The Truth About Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry trends today. While there are many different products on the market, most work similarly. For more information, you can visit this link https://bocadentallasvegas.com/ provided to proceed.
Bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide penetrate enamel and oxidize dark-pigmented molecules to bleach them lighter. This is true for both intrinsic and extrinsic staining.
Tooth staining is a common dental issue that many factors, including poor dental hygiene, excessive drinking of dark-colored beverages and foods, smoking, and certain medications, can cause. Fortunately, tooth staining is a cosmetic issue that can be easily treated with teeth bleaching. However, it is important to understand that not all teeth stains respond the same way to this treatment and that not all whitening products are created equal.
There are two main types of tooth discoloration: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains affect the outer layer of the tooth and are typically caused by foods and beverages, tobacco use, or even age-related wear and tear on the enamel. These stains can usually be corrected with either in-office professional whitening or at-home whitening treatments maintained over months to years.
Intrinsic stains are those that occur beneath the surface of the tooth and are more difficult to remove. These stains can be the result of trauma, certain medications (like antibiotics like tetracycline used during childhood), and genetics. While they may be more difficult to treat, they can be corrected with whitening and sometimes with veneers or crowns.
While extrinsic stains can be easily treated with bleaching, intrinsic stains are more difficult to treat and may require alternative cosmetic solutions such as dental veneers or crowns. Our team will be able to recommend the best solution to meet your specific needs after a full assessment of your teeth and smile.
To maintain your bright smile after a whitening treatment, we recommend avoiding eating or drinking anything that can cause staining for at least 48 hours and brushing your teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup. In addition, you should drink tea and coffee in moderation or with milk and drink red wine, soda, and other dark-colored drinks through a straw to avoid direct contact with the enamel.
It is also important to visit our dental office for a professional cleaning and exam every 6-12 months. This will allow us to remove the accumulated stains that can cause a yellow appearance before they have a chance to become ingrained. We offer teeth whitening options to help our patients achieve their ideal smile. To learn more, please call Penn Dental Family Practice today!
Tooth discoloration is not always a cosmetic concern but can also indicate other health issues. The first step in addressing discoloration is to consult your dentist or dental hygienist to determine the type and cause of the stain. Depending on the nature of the discoloration, various treatment options are available to help you achieve a whiter smile.
In general, there are two types of discoloration: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are on the tooth’s surface, while intrinsic staining is deep inside the tooth structure. Extrinsic stains can be removed with teeth-whitening products, but intrinsic stains may require additional treatment.
Extrinsic staining typically occurs on the enamel, a translucent layer that protects your dentin beneath. Various factors, including food and drink, smoking, and poor oral hygiene, can cause stains on the enamel. Extrinsic stains can usually be eliminated with over-the-counter or professional teeth whitening kits. However, more pronounced stains may need to be treated with a dental bleaching procedure.
Intrinsic staining occurs deeper within the tooth and is more permanent than extrinsic stains. This type of discoloration can be caused by medications taken during critical periods of tooth development, overexposure to fluoride, and dental trauma. It can also be the result of certain antibiotics, such as tetracycline. This discoloration often presents as yellow, brown, or gray splotches on the teeth.
Fortunately, there are many treatments available for removing intrinsic stains. These include teeth whitening, dental bonding, and veneers. Dental bonding is a composite resin covering the stain and making the tooth appear whiter. This is a good option for treating stains that take up a smaller tooth area. Veneers are a more substantial solution for covering larger regions of the teeth, and they can be made in a color that matches your natural teeth. These are a great choice for patients with discolored teeth caused by age, medications, or traumatic damage. However, it is important to note that these treatment options can only lighten the teeth a few shades.
Tooth stains can be divided into two categories based on where they occur. Extrinsic staining occurs on the outer layer of teeth, called enamel, and it is caused by food and drink consumption, smoking, and poor dental hygiene. This type of tooth discoloration is a major reason many people seek whitening treatments.
Extrinsic tooth stains can be lightened with regular cleaning, professional whitening, and whitening toothpaste. However, more severe stains may require other procedures to remove the color and improve the appearance of your smile. Depending on the severity of the staining, your dentist will recommend a treatment that is most suitable for you.
