The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Wellness Blog

The Supplement Illusion: What You’re Really Putting in Your Body

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:45:17 GMT

Your health shouldn’t come down to a 5-star rating and a scroll through reviews. Yet today, most people are choosing supplements based on popularity, not quality, sourcing, or effectiveness. In this month’s blog, we break down the hidden risks behind mainstream supplement shopping and reveals what your body actually needs to heal, function, and be healthy.

The Modern Health Trap No One Is Talking About

90% of people think they’re making a smart health decision when they buy supplements.

They go on Amazon.
They see 4.8 stars.
Thousands of reviews.
They click “buy.”

And they feel confident.

But what if that confidence is misplaced?

The Wake-Up Call: What the Data Actually Shows

A recent independent analysis of top-selling supplements revealed something deeply concerning:

50% of tested supplements failed to meet their label claims
Many contained only 0–3% of the active ingredient
Gummy vitamins were among the worst performers
Products with no legitimate brand presence had the highest failure rates

In other words, Some of the most popular supplements people take daily are essentially empty.

Another investigation found widespread issues including:

Low potency
Mislabeling
Heavy metals
Contamination

Let that sink in.

You’re not just wasting money... you could be misleading your body into thinking it’s being supported… when it’s not.

Why This Is Happening (And Why Most People Don’t Know)

Here’s the truth: The supplement industry (especially online marketplaces) is not as tightly regulated as most people assume.

Platforms like Amazon host thousands of third-party sellers. Many products:

Are manufactured overseas
Lack consistent quality control
Are priced “too good to be true”
Prioritize marketing over integrity

And because consumers rely on reviews instead of verification , poor-quality products continue to thrive.

Even worse? Some products that look “premium” online are traced back to the same bulk wholesale sources —just rebranded and resold at a markup.

The Real Cost of “Cheap” Supplements

This isn’t just about money.

It’s about missed healing opportunities.

When your body doesn’t receive what it needs:

Nutrient deficiencies persist
Hormonal imbalances continue
Energy stays low
Inflammation remains high
Healing slows down

And many people assume: “Supplements just don’t work for me.”

But the truth is the supplement never had a chance to work in the first place.

At Mladenoff Clinic: We Do Things Differently

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona , Dr. Diana doesn’t guess when it comes to your health.

We don’t rely on trends.
We don’t rely on hype.
And we definitely don’t rely on unverified products.

Instead, we focus on:

✔ Practitioner-Grade Supplementation

Carefully selected, clinically trusted products with verified sourcing, potency, and bioavailability.

✔ Personalized Protocols

Because your body is unique and your supplements should be too.

✔ Root-Cause Healing

We combine:

Chiropractic care
Nervous system optimization
Nutritional guidance
Advanced therapies

To ensure your body can actually use what it’s given.

The Bigger Picture: Supplements Are Just One Piece

Here’s what most people get wrong:

You can take the “best” supplement in the world…
but if your nervous system is dysregulated, your body can’t process it properly.

That’s why our approach focuses on:

�� Brain + body communication
⚡ Nervous system balance
�� Cellular function

Because true wellness isn’t about adding more and it’s about removing interference.

How to Protect Yourself Moving Forward

If you’re currently buying supplements online, here’s what to consider:

Buy from trusted, practitioner-backed sources
Be cautious of unknown brands with huge review counts
Question prices that seem too low for high-quality ingredients
Look for third-party testing and transparency

Or better yet! Work with a provider, like Dr. D, who takes the guesswork out entirely.

Your Health Deserves Better Than a Guess

You wouldn’t trust a random review with your finances. Why trust one with your health? At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona , we help you cut through the noise, avoid the traps, and finally give your body what it actually needs to heal, perform, and thrive.

Ready to Upgrade Your Wellness?

Stop guessing.

Start healing with intention.

�� Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona
�� (602) 524-0222 (Call and Text)

Book your personalized apppointment with Dr. Diana today.

Heart, Hormones & Harmony: Whole-Body Wellness from the Inside Out

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 22:25:02 GMT

February is often associated with Valentine’s Day, but in the world of wellness, it carries a much deeper meaning. As American Heart Month, February is the ideal time to look beyond surface-level self-care and explore how true heart health connects to the nervous system, emotional balance, hormones, and energetic flow throughout the body.

At our clinic, we believe the heart is more than just a muscle. It’s a central hub that connects physical, emotional, and energetic health. When the body is in alignment, the heart thrives.

The Heart–Spine–Nervous System Connection

Your heart does not function in isolation. It is directly influenced by the nervous system, which originates in the brain and travels through the spinal cord. Misalignments in the spine, especially in the upper thoracic and cervical regions, can interfere with nerve communication, circulation, and the body’s ability to regulate stress.

Chronic stress activates the sympathetic (“fight or flight”) nervous system, placing excess strain on the heart, increasing inflammation, and disrupting blood pressure and heart rhythm. Chiropractic care helps restore proper spinal alignment, allowing the nervous system to shift into a parasympathetic (“rest and repair”) state—where healing, balance, and heart health are supported.

Emotional Health Lives in the Heart

In holistic and Eastern medicine traditions, the heart is recognized as the center of emotional well-being . Emotional stress, grief, anxiety, and long-term overwhelm don’t just live in the mind, they show up physically in the body.

Unresolved emotional tension can contribute to:

Chest tightness and shallow breathing
Fatigue and poor sleep
Neck and upper back tension
Heart palpitations or stress-related symptoms

Supporting emotional wellness through chiropractic care, acupuncture, and nervous system regulation allows the body to release stored tension and restore harmony from the inside out.

