Showing posts with label Back Pain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Back Pain. Show all posts
Alpharetta-Cumming Chiropractor Offers No Waiting, No Hassles and Same-Day Relief.
0 comments Posted by Dr. Kurt Meininger at 8:45 AM
Dr. Kurt Meininger, Forsyth County, Alpharetta-Cumming Chiropractor Offers No Waiting, No Hassles, Same-Day Relief For Back and Neck Pain Sufferers:
Your life is busy... you're in a hurry... waiting in line... waiting for calls... always waiting. But when it comes to getting pain relief... waiting is just out of the question.
South Forsyth Chiropractic, located between Alpharetta and Cumming understands. We've delivered effective back and neck pain treatment to trusted clients since 1992. Our office provides immediate walk-in service, with most patients in and out within just 30 minutes or less.
In fact, you do not even need an appointment... just walk in during open hours (Mon., Wed. & Fri.: 10:00am - 1:00pm and 4:00pm - 7:00pm)... and you'll be seen quickly!
We work with each client individually to address your specific complaints, offering advanced non-surgical pain-relieving therapies. Patients frequently realize immediate alleviation of symptoms, whether facing a simple sprain/strain or a chronic disc problem.
Our safe, therapeutic services include modern chiropractic care (manual manipulation or low-force instrumentation), back and neck traction, electrical muscle stimulation, core-strengthening exercises, deep tissue fascia-muscle stretching, low-level (cold) laser therapy, pressure point therapy and nutritional/diet counseling. We work hard to make each visit a wonderful experience. Your satisfaction is our top priority.
Routine appointments are available via convenient phone scheduling... but are not necessary. Get the urgent pain relief you want when you need it the most. Visit South Forsyth Chiropractic; 5670 Atlanta Highway; Ste. C-1; Alpharetta, GA 30004 today.
Dr. Meininger’s treatment has been successful with chronic back and neck pain, degenerative or herniated discs, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, pinched nerves, headaches, sciatica, Fibromyalgia, whiplash and all sorts of sports-related injuries.
For complete details call Dr. Meininger's office at 770-777-0900.
NSAIDs Side Effects: What Every South Forsyth County - Alpharetta-Cumming Back Pain Sufferer Must Know
Posted by Dr. Kurt Meininger at 11:03 AM
South Forsyth County – Alpharetta-Cumming Chiropractor And Non-Drug Back Pain Doctor Reports:
Each year in the United States, 70 million prescriptions are written for anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In 2006, the estimated cost to consumers of pain management drugs around the world was $30 billion. Due to the fact that 5.4 percent of NSAID users develop serious bleeding conditions requiring hospitalization, each year 103,000 Americans are hospitalized and 16,500 die due to long-term NSAID use.
The annual medical cost of NSAID-related GI complications is $3.9 billion dollars. The 16,500 deaths each year caused by NSAID drugs is more than five times greater than the number of Americans killed during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and it accounts for one-third of the total cost of treating arthritis.
Just one FDA-approved anti-inflammatory drug, was estimated to have caused between 88,000 and 138,000 serious heart events, including heart attacks and strokes leading to death.
The number of Americans killed by this particular drug exceeds the number of Americans killed in both the Vietnam War and the War on Iraq (I and II) combined! Remarkably, up to 42% of physicians in the United States and the United Kingdom remain unaware of the dangerous side effects of anti-inflammatory medications.
To schedule a complimentary consultation and learn how we can improve your back or neck pain without NSAIDs, just call our office at 770-777-0900 and visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Back Pain in South Forsyth County - Alpharetta-Cumming? Which Doctor Is Best Suited For You? Medical or Chiropractic?
Posted by Dr. Kurt Meininger at 5:48 PM
South Forsyth County – Alpharetta-Cumming Chiropractor And Back Pain Doctor Reports:
Have you ever considered who the best is suited to treat back pain? Since there are so many treatment options available today, it is quite challenging to make this decision without a little help.
To facilitate, a study looking at this very question compared the effectiveness between medical and chiropractic intervention. Over a 4-year time frame, 2780 patients were followed (initial, 2-week, 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 month intervals) with questionnaires. Both acute (symptoms <7weeks)>7weeks) low back pain (LBP) patients were treated using conventional approaches by both the MDs and chiropractors. Treatments from the chiropractors included spinal manipulation, physical therapy, an exercise plan, and self-care education. Medical therapies included prescription drugs, an exercise plan, self-care advice and about 25% of the patients received physical therapy.
The study focused on present pain severity and functional disability (activity interference) measured by questionnaires that were mailed to the patients.
It was reported that chiropractic was favored over medical treatment in the following areas:
- Pain relief in the first 12 months (more evident in the chronic patients)
- When LBP pain radiated below the knee (more evident in the chronic patients)
- Chronic LBP patients with no leg pain (during the first 3 months)
Similar trends favoring chiropractic were seen for disability but were of smaller magnitude. All patient groups saw significant improvement in both pain and disability over the four year study period. Acute patients saw the greatest degree of improvement with many achieving symptom relief after 3 months of care. Noteworthy, at the 3 year point, ½ to ¾ of all the patients reported at least 30 days of pain during the prior year including those that responded well after early treatment. Also, 19 to 27% of chronic LBP patients noted daily pain during the prior year. This suggests that LBP is more likely to return at times in the future, which many have similarly reported to be true.
However, this study also found that early intervention reduced chronic pain and, at year 3, those acute LBP patients that received early intervention reported fewer days of LBP that those that waited longer for treatment. While both MDs and chiropractic treatment approaches helped, it’s quite clear from the information reported that chiropractic treatment approaches should be utilized first.
