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Health Benefits of Turmeric

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Enter an Indian restaurant and the wonderful aromas will hit you instantly.  There is no mistaking where you are at.  One of the spices responsible for this sensory gift is turmeric, that yellow-orange powder with a peppery kick that adds a golden tint to food.  Although this spice has been used for 4,000 years, it has only been during the last few decades that its tremendous health benefits have started to be realized.

Originating in Southeast Asia and India, turmeric has been traditionally used in therapeutic remedies within Ayurvedic practices.  The key ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which is responsible for its longstanding reputation of health benefits.  This substance has been studied quite extensively through clinical trials on the effect it has on chronic diseases associated with inflammation. Now gaining in popularity with modern day medicine as a result of this clinical support, curcumin has been shown to be beneficial in helping with:

  • joint pain
  • inflammation
  • oncology

For those suffering from inflammation, there is strong evidence that turmeric has the ability to prevent the expression of both the enzymes and molecules that contribute to this condition.  Many experts are suggesting that it can also be a viable option to other anti-inflammatory agents like steroids and NSAIDs (i.e. Ibuprofen, aspirin) because turmeric is considered safe and non-toxic, without side-effects.

There is also considerable evidence supporting the positive effects of curcumin on pain relief.  Two studies, one in 2009 and the other in 2012, demonstrated a reduction in joint pain and decreased joint tenderness.

Most recently, curcumin’s ability to help cancer patients undergoing treatment have been documented.  Research is shedding light on its use as a cancer fighting agent as it works to suppress tumor cell growth.  Additionally, there is compelling evidence that it may also help during radiation therapy as well.  While more extensive studies are still needed, this is exciting news for the oncology field.

While the amount of curcumin in turmeric is relatively small, 3% of the total weight, enhancing this compound’s natural ability through supplements is key.  Adding a curcumin extract to your diet will ensure your body receives its full benefit.  However, due to design, it is necessary to combine it with black pepper because curcumin is not easily digested by the body.  Black pepper actually increases the absorption of curcumin by 2000%.

The key message here is that our diet and what we expose ourselves to can have a tremendous effect on our overall health.  We must keep an open mind to the benefits that nature provides us.

A Healthy Dose of Vitamin D

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Summer is right around the corner and that means lots of fun outdoor activities – swimming, fishing, biking, walking, amusement parks, picnics, and beach vacations.  After hearing the countless warnings regarding sun exposure, we know the significance of sunscreen and the proper coverage of our skin. However, there is a new trend building momentum that has caused the experts to rethink how much we are avoiding the sun.

Recent evidence is connecting excessive avoidance of the sun to a lack of Vitamin D.  This essential vitamin is “used by the body to manage the amount of calcium in your blood, bones and gut, and help the cells all over your body communicate properly.” (Vitamin D Council, 2011)  According to a 2007 study by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Internal Medicine, almost 70% of Caucasians, 90% of Mexican Americans, and 97% of African Americans in the U.S. have insufficient levels of Vitamin D in their blood.  Ironically, the most cost-effective and easiest way to reverse this situation is with sun exposure.  However, with the inherent risks associated with excessive sun exposure finding a balance is critical, but it can be done with discipline and awareness.

There are three key benefits to adequate sun exposure:

  1. The sun allows the body to produce Vitamin D.
  2. The sun gives us our healthy sleep patterns by regulating circadian rhythms.
  3. The sun promotes a happier disposition.

Still, we need to understand what it requires to ensure we don’t overdo it and increase our risk of sun damage.  The first is acknowledging your skin type.  If you are fair skinned, then less is more.  Fair skin needs much less sun exposure because of it’s minimal defense against burning.  Yet, because it’s fair, it also synthesizes the sun much quicker.  For the fairest of us, five minutes of unprotected mid-day sun is ideal.  Those with darker skin, twenty minutes is adequate to achieve the ideal dose.  When in the sun, be careful not to overexpose areas of your body like your face and neck that are typically already facing the elements every day.  Instead, protect those areas and focus on your legs or arms.

Many factors can affect our Vitamin D levels like the time of year, where we live, what our schedule dictates, and how our body synthesizes it.  Fortunately, we can boost our levels of this essential nutrient with the help of supplements.  Many experts recommend 1,000 IUs or higher, although the daily allowance for adults is 600.  Talking with your healthcare provider will help you determine what your next step is in obtaining optimal levels of this key vitamin.

Hello sunshine!

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.

 

Reasons to Eliminate Prescription Meds

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Just turn on the television for a few minutes and channel surf.  In no time, chances are that you will find a commercial for some type of pharmaceutical drug be it for lowering cholesterol, Type 2 Diabetes, inflammation, hormones, or antacids.  You could even flip through any magazine and find numerous ads there as well.  We are inundated by the messages from companies who provide “solutions” to our medical problems.  Or are they really the “solutions” we need?

After every advertisement, especially print, you find pages of small print covering side effects, potential side effects, precautions, and risks of taking that particular pharmaceutical.  It’s almost like a tradeoff – one problem is addressed but four others have taken its place.  Still, at the end of the day, the original problem still exists because if no other changes are made and the drug is no longer taken, the problem presents itself once again – cholesterol elevates, blood sugar increases.  Ironically, those prescription medications are only supposed to temporarily alleviate the problem because one needs to take the proper dose to keep it at bay.

