The use of Kinesio taping for Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries
The correct application of Kinesio tape can have a dramatic effect on patients with brain and spinal cord injury, this occurs because it can increase the proprioceptive (sensory) information to the persons damaged Central Nervous System. Plymouth Chiropractor and Sports Scientist Kevin Kelly demonstrates the dramatic effects Kinesio taping can have on a stroke patient, a patient with Cerebellar Ataxia and a patient with Cauda Equina Syndrome.
PLEASE SHARE THIS VIDEO and increase medical and public awareness about how Kinesio taping can enhance the quality of life of some people with neurological injuries.
Chiropractic Awareness Week 13th – 19th April
Chiropractic Awareness Week 13th – 19th April
YOUR POSTURE COUNTS
New consumer research by the British Chiropractic Association shows that, in just two years, the incidence of poor posture appears to have risen at an alarming rate. Over half (56%) of the UK population currently believe they have a bad posture, compared to 38% in 2007, an increase of 16%.
It seems that slouching is really sweeping the nation and the BCA is urging the nation to take proactive steps to improve its posture, as the UK back pain figures have reached an all time high. 72% of those questioned said they had suffered from back pain at some point, while nearly a third of the population is currently suffering.
Those surveyed told the BCA that the main triggers for bad posture are:
Sitting for long periods, Using computers/laptops, Carrying heavy bags, Lack of exercise, Tiredness, Driving, Choice of bed/mattress, Type of shoes/clothing worn
The good news is that the nation wants to stand tall, 74% of Brits want to improve their posture.
At Peverell Chiropractic Clinic we have a set of Core exercises that actually CHANGE your posture, you will notice a difference after approximately 3 – 6 months. Below are some before and after pictures of one of our patients who had terrible posture. He was very thin and tall for his age and was constantly stooping.
The Importance of Posture to Physical Development
If you have good posture you’ll stand straighter and look better but advantages to correct posture go further than your appearance.
In 1930, the White House Conference on Child Health recognized the importance of spinal integrity in the physical development of the child. Doctors have, since then, stressed how important it is to health, agreeing with chiropractors emphasis of the importance of good body mechanics AND STRENGTHING THE MUSCLES SUPPORTING THE SPINE WITH CORE EXERCISES.
The human body is subject to rhythm, balance, timing and coordinated action of all its components. Having the right posture enables the body to work more efficiently, allowing proper development.
Can Posture Affect Mental Attitude?
Your image is affected by your posture, as other people see you as you see yourself. It reflects your personality, your confidence, your attitude, your ability and your health.
There is an interrelationship between how you stand, sit and walk and how you feel. Other people can also tell whether you’re a positive or negative person, a strong or weak person, a healthy or ill person.
Check your Posture
There are a lot of tests for evaluating your posture, many needing precise instruments and expert evaluation. However, you may wish to give yourself a preliminary self-test.
Test 1
Stand with your back to the wall. Place head, shoulder blades, calves and heels against the wall. Place your hands at your
sides. Flatten the hollow of your back by pressing the buttocks back against the wall. If the space at your back of your waist is greater than the thickness of your hand, your posture is not correct.
Test 2
Face a wall with your toes touching the wall. If your posture is correct, your chest will just touch the wall. If your head touches, your posture is fair. If your abdomen touches, your posture is poor.
Test 3
Face a full-length mirror and view your shoulders and hips. These areas should be level. If one shoulder is higher or one hip is lower, there is an imbalance in your posture which should be checked professionally.
If a postural problem is indicated as a result of the self-test, it would be wise to discuss it with your chiropractor. He will be able to determine if there is a health or developmental problem and recommend proper procedures. As a preliminary to treatment, the chiropractor will examine your spine and related tissues. You can depend upon his specialized knowledge to diagnose the problem, and offer corrective treatment and sound advice.
Poor posture can cause a lot of pain in both the upper and lower back
What Causes Poor Posture?
There are many reasons for poor posture, the most serious of which is a birth defect. Normally it’s a combination of several reasons that causes a person to have poor posture. Among the causes are the following:
1 Visual problems.
2 Emotional problems.
3 Excessive weight.
4 Foot problems or improper shoes.
5 Weak Muscles, muscle imbalance.
6 Improper nutrition.
7 Laziness.
8 Poor sleep support ( mattress )
9 Injury to muscles, ligaments, tendons or bones.
10 Negative mental and physical attitudes.
11 Occupational stress and position.
Many Postural Faults Can Be Helped
If you have poor posture it can be serious in terms of health, comfort and efficiency, causing fatigue. Most of the problems caused can be helped. If you have what seems to be a postural problem then you should seek advice from a chiropractor. Unless there is an anatomical ( structural deformity ) or pathological ( disease-caused ) disturbance, the chances for correction are excellent.