The Heart Meridian: Energy Flow & Balance

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Heart Meridian plays a vital role in overall health and vitality. This meridian governs not only the physical heart, but also circulation, consciousness, sleep, memory, and emotional balance .

The Heart Meridian:

Begins in the heart
Travels through the chest and lungs
Runs down the inner arm
Ends at the tip of the pinky finger

When the Heart Meridian is balanced, patients often experience:

Calmness and mental clarity
Emotional stability
Restful sleep
Strong circulation and vitality

When blocked or imbalanced, symptoms may include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, brain fog, emotional overwhelm, or feelings of heaviness in the chest.

Acupuncture supports the Heart Meridian by restoring proper energy flow, calming the nervous system, and promoting deep relaxation, making it especially powerful during times of stress or emotional transition.

Hormones, Stress & the Heart

Hormonal balance is deeply intertwined with heart health. Elevated cortisol levels from chronic stress can disrupt heart rhythm, increase inflammation, and slow healing throughout the body. This is especially common after the New Year, when many people feel burned out, depleted, or disconnected from their wellness routines.

Chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, ion balancing, and detox foot baths work together to:

Reduce stress hormone overload
Support adrenal function
Improve circulation and lymphatic flow
Restore energetic balance

When hormones are supported, the heart doesn’t have to work as hard—and the entire body functions more efficiently.

Self-Love as Preventative Care

True self-love isn’t about indulgence, it’s about consistency . Just as going to the gym once won’t create lasting strength, occasional wellness care won’t produce long-term health.

February is an invitation to shift your mindset:
- Self-care is preventative care
- Alignment is foundational to healing
- Emotional wellness is physical wellness

Regular chiropractic care, acupuncture, and holistic therapies help your body adapt, regulate, and thrive, supporting heart health long before symptoms appear.

Supporting Active Arizona Lifestyles

Arizona’s active lifestyle, winter dryness, travel schedules, and increased screen time can quietly impact posture, circulation, and nervous system balance. Proactive care helps prevent small imbalances from turning into chronic issues, keeping you energized, mobile, and resilient year-round.

A Heart-Centered Invitation

This February, we invite you to check in with your body, not just for your heart, but for your entire system. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, emotional balance, better sleep, or preventative heart support, our holistic approach is designed to restore harmony from the inside out.

Because when your heart, spine, and energy are aligned everything flows better. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today. To schedule call or text 1 (602) 524-0222.

The Spine–Gut Connection: A Foundation for Whole-Body Wellness

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:27:00 GMT

True wellness is not about chasing symptoms, it’s about restoring balance at the core of the body. At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, Dr. Diana takes a comprehensive, nervous-system–centered approach to health, helping patients build resilience, vitality, and long-term well-being from the inside out.

Two of the most powerful and often overlooked pillars of whole-body health are spine health and gut health. When these systems function in harmony , the body has an incredible capacity to heal, adapt, and thrive.

Why Spine Health Is Central to Overall Wellness

The spine does far more than support posture and movement. It serves as the protective highway of the nervous system, which controls every function in the body—digestion, immunity, hormone regulation, sleep, stress response, and healing.

When spinal alignment or mobility is compromised, communication between the brain and body can become disrupted. This may contribute to:

Chronic pain or stiffness

Digestive discomfort or irregularity

Fatigue and brain fog

Increased stress and anxiety

Reduced immune resilience

Regular chiropractic care helps restore proper motion and alignment in the spine, allowing the nervous system to function optimally. When nerve communication improves, the entire body benefits—not just the musculoskeletal system.

The Gut–Nervous System Connection: More Than Digestion

The gut is often called the “second brain” , and for good reason. It contains its own network of neurons and communicates directly with the brain through the gut–brain axis .

When the nervous system is stuck in a chronic stress state, digestion can slow, inflammation can rise, and the gut microbiome can become imbalanced.

This can lead to:

Bloating, reflux, or irregular digestion
Food sensitivities
Inflammation and immune challenges
Mood changes and low energy

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona , care is designed to support nervous system regulation—helping the body shift out of survival mode and into a state where digestion, repair, and healing can occur.

Regulating Stress: The Missing Link in Many Wellness Plans

Stress is not just emotional—it is neurological and physiological. When the body remains in a constant “fight-or-flight” state, healing takes a back seat.

Dr. Diana emphasizes that true wellness requires nervous system balance .

Through targeted chiropractic adjustments and supportive wellness therapies, the body can:

Improve stress resilience
Enhance vagal nerve function
Support healthy digestion and gut motility
Improve sleep quality
Increase mental clarity and emotional balance

When the nervous system is regulated, the body is better equipped to heal itself naturally.

Comprehensive Wellness Services at Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona

Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona offers a personalized, integrative approach to care, supporting patients at every stage of their health journey. Services include:

Chiropractic Care focused on spinal alignment and nervous system function
Wellness-Based Treatments designed to reduce stress and support healing
Holistic Health Support addressing lifestyle, posture, and long-term wellness goals
Low Level Laser Therapy
Acupuncture
Ion Balancing Detox Foot Baths
Applied Kinesiology
Nutritional Guidance
Brain Training for better sleep and function

Rather than quick fixes, the clinic prioritizes consistent, proactive care —helping patients build a strong foundation for lifelong health.

Why Regular Care Matters

Wellness is not a one-time event. Just as exercise and nutrition require consistency, chiropractic and wellness care work best when integrated into a regular routine .

With ongoing care, patients often experience:

Improved energy and mobility
Better digestion and gut health
Reduced stress and tension
Stronger immune function
Enhanced overall quality of life

A Partner in Your Health Journey

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona , Dr. Diana believes that the body is designed to heal—when given the right support. By addressing spine health, gut health, and nervous system regulation together, the clinic empowers patients to move beyond symptom management and into true, sustainable wellness.

