements such as seeking out that perfect line, looking ahead to spot that deadly situation or finding your receiver that if your eyes are not working properly you will NEVER perform at your best.

The problem with wearing trendy or cheap sunglasses is that the lenses are tinted instead of treated to prevent UV light from getting to your eyes. A tinted lens will allow your pupils to dilate or expand which will allow more damaging UV rays into your retina (this is what happened to me). UV light can damage the eyes by essentially giving the cornea a sunburn or, in the long run, causing cataracts, retinal and macular degeneration. A good pair of sunglasses that blocks UV can not only help you see better but improve your image since most of the good glasses look great. All Eye Doctors recommend sunglasses that block over 98 percent of all UV.
Unfortunately, the non-prescription sunglasses industry (cheap sunglasses) is weakly regulated, and even bold words in its advertising such as "UV absorbing" or "blocks most UV light" might mean nothing.

The brand I now wear, TAG Heuer Avant-Garde Eyewear. Not because of the name, but for their lenses. I tried on a pair and was blown away on how clear everything was. The lenses are the best, and they were light and very comfortable. Then I went on line to look at the research and saw how many awards they have won for not only design but for their innovation with lenses and protection. This is a company known for watches but their Avant-Garde Eyewear are amazing.

What ever Sunglasses your chose, know this. You only get one set of eyes. Your eyes are not only the window to your soul but the initialator of movement. The lighter the eye color the more you need to protect them. My advise in everything, don’t go cheap on your health and never live with regrets. You don’t want to “burn your eyes” because you were wearing some cheap glasses “because I am always losing them, or sit on them and these were cool”. The cost of TRYING to repari your eyes will far exceed the cost of a good pair of Sunglasses.

Dr.Terry Weyman is the clinic Director of Chiropractic Sports Institute and has been involved with Professional sports for over 20 years. Visit his website at www.gotcsi.com

Foot Pain, learn all about it and how to treat it.

2011-05-20T15:00:00.000-07:00

Dr. Ed Green

With the weather looking better and summer approaching all of us are gearing for fun. One of the majority of the conditions I have been seeing in the office recently is that of foot pain. Now there are several areas of the foot that are most common for pain.

1) Heel area. (Mainly medial and or central heel)
2) Plantar Fascial area
3) Achilles tendon ( usually the area that attaches to the posterior heel)
4) Top of foot or lace area

These are common areas of pain and each have several common reasons why they hurt. The purpose of this article is to review these areas and name a few conditions that cause the pain and then give a few simple home remedies to alleviate the pain.

1) Heel Pain.
Medial heel pain is primarily caused by a tight plantar fascia that pulls on the area of the heel that the tissue originates from. The tighter the tissue the more it pulls on the heel increasing pain. If this pull happens for several years you can begin to grow a heel spur. A heel spur is when bone begins to form with in the tendon attachment to the heel. It forms due to the stress being applied to the bone. These spurs can on occasion become so large that the person needs surgical intervention.

TREATMENT:
An easy way to help combat the tightness of the planter fascial area and relieve some of the tension being applied to the medial heel area is to stretch and rub the bottom of your foot. One great thing to do is to after any exercise stretch your calves as well roll out your plantar fascial area. Two ways to do this are, one use a tennis ball and step on it and roll back and forth or just stand on it for pressure therapy. A second thing to use is a small bottle of water that is frozen. Use the same techniques as the tennis ball and rub that area. These are just some simple ways to help decrease medial heel pain.

2) Plantar Fascial Pain
Plantar Fascial Pain(PFP) is very similar to that of medial heel pain. A majority of patients will have both heel pain and PFP at the same time. People who have PFP may feel more pain in the arch area of the foot. Mainly complain of arch pain when they first wake up and try to walk. This is caused by the sheets pulling or contracting the plantar fascia all night long. Pain is felt when you try to walk due to you trying to stretch the tight tissue out. In some cases you can tear this tissue causine severe pain and brusing.

TREATMENT:
In severe cases of plantar fasciatis the person will have to be in a walking boot for several weeks to allow proper healing. In less severe cases seeing a sports Chiropractor and getting proper treatment is a tremendous help. Also just as in the treatment of heel pain, massaging and rolling out the PF will help as well. Also getting a good pair of orthotics will help stabilize the foot and decrease PF tension.

3) Achilles (Achilles tendon) pain
This pain is usually felt on the posterior or back portion of your heel. It is mainly caused by an over tight Achilles tendon pulling on its attachment to the heel. In some cases you care tear the tendon off the heel requiring surgery. Many people report tightness with walking and pain upon rubbing that area. In severe cases most people have to wear flip flops in order not to put pressure on the heel area. This pain can be caused from over use injuries and or traumatic injuries.

TREATMENT:
Once again severe cases may require surgery and or placing that person in a walking cast for several weeks. For this our offices can help. With the use of our H-wave units the percussor and of course the cold laser, we have been able to decrease the inflammation with in the Achilles and help reduce pain. Also home care consisting of stretching and rubbing the calf will help as well. Some times the best care is some time off your sport to allow proper healing.

4) Top of foot pain( lace area)
The pain that most people get here is pretty severe. The pain is usually sharp and intense causing the person to limp due to the pain. This pain is usually sudden and not caused from trauma. There is usually no swelling or redness noted just sharp pain on the top of the foot.

TREATMENT:
This one is usually caused from the person wearing too tight of shoes. Tieing the laces extremely tight over the top of the foot causes the bones to approximate creating pain. The top of the foot has some small surface nerves and if these get pinched they are painful. So loosen the laces and see if that helps. If it does not then see your Chiropractor because those bones in question are jammed and need to be released to decrease pressure. A majority of the time this is a quick fix and usually does not require time away from your activities.

These are only a few foot problems that I have been seeing on a constant basis in the clinic and I hope that these simple tools will help you keep your feet healthy. If not please call our offices and let us get you out of pain. If you have any questions from this article please call us at either the Moorpark office at 805-531-1188 or the Westlake office 805-371-0737. You can also reach me through our website at www.gotcsi.com Thank you and have a fun safe summer.

Dr. Ed Green is a Sports Chiropractor who runs CSI Moorpark. He has vast experience working with Athletes for the past 10 years and has traveled the US caring for High level athletes. He also competes in the Heavy Athletic games and understands the athlete from their point of view.

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME, what is it and do you have it?

2011-03-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

Dr.Terry Weyman

“My wrist hurts. Do I have carpal tunnel syndrome?” This is one of the leading questions I am asked in my practice. In the past 10 years, carpal tunnel syndrome has become one of the most significant medical problems affecting the U.S. population. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive motion disorders account for over 60 percent of all workplace injuries. Computer operators have joined assembly line workers, meatpackers, building tradesmen, hairstylists, dental assistants, cashiers and others as victims of repetitive strain injuries causing these disorders to be dubbed “the number one occupational hazard of the twentieth century.”

So now what? Unfortunately carpal tunnel syndrome is also one of the most over and misdiagnosed conditions along with sciatica. Carpal tunnel is defined as “a compression of the median nerve at the wrist. This compression is caused by one of two things: one, swelling of the tissue (blood vessels, nerves, fat and tendons) surrounding the nerve in a tunnel-like passage (canal) in the wrist. This swelling can be as simple as fluid retention associated with mensration, etc. The second possible cause is a collapse of one or more of the carpal bones compressing the median nerve. This collapse can be the result of an injury (landing on your outstretched hand and bending your wrist backwards or any forced hyperextension wrist injury) or from sustained pressure from activities like typing/keypunching, chopping, hammering or pushing. The symptoms include pain, weakness and numbness in the thumb and first finger (pointer finger), and could involve the second finger (middle finger). These are the only locations of symptoms if the diagnosis is carpal tunnel syndrome. If the pain, numbness and/or weakness are in the entire hand, outside of the hand, in the forearm, or if you also experience pain in the cervical spine then another diagnosis must be made. A complete exam, along with specific x-rays, is helpful in making the proper diagnosis.

There are many ways to treat carpal tunnel syndrome depending on the severity, among other considerations. In most cases, Chiropractic adjustments of the carpal bones performed in a specific manner can be very effective in relieving the pressure on the median nerve. Specific biomechanical adjustments coupled with soft tissue techniques, such as ART (Active Release Technique), have experienced a success rate of 80% and above (according to an independent study performed in Colorado Springs, Colorado in 1999). Specific exercises to strength the weakened tissue should complete the treatment protocol.

Some physicians may prescribe medication and /or inject cortico-steriods which may temporarily alleviate pain and swelling. However, it often does not treat the actual problem and the symptoms may return. Surgery may be recommended in extreme cases, but surgery may lead to scarring of the transverse ligament, as well as creating instability of the carpal (wrist) structure. The scarring can further irritate the median nerve causing the symptoms to return. Since surgery only has a success rate of up to 13%, all other means of treatment should be exhausted prior to consent.

As one of the most widespread occupational hazards, carpal tunnel syndrome is painful and debilitating. Specific Chiropractic manipulation is proven to be one of the most effective methods of treatment, and early treatment will lead to a quicker and easier recovery. Regardless of which treatment is used, full recovery will only come about by avoiding stressful situations and changing work ergonomics and habits. Seek advise from your Chiropractor, Doctor, therapist, nurse practioner or your company ergonomics specialist.

Dr. Terry Weyman is a Sports Chiropractor who specializes in the active person. He is the owner of the Chiropractic Sports Institute with offices in Westlake Village, Ca and Moorpark, Ca. For more information you can visit our website at www.gotcsi.com

The snow continues to fall, is your body ready for the last minute trip?

2011-03-28T12:20:00.000-07:00

Dr.Terry Weyman

With all of the storms that keep pounding California, ski resorts are bousting record snow falls. Mammoth received over 185” in 20 days and snow summit has a base of several feet which is the most they have had in years. With all of this “white gold” most athletes can’t wait to head to the hills. However, as with any sport, preparation is the key to success. Without it, you will increase the risk of injury as well as limit your time on the snow. Most of us know how important it is to have a regular exercise routine for basic health, yet that task becomes more difficult as we get older and busier in our daily lives.

As the price of lift tickets and accommodations increase, you will want to prepare for your ski trips to insure that your investment pays off. You will need cardiovascular endurance as well as full body strength. Most of us hit the slopes and plan on skiing all day, even if it's been months or years since we last skiied. By afternoon, you're so tired you lose focus and this is often when injuries and accidents are most likely to happen.

To prepare your heart and body for all day skiing, your cardio program should include 3-5 days each week of your favorite activity (the best for skiing include running, Stairmaster, cycling, strong hiking, rollerblading and sports specific training). Try to have a variety of workouts (listed below are examples of different workouts that you can use) lasting from 20-45 minutes. As you get closer to your trip, you can also add time to one of the workouts so that you have one long workout each week. It is best to hire a certified trainer to customize your training, however, if you are unable, the below examples area good guideline.

Workout 1: Interval training (stairstepping 4-5 sets with bursts of high intensity-recovery training), 20-30 minutes
Workout 2: Medium pace workout (average wt, 3 sets with reps of 15-20), 40 minutes
Workout 3: Short, intense workout (heavy wt, hard work, 1-3 sets wit reps of 2-6 speed and quickness training), 20 minutes
Workout 4: Medium pace workout, 45 minutes
Workout 5: Long, slow workout (endurance training), 60 minutes
Build Your Strength

What makes skiing such a great exercise is that is uses all of your muscle groups. However, some muscles are used more than others and those are the ones you want to concentrate on when it comes to your strength workouts. Skiing involves:

1. Quadriceps: The quads are possible the most used muscles in skiing. These muscles hold you in position as you ski, and they also provide protection for your knees. Great exercises for the quads include squats, leg presses and lunges.
2. Hamstrings & Glutes: When skiing downhill, you typically hold your body in a flexed position--meaning you're leaning forward from the hips. This requires great strength from your hamstrings and glutes as they help stabilize your body. Work your hams and glutes with deadlifts, leg curls and lunges.
3. Inner/Outer Thighs: Your inner thighs work very hard to keep your skis together. Your outer thighs keep your body stable and help you steer. Work these muscles with side lunges, inner thigh squeezes and leg lifts.
4. Calves: Because your knees are bent as you ski, your calves (specifically the soleus) help you stay upright so you don't fall over (your ski boots help too). You can work this muscle by doing seated calf raises.
5. Abs, back and CORE: Because you're in a flexed position, bent over, your back has to work to hold your body in that position. Your abs help in that endeavor while also protecting your spine. Your lats get involved as you ski on a flat surface or uphill, using your poles for leverage. Work these muscles with exercises like bicycles, woodchops, back extensions, lat pulldowns and dumbbell rows.
6. Arms: Along with your back, arms help push off with your poles while stabilizing your shoulder joints. Be sure to work your biceps (barbell or dumbbell curls) and triceps (try dips or dumbbell extensions).

Injuries to your back and knees can be minimized by engaging in an active exercise program that is specific to snow skiing. Take care of your body and it will take care of you while you are enjoying the great outdoors. You are tuning up your muscles, don't forget to tune up your structure. WHENEVER, you start or change your workout routine, see your Sports Chiropractor first to align the structure so your muscles will have the RIGHT pattern to follow!

Dr. Terry Weyman is the owner of Chiropractic Sports Institute. There are two offices to better serve you. One in Westlake Village, Ca and the other in Moorpark, Ca. For more information on CSI go to their website at www.gotcsi.com.

SUPER JUICE- for better performance

2011-03-04T07:49:00.000-08:00

Lately, I have been heavily involved with Motocross and Action sports. In order to make quick decisions as well as maintaining a high level of anerobic/aerobic is critical. With qualifiers, Semis and final events going on in the same day, the athletes core temperatures can rise over 100 degree. Clearly, it is of critical importance that proper hydration and nutrition be applied before, during, and after competition.

Throughout my twenty plus years in this areana I have been given many sample sports drinks, energy bars, herbal formulas, and vitamin preparations which, in turn, I would try on myself as well as some of my athletes. Years ago a friend of mine, Dr. Tim Brown, came up with a formula that today still stands as one of the best drinks to rehydrate and replenish. Through his own research and self-experimentation in beach Volleyball evolved a fresh, live, pure alternative energy drink, he called it "Super Juice".

The formula for the “Super Juice” is surprisingly simple. It consists of 2/3 fresh carrot juice combined with equal parts of fresh pressed celery, beet, bell pepper, and apple juices. We instruct the athletes to consume 8-10 ounces fresh spring water while our staff presses the whole fruit and vegetable mix on a per serving basis. Our serving size is 6-8 ounces of “Super Juice” between matches. This “water then juice” combination is our fluid-electrolyte replacement application. At the day’s end, on the way to the hotel or airport, we would give the players 16-20 ounces of the juice without water for carbohydrate replenishment purposes.

Analysis of our Super Juice reveals that it contains high amounts of the antioxidents beta carotine and vitamin C. It also contains the important minerals calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and chloride with trace amounts of zinc, copper, iron, and manganese. Finally, the blend includes small amounts of the entire B-complex.

The athletes who drink Super Juice have experienced no gastric problems; the positive response from the athletes has far exceeded our expectations.

Dr.Terry Weyman has been involved with High Action sports from the Olympics to the X-Games for over 20 years. He can be reached at www.gotcsi.com

How to reduce inflammation through diet and supplementation

2011-02-22T21:43:00.000-08:00

By Dr. Terry Weyman

We all suffer in various degrees of inflammatory pain. However, in the world of high level athletics or business, the pain can interfere with our performance not only on the physical level but the mental as well. Each of us needs to focus on reducing our individual inflammation issues and diet is a great way to start. Every ounce of energy spent doing another physical task is lost and can’t be used for performance output. Let’s look at which foods can increase inflammation and which ones will help decrease inflammation.

When you’re on the road, training/competing or trying to recover from an injury there are foods you want to avoid no matter how deep the temptation. These foods will increase the biochemical response which in turn slows the healing time. You also risk the injury not healing properly and creating a chronic condition.

• All Grains and Grain products- including white bread, pasta, wheat bread, pretzels, cereals, crackers and any product made with grains or flours from grains. This also includes most deserts and packaged foods.

Why grains? Most people think about “carbo loading” prior to training or competition, but consider that “modern grains” have only been consumed for a short time in the history of man kind and with chemical additives, seem to affect our body and its ability to heal. In history, grains were left for livestock and not consumed. Most grains now contain Gluten, Hydrogenated Fats, Vegetable Oil and Refined Sugar. Gluten and Lectins (sugar protein) both can cause digestive system inflammation as well as many other biochemical conditions that can lead to poor digestion, absorption and nutritional gain.

• Trans Fats (partially hydrogenated oils)- these are found in margarine, deep fried foods and most packaged foods.
• Seed and vegetable oils- anything with corn or seed oil, such as safflower oil, sunflower oil, peanut oil or soybean oil. Foods such as mayonnaise, tartar sauce, margarine and most salad dressings.

For the same reasons above with grains, these oils can impede the digestive system and cause numerous conditions ranging from Celiac disease to athletic induced headaches.

• Soda and sugar- sugar will always increase inflammation and bacteria growth. Stay away from any drink in a can!
• Dairy- all dairy products increase both inflammation and mucus which impedes the healing process
• Meat, eggs and fish that are grain fed- Look for free range

Now that I have ruined your, day lets look at how to heal your body and get maximum performance out of your living system. My goal is to heal you faster and make you perform better than you have ever performed in your life.

• All fruits and Vegetables- the more raw, the better
• Red and Sweet potatoes- Eaten with protein is even better
• Fresh, free-range fish- Avoid farm raised fish and catfish since they have elevated Omega 6 fatty acids. Free range fish and better yet, cold water fish have high levels of Omega 3 fatty acids which are the good Omegas and decrease inflammation.
• Meat, Chicken, eggs from GRASS fed animals. Look for free range. Wild game are the best since we know they eat grass and have a leaner meat.
• Omega 3 eggs • Raw Nuts- Great snake food, such as almonds, cashews, pistachios, macadamia, walnuts and brazil nuts for the enriched fiber and essential oils
• Spices- such as ginger, garlic, oregano, fennel, red chili pepper, turmeric, basil, rosemary, etc
• Oils and Fats- moderate amounts of organic butter, coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil
• Salad Dressing choices- extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard dressing along with spices.
• Beverages- water, organic green tea. If you must drink alcohol go for red wine or a stout beer.

Basic plan for meals, look at protein as your basis and start the day with an Omega-3 egg omelets, steel cut oatmeal with ground up chia seeds, raisins, berries or brown sugar. Meal shakes with fresh fruit. Mid day have your chicken and fish and snack on fresh fruit, nuts, yogurt or fresh fruit shakes.

Limit your evening meals to fresh fish and keep it light since most of your digestion is done earlier in the day. Try and eat prior to 6:30pm as well, so the food does not sit in your digestion track all night. You will sleep better and not gain those unwanted pounds.

If you are unable to eat correctly or you’re in training and need a little extra help due to the strain on your system then supplement your diet with the following:
• A Good Pharmaceutical Multivitamin and Mineral without iron
• Vitamin D3
• EPA/DHA Omega 3 fish oils. Make sure they are pure from pesticides and are made from cold water fish that is free range
• Calcium/Magnesium combo

Prior to competition:
• Take a probiotic supplement to help digestive enzymes process to get the food to your muscles
• Take a joint supplement a week before to bring extra nutrients to your joints (Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate)

Post Competition
• Take a proteolytic Enzyme to help degrade the proteins that can be produced in excess after an acute injury
• Calcium/Magnesium to reduce muscle spasms
• Fish Oils to reduce inflammation

The statement, “you are what you eat” is a true statement. You would never put junk gas in your race car yet you would be surprised what some athletes put in their body. How much better would they heal or perform if they followed the simple rules laid out above? Eat well, compete hard and recover fully.

Dr.Terry Weyman is the owner of Chiropractic Sports Institute. You can reach him or purchase any of the above supplements on his website www.gotcsi.com and he can be followed on twitter at DrTerryW.

Financial stress, can affect your health!

2011-02-08T08:57:00.000-08:00

With the news flashing every day "economic crisis" or "The economy is in meltdown" its no wonder our bodies are in retreat and stressed out. SO, you can either hide and hope things return back to "normal" or get educated, adjusted and eat healthy to keep your brain and body in top working order. My goal is to educate you all and keep giving your mind things to think about. One of my patients, Sean Burr, has some great ideas and insight on the job and housing market I wanted to share with you. In keeping you educated different issues that may affect your health, keeping you thinking on positive solutions instead of negative reactions my goal is to help you stay on track. My job is to take the stress out of your body and keep your nervous system working at its optimum so you can lead a productive and healthy life!

According to Mr. Burr, "What will it take for the housing market and employment to really improve? It really boils down to the two greatest economic factors of all: supply and demand."

"What needs to happen in the labor market? Ideally, a swift rise in consumer demand for goods and services in 2011 spurs businesses to hire, with no need for another costly federal stimulus. About 125,000 people enter the U.S. labor force every month, so job creation needs to hit that level just to tread water in terms of employment–to-population ratio. Data from the Brookings Institution shows that 280,000 new positions emerged monthly at the peak of job creation in the 2000s. Back in 1994, the economy was creating an average of 321,000 new jobs a month.1

As 2010 drew to a close, our economy wasn’t anywhere near that. According to the Labor Department, 71,000 new non-farm jobs were created in November and 103,000 new non-farm jobs in December. Last month, the government said that private payrolls grew by 113,000 (297,000 according to payroll services provider ADP). Yet the December report also indicated a 1.3 million month-over-month rise in the population of discouraged workers who had simply stopped seeking jobs.2

On December 7, Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke told the Senate Budget Committee that while we were seeing a “self-sustaining” economic recovery, the jobless rate would likely remain elevated through 2015 or 2016.3

Perhaps 2011 could be better than we expect. A Manpower Inc. survey of employers in December found that 73% foresaw no change in the pace of hiring at their firms for the first quarter of 2011. However, the survey did find that seasonally adjusted (read: net) hiring was projected to rise from 5% in the past quarter to 9% in 1Q 2011.4 That represents a significant jump in net hiring and suggests either the perception or reality of rising demand in some industries.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis recently reported a 3.4% year-over-year rise in disposable personal incomes for 3Q 2010, which would seem to promote a consumer spending increase. Federal Reserve data showed consumer credit card debt ticking back up by 0.6% in September and 1.7% in October after months of decreases; this is another potential sign of a rebound in consumer spending and consumer confidence.5

What needs to happen in real estate? Well, two key factors do seem to be in place to encourage a rebound. Interest rates on 30-year conventional home loans are still below 5%; compare that with 9.4% as recently as the early part of 1989. The Standard & Poor’s/Case-Shiller Home Price Index tells us that existing home prices dropped 29.6% between July 2006 and October 2010, and some analysts see them falling further.6,7 But two cold, hard facts remain in the way of a recovery.

· You can’t buy a home if you don’t have a job. Unemployment and its cousin underemployment represent the biggest drag on the real estate market - thwarting purchases, reducing demand, and hastening delinquencies and foreclosures.

· You can’t readily sell your home if it is “underwater”. The latest CoreLogic Inc. data shows that 22.5% of U.S. homeowners owe more than their residences are worth.7

During 2009-2010, any sense of momentum or recovery seemed a product of government intervention. The homebuyer tax credit led to a spike in sales, then a reversal. Turning from the month-to-month “weather” of the real estate market to year-over-year numbers, you would think things couldn’t get any worse: according to the latest figures (November), existing home sales were down 27.9% year-over-year and new home sales down 21.2% from 12 months before.8

However, some of the “weather” bears studying; things did get sunnier during 2010 in some respects. Mortgage rates didn’t rocket north when the Fed ended its campaign to buy mortgage-backed securities last March. (The European debt crisis had an effect.) Existing home sales rose by 5.6% in November, and the rate of new home purchases also improved by 5.5%. Pending home sales, as tracked by the National Association of Realtors, were up a record 10.4% in October and up another 3.5% for November.8,9

Ideally, 2011 brings some kind of sweet spot for the residential real estate sector where job creation ramps up while mortgage rates remain historically low for a few months. That could contribute nicely toward a recovery in the sector in 2012."

I welcome any contributions to our blog that will keep people educated in the things that affect our health. We are not a financial institution but a wellness institution. But if you were able to get some information that helps you relax and stay educated then our goal is complete. Don't think of What we do at CSI as a luxury, but a necessity. Without your body working you can't function.

For more info on Mr. Sean Burr he can be contacted at www.burrfinancial.com

For more information on Dr. Terry Weyman or CSI go to our website at www.gotcsi.com

Eat for the Seasons for Maximum OUTPUT

2011-02-08T08:05:00.000-08:00

By. Dr. Shari Phillips, LAc

The most basic foundation of good health and longevity is nutrition. Nutrition is the one thing that the majority of us have full control over and thus can make a conscious decision of what we eat on a meal to meal basis. However, the simplicity of nutrition is often overlooked, as many of us lead a busy lifestyle, which often results in grabbing food on the run. Although many “fast food” institutions now have an improved selection of healthy snacks and offerings than ever before, we still miss the simplicity of what to eat and when.

Eating within the seasons, is a 3000 year old philosophy founded in Chinese Medicine and is a basic rule of thumb to provide proper nutrition. This philosophy is based on eating foods that are nourishing to the body within each particular season, keeping the body’s immune system sharp and able to fight any flu or cold that tries to invade. Additionally, the Chinese have also discovered that each food has an “energetic” temperature as well, which make certain foods more appropriate to eat in a variety of ways to provide optimum health.

For example, when you have a flu or cold and you are lacking in energy, the body needs foods that are easy to digest and supportive to the immune system while the body continues to fight the illness. Do you recall when your Mom or Grandmother suggested a good bowl of chicken soup when you were feeling low? Chicken soup is exactly what the body needs to fight a flu or cold. Chicken itself has a “warm” energetic nature that also helps keep the body warm while trying to fighting the pathogen. Additionally, the broth in the soup supports easy digestion, while the noodles and light vegetables nourish the brain and body with the correct amount of nutrients. Eating in this manner, combined with good rest and adequate fluids, speeds the body’s recover and helps strengthen your immunity.

The concept of eating within the seasons not only ensures that the body gets the nourishment it needs during a particular season, but also provides a “preventative” measure to keep one healthy from season to season.

In Chinese Medicine, each season has an associated organ:(how can a belief that has lasted 10,000+ years be too far off?)

Fall = Lung Winter = Kidneys

Spring = Liver Summer = spleen and stomach

Although the seasons are sometimes “blurred” here in Southern California, and we often enjoy a warm, sunny day, it is very important to continue to eat foods that are warm and nourishing, as February is still a “winter” month. Foods like soups and stews, root vegetables (carrots, yams, onions, potatoes, beets and parsnips, etc) are still the best choice during this season versus choosing foods that have a “cold” energetic nature, such as salads and some fruits. Yogurts, ice cream, cold smoothies, salads and certain fruits, are best reserved for summer, when the days are hot and our bodies naturally desire foods with an energetic cooling nature.

