Facet Joint Problems

The facet joints are the connections between the bones of the spine. The nerve roots pass through these joints to go from the spinal cord to the arms, legs and other parts of the body. To prevent excessive motion, over-twisting, or simply toppling over, these joints allow us to bend and twist, and additionally, keep the back from repetitive strain or an unguarded sprain. When these joints begin to feel inflamed, Dr. Kent Carlomagno at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center can discuss non-surgical treatment options with you.

Facet joint disorders can be quite crippling if left untreated and can even cause disabling low back pain and neck problems. When the acute lumbar or cervical facet joint inflammation is at its peak, the symptoms may resemble those of a herniated disc, a deep infection, a fracture, or a torn muscle of the spine. Low back pain from the facet joints often radiates down into the buttocks and down the back of the upper leg. Non-invasive treatment options may include therapeutic exercises and/or physical therapy or removing nerve inflammation via a chiropractic adjustment. 

If you are experiencing pain in this area, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

The Benefits of Unplugging

Unplugging is a word being thrown around a lot lately meaning disconnecting from technology. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we want patients to know the benefits of stepping away from the computer and putting the phone down.

As it turns out, there are many benefits to putting down technology. When you “unplug” it could be for the night after work, for a whole day, or even a week or longer. People can set their own limits on how long they want to stay unplugged.

Sleep The light emitted from the screens we look at all day can actually disrupt your sleeping patterns. Unplugging may help you get a more restful sleep.

Improved Mood The constant connection to the world through technology can leave people feeling jaded, jealous, and lonely. These aren’t very good feelings coming from something that is supposed to make us feel connected. Unplugging can help you connect with the world around you and improve your mood.

Improved Memory Unplugging lets your brain rest and reset, helping you with your memory. Plus, you will have much more time to focus on tasks, hobbies, and new experiences if you choose.

Uninterrupted Tasks When you do not have your phone at hand buzzing and beeping, distracting you from what you are doing, you can complete tasks much quicker with much more focus.

Less Stress People that bring their work home with them by answering emails and phone calls never let their brain take a break from work. Unplugging and leaving work at work will let you relax, unwind, and de-stress.

Next time you notice you are glued to your smartphone, keep these benefits in mind and choose to unplug! To learn more about Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, call us at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website, www.summitchiro.net. 

Set Realistic Fitness Goals

Committing to a fitness goal is something that we all struggle with. Whether you want to lose weight, gain muscle or increase your endurance, Dr. Kent Carlomagno at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, wants you to know that you always have a support system in us. To assist, we suggest setting your fit goals at a realistic pace, based on your personality, lifestyle and current level of fitness. Primarily, be adaptable and use moderation in your training to avoid burnout and injury. 

Repeatedly failing to stick to your fitness goals means that either your goal is out of reach or that you haven’t quite figured out how to reach it. Whether you are trying to lose 100lbs or 10lbs, lower your body fat percentage, or gain weight because you are too thin, your main focus should always be on whatever you are working toward.

A goal that is too easy is not very motivating. To get started, your goal should be attainable, for instance, “I will lose 7% of my body weight.” To reach this goal, examine it first. If you are not concerned about weight loss or this is not a good time in your life to focus on that, choose something that is motivating to you. Additionally, include an end-point. Knowing that you have a deadline motivates you to get started.

If you have questions about getting your fitness goals back on track, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Thank You for Your Testimonials!

Here at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, we appreciate feedback from our customers because it teaches us how to improve. Dr. Kent Carlomagno not only treats everyday aches and pains, he assists patients who participate in active sports as well, including black belts! We’d like to not only thank H.M., a martial arts instructor for reviewing us, but we’d like to encourage the rest of our patients to do the same.  

“I decided to write this letter as a testimonial of the effectiveness of Chiropractic care in the treatment of conditions outside the main scope of pain and muscular problems. I came to see Dr. Carlomagno for problems with breathing and defecation. I had heard from a few of my friends about the power of the nervous system of controlling and healing all parts of the body when allowed to. Dr. Carlomagno did his very complete physical exam and took X-Rays to determine if and where I had nerve flow impingement. He carefully explained the importance of a 100% functioning nervous system and pointed out the various areas of subluxation that would possibly be related to my problem. I was surprised to learn that the electrical system in the body was a lot like a fuse box in your house although much more complicated. There were in fact pinched nerves in my spine that related to the symptoms that I presented to his office. He began a treatment program to see if he could help ameliorate my problems.

Within 2 weeks I noticed that I could once again begin to breathe easier and I began to hear bowel sounds that I thought had permanently gone away. Two days after this I had the most complete bowel movement that I could remember in six months. I believe my conditions improvement was a direct result of a restoration of proper nerve innervation to these organs. I always had a pretty good diet before, drank adequate amounts of water, got average exercise and watched my stress level so this treatment must have been the key to bringing my life around. I now understand the dramatic effect the master control system had in the body and want to encourage everyone who reads my testimonial to "Get your nervous system checked" so you too will have the ability to obtain maximum health! Kudos to Dr. Carlomagno for giving me my chi back!” - Angela Lopez (written 6 months ago) 

Your opinion is important to us, so please let us know about your visit. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Self-Care for Back and Neck Pain

Almost everybody who experiences tight shoulders and neck accompanied with tension headaches knows how unpleasant the pain can be. Here at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, we offer a variety of treatments to treat your back and neck pain. However, when you can’t make it to the office, here are some self-care tips to keep your discomfort under control.