These findings support the importance of early intervention by chiropractic physicians makes the most sense for those of you struggling with the question of who to see for your LBP.
To schedule a complimentary consultation and learn how our comprehensive Back Pain treatment may be of benefit to you or a loved one, just call our office at 770-777-0900 and visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Do You Really Need To Take X-rays For Back or Neck Pain?" Dr. Kurt Meininger, Alpharetta-Cumming Chiropractor Gives His Opinion
Posted by Dr. Kurt Meininger at 1:11 PM
South Forsyth County – Alpharetta-Cumming Chiropractor And Back And Neck Pain Doctor Comments:
Most chiropractic patients have x-rays taken of their lumbar spine. Since x-rays do carry a very small risk of tissue damage, this risk needs to be outweighed by benefits. So, how are x-rays used in our clinic?
First, x-rays can tell us about medical conditions that may require referral to another health care provider such as a spine tumor or an infection. Fortunately, these diseases are very rare, but they do need to be considered in every patient, especially those who may have certain "red flags" such as back pain at night or rest, or if there is also a fever. In addition, certain severe traumas (like a fall) can produce fractures. In an older adult with osteoporosis, or someone taking steroid medications over years, even a minor trauma event can be enough to cause a break, because the bone is in a weakened condition.
After these very rare conditions are ruled out, your x-rays can provide important information about your anatomy and physical posture. For example, curvatures of the lumbar spine, such as scoliosis, are virtually undetectable without an x-ray. If we know how your spine is deviated, this information can help direct the adjustment more specifically. Sometimes leg lengths are uneven and a person may require an orthotic (arch support) or heel lift to level the foundation for your spine. About one in ten patients will have an unequal leg length of a centimeter or more.
In terms of the bone anatomy, x-rays can show the planes and angles of the disks between bones and whether any degeneration is present. If the degeneration is advanced, then a natural bone fusion may be present. It should be obvious that if the spinal anatomy does not allow movement or if the joints are literally fused movement is impossible, then manipulative adjustments are not appropriate… but low-force instrumental adjustments are utilized instead.
X-rays can also show us how one area of the spine mechanically compensates for a deviated area below. Sometimes, pain may be present at compensatory areas but without knowledge of the cause of this deviation, care may be less optimum. Just as the lumbar spine may compensate for a pelvic problem, so to can a neck condition be caused by abnormal postural lower down the spine. The x-rays can show us how case management needs to be altered to reflect your individual needs.
In any case, x-rays are important to reach an accurate diagnosis, which is the first step on the road to recovery and regaining your vitality and quality of life.
To schedule a complimentary consultation and learn how our comprehensive Back and Neck Pain program may be of benefit to you or a loved one regaining health, just call our office at 770-777-0900 and visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
When You Go To The Doctor, Do You Get REAL or FAKE Medicine? And Which One Is Better?
Posted by Dr. Kurt Meininger at 10:45 PM
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor Comments:
Imagine this: You have a joint pain… such as back or neck pain. You go to a rheumatologist – a doctor who treats arthritis and other joint problems. He or she examines you and determines your problem. He or she prescribes a treatment and describes the treatment to you as "a potentially beneficial medicine not typically used for your condition." What Would You Do?
Would you follow his or her recommendations? Probably. And you would probably do it without much question or skepticism at all. Right?
Would THIS information change your decision? According to an October 23, 2008 Associated Press article, a recent survey found about 50% of American doctors REGULARLY give their patients drugs or vitamins that won’t help their condition.
But that’s not the worst part… These "placebo" treatments are not explained to their patients.
For example, in the survey, a random sample of 1,200 internists and rheumatologists were questioned; 679 of the doctors responded to the survey, and… 62% Believed Using A Placebo Treatment Was Ethically Acceptable
But really, is that so bad? After all, some studies have shown the "placebo effect" to be real. A certain percentage of patients actually get better when they believe the treatment they are getting works – when in reality, it is a sugar pill sham. (Which is an amazing testament to the power of your mind and the human body!)
Think about it. Just believing you are going to get better has the ability to make you better. How Can This Be?
Actually, it’s simple. Allow me to explain… Imagine you’re walking in a really dark place. Maybe it’s in the woods… or an unlit street… or you’re home alone one night and all the lights in your house are off… And in the complete darkness… someone sneaks up on you and touches you. Or yells, "BOO!!!"
What happens? Yes… you almost jump out of your skin. But what happens INSIDE YOU?
Here’s what: Your heart rate suddenly and sharply increases. Your pupils dilate. The hair follicles on your body stand on end. Your breathing increases. You stomach feels queasy. You instantly sweat. And you are… Wide Awake And Ready To Go!!!
It’s called the "fight or flight" response. In an instant, your brain signals your body and you produce an incredible array of chemicals – commonly called an "adrenaline rush."
What’s more, anytime you are under stress, your body has a similar response. If the stress or is not so sudden or intense – your body’s response will not be as severe. This is exactly how many people can become "suddenly" ill with a serious disease, even those that seem to have no blatant cause.
Small or moderate amounts of stress can cause your body to dump these "fight or flight" chemicals into your body over and over again for years and years and years. And just like smoking cigarettes over a long period of time can lead to lung cancer and other serious health problems, your body’s reaction to stress can slowly break down your immune system and lead to real problems.
Which is exactly why so many people say… Stress Kills! On the other side of the coin, if your body can produce "bad" chemicals, it can also produce "good" ones. That’s what the placebo effect is. When you believe 100% you are taking a medication that will help, your body reacts in a way that heals.
