Read this first!! Myofascial release is about releasing the adhesions or sticky areas between the muscles and fascia in your body. Fascia is a connective tissue that lines your cells, muscles and organs. When the spine goes out of balance and subluxates, it can bend, stretch and compress. This creates tension and torsion in the body's connective tissue system, especially the spine.
Think of a bicycle tire. If you can, imagine that the tire breaks and then folds in on itself. The spine and pelvis make up the outer rim while the muscles, rib cage and other bones in the body are the spokes. The fascia is what houses or lines all the spokes, and connects them to the rim of the tire (in this case your spine).
Myofascial Release helps by reducing injury, promoting better posture and making you more flexible so your spine can heal faster and be healthier.
Keep in mind:
1. Hips and feet remain on the floor.
2. Foam roll is placed at the mid-back as shown above.
3. Hands support the head.
4. Gently rock back as shown below (the foam roll does not move).
5. Repeat 10 times.
1. Place tennis ball between shoulder blade and spine as shown.
2. Shrug shoulders forward in order to “open” the muscles between the shoulder blade and spine.
3. Roll up and down and side to side on the ball until the most sensitive/tight area is found. Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
1. Begin with both feet and hands on the floor.
2. Sit on the foam roller and roll back and forth a couple times to establish balance.
3. Cross one leg over the other as shown.
4. Roll back and forth on the foam roller while rocking your hips side to side until you find the most sensitive/tight area.
5. Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Hold for 30-60 seconds.
We touched on the importance of breathing properly during these exercises. Remember, holding your breath inhibits proper oxygenation to the tissues and that's the very thing that we want to improve - getting O2 to the tissues that have been distorted - oftentimes from sitting at a desk all day. Here's the video below. Note that there are special sections based on your height.
Remember, distortions to the body's connective tissue framework are an adaptation to a bigger cause. Just like the alignment on a car, it's important to get the alignment fixed before exerting the body and starting a new exercise plan, including performing these foam roller exercises.
To learn more about our chiropractic method, please visit NUCCA.org. To schedule a free consult with Dr. Pietrek over the phone or in person, please contact us here.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section] [et_pb_section][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type="4_4"][et_pb_text]Read this first!! Myofascial release is about releasing the adhesions or sticky areas between the muscles and fascia in your body. Fascia is a connective tissue that lines your cells, muscles and organs. When the spine goes out of balance and subluxates, it can bend, stretch and compress. This creates tension and torsion in the body's connective tissue system, especially the spine.
Think of a bicycle tire. If you can, imagine that the tire breaks and then folds in on itself. The spine and pelvis make up the outer rim while the muscles, rib cage and other bones in the body are the spokes. The fascia is what houses or lines all the spokes, and connects them to the rim of the tire (in this case your spine).
Myofascial Release helps by reducing injury, promoting better posture and making you more flexible so your spine can heal faster and be healthier.
Keep in mind:
1. Hips and feet remain on the floor.
2. Foam roll is placed at the mid-back as shown above.
3. Hands support the head.
4. Gently rock back as shown below (the foam roll does not move).
5. Repeat 10 times.
1. Place tennis ball between shoulder blade and spine as shown.
2. Shrug shoulders forward in order to “open” the muscles between the shoulder blade and spine.
3. Roll up and down and side to side on the ball until the most sensitive/tight area is found. Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
1. Begin with both feet and hands on the floor.
2. Sit on the foam roller and roll back and forth a couple times to establish balance.
3. Cross one leg over the other as shown.
4. Roll back and forth on the foam roller while rocking your hips side to side until you find the most sensitive/tight area.
5. Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Hold for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Hold for 30-60 seconds.
We touched on the importance of breathing properly during these exercises. Remember, holding your breath inhibits proper oxygenation to the tissues and that's the very thing that we want to improve - getting O2 to the tissues that have been distorted - oftentimes from sitting at a desk all day. Here's the video below. Note that there are special sections based on your height.
Remember, distortions to the body's connective tissue framework are an adaptation to a bigger cause. Just like the alignment on a car, it's important to get the alignment fixed before exerting the body and starting a new exercise plan, including performing these foam roller exercises.