1. Take it easy – contrary to popular belief, studies on acute back pain actually show that a few days of restricting your activity, and taking the appropriate over-the-counter medication, is all that many people need to allow the strained muscles to relax and unwind.


2. Ice, then heat – Ice and heat can alleviate local pain that comes from muscle and ligament strain. Ice slows swelling and inflammation and using heat afterward increases blood flow to the deep tissues and relaxes muscle spasms.


3. Massage -- if you have a willing companion, gentle massage may provide some relief by stretching tight muscles and ligaments.


4. Get into see your Chiropractor ASAP and or make an appointment with Dr. Carlomagno to get your nervous system checked to remove nerve irritation/impingement and hasten the healing response by a Chiropractic adjustment!

If you are suffering from back and neck pain, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Chiropractic and Chronic Pain

Joints form the connections between bones. They provide support and help you move. Unfortunately, due to all of the strenuous activities we humans endure on a daily basis, our joints can sometimes become strained and inflamed. At Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, Dr. Kent Carlomagno may recommend therapeutic exercise to strengthen the muscles around the problematic joint, stabilize the joint, and improve your range of motion. 

Many different conditions can lead to painful joints, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, gout, strains, sprains, and other injuries. In fact, knee pain is typically the most common complaint from patients in addition to shoulder and hip pain. However, joint pain can affect any part of your body, from your ankles and feet to your shoulders and hands. Therapeutic Exercise can reduce joint pain and stiffness, as well as help, manipulate damaged joints to make them more mobile – and therefore help you become more active.

If you are suffering from joint pain, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Therapeutic Exercise for Joint Pain

Joints form the connections between bones. They provide support and help you move. Unfortunately, due to all of the strenuous activities we humans endure on a daily basis, our joints can sometimes become strained and inflamed. At Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, Dr. Kent Carlomagno may recommend therapeutic exercise to strengthen the muscles around the problematic joint, stabilize the joint, and improve your range of motion. 

Many different conditions can lead to painful joints, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, gout, strains, sprains, and other injuries. In fact, knee pain is typically the most common complaint from patients in addition to shoulder and hip pain. However, joint pain can affect any part of your body, from your ankles and feet to your shoulders and hands. Therapeutic Exercise can reduce joint pain and stiffness, as well as help, manipulate damaged joints to make them more mobile – and therefore help you become more active.

If you are suffering from joint pain, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care

If you have stiff joints, a pain in the neck, arms, legs, or if you suffer from frequent headaches, then you are immediately a chiropractic candidate. However, if you want to improve your overall health and well-being, our staff at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, can assist you in that department as well. Chiropractors such as Dr. Kent Carlomagno use hands-on spinal manipulation and other alternative treatments to revitalize proper alignment of the body’s musculoskeletal structure, particularly the spine, without surgery or medication. The benefits from this type of treatment are extremely empowering and endless.

Most people are unaware of all the benefits of keeping your spine and nervous system healthy because they are allopathically oriented. Chiropractors don’t just adjust your neck and send you on your way. In fact, they do much more than that. In general, proper chiropractic treatment of your body's lumbar, or lower back, region, involves very little risk and the rewards can be significant. It may sound silly, but with regular chiropractic care, you can improve your mood, your quality of sleep, and your energy levels, all without hospitals or medicine.

If you think you may benefit from chiropractic care, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Getting Active During Summer

Getting active can seem difficult when you have a life that keeps you busy from dawn till dusk. However, it is important to schedule some time to get moving. An active lifestyle will help you live a healthier, happier life. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we believe one of the secrets to a long life is physical activity.

During the summertime, the weather allows us many different types of activities to participate in. Check out some of these ideas and then make a list of your own!

Hike: Hiking is a great way to connect with the outdoors, learn about your surroundings, and get in a good workout. Check out your local trails and parks!

Bike: Biking is another great way to get a workout and to explore your surroundings. It is also an eco-friendly way of transportation if you live in an area where it is possible.

Swim: Swimming is a fantastic way to get a total-body workout. It’s a great way to cool off in the hot summer months, also!

Kayak: Get a great upper-body workout by renting a kayak! Many rental outfits have guided tours for beginners.

Walk: Put some pep in your step and get walking! You can make this more interesting by grabbing a friend and doing a scavenger hunt for plants and things that are only around during the summertime!

It really doesn’t matter how you get active, you just need to do it! Getting your heart rate up several times per week will help decrease the risk of heart disease and provide many other benefits for a healthy life. To set up an appointment at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, call our office at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website, www.summitchiro.net. 

Tips to Keep Your Back Safe During Yard Work

Summertime is a common time to do some work around the yard. While this is a great way to connect with the outdoors and get active, there are also some safety tips you should keep in mind for a healthy back. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we want you to stay safe while working on your lawn and gardens.

• Stop working when you know your back has had enough. Even scheduling small breaks in your day can help keep you from being overworked.