Your health journey is personal. With the right guidance, balance, and consistency, optimal wellness is within reach.

From Bump to Baby (and Beyond): Why Chiropractic Care Is a Must-Have for Moms & Little Ones

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:04:38 GMT

Motherhood is magical, but can also be physically demanding. From growing a tiny human to carrying car seats, nursing, rocking, lifting, and loving around the clock, a mom’s body works overtime. At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, Dr. Diana Mladenoff specializes in supporting moms and babies through every stage of this journey with gentle, effective chiropractic care designed for both mother and child.
Because when moms feel supported, families thrive.

Prenatal Chiropractic: Supporting Your Body as It Grows Life

Pregnancy changes everything, including posture, balance, and the way your spine moves. As baby grows, your center of gravity shifts, placing added stress on the lower back, hips, and pelvis. Prenatal chiropractic care helps:

✨ Reduce back, hip, and pelvic discomfort
✨ Support optimal pelvic alignment
✨ Improve mobility and posture
✨ Help the nervous system adapt to pregnancy changes
✨ Encourage a more comfortable pregnancy experience

By keeping the spine and pelvis balanced, chiropractic care helps create the best possible environment for both mom and baby. It supporting comfort, movement, and overall wellness throughout pregnancy.

Postnatal Chiropractic: Caring for the Caregiver

After birth, your body begins the incredible process of healing — all while caring for a newborn. Between feeding positions, sleep deprivation, lifting, and constant movement, it’s easy for tension and misalignment to sneak in.

Postnatal chiropractic care helps moms:

✔ Recover more efficiently after birth
✔ Address neck, back, and shoulder tension
✔ Improve posture during feeding and carrying
✔ Support core and pelvic stability
✔ Restore balance to the nervous system

Because moms deserve care too. And not just after everything hurts.

Pediatric Chiropractic: Gentle Care for Growing Bodies

Babies and children experience physical stress earlier than most people realize. They are very active from birth itself to tummy time, crawling, walking, backpacks, screens, and sports. Pediatric chiropractic care at Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona is incredibly gentle and tailored to each child’s stage of development.

Parents often seek pediatric chiropractic care to support:

�� Nervous system development
�� Posture and spinal alignment
�� Sleep patterns
�� Digestive comfort
�� Movement and coordination

Dr. Diana’s approach is calm, reassuring, and family-focused that helps little bodies grow strong, balanced, and resilient.

Why Moms Trust Dr. Diana

Moms choose Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona because Dr. Diana doesn’t just treat symptoms — she educates, empowers, and partners with families. Her care is:

Gentle and safe for pregnancy and children
Personalized for each stage of motherhood
Root-focused , supporting the nervous system
Warm, supportive, and judgment-free

Parents often say they feel heard, supported, and confident in their family’s care.

Wellness Is a Family Affair

Healthy moms raise healthy families. When a mom’s spine and nervous system are supported, she has more energy, more patience, and more resilience. And when children’s bodies are aligned early, they build a strong foundation for lifelong wellness.

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona , chiropractic care is about more than adjustments. It’s about supporting families from the very beginning.

✨ From bump…
✨ to baby…
✨ to growing kid…

We’re here for every chapter. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today: Call or Text 1 (602) 524-0222.

The Hidden Connection Between Gut Health, Emotional Balance, and a Healthy Nervous System

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 16:31:55 GMT

In today’s fast-paced world, true wellness goes beyond simply feeling “okay.” It’s about thriving—physically, mentally, and emotionally. At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, Dr. Diana Mladenoff and her compassion take a holistic, science-based approach to help patients restore balance, vitality, and peace from the inside out.

One of the most powerful connections we explore is the one between gut health, emotional wellbeing, and the nervous system—and how the right wellness routine can create lasting harmony in the body and mind.

Your Gut: The “Second Brain”

Did you know that your gut contains over 100 million nerve cells? This intricate network—known as the enteric nervous system —constantly communicates with your brain, influencing mood, energy, immune function, and even sleep. When your gut health is out of balance due to poor diet, stress, or toxins, it can disrupt this delicate communication, leading to symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, brain fog, and digestive discomfort.

That’s why at Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, gut health is foundational. Through nutritional guidance and customized detox programs , Dr. Diana helps patients rebalance their microbiome, reduce inflammation, and restore the natural flow of energy and wellness.

Emotional Health and the Nervous System

Your emotional state has a direct impact on your nervous system. Chronic stress can overstimulate the body’s “fight or flight” response, leading to muscle tension, headaches, hormonal imbalances, and even digestive issues. Chiropractic care, applied kinesiology , and low-level laser therapy work synergistically to calm the nervous system, release stored tension, and promote the body’s innate ability to heal.

For those carrying emotional or mental stress, Dr. Diana also incorporates BrainTap technology —a revolutionary brain-training system designed to improve sleep quality, focus, and resilience. Patients often describe BrainTap sessions as deeply relaxing, with long-lasting benefits that ripple into every aspect of life.

Detox, Energy, and Flow

True healing also requires helping the body eliminate toxins and restore energetic balance. Ion balancing detox foot baths and acupuncture are two gentle yet powerful therapies offered at Mladenoff Clinic. These treatments promote circulation, stimulate lymphatic drainage, and support the body’s natural detoxification pathways—leaving patients feeling lighter, clearer, and more balanced.