Intrinsic tooth stains are caused by internal issues within the tooth, and they tend to be more difficult to treat than extrinsic stains. This discoloration can occur due to genetics, environmental factors (like fluorosis), or medications taken during a child’s development (such as tetracycline).
While it is impossible to prevent all types of tooth stains, there are things that you can do to reduce the chances of them developing. This includes avoiding food and drinks that are known to cause stains, practicing good oral hygiene, and scheduling regular appointments with your dentist and hygienist.
Whether your teeth are yellow or brown, it’s important to have them treated and maintained so you can enjoy a healthy, bright smile for life. To learn more about how you can whiten your teeth and address any other dental issues, contact our practice today!
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There are many options for whitening teeth, both over the counter and at the dentist. In-office treatments produce more dramatic results and have the added benefit of a professional application. However, over-the-counter products, such as whitening strips and trays, can also be effective for mild staining. It is important to note that whitening only lightens the outermost layer of the tooth and does not change or erase underlying intrinsic or extrinsic stains.
The most common and inexpensive way to whiten teeth is to use baking soda. This product is slightly abrasive and helps lift food and beverage stains from the tooth’s surface. It is especially useful for acid-based stains, such as those caused by coffee, red wine, and other foods with high acid content. Another at-home whitening option is hydrogen peroxide diluted with water or other liquids. This can help remove stains on the tooth’s enamel surface, as well as discoloration caused by aging and certain medications.
Professional whitening is often the best option for people unhappy with their smile due to several factors. The whitening process is usually completed in just one or two short office visits and can have dramatic results.
A whitening treatment at the dentist is typically much stronger than over-the-counter products and is applied with a protective gum coating to minimize sensitivity to the gums. A whitening agent is generally applied to the teeth with a syringe and then activated with a special light. This method can be very effective for removing the more stubborn stains due to smoking or other environmental factors.
It is also worth mentioning that whiter teeth do not necessarily mean healthier teeth. A brighter smile is a great way to make a positive impression in both professional and personal settings, but it’s important to remember that your smile is just one of the many things that make you uniquely you.
In addition to whitening, other methods for maintaining a healthy smile include regular dental cleanings and avoidance of foods and beverages that stain the teeth. In addition, patients can improve the appearance of their smile by adding porcelain veneers to correct imperfections or enhance their smile.
What Is Lip Filler?
Lip filler is a dermal filler that adds volume to your lips. It’s a great treatment for women with naturally thin lips or who notice they have become thinner with age.
The lip filler’s hyaluronic acid helps trap moisture and keep the lips moisturized. It also prevents the lips from drying out or chapping. This is especially useful for people with a chronic condition that causes their lips to dry out easily, like alopecia or psoriasis. For more information, just visit on this link https://houseofaesthetix.com/ to proceed.
Many patients want a little bit of fullness, especially as they age. They also may want to define the cupid’s bow, philtrum, and lip border.
- It’s Safe
When choosing a provider for your lip filler, it is important to select an experienced and reputable provider with good bedside manners. They should be able to discuss the desired results and help you achieve them with minimal discomfort. Additionally, they should be able to answer your questions regarding lip filler.
The first step of a lip filler treatment is preparing the injection site by cleaning and applying a numbing cream or local anesthesia. Once the lips are numb, the provider injects the filler with a thin needle. They may then massage the lips to distribute the filler evenly and ensure a smooth, even result. Finally, they will evaluate the results to make any necessary adjustments.
To minimize bruising and swelling, patients should avoid exercise for 24 hours after a lip filler procedure. However, it is fine to participate in light activities like walking. Patients should also avoid drinking alcohol for a few days before their procedure to reduce the chance of complications.
One of the most common lip filler options is Juvederm, a popular choice among many dermatologists and plastic surgeons. It is a safe and effective filler that can add volume, correct asymmetries, or create a desired shape for the lips. The XpresHAn technology in this filler also helps improve the lips’ texture. Another option is Restylane Kysse, injected deeper into the lips to provide lasting enhancements. This filler also contains lidocaine to reduce discomfort during the injection process.
- It’s Effective
Lip fillers are a great way to enhance your lips; the results last about six months. If you want your lip fillers to last longer, they can be topped up with new injections at regular intervals.
