Chiropractic Manipulative Therapy

Chiropractic Manipulative Therapy or "adjustment" is the gentle pressure or high velocity, low amplitude force that is applied to a joint which has restricted movement.  In the treatment of pain, manipulation provides direction stimulation to the nervous system allowing the relaxation of the surrounding musculature in spasm while additionally restoring mobility to the joint.  Many studies have been performed to determine the efficacy of manipulative therapy for neck and back pain.  In a recent study from the Annals of Internal Medicine, it was found that chiropractic therapy was more effective than medication for acute and sub-acute neck pain.  A recent post from the New York Times provides an excellent synopsis of this study.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine originated in China over 4,000 years ago. Today Acupuncture and Oriental medicine are used for health maintenance, preventative care and the treatment of disease. The World Health Organization officially recognizes Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine for the treatment of over 200 common clinical disorders! Although Acupuncture is well known in the western world for treating pain, it is a very powerful medicine for treating a wide variety of health concerns.

Acupuncture treatments are carried out by inserting very fine pre-sterilized disposable needles into specific points in the body that stimulate and activate the body’s self-healing mechanisms. The point combinations are chosen along the specific meridian system of the body that is imbalanced, based on the theory of physiological interrelationship of the body organs and Oriental medical theory. This is done for the purpose of restoring and maintaining vitality, health and balance.

Modern research that demonstrates how Acupuncture works looks at brain activity. Studies and research done show that by needling acupuncture points and looking at brain activity, it is clear that the endocrine system and nervous system is activated to release chemicals. These chemicals released into the spinal cord, brain and soft tissue affect hormone regulating mechanisms and help maintain homeostasis (balance) in the body naturally.

Pain is often due to soft tissue and muscle harboring trigger points. These are tight taut bands of muscle and fascia responsible for shortening musculature and causing pain. Acupuncture helps eliminate these trigger points, allowing muscle and fascia to relax and eliminating or reducing pain.

Acupuncture treatments may also employ a variety of non-needle techniques including: Herbal Heat Therapy, Oriental Physiotherapy, Bodywork, Herbal Medicine and Nutritional supplementation. A recommendation from the Oriental Medical Pharmacopeia may be suggested based on diagnosis, symptoms and the individuals constitution. Oriental Medicine and Western Medicine compliment each other an can be integrated to offer optimal health care. Our clinic offers Traditional Medicine, tailored to today's modern world. 

Myofacial Release

Myofascial Release is a gentle blend of stretching and massage using traction and positioning of the body to coax muscles in spasm to relax, and break painful adhesions in the fascia. Therapists use the technique to ease pressure in the fibrous bands of connective tissue, or the fascia which encases muscles throughout the body. Sheaths of this dense and elastic connective tissue weave about blood vessels, bones, and nerves as well, forming an intricate, 3-D web that supports your organs and joints from head to toe and acts as the body's shock absorber.  Scarring or injury to this network of connective tissue is a major cause of pain and impeded motion. The therapy's easy stretches aim to alleviate these problems by breaking up, or "releasing," constrictions or snags in the fascia. This therapy is used for many conditions as well in people of all ages.