Here’s one very good theory about why that happens… When you are faced with stress, your body reacts in a harsh way in an attempt to save you from the impending danger. The adrenaline rush is important to quickly get you out of harms way, if necessary.
So it makes complete sense that if you REMOVED stress from your life – you would not only never produce the harmful chemicals from the fight or flight reaction – but your body may produce healing chemicals instead.
After all, what happens when you get a placebo? You are sick and stressed out because you are sick. You don’t know if it is serious, if you will get better or if you will get worse. We humans have a tendency to let our minds run crazy and always think of the worst case scenario, don’t we?
I’m sure you’ve had a little ache or pain at some point and thought you had a disease you were going to lose a limb or die from… and then it turned out to be NOTHING!!! We all have. Anyway, back to the placebo effect. When you go to the doctor and he tells you he knows what is wrong with you and gives you something to take care of it – you instantly RELAX.
All the stress and strain of the unknown mystery disease that was going to kill you is gone. Not only is the stress removed, but your body is able to relax and do what it does best… Heal!
So… the placebo effect is a good thing, right? Certainly. But there is an ethical question to all this, that was raised in the above-mentioned survey. You see, for the placebo effect to work, you really have to believe 100% you are receiving a treatment that works.
Can you see the catch 22 for doctors here? In order for the placebo effect to work… They Must Lie To You!
And that’s exactly what the survey found. According to the Associated Press article, "Half of the doctors reported using placebos several times a month, nearly 70 percent of those described the treatment to their patients as ‘a potentially beneficial medicine not typically used for your condition.’ Only 5 percent of doctors explicitly called it a placebo treatment."
And here’s what may be shocking: "Most doctors used actual medicines as a placebo: 41 percent used painkillers, 38 percent used vitamins, 13 percent used antibiotics, 13 percent used sedatives, 3 percent used saline injections, and 2 percent used sugar pills."
When questioned, 60% of doctors said they would prescribe a sugar pill for chronic pain if it had been shown to work better than no treatment.
According to the AP article, Franklin G. Miller, one of the authors of the study and director of the research ethics program at the U.S. National Institutes for Health said, "It’s a disturbing finding. There is an element of deception here which is contrary to the principle of informed consent."
Clearly, there are two BIG issues here: Always doing what’s best for your patients and always informing them everything that is going on. You may ask yourself this: Would you rather receive a placebo and not know about it and get better… or… be 100% informed and stay sick? Only you can answer that question.
But on the bright side – this demonstrates the body’s amazing ability to produce whatever it needs to heal itself. And more of your time and effort should be spent on eliminating all the stresses in your life – and focusing on all the wonderful things life has to offer. There is no doubt you will be happier… and healthier!!!
For more information about our non-drug pain relief center or to schedule an appointment with the doctor, please call our office at 770-777-0900 and also visit our website: http://www.painreliefcare.com.
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor And Whiplash Doctor Comments:
Motor vehicle collisions (MVC), usually result in injuries to the neck and upper back. However, there are often other complaints that can occur immediately or after a delayed time frame. The mechanism of injury or, "how did the accident happen?" is very important to discuss in detail.
For example, a low speed crash such as 5-10 mph may not result in much damage to the car. However when this occurs, the contents inside the car are jostled and thrown about more than if there had been car damage. This is because the impact was too slow to dent or crush the metal and the energy of the crash was not absorbed but rather, transferred to the contents inside the car – that is, the passengers.
Another cause might be a roll over accident. If a person is suspended upside down in the vehicle, injury can occur from the seat belt, from falling from the seat upon releasing the seat belt, cuts or scrapes from broken glass, and so on. Many people involved in MVC’s are initially in "shock" and may not realize they are hurt until hours or days later. Upon rising the next morning, a significant increase in pain intensity often prompts the person to seek emergency room care where medications are usually prescribed and a "wait and watch" recommendation is given.
Within the initial several days to a week, gradual increases of pain and other symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, "foggy thinking," and loss of appetite due to the high pain intensity can occur, and the person may then visit a chiropractic clinic, as the "waiting and watching" approach just doesn’t make sense.
The initial examination findings often reveal significant muscle spasms and pinching of the nerves in the upper part of the neck, resulting in headaches. Patients may have difficulty describing their complaints including problems communicating with others such as, "I just can't find the words I want to use." This lack of mental clarity is often caused by a concussion and can last weeks to months. Some patients do well and may feel 50-75% better after 3-6 weeks of chiropractic treatment with respect to neck pain and headache intensity and frequency but of course, this varies from patient to patient. During this time, exercises are usually given to help stretch the tight muscles and strengthen the weak muscles in the neck and upper back region. Temporary work restrictions may be required, especially if the patient had not been able to work prior to seeking chiropractic treatment. A quick return to work is usually very important.
Hence, a "wait and watch" approach usually does not work very well. In addition, the use of medications may prohibit being able to drive a car or adequately function at work. Certain medications can also affect a person's ability to responsibly manage their children. It can be very confusing for many people when trying to decide from whom they should seek treatment after a whiplash injury.
The primary goal of the chiropractic physician is to achieve a reduction in symptoms and return the patient to a productive, functional lifestyle as quickly as possible. We sincerely appreciate the trust that our patient's place in us when choosing our clinic to treat their problems associated with motor vehicle accidents and whiplash.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with the doctor, please call our office at 770-777-0900 and also visit our website: http://www.painreliefcare.com.
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor And Back Pain Doctor Comments:
Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common complaints presenting to our office and remains one of the most challenging conditions to manage because there are so many causes of LBP. Some of the causes include the obvious such as over lifting, over use activities such as sports injuries (bowling, golfing, skiing, tennis, football, etc.), raking leaves, shoveling snow, and more.
