exercises Archives - Damron Chiropractic & Wellness

Neck Pain

September 20, 2016 By Pam Rezai Leave a Comment

Neck pain is not synonymous with getting older. However, many of us equate getting older with aches and pains. Below is a testimonial from one of our patients about how she thought just that. That is until she was referred to Damron Chiropractic & Wellness:

“I started at Damron on the referral of my massage therapist and, to be honest, I was not expecting a whole lot. I had lived with pain in my neck and lower back for so long I did not even realize there was something wrong. Or that it even could be fixed! Dr. Damron and crew took me in right away. They made me feel part of their family and I started getting better!

The improvements did not last long. Dr Damron explained that in order for the results to stay, I needed to strengthen my muscles so they would remain in the correct alignment. Made sense. So, I started seeing Jaimie Hensley, DCW’s Rehabilitation Coordinator, three times a week. That’s when things really started to work! The exercises Jaimie has me do, seem innocent enough, but they aren’t! They really work! And the stretching exercises she has me do simply make me feel good!! I am now about finished with my rehab program. My lower back is at about 100% and my neck is almost there. To top it off, I have more muscle tone, lost some weight and I feel so much better about myself than when I started!”

– Lynn Zimmer

The truth is that getting older can be a wonderful thing. You can be fit, feel good, and pain-free. The choice is ours as to which path we choose. We don’t need to learn to live with neck pain, back pain, or any pain for that matter.

Why We Need Mobility and Stability as We Age

September 8, 2016 By Pam Rezai

In our youth we take many things for granted – our health, time, money, high metabolism, and there will be food on the table when we get home. We have a sense of immortality, that nothing bad will happen to us. It is the gift of our youth, ignorance. You can tell by how kid behave on the playground this sense of innocence. Climbing, running, swinging, it seems they are showcasing the benefits of their youth. Compare this to those who are living in a nursing home. The sharp contrast in both the mobility and stability between the two groups is obvious.

Mobility implies freedom. The freedom to move from one place to another. The ideal is the ability to move easily and without pain. Stability, on the other hand, implies strength and steadiness. Children manifest both. The older we get, the more we need to work to keep both. However, the reality is that we don’t appreciate what we have until it is gone. According to the most recent statistics published by the CDC, over a third of U.S. adults are obese (11/2015). But it doesn’t stop there. In addition to the extra weight, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and certain cancers are also connected to obesity. So, what happened? In one word, life happened.

Mobility and stability are not only for the young. Granted, it is easier for our youth to be like that because not enough life has happened yet. However, as we age, keeping our mobility and stability is essential to living well and here’s why. Mobility is freedom. Being mobile allows us to remain active which helps keep us fit. Stability helps to prevent falls. Falls, especially in older people, contribute to broken bones and other injuries. These consequences of falls can affect our mobility which in turn can affect our weight and create further health issues.

At DCW, we help our patients with both mobility and stability through our Rehabilitation Department. We make it a priority to individualize treatment plans to ensure each patient can improve their ability to move without pain. We also incorporate balance exercises to strengthen stability. While we cannot be young again, it doesn’t mean we can’t reverse the effects of time on our body and regain our movement.

Surgery Is the Last Option

April 19, 2016 By Pam Rezai

When you have an accident or get injured, surgery should be your last option, not your first. Granted there will be times when it is apparent that surgery is required, depending on the severity of the injury. But many times we mistakenly jump to the conclusion that the body is unable to heal itself and surgery is needed. In fact, the surgical option can come with another set of potential issues and complications whether it’s a knee replacement or a herniated disc. So, if the situation permits, exploring other treatment remedies may not only heal you but also prevent a longer road to recovery.

Strengthening the affected area through a series of specific exercises can significantly reduce the chance of surgery if you are working with a credible professional that is trained to do just that. Being actively engaged in physical therapy over a set course of time, plus eating the right foods and taking the right nutritional supplements can help to heal the body, too. But what if after all the effort to correct the problem it doesn’t work? Well, then surgery can be your last option. Surgery is invasive, not a guarantee, expensive, and many times requires physical therapy afterwards. Why not try other options first?

Your body is an amazing organism made up of many complex systems. Given the chance, it has the ability to heal itself if given the right tools. Perhaps the injury occurred in the first place because we lacked balance and were weak. Perhaps we overexerted ourselves causing our body to stain. Perhaps we thought we were okay after a minor car accident only to wake up two weeks later in pain. Seeking a holistic approach to our body can provide great insight as to the true cause of our problem and eliminate countless visits to other doctors who may opt for surgery first.

Patience, along with rehabilitation, is really a virtue, especially when it comes to the well-being of our body.

