Can Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care Help with Autoimmune Diseases?

Your body's immune system is a complex system designed to fight off diseases. When it is doing its job, it tries to keep you healthy by fighting off and killing any foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and even cancer cells. 

Unfortunately, for some people, an immune system can be a little too gung-ho to attack. Autoimmune diseases are when the body's natural immune defense begins attacking the body itself. This can cause damage to tissue, joints, or vital organs. 

Some autoimmune diseases are difficult to diagnose and treat, so you should work closely with your healthcare team to ensure you're getting the care you need. You might also consider going to a chiropractor, as chiropractic care helps boost the immune system and can help patients with autoimmune diseases. 

Signs and Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases

There are more than 80 known autoimmune diseases. This includes diseases like type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis, Wegener’s disease, and Sjogren’s syndrome. Each different condition has its own set of signs and symptoms, but there are a few signs many of these conditions have in common. 

Fatigue, recurring fever, joint pain, swollen joints, and swollen glands are common autoimmune disease symptoms. Many people with autoimmune diseases also get skin problems and/or digestive problems.

If you suspect your health issues are caused by an autoimmune disease, but your doctor is having trouble diagnosing it, try keeping a daily health journal. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent unnecessary damage to your body.

How Upper Cervical Care Can Help Patients with Autoimmune Diseases

Chiropractic care is a safe, drug-free, non-invasive way to help patients with autoimmune diseases. While it is important to work with your general healthcare provider when you have an autoimmune disease, a chiropractor can be a great benefit to your healthcare team. 

The Central Nervous System (CNS) transmits signals from the brain to control your immune system. Any misalignments of the spine can cause pinched or compressed nerves, disrupting signals and interfering with the immune system's functions. Adjusting the spine can help nerve signals flow so that the immune system functions more effectively.  

In addition, misalignments can result in excess inflammation, swelling, and undue stress on the joints. Since joint pain is a common autoimmune disease symptom, chiropractic care can help alleviate pain and improve a patient's mobility and flexibility.

How We Help Autoimmune Patients

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is a specialist in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. This technique utilizes advanced technology combined with gentle pressure to correct misalignments of the upper cervical spine. 

Dr. Elder's treatments begin with a thorough health screening and 3D diagnostic imaging scans to pinpoint problem areas that need correcting. Because these advanced imaging tools allow the doctor to more efficiently measure and calculate any corrections, adjustments are more precise and done with a gentler touch than with traditional chiropractic care. 

Once corrections are made, the doctor recommends general check-ups as part of your healthcare routine to nip any future problems in the bud. These adjustments can bring great relief to many patients suffering from joint pain or digestive issues while giving a boost to the immune system. 

If you have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, contact Dr. Elder to see if upper cervical care can help you. The doctor's areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

How Can I Make My Chiropractic Adjustment Last?

The amount of time a chiropractic adjustment will hold varies from person to person. It may hold for hours, days, weeks, or even months. Much will depend on you, and the things you do after an adjustment. Here are some tips to ensure the corrections your chiropractor made will hold as long as possible. 

Watch Your Posture

Poor posture can wreak havoc on your spine, particularly the upper cervical spine which runs through the neck. 

When People sit for long periods working at a desk or using hand-held devices, they tend to extend their necks forward and look down. This position increases the weight of the head and puts a massive strain on the vertebrae. 

Be mindful of your posture when working or using devices for fun. Keep your head up straight and shoulders back, and take periodic breaks to avoid damaging your spine.

Get Some Ergonomic Furniture

Ergonomic furniture can help you work on that posture, supporting your lower back and keeping your spine properly aligned when you're working. This type of furniture reduces the risk of musculoskeletal problems. People who use ergonomic furniture tend to have fewer aches and pains from poor posture.

If you can get only one new piece of furniture, make it an ergonomic chair. In time you may want to invest in a sit-stand desk, or an ergonomic keyboard. 

Get Your Exercise

After an adjustment, you won't want to do any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a while. However, you shouldn't ignore exercise altogether. Light stretching, walking, swimming, biking, or any low-impact exercise will help keep muscles loose and improve your flexibility. If you're not sure what you can do, you can always ask your chiropractor to recommend exercises.   

Don't Miss Follow-Up Appointments

When you first get adjustments, you'll want to keep up with your follow-up appointments. That way, your chiropractor can check and ensure the adjustments are holding. If any additional corrections are needed, your doctor can nip it in the bud. 

Use An Upper Cervical Specialist Trained in the Blair Chiropractic Technique

The Blair Chiropractic Technique is a safe, non-invasive technique. Corrections with a Blair-trained chiropractor generally hold longer and require fewer visits. 

Doctors trained in the Blair technique use state-of-the-art 3D diagnostic imaging to get a detailed glimpse of your unique anatomy so they can calculate and make more precise adjustments. 

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is a practitioner of the Blair Chiropractic Technique. Dr. Elder has a three-step process for his patients. The first step is a thorough screening that includes 3D imaging scans.

Once the doctor formulates a treatment plan with you, the second step involves making adjustments to your spine. Because he uses advanced diagnostic tools, Dr. Elder can make gentle corrections with low-pressure techniques instead of the jarring twists and jerks that traditional chiropractors use. 

At this point, your body's natural healing processes kick in and begin to repair the damage. Follow-up visits allow Dr. Elder to ensure the corrections are held and to make any further necessary adjustments. 

The third and final step is the prevention of further problems. Dr. Elder recommends regular upper cervical check-ups to keep your spine strong and healthy.  

Call Dr. Elder for a consultation to see if he can help you with your upper cervical problems. His areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

The Blair Chiropractic Can Effectively Treat Sleep Disorders

More and more research backs up the fact that sleep is an essential component of overall good health. Unhealthy sleep habits only make for miserable days but also puts us at risk for more serious health conditions such as depression, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. 

For some people, getting the proper amount of quality sleep is not an option. There are several different types of sleep disorders, all of which can be equally disruptive to one's life. New research suggests that, though they differ, they may all share a root cause. 

Common Types of Sleep Disorders

Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder, characterized by the inability to sleep. Some people suffering from this problem have trouble falling asleep at all. Others with insomnia may fall asleep but not stay asleep long enough; they may wake prematurely and then remain awake, or they may wake frequently throughout the night. 

Hypersomnia is when a person falls asleep so deeply that it is difficult to wake up the person. Hypersomniacs may sleep too long or may find themselves getting sleepy during the day despite getting sleep at night. 

Narcolepsy is a condition in which people may suffer sudden tiredness and attacks of deep sleep. Hypersomnia is a symptom of narcolepsy. 

Sleep apnea is an obstructive sleep disorder. Due to interruptions in breathing, patients wake up frequently throughout the night. For some patients, disruptions may occur every few minutes throughout the night. Often, sleep apnea patients won't fully wake up, but their breathing problems keep them continually returning to a lighter state of sleep and prevents them from getting the deep, restorative sleep they need.