Out Core exercise program produces excellent results, after a few months of doing the correct core exercises your posture changes……you stand straighter and taller because your muscles are supporting your spine and organs the way they were intended.
If poor posture is not corrected, it can affect the health and well-being of the individual. Poor posture contributes to shallow breathing: a cramped chest cavity, faulty digestion, poor elimination, and poor venous return, each of which affects not only the functions of individual organs, but also the system. Tiredness and reduced coordination are just two of many symptoms of a body that is not functioning efficiently.
What Are The Benefits Of Correct Posture?
1. Improves your health.
2. Improves your appearance.
3. Improves your coordination.
4. Increases your strength.
5. Gives you more stamina.
6. Makes your clothes fit better.
7. Gives you better body balance and makes you more agile.
8. Reduces the possibility of injury.
9. Gives you confidence.
10. Helps in physical and mental development.
tags: core strength exercises posture and health, core strength exercises,
Hand Exercises for everyone …. especially Chiropractors and Physical Therapists
We all take our hands for granted …that is until we get older and have difficulty lifting pots and pans or holding golf clubs without pain. Here are some simple exercises that just take a few minutes a day.
The man with muscles on muscles
A Scaffolders Shoulder – How the body compensates for increased stress
Here we have a photograph of a middle aged Plymouth Scaffolder (who wishes to remain anonymous!) He has developed to large fat pads in the acromio-clavicular area of his left shoulder in response to the increased stress of carrying scaffolding on his left shoulder for all of his working life. The enlarged fat pads (bursae) do not cause any pain and reduce the stresses on his shoulder when lifting.
Netti Pot Treatment for that sinus / throat problem
There’s a lot about at the moment, stuffy nose , sinuses blocked, coughing up phlegm….do what the ancient Yogi’s did and still do,
Flush it out!
A herd of neti pots (Photo credit: Sherrie Super)
HOPE IT HELPS!
Sports injuries: Tendinitis treatment: Achilles Tendinitis
We regularly treat Tendinitis in our central Peverell Chiropractic Clinic. The Knee, ankle, elbow in fact most joints can have an associated tendinitis, Achilles tendonitis refers to the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. The Achilles tendon is the largest, thickest and strongest tendon in the body. It measures about six inches in length and it joins the calf muscles, the soleus and gastrocnemius to the rear of the heel bone.
Anatomy of the Achilles Tendon.
Tendinitis of the Achilles tendon, generally caused by overuse of the affected limb, overuse of both the tendons and muscles of the limb is common among people training under less than ideal conditions. Injuries of the Achilles tendon may begin gradually and maybe fairly well progressed before the pain is felt or they may occur because of an overexertion injury, for example running much further than normal or altering your running routine, for eg. running over a more hilly course than you are used to. Non sporting incidences are often related to footwear, for example wearing flip flops on holiday when you are used to wearing a slight heel, or walking barefoot along the beach for a few miles, a rare event in the UK with the weather the way it has been in the last few years!. Tightness of the calf muscles may be a precipitating factor so this condition may occur a few weeks after beginning a fitness routine if you have not exercised for a long time. Very occassionally a very mild Sciatica (an irritation of the Sciatic nerve) may precipitate a tendinitis as the calf muscles may tighten because of the increased firing of the nerves supplying them.
The principles of our treatment of Tendinitis injuries
We use a multifactorial approach to treatment in our clinic as we find that this provides more effective results.
Achilles Tendon taping
Tendinitis treatments in our clinic consist of of a combination of the following techniques, all of which are helpful but need to be used in conjunction with each other.
- Inflammation reduction using ice, and medication (if permissible).
- Our Core treatment consisting of Massage, Deep tissue therapy and fascial manipulation to reduce muscle spasm, scar tissue and facilitate fascial and tendon repair and healing.
- Taping the affected area to support the damaged tissues and muscles to speed up recovery.
- Exercise therapy and stretching to strengthen and return the weakened muscles, damaged tendons and connective tissue to their normal state.
Just giving exercises is only a partial treatment as is just taping the affected areas:
As with any tendinitis the inflammation must first be reduced. This is normally apparent a a slight swelling at the base of
Elena Long our Sports Massage Therapist relaxing a tight calf muscle
the tendon near the heel. This is normally facilitated by regularly icing the area and taking a short course of anti-inflammatory tablets. During this time it is important that the area is correctly taped to support the tendon and prevent excessive stretching. Kinesio taping is ideal for this as it can also be used to help reduce the local inflammation at the tendon/bone junction on the heel (Calcaneous). Advice on footwear as it is helpful for the first few weeks to try and avoid walking barefoot or with heelless shoes as these tend to put excessive tension onto the Achilles tendon.