The Mladenoff Difference

What sets Dr. Diana Mladenoff apart is her deeply kind, caring, and intuitive approach . Patients describe her as a true healer—someone who listens, understands, and tailors each treatment plan to the individual’s unique needs. With over a decade of experience and a passion for helping people live their healthiest, happiest lives, Dr. Diana has earned her reputation as one of Arizona’s most trusted wellness doctors .

Reconnect. Restore. Renew.

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, every visit is an opportunity to restore balance—to your gut, your emotions, and your nervous system. Through chiropractic care, applied kinesiology, laser therapy, detoxification, acupuncture, nutrition, and BrainTap technology, Dr. Diana and her team guide you toward total-body wellness and a calmer, clearer mind .

If you’re ready to take the next step toward feeling your best, call or text Dr. Diana of the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona at 1 (602) 524-0222 today and discover how holistic care can transform your health from the inside out.

Nourish to Thrive: How Nutrition and Chiropractic Care Work Together for a Healthier You

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 19:27:50 GMT

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, we believe true wellness begins from the inside out. While chiropractic care helps restore proper alignment and function to the nervous system, optimal nutrition provides the building blocks your body needs to heal, adapt, and perform at its best. Together, these two pillars of health (nutrition and chiropractic care) create a powerful synergy that supports whole-body wellness and long-term vitality.

The Foundation: How Nutrition Shapes Your Health

Every cell, organ, and system in your body depends on essential nutrients and minerals to function properly. When your nutrition is balanced, your body operates efficiently—repairing tissues, regulating hormones, supporting brain health, and fueling energy production.

However, modern diets often lack the nutrients needed for optimal wellness. Processed foods, refined sugars, and chronic stress can deplete your body’s stores of vital vitamins and minerals. Over time, this can contribute to inflammation, fatigue, poor digestion, and even nerve dysfunction.

Essential Nutrients for a Strong Nervous System

The nervous system is your body’s communication network, connecting your brain to every organ and tissue. Certain nutrients play key roles in keeping it healthy:

Magnesium – Calms nerve impulses and supports muscle relaxation.

B Vitamins (B1, B6, B12) – Vital for nerve repair, energy metabolism, and cognitive clarity.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Reduce inflammation and protect nerve cell membranes.

Vitamin D – Supports neuromuscular function and immune balance.

Calcium & Potassium – Crucial for proper nerve signaling and muscle contraction.

When your diet supplies these essentials, your nervous system can communicate clearly and efficiently—helping your entire body function more harmoniously.

The Chiropractic Connection: Aligning Structure with Function

Your spine is more than just a support structure—it’s the protective pathway for your central nervous system. Misalignments (known as subluxations) can disrupt nerve communication between the brain and body, leading to discomfort, reduced mobility, and decreased organ function over time.

Chiropractic care helps restore proper alignment and motion to the spine, reducing interference within the nervous system. When your spine is aligned, your body can better regulate its internal systems—improving digestion, circulation, immune response, and even mood.

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, our goal is to help patients achieve balance from within. Regular chiropractic adjustments, combined with proper nutrition, create the foundation for lasting health and vitality.

Lifestyle Synergy: Simple Daily Habits for Lasting Wellness

Wellness isn’t achieved overnight—it’s built through consistent, intentional habits that support your body’s natural healing ability. Here are a few daily practices we recommend:

Start Your Day with Hydration: Water supports every metabolic process and helps flush toxins.

Prioritize Whole Foods: Choose nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and colorful fruits.

Move Regularly: Gentle exercise, stretching, and posture awareness complement chiropractic care.

Manage Stress: Breathing exercises, mindfulness, and adequate sleep keep your nervous system balanced.

Schedule Regular Chiropractic Checkups: Prevent small misalignments from becoming chronic problems.

Your Path to Total Wellness Starts Here

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, we take a comprehensive approach to your health; combining chiropractic care, nutritional guidance, and lifestyle education to help your body function at its full potential. When your spine is aligned and your cells are nourished, your body can truly heal, thrive, and perform at its best.

Ready to Feel the Difference?

Experience how proper nutrition and chiropractic care can transform your health.

�� Call or Text Dr. Diana at the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona today 1 (602) 524-0222 or schedule your appointment online to begin your journey toward natural wellness and a vibrant, energized life.

Wellness awaits you.

Gut Health: The Hidden Key to Chiropractic Care & Whole-Body Wellness

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 18:34:30 GMT

When we think about health, we often picture strong muscles, clear minds, and flexible spines. But what if one of the most powerful drivers of your health lives deep within your gut?

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, we believe true wellness isn’t about managing symptoms — it’s about creating harmony in the body so you can thrive. One of the most overlooked, yet essential, parts of that harmony is gut health .

Why Gut Health Matters

Your gut isn’t just about digestion — it’s home to trillions of microorganisms (your microbiome) that impact nearly every system in your body. A healthy gut supports:

Stronger immunity : Over 70% of your immune system lives in your gut.
Balanced mood and mental clarity : Gut bacteria influence neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
Reduced inflammation : A healthy gut keeps chronic inflammation in check, lowering the risk of pain and disease.
Better nutrient absorption : So your body can get the most from the food you eat.

The Gut–Spine Connection

Here’s where chiropractic care comes in. Your gut and your nervous system are constantly communicating through the gut-brain axis . If your gut is inflamed or imbalanced, it can trigger stress signals to the nervous system — leading to tension, discomfort, and even spinal misalignments.

On the flip side, spinal misalignments can disrupt nerve flow to the digestive system, slowing down motility, altering enzyme production, and contributing to bloating or irregularity. It’s a two-way street.

By restoring alignment through chiropractic care, we help your nervous system function at its best — which directly supports gut health.