Preventing Pelvic Floor Disorders

November 6, 2015 By Damron Chiropractic

The trend seems to be that we take how our body functions for granted until we get much older. With over 600 muscles, 206 bones, 22 internal organs, and 100 trillion cells, there is a lot going on inside of us simultaneously. Inevitably, we reach a point in our life where something goes wrong, we tear a ligament, break a bone, fall, or become ill. We realize then, what we actually knew all along, that we are human after all and normal “wear and tear” do occur. One area that is often misunderstood and under-appreciated is our pelvic floor. Pelvic floor disorders typically occur when we get much older. It’s something that we also take for granted, too. For the pelvic floor are the muscles that hold our pelvic organs in place and keep them functioning as they should, which is what we really want after all.

The pelvic floor muscles run from your pubic bone in the front to the base of your spine in the back. As you get older, these muscles can get weaker, especially for women who have had children. These weakened muscles can cause problems that interfere with living your life. Problems such as urinary incontinence, which is the inability to hold all the urine in so a person experiences leakage; reduced sensitivity during sex; and the risk of developing pelvic organ prolapse, which occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs bulge into an area it doesn’t belong. Strong pelvic floor muscles also assist with preventing lower back pain, inflammation, and instability or dysfunction.

Both men and women can prevent the weakening of our pelvic floor muscles through awareness and targeted exercises. The good news is that strengthening this area requires minimal effort. There are two actions – squeeze and lift. First squeeze your pelvic floor as you would to hold a full bladder and then lift it at the same time and hold for 5 to 10 seconds. This is called activating your pelvic floor. Doing this throughout your day will gradually strengthen this area of your body.

Pilates is another way to strengthen your pelvic floor and prevent disorders. This form of exercise is highly effective at reducing lower back pain and strengthening the pelvic floor. Be proactive with your health. Don’t wait until you experience the symptoms of a pelvic floor disorder. Staying on the offense will keep you living the life you want.

Dr. Andrew Damron, Chiropractor

Why ChiropracticProfessional Experience Personal Information

Dr. Damron established DCW because he was fed up with the current health model. Statistics continue to show an increase in pharmaceutical prescriptions to patients every day. Although he does believe some medications are necessary, he believes the majority of what is prescribed is actually harmful to the patient’s long-term health, creating another set of healthcare issues as a result. Dr. Damron believes DCW’s unique approach to achieving overall wellness will revolutionize the healthcare industry through collaborative care utilizing chiropractic, massage therapy, rehabilitation, and nutrition. The DCW focus addresses the whole person versus a only symptom and uncovers the root cause. He also believes that education is vital to sustaining a healthier more vibrant lifestyle as well. His goal is to create a healthier society and a better place for our children to live.

Dr. Damron began his medical career with a Biology Degree from Wright State University in 2002. He went on to receive his Doctorate of Chiropractic from the prestigious Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange, Florida in 2007. While attending Palmer, he had the opportunity to travel abroad to Madagascar and provide chiropractic care to the native Malagasy people. Dr. Damron has continued his post-graduate studies with a focus on nutrition, rehabilitation, and functional medicine.

Dr. Damron and his wife, Kristy, reside in West Chester with their two young children, Graden and Isabelle. An avid Buckeye fan, Dr. Damron enjoys playing the guitar in a band with his college friends, watching/playing any sport, cooking, reading, and attending concerts, especially the Dave Matthews Band and Foo Fighters.

Dr. Greg Washam, Chiropractor

Why ChiropracticProfessional Experience Personal Information

Dr. Washam was introduced to Chiropractic by his mother at the age of 16. She was working for a Chiropractor at the time, experiencing all the benefits that Chiropractic care had to offer, and thus began taking Dr. Washam and his siblings in for regular adjustments. Dr. Washam had been experiencing painful bouts of Strep Throat from the age of 8, which always included a 10 day course of antibiotics. While under Chiropractic care his doctor convinced him to avoid the antibiotics and receive Chiropractic adjustments instead. To his amazement, Dr. Washam’s strep throat symptoms had vanished within three days and he never had an issue from that point forward. He was so astounded by his experience that he fell in love with Chiropractic and decided that was the path for him. He wanted to commit his life to helping people through the power of Chiropractic, just as it had helped him.

Dr. Greg Washam began his college education at the University of Cincinnati, studying biology. After he made the decision to become a Chiropractor, he attended Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis, MO. While at Logan, he received his Bachelor of Science in Biology and Life Sciences in 2009. He received his Doctorate of Chiropractic in 2011. Dr. Washam was presented with various awards upon graduation. These included Dean’s List honors, the Senior Intern Assistant Award, and the Award of Excellence from the Division of Research. He has completed many hours of post graduate education focusing on nutrition, supplementation and injury recovery.

Dr. Washam and his wife Kassie reside in Mason, Oh with their two daughters, Lillian and Wren. In his free time, Dr. Washam enjoys cooking, exploring new restaurants, touring local craft breweries and reading. He also spends a great deal of time outdoors with his family and his Beagle, Willow. Dr. Washam is a music enthusiast and listens to all genres of music. He especially loves classic rock from the 60’s and 70’s. His favorite band of all time is Led Zeppelin.

