spinal adjustments Archives - Damron Chiropractic & Wellness

3 Examples That Help Explain Chiropractic Care

August 8, 2017 By Pam Rezai Leave a Comment

What does a teacher do when the students don’t understand a concept? A common approach is to use an analogy to help explain in a way that is familiar. Foreign concepts do not disappear in adulthood, which is why analogies are a great way to help with understanding. To a vast majority, chiropractors fall under the category of a foreign concept. The care a chiropractor provides is something they have never experienced before. Plus, chiropractic doesn’t receive the press that other medical professions do.

To help build more clarity, here are 3 great ways to explain the fundamental benefits of chiropractic care:

1. Blown Electric Fuse –

Ever blow a fuse? It seems to happen at the most inconvenient times. Our first reaction is to head to the fuse box, locate the blow fuse and flip it back on. Then what happens? It usually trips again. The problem is that the need for electricity outweighs what is available causing the fuse to turn off. Similarly, our spine is like that fuse box. Daily living, plus all the extra stuff we do, can add a level of demand on our body that it simply can’t keep up with. When this happens, we experience pain, which tells us that something isn’t right with our body. That pain is being caused by a blown fuse, or a vertebrae that is out of alignment. A chiropractor works with the body through spinal adjustments to help put the vertebrae back into place, thus eliminating the pain.

2. Pinched Water Hose –

Setting up a sprinkler can be difficult sometimes. You think once it’s positioned properly and the hose is attached you just need to turn the faucet on and you’re good to go. What usually happens is the water is on but the sprinkler isn’t. The pinched hose represents our spine. Messages cannot travel to different parts of our body is there is interference, just like the water that can’t get to the sprinkler. Chiropractic adjustments help to remove the interference so signals can travel up and down the spine to different parts of the body.

3. Braces –

Anyone who has ever had braces knows how long it can take to move teeth. That perfect smile doesn’t just happen. Over a period of several months, the orthodontist slowly applies pressure to move the teeth. Likewise, a chiropractor uses the same approach with correcting a misaligned spine. It takes time for a body to reach the state of pain, so it stands to reason that it will take time to retrain the body on proper posture.

Just like anything new in life, once you have tried it, the misconceptions and misunderstanding slip away. What you are left with is the clarity that truth provides.

Can Chiropractors Treat Depression?

May 17, 2017 By Pam Rezai Leave a Comment

Mental illness is a phrase that relates to any number of conditions that affect mood, thinking and behavior. These conditions can range from depression and anxiety to obsessive compulsiveness and autism. Today, what is most alarming, is the significant increase in people suffering from mental illness, specifically depression and anxiety. Yet, the most troubling is the increase among our youth. A recent article in Dynamic Chiropractic (May 2017) titled “Is It Time to Rethink Mental Illness? (Pt.1)” challenged society’s current approach to treating this trend.

Current remedies involve a doctor’s prescription intended to correct the chemical imbalance associated with a particular mental illness. The author of this article, Dr. Timothy Perenich, cited research that revealed this treatment to be ineffective. In other words, this research questions the chemical imbalance theory most doctors rely on. However, if this theory was true, “the drugs given to correct the imbalance should demonstrate clear efficacy.” (p.28) The author continued by stating, “In fact, evidence shows not only are these drugs largely ineffective, but they’re also dangerous.”

Unlike other diseases such as cancer and diabetes, many mental illnesses have no clear causes. Furthermore, they cannot be identified by common tests like an MRI or blood test. A diagnosis is actually an opinion. Dr. Perenich highlighted a direct correlation between the increase in diagnosed mental illnesses and the drugs available to treat them. The question we need to ask ourselves is who benefits? It definitely is not the patient looking for help.

Dr. Perenich is a Doctor of Chiropractic. His article challenges us to think about mental illness differently. That, perhaps, more can be done to treat a person suffering from depression or anxiety rather than with drugs. This is especially true with our youth. The side effects alone are enough to encourage a parent to look elsewhere for help. Some drugs can double the risk of suicide. Even the Journal of the American Medical Association concluded in 2010 that the most commonly prescribes drugs are not an effective treatment for depression.

So, what does this doctor suggest? Looking at the patient as a whole, in addition to taking all factors into consideration to find the hidden source of the depression symptom. Recent studies are showing that inflammation is linked to depression. This is associated with autoimmune diseases such as lupus and celiac. The field of chiropractic relies on a holistic approach. Looking at ALL factors that may contribute to a symptom like depression. Chiropractic care does not utilize any prescription medications to remedy a condition. Rather, a chiropractor relies on natural healing through herbs and nutrients, spinal adjustments, rehabilitation, and medical massage.

The current approach our society is taking is not working. Seems like looking through a different lens may be all it takes to find a solution.

Myth #8: Chiropractic Care Doesn’t Work

April 25, 2017 By Pam Rezai Leave a Comment

Myth #8: Chiropractic care doesn’t work.

First, let’s set the record straight – chiropractic works.

When we don’t have all the information, it’s much easier to make assumptions. We make assumptions about people before we really know them. School rivalries exist. As a result, these rivalries create distorted impressions that may or may not be true. So, it makes logical sense to believe that chiropractic care doesn’t work. Most people believe that to be the truth. In fact, approximately 80% of the population think that way. Unfortunately, that 80% does not have all the information necessary to justify believing that.

Have you ever made an assumption about someone, then got to know them and realized you were wrong? You might even have thought how different your life would be if they weren’t in it. How sad you would be if you didn’t get to know them. Or perhaps you bought in to the reputation of a particular college and one day your teenage son decides he might want to go there. After touring the campus and learning more about the college’s programs you discover that you were wrong.

The field of Chiropractic is just like that. Distorted by false information and assumptions. Truth be told, many of our patients originally believed that spinal adjustments don’t work or were ineffective. Some even admitted to reluctantly coming to their initial appointment. Yes, there is a lot of information out there. So much that it can be difficult to make any sense of it all or know what to believe. However, the best way to determine the truth about whether or not chiropractic care works is to look for those with personal experience. This can be through written testimonials, case studies, or even comments on social media sites like Facebook.

Determining the truth means advocating for yourself. It means taking the time to find reputable information from credible sources. Because in the end, you need to know that chiropractic works.

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

Contact information