A Whole-Body Approach at Mladenoff Clinic

At our clinic, we don’t just adjust your spine and send you on your way. We take a whole-person approach that includes:

Chiropractic adjustments to optimize nerve flow.
Nutritional guidance to fuel a healthy gut microbiome.
Lifestyle recommendations for stress reduction, sleep, and movement — all of which impact gut and spinal health.

When your gut and nervous system are in sync, you’ll feel the difference: more energy, better digestion, sharper focus, and fewer aches and pains.

Take the Next Step Toward Total Wellness

If you’ve been struggling with digestive issues, fatigue, or unexplained pain, your gut may be asking for help. Chiropractic care at Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona could be the missing link to restoring balance and reclaiming your health.

�� Ready to experience the gut–spine connection? Schedule your next wellness appointment with Dr.D today. Call or text 1 (602) 524-0222 or click here for new patients.

Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona
Where chiropractic care meets whole-body wellness.

Why Chiropractic Care Matters for Your Child’s Health and Development

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 20:31:37 GMT

When you think of chiropractic care, you probably picture adults seeking relief from back or neck pain. But did you know that children—yes, even infants—can benefit from chiropractic care too?

At the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, we believe in supporting wellness at every stage of life. That includes making sure your child’s spine and nervous system are functioning at their best.

�� The Nervous System: Your Child’s Control Center

The nervous system controls every function in the body—from digestion and immunity to movement and focus. When spinal misalignments (also known as subluxations) occur, they can interfere with nerve signals, which may impact your child’s growth, development, and overall well-being.

�� Why Kids Need Chiropractic Care

Even natural births can put stress on a baby’s delicate spine. As children grow, they experience bumps, tumbles, and tech-related posture issues that can all affect spinal alignment. Chiropractic care can help:

Support proper posture and alignment

Improve sleep quality and behavior

Boost immune function

Address digestive issues, colic, and ear infections

Enhance focus and reduce signs of ADHD

��‍⚕️ Safe, Gentle & Effective

At Mladenoff Clinic, we use safe, gentle techniques specifically designed for children. Our approach is non-invasive and tailored to your child’s age and needs. Many parents are surprised at how calm and comfortable their kids are during their visit!

�� Invest in Their Long-Term Health

Regular chiropractic check-ups can help your child thrive—not just physically, but emotionally and cognitively. It’s a natural way to give them the best start in life.

�� Want to learn more? Schedule an appointment today with Dr. Mladenoff and discover how chiropractic care can benefit your child’s health journey.

��Call or Text Dr. D at (602) 524-0222.

Signs of Nutrient Deficiency You Should Never Ignore

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 02:01:03 GMT

You can eat all the right foods and still have hidden nutrient deficiencies that slow you down. Because it's not just about what you eat - it's about what your body absorbs, activates and uses.

Let's take a deep dive into signs of nutrient deficiency you should never ignore.

Cracked Lips - > B2 Deficiency

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) deficiency, also known as a riboflavinosis, can cause a variety of symptoms, including skin disorders, mouth sores, and vision problems. It's often associated with other nutritional deficiencies and can be particularly risky during pregnancy. Treatment typically involves riboflavin supplementation and addressing any underlying conditions contributing to the deficiency.

Signs and Symptoms

Skin: Dermatitis, including red, scaly patches, especially around the mouth, nose, ears, and genitals. Cracks and fissures at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis) and on the lips (cheilosis).

Mouth: Soreness, inflammation, and a magenta-colored tongue.

Eyes: Itchy, red, and watery eyes, light sensitivity (photophobia), and blurred vision. In severe cases, it can contribute to cataracts.

General

Fatigue, anemia (especially in severe cases), and possibly depression. Some studies also suggest a link to migraines and peripheral neuropathy.

Reproductive: Riboflavin deficiency during pregnancy can potentially lead to fetal birth defects and increase the risk of preeclampsia.

Causes

Inadequate dietary intake: Especially in populations with limited access to riboflavin-rich foods like dairy, meat, and eggs.

Malabsorption: Conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease can impair riboflavin absorption.

Increased needs: Pregnancy, lactation, and intense exercise can increase riboflavin requirements.

Bleeding Gums - > Vitamin C Deficiency

Vitamin C deficiency, if severe and prolonged, can lead to a disease called scurvy. Scurvy is characterized by symptoms like fatigue, anemia, bleeding gums, poor wound healing, and skin problems. While scurvy is rare in the United States, it can affect older adults with poor nutrition.

Symptoms

Early symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, irritability, weight loss, and vague muscle and joint aches.

Scurvy symptoms (develop after months of deficiency): Bleeding under the skin (especially around hair follicles and as bruises), swollen and bleeding gums, loose teeth, dry and brittle hair, dry and rough skin, fluid accumulation in the legs, and anemia.

Infants: May exhibit irritability, pain upon movement, loss of appetite, impaired bone growth, and bleeding or anemia.

Causes

Insufficient dietary intake: Not eating enough fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamin C.

Increased need: Certain conditions like smoking, drug or alcohol abuse, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can increase the body's need for vitamin C.

Absorption issues: Problems with the gastrointestinal tract can hinder vitamin C absorption.

Hair Loss - > Zinc Deficiency

Zinc deficiency occurs when the body doesn't get enough zinc, a vital mineral. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including impaired immune function, slow wound healing, hair loss, and skin problems. In severe cases, it can also affect growth, sexual development, and cognitive function.

Symptoms

Impaired Immune Function: Zinc is crucial for a healthy immune system, and deficiency can increase susceptibility to infections.

Delayed Wound Healing: Zinc plays a role in cell growth and repair, so a deficiency can slow down the healing of wounds.

Skin Problems: Skin rashes, eczema-like lesions, and dry, flaky skin can be signs of zinc deficiency.

