Wednesday, January 26, 2011

What does the Lumbar Spine have to do with digestive issues?

Lumbar Control Panel

Backaches and sciatica image.
Backaches and sciatica image.
Digestive problems? Taking care of the spine might just take care of that bellyache as well!

The lumbar region of the spine, more commonly referred to as the “lower back,” is often the source of many health problems we see. This area of the spine serves as the distribution center for your brain’s control and regulation of many important organs and tissues. And while the nervous system is very complex and every organ or tissue has multiple nerve supplies, here’s a new way of thinking about many common health complaints.

If a patient suffers from constipation or other digestive issues, we’ll be especially vigilant in our examination of the area of L1 (the first lumbar vertebrae), since this is the source of many nerve communications that control the large intestines.

Do you suffer from varicose veins, cramps or poor bladder control? The nerves that exit the spine in the vicinity of L2 control the appendix, abdomen, bladder and upper legs.

Irregular/painful periods, impotency, miscarriages, knee pain? L3 nerves are involved with the bladder, sexual organs, uterus and knees.

How about sciatica, painful/frequent urination or backaches? L4 could be involved since the nerves there control the prostate gland and lower back muscles.

And if you experience leg cramps, cold feet, or swollen/weak ankles or legs, some of the nerves exiting at L5 could be the culprits. L5 controls the lower legs, ankles and feet.

So it’s clear that the lumbar spine and its associated nerves affect numerous parts of the body. Many of the sensations you feel in your feet, legs, pelvis, lower abdomen and lower back travel through the nerves of the lumbar spine to higher regions of the spine on their way to your brain.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned here, or know someone who is, please urge them to visit our practice for a thorough examination.

Dr Douglas Yost Shoreview, MN  651-484-0151

Tuesday, January 11, 2011

I was involved in a car crash...Now what?

Did you know that one of the most stressful aspects of living in modern life is dealing with the problems that arise after an auto accident? Were you also aware that some auto accident injuries are hidden and are seldom detected for months or even years? As a result, two things can occur when an injury is not taken care of properly, or the accident victims settle their case with the insurance companies before getting evaluated from a Doctor trained in soft tissue injuries.

If you have been in an auto accident recently, there are some important decisions you have to make, and if I were you, I'd make these decisions very carefully.
  • Q: Should I See An Attorney Before I See My Chiropractor?
    A: It is important to get checked out by the doctor first. That way the findings from your exam will allow you the information you need in order to decide if an attorney is necessary. If necessary, we can refer you to a reputable and qualified attorney.

  • Q: What If My Car Sustained Only Minor Damage?
    A: Documented studies done by Charles Carroll, M.D., Paul McAtee, M.D. and Lee Riley, M.D. revealed that: "The amount of damage to the automobile bears little relation to the force applied to the cervical spine (neck) of the occupants."

    In other words, the damage to the passengers is not necessarily directly related to the damage to the vehicle.

  • Q: If I Need Treatment For This Injury, Do I Have To Pay For It Myself?
    A: No, only in very rare circumstances does the patient pay for his care as he goes. Our office provides care "on credit" when patients are represented by an attorney. Some car insurance policies have what is called "Med Pay." This means that medical bills will be paid at 100% up to a certain limit. My office can assist you in obtaining this information.

    Using your medical coverage should not raise your premiums.

  • Q: The Insurance Company Has Been Calling Me And Wants To Settle,What Should I Do?
    A: Do not sign or settle until you have had us evaluate your injury for you. If you settle before your injury is fully resolved, you will be completely on your own and will have to pay out of pocket for your care.

  • Q: I've Been To The Hospital And My Medical Doctor, Do I Really Need to See a Chiropractor?
    A: You need a doctor who focuses in the treatment and diagnosis of auto accident injuries. Usually hospitals will check vital signs, make sure there are no life-threatening conditions and release the patient with pain relief medication. They normally do not treat the underlying improper musculoskeletal biomechanics that can and often do lead to future pain. If you are still having problems, you should get a second opinion.

    If your M.D. has given you pills, you must understand that pills do not correct structural or soft tissue damage. There are special therapies designed for that, and we offer these modalities at our office.

  • Q: Does Your Care Hurt?
    A: Absolutely not. The care is very gentle and quite soothing. Most patients can hardly wait to get their care.

  • Q: Is The Care Safe?
    A: Yes, extremely. Particularly when compared to the side effects from medication. I urge you to go to the patient testimonial tab to get a feel for what you can expect.
If you were in an auto injury in the Shoreview, Mn or St Paul, Mn areas please call us for diagnosis and treatment.


Dr Douglas Yost 651-484-0151

Monday, January 10, 2011

What Is Financial Spinal Stress?

Financial stress?

Financial Spinal Stress

Ever woken up in the middle of the night wondering how you were going to pay the bills? Then you know that a car payment or the electric bill can affect your health!

There are three types of stress: physical, emotional and chemical.

Financial worries (and other anxieties) fall into the emotional stress category. And chiropractic can be helpful.

All three types of stress affect your nervous system. Like a chain that breaks at its weakest link, stress tends to show up where we are most vulnerable. Our neck. Our low back. Tightness between our shoulders.

Stress can increase the frequency of headaches and compromise our ability to get enough restful sleep.

Chiropractic care, with its purpose of reducing neurological stress, can be helpful. Of course chiropractic care can't eliminate stress, but it can sure improve your ability to tolerate it.

 Regular chiropractic care now could be a wise investment for a healthier, happier and financially secure you!

Reduce Back Pain Stress

Dr Douglas Yost 651-484-0151