Frequently, work related strains are the primary cause of LBP due to the constant, persistent and awkward positions frequently required in many jobs, especially in repetitive motion assembly line work.
The cause can also be as simple as standing on 2 feet vs. 4 feet. Studies show when 2 legged and 4 legged animals are compared, arthritis starts in the 3rd vs. the 6th decade of life, respectively due to the vertical load placed on the biped or 2-legged animal. In spite of this, after sharing this information with patients, I have not been successful in convincing them to start walking on all fours!
Because we are a 2-legged species, addressing a short leg can have significant benefits to any spinal condition. This is because a short leg of only 5mm (1/4 inch) can result in a drop in the pelvis resulting in crooked foundation that the spine sits on, creating a curvature in the spine. This places stress on the spinal components including the spinal cord and nerves and can contribute or be the actual cause of not only LBP, but also problems higher in the spine including neck pain and headaches!
Many times, a satisfying outcome is not achieved until I address the leg length issue by the use of heel or a combination of heel & sole lifts. If a leg is short, the effects at the top – that is, the neck and head, are dramatically affected. In one case, treatment to the neck and head had little effect on his headaches and only after placing a heel lift in one shoe and arch support in both shoes did he feel significantly improved.
In most cases, treatment addressing the entire body from the feet up yields the most satisfying results. Also, secondary issues such as diet, stress management, home treatments including exercises, can be very important in the successful management of back pain. In many patients, a combination of chiropractic, leg length correction, and nutritional management including the use of vitamin and herbs resulted in the best approach results.
Usually, offering the patient advice on the methods of applying ice, modifying/reducing bending/ lifting activities, as well as performing the chiropractic treatment will satisfy the majority of patients. However, in some cases, co-management with other allied health care providers is necessary, especially where there is a slow response in the initial acute stage of LBP. If these less common cases should occur, the combination of chiropractic and primary care yields the best results.
In our clinic, we offer a multidimensional, holistic approach to the treatment of low back pain so that a positive, satisfying outcome is achieved.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with the doctor, please call our office at 770-777-0900 and also visit our website: http://www.painreliefcare.com.
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor And Back Pain Doctor Comments:
I get asked this question all the time. Hey, doc, do I use heat or ice? The rule of thumb is to always use ice.
My recommendation is to use ice when you have a sudden onset of pain. What would you do if you smashed your thumb with a hammer... and it swells up. You would obviously put ice on your thumb! So the same is true if you twist your knee or ankle or you do something to hurt or agravate your back or neck.
Ice for how long? You want to ice the back for 20 minutes and the neck for only 10 minutes because it's a smaller area. You never want to ice the area longer than that because the reverse will happen. There's a built in reflex in the body... simular to when your ear lobe gets hot and red when your out in the cold weather too long in order to prevent frost bite! Remember, the purpose of ice is to constrict - to bring the swelling and inflammation down. You want to use ice at first - usually for the first two to three days after an injury or agravation.
Heat? Heat is good for chronic pain and arthritis that's been around for a long time. The best application of heat is to use a "moist" or "wet" form of heat. Don't use an electrical "dry" heating pad... it doesn't penetrate too deep and might make your problem worse. I recommend heating up a interchangable heat-ice pack in the microwave or a "rice" roll in the microwave...or a hot water bottle. Anything besides a heating pad that plugs into the wall!
Usually a muscle problem will go away after a day or two and NOT come back. But, if the back, neck or joint pain returns, lingers on, shoots down your leg or arm, becomes tingling or numb... that's when you need to get it checked out to determine if it's a disc problem or pinched nerve.
If you need help, please contact my office at 770-777-0900 and make an appointment. My website is http://www.painreliefcare.com.
My office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 - 7:00 and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00am to 1:00pm.
I get asked this question all the time. Hey, doc, do I use heat or ice? The rule of thumb is to always use ice.
My recommendation is to use ice when you have a sudden onset of pain. What would you do if you smashed your thumb with a hammer... and it swells up. You would obviously put ice on your thumb! So the same is true if you twist your knee or ankle or you do something to hurt or agravate your back or neck.
Ice for how long? You want to ice the back for 20 minutes and the neck for only 10 minutes because it's a smaller area. You never want to ice the area longer than that because the reverse will happen. There's a built in reflex in the body... simular to when your ear lobe gets hot and red when your out in the cold weather too long in order to prevent frost bite! Remember, the purpose of ice is to constrict - to bring the swelling and inflammation down. You want to use ice at first - usually for the first two to three days after an injury or agravation.
Heat? Heat is good for chronic pain and arthritis that's been around for a long time. The best application of heat is to use a "moist" or "wet" form of heat. Don't use an electrical "dry" heating pad... it doesn't penetrate too deep and might make your problem worse. I recommend heating up a interchangable heat-ice pack in the microwave or a "rice" roll in the microwave...or a hot water bottle. Anything besides a heating pad that plugs into the wall!
Usually a muscle problem will go away after a day or two and NOT come back. But, if the back, neck or joint pain returns, lingers on, shoots down your leg or arm, becomes tingling or numb... that's when you need to get it checked out to determine if it's a disc problem or pinched nerve.
If you need help, please contact my office at 770-777-0900 and make an appointment. My website is http://www.painreliefcare.com.
My office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 - 7:00 and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00am to 1:00pm.
DRX 9000 Research: Motorized Spinal Decompression For Chronic Discogenic Low Back Pain - Chart Review Of 100 Outpatients
Posted by Dr. Kurt Meininger at 7:26 AM
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor And Herniated Disc Doctor Comments:
This study assessed outcomes of a random sample of outpatients treated with the DRX9000™ for chronic low back pain lasting more than 12 weeks. Data from charts of 100 adults were abstracted using a standardized data collection form. Pain, drug use and activities of daily living were assessed pre and post treatment on the DRX9000™.
