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507-208-4481
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staff@jungechiro.com
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M 8-5:30 T 2-5:30 W 8-5:30 T 9-5:30 F 9-12

Heat or Ice?

We are often asked what is better for pain.  The simple answer: ICE. 

Think about if you sprained your ankle and it swelled.  Would you heat it? Typically No.  We more easily recognize that putting heat on a swollen, hot, injured area would not be the best. The idea is similar for pain. There is often inflammation involved in pain and therefore icing produces a better effect. It not only reduces swelling but works as an analgesic (so feels better!).  The preferred amount varies, but 15-20 minutes at time with about 1 hour off in between icings is the sweet spot.  This can be repeated often typically about 3 times a day is a good start, until the inflammation and pain is starting to subside.

Re-ocurring Ear Infections (Otitis Media)

Ear infections are the most common reason parents bring their child to the medical doctor.  Unfortunately, 5 of every 6 children will experience an ear infection before their 3rd birthday. The good news is chiropractic care can help (the kids and the exhausted parents too)!!!  Rightfully so, parents are often concerned with the repeated infections and repeated use of antibiotics – both of which are linked to negative health consequences later in life for these kids.

More and more research is finding there is a link between ear infections and chiropractic. In a 1996 study, forty-six children under the age of five received regular chiropractic adjustments while presenting with symptoms of ear infection, and researchers found that 93% of all episodes improved, 75% in 10 days or fewer, and 43% with only a few adjustments.

Why is this so common in kids? Children are prone to ear infection due to their anatomy that makes the ear tubes more vulnerable to infections.  The ear tubes should drain any ear fluid, which keeps them clear and unlikely an infection will settle there. However, when we are young, those tubes are flatter, and only as we grow do they begin to tilt more downward allowing for easier drainage (often why parents stay “they just grew out of them”).  Furthermore, colds,  stuffy noses, or even allergies lead to another ear infection because the associated inflammation, fluid, and swelling further challenge the ability for the ear tube to drain.  Here are some symptoms and behaviors these poor little ones often experience:

-Ear pain, worsened when lying down
-Difficulty sleeping
-Drainage of fluid from the ear
-Diminished hearing
-Loss of balance
-Fever
-Headache

Potential behaviors you may notice:
-Tugging or pulling at an ear
-Difficulty sleeping
-Crying more than usual
-Irritable/changes in mood

 

Chiropractic can be a new experience for parents and seem strange, but rest assured it is safe and worth it.  When there is a problem with the nerve function in your child (what chiropractors look for) to maybe another factor that inhibits those ear tubes from draining.  When you choose to make an appointment, we will ensure we answer all your questions, explain what we are doing and why as well as making sure you are comfortable before proceeding with chiropractic care for your precious little one!  We’d love to help (507) 208-4481

 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Chiropractic care is an option when it comes to people with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.  Often nerve tissue in the neck and/or wrist can be irritated.  Chiropractors are able to work on both areas as well as discuss at-home exercised and give lifestyle advice. Our office has seen many patients experience progress, even resolution, with this particular health challenge.  Many have avoided carpal tunnel surgery all together. It’s a beautiful thing when the body is working well!!

 

Read These Three Tips For Long Car Rides

Remaining in a seated position for extended periods of time can restrict blood flow to your lower extremities, causing flexion, which is a compressive force in the spine. Stopping to stand and stretch is critical for your spine, as it releases the compression, allows for blood to flow to the nerves, and helps maintain flexibility

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