Hair Loss: Zinc deficiency can contribute to hair loss or thinning.

Digestive Issues: Diarrhea, especially in infants, is a common symptom.

Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss: Zinc deficiency can reduce appetite and contribute to weight loss.

Changes in Taste and Smell: A reduced ability to taste and smell can be a sign of zinc deficiency.

Growth Retardation: In children, zinc deficiency can hinder growth and development.

Cognitive Impairment: Zinc is important for brain function, and deficiency can affect alertness, memory, and learning.

Eye Problems: In severe cases, zinc deficiency can affect vision, including night blindness.

Causes

Inadequate Dietary Intake: Not eating enough zinc-rich foods can lead to deficiency, particularly in people with restrictive diets or limited access to nutritious food.

Malabsorption Issues: Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease, can interfere with zinc absorption.

Increased Excretion: Conditions like diarrhea or kidney disease can increase zinc excretion, leading to deficiency.

Increased Needs: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and periods of rapid growth can increase the body's zinc requirements.

Alcohol Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair zinc absorption and increase excretion.

Night Blindness - > Vitamin A Deficiency

Vitamin A deficiency occurs when the body doesn't get enough vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth. It's a global health concern, particularly in developing countries, and can lead to vision problems, including night blindness and, in severe cases, blindness.

Causes

Dietary deficiency: Inadequate intake of vitamin A-rich foods is the primary cause, especially in regions where rice, which lacks vitamin A, is a staple food.

Malabsorption: Conditions like cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, or certain pancreatic disorders can hinder the body's ability to absorb vitamin A.

Liver disorders: The liver stores vitamin A, so liver issues can impair the body's ability to utilize it.

Other conditions: Iron or zinc deficiency can also impact vitamin A uptake.

Symptoms

Night blindness: Difficulty seeing in low light is often the first noticeable symptom.

Xerophthalmia: Dryness of the conjunctiva (white part of the eye) and cornea, potentially leading to corneal ulcers and blindness.

Impaired immune function: Vitamin A is crucial for a healthy immune system, and deficiency can increase susceptibility to infections.

Growth problems: Vitamin A deficiency can hinder growth and development, especially in children.

Muscle Cramps - > Magnesium Deficiency

Magnesium deficiency, also known as hypomagnesemia, occurs when the body has low levels of magnesium. Symptoms can range from mild, like fatigue and muscle cramps, to severe, such as seizures or abnormal heart rhythms. It's important to address magnesium deficiency promptly as it can lead to various health complications.

Common Symptoms

Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak.

Muscle Problems: Muscle cramps, spasms, and twitching.

Loss of Appetite: Reduced desire to eat.

Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach and throwing up.

Numbness and Tingling: Pins and needles sensations, particularly in the limbs.

Abnormal Heart Rhythms: Irregular heartbeat.

Headaches: Including migraines.

Personality Changes: Irritability, anxiety, or confusion.

Causes

Poor Dietary Intake: Not consuming enough magnesium-rich foods.

Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions like Crohn's disease or celiac disease can impair magnesium absorption.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can interfere with magnesium absorption and increase excretion.

Certain Medications: Some medications can deplete magnesium levels.

Kidney Problems: Impaired kidney function can affect magnesium levels.

Ice Cravings - > Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency, particularly in the form of iron deficiency anemia (IDA), is associated with sleep disturbances like insomnia, shorter sleep duration, and restless sleep.

Symptoms

Being pale or having yellow "sallow" skin. Unexplained fatigue or lack of energy. Shortness of breath or chest pain, especially with activity.

Insomnia and sleep disturbances: Research indicates a link between anemia and insomnia, with some studies showing a higher risk of insomnia in individuals with IDA. Anemia can also lead to other sleep problems, such as restless legs syndrome (RLS).

Reduced oxygen flow: Iron deficiency can affect oxygen delivery to the brain, potentially leading to sleep disturbances.

Increased heart rate: The body may compensate for reduced oxygen by increasing heart rate, which can make it harder to fall asleep.

Anxiety and neurotransmitter imbalances: Low iron levels can contribute to anxiety, which can disrupt sleep. Additionally, iron is involved in the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and melatonin, which play crucial roles in sleep regulation.

Restless legs syndrome: Iron deficiency is a known risk factor for RLS, a condition characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.

Sleep alterations in infants: Studies have also found that early IDA in infancy is associated with long-lasting alterations in sleep patterns, such as changes in REM sleep duration and timing, even after iron treatment.

Fatigue - > B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to a range of health problems, including anemia, fatigue, nerve damage, and neurological issues. It's crucial to recognize the symptoms and seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms

General: Fatigue, weakness, pale or yellow skin, headaches.

Neurological: Numbness or tingling in hands and feet, muscle weakness, problems with balance and coordination, vision problems, memory problems, confusion, depression, and irritability.

Gastrointestinal: Digestive issues, loss of appetite, a smooth, sore, and inflamed tongue (glossitis).

Causes

Dietary: Insufficient intake of B12-rich foods (primarily found in animal products). This is especially relevant for vegetarians and vegans.

Absorption Issues: Conditions like pernicious anemia (where the body can't absorb B12), celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or after weight loss surgery can hinder B12 absorption.

Dry Skin - > Omega-3 Deficiency

Omega-3 deficiency can lead to various health issues, including dry skin, joint pain, mood swings, and fatigue. Insufficient intake of these essential fatty acids, found in foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, can be a contributing factor. Addressing this deficiency can involve dietary changes and, in some cases, supplementation.

Signs and Symptoms

Skin Issues: Dry, rough skin, eczema, and increased sensitivity.

