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Myth #7: Chiropractors Only Treat Back Pain

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It’s natural to associate seeing a chiropractor when experiencing back pain. This medical professional works with the spine, or back. Yet, what most people don’t realize is that back pain is only one of many ailments and conditions that a chiropractor can treat.

Think of a chiropractor as you would your primary care doctor or pediatrician. You don’t see either just for the flu or seasonal allergies. You visit these two doctors for various reasons. The same is true for a chiropractor. Granted the spine, or back, connects the body. So, it makes sense to only think of back pain when seeing a chiropractor. But, because the spine connects the body, a chiropractor treats the entire musculoskeletal system.

If we look at the Grey’s Anatomy “Chart of Body & Anatomy” we can see that the spine is comprised of vertebrae. Each vertebrae connects nerves to specific parts of the body. For example, vertebrae 1C in the cervical spine contains the nerves connected to the head, brain, middle and inner ear, and the sympathetic nervous system. Irritated nerves in 1C can create symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, migraines, and high blood pressure. Relieving that irritation with chiropractic adjustments alleviates the symptoms. This is one of the biggest differences between how a chiropractor treats an ailment and how a medical doctor treats one.

Traditional medical doctors typically treat the symptoms. In other words, if are suffering migraines, you may only receive a prescription for pain relief medicine. The symptom may be addressed, but not the cause of it. With chiropractic care, the cause is determined and addressed, not just the symptoms. And not with the use of prescription medications either. The goal is to eliminate the cause of them problem, not just mask the symptoms.

Chiropractors treat the entire body, not just back pain. Think of it this way, your spine is the central piece that connects your entire body. So, whether you have pain in your shoulder, hip, neck, or back, a chiropractor can provide you the care you need.

Myth #2: Chiropractic adjustments are dangerous

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Myth #2: Chiropractic adjustments are dangerous.

Danger lurks around every corner. Simply walking out the door in the morning invites the risk of danger. While we cannot escape it, we can minimize our risk of injury through proper training, awareness, plus other control measures. Fire, driving, and alcohol are dangerous; however, with control and knowledge we can make these things safer. For example, fire is a danger, but we can use things like a fire pit to control the flames. Driving a car can be dangerous. But we need to earn a license first to drive. Alcohol is dangerous, but using moderation and a designated driver minimizes that danger. 

On the surface, we can say that many things are dangerous. But usually because they are unfamiliar to us. Chiropractic care is one of those things. Many people believe that these doctors only “crack” backs. At face value, that sounds dangerous, yet this misconception couldn’t be further from the truth.

The reality is that chiropractic adjustments are extremely safe. In fact, RAND Corporation, a nonprofit research organization in the U.S. developed to keep the world safe and healthy, conducted a study to determine the safety of these adjustments. The study found that the risk of serious complications is only one in a million. This risk is smaller than the odds of you being struck by lightning, which coincidentally is 1 in 700,000.

Misunderstanding breeds falsehoods. History tells us that. It is no different for the field of chiropractic. The truth is that chiropractic treatment is one of the safest, drug-free, and non-invasive therapies available for neuromusculoskeletal system (nerves, muscles, bones). It is also more cost-effective, too. Why? Because the root cause is identified and corrected, rather than just addressing the symptoms. 

Riding a bike, driving a car, playing a sport, eating fast food are all dangerous, yet, we still do it. We assume the risk, thinking that nothing will happen to us. The risk of suffering from a complication with a chiropractic adjustment is small compared to the risk of being injured while driving or even on the job. Yet we do them every day.
It’s time to correct the myth that chiropractic adjustments are dangerous. The people who believe this are missing out on a healthcare option that can improve their quality of life and eliminate pain, once and for all.

Knowledge has the power to transform the world and you. Seek to debunk myths.

Sacrum & Coccyx

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Sacrum is derived from the Latin word os sacrum which means “sacred bone.” The word “sacred” is significant because it is the base of support for the entire upper body. In addition to that it also provides support for the spine, holds the spinal nerves, and connects with the hip bones to form the pelvis. The sacrum is located just below the lumbar spine and begins as 5 distinct vertebrae until it solidifies into a single bone between the ages of 18 and 30. Just beneath the sacrum is the coccyx, also known as the tailbone. It is made up of between one and three bones that are fused together, bears the body’s weight while sitting, plus provides an anchor for the muscles in the pelvic region.

Everything from the hips on down are the parts of the areas of the body that are controlled by the nerves in this region of the spine. There are symptoms associated with a problem in the sacrum and coccyx from pain when sitting, to hemorrhoids and itching in the same area. The sacrum plays a vital role in several systems in the human body: skeletal, muscular, nervous and female reproduction. In the skeletal system, the it is the cornerstone for the spine and hips. It connects key muscles in the legs and hips, giving the legs movement. With respect to the nervous system the sacrum and coccyx protect the nerves that control the lower extremities. And in a woman, the sacrum helps to form the pelvic cavity which supports and protects the fetus.

Fractures can occur in the sacrum. These fractures are known as sacral insufficiency fractures. These occur when the sacral bone is no longer able to handle the weight it carries. In older women, osteoporosis is the leading cause of sacral insufficiency fractures, but other risk factors include radiation to the pelvis, steroid use, rheumatoid arthritis, hyperparathyroidism, anorexia, and hip joint replacement. Surprisingly these fractures can also occur in pregnant or breast feeding women due to a condition known as temporary osteoporosis. Symptoms of this type of fracture include pain in the lower back, hips, groin, or pelvis area. Up until the early 80’s, sacral insufficiency fractures went undiagnosed. Treatment is non-surgical and requires rehabilitation therapy, electrical stimulation, and massage.

 

The Lumbar Spine

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Did you know that the lumbar spine supports the most weight? With only five vertebrae, the lumbar spine is built for both power and flexibility. The word lumbar is derived from the Latin word “lumbus” which means lion. Considering the strength required of these five vertebrae, the name is certainly appropriate.

If we look at the areas of the body that are controlled by the nerves in the lumbar spine, we would see that it includes the large intestine, appendix, sex organs, uterus, bladder, legs, sciatic nerve, the muscles of the lower back, and abdomen. Because the lumbar spine bears the most weight, getting older means that this area of the spine is more susceptible to degradation and injury. It probably will not sound surprising to learn that the effort to lift objects is centralized in the lumbar spine, specifically between the L4 and L5 vertebrae and the L5 and first vertebrae in the adjacent part of the spine, the sacrum.

Once again, the symptoms that manifest themselves with a lumbar spine irritation can, on the surface, appear unrelated to the spine at all. Many people would not correlate pain in their bladder with an irritated or inflamed L3 lumbar disc. We could assume it was a bladder infection and go get a UTI test and possibly antibiotics. If there really is a vertebrae problem the UTI test would come back negative. Still, many still do not make the connection to the spine in a situation such as this. Why? Because modern Western medicine has trained us to simply address the symptoms, not the root cause of the symptoms.

From 2004-2012 there was a television series called “House, M.D.” It was a great show that starred a highly intelligent, yet highly unlikable doctor who specialized in medical cases that appeared, on the surface, as untreatable. He looked at each patient he saw as a puzzle that he must solve. He was relentless in his pursuit for a cure. He saw that every part of the body was interconnected. That the symptoms could be traced back to the root, or cause. We need to look at our body in the same way. Understanding and appreciating the language of our body can save us. It can save us time, money, and worry. Whenever you have pain or an unexplained symptom, don’t think symptom relief, think chiropractor.

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