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Sleep

The upper cervical spine begins at the base of the skull, in close proximity to the brain stem. The brain stem regulates all of the body's involuntary functions, like sleeping and breathing. 

When the vertebrae of the upper cervical spine are misaligned, it causes inflammation and swelling that can compress nerves running from the brain stem. When nerves are compressed it can disrupt the flow of signals or cause them to misfire. 

The upper cervical spine runs through the neck—a vulnerable area prone to injury. Even minor jolts or poor posture can cause a misalignment of the vertebrae in the neck. 

How We Treat Sleep Disorders

There are many treatments for sleep disorders that people may try, such as medication, lifestyle changes, or environmental controls. We offer a treatment that gets to the potential root cause of the problem: upper cervical care. 

Dr. Gordon Elder is our upper cervical specialist at the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas. The Blair Chiropractic Technique is a modern method that involves the use of high-tech diagnostic tools to help the doctor make more precise corrections. The Blair technique is a safe, natural, drug-free treatment for sleep disorders. 

Dr. Elder begins treatment with 3D diagnostic imaging scans to help him examine your unique anatomy and make calculations. He then treats misalignments with gentle, low-force pressure to restore proper alignment. Once the spine is realigned, the body's natural healing processes can proceed and nerve function can resume. 

As a preventative measure, Dr. Elder recommends patients continue chiropractic check-ups as a part of their overall health and wellness routine. This helps patients from slipping back into old problems and nips any issues in the bud. 

Call Dr. Elder to see if he can help you with your sleep disorder. Our areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Heart Palpitations Can Be Treated with Upper Cervical Chiropractic

What Are Heart Palpitations?

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Every year, nearly 700,000 people die of heart disease—that's nearly one out of five deaths. It's no wonder, then, that you may worry about heart palpitations.

Heart palpitations feel as though your heart is beat is beating irregularly for a moment. For those who experience heart palpitations, this can be a scary moment. They are usually harmless, but they may sometimes be signs of a more serious condition. 

Symptoms of Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations feel like your heart is skipping a beat, or like your heartbeat is briefly rapid or fluttering. Sometimes, the feeling can occur in the chest, neck, or throat—usually after strenuous activity. 

If heart palpitations are accompanied by pain in the chest, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting, you should immediately contact emergency services. 

Heart Palpitations and the Upper Cervical Spine

The upper cervical spine consists of the seven uppermost vertebrae, which begin just below the skull and go down the neck. This is a vulnerable area prone to injury from accidents, aging, or poor posture. This can result in cervical instability.

When a person is suffering from cervical instability, it can cause autonomic myopathy or autonomic neuropathy—more commonly known as nerve damage. When nerves are damaged it can block the flow of signals between the brain and the heart or blood vessels, and this can lead to heart palpitations. 

Adjusting the spine so that it is properly aligned reduces inflammation, allowing nerves to function and begin healing. Upper cervical care has been shown to improve circulation, which can help reduce heart palpitations and other health problems. 

How We Treat Heart Palpitations

For any heart issues, you should contact your doctor. Many heart patients find it beneficial to add upper cervical care to their general health care treatments. 

At Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas, our upper cervical specialist is Dr. Gordon Elder. Dr. Elder is a practitioner of the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern chiropractic technique utilizing advanced diagnostic technology to eliminate guesswork. This makes for much more gentle adjustments that require fewer visits and hold longer.

Dr. Elder takes a three-step approach to treating patients with heart palpitations. The first step involves a thorough exam using 3D imaging tools to help calculate any misalignments of the upper cervical spine. 

After the initial exam, Dr. Elder can apply minimal pressure to precise places to make corrections. Unlike traditional chiropractic methods, there are no jarring twists are abrupt jerks. Corrections are swift but gentle, and once the spine is realigned the body's natural healing processes take over to restore health.

The third step involves ongoing upper cervical care through periodic preventative visits. Dr. Elder prefers to nip problems in the bud to keep the body functioning optimally. 

Don't let heart palpitations cause stress and make you worry about your overall health every time they strike. Contact Dr. Elder for an appointment. The doctor's area of coverage includes Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

An Alternative and Effective Treatment for Muscle Weakness

What Is Muscle Weakness?

When you have difficulty contracting or moving your muscles, you may be suffering from muscle weakness. You may think this means you need to hit the gym more often, but, unfortunately, upping your exercise routine may not always help. This is because lack of exercise isn't the only possible cause for muscle weakness; it can also be caused by aging, injury, auto-immune diseases, or nerve impingement. 

Signs and Symptoms of Muscle Weakness

Muscular weakness is just what it sounds like—the strength of your muscle and ability to control it feels depleted. Some people experience this all over, while for others the condition may be localized. You may have a weak arm, leg, hand, or back.

Muscle weakness can be frustrating, limiting your ability to do certain activities or impairing your mobility. Thankfully, muscle weakness is often reversible with the right treatment. 

Muscle Weakness and the Upper Cervical Spine  

The upper cervical area consists of the uppermost seven vertebrae of the spine. These vertebrae begin at the base of the skull and run down the neck. Unfortunately, this area is prone to injury and the vertebrae may be knocked out of alignment from a jolt, accident, poor posture, or degenerative condition. 

When vertebrae become misaligned, it can result in a pinched or compressed nerve. The brain communicates with your muscles via signals sent through nerves; when a nerve is compressed it can cause signals to misfire or be disrupted. This can interfere with the functioning of the muscles. 

How We Treat Muscle Weakness

If muscle weakness is caused due to nerve impingement, a more vigorous workout schedule won't do much to correct the problem. To find relief, you need to get to the root cause—proper alignment of the vertebrae must be restored so that the nerve signals may resume. 

At the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas, our chiropractic team gets to the root cause to alleviate muscle weakness and allow the body's restorative processes to commence. Dr. Gordon Elder is our upper cervical specialist and trained in the Blair Chiropractic Technique.

The Blair technique involves using advanced imaging technology to calculate and pinpoint even minute misalignments. This eliminates the guesswork and allows the doctor to apply precise, gentle pressure to make corrections. 

Dr. Elder's exams begin with 3D diagnostic imaging. Once misalignments are detected, he uses low-force techniques to coax the spine back into proper alignment. This offers sufferers of muscle weakness a drug-free, non-invasive treatment option that helps the body's natural healing mechanisms to kick in and restore strength. 

Once alignment is restored, Dr. Elder offers patients preventative care to help prevent future problems. 

Call for an appointment with Dr. Elder to see if nerve impingement is causing your muscle weakness. Our areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Can Upper Cervical Chiropractic Treat Indigestion?

What Is Indigestion?

Indigestion is a common digestive problem characterized by discomfort in the upper abdomen. Most people will suffer from indigestion at least a couple of times in life. It is a common occurrence, especially when you're suffering from a common cold or flu, pregnant, or when you eat something that disagrees with you. 