Food is medicine, so choose wisely to ensure optimum health!

Shari Phillips is a highly decorated Acupuncturist who originally practiced in Toronto, Canada. She has post graduate degrees in Cardiology, Nutrition, Orthopedics and Womens health. She practices next to CSI in Westlake, Ca. For more info@shariphillipsacupuncture.com

Sick? Get into your CHIROPRACTOR NOW!

2011-01-31T14:41:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman D.C., C.C.S.P and Dr. Amir Mahmud D.C., C.C.S.P

Even though its 75 degrees out we are STILL in Winter and it’s the heart of COLD season. How many people do you know who are out with Bronchitis, pertusis, allergies or a cold? According to the latest research the average American suffers two to six colds a year, and as yet, there is no known cure. Nevertheless, pharmacies and stores that sell alternative medicine therapies are stocked with products claiming to be natural remedies for the common cold. If you are one of the “lucky ones”, you may be wondering how best to treat your symptoms. Are over-the-counter cold medications the only way to go or do alternative remedies such as vitamin C, Echinacea and zinc really help? Before we look at the remedies and research behind them lets look at the animal itself, the cold and flu.

The common cold (acute coryza 45) is associated with viruses that affect the nose, throat, larynx (voice box) and sinuses. That means stuffed and runny nose, scratchy throat, watery eyes, stuffed sinuses and congestion. What makes the common cold different from viral or bacterial infections is the absence of high fever. Influenza, or the flu, the patient will have a fever between 101-103, backache, headache, muscle and joint pain, runny nose, congestion, sore throat and cough and continue irregularly for three to four days. The flu can cause problems if you are in the elderly population, weak or suffering from an immune suppressive disorder. In some cases, the flu may develop into pneumonia. For most people who are “healthy” the flu is little more than an annoying illness.

Painkillers such as aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen are common ingredients in cold products designed to relieve aches and pains and reduce fever. Yet, most colds don’t cause aches, pains or high fevers. According to Joe Graedon Ph.D., author of the People’s Pharmacy Guide to home and herbal remedies, Antihistamines, meant for those runny noses, help against allergies and hay fever but provide relatively little relief for the common cold. “Such drugs may actually be counterproductive by allowing viruses to multiply more readily. They cite a study in which Australian scientists found that aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen reduced immune system response and resulted in “increased nasal symptoms.” Other research has shown that people spread more of the cold virus after taking aspirin. So what can we do to help fight the battle?

Seek Chiropractic care during the cold season. A study in the journal of Osteopathic medicine showed a study of over 4600 patients with upper respirator tract infections, only 5% of cases treated with spinal manipulative therapy developed secondary complications. Chiropractic care has been proven to enhance the natural resistance and improve immune function. By keeping the neurological system working better, it will allow the body to keep up with the increase stress that is brought on by the increase in immune system overload.

Drink plenty of water. Fluids will help loosen the mucus in your nose and chest and provide a medium for the cells to communicate.

Stop eating sugar and avoid dairy products. Sugar and refined sweets have been shown to reduce the total amount of white blood cells, which fight infection. Also, sugar, even in fruit juices and dairy products, thicken the mucus in the linings in your nose and lungs, making the mucus and your infection harder to get rid of.

Rest. This will allow the body to focus on healing.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C has long been touted for its ability to prevent and cure the common cold. Although these claims have been blown out of proportion, an adequate intake of Vitamin C is necessary to help fight infections and keep the immune system healthy. There is some research to show that taking extra vitamin C at the onset of a cold may cause a mild antihistamine effect.

The recommended dietary allowance for vitamin C is between 1,000 milligrams per day for women and 90-250 mg for men. You may bump this up to 3000 mg for 48-72 hours at onset of the cold. Too much Vitamin C may cause side effect such as nausea, abdominal cramps and diarrhea, so don’t mega dose during the season.

Echinacea: Over the past several years, Echinacea has become one of the hottest herbal remedies in the US. While little research has been done in the US, European research on Echinacea has suggested that the herb has an immune-stimulant effect. Echinacea seems to work by stimulating various components of the body’s immune system. One of the reasons that Echinacea’s research varies is that there are three different species of the purple coneflower which make up the herbal remedy. For the most affective remedy seek out your Doctor/Chiropractor, nutritionist or a reputable vitamin store.

Since possible adverse effects from long-term use have not been studied, most sources recommend that Echinacea only be taken when the symptoms of a cold first appear and then only for a week or two. Because it is an immune system stimulant those with autoimmune diseases like lupus, MS, Sclerosis and RA should not take the herb. It is also not recommended for pregnant and lactating women or for those on immunosuppressant medication.

ZINC: A 1996 study found in the annals of internal medicine found that adults who used zinc lozenges (without sugar) from the onset of a cold recovered twice as fast as those who did not take them. I recommend no more that 100 mg of Zinc a day to fight off the cold and to take the duration of symptoms.

Energy Balance (EB): Some call this a “footbath” but its much more .The EB detox therapy works by cutting down heavy metal build up in your body and decreasing inflammation. As a result of this, your major detox organs (Lung, Liver, Kidneys, Skin, and Colon) can function at a higher level. When your body is able to function at its optimal level, you are less likely to become sick because your immune system can fight off various bacteria and viruses. The duration of the treatments is between 15-25 minutes. Most patients tend to feel an immediate relief in the signs and symptoms of their cold after the treatment.

Low Level Laser: The low-level cold laser works by enhancing the communication between the Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS). As a result of this enhanced communication the body will function at a higher level. The cold laser also speeds up tissue recovery and cuts down on inflammation by increasing Adenosine Tri Phosphate (ATP), which is the main fuel for the body.

By combining the EB and Cold Laser with an adjustment the average duration of the cold can be cut down to 1-3 days.

So, as we enter this cold season, don’t wait for the cold to attack you, attack the cold through keeping the biomechanics strong in your body by seeking Chiropractic Care, the biochemistry alive by eating right, using the EB and Laser as well as taking the appropriate supplements. Lets spend more time enjoying life and hanging outside and less time by the Kleenex box in bed.

Dr. Terry Weyman and Dr. Amir Mahmud are Doctors at Westlake CSI. For more information the clinic visit their website at www.gotcsi.com

Is your New Years resolution to lose weight or get healthy for 2011?

2011-01-19T09:39:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

While watching the news the other day, CNN was reporting that the government was lowering the weight limit to allow insurance to cover obese surgeries, such as the “lap band”. What! Have you read about the side affects of these surgeries? When did Americans become so lazy or complacent that we cheer when our government passes bills such as this? When we make a big purchase such as a car or a house, we do our research and weigh the pros and the cons. We only get ONE body, yet we don’t cherish it or care for it as the most Valuable asset you will EVER own. If you have ever watched “The Biggest Loser,” you know that even those diagnosed with severe medical conditions can lose weight with changes in diet and exercise. Now even though this show is unrealistic to the average person, it still shows you don’t need any magic formula except eating the right foods, the right amount and burn the calories to achieve what you want, which is weight loss.

Anyone can come up with excuses why they CAN’T do something. What ever happened to our American fight on getting things done? Instead of coming up with excuses on How you CAN’T lose weight, lets learn HOW to get it done. It takes the same amount of energy or time to eat incorrectly as it does to eat correctly. So let’s look at some tips that can help YOU make 2011 a great year. The number one RESOLUTION is for people to “get in shape”, “get healthy” and to “lose weight”. No offense to Jenny Craig or other Pre Managed Meal plans, but lets face it, these are programs designed to just help you LOSE WEIGHT the quick and easy way. I spoke to some experts to help you achieve your goals of True health for 2011 and beyond.

According to Fitness expert, Rob Yontz of True North Fitness in Ventura, today obesity problems can be stemmed to how our society has become fast-paced and looking for “quick satisfaction”. “It is this emotion that marketers and “fast buck Eddies” play off when they market simple, myopic solutions such as pills, potions, powders, and yes, surgery. I find it sad to see so many waste their money, emotion, and time on false solutions which are not founded in solid science” states Yontz. “The solution is actually quite simple in nature; scientifically it is rather simple to produce a state in the body that will produce fat loss. But simple does not equate to “easy”. It takes a change in what you are doing for your lifestyle”

One of the first things you must do, starting right now, is stop making excuses! You have to trust yourself before you can change your life. Your body will do what your mind tells it to do. According to our own CSI Certified Athletic Trainer, Geraghty Berntson, there is no secret weapon, but relearning common sense. “First things first, don’t eat more than you are going to burn off, Period.” States Berntson, “It's important that people realize that weight loss isn't a phase or diet. Weight loss needs to be a lifestyle adjustment. It goes beyond buying prepared meals. Yes, those will make you lose weight, but once you return to your old habits the weight will come back. The same is true for surgical fixes. Lifestyle changes take time and patience, but pay off more in the long run”. According to Rob Bolton M.S., ATC, CSCS, Director of Operations for the Elite Performance Factory in Westlake, “Pre-packaged weight loss meal plans may seem like an easy way to modify ones diet for weight loss but the limitations make long term success unrealistic. Most of these pre-packaged plans require the user to keep the food with them throughout the day and limit the option of real food. It is far more empowering to educate clients on how to eat as this knowledge travels with them wherever they are. I don’t know many clients willing to go out to a meal with friends and family and rather than ordering from the menu they just have a meal replacement bar. This does not provide for sustainable results.”

What is comes down to, is to live a great life, to have fun and achieve your goals. Take these tips and actually put them to use, don’t just talk about it, or TRY, but as NIKE states, “JUST DO IT”. Fitness Coach Rob Yontz has given you these simple, yet challenging tips. You want to lose weight? Follow these. You want to make it to the podium for the first time? Follow these. You want to avoid getting sick and living a healthier life? Follow these!

1. Get your mind straight – it is possible to accomplish and it can be rather simple depending on where you are starting. The mind is powerful, so expect to get to your goal.
2. Think about and visualize where you want to get to, write it down and keep it in front of you. (yes it sounds corny but do it).
3. Food is your bodies energy source. You don’t put bad gas in a race car do you?
a. Eat breakfast every day.
b. Eat something about every 3 hours throughout the day.
c. Every time you eat, have a very lean protein and vegetables.
d. Drink water, about half to two-thirds your bodyweight in ounces
e. Eliminate the liquid calories, energy drinks, and sodas
f. Eat natural, whole, seasonal foods most of the time (most = 90%)
g. Limit your carbohydrate starches to post workout and breakfast
h. Choose things your great grand ma had options to choose.

4. Exercise effectively (effectively means in a manner that will produce fat loss)
a. You need to be active daily.
b. You need to exercise at least 3-4 time weekly (for most people, walking is not “exercise”. When you walk for exercise you should be winded and not be able to talk.
c. Strength training will produce these results.
d. Energy system training will aide these results combined with strength training.
e. Jogging will not produce these results (yes I know many will want to argue this point, but my experience and the science does not back it up)

5. Make sure to measure your progress, and be patient and allow time for the change. The body is a living organism, not a linear change device. You did not get into the condition you are in overnight. It will take time to get into a healthy state.

6. Make sure you allow for enough rest and recovery.

7. Get a Coach – you need a qualified professional in the health field who does this type of work so that you can do what is appropriate for you at the time. Ask for references and testimonials.

So start 2011 with a BANG. Don’t just TRY it, or give it your best shot, this gives you an out. Do as NIKE says, JUST DO IT. Change is hard but focus on the prize, aren’t you worth it? Your back, knees, and heart will thank you.

Dr.Terry Weyman is the owner of Chiropractic Sports Institute. www.gotcsi.com

Thank you to the fitness professionals who helped in putting this article together

Rob Yontz at www.True-North-Fitness.com, 805.650.1239
Geragthy Berntson at CSI Westlake www.gotcsi.com 805-371-0737
Rob Bolton www.elite-factory.com 805 494-4464

Chiropractic for Maximum Output!

2010-12-31T16:24:00.000-08:00

By: Dr.Terry Weyman

Chiropractic is the fastest growing healing profession in the world today. Since Chiropractic is the branch of the healing arts that deals with structure and function, many athletes (both professional and amateur) have found great relief through Chiropractic health care. However, it is still overlooked as a tool for maintaining health and achieving maximum output for your athletic event.

In order to understand how Chiropractic can enhance your athletic potential, as well as your overall health, it is important to understand more about how Chiropractic works, and clear up a myths that you may have heard.

The spinal column is made up of 24 movable bones called vertebra that function together during movement. The most important function of the vertebra is to protect the spinal cord. The spinal cord is the body’s “switch board”. Just as the trunk and branches of a tree transfer nutrients to the leaves, the spinal cord transfers nerve impulses, through the neurological network, to all parts of the body. If we look at our lives from the time that we are born until the time we die, the body is in constant motion, even when we are at rest. The cells of our body are constantly dying and being replaced by new, health cells. Two and a half million of them will die and be replaced every minute of your life. This is a normal process. Health can be defined as the ability of the body to replace the cells and tissue structures normally and on a consistent basis. This will work properly as long as there is no interference between the brain (central computer) and the tissue cells. Research out of Colorado State University states “the amount of pressure on a nerve at a compressive force of a quarter on the back of your hand, 2 mm of mercury, can result in a loss of up to 60% nerve function”. The Doctor of Chiropractic calls this interference a Vertebral Subluxation or intersegmental dysfunction.

What is a Vertebral Subluxation/Intersegmental Dysfunction? A “subluxation” is a vertebra (back bone) that is not biomechanically aligned with the vertebra above and below which can result in abnormal pressure on the exiting nerve root. This pressure on the nerve root can cause an interference of the brains impulses to the tissue cells. This interference can result in abnormal cell production down the line leading to Pain/symptoms. This interference can also lead to the initiation of a Dies-ease process. As the study showed, this small amount of pressure can “dim” the affects of the nervous system. This “dimmed” nerve can cause a lack of maximum output, which can alter the performance of the muscles or organs, which the nerve supplies. A specific Chiropractic adjustment of the involved vertebra is the most effective way in correcting a Vertebral Subluxation and restoring nerve flow back to the cells.

Most people let pain guide their health care regiment. What they don’t know is the subluxation may or may not involve pain. Pain is you body’s alarm system and only enters the picture when at least 50 percent of damage has taken place if it enters the picture at all- (some organs do not have pain sensory fibers at all) As a society, we’ve been indoctrinated into thinking that pain is bad, when in reality its our body’s alarm system to prevent us from further injuring ourselves. Careless use of drugs in the form of pills, anti-inflammatories and other medications can mask the pain allowing the athlete to continue the activity that caused the damage in the first place. If your car’s oil light came on would you cut the wire so the light went out and the say, “Good now my car isn’t low on oil anymore.” If you had this attitude, eventually your car would seize and fall apart. The same thing happens to your body if you keep ignoring or masking the pain. This is why a lot of athletes develop chronic injuries.

In athletics, and life for that matter, there is a tremendous amount of stress placed on the musculoskeletal structure. Since out body is a Biomechanical Kinetic Chain (hip bone connected to the thigh bone), when one area is injured it can affect the entire structure. Any imbalance, can cause pain, weakness, lack of function and overall a decrease in your maximum output. If the imbalance isn’t corrected and you cover up the symptoms your body is sending you, over time, this will lead to degeneration and an early retirement form your sport. Many athletes both professional and amateur use Sports Chiropractors as a form of body mechanics maintenance.

By correcting the biomechanical misalignments and allowing the body’s nervous system to function at its maximum, you too can achieve results that are often unbelievable. People are constantly underestimating the body’s healing capacity.

Dr. Terry Weyman has been caring for top level athletes for over 20 years. He is the owner of Chiropractic Sports Institute. For more info check him out at www.gotcsi.com

Travel Tip- Simple traction for a sore neck

2010-11-21T12:13:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for the slopes the right way!!!

2010-11-17T21:58:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Amir Mahmud

With the upcoming snow season around the corner many of us are getting ready to hit the slopes. We are buying the newest boards, bindings and snow gear to help us perform better. But the one thing we usually don’t think about is that a healthy body can significantly contribute to enhanced performance. Here are a few tips on how to get ready for the slopes and what to do in order to prevent injuries.

• Warm up/stretch prior to hitting the slopes:

o Like any other sporting event it is a good idea to warm up and stretch to
Getting ready for the slopes the right way!!!

o Warming up and stretching increases your flexibility, which can help prevent sprains/strains and as a result improve your performance.

• Get on a strength program:

o In order to avoid low back injuries associated with twisting and jumping it is essential to have a strong core for stability.

o Strengthening the knee is also crucial for winter sports. Your knee acts as a hinge in between your hips and ankle. With the ankles strapped into your boots a lot of the pressure is going to be put on the knees. As a result knee injuries are very common in snowboarding and skiing.. In order to prevent knee injuries you want to strengthen your quads, calf’s and hamstrings. Simple exercises such as calf raises, wall squats, lunges and hamstring curls work great for knee stability.

• Wear a helmet:

o This is going to be very crucial when it comes to injury prevention. No matter if you are playing a contact sport like football or a non contact sport such as snowboarding or skiing wearing a helmet can prevent catastrophic brain injuries and save lives.

• Get adjusted:

o You might ask why do I need to be adjusted? Adjustments help normalize the body’s biomechanics, restore abnormal function, and increase muscle strength. As a result you will have increased range of motion, which will enhance your ride.

Hope these tips have helped you. If you have any specific questions in regards to strength programs or specific injuries feel free to drop us a line and we will get back to you. Have fun out there and be safe.

Dr. Amir Mahmud is a Sports Chiropractor at CSI (Chiropractic Sports Institute) in Westlake Village. Dr. Amir has vast experience working with athletes both professional and Amateur. He is the current Team Doctor for the Newbury Park HS Lacrosse team and travels with the Mobile CSI Sports Medicine team caring for athletes across southern California. He can be reached at (805) 371-0737. www.gotcsi.com

Cyclists and Mountain bikers, use your heads, wear a helmet!

2010-11-15T10:47:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

While riding along the trails surrounding sycamore canyon in Newbury Park, Ca, I was shocked at how many riders do not wear their helmets! I applaud people for climbing on their bikes, both new and old, and forging out to “feel the burn”. Just don’t forget the most important piece of cycling equipment, a helmet. The excuses that riders come up with shock me, from “its too hot” to “I’m not going that fast or far”. I don’t remember leaving my house saying, “I better wear my helmet since I plan on having an accident today”. What is worse is when I see the parent of a helmet wearing child without their helmet. The example we are setting is what, when you grow up your brain goes to mush so its not worth protecting?

A Cycling helmet is more than a fashion accessory, it is as important as the bike you are sitting on. According to the U.S. emergency room stats there are 600,000 cycling injuries a year with 1,000 of these leading to death. Head injuries lead the list of injuries and account for the most serious injuries and causes of death. As a Sports Doctor and an ex bike racer, I have seen serious head injuries from falls where the rider was going less than 5 mph. The hills surrounding Ventura County attract all forms of cycling enthusiasts from Moms and Pops out for a Sunday Cruise to advanced racers training for the next race. With this diversity comes a wide range of skill levels. The trails themselves have so many “blind curves” and ever changing terrain that even the most skilled rider must pay attention if he/she wants to stay upright. Head on collisions, getting caught in a tricky rut, a stick jumping up and going in your front wheel,or simply loosing control sliding around a corner, without a helmet your brain does not have a chance. If you’re too lazy to don a helmet for a cruise to the beach, think of the other rider who may not see you and comes tearing around a blind turn and takes you out. What thoughts will be going through your head while you lay in a hospital bed wondering if you will ever be able to feed yourself again. Folks, invest in a good helmet, set an example to your kids and remember, you only have one head!

Dr. Terry has been involved with high level cycling his entire 20+ year career. For more infomation visit our website at www.gotcsi.com

Time to Laugh!

2010-10-25T10:30:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Ed Green

I wanted to do something different for this blog since all other blogs have been about health care and chiropractic. So I thought everyone needs a break for the stress of life and found some really stupid jokes to add some smiles to those who read the blog. Figure, what a great way to start the week, with a smile!

TIME TO LAUGH

Todays BLOG is not really a blog but a time to take a deep breath read some ridiculous jokes and smile and laugh. All of us are hard working and need a good laugh, plus laughing burns calories. So enjoy the jokes and smile today.

A young boy enters a barber shop and the barber whispers to his customer, “This is the dumbest kid in the world. Watch while I prove it to you.” The barber puts a dollar bill in one hand and two quarters in the other, then calls the boy over and asks, “Which do you want, son?” The boy takes the quarters and leaves. “What did I tell you?” said the barber. “That kid never learns!” Later, when the customer leaves, he sees the same young boy coming out of the ice cream store. “Hey, son! May I ask you a question? Why did you take the quarters instead of the dollar bill?” The boy licked his cone and replied, “Because the day I take the dollar, the game is over!”

Three guys, stranded on a desert island, find a magic lantern containing a genie, who grants them each one wish. The first guy wishes he was off the island and back home. The second guy wishes the same. The third guy says "I’m lonely. I wish my friends were back here."

1. Two blondes walk into a building........ .. you'd think at least
one of them would have seen it

2. Phone answering machine message - "...If you want to buy
marijuana, press the hash key..."

3. A guy walks into the psychiatrist wearing only Clingfilm for shorts.
The shrink says, "Well, I can clearly see you're nuts."

4. I went to buy some camouflage trousers the other day but I
couldn't find any.

5. I went to the butchers the other day and I bet him 50 quid that he
couldn't reach the meat off the top shelf. He said, "No, the steaks
are too high."

6. My friend drowned in a bowl of muesli. A strong currant pulled him
in.

7. A man came round in hospital after a serious accident. He shouted,
"Doctor, doctor, I can't feel my legs!" The doctor replied "I know you
can't, I've cut your arms off".

8. I went to a seafood disco last week...and pulled a muscle.

9. Two Eskimos sitting in a kayak were chilly. They lit a fire in the
craft, it sank, proving once and for all that you can't have your
kayak and heat it too.

10. Our ice cream man was found lying on the floor of his van covered
with hundreds and thousands. Police say that he topped himself.

11. Man goes to the doctor, with a strawberry growing out of his
head. Doc says "I'll give you some cream to put on it."

12. 'Doc I can't stop singing The Green, Green Grass of Home'. "That
sounds like Tom Jones syndrome." 'Is it common?' "It's not unusual."

13. A man takes his Rottweiler to the vet. "My dog is cross-eyed, is
there anything you can do for him?" "Well," said the vet, "let's have
a look at him". So he picks the dog up and examines his eyes, then he
checks his teeth. Finally, the vet says, "I'm going to have to put
him down." "What? Because he's cross-eyed?"
"No, because he's really heavy".

14. Guy goes into the doctor's. "Doc, I've got a cricket ball stuck
up my backside." "...How's that?"
"Don't you start." (someone please explain this one to me lol!)

15. Two elephants walk off a cliff...boom, boom!

16. What do you call a fish with no eyes? A fsh.
What do you call a deer with no eyes? No idea.

17. So I was getting into my car, and this bloke says to me "Can you
give me a lift?" I said "Sure. You look great ... the world's your
oyster ... go for it."

18. Apparently, 1 in 5 people in the world are Chinese. There are 5
people in my family, so it must be one of them. It's either my mum or
my Dad, or my older Brother Colin, or my younger Brother Ho-Cha-Chu?
But I think its Colin.

19. Two fat blokes in a pub, one says to the other "Your round." The
other one says "So are you, you fat bast**d!"

20. Police arrested two kids yesterday; one was drinking battery
acid, and the other was eating fireworks. They charged one and let
the other one off.

21. "You know, somebody actually complimented me on my driving
today." They left a little note on the windscreen. It said, 'Parking
Fine.' "So that was nice of them."

22. A man walked into the doctors, he said, "I've hurt my arm in
several places". The doctor said, "Well don't go there anymore".
"Doctor, doctor when I bend my arm like this it hurts." "Well don't
do it!"

23. Ireland's worst air disaster occurred early this morning when a
small two-seater Cessna plane crashed into a cemetery. Irish search
and rescue workers have recovered 1826 bodies so far and expect that
number to climb as digging continues into the night.

Dr. Ed Green is the clinic Director at CSI Moorpark. He will make you laugh while he fixes your sports or life related injuries and can assist you in any health related topics. Call or stop by the office, www.gotcsi.com

Help us Help a Child in need

2010-10-12T19:05:00.000-07:00

What would you do if you found out your child had Cancer? THEN, after you thought you had done everything and your child was in the clear, 8 months later, it comes back with a vengence! I honestly don't know what I would do. Right now, there is a local family who is going through this ordeal. Cycling guru, Roy Knickman... (Olympics, Tour de France, Team 7-11) has a teenage son (ANDREAS KNICKMAN) who was a promising athlete until he got the diagnosis of cancer. Now, he is climbing a hill harder than his dad has ever climbed. To date, Andreas has been at the hospital 24 days straight and is fighting for his life. Being a father, I can't imagine what I would do if this was happening to me and my family. Roy is an amazing man and has an amazing family. They need our help. I know times are tough but here is what I am going to do to help them. On Tue, Nov 2 from 7-12 noon, CSI is donating all the proceeds of our day to help with the Knickmans everyday medical expenses. ALL that attend get two things. You get to feel better and help a family in need. I will NOT be billing insurance that day and collecting only cash donations at a MINIMUM of $40 per treatment. For you cyclists doing the Mike Nosco Memorial ride the following day, this is a great way to get your body ready for the event. For those who have not been adjusted in a while, now you can come and get taken care of and help Andreas. If you have been wanting to see a Sports Chiropractor but needed a good reason, well now you can come. Dr. Terry, Dr. Amir and Dr. Ed will be helping you get better, and by helping you, your dollars will help the Knickman family. If you can't make this day, yet you want to help out, you can drop off a check or cash to our office addressed to Andreas Knickman. Make checks to "Local 4148" (This is Roy's fire departments association number) and put in the memo line - Andreas Knickman fundraiser. Tax ID# is 91-2167551. Thank you!

Plank vs Situp? How about the PERFECT SITUP

2010-10-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

The shoeless runner!!!

2010-09-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Amir Mahmud

A patient recently asked me “Is it ok to run barefoot?” My response to her was “yes and no”. It is ok to run barefoot if that is how you have walked and ran for most of your life. In parts of the world people do not have access to shoes and therefore walk barefoot all day long. In these cases their central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and bodies have adapted to the altered gait, therefore not relying on an arch support or cushioning of the shoes. On the other hand in most developed countries as soon as we can walk we are put into shoes. From the first steps that we take our brain receives signals to rely on an artificial arch support. As we start to adapt to those signals and our bodies develop we become accustomed to a certain type of gait. So what do you think will happen if you suddenly decide to take off your shoes and run barefoot OR if you put that person who has walked all his life barefoot into a pair of shoes? What happens is that you start to alter your gait - over pronate/supinate, cause abnormal stress in your foot, ankle, knees, hips, low back and all the way up the spine. As a result of this abnormal stress up the kinetic chain you are more prone to injuries that you have never had before. Injuries such as plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, ankle sprain, meniscus injuries and back pain are just a few to name. Having said all this, I am not stating that you can’t run barefooted. I am stating that in order to avoid injuries, you need the proper training to adapt to your new biomechanics. This training WILL take quit a long time and wont happen over night. So if you do decide to start running barefooted, be prepared for some aches and pains. And remember, “If you fail to prepare, prepare to fail.”