Joint Pain: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties, and deficiency can exacerbate joint pain and stiffness, according to NativePath.

Mood Changes: Deficiency can impact mood, potentially leading to depression, anxiety, and irritability, according to Progressive Medical Center.

Cognitive Function: Omega-3s are important for brain health. Deficiency can lead to brain fog, poor memory, and difficulty concentrating, says Zooki.

Other Symptoms: Dry eyes, fatigue, increased thirst, and potential cardiovascular issues can also be linked to omega-3 deficiency.

Hair and Nails: Brittle hair and nails can be a sign of omega-3 deficiency, as these fatty acids contribute to hair and nail health.

Depression - > Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency occurs when the body doesn't have enough vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health, calcium absorption, and various other bodily functions. It can lead to a range of health problems, including bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures, especially in children and older adults. Several factors can contribute to deficiency, such as limited sun exposure, dietary inadequacies, and certain health conditions.

Causes

Insufficient Sun Exposure: Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D for most people, as the skin produces it when exposed to UVB radiation. Factors like geographic location (especially during winter months), limited time outdoors, and using sunscreen can reduce vitamin D synthesis.

Dietary Deficiency: Very few foods naturally contain vitamin D. While some foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified products (like milk and cereal) can help, they may not provide sufficient amounts for everyone.

Malabsorption Issues: Certain conditions like Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and cystic fibrosis can hinder the body's ability to absorb vitamin D from food.

Certain Medications: Some medications, including certain anticonvulsants and those used to treat HIV/AIDS, can interfere with vitamin D metabolism and absorption.

Obesity: Individuals with a BMI over 30 may have lower vitamin D levels due to the vitamin being sequestered in body fat, making it less available for use.

Darker Skin Tone: People with darker skin pigmentation produce less vitamin D in response to sunlight than those with lighter skin.

Symptoms

Bone Pain and Weakness: Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, which is needed for strong bones. Deficiency can lead to bone pain, especially in the back and hips, and can increase the risk of fractures.

Muscle Weakness and Pain: Vitamin D receptors are present in muscles, and deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, fatigue, and increased risk of falls.

Rickets (in children): In children, vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets, a condition where bones become soft and weak, leading to skeletal deformities, particularly bowed legs.

Osteomalacia (in adults): In adults, deficiency can cause osteomalacia, which is a softening of the bones, leading to bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures.

Fatigue and Mood Changes: Some individuals with vitamin D deficiency may experience fatigue, depression, and other mood changes.

Pale Skin - > Iron or B12 Deficiency

Frequent Infections - > Zinc or Vitamin C Deficiency

Tingling/Numbness - > B12 Deficiency

Bloating after meals - > Low Stomach Acid

Brain Fog - > Choline Deficiency

Restless Legs - > Iron or Magnesium Deficiency

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana to address your symptoms and get to the root cause of your health issues. Call or Text 1 (602) 524-0222.

3 Bodily Systems You Didn't Know Chiropractic Care Could Help

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 16:27:23 GMT

Many people see chiropractic care as helping musculoskeletal issues since a large part of chiropractic consists of spinal alignments. Also, this would affect your nervous system, since your main nerve (the spinal cord) runs right down your spine. But, did you know that if you have a misalignment, chiropractic care can help with a number of other issues as well?

Here are three bodily systems you may not have known that chiropractic care could help with.

1. Digestive System

Chiropractic care, and the results of correcting misalignments, can help your digestive system work better and more in sync and could even help with digestive ailments. For example, the improved posture that correct spinal alignment can provide can help your digestive system. The spinal alignment can allow for better blood flow to your digestive organs.

Another way chiropractic care could help is by relieving pressure on the nerves that tell your digestive tract what to do. This pressure, or compression, can restrict nerve function and cause digestive issues that can then improve significantly after an alignment.

One final potential reason for improved digestion with chiropractic care is that exercise, or even just moving around, can help get your digestive system going. If your chiropractic care lessens your pain and increases your range of motion so you can lead a more active lifestyle, this can indirectly improve digestion as well.

2. Lymphatic System

Improving your alignment and your posture isn't just great for digestion but with lymphatic flow as well. Your lymphatic system is so much more than you realize, it's a hidden powerhouse for detoxification, immunity, and overall wellness.

Here's why it's essential to your health:

- It Has Its Own "Brain": The lymphatic system regulates itself through specialized vales that prevent back flow, ensuring that lymph moves efficiently towards its destination.

- It Removes 2-3 Liters of Waste Daily: Every day, the lymphatic system clears 2-3 liters of waste, toxins, and excess fluid from the body, keeping tissues healthy and preventing swelling (edema).

- Stress Impacts Its Efficiency: Chronic stress can slow lymphatic flow, leading to toxin buildup and weakened immunity. Regular movement, massage, and relaxation techniques can help combat this.

- You Have More Lymph Than Blood: The lymphatic system circulates more fluid than blood in your body, making it a critical component of overall health and detoxification.

- It's Closely Linked To Your Gut: The lymphatic system houses a large portion of the body's immune cells, many of which are concentrated in your gut, helping to protect against harmful pathogens from food and drink.

- It Helps In Fight Against Bacteria and Viruses: Lymph nodes act as "checkpoints" that trap and filter bacteria, viruses, etc.

3. Endocrine System

One of the key principles of chiropractic care is that your spine is crucial to so many different bodily processes. For example, your spinal cord controls your autonomic nervous system, which tells your hormone producing glands what to do.

Your endocrine system has a variety of different glands, and if some of them don't get the correct signals, your whole body could be out of whack.

