Young Chiropractic Clinic

Upper Cervical Spine

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:58:00 +0000

For Patients Who Are Facing Significant Health Problems
AUCB/IUCCA, Atlas Orthogonal, Orthospinology Chiropractors Serving the Upstate:

In Easley serving Greenville-Spartanburg, Anderson, Oconee and Pickens Counties
We have also cared for patients Traveling from South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee and Virginia

WHAT DIFFERENTIATES APPLIED UPPER CERVICAL BIOMECHANICS (AUCB) FROM OTHER UPPER CERVICAL TECHNIQUES?

This is a question I am often asked and the explanations given by Dr. William Amalu, DC reflect my opinion as well:

"From state-of-the-art neurophysiologic imaging and radiographic analysis to adjustive procedures, AUCB is unique when compared to other upper cervical techniques. Its foundation is built upon Dr. Palmer's 15 years of unprecedented research into the effects of upper cervical technique on the global physiology of the human body. Since that time, decades of clinical research and recent advances in diagnostic technology have caused an evolution in Dr. Palmer's procedures to form what we currently know as Applied Upper Cervical Biomechanics.

For over 100 years the foundational premise of our profession has been that health and disease are nervous system dependent; and that the spinal adjustment restores the human nervous system to normal function. AUCB is the only upper cervical technique to maintain that objective neurophysiologic infrared imaging be used on every patient encounter both before and after an adjustment is rendered to substantiate this premise. Without an objective analysis of neurophysiology, it is impossible to determine if neuropathophysiology is present and if the adjustment has effectively restored normal nervous system function to the patient. The IUCCA was the first upper cervical association to incorporate peer-review research based normative data for the detection of abnormal neural function via paraspinal digital infrared imaging. We as a profession insist that we can improve nervous system function, those that practice AUCB can objectively prove it.

To determine the adjustment listing capable of producing maximal neurologic benefits, AUCB uses a complex and unique form of upper cervical radiographic analysis. The entire cervical spine is analyzed arthrokinematically for aberrant function of the upper cervical articulations. This information is used to determine the precise line-of-drive for adjustment procedures to the first, second, or third cervical segments. Adjustments based on this system of analysis have consistently produced full body neurophysiologic benefits on patients, which has been objectively substantiated by both high-resolution camera and paraspinal infrared imaging.

The adjusting procedures used in AUCB are a modified form of that which was used by Dr. B.J. Palmer. Research performed on over 3,000 individual case radiographs has shown that a reliable C1 transverse process contact point can only be achieved in approximately 5% of patients. With this in mind, AUCB uses a specialized adjusting table that allows for a precise contact on the osseous spinal structures in the upper cervical spine. The design of the table also facilitates joint cavitation and full control over all line-of-drive vectors (Modern arthroscopic and cineradiographic research has demonstrated the need for both precise line-of-drive and cavitation to resolve intra-articular adhesions in order to restore normal arthrokinematics). Consequently, lateral C1 transverse process approaches, drop table use, and the inadequate force transference used in many upper cervical techniques has demonstrated significantly lower reliability in resolving objective signs of neuropathophysiology.

The main objective of AUCB is to increase the predictability of clinical results, thus improving the percentage of patients that respond to care. The IUCCA is constantly striving, through continued research, to increase this percentage. As such, we are always open to any new form of care that can objectively demonstrate consistent improvements in neurophysiologic responses over what we currently observe clinically. As health care providers, we should all be continuously seeking ways to provide better care for our patients - salus populi est suprema lex.

William C. Amalu, DC, DABCT, DIACT, FIACT"

IUCCA www.pacificchiro.com

PARASPINAL DIGITAL INFRARED IMAGING (PDII)

Paraspinal Digital Infrared Imaging confines the area of examination to the regions located directly next to the spine. Objective signs of nervous system dysfunction will be detected in this area first if the cause is from the spine. The images also provide objective information to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment after it has been rendered.

Given the critical role of the nervous system in health and disease, the IUCCA insists that paraspinal imaging be performed on each visit to monitor the response of the nervous system to treatment. A hand held unit is utilized instead of a camera for ease of use and to reduce the cost of the procedure for the patient. The protocols are identical to the camera studies with a few slight differences. In the case of a cervical spine (neck) examination, the acclimation occurs in the waiting room since no disrobing is required. Offices should be climate controlled to allow for this convenience. The patient simply loosens their collar and removes all jewelry from the neck. If the entire spine is to be imaged, then the patient will acclimate in a treatment room. With the patient seated, the doctor will move the paraspinal unit along the spinal region of interest. This information is then sent to a special computer for analysis. Measurements are compared with research established normal values to determine how well the nervous system is functioning. This examination takes approximately 5-10 seconds to complete making it very practical for daily use.

