Chiropractic and Pediatric Care

Choosing the right healthcare team for a mother and newborn is probably one of the most distressing choices that can face first time parents. Beyond that, what if something is wrong? Can birth defects be avoided? The literature certainly indicates that birth defects and child developmental problems can certainly be avoided, or atleast identified early enought to ensure proper development.


The first step is...don't panic. From the beginning of fertilization until giving birth, pregnancy can be a challenging event; for the mother and baby. There are many chemical changes that occur during pregnancy that can place a significant stress on muscles, ligaments, bones, and other tissues.

Ever wonder why pregnant women get stretch marks? It doesn't occur to every woman, and it certaintly isn't just due to stretching. It may come as a shock, but healthy moms don't experience this change. This type of appearance occurs primarily in pregnant women and overweight individuals due to Increased Cortisol levels and Insulin Sensitivity. It is called Catabolism. Catabolism means that the body is cannabilizing (eating) itself to meet its protein needs, which are insufficient.

Pregnancy presents such a stress to hormones and digestion that it often will impair the mothers digestions of protein and other much-needed nutrients from food. Will this starve the growing fetus?...To some degree, but the mother is generally the one who will suffer the most because she has poor digestion and absorption of protein and is trying to meet the demands of eating for two. Proper nutritional recommendations, which many physicians are not trained to give, is necessary to balance these effects. Unfortunately, most medical educations do not include nutritional training due to such a strong focus on Pharmacology (drugs).

Because of this lack of training, generalized nutritional recommendations are often prescribed from recent "buzz" words or trends, such as an all-in-one prenatal vitamin or multi-vitamin. Even after just a few years of nutritional training, many novice doctors would reasonably know that nature did not intend for "all-in-one" supplements for something as complex as the human body. This is where natural intelligence meets intellect, or nature vs. man's reasoning, rather.

It is particularly recommended that prenatal vitamis with copper be avoided, due to it's effect on raising estrogen levels. Many spontaneous abortions or miscarriages can be caused by high estrogen levels in relation to low progesterone (progesterone, not progestins-the drug form, is protective to the fetus and keeps the body from recognizing the placenta and developing baby much like it recognizes a tumor...for more information read about the formation of a trophoblastic cancer cell)

Please subscribe to this blog's RSS Feed because there will be a follow up at some point comparing a growing cancer tumor and a developing fetus. The significant difference between the two is that progesterone protects the baby from being treated like a growing cancer (trophoblast). Tests that measure a body's production of a chemical marker called HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin), can either be identifying a pregnant female, a female with cancer, or a male with cancer. Understanding this relationship is also key to understanding how to stop cancerous growths.

The chemical and hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy have a very specific effect on ligaments, tendons, and muscles that support the spine and other joints. Low back pain is the most common symptom among pregnant women. The ligaments are preparing for birth, yet they shouldn't be stretching so much. The combining effect of insulin (blood sugar fluctuations) and cortisol (anti-inflammatory hormone) will create ligament laxity (stretchiness) which is the most basic cause of low back pain and sciatica (leg pain often radiating to some other area, often the knee or foot. Gentle Chiropractic techniques are very favorable with this type of condition. Many Chiropractic tables are designed to allow a woman to lie on her stomach, safely, while having her back examined.



Since muscular, ligament, and joint misalignments often are preceded by chemical and nutritional changes, it is also wise to search-out a doctor who is well-versed in physical symptoms as well as chemical/nutritional/hormonal ones.



An Applied Kinesiologist (AK) is trained in all of these areas...you may find an AK doctor by visiting http://www.icakusa.com/ to search for an AK doctor near your home, or by visting our website at http://www.chapelhillchiropracticcentre.com/, to reserve an appointment with Dr. Fox. In office evaluations, as well as phone consultation, are available to determine if Applied Kinesiology and Chiropractic is appropriate for you.

What is Applied Kinesiology

Over the years, many professions, including chiropractic, physical therapy, osteopathy, allopathy, and massage, have developed useful techniques and methods to alleviate chronic/acute pain, rehabilitate muscles, relieve headaches, remove sciatica, and provide comfort and healing to patients.

Applied Kinesiology is a method of diagnosing the nervous system and discovering intereference in the nervous system and related tissues, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, organs, glands, and vascular/lymphatic structures. Since George Goodheart discovered Applied Kinesiology in 1964, it has grown and incorporated many different techiques across a wide diversity of professions. Most doctors trained in Applied Kinesiology are Chiropractors, yet the technique is available for any licensed doctor to learn. Applied Kinesiology, an advanced method of testing the nervous system, takes years to learn and often a lifetime to master, making it much different than traditional Kinesiology, which is taught in some undergraduate colleges.

Muscle testing is the primary method by which Applied Kinesiologists diagnose nervous system imbalances. This testing ability allows a properly trained Applied Kinesiogist an added tool in uncovering underlying causes for a patient's condition. Muscle testing does not replace standard method of diagnosis, yet it complements them. This means that doctors trained Applied Kinesiolgy may also use other forms of testing to validate their findings, including x-ray, MRI, blood, saliva, hair mineral, or stool testing, etc.

"Patients prefer Applied Kinesiology methods of testing because it is more comprehensive than most musculoskeletal techniques in discovering muscle and joint dysfunctions."

The way in which our nervous systems are designed often allows for many different causes for our pain or discomfort. The brain and spinal cord, the master control system of our body, sends thousands of nerves to different parts of our body by way of the spinal column. At time, the same nerve that controls a muscle may also have control over a particular organ or gland. In this manner, a muscle injury can cause an impairment in an organ/gland, or a problem developing in an organ/gland will cause dysfunction in a related muscle. This is called "referred pain". A type of referred pain that many people are familiar with is left arm pain because of a heart problem, heart attack, etc. A second, less familiar syptom, is mid-back or right shoulder blade pain due to gallbladder congestion or "gall stones".

So why is there pain? And What can I do about it? Can a Chiropractor Help?

Chiropractic manipulation is very effective at relieving joint pain associated with muscle imbalances, particulary low back pain, neck pain, and headaches. In fact, pain relief is noted almost immediately by many chiropractic patients. Chiropractic and Applied Kinesiology offer an unbeatable pair, which combines the highly effective methods of diagnosis by Applied Kinesiology and standard Chiropractic exam, with the ability to use Chiropractic manipulation in conjuction with other popular methods such as physical therapy, massage, lymphatic release, myofascial release, cranial and sacral adjustments, as well as acupuncture.

What types of problems is Applied Kinesiology useful for?

This list can be very extensive, though many patients seek the advice of a Chiropractor-Applied Kinesiologist for joint pain in the spine and extremities (including foot, ankle, knee, shoulder, wrist, and any other bony articulation).

Other common problem that Applied Kinesiologists are able to help with are as follows:

Joint pain
Muscle Pain
Thyroid (hyperthyroidism/hypothyroidism)
Adrenal Gland Fatigue/Adrenal Gland Exhaustion
High Blood Pressure, Low Blood Pressure
High Cholesterol
Liver/ Gallbladder dysfunction (Gallstones, etc.)
Blood Sugar Imbalances, Diabetes and Diabetic condition
Acid Reflux, Hiatal Hernia, Heartburn
Sciatica
TMJ (Temporo-Mandibular Joint Dysfunction)
Numbness/Tingling in Joints
Female & Male Hormonal Balance

About the Author:

Dr. Ryan E. Fox is a Chiropractor and Applied Kinesiologist at the Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre, located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He has been trained in over 600 hours of Applied Kinesiolgy and additional training outside of his Chiropractic degree, earned at Logan College of Chiropractic. Dr. Fox provides outpatient Chiropractic and Applied Kinesiology services as well as nutritional consultations, in-office or by phone. To seek further consultation, please call the Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre at 919-968-4417 to reserve an appointment

WHAT IS CHIROPRACTIC

Interestingly, I have found that many Chiropractic patients do not know why Chiropractic works, they just know that it does. If you had experience with Chiropractic and were asked to describe it to someone else, what would you say?

Unfortunately, we often hear the word "snap", "crack", or "pop"...

Kellog's Rice Krispies may begin to think that Chiropractic is encroaching upon their marketing campaign. This description also does not leave a good mental image to others who are considering Chiropractic care, much less describe what actually happens during a Chiropractic Adjustment/Manipulation.

The sound that is typically heard during a Chiropractic manipulation is merely a release of several gase, including Nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide, which are released from an air-tight capsule...

Fortunately, nothing is being damaged during this type of treatment and the capsule containing the gases reforms very quickly. This is why individuals are able to continuously "pop" their knuckles...Arthritis is not a concern unless inflammation remains in a joint. This is the reason that COLD should always be considered over HEAT when a joint hurts. HEAT will reduce pain for a short while, yet always cause further inflammation several hours after application. COLD Packs reduce inflammation and promote healing after the first 24 hours.



The Chiropractic Manipulation is meant to relieve nerve interference, often called Subluxation, and restore your body's natural ability to heal itself. This natural ability to heal is called Innate Intelligence. Innate means "born-with", so it literally means that your body was born with an intelligent design to heal itself.



Nerve interference can come in many forms, often as misaligned vertebrae. The causes of these misalignments can be extensive. In the most basic form, misalignments in the spine are due to muscle and ligament failure, which are responsible for maintaining the body's structural integrity.

The muscles and ligaments can be affected by 3 things: Chemical Stressors, Physical Stressors, and Emotional Stressors...

Doctors of Chiropractic have been trained to assess all three of these components of a person's health and determine the proper treatment protocol. At times, the proper treatment may be a referral to another healthcare professional.

Chiropractors are a good first-choice when seeking care for a health ailment...

The goal is to "first do no harm", which Chiropractic successfully accomplishes through safe, manual methods of treatment using a combination of Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, and Osteopathic techniques. If Chiropractic treatment is not well-suited for a particular health problem, Chiropractors are trained to make a proper diagnosis and refer their patients to the correct health provider.

Despite having a vast knowledge of the spinal column and nervous system, Chiropractors have the ability to treat many different bodily ailments other than Back Pain, Neck Pain, and Headaches. The Reason?

Chiropractors are trained to identify nerve interference...

Nerves control absolutely every function in the entire body, including the air we breathe, the pain we feel, the tightening and relaxing of blood vessels, the production of chemicals & hormones, circulation throughout all tissues, the rate at which our heart beats, and hundreds of other functions that allow our body's to heal.

There's no mystery in science properly Applied...

Weight Loss and Balanced Blood Sugar Levels. The Missing Link

Isn’t weight loss a complete mystery that seems to escape those seeking it? Furthermore, there is an endless Muddle of products being sold today that, short of emotionally teasing individuals of larger stature, have documented testimonials from fortunate individuals who have gained benefits by losing weight.

The foremost concern that I hear from my patients regarding weight loss and weight loss products is…

“Once I lose the weight, it will just come right back when I go off of the diet, right?”

“Yes, that’s right”, I say, “ but only if you lose weight the wrong way…”

Nutritional supplements and Fad Diets, such as Atkins, South Beach Diet, Master Cleanse, and Mediterranean Diets all work very well for losing weight, but it is only effective at keeping the weight off…if the diet sufficiently regulates your blood sugar and metabolism. Weight Gain and Weight Loss are affected by some genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, and glandular imbalances like hypothyroidism, but for the most part a stable weight can be controlled by learning to eat the proper foods, combining foods adequately, and supplementing nutrition when needed.

People can definitely lose weight by starving themselves...

Nobody will disagree with that, but the cost is that the weight will come back, but sometimes more severe. The Reason: The blood sugar was imbalanced long enough to create a stress reaction, called a Sympathetic (Fight or Flight) reaction. The Result: The body has a protective mechanism to store energy when crisis hits and it is called Lipogenesis, literally translated “New Fat”. Fat is essentially a means of Energy Storage in the body, especially needed in Times of Famine. Imbalances in Blood Sugar create a situation almost like a Time of Famine.(I.E-eating high sugar foods)

What we want to achieve is something called Lipolysis or “Fat Burning”. Since Fat can be changed into sugar again, the body keeps it for Lean Times, no pun intended. Unfortunately, it’s makes the liver work hard to convert it to sugar, and often other problems start to occur, like high cholesterol, impaired fat absorption, inability to decrease inflammation, and gallstone formation. Not to mention, long term imbalances of this nature may lead to High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, and other Cardiovascular problems.

If it’s not apparent already, Balancing Blood Sugar is a big deal. Stay tuned to this blog site because I’ll explain how to correct the problem at a future date.

Visit the Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre’s website at www.drryanfox.com or call 919-968-4417 to arrange a consultation with Dr. Fox. Be Well!

Do I have a Pinched Nerve

Low Back pain is the most frequently treated symptom in a chiropractic office. In fact, most patients consult a chiropractic Physician because they feel that they are experiencing a pinched nerve in their back or neck.

This is rarely the case. The occurrence of a pinched nerve where there is DIRECT pressure on a nerve or the spinal cord only occurs in only about 10% of spinal pain cases, research suggests. Symptoms of a pinched nerve typically are characterized by shooting pain, burning, feelings of "pins and needles", or numbness. In many instances, there isn't even any pain in the spine at all, yet it still may manifest in the hands, feet, shoulders, or other regions not in the direct proximity of the spine.

So if it isn't a pinched nerve, what is it...

True, there may not always be direct pressure causing a pinching, which is what we have pictured in our minds, but other factors that affect the nerve tissue such as rubbing, scraping, or pulling by loss of spinal curve also causes pain that feels like "pinching", and it can be severe. Inflammation, or swelling, in the area of the irritated nerve is also enough to cause a severe pain, yet once again, there is no direct pressure.

Self diagnosis for a pinched nerve or potentially pinched nerve is no safe game to play. In either instance of direct or indirect nerve pressure, the safe step to take is to seek the advice of a Chiropractor or another health care professional. Typical symptoms of nerve compression, when acted up soon enough, respond to conservative Chiropractic care within 2-4 weeks.

Chiropractic has gained great notoriety for relieving pain from irritated nerve roots and/or pinched nerves. Serious cases of low back or neck pain often require 2-3 weeks of consistent care to relieve the pain, followed by several months of supportive care to strengthen muscles, heal damaged ligaments and tendons, and provide specific home instructions/exercise.

High Energy Soup- Overcoming Adrenal Fatigue

Dear Friends,

Adrenal Gland Fatigue is one of the most commonly overlooked and unidentified causes of many of the Chronic prolems our society experiences today.

What exactly is Adrenal Fatigue? And Where is it?...

The Adrenal Gland sits comfortably atop the Kidney. Since you have two kidneys, there are also two adrenal glands. We would all being faring much better if the second one was a "spare".

Adrenal Gland Fatigue describes specific chemical, mineral, and tissue changes in response to acute or chronic stress and the consequences of such changes in the body and the adrenal glands.

The Adrenal Gland is responsible for many activities in the body, but to just name a few:

• Regulating Stress & the Fight / Flight Syndrome
• Inflammation and Inflammatory Reactions
• Balancing Blood Sugar and Insulin Response
• Maintaining blood pressure
• Water/Sodium Regulation in the Kidneys

The most common symptoms that patients present with Adrenal Fatigue are as follows:

• Dizziness or Light-headedness upon standing or rising
• Knee Pain
• Dropped Arches of the feet or pronated arches
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Attention Deficit or lack of attention
• Joints POP or CRACK when moving
• Disc Bulges or Loose ligaments
• Blood sugar fluctuations
• Severe Fatigue, particularly after eating meals or anxiousness before meals
• Stress
• Feelings of being Trapped
• Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism (high or low thyroid function)

Thankfully, over time, there are effective methods of treating or improving adrenal gland fatigue, which can effect nearly any organ or gland system of the body. The first priority is to determine what is stressing the system. Effective testing methods include Blood Cortisol Levels taken at different times of the day, Saliva Adrenal Stress Index, Hair Mineral Analysis, and Applied Kinesiology Muscle Testing. Urine testing is also available, but primarily as a screening procedure.

As a method of dealing with stress reactions, the body commonly retains Sodium, which can cause water retention, high blood pressure, etc, but it is important to realize that Sodium is needed to Improve the response to stressors, so avoiding it is often counter-productive. Many people crave salt due to this reason. The soup recipe below has been included because it is a source of sodium and helps to balance the body's chemistry during a stress response. It has particularly desirable effects on blood sugar and may allow the body to promote weight loss because of it's effect on maintaining proper blood sugar balance.

High Energy SOUP

28 oz of Muir Glen Diced Tomatoes (largest size)-Organic
2 Celery Stalks (sliced)
1 Large Cucumber (sliced)
Fresh Green Beans (2 cups)
One Large White Onion
Salt and Pepper To Taste (Sea Salt is preferable)
Spring Water (add to right consistency), no Tap water

For questions, comments, or feedback to this information or if you are seeking a nutritional evaluation, please schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Fox at the

Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre

Medical Disclaimer: All research and clinical material published by the Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre is for informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to confirm the information contained herein with other sources. Patients and consumers should review the information carefully with their professional health care provider. The Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary, or other damages arising therefrom.

Welcome to the Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre

Dr. Ryan E. Fox has announced the Grand Opening of Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre, located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Dr. Fox is an Integrative Chiropractic physician and certified Applied Kinesiologist.

Dr. Fox says, “Applied Kinesiology and Chiropractic combine the traditional benefits of Chiropractic plus Acupuncture, Nutrition, Body Detoxification/Cleansing, and Hormone Balancing. This approach is very beneficial to our patients because it often allows us to relieve their pain quickly, as well as identify the underlying “cause” so symptoms will not return quickly.”

This powerful combination of evaluation and treatment options gives Chiropractors trained in Applied Kinesiology a unique ability to identify dysfunctions in the muscle and skeletal systems, providing quick pain relief. For a list of symptoms that Dr. Fox commonly treats, please follow this link to the Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre

Dr. Fox is one amongst several Chiropractors in Chapel Hill and the Triangle Region that practice the comprehensive approach of Applied Kinesiology.

Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre is located at 1717 Legion Road in Chapel Hill, only minutes from Interstate 40 at Exit 270. You can learn more about Dr. Fox and the services he provides at his family chiropractic practice by visiting http://www.chapelhillchiropracticcentre.com/ or by contacting his office for further info 919-968-4417

Dr. Ryan Fox Delivers Free Health Workshops to Local Businesses...

As a community service for Chapel Hill/Durham and Orange County residents and businesses, Dr. Fox presents free on-site workshops on a variety of health care and prevention topics including safety and stress reduction.


The following workshop presentations are conducted by Dr. Fox on-site at your organization at no cost: Have your employer or Human Resources Director Contact our office at 919-968-4417 to schedule one of the following Health Workshop Topics! Free.

Stress Reduction Workshop- The effects of stress can take a great toll on the body. From tension headaches to fatigue, stress blocks our happiness and can cause physical disorders such as heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and chronic pain. In this workshop, Dr. Fox shares tips and techniques for reducing stress and making modifications for a happier life. Discover your underlying behaviors that contribute to your stress and make the decision to reduce stress today. You’ll gain: an improved ability to cope with stress triggers, increased energy, emotional and mental clarity, the ability to relax, and improved feelings of self worth and physical ability.

Spinal Care & Posture Workshop- A healthy spine and correct posture are key to your well-being. This interactive presentation, conducted by Dr. Fox, is designed to provide you with information on the nervous system, spine, and health. Change old habits, increase body awareness, and take more responsibility for your health and well-being while learning the importance of proper posture and muscle balance. Whether your job requires you to be on your feet or in your seat, this presentation will teach you new habits for a healthy body.

Ergonomics Analysis & Seminar- Many injuries are caused by cumulative trauma associated with poor ergonometry of equipment such as desks that are too high or improper positioning of computer monitors. Something as simple as repositioning the height of a chair could reduce the risk of cumulative trauma injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. Dr. Fox can help ensure your work environment is both ergonomically healthy and safe for your employees. While visiting your business, Dr. Fox conducts a thorough assessment of existing working conditions then formulates a list of recommendations for improvement. Employees are trained on proper posture for common work activities to help minimize the risk of injury and promote safety.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) Workshop- Long-standing and debilitating injuries can be life changing. Join Dr. Fox as we explore the various components of carpal tunnel syndrome and learn how to prevent repetitive strain injuries. If you suffer from tingling, numbness, or pain in your hands, you should attend this free workshop to find out more about nonsurgical, natural ways for treating CTS.

Low-back Safety Workshop- Low back injuries and pain can interfere with daily activities and reduce productivity. Understanding how to reduce the risk of injury through implementing safety techniques can help reduce absenteeism at work and increase productivity levels.


Also Join Dr. Fox and learn about these other exciting topics that you will not hear anywhere else!

1. “Eat to live, Don’t live to Eat”- discusses the physical needs food provides, identifies foods that cause major stress to the body, and what we can do to reverse the effects of poor food choices

2. “Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers- A Guide to Managing Stress”-a simple guide to reducing stress using food, exercise, and relaxation techniques

3. Diet Fads and Weight Loss Secrets- How to Eat More and Weigh Less…

4. Super Foods-Cleansing the Body and Increasing Energy, Naturally!

5. Tired of Being Tired...Increasing Energy Your Way!

Ask about our New “Lunch and Learn” program on Diet & Weight Loss and other interesting health topics!

Chapel Hill Chiropractic Centre is located at 1717 Legion Road Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27517 Call 919.968.4417 or visit www.drryanfox.com for more information

Chiropractic Carpal Tunnel Release as Alternative to Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that can be relieved quickly and effectively using Chiropractic and Applied Kinesiology Methods. Not only is Chiropractic a safe, non-invasive method of treatment, but also a common sense approach to treatment before even considering carpal tunnel surgery. Unfortunately, once the carpal tunnel surgery is performed , the wrist will always be weak even though the pain may be less…your best option is to exhaust other treatment methods before seeking carpal tunnel surgery.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is typically caused by compression of the Median nerve at the wrist due to tightening of a tendon called the Flexor Retinaculum. Essentially, the two bones in the forearm called the radius and ulna have ’separated’ due to muscle strains and resulted in a tightening of the tendon which overlies the median nerve. To make a long story short, Nerves do not like to have pressure placed on them. When pressure and inflammation are present, pain inevitably follows.

Chiropractic methods for carpal tunnel release involve ”adjustments” to improve the aligment of the bones in your wrist and hand, meanwhile applying physical therapy and direct treatment to the muscles of the wrist and hand to support the re-alignment. These methods, combined, helps to relieve pain and pressure from the median nerve.

The mechanism of injury for most carpal tunnel symptoms is repetitive use of the hand and wrist. Computer work including typing, mouse-ing, etc. is the most common, yet other manual types of work including automotive repair, carpentry also pose their share of problems.
To learn more about avoiding Carpal Tunnel Surgery and seeking the benefits of Chiropractic and Applied Kinesiology methods of treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, please visit www.drryanfox.com, or call 919-968-4417 to schedule a free consultation.