The results of this study were outstanding:
*90% improvement in back pain.
*Chronic back pain improves after treatment.
*Better function as measured by activities of daily living.
*A beginning pain score of 5.99 (on a scale of 0 to 10 – with 10 being the worse), which decreased to 0.87 after the last DRX9000™ treatment.
*41% of the subjects had used NSAID (pain meds) before being treatments which dropped to less than 5% after treatment with the DRX9000™.
*None of the subjects required surgery afterward.
Conclusion – Overall, patients’ pain improved after DRX9000™ treatment, requiring fewer pain medications, with better function!
This study which specifically used the DRX9000™ was presented at the American Society of Anesthesiologists, in Chicago, IL (October 15-17, 2006) and at the American Academy of Pain Management, in Orlando, FL (September 7-10, 2006).
The following doctors attributed to the above mentioned study:
*Alex Macario, MD, MBA, Stanford University
*Sunil J. Panchal, MD, COPE Foundation, Florida Pain Management
*Charlotte Richmond, PhD, Nema Research, Biomedical Research & Education Foundation
*Joseph V. Pergolizzi, Jr., MD, John Hopkins University & Nema Research
This study was blinded and the researchers didn't have certain knowledge about some aspects of the patient care. Because they didn’t have a control group, we cannot make statements about how this treatment may affect you.
However, clinics who incorporate orthopedic supports and timely and appropriate exercises into their treatment programs, greatly improve the patients’ overall recovery.
Most important, clinics that incorporate additional therapies into their treatment programs including low-level laser, heat, electrical muscle stimulation and ice dramatically increase the quality of care which directly affects the patients’ outcome.
As is usually the case in health care, evidence is somewhat limited, but I think the DRX9000™ is worth considering for a couple of reasons:
First, there are virtually no treatments in back care today that is supported by large-scale, controlled, double blinded, randomized clinical trials. That may come as a shock to you but most doctors, medical or chiropractic, really cannot cite great evidence for things they do day in and day out.
Physical therapists, acupuncturists, massage therapists - all who treat back problems- are pretty much in the same evidence boat, so to speak. Maybe that's why there are as many different treatments available as there are doctors. Or why you sometimes feel like you're going through a maze looking for some cheese when trying to deal with this very common problem.
The second reason you should carefully weigh the evidence for spinal decompression is because of the well-established scientific facts on the risks of surgery.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation with the doctor to see if you’re a good candidate for Spinal Decompression, please call 678-925-1878. For more information about Spinal Decompression, please visit our website http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
This study assessed outcomes of a random sample of outpatients treated with the DRX9000™ for chronic low back pain lasting more than 12 weeks. Data from charts of 100 adults were abstracted using a standardized data collection form. Pain, drug use and activities of daily living were assessed pre and post treatment on the DRX9000™.
The results of this study were outstanding:
*90% improvement in back pain.
*Chronic back pain improves after treatment.
*Better function as measured by activities of daily living.
*A beginning pain score of 5.99 (on a scale of 0 to 10 – with 10 being the worse), which decreased to 0.87 after the last DRX9000™ treatment.
*41% of the subjects had used NSAID (pain meds) before being treatments which dropped to less than 5% after treatment with the DRX9000™.
*None of the subjects required surgery afterward.
Conclusion – Overall, patients’ pain improved after DRX9000™ treatment, requiring fewer pain medications, with better function!
This study which specifically used the DRX9000™ was presented at the American Society of Anesthesiologists, in Chicago, IL (October 15-17, 2006) and at the American Academy of Pain Management, in Orlando, FL (September 7-10, 2006).
The following doctors attributed to the above mentioned study:
*Alex Macario, MD, MBA, Stanford University
*Sunil J. Panchal, MD, COPE Foundation, Florida Pain Management
*Charlotte Richmond, PhD, Nema Research, Biomedical Research & Education Foundation
*Joseph V. Pergolizzi, Jr., MD, John Hopkins University & Nema Research
This study was blinded and the researchers didn't have certain knowledge about some aspects of the patient care. Because they didn’t have a control group, we cannot make statements about how this treatment may affect you.
However, clinics who incorporate orthopedic supports and timely and appropriate exercises into their treatment programs, greatly improve the patients’ overall recovery.
Most important, clinics that incorporate additional therapies into their treatment programs including low-level laser, heat, electrical muscle stimulation and ice dramatically increase the quality of care which directly affects the patients’ outcome.
As is usually the case in health care, evidence is somewhat limited, but I think the DRX9000™ is worth considering for a couple of reasons:
First, there are virtually no treatments in back care today that is supported by large-scale, controlled, double blinded, randomized clinical trials. That may come as a shock to you but most doctors, medical or chiropractic, really cannot cite great evidence for things they do day in and day out.
Physical therapists, acupuncturists, massage therapists - all who treat back problems- are pretty much in the same evidence boat, so to speak. Maybe that's why there are as many different treatments available as there are doctors. Or why you sometimes feel like you're going through a maze looking for some cheese when trying to deal with this very common problem.
The second reason you should carefully weigh the evidence for spinal decompression is because of the well-established scientific facts on the risks of surgery.