To learn more about our chiropractic method, please visit NUCCA.org. To schedule a free consult with Dr. Pietrek over the phone or in person, please contact us here.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]Are you tired of the throbbing pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light that often accompany migraines? If so, you may want to consider visiting Dr. James Pietrek, chiropractor in Prior Lake. Migraine pain can be debilitating, affecting your quality of life and daily activities. While there are various treatment options available, such as medication, lifestyle changes, and relaxation techniques, chiropractic care is gaining recognition for its effectiveness in relieving migraine pain.
Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. By making gentle adjustments to the upper spine, Dr. Pietrek aims to restore proper alignment and alleviate any blockages or disruptions in the nervous system. This can lead to a reduction in migraine frequency, intensity, and duration.
In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may also provide complementary therapies and lifestyle recommendations to further support migraine relief. These can include nutritional counseling, stress management techniques, and exercises to improve posture and reduce tension.
If you're seeking a natural and drug-free approach to managing your migraines, visiting a chiropractor in Prior Lake may be worth considering. Experience the benefits of upper cervical chiropractic care and take a step towards a life with fewer migraines.
A migraine is not just a common headache; it is a complex neurological condition that can result in severe pain and debilitating symptoms. Migraines typically manifest as intense, throbbing pain often localized to one side of the head. This pain can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, significantly impacting an individual's ability to carry out everyday activities. Many people who suffer from migraines describe them as a pulsating sensation that can be accompanied by a range of other distressing symptoms, such as nausea and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
The onset of a migraine can be preceded by an aura, which may involve visual disturbances, sensory changes, or even difficulty in speech. These warning signs can provide a brief window of opportunity to seek relief, but for many, the pain that follows is profound and overwhelming. Migraine attacks can be triggered by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, certain foods, stress, and environmental factors, making them particularly unpredictable.
Understanding what constitutes a migraine is essential for recognizing its impact on daily life. This condition can affect individuals of all ages, but it is most commonly reported in women aged 18 to 44. For many, the recurring nature of migraines can lead to chronic issues, further complicating their health and wellness. As such, finding effective management strategies is crucial for those affected by this debilitating condition, and one promising avenue is chiropractic care.
The exact causes of migraines remain a topic of ongoing research, but there are several known factors that contribute to their development. One of the primary culprits is the dysfunction of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin. Changes in serotonin levels can trigger inflammation and lead to the dilation of blood vessels, resulting in the intense pain associated with migraines. Genetic predisposition also plays a significant role in migraine susceptibility, with many individuals reporting a family history of the condition.
Environmental factors are another critical aspect of migraine triggers. These can include changes in weather, exposure to bright lights, strong odors, or even changes in sleeping patterns. Stress is a major trigger for many people, as the body's response to stress can lead to muscle tension and changes in blood flow, both of which may precipitate a migraine attack. Certain foods and beverages, such as aged cheeses, processed meats, and alcohol, have also been linked to the onset of migraines for some individuals.
Hormonal fluctuations are particularly relevant for women, who may experience migraines in relation to their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. The interplay of these various factors creates a complex web that can make managing migraines particularly challenging. Understanding these underlying causes is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies, and for many, exploring alternative therapies such as chiropractic care can offer significant relief.
Migraines are characterized by a range of symptoms that can vary in intensity and duration from person to person. The most prominent symptom is the throbbing or pulsating headache, which typically affects one side of the head but can also be bilateral. This headache is often accompanied by a heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and even smells, making it challenging for individuals to engage in normal activities during an attack. For many, finding a dark, quiet place becomes essential for coping with the overwhelming discomfort.
In addition to the headache, nausea and vomiting are common symptoms associated with migraines. Many individuals experience gastrointestinal distress, which can exacerbate the overall feeling of illness during an attack. This nausea can lead to a vicious cycle, as the pain of the migraine can make it difficult to eat or drink, potentially leading to dehydration and further aggravating the situation.