Some people may experience indigestion regularly. Any ongoing stomach issues should be checked out by your doctor, but for most people, indigestion is not due to any serious health problems. Usually, indigestion can be treated with medication or a lifestyle change. Many patients are finding upper cervical care helps relieve symptoms of indigestion. 

Signs and Symptoms of Indigestion

Indigestion usually occurs after eating. Large meals, or meals consisting of particularly greasy or spicy foods, are more likely to trigger it. 

People suffering from indigestion may feel fullness in the upper abdomen or pain. You may feel bloated or have a burning sensation (heartburn). It may lead to nausea or gassiness. 

As mentioned, indigestion is not something most people need to be concerned about. Still, the discomfort can be a nagging problem that can really make the rest of your day unpleasant. 

The Upper Cervical Spine and Indigestion

While indigestion is often thought of as a stomach problem, more and more research points to the possibility that for some patients, the problem is in the nervous system. 

The Central Nervous System (CNS) is made up of the brain and spinal cord. The brain communicates with the body via nerves. When nerves are damaged or compressed, signals may be disrupted or misfired. Often, for people who suffer from digestion, the problem is found in the vagus nerve—the nerve that helps the brain regulate the digestive system. 

The upper cervical spine begins at the base of the skull, right near the brain stem where the vagus nerve connects to it. This part of the spine is prone to injuries due to accidents, jolts, poor posture, or degeneration due to aging. When the vertebrae are misaligned it can cause inflammation and swelling, compressing the vagus nerve.

How We Treat Indigestion

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is an upper cervical specialist and practitioner of the Blair Chiropractic technique. This modern technique involves advanced technology enabling doctors to make more precise, gentle, longer-holding adjustments to the upper cervical spine. The Blair technique offers safe, non-invasive, drug-free treatment that helps many indigestion patients. 

Dr. Elder begins treatment with 3D diagnostic imaging tests to study your unique anatomy and calculate any misalignments. Once detected, he makes corrections using low-pressure adjustments. 

Once the vertebrae are correctly aligned, it reduces inflammation and allows the nerve signals to flow more freely. The body's natural healing processes then kick in and help repair damage to restore digestive health. 

After treatment, Dr. Elder is available for check-ups as a preventative measure for future problems. 

Don't let indigestion interfere with your day, or your ability to enjoy a good meal. Contact the doctor to see if upper cervical care can help you. Dr. Elder covers the areas of Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Chronic Back Pain: A Gentle and Effective Treatment Method

What is Chronic Back Pain?

Back pain is one of the most common complaints of people in the United States, with nearly a third of all adults suffering from some kind of chronic back pain. Chronic back pain is a general term that may refer to a wide range of conditions, such as muscle strain, soft tissue injuries, sciatica, arthritis, or slipped discs. 

No matter what the cause of chronic back pain is, sufferers have one thing in common: it can make life really difficult. Back pain robs people of activities and hobbies they enjoy. It can interfere with your getting a good night's sleep. In extreme cases, chronic back pain can be downright debilitating, costing you your job or making you dependent upon loved ones for care. 

Managing Chronic Back Pain

Stay Mobile—the more you give in to chronic back pain, the more difficult it is to live with it. You shouldn't push yourself too hard or strain yourself, but you should try to keep moving. Walking, gentle exercises, and keeping up with light activity is the best way to help keep your back muscles strong and prevent pain from worsening. The activity also helps you keep your mind off your pain and will have a positive impact on your mood.

Stretch—a good stretch helps relieves tension, keeps your muscles loose, and improves your range of motion. Daily stretching can be a great exercise to help cope with and alleviate back pain. Make sure you warm up before stretching so you don't cause further injuries. 

Get a better mattress—a good mattress may be a luxury you need. A poor mattress can wreak havoc on chronic back pain. According to research, a medium-firm mattress provides and comfort that many back pain sufferers need, however, each person is different so it is important to test mattresses and find what works best for you. 

Eat an anti-inflammatory diet—you might be surprised at how the right foods can alleviate many of your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Inflammatory foods, which generally contain high amounts of sugar, trans-fats, and refined grains, can exacerbate many of your aches and pains. 

Consult an upper-cervical specialist—a natural, drug-free, non-invasive means of managing back pain for many people is through chiropractic care. Upper cervical chiropractors in particular can pinpoint and treat problems that cause a domino-like effect of aches and pains throughout the musculoskeletal system. Often, your lower or middle back problems are rooted in the upper cervical spine. 

How We Treat Chronic Back Pain

The upper cervical spine consists of the uppermost seven vertebrae that begin at the base of the skull and run down through the neck. These vertebrae in particular are prone to injury from even minor impacts and postural problems, and the effects of a misalignment in the upper cervical spine can cascade down the back, putting more strain on other joints, ligaments, and muscles. 

Dr. Gordon Elder is a specialist in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern upper cervical technique that combines state-of-the-art technology with low-pressure manual manipulations. 

Dr. Elder uses advanced 3D imaging tools to diagnose and calculate misalignments of the spine. He is then able to apply precise, gentle, swift manipulations to make corrections. Once the upper cervical spine is in correct alignment, this reduces inflammation and takes stress off other joints and tissue down the back. The body's natural healing processes are then able to kick in and do the rest of the work. 

Dr. Elder rounds out his care with follow-up exams to ensure alignments hold. He then recommends periodic exams as a preventative measure to prevent further back problems.

Instead of suffering needlessly from back pain, try some of our tips to help bring relief. Or, call Dr. Elder for an appointment to see if upper cervical care can help you. Dr. Elder's area of coverage includes Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

How The Blair Technique Can Alleviate Facial Pain

What Is Facial Pain?

Facial pain involves various types of pain occurring in one or more parts of the face. Several health conditions are known to cause facial pain, such as trigeminal neuralgia, Bell's palsy, Hemifacial spasms (HFS), temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ), cluster headaches, or sinusitis. 

Facial pain can be extremely frustrating. If your leg hurts, you can sit down, or walk with a cane for support. If your arm hurts, you can wear a sling or brace and immobilize the area that is in pain. If your back hurts, you can use ice or a heating pad and sit down. When your face hurts, there is little you can do when you need to go on with your day but grit your teeth and bear it. 

Symptoms of Facial Pain

Facial pain can vary, depending on the individual and the condition. The pain may be tingling, burning, throbbing, radiating, aching, sharp, or shocking. Some patients may feel it all over the face, while for others it is generally localized in certain parts. 

Depending on the condition, different things may trigger facial pain. Some people may get bouts of pain when they chew, brush their teeth, drink cold or hot liquids, or eat spicy foods. For some people, pain may depend on the weather or other environmental conditions. 

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Facial Pain

The upper cervical spine is located at the base of the skull and runs down through the neck. This part of the spine protects the spinal cord near the vital juncture where it connects to the brain stem. It is also responsible for the carriage and movement of the head. 