Deep tissue therapy, fascial release and sports massage are used in our clinic to facilitate healing and repair of the damaged tendon and contracted and tight calf muscles.
The common tendinitis and soft tissue injuries we treat are shown below:
Taping a knee tendinitis in our Plymouth clinic.
- Achilles Tendinitis
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfers elbow
- Patella tendinitis
- RSI
- Shoulder rotator cuff injuries
- Runners knee
- Medial ligament injuries of the knee
- Ankle sprains
What is Kinesio tape?
Chiropractor Kevin Kelly is a certificated Kinesio taping practitioner.
Introduction
Dr. Kenzo Kase, founder of the Kinesio Taping method received his Doctorate of Chiropractic (D Chiro) from the National College of Chiropractics.
He runs a practice in the United States. Through Dr Kase”s clinical experience he found that joint pain resulted from the abnormality of muscles and myo-fascial tissues around the joint rather than from the joint itself.
With this understanding, he developed and introduced Kinesio Taping in the 70″s to correct abnormalities of muscles and myo-fascial tissues.
The consequent kinesiology taping practice should be regarded more as a “therapy” or “methodology” than a taping technique.
4 Major Functions and Effects of Kinesiology Taping
To normalise muscle functio
To improve lymphatic and blood flow
To reduce and manage pain
To correct the misalignment of joints and tissues
The Tape
The thickness of the tape is the same as that of the skin epidermis
The capacity of tape to stretch to 130 -140% is similar to elasticity of the skin
The high-quality, 100% cotton material is covered with a layer of acrylic glue
The combination of tape material and sine wave glue application allows the release of sweat and permits skin respiration
The tape is applied to the backing paper with approximately 25% stretch
Irritation of the skin has not been reported.
The tape can work for more than 4 or 5 days
Kinesiology Tape allows the normalisation of both over-stretched and over-contracted muscles; it also promotes the flow of lymphatic fluids and blood.
Differences:Traditional Athletic Taping vs Kinesiology
Traditional Athletic Taping Kinesiology Taping
Sports Taping is a mechanical methodology
Kinesiology Taping is a sensory methodology
Sports Taping is for functional immobilisation
Kinesiology Taping therapy offers potential of restoring full range of movement
Sports taping methods aim to protect muscles
Kinesiology Taping methods seek to normalise muscle function
Immobilisation created through sports taping therapy can inhibit blood circulation
Kinesiology Taping therapy can improve blood circulation.
Information provided by Levotape©
Chiropractic training for specialization in treating animals?
Most Chiropractors of my generation have treated a couple of animals in their time. In my case over 20 years ago - the last time I treated a Doberman dog, which was lying partially sedated on a Vet’s operating table, I manipulated it’s spine and after a few days it’s problem had improved considerably. These days things are a little more sophisticated with special training and courses for treating animals using manipulative techniques. I have copied some information from the College of Chiropractors web site page about animal chiropractors.
At the bottom of the page is a link to registered animal practitioners.
World-wide, chiropractic for animals is strongly established and is growing rapidly. Many animal owners have found dramatic proof of the efficacy of Chiropractic for treatment of spinal problems in horses, dogs and cats. 
From a legal perspective, treating animals using chiropractic techniques is governed by the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966. The chiropractor is working as a ‘paraprofessional’ and after obtaining the permission of the animal’s Veterinary Surgeon before treatment commences.
The College of Chiropractors recognises those chiropractors who have particular clinical experience and qualifications in the animal field via its Animal Faculty. In common with the College’s other clinical faculties, membership of the Animal Faculty requires achievement of relevant M-level qualifications, equivalent: Licentiate Membership requires a PGCert (60 M-level credits), or equivalent, Membership requires a PGDip (120 M-level credits), or equivalent, and Fellowship requires an MSc (180 M-level credits), or equivalent.
M-level study
The MSc Animal Manipulation course, offered by the Mctimoney College of Chiropractic, is open to applicants meeting one of the following criteria:
§ The holding of a professional qualification in Osteopathy, Chiropractic or Physiotherapy
§ A member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
§ The holding of an honours degree in Animal Science or Equine Science
The course is taught over two years and leads to the award of an MSc Animal Manipulation from the University of Wales.
The MSc Chiropractic (Small Animals) course, also offered by the McTimoney College of Chiropractic, is open to applicants who hold a professional qualification in Chiropractic. The course is taught over one year and leads to the award of an MSc Chiropractic (Small Animals) from the University of Wales.
