CHIROPRACTIC
3 - THE WORLD OF CHIROPRACTIC 5 - FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK 7 - WHEN SHOULD I SEE A CHIROPRACTOR 9 - 9 FUN FACTS ABOUT CHIROPRACTIC 11 - PROTECTING THE FUTURE 15 - STRAIGHTEN UP AND MOVE 17 - PREVENTING FALLS 19 - HEALTHY SLEEP HABITS 23 - CHIROPRACTIC AND CHILDREN 27 - 3 REASONS WHY EVERY ATHLETE SHOULD SEE A CHIROPRACTOR WITH A SPECIAL INTEREST IN SPORT » p.9 » p.27 » p.11 CONTENTS CASA BOOKLET FOLLOW CA SA 1 C A S A » p.9 » p.27 » p.11 COCASA BC A S A BOOK L @casa @casa www.casa.co.za 01 CASA BOOKLET
61-4754%2810%2900216-2/abstract iewfile/whicorporate-wellness-web-version medicine/article/12/4/657/1869828 tment care g-free including rs days, lost reatment opioid dults not OK L E T 2 Boost Employee Health and Productivity with Chiropractic Care Employers of all sizes are incorporating chiropractic care into their corporate benefits package to: • Improve employee health and wellness • Boost productivity levels • Increase employee retention • Save money • Offer employees a drug-free care option Sources: www.jmptonline.org/article/S0161-4754%2810%2900216-2/abstract www.f4cp.org/package/home/viewfile/whicorporate-wellness-web-version https://academic.oup.com/painmedicine/article/12/4/657/1869828 When chiropractic care precedes other options, specifically medical or surgical interventions, costs per episode of treatment can be reduced by up to 40% In addition to the cost savings value to employers, chiropractic care provides employees with an evidence-based and effective drug-free pain management option for neuro-musculoskeletal disorders, including back pain, neck pain and headaches, among others. Did you know that prescription painkiller abuse costs employers between $18 billion and $26 billion a year due to missed workdays, lost productivity and medical expenses? A recent study published inThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine concludes that for adults receiving treatment for low back pain, the likelihood of filling a prescription for an opioid was 55% lower for those receiving chiropractic care than for adults not receiving chiropractic care. There are safer, more effective, drug-free pain management approaches, such as chiropractic care, that can help to drive down costs and yield a healthier, happier workforce. To find a local doctor of chiropractic near you, visit: chiropractic.co.za 02 CASA BOOKLET
Welcome to the exciting world of chiropractic. If you have never heard of the term chiropractic, it means ‘done by hand’. It is a natural, complementary, hands-on, drug-free approach to health. Chiropractic has a long history dating back to 1895 when the first official manipulation/adjustment was given. Chiropractic works on the premise that good health is dependent on on a normally functioning spine and nervous system. This is explained in greater detail in this booklet. 3 C A S A B C A S A BOOK L E T 03 CASA BOOKLET WORLD OF CHIROPRACTIC WHAT IS CHIROPRACTIC?
4 ae he ond lsare CA S A BOOK L E T OOK L E T A chiropractor’s main concern is your spine and nervous system and how well both are functioning. The spine is made up of 24 individual moveable vertebrae. It starts just below the base of your skull and ends in the centre between the hips. Each consecutive vertebra is connected to the immediate vertebrae above and below it via joints. Consecutive vertebrae are connected by joint capsules, ligaments and muscles, which enable the entire spine to function as one dynamic unit. There are seven neck (cervical) vertebrae, 12 mid-back (thoracic) vertebrae and 5 lower back (lumbar) vertebrae, with a cartilaginous disc in-between each vertebra. This disc is there to help cushion and absorb shock, reduce friction between the vertebrae and to allow increased movement to occur within the spine. A pair of spinal nerves exits between each vertebra. Each one of the 31 pairs of nerves comes from the spinal cord which runs the length of the spine and extends outward to form a complex network which ultimately supplies and influences every organ, tissue and cell in the body. It is a chiropractor’s task to evaluate the biomechanical function of the spine to ensure that each one of the individual vertebra are moving and are not fixated in any way. Any such fixation or “jammed” vertebra can cause the spinal nerve, that exits from the intervertebral foramen/opening, to become irritated, either through direct pressure or through indirect stimulation or irritation. 04 CASA BOOKLET HOW DOES CHIROPRACTIC WORK?
05 CASA BOOKLET 5 CC A S A
F ROM THE P RESIDENT’S DESK s we begin this exciting new year, we are filled with a sense of optimism and determination. 2025 marks a year of growth, opportunity, and collaboration for our association. CASA remains committed to strengthening our internal structure, governance, and member engagement, all while ensuring we uphold the values that unite us. We have outlined two key focus areas to guide our progress over the next year: 1. Strengthening CASA’s Internal Structure and Governance We are reinforcing our commitment to good governance and our fiduciary responsibility. To ensure CASA operates with greater efficiency, collaboration, and accountability, the Council has enlisted members with specific skill sets to assist in aligning and refining each Council portfolio. This strategic approach will enhance our ability to serve our members effectively and efficiently. 2. Enhancing Member Engagement and Community Objectives Our membership goals for 2025 centre around: a. Expanding Member Benefits and Advocacy Initiatives – Our ultimate goal is to positively impact your practice and financial well-being. Whether it’s helping increase patient flow or alleviating the cost of living through our tailored membership benefits, we are dedicated to supporting your success every step of the way. b. Community Engagement – Additionally, we are committed to enhancing public awareness of chiropractic care, ensuring its benefits reach all communities. c. Fostering Stronger Relationships – Strengthening our ties with all stakeholders to advance the chiropractic profession further, fostering collaboration, innovation, and shared growth. By nurturing these relationships, we can ensure that the profession remains at the forefront of healthcare, advocating for better patient outcomes, enhancing professional development, and expanding the reach of chiropractic care in diverse communities. We are excited to introduce a dedicated CASA WhatsApp number, +27 79 815 4009 , providing members with direct access to inquiries, updates, and support. Additionally, we will host quarterly feedback sessions following each council meeting to share updates, address concerns, and ensure transparency in decision-making. The launch of our new mentorship program has been successfully implemented, created with the unique needs of recent graduates in mind. This initiative is designed to equip them with the essential tools, resources, and support needed to flourish in their early years of practice. I would like to encourage all members to stay engaged, ask questions, provide feedback, and consider volunteering in CASA initiatives. Your involvement is key to our continued success. United vision, elevated care - together, we will advance CASA’s mission and ensure our organization remains strong, transparent, and united. Thank you for your ongoing dedication and support. Kind regards, Dr Danella Lubbe (CASA Interim President) A 06 CASA BOOKLET
Chiropractic care has been known to successfully and safely treat many conditions which are nerve, muscle or joint related. Such neuromusculoskeletal conditions can range from neckpain, headaches (including migraines), whiplash, shoulder pain, arm and elbow pain, tingling in arms and hands, all the way to back pain, hip pain, leg pain, sciatica, knee pain and even foot pain. Therefore any condition that is related to any joint in the body can potentially be helped through chiropractic care. Although most chiropractors predominantly focus on the spine and how it is functioning, the biomechanics of the upper and lower limbs is also of great importance. 7 C A S A B OOK L E T WHEN SHOCHIROPChiropractic care has been knowmany conditions which are nerneuromusculoskeletal conditheadaches (including migraiarm and elbow pain, tinglinway to back pain, hip knee pain and even foot pthat is related to any jointbe helped througAlthough most chiropraon the spine and how it is fof the upper and lower limbC A S A BOOK L E T 07 CASA BOOKLET WHEN SHOULD I SEE A CHIROPRACTOR?
8 ILL THE RACTOR PROBLEM? the taking of a complete health ype of pain you have, where the forth will be asked. He/she will lth history, family medical history, might previously have suffered from. a complete physical exam will be ndition. It will include analysing f motion, testing reflexes and orthopaedic tests. Together, all practor a greater knowledge of be. X-rays or laboratory tests may ssary and your chiropractor will ch tests are required. C A S A BOOK L E T C A S A B OOK L E T Your chiropractic care will start with the taking of a complete health history. Questions related to what type of pain you have, where the pain is, how the pain started, and so forth will be asked. He/she will also ask questions about your past health history, family medical history, and any other conditions that you might previously have suffered from. After the case history has been taken, a complete physical exam will be performed in order to assess your condition. It will include analysing your posture, testing your range of motion, testing reflexes and carrying out other neurological and orthopaedic tests. Together, all these tests will help give your chiropractor a greater knowledge of what the cause of the problem might be. X-rays or laboratory tests may be required. This is not always necessary and your chiropractor will determine if and when such tests are required. 08 CASA BOOKLET HOW WILL THE CHIROPRACTOR LOCATE MY PROBLEM?
1 2 3 Chiropractic care is crucial after a car accident. Whiplash, one of the most common car accident injuries, is often treated primarily by chiropractors. 9 F UN FAC TS ABO UT CHIROPRAT IC DID YOU KNOW There are CASA registered chiropractors practicing in all 9 provinces of South Africa, making chiropractic care easily accessible. There are over 800 registered chiropractors in South Africa. 9 C A S A B OOK L E T 1 9 F UN FAC TS ACHIROPDID YOU KNOW C A S A BOOK L E T There are CASA registered chiropractors practicing in all 9 provinces of South Africa, making chiropractic care easily accessible. 09 CASA BOOKLET
10 8 from a regular chiropractic regimen. Increasing mobility, also known as increasing the range of motion, can prevent future injuries and strengthen the body. Each day, over one million adjustments take place across the globe. That’s a whole lot of relief! The term 9 C A S A BOOK L E T C A S A B OOK L E T 4 8 from a regular chiropractic regimen. Increasing mobility, also known as increasing the range of motion, can prevent future injuries and strengthen the body. 6 5 Each day, over one million adjustments take place across the globe. That’s a whole lot of relief! 7 9 Source: seachangechiropractic.com Chiropractic is a 6 year course and it can be studied at the Durban University of Technology or the University of Johannesburg. Chiropractic care results in fewer missed weeks of training for athletes. Chiropractic treatments are covered by most medical aids in South Africa. While chiropractic care is often considered great corrective treatment, it can also be great for preventative care. With proper education and regular adjustments, you can keep future injuries from occur ring and improve mobility. - 10 CASA BOOKLET
PROTECTING OUR MOST PREC I O US ASSET, THE FUTU RE ReAlign SA can put stress on toes, ankles, knees and hips exacerbating existing conditions like knee pain and arthritis, not to mention developmental and neurological abnormalities. Painful foot conditions like bunions and forefoot pain can also occur as a result of wearinng incorrect footwear. When the framework for literally all the systems of the body is threatened, there are bound to be complications such as sleeping disorders, muscle fatigue, fatigue in general, breathing capacity, constipation or digestive issues. There are also the more con - cerning implications such as nerve constriction, nervous system feedback, poor circulation, high blood pressure and the biggy, the risk of cardiac disease! 11 C A PRMOASRecan put stredevelopmenof wearinngWhen the frdisorders, mcerning impthe risk of cC A S A B11 CASA BOOKLET
12 sted, and ge the ive to be Billion that “self we are e most phasised implica - ect our me, if not posture many omics and cs and o boost and, in environ - hat the will spend otalling year, an which 50 This is to one w this can he quality ET OOK L E T 12 CASA BOOKLET So we now understand there are physi - ological implications related to bad posture, but what about the mental and emotional effects? In a 2015 study in Health Psychology researchers noted participants with poor posture were more fearful, hostile and nervous, Britnell et al. (2005) and muscular balance and alignment that protects the supporting structures of the body from progressive deformity and injury ”. If the balance and alignment of our supportive structures are maintained comfortably along a vertical line from head to foot and vice versa, in both ac - tive and static states, then we are able to develop and function with optimum well as emotional levels, regardless of our age or gender. In principle this concept should be easy to achieve and maintain. For most of us, growing up with naturally aligned posture is part of our normal physi - ological development as we transition through infancy, childhood, preadoles - cence, adolescence and adulthood to old age. But there are factors that can interfere with this perfect blueprint of optimum development and functional - ity across all ages. In today’s industrialised world these factors can include the design of car seats, strollers and walking devices, overloaded and off-axis backpacks, seating and desk arrangements, work - ing environments, lifestyle choices, injury as well as technology and its by products. These include footwear; fash - ion accessories like hairpieces and even over-compensation for what we believe to be good posture. If left uncorrected, chronic pain and even postural distor - tions can develop over time, leading to a cascade of immediate and long-term health-related problems. Constant exposure to postural distor - tions and their catalysts can literally change the shape of a person’s spine or even the natural biomechanics of the foot, threatening the overall alignment and integrity of the whole skeletal framework. Not only does this cause stress and irritation of the supporting muscles and nerves but it can also have an impact on joint stability, integrity and eventually degeneration. Headaches, neck, arm, upper back and lower-back pain, and general overall body aches are common short-term symptoms. Deformities like forward head-tilt, kyphosis, scoliosis and lordosis are becoming more common. We spend less time barefoot as children and adults making us still, passive, dull, sleepy, and sluggish. A survey published in 2012 in the journal Biofeedback indicated there was a link between posture and mental health, particularly mood, anxiety, and stress. Just as a person with good posture is perceived as having so a person with poor posture appears lethargic, uncertain, uninterested, and with low self-esteem, an image the business world does not perceive to be productive. Dan Pena, The 50 Billion Dollar Man, often references that “self of a child’s life.” It’s not surprising, then, that we are faced with what I believe is the most under-exposed and under-emphasised epidemic across all ages, the implica - tions of which will directly affect our quality of life for years to come, if not addressed. The long-term effects of bad posture are not new revelations. For many years the disciplines of ergonomics and understanding body mechanics and lifestyle choices have aimed to boost employee well-being, morale and, in turn, productivity within work environ - ments. It can be roughly calculated that the average South African adult will spend 235 days at work per year, totalling 1 880 hours over a calendar year, an average of 8 hours a day, of which 50 to 70 % are seated at a desk. This is an estimated 67.14% devoted to one environment. You can see how this can have serious implications on the quality of life.
The average South African child spends roughly 195 – 200 days in an academic year at school, Chiropractor Dr. Matt Tanneberg DC comments, “When you make bad posture a part of your daily routine, you are constantly retraining your body to function inappropriately.” This is exactly why our children are one of the answers to addressing this problem. We all know that prevention is better than cure. While we acknowledge posturalrelated stresses and its side effects, most of us overlook its origin and, importantly, the opportunity to cor - rect it. It is important to set the correct foundation long before these sources of dysfunction becomes ingrained and Phrases like, “If you want an example of good posture, just look at a young child” are rapidly becoming outdated as we see more and more of our chil - dren hunched over and exposed to the same hazards as adults. Unfortunately this includes stages of their lives when their development is at its most vulner - able, during the preadolescent and adolescent years. These are both stages of a child’s life when they are subject to substantial changes physically, men - tally as well as socially. If the average South African child spends roughly 195 – 200 days in an academic year at school, an average of 6 hours daily, totalling 1 194 hours, this equates to 57.14% of their time spent in one environment. There is roughly only a 10% difference between the time adults and children spend stresses that come with it except for the inclusion of one variable that is slowly turning the tide against them: school bags that are overloaded and carried off axis, an ergonomic nightmare. It’s surprising then that little emphasis is placed on school-place ergonomic programs and products. Integrating these programs into schooling seems the obvious solution, shaping healthrelated behaviours at an early stage of childhood, before preadolescence. According to American postural coach, Michelle Joyce, “100 years ago doctors started warning us about the effects of unhealthy posture in children. They said that the decline of American posture would lead to an epidemic of back pain. As a result of these warn - ings there was a massive campaign to prevent bad posture in children. Posture was a mandatory subject in school through to the college level. Kids received weekly posture evalua - tions, and because the program was created by many of the same people who created the physical education movement, kids who failed their pos - ture tests did corrective exercise in PE class. It was basically physical therapy, but the problems were being addressed before the child developed chronic pain. In the early 1900s, kids were doing stretches and exercises that were spe - of posture problems that we’re seeing today. School desks were highly adjustable, so them properly. Everyone knew that posture problems, so all of the class - room desks were vigilantly adjusted on a regular basis. Children were even taught to evenly distribute the weight of their school books between both arms so that their growing bodies would not develop imbalances.” I believe corporate South Africa has a this epidemic and should lead by example, incorporating workplace wellness programs for employees that also provide the knowledge and tools for the wellbeing of the whole family, includidng postural wellness. Research has shown that when whole families participate in these programs Ultimately parents alone are account - able for programming their children for future success through educated awareness and direct actions. At home it is vital that parents lead by example. Children are more likely to do what we do, both good and bad, rather than what we say or nag them to do. 13 C A S A B OOK L E T Souchilrou195in ayea Chiropractor Dr. Matt Tanneberg DC comments, “When you make bad posture a part of your daily routine, you are constantly retraining your body to function inappropriately.” This is exactly why our children are one of the answers to addressing this problem. We all know that prevention is better than cure. While we acknowledge posturalrelated stresses and its side effects, most of us overlook its origin and, importantly, the opportunity to cor - rect it. It is important to set the correct foundation long before these sources of dysfunction becomes ingrained and Phrases like, “If you want an example of good posture, just look at a young child” are rapidly becoming outdated as we see more and more of our chil - dren hunched over and exposed to the same hazards as adults. Unfortunately this includes stages of their lives when their development is at its most vulner - able, during the preadolescent and adolescent years. These are both stages of a child’s life when they are subject to substantial changes physically, men - tally as well as socially. If the average South African child spends roughly 195 – 200 days in an academic year at school, an average of 6 hours daily, totalling 1 194 hours, this equates to 57.14% of their time spent in one environment. There is roughly only a 10% difference between the time adults and children spend stresses that come with it except for the inclusion of one variable that is slowly turning the bags that aoff axis, ansurprising tis placed onprograms athese progrthe obviousrelated behchildhood, bAccording toMichelle Joystarted warof unhealthsaid that thposture wouback pain. Aings there wprevent badwas a mandthrough to Kids receivetions, and bcreated by who createdmovement,ture tests dC A S A BOOK L E T 13 CASA BOOKLET
14 C A S A BOOK L E T | 2021 When I was growing up, my mother always told me “sit up straight!” and “stop slouching”, followed by a light tap on the back of the head for encouragement. Even though I did so reluctantly, I now understand why and I am so grateful she did as more and more research explores and exposes the effects of bad posture and how it can ultimately affect our future. Article by: Selwyn Rautenbach Owner of ReAlign SA W - www.realignsa.co.za/ F - www.facebook.com/realignsa/ I - www.instagram.com/realignsa/ e can age to be of ng oring zones for whole ient baby - engage as an oving and all kinds. gnitive ile also ven the n need to C A S A BOOK L E T C A S A B OOK L E T C A S A BOOK L E T | 2021 Children are more likely to do what we do, both good and bad, rather than what we say or nag them to do. When I was growing up, my mother always told me “sit up straight!” and “stop slouching”, followed by a light tap on the back of the head for encouragement. Even though I did so reluctantly, I now understand why and I am so grateful she did as more and more research explores and exposes the effects of bad posture and how it can ultimately affect our future. Article by: Selwyn Rautenbach Owner of ReAlign SA W - www.realignsa.co.za/ F - www.facebook.com/realignsa/ I - www.instagram.com/realignsa/ Practicing good habits at home can encourage kids from an early age to adopt healthy habits that will be of lifelong value. An essential aspect of modelling healthy habits involves monitoring screen time along with no-go zones for technology which apply to the whole family. Get rid of that convenient baby - sitter, reduce screen time, re-engage and spend more quality time as an active family, get everyone moving and participating in active play of all kinds. For children this is key for cognitive and natural development, while also promoting motor skills and even the social skills that young children need to learn. C A S A BOOK L E T 14 CASA BOOKLET
The Straighten Up and Move pro - gram (originally developed in 2004), was embraced and promoted by the Bone and Joint Decade in 2006 and was well received by leaders of the World Health Organi - zation in 2006. The Bone and Joint Decade is a multi-disciplinary initia - tive involving everyone concerned with care including communities, patients, health care providers and researchers. The Straighten Up and Move pro - gram is a bold and innovative health promotion initiative designed to empower people everywhere toward better spinal health and an improved quality of life. It is aimed at people of all ages, genders, and cultures, with materials appropriate to age range. Straighten Up and Move uses pictorial images and has its content translated into many languages including French, German, Spanish, Russian, Mandarin, Chinese and Swedish, among others. Consisting of a series of simple exercises and lifestyle recommendations taking just minutes each day to complete, Straighten Up and Move modules promote the improvement of posture STRAIGHTEN UP AND MOVE STRAIGHTEN UP SA 15 C A STSTC A S A B15 CASA BOOKLET
OOK L E T ET 16 P SA MPROVE FLEX- NESS. it properly. day. Regular strength and eck with your beforestretch- ure of how to evious injury. re stretching. like walking. t in injury. to 30 seconds. Overstretching ncause small ld discomfort. able, increase hurts, you’re ing. Don’t try pecial breathposing muscle you start by ofyour thigh, esat thefront. oyour routine epertoire. For class or visit retches. Straighten Up South Africa is a free community service initiative endorsed and Chiropractic Association of South Africa and body core stabilisation to help in the prevention of spinal conditions. These modules are easy and fun and can be completed quickly as a regu - lar day-to-day preventative health practice. The 2-3 minute routines can help improve and prevent poor posture, which is a common trigger for general back and neck pain and can be undertaken by all ages. The Chiropractic Association of South Africa has adapted the Straighten Up and Move program to make it our very own, Straighten Up South Africa. Straighten Up South Africa is a free community service initiative endorsed and offered by the Chiro - practic Association of South Africa. It is a program that aims to promote improved spinal health, good pos - ture, self-esteem, a vibrant quality of life as well as assisting with correct structural development. The Chiropractic Association of South Africa has also incorporated spinal screenings into the initiative. Many people, especially children, work and play in cramped, awkward and slouched postures. The resulting pandemic of work and recreation related to chronic spinal disorders compromise the quality of life. Training children and adults in exercises can be helpful in facilitat - ing postural improvement. We have included spinal screenings as part of the Straighten Up South Africa program as these are helpful in the detection of any spinal abnormalities such as scoliosis (side to side curves of the spine), kyphosis (abnormal rounding of the spine) and postural abnormalities. Spinal screenings are also a quick and easy way to detect these abnormal spinal curves, and other musculoskeletal conditions. 8 TIPS FOR SAFE STRETCHING STRETCHING IS A GOOD WAYTO IMPROVE FLEX- IBILITY AND AVOID MUSCLE SORENESS. Here are some tips for how to do it properly. 1 - Stretch for 10 minutes every day. Regular stretching improves your balance, strength and flexibility. 2 - Get advice to avoid injury. Check with your chiroptactororhealthprofessionalbeforestretch- ing if you have an injury, are unsure of how to stretch properly or have had a previous injury. 3 - Warm up your muscles before stretching. Try 10 minutes of gentle exercise like walking. Stretching cold muscles may result in injury. 4 - Holdasustainedstretchfor 10 to 30 seconds. Don’t bounce when stretching. Overstretching causes muscle to contract and can cause small tears in fibres. 5 - Only stretch to the point of mild discomfort. Once your muscle feels comfortable, increase the stretch then hold it again. If it hurts, you’re pushing too hard. 6 - Breathe normally when stretching. Don’t try to hold your breath or perform special breath- ing exercises. 7 - Balanceyour routine. Workopposing muscle groups each time you stretch. If you start by stretchingthe muscles inthebackofyour thigh, thenfollow bystretchingthe musclesat thefront. 8 -Preventboredom. Addvarietytoyour routine by increasing your stretching repertoire. For example, you could join a yoga class or visit your local chiropractor for new stretches. 16 CASA BOOKLET Article by: Dr Luke Schmidt STRAIGHTEN UP SA
To find a DC near you, visit www.chiropractic.co.za C A S A BOOK L E T Every 15 seconds, Every 29 minutes, an older adult is treated in an Emergency Department for injuries related to an accidental fall. an older adult dies f om an accidental related injury r fall- . Preventing Falls with Chiropractic Care
Do You Know the 3 Types of Accidental Falls Risk Factors? Health-Based Risk Related to medical p oblems in neu olog orthopedics, biomechanics, physiology and r a a m m weakness, ch onic illnesses, vision p oblems and nutritional d ciencies. r r y nut ition G it nd b nce p oble uscle , . ala r s, r r e Environmental Factors Home hazards (ie: loose throw rugs, lack of railings and grab bars). Outside hazards (icy sidewalks, debris), or risky footwear. The environmental factors often require involvement of supportive family members. Fall Triggers Sudden or occasional events that cause a challenge to balance or strength (a strong dog pulling on a leash). Health-related events like the use of certain medications and excess alcohol, as well as physiological changes such as low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in a person with diabetes, hypotension and electrolyte imbalance can also trigger falls. C A S A BOOK L E T
HEALT HY SLEEP HABITS SLEEP TIPS 1 STICK TO A SLEEP SCHEDULE of the same bedtime and wake up time, even on the weekends. This helps to regulate your body’s clock and could help you fall asleep and stay asleep for the night. 2 PRACTICE A RELAXING BEDTIME RITUAL. A relaxing, routine activity right before bedtime conducted away from bright lights helps separate your sleep time from activities that can cause excitement, stress or anxiety which can make it more remain asleep. difficult to fall asleep, get sound and deep sleep or 19 C A S A B OOK L E T HEALT HY SHABITS SLEEP TIPS 1 STICK TO A SLEEP SCHEDULE of the same bedtime and wake up time, even on the weekends. This helps to regulate your body’s clock and could help you fall asleep and stay asleep for the night. 2 PRACTC A S A BOOK L E T A relaxconducyour sexcitemremaindifficu19 CASA BOOKLET
20 cohol, eavy ening. es and rupt gor spicy discom - stion t hard can, ge meals hours Try a minutes u’re still 5 If you have trouble sleeping, AVOID NAPS, especially in the afternoon. C A S A B OOK L E T C A S A BOOK L E T Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and heavy meals in the evening. Alcohol, cigarettes and caffeine can disrupt sleep. Eating big or spicy meals can cause discom - fort from indigestion that can make it hard to sleep. If you can, avoid eating large meals for two to three hours before bedtime. Try a light snack 45 minutes before bed if you’re still hungry. 3 4 Exercise daily. Vigorous exercise is best, but even light exercise is better than no activity. Source: sleepfoundation.org 5 If you have trouble sleeping, AVOID NAPS, especially in the afternoon. 20 CASA BOOKLET
C A S A BOOK L E T | 2021 CRYING IS AN ISSUE SYNONYMOUS WITH ALL NEWBORN BABIES, HOWEVER, CRYING CAN BECOME EXCESSIVE AND INCONSOLABLE. IN SUCH INSTANCES, WHEN ALL TYPES OF ROUTINE CARE HAVE BEEN EXHAUSTED, CONCERNED PARENTS OFTEN DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN NEXT FOR THE HELP THEY NEED. EXCESSIVE CRYING IS OFTEN WORSENED DURING CERTAIN ACTIVITIES OR POSTURES, SUCH AS DURING FEEDING OR IN CERTAIN SLEEPING POSITIONS. RESEARCH HAS SHOWN THAT THERE IS AN ASSOCIATION BETWEEN EXCESSIVE CRYING, DIFFICULT BIRTHS AND MUSCULOSKELETAL PROBLEMS IN INFANTS. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CHIROPRACTIC OR WHERE TO FIND A CASA CHIROPRACTOR WITH A SPECIAL INTEREST IN CONSULTING WITH BABIES AND CHILDREN, CONTACT THE CHIROPRACTIC ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA. HAVE YOU CONSIDERED CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR YOUR BABY WHO CRIES EXCESSIVELY? A CHIROPRACTIC APPROACH TO INFANTS WHO CRY EXCESSIVELY IS SAFE, COST EFFECTIVE AND HAS GOOD EFFICACY. W - WWW.CHIROPRACTIC.CO.ZA E - [email protected] P - 086 188 7772 21 CASA BOOKLET
If your chiropractor determines that your case can be treated through chiropractic care, the treatment you will receive will generally consist of highly specialised manipulative techniques often referred to as adjustments. Such adjustments are performed by hand and consist of a high velocity, low amplitude thrust. Adjustments are safe and some patients can experience immediate relief as the normal joint motion is restored and the nerve is freed of any restrictive pressure or irritation. However, some patients require a few treatments in order to correct the problem. No two patients are the same, so be patient as your body starts to realign itself and learns to adapt to the changes that are occurring. 22 CASA BOOKLET HOW WILL THE CHIROPRACTOR TREAT MY PROBLEM?
CHIROPRACTIC AND CHILDREN CHILDREN 2CA23 CASA BOOKLET
4ed % - d ET Chiropractic care is one of the most popular complementary medicine services sought out by parents for their children. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose, treat, manage and prevent disorders of the musculoskeletal system in all ages, as well as the effects these disorders can have on the growing nervous system and general health. paediatric care take their patients’ entire physical, emotional and social wellbeing into account. Chiropractors often treat children for a range of issues from sports related injuries and headaches in older children to excessive crying in the youngest. Manual therapy has been shown to decrease crying times by up to 1.25 hours per day in irritable infants. Although chiropractors are best known for treating back and neck pain, which they do very well, parents also consult chiropractors regarding a range of other related conditions. The safety of chiropractic treatment in children has been assessed in many studies and has been found to be remarkably safe. The techniques used by chiropractors with children are modi - - tions are based on a model of care, that is adhered to when using manual therapy with children. In a recent study involving over 2000 mothers, chiropractic care for their ba - bies was found to be an effective, cost effective and safe form of healthcare with positive outcomes seen in, among others, infants’ sleeping, infants’ feeding, crying times and improved tummy time. Recently an Australian survey of 27 000 parents who had used chiropractic care for their children found no adverse effects and over 99% of the parents responding positively about their experience of using chiro - practic care for their children. When considering chiropractic care for your child, remember to take your child working with your child’s age group. Article by: Dr Mike Marinus 24 CASA BOOKLET
An everyday action, such as a fall or an accident, lifting of heavy objects or even high stress levels can cause any of the moveable vertebrae to lose its normal motion. This causes the joint to become fixated, which in turn can lead to further irritation of both the joint and the nerve. Irritation of the joint may result in spasm of the surrounding muscles, which can lead to a trigger point developing within the muscle. Irritation of the nerve can lead to pain in the vicinity of the joint or it may cause a referral of pain elsewhere in the body. Alternatively the nerve’s functioning may be altered causing either an increase or decrease in nerve sensitivity. 25 C A S A B OOK L E T WNEUROAn everyday action, such aor even high stress levels lose its normal motionwhich in turn can lead tonerve. Irritation of the jmuscles, which can lead toIrritation of the nerve can lcause a referral of painerve’s functioning madecreC A S A BOOK L E T 25 CASA BOOKLET WHAT CAUSES NEUROMUSCULOSKELETAL CONDITIONS?
26 T FROM CARE? sive treatment option, care. problems as they grow nsure an easier delivery er for extended n back and/or neck tle mobility. me performing ar on the body which can s. rove their performance r to achieve their n time, cause much al problems C A S A BOOK L E T C A S A B OOK L E T Due to the fact that chiropractic is a non-invasive treatment option, virtually anyone can benefit from chiropractic care. This includes: • Babies and children who suffer from spinal problems as they grow older and their nervous systems adapt. • Pregnant women – chiropractors can help ensure an easier delivery and minimise backache. • Office workers who sit in front of a computer for extended periods of time. Computer work often results in back and/or neck problems because of poor posture and very little mobility. • Factory workers who spend much of their time performing repetitive activities. • The elderly who have years of wear and tear on the body which can leave them more susceptible to spinal problems. • Athletes who are constantly striving to improve their performance and who push their bodies to the limit in order to achieve their goals. Such constant stress on the body can, in time, cause much strain and, in later years, neuromusculoskeletal problems can develop. 26 CASA BOOKLET WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM CHIROPRACTIC CARE?
27 CASA BOOKLET It has been estimated that close to 90% of elite team and in 2016 the US Olympic Moreau, was a chiropractor. A multi - chiropractors throughout their careers including Michael Jordan, Evander Fred Funk, Padraig Harrington, Ronda Rousey, Venus Williams, Novak Djokovic and Arnold Schwarzenegger, to name a few. Arnold once said: “We’ve got to let people know that there is a necessity – it’s not even an option; it’s a necessity – to have a chiropractor. If you have a dentist for the family, you should have your chiropractor for your family.” So why do successful athletes and teams make use of chiropractic? I will outline the 3 main reasons: THREE REASONS WHY EVERY ATHLETE SHOULD SEE A CHIROPRACTOR WITH A SPECIAL INTEREST IN SPORT SPORT 27 C A S A B OOK L E T THREE REASATHLETE SHSPORTS CHISPORT C A S A BOOK L E T athletes see a chiropractor with a special interest in sport on a regular basis In the US every football team in the NFL has a chiropractor with a special interest in sport as partof their medical
28 References: Hoskins, W. & Pollard, H. (2010). The effect of a sports chiropractic manual therapy intervention on the prevention of back pain, hamstring and lower limb injuries in semi elite Australian Rules footballers: a Randomised control trial. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 11:64. Shrier, I., Macdonald, D. & Uchacz, G. (2006). A pilot study on the effects of pre event manipulation on jump height and running velocity. British Journal of Sports Medicine 40 (11); 947-949 Article by: Dr Jason Fyfer M. Tech Chiro (UJ) ICCSP President Chirosport South Africa C A S A BOOK L E T C A S A B OOK L E T 1 - Treatment of Injuries Initially, the most common reason that an athlete will come see a chiropractor is due to injuries sustained during train - ing or competition. Chiropractors are trained extensively to assess, diagnose and then treat and manage sports related injuries. We are also trained to identify when an injury is not in our scope of practice to treat, in which case we would refer you to the next appropriate health practi - tioner. 2- Prevention of injuries As important as it is for athletes’ even more important for an athlete to prevent these injuries from occurring in In 2010 an Australian researcher studied a group of semi elite Australian Rules football players and demon - strated that those who saw a chiroprac - tor, in conjunction with the current best practice management (physiotherapy, massage, strength and conditioning and rehabilitation) had decreased primary lower limb muscle strains and had missed fewer weeks due to non-contact knee injuries, compared to the control group who just received the current best practice management (1). 3- Optimise athletic performance Not only can chiropractic help athletes to reduce their risk of injury but it can also help athletes to optimise their performance… naturally! When the body is biomechanically equally it allows the athlete to perform at his or her best. A study done in 2006 showed that athletes who had received a chiropractic adjustment demonstrated an increase in jump height as well as a decrease in 40m sprint times (2). training techniques, nutritional advice, supplement and other means that will give their performance that extra edge. References: Hoskins, W. & Pollard, H. (2010). The effect of a sports chiropractic manual therapy intervention on the prevention of back pain, hamstring and lower limb injuries in semi elite Australian Rules footballers: a Randomised control trial. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 11:64. Shrier, I., Macdonald, D. & Uchacz, G. (2006). A pilot study on the effects of pre event manipulation on jump height and running velocity. British Journal of Sports Medicine 40 (11); 947-949 Article by: Dr Jason Fyfer A common misconception about chiropractors is that we can only treat issues of the neck and back, however, chiropractors with a special interest in sport are trained to treat injuries involving all parts of the body including your shoulders, elbows, hands, wrists, hips, knees, ankles, feet and even your jaw. For athletes to be successful they need to be able to train as consistently as possible and with as little disruption from injuries as possible. Regular chiropractic care will be able to assist with this. Your sports chiropractor with a special interest in sport will also be able to guide and educate you on the correct warm up and cool down protocols to follow as well as provide you with necessary prehab exercises tailored to meet your individual needs. Sports based chiropractic is the obvious and natural choice for any and all athletes wanting to reduce their risk of injury and improve their performance. 28 CASA BOOKLET
38 C A S A B OOK L E T C A S A BOOK L E T | 2021 To find a DC near you, visit www.chiropractic.co.za BY 2030 nearly one in ve U.S. residents is expected to be age 65 or older. The most common reason for an older adult to see a doctor of chiropractic (DC) -- who receive a minimum of seven years higher education -- is neuro-musculoskeletal pain -- most often lower back pain. Chiropractic care can lead to improvements in low back pain intensity and disability for older adults, as well as increased balance, coordination and mobility of joints. Chiropractic Care in Older Adults The Role of
2021 39 C A S A BOOK L E T | 2021 Doctors of chiropractic (DCs) can help cut down a person's risk by helping to improve balance, which improves health and decreases risk. Prevention is key. Chiropractic care represents a safe and effective option for older adults, which includes preventative strategies. Risk of falling increases with age for many reasons such as balance problems, vitamin D deficiency, poor footwear and overall weakness and frailty. Sources: CDC, https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2679279 Each year, millions of older adults —those 65 and older—fall. 2021 39 PREVENTING FALLS IN OLDER ADULTS
For more information on Chiropractic or where to find a CASA Chiropractor contact the CHIROPRACTIC ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AFRICA W - WWW.CHIROPRACTIC.CO.ZA E - [email protected] P - 086 188 7772 DON’T LET BACK PAIN GET IN THE WAY OF YOUR ADVENTURE!