If you’d like to schedule a consultation with the doctor to see if you’re a good candidate for Spinal Decompression, please call 678-925-1878. For more information about Spinal Decompression, please visit our website http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor And Herniated Disc Doctor Comments:
Research study: Clinical Outcomes For Spinal Decompression:
This study showed a marked reduction in disc herniations or protrusions in 71% of patients. Not everyone was helped, but remember, these were patients with chronic long-term problems. When a treatment may help even a fraction of the patients with these types of back and leg pain - where nothing else has worked - you should take notice. The protrusions were shown to change and were measured using MRI technology.
This study which specifically used the DRX9000™ was published in the Orthopedic Technology Review. It is a study of 219 patients, which are a large number of patients as far as studies go.
The patients had a variety of different problems. Some had single level disk herniations, and others had multiple levels that were bulging. Some had more back pain than leg pain and others had mostly sciatica.
The patients encompassed a large spectrum:
single lateral herniation…………. 67 cases
single central herniation………… 22 cases
single lateral herniation
with disk degeneration………….. 32 cases
single central herniation
with disk degeneration………….. 24 cases
more than one herniation
with disk degeneration………….. 17 cases
more than one herniation
without disk degeneration………. 57 cases
None of the patients had previous back surgery and 73 of them had received epidural injections for back problems. The study looked at how they responded to the DRX9000™ in terms of pain, disability, and physical findings including range of motion, and neurological function.
The results were that about 86% of the patients obtained substantial relief!
(That is a very large percentage in terms of anything else that is out there.)
If you’d like to schedule an consultation with the doctor to see if you’re a good candidate for Spinal Decompression, please call 678-925-1878. For more information about Spinal Decompression, please visit our website http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
Research study: Clinical Outcomes For Spinal Decompression:
This study showed a marked reduction in disc herniations or protrusions in 71% of patients. Not everyone was helped, but remember, these were patients with chronic long-term problems. When a treatment may help even a fraction of the patients with these types of back and leg pain - where nothing else has worked - you should take notice. The protrusions were shown to change and were measured using MRI technology.
This study which specifically used the DRX9000™ was published in the Orthopedic Technology Review. It is a study of 219 patients, which are a large number of patients as far as studies go.
The patients had a variety of different problems. Some had single level disk herniations, and others had multiple levels that were bulging. Some had more back pain than leg pain and others had mostly sciatica.
The patients encompassed a large spectrum:
single lateral herniation…………. 67 cases
single central herniation………… 22 cases
single lateral herniation
with disk degeneration………….. 32 cases
single central herniation
with disk degeneration………….. 24 cases
more than one herniation
with disk degeneration………….. 17 cases
more than one herniation
without disk degeneration………. 57 cases
None of the patients had previous back surgery and 73 of them had received epidural injections for back problems. The study looked at how they responded to the DRX9000™ in terms of pain, disability, and physical findings including range of motion, and neurological function.
The results were that about 86% of the patients obtained substantial relief!
(That is a very large percentage in terms of anything else that is out there.)
If you’d like to schedule an consultation with the doctor to see if you’re a good candidate for Spinal Decompression, please call 678-925-1878. For more information about Spinal Decompression, please visit our website http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
Does The Use Of A Low Back Support Or Brace Really Make A Difference?
Posted by Dr. Kurt Meininger at 12:03 AM
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor And Back Pain doctor Comments:
“Do you think a back brace will help my condition?” This is a question that is frequently asked of many health care providers who treat low back pain. The answers typically vary, as there is support for and against the use of a brace when low back pain is present. In a Feb. 2009 study, the use of an elastic lumbar belt was studied in a group of sub-acute low back pain patients for its effect on functional capacity (lift and carry types of activities), pain intensity, and the effects on health care service costs. This study was unique in that it was carried out in several different locations and, the patients were randomized and received either a lumbar belt or nothing (“control group”). 197 patients were included in the study, which is a good sample size for research purposes. The results of the study, at the end of 90 days, revealed a higher score for the back brace treated group than the non-braced control group. The pain scale improved greater in the brace treated group as an improvement of 42 points vs. 32 points was reported. Similarly, 61% in the brace treated group used no medication compared to 40% in the non-braced group. It was concluded that patients with sub-acute low back pain improved significantly in functional status, pain reduction and medication utilization.
The use of back braces has been considered a “standard” in the treatment of patients with LBP for many years. One argument against using back braces centers around becoming “dependant” either physically or mentally on its use and this has long been a concern amongst health care providers. For most patients, this is not a concern as most do not “enjoy” the use of a brace and they look forward to discontinuing their use of it. Braces are particularly helpful when the patient cannot stop performing needed activities, such as work. This is especially true for farmers who have to tend to the animals and crops during planting, cultivating and harvest times of the year. In addition, single moms or dads who have to go to work in order to provide for their children are driven to stay on the job. In these cases, the use of a back brace can be of utmost importance.
There are many types of back braces. Some are narrow and are particularly favored when frequent bending and/or twisting movements are required by a job, sport, or other daily activity. Other braces are taller in the back and taper in the front, which give better support but still allow some bending / twisting movements. Some braces are more rigid and can actually stop movement in certain directions. These types include a hard, rigid surface that is placed in the area of the back where movement is not desired. These are used at times when there are fractures of the spine, after spinal surgery and in scoliosis bracing. Some braces are to be worn low on the pelvis to support that area, while most are placed in the center of the low back region. There are also rib belts sometimes used when ribs fracture, soft and rigid neck braces sometimes used after car accidents, and braces for the arms or legs. The decision to use a brace rests on the degree of injury and the patient’s ability to avoid certain activities or positions. When the injury is significant and/or the patient cannot control his/her activities (such as work), then the use of a brace may be one of the most important treatment approaches for that patient. It’s similar to having stitches when a deep or wide cut occurs. Ask us about the use of supports, braces, or belts if you or your family or friends are suffering with low back pain.