• Know how much you can lift. Use proper lifting techniques and do not attempt to lift, push, or pull something that you know is too heavy for you. In addition, never twist your body while lifting anything. Wait until you are fully upright to turn. Turn with your knees not from your back or hips.


• Find ways to make tasks easier on yourself. Bring your projects up to your level so you do not have to crouch or hunch over them. Working off of a workbench or table can help.  Another tip is watering the soil to make any digging or pulling weeds easier.


• Utilize garden tools that exist to make your job easier. Some of these helpful tools include kneeling pads, equipment straps, and spades.

Yard work can be tough on the back, but the finished product is rewarding. Just remember to be good to your back and your back will be good to you! To schedule an appointment with Summit Chiropractic andLongevity Center in San Rafael, CA, call our office at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website,www.summitchiro.net. 

 

The Danger of Flip Flops

Flip flops are a common shoe to slip on during warmer weather. However, it can really wreak havoc on the body if they are worn for long periods of time. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we want our patients to understand that good spine health starts from the ground up.

Flip-flops are one of the least supportive shoes out there. Walking on a thin, flat shoe all day can lead to overuse of the toes, abnormal stress on the foot, tendinitis, and plantar fasciitis. Because the shoe gives so little support, the toes have to grip the flip-flop to stay in the shoe. Overuse can lead to tendonitis in the toes and the Achilles’ tendon. Overuse and also lack of support can cause plantar fasciitis and over-pronation, which means the arch flattens out. Pain, irritation, and a flattened arch can lead to walking differently, which can lead to pain up your legs to your hips, back, and neck.

It is best to wear supportive shoes, however, if you still desire to wear flip flops, make sure they have arch support and a thicker toe strap. Sandals with straps that go across your feet are often more supportive than ones that have the piece in between your big toe and the rest of your toes.

Wearing flip flops now and then like when you are near the pool is okay, but frequent, everyday use can lead to problems. To schedule an appointment with Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, call us at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website, www.summitchiro.net. 

Treatment for Sports Injury

Sports injuries can be frustrating. No one wants to be taken out of the game. Here at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we are able to help our patient athletes recover and get back in the game faster.

With all the training athletes do, their bodies really go through a lot. Whether there is pain from an acute injury or there is reoccurring pain, we can help you get back on your feet using a total-body approach. Everything in the body is connected, so we treat symptoms with just that in mind.

Some of the treatments that may be beneficial to athletes include:

• Cold laser therapy


• Microcurrent Therapy


• Cryotherapy


• Adjustments


• Vibration Therapy

If you are sitting on the sidelines due to a recent injury or chronic pain, contact us to see what we can do for you. To set up an appointment with Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center of San Rafael, CA, call us at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website, www.summitchiro.net. 

How Microcurrent Therapy Works

New technology has the benefit of offering more accurate treatments and better patient outcomes. Here at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, one of the ways we utilize new technology is with microcurrent therapy.

Our bodies have natural electrical currents that help our cells communicate. When an area of the body is injured or when there is disease present, the cells cannot communicate as well, which leads to slowed healing time.

Microcurrent therapy is the process of restoring these electrical currents (it acts like a catalyst in jump starting the electrical system of the body). Electrodes are placed onto the skin over the affected area. When the machine is turned on, tiny microcurrents are passed through the skin and into the soft tissue that is in pain or injured. The electrical currents are so small that patients usually do not feel them. Restoring the electrical currents will allow cells to communicate so they can heal more quickly. In addition, microcurrent therapy can also reduce pain, reduce inflammation, and restore range of motion.

Patients with acute or chronic pain can receive benefits from microcurrent therapy. If you are tired of feeling pain or want to see what microcurrent therapy could do for you, be sure to contact us. To set up an appointment at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, call us at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website, www.summitchiro.net.

Sitting Too Long is Bad for You

When we sit for long periods of time, it takes a toll on our health in ways we may not realize. In fact, researchers have reported that sitting for long hours has been linked to a decreased state of mental health, a higher risk of death from heart disease, and a higher risk of disability. Additionally, these studies have proven that even if you exercise regularly, too much sitting is bad. This is why Dr. Kent Carlomagno at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center encourages you to get up and get moving.

If you sit more than eight hours a day, it’s definitely not benefitting your health; you are shutting down the function of your central/peripheral nervous systems function to innervate your body and muscles which begins the process of elastic soft tissue deformity, aging and spinal vertebral nerve compression leading eventually to chronic health problems from spinal compression and irritated/ pseudo pinched nerves. You may think you’re confined to your cubical, (or your couch) but it doesn’t hurt to get up and take a stroll, even if it’s for just a few minutes. If you have a desk job, taking a quick walk can clear your mind and get the oxygen flowing to your brain. Here are some tips for doing so:

• Never take the elevator when you can take the stairs


• Plan more active things to do after work


• Instead of sending an email or picking up the phone, walk over and talk to that person.


• While enjoying your morning coffee, take a few laps around the office.


• You may also perform isometric contractions of muscles for 5-10 seconds while sitting to activate the nervous system and maintain muscle tone

To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Also known as DDD, degenerative disc disease is not really a disease but a term used to describe the normal changes in your spinal discs as you age. As we age, our spinal discs break down, or degenerate, which may result in degenerative disc disease in some people. DDD is typically diagnosed with a medical history and a physical exam, so if you are experiencing any aches and pains out of the ordinary, visit Dr. Kent Carlomagno at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, today to determine if Chiropractic care can offset the results of diminished height due to disc bulging.

Spinal discs are soft, compressible discs that separate the vertebrae that make up the spine. The discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, allowing it to flex, bend, and twist. Symptoms of DDD are most commonly concentrated in the low back or neck, depending on where the degenerated discs are. Where the pain occurs depends on the location of the affected disc. Common symptoms include pain that ranges from nagging to severe and disabling and periods of severe pain that come and go, lasting from a few days to a few months. Treatments that Dr. Kent Carlomagno may recommend include physical therapy and exercises for strengthening and stretching the back.

If this condition sounds all too familiar, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic Health and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Tips for Perfect Posture

The term posture is used to describe how your body is positioned when you’re sitting, standing and laying down. When you practice correct posture, your body is in alignment with itself and this can prevent common problems such as back or neck pain, headaches, and much more. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, we have a variety of techniques and methods to correct your posture, but we would like to share some tips to help you maintain a correct standing posture on a daily basis.

• Imagine that a string is attached to the top of your head and pulling you upwards. The idea is to keep your body in perfect alignment, maintaining the spine’s natural curvature, neck straight, Chin slightly dipped and shoulders parallel with the hips.


• To stand correctly, you should always keep your shoulders back and relaxed while pulling in your abdomen and keeping your feet about hip distance apart.


• Balance your weight evenly on both feet and try not to tilt your head forward, backwards or sideways. Finally, you should always keep your legs very slightly bent, but your feet relaxed.

If you wish to improve your posture, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at our office, visitwww.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520. 

Peripheral Neuropathy Diagnosis and Treatment

I’ve talked about peripheral neuropathy just a short while ago.  Since I frequently receive questions on my neuropathy program -- and since more and more people affected by this condition (small fiber) are now turning to chiropractic care for help-- I thought I should go into a few of the specifics when it comes to diagnosing and treating peripheral neuropathy with natural, drug-free treatments.  At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, I offer diagnostic tools and customized treatment programs that have helped many of my patients manage and prevent the advance of their peripheral neuropathy symptoms.  Here’s a brief overview of our peripheral neuropathy diagnosis and treatment program.

While some neuropathy patients of mine have already received a diagnosis when they come to see me, many others are only aware that they experience a sharp, burning and tingling pain.  This pain usually starts in the feet and runs up the patient’s body. These pains are often increased when subjected to touch and increases or decreases in temperature. When a patient describes this and other physical symptoms that are in line with the condition, I typically begin the diagnostic process. Diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy usually a series of specific test that show me more about the patient’s reflexes, nerves, posture, and coordination.  Nerve function tests and an ENFD (Epidermal Nerve Fiber Density) testing may be performed, especially if small fiber neuropathy is suspected.  This diagnostic process gives insight into the specific type of neuropathy affecting the patient.  Such specifics are easily overlooked in the large fiber neuropathy diagnosis, which makes it difficult to implement an effective treatment.

Once we determine the nature of the patient’s specific type of neuropathy, I’m able to create a neuropathy treatment program.  Individual programs are designed with three specific points in mind.  The first being the type of neuropathy to be treated, followed by the underlying biological and lifestyle factors that may have contributed to the presence of the neuropathy, and finally, the current condition and lifestyle needs of the patient.  One or a combination of resources I offer at Summit Chiropractic andLongevity Center is then utilized to help the patient overcome their pain and manage their condition—all without the use of drugs or invasive procedures.  Such resources include cold laser therapy and vibration, to help soothe and stimulate the patient’s internal tissues. Aid with dietary, lifestyle modification and fitness improvements may also be implemented to control and inhibit the spread of neuropathy’s symptoms to other parts of the body.

For any of my readers who want to learn more about how I naturally and effectively treat peripheral neuropathy with your overall wellness in mind, I invite your calls and questions. Contact me directly at my chiropractic and longevity center in San Rafael, CA. by visiting my website www.summitchiro.net or calling 415-721-7520.

A New Neuropathy Treatment for an Increasingly Common Condition

A number of patients come to me seeking treatment of neuropathy.  Some have been specifically diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, a disease of the peripheral nervous system, while many others describe their experience with a series of symptoms that clearly point to this painful, sometimes inhibiting condition.  Unfortunately, peripheral neuropathy appears to be affecting more and more people, which likely results from growing population of Americans over fifty, the increasing prominence of diabetes, poor diet, excessive use of medication, and exposure to chemicals and pollutants causing internal inflammation within the body.  Sciatica, immune disorders, various infections, acute alcoholism are among many other factors that play a role in the presence of peripheral neuropathy.  For patients who are suffering from symptoms of this condition, and for those who have either found no success with conventional medicine and medications, and for those who are simply looking for a better more natural solution to alleviate their pain and discomfort, I offer a new neuropathy treatment at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center.

My new neuropathy treatment involves no medications. Instead, it is a natural, healthy approach that utilizes many of the wellness and longevity services I offer at my practice.  The goal of this new treatment is to relieve and prevent the painful tingling, burning and shock sensations that most patients by stabilizing and rebuilding injured and inflamed nerves patients will start to feel improvement on their feet, and then gradually, upward, through the rest of their body.  Once this uncomfortable and inhibiting effect is eased, I gradually work with my patient to help them restore their mobility and energy.  I also help them in making dietary, physical and therapeutic changes that can prevent further advancement of peripheral neuropathy’s effects and aid them in achieving an overall natural wellness and renewal that I strive to enable in all my patients.

If you or someone you care about is affected by peripheral neuropathy or similar symptoms, I invite you to reach out to me to see if my new neuropathy treatment and peripheral neuropathy diagnostic tools can help. Find out and to learn more, please view the Neuropathy Program information on my website, or contact me directly at my chiropractic and longevity center in San Rafael, CA. You can call us at 415-721-7520. 

Running Syndromes and Targeted Treatment with Sports Chiropractic

Running is a fantastic exercise for the body, mind and spirit.  As our feet hit and lift from the ground, each motion propels us towards a healthier, happier state of being.  Running can help us feel free, focused, clear and accomplished.  Regular running can add up to a plethora of benefits that include better heart heath, improved immune function, reduced chance of cataracts a balance of cholesterol, disease prevention, a decrease in stress and depression, and an overall greater sense of wellbeing and energy; Running in moderation can even stave off cancer!  For all of these positive results of running, there are really few disadvantages.  The same skeletal and muscular movement that enables our bodies to benefit from running will occasionally need maintenance and care to prevent various strain and injury.  When such problems do occur, they result in a number of issues that I refer to as running syndromes.

Running syndromes occasionally slow down many of my athletic patients.  They affect those individuals who run daily and consider themselves die hard runners, first and foremost.  Running syndromes also affect other athletes and players who run as part of their training and fitness programs.  My primary goal is to help my patients prevent running syndromes in the first place, which is accomplished through regular sports chiropractic care to keep your spine, joints and muscles in peak alignment thus enabling higher performance condition and enable your body to absorb the motion that’s fundamental to athletic movement.  Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for me to see a patient that needs care and assistance in recovering from a running syndrome. What are these syndromes? They are many, but the most common tend to be shin splints, snapping hip syndrome, pulled hamstrings, piriformis syndrome, severs syndrome, iliotibial band syndrome, plantar fascitis,  and cartilage breakdown-- which is known as a number of problems, including runner’s knee. Sprains, stress fractures and various forms of tendonitis are all fairly common as well.

These problems can easily keep runners from doing what they love for long periods of time.  Too often, conventional medicine treats the symptoms of these conditions, such as soreness and pain, but the affected area is never truly addressed.  This frequently means that athletes will reinjure the same region over and over again. Fortunately, the reinjure cycle can be stopped through chiropractic care.  Sports chiropractic differs from standard medicine in its targeted, corrective and preventative approach.  Through adjustments, joint and muscle focused rehab therapies and treatments that hasten recovery, like those that I offer at my practice, runners, and other athletes can restore the harmony of their complex biological networks and achieve top performance.  I invite any runners and athletes out there, whether you’ve sustained an injury or you simply want to continue performing at your best, to come see how sports chiropractic can benefit you. Contact me directly at my chiropractic and longevity center inSan Rafael, CA: 415-721-7520 or visit my website www.summitchiro.net for more information.

What Weakens Your Immune System?

Our immune systems what keep us well and fight against things that could compromise our health. It’s an important body system to keep in good shape. At Summit Chiropractic andLongevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we strive to help our patients live long, happy, and healthy lives thru a proper functioning nervous system included in the 5 step health formula. Watch out for some of these things that will weaken your immune system.

Not Enough Sleep

 

Sleep is our body’s way of repairing itself and rebuilding healthy systems to carry us through the next day. If you are not sleeping for long enough or are not getting deep, undisturbed, restful sleep, you could be weakening your immune system! Most adults need between seven and nine hours of uninterrupted sleep.

Not Enough Water

 

Water keeps our body system running at peak functionality. Water is the magic electrolyte that aids in the function of our nervous system Water flushes out toxins that can harm us, get us sick, or weaken our immune system. On average, women should be getting nine cups of water in per day and men should be getting in thirteen. Even if you don’t have thirst consuming water is vital to keep the battery at peak charge.

Processed Food and Chemicals

 

Pesticides, preservatives, and the chemicals in non-stick cookware can also weaken the immune system. Choose organic fruits and veggies, foods without preservatives, and use stainless steel cookware.

These immune system suppressors may be surprising, but avoiding them plus leading a healthy lifestyle can help keep your immune system strong and active. Chiropractic care can help, too by allowing your body to function at maximum potential. To schedule a consultation with Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, call our office at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website, www.summitchiro.net. 

Motivation Tips for Getting Active

Exercise is good for your whole body and your mind. We know it can be difficult to get going, though. Need some motivation? Take some of our tips for getting up and at it. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we believe an active lifestyle is part of a healthy lifestyle.