Images are taken before and after treatment is rendered. By comparing these daily pre and post images, the effectiveness of care can be immediately determined. The effectiveness of a course of treatment can be judged by evaluating a series of images taken over a period of time.

www.titronics.com

A Very Real Difference

The single most important factor in the management of these cases is our ability to objectively monitor the adjustment’s affects on the patient’s neurophysiology. Many different examinations for “subluxation abnormalities” are used in our profession such as leg length, cervical challenge, motion and static palpation, and others. However, these tests lack objectivity, possess inherent errors, and have no confirmation of their ability to monitor neurophysiology. Infrared imaging, however, has been researched for over 30 years compiling almost 9,000 peer-reviewed and indexed studies confirming its use as an objective measure of neurophysiology. By using this technology, our method of upper cervical care has been able to consistently produce reproducible and dramatic positive neurophysiologic improvements in our patients.

http://upcspine.com

IUCCA/AUCB

There are very few IUCCA/AUCB practitioners in the world and Dr. Young is sensitive to this fact.

The care Dr. Young provides is not readily available and is highly specialized.

All patients are evaluated on an individual basis and recommendations made based on the findings in each case.

Recommendations on any give case are influenced by age, general health, duration of the condition and severity of the condition.

That being said, most patients want to know how long does it take, how many visits are required, will treatment help, how much does it cost? I will outline these points in general terms but every case is different and I don't have a "one size fits all" practice.

The frequency of visits is scheduled according to your condition and is determined by the severity of the problems you bring to the office.

If you are traveling from a distance (we have patients who have travelled from all parts of South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia and Tennessee, Texas, Indiana) and cannot commute from your home to the office easily, then it is necessary to stay locally here for the 2-8 weeks of follow up care that is typically required.

Young Chiropractic Clinic
4628 Calhoun Memorial Hwy
Easley, SC 29640

864-855-2422

The course of care:

Day One

Initial exmination on the first day usually requires 2 hours. Services on that day include multiple PARASPINAL DIGITAL INFRARED IMAGING (PDII) scans over that time period. The PDII is usually performed over the entire length of the spine but with special attention to the cervical spine.
Basic orthopedic and neurological examination is also performed at this time.
Precision x-ray and analysis is done.
Dr. Young will then correlate all of your exam findings and come to a conclusion as to whether or not he thinks this is the right form of care for you. There are times when care will not be offered if we think we can really be of no assistance to you.

Day Two

Dr. Young will report to you the results and his expectations as to what you can expect from his care. All recommendations are individualized to your condition and response.
Your first adjustment will be given on this day and the appropriate PDII done to verify its effectiveness.
This usually requires about an hour or so of in office time.
Follow-up visits will be scheduled as required in your case.

If you would like to get some questions answered before coming into the office, call Dr. Young and schedule a 15 minute "off the record" interview. There is no charge for this service and it is encouraged. Prospective patients and their families should have access to as much information as possible when considering treatment of any kind for serious conditions.

Pivotal Structural Shift

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:22:00 +0000

- a hidden factor, commonly under diagnosed, often poorly addressed source of severe and painful conditions.

The human spine is a marvelous design and is the pivot point of gravity (gravitational axis) when we stand or sit up. Our head sits on top, our shoulders and arms attach at the base of the neck. Our hips and pelvis attach at the bottom with our legs below forming the base. The spine is very strong and flexible and is made to last a lifetime. No one who has studied the spine would consider it "delicate".

Sounds pretty simple up to this point. The head and spine also houses and protects the nervous system. The nervous system is the center of communication and control for the entire body. Parts of the nervous system are "voluntary" and other parts are "involuntary". Voluntary parts are controlled by our will and involuntary parts run pretty much on their own.

The structural components of the spine include the bones, discs, ligaments, tendons and muscles. The voluntary and involuntary nervous system control these structures and allow you to move, stand, sit, lay down and lift. In short, normal function.

The strength of the spine is well beyond what most realize. The spine can sustain thousands of pounds per square inch of force and does so on a routine basis. It is truly a marvel in design and function.

Throughout our lives, from a very early age, we sustain trauma to our spines. The list of traumas are extensive including every slip, fall, blow to the head, car accidents, strains, athletic injury and mishap we have experienced in our lives. Like some cuts can heal without leaving a trace while other cuts are deeper leaving a scar, the spine follows a similar pattern. Some spinal trauma heals without a trace while other trauma is more severe and leaves a pivotal structural shift.

