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60 Is the New 40

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Just the other week, the Today Show featured a segment on aging.  It pointed out that as our life expectancy continues to rise, so does our ability to stay active longer.  This particular segment suggested not only is “60 is the new 40,” but that 60 is now considered middle-aged because there is a lot of living still to do once a person reaches the age of 60.  Living a healthy lifestyle certainly has contributed to this trend, as well as the advances made in both medicine and technology.  And what an incredible gift that is considering not too long ago the age of 60 meant you were ancient!

The best news is that retirement can be that much more fulfilling because if our body is well cared for, we can do the things we truly enjoy like:

  • travelling
  • hiking
  • golfing
  • tennis
  • gardening
  • dancing
  • yoga
  • Zumba
  • walking
  • swimming

Retirement is that time in our lives where we can finally focus on ourselves once again, after raising a family and building our professional lives.  So, planning for that phase is key to enjoying it fully.  In the Sunday, April 19, 2015 Cincinnati Enquirer, there was a full-page article on getting fit for an active retirement, stating that travelling and socializing are much easier if you are in shape.  The article suggested that many “people are planning ahead for their physical fitness in retirement just as they plan for their financial fitness.”  What good is it if we have the financial means to retire but can’t enjoy it?

Another benefit to being fit after 60 is a significant reduction in chronic conditions plus better mental health, which means less money paid for healthcare.  Staying active and eating right contribute to maintaining a healthy weight and a sharper mind.  A sedentary lifestyle of poor eating habits does just the opposite, causing an increase in weight and the development of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.

Take control of your future with a plan, but resist the urge to overdo it because you think you can get fit faster.  That is a recipe for injury.  If your weight and overall fitness is less than ideal today, remember that it didn’t happen overnight – reaching your fitness goals won’t happen that way either.  Be proactive and commit to yourself now so you can savor the rewards of retirement.

Chronic Inflammation

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When we think of inflammation, the first image that comes to mind is probably a minor injury we suffered that became infected like a splinter or skinned knee.  The area around the wound got red and was tender to the touch.  It felt hot and hurt.  We knew that with proper treatment the inflammation would subside and the wound would heal.  But inflammation can also take place inside our body as well, which doesn’t leave obvious visual signs like the splinter or skinned knee.  However, being aware of the symptoms of inflammation can help you remedy the situation.

According to Medical News Today, “inflammation is the body’s attempt at self-protection; the aim being to remove harmful stimuli, including damaged cells, irritants, or pathogens – and begin the healing process.” (Feb. 2015)  Acute inflammation is the wound example above which is short in duration. Chronic inflammation can last months or even years due to the body’s failure to eliminate the cause of the problem.  What are some conditions that cause chronic inflammation?

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Chronic Sinusitis
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Allergies
  • Diabetes

So how would you know that your body is suffering from chronic inflammation?  What are some of the symptoms?

  • Persistant pain in the joints or muscles
  • Worsening allergies or asthma
  • High blood pressure or blood sugar
  • Irritable Bowl Syndrome (IBS)
  • Ulcers
  • Constant fatigue or exhaustion
  • Skin problems or bloodshot eyes

According to a 2012 article in SCD Lifestyle, “Inflammation becomes chronic when it stops being an acute response” (i.e. the body’s reaction to a cut or bruise) “and remains a constant low-level physiological response.”  It continues by stating, “Chronic inflammation is when your body no longer has the ability to turn off the inflammatory response and it starts damaging healthy tissue in your body.” But guess what?  Chronic inflammation can be preventable.  Yes, it’s true – preventable by YOU.  Our lifestyle and the choices we make significantly impact our body.  A hectic schedule, high pressure job, lack of sleep, high fat foods, weight gain, sugary foods and drinks, daily consumption of alcohol – are some of the choices, when made each and every day, cause our body to become chronically inflamed. Only for the simple fact that it is trying to protect YOU.

In addition to improving your lifestyle and choices,  there are other changes you can make to reduce and eliminate chronic inflammation:

  • Taking Fish Oil
  • Getting 8 hours of sleep
  • Spinal adjustments
  • Exercise
  • A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meat and fish
  • Supplements like vitamin D, magnesium, and turmeric

You can stop the war your body is waging against itself.  Be aware of your choices and how they really impact you.  Allow your body to begin the healing process so you can enjoy the benefits of living without chronic inflammation.