The international academy of veterinary chiropractic (IAVC), based in Germany, offers a basic course (~210 hours) and an advanced course (~140 hours) in animal chiropractic for qualified chiropractors. The Basic Programme is taught in the UK.
Click the following link to view a list of current members: College of Chiropractors Animal Faculty_240912.pdf
Peverell Chiropractic Clinic visiting Hasler Company at HMS Drake
The “MAN DOWN” campaign is on a mission to help wounded Royal Marines and their families. Peverell Chiropractic Clinic is proud to have been the first business to join the 57 Club supporting the MAN DOWN Club. Since the conflict in Afghanistan began through to the launch of the 57 CLUB, at that time 57 Royal Marines Commandos had lost their lives in action. It is the 57 Clubs intention to attract 57 businesses from in & around Plymouth who will support the MAN DOWN campaign which in turn is raising funds in aid of the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund : Registered Charity No 1134205. Donated money goes to helping wounded Royal Marines Commandos and their families. Please browse through the MAN DOWN WEB SITE to find out all about us and how you and your business might join THE 57 CLUB.
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Left to right :- Colour Sergeant Larry Holmes RM. RSM Tony Jacka RM. Karl Soanes (Man Down Campaign Regional Coordinator for Portsmouth). Kevin Kelly Peverell Chiropractic Clinic in Plymouth. Chris Reilly from Signs Express Plymouth. Elena Kelly, Peverell Chiropractic Clinic in Plymouth. Ryan Barrett, Realistic Home Improvements Plymouth. Steve Courage, Courage Car Sales Plymouth. Front :- Neal Taynton-Young, Fireproof PR Plymouth
The MAN DOWN Campaign 57 CLUB members were invited to visit Hasler Company at HMS Drake in Plymouth on 4thOctober 2012. There they had a tour of the facility and listened to a presentation given by RSM Tony Jacka RM and Colour Sergeant Larry Holmes RM on the work being done with the 87 service personnel as they continue through their recovery process after injury in combat. This event certainly highlighted the importance and the value of the MAN DOWN Campaign to the wounded and their families.
Why Sugar Isn’t Sweet
Text version
1. Sugar can suppress the immune system. When you eat a big dose of sugar, like a bottle of Coke or a candy bar, you temporarily tamp down your immune system’s ability to respond to challenges. The effect lasts for several hours, so if you eat sweets several times a day, your immune system may be perpetually operating at a distinct disadvantage.
2. Sugar upsets the mineral relationships in the body.
3. Sugar promotes inflammation. Inflammation, which is part of the immune response, is not always a bad thing. But eating sugar foods can fuel excessive, inappropriate inflammation that serves no useful purpose and actually promotes aging and disease. In my show on foods that fight inflammation, I pointed out that cutting back on sugary foods will help you avoid excess inflammation.
4. Sugar contributes to the reduction in defense against bacterial infection (infectious diseases).
5. Sugar causes a loss of tissue elasticity and function, the more sugar you eat the more elasticity and function you loose.
6. If you want to slow down the aging process, you definitely want to do what you can to naturally enhance your body’s production of human growth hormone. Avoiding foods that are high in sugar is a good way to do that. Exercising, going longer between meals, and avoiding undue stress also help.
7. Sugar leads to chromium deficiency.
8. Sugar can increase fasting levels of glucose.
9. Sugar promotes glycation. Sugar molecules treat your body like a singles bar. Once they get into your bloodstream, they start looking around for things to hook up with, like attractive protein and fat molecules. The hook-up is known as “glycation” and like most hook-ups, the results aren’t pretty. These glycated molecules act like drunken sailors, careening around your body, breaking things and peeing where they shouldn’t. They produce toxic compounds called advanced glycation end products, or, AGEs. That is perhaps the most poetically-just acronym in biology, because AGEs essentially throw the aging process into fast-forward. And much of the damage done by AGEs is irreversible. If that doesn’t motivate you to walk away from the M&Ms, I don’t know what would.
10. Sugar raises insulin levels. An influx of sugar into your body will have a fairly predictable result: Your blood sugar levels will zoom up. Shortly after, your pancreas will release a bunch of insulin to help clear sugar from your blood into your cells. As blood sugar levels go down, insulin levels return to normal. But when you eat a lot of sugar, you’re constantly calling for insulin, and that can backfire in a couple of ways. Over time, it takes more and more insulin to get the job done. Eventually, your pancreas may just stop responding to the call. Congratulations, you’re now an insulin-dependent diabetic. And along the way, exposing your cells and organs to chronically high insulin levels accelerates the aging process.