If you have any questions, would like your biomechanics/injuries evaluated, or would like an overall assessment stop by our office and we will gladly help you!!!

Dr. Amir Mahmud is a Sports Chiropractor at CSI (Chiropractic Sports Institute) in Westlake Village. Dr. Amir has vast experience working with athletes both professional and Amateur. He is the current Team Doctor for the Newbury Park HS Lacrosse team and travels with the Mobile CSI Sports Medicine team caring for athletes across southern California. He can be reached at (805) 371-0737. www.gotcsi.com

Training The Mind Body Connection For MotoX with Dr Terry Weyman, DC.mp4

2010-09-08T20:37:00.000-07:00

Hologram Power Bracelets, do they work?

2010-09-08T20:05:00.000-07:00

Simple back tips for your summer cleaning.

2010-08-29T20:42:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Ed Green

Summer is here and it is time to clean that house and make it all
pretty for all the spectacular barbeques you are going to have. I have
seen many patients in my office over the last months with complaints of
low back pain from doing the summer clean. Mainly I get Dr. Ed all I
was doing was vacuuming the house.

I have to say that vacuuming is a big cause of back pain for people that come into the office.

Here is how you fix that problem.

Most individuals when they vacuum bend at the waist and extend there upper body and arms to vacuum. This causes your center of gravity to shift forward. With this shift your low back now has to work hard to keep you from falling over. Now with
your low back tight and unstable lets bend over and learn forward a few
dozen times while holding something heavy.

Doing this motion routinely over and over will cause your low back to
become unstable and leaves you vulnerable to straining your low back.
Most cases I see is when the cleaning is done and you have to now lift
that vacuum and put it away. So to fix the low back while vacuuming
try this. Lets turn vacuuming into an athletic event. Instead of
leaning forward and stretching the upper body, lets use our legs and
perform a forward lunge. By keeping your back straight and your core
tight, while using your legs to push the vacuum forward and back to
neutral you can help prevent low back pain. And for those of you who
have large houses with thick carpets, I would stretch first hehehehe.
Lunging while vacuuming will not only help prevent low back strains but
it will add tone and strength to your core and gluts. There are many
other little vacuuming tricks I will share so stay posted.

Shaving, brushing teeth, cleaning dishes.

The above are a few other easy ways for us to strain our low back. With
each of the above we lean over a study object and again shift our
center of gravity forward. Once again we are leaving ourselves open to
the chance to strain our backs. This is an an easy fix. BRACE YOUR
SELF. When I am either shaving or brushing my teeth and I am leaning
over the sink, I have my other hand firmly placed on the counter.
This is turn takes the pressure off my low back and into my shoulder.
By simply bracing your upper body against the counter, the mirror or a
wall, you are preventing possible low back pain. Usually the pain does
not occur when you are bent over but when you stand up. You can
prevent low back pain while doing dishes by simply standing slightly
sideways against the sink and bending directly over it.

These are a few little tricks that I hope will help prevent that pesky
low back pain from creeping up on you this summer. If you have any
questions please call the office at 805-531-1188. And if a demo is
needed please call BUT the demo does not involve ME vacuuming your house!

Dr. Ed Green is the clinic Director of Moorpark CSI, he can be reached at the above Phone number, for more information on CSI visit our website at www.gotcsi.com

H-wave- it’s not your mammas muscle stimulation!

2010-08-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

I am known on the Sports circuit as the “Doc with all the cool toys”. However, it’s not about the quantity of “toys”, it’s about picking the right “tool” for the right job. My job is not only to improve athletic performance but also to get the body to recover faster than it can by itself. Ask the Top Amateur Motocrosser how important tissue recovery is when he is laying in the hospital the day before the National Championships with a back injury, or a Pro Golfer the day before the Masters down with a knee injury, or a 20 year old football player the day before the Combine down with a hamstring pull. How important is tissue recovery? VERY.

So, one of my tools is the H-Wave electric stimulation machine. No, this is not your typical E-Stim or Tens unit. This is much more and its part of my regular treatment protocol for getting our athletes back to the field as fast as possible. The H-wave was established for treatment of dental related issues from TMJ to providing anesthesia for those not wanting to take medication. Doing a paradigm shift, we now use it for much more than pain control or overall healing. Now, it is looked at as a machine that can speed up the bodies ability to heal itself and the surrounding tissue to get the athlete back on the field faster than expected. H-wave is unique in that it has the ability to stimulate on both low and high frequencies, at the same time! Now you can aid in pain control to reduce muscle guarding while you work on tissue effusion to maximize healing. What a concept. Once your Doctor or therapist grasps these concepts, the treatment combinations and results are limitless. This is the only machine I know of that can either heal an injury or allow the body to naturally recover faster for next day competition. How do each frequencies work and why do you need both? Well let’s look at each form of stimulation and explain why each form is important.

Ultra Low Frequency Stimulation
Development and protocols for H-Wave were based on the well-established facts that fluid shifts and pressures are essential for tissues to heal and to create homeostasis in an injured area. The H-Wave device was specifically designed to improve circulation and enhance fluid shifts; thereby, addressing the inflammation that is so often the causative factor in pain and disabilities. The goal of H-Wave is never to mask symptoms, but rather to speed recovery and/or manage chronic symptoms to allow the body to increase in normal cellular production and integration. Published research has shown that the specific technology of H-Wave represents a paradigm shift in electro-therapeutic treatment and produces the optimal non-fatiguing stimulation for fluid shifts.

High Frequency Stimulation
Some conditions require additional pain relief that fluid shifts don't entirely address. This is why H-Wave has a secondary mode that is focused entirely on shutting down pain and breaking the pain cycle similar to TENS, however, with a longer lasting effect. Again, in this setting H-Wave is not intending to mask pain while the device is on, but rather create a strong anesthetic affect with significant and lasting relief after a 30 minute treatment. The H-Wave device is so unique and capable of shutting down pain that we have FDA clearance for electrical anesthesia in the field of dentistry. If it can take away the pain from oral surgery, how do you think it will work in the world of athletics when used right?

As I have said, the H-wave is a tool, when used in the correct settings and for the correct purposes, can change the athletes recovery rate and increase their chances for success.

Dr. Terry Weyman is the owner of Chiropractic Sports Institute and travels the world caring for top athletes. He also works for Pepperdine University in their Athletic Training room and for The Factory, a high level training facility. He can be reached at www.gotcsi.com

FUEL FOR A TEEN ATHLETE

2010-08-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

By: Terry Weyman D.C., C.C.S.P.

Male or female, teen or adult, athlete or non-athlete, we have all seen magazines, movies and television shows equate “the perfect look” with being thin. Sometimes we even believe it. But any healthy person, especially an athlete, needs to remember that the scale is not the guide to follow. Athletes need the proper fuel to achieve and maintain their goals. We cannot judge or compare what goes into our bodies with what goes in (or doesn’t go in) to the bodies of non-athletes.

A recent study estimated that the amount of energy expended by a typical female adolescent athlete could be as much as 5000 to 6000 calories per day. Teens involved in athletics require proper nutrition (fuel consumption) to perform at their optimum level. The teen athlete needs to consume enough healthy foods to also accommodate the maturation process. If not, the athlete will impair their growth and strength potential. They will also notice that their energy reserves will be depleted for that extra effort in the final minutes of “game day.”

According to Lisa Kimona, RD, Kaiser Permanente Hospital, the athlete should “consume enough calories (measurement of energy when food is converted) to maintain your weight through your sports season. Most of the calories eaten should come from a carbohydrate source (such as starch, pasta, rice, fresh fruits and vegetables). A moderate amount of protein is necessary (such as meat, chicken, fish, cheese and dried beans). Though you should keep fat-intake low, fat serves some very important roles. Fat is a carrier for the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. It is also an important part of all cell membranes, and is the preferential energy source for all heart muscles. In addition, fat cells protect vital organs and nerves, and are an excellent energy source for skeletal muscles in endurance events.”

For those of you who are concerned about how much you eat, this is an example of a 2400-calorie diet.

SERVINGS SERVINGS
FOOD GROUP PER DAY FOOD GROUP PER DAY

Milk (low-fat) 3 cups (8 oz) Juices 2 cups

Dark green or ½ cup Breads, cereals, 12 servings
deep yellow starches
fruits or vegetables
(Vitamin A)

Citrus foods ½ cup Protein: meat, fish 2 servings
(Vitamin C) poultry, egg, dried
beans or peas

Other vegetables 1 cup Fats, salad 3 servings
(or less)
Dressings, nuts,
seeds

Other fruits 1 cup Desserts, candy 1 serving
(or less)

A sizable amount of food? NO, if you’re an athlete. This was an example of a diet consisting of only 2400 calories, well below the 5000 or 6000 calories teenagers are capable of expending. One important fact to remember is that when participating in sports, your caloric intake must match your caloric expenditures. When in doubt, don’t judge yourself off of a magazine cover. Ask what you want your body to do and provide the fuel necessary to complete the task. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact your health care provider or nutrition counselor.

Dr. Terry Weyman is a Sports Chiropractor in Southern California, you can gain more information at www.gotcsi.com

How to get the MENTAL Edge

2010-07-11T16:51:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

“Athletes are mental” I overheard a kid at a local race say. “They are crazy to do these things”. In some cases he is correct. They are mental. In even some cases, those who are “more mental” are the ones that win. But being “mental” is not a bad thing, but a good thing. Most people train the body, get adjusted to strengthen the structure but very few train the mind. Mental toughness separates the champions from the contestants. Not only can mental toughness separate you from your other competitors, but it can also separate you in the board room, the class room or in times of depression or tragedy. Just as you train and work harder on the physical, training the brain to be tougher takes time and practice, but the pay off can be great.

Jason Taylor, the 2006 NFL Defensive Player of the Year said it best when he said “Pressure does one of two things to people, it either crushes you or it turns you into a diamond”. Top Athletes KNOW where they belong and won’t settle for anything less than the top position. Some call it desire or will but the fact remains, they KNOW with every cell of their body. They have also learned, through experiences, that their body will do whatever their mind tells them to do. This is true for either positive or negative experiences. Your mind is always looking for the “easy way out.” If you give your mind that option, your body will go there. If you take it away, your body will dig a little deeper to find a solution. Our world is riddled with “mediocre” athletes who have become superstars because their minds BELIEVE they are capable of greatness. Have you ever heard someone say “he/she is not the most talented athlete out there but they work harder than anyone we have ever seen and no one can seem to beat them”. I have even heard coaches and trainers say “give me work ethic, passion and commitment over natural talent any day”. That is another word for, give me someone who’s MIND is the most determined and I will make them a champion. Another example of how powerful the mind can be is to look to hypnosis. There are people who use hypnosis to have surgery instead of being put out by pharmaceutical drugs.

So how do you train the mind and how do you learn to stay focused and cool under pressure?

First and foremost learn this: “what the mind believes, the body achieves.” In order to achieve peak performance, your mind and your body must work in concert with one another. It must learn resilience and adaptability. Being mentally tough is learning how to sustain ideal performance no matter what life throws at you. Finding the positive, no matter how deeply buried, in all things. You get stuck on the freeway behind an accident, late for a meeting, you see it as “more time to prepare”. You get injured prior to an important match, you view it as more mental time to watch and discover an opponent’s weakness. Instead of being that block of solid wood, learn to be that supple tree than can handle hurricane force winds and still stand.

The next step to mental greatness is to “Change your vocabulary”. Replace “I will try” with “I will do”. Or “I hate this part” to “I dislike this part and can’t wait to figure it out”. In sports or life, there are no “problems” just “challenges”. Take out the word “I can’t” and replace it with “I will”. Look at your heroes in your sport, your industry or your life; listen to what comes out of their mouths. Don’t reinvent the wheel, learn and study the masters.

Avoid negativity! Negative people are like cancers. Their view is if “they can’t do it, they want to make sure others can’t do it as well”. You will hear them around the field, at the water cooler or in the stands. Saying things like “yea I tried that, did not work” or “you should not try that, you will just get hurt”. These comments are infectious and deadly to the champion. As in building your body up stronger to resist infection and disease, build your mind up to resist the “misery of failure” by cataloging many positive experiences and happy thoughts to go to when you hear a negative comment. Build that wall up to make your self immune. I have a statement, “why waste a day by having a ‘bad day’ when you can change that and have a ‘phenomenal day’. It may take you all day to find a reason to have a ‘phenomenal day’ but never stop the quest.

Ever see an Athlete with ear buds in his ear connected to his iPod? These athletes are using their favorite music to inspire, relax or motivate themselves. USING MUSIC can have various effects and used right can bring you the desired effect. From calming you down to pumping you up, Music triggers synapses in the brain that can be very powerful. It has been shown that listening to music can increase your focus, your heart rate and certain neurotransmitters that can have a powerful physical influence.

The mind also is your CPU so to speak. Your central processing unit, and like every great computer, its love a strong routine. Some athletes call this routine a “superstitious pattern” but all it is a routine that an athlete draws upon for stability. Routines help us stay calm under pressure by giving our minds something to focus on instead of the pressure of the moment. To take that big race and boil it down to “just another regular day”, by having a regular routine, you allow your mind to stay focuses on the task at hand instead of the “distracting noise”.

Understand this, we are not perfect! God did not make us perfect for a reason. If we feel we are perfect than we have nothing to learn. We all make mistakes; the true champion does not get upset but studies and learns from his mistakes to minimize the reoccurrence of the incident. My father had a saying, “to make a mistake is human; to repeat it is stupidity. Learn from your mistakes so you never enter the realm of stupidity!” Even the greatest of all athletes and CEOs have coaches and are able to be taught. Strive for perfection by being teachable.

Get Psyched! You know how you feel when you’re getting ready to go on the long awaited vacation? Nothing seems to bother you, no matter HOW MUCH GOES WRONG prior to departure. You are so pumped on the final outcome that the journey is just that, a journey. But the real reason is you REMEMBER what vacations are. You may have caught your first fish or had your first kiss or flew on your first plane. Whatever it is, your excitement is drawn from a past experience. Use past victories or positive moments to get pumped and inspired so much that no matter what happens prior, it does not deter you from reaching your ultimate goal.

Learn how to be an island! Have you ever heard, “you can’t do this” or “no one has ever done that” or my favorite, “don’t try that, it’s too hard”. If you buy into these negative thoughts, then you fall back into the masses or the ordinary. How do you think World records are made, or new tricks at the X-Games are done? These boundaries are shattered by athletes believing so strongly that they can do it that it is done. They have replayed the success so many times over and over in their mind that their body already knows the outcome. Even when nobody else believes they can do it, they are able to stand alone with their belief. They have found their inspiration and used it over and over till they own it. Travis Pastrana said he had done the double back flip on a motorcycle, (one of the greatest single feats in extreme sports ever) over a thousand times in a foam pit but over a MILLION times in his brain before he accomplished the unbelievable at X-games a few years ago. He was the ONLY one who believed he could do it and when the doubters gathered, he pulled off the unbelievable. Never doubt yourself; ANYONE can be BEAT at ANYTIME.

If you can’t see it, you won’t be able to do it. VISUALIZATION is one of the biggest keys to training your mind. Close your eyes and see you accomplishing your goals. Tap into all your senses and make it happen. Find the path and learn how to do it. Close your eyes, and visualize the journey to the top. What does the air feel like against your skin, what does the day/night smell like, what are the sounds surrounding you and what do you see? Practice your victories over and over again until it becomes second nature. A good example of this was a P.O.W. who was stuck in a hole during the war. Over and over he played golf in his mind. Felt the cool grass under his feet, the wind in his face, and the crowd’s thick hush in his ears. He played over and over. When he finally got released two years later he went to the golf course and shot two over par on his FIRST ATTEMPT at the game! Teach your body how to achieve the victory first by visualizing it in your mind. Ever see a dog sleep? They sometime run, in their dreams they are running but they are asleep, YET their muscles still work. When you visualize in your mind you are still are teaching your muscles how to react and move. IF you can’t see the victory in your mind, your body will never deliver the victory.

By following these steps and practicing these tricks you too can be on the road to greatness.

Dr. Terry Weyman has been working with athletes from high school to the Olympic and Professional level for over 20 years. He drew inspiration for this article from not only his personal experiences but from his teachers as well. Dr. Spencer Baron, Author of “the secrets of the game” www.secretsofthegame.com, is both an inspiration and a mentor. The other inspiration for this article came from my son, Tyler Weyman, who in a short time has climbed the ranks of Motocross into the National level. Watching his trials and tribulations was a big reason for this article, Love this kid. Dr. Terry can be reached at his website, www.gotcsi.com or on Twitter @DrTerryW

Sign up for his monthly newsletter to get more "tips on how to live your life like a pro" at www.gotcsi.com on the left hand side

Will your next protein shake land you in the hospital?

2010-06-15T14:00:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Amir Mahmud

With a recent article out in consumer reports magazine about the hidden content in protein drinks and based on how popular these drinks are getting in replacing normal meals I decided to do some research to find out what’s the hype behind these drinks and how beneficial are they for us?

Before we get into our discussion let’s take an overall look at what are proteins and what is their function in our bodies?

· Proteins are made up of amino acids and are the most abundant of the organic (carbon containing) compounds in the body. They are also the key component of all living organisms. Most of the protein is found in our muscle tissue; the remainder is distributed in soft tissue, bone, teeth, blood, and other body fluids. Hormones and enzymes (proteins that speed up the rate of chemical reactions in the body) are proteins as well.

Now that we know an overall view of proteins, the next question is how much protein do you need to stay healthy and active?

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for an average person is 0.8 grams of protein per kg. of ideal body weight per day. So for example the ideal amount of protein for a person who weighs 77 kg.(170 lbs) is 62 grams per day. This of course is going to vary depending on if you are an athlete, someone who is trying to gain/lose weight, or if you are malnourished (a problem which we don’t really worry about in America, this is mostly a concern in third world countries). Research has shown that extra protein does not automatically make extra muscle. In fact, if you eat more protein than your body uses, it will be stored as fat. The trick is to know when to consume the protein to get the most beneficial effects. The general rule is to consume proteins within 30 minutes after your workout. This is the time that your body needs the most fuel to recover. Keep in mind that depending on your activity/sport (body building, tri athlete, cyclist, runner, etc.) you can get a lot more specific on how much and when to take proteins for it to be most beneficial.

Having said that, the next big question is where are you going to get this protein from? Should you use supplements or would just eating a healthy balanced diet be adequate enough?

In an overall well-balanced diet, engineered protein offers no advantages over chicken, beef, fish, eggs, milk and other standard protein-rich foods. The protein from natural foods works perfectly fine. In fact any animal protein is "high-quality", contains all the essential amino acids you need to build muscles and is much safer than consuming engineered protein*. The reason that all these supplements (protein shake, bars, recovery drinks, etc.) are so popular is that they claim to offer the same nutritional value as a regular meal but you can take them on the go. They are designed to target the fast paced lifestyle of Americans. The problem with this is that if you start to rely on these products to get you through your day, over a prolonged period of time, you are going to start causing damage to your GI tract, kidney and other vital organs. This brings us to the point of this article.

Consumer Reports did a test on 15 protein drinks, found that all of the products tested had at least one sample containing arsenic, cadmium, lead or mercury—contaminants that can have toxic effects on the body.** Let’s take a look at what each of these elements are:
· Cadmium is a metallic element. It has primarily been used in paints, coatings and batteries. Exposure in humans can cause significant kidney and lung damage.
· Arsenic and lead are also naturally occurring metallic elements that have varieties of uses in industry from insecticides to electronics. But when consumed, they can cause cancer and brain damage.

Aside from the exposure to these chemicals prolonged use of protein drinks/bars can increase the risk of kidney stones and osteoporosis (excess protein reduces the body’s ability to absorb calcium and therefore it is stored in the kidneys and not absorbed properly).

Having said all this, the best thing to do is to figure out how much protein you need based on your goals (gain/loose weight) and activities. The best ways to get these proteins are from natural sources and the best way to make sure you don’t consume too much protein is to have a well balanced diet. If you have any questions in regards to your diet feel free to ask and we will gladly guide you in the right direction.

Dr. Amir Mahmud is a Sports Chiropractor at CSI (Chiropractic Sports Institute) in Westlake Village. Dr. Amir has vast experience working with athletes both professional and Amateur. He is the current Team Doctor for the Newbury Park HS Lacrosse team and travels with the Mobile CSI Sports Medicine team caring for athletes across southern California. He is also an expert in GI and biochemistry associated with the athlete.

* An FDA lists heavy metal content for a variety of foods which are generally good protein sources that seem to contain little or no cadmium, lead, arsenic or mercury. http://www.fda.gov/downloads/food%E2%80%A6totaldietstudy/ucm184301.pdf

**http://blogs.consumerreports.org/safety/2010/06/protein-drink-makers-respond-to-cus-investigation.html

Treat yourself like a pro Series- Tip 1 for better health- Get adjusted regularly

2010-05-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

I know, you are looking for an insight on something new and out of the box from a small European Island that only Professionals and Olympians know about. Well, that isn't that far off. In my 21 years of practice I have been labeled "a miracle worker", "our secret weapon" and "our secret edge". I am none of these, however, what these kind remarks tell me is that the athlete that uttered these phrases "gets it". He or she understands the first big "tip" in increasing ones health and increasing ones performance. If you drove your car for 40,000 miles without a tune up then decided one day, "I am going to tune up my car for the first time." You might notice that your car performs better. You might have attributed the failing gas mileage to the car getting older, or the sluggish performance as a result of driving too much, when in reality, all it needed was a "tune up" to restore its balance and performance. Want to lower your health cost, start with taking care of the structure that your muscles attach to!

The Scientific explanation is as follows:

Specific Chiropractic Manipulation within the vertebral column, known as the "adjustment", serves to improve biomechanical and Neurological function. Mechanical nerves become stimulated, which serve to:

1) inhibit pain
2) relax tight muscles
3) improve coordination

This occurs only when the vertebral joints allow proper movement of the whole spinal column. Relaxation of tight muscles, by moving their attachment points and changing joint fixations, occurs by influencing inhibitory internuerons in the anterior horn, which are alpha and gamma motor neurons.

Improved coordination from mechanical nerve stimulation helps the brain to control and coordinate movement, maintain proper balance, and control muscle tone. This occurs via the dorsal/posterior columns and the dorsal and ventral spinocerebellar tracts.

Quantifiable changes during pre and post manipulation were documented in a recent, February 2007 study published in the Clinical Journal of Neurophysiology.

This is part of the series, "Treat your self like a Pro Athlete" If you want to receive the series go to the CSI website, www.gotcsi.com and sign up for our newsletter in the left hand column.

Treat yourself like a pro!

2010-04-29T19:18:00.000-07:00

By. Dr. Terry Weyman

Western Medicine or Eastern Medicine, Primary or "alternative medicine", these are topics I hear all the time yet, do they make sense? Why can't we all just get along! Before we start with this topic, I ask you to put on your logical thinking cap. According to Dr. Spencer Baron, Author of "Secrets of the Game" "Up until the eighteenth century, the health-care world viewed the body as a fully functioning and integrated organism. Homeopathy, a therapeutic model designed to treat the Whole patient, was the widespread treatment of choice. This model contends that disorder and disease are expressed as a complex "collision" of events that result in physical, as well as emotional and /or mental, symptoms. Then along the path, came along theories, backed by both political and financial power that suggested we are not complex organisms that are integrated and work together but a complex group of individual parts that must be looked at closely and treated individually". Does this make sense? In everyday life you are told to say "YES" to this question. However, in the world of Professional Sports you are encouraged to say "NO"!

To see the big picture you must realize one BIG difference between you and the professional athlete. A professional athlete is a commodity; they make money for the team owner, the team staff, their sponsors, advertisers, agents, Doctors and trainers. As a commodity the interest to keep them on the "field" is financial. While they are playing, they are making people money. When they are hurt, they are costing people money. The goal is to make money, so they use whatever it takes to keep the player playing. With current law the use of illegal drugs, though still out there, are getting less used and out of the box "tricks" are getting used more and more. You and I, we don't make OTHER people money when we are sick, so, the goal to heal fast is low. Stay sicker longer, you make Doctors, trainers, therapists, Pharmaceutical companies, biotech companies and your insurance company money. Is the goal then to heal you fast?

I ask you to start looking at your health differently. To learn the concepts I will teach you in the coming weeks you need to change your mental status first, if you truly want to increase your wellness, happiness and increase your athletic performance. In this "economy" you can't afford not to. Our current treat-the-symptoms- not-the-cause mentality has cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills- and untold months of potential wellness. Who is in charge of YOUR health, YOU, the Government or your insurance company? You can only take care of yourself IF your insurance company covers it? You only eat, or take care of your car if SOMEONE ELSE says it’s ok? Look at how you are spending your money and who is in charge of YOU. Your health is your most important asset, more than your house or car. You are the best person to make decisions about your life, your body, and your health, but only IF you are well informed about your choices, your body, and the possibilities available to you for self-care and healing. In the coming weeks and months we will explore these questions and answers. Share this with everyone and let’s make some changes. Sign up today at www.gotcsi.com to start getting Tidbits and learn how YOU can take charge of your health and increase your athletic performance.

Chiropractic Sports Institute located in Westlake and Moorpark California.

Get the most out of your bike ride!!!

2010-04-06T17:30:00.000-07:00

By. Dr. Amir Mahmud

With the Tour de California coming to town (Final stage in Westlake half a mile from our Westlake office) we were recently asked to give a lecture at Conejo Valley Cycling (CVC) club on the topics of proper hydration, nutrition, warming up, stretching and cooling down. Since most of the members were very interested on the warm up, stretching, cooling down part of the lecture I decided to dedicate this blog on how to properly warm up, stretch and cool down in order to avoid sports related injuries.

So, why should we warm up and stretch prior to exercising? Did you know that a proper warm up and stretching routine can improve an athlete’s performance by as much as 15%?

Here are some guidelines to follow in order to take full advantage of your body and maximize your workout experience.

• Always warm up prior to stretching &/or exercising
o Warming up increases the blood flow to your muscles, ligaments and tendons
o At least 3 to 5 min of mild cardiovascular training is recommended to warm up sufficiently

 Examples of a good warm up prior to ride include:

• Getting on your trainer and ride for 20 min prior to your race
• Jump rope for 10-15 min
• Fast walk to the point of sweating
• Slow bike ride to the point of sweating
• Slow jog to the point of sweating

Once you have warmed up you can begin your stretch routine. Remember in order to increase your performance by 15% you have to make stretching part of your daily routine. Proper stretching includes 3 different aspects. Frequency, Intensity, and duration.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these topics.