To learn more about our Chronic Back Pain treatment programs or if you have any questions about back braces, call our office at 770.777.0900 and/or visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
“Do you think a back brace will help my condition?” This is a question that is frequently asked of many health care providers who treat low back pain. The answers typically vary, as there is support for and against the use of a brace when low back pain is present. In a Feb. 2009 study, the use of an elastic lumbar belt was studied in a group of sub-acute low back pain patients for its effect on functional capacity (lift and carry types of activities), pain intensity, and the effects on health care service costs. This study was unique in that it was carried out in several different locations and, the patients were randomized and received either a lumbar belt or nothing (“control group”). 197 patients were included in the study, which is a good sample size for research purposes. The results of the study, at the end of 90 days, revealed a higher score for the back brace treated group than the non-braced control group. The pain scale improved greater in the brace treated group as an improvement of 42 points vs. 32 points was reported. Similarly, 61% in the brace treated group used no medication compared to 40% in the non-braced group. It was concluded that patients with sub-acute low back pain improved significantly in functional status, pain reduction and medication utilization.
The use of back braces has been considered a “standard” in the treatment of patients with LBP for many years. One argument against using back braces centers around becoming “dependant” either physically or mentally on its use and this has long been a concern amongst health care providers. For most patients, this is not a concern as most do not “enjoy” the use of a brace and they look forward to discontinuing their use of it. Braces are particularly helpful when the patient cannot stop performing needed activities, such as work. This is especially true for farmers who have to tend to the animals and crops during planting, cultivating and harvest times of the year. In addition, single moms or dads who have to go to work in order to provide for their children are driven to stay on the job. In these cases, the use of a back brace can be of utmost importance.
There are many types of back braces. Some are narrow and are particularly favored when frequent bending and/or twisting movements are required by a job, sport, or other daily activity. Other braces are taller in the back and taper in the front, which give better support but still allow some bending / twisting movements. Some braces are more rigid and can actually stop movement in certain directions. These types include a hard, rigid surface that is placed in the area of the back where movement is not desired. These are used at times when there are fractures of the spine, after spinal surgery and in scoliosis bracing. Some braces are to be worn low on the pelvis to support that area, while most are placed in the center of the low back region. There are also rib belts sometimes used when ribs fracture, soft and rigid neck braces sometimes used after car accidents, and braces for the arms or legs. The decision to use a brace rests on the degree of injury and the patient’s ability to avoid certain activities or positions. When the injury is significant and/or the patient cannot control his/her activities (such as work), then the use of a brace may be one of the most important treatment approaches for that patient. It’s similar to having stitches when a deep or wide cut occurs. Ask us about the use of supports, braces, or belts if you or your family or friends are suffering with low back pain.
To learn more about our Chronic Back Pain treatment programs or if you have any questions about back braces, call our office at 770.777.0900 and/or visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor And Low-Level Laser Therapy Doctor Comments:
May patients ask me what the low-level laser is and how long it’s been around. Here’s the fascinating low-level laser story:
Albert Einstein proposed it way back in 1917. It sounded like something straight out of a science fiction novel. The use of low-level focused light waves as a therapy to heal tissue. But, just like most of his brilliant ideas… Einstein was WAY ahead of his time and everyone laughed at him.
It’s important to note… MOST of Einstein’s brilliance was thought to be foolishness by the scientific community of his time. And nothing has changed. Scientific breakthroughs – especially in health care – are often violently opposed by the status quo. That is unless some big-wig corporate fat cats stand to line their pockets with silver.
Anyway, it was 43 years after Einstein’s prediction that he was proven right and low-level light was first developed into a therapy. In 1960, Hungarian surgeon, Endre Mester, first reported his experience using laser light to treat non-healing infections and inflammations (swelling) in rats.
Mester’s reported a 70% success rate treating these infections which led to the
development of a science he called “laser biostimulation,” or the stimulation of the local immune system.
Today there is an entire science field devoted to this subject call photobiology -- The study of how light affects living things. Since 1967, more than 2,000 clinical studies have been published worldwide on low level lasers. Many of the studies are positive… but… many were small and not designed well enough to stand up to the scientific standards we have today.
Recently, however, all that has changed. One of the most difficult things I know is getting a patent and market clearance from the FDA for anything related to health care. Well, in February, 2002 the first patent and market clearance was given to a low level laser for the non-surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. The patent and market clearance were granted after a low level laser manufacturer conducted double studies with General Motors and Baylor College of Medicine as part of their trials.
One of the numerous positive results was an amazing 75.6% of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome showed improvement. And listen to this: the study showed the low level laser even worked on patients that already had surgery.
And with so many modern medical “cures” causing worse problems then the conditions they were initially intended to treat… one of the most important benefits was… No Documented Side Effects! Not one. The only warning was not to shine the laser directly in the eye for a prolonged period of time.
Low-level laser therapy has been successful in helping patients with: Headaches, Fibromyalgia, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Back pain, Neck pain and Whiplash!
To learn more about low-level laser therapy call our office at 770.777.0900 and/or visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
May patients ask me what the low-level laser is and how long it’s been around. Here’s the fascinating low-level laser story:
Albert Einstein proposed it way back in 1917. It sounded like something straight out of a science fiction novel. The use of low-level focused light waves as a therapy to heal tissue. But, just like most of his brilliant ideas… Einstein was WAY ahead of his time and everyone laughed at him.
It’s important to note… MOST of Einstein’s brilliance was thought to be foolishness by the scientific community of his time. And nothing has changed. Scientific breakthroughs – especially in health care – are often violently opposed by the status quo. That is unless some big-wig corporate fat cats stand to line their pockets with silver.