Any traumatic events to the head and neck causing a jolt or whiplash may result in a misalignment of the vertebrae of the upper cervical spine. When vertebrae are misaligned, it causes inflammation and swelling in the area that can pinch or compress vital nerves going from the brain to the face. When nerves are compressed, the flow of signals between the brain and body is impaired. This can cause nerve damage and misfires that result in conditions causing facial pain. 

How We Treat Facial Pain

At the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas, we treat patients with facial pain by trying to get to the root of the problem. Our upper cervical spine specialist, Dr. Gordon Elder, examines patients for misalignments that may be compressing nerves or causing inflammation near the brain stem. 

Dr. Elder is a trained practitioner of the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a technique utilizing advanced technology applied to modern chiropractic methods. Unlike traditional chiropractic care, practitioners of the Blair technique do not use sudden jolts and jerks to snap vertebrae back into place. Instead, low-force pressure is applied in precise locations to make more exact corrections. 

Dr. Elder's treatments begin with 3D imaging diagnostic tools to analyze and calculate a patient's unique anatomy. The doctor then applies gentle methods to coax the spine back into the correct alignment. 

Once the spine is properly aligned, reduced inflammation alleviates pressure on nerves and can bring relief. The body's natural healing mechanisms are then activated to help repair damage and restore proper nerve function. 

After initial treatment, Dr. Elder generally continues to see patients periodically as part of their overall health and wellness routine. Preventative upper cervical care can help nip problems in the bud and prevent future complications. 

Upper cervical care is a safe, non-invasive, drug-free way for many people with facial pain to find relief and healing. Contact Dr. Elder today for a consultation. The doctor's areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

An Alternative Treatment Method for Parkinson's Disease

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects the nervous system. When brain cells that produce dopamine, an essential neurotransmitter, become damaged or die, signals from the brain can't reach other parts of the body. This results in a continuous loss of movement and coordination. 

Experts don't yet know the cause of Parkinson's disease, but believe genetics are involved. Unfortunately, there is no known cure, but some treatments show promise in easing symptoms or slowing the progression of the disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

Some symptoms of Parkinson's include tremors or shaking, particularly of the hands, arms, legs, or head. Muscles may become stiff or contract. Sufferers may experience slow movement, loss of balance, and impaired coordination. 

How Upper Cervical Care Can Help Parkinson's Disease

As mentioned above, there is no known cure for Parkinson's disease. In conjunction with medical treatment, upper cervical care has helped many Parkinson's patients in living with this disease. 

The upper cervical spine begins just below the skull and is comprised of the seven uppermost vertebrae. This area is vulnerable to injuries and misalignments if the head is jolted in an accident, or with persistent poor posture. Misalignments cause the area to become inflamed and swollen. Because of the upper cervical spine's proximity to the brain stem, inflammation can compress nerves and impede the flow of messages between the brain and body. 

When the vertebrae are properly aligned, the nerve flow is restored and the body's healing mechanisms commence.

How We Treat Parkinson's Disease

Keeping the upper cervical spine in a healthy, aligned state helps alleviate stress on joints, muscles, and ligaments throughout the body. It helps improve mobility and coordination and keeps nerves functioning. This can help manage the symptoms of  Parkinson's disease and improve one's quality of life. 

Dr. Gordon Elder is our upper cervical specialist at the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas. Dr. Elder is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. This technique focuses on upper cervical care utilizing advanced 3D imaging tools for more precise evaluations of an individual's unique anatomy. 

Once misalignments are detected, the doctor can apply precise, low-pressure adjustments to bring the spine back into a healthy alignment. Unlike traditional chiropractic methods, which involve abrupt twists and snaps, Blair practitioners take a much more gentle, comfortable approach. 

Many patients find the initial correction brings some immediate relief. After corrections are made, the body's healing processes can begin and the benefits continue to come. In follow-up visits, Dr. Elder checks to ensure the corrections are holding.  

Beyond the initial treatments, regular chiropractic check-ups are recommended. Dr. Elder tries to nip problems in the bud through preventative care. 

If you are being treated for Parkinson's disease, consider adding chiropractic care to your health care routine. Dr. Elder's area of coverage includes Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

The Blair Technique Can Treat Chronic Pain

What is Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is long-lasting pain. It persists after the normal recovery period from an illness or injury passes, and for some people, it persists indefinitely.  

Being in pain for weeks, months, or even years can take a toll on a person in so many different ways. Chronic pain can make it difficult to do your daily activities, work, or enjoy life. It can make it hard to move around, or sleep soundly. For some people, the stress of living with chronic pain can cause mental health issues. 

Symptoms of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain varies from person to person. Pain can range from mild to severe; for some people, chronic pain can be downright debilitating. Pain may be aching, tingling, radiating, sharp, or shooting.

For some people, the pain may be localized to a particular area; for others, it may be widespread. Some people may suffer constantly; others may experience frequent bouts of pain that can strike at any moment. 

There are some symptoms sufferers of chronic pain do have in common. Living with chronic pain can cause fatigue. Pain can be draining, and makes it difficult to sleep.

People with chronic pain may feel restless due to their frustration. Stress builds when the pain becomes hard to ignore, or bouts of pain don't pass. Many people with chronic pain live with anxiety or suffer depression due to stress.

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Chronic Pain

The body is a little like a machine; certain parts are more sensitive than other parts. If something goes wrong in one of those sensitive areas, it throws everything else out of whack. 

The upper cervical spine is one of those sensitive areas on the body that can throw everything else out of whack. It consists of the top seven vertebrae that run through the base of the skull, and down through the neck. These vertebrae are responsible for the carriage of the head, the ability to turn your head from side to side, and protecting the spinal cord near the critical juncture where it connects to the brain stem. 

The upper cervical spine is prone to injury from even mild jolts, such as fender-benders, recreational sports, or falls. Even poor posture or a bad mattress can result in the misalignment of the vertebrae, and even a minute misalignment in the upper cervical spine can shift everything and put stress on the joints, muscles, and ligaments throughout the rest of the body. Inflammation and swelling can also cause compression of nerves or vessels, impeding them from doing their job. 

How Our Chronic Pain Treatment Works

The root cause for many musculoskeletal conditions can be traced to the source—the upper cervical spine. At Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas, our resident specialist is Dr. Gordon Elder. Dr. Elder is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern upper cervical technique that utilizes state-of-the-art technology combined with hands-on treatment. The Blair technique is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option for many pain sufferers.

Dr. Elder has success with a three-step approach to upper cervical care. He begins with an examination using advanced 3D diagnostic imaging tools to pinpoint and calculate your unique anatomy. This thorough preliminary exam eliminates the guesswork so that the doctor can target the exact problem area.

With direct targeting, the doctor's manual corrections can be more precise and use much less force in comparison to traditional chiropractic methods. This not only makes for more comfortable patients but requires fewer visits and allows corrections to hold longer.