Let’s take a look at several major classifications of medications, what they are typically prescribed for, and their side effects:

  • Statin – prescribed to lower cholesterol by reducing the amount the liver produces, yet cholesterol is necessary for the normal function of every cell in the body.  Typical side effects of statins include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and muscle pain.  Rhabdomyolysis, a serious side effect of statins, is the rapid destruction of skeletal muscle that causes muscle weakness and pain.  Common brand names – Lipitor and Zocor.
  • Metformin –  prescribed to treat Type 2 Diabetes to help control high blood sugar levels.  Typical side effects include abdominal discomfort, lower back or side pain, cough or hoarseness, fever or chills, and sleepiness.  Common brand names – Glucovance, Glucophage XR.
  • Anti-Inflammatory – also known as non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which are used to treat inflammation caused by chronic conditions and injuries.  Typical side effects include vomiting, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, headache, and drowsiness.  Common brand names – Celebrex and Toradol.
  • Bio-Identical Hormones – prescribed for menopausal women to alleviate symptoms by supplementing hormone levels.  Also known as Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), the hormones created are chemically identical to those your body produces through a process called compounding.  Compounding allows the BRHT to be specifically made for the individual vs a “one size fits all” approach.  Typical side effects include acne, irritability, bloating, cramping, spotting, and breast tenderness.  Common brand names – Climara Pro and Estrogel.
  • Antacids & Proton Inhibitors – used to treat heartburn, gastro-esophageal reflux (GERD), and gastric ulcers caused by stomach acid that is either overproduced or in the wrong place.  Typical side effects include fracture risk, pneumonia risk, C-diff infections, and Iron and B12 deficiencies.  Common brand names – Prilosec and Nexium.

Did you know that there is another way to improve your health without resorting to a prescribed drug if you suffer from any of the conditions above?  It’s true.  And while it might require a little effort on your part, it will do more that simply applying a temporary “fix” to your symptoms.  This other way will have lasting, positive, long-term effects on your life that will address the source of your symptoms.

  • High Cholesterol – Make dietary changes, eliminating processed foods, sugary drinks, and high fat options.
  • Type 2 Diabetes – Control your food intake.  By taking full responsibility for what you eat you will eliminate the need to be on medication.
  • Inflammation – Reduce diet of processed foods and sodas, increase your water intake (optimal 1/2 body weight in ounces), and increase omega 3’s (i.e. fish and cod oil, flax).
  • Menopause – Utilize saliva testing to find the root cause of hormonal imbalances which can be balanced through diet and nutritional supplements.
  • Heartburn/Reflux/Ulcers – When the amount of stomach acid is at the correct level, these things are not an issue.  Increasing betain chloride through supplementation is one way of increasing the stomach acid production, correcting this problem. However, ulcers (damage to the stomach wall) will be worsened with the increased stomach acid. Therefore, the stomach lining must be healed first through a proper diet, nutrition, and supplements to heal the lining of the stomach.

The ability to change your life rests in your two hands.  Stop the merry-go-round effect that relying on prescription medicine is the solution, when in reality it is only a band-aid that masks the root of the problem.

Why the Need for Supplements?

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When it comes to our nutrition, it’s easy to think that by eating whole foods – like organic fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and unprocessed dairy – that it will be enough to ensure our body receives the essential nutrients it  needs to stay well and thrive.  Unfortunately, we live in a time where our farming practices have left the soil significantly lacking in nutrients which feed the crops that in turn feed us.  Over-farming, pesticides, fertilizers, and other pollutants have contributed to this dilemma. While organic farming methods are certainly on the rise, as well as accessibility to organic produce, we still live in a society that fuels itself on convenience whether from fast food restaurants or processed foods.  It’s inevitable that, despite our best efforts, we have fallen prey to the convenience factor at some point in our life.

Dietary supplements have been around since the 1940’s when consumers began purchasing multi-vitamins.  Over the years, supplements have evolved into substances you can eat or drink; comprised of vitamins, minerals, herbs or other plants, amino acids, or parts of these substances; and widely available.  To help our body combat the deficiencies in our soil and food we can take supplements. However, it’s important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the dietary supplement industry,  meaning they can be sold without research supporting the product’s claims.  So what can you do to ensure your body receives the high quality nutrients it needs to thrive?

Fortunately, there are reputable companies out there that produce dietary supplements that are supported by key research.  It’s even more significant because, despite not being regulated, these companies have invested tremendous resources to build trust and credibility to back up their product’s claims.  That speaks volumes.  At Damron Chiropractic & Wellness we choose to align ourselves with other trustworthy and credible companies, so when it comes to improving wellness through diet, we recommend Standard Process to our patients.  The major reason due to the extensive research this 85 year old company has invested in its products to be sure that those who use it have the best quality product possible.  We want to know that the lives we touch each and every day are provided with the most current and accurate information regarding optimal health.

Supplements are our allies that give our bodies the resources it needs to thrive.

 

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