A to Z of Chiropractic: F is for Facet & Fixation

 

F is for Facet & Fixation

There are many facets in our spine – they form the spinal joints which give us flexibility. Many back problems arise when these facet joints are not working correctly; Chiropractors call this a ‘Fixation’.

Spinal adjustments are designed to correct these fixations and restore normal function to the spine and thus restoring good health. 

Dr Gemma Bailey
BSc Hons Chiro
Doctor of Chiropractic

A to Z of Chiropractic: E is for Exercise!

E is for Exercise! 

Our main goal here at the Fitzwilliam Heath Clinic is to get people healthy and pain free and keep them that way for as long as possible.

One way to achieve this is through exercises. Time and time again i see dramatic results in patients when they start to exercises.

I encourage this very early on in the treatment plan, starting with stretches and progressing onto strengthening exercises.

Research has shown that patients who increase their core strength are less likely to suffer further episodes of back pain. Pilates is the best way to increase your core muscles, along with swimming and cycling to help increase your overall fitness.

Please consult with your chiropractor or health care practitioner before you commence any type of exercises.

Dr Gemma Bailey

BSc Hons Chiro

Dr of Chiropractic and full member of the CAI

Rosacea - Treating with Traditional Chinese Medicine

ROSACEA

 Is a condition that affects people from the northern hemisphere and is very common in Ireland, affecting people between 30 and 60 years of age. While the cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no cure, the signs and symptoms can be controlled with herbs and creams.

Rosacea is characterized by reddening and flushing of the face and at times can appear as acne with papular and pustular lesions although it can appear on its own. Initially the flushing comes and goes, and at this stage it is easiest to treat, with herbs that "clear heat" from the face.  It can also irritate eyes making them watery and blood shot and can also affect the neck and chest areas.

If the redness is present all the time the herbal treatment approach changes to clearing heat and assisting blood circulation. Other symptoms may include congested capillaries or thread veins may be visible on the cheeks and nose (telangiectasia). Severe cases may also present with many papules, i.e. red ‘bumps’. Rosacea may vary substantially from one patient to another, and treatment must be tailored for each individual case. 

Results with TCM treatment are very good. The milder, fluctuating form of rosacea can be treated in as little as 6 - 8 weeks, whereas the more severe forms, possibly accompanied by acne and pustules, takes from 10 to 16 weeks to control.

Rosacea triggers that can result in an outbreak vary from person to person. Keeping a food diary will help you identify the foods that may trigger your rosacea:

Common triggers for rosacea

Stress

Sunlight

Temperature extremes

Alcohol

Chocolate

Red wine

Hot drinks

Spicy foods

Amanda Hughes specializes in treating skin conditions with Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Call or email to book an appointment.

 Amanda Hughes

Lic.Ac (adv) Beijing, I.C.T.C.M., I.R.C.H.M

Acupuncturist & Chinese Herbalist

A to Z of Chiropractic: D is for Disc

D is for Disc

Discs are rings of cartilage that are found between your vertebra. They act as shock absorbers and play a vital role in protecting your spinal cord from injury.

Unfortunately discs can become injured with repeated lifting and bending and can become thin if excessive force is repeatedly placed through them.

Many people would use the term ‘a slipped disc’. I personally do not like this phrase as it gives the impression that the whole disc has moved or shifted to the side. In reality a disc can swell, bulge, tear and wear away – but it can’t slip anywhere! In any event a disc injury results in symptoms that need immediate treatment.

Symptoms include severe back pain, arm, leg and chest pain, numbness, weakness and pins and needles.

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms consult your Chiropractor ASAP as they require immediate diagnosis and treatment. 

Dr Gemma Bailey

BSc (Hons) Chiro 

Dr of Chiropractic

A to Z of Chiropractic: C is for "Crack"

 C is for “Crack”…

“Crack” meaning the noise you hear when your joints are adjusted!

Many patients wander what makes the cracking or popping sound when their Chiropractor adjusts them.

It does not represent the joint going back into place but more movement in the joint that releases air particles when moved beyond its normal range of motion. 

Dr Gemma Bailey BSc Hons Chiro

Dr of Chiropracctic and member of the CAI