The type of filler you choose will depend on your goals, as there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. The best lip filler is a hyaluronic acid-based filler, which blends with the natural skin tissue of your lips and offers support for them. The gel in the filler also contains lidocaine, which provides a topical anesthetic for your comfort during treatment.
A good injector will look at your lips and observe their detailed underlying anatomy and movements to determine how much filler is needed to achieve your goal. This approach is critical to avoiding an over-filled, puffy, duck lip appearance that can make your face seem unnatural.
For example, older patients with thin lips may require more filler to achieve their desired result because they have less supple skin. Similarly, young patients who want large-volume augmentations may need frequent re-injections to maintain their desired results because their cells metabolize filler faster.
Lip fillers can correct various aesthetic concerns, including the “gummy smile” (when your top lip rises too high and exposes too many gums) or add fullness. A skilled injector can use fillers to create a natural shape that enhances your lips while still looking natural.
Many plastic surgeons are highly skilled at surgical procedures like tummy tucks and rhinoplasty but need more experience with cosmetic injections, which is why it’s important to find an expert who specializes in both. A reputable injector, such as Dr. Michele Green, can advise you on which lip filler is the right option for your goals and how to maintain it to last as long as possible.
- It’s Affordable
Lip filler is a highly effective treatment for a range of aesthetic goals. Patients can opt for a pillowy plump or a more subtle, done-undone look depending on their preferences and the results they want to achieve.
The most common lip filler is a hyaluronic acid-based gel injected into the lips to add volume, correct asymmetries, and create a desired shape or fullness. It’s also useful for diminishing lip lines and restoring subtle volume loss, according to the doctor’s Allure spoke to.
Because the lip area is delicate and temperamental, the type of filler used should be carefully considered. “It is a very wide world of soft-tissue filler options,” says Dr. Alexiades, “and it is important not to have a doctor that uses only one product and doesn’t understand the special needs of this area.”
For example, some patients ask for the Kardashian pout, while others seek a natural-looking tweak to their facial profile. These requests demand a light hand when it comes to injecting the lips.
In addition to hyaluronic acid-based fillers, dermal fillers such as Belotero and Vollure are also popular options for lip augmentation. These softer fillers have a more granular texture and can be injected superficially, reducing the risk of nicking a blood vessel.
When it comes to choosing the right dermal filler for you, consult with a board-certified doctor in who offers a variety of fillers to choose from. This way, you can be confident that the results you get are what you were hoping for, and you won’t have to worry about them changing over time.
- It’s Comfortable
Lip filler can be uncomfortable for some patients, particularly as the numbing cream wears off. To reduce discomfort, patients can bring an ice pack to the procedure or ask for a topical numbing agent to be applied before the injections. Injections themselves usually feel like a small pinch or pinprick. Depending on your comfort level and the specific area being treated, some people prefer multiple sessions to achieve their desired results.
Patients’ most common lip filler requests include a pillowy pout, more definition, fullness and plumping, and winding back the clock. Many patients also request a sharper Cupid’s bow and improved lip line edges, but the treatment is extremely versatile and customizable. “Patients must come with a clear idea of what they want to accomplish,” Dr. Geraghty says, noting that many prospective patients will bring in pictures from a younger age to help guide the injections.
Lip filler is a safe and effective option whether you want to add volume, create an even shape, or make your lips appear more natural. Just be sure to visit a medical professional with experience performing the treatment and using FDA-approved products.
It’s also essential that you follow your injector’s post-treatment instructions to prevent any complications or unwanted effects. Swelling is a normal part of the recovery process, and applying a cold compress on your lips several times a day can reduce swelling. Additionally, avoid smoking or drinking alcohol after your appointment, as these can increase inflammation.
- It’s Fast
The hyaluronic acid-based formulas used in lip fillers are quick and simple, and the results appear nearly instantly. “Lip filler is a great way to enhance your pout subtly, and it’s something that can be done in the office with minimal downtime,” says Dr. Green. “It can be done in two to three visits, and the results last six months.”
Choosing the right dermal filler for your lip shape is a crucial decision. Every patient is different, so a reputable injector will examine their natural contours to determine how much volume they can safely add to the lips. There’s a Golden Ratio to consider when it comes to fullness in the lips; ideally, the upper lip should be about two-thirds as full as the lower lip to maintain a natural shape.
While most lip fillers focus on reshaping, some can also be used to blur fine lines and wrinkles. In this case, a small amount of filler can blur the fine vertical lines that wrap around your lips, giving you a sharper smile and helping your lipstick stay in place.
Most lip filler lasts anywhere from six to 18 months, with the exact duration dependent on various factors, including the type of filler used, the amount injected, and a person’s metabolism. The results will fade over time, and you can always come back for a touch-up appointment, but most doctors recommend that patients book regular maintenance appointments to keep their lips full and plump. To help reduce the appearance of post-treatment bruising, it’s best to avoid alcohol for a few days after the treatment.
What Does a Chiropractor Do?
A chiropractor can treat various conditions involving muscles, bones, joints, and connective tissue. The basics of chiropractic treatment revolve around spinal manipulations that relieve pain and increase blood flow to the areas treated. For more information, you can visit on this link https://www.drvenn.com provided to proceed.
Your chiropractor may use other treatments, like massage therapy, soft tissue stretching, and kinesio taping, as well as nutritional guidance or lifestyle advice to manage symptoms.
Chiropractic treatments restore balance and alignment to your body’s musculoskeletal system. Poor posture or other physical trauma can lead to misalignments that result in pain, muscle dysfunction, and limited mobility. Your chiropractor can help you improve your posture and prevent pain by utilizing various techniques, including massage therapy and spinal manipulation.
In addition to helping with back pain, neck pain, and other issues, your chiropractor can offer advice about a healthy lifestyle. This may include nutritional guidance and tips about sleeping, sitting, and standing at work that can minimize stress on your musculoskeletal system. Your chiropractor can also recommend exercises to help you strengthen and stretch muscles to promote optimal health.
Some people experience minor aches, stiffness, and tiredness after chiropractic manipulations, but this should not last long. A chiropractor can prescribe heat and ice therapies to help ease your discomfort. You should contact your primary care physician if your symptoms persist or worsen.
A major goal of chiropractic is to prevent pain from recurring. This approach can decrease your need for pain relievers and reduce other medical costs. A 2019 study found that cervical spine manipulation decreased pain in the short term by modifying neuropeptides, proteins made in your nervous system that function as hormones and neurotransmitters.
Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques (MAT) are a series of manual and guided movement therapies designed to identify and treat imbalanced myofascial and skeletal strain patterns. The system teaches clients to recognize and prevent these strain patterns from becoming chronic, which can ultimately lead to a reduced inflammatory response, reducing pain and improving overall wellness.
The MAT system utilizes a proprietary, individualized modeling process based on the standard biomechanics methodology of inverse kinematics and optimization of muscle activity. The method automatically generates semi-subject-specific three-dimensional (3D) models of the human lumbar spine. Individualization is achieved using bi-planar EOS images annotated with landmarks describing the size and alignment of the thoracolumbar vertebrae and an individualized mass distribution along the articular segments.
Spinal adjustments are a method that chiropractors use to treat various conditions by restoring proper spine movement. A spinal adjustment involves applying sudden and controlled force to the spine’s joints to correct misalignment. When a spinal adjustment is done correctly, it can help restore normal movement and decrease pain and stiffness while improving overall physical function.
To perform a spinal adjustment, the chiropractor will first have you lie down in a comfortable position. Then, they will apply pressure to the joint using their hands or specialized instruments to help bring it back into alignment. During the process, you may hear a cracking or popping sound, which is completely normal and results from gases (nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) released in the fluid surrounding your joints.
Direct thrust technique (DPT) – involves the chiropractor using their hands to apply rapid thrusts to one portion of your spine at a time to improve motion, adjust the bones, and decrease nerve irritation. It also treats pelvic issues, balances the spine, and relieves migraines and headaches.
Diversified Technique – uses hands-on manual thrusts applied to the joints of the spine and extremities to improve spinal motion, align the vertebrae, and decrease muscle tightness and inflammation. It also treats various conditions, including carpal tunnel, TMJ, and sports injuries.
Gonstead Technique – is a diagnostic system that includes full spine x-rays, stereoscopes, and a specific analysis condemns torquing of the spine, which can damage intervertebral discs. It is known for its precise methods of adjusting the upper cervical spine, which can alleviate the most difficult problems, such as long-term neck and shoulder pain and degenerative changes in the spine.
Thompson Terminal Point Technique – is a gentler version of the classic chiropractic adjustment. It utilizes a special adjusting table with a mechanism for adding only the pressure necessary to prevent the patient from twisting their body during the adjustment. It is known for its quick results and high success with patients with degenerative disorders.
Nutritional guidance is an important element of chiropractic patient management. Poor diet is a major contributor to chronic disease, and providing nutritional guidance allows chiropractors to promote health and prevent illness in their patients. However, to date, no large-scale nationally representative studies have examined the utilization of healthy management by chiropractors.
To address this knowledge gap, this study examined the prevalence of including nutritional advice in chiropractic clinical care. An online survey was sent to 1000 practicing chiropractors across Australia. A response rate of 33% was achieved. The questionnaire was based on previous designs used in similar surveys and included questions concerning the following:
Most chiropractors surveyed (92%) reported providing nutritional guidance to their patients. This was comparable with the results of other studies of nutritional guidance in the US [24] and UK-based practices. Most chiropractors that provided nutritional guidance to their patients also recommended dietary supplements. In particular, vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids were commonly recommended.
Although many chiropractors report assessing the nutritional status of their patients, anthropometric measurements such as height and weight and dietary assessment tools such as food diaries were rarely reported by respondents. Several chiropractors referred their patients with nutritional concerns to other health professionals, most commonly dietitians.
While using nutrient-rich foods is highly beneficial to overall health, it is only sometimes possible in practice, given the demands of clinical practice. Therefore, further research would be worthwhile to determine whether the chiropractic profession may implement a more comprehensive nutritional counseling model. This may include considering nutrition-related curriculum content for undergraduate chiropractic students and developing an evidence-based national protocol for nutrition counseling in Australian chiropractic practices. These strategies could improve people’s health by reducing their reliance on medications and promoting the benefits of a healthy diet.
The chiropractor will ask you questions about your health and lifestyle to find the root cause of your pain. They will consider your sleeping patterns, diet, exercise, and work routines. They will also do a physical exam that tests your posture and spinal mobility. Sometimes, they will take X-rays or refer you to your GP for further tests. Despite some concerns about the risk of stroke due to neck manipulation, this is very low, and your chiropractor will follow strict guidelines. They will never use these techniques if you have a high risk of stroke.
Because of this extensive training, chiropractors are experts at identifying the root cause of your pain and treating that underlying condition. As a result, many patients find that they can cut back or even eliminate the use of prescription drugs to treat their symptoms. For instance, if you are experiencing low back pain, research has shown that chiropractic treatment is significantly more effective than just taking NSAIDs to reduce discomfort and inflammation.
Another example is shoulder pain. According to a 2021 study, chiropractic patients with rotator cuff tears were seven times more likely to report improvement in their symptoms than those who only took over-the-counter medication and exercise. In addition, the study showed that those who saw a chiropractor were nearly twice as likely to not need surgery for their condition.
Chiropractors work with their patient’s primary care physicians and health care providers as part of their holistic approach to care. This collaboration allows the doctor to refer patients to a chiropractor if they are experiencing an issue that requires medical attention. This also allows for better coordination of care, which can help reduce medical costs and side effects of overlapping medications.
Many assume chiropractors only deal with neck and back pain, but that’s untrue. They are trained to help patients with all kinds of health issues, including fibromyalgia, allergies, migraines, and depression. The reason is that they focus on ensuring that the nervous system, including the spine, works properly to enable the body to function at its best.
How Massage Can Improve Your Posture
Massage is the gentle stroking or manipulation of the skin, muscles, and other soft tissues. It has been incorporated into pain management strategies for many medical conditions and injuries.
Physical touch lowers heart rate and blood pressure, increases hormones like oxytocin that make us feel good and promotes relaxation. Moderate pressure massages also heighten the body’s immune system by boosting white blood cells, which help fight diseases and infections. Click https://www.flowstate918.com/ for more details.
During the massage session you will be encouraged to relax and let go of any tension or worries. This will help your muscles and the rest of your body to respond positively to the treatment. Your massage therapist may ask you questions to determine your level of stress and the areas of your body that need particular attention. The initial discussion with your therapist is an opportunity to discuss the specific outcomes you want from your massage, ensuring that your session is targeted and customized for you. Your comfort is always paramount, so if during your treatment you need more or less pressure or music, be sure to communicate with your therapist.
The physical manipulation of soft tissue during a massage increases blood flow and lymph circulation, which in turn stimulates the endocrine system to release hormones that promote relaxation and decrease the effects of stress. The increased oxygen flow to the muscles also allows them to build and repair more quickly.
Some studies have shown that massage reduces the levels of cortisol, a hormone related to stress. Others suggest that the balancing effect of massage on the autonomic nervous system (which controls the fight-or-flight response) reduces anxiety and depression, as well as increasing energy, alertness and libido.
Massage can cause a deep sense of relaxation by relaxing the muscles, tendons and ligaments. It may even affect deep muscle structures that are not easily accessible. In fact, this is one of the reasons why some people find that a deeper massage is more effective than a lighter one on certain parts of the body.
A good massage can also help with digestion by stimulating the endocrine system to release a protein that helps the body to break down and process fats. This may lead to a feeling of fullness and weight loss.
During your massage you will usually be asked to disrobe to your underwear, and then lie down on a treatment table, which is covered by a sheet and blanket. The therapist will leave the room for a few moments to allow you to get comfortable and then start working on the areas that need attention. After your massage, your therapist will wait for you to get dressed and give you a glass of water to drink.
Increased Circulation
For your body to function optimally, it requires healthy circulation which brings fresh oxygen and nutrients to every cell of the body. If this is disrupted, you can experience a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms like cold feet or hands, fatigue, muscle aches, and poor wound healing. But thankfully there are ways to improve circulation and one of the easiest is to get a massage.
The physical manipulation of soft tissue and chemicals released as a part of relaxation during massage are both great for boosting circulation. But what’s particularly interesting about how massage improves circulation is that it isn’t just limited to the blood vessels near the surface of the skin. Instead, the pressure and release of massage techniques increase blood flow to muscle fibres deep within the body.
This is due to an increase in vasodilation which happens when the smooth muscles lining blood vessels relax and dilate allowing blood to pass through more easily. The increased movement of blood helps to reduce inflammation caused by injury, flushes out lactic acid and other metabolic waste, and promotes better muscular flexibility.
In addition, the increased movement of blood also facilitates the flow of lymph fluid which carries away waste products from muscle cells and internal organs. The squeezing action of massage increases the flow of this fluid as well and helps clear lactic acid from muscles to help them perform at their best.
If you have a condition like Raynaud’s phenomenon which causes poor circulation in the fingers and toes, therapeutic massage can be particularly helpful as it stimulates circulation to those areas. It can also be useful in treating sprains and strains as the improved circulation expedites healing by bringing more nutrients to injured tissues and removing metabolic wastes.
While there’s no doubt that the circulation benefits of massage are significant, it’s important to remember that a good diet and exercise are the most effective way to keep your body functioning at its best. That being said, regular massage can be an important ally in your fight against poor circulation and an excellent way to help ease the discomforts associated with it!
Relieves Stress and Anxiety
While everyone feels some level of stress in their lives on a daily basis, when that stress is persistent and causes an anxiety disorder, it can cause physical symptoms as well. These can include muscle tension, a feeling of constant fear or unease, fatigue, chest pains, digestive problems, and decreased immunity.
Massage helps to alleviate these symptoms by increasing relaxation and decreasing the production of stress hormones in the body. It is thought that this is due to an increase in the levels of serotonin in the brain, which leads to reduced levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Additionally, massage decreases the body’s “fight-or-flight” response which is responsible for triggering anxiety and fearful thoughts in the presence of a threat.
In addition to the physiological effects of a massage, it also promotes emotional well-being and encourages a sense of calmness. This is because it releases feel good hormones such as endorphins and oxytocin that numb the triggers of an anxiety disorder and give the person a break from the vicious cycle.
Studies have shown that a regular massage can decrease the frequency of an anxiety attack in people who suffer from chronic stress. Moreover, it is believed that this is because of the way that a massage stimulates the body’s parasympathetic nervous system. This is the primary pathway through which the body can calm itself during stressful periods of time.
Research has also shown that people who receive a massage have higher levels of heart rate variability (HRV), which is an indicator of overall physical well-being. It is also thought that this is due to the fact that a massage reduces the tension in the muscles, thereby lowering the body’s stress level. Additionally, massage has been found to help patients with chronic diseases such as cancer experience reduced stress and anxiety, which can then lead to a greater ability to cope with their disease and treatment. This in turn can reduce the amount of medication that they need to take for their illness. This can be extremely beneficial to those who are taking strong medications that can cause adverse side-effects.
Improves Posture
Poor posture is a common problem that can lead to pain and discomfort. It is typically caused by sitting, standing, or working in positions that strain the body’s natural alignment. Over time, this can cause muscle imbalances and misalignments that can lead to rounded shoulders, forward head posture, and a curved lower back. Massage improves posture by relaxing tight and tense muscles, helping them to move through their full range of motion, reducing joint stiffness, and relieving pressure points that can contribute to pain.
In addition to relieving the tension that can cause poor posture, massage also increases tissue elasticity. This is because the muscles and connective tissues become more flexible when they are massaged. Tight muscles are prone to developing knots, which can lead to further tightening and restriction of movement. Massage can help to release these knots, thus reducing the tension that is pulling the muscles out of alignment and allowing them to relax.
Massage can also help to correct misaligned joints. Many times, this is a result of stiff and tight muscles that are pulling on the skeleton and leading to imbalances. Massage can help to loosen and relax these muscles, thereby allowing the joints to move freely and re-aligning the skeleton.
Lastly, massage can also help to improve posture by increasing body awareness. This is because when individuals receive massage, they are often more aware of their bodies and any areas that may be contributing to pain or discomfort. As a result, they may make conscious changes to their daily routine or habits to help alleviate the symptoms of poor posture.
While massage can be a powerful tool for improving posture, it is important to note that massage should not be seen as a stand-alone treatment for posture issues. In order to address serious posture problems, it is necessary to seek treatment from a qualified massage therapist, along with other treatment options such as physical therapy, chiropractic, and osteopathic care. By combining these treatments, it is possible to achieve and maintain a healthy posture that is free of pain and discomfort.
Headache Specialist
Everyone gets a headache occasionally, and most go away alone or with over-the-counter pain relievers. But if your headaches are severe and frequent, you may need a Headache Specialist MN for headache disorders.
To diagnose your headaches, a neurologist will do a physical exam and ask about your family history of migraines or other health conditions. They will also use imaging tests and other diagnostic tools.
If you have recurrent headaches that interfere with your daily activities, you may need to be referred to a specialist. Your PCP can refer you to a headache specialist or neurology practice that specializes in headache disorders. Your doctor will want to know your previous health history and the severity of your current headaches. They will also need to know if your headaches have a trigger, such as a certain food, drink, or activity. You can help your doctor identify the source of your headache by keeping a headache diary, including when the headaches occur and what seems to relieve or worsen them.
Your headache specialist may order lab tests, like blood or spinal fluid test, to check for infection and other health conditions that can cause headaches as a symptom. They can also order an imaging test such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to show the structures in your head and neck. These tests can reveal blood vessel or bone irregularities, a brain tumor, or other medical conditions that can cause headache.
Most headache specialists are neurologists who have completed a fellowship program in headache medicine, but other licensed physicians can also treat your headaches. Some have special interest in headache disorders and spend time attending meetings and continuing education to stay abreast of advances in the field.
The physicians first integrated academic multidisciplinary center focused on headache care and pain relief, are trained in diagnosing the type and underlying causes of your headache. They have extensive experience in treating all types of chronic headache and can help you regain control over your life and your health. They are led by renowned authorities in the fields of medicine, neuroscience, pain management, and psychiatry. The center serves patients from the five boroughs and Long Island.
Most people get headaches from time to time, and often these are not serious. They may go away on their own or with over-the-counter pain relievers. However, some people have recurring headaches that interfere with daily activities and require medical treatment. These are called primary headache disorders. A neurologist or other health care specialist trained in evaluating and treating headache can help diagnose the cause and provide the best possible treatment.
If you suffer from recurrent headaches that affect your daily life, ask your doctor for a referral to a headache specialist. Your healthcare provider will consider your symptoms, family history, and physical examination to determine if you have a primary headache disorder or another condition that causes headaches.
A neurologist who specializes in migraines, tension and cluster headaches can perform a neurological exam to check for underlying problems. He or she will also recommend an imaging test to find the source of the problem. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans use a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain and blood vessels. Computed tomography (CT) scans use X-rays and computer technology to produce horizontal, or axial, images of the body’s bones, muscles, fat and organs.
An ophthalmologist can treat headaches that are caused by eye diseases or conditions, such as glaucoma. These include vision changes, sensitivity to light, and weakness or numbness.
Health care specialists who are trained in musculoskeletal conditions may also be helpful in managing headaches that result from neck or spine problems. These include osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists. These specialists can help correct misalignments in the neck or spine and teach you exercises to reduce recurrent headaches caused by poor posture and muscle tension.
A neurosurgeon who specializes in disorders of the brain and nervous system can also be helpful in recurrent headaches that do not respond to medications. They can offer options like deep brain stimulation, in which wires inserted inside the brain relay electrical pulses to target stubborn pain. Other medical procedures that can be used to treat recurrent headaches include peripheral nerve stimulation, in which electrodes are placed on the skin to deliver pain-relieving pulses, and sinus surgery for otolaryngologists who are concerned about a type of headache known as vestibular migraine, which causes dizziness.
Almost everyone gets a headache from time to time, but for some people, these are debilitating. If you experience headaches frequently and they interfere with your work, life or activities, talk to your primary care doctor about seeing a headache specialist.
Headache specialists have a range of tools, including injections, that can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. These tools are often part of a larger headache strategy, which may include lifestyle changes and prevention strategies.
Sleep, hydration and exercise are often cited as preventive measures for migraines. Getting enough sleep, avoiding napping during the day, and establishing a consistent schedule for going to bed and rising can all help ease headache symptoms. In addition, eating a balanced diet, limiting foods that trigger headaches, and being mindful of food and drink triggers are key to prevention.
Stress, anxiety and depression can also trigger headaches. Behavioral management techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and relaxation training can be effective for some people. A psychologist can provide support to help you cope with chronic pain.
Certain medical conditions can also lead to recurrent headaches, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), menstrual migraines and ocular migraines, which cause pain and visual disturbances in the eyes. An ophthalmologist can monitor and treat symptoms of ocular migraines, while an ENT (ears, nose and throat) doctor can help with ocular migraines and other causes of pain in the ears, nose and throat.
Some people find that migraines run in their family, and they have a genetic tendency toward them. Other triggering factors may be environmental, such as changes in light or weather. For this reason, people with a family history of migraines may want to consider regular bloodwork screening for a genetic tendency toward the condition. In addition, it’s wise for women to talk to their primary care provider about getting screened for menstrual migraines, as these can be triggered by hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle or pregnancy. These women can also ask their gynecologists about a prescription for a triptan, which is an anti-migraine medication.
Headaches are experienced by essentially everyone at some point in their lives, and most can be treated with rest and simple over-the-counter medications. However, patients with persistent, severe headaches need more than reassurance and medicine. They require concerned and knowledgeable clinicians who can teach them strategies to control their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Often, the first step in finding a headache specialist is to ask your regular doctor for a referral. You may also want to look at your insurance company’s website to see if it lists headache specialists, and you can call the company for a referral. You can also check the American Migraine Foundation’s Find a Health Care Professional page to find doctors who specialize in headache disorders.
Once you’ve found a headache specialist, he or she can diagnose the type of headache you have using medical and neurological exams and imaging tests. Then, he or she can create a treatment plan to reduce your headaches and associated symptoms. This may include medication, nerve block procedures, acupuncture, stress management, or physical therapy.
If you have a chronic headache disorder, your neurologist may also help you establish preventive measures by creating a journal that details when you experience your pain, what causes it, and how it affects your life. This can help you identify what changes to make in your lifestyle to improve your headaches, such as drinking more water, eating fewer foods that trigger them, and getting eight hours of sleep each night.
In addition to neurologists, your headache specialist might consult experts in brain, spine and nervous system surgery (neurosurgeons), brain and spinal imaging (neuroradiologists) or dental specialties as needed. They might even recommend the use of devices such as deep brain stimulation, where wires inserted inside your head relay electrical pulses to target stubborn pain, or peripheral nerve stimulation, which involves electrodes placed on or under your skin in the area of the headache.