Auras are another significant symptom that some individuals experience prior to the onset of a migraine. These can manifest as visual disturbances, such as flashes of light, zigzag patterns, or blind spots. Some may also experience sensory or motor disturbances, such as tingling sensations or difficulty speaking. Recognizing these symptoms is vital, as they can provide a window of opportunity for individuals to seek treatment before the full-blown migraine sets in. Understanding the range of symptoms associated with migraines can help individuals better manage their condition and seek appropriate help.
Traditional treatment options for migraines often include a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and alternative therapies. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be effective for mild to moderate migraine pain. However, for more severe cases, healthcare providers may prescribe triptans, which are specifically designed to treat migraines by constricting blood vessels and alleviating pain. These medications can be highly effective, but they also carry the risk of side effects, and not all patients respond positively to them.
Preventive medications may also be recommended for individuals who experience frequent migraine attacks. These can include beta-blockers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants, all of which aim to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines over time. While these medications can be beneficial, they often come with their own set of side effects and may require ongoing monitoring by healthcare professionals.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes can play a crucial role in migraine management. This may involve identifying and avoiding triggers, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and managing stress through techniques such as mindfulness or yoga. Additionally, dietary adjustments, such as eliminating certain foods that may provoke migraines, can also be beneficial. However, these traditional approaches can be limited in their effectiveness for some individuals, leading many to explore alternative therapies like chiropractic care as a complementary option.
Chiropractic adjustments focus on the alignment of the spine and its impact on the nervous system, making them a potentially effective treatment for migraine relief. Many individuals experience tension in the neck and upper back, which can contribute to the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Chiropractors use spinal manipulation techniques to restore proper alignment, alleviate muscle tension, and promote better blood flow to the affected areas.
Research has suggested that chiropractic adjustments can lead to a reduction in the frequency of migraines for some patients. By relieving tension in the spine and surrounding muscles, chiropractors can help to minimize the neural pathways that contribute to migraine pain. Additionally, spinal adjustments may help to decrease the overall intensity and duration of migraine attacks, providing patients with a greater sense of control over their symptoms.
Complementary therapies offered by chiropractors, such as massage, stretching, and lifestyle counseling, can further enhance the effectiveness of spinal adjustments. These holistic approaches aim to address not only the physical aspects of migraines but also the emotional and lifestyle factors that may contribute to their onset. By incorporating chiropractic care into a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals may experience significant improvements in their overall quality of life and a reduction in the burden of migraine pain.
Visiting a chiropractor for migraine relief offers several benefits that can enhance an individual's overall well-being. One of the primary advantages is the natural, drug-free approach to managing migraines. Many people are seeking alternatives to medication due to concerns about side effects or dependency. Chiropractic care provides a holistic solution that focuses on the body’s innate ability to heal itself, appealing to those who prefer a more natural approach to health.
Another significant benefit is the personalized care that chiropractors provide. Each patient's experience with migraines is unique, and chiropractors take the time to assess individual needs and develop tailored treatment plans. This personalized attention can lead to better outcomes, as chiropractors can identify specific triggers and areas of tension that may be contributing to migraine symptoms. Additionally, the one-on-one relationship with a chiropractor can foster a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take control of their health.
Chiropractic care also emphasizes the importance of overall wellness. Many chiropractors incorporate lifestyle and nutritional counseling into their practice, equipping patients with tools to manage their migraines more effectively. This comprehensive approach not only addresses the immediate symptoms but also promotes long-term health and wellness. As patients learn to identify and manage their triggers, they may find themselves experiencing fewer migraine attacks and enjoying a better quality of life overall.
Finding a reputable chiropractor in Prior Lake requires some research and consideration. Start by seeking recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare providers who may have experience with chiropractic care. Online reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable insights into a chiropractor's practice and patient satisfaction. Look for practitioners who specialize in treating migraines or have experience with headache disorders, as their expertise can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.
When selecting a chiropractor, consider their qualifications and credentials. Ensure that they are licensed and have received training from a recognized chiropractic college. Many chiropractors also pursue additional certifications or training in specific techniques, so inquire about their specialties and treatment methods. It may also be beneficial to schedule a consultation prior to committing to treatment, allowing you to assess the chiropractor's approach and determine if it aligns with your needs and comfort level.
Additionally, consider the chiropractic office environment. A clean, organized, and welcoming space can enhance your overall experience. The staff should be friendly and willing to answer any questions you may have about the treatment process. Building a rapport with your chiropractor is essential, as a trusting relationship can significantly impact your treatment journey and overall satisfaction with care.
During your first chiropractic appointment for migraines, you can expect a thorough assessment of your medical history and current symptoms. The chiropractor will ask detailed questions about your migraine frequency, duration, triggers, and any previous treatments you have tried. This information is crucial for developing a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Following the initial consultation, the chiropractor may perform a physical examination, which could include assessing your posture, range of motion, and muscle tension. They may also conduct a spinal examination to identify any areas of misalignment or dysfunction that could be contributing to your migraines. Based on their findings, the chiropractor will discuss their recommended treatment approach, explaining the techniques they plan to use and what you can expect during subsequent visits.
Chiropractic adjustments themselves typically involve the chiropractor using their hands to apply controlled force to specific joints in the spine. You may hear cracking or popping sounds as the joints are manipulated, but this is generally normal and not a cause for concern. The process is usually quick, and many patients report feeling immediate relief following an adjustment. Additionally, the chiropractor may suggest complementary therapies, such as stretches or massage, to further enhance your treatment plan. Overall, the experience is designed to be collaborative, with open communication between you and your chiropractor.
Seeking professional help for migraine relief is essential for those struggling with this debilitating condition. While over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief, they often do not address the underlying causes of migraines. Chiropractic care offers a natural, holistic approach that focuses on spinal alignment and overall wellness, making it a compelling option for many individuals.
By working with a qualified chiropractor, you can gain valuable insights into your migraines, including identifying specific triggers and developing effective management strategies. The personalized care provided by chiropractors can lead to significant improvements in migraine frequency and intensity, ultimately enhancing your quality of life. Moreover, the emphasis on lifestyle modifications and complementary therapies helps create a comprehensive approach to health that goes beyond just treating symptoms.
In conclusion, if you are tired of living with the pain and disruption of migraines, consider reaching out to a chiropractor in Prior Lake. With their expertise and support, you can take proactive steps toward achieving relief and reclaiming your life from the grip of migraines. Your journey toward a migraine-free life begins with seeking the right professional help, and chiropractic care may be the key to unlocking that relief.
Upper cervical chiropractic focuses on structural imbalances of the upper neck, for optimal nerve flow and healing. Polyvagal Theory is concerned with our social and emotional frameworks, and how we can calm our body systems by altering the way we breathe, among other things.
Polyvagal Theory suggests that if we can calm down our mind, then we can calm down our body and have more optimal communication with other people.
There's abundant literature surrounding something called the solar plexus, which is located around the gut. It's been said that we think with our mind, but we "know" with our gut. Interestingly, the solar plexus is where the Vagus Nerves bifurcate or seemingly split, at the level of the gut. These nerves then branch off to the other major organs of the body down to the first part of the large intestine. This video helps usher you into a relaxing breathing exercise and utilize C02 better, which helps you think better and get better oxygen circulation throughout your body.
This video shows how you can gently massage your large intestine to help make sure your digestive tract can get/remain uninhibited so you can eliminate more efficiently.
If you're looking for Scoliosis relief in Prior Lake, Dr. Pietrek knows how you feel. It's been said that scoliosis is a perpetual, downward trending condition that only gets worse as you age. But that may not be true.
Diagnosed in the 8th grade, scoliosis pain hadn't become a problem until his freshman football season the following year. Sharp right-sided mid-back pain started limiting him in sports, and affected his concentration and academic performance.
"I was always really shifty in my seat," Dr. Pietrek noted, saying that he was always trying to find a comfortable position in his chair at school because of the worsening curves of his scoliosis.
"What I want to say is, that right now, I'm glad I put all my eggs into this one basket. The method of chiropractic I've received for the last 24 years has been nothing short of amazing, and that's why I've made it my life's work. I love working with scoliosis sufferers and, because of my own experience, it brings out the best in what I do."
Whether you have a son or daughter that has recently been screened at school, or if you've known that you've had scoliosis for some time and you're concerned that it's getting worse, there may be help and it might not be as difficult as you think. You don't need to go to the chiropractor every week for life, you may not need to do any rigorous home-based stretching programs or physical therapy...the problem may be sourced in an imbalance in the top of your spine.
You see, the side-most part of the brainstem controls the tone of the musculature that goes down your spine, just like a string puppet. When the top is out of tune, reflexes get sent down your spine to compensate for this and shift your body's weight. This is all so that your eyes can stay level with the horizon because, if they don't, then your equilibrium gets thrown off. That's why your body inherently adapts by causing one leg to get longer and the other to get shorter; one hip going higher and one dropping lower; same thing with the shoulders, PLUS a compression and twisting of the whole spine.
Dr. Pietrek says that in most cases of "idiopathic scoliosis", this is the main culprit.
How Dr. Pietrek goes about correcting for this problem requires a detailed look. Usually, the paperwork, consultation, examination and X-raying times takes about one hour. Commonly, you are dismissed at that point, and asked to come back after the X-rays have been analyzed and all the findings have been put together.
If you're looking for Fibromyalgia relief in Prior Lake, then you have probably already been looking for relief for quite some time. The chronic nature of this condition has left experts scratching their heads as to what causes it, and whether or not there is really any affirmative diagnosis for it. Still, some feel that Fibromyalgia Syndrome is just a waste basket term that describes a chronic pain syndrome that really has no known cause or cure as of yet.
When we break down the term "Fibromyalgia", we notice there are three parts: 'My' for muscle; 'Fibro' for connective tissues, which include the fascia or connective tissue envelope that houses the muscles; and 'Algia', which simply means pain.
Most of the 18 sore spots throughout the body associated with Fibromyalgia occur in the neck and shoulders. Because of this, it is critically important that this area of the spine is not overlooked when it comes to the possibility of a structure-function relationship between the function of the upper spine and nerve tissue.
Most people with Fibromyalgia have gone to or at least considered seeing a chiropractor to help relieve their Fibromyalgia symptoms. Yet some are afraid to go because they believe they indeed have a problem in their upper neck and they do not want to have their spine twisted as part of their treatment.
When the head and neck are subjected to stress from injury or bad postural habits, it can cause the spine to lock into a stressed position. The spine dissipates the tension from the neck down to the rest of the spine since it's so important for the head and eyes to maintain their upright position relative to gravity. This is so that you have a sense of normal from which to function, even if it's adaptive normal.
Prior Lake Spinal Care's chiropractic method has a proven track record of helping folks with Fibromyalgia pain. Here's a demonstration of how Dr. Pietrek has helped someone with upper neck and shoulder pain:
As you can see, the spinal adjustment performed at our office is very gentle. This is because we know the shapes of the vertebrae and they exact type of misalignment. We have found that palpation (doctor's feel) and generalized X-rays do not give sufficient information as to what may be happening alignment and dysfunction-wise in the upper neck. Everything we do here is based on precision and accuracy.
Fibromyalgia is a complex condition which often includes (in addition to chronic pain) mental clarity issues, fatigue and digestive difficulty. Unfortunately, there are no all-in-one solutions. Yet there are only a few potential causes of Fibromyalgia, like many medical conditions. Don't be frustrated if you haven't found the help you need yet. There are potentially genetic causes, pathologic causes, neurohormonal causes, autoimmune causes as well as structural causes. The latter is what we specialize in at Prior Lake Spinal Care.
If you or someone you know is looking for Fibromyalgia relief and you haven't tried this form of chiropractic yet, then it's worth a try! Simply call or text 952-444-6030.
The NUCCA adjustment is not an ordinary chiropractic adjustment.
Continuing with our theme of using my kids' storybooks and the universally-accepted life lessons they contain, our attention is called to the word "force". The function of force is highlighted in principle #10 of the 33 principles chiropractic was built on, so it's actually quite relevant to a discussion about how the spine gets thrown out of balance AND how it's best corrected. Here goes...
“Cluck!” said a chicken, and her chick said “Peep!” “Maaa!” said a goat. Blue said, “Beep!”
“HONK” yelled a dump truck. “Coming through! I’ve big important things to do! I haven’t got time to pass the day with every duck along the way!”
The dump truck gets stuck in the mud and then needs the help of all the animals and the little blue truck he just yelled at.
Nothing gets done without something called “force”. Margaret Mead said “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has.”
In Mead’s message, thoughtfulness and commitment is what changes the world.
Gravity is a force. Hate can be a force. Love is a force. I’m sure you can think of others. Basically force precedes the motion, and motion is what gets things done.
The spinal adjustment is also a force, gently moving the vertebrae back into position and connecting inborn intelligence with the physical molecules that make up you. The spinal column’s purpose is to protect your spinal cord, but when the alignment and mechanics in the spine are off, the very vertebrae which are meant to protect the nerves now cause an interference in the body signals transmitted along those same nerves, thus limiting the expression of your body’s vital regulatory forces. NUCCA accomplishes this as specifically (and gently) as possible.
Isn’t it cool that it really is that SIMPLE?
It wasn’t mere calories and muscles from the animals that pushed the dump truck out of the mud. It was compassion. Remember, force precedes motion just like gravity is there before you drop your keys.
“Nothing happens until something moves.” - Albert Einstein
To learn more about the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association and Dr. James Pietrek's unique approach, please visit the NUCCA website here. To learn more about Upper Cervical Chiropractic in more of a general sense, please visit the advocate awareness site here.
To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Pietrek in Prior Lake, see our contact page here.
You know the story...the pig who built the brick house was the smart one because the Big Bad Wolf couldn’t blow his house down.
When we think of a column, we may think of a Roman pillar. A pillar can be likened to a brick house, as in the story of The 3 Little Pigs.
There is a foundational problem with viewing the spine as a column or a brick wall though. Brick walls and columns don't have to bend down and tie their shoes. A brick house doesn’t need to put babies into car seats or bend over the sink to wash dishes.
When the spine turns into a brick-like structure or a true “column”, we have a name for this—it’s called arthritis.
Arthritis, as we get older, leads to balance problems and stiffness and an increased risk and fear of a very real wolf: the fear loss of coordination and balance which leads to accidental falls.
A healthy spine is more like a tensegrity bridge (also known as tensegral or suspensory), which is more like the design of the new Saint Anthony Bridge, which replaced the one that collapsed in Minneapolis back in 2007.
Struts and cables help the new bridge move and be flexible while being durable and light-weight.
Every bridge has it’s limits, but it would be nice to have some obvious warning signs. Sadly, the old bridge had some warning signs....but they weren't very obvious.
Thankfully, the spine’s sailboat-like assembly with many of the cables connected to the struts at the top of the head and neck will SHOW obvious signs of impending break down and when we may be at risk of giving way like a bridge.
Spinal adjustments at Prior Lake Spinal Care are likened to tuning a guitar - NOT repositioning Jenga Blocks within a confined spinal clumn.
It’s gentle and it needs to be done from the top because this is where the neurological control center is. Additionally, it’s the terminal/original point of much of our muscle and ligamentous framework.
To use a concrete layer's analogy, they Keystone's shape and position is the most important part of the archway. It's the main engineering concept behind the longevity of the Roman Coliseum and interior support structures of the Egyptian Pyramids.
At our chiropractic office, we know that palpation (feeling) of the upper neck vertebrae is totally unreliable when it comes to determining how the top two vertebrae have misaligned. (Van Roy P., Caboor D., DeBoelpaep S., Barbaix E., Clarys JP., Left-Right Asymmetries and Other Common Anatomical Variants of the First Cervical Vertebrae. Part I: Left-Right Asymmetries in C1 Vertebrae. Manipulative Therapy, 1997;
2(1):24-36 / Jende A., Peterson CK., Valididty of Static Palpation as an Indicator of Atlas Transverse Process Asymmetry. European Journal of Chiropractic, 1997; 45:35-42).
Just like a Keystone, effectively adjusting the top vertebrae in the neck requires an intimate knowledge of the shapes of the joint structures even before considering they may have misaligned and need to be re-aligned. This is "key" when it comes to delivering the most STABLE spinal adjustment possible.
To learn more about the chiropractic methodology at Prior Lake Spinal Care, please visit the NUCCA website here or the Upper Cervical Awareness website here.
To set up a free consultation over the phone or in person with Dr. Pietrek, please visit our contact page here.
You may have heard of the gag reflex. Not the kind you may get from watching a despicable act play out on TV in the form of unsportsmanlike conduct, but the kind you SHOULD get when the medical doctor sticks a tongue depressor on the back of your tongue.
A healthy gag reflex not only means you're less likely to choke (survival value), but it also could mean that you have a strong immune system.
Brainstem nerve cell bodies are what these two things have in common.
The connection is simple. The brainstem sends the nerve signals to the muscles of the soft palate, larynx and pharynx, tongue, and swallowing & airway functions.
On another branch of the tree, a separate communication line goes to a relay station in the brainstem that controls most of our immune system.
When the brainstem doesn't fire or function properly and there is a lacking or absent gag flex or deficient immune system, studies show that oftentimes this is due to improper nerve signal firing at the level of the brainstem.
Upper cervical chiropractic (NUCCA) helps improve health and function by freeing up the nerve flow that can be restricted as a result of a misalignment of the tiny vertebra at the top of the spine known as the atlas or C1 vertebra. To learn more about NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association), click here. Also see this website dedicated to Upper Cervical Awareness.
At Prior Lake Spinal Care, we specialize in the detection and correction of this small (yet large!) problem in the human condition.
When it comes to misalignments in the top of the spine, we know that small problems are large. Just like pollution in the headwaters of a river can affect the downstream water quality, we know that side slip and especially rotational misalignments of the Atlas (C1 vertebra) and Axis (C2 vertebra) can negatively impact the efficiency of the health and healing messages being transmitted along of the Vagus Nerves (you have two of them) which travel from every major organ of your body down to the first part of the large intestine.
To visit with Dr. Pietrek and learn more about his chiropractic, how it may optimize Vagus Nerve transmission and help your body move better, please visit our contact page here.
We need to breathe anyway, and it's one of the fastest ways to alter our physiology when we need to, so why not learn to do it a little more effectively?!? Better breathing, like upper cervical chiropractic care, starts at the top.
Carbon dioxide is just a waste product of breathing in oxygen, right?
Not so! In fact, the experts say that carbon dioxide loosens the bond between oxygen and hemoglobin within our red blood cells.
So, as long as we have to breathe anyway, let’s try to do it a little better so that we can have better tissue repair and better fuel supply for our brain.
When we breathe too fast and too shallow (usually mouth breathing) it directs the incoming air toward our chest and we expel the carbon dioxide too fast. This makes it so that the oxygen doesn’t get into our tissues as well. Here are three tips…
See our YouTube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gi56SSkkRpQ for pacer video in which Dr. Pietrek plays notes on guitar, to the tempo of this formula, so you know when to breathe in and out. The goal is to pace your breaths accurately without thinking about it so much.
The Vagus Nerve ("The Wandering Nerve" in Greek) is Cranial Nerve #10 and exits from the brain at the level of the brain stem. This nerve plays a large factor in one's health because it controls much of the function of every organ of your body from the heart and lungs down to the first part of the large intestine.
As such, spinal imbalances in the top of the spine can alter the performance of the Vagus Nerve, which may result in limited function or poor health.
Upper Cervical (upper neck) based chiropractic care is an effective means for feeling great as well as optimizing function and healing.
To learn about upper cervical chiropractic, please visit the Upper Cervical Awareness site here. To learn more about the chiropractic method Dr. Pietrek practices at Prior Lake Spinal Care, please visit the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association here. To schedule a free consult with Dr. Pietrek, please see our contact page here.
