5 Benefits of Chiropractic Treatment After a Car Accident
Chiropractors are known for treatment muscles, tendons, joints, and problems relating to the central nervous system. Car accidents and the injuries sustained from them often involved all of those. Here are five benefits of chiropractic treatment after a car accident.
Reduce Inflammation
When the body experiences trauma, whether cumulative like running or acute like a car accident, the first line of defense is inflammation. The small vessels and tissues get damaged and blood pools around the injured tissues. While this helps to start the healing process, it also can lead to scar tissue build-up if not addressed appropriately. Chiropractors help restore movement to the area and use techniques to help reduce inflammation.
Reduce Pain
Pain in an auto accident varies. Depending on the type of accident and severity, pain may not show up for a week or more. It is important to remember that when we are in pain, we change the way we move to avoid the pain. This causes increased stress on muscles, joints, and tendons which leads to a longer recovery time and in some cases, long-term pain. Our chiropractors use non-invasive techniques to reduce pain which to help improve range of motion and prevent long-term effects.
Restore Range of Motion
Motion is lotion. Movement is medicine. Let’s face it, we were designed to move. Pain changes the way we move (see above) but it’s not the only thing that impacts the range of motion. Joint inflammation, muscle tension, and sprained ligaments can all reduce range of motion. Each one of those has to be tested and treated appropriately in order to restore range of motion properly.
Non-Invasive Treatment
Chiropractic by nature does not use drugs, surgery, or any invasive techniques to improve health. We use stretches, exercises, and hands-on techniques to restore movement patterns, build strength and improve stability. That means no recovery times and faster treatments.
Little or No Cost
We understand cost can be a barrier for some but if you have been involved in an auto accident, your medical costs are likely covered by your insurance company. All you have to do is bring us your insurance information and we will verify the benefits and handle all the billing requirements.
Car accidents can be devastating to the human body. Even if the accident itself was not severe, injuries can linger for decades. It is important to get evaluated and treated as soon as possible after a car accident as symptoms may not show up for a week or two after the car accident. In New York state, your auto insurance covers chiropractic care for car accidents with no expense to you.
If you or anyone you know has been in a car accident, they can schedule a FREE consultation with one of our doctors to see if chiropractic is right for them. It’s as simple as clicking here.
Saratoga Chiropractic Office Offers Free Massage Sessions for Front Line Workers
COVID-19 has placed a great deal of stress on our front line health care workers. Turning Point Chiropractic has partnered with NormaTec Recovery Systems to provide free treatment for front line workers.
Free NormaTec Recovery Sessions for Front Line Workers
Turning Point Chiropractic in Saratoga Springs is offering Front Line workers helping manage the COVID-19 crisis complimentary NormaTec Recovery Sessions. NormaTec has graciously donated one of their units to Turning Point Chiropractic to help support Saratoga Front Line workers relax and recover after working tirelessly during this time.
NormaTec Recovery Systems are a household name in professional sports and utilized by the world's greatest athletes. Turning Point Chiropractic is extremely excited to have this technology available to those who deserve it the most. Sessions utilize commercial-grade compression devices that enhance the body’s natural ability to recover. This state of the art technology can easily be sanitized between sessions and can be utilized with minimal to no direct contact. Using NormaTec’s full-length leg or hip compression attachments provides you will receive:
improved range of motion
decrease in pain perception
improved circulation
decrease muscle fatigue
We appreciate the sacrifice doctors, nurses, police, fire, EMT, and others are making to ensure the safety of our community. We are pleased to be able to offer this to you. Space and times are limited and will be booked on a first come first serve basis. To schedule your free session or learn more about this service, email info@tpcwellness.com or call 518-584-9500.
Saratoga Program Prepares You For Fitness
Saratoga chiropractors Dr. Adam Favro and Dr. Patrick Campbell have launched a new program to help athletes and trainers get the most of the fitness experience. Foundations of Fitness was created to bridge the gap between injury and performance by using science and current rehab techniques to prepare people for the demand of exercise.
Saratoga Chiropractors Dr. Adam Favro and Dr. Patrick Campbell have launched a new program to teach people the foundations of fitness and prevent them from the possible injuries that come with exercise. Foundations of Fitness is a medical approach to fitness and training that will help people who are recovering from an injury and want to return to the gym, are dealing with nagging injuries when they work out, or those who want to workout but are unsure where to start.