The structural shift can be confusing for patients and sometimes for doctors as well. The spine is in a constant state of movement, moving to adapt structurally to the demands placed upon it. The design of the spine carries out this process for the most part with ease. But when trauma has left the "scar" of a structural shift, the spine cannot move and adapt as it once did and in reality becomes a "weak link" in an otherwise sturdy chain. From this point future traumas that would otherwise have no effect aggravate this compromised and weakened link.

So the most important factor in patient care success is determining the underlying cause of your problem and applying proper treatment. Our goal is to find the Pivotal Structural Shift, a unique and commonly under diagnosed source of major pain and illness, the result of which, is pathological spinal imbalance.

The good news is when a Pivotal Structural Shift happens and pathological spinal imbalances are set in motion, several indicators that the patient will easily recognize occurs.

Muscular Tension / Spasms
Compressed / Degenerative Discs
Nerve Impingement Syndrome
Damaged Vertebra

The Focus of Our Practice is to Identify and Correct The Pivotal Structural Shift

Simply put:

The spine a wonderfully designed, very strong and located at the center of our body and provides structure and function.
Trauma to the spine is unavoidable and most heal just fine.
When the trauma is deeper and a pivotal structural shift occurs the spine does not heal properly and we are left with a "weak link".
This weak link then begins to change how our spine is designed to work and causes more and more distortion over time leading to further trauma.
As the structures of the spine become weaker and shifts increase, the neurological components of the spine become interrupted, possibly leading to pathological spinal imbalance.
Common symptoms that are seen as a result of structural shifting of the spine are headaches (cervicogenic and migraine), neck pain, low back pain, sciatica, intervetebral disc syndrome in the neck and back, arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, shoulder pain, arm pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, recurring sinus and ear infections, asthma and a host of other problems.

Healthcare options which ignore the Pivotal Structural Shift and its effects are usually only temporarily helpful. Our goal is to find structural shifts, if it is present, and return the structure to as near normal as possible. We feel this is the best thing we can do to assist our patients in regaining their health and normal function.

We believe everyone deserves the opportunity for a fuller life with less suffering.

We have been putting that belief into practice for 51 years.

Young Chiropractic Clinic
Easley, SC 29640

864-855-2422

Abnormal Unhealthy Positioning Your Abnormal “Pattern”

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:08:00 +0000

Click image to enlarge

We routinely track your progress, judge the effectiveness of an adjustment, schedule a follow-up visit and make many other clinical decisions based on the use of Paraspinal Digital Infrared Imaging (PDII) or “scan”. This non-invasive heat reading device provides valuable data to us concerning the function of your nervous system.

A normal scan of thermographic area #8 (the back of your neck) shows a mildly wavering line up the center of the graphing screen on the PDII. The slight wavering is perfectly normal and does not get more than 0.3°C (about 1/2°F) from the midline. If you wait about 10-15 minutes and do another graph it will look a little different and that is as it should be, normal.

The slightly wavering line that looks a little different throughout the day is a reflection of a nervous system that is on-line and working just as it should, keeping you well, healing you up and adapting your internal environment to the external environment.

Problem

Injury to the upper cervical spine can occur. Due to the neurology of humans, this injury creates abnormal feed back into the central nervous system and confuses this adaptative process that regulates your internal environment.

Without the normal adaptation your internal environment is unable to keep you well. Your scan shows this lack of adaptation as your “pattern”. A repeated pattern is abnormal!

Your Abnormal Pattern

Typically your abnormal pattern will show two things.

Temperature swings that are beyond the normal 0.3°C.
Your scan will still waver but it repeats the same pattern of wavering over and over again. Hence the term “Your Pattern”.

The abnormal pattern’s severity is judged by how big the swings are and how fixed those swings are over time.

In order for care to be effective we must identify your pattern and normalize (clear) it. This will occur as nerve function returns to normal after the appropriate upper cervical spine adjustment. Nothing else will do……

Why All of This Really Matters

The picture on the left is a color representation of a Paraspinal Digital Infrared Imaging (PDII) scan. It shows the difference in the temperature on the right side of your spine compared to the left side. The picture shows significantly abnormal differences in temperature in the neck, shoulders, lower mid back and low back. If the picture was normal all the bars would be green meaning the difference between the right and left is 0.3°C or less. Who says what is normal? To date 9000 peer reviewed Index-Medicus journal reports, studies and surveys conducted over the past 30 plus years. In other words monumental fully accepted research world-wide over 3 decades. The picture on the left shows an autonomic (sympathetic) nervous system that is in physiologic crisis. A nervous system that is essentially out of control, unable to regulate normal internal physiology in that person.

The picture on the right can be found in most any accepted anatomy text book (Gray's, Cunningham, CIBA) on any doctor’s book shelf any where in the world in any language. It is a pictorial representation of the autonomic nervous system that regulates and controls all internal functions in every human on the planet.

The picture on the left is a picture of whether or not the nervous system is functioning normally and it is not in this graph I have shown. The picture on the right shows where the dysfunctional nerves go. Which organ systems the nerves regulate the function of. It really in’t a great leap to realize that dysfunction of the nervous system can cause dysfunction in the human body. It really in’t a great leap to realize that spinal dysfunction especially of the upper cervical spine can cause nervous system dysfunction. When the nervous system is impaired organ systems controlled by these nerves may also dysfunction. When the dysfunction get bad enough we can developer symptoms. When the symptoms get bad enough we can call it a disease, label it and categorize it.

PDII allows us to "read" the function of the nervous system. It also allows us to monitor the effectiveness of our treatment beyond asking you "how do you feel today"? Chiropractors claim that adjusting the spine helps the nervous system work more normally. In this office we verify it.
Really, I see no other choice. I want to know if what I am doing to try and help you, actually is helping you at this very basic physiologic foundational level.

Abnormal Positioning of the Human Spine

Leads to Abnormal Weight Bearing on the Disc, Joints and Muscles

The Abnormal Load can cause Abnormal Wear and Tear

Gradual Collapse of Spinal Structure can Produce Neurological Dysfunction

We feel that normal positioning and neurological function are critical factors in regaining and maintaining health. Clinically, we have found this approach to be highly effective and is at the core of our approach to examination and treatment.

Chronic Pain and Drug Addiction

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:53:00 +0000

Click image to enlarge

There are times in life when there is no choice but to dull the pain. Pain relieving drugs are often merciful in cases of severe injury or after surgery. At those times we can all be glad pain medication is there.

Too Many People are Addicted

However, addiction centers all over the country have too many addicts who started taking prescription drugs for pain associated with injuries that left them with chronic painful structural problems of the spine. For many, abnormal unhealthy positioning of the spine is still present generating pain and dysfunction on an ongoing basis. The abnormal unhealthy positioning of the spine was never reduced though the injury on the surface healed.

The practice of ignoring the very real problem of chronic abnormal unhealthy positioning of the spine only leads to further more serious and complicated painful conditions.

Treating the Pain Instead of the Cause is Frequently a Disaster

If chronic pain can be significantly improved or eliminated, recovery from addiction stands a better chance. A common sense choice, before addiction has any chance to occur, is to resolve the spinal dysfunction and associated neurological components before attempting to lessen or eliminate pain with medication on a long term basis.

It only makes sense to treat the cause.

Jay E. Young DC

Need Help with addiction?

www.prescriptiondrugaddiction.com

Phoenix Center for Behavioral Health Services 864-467-3790

Need help with the pain without prescription drugs? Call us @ 864-855-2422

I FEEL 110% BETTER

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:17:00 +0000

2008

I felt awful. I couldn’t stand up straight. My neck hurt all the time. My hips were constantly bothering me. My knees were hurting. There was one spot in my back that continually hurt. It was forever hurting. I couldn’t walk around the mall and get back in my car and drive because my back hurt so bad. I didn’t feel good at all.

Then I started care with Dr. Young. The treatments are definitely effective. I feel 110% better. My hips don’t hurt anymore and I can run. My knees don’t hurt. My neck is not a problem anymore. It is the best thing I have ever, ever, ever done.

I would recommend that anyone who is in pain come see Dr. Young. You have got to go see this guy!

Signed,

S.M.

Headaches Gone at Last

noreply@blogger.com (Admin) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:03:00 +0000

1975

HEADACHES FOR ..12 YEARS GONE…AT LAST

When I was 35 years old and the mother of five children, I had been diagnosed with Migraine headaches. For 12 years I suffered and my husband took me to every doctor that he ever heard about, but nobody could do anything for me except to give me shots so I could deal with the pain. Then one day we heard about Dr. Young and I started going to him twice a week. After four months of care I no longer needed shots for pain. Now…I go once every three weeks. I had given up hope but now thanks to the Lord working through Dr. Young, I feel like a different person. If you are sick, please let Dr. Young help you.

Signed,

I. S.