 

Arthritis

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Arthritis use to be a word associated with the elderly.  We knew it was painful because of the reaction the person made when moving.  Unfortunately, arthritis is one of those health problems that can affect all ages.  In fact, according to the CDC, an estimated 52.5 million adults suffer from arthritis and 1 in 250 children under the age of 18 have been diagnosed.  But what is arthritis?  What causes it?  And what can be done to minimize symptoms so one can live an active, pain-free life?

Another word for arthritis is inflammation, specifically joint inflammation.  The knee is the most common spot for arthritis to develop but it can also occur is other parts of the body as well:

  • Spine
  • Neck
  • Back
  • Shoulders
  • Elbows
  • Wrists
  • Hands
  • Fingers
  • Hips
  • Ankles
  • Heels
  • Toes

In order to identify the causes, it’s important to understand the two main forms of arthritis – Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid.  Osteoarthritis is caused by the inflammation, breakdown, and the loss of cartilage in the joints.  It is the most common type of arthritis that progresses over time and is said by many – “has no cure.”  However, preventative steps can be taken to reduce the likelihood of its occurrence, or if you already suffer from it, steps can be taken to halt its progression.  Typically it affects people over the age of 40, especially women, but it can also develop in younger people, too, which is known as juvenile arthritis. The causes can be linked to poor diet, obesity, a prior injury or joint condition, muscular imbalance over time, family history, age, and your sex.

Rheumatoid arthritis is different in that it is an autoimmune disease which means the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joint, also known as synovial membrane, causing it to become inflamed and swollen.  As the disease progresses it can cause painful deformity and immobility in an individual. According to the Arthritis Foundation, “nearly three times as many women have the disease as men.”  The risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis include a family history, age, and being a woman.  The reason it affects more women is due to a lower percentage of muscle mass, which continues to decline later in life, especially during and after childbirth and menopause.

The symptoms of both types of arthritis include stiffness, pain, redness, swelling, and decreased range of motion which can significantly affect quality of life.  And while there is no known cure, there are many steps a person can take to minimize symptoms:

  • Strength training
  • Weight loss
  • Exercise
  • Heating pads or ice packs
  • Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
  • Yoga or Tai Chi
  • Massage therapy

Life may throw us many curve balls.  We simply course-correct and continue on our journey living our best life – today.

Chronic Pain

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According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), chronic pain is defined as “any pain lasting more than 12 weeks.”  It affects 100 million people and can range from mild, excruciating, episodic or continuous, and simply be an inconvenience or totally incapacitate a person.  The effects of chronic pain can take both a physical and an emotional toll.

But where does chronic pain come from?  What causes it?  Some of the most common sources are:

  • Headaches
  • Joint pain
  • Injury
  • Backaches
  • Tendinitis
  • Sinuses
  • Carpel Tunnel Syndrome

Chronic pain can weigh heavily on a person emotionally, causing anxiety, depression, anger, and stress.  Studies indicate a correlation between emotional well being and the body’s ability to fight infection.  Individuals who suffer from chronic pain are in a relentless cycle from which it is difficult to emerge from.

Fortunately, there are options for sufferers of chronic pain, and surprisingly, many of these options are more holistic and proactive than traditional medicinal remedies.  The goal is to uncover and address the source of the problem versus simply masking it.  Here are a few areas to explore if you, or someone you know, is suffering from chronic pain:

  • Anti-inflammatory plants and herbs – turmeric, green tea, ginger, rosemary, and willow bark
  • Fish oil- omega-3s for headaches, back pain, some
  • Vitamin D increase
  • Exercise – releasing endorphins through physical activity can provide pain relief as endorphins are the body’s natural pain reliever
  • Stretching – through massage or other exercises
  • Meditation
  • Spinal Decompression – through Chiropractic care
  • Spinal Manipulation

It’s important that the underlying cause of the pain is correctly identified so that the proper course of treatment can be prescribed.  A Chiropractor can work with both a Licensed Massage Therapist and a Rehabilitation Specialist to develop a plan to help a person get back to a pain-free life once again.  And while it might take some time to get there, it will be worth every step.

You can start today on your journey to wellness.  Don’t let pain rob you of one more moment.

 

Range of Motion

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“The range, measured in degrees of a circle, through which a joint can be extended or flexed.”

Everyone has a different range of motion for any given joint.  Take for example an Olympic gymnast.  Watching this Champion compete leaves you in awe of her extreme flexibility.  Someone without that level of training can appear quite limited in comparison with their range of motion. In reality, it is completely within that person’s normal range.

As we age, life circumstances have a tendency to affect our bodies, in ways that can significantly limit our mobility and overall movement.  But what exactly are these life circumstances that can affect our range of motion as we age?

  • Our overall flexibility and motion can be affected by muscle or fat mass.  An overabundance of either can limit how far we can extend an arm or leg, or even how far we can bend over to touch our toes.
  • The pain caused by injury will impact range of motion.  When the body experiences pain the muscles surrounding the injury/pain will contract reflexively to prevent further injury.  Examples include sprains, bruises, and dislocation.
  • When our body is afflicted by disease, like arthritis or bursitis, the joints are affected causing pain and, once again, a limited range of motion.
  • If muscles are not moved or stretched regularly they can become stiff and lack extensibility, which is flexibility and elasticity.  That is why it is recommended that you stretch properly before engaging in sports or certain exercises like jogging.
  • Scar tissue from surgery or injury can limit the movement of joints due to the loss of elasticity in the affected tissue.

Fortunately the body is an amazing machine that, if given the proper care, can rehabilitate itself.  While many of us will never be that Olympic gymnast, or any gymnast for that matter, we can achieve the ideal range of motion for our age and body type.  We needn’t limit ourselves due to contentment, ignorance, fear, or pain.  Working with the right team of healthcare professionals – like a chiropractor, massage therapist, and rehabilitation specialist – will help you work you way back to optimal motion and flexibility, so you can stay there.

Never settle for anything less.

The Sound an Adjustment Makes

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I never like hearing people crack their knuckles, it sounds painful.  Ironically, there have been times that I have accidentally cracked my own knuckles.  It has always surprised me for two reasons – one, that I can actually crack my own knuckles; and two, that it doesn’t hurt.

When people hear the word “chiropractor” many think of cracking, specifically back cracking.  And while the chiropractor uses the spine, or back, as the focal point of treatment, it only scratches the surface of the care that is provided.  But why all the cracking?  What does it mean?  Why does it happen?

Chiropractors use the word “adjustment” to describe their approach to spinal manipulation, to correct joints that have a limited or abnormal range of motion that prevent a person’s body from acting as it should.  This abnormality, called a subluxation, directs the chiropractor where to perform the adjustment to correct the situation.  During the adjustment, it is very common to hear a “popping” or “cracking” sound – similar to when a person cracks their knuckles, except the sound is coming from joints from another part of the body.

The sound we hear is due to nitrogen gas that is released when the joint is released from a locked position (within its natural range).  The gas is created by the fluid that protects the joints called synovial fluid, which is produced by the joints themselves.  This gas is created because of excess pressure being placed on the joint. The byproduct of this production are gasses, specifically oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen.  When the joint is “opened” during an adjustment, the gas is released and the popping or cracking is heard.  A sensation of “release” is felt in the area that was treated. Some may call it immediate relief depending on the nature of the problem.  Something as non-invasive as an adjustment literally causes the body to react in this positive way.  Without pain, without medication, without waiting weeks for an appointment.

Each visit to the chiropractor will involve an adjustment, helping the body to realign itself in the way it was originally designed to be aligned.  As the joints are aligned, the muscles surrounding those joints begin to strengthen.  They were weakened because other muscles were doing their job.  The adjustment gradually brings things back to normal, so that the body can function as it is designed to.

OUR TEAM

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.

Hours

Monday 9-1 & 2-6

Tuesday 9-1 & 2-6

Wednesday 9-1 & 2-6

Thursday 9-1 & 2-6

Friday 8-11

Saturday and Sunday CLOSED

Contact information

 3187 Western Row Road Suite 114
    Maineville, OH 45039

Office:
     (513) 770-3434

Email:
    info@damronchiropractic.com