The Gray Area
Everyday patients are released from their active care plan with the doctor telling them, “You’re clear to return to activity”. What does that mean? What if you get hurt again? Are you at a higher risk?
The truth is, you’re probably not ready. Let’s say you have been recovering from a shoulder injury and want to return to classes at your favorite Saratoga fitness center. Even if you have been working with a physical therapist or chiropractor, your treatment plan most likely did not include preparing for the demands and intensity of a class. It likely consisted of preparing you for the basics of everyday life. That space between the end of your treatment plan and being prepared for exercise and fitness is what we call the gray area of fitness. This program is designed to bridge that gap and help you take that next step to your fitness safely and effectively
Modification Leads to Elimination
Have you ever done a workout and needed to make some small changes to the program because of pain? For example, you can’t perform pushups because your shoulder is too sore. In fitness modification leads to elimination. If you start changing your workouts to stop working one part of the body or limit a certain range of motion, eventually you will not be able to perform that motion at all. If you’re working with a trainer or taking a class you’re now paying for a workout that you can’t participate 100% in. Our chiropractors have hundreds of hours of continuing education in movement screening and mechanics to help identify, treat, and strengthen those “weak points” so you can push yourself.
Is this hurting or helping?
“I felt great when I left the office so I decided to work out the following day. That area is sore again and I am not sure if what I am doing is helping or hurting.”
When you participate in Foundations of Fitness, you aren’t just there to work out and prepare yourself to reach higher levels of fitness. You are under the supervision of trained medical professionals to help teach you the basics. That includes being able to identify the difference between workout soreness and injury.
Where to Start
Sometimes the biggest hurdle in a fitness program is knowing where to start. Nobody is able to walk into a gym, studio, box, or training facility for the first time and know what to do to set themselves up for greatness. Fortunately, we are here to help! Foundations of Fitness will teach you the basics of movement, specific to your body as well as teach you proper ways to care for yourself. When you are done the program and wish you pursue your fitness goal, we will perform an exit interview and get you set up with a local fitness facility that best fits your needs if your don’t already have one. Our chiropractors work with athletes, trainers, and coaches from every gym in the Saratoga region and will be glad to make a personal introduction for you as well as help you transition into that gym with confidence. If you are working with a trainer already, we will gladly contact that trainer to fill them in so you can make the most of your workouts.
For more information about Foundation of Fitness, how you can benefit from it, and to sign up click here. Due to the level of attention required in this program, there are limited space available so contact us soon.
What's Your Turning Point?
Saratoga Chiropractic office, Turning Point Chiropractic, takes a unique patient-centered approach to help you tackle whatever stands in the way of a healthy and happy lifestyle.
Have you ever dealt with a problem you knew had a simple solution and all you had to do was find the best person to help you? Patients come into Turning Point Chiropractic in Saratoga Springs daily saying they thought they were never going to get better. Others say they felt like they had to settle for their “new normal” of low-grade pain or discomfort or knew they would never be able to (insert activity here) again. Sometimes all you need is a little help.
Turning Point Chiropractic was opened in October 2011 by Dr. Adam Favro with the vision of providing a service to seek out the epicenter of a patients symptoms and take a comprehensive approach to care. No big healthcare system to navigate. No referrals needed. Quality time with a doctor who has extensive experience and knowledge of the human body and how to fix it.
At Turning Point Chiropractic, the doctors have additional training in diagnostics, radiology, biomechanics, rehabilitation, strength training, sports performance, and more. Our chiropractors are not only equipped to accurately diagnose your symptoms but create a treatment plan that helps you get out of pain faster and stay healthy longer.
Our chiropractors believe at the heart of every treatment plan is movement. The more you move, the better you feel. The better you feel the more you move. You didn’t get hurt by just sitting there so why should your treatment be you just sitting there? We don’t know either. When you come to Turning Point Chiropractic your exam will include movement assessments, your treatment will involve movement and your homework will be to move.
For too long the healthcare system has not encourage patients to be active in their own treatment, give feedback on how they feel, and take control of the progress. When patients and doctors are invested in a goal to not only help you feel better but improve the way you live, great things happen. That is what we believe in. That is the Turning Point!
For a free consultation with our doctors and to learn more about the Turning Point Chiropractic treatment system, call us at (518) 584-9500 or click here.