Dr. Elder's final step involves ongoing preventative care. Adding chiropractic check-ups to your regular healthcare routine can ensure new problems don't arise, and the doctor can nip any issues in the bud.

Don't suffer from chronic pain longer than necessary. Contact Dr. Elder to see if upper cervical care can help you. The doctor's area of coverage includes Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

The Blair Chiropractic Technique Can Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a painful condition caused by a pinched nerve. This can make it difficult to use your hands effectively. Trying to grip items or type on the computer can be irritating, if not outright painful. 

Carpal tunnel can interfere with your ability to do daily routine chores, enjoy hobbies, or work effectively. In some severe cases, patients require surgery to correct the problem.

Research indicates that treatment of the upper cervical spine may alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms for many patients, saving them from costly and invasive medical procedures. 

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

People suffering from mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the fingers, hands, and wrist. This can lead to clumsiness due to a person having difficulty with hand function. 

In more serious cases, the sensation may involve discomfort and pain. Pain may be spread across the hand, or in some cases, it may be shooting, like an electric shock. In a more severe case, pain may shoot from the hand, through the wrist, and up the arm. 

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The median nerve is a sensory-motor nerve that runs from the spinal cord, into the arm, down through the wrist, and into the hand. Usually, the root cause of carpal tunnel is when the median nerve is compressed or pinched. 

The upper cervical spine is made up of the uppermost seven vertebrae that run from the base of the skull, down through the neck. It is in close proximity to the brain stem and protects the upper part of the spinal cord. 

This part of the spine is vulnerable and prone to injuries from accidents or poor posture. When the vertebrae become misaligned, it causes inflammation that may compress nerves. Compression of nerves near the brain stem can interfere with nerve function and cause a domino effect of problems going down the body. The muscles and ligaments may not properly function when the flow of nerve signals to the brain is impeded, and this can trigger conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. 

How Our Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment Works

If the root cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is in the upper cervical spine, seeing an upper cervical specialist can help alleviate painful symptoms. Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern chiropractic technique focused on upper cervical health. 

The Blair technique utilizes a combination of advanced technology and gentle manipulations to help pinpoint and correct even minute misalignments of the upper cervical spine. Dr. Elder's treatment begins with 3D diagnostic imaging tools, eliminating the guesswork and allowing for more targeted treatment. 

Unlike traditional chiropractic adjustments, the Blair technique is more precise and gentle. Dr. Elder can expertly coax the spine back into alignment with swift, low-pressure movements. These corrections are not only more comfortable for patients, but longer lasting. Follow-up visits will ensure the adjustments are held in place as the body's natural healing mechanisms reduce inflammation and repair nerve damage. 

As a long-term solution, the final stage of Dr. Elder's treatment plan involves periodic visits for preventative upper cervical care. 

If carpal tunnel syndrome has been plaguing you, contact Dr. Elder to see if non-invasive, drug-free chiropractic care can help you. Dr. Elder's area of coverage includes Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Visual Disturbances Can Be Alleviated with Upper Cervical Chiropractic

What Are Visual Disturbances?

Whenever your ability to see clearly and normally is impacted, it is known as a visual disturbance. Visual disturbances are symptoms of many different health issues and can manifest in a variety of ways.

When people experience a visual disturbance, their first thought is to go get an eye exam. What many people don't realize, however, is that the root of these symptoms is rarely a simple eye problem. More often, people who have visual disturbances will need the care of a physician, ophthalmologist, or neurologist. 

New research shows that for some people, upper cervical spine care can help with visual disturbances and the conditions that cause them.

Symptoms of Visual Disturbances

Visual disturbances can come in the form of double vision,   shimmering, wavy vision, flashing lights, auras, halos, glares, color blindness, partial blindness, or total blindness.

Some factors that contribute to visual disturbances include swollen eyes, pink eye, vertigo, headaches, migraines, or Meniere's disease.

How Upper Cervical Care Helps Improve Vision

The upper cervical spine is located in the neck, beginning at the base of the skull. It is made up of the top seven vertebrae that protect the spinal cord where it connects to the brain stem, and carries the weight of the head. The top two vertebrae, the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) are responsible for the movement of the head from side to side. 

These vertebrae are particularly vulnerable; a jolt, accident, or even poor posture can cause them to become misaligned. When this happens, the surrounding tissue can become inflamed and swollen. Nerves and vessels may be compressed or pinched, impeding the flow of messages between the brain and the body. This can cause a wide variety of health complications, including those that result in visual disturbances.

How We Treat Visual Disturbances

Dr. Gordon  Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is an expert in upper cervical care and gets to the root of the problems causing visual disturbances. Dr. Elder is a specialist in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a technique that pinpoints misalignments of the upper cervical spine using advanced diagnostic tools. This allows for more precise adjustments using lighter pressure.  

Dr. Elder begins treatment with a thorough screening using state-of-the-art 3D technology. If any misalignments causing nerve pressure are discovered, the doctor proceeds to make manual adjustments using gentle pressure. Once the upper cervical spine is properly aligned, inflammation is reduced, nerve pressure is relieved, and the body's natural healing processes commence. Follow-up exams will ensure the realignment is held. 

The final phase of Dr. Elder's treatment involves the prevention of future problems through periodic check-ups.   

If you are suffering from visual disturbances, call Dr. Elder to see if upper cervical care may benefit you. The doctor's area of coverage includes Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

A Natural Treatment for Chronic Ear Infections

What Are Chronic Ear Infections?

Ear infections are a common ailment that almost everyone will experience at least once. Children are particularly susceptible to ear infections, as 30 million children per year go to the pediatrician to treat this problem. Infections in the ear are painful, as well as dangerous—they may cause long-term damage to the ear, or result in permanent ear problems. 

Ear infections occur when there is a build-up of fluid trapped behind the eardrum that contains bacteria or viruses. Normally, the immune system would kick in and fight off minor infections. If not, your doctor can usually treat infections.  

When ear infections are chronic, it means the problem keeps recurring. If the infections keep recurring, it indicates that the root cause of the problem is probably not being addressed. 

Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Ear Infections

An ear infection is usually painful. The pain may be dull and achy, or in some cases may be sharp and stabbing. You may feel pressure in the ear, or there may be a discharge. The ear may itch or feel irritated.

Infections can cause general flu-like symptoms as well: fever, fatigue, or poor appetite, just to name a few. Ear infections can also cause balance problems or vertigo, or may cause hearing loss. 

Unfortunately, a go-to treatment for ear infections has long been antibiotics. The over-prescription of antibiotics has led to resistant strains of bacteria that become harder to treat. 

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Chronic Ear Infections

The upper cervical spine is comprised of the seven uppermost vertebrae, which start at the base of the skull, run down the neck, and go into the upper back. These vertebrae are close to the vessels and nerves that lead to the inner ear. Any misalignment of these vertebrae may cause inflammation or swelling that puts pressure on the vessels and nerves, which may lead to the backup of fluids that lead to infections. 

If a misalignment of the upper cervical spine is the culprit behind your ear infections, then medications, rest, or ear drainage will only bring temporary relief. The spine will need to be corrected to keep the infections from reoccurring. 

How We Treat Chronic Ear Infections

To prevent painful ear infections from reoccurring, we get to the root of the problem: an adjustment of the upper cervical spine. Dr. Elder is a specialist in upper cervical care. He is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a method that combines advanced medical technology and gentle, non-invasive, drug-free corrections. 

Treatment begins with a thorough screening using state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging tools. By pinpointing the exact location of even minute misalignments, Dr. Elder can apply manual manipulations that are gentler, quicker, and more precise than traditional chiropractic techniques. Parents will be happy to hear that the Blair technique is even safe enough for children.   

Follow-up visits will ensure the alignment is holding. Once realigned, the body's natural healing mechanisms can begin working on restoring health. As inflammation decreases and the body resumes its natural functions, ear infections should cease. Dr. Elder recommends patients continue with regular check-ups as a preventative measure to ensure problems do not return. 

If you or your child are suffering from chronic ear infections, call Dr. Elder's office to see if chiropractic care can help. Our office treats patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Upper Cervical vs Regular Chiropractic: Is There A Difference

Adding regular checkups with a chiropractor can be a great addition to your regular health and wellness routine. The spine is a vital part of the body, and healthcare that includes the spine can help you avoid a variety of pains and illnesses. 

Chiropractors are not all the same; they use different techniques and methods and may specialize in different areas. For general chiropractic care and treatment, you will probably have two choices: a traditional chiropractor and an upper cervical chiropractor. 

Here is the difference and what you need to know so that you can make an informed choice. 

What Is a Traditional Chiropractor?

Traditional chiropractors are what most people think of when they imagine a chiropractor—treatment involves snaps, twists, and cracks of the neck and back. Traditional chiropractors sometimes will take X-rays of the spine before making adjustments, and the process is then the same for each patient. 

For an injury or illness, traditional chiropractic services usually require frequent visits at first (often three times per week). After a few months treatments may drop down to once per week, or once or twice per month. 

What Is Upper Cervical Care? 

Upper cervical care specialists focus on the upper cervical spine. This part of the spine consists of the vertebrae in the neck and upper back, as it is in this area of the spine where the majority of spinal misalignments begin. The neck is the most vulnerable area susceptible to injuries. Misalignments of the upper cervical spine are usually the root cause of problems that cascade down the rest of the spine. 

Upper cervical care involves more comprehensive diagnostic screening to assess and pinpoint areas of concern. Corrections are not jarring or painful, but gentle and precise. Corrections also hold longer, requiring fewer visits and speedier healing. 

How Our Upper Cervical Care Treatment Works

Dr. Gordon Elder is an upper cervical spine specialist, trained as an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. This modern technology utilizes state-of-the-art technology and low-pressure corrections to help restore proper alignment. Treatment is then focused on retaining the alignment so that the body can facilitate healing and resume optimal functioning. 

Dr. Elder begins treatments with a thorough screening. The screening involves a consultation and advanced 3D diagnostic imaging tools to assess and calculate the spine to detect even the most minute misalignments. 

With 3D imaging, the doctor can then apply precise corrections using low-pressure techniques, gently coaxing the spine back into proper alignment. When aligned, this will reduce pain, and inflammation, and allow nerve function to resume so that the body can begin the healing process. 

In follow-up visits, the doctor will check that the alignment holds so the body can continue healing. After initial treatments, the doctor recommends regular check-ups for preventative care so that wellness can be maintained. 

Call the Blair Chiropractic Clinic for an appointment to see how Dr. Elder can help you. We provide service to the areas of Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

Upper Cervical Chiropractic Can Treat Cluster Headaches

What Are Cluster Headaches? 

Everyone suffers from the occasional headache, but cluster headaches are some of the most painful types of headaches you can have. They involve clusters or patterns of severe pain. These attacks can last anywhere from 15 minutes to about three hours, but the worst part is that they are repetitive. Cluster headaches will reoccur frequently for about four to six weeks. 

Every few months, cluster headache attacks will start up again. During these attack periods, the pain can be debilitating. Cluster headaches can interfere with your job, your daily chores, and activities, and make it difficult to do anything you enjoy. Even when you're in remission between cluster attacks, knowing the pain will be back again is very stressful. 

Signs and Symptoms of Cluster Headaches

Cluster headaches are among the most painful type of headaches, usually felt in the front of the head behind the eye. It usually occurs on only one side of the head. The pain has been described as feeling like a hot poker has been jabbed in the eye.

In addition to pain, cluster headaches may involve swelling or drooping of the eyelid. Some sufferers experience congestion, a sweaty forehead, or watery eyes.

For a few weeks, sufferers will experience headaches every day or two (sometimes multiple times per day). The headaches will then cease for a period of remission, which usually lasts from six to twelve months. 

Cluster headaches are more likely to affect men between the ages of 20 and 40. 

How Does the Upper Cervical Spine Affect Cluster Headaches

Medical researchers are not sure what exactly causes cluster headaches, but it is believed to have something to do with abnormalities in the function of the hypothalamus. This is the part of the brain that regulates many of the body's functions. 

Some promising research suggests the issue may stem from a misalignment of the upper cervical spine. The upper cervical spine begins just below the brain stem, at the base of the skull, and runs down the neck and into the upper back. It is comprised of the uppermost seven vertebrae, which carry the weight of the head. The top two vertebrae form the atlantoaxial joint, which allows the head to move and pivot. 

When the vertebrae in the upper cervical spine are misaligned, it can cause inflammation and pinched nerves that disrupt nerve signals in the brain. This can impair the function of the hypothalamus. 

How the Blair Chiropractic Technique Can Help Relieve Cluster Headache Pain

The Blair Chiropractic Technique is a modern technique that focuses specifically on the health of the upper cervical spine. Unlike traditional chiropractic treatment with twists and jerks, specialists in the Blair technique use gentle manipulations to help correct misalignments. This is because alignments are more precise, as Blair practitioners use advanced technology to calculate misalignments. 

Dr. Gordon Elder is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. An exam begins with screening using digital 3D diagnostic tools. After screening, Dr. Elder makes gentle, swift corrections to help coax the spine back into a properly aligned state. Once this is done, the body's natural healing processes can commence so that nerve function will resume. 

After the initial treatment, follow-up exams will ensure that the alignment is holding in place and healing is progressing. Dr. Elder recommends patients return for regular check-ups as a preventative measure to prevent new problems. 

Don't allow cluster headaches to cause problems in your life, making all of your daily activities difficult for weeks at a time. Call Dr. Elder to see if a misalignment of the spine is the root cause of the problem. Dr. Elder treats patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

A Gentle and Effective Treatment for Neck Pain In Children

Why is Neck Pain Increasing in Children?

When you think of someone having neck pain, you're probably thinking of an older person. It may surprise you to learn that an estimated one in five children suffers from neck pain. Many of us think of children as healthy and resilient, but there is an alarming increase in children suffering from pain that was once a complaint of aging adults. 

Neck pain can make it difficult to get a good night's sleep, discourage kids from engaging in physical activities, and distract them from their studies. If not treated, neck pain can lead to more serious health problems later in life. 

Signs and Symptoms of Neck Pain in Children

Some children will report neck pain to their parents, but some children may not realize that it should be mentioned. When children suffer from neck pain, observant parents might notice that their child has poor posture, or that his range of movement seems restricted in the head and/or neck area. Children with neck pain may also suffer from headaches.

A mild case may involve tenderness or stiffness of the neck that occurs sporadically. In more moderate to severe cases, pain can be more intense and more frequent. 

How the Upper Cervical Spine Effects Neck Pain in Children

The uppermost seven vertebrae start at the base of the skull and run down the neck. This part of the spine is not only responsible for protecting the spinal cord but is also responsible for carrying the weight of the head and the movement of the head and neck. 

Unfortunately, the upper cervical spine is prone to injury. Injury can occur from an impact, such as from roughhousing or being in a car accident. Injuries can also occur from poor posture, particularly the posture children assume when they are using electronic devices. When thrusting the head out and downward to look at a smartphone or tablet, the weight of the head puts undue stress on the vertebrae in the neck and can cause misalignments.

The use of handheld technological devices for long periods seems to be causing an epidemic of neck and upper back problems in children. Parents can help prevent issues by making sure children take frequent breaks from using devices, and holding them up so their head is not bent forward when using them. Once the spine is misaligned, however, the damage is done. Pain will continue until the root of the problem is fixed.

How We Treat Neck Pain in Children

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas specializes in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. The Blair technique is focused on effective treatment of the upper cervical spine that is safe enough for children. Unlike traditional chiropractic methods that involve jarring twists and jerks, the Blair technique uses advanced technology to find precise calculations, and corrections are made through gentle manipulations. 

Dr. Elder begins chiropractic care with a thorough screening using state-of-the-art 3D diagnostic imaging tools. If any misalignments are found, the doctor then uses minimal force techniques applied to precise locations for swift, light corrections.

Once the spine is properly aligned, children should feel some relief. In follow-up exams, the doctor will check to ensure the spine remains aligned. As the body's healing processes commence, inflammation will decrease and health will be restored. 

Children can benefit from regular chiropractic check-ups as part of their general healthcare routine. Preventative care can help nip problems in the bud and prevent more serious issues as their bodies develop and grow. 

It may be common for a child to have neck pain these days, but it isn't normal, and your child doesn't need to endure it. Call Dr. Elder's office if your child appears to be suffering from neck pain. Dr. Elder treats patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

What Are The Benefits of Upper Cervical Chiropractic?

Neck and upper back pain are common complaints that most people will have at least once in a while. Some may get pain from physical labor, others may get it from sitting at a desk looking down at a computer all day. For some people, the pain may be recurring, or constant. In some cases, it can be downright debilitating.

Pain in the upper back and neck is usually caused by problems in the upper cervical spine. This part of the spine comprises the top seven vertebrae which run from the base of the skull through to the upper back. The upper cervical spine is responsible for carrying the weight of the head, movement of the head and neck, and protecting the spinal cord. It is a vulnerable area that can be affected by an impact, degenerative diseases, poor posture, or normal aging. 

The good news is, upper back and neck pain are often treatable. Some doctors may recommend pain medication, physical therapy, or surgery. Some patients find great relief in seeing an upper cervical chiropractic specialist. 

What Is Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care?

Misalignments of the spine can cause a wide range of health issues, including chronic pain. Even a minute misalignment of the vertebrae can cause inflammation, swelling, or pinched nerves. When pressure is put on the nerves, it can disrupt the flow of nerve signals between the brain and the body's major systems. Misalignments in the upper cervical spine also put a strain on joints, muscles, and ligaments throughout the rest of the body.

Chiropractors are specialists who examine the spine for misalignments and make adjustments. These adjustments are usually made with manual manipulation and can bring quick, drug-free, non-invasive relief to many patients.

How We Treat Upper Cervical Pain

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. The Blair technique is a specialty that focuses on upper cervical health by using advanced diagnostic tools and gentle corrections. 

Dr. Elder's treatment begins with screening. Using advanced 3D diagnostic imaging tools, the doctor will be able to take measurements and calculate misalignments. This thorough screening takes the guesswork out of chiropractic treatments so that adjustments are precise and more effective. 

After the screening, Dr. Elder will make corrections using safe, gentle manipulations. You won't have to endure any shocking twists and jolts; the Blair technique involves a quick, light touch. 

Once the spine has been adjusted, there will be some relief, but the healing has only just begun. With the spine in proper alignment, the body's natural healing processes can resume and restore your health and vitality. After a series of follow-up appointments to ensure the alignment remains in place, Dr. Elder recommends preventative care with regular chiropractic checkups. 

If you are experiencing pain in your neck or upper back, contact Dr. Elder's office for a consultation. We service patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

What is the difference between Meniere's Disease and Vertigo?

Everyone gets a dizzy spell now and again. There are many common causes for dizziness or poor balance—intoxication, the flu, certain medications, fatigue, low blood sugar, etc. Most of the time, an occasional bout of dizziness is nothing to worry about. It will usually pass quickly and poses no threats to your health. 

On the other hand, you may experience dizziness or balance problems more often, or for a longer period than seems normal. If so, you may have an underlying condition causing the problem. 

The most common causes of dizziness and related symptoms are vertigo and Meniere's disease. These two conditions can be easily confused; here is how to tell them apart.

What Is Vertigo?

Vertigo is characterized by being dizzy or off-balance. You may feel lightheaded, have trouble getting steady, or like the room is spinning around you. You might even feel like this when you're sitting still or lying down.

Additional vertigo symptoms include nausea, vomiting, sweating, headache, or ringing in the ears. 

Vertigo is caused by an inner ear problem, such as an infection or a build-up of calcium deposits. On rare occasions, vertigo may also be caused by a head or neck injury, a tumor or stroke, or migraines. 

Finally, vertigo may be caused by Meniere's disease. 

What is Meniere's Disease?

Meniere's disease is a chronic inner ear disorder characterized by the buildup of fluids in the inner ear. The fluid build-up causes the pressure levels in the ear to change, resulting in vertigo.  Meniere's disease causes severe dizzy spells, ear pressure, tinnitus, and hearing loss.  

Doctors are unsure of what causes Meniere's disease. Some suspect it may be due to improper fluid drainage, blockages, or abnormal immune response. These problems may be caused by a misalignment of the upper cervical spine. 

Difference Between Vertigo and Meniere's Disease

As mentioned, Meniere's disease can cause vertigo. Vertigo is a symptom of the disease, but some people get vertigo without having Meniere's disease. 

The biggest difference is that vertigo alone will usually clear up after a few days and your condition will improve. Meniere's disease is recurring and gets progressively worse if untreated.

How We Treat Vertigo and Meniere's Disease

A common cause of Meniere's Disease, as mentioned, is a misalignment of the spine. Misalignments of the spine can also cause vertigo. Treating the upper cervical spine is the best way to get to the root of these conditions to facilitate healing. 

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is an expert in working with conditions of the upper cervical spine. Dr. Elder specializes in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern method that utilizes state-of-the-art technology to calculate misalignments in the spine for best results. By removing all the guesswork, Blair chiropractors can apply gentle corrections with precision for the best results. 

Dr. Elder's treatment method has three phases. In the first phase, the doctor will consult with you and perform a screening with 3D diagnostic imaging tools. Once any misalignments are pinpointed, the doctor will treat the problem with swift, low-force corrections to help ease the spine back into proper alignment. 

Once the spine is realigned, miraculous natural healing processes commence. A properly functioning body heals itself and restores wellness. Follow-up visits will allow the doctor to make sure the alignment is holding and monitor the healing process. 

The final phase of the process is to continue with regular chiropractic checkups. This is a preventative effort to help you maintain your good health and nip any future problems in the bud.

If you're suffering from Meniere's disease or vertigo, these conditions can be debilitating. Call Dr. Elder for a consultation so that we at the Blair Chiropractic Clinic can help you. Our office services patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

The Blair Chiropractic Technique Can Alleviate Pinched Nerves

What Are Pinched Nerves?

When someone has a pinched nerve, it means that a nerve is being pinched or compressed by bones, muscles, or ligaments. When a nerve is pinched, it can be painful, and the function of the nerve can be impaired. 

The brain and body communicate via electrical signals. Signals tell your brain what your body senses and your brain sends signals telling your body how to respond. Your brain also communicates via these signals to regulate all of the body's functions, major and minor. These signals travel along nerves, so when nerves are pinched or damaged it can interfere with the flow of those signals and cause all kinds of problems. 

Signs and Symptoms of Pinched Nerves

The most common, most noticeable symptom of a pinched nerve is pain. The vast majority of pinched nerves occur around the spine, and most of the time it will be in the area of the upper cervical spine. This is the part of the spine that is found in the neck and upper back.

The pain associated with pinched nerves can vary. Some people may feel an ache; others may experience a sharp jolt of pain when they move the wrong way. 

A pinched nerve can cause muscle weakness and fatigue, which can be debilitating. In more serious cases, pinched nerves can cause a numb or tingly feeling in the shoulders, arms, legs, hands, or feet.  This sensation is sometimes called "pins and needles" because it may feel like thousands of sharp pricks. Some people may get the sensation of an extremity or limb that feels like it is "falling asleep." 

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Pinched Nerves

The upper cervical spine is prone to pinch nerves because it is so vulnerable. A jolt to the head or neck, such as when in a fender bender or playing rough sports, can cause a misalignment of the vertebrae that pinches a nerve. Poor posture can also lead to misalignments. 

When the vertebrae in the upper cervical spine are misaligned, it can have a domino effect of sorts going down the rest of the spine. As the body tries to unconsciously shift to compensate for one misalignment, the postural shift can cause undue stress on other vertebrae, joints, muscles, and ligaments. This can result in additional pinched nerves or other health problems.

How Our Upper Cervical Spine Treatment Works

Dr. Gordon Elder is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. This technique combines modern technology and gentle manipulations to help correct misalignments of the spine, alleviating the pain and health problems caused by pinched nerves. Once the spine is properly aligned, the body can begin healing and nerves can resume proper functioning. 

Dr. Elder begins your treatment with a screening to examine the spine for misalignments. Using advanced 3D imaging tools, the doctor can pinpoint problem areas to eliminate the guesswork and apply corrections to precise areas of concern. This allows the doctor to apply more effective adjustments with gentle pressure. 

In follow-up appointments, Dr. Elder will check to ensure the alignment remains intact. Once the spine is aligned it will jumpstart the body's healing processes, reducing inflammation and restoring nerve function, so you should feel continued improvement. After treatments are complete, the doctor recommends regular checkups to nip any future problems in the bud.

The Blair Chiropractic Technique offers a safe, non-invasive, drug-free way to deal with pinched nerves. Don't suffer longer than you need to; contact Dr. Elder for a consultation. We provide service to patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.

A Natural and Alternative Stiff Neck Treatment

What is Stiff Neck?

Stiff neck is just as the name of the condition implies—it involves the muscles of the neck becoming stiff. This stiffness can cause pain and limit mobility.

There are many different causes of stiff neck. It may be due to poor posture, neck muscle strain, sports injuries, repetitive movements, or a sedentary lifestyle. Sometimes, stiff neck is caused by other health issues, such as degenerative disc disease or osteoarthritis.

Dealing with the pain and limitations of a stiff neck can be frustrating, but if not treated the problem can lead to more serious health issues such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis. Early treatment of a stiff neck can not only decrease pain and improve mobility, but can also help you avoid bigger health problems. 

Signs and Symptoms of Stiff Neck

A stiff neck may be hard to move and rotate because the muscles feel tense or tight. This difficulty may interfere with your ability to rotate your head to one side or the other (or both sides). The stiffness may also make its way into the upper shoulders, or up into your head. It's not uncommon for stiff necks to also cause headaches.

In some cases, patients experience muscle spasms in the neck or upper back. 

How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Stiff Neck

The upper cervical spine is made up of the top seven vertebrae. These vertebrae begin at the base of the skull and run down the neck. This part of the spine supports the weight of the entire head. The top two vertebrae, known as the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2), are responsible for the movement and turning of the head. 

When there is a misalignment in the upper cervical spine, it can cause inflammation, muscle strain, and postural problems that result in stiff neck. The good news is, correcting the misalignment can help restore health to the neck and eliminate stiffness and pain. 

How Our Stiff Neck Treatment Works

Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic is an expert in upper cervical spine care. The doctor specializes in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern chiropractic technique that utilizes advanced technology to help ensure manipulations are precise. This precision enables corrections to be safe, gentler, and more effective than with traditional chiropractic methods.

Dr. Elder has a three-step treatment plan for patients with stiff neck. The first step is a thorough screening with 3D diagnostic imaging tools and an assessment of your upper cervical spine's health. Once any problems have been measured and calculated, the doctor can use low-force pressure to help coax the spine back into alignment. 

Follow-up exams will ensure the alignment is intact so that the body can begin the natural healing process, reducing inflammation and releasing tension in the muscles. Keeping the spine in proper alignment can prevent future problems, so Dr. Elder recommends adding regular chiropractic checkups to your healthcare routine. 

If you're looking for a drug-free, non-invasive treatment for stiff neck, contact Dr. Elder. The doctor services patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico. 

Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.