Visualize It (See it in your minds eye)

Set yourself up for the exercise mentality by creating visual reminders and motivators. Place a list of your favorite workouts on your kitchen bulletin board. Write your plans for your next bike ride on your calendar. Jot down a few fitness goals and place them on your fridge. Whatever you do, just make a visual, positive reminder that will inspire you to stick with your plans.

Make Time and Just Do it

Many of us make the excuse that we do not have time. This may actually be true, however, you have to make time. Cut small amounts of time out of other parts of your day where you can. The time will add up so you can have that extra half-hour after work or an extra hour on a Saturday.

Involve a Friend

 

Social interaction is very Important :Ask a friend to join a gym with you or go for walks a few times per week. Having someone who can hold you accountable helps make sure you do not cancel plans on yourself. They may appreciate you for the same reason!

Switch Up Your Routine

 

Doing the same workouts every time gets boring and you plateau in your workout gains. If you’re bored, you’re less likely to follow through with your workout schedule. Instead of skipping your next boring workout, change it up! Do something you normally wouldn’t. Go rollerblading. Join a yoga class. Try kickboxing. Then make these switch-ups part of your routine!

Exercise is vital for life. Set yourself up for success with these tips. For more help with healthy living, schedule an appointment with Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA by calling (415) 721-7520 or by visiting our website, www.summitchiro.net. 

Benefits of Using Epsom Salt

You overworked your joints at the gym, or maybe your arthritis is acting up. Whatever the case may be our staff at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center suggests soaking in a tub full of Epsom salts. Epsom salt, named for a bitter saline spring at Epsom in Surrey, England, is not like the salt you use at the dinner table. It’s actually a naturally occurring pure mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate that aids in relaxing muscles and loosening stiff joints.

Epsom salts dissolved in warm water – like those in an Epsom salt bath – is easily absorbed through the skin where they immediately go to work inside our bodies. When absorbed through the skin, these salts have the ability to relieve muscle tension, pain, and inflammation in joints. Additionally, they have the ability to alleviate tension headaches and soothe abdominal cramps. Epsom salts may be used topically or taken internally and can be found at your local drugstore.  

If you have further questions about the benefits of using Epsom salts, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our office, visitwww.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Get More Out of Your Run

At Summit Chiropractic Longevity Center, Dr. Kent Carlomagno supplies numerous treatment methods to help get your joints and spine in line. When joints are misaligned, nerve supply is adversely affected and will not flow correctly joints will become limited in range of motion therefore, if you’re a runner, chiropractic care can help improve your coordination, increase your balance, amplify your precision and may even give you a better reaction time.

Gone are the days when chiropractic care was needed just for aches and pains. Nowadays, for runners, chiropractic care can be used for injury prevention because it emphasizes proper alignment of the spine and pelvis. If the pelvis is misaligned, it can not only cause wear and tear to your joints, but it can put a strain on one particular body part. Runners can specifically benefit from chiropractic adjustments that will improve your overall performance over time.

If you are a runner and think you may benefit from chiropractic treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

The Reality of Back Pain

Back pain is extremely common. In fact, 80% of people will have significant back pain at some point in their life. In addition, the experience of back pain can be very complex as symptoms vary from individual to individual. If you have pain that is interfering with your ability to complete your daily activities it is advisable to seek help right away before the pain grows worse. An accurate diagnosis of the source of your back pain requires a combination of Dr. Kent Carlomagno’s findings from your medical history and physical exam.

To stay healthy, the spine needs regular Chiropractic adjustments a regimen of stretching, strengthening and aerobic conditioning exercises. While it’s true that well-conditioned individuals are less likely to have an episode of back pain than sedentary individuals, back pain can affect all people regardless of activity levels. However, an overall sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise leads to lack of strength and flexibility and generally does more harm than good.

If you are experiencing back pain of any kind, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Take Time for Yourself

When we experience stress on a daily basis it can have harmful effects on our body. In fact, stress seems to increase health conditions like obesity, heart disease, and depression. For these reasons, scheduling time for yourself is not only important for your mental health, it’s important for your physical health as well. Many of us are so busy with work, school, and home life that often there is no time left over to do something that you enjoy. To help you, our staff at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center put together some tips that will not only lower your stress but may lower your health risks as well.  

• Indulge in a massage – set aside some time to experience the complete and total bliss of a massage. It soothes both the mind and muscles, improves sleep quality, and reduces stress.


• Unplug – these days it seems like we’re all glued to our phones, laptops, or even both at the same time. Taking a break from social media, email, blogging, and so on can help us recharge and gives our brain the downtime it needs to work at an optimal level.


• Get outside – ditching the comfort of your home is a great way to improve mental and physical health.

If you think you may benefit from chiropractic care, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Sacroiliac Joint Function

Have you ever felt an unexplained pain in your lower back when you try to cross one leg over the other? If so, your sacroiliac joint (SI joint) may be acting up. The sacroiliac joint is the joint located in the pelvis, linking the iliac bone (pelvis) to the sacrum (lowest part of the spine above the tailbone). It is an essential component for shock absorption to prevent impact forces during walking from reaching the spine. If your SI joint is not functioning properly, you may feel chronic pain in your lower back, buttocks, or in the legs. When you do, Dr. Kent Carlomagno of Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center can provide you with relief.

The SI joint transfers weight and forces between your upper body and legs. Like any other joint in the body, it can degenerate or its support ligaments can become loose or injured. If this happens to you, chronic SI joint pain can make it difficult to perform daily activities, and can only get worse over time if left untreated. Chronic nerve irritation can affect the adjacent organs involved in sexual function and elimination.

If you are suffering from disturbed sleep patterns, hip/groin pain or pelvic pain, please give us a call. To learn more about the conditions we treat and the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.

Dr. Carlomagno Attends Re-Licensing Seminar

Dr. Kent G. Carlomagno of Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center here in San Rafael, CA aims to stay current with chiropractic research and education. He does this because our patients deserve the very best. We want our patients to be able to live long and healthy lives!

On Saturday, January 23^rd, Dr. Carlomagno attended a twelve-hour re-licensing seminar. This seminar included five hours of radiology by Dr. Motley, DACBR. In addition, Research Methodology, Ethics, and Jurisprudence and Technique were taught by Ed Cremata, DC. There were many outstanding research studies that support chiropractic adjustments for the whole body and not just for pain and musculoskeletal application!

Dr. Kent G. Carlomagno is dedicated to his patients at our San Rafael, CA practice, Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center. To learn more about Dr. Carlomagno, or to set up an appointment, call our office at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website, www.summitchiro.net. 

The History of Chiropractic

Dr. Kent Carlomagno has only been practicing chiropractic since 1983, but did you know that the idea of Chiropractic therapy itself dates back to the time of Hippocrates? He believed that if the spine was misaligned, it greatly contributed to the health of the individual. In fact, the word “chiropractic” comes from the Greek words cheir (meaning ‘hand’) and praktos (meaning ‘done), i.e. “Done by hand.”

The modern day school of chiropractic came when a developer of chiropractic, named Daniel David Palmer, performed the initial chiropractic adjustment in September of 1895. Palmer examined a janitor who had become deaf 17 years prior after he felt something “give” in his back. Palmer examined the area and gave a crude “adjustment” to what was felt to be a misplaced vertebra in the upper back. The janitor then observed his hearing improved. Then the rest was history.

If you think you may benefit from chiropractic treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520. 

The Musculoskeletal System and Chiro

These days, many people are seeking chiropractic services in treating musculoskeletal disorders. If you’re not familiar with what the musculoskeletal system is, it is the system that provides support to the body and gives us humans (and many animal species) the ability to move. In addition, the system provides form, support and stability. Sometimes our musculoskeletal system can “wear out” and limit our range of motion. If you feel that your bones and joints aren’t what they used to be, Dr. Kent Carlomagno is dedicated to providing chiropractic care to help you reach your fullest potential.

One of the most frequently used chiropractic methods in treating musculoskeletal disorders is spinal manipulation or spinal adjustments. However, Dr. Kent Carlomagno provides a wide range of services to treat your individual case. Prior to performing any chiropractic procedure, a diagnosis must be confirmed. Treatment for your musculoskeletal disorder will be based on the symptoms and causes.

If you have further questions regarding musculoskeletal disorders, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520. 

Benefits of Ergonomics in the Workplace

 

At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, we can help you with workers compensation issues if they happen to arise. However, we’d like you to practice safety, first. Workers in many different industries and occupations can be exposed to risk factors at work, such as lifting heavy items, bending, reaching overhead, pushing and pulling heavy loads, working in awkward body postures, and performing the same or similar tasks repetitively. This is why it’s important for companies to encourage ergonomics in the workplace. Ergonomics is the science that deals with designing and arranging things so that people can use them easily and safely.

Four proven benefits of a strong workplace ergonomics process include:

1. Improves Productivity – By designing a job to allow for good posture, less exertion, fewer motions, and better heights and reaches, the workstation becomes more efficient.

2. Improves Quality – Poor ergonomics leads to frustrated and fatigued workers. Proper ergonomics allows employs to do their job like they were trained.

3. Improves Employee Engagement – Employees notice when the company is putting forth their best efforts to ensure their health and safety and generally makes them more eager to interact.

4. Creates a Safer Environment – Healthy employees are a company’s most valuable asset and will lead to better performance.

 

If you have questions regarding ergonomics, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520. 

 

If you have questions regarding ergonomics, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520.At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, we can help you with workers compensation issues if they happen to arise. However, we’d like you to practice safety, first. Workers in many different industries and occupations can be exposed to risk factors at work, such as lifting heavy items, bending, reaching overhead, pushing and pulling heavy loads, working in awkward body postures, and performing the same or similar tasks repetitively. This is why it’s important to practice proper ergonomics – the science that deals with designing and arranging things so that people can use them easily and safely.

Four proven benefits of a strong workplace ergonomics process include:

1. Improves Productivity – By designing a job to allow for good posture, less exertion, fewer motions, and better heights and reaches, the workstation becomes more efficient.

2. Improves Quality – Poor ergonomics leads to frustrated and fatigued workers. Proper ergonomics allows employs to do their job like they were trained. 