Anyway, it was 43 years after Einstein’s prediction that he was proven right and low-level light was first developed into a therapy. In 1960, Hungarian surgeon, Endre Mester, first reported his experience using laser light to treat non-healing infections and inflammations (swelling) in rats.
Mester’s reported a 70% success rate treating these infections which led to the
development of a science he called “laser biostimulation,” or the stimulation of the local immune system.
Today there is an entire science field devoted to this subject call photobiology -- The study of how light affects living things. Since 1967, more than 2,000 clinical studies have been published worldwide on low level lasers. Many of the studies are positive… but… many were small and not designed well enough to stand up to the scientific standards we have today.
Recently, however, all that has changed. One of the most difficult things I know is getting a patent and market clearance from the FDA for anything related to health care. Well, in February, 2002 the first patent and market clearance was given to a low level laser for the non-surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. The patent and market clearance were granted after a low level laser manufacturer conducted double studies with General Motors and Baylor College of Medicine as part of their trials.
One of the numerous positive results was an amazing 75.6% of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome showed improvement. And listen to this: the study showed the low level laser even worked on patients that already had surgery.
And with so many modern medical “cures” causing worse problems then the conditions they were initially intended to treat… one of the most important benefits was… No Documented Side Effects! Not one. The only warning was not to shine the laser directly in the eye for a prolonged period of time.
Low-level laser therapy has been successful in helping patients with: Headaches, Fibromyalgia, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Back pain, Neck pain and Whiplash!
To learn more about low-level laser therapy call our office at 770.777.0900 and/or visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor And Herniated Disc Doctor Comments:
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is a clinically proven treatment for patients with chronic lower back pain, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, herniated or bulging discs and failed back surgery.
Spinal Decompression with the DRX9000 is one of today's most advanced technologies. We were one of the first to offer the DRX9000 in Alpharetta, Georgia and we continue to improve upon our success rates. Lumbar decompression involves the application of distraction forces to relieve nerve compression often associated with lower back pain and sciatica. Most often, patients have been unsuccessful when using traditional methods and seek an alternative to more invasive surgical solutions.
Decompression patients receive 30 to 45-minute DRX treatments within a relaxing environment. During treatment, patients can listen to their own music on CD or watch DVD movies. Immediately following treatment, we provide a 10-minute muscle stimulation and ice . Patients also gain personalized home-care coaching, with noticeable relief typically attained within just three weeks.
Lumbar decompression with the DRX9000 is a safe, FDA-cleared treatment program that has been proven successful in numerous clinical studies since its introduction in 2002. Check out this Special Report on Spinal Decompression... you'll learn how effective the DRX9000 is with herniated, bulging and degenerative disc, sciatica and failed back surgery!
Dr. Kurt Meininger works with you to devise a holistic approach encompassing spinal decompression and exercise geared toward obtaining optimal results. As a result, a very high percentage of our patients find the solution successful.
To learn more about our DRX9000 spinal decompression program, please call our exclusive hotline at 678.925.1878. Visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is a clinically proven treatment for patients with chronic lower back pain, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, herniated or bulging discs and failed back surgery.
Spinal Decompression with the DRX9000 is one of today's most advanced technologies. We were one of the first to offer the DRX9000 in Alpharetta, Georgia and we continue to improve upon our success rates. Lumbar decompression involves the application of distraction forces to relieve nerve compression often associated with lower back pain and sciatica. Most often, patients have been unsuccessful when using traditional methods and seek an alternative to more invasive surgical solutions.
Decompression patients receive 30 to 45-minute DRX treatments within a relaxing environment. During treatment, patients can listen to their own music on CD or watch DVD movies. Immediately following treatment, we provide a 10-minute muscle stimulation and ice . Patients also gain personalized home-care coaching, with noticeable relief typically attained within just three weeks.
Lumbar decompression with the DRX9000 is a safe, FDA-cleared treatment program that has been proven successful in numerous clinical studies since its introduction in 2002. Check out this Special Report on Spinal Decompression... you'll learn how effective the DRX9000 is with herniated, bulging and degenerative disc, sciatica and failed back surgery!
Dr. Kurt Meininger works with you to devise a holistic approach encompassing spinal decompression and exercise geared toward obtaining optimal results. As a result, a very high percentage of our patients find the solution successful.
To learn more about our DRX9000 spinal decompression program, please call our exclusive hotline at 678.925.1878. Visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
Exclusive Medical Research On DRX9000 Non-Surgical Decompression
Posted by Dr. Kurt Meininger at 1:39 AM
Forsyth County – Alpharetta Chiropractor And Low Back Herniated Disc Doctor Comments:
I own a DRX9000 Spinal Decompression unit and this technology offers an outstanding success rate for patients suffering from herniated and degenerative disc disease but what makes the DRX9000 technology stand out in front of all the other spinal decompression and fancy traction units out there in the marketplace?
I own a DRX9000 Spinal Decompression unit and this technology offers an outstanding success rate for patients suffering from herniated and degenerative disc disease but what makes the DRX9000 technology stand out in front of all the other spinal decompression and fancy traction units out there in the marketplace?
Check out this article from http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/ entitled: The Latest DRX9000 Study Data Published In Peer Review Journal! The study was published in the December 2008 Journal of Medicine, a peer reviewed journal.
The study was authored by John Leslie, MD of the Mayo Clinic.
It's just a matter of time before the science of spinal decompression becomes mainstream!
To learn more about our DRX9000 spinal decompression program, please call our exclusive hotline at 678.925.1878. Visit our website at http://www.painreliefcare.com/.
Our standard business hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
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