Brooke Snyder, Operations Manager

Why DCWProfessional Experience Personal Information

Brooke had never been to a medical office where she really felt like they cared more about her than her money until she came to DCW as a patient. DCW made it so easy to arrange financial payment with, they were compassionate, dedicated and most importantly 100% honest. The team addressed all aspects of her health and well-being, above and beyond chiropractic care. Her initial impression of chiropractic offices were that they would only adjust then send her on her way. She realized that she was wrong. Because of her experience as a patient at DCW she realized she wanted to pursue a career within it. She saw everything she wanted in healthcare at DCW. Finally, a place where patient care really comes first! She comes to DCW with a degree in Nursing and a background in finance. When someone asks her “Why DCW?” she cannot think of one reason why not.

Brooke has a background in business finance and computer technology prior to the start of her medical career. She attended Southern State and obtained an Associate’s Degree in Science, R.N. Sh began working from DCW in December of 2014.

Brooke has five beautiful girls from 15 to 6 years old. She is married to Jamey Snyder who has two boys of his own. She lives on a two acre farm in the country with horses, dogs, cats, and a pot belly pig. Brooke enjoys spending time with her very active family and watching their kids play sports.

Nicole Foreman, Licensed Massage Therapist

Why MassageProfessional Experience Personal Information

Nicole always wanted a career that was focused on helping people. It wasn’t until she drove past the Dayton School of Medical Massage on a daily basis that it became clear what she was meant to do. She enrolled as soon as she could and it has been the best decision she has ever made. She loves the feeling of knowing she has alleviated someone’s pain and possibly made their day better in some way. She had been working alongside chiropractors for over 7 years before joining the DCW team. Before DCW she never really felt her opinions and insights were valued or even asked for, which she felt hindered patient care and the effectiveness of each treatment. At DCW she feels valued and part of a practice that is focused on changing the approach of wellness with cohesive and effective patient care.

Nicole is a graduate of the Dayton School of Medical Massage and obtained her license in 2008. She utilizes Deep Tissue, Swedish and Thai massage techniques to relieve pain, tension, and stress while increasing range of motion and flexibility.

Nicole is married to her husband of 5 years and they one daughter, Rylee, and one child on the way due in September 2016. As a family they enjoy camping, hiking and spending time at the lake during the summer.

Erika Pantona, Insurance Specialist

Why DCWProfessional Experience Personal Information

Erika started coming to DCW in 2010 after spending two years in substantial pain after an injury. She had spent those two years at various specialists and taking medications to simply get up in the morning due to the pain. She was 18 when she found herself facing a major, life altering surgery (SI Fusion) and realized there must be another way. When she began her treatment plan at DCW she started to have days with little or no pain. She stopped taking her medications and realized they had been affecting her overall mood. In 2015 Erika joined the DCW team because they allowed her to live her life once again. She wants to prevent others from living in pain like she did unnecessarily, and to receive the benefits of chiropractic care.

Erika is well versed in the insurance industry with her previous employment at Express Scripts and Anthem.

Erika has two siblings and resides in Liberty Township. In her spare time she enjoys traveling and hiking with her family.

Amy Faris, Patient Care Coordinator

Why DCWProfessional Experience Personal Information

After moving to Ohio in 2010, I was in need of some relief from minor pain associated with working in customer service fields for 15 years. I was interested in seeking alternative forms of therapy and found a chiropractor in our small town. After going for a few visits, the therapy seemed somewhat outdated compared to what I had researched. In talking with my husband, he remembered that he knew someone who was a chiropractor. After just a few visits with Dr. Damron, I definitely noticed a difference in his techniques and style. It was nice to see results and feel like I was being listened to as a patient, not just heard…something you don’t always feel with doctors. After being a patient for several years, the opportunity came about to join the DCW team. It would be something different from what I had done in my past, however I knew my passion for working with people would translate well into helping patients receive the best care possible. I believed in the mission of DCW as a patient, and I am excited to be part of living that mission every day.

I am originally from St. Louis, MO. I graduated from the University of Missouri – Columbia with a degree in Secondary Education – Language Arts. I worked in restaurant/catering management for several years before starting a career in retail management and training.

In that position, I met my husband, Matt, who is from Wilmington, OH. After we got married in 2010, I moved to Wilmington. Realizing retail wasn’t where my heart was any longer, I began working as a substitute teacher in the Clinton County area. Matt and I live in Wilmington with our 6 year old German Shepard, Dale. I enjoy camping, boating, riding 4-wheelers, and spending time with family and friends. I love St. Louis Cardinals baseball and am a recently converted Cincinnati Bengals fan.

OUR TEAM

Dr. Andrew Damron, Chiropractor

Dr. Greg Washam, Chiropractor

Brooke Snyder, Operations Manager

Nicole Foreman, Licensed Massage Therapist

Erika Pantona, Insurance Specialist

Amy Faris, Patient Care Coordinator

Hours

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