3. Improves Employee Engagement – Employees notice when the company is putting forth their best efforts to ensure their health and safety and generally makes them more eager to interact.

4. Creates a Safer Environment – Healthy employees are a company’s most valuable asset and will lead to better performance. 

If you have questions regarding ergonomics, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, we can help you with workers compensation issues if they happen to arise. However, we’d like you to practice safety, first. Workers in many different industries and occupations can be exposed to risk factors at work, such as lifting heavy items, bending, reaching overhead, pushing and pulling heavy loads, working in awkward body postures, and performing the same or similar tasks repetitively. This is why it’s important to practice proper ergonomics – the science that deals with designing and arranging things so that people can use them easily and safely.

Four proven benefits of a strong workplace ergonomics process include:

1. Improves Productivity – By designing a job to allow for good posture, less exertion, fewer motions, and better heights and reaches, the workstation becomes more efficient.

2. Improves Quality – Poor ergonomics leads to frustrated and fatigued workers. Proper ergonomics allows employs to do their job like they were trained. 

3. Improves Employee Engagement – Employees notice when the company is putting forth their best efforts to ensure their health and safety and generally makes them more eager to interact.

4. Creates a Safer Environment – Healthy employees are a company’s most valuable asset and will lead to better performance. 

If you have questions regarding ergonomics, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, visit www.summitchiro.net for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kent Carlomagno in San Rafael, CA, call 415-721-7520

 

Choosing the Right Pillow

Sleep is a very important part of our overall health. We need it in order for our body systems to rest function properly. Sleep posture is vital for healthy sleep. This is why Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center wants our patients to know how to choose the right pillow for sleeping. The right pillow will ensure your cervical spine stays in line with the rest of your spine.

Choosing the right pillow depends on two things. The first is how you sleep.

Back and Side Sleepers

For those who sleep on their back or their side, thicker pillows are best. You want to be sure that the pillow is supporting your head and your neck. When your spine is in line, your nerves can communicate properly for delivering messages to and from the brain. This way, your body can function properly and repair itself during sleep. In addition, you will not hurt your neck or back by staying in a bad position all night.

Stomach Sleepers

Sleeping on your stomach is actually not recommended. However, there are many people who prefer this position. If you do sleep on your stomach, you want a very thin pillow or no pillow at all. This is so that your neck is not bent up while you are sleeping. As mentioned before, it is important to keep the cervical spine in line with the rest of the spine. It is also smart to place a pillow under your pelvis and stomach area. This helps take stress off the rest of the spine.

The second part of choosing a good pillow involves the actual pillow. You want a pillow that is comfortable, but will not deflate throughout the night. Take a while to test out a pillow or consider buying one with a money-back guarantee; this way you can return it if it is not doing its job.

Why Didn't I Feel Whiplash Right Away?

Whiplash is a common injury from a car accident though many patients do not realize they have the injury until later. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we want our patients to understand how whiplash works and why it is not always felt right away.

Whiplash happens when the spine is thrust forwards and then whipped back quickly. The cervical spine and the surrounding structures can become sprained, strained, or even misplaced. Whiplash is a very common injury to occur during a car accident. While sometimes the pain is felt right away, other times it can show up hours, days, weeks, or months after the accident. Why is this?

When the body goes through the trauma of a car accident, it releases endorphins as a natural painkiller. So, while some injuries may be obvious, like a cut or a broken bone, other injuries like whiplash stay hidden. It can stay hidden until the pain from other injuries is gone or healed.

This is why it is very important for a patient to have a chiropractic exam soon after a car accident. It is especially important to be done before any important decisions are made. We can determine if there is any hidden damage that will need to be corrected. If whiplash is left untreated, it can turn into chronic pain.

If you were recently in a car accident, make sure to schedule an appointment with us for a full examination. To schedule in our San Rafael, CA office, call us at (415) 721-7520 or visit our Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center website, www.summitchiro.net. 

Winter Fun to Stay Active

Chillier weather can often make us stay inside and bundle up on the couch. However, there are still plenty of fun activities that take place both indoors and outdoors. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we believe staying active keeps your body and mind healthy. So take some ideas for some winter fun!

Zoos and Parks

Going to the zoo or the park during winter is interesting because you get to see the world more closely in a different season. Animals and plants behave differently in the winter, so just because it's chilly, doesn’t mean there isn’t any fun!

Ski Trips and Sledding

If there is no snow in your area, it could be fun to plan a trip to a location where skiing and sledding are possible. This can definitely be quite the workout; plus you can end the day with a warm cup of hot chocolate!

5Ks

There is certainly no shortage of 5Ks in the winter, even in frigid weather! Many are even winter themed. So lace up your running shoes and challenge yourself in a race! You can try to beat your own time, race a friend, or try for first place! There are also many 5Ks that go towards a good cause.

Cook

If you are tired of being in the cooler weather, try a more relaxed indoor activity like cooking a new meal. You can partner up with a family member or friend to find a new recipe, shop for the ingredients, and get cooking! Cooking is also a great stress-reliever.

Next time the chilly weather has you cooped up, take this list of inspiration and get moving! To learn more about Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center of San Rafael, CA, call us at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website, www.summitchiro.net.