• Frequency refers to how often you do your stretches. It is recommended to stretch at least 1-2 times daily.
• Intensity refers to how hard you stretch. For example when you are doing a set of 10 repetitions of hamstring stretch you want to ease your way into the stretch. The first 2-4 repetitions should be held at the initial phase of muscle contraction. The next few repetitions push the muscle a bit farther into the stretch. By the 8-10 repetition you can push the muscle farther and farther. Make sure you breathe in order to have proper oxygen supply for the muscles. It is very important to remember to avoid the “No pain, No gain” theory. This can actually lead to injuries.
• Duration refers to how long you hold each stretch. It is recommended to hold each stretch a minimum of 10 seconds and in order to get the full benefits of the stretch, hold for 60 seconds

Once you have finished your ride/exercise it is important to cool down properly. When you cool down properly you can decrease sports specific injuries, cut down on lactic acid build up in your muscles, reduce overuse, and prevent post race stiffness. A proper cool down will allow the heart rate and respiration rates to decrease gradually, placing less stress on body systems than if the activity is abruptly stopped.

The biggest complaint I hear is "I don't have time to do all of this, or, I never use to do all of this". The answer to the first, is you don't have time NOT too, and the answer to the second is, your getting older, you body has gotten away with mistakes for years and it won't last much longer. To properly take care of your body you have always had to do all of this, remember, just because you haven't, does not mean you shouldn't.

I hope these general guidelines help you get the most out of your ride. If you have any questions or want to know specific stretches feel free to contact me and I will gladly go over them with you. Till next time, have a fun and safe ride. Dr. Amir can be reached at CSI Westlake, 2277 Townsgate Road, ste 101, Westlake Village, Ca 91361. 805.371.0737 or visit us on the web at www.gotcsi.com

Dr. Amir Mahmud is one of the Sports Chiropractors at Chiropractic Sports Institute in Westlake Village. He has been a treating Doctor on the sidelines of many sports and as successfully treated many Professional and top amateur athletes for years. Dr. Terry Weyman, the CEO of CSI, has been named the Medical Director of the final stage of the Tour de California.

Time to get ready for SUMMER!

2010-03-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Ed Green

We here in California are lucky because we are able to play sports year round out doors. With summer approaching quickly and the days getting much longer we all need to prepare our bodies for some intense out door fun.

As for my self, my Highland games season is now in full swing. I am playing softball 2 to 3 nights a week and I have been coaching some youngins how to throw the shot put for youth track. With the level of activity increasing, we all need to get in a habit of daily stretching. Daily stretching will help prevent those nagging injuries that will keep us from playing.

I recommend the following several stretches to be done pre play and then some to be done post play. Before sports that require fast twitch muscle I would not recommend doing static stretching. You should more do stretches that mimic the sport that you are about to play.

Stretches to be done PRE-GAME

1) Karaokes. For about 20yds
2) Bounding for about 20 yds
3) Butt kickers for about 20 yds
4) Quick Feet drills for about 20yds
5) Double leg high jumps standing in place 3 sets 6 reps
6) Moving lunges at least 10 per leg.

Stretches to be done POST-play( Each stretch hold 15-20 sec)

1) Hamstring stretches standing and seated
2) Quadricep stretches stand and side lying
3) Figure 4 Gluteal stretches
4) Calves standing and on all fours.
5) Chest stretches for pectoralis major and minor
6) Neck stretches

These simple yet useful stretches if done pre and post all events will help the body maintain its flexibility and prevent those nagging little injuries that keep us in doors and not out enjoying our beautiful area.

I strive to teach all my patients these stretches because I have seen how beneficial they are to ones recovery and to maintaining an injury free season. I hope these help all of you and allow you play to best of your ability and injury FREE.

Ed Green D.C. C.C.S.P
CSI Moorpark
805-531-1188

Creating SUPER FEET!

2010-03-22T21:15:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

After seeing a few good injuries to several athletes feet in the past few months, I started thinking about ways to strengthen their feet to combat these injuries. If your feet are stronger, they can withstand more forces before having any complications. With muscle thickness you gain added strength and a secondary structural barrier to absorb and disperse impacting forces. When athletes train, walk, ride and run in shoes/boots, the musculature in their feet isn’t being adequately trained. By exercising your feet, not only will you reduce injuries but you will improve upon your balance and overall mobility.

One of the best ways to strengthen your feet is by running in sand, such as a beach or even the soft desert sand, barefoot. By running in the soft sand barefoot, your toes and feet are required to flex and extend more than when your feet are confined to footware. Also, since the ground is soft, your arch is protected since the ground will support all anatomical angles of the foot. If you don’t have access to a beach or soft sand try these basic exercises. You will be surprised how much more challenging basic movements are, when performed barefoot. Even simple lunges will become challenging since you are not use to having your feet activate, grip and stabilize. When starting out, keep your barefoot movements basic and perform on a soft mat to aid in biomechanical support to your feet. A typical warm-up might include the forward lunge, backward lunge, and even a simple heel-toe walk, making your foot strike the heel first and then roll up on the ball of the foot. Once this is done easily, add a simple carioca or shuffle forward and back then side to side.

By adding barefoot work to your weekly routine, you will build up those little guys that carry you around all day and in return, you just might even get some happy feet! If you REALLY want to make them happy, get them some compression socks to wear after your workouts.

Until next time, Dr. Terry
www.gotcsi.com

Shoulder injuries, not just an adult issue!

2010-03-08T14:46:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

I have been seeing a lot more shoulder injuries in these past few months than I have seen in the past few years. One significant change I notice is the age of the athlete with these injuries. They are getting younger and younger. When researching patterns, I notice these younger athletes are playing their sports longer. In addition to regular practices, athletes have longer seasons (regular ball, fall ball, All-stars, club teams and travel teams) some even hiring private trainers in the off season. Kids are coming to the office with injuries not usually seen until college or professional level. We can use this knowledge for several purposes, recovery and avoidence. We can refocus our efforts for the long haul instead of the short gain, realizing that our kids have an entire life ahead and being the best NOW is just that, its NOW. BUT repetitive stress injuries are FOREVER.

With repetitive activities muscles will adapt and change. Patterns will be developed which can lead to injuries. Asymmetric (not even with the other shoulder) passive (non muscle use) shoulder (scapular) motion has been linked in ‘throwing’ athletes and may be a predisposing factor to injury. What does this mean? With the athletes shirt off grab his/her elbow and lift their arm out to the side and then again forward. Does their shoulder blade move the same on each side? With their arms at their side and forearms in front of them at 90 degrees, rotate their hands toward their belly and away (internal and external rotation). Do they move the same? Conditions such as labral and rotator cuff injuries have been linked with decreases in glenohumeral internal-rotation and increases in external-rotation motion. Also, decreased glenohumeral internal rotation is strongly associated with scapular dysfunction. The younger the athlete, the more ROM (range of motion) they should have, since younger athletes have more ligament laxity. IF they are showing tightness or restricted ROM, they are heading for an injury. Just as if one shoulder is much looser, this can also lead to injury.

If you notice that your athlete is showing restriction or excessive elasticity, stop their activity and get them on a scapular stability program to even them out before continuing. By working the scapula (shoulder blade), the shoulder will respond faster and be more stable. Once the Range of motions is equal, build the athlete back to competitive level. By keeping an eye on these structures you can decrease the risks that lead to shoulder injuries. I am always amazed that people will check, pre check and over check their vehicles looking for wear and tear to avoid costly repairs, but they do not do this with their bodies or their children’s bodies. In some sports I will see the parents spending hours and thousands of dollars on getting their equipment just right or perfectly balanced, yet their child walks around with a limp or has one shoulder higher than the other. It makes no sense at all! Machines can be replaced and bought; you only get one body- take good care of it!

Dr.Terry Weyman
www.gotcsi.com

It’s a BIRD it’s a PLANE its TRAUMEEL?????

2010-02-01T21:17:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Ed Green

It’s a BIRD, it’s a PLANE, its… TRAUMEEL?????

What is Traumeel you ask? Traumeel is anti-inflammatory, homeopathy, supplement that helps the body regulate the inflammatory process post injury. Many of us immediately put ice on the area, elevate the area if needed and take some over the counter NSAIDs(Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatory drug). Today, I am here to tell you that TRAUMEEL will help decrease your pain level quicker. For the past several years, I have been using TRAUMEEL in place of NSAIDs and I have seen some impressive quick improvements. Unlike NSAIDS or prescription drugs, there are no side effects or complications. Many of my patients use TRAUMEEL on a dialy basis to help ease arthritis pain, swollen joints, bruises and the run of the mill muscle aches.

The following link is to the HEEL website that gives a short but informative video on the biological process of TRAUMEEL and why it works.

http://www.heelusa.com/Misc/heel_mode_movie_player.htm

The website www.Heel.com has many other links to articles and information on why TRAUMEEL is so effective. As a Sports Chiropractor, I cannot prescribe medication, so having a HOMEOPATHIC Anti-inflammatory supplement as effective as TRAUMEEL enables me to get my patients feeling better quicker. We all want to return to our daily activites as soon as we can and not be in pain. So with the addition of TRAUMEEL to your regular Chiropractic care, you will see a large improvement in your daily life.

The following is an exerpt from the FDA and TRAUMEEL on the safty risks of NSAIDs.

The FDA, www.fda.gov, announced that NSAIDs will have to revise their labeling to include warnings about potential safety risks such as internal bleeding and liver damage. Traumeel® has none of these side effects. Furthermore, the makers of Traumeel®, Heel USA, state on their Website, www.heelusa.com, that there is no risk of overdosing, and it has no adverse renal, hepatic, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal or central nervous system (CNS) side effects. Listed in the Physicians’ Desk Reference (PDR), Traumeel® is available in multi-dosage forms including: an Rx injection solution and over-the-counter petroleum-free gel, tablets, ointment, oral vials and oral drops. Traumeel® is regulated by the FDA as well as all Heel products.

This just shows the high effectiveness of TRAUMEEL with no issues of overdose. To me, it is the perfect supplement to aid in pain reduction.
At the Moorpark office we have several forms of TRAUMEEL ranging from oral tablets to topical cream. We also carry other HEEL products such as: SPASCAPREEL which helps decrease muscle spasm along with menstral cramps and HEADACHE II which has been extrememly effective in reducing the intensity and frequency of headaches and migraines.

I highly recommend TRAUMEEL to all my patients who want a more natural way of reducing pain and inflammation. When I see effective products such as these, I love to let everyone know about it. Please contact our office for details, or stop by for a free sample, 805-531-1188.

Dr.Ed Green is the clinic Director of CSI Moorpark, 301 Science Drive, ste 100, Moorpark California.

Does your child get ear infections?

2010-01-21T10:13:00.000-08:00

By Dr. Amir Mahmud

Does your child suffer from chronic ear infections? If so, did you know that chiropractic care is one of the best ways to help children suffering from ear infections? Let’s take a look at what an “ear infection” is, some common causes of middle ear infection, why it is common in children, and traditional treatment vs. alternative treatments.

Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection) is the inflammation and/or infection of the middle ear, the area just behind the ear drum. It happens when the Eustachian tube(auditory tube), which connect the middle ear to the nose, become blocked with fluid. With the infection, mucus, pus, and bacteria can also pool behind the eardrum, causing pressure and pain. Some factors that make otitis media more prevalent in children than adults include bacterial colonization in the absence of antibody, frequent upper respiratory infections, exposure to parental cigarette smoke and change in Eustachian tube function/anatomy. Let’s take a closer look at each scenario and see how it can contribute to ear infections in children.

• Bacterial Colonization:
o “Colonization with Streptococcus pneumonia, Haemophilus influenza, or Moraxella catarrhalis increases the risk of otitis media, whereas colonization with the normal flora such as the viridians streptococci may prevent otitis episodes by inhibiting the growth of these pathogens” [1]. Taking that into consideration, it is a good idea to stay away from antibiotics for as long as possible in treating children with ear infections.

 From et al reported on the results of a study involving 3,660 children in nine countries. The authors concluded, "Antibiotic treatment did not improve the rate of recovery of patients in this study." In fact, they stated, "Patients who did not take antibiotics had a higher rate of recovery than those who did..." [2]

• Viral Upper Respiratory Infection (URI):
o Viral infections can impair auditory canal function by increasing swelling and edema in the tube which can lead to increased pressure and pain.

• Smoke exposure:
o Exposing children to second hand smoke increases the susceptibility and duration of ear infections by enhancing colonization, prolonging the inflammatory response and impeding drainage through the auditory canal. [2]

• Change in Eustachian Tube anatomy:
o Children below the age of seven years are much more prone to ear infections since the Eustachian tube is shorter and at more of a horizontal angle than in the adult ear. As we age the auditory canal becomes more vertical and as a result it is less susceptible to fluid accumulation and bacterial colonization.

So you might ask. How can chiropractic care help my sick kid?

• The chiropractic model and philosophy is based on realigning the spine, opening up nerve pathways, restoring muscular tone and increasing nervous system communication to increase overall health. In children with chronic ear infections the lymphatic drainage is significantly reduced in the middle ear. This is due to the fact that the drainage of middle ear runs by way of the cervical lymph system and depends significantly for its flow on adequate muscle activity. When there is a misalignment in one of the vertebrae in the neck, the irritation caused by that problem can be sufficient to cause the neck muscles to develop a state of increased tension or spasm. The resulting muscle contraction, especially in the area of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM), can be the cause of restricted lymph drainage from the ear. With the disruption in the normal lymphatic activity your body’s immunity is lowered and therefore you are more prone to viral and bacterial invaders. By having the cervical spine adjusted we can open up the lymphatic block and increase the body’s immunity. In addition to adjustments, we also utilize the Erchonia Low level laser to decrease inflammation, reset muscle tone, and boost the body’s immunity.

I hope this article has been informative. If you have any question feel free to send us an email or stop by the office and have your young ones adjusted. Till next time…

Dr. Amir

1. Hay W, Levin M, Sondheimer J, Deterding R. “Current diagnosis and treatment in pediatrics” 8th edition: 459-475
2. Froom J, Culpepper L, Grob P, et al: "Diagnosis and antibiotic treatment of acute otitis media: a report from the International Primary Care Network." BMJ (1990) 300(6724):582.

To be better, start with the EYES!

2010-01-05T06:47:00.001-08:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

We often forget to train our eyes for our sport yet they are so instrumental in initiating all quick movements. Your head follows your eyes and consequently, your body follows your head. By training the eyes, quick movements such as; darting through that hole in the defense, finding your receiver quicker, making that quick hockey shot or getting the ball in the elusive corner of the lacrosse net, will become easier. Training the eyes will also help reaction time for sports such as Motocross and Baseball. Do this simple drill for 10-20 seconds two to three times a week and watch YOUR eye reaction speed increase. Have a partner, stand behind you with a red laser pointer. Have them move the pointer on the wall in front of you in quick patterns, all around the wall. Do NOT move your head, just your eyes and follow the dot. Make a game to see if your partner can move the dot faster or in a pattern that you can’t keep up with. Practice this simple drill and watch your performance increase!

Dr. Terry Weyman is the CEO of The Chiropractic Sports Institute in Southern California. You can visit their website at www.gotcsi.com and sign up for their bi-monthly newsletter, TidBits.

Improve your golf game, with a sense of balance!

2009-12-14T07:06:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

In the spirit of the World Cup Challenge at Sherwood Country club, a few weeks back, I decided to write about the great game of Golf. Still, I waited a few weeks for the Tiger jokes to drop off, since it was too easy and focus back on the game and how to improve your strokes for 2010. Maybe you thought with the title of this article I was going to be talking about making sure your home life was in good shape before you hit the course, but NO, I am going to talk about how to get more yards when you strike the ball without spending another grand on the newest club.

Since Golf is pure biomechanics and all about generating power from the body that transcends from the club to the ball, balance is the key! When your body is in perfect balance, your ball will go straighter and go longer. So, let's find out how we can tap into the little secret that the pros have used for YEARS!

What is balance? Let's first take a look at what happens when your balance system is not working properly. If you’re an athlete, simple things like movement, standing up, generating torque and bending down are severely effected. Balance effects all athletic endeavors and some experts have named balance training as the key to overall athletic improvement, strength, and performance.

How the Balance system works.

Human beings keep their balance when nerve signals from three different systems are accurately sent to and processed by the brain. The three different systems are the eyes (vision), pressure sensors in the legs, feet and torso (proprioception), and inner ear balance organs (vestibular system).

1. VISION- Vision provides necessary information to the brain about our relationship to the environment. As we move and see how objects in our world are changing, our brains calculate our body’s relationship to those objects.

2. Proprioception- Humans seem to rely primarily on signals from the pressure sensors in the legs, feet and torso (proprioceptors) to maintain good balance. Birds and fish rely primarily on their inner ears (vestibular) system for balance. Since humans stand on only two legs, we must continually use muscles to remain stable. This is the system that we can train, improve, and fine tune. Getting foot inserts (our KLM over the counter or more specific custom orthotics), training on balance trainers such as the INDO BOARD.

3. Vestibular- The inner ear balance organs (vesibular systems) send signals to the brain about head and body movements relative to gravity. The brain selects the most accurate signals from the three balance systems and sends messages back to the muscles of the limbs, torso and neck to keep us stable and to keep our view of the world upright. The more signals the brain receives and sends, the better the balance. Sometimes the signals the brain receives or sends are disturbed, so balance becomes difficult.

How to achieve total balance.

As described above, to achieve total balance requires the teamwork of several systems. There are several other factors that contribute to total balance such as how we breathe, our mental state, muscle tone and control, body position and how we stand.

1. Breathing- Calm breathing from your gut (diaphragm) is the breathing method of choice. The other way we breath is call “neck breathing” and that is when we use our shoulders to inhale the air. This puts our center of gravity higher also does not allow the body to completely relax. By breathing from our “gut”. We keep our center of gravity lower thus allowing us to stay more relaxed fluid and balanced.

2. Mental state- Clear your mind before beginning any form of balance training. When our mind is aggravated, stressed out or busy our body is tense. A tense body is not fluid. For example, take a bag of water and a ridged pole. Try to balance each on end. The bag of water moves with the surface in a smooth and fluid motion while the pole falls with the slightest movement.

3. Muscle tone- remember the saying “your foot bone is connected to the leg bone….”. Well this is true in that your skeletal structure is all connected from your feet to your head and the muscles tie all of these bones together and allow motion to take place. Since our center of gravity is centered on the pelvis we must be concerned with the muscles and joints that support the pelvis. Our feet are our foundation. Our Quadriceps (the front part of our legs) support the lower front of our pelvis, the hamstrings (back of leg) support the lower back half. Our stomach is opposite of our lower back which takes care of the upper portion of our pelvis. Muscle tone and flexibility is important for all of these structures to have equal tension and pull on the pelvis. If one of these areas are weak the whole system will be effected. As I have talked about many times, muscles attach to the BONE and Joints! If there is any tightness in the muscle the nerves will hold and restrict the joints. WHY DO YOU THINK the top 20 PRO Golfers have Sports Chiropractor on staff (I have been one). Why because the top Golfers get worked on before AND after every big round of golf to keep the body in perfect joint/muscle harmony. ALSO, with every injury use a balance trainer such as the INDO BOARD to rehabilitate your injury faster and to keep the proprioception in working order.

4. Body position- lower your center of gravity is the key to perfect and long lasting balance. By keeping your feet even with your shoulders, dropping your “butt” by bending your knees and keeping your back straight, keeping your arms out but thumbs down (pointing towards your center) we can achieve balance position. Keeping our knees bent and back straight is a key. The key to this is keeping your head up and looking straight ahead. Remember this, “you look down, you will go down”.

It is true that some people seem to have an innate sense of balance and others have to “work at it”. If you are considered a type “A” person then you will fall into the category of “need extra work”. Balance training is an excellent way of turning your mental intensity into focus movements for overall wellbeing.

Balance training beyond the greens.

Balance training is mandatory for any athletic event but also very important for any movement associated with life. Balance training has been shown to reduce the incidence of injuries to the ankle, knee, hips, back and upper body. The role of balance training in maintaining functional joints stability is also an excellent form of rehabilitation for injuries to the above structures. When you injure a structure, ligaments or joint capsule the proprioceptive signal is weakened. This weakened signal inhibits the normal motor response and diminishes the neuromuscular stabilization of the joint. This condition contributes to a pattern of repetitive injury. Try the following tips to help your balance achieve PRO STATUS!

• Wear inserts or custom orthotics (go to your CSI Doctor)
• Get adjusted regularly (go to CSI-get tuned up)
• Use balance trainers such as the INDO BOARD daily (eyes open and eyes closed)
• Stand on one foot while brushing your teeth (left foot first min of brushing and right foot second min)
• Try cross training with yoga

Use Balance training to break the cycle. If you want to hit father and save money on new and expensive clubs, then follow these quick steps and the only thing falling will be your handicap!

Dr. Terry Weyman
CEO Chiropractic Sports Institute
www.gotcsi.com

SLEEP IS IT OVERRATED?

2009-12-05T11:37:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Ed Green

Many of us do not get enough sleep. It is estimated that the average person spends a third of their lifetime SLEEPING, A THIRD!!!! It is very important that we get sleep and get good sleep. In fact, lack of sleep can contribute to some of the following issues: depression, acid reflux, irritability, hormonal changes, decrease in tissue recovery, appetite issues and many more. For a full list of sleep complications you can visit (http://www.sleep-deprivation.com/articles/types-of-sleep-disorder/lack-of-sleep/index.php)

Sleep is something that we need in order to properly heal and recover from injuries. For those individuals who are suffering from many forms of chronic pain and or fatigue, sleep is vital to you. In this article I will cover some ways that you can help increase your sleep and make sure that it is the right type of sleep. There can be many issues keep us from getting a good nights sleep. Some of the top issues that keep us from counting those sheep are:

1) Uncomfortable beds
2) Poor diet
3) Over use of medications or alcohol
4) Injury
5) Lack of intimacy
6) Improper napping (too long or too close to normal bed time)
7) Stress

These are just a few of the items that can cause one to lose sleep. Our bodies need sleep. They need, depending on the person, between 6-9 hours of sleep. Many of us don’t get that, or if we do, it is interrupted sleep from the issues above.

So how do we get a good nights sleep?

- First thing I always try to do is go BLAND before bedtime.

- Do not watch any TV shows that cause any form of excitement at least 1 hour before bedtime.

- NO CAFEEINE after noon.

- Try and keep a normal bed time. Sets your internal clock and keeps your biochemistry more balanced.

- Keep the TV out of the bed room. The bedroom should be for sleep and private times.

- Chiropractic adjustments also help with getting a great night’s sleep. If you are sore and have pain an adjustment will help ease that pain so that you can fall asleep quicker and stay asleep longer. Since muscle attaches to bone, by adjusting the joints the pressure is relieved throughout the muscles. This helps restore the biochemistry and neurology and relaxes the body.

- Having something in the background like a small fan or a radio set to a timer allowing some gentle white noise will help to distract your mind to fall asleep quicker.

There are countless things that can be done to allow one to fall asleep faster. The use of prescription sleep aids may be indicated in certain cases (however these come with side effects that can be worse than the condition you are suffering from) so please check with your Medical Doctor if you are a candidate for them. In the mean time one can also take some natural Melatonin, which is naturally produced in the human body. You can get Melatonin in supplement form and it will help you to fall asleep more naturally. During the busy holiday hustle and bustle we all need to make sure and get our sleep. Sleep is the one thing that all of us do not get enough of. Getting the proper amount of sleep will help with the stress of holidays, family issues and of course WORK. I hope that this brief article will help those who are suffering from lack of sleep and at least get you started in the right direction of what to do. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at CSI Moorpark, 805-531-1188.

I wish you all the best and HAPPY HOLIDAYS.

Dr. Ed Green
Clinic Director, CSI Moorpark
www.gotcsi.com

Should you bring your sick child to a Chiropractor?

2009-11-23T20:27:00.000-08:00

By: Dr. Amir Mahmud

With the flu season upon us and both kids and adults getting sick I decided to write an article about how kids can benefit from regular chiropractic care in boosting their immune system and keeping their bodies healthy as they grow. So can chiropractic care really help kids? Let’s take a look at different stages of a kid’s life, how they might get injured, and as a result benefit from an adjustment.
One of the first places the human body encounters stress is at birth. The birthing process can be and is often very traumatic to an infant. One easy method to tell if a baby’s neck is misaligned is to watch where he or she looks in a car seat. If the baby constantly looks in the same direction, the vertebrae in their neck are most likely fixed.

As babies grow and learn to crawl and walk, they tend to fall. As a result they start to affect proper joint and muscle motion. As they continue to grow their spines are modified by their newly acquired body positions and by gravity. It is important to have a child’s spine checked at the major milestones of development, especially at the crawling and walking stages to ensure they have proper biomechanics.

As kids start playing sports, especially contact sports they start noticing aches and pain in their backs. Heading the ball when playing soccer, sliding into bases during little league, being hit by the ball or by other players in baseball or basketball can all cause misalignments in a child’s spine.

In addition to restoring proper biomechanics, adjustments can also help kids with boosting their immune system by enhancing the communication of the nervous system. Furthermore, Infantile Colic and Otitis Media are two common childhood conditions in which research has shown chiropractic can provide beneficial effects.

Infantile Colic:

This condition is described as unexplainable and uncontrollable crying in babies up to 3 months of age for more than 3 hours per day, more than 3 days a week, and for more than 3 weeks. Additional symptoms include the baby’s knees pulled up to the chest, clenched fist, and extension of the trunk or extremities. A Denmark study (Klougart N, Nilsson N, Jacobsen J. Infantile colic treated by chiropractors: a prospective study of 316 cases. J Manip Physiol Ther 1989; 12(4): 281-8) showed that 94% of the infants who received chiropractic care noted a significant decrease of crying time within two weeks of treatment.

Otitis Media:

This condition is described as a clinical term for middle ear infection. The child can present with tugging on the ear, poor sleep, fever, irritability, ear and nasal discharge, decreased appetite and crying. By the age of 3, over two thirds of children have had a middle ear infection. A study conducted on 332 children (ages 27 days to 5 years old) with recurrent bouts of Otitis Media, who showed no response to antibiotics, showed that after getting adjusted the children healed quickly and had fewer repeat infections.Falon JM. The role of the chiropractic adjustment in the care and treatment of 332 children with Otitis Media. Journal of clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics. 1997;2(2):167-183

So bring in your kids to your Chiropractor and lets all stay healthy in the upcoming holiday season!!!

Dr. Amir Mahmud is one of the Sports Chiropractors at Chiropractic Sports Institute in Westlake Village. You can contact him at www.gotcsi.com

Cell phones- are they as safe as you think?

2009-11-07T18:08:00.000-08:00

By Dr. Terry Weyman

Some patients call me the “Cell Phone Ogre”. With the “no cell phone” signs in the office, I have set a policy that all cell phones are to be turned off when coming to CSI. Well, studies are showing that there are more reasons to turn off your phone other than, “We don’t want to hear other people’s conversations”. Cell phones are becoming a staple in the 21st century. Approximately 60,000 to 70,000 cell phones are sold each day in the United States. Over 110+ million Americans use cell phones. And worldwide, it is estimated that approximately 1 billion people use cell phones. As the number of cell phones, cell phone towers, and other wireless antennas increase rapidly in industrialized nations, should you be concerned about the effects that regular exposure to radio frequency radiation can have on your health?

If you are a parent, an athlete or one who is fighting illnesses or stress, the answer is yes, you SHOULD be concerned about the effect that wireless devices and broadcasting antennas can have on your health. We research our schools, we research before we make large purchases, but when it comes to our health or making healthy decisions we sometimes “go with the flow”. As a society we are, at times, more concerned about how we may appear to others than making the right decision that will effect our well being. There are a few websites that every parent, athlete, student and businessperson should visit. The information MAY save your health, give you some valuable tips, and or teach you how you can get more “power from your body”. The information is out there, to ignore it is well, ignorance at its best. To think this does not pertain to you, well that is just plain, shall I say it, yep, stupid. The excuse to give your child a cell phone so you can stay in touch is truly, more a control issue than a valuable argument. Please, take the time to read these studies. There are many more where these came from. After reading through them, ask the hard questions, what if they are right?

Council on Wireless Technology impacts http://energyfields.org.
Cell phone dangers http://www.quantumbalancing.com/news/newcelldangers.htm
Two year study on cell phone dangers: http://www.rense.com/general26/2yrs.htm
Many Nations banning cell phones for kids http://drbenkim.com/cell-phone-warnings.htm
Europe reports on cell phone dangers http://www.rense.com/general60/tetra.htm
Mobile radiation and health http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_phone_radiation_and_health

Some of the highlights of all the studies point in the same direction, possible danger! Cell phones and wireless phones emit microwave radiation that can effect all the cells in our bodies. Think of putting a glass of water in a microwave oven and turn it on. What does the water do? It boils. Below are key points brought up in many of the studies

1. Regular exposure to radio frequency radiation may interfere with the electrical fields of our cells. Cell and wireless phones are bad, blue tooth ear pieces are the worst! Common health challenges that have been linked to regular exposure to radio frequency radiation include:
o Abnormal cell growth and damage to cellular DNA
o Difficulty sleeping, depression, anxiety, and irritability
o Childhood and adult leukemia
o Eye cancer
o Immune system suppression
o Brain and jaw cancer
o TMJ disorder
o Calcium uptake issues
o Hearing and ear problems
o Attention span deficit and memory loss
o Infertility

2. Children are at much higher risk than adults of experiencing health problems related to regular exposure to radio frequency radiation; thinner and smaller skulls translate to greater absorption of radio frequency. Many countries are looking to ban cell phones usage for children under 12. Russia is looking at banning under the age of 18.

3. From the early 1950's to the mid 1970's, the U.S. embassy in Moscow was purposefully bombarded by radio frequency radiation 24 hours a day. The U.S. embassy workers experienced what the perpetrators identified as "Radio Frequency Sickness Syndrome."
After some time of concentrated radio frequency radiation exposure, the American ambassador developed leukemia. The next American ambassador also developed leukemia. Blood tests performed on embassy staff members showed irreversible DNA damage.

4. Dr. Jerry Phillips, a biochemist researcher, began studying cell phone safety for Motorola more than a decade ago. When he started generating data that indicated that cell phones have negative effects on human health, Motorola took a number of steps to delay publication of Dr. Phillips' work.
According to Dr. Phillips, Motorola's main concerns with his data were how to handle public relations and how to spin the results in a way that was favorable to the industry.
Dr. Phillips also indicates that the only significant money that is available to do research on cell phone safety issues is industry money. This is why he has no faith in studies that are coming out.

5. You can use a radio and microwave detector to measure the amount of harmful radiation that your living and work spaces are penetrated by. The detector used in the documentary is called the "Microalert Radio/Microwave Alarm."
Recommendations for Cell safety: (according to wikipedia)
Some national radiation advisory authorities, including those of Austria, France, Germany, and Sweden have recommended measures to minimize exposure to their citizens. Examples of the recommendations are:
• Use hands-free to decrease the radiation to the head.
• Keep the mobile phone away from the body.
• Do not use telephone in a car without an external antenna.

The use of "hands-free" was not recommended by the British Consumers' Association in a statement in November 2000, as they believed that exposure was increased. However, measurements for the (then) UK Department of Trade and Industry and others for the French l’Agence française de sécurité sanitaire environnementale showed substantial reductions. In 2005 Professor Lawrie Challis and others said clipping a ferrite bead onto hands-free kits stops the radio waves travelling up the wire and into the head.
It’s said we only use a small portion of our brains ultimate potential. As a society we keep advancing the technology but are these advancements always for the better? Sometimes yes, but sometimes we exchange one evil for another. My goal is always looking at ways to achieve better health, higher athletic performance and mortal wellbeing. The topic of cell phone safety is not a new one and you can find position papers on both sides of the safety issue, but what does your gut, intuition and logic tell you? The answer to THAT may be your best defense of all!

Guidelines for Head injuries in contact sports

2009-10-16T14:54:00.000-07:00

In lieu of the recent tragedy that happened to the young football player in Simi Valley I have felt compelled to put this article together. Please share it with all your friends who participate in high action and contact sports. I have been associated with high action and contact sports for over 20 years and it saddens me when I hear of accidents such as this. Most of these accidents are just that, they are rare accidents. However, understanding brain injuries and knowing what to do is an important part of the “recovery” phase.

I recall an article that addressed head injuries in youth sports. On March 14, 1997, an Issue of MMWR of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes two cases of second-impact syndrome that resulted in deaths. One case involved a high school football player in 1991 and the other a college football player. In each case, the player did not require hospitalization, and each player was sent home for close monitoring with no follow up guidelines. The American Academy of Neurology has developed guidelines for preventing second-impact syndrome and reducing the frequency of other cumulative brain injuries. These are different than the “Famed” Colorado guidelines and air on the side of being conservative.

Summary of Recommendations for Management of Concussions in Sports

The most common head injury is the concussion. Concussions are a form of brain injury that should not be taken lightly. The after effects of a concussion, post-concussion syndrome, can linger for days or weeks. Concussions are an unfortunate side effect of collision sports such as football, hockey, lacrosse, motorcycle and bicycle riding. They range in severity from the minor (“I just had my bell rung") to major, life threatening brain contusions ("he was knocked out cold”).

A concussion is defined as a clinical syndrome characterized by immediate and transient post-traumatic impairment of neural function owing to mechanical forces. A concussion occurs when the body is moving rapidly through space and suddenly stops. Keep in mind that the brain is traveling at the same velocity as the rest of the body. When the body suddenly stops, the brain continues to move at the same velocity in the same direction. The brain then hits the skull and bounces back, hitting the opposite side of the skull until it loses momentum. This occurs due to the fact that the brain is floating in the cerebral spinal fluid, and does not actually touch the skull.

When the brain strikes the skull, a portion of it is damaged. When enough damage is done, it begins to operate improperly. This is when the outsider notices the symptoms of the concussion. The effects of these repeated blows to the brain are cumulative, that is, one blow intensifies the effects of the previous. Because of this, an athlete may take what appears to be a slight blow to the head or body and then show the symptoms of the concussion.

There is no standard classification system for concussions. Four of the leading researchers in head injuries maintain their own classification system. The symptoms of each degree of concussion are often very similar, and it is easy to be confused when assessing a head injury. However, the latest protocol that is recognized as the leader is the information by the ANA (American Neurological Association).

Definitions from the ANA and treatment recommendations for each category are presented below.

Grade 1 Concussion

• Definition: Transient confusion, no loss of consciousness, and a duration of mental status abnormalities under 15 minutes.

• Management: The athlete should be removed from sports activity, examined immediately and at 5 minute Intervals, and allowed to return that day to the sports activity only if post concussive symptoms resolve within 15 minutes. Any athlete who incurs a second Grade 1 concussion on the same day should be removed from sports activities until asymptomatic for 1 week.

Grade 2 Concussion

• Definition: Transient confusion, no loss of consciousness, and a duration of mental status abnormalities15 minutes or longer.

• Management: The athlete should be removed from sports activity and examined frequently to assess the evolution of symptoms, with more extensive diagnostic evaluation if the symptoms worsen or persist longer than 1 week. The athlete should return to sports activity only after being asymptomatic for 1 full week. Any athlete who incurs a Grade 2 concussion subsequent to a Grade 1 concussion on the same day should be removed sports activities until asymptomatic for 2 weeks.

Grade 3 Concussion

• Definition: Loss of consciousness either brief (seconds) or prolonged (minutes or longer).

• Management: The athlete should be removed from sports activity for I full week without symptoms if the loss of consciousness is brief or for 2 full weeks without symptoms if the loss of consciousness is prolonged. If still unconscious or if abnormal neurologic signs are present at the time of initial evaluation, the athlete should be transported by ambulance to the nearest trauma hospital. An athlete that has suffered a second grade 3 concussion should be removed from sports activity until asymptomatic for 1 month. Any athlete with an abnormality on CT or MRI brain scan consistent with brain swelling, contusion, or other intracranial pathology should be removed from sports activities for the season and discouraged from future return to participation in contact sports. Source: New standards for head trauma subcommittee, American Academy of neurology 1997

With any head injury the patient needs to be monitored (no matter what the patient says, does or thinks) by a parent, mature teammate or friend. Since a head injury can alter mental function, personality and the ability to make clear and well thought out decisions, sometimes the decisions are left up to the “significant other”. Following any head injury a comprehensive exam should follow to insure the athletes safety. Also, knowing what to do if any injury occurs can mean the difference, at times, between life and death.

Patient instructions following a head injury

Before I tell you what not to do if you SUSTAIN an injury, I need to address a common problem that many athletes do prior to “game time”. Since a concussion is essentially a “bruise to the brain” anything you take prior to participation that could thin the blood is not recommended. If you participate in any high impact sport DO NOT take aspirin, advil, alleve or any other supplement or medication prior to participation due to the fact that this could thin the blood and make ANY bleed worse.

Common symptoms of a head injury include: headaches, nausea and slight dizziness. There may be swelling and pain at the site of impact. A head injury can cause slow bleeding or other problems inside the head that may not be detected at the initial exam. Make sure you consult any health care provider if any symptoms change or worsen.

Home treatment:

• Do not take any sedatives or sleeping pills
• Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen, motrin, advil, alleve, nuprin or any other medication that can thin the blood
• If needed, the use of acetaminophen (Tylenol) is recommended for pain only
• Do not drink alcohol or tea
• Do not exert yourself or participate in PE (follow guidelines above)
• Do not eat or drink much for the first 24 hours (clear liquids are the best)
• Sleep with head slightly elevated
• Avoid hot tubs and Jacuzzis for the first 48 hours

I hope this information is helpful to anyone involved with high action or contact sports. Be safe so you can play another day! Please pass this on to anyone you may know and have them sign up for our newsletter for more upcoming tips. www.gotcsi.com

The Swine flu

2009-10-08T15:55:00.000-07:00

What is “Swine Flu” or H1N1?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the Swine flu (official name is H1N1) is a new version of the influenza virus. The Swine flu was first detected in the US in April 2009. The reason this strand of influenza virus is called the “Swine Flu” is because laboratory testing showed that many of the genes in this new virus were very similar to the influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs (swine).

How can Swine Flu be transmitted and who can it affect?

Swine flu can be transmitted from person to person just like the regular flu does by coughing or sneezing. It can also be transmitted by touching an object that the virus is on and then touching your nose or mouth.
One thing that is different between the Swine Flu and the seasonal flu is that the Swine Flu does not affect adults older than the age of 64 as much as it does affect children and adults younger than the age of 60. The reason for this is that it has been found that people under the age of 60 do not have the existing antibodies in them which would naturally protect them from the virus.

What are the symptoms of the Swine Flu?

Symptoms of swine flu are like regular flu symptoms and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. In severe cases the swine flu can progress and symptoms vary depending on the age group. The following is a breakdown on how the symptoms vary in children and adults.

In children, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Prevention:
Here are some recommendations on how to prevent you from getting sick:
• Practice good hygiene (cover your mouth while coughing/sneezing,wash your hands with warm water and soup prior to eating)
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Drink plenty of water
• Get adequate sleep (7-8 hours/night)
• Avoid alcohol use
• Avoid tobacco use
• Avoid excessive intake of sugars
• Exercise 3-5 days per week
• Get adjusted regularly???

o So you might ask “how can getting adjusted regularly prevent me from getting sick?”

 According to a study performed by Ronald Pero, Ph.D., chief of cancer prevention research at New York's Preventive Medicine Institute and professor of medicine at New York University, the chiropractic patients were found to have a 200% greater immune competence than those people who had not received chiropractic care, and they had 400% greater immune competence than those people with cancer and other serious diseases.

Is there a natural cure for Swine Flu?

Although there are no natural cures for Swine Flu you can take remedies, vitamins, and minerals to help with fighting the virus and its symptoms.
• Treatment for Swine Flu Chest Congestion: Eucalyptus, tea tree and lemongrass oils rubbed on the chest for congestion
• Remedy for Swine Flu & Cold Symptoms:
Vitamin C with bioflavanoids (1000-3000mg/daily); Echinacea tincture daily, Zinc (50-100mg/daily)
• Some say that the flu "begins in the gut and ends in the gut". This means that if you have good digestion, you will increase your resistance to this and other flu strains. Take a probiotic daily. Probiotics have been shown to be an effective natural treatment for swine flu.
• If you do feel the flu symptoms coming on, get adjusted to boost your immune system.
• Here at CSI we have had great success with treating the seasonal flu’s with our detox footbath combined with cold laser therapy.

Should I get vaccinated?

So here are some of the questions you might be asking yourself at this time.
Should I get vaccinated? Will the vaccine protect me? Is there a side effect to the vaccine?

Before I answer those questions let’s take a look at a few interesting facts.

According to the CDC “Most people who have become ill with this new virus have recovered without requiring medical treatment”. http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm

They go on to state that “Each year, in the United States, on average 36,000 people die from flu-related (seasonal flu) complications and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related causes”.

Now back to answering the questions about vaccination.

• One thing to keep in mind is that viruses are great at mutating and changing into a different strain, so it is difficult to come up with a vaccine that effectively will prevent you from getting sick. And if you do decide to get the vaccine you are not 100% guaranteed to be safe from the virus.
• Once you do take the vaccine there might be side effects. The last ‘Swine Flu outbreak’ in the U.S. was in 1976 and according to the statistics from that outbreak:
o More people died from the vaccination than from swine flu
o 500 cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) were detected.
 GBS is auto immune disorder, affecting the peripheral nerves and causing paralysis, inability to breathe, and even death.
• http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/gbs_qa.htm
o The vaccine may have increased the risk of contracting GBS by eight times.
o The vaccine was withdrawn after just ten weeks when the link with GBS became clear.
o The US Government was forced to pay out millions of dollars to those affected
Having said all this, I am not trying to down play the seriousness of the flu but before you go out there and inoculate yourself with a vaccine, educate yourself and learn the truth.

Dr. Amir Mahmud

HOW MUCH WATER DO YOU NEED?

2009-10-03T18:41:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Terry Weyman

It’s HOT. With the heat, talks of dehydration and heat related illness come to the headlines. Southern California's hot fall football games, firefighters working the fires, cycling and Triathlons, Fall Motocross races, soccer games and other fall sports. To stay safe you need to understand and comprehend water intake and the requirements each body has to function on a normal level. In the news several months ago, there was a report about 10 people who were taken to the hospital for heat related illness at a rock concert over the weekend. With the fires blazing last week, firefighters need to maintain a high level of fluid intake to maintain body function. Body water and athletic performance are directly connected, and when understood, can be the difference between a winning performance and or/ survival.

Your body needs about 1 ml of water for every calorie that you expend. For example, if you burn 4,000 to 5,000 calories per day (moderate to aggressive athletic workouts), you would need between 4 to 5 liters of fluid to replace what was lost and to keep the biochemistry in proper balance. Monitoring body weight before and after training is the best way to keep up with your body’s fluid needs, which sweating increases. If you don’t believe that hydration can affect athletic performance ask Lance Armstrong. He lost 15 lbs due to dehydration following the first time trial of the Tour de France in 2002 and suffered the next few days more than usual.

Although a 2% weight loss due to dehydration may not cause any “symptoms”, it does decrease physical and mental performance.

Water Loss as % of Body Weight
2% - Difficulty in controlling normal body temperature
3% - Reduced muscular endurance time
4%-6% - Reduced strength, power, endurance and heat cramps
6% - Severe heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke

During exercise, especially in the heat, some of the water that naturally circulates through your body is used by your sweat glands. Inadequate fluid balance can result in a chain reaction that can be severely detrimental to your health. The first step in this reaction is a decrease in blood volume, which increases the heart rate in an attempt to get the fluids to the vital organs. The body’s next reaction is to constrict the blood vessels in order to maintain proper blood pressure. However, this reaction will cause the body temperature to rise due to the heat produced by the working muscles which can’t be transported to the skin’s surface. This leads to heat illnesses such as heat cramps, exhaustion and heat stroke.

To avoid this chain reaction you must stay properly hydrated during your exercise. The recommended fluid intake for exercise or training is 8 to 12 ounces fifteen minutes before you begin your exercises. During your training, drink 4-6 ounces every 10 to 15 minutes. After you have completed your training, you should consume 16 ounces for every pound lost (weigh yourself before and after exercise to determine weight loss). If you are working out longer than 60 minutes, a sports drink may be helpful in delaying fatigue by providing additional energy for working muscles. It will also be helpful in the overall chemistry balance since it will be replacing needed electrolytes that are lost during the sweating process. A 5 to 8% concentration of carbohydrates (as seen in most sports drinks) has been shown to be absorbed quickly. The small amount of electrolytes can also aid in the absorption of water from the intestines. A great product on the market for electrolyte replacement is a powder called Endura, made by a company called Metagenics. You can find this product at some bike shops or at health care facilities. Remember, this simple equation. First hour, water only. Second hour a mix of water and sport drink, third hour sport drink (electrolyte replacement). Due to the salts and sugars in the sports drinks, drinking too early can clog the sodium and calcium channels causing the athlete to go into a state of early dehydration. You can also increase the risks of cramping by drinking a sport drink too early.

With the heat of the summer here, be smart in your training. Do not exercise during the hottest times of the day (10-3), stay hydrated and properly warm up and cool down. To avoid heat illness and decrease your overall performance, remember this: an athlete should never be thirsty!

Dr. Terry Weyman is the clinic Director for the Chiropractic Sports Institute. All the Doctors at CSI specialize in the care of the active person. For further information they can be contacted at www.gotcsi.com

A great way to lower Cholesterol a Natural way

2009-09-22T17:25:00.000-07:00

Despite a lack of conclusive evidence, many remain convinced that cholesterol levels function as a health marker in general, or provide us with a window through which to view heart health. Many also believe that saturated fat causes disease, and one mechanism is by elevating cholesterol levels. Concerning these perceptions, a recent review of saturated fats, taken from the Framingham heart study, showed that 80% of individuals who developed coronary artery disease had the same total cholesterol level as those who did not, and that saturated fat is not likely to have a significant impact.

Cholesterol phobia is a problem, especially when we do not understand all the details about cholesterol metabolism. For example, in an article written in the journal of Medicine in 2003 by Ravnskov, there is evidence suggesting that high cholesterol may protect against infections and atherosclerosis.

The above is not to suggest that excessive saturated fat consumption and hypercholesterolemia is not a problem; on the contrary, it seems particularly problematic for those with familial hyperlipoproteinemias (any of various disorders of lipoprotein and cholesterol metabolism that result in high levels of lipoprotein and cholesterol in the circulating blood)

It is also now known that the consumption of trans fats promotes inflammation. Trans fats, or partially hydrogenated oils are found in nearly all margarines, deep fried foods, and highly processed foods, and these foods are consumed at an alarming level. According to Author Enig, from the book, Know your fats, he explains that trans fats can raise total cholesterol levels by some 30 percent, and also raise LDL cholesterol in a dose-responsive manner.

Clinical experience suggests that when patients switch to an anti-inflammatory diet and take the “base 4” supplements (a good multiple, magnesium, EPA/DHA (omega 3), and coenzyme Q10)dramatic health changes can occur. For those who have chronic pain by adding a bromelain or proteolytic enzyme and garlic supplement ( to the base 4) your energy levels will improve, aches and pains are reduced, and aberrant cholesterol levels normalize in many people.

Some patients are taking medications for their cholesterol problem. Such medications are usually classified as Statin Drugs. However, many patients are complaining of muscle aches and pains, stiff joints and headaches that did not exist prior to taking the statin drugs. When statins cause pain, it is likely due to the inhibition of Co enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) synthesis. CoQ10 is an important antioxidant required for ATP (remember your High School Bio class) synthesis; clearly its inhibition should be avoided. Some of the newer statin drugs have included CoQ10 in there ingredients to counter act this problem.

For those who are in need of additional cholesterol lowering support or who need to get off statin medication due to the above health concerns, Policosanol maybe your answer. Policosanol is a natural alternative to statin drugs and it is not known to create dangerous side effects. Policosanol is known to lower the dangerous LDL-Cholesterol molecule while raising HDL levels. A study performed by J Clinical Pharmacol in 1999 showed that policosanol significantly elevated the anti-inflammatory HDL and lowered LDL cholesterol oxidation. The study also indicated that 20 mg of policosanol per day for 7 day was as effective as aspirin in reducing platelet aggregation. Policosanol is a very safe supplement to use for extended periods of time. In a recent year-long study, older patients with hypercholesterolemia and hypertension were supplemented with policosanol and placebo. Side effects were greater in subjects taking the placebo (17.7%) versus policosanol (9.8%); and policosanol subjects had a reduction in LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol, and an increase in HDL cholesterol.

Pain and cholesterol reduction should be a natural outcome of pursuing a healthier lifestyle. Consuming an anti-inflammatory diet, exercising, and supplementing with the “base 4”, garlic, proteolytic enzymes and policosanol you could be on the road to improve your health, lifestyle, energy and normalize your cholesterol.

The following was taken in part from an article written by Dr. David Seaman, April 2005

At CSI we have collected the best supplements that there are from several different companies. Each supplement is pharmaceutical grade, most only sell to Doctors, they are run through purification test to eliminate heavy metals and toxins and are the only ones I use with my family. If you want to order any supplements go to our website and to the on-line store. If what you are looking for is not on there, contact our office manager, Michele, and she will take your order. You can pick your supplements up at the office or have them shipped to your house, your call. Michele can be reached at michele.weyman@gotcsi.com or go to our online store at www.gotcsi.com

Chiropractic can help you get a job

2009-09-09T14:15:00.000-07:00

“Two guys walk into a bar”, wait a minute, wrong article, let me start again. “Two guys walk into a job interview, both with equally impressive resumes. The first guy walks in with a slight hunch in his spine, shoulders rolled forwards and a slow gait. The second man walks in tall and straight, shoulders back and his head held high. Which one gets the job?” The second man gets regular Chiropractic Care to keep his spine aligned, his nerves flowing strong, keeps his neck lose to keep his head balanced over his shoulders and counteract the evil forces of desk work. With his spine aligned, his head and shoulders balanced, his gait true and powerful, his presentation in his job interview is PERCIEVED as one of confidence, power, hard working, reliable and honest. The man who presented with a stiff gait, rolled shoulders, head forward, back hunched, will come across as a person who is weak, lacks confidence, shifty, unreliable and one who will complain.

Keeping your back and body healthy goes beyond health and increased athletic performance but now transcends into vitality and strength in these trying times. If your body does not function internally at its max how can you function in life at your max ? How can you make a big presentation during an important meeting if you are bent over or your body language screams “lack of confidence?” This is not your fault, but how you are being PERCIEVED. If your cars alignment is off, how does your car run? Do the parts wear out faster and do you burn more gas going down the road? The same thing happens when your body is not aligned properly; you burn more energy just getting through the day and your parts (ie, discs, tendons, ligaments) wear out faster leading to more advanced injuries.

In these economic times, seeing your Chiropractor is not a luxury but one of necessity to not only save money in future medical bills, but to keep achieving maximum output so your outward Perception equals your Inward DRIVE. www.gotcsi.com

Deflaming vs Inflaming, the Diet maybe the answer

2009-08-31T14:43:00.000-07:00

The following article was taken in part from a research article by Anabolic Labs, a supplement company that I use due to their intense research team and constantly search of the best ways to keep you healthy

As you live your life and try and stay active, you will notice that your body will ache. Some people say “I am getting older, my body hurts all the time”. Have you ever thought of looking at your diet as the cause instead of your age? Each of us needs to focus on reducing our individual inflammation issues and diet is the foundation to reducing inflammation or “deflaming”. The following is a simple guide to a no-nonsense approach to healthy, anti-inflammatory eating that will help you avoid unhealthy, pro-inflammatory foods that are inflaming.

PRO-INFLAMMATORY FOODS

• All Refined Grain products- Researchers at Penn State had a group of 50 obese people receive all their grain servings from either whole grains or refined grains for 12 weeks. Both groups followed a weight-loss plan that included fresh fruit and vegetables, low-fat dairy, and lean meat, fish or poultry. People in both groups lost weight, but the whole-grain group also saw a 38 percent drop in CRP levels. They also lost more abdominal fat (the most dangerous kind). If you have bowel pain or Chronic Head Aches after eating grains you may have celiac Dz. Try removing all grains from your diet and go with a Gluten Free diet
To get more good grains in your diet, try eating oatmeal, brown rice, whole-grain cereal and whole-wheat crackers – all foods where the majority of the grain comes from whole grain. While breads, refined pasta and packaged foods.
• Partially Hydrogenated Oils (trans fats)-Found in margarine, deep fried foods, most fast foods and most packaged foods.
• Seed and Legume Oils (inaccurately called vegetable oils)-Corn oils (anything made from corn, safflower oil, sunflower oil, cottonseed oil, peanut oil, soybean oil and foods made with these oils such as mayonnaise, tarter sauces margarine, salad dressing and many packaged foods. These oils/foods contain extremely high levels of inflammatory omega 6 fatty acids.
• Soda and Sugar
• Dairy and soy (when consumed as staple)
• Meats and eggs from grain fed animals (opposite of free range)

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FOODS

• All Fruits and Vegatables-eaten in the rawest state is the best
• Red and Sweet Potatoes-Eaten with protein such as eggs, fish, meat or fowl (free range)
• Fresh fish- Avoid farm-raised tilapia, catfish, basa and bronzini for they can have elevated levels of inflammatory Omega 6 fatty acids. If you have a choice, cold water fish is the best for Omega 3
• Meat, Chicken, Eggs from Grass-fed (free range) Animals- You can go to www.eatwild.com for producers of free range products.
• For Meats, wild game
• Anti-inflammatory Omega 3 eggs and/or egg whites
• Whole grains
• Raw Nuts
• Spices-Such as Ginger, Turmeric, garlic, dill, oregano, coriander, fennel, red chili pepper, basil, rosemary, etc
• Oils and Fats-Moderate amounts of organic butter, coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil
• Beverages- Water, organic green tea, no juices with high fructose corn syrup.

Supplements that can help reduce inflammation are proteolytic enzymes, antioxidants and probiotic enzymes. Everyone should be on a quality Multivitamin, Magnesium, Anti Oxidant and Fish oil. Contact the Doctors at CSI for the Supplements that we recommend. You can purchase them off our website (csi store), saving time and money if you wish. www.gotcsi.com Any questions please do not hesitate to ask. We use Anabolic Labs, Metagenics and Nutri-west to name a few. We only recommend the highest grade and quality supplements on the Market.

Until Next time, live well,

Dr. Terry Weyman

How can regular chiropractic care improve an athlete’s performance?

2009-08-20T20:58:00.000-07:00

Since I started my chiropractic career I have been asked on several occasions how can chiropractic care help me become a better athlete and perform better on the field? And why should I come back when I’m feeling fine? The way chiropractic can help is by evaluating the neurology, biomechanics, spinal/postural alignment, and/or any injuries which the athletes may have sustained during an event and applying the proper care to get the athlete back on the field as soon as possible. It is also important to keep in mind that since an athlete’s body is under constant stress from training they need to be treated regularly, even though they don’t have any pain, to keep them performing at their best.
A research study conducted by Drs. Anthony Lauro and Brian Mouch, published in the journal of Chiropractic research and Clinical Investigation, 1991, indicated chiropractic care might improve athletic performance by as much as 16.7% over a two week period. The report also concluded that subluxation-free athletes react faster, coordinate better, execute fine movements with improved accuracy and precision, amounting to an overall better athlete.
In addition to the traditional chiropractic care, we at CSI use both the cold laser therapy and ionic footbath therapy to speed up tissue recovery by providing the body with more cellular ATP. When your body is in better alignment, your nervous system is finely tuned. This leads to better performance, fewer injuries and quicker recovery after an event.

Dr. Amir

PS please tell us how Chiropractic has improved your athletic performance. Your story may inspire someone else. Post your comments now!

Back to School, should not be a pain in the neck!

2009-08-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

As our kids return to school we need to be aware of a new trend that has been gaining “popularity” in the last few years, an increase in neck and back pain. With more and more school districts removing lockers, increase in homework and textbooks and the disallowance of roll along backpacks, students are being forced to carry their books in their backpacks all day long. Not only will this potentially cause a painful problem, but if one already exists, it can exacerbate it. This new and disturbing trend shows America’s youth are suffering from back pain much earlier than previous generations and the use of overweight backpacks is a contributing factor. The new trend among youngsters isn’t surprising when you consider the disproportionate amounts of weight they carry in their backpacks – usually slung over just one shoulder.
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Preliminary results of a study being done in France show that the longer a child wears a backpack, the longer it takes for a curvature or deformity of the spine to correct itself. Like with any problem, it needs to be recognized and addressed if change is to take place to correct the situation. If your child begins to feel pain in his neck or back, consult your Chiropractor, Physician or therapist immediately before the condition worsens.

A few basic guidelines should be followed to insure proper fit and address spinal health and biomechanical stability.

• Limiting the backpack’s weight to 10% of the child’s body weight and urging the use of ergonomically correct backpacks are essential.

• The backpack should never hang more than 4 inches below the waistline. A backpack that hangs too low increases the weight on the shoulders, causing your child to lean forward when walking.

• A backpack with individualized compartments helps in positioning the contents most effectively.

• Make sure that pointy or bulky objects are packed away from the area that will rest on your child’s back.

• Bigger is not necessarily better. The more room there is in a backpack, the more your child will carry and the heavier the backpack will be.

• Urge your child to wear both shoulder straps. Lugging the backpack around by one strap can cause the disproportionate shift of weight to one side, leading to neck and muscle spasms, as well as low back pain.

• Wide, padded straps are very important. Non-padded straps are uncomfortable, and can dig into your child’s shoulders.

• The shoulder straps should be adjustable so the backpack can be fitted to your child’s body. Straps that are too loose can cause the backpack to dangle uncomfortably and cause spinal misalignment and pain.

• If the backpack is still too heavy, talk to your child’s teacher. Ask if your child could leave the heaviest books at school, and bring home only lighter hand-out materials or workbooks. Or encourage your local school district to purchase textbooks on CD-Rom.

• Although the use of rollerpacks, or backpacks on wheels, has become popular in recent years, it is recommended that they be used cautiously and on a limited basis by only those students who are not physically able to carry a backpack.

• Encourage your child to exercise and strengthen the muscles of the back and neck.

By following these simple guidelines you may help your child get more out of school than an aching back.

School Physicals done at CSI

Don’t wait in line at the school for your Fall sports physicals. We do them here at CSI. We also will donate a portion of the fee to your sports booster program. This is a win/win. Your team/school gets money and you get your physical in a short time frame. Call and let Robin or Mikaella know that you want to get your sports physical at CSI. 805-371-0737

TOO FOOTBATH OR NOT TO FOOT BATH

2009-06-16T17:04:00.000-07:00

I am writing this blog this month in response to an article that was posted in the American Chiropractic Associations monthly magazine. In this article the IONIC FOOTSPA is given a bad wrap. There are parts of the article that I agree and disagree with. There is also a YouTube video to go along with this article. Since we at CSI are not only on the cutting edge of tissue recovery, we also will stand up to our products and will always keep you informed when we run across articles such as this. This article basically states that the science behind the footbath is false and that there is nothing to benefit from doing this therapy. I DISAGREE.

The article claims that most providers of this therapy are claiming that the color of the water is PURE toxins that are withdrawn out the body. I AGREE WITH THE AUTHOR, THIS IS NOT TRUE. That dark rust/brown color is in part to the break down of the array itself. When you add water, metal and electricity you will get RUST. So a part of the color is from the break down of the array. I have never gone against this. The article also references a link on YOUTUBE with a man showing how (In his opinion) the IONIC FOOTSPAS are FALSE. This person does not take in account the multiple benefits that these machines offer besides the idea of DETOXIFICATION.

I have lectured to many doctors and individuals on the therapeutic benefits of the FOOTSPA. Do I think that the FOOTSPA just detoxifies the body NO. It is one of the effects. Many ask me how do I know what is being pulled out and what parts of the body are being DETOXIFIED. This I cannot answer. In my opinion you would have to take a pre and post water, blood and organ sample in order to truly determine. There are some out there that use a COLOR chart to determine what the color of that water means, which is nothing more than a selling tool. The color is a small part of the treatment process. The FOOTSPA also provides the body a low electric stimulus, which has been shown with other therapy modalities to enhance cellular activity. By doing this the body can heal quicker and allow the body and its cells to work at a higher function. On this premise is what I see is the most dramatic effect of the IONIC FOOTBATH.

In our clinics we use it to help deal with allergens, colds and especially tissue healing post surgical. In combination with chiropractic treatments, cold laser therapy, proper nutrition and exercise habit, the IONIC FOOTSPA is a perfect addition. That article was written to spark a response and it got mine. At CSI we use the Cellular Cleanse Platinum FOOTSPA and we could not be happier with the results. If anyone would like to try the Cellular Cleanse Therapy please contact CSI at 805-531-1188 for Moorpark or 805-371-0737 for Westlake and either I or Dr. Amir will personally walk you through the process and explain what is going on. Also don’t forget that SUMMER is upon us and with all the SUMMER activities and sports, CSI is here to help keep you healthy and happy.

Sincerely:

Dr. Ed Green
Clinic Director, CSI Moorpark

Next secret from the pros, Compression socks!

2009-06-09T19:36:00.001-07:00

We will be hosting and “selling” products used by the pros that in most cases are not yet available in stores. Most of these products will be sold through our CSI store so check it out from time to time. This month you can buy Oxy Socks at a pro deal direct from the manufacture.

Oxysox® Compression Technology

Dr. Graham Kelly, a vascular specialist with over 15 years of clinical experience, developed patented Oxysox® Compression Technology (OCT®) to help meet the unique demands of athletes. Improved circulation and reduced muscle fatigue always translate into better performance, and OCT® is all about performance. Utilizing over-the-calf graduated compression, socks knit with OCT® actually stimulate circulation in the foot and ankle with snug compression that tapers off as the socks extends up the leg.

How Oxysox® Compression Technology Works:

There is much more to muscle support than a snug fit. Typical compression hose boasting mmHg ratings higher than 22-23 are designed to provide tight support in response to medical complications. For the healthy athlete, however, too much support can actually reduce circulation and hamper performance. TCK's Oxysox® Compression Technology, on the other hand, is specifically designed for the athlete by way of GRADUATED COMPRESSION. Graduated compression begins with snug support that tapers off as the sock climbs the leg. In other words, the greatest amount of support is in the foot and ankle where it is needed most. This keeps the points of impact securely snug, protecting against injury, fatigue, and discomfort. A progressively reduced amount of support reaches its nadir as the sock hugs the calf, the point where maximum circulation is vital. We're not talking about an absence of support at the top of a sock with OCT®, but just enough to minimize wasted motion of the muscles, keeping them stable and compact, without hampering the blood's ability to return through the heart and lungs. What ultimately results, then, is a quicker delivery of oxygenated blood to the legs and feet. This translates into:

Higher VO2 levels
Faster Muscle Recovery
Less Muscle Fatigue
Reduced Muscle Swelling
Protection Against Cramps, Strains, or Sprains in the Lower Leg
What Racesox with Oxysox® Compression Technology Do:

The answer is simple: Racesox with Oxysox® Compression Technology boast the fusion of graduated compression with the performance-enhancing features that typify Racesox and all TCK products. What you get is durable longevity that lasts 3-4 times longer than standard socks, blister resistance, superior odor control, breathable comfort, enhanced moisture management, and quick-drying resilience combined with the unique merits of graduated compression. So, whether you are a world-class athlete, a regular on the racing circuit, a weekend warrior, or simply into occasional exercise, you need Racesox with OCT® to augment your workout and improve your performance.

As a patient of CSI you can now have these socks at a PRO DEAL, CSI only price.Since I know the owners very well, they are offering ALL CSI patients these socks for below wholesale!!. When you order from their website, use these codes to get your deal, CSI09 or DRT09. Their website is http://www.racesox.com. My son Tyler has been using these socks during his Motocross practice and says after 2 hours of riding his legs are no longer sore. I use them at work when I am on my feet all day and I feel great at the end of the day. Go on line to oxy sox website (listed above) and get the super CSI pro deal discount(by using the CSI or DrT code). For any questions on the socks or techical questions email Scott Davis at Race Soxs for assistance. Let him know you are referred by CSI and he can help you in anyway. sdavis@racesox.com.

True health starts from within,

Dr.Terry

Secrets of the Pros brought to you.

2009-04-18T20:27:00.000-07:00

How to bring the benefits of training in altitude to your house without the hassle and expense of an altitude Tent.

At CSI, due to our professional affiliations, we are privy to new technology sometimes many years before it’s available to the public. Last year I was contacted by a company who makes a High Altitude training system (io) due to my affiliation as the team Doctor for the Professional cycling team, Successful Living. As you may or may not be aware of, Professional Cycling has been under the microscope for the past several years due to Blood doping and Drug abuse allegations. The purpose of blood doping is to enhance your RBC (red blood cell) production so that you can enhance your Oxygen Transport, thus increasing your Aerobic Capacity. The Natural way to do this is to live at Altitude and/ or, sleep 6-8 hours in an Altitude Tent. This new devise, out of New Zealand, is extremely advanced, managed by the Mayo Clinic, and requires 1 hour a day, breathing in a mask, for 15 sessions, 5 days on 2 off or 6 days on 1 off.

As you are aware of I have been involved with high level cycling for 20+ years and the last 3 years, National level motocross racing. Last year I asked the CEO of the company if I could run a trial study at CSI to prepare a few riders to race at Mammoth Mountain for their Annual Motocross race. Since this race is at 8,500’ I wanted to see how they would react after using the machine and also to see how simple it was to use. I chose three high level motocross athletes of three different age brackets. I chose a 40 year old Masters champion, a 12 year old National rider and my son Tyler who was 9 at the time. Since Motocross is an extremely aerobic sport I wanted to see if it would enhance their performance and decrease the effects of racing at Altitude. Well it did, all three made the podium and felt as if they were riding at sea level! Both the 40 year old and my son were blown away at how good they felt. My son has been to Mammoth as a skier since he was a baby and we were wondering at his age if the devise would be effective. Well it was, Tyler stated he felt as if he were riding in TO and was able to push harder when everyone else wore out.

Normally, when competing in altitude, such as Mammoth, you either show up the DAY OF competition or you go to the altitude you are competing at and live there for 2 weeks prior to the event. Your body will actually perform worse at the 4-6 day point. So, if you go up 3-4 days prior to the event you will perform worse than if you go up the day of due to the acclimatization process. Due to traveling, work schedules and time constraints going to altitude for 2 weeks is not practical for most people. With this therapy, you can go up any time and stay because you will already be acclimatized. You will not get the Headaches, breathing problems, weakness, fatigue and so on. The company name is io, and they are now available to you at your home. So if you’re into ANY aerobic sport, this devise can help you perform much better. It’s used not only by cyclist, triathletes, Motocross racers and mountaineers, but athletes in Soccer, Rugby, Lacrosse, Runners, skier, skaters, cross country skiers, hockey players as well pilots and asthmatics.

More on io Therapy

io works by using a sophisticated altitude simulator to force the body to react as if at altitude.

io causes your body to react to differing oxygen levels by producing a higher proportion of red blood cells. The more red blood cells you have, the more efficient your body becomes at transporting and using oxygen.

All you have to do is sit back, relax and breathe. The results – boosted energy levels, better performance in life and sport, enhanced health and relief from various conditions.

io specialising in the provision of the most advanced form of altitude training technology available. io's technology is a masked based system delivering benefits of altitude in intervals, this provides greater benefits in a shorter time.

io has developed improved technology and over the last 10 years been researching and providing altitude training to World and Olympic champions through to the casual gym user. io's sessions are each only 1 hour long with the session alternating from altitude to sea level during the hour session (at altitudes of between 18 and 26,000 feet increasing throughout the program). The io program has a base program of 15 sessions and then there are 'booster' sessions every 6-8 weeks these are 5 days long and again each session is only one hour.

io is a natural way to get an advantage and has been proven to aid with sports performance improving;
- recovery,
- speed,
- power,
- endurance to name a few benefits.
Research shows an improvement in overall athletic performance of between 4-8% across the board.( www.io-usa.com/research/view/sport ) Other benefits include aiding in the recovery from injury and maintaining fitness while injured through to assisting people with asthma or those starting out on a new fitness program.

This devise is an AMAZING invention and is a critical component in the preparation phase as well as the recovery phase. If you are serous about your sport, suffer from high altitude sickness, preparing to climb a big mountain or want a secret edge in your aerobic sport, Contact THE FACTORY in Westlake Village to set up an appointment to see this amazing devise in action. Contact Rob Bolton at 805-494-4464 and mention you want information on the IO therapy and other ways to enhance performance, that only the Factory can deliever.

Dr. Terry Weyman
www.gotcsi.com

Stress, how to use it to win, not lose

2009-04-16T19:00:00.000-07:00

With the tax season upon us and the economy being down many people are stressed out of their minds and as a result are experiencing aches and pains all over their bodies. We as humans tend to store our stress, whether physical or emotional, in our muscles. So as a result we start developing muscle tightness which can lead to headaches, general pain, decreased range of motion, altered sleeping patterns, altered bio-mechanics and very easily affect our immune systems. So here are a few tips on how to avoid these problems before they start affecting our daily lives.

• Exercises regularly:

o Physical activity plays a major role in reducing and preventing the effects of stress. Make time for at least 30 minutes of exercise, three times per week.
Exercise can decrease ‘stress hormones' like cortisol, and increase endorphins, your body's ‘feel-good’ chemicals, giving your mood and body a natural boost.

• Progressive muscle relaxation:

o By tensing and relaxing all the muscle groups in your body, you can relieve tension and feel much more relaxed in minutes. Start by tensing all the muscles in your face, holding a tight grimace ten seconds, then completely relaxing for ten seconds. Repeat this with your neck, followed by your shoulders, etc. You can do this anywhere, and as you practice, you will find you can relax more quickly and easily, reducing tension as quickly as it starts!

• Get adjusted:

o Anxiety and stress frequently attack the weak spots of the spine, and as a result you can get general muscle tensions, headaches, neck pain and back pain. This pain can then aggravate the stress and anxiety. A chiropractic treatment which includes adjustments, soft tissue and muscle work is aimed at relieving any physical complaints which will in turn help with the mental conditions.

• Eat a healthy diet:

o Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress, so be mindful of what you eat. Start your day right with breakfast, and keep your energy up and your mind clear with balanced, nutritious meals throughout the day.

• Reduce caffeine and sugar:

o The temporary "highs" caffeine and sugar provide often end in with a crash in mood and energy. By reducing the amount of coffee, soft drinks, chocolate, and sugar snacks in your diet, you’ll feel more relaxed and you’ll sleep better.

• Get enough sleep:

o Adequate sleep fuels your mind, as well as your body. Feeling tired will increase your stress because it may cause you to think irrationally.

If you guys have any question or want any advice on proper nutrition, specific exercises, or other stress reliving techniques feel free to comment and I will give you the information.

Dr. Amir

The good, the bad, the ugly

2009-04-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

The Good, the bad and the ugly

Well, spring has sprung and the days are getting longer and people are coming out of their cocoons. I love this time of year and the energy it brings.

The Good: Life is good. During this past weekend I was North of Reno at a Regional qualifier for my son and his motocross team. Not that I want to bore you with details of a bragging father but Tyler had the race of his career, getting the hole shot (first one to the first turn) leading the race for 3.5 laps ahead of the two national title holders and placing third in a stacked field. (more on this later).

The Bad and the Ugly: Well, let’s just say that was me. I had an allergic reaction to something, I don’t know what, but on Thursday (yes, the day we left) a rash began to grow on my body and by Friday, I was covered head to toe. It made helping my son and others a difficult task but his riding made all the pain and itching a little more tolerable. By Sunday I looked like Will Smith in” Hitch”. After a visit to the hospital and Dermatologist office today, I am back to normal with just a little itch left. Wish I knew what hit me. Thank God I have incredible Doctors such as Dr. Derek , Dr. Ed and Dr. Amir to step in and care for all of you and to keep CSI open and helping all the patients.

With the down time and to keep my mind off the itching I began to think about the incredible profession I am in. Chiropractic and sports really showed their power this weekend. My son has only been riding 2 ½ years, at the National level 1 year. The last month he has been in the top ten and now the top 5 surpassing kids who have been at the level for 4+ years. The father of the current national title holder came up to me and said “what ever you’re doing with Tyler keep it up, he has come on faster than any rider and he is the talk of the circuit. What is your secret?”. At first I was shocked but then I started thinking. He trains, like the others; he eats and sleeps like the others; and he has natural talent, like the others. What is he doing that the others are not? The answer was simple: he is a Chiropractic Kid. When he gets a cold, he gets adjusted. When he feels tired or sore, he gets adjusted. After training to recover, he gets adjusted. To keep his balance and coordination in check, he gets lasered and adjusted. My 9 year old asks me to adjust him on a regular basis, not because he has back or neck pain, but because he wants to stay healthy and on top of his game. He has taught me so much on the importance of staying biomechanically aligned. Not just to stay out of pain but so much more. FULL BODY HEALTH. When the body is in line things just work. Stress is lessened, sickness is reduced, you think more clearly and you will have an edge on your competition whoever they may be.

Chiropractic is about removing interference or restrictions from the brain to the tissue cell. When a joint is fixated and muscles are in spasm, the nervous communication is compromised. Every organ, every cell, is controlled and coordinated by the nervous system. Even the slightest compromise can affect the function. Since muscles attach to the bones, than anything that can affect the muscles can indirectly affect the bodies function.
I am looking forward to coming back to work today, the first thing I am doing before I start treating patients? Getting Adjusted!!

See you soon,

Dr. Terry and the staff at CSI

Hey Doc, can I crack my own back?

2009-02-25T21:45:00.000-08:00

This month’s blog is all about being interactive with the patients. We get asked numerous questions a day and it is hard to remember them all and then write about them. So this month and next I would like all of you to respond to this blog and ask a question. I will check back on a regular basis and answer any question that you may ask.

This is a good way to get all of you interactive with our website. We here at CSI want to make sure that all our patients get the most out of all our services. 2009 is a new year and with it being a new year I would like start this February blog with the first question. I will also be adding other blogs about certain topics that are of a concern.

But now onto the question.???????

1) Is it bad to twist my back while I sit in class and make it CRACK several times a day?????

A: YES, YES, YES, YES. Continual adjusting of the spine, several times a day will lead to what is called HYPERlaxity. Now we are talking about someone who adjusts himself or herself more than 4 times a day. So those of you who see us three times a week are not going to experience this issue.
What happens is the spine after it gets adjusted multiple times starts to loosen the surrounding ligaments and tissues and it is called VISCOELASTIC CREEP. This will cause joint laxity and then lead to you wanting to crack it more because it is sore. So to fix it STOP adjusting yourself and do exercises to strengthen the area that you are CRACKING. The stronger the area the less you want to CRACK. OK, SO THERE IS IT IS. STOP ADJUSTING YOURSELF.

Dr. Ed Green is the Clinic Director at CSI Moorpark, he is big and will get angry if you do not ask a question. Let him have it.

ASPARTAME- The Silent Killer

2009-02-25T20:53:00.000-08:00

This blog was sent to me from a friend of mine. Read and learn.

In October of 2001, my sister started getting very sick. She had stomach spasms and she was having a hard time getting around. Walking was a major chore. It took everything she had just to get out of bed; she was in so much pain.

By March 2002, she had undergone several tissue and muscle biopsies and was on 24 various prescription medications. The doctors could not determine what was wrong with her. She was in so much pain, and so sick, she just knew she was dying. She put her house, bank accounts, life insurance, etc., in her oldest daughter's name, and made sure that her younger children were to be taken care of.

She also wanted her last hooray, so she planned a trip to Florida (basically in a wheelchair) for March 22nd..

On March 19, I called her to ask how her most recent tests went, and she said they didn't find anything on the test, but they believe she had MS.

I recalled an article a friend of mine e-mailed to me and I asked my sister i f she drank diet soda? She told me that she did. As a matter of fact, she was getting ready to crack one open that moment.

I told her not to open it, and to stop drinking the diet soda!

I e-mailed her the article my friend, a lawyer, had sent.

My sister called me within 32 hours after our phone conversation and told me she had stopped drinking the diet soda AND she could walk! The muscle spasms went away. She said she didn't feel 100% but she sure felt a lot better. She told me she was going to her doctor with this article and would call me when she got home.

Well, she called me, and said her doctor was amazed! He is going to call all of his MS patients to find out if they consumed artificial sweeteners of any kind.

In a nutshell, she was being poisoned by the Aspartame in the diet soda...and literally dying a slow and miserable death.

When she got to Florida March 22, all she had to take was one pill, and that was a pill for the Aspartame poisoning! She is well on her way to a complete recovery. And she is walking! No wheelchair! This article saved her life.

If it says 'SUGAR FREE' on the label; DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT IT!

I have spent several days lecturing at the WORLD ENVIRONMENTAL CONFERENCE on 'ASPARTAME,' marketed as 'NutraSweet,' 'Equal,' and 'Spoonful.'

In the keynote address by the EPA, it was=2 0announced that in the United States in 2001 there is an epidemic of multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus. It was difficult to determine exactly what toxin was causing this to be rampant.

I stood up and said that I was there to lecture on exactly that subject.

I will explain why Aspartame is so dangerous: When the temperature of this sweetener exceeds 86 degrees F, the wood alcohol in ASPARTAME converts to formaldehyde and then to formic acid, which in turn causes metabolic acidosis. Formic acid is the poison found in the sting of fire ants. The methanol toxicity mimics, among other conditions, multiple sclerosis and systemic lupus. Many people were be being diagnosed in error. Although multiple sclerosis is not a death sentence, Methanol toxicity is!
Systemic lupus has become almost as rampant as multiple sclerosis, especially with Diet Coke and Diet Pepsi drinkers. The victim usually does not
know that the Aspartame is the cul prit. He or she continues its use; irritating the lupus to such a degree that it may become a life-threatening condition.
We have seen patients with systemic lupus become asymptotic, once taken off diet sodas.

In cases of those diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, most of the symptoms disappear. We've seen many cases where vision loss returned and hearing loss improved markedly.

This also applies to cases of trinities and firma.

During a lecture, I said, 'If you are using ASPARTAME (NutraSweet, Equal, Spoonful, etc) and you suffer from fibromyalgia symptoms, spasms, shooting, pains, numbness in your legs, cramps, vertigo, dizziness, headaches, tinnitus, joint pain, unexplainable depression, anxiety attacks, slurred speech, blurred vision, or memory loss you probably have ASPARTAME poisoning!'

People were jumping up during the lecture saying, 'I have some of these symptoms. Is it reversible?'

Yes! Yes! Yes! STOP drinking diet sodas and be alert for Aspartame on food labels! Many products are fortified with it! This is a serious problem.
Dr.. Espart (one of my speakers) remarked that so many people seem to be symptomatic for MS and during his recent visit to a hospice, a nurse stated that six of her friends, who wer e heavy Diet Coke addicts, had all been diagnosed with MS. Th is is beyond coincidence!

Diet soda is NOT a diet product! It is a chemically altered, multiple SODIUM (salt) and ASPARTAME containing product that actually makes you crave carbohydrates. It is far more likely to make you GAIN weight!

These products also contain formaldehyde, which stores in the fat cells, particularly in the hips and thighs. Formaldehyde is an absolute toxin and is used primarily to preserve 'tissue specimens.' Many products we use every day contain this chemical but we SHOULD NOT store it IN our body!

Dr. H. J. Roberts stated in his lectures that once free of the 'diet products' and with no significant increase in exercise; his patients lost an average of 19 pounds over a trial period.

Aspartame is especially dangerous for diabetics..
We found that some physicians, who believed that they had a patient with retinopathy, in fact, had symptoms caused by Aspartame.
The Aspartame drives the blood sugar out of control. Thus diabetics may suffer acute memory loss due to the fact that aspartic acid and phenylalanine are NEUROTOXIC when taken without the other amino acids necessary for a good balance.

Treating diabetes is all about BALANCE. Especially with diabetics, the Aspartame passes the blood/brain barrier and it then deteriorates the neurons of the brain; causing various levels of brain damage, seizures, depression, manic depression, panic attacks, uncontrollable anger and rag e.

Consumption of Aspartame causes these same symptoms in non-diabetics as well.

Documentation and observation also reveal that thousands of children diagnosed with ADD and ADHD have had complete turn around in their behavior when these chemicals have been removed from their diet. So called 'behavior modification prescription drugs' (Ritalin and others) are no longer needed. Truth be told, they were never NEEDED in the first place! Most of these children were being 'poisoned' on a daily basis with the very foods that were 'better for them than sugar.'

It is also suspected that the Aspartame in thousands of pallets of diet Coke and diet Pepsi consumed by men and women fighting in the Gulf War, may be partially to blame for the well-known Gulf War Syndrome.

Dr. Roberts warns that it can cause birth defects, i.e. mental retardation, if taken at the time of conception and during early pregnancy.

Children are especially at risk for neurological disorders and should NEVER be given artificial sweeteners. There are many different case histories to relate of children suffering grand mal seizures and other neurological disturbances talking about a plague of neurological diseases directly caused by the use of this deadly poison.'

Herein lies the problem:

There were Congressional Hearings when Aspartame was included 100 different products and strong objection was made concerning its use. Since this initial hearing, there have been two subsequent hearings, and still nothing has been done. The drug and chemical lobbies have very deep pockets.

Sadly, MONSANTO'S patent on Aspartame has EXPIRED!

There are now over 5,00020products on the market that contain this deadly chemical and there will be thousands more introduced. Everybody wants a 'piece of the Aspartame pie.' I assure you that MONSANTO, the creator of Aspartame, knows how deadly it is.

And isn't it ironic that MONSANTO funds, among others, the American Diabetes Association, the American Dietetic Association and the Conference of the American College of Physicians?

This has been recently exposed in the New York Times.

These [organizations] cannot criticize any additives or convey their link to MONSANTO because they take money from the food industry and are required to endorse their products.

Senator Howard Metzenbaum wrote and presented a bill that would require label warnings on products containing Aspartame, especially regarding pregnant women, children and infants. The bill would also institute independent studies on the known dangers and the problems existing in the general population regarding seizures, changes in brain chemistry, neurological changes and behavioral symptoms.
The bill was killed.

It is known that the powerful drug and chemical lobbies are responsible for this, letting loose the hounds of disease and death on an un suspecting and uninformed public. Well, you're Informed now!

How Altered foot Mechanics can cause Pain throughout the body, and how chiropractic care and specific orthotics can help

2009-02-03T07:42:00.000-08:00

When initially seeing a patient that is very active, which present with back, hip, knee, and chronic ankle and foot problems; the first place I look to is the foot and how it is moving and functioning. Why? Our feet are the foundation to our bodies. The feet are the first joints that withstand forces thru our body during movement. These forces, if altered can cause a dramatic effect on how the rest of the body is going to move leading to different pain syndromes. If the foundation is not able to stabilize the rest of the body, then it is not long before we start to see wear and tear on other parts of the body.

The gait cycle is a term that represents the period of time between successive ipsilateral(same side) heel strikes; that is, it begins when the heel first strikes the ground and ends the moment that the same heel strikes the ground with the next step. So what happens to the foot that can cause pain during the gait cycle? Two of the most important motions that occur during the gait cycle are pronation and supination.

Pronation refers to the inward roll of the foot during normal motion and occurs as the outer edge of the heel strikes the ground and the foot rolls inward and flattens out. A moderate amount of pronation is required for the foot to function properly, however damage and injury can occur during excessive pronation, more commonly know as hyperpronation. An easy way to check if you are hyperpronating is to look at the back of the Achilles tendons. If they are bowing inwards, you are hyperpronating! Also look at your shoes, either dress or athletic, if they are worn out on the outside of them, guess what. Hypronation flattens the arch and stretches the muscles, tendons, and ligaments underneath the foot.

Supination is the opposite of pronation and refers to the outward roll of the foot during normal motion. A natural amount of supination occurs during the push-off phase of the running gait as the heel lifts off the ground and the forefoot and toes are used to propel the body forward. However, excessive supination, which is called hypersupination (excessive outward rolling) places a large strain on the muscles and tendons that stabilize the ankle, and can lead to chronic ankle sprains.

Symptoms of excessive pronation and supination are

Arch pain, heel pain, flat feet, corns and calluses, ankle sprains, shin splints, plantar fascitis, shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, knee pain, hip pain, and chronic back pain.

Prevention and Treatment

1)At CSI we do a comprehensive gait analysis of what your foot is doing while standing and in motion thru our footmaxx system. www.footmaxx.com
2)Specific Biomechanical adjustments to the foot, ankle, knee, and low back to help restore normal motion through out the body.
3)Specifically made orthotics tailored to your foot and to what kind of activities your like to participate in. Footmaxx orthotics can also be designed not only for athletic shoes but also for mens and womens dress shoes.
4) Specific exercise and stretches to help restore strength and flexibility to the
Foot.

Taking care of your feet are very important to the rest of your body. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms, please, listen to your body, and don’t wait for it to lead to something else.

Dr. Derek Pelofsky is a certified chiropractic sports practioner. He is currently practicing at the chiropractic sports institute in Westlake Village. To schedule an appointment, Dr Pelofsky can be reached at 8053710737. WWW.GOTCSI.COM

Breathing treatments not as affective as once thought

2009-01-22T12:06:00.001-08:00

Last night while watching the TV program, “The Biggest Loser”, I was blown away at a segment that showed the “contestants” talking to the Doctor regarding their past medications. One gentleman had over 20 pills he was taking, for everything from high blood pressure to high cholesterol to diabetes. The Doctor estimated that over his lifetime, he would spend in excess of $750,000 in prescription medication if he lived long enough to see a normal lifespan. $750,000.00 !!! All it took to get him off his pills and to save him close to a million dollars, was a few simple things: eat right and exercise. That was it. What a concept! We as Americans want it now and don’t want to have to work for it. Why sweat when I can take a pill; “I tried it and it did not work!”. “How long did you try it for?”. “6 months”. “How long have you had these problems?”. “4 years”. “So let me get this straight, you have felt this way for 4 years, which means it took probably another 4-6 years to develop and in 6 months you expect everything to be perfect?”. These are conversations I have every day at the office. These are conversations we hear on the news with the latest election. Yet, we want change but are not willing to stick with something long enough to enjoy the change. Some change is instant, at other times it is slow, but change is change. With this economy, do you want to spend your money on a quick fix of the symptoms (pills), or on a stronger fix of the long lasting problem?

The nervous system controls and coordinates the entire functional body. When the muscles change, it affects the biomechanical structure. This change affects the biochemistry, which in turn affects your movement, health and homeostasis of the body. When I get sick, I get adjusted and then hit my body hard with naturally assimilating vitamins and minerals to help the body get the job done. When I get hurt, I get adjusted (to realign the structure to take pressure off the nervous system and restore the biochemistry) then supply my body with the correct vitamins and minerals to get the job done. When I am low on energy, I look at why. Why is my body working harder than normal and where did my energy go? When your car gets bad gas mileage, you look at the structural alignment and check the engine to see if its running efficiently don’t you? So what is so different with your body?

Below is a new study out this month which falls in line with what I am talking about. Eat right, NO JUNK FOOD or FOODS HIGH IN CORN SYRUP AND FATS, Exercise a minimum of 3 TIMES A WEEK FOR AT LEAST 20 minutes. Take your vitamins and get ADJUSTED to keep your biomechanics in proper alignment!

People/Doctors who say “vitamins don’t work” or, “getting adjusted is just a band aid and does not work”, do not READ the research and the journals. Use your common sense. It’s not voodoo or alternative science; its very, very mainstream. If the highest paid athletes in the world who demand the most from their bodies go by this philosophy, maybe you should too. Let the “nay sayers” and “non believers” get sick.

STUDY SHOWS STERIODS FOR KIDS DON’T WORK AS WELL AS THEY THOUGHT.

Steroid Drugs, a common treatment for young children prone to wheezing and colds, do not help and may even be harmful, according to a new research study.

Preschoolers, in Britain who were hospitalized with a wheezing attack and treated with the steroid prednisolone stayed just as long as other children who were given “dummy” pills.

In another study, Canadian children who had previous wheezing trouble and who took the steroid fluticasone as a preventive measure showed modest improvement, but the side effect of possible stunted growth outweighed the benefit, researchers said.

Both studies were reported in today’s New England Journal of Medicine, one of the highest regarded Pub Medicine journals on the research circuit. All studies are independent and double blind.

I was born with Asthma and as a child I was told to swim to build up my lungs (with moisture) and when it got bad , to sit in a steamed room. When I was climbing high mountains, getting bronchitis or having an asthma attack was a real concern. I ate right, got plenty of sleep, got adjusted twice a month, (more if I felt a cold coming on) and took my vitamins. I never missed a summit. I did go down the “medical route” once, taking meds such as Advair, Provental and Albuterol. What I found was I felt terrible, jittery, weak and was still sick. After several weeks, I realized that all the times before when I would get sick I was better in less than two weeks with “my methods”. I went back to getting adjusted (daily during my breathing bouts), taking supplements (anti inflammatory, lung strength and immune system), laser work, diet and rest. BAM I was better in no time and have not looked back since. I practice what I preach.

“Stretching Smarts”

2009-01-14T14:30:00.000-08:00

Ever since I started playing competitive sports stretching was always part of the process. It is quite interesting today, that whether you are aware of this or not, but there are many researchers, health professionals that say stretching does not help decrease injury or prepare you for competition. Now on the other hand there are many that say the complete opposite. So which is it? Let me give you my rundown on how I think stretching can be effective.

You must learn three basic principals while stretching:

1)knowing when is the best time to stretch.
2)knowing two basic approaches to lengthening the muscle-tendon unit and which is best for your situation.
3)Realizing that as your body or your activities change, so to must your stretching routine.

When should I stretch?

Immediately prior to your exercise warm-up, by stretching only the tight muscles identified by testing or those that lack needed flexibility relative to your chosen activity.
If you lack normal or optimal flexibility in any muscle group and wish to balance the body for injury prevention and/or pain reduction, then you want to stretch at night as close to bedtime as possible. This is because your body does most of its healing at night, and if you lengthen tight muscles before bed, they will heal in a lengthened state, progressively balancing your body. If you want to stretch to improve energy levels, you can get a favorable response whenever you are tired. So stretching first thing in the morning can help with energy flow and mental clarity.

Regardless when you stretch, the best results are when your body is warm. About the temperature that causes a light sweat.

What is the best method of stretching my muscles?

If you are preparing for an athletic event, I suggest a form of stretching called “contract-relax.” This method requires that you place the muscle to be stretched under tension and then activate it against immovable resistance (usually another person) for five seconds, followed immediately by five seconds of relaxed lengthening. You will find that breathing really influences your stretching; a general rule of thumb is to inhale as you activate a muscle and exhale as you relax and stretch it. It is very important that, after contracting for five seconds, you immediately move into the stretch positions as you relax and exhale.

If your muscles are chronically shortened(tight) and you need to improve joint range of motion beyond what can be done with contract-relax stretching, or if you have shortened connective tissues, than I suggest static stretching. This is best done at night, warm with a light sweat, in a steam bath or even in a hot tub. I recommend holding each stretch for a minute or more. But don’t be overzealous with your stretching efforts or your body will react against the stretch to protect you from injury..

When do I change my stretching routing?

If your work or sports activities change, so too must your stretching routine. Become familiar with what muscles are involved with your sport, hobby, or work. For example, as a golfer, I would want to take particular interest in low back and hip stretches, since so much pressure is put on the low back during a golf swing. For those that are at computers all day, knowing neck, upper back and wrist stretches can save you from significant pain and loss of work. I realize that most of you aren’t biomechanical specialists like us, but listen to your body and you wont be disappointed. If anybody would like recommendations for specific stretches for specific sports please feel free to contact me or come into the office for a thorough evaluation.

While the topic of stretching can become complex, I’m sure that if you apply these tips I’ve shared you will be on your way to improved posture and reduced pain and enhanced performance. Comments are welcome.

Dr. Derek Pelofsky is a certified chiropractic sports practitioner. He is one of the Sports Chiropractors at Chiropractic Sports Institute.

NEW YEAR NEW YOU

2009-01-10T18:38:00.000-08:00

Ok this is my first blog of the New Year so I hope that everyone is ready to start this year of on a good foot. Over the past week or so I have had one question asked several times. “Dr. Ed how do I make my New Years resolutions come true.” I have heard this question several times already and it is only the second week of the New Year. Each person who asked this question had something similar. THEY WERE TRYING TO DO TOO MUCH.
Many individuals want to take on the world at the beginning of the New Year. This is the problem! We all do great once we start out on a new project, but it is keeping at it that is the problem. My solution to this is start out smaller. Maybe not take over the world at first but instead conquer your kitchen. What I mean is do not take on so much that you forget what you are trying to do. An example is weight loss. We all want to loose weight but when we start we put our selves into a drastic diet plan that gives us immediate results and then with in a few weeks we let the diet go. We let it go because we get tired and frustrated because it becomes too much of a burden. So instead start small. First cut your portions down. A patient once told me that his favorite lunch is a two BIG MAC’s from McDonalds and a large fry. So for him I said just eat one BIG MAC. Start small then progress larger. Once you get comfortable with the small stuff you will be ready to up the anti.
All of us can make our NEW YEARS resolutions come true. Just don’t do too much too fast. 2009 will be a great year for all of us and remember that we here at CSI wish all of you the best of health in 2009. Look back next month for more blogs from the doctors and fun little tid bits. If anyone has questions for us please drop us a line and we will write about it.

Thank you all for a wonderful 2008 and I look forward to keeping you all healthy and happy in 2009.

Dr. Ed

Alternative treatments for Inflammatory Bowl Disease

2009-01-06T18:40:00.000-08:00

"I don't feel very good, my stomach hurts"

What is inflammatory bowel disease?

Inflammatory Bowl Disease (IBD) is described as inflammation of the large and small intestines. The two most common types of IBD are ulcerative colitis, which most commonly affects the large intestine, and Crohn’s disease, which can affect the entire GI tract. Individuals who are affected by these conditions either have a small portion or at times the whole intestinal tract affected. These conditions cause the intestinal lining to be irritated and swollen, and as a result ulcers may form which can cause intestinal bleeding. Some symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in the stool, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Due to the fact that the intestinal lining is inflamed the main function, which is absorption of nutrients and water, is altered and the individual can become under nourished, dehydrated and weak. Symptoms may come and go and patients can be in remission for long periods of time. Although people at any age can be affected, IBD most commonly affects young adults. With these conditions other organs such as the skin, joints, spine, liver, and eyes can also be affected. The best way to diagnose these conditions is by direct visualization via sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy with biopsy of the lining of the bowl. Patients with long standing history of IBD have an increase risk of colon cancer, so it is very important to have the condition monitored by their gastroenterologist.

Alternative treatments:
• Chiropractic
o You might ask how chiropractic can help. Chiropractic adjustments can help by freeing any type of interference in the nerve that supplies the intestinal tract to help it maintain the proper transmission of information between the area affected and Central Nervous System (CNS) which is composed of the brain and spinal cord. With the communication between the GI tract and the CNS normalized, there are more regular bowel movements and less inflammation in the area which in term helps to normalize the regular environment of the GI tract.

• Erchonia cold laser
o The function of the cold laser is to penetrate the mitochondria of the cell which is considered the “power house” of the cell and produce more Adenosine Tri Phosphate (ATP) which is the main fuel for the cells. By having more ATP available the damaged cells are able to function and heal at a higher rate.
o It has also been shown that the cold laser decreases inflammation, which is one of the main complications in inflammatory bowel disease. By decreasing the inflammation, the lining of the intestine is less aggravated and as a result it will heal much faster.

• Energy Balance Footbath (EB)
o The function of the EB is to use the acupuncture meridian channels to send alternating positive and negative ions through an individual’s body to pull out any type of heavy metal and toxin build up which is interfering with the body’s natural healing ability. The way this works is by having the patient immerse their feet in a warm water and salt bath. At the same time a copper coil electrode is placed in the water which creates a bio-energetic ionic exchange system that surges positive and negative ions through the patient’s body.
o Furthermore, it has been shown that the EB helps to produce more ATP which is the main fuel for the cell. By having more ATP available the function and healing process of damaged cells and tissue are enhanced.

• Proper nutrition and supplementation:
o Due to the fact that these conditions are inflammatory processes it is very important to recognize the types of food which aggravate the condition and avoid those particular foods. Every person reacts differently to different foods. It is a good idea to keep a daily log of each meal to see how you feel after that particular meal. This is a good way to isolate which foods aggravate the intestine.
o Supplements can be your ally if in fighting these conditions. Some important supplements to be taken for people with these conditions include:
 L-Glutamine which is a free forming amino acid that helps in the tissue recovery
 Acidophilus which is a probiotic that helps in digestion
 Vitamins A, C, E, and Zinc which are all antioxidants and help to decrease inflammation throughout the body.

By combining chiropractic, cold laser, EB, proper nutrition and supplements the amount of inflammation in the intestinal lining is decreased. As a result there is less discomfort to the patient, symptoms can subside, amount of prescription medication can be reduced, and the patients can experience a more natural and healthy life style.

My experience with ulcerative colitis:

I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at the age of 20. After having a colonoscopy and biopsy performed, I was told that my entire large intestine was affected. My condition was so severe that I had to drop out of school for 2 semesters, lost about 20 pounds in a 1 month period, and was severely anemic. The Dr.’s put me on Prednisone which is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid to control the bleeding and inflammation. After taking the medication for about 3 weeks my condition was under control but the medication had taken a toll on my body. As a result I had severe acne and joint pain throughout my body. After I stopped taking prednisone they put me on another pill called Asacol and was told that I have to take 12 pills per day, depending on my condition, for the rest of my life. Due to the fact that one of the main side effects of Asacol is liver cirrhosis, I had to get regular blood work done to monitor my liver function.

Once I was in chiropractic school and started to get adjusted I noticed a big improvement in my bowl movements. I was able to cut back my medication to about 9 pills per day. After starting to work at CSI I discovered the cold laser and EB. I decided to go through 12 sessions of the EB combined with the laser. At my 4th treatment I noticed that I was having more energy throughout the day. At the 7th treatment I was having less bowl movements. I decided to cut back on my medication and see how things went. By my 9th session was taking about 4 pill every other week. After my 12th session was completed in early October I was not taking anymore pills for my colitis and to date I have not taken any pills. I feel the best I have felt since my condition started over 8 years ago.

• Since there is a higher risk of colon cancer in individuals with these conditions it is very important to be monitored regularly by your GI doctor.
If you have any questions and concerns feel free to ask and I will gladly answer them.

Amir Mahmud
Chiropractic Intern
2277 Townsgate Rd. suite 101
Westlake Village, CA 91361
Phone :(805)371-0737
www.gotcsi.com

Whats up with the Tennis balls?

2008-11-11T20:48:00.000-08:00

Good day and greetings to all who have ventured to this site to keep your self informed and intrigued about what CSI has to offer. Here is the latest answer to a common question that I have had in the office.

Many patients are looking for an easy way to help ease some of the pain and tightness that accompanies a very busy lifestyle. Some get massages, many get Chiropractic care, others choose to work out and or sit on there butts and watch TV. These are all ways to get some relaxation in, however they do not help ease the mechanical muscle tension. This is where a tennis ball or tennis balls come into play.

I tell many of my patients to first buy a can of three balls. Take two of them and put them into an old sock and or panty hose. I prefer the panty hose since this material can breath and prevent mildew build up. You now want to tie off the end so that two tennis balls can move apart about an inch.

Those of you who are familiar with foam rolling and the wonderful benefits that it can provide will also see great relief from the use of a tennis ball since they can get into the smaller muscle groups compared to a foam roller.

Ok enough talk this is what to do. For those who have upper back and neck tension you can take the two tennis balls that are in the sock and lay on them so the tennis balls are between the shoulder blades and around the spine. Here you can roll up and down on the balls and hit all those smaller tension spots that a foam roller cannot get at. Then after that you can use the single ball to get the rest.

Once you master that you can then use the tennis balls on any tense muscle area. Try and stay away from rolling over a bony area since that will possibly create a bruise. You may have to start out on the floor or on the most cushioned area of the house if it is too painful.

The purpose of the tennis balls is to help break up the muscle adhesions that we all get during the day. Using the tennis balls at home will help with the current treatment that many of you are utilizing here at CSI. I tell many of my patients on the first visit about the tennis balls to help them with there current issues. Many use massage however this is a home care method that you can utilize daily.

I recommend that you use the tennis balls over the areas that you feel are the most tense and allow the tennis balls to push in the area for 3-4 minutes then move them. You can do this on all large and small muscle groups to pain tolerance.

Tennis balls I have found are the easiest way to allow some home massage and tension relief. If any of you have questions on how to use the tennis balls and or questions about the previous blogs, please contact me at bfg59@aol.com. Thank you all for your time and may this holiday season bring you all happiness.

Thank you,

Dr. Ed

BREATHE

2008-10-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

Quote: "I complained I had no shoes, until I met a man who had no feet."

I read this quote and I liked it for several reasons. The main one is that it puts things in perspective. The other quote I heard today was, “You may have lost your wealth, just don’t loose your health”. These two quotes bring us back to reality. With the media showing us all the doom and gloom it gets harder and harder to find that silver lining every day, but its there. Stress can bring us down and we have two choices when we wake up each morning (that in itself is a plus), to have a great day or a bad day. Yes, it’s a choice. It may take you all day to find a reason why it was great but never stop looking for that reason. IT maybe as simple and hearing “I love you” from a loved one, or waking up and seeing that you have a roof over your head, or that you were able to eat, or my favorite, you woke up with less pain than the day before.

Most people put their LIVES ahead of their LIFE. They rush around, worrying about their job, their kids, their material objects. They worry about the health of their loved ones or their friends and never taking the time to tend to their own needs and health. If you are reading this you need to take a reflection to truly look at your self. Are you taking care of yourself by eating right, getting sleep, taking your supplements, getting exercise and getting your regular Chiropractic Adjustments. During times of stress your body goes into hyper speed. If you don't take care of the engine, the body will break down. Stay on the highway of life and care for yourself so you don't end up on the side of the road broken.

With the nation in panic mode, the media lighting the fires and wallstreet not knowing what to do, I felt compelled to write this note and say "BREATH". If you let your health go, then the stress will be more than you can imagine. You always hear, "Until I had cancer I never stopped to appreciate life". Don't wait for the stress to beat you down, combat with proper health so you can deal with everything else.

If you or your company would like one of the CSI Doctors to come to your company and show you and your employees little tricks to lower the stress level so you can focus on the job at hand. Let me know and we can be available for a "lunch and learn" or an evening talk. We will come to you, all you have to do is ask:-)Contact us at www.gotcsi.com

Ice or Heat- THAT is the Question

2008-10-02T15:49:00.000-07:00

By Dr. Ed Green

Ever since becoming interested in Sports Chiropractic I have always been asked the question when to ICE and when to HEAT. I must get that question several times a week. So I am writing this article or as you would say it in the twentieth century, BLOG, to help ease all the thoughts and curious question seekers out there.

HEAT: Heat is good for bringing blood to the injured or sore area and loosening up the tissue to make that area less stiff and more pliable. Heat should be applied before participation in any athletic event. I recommend that patients use heat for no longer than 15-20 minutes. Now, there are two types of heat that are beneficial. The most effective would be that of moist heat. The reason being is that the moist heat can penetrate the skin and get deeper into the tissue with out dehydrating the surround cells. An example of that would be the difference between a burn that is caused by a flame compared to that of a steam burn. As we know the flame burn will char the skin however a steam burn basically melts it away. So if you are wanting to apply heat make sure it is moist heat and do it before an event to help loosen or relax the muscles and surrounding joints.

As for those who like to use the heat rubs or heat liniments, they are only good for a temporary superficial relief. They will desensitize the tissue and bring a small amount of blood to the area however one must be careful in using them so FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS.

ICE: Now here is my favorite thing to use. Yes I know ICE is COLD and that is why it is so beneficial. I have been using ice for many years however; it was my first year at California Lutheran University while on the football team that I got my first real exposure to ICE therapy. It was in the middle of summer, where we all know that the Conejo Valley get in the 100’s. Three days into hell week, I developed some moderate quadriceps tightness with a quad contusion. I went into the training room for some help and the trainer instructed me to hop in the ice bath. So here I am, a 310lb offensive lineman, trying to get my big butt into a small whirl pool bath that is full of ice. IT WAS QUITE A SIGHT. Needles to say, I was in the ice bath everyday after practice.

Ice will decrease the amount of fluid and blood in the injured area. The decreased amounts of fluid and blood will limit the body from forming adhesions and control the amount of lactic acid that is produced. By decreasing these things you will feel less stiffness, less tightness and less pain. I recommended that people ice after they are done with heavy exercise or after an acute injury. During the onset of an initial injury the body wants to surround the area with fluid and blood. By icing you can limit the amount of fl uid and blood and there fore decrease the amount of pain. Your pain level will also decrease with the ice since the sensitive nerve roots will become desensitized.

So now that I have rambled on and on here is my final word. ICE, ICE, ICE for all acute injuries and after rigorous activities that you are sore or stiff afterwards. Use HEAT when you are about to compete or need to be loosened up. You should only use heat for 15-20 minutes and then remove the heat. Never fall asleep with it on. As for ICE, onc should ice the injured area for 15-20 min on and then remove it for 40 min and then apply for another 15-20. Do this 3-4 times a day.

Ok there it is. That is my take on ICE vs. HEAT. I love them both but prefer ICE. Please feel free to comment on this and I will return the favor. AND PLEASE NO COMMENTS ON ME IN A TUB OF ICE.

See you in the office,

Dr. Ed Green
Clinic Director, Moorpark CSI

Using Chiropractic Care as Preventive Functional Medicine for the upcoming Football Season

2008-09-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

By Dr. Derek Pelofsky

Its September and that means only one thing. Football is in full swing. I don’t know about you but I count the days from early January, which is when the college Bowl Championship games are played till the beginning August, the start of Two-a-day practices for teams. I grew up in Oklahoma, and in Oklahoma football is not just a sport it a pretty much a religion. I can remember going to my first University of Oklahoma football game at 5yrs old. Sure enough every Saturday that OU was in Norman for a home game, my dad and I were there thru my college days. Since I’ve lived in Southern California for the past 7 years, my passion for OU and football in general has become even stronger. So my passion for the sport, and having the privilege and ability to play in high school, combined with my passion for sports medicine really fuels what I do for a living.

A subject that I wanted to touch up on is why use chiropractic if not in pain and how it relates to football and sports in general. One of the most common responses I get from patients when asking them how are you doing today is; “well I guess not to good if I’m here. I want to be very clear on this point. Chiropractic and all the different treatments we perform are great to help heal people, and being involved with sports, injuries are going to happen, but the ultimate healthcare minded person is one who looks for preventive medicine. Many people don’t realize that there are many professional athletes around the world that utilize chiropractic as a means to prevent their body from breaking down and keep it running at its highest capacity. A great way to compare this is do you wait for your car to breakdown once the infamous check engine light comes on? No of course not, you do laitance, with regular tune ups and checkups at least every 3,000 miles. Why would you treat your body differently from your car? After all once your body breaks down, that means pain and discomfort which may cause you to lose time at work or just preventing you from the daily things you enjoy doing.

Many of you have a youngster in little league football or even somewhere up in the high school or college level. Now is the time to get these athletes checked out and treated. The most common injuries we see in football are of course knee injures due to all the lateral movement performed. Neck injuries to the nerves that exit the upper neck region and go into the arm, which is known as a “stinger”. Last but not least we see a lot of concussion type injuries due to the all the contact that occurs. As a football player , and as a parent of a football player, I would want to make sure my spine, muscles, and the extremity joints were all working at its highest level to help prevent any of the injuries and allow for a healthy and fun season. Of course this goes for all athletes in all sports, don’t wait for the check engine light to come on before you breakdown! Take care of your body and use the doctors of CSI as the tune-up specialist for your body. BOOMER SOONER!

Dr. Derek Pelofsky is a Doctor of Chiropractic at Chiropractic Sports Institute where he has his private practice caring for both Amateur and Professional athletes. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in the field of Sports Chiropractic and Nutrition. Along with an lustrious career as a College Baseball player, Dr. Derek lives and breaths athletics.

Comparing Over the Counter Meds to Natural Anti-Inflammatories

2008-09-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Derek Pelofsky

Practicing as a sports Doctor that sees a lot of acute and painful injuries we are approached with many questions as far as what can the patient do at home to help speed up the healing and decrease pain. Probably one of the most frequently asked questions is should I take Advil, Tylenol, or Aleve?

Doctors of Chiropractic are not allowed to prescribe any prescription drugs or be advising on taking any over the counter pain relievers such as the most common NSAIDS, (non steroidal Anti-inflammatory drugs), Advil, Tylenol, and Aleve. So, as a consumer and a active person that might be put in a situation to fall back on using NSAIDS lets get educated on what you are putting into your body, and not influenced by the many commercials that bombard us daily. Like an automobile, your body reacts on the "gas" that is put in its engine. You will research the best products to put in your car so the engine runs smoothly, do you research the best products to put in your body?

NSAIDS in general, work by blocking natural chemicals in your body that cause inflammation. But the drawback is that those same chemicals protect your stomach from burning up in its own acid. So, long term use can eventually cause some serious issues with your gastrointestinal system, mainly the stomach lining causing a possible ulcer or more serious side effects!

Here is a breakdown of the Top 4 types of NSAIDs and a Homeopathic approach that works if not better than regular NSAIDs without the possible side effects.

1.Ibuprofen
Brand Name:Advil, motrin

How it works:When injured your body naturally produces enzymes to heal you, which create swelling, causing pain. Ibuprofen inhibits or stops the enzymes production.

Side effects:Prolonged and excessive use can lead to bleeding or perforation of the stomach or intestines.

Benefits:Reduces swelling at the site of injury.

2.Acetaminophen

Brand Name:Tylenol

How it works:Exact mechanism in unknown, but believed to inhibit or stop pain by blocking enzymes and prostaglandins synthesis in the central nervous system.

Side effects:Excessive acetaminophen use is the number one cause of acute liver failure in the United States.

Benefits:Does not inhibit production of enzymes in the gastrointestinal system, so safer on your gut.

3.Aspirin

Brand Name:Bayer

How it works:Aspirin works the same way ibuprofen does.

Side effects:Similar gastrointestinal effects as seen with ibuprofen, but because aspirin is derived form acetic acid it can also do minor stomach damage.

Benefits:A proven painkiller for the treatment of arthritis. Thins blood, helping lower the risk of heart disease

4.Naproxen Sodium

Brand Name:Aleve

How it works:The same way ibuprofen and aspirin, but its slower to dissolve, which provides longer relief.

Side effects:ulcers, bleeding, and perforation of the stomach or intestines.

Benefits:effective for the treatment of migraines and inflammation.

Also understand this. Naproxen (Aleve), Ibuprofen and Aspirin thin the blood. Do NOT take these meds prior to participating in a high contact sport! If a head injury occurs, the thinning blood COULD lead to complications. The risk is minimal, but there is still a risk that needs to be considered.

At CSI we use several forms of Natural Anti-inflammatory substances. Since most Pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory medication originate from chemicals found in nature, we have gone to the direct source- Nature. Below, is our answer to fight off the pain of inflammation, but since these products are made with natural, organic ingredients, we have found that they sometime work faster than their pharmaceutical counterparts. There are many products on the market, we have tried most of them and have found these to be consistent with little to no side effects.

Traumeel is an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, ant-edematous, anti-exudate combination formulation of 12 botanical and 2 mineral substances. This is a topical cream that works great.

1.Traumeel

How it works:helps control the release of oxygen radicals from white blood cells(neutrophils) and stops the release of inflammatory substances.

Benefits:effective for injuries of all kinds, such as: sprains, muscle aches, dislocations, contusions, burns, effusions of blood and effusions into a joint, post operative and post-traumatic edema and swelling of the soft tissues, inflammatory processes and degenerative processes(arthritis), are just a few types of injuries that can treated with traumeel. Traummel is available as a topical ointment, as oral tablets, oral drops, and oral liquid in vials.

Side effects: none, specifically used to treat elderly arthritic patients who cannot tolerate the gastrointestinal side effects associated with conventional NSAIDs or for patients on anticoagulant(blood thinners) medication.

CSI also offers many different homeopathic blends made by a company called Anabolic laboratories, Metagenics, Nutri-West and Standard Process. All of these companies feature a fully licensed, federally registered pharmaceutical manufacturing facility and state-of-the-art laboratories staffed with PhD scientists and chemist to help produce the highest grade quality of homeopathic supplements to help speed healing in many different musculoskeletal injuries. A few examples of products we carry in the office are:

6.Zymain

How it works:formulated enzymes that breakdown inflammatory proteins. Provides aminoglyco-nutrients for cartilage repair. Also contains vitamin C, manganese and zinc, which aid in biosynthesis of new collagen-depositing tissues and stimulate new cell growth within joints.
Benefits:repair tissue damage by increasing blood flow to, and drainage from, damaged areas to quickly reduce injury inflammation.

Side effects:none, if taken correctly with appropriate dosage.

7.Pro-enz:

How it works: contains curcumin, ursolic acid, and bioflavanoids reduce powerful pro-inflammatory enzymes and tissue damaging metalloproteinases.

Benefits:helps reduce pain and inflammation form superficial and deep muscle bruises, tendon, and ligament complaints and injuries.

Side effects:none, if taken correctly with appropriate dosage.

The most natural way of fighting of injury and to help speed up the healing process is by eating the right foods. The right fats and oils such as omega 3 essential fatty acids are great inflammation fighters. They are found in cold water oily fish, walnuts, and flax seeds.

Good sources of protein anti-inflammatory foods are soybeans, tofu, and soy milk. Red meat may trigger inflammation.

Good sources of carbohydrate and fiber anti-inflammatory are whole grains, vegetables and fruits. High fiber diets will reduce inflammation.. Berries, especially blueberries and strawberries which are packed with anti-inflammatory phytochemicals are great to reduce inflammation.

If your diet does not get you enough, this is ONE suppliment you NEED to take, we carry, in my opinion, the best source of Omega 3s but Nurti-West.

So, when in need of an over the counter medication to help control either inflammation or pain you will be better educated with the pros and cons of these medications. Also hope you will be open to the many different types of homeopathic blends, such as Traumeel, Anabolic lab products, Nutri-West, Metagenics, Standard Process, and anti-inflammatory foods that are just as effective if not more effective as the common NSAIDs without the possible side effects.

We welcome any comments

Dr. Derek Pelofsky is a Doctor of Chiropractic at Chiropractic Sports Institute where he has his private practice caring for both Amature and Professional atheltes. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in the field of Sports Chiropractic and Nutrition. Along with a lustrious career as a College Baseball player, Dr. Derek lives and breaths athletics.

Back to School, a pain in the neck (literally)

2008-08-04T07:22:00.000-07:00

As our kids return to school we need to be aware of a new trend that has been gaining “popularity” in the last few years, an increase in neck and back pain. With more and more school districts removing lockers, increase in homework and textbooks and the disallowance of roll along backpacks, students are being forced to carry their books in their backpacks all day long. Not only will this potentially cause a painful problem, but if one already exists, it can exacerbate it. This new and disturbing trend shows America’s youth are suffering from back pain much earlier than previous generations and the use of overweight backpacks is a contributing factor. The new trend among youngsters isn’t surprising when you consider the disproportionate amounts of weight they carry in their backpacks – usually slung over just one shoulder.
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Preliminary results of a study being done in France show that the longer a child wears a backpack, the longer it takes for a curvature or deformity of the spine to correct itself. Like with any problem, it needs to be recognized and addressed if change is to take place to correct the situation. If your child begins to feel pain in his neck or back, consult your Chiropractor, Physician or therapist immediately before the condition worsens.

A few basic guidelines should be followed to insure proper fit and address spinal health and biomechanical stability.
· Limiting the backpack’s weight to 10% of the child’s body weight and urging the use of ergonomically correct backpacks are essential.
· The backpack should never hang more than 4 inches below the waistline. A backpack that hangs too low increases the weight on the shoulders, causing your child to lean forward when walking.
· A backpack with individualized compartments helps in positioning the contents most effectively.
· Make sure that pointy or bulky objects are packed away from the area that will rest on your child’s back.
· Bigger is not necessarily better. The more room there is in a backpack, the more your child will carry and the heavier the backpack will be.
· Urge your child to wear both shoulder straps. Lugging the backpack around by one strap can cause the disproportionate shift of weight to one side, leading to neck and muscle spasms, as well as low back pain.
· Wide, padded straps are very important. Non-padded straps are uncomfortable, and can dig into your child’s shoulders.
· The shoulder straps should be adjustable so the backpack can be fitted to your child’s body. Straps that are too loose can cause the backpack to dangle uncomfortably and cause spinal misalignment and pain.
· If the backpack is still too heavy, talk to your child’s teacher. Ask if your child could leave the heaviest books at school, and bring home only lighter hand-out materials or workbooks. Or encourage your local school district to purchase textbooks on CD-Rom.
· Although the use of rollerpacks, or backpacks on wheels, has become popular in recent years, it is recommended that they be used cautiously and on a limited basis by only those students who are not physically able to carry a backpack.
· Encourage your child to exercise and strengthen the muscles of the back and neck.

By following these simple guidelines you may help your child get more out of school than an aching back.

Drug use in Sports

2008-05-22T11:55:00.001-07:00

Its been awhile since I have sat down and “blogged” or rambled but today I could not help it. In the past two weeks I have been approached by top athletes in two different sports asking me how to “beat a drug test” or “how long does it take for certain drugs to leave the system so I know when to stop before my drug test”. This is not the first time I have been asked these questions, in fact, I have been asked these questions for almost as long as I have been a Sports Doctor involved in high level sports.

Bare with me in my rambles and believe me, in time I will get to my point (if your still awake and with me). My first question back to these athletes is “what is the price you are willing to pay and how do you want to be remembered?” Cheaters NEVER win in the long haul. Look at Pete Rose, one of the greatest MLB players of all time yet he is remembered more for is gambling conviction, Dennis Rodman, one of the greatest defensive players Basketball has ever seen yet he is remembered for his off court antics and his lack of professionalism, Roger Clemens, one of the best pitchers the league has ever seen, yet now, you know him only as a cheater, Barry Bonds- need I say more. The list goes on and on from cycling to track and field and everything in between. Athletes who worked their entire life to get on the podium of greatness only to be remembered more for their mistakes in judgment or willingness to sell themselves for the short term goal and not thinking of the long term consequences.

It’s sad really that society puts so much pressure on “greatness” yet will shoot you down and bury you if you take a short cut. With a son in sports I have begun to drill into him that hard work, and taking the high road will always lead to “self satisfaction and greatness” and taking the quick path will only leave you with a temporary high and a life of regret.

Part of the problem is the athletes themselves can be so easily persuaded. They can be fierce on the field but weak with peer pressure. You hang around sports long enough and you will hear, “you want to go faster, take this” “You hurt and want to keep going, take this”, “you want to heal faster so you can compete, take this”. Its amazing that with all the info out there on the long term affects of drug abuse or performance enhancing drugs that athletes will still take the risk because they feel that “that happens to other guys, but not me” and they are willing to risk the unknown future for the immediate present. Put that question to Roger Clemens or Floyd Landis now.

I read a study when I first got out of school that back in the 80s they told NFL players that by signing the contract to become a Pro Football player that their life expectancy would drop to the mid 50’s due to the abuse and drugs they would have to take, and yet everyone still signed the contracts. They stated that “living the dream and ‘15 minutes of fame’ was worth it”. Ask Lyle Alzaedo if he still ageed before he died. He didn’t and spent his remaining years talking about his regrets. Not a great way to die and not how I want to be remembered.

Sure, Drugs can help you with pain control, or perform super human feats but how satisfying are those feats when you did not do it under your own God given power. I hear all the time, “everyone else is doing it”. Yep, you maybe right, but at what point do you become a leader and say “yes but I am not”. You have heard the saying “if everyone jumped off a bridge without a paracute would you still do it”. Are we herds of cattle that follow our packs like robots or are we true humans with personal thoughts? Why can’t an athlete be remembered for his greatness on and off the field, for his hard work, dedication and ethics? I love sports, I was never at the top of the game but that did not change my views on how much love I got out of competition. I am asked at times why I climb high mountains and my answer is also the best explanation I can give to athletes who question whether or not they should take drugs. “It’s not reaching the summit that give me my high, it’s the journey that takes me there that does”.

In closing, when dealing with your kids, fellow athletes or your friends, ask them who their true heroes are? Are they the athletes out there taking the drugs and cheating to win, OR are they their parents, teachers, mentors and or true friends who love them whether or not they are famous. Cheating never gets you anywhere in the long run and it will always leave you with regret and emptiness. Hard work and passion will always win in the end.

If you want to learn more about the abuse of drugs in sports you can start with these links and go from there:

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/2004-09-09-ten-changes-drugs-testing_x.htm
http://www.gdcada.org/statistics/steroids.htm

Drugs and illegal performance enhancers have been around since the dawn of time and are not going away. It’s your choice which road you want to go down and which road you ultimately want to be remembered for. Be a leader and choose the less traveled road of truth, ethics, hard work and self satisfaction and you will enjoy a full and amazing life beyond your wildest dreams.

Comments are welcomed,

Dr. Terry

So this is the New Year

2008-02-25T07:02:00.000-08:00

So this is the New Year

Ten… nine… eight… seven… six… five… four… three… two… one…

Cue the champagne, the fireworks, the midnight kiss, the confetti, the banging, clanging noise makers, the cheers and well wishes for a new year – twelve months stretched out before us, filled to the brim with endless possibility.

How will we remember 2008? Will it be remarkable? Will it leave a mark on the pages of history? Or will it pass us by quietly? Just another moment in time that will eventually fade from our memories?

Not a single one of us can tell. Standing at the edge of a new year – we cannot see what lies before us – we cannot tell what the future holds.

It’s exciting and thrilling and absolutely terrifying.

Because life is unpredictable. As much as we attempt to plan and schedule - filling the lines in our calendars and BlackBerrys with appointments and practices and meetings and recitals and games and on and on and on – life happens. Time and space and God and the great expanse of the universe do not account for our plans.

Life is filled to the brim with starts and stops and ups and downs and backwards and forwards and insides and outs and all things random and chaotic and contradictory.

There are moments of complete and utter bliss, mountain-top moments that fill our hearts, our minds, our bodies with this overwhelming joy and laughter and contentment. Moments when the sun is shining and the birds are singing and it’s all one big cliché but absolutely nothing, nothing can go wrong.

But then things do go wrong. And there are tears. And heartbreaks. And death and suffering and pain and misunderstanding and ignorance. Moments of total and absolute tragedy and loss and humiliation and loneliness.

All these heartaches and joys leap-frog each other, dance around each other, mix and meld into each other until life is this great, big, jumbled mess. It's strange and awkward and entirely beyond human understanding.

We search for answers. For the why and the how and the what. Constantly questioning and pondering and wondering the meaning of all of this – this strange thing we call “life”. And oh so rarely do we actually find the answers we seek. More often than not it seems that we are left empty handed – even more befuddled about this mixed up, crazy world.

But you know what? Maybe that’s okay. Maybe – as we are all in the midst of our own little grail quest – the search for the meaning of life – the actual finding isn’t the important part. It’s the quest itself. The journey. The people we meet. The questions we ask. The adventures and mishaps along the way that make it all worth the travels.

Life is not just a beginning or an ending. It’s an entire story. My story. Your story. Our story. Each full of tragedy and comedy and romance and unexplained mysteries - hundreds of chapters and countless characters. Pages and pages ahead of us unwritten.

And so, at the beginning of this new year, I wish you all safe and happy travels through the next twelve months, through all of life. May your story be wonderfully unpredictable.

Come what may.

Always,
Shannon

CHIROPRACTIC, the gift of health

2007-12-10T07:25:00.000-08:00

Chiropractic, its the most wonderful form of health care around. Why is it termed "Alternative". I don't know and don't understand. If using the word in its purest term, why would going to the Chiropractic Doctor be your last or alternative choice. I call my MD friends the alternative Doctors. Think about it, if we can get the body right, restore both the cell, neurological communication and then restore and strengthen the musculoskeletal frame (biomechanics) and there was STILL something wrong, then the ALTERNATIVE would be to seek surgical care or pharmaceutical intervention.

In this time of holiday and Christmas thinking, I want to hear from everyone why they chose to come to CSI and how it has changed your life. I have seen SO many miracles walk out our doors and now I want to hear them from you. This is the end of the year, your health is THE most important investment you can make, without it NOTHING matters, not your portfolio, not how many cars or houses you have, or where you live. IF you can't get out of bed in the morning what CAN you do.

Is it the insurance company's obligation to care for you, NO its yours. Insurance is just that, INSURANCE if you are in a catastrophic accident. Hopefully they will help you get back on your feet, not keep you there. So think about it, and let us and the world know why your health is important and how CSI has kept you going and for what. Post your comments for all to read. My favorite comment is "I don't believe in Chiropractic". I figured this is a good time of year to handle that one. I am not a religion, its not something you believe in. I works! There is less risk in getting Chiropractic care that there is in taking medication and getting surgery. Post your thoughts and have a blessed holiday season.

A Christmas Story

2007-12-09T21:34:00.000-08:00

I Believe
By: Shannon Trumbauer

It is 4:30 in the early early morning on December 25th, 1990.

The house is darkened, silent and still - save for the quiet, almost imperceptible shuffle of little feet along the carpet, the occasional giggle and “shushhhhhh.”

Three little faces materialize around the corner of the hallway and peer – with delicious anticipation – into the living room. There is a gasp and a clapping of hands at the sight which befalls them.

The Christmas tree, standing so tall and serene in front of the large bay window, is surrounded by presents, an impossible number of presents. The stockings hung over the chimney are full to the brim with goodies and nearby on the table there is a half-empty glass of milk and a plate of scattered cookie crumbs.

The little girls run happily back to their beds, shaking with excitement for the hour when they can finally leap onto their parents’ bed, squealing and shouting with glee –

“Santa came! Santa came!”

The same joyous cry will be heard throughout all parts of the world this morning, just as it has been heard for hundreds of years, just as it will continue to be heard for hundreds of years to come…

That particular Christmas Day was seventeen years ago.

I was seven years old.

In the years since that morning, my sisters and I have grown older, taller and wiser. We have been laden with the burdens of school and friends and work and bills and the endless sea of responsibility that comes from growing up and entering adulthood…

And still, without fail, as the holiday season approaches, as decorations appear in store fronts and the radio waves are filled with Jingle Bells, as Charlie Brown and Rudolph and Frosty make their annual appearances on our television screens – we once again become those little girls, all wide-eyed and filled with eager anticipation as the season swirls around us in this breathtaking cacophony of lights and sounds and tastes…

…pine trees, stockings full of toys, sugar cookies, bells, annoying commercials, a neighborhood street lined with twinkling lights, nativity scenes, twenty-four hours of A Christmas Story on TBS, the comfort of curling up in front of the fireplace under a warm blanket, mistletoe, carols, lying under the Christmas tree, Poinsettias, finding that perfect gift for a loved one, holiday parties, candy canes…

Peace. Love. Joy.

It is as if something in the holiday air, some wonderfully marvelous mixture of peppermint and gingerbread and hot chocolate, wipes away all those years - all those reasons that make it so hard to just believe in magic and Santa Claus and his eight flying reindeer. It is easy again. Uncomplicated. Simple.

Of course the world is filled with magic. It’s waiting to surprise us at every corner. Sneaking up on us and tapping us on the shoulder and prompting us
into joyous bursts of laughter and childlike astonishment.

And of course. Of course there is a Santa Claus.

There always will be. There always has been.

I never ever want to lose the possibilities of this belief, my overwhelming love of Christmas, the excitement that comes at seeing those first signs of the season.

And I hope, I pray, that everyone this season – no matter your beliefs, no matter the holiday which you celebrate, whether you are seven or seventy-six – that you find something to believe in this holiday season, something to once again fill you with innocent wonder.

So, in parting, I have a confession to make.

Promise you won’t laugh?

Okay, here it is – I’m twenty-four years old and I still lie awake on Christmas Eve Night and listen – hope for that distinct sound of sleigh bells up on the rooftop.

And here’s the real crazy part – sometimes I’ll hear something off in the distance, the faint ringing of a bell and my heart will leap and maybe… maybe… maybe…

“Santa came! Santa came!”

The cold season is coming, are you ready?

2007-11-28T09:32:00.000-08:00

Once again we approach the Flu season, and once again the flu shot is in the News. Last years campaign was that the flu virus was worse than ever, the year before, there was a shortage so hurry up and get yours. This year, they are predicting a large shortage and an increase in office workers sick time. With the flu vaccination advertising campaign in full swing what do you do when the virus decides to “vacation” in your body? Do you run in fear, or get educated and hit the flu season fighting.

According to the latest research the average American suffers two to six colds a year, and as yet, there is no known cure. Nevertheless, pharmacies and stores that sell alternative medicine therapies are stocked with products claiming to be natural remedies for the common cold. If you are one of the “lucky ones”, you may be wondering how best to treat your symptoms. Are over-the-counter cold medications the only way to go or do alternative remedies such as vitamin C, Echinacea and zinc really help? Before we look at the remedies and research behind them lets look at the animal itself, the cold and flu.

The common cold (acute coryza 45) is associated with viruses that affect the nose, throat, larynx (voice box) and sinuses. That means stuffed and runny nose, scratchy throat, watery eyes, stuffed sinuses and congestion. What makes the common cold different from viral or bacterial infections is the absence of high fever. Influenza, or the flu, the patient will have a fever between 101-103, backache, headache, muscle and joint pain, runny nose, congestion, sore throat and cough and continue irregularly for three to four days. The flu can cause problems if you are in the elderly population, weak or suffering from an immune suppressive disorder. In some cases, the flu may develop into pneumonia. For most people who are “healthy” the flu is little more than an annoying illness.

Painkillers such as aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen are common ingredients in cold products designed to relieve aches and pains and reduce fever. Yet, most colds don’t cause aches, pains or high fevers. According to Joe Graedon Ph.D., author of the People’s Pharmacy Guide to home and herbal remedies, Antihistamines, meant for those runny noses, help against allergies and hay fever but provide relatively little relief for the common cold. “Such drugs may actually be counterproductive by allowing viruses to multiply more readily. They cite a study in which Australian scientists found that aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen reduced immune system response and resulted in “increased nasal symptoms.” Other research has shown that people spread more of the cold virus after taking aspirin. So what can we do to help fight the battle?

Before reaching for any cold concoction, try these practical remedies: They work!! My kids as well as myself have used these for years and our down time always is less than those who take medication.

Drink plenty of water. Fluids will help loosen the mucus in your nose and chest and provide a medium for the cells to communicate.

Stop eating sugar and avoid dairy products. Sugar and refined sweets have been shown to reduce the total amount of white blood cells, which fight infection. Also, sugar, even in fruit juices and dairy products, thicken the mucus in the linings in your nose and lungs, making the mucus and your infection harder to get rid of.

Rest. This will allow the body to focus on healing.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C has long been touted for its ability to prevent and cure the common cold. Although these claims have been blown out of proportion, an adequate intake of Vitamin C is necessary to help fight infections and keep the immune system healthy. There is some research to show that taking extra vitamin C at the onset of a cold may cause a mild antihistamine effect.

The recommended dietary allowance for vitamin C is between 75- 100 milligrams per day for women and 90-250 mg for men. You may bump this up to 1500 mg for 48-72 hours at onset of the cold. Too much Vitamin C may cause side effect such as nausea, abdominal cramps and diarrhea, so don’t mega dose during the season.

Echinacea: Over the past several years, Echinacea has become one of the hottest herbal remedies in the US. While little research has been done in the US, European research on Echinacea has suggested that the herb has an immune-stimulant effect. Echinacea seems to work by stimulating various components of the body’s immune system. One of the reasons that Echinacea’s research varies is that there are three different species of the purple coneflower which make up the herbal remedy. For the most affective remedy seek out your Doctor/Chiropractor, nutritionist or a reputable vitamin store.

Since possible adverse effects from long-term use have not been studied, most sources recommend that Echinacea only be taken when the symptoms of a cold first appear and then only for a week or two. Because it is an immune system stimulant those with autoimmune diseases like lupus, MS, Sclerosis and RA should not take the herb. It is also not recommended for pregnant and lactating women or for those on immunosuppressant medication.

ZINC: A 1996 study found in the annals of internal medicine found that adults who used zinc lozenges (without sugar) from the onset of a cold recovered twice as fast as those who did not take them. I recommend no more that 100 mg of Zinc a day to fight off the cold and to take the duration of symptoms. Other suppliments to use during this time of year are Omega 3's, B vitamins if you are feeling stressed and a good overall multivitamin. Go to our CSI store for the best pharmaceutical suppliments on the market. http://gotcsi.com/online-store/index.htm

Try the EBR at CSI. The EB, standing for Energy Balance Cellular Clense (www.4ebr.com), has been amazing in balancing the Ph of the body. When the Ph is balanced the system works better. When ever any of us get a cold, first line of defense, EB, Chiropractic, Cold Laser (www.erchonia.com), Suppliments and rest. A powerful combination!!

Last but not least seek Chiropractic care (www.gotcsi.com) during the cold season. A study in the journal of Osteopathic medicine showed a study of over 4600 patients with upper respirator tract infections, only 5% of cases treated with spinal manipulative therapy developed secondary complications. Chiropractic care has been proven to enhance the natural resistance and improve immune function.

So, as we enter this cold season, don’t wait for the cold to attack you, attack the cold through keeping the biomechanics strong in your body by seeking Chiropractic Care, the biochemistry alive by eating right and taking the appropriate supplements and the bioenergy alive by taking care of the air in your home and this season you may be spending more time on the slopes and less time by the Kleenex box.