Snow Shoveling Pain: A Guide to Injury Prevention & Recovery
Shoveling can be a great form of exercise but comes with a high risk of injury. Our chiropractors break down the movement of shoveling and how to reduce your risk of injury.
Did you know that about 56% of snow related trips to an emergency room are sprains and strains? Since we are experts in sprain/strain injuries, we thought we would give you a couple exercises to help with the soreness and pain from shoveling.
Before we get into the stretches, let’s first examine the complex movement of shoveling. Shoveling is a combination of squatting, lunging, bending, lifting, pulling and twisting all packed together. When performed with proper body awareness, shoveling can be a great workout. However, shoveling is typically performed more as a chore over a long duration with little breaks. As you get tired, your movement patterns begin to break down and you become more susceptible to injury. Movements like bending at the spine, twisting too quickly and holding the shovel too far away from the body can often lead to muscle strains.
Hip Flexor Stretch
Our first exercise is a hip flexor stretch. To perform start in a half kneeling position as pictured below. Squeeze your glutes and shift forward slightly without extending at your low back. You should feel a stretch in the front of the hip and thigh. You can increase this stretch by reaching the arm of the knee that is on the ground overhead. Hold for 10-20 seconds and perform 3 repetitions on each side.
Standing Extension Stretch
Our second exercise is a standing extension stretch. First, stand near a wall with the elbows bent to 90 degrees. Move toward the wall until the finger tips touch the wall. Place hands shoulder height like you would perform a pushup. Slowly extend your spine and head in a gentle wave like motion. Take this movement slowly and try to increase range of motion as you go. Perform 2 sets of 10 repetitions
Upper Extremity Stretch
Our last exercise is a biceps and forearm stretch at the wall. To start, place your palm on the wall with the thumb up with a slight bend at the elbow. Slowly attempt to straighten the elbow and turn your body away from the wall. This can sometimes be an intense stretch so perform as tolerated. Try holding for 10-30 seconds 3 times on each arm.
We hope you find these exercises helpful during the upcoming winter! Please remember these exercises should not be used to treat or evaluate any injuries. They should also not cause you any increase in symptoms. If you have any questions, please contact our office. And for more information, check out our video.
Heat or Cold?
Should I use heat or ice? This question has plagued athletes and worried parents for decades. This article from our Saratoga chiropractors may help solve the mystery.
The heat or ice debate seems to be one of the hottest topics in sports medicine and is certainly a widely used treatment in our chiropractic office. So which one is right for you? That depends on a multitude of things.
HEAT
Heat can be applied in a number of ways. In our Saratoga chiropractic office, we use a system that submerges packs filled with clay in a hot water bath. Once applied to the patient, this can stay warm for up to 45 minutes. The other benefit is the moist heat does not dry out the tissue like an electric hot pack would. But moist hot packs are not the only way to achieve a heating effect. Ultrasound and diathermy use sound waves and electrical currents, respectively, to vibrate the tissue and create heat. But you don’t need expensive equipment. A hot tub or hot shower can give you a similar response.
What does heat do?
Heat dilates blood vessels, increases circulation, and relaxes muscles. By improving circulation, new blood cells will enter the tissue, bind to lactic acid and other waste products of injury and carry them away. Think of this is “rinsing out the muscle”.
When do I use heat?
Heat should be used 48 hours after an acute injury or for any chronic injury that has lasted longer than a few weeks. We discourage patients from using heat for an acute injury as the body with naturally increase blood flow to that area and too much can cause increased bruising and a longer recovery.
COLD
Just like heat, cold can be applied in a number of ways. In our Saratoga chiropractic office we use cold packs that are stored in the freezer and place a sheet of face paper between the ice pack and the patient’s bare skin. This prevents any burning from direct contact on the superficial cells that don’t have as much of a blood supply. There are other ways to achieve cold therapy such as an ice bath or cryotherapy. Cryotherapy has gotten some great publicity lately for helping with metabolism and chronic injury but make sure you are properly equipped as there have been accounts of people getting burned from the extreme temperature.
What does cold do?
Cold essentially does the opposite of heat. It constricts blood vessels, reduces blood flow, and can reduce pain. When you experience an injury the body’s natural response is to increase blood flow. Blood contains the ingredients to heal the tissue. Sometimes too much of a good thing is not a good thing. Injury is one of those cases. To help people recover faster, our chiropractors need to be able to control the swelling response and cold can help with that.
When do I use cold?
Cold should be used immediately after an injury for up to 48 hours. The best way to get the most out of cold application after an injury is to move the area a little after you are finished icing. For example, if you sprain your ankle, ice it for 20 minutes then move your toes and ankle a little to prevent stiffness. At Turning Point Chiropractic we use a number of soft tissue techniques that can cause local inflammation as part of the healing process. If patient’s are sore from those treatments, ice would be a great way to calm the symptoms.
If you have suffered an injury or have any questions about whether to use heat or ice, give our office a call to set up an appointment. Our qualified chiropractors have treated thousands of patients dealing with both chronic and acute injuries and can evaluate what treatment option will be best for you.
Three Things You Never Knew About Spinal Discs
Saratoga Springs Chiropractor, Dr. Adam N. Favro, talks about the science behind the spinal disc and busts some popular myths about back pain.
Three Things you Never Knew About Spinal Discs
As a chiropractor in Saratoga, I see a variety of conditions ranging from stiff necks to cancer. It is my job to properly diagnose each patient and provide them the option that is best for them. One of the most common conditions that comes through our door is low back pain. In fact, studies show that 80% of the population will experience low back pain at some point in their life. During my exam with the patient I am almost always asked, “What if it’s a disc?”. As a population we have been conditioned to think the disc is the most problematic part of our spine. To put your mind at ease here are three things about the spinal disc you probably never knew:
1. Degeneration is Normal
That’s right, your body is a bunch of moving parts and was designed to wear down. Our discs are made up of a fibrous cartilage with fluid inside. As we age the discs become dehydrated and get smaller. Degeneration is a normal part of the aging process and does NOT have to contribute to pain. So the next time you get an x-ray and someone tells you you have “degenerative disc disease”, don’t panic.
2. Bulging Discs are Okay
At least 30% of people are walking around right now with a bulging disc and don’t have any lower back pain. Some researchers believe the discs in our spine will bulge as part of a protective mechanism and retract shortly after. This does not mean you don’t have to take care of your spine. Doing core exercises will help protect the disc from bulging and give you a mechanical advantage when moving.
3. They never slip!
Discs bulge, age, and sometimes herniate, but they never slip. The disc is so firmly attached to the vertebrae above and below it is impossible to slip. If you experience pain from the disc, it is most likely a ligament strain - similar to spraining your ankle.
Many people are fearful of injuring the disc in their back but you are more resilient than you think. Watch just about any sporting event and know the number of disc issues is extremely rare. If you are suffering from back pain, give our office a call. We use the most current diagnostic and screening tests to determine the most effective treatment plans including rehabilitation exercises and programs designed just for you. If we feel you need x-rays, an MRI or other specialized tests, we have the ability to order the test directly from our office.
Tips for Running in the Winter
Running in Saratoga Springs can be great in the summer but challenging in the winter. This article has some tips on staying safe if you chose to venture outside to get your miles in. Our Saratoga Springs chiropractic office has helped many runners stay fit and healthy through the winter months while still training outside.
Tips for Running in the Winter
Running is one of the most popular sports in the country. It requires little gear, no membership, and you can run anywhere. As long as you have a pair of shoes and some time, you can run. That is, unless you live in the Northeast. Running in the summer around Saratoga Springs is amazing. One can get lost running by old victorians, through the Saratoga Spa State Park or through the Saratoga Battlefield. The winter months can make you think twice about your choice of exercise. If you’re determined to continue training, here are a few tips.
Be Seen
If you are like most people, your running times are either early in the morning or after work which means you’ll likely be running in the dark. We suggest you wear reflective gear on the middle of your body, and somewhere on your arms or legs. If you want to go the extra mile (no pun intended), wear a headlamp as well. Snowbanks may also prevent drivers from seeing you so be alert when you are crossing streets or going into traffic.
Proper Shoes
Most running shoes are designed with mesh to keep your feet cool. In the winter, you want shoes that have the least amount of mesh. This will not only keep your feet warm, but keep out the snow and water. Of course, you also want a good pair of socks to go with those shoes and we recommend non-itchy wool socks.
Dress Appropriately
Dressing in layers is key. The air trapped between the layers is warmed by your body and acts as insulation. The biggest thing is to dress as if it were about 20 degrees warmer. You don’t want to sweat too much when you are running in the cold. That could lead to chills when you are done.
Warm up
Warming up before you head outside will make those first few minutes less stressful on your body. In other words, the cold won’t feel as cold. Especially since you were just told to dress as if it were warmer. Doing body-weight squats or lunges are a good way to get the blood flowing through your legs.
Slow down
Running outside means facing obstacles you may not know are there. Slipping is a serious danger for anyone who ventures outside in the winter months. Make sure you slow down your pace, take shorter strides, and strike the ground with a flat foot. This will help minimize the risk of slipping.
Post run recovery
After you are finished your run it is important to get out of your sweaty or wet clothes and put some dry warm clothes on. After exercise, your core temperature drops and puts you at risk for getting chills. Once you are in dry clothes, it is a good idea to drink warm fluids or have some soup. This will help you hydrate and warm your body.
Treadmill Running
If you are not interested in running in the cold or if conditions are too dangerous, the treadmill is a good alternative. To get the most out of the treadmill, put it at a 1% incline. If the treadmill has built-in fans, turn them on high as well. The incline activates the muscles required to propel you forward while the fans activate the sensory cells on your skin and remind your brain of running outside.
Whether you run in the cold, snowy weather or inside on the treadmill, it is important to stay hydrated, stretch, and take care of injuries as soon as they start. At our Saratoga Springs chiropractic office, we offer free injury screens and would be happy to answer your questions about running.
For the best running gear and expert fittings, check out our friends at iRun Local or Fleet Feet Sports!
How to use a Standing Desk
Standing desks can be a lifesaver but if you don’t know how to properly use it, you could be doing more harm than good. Saratoga Springs chiropractor, Dr. Adam Favro, addresses some key point to getting the most out of your new desk.
How to use a Standing Desk
Your new standing desk arrive and you are ready to take on the week. But what are you supposed to do with this new desk? At our Saratoga Springs chiropractic office, we are asked at least twice a week about standing desks. Are they good for you? Do they really make a difference? How do I set mine up?
According to a 2014 Gallop pole, the average American is working 49 hours a week, or 9.9 hours a day. Working is the ultimate endurance sport and, like any sport, if you don’t have the proper equipment you can struggle. Furthermore, if you don’t know how to use that equipment, you may be doing more harm than good. Here are a few tips on how to get the most out of your standing desk.
The Set Up
Setting up your desk can be a challenge but there are some simple things to keep in mind. First, your monitor should be between 18-28” from your eyes with the top 1/3 of the monitor level with your eyes. Your elbows should be at a 90-degree angle with your forearms resting comfortably on the desk top. The keyboard and mouse should be at a comfortable position as to not strain your wrists.
Posture
As a chiropractor, posture is the thing that hits home. Similar rules apply to standing as to sitting. We tell patients to “preserve the curve”. The spinal column is shaped like an “S”. This feature allows great movement and is important in our daily function. When fatigue sets in, the head and shoulders come forward, and the curve in the middle back (kyphosis) increases and lower back decreases. This prevents your lungs from being filled fully and decreases oxygen to the brain.
Alternate Your Position
The most problematic aspect of your 9.9 hour work day is long periods of not moving. Standing or sitting in one position causes blood to pool and muscles to get tight and weak leading to poor posture among other things. The key to success is alternating between sitting and standing. If you choose to stand, switch your foot position. Try a wider stance with your feet just wider than your shoulders. Stand with weight mostly on one leg then switch to the other or in a split stance with one leg forward and one back. We also encourage patients to get a small box they can rest their foot on.
Get an Anti-Fatigue Mat or Balance Board
Anti-fatigue mats are those memory-foam-like mats that are supposed to keep you from getting tired. The truth is, when you’re tired, your tired. The real benefit of these mats is they keep you on an unstable surface so you have to continue moving. Muscles then contract which helps blood flow. If you are looking to add a little fun in your workday, check out these balance boards. They will work on balance, posture and keep you moving.
Take Breaks
Perhaps the most important thing is to take a break. The best thing you can do for your physical and mental health is to take small, frequent breaks. Our bodies thrive on movement and stimulation. By giving yourself what you need, you will find your days more productive and enjoyable.
A standing desk can be a life changing piece of equipment, but it will not be a magic solution. There is still effort that goes into setting up the desk and knowing how to properly use. For more information on how to set up your desk or to see if you could benefit from one, give our Saratoga Springs chiropractic office a call at (518) 584-9500.