In fact, hormone production issues can cause problems ranging from mental health issues to thyroid problems to reproductive problems and much more. Regular chiropractic care to keep your spine correctly aligned so it won't inhibit your spinal cord's function can be part of a treatment plan for managing or avoiding hormone imbalances.

These are just three of the systems in your body that a chiropractic professional can help. Additionally, you also have more obvious musculoskeletal effects, and some chiropractic patients find relief from headaches or repetitive strain injuries. But when you realize how much different bodily systems affect each other, you can see even more benefits.

One or more of these three bodily systems may be unbalanced without you even knowing it. Many health conditions can have knock-on effects in other areas (similar to how diabetes makes you more susceptible to periodontal disease). So be sure to have regular chiropractic treatments if you and your doctor think they could help avoid or manage any health problems.

Dr. Diana Mladenoff of the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona is ready to help you improve your posture, your range of motion, and perhaps even your quality of life with regular chiropractic adjustments. Get in touch with us today online or over the telephone to talk about our services and discuss becoming a new patient. We'll be happy to help you whether you have an injury, chronic pain, or just poor posture. Call or Text our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

All credits go to source .

Detoxify: The Healing Benefits of an Ionic Footbath

Sat, 10 May 2025 15:45:41 GMT

Have you considered an Iconic Footbath?

An ionic detox footbath offers numerous benefits by enhancing the body's natural detoxification processes, aiding in the removal of heavy metals and other toxins more effectively.

By supporting the body's detoxification mechanisms, individuals can experience:

Reinforced immune function
Alleviation of chronic pain and inflammation
Reduced risk of chronic diseases
Relief from symptoms associated with chronic illnesses
Potential weight loss
Increased energy levels and mental clarity
Improved lymphatic drainage
Enhanced skin health
Decreased frequency of headaches and migraines
Better circulation and heart health
Overall relaxation and mood enhancement
Stress reduction
Alleviation of swelling in the feet and ankles
Enhanced digestion and nutrient absorption

Based on my extensive research, it's evident that an individual's ability to bolster their immune system may be hindered by the inefficient removal of toxins from the body. Accumulated toxins can compromise the immune system, escalate inflammation, and lead to the reabsorption of harmful substances.

By facilitating detoxification and promoting circulation, we can prevent blockages in the lymphatic system, allowing the body to expel residual toxins and thereby improve overall health.

Who Can Benefit from an Ionic Detox Footbath?

Virtually anyone, including children ages 5 and above, can benefit from an ionic detox footbath to enhance their overall well-being. Research indicates that individuals of all ages suffering from chronic pain, illness, migraines, and fatigue tend to experience the most significant improvements.

Ionic footbaths are also beneficial for individuals dealing with skin conditions, fungal or yeast infections, and digestive issues. Additionally, this treatment can complement other therapies such as digestive cleanses, dietary detoxes, and IV therapy aimed at cellular detoxification.

Who Should Avoid Footbaths?

Individuals with pacemakers or other internal electronic devices
Those who have undergone organ transplants
Individuals on life-threatening medications
Individuals with open cuts or sores on their feet or ankles

How Does It Work?

In simple terms, an ionic detox footbath utilizes water, Himalayan bath salt, and conduction in a copper tub to facilitate osmosis. This process involves the movement of particles from an area of high concentration to low concentration through a semi-permeable membrane, which, in this case, is the skin on the feet. Toxins are drawn out of the body and into the salt water solution due to the difference in concentration.

Are There Any Risks?

Side effects are rare, but some individuals may experience mild nausea or dizziness following treatment. Rapid detoxification may lead to flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, headaches, stomach upset, diarrhea, flatulence, or constipation.

Do Ionic Footbaths Really Work?

Unfortunately, there are a few small and poorly conducted studies that have led to some skepticism about the effectiveness of ionic footbaths. However, there are many providers who are having positive effects with ionic footbaths. Studies conducted show significant increases in the amounts of heavy metals in the detox footbath water after 30-minutes. Another study by AMD also found a significant decrease in Glyphosate levels in the urine of patients who received ionic detox foot baths.

Additional research also shows that patients who receive an ionic foot detox have higher amounts of toxins in their urine and stool within three days of treatment, further demonstrating that the treatment does indeed enhance detoxification.

And finally, the Pacific College of Health and Science also quotes a study that demonstrates a significant reduction in aluminum and arsenic levels in the patient’s blood after ionic cleansing.

In conclusion, the benefits of an ionic detox footbath extend far beyond mere relaxation. By supporting the body's natural detoxification processes, this therapy aids in the removal of toxins, heavy metals, and other harmful substances, leading to improved overall health and well-being. From enhanced immune function to reduced inflammation, increased energy levels, anti-aging effects, and relief from chronic pain, the positive effects of regular footbath sessions are abundant.

The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Team is proud to offer professional-grade Ion Balancing Detox Foot Baths at our clinic. If you're seeking a natural and effective way to support your health journey, consider scheduling a treatment today. CALL or TEXT Dr. Diana at 1 (602) 524-0222.

The Positive Effects of Chiropractic on Your Child’s Behavior

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 00:34:51 GMT

As parents, we all want what’s best for our kids. We want them to do well in school, have a healthy social life, and grow up to be the best adult they can be. We do our best to love them, teach them, and keep them healthy, but what happens when our best efforts simply aren’t enough? Every parent knows there is no perfect parent, but sometimes another issue is contributing to our child’s poor grades, lack of motivation, social discomfort, and apparent love of disobedience.

ADHD and Over-Medicating

The CDC reports that in 2012, about 11% of US children ages 4-17 had been diagnosed with ADHD. More than half of those children are taking some sort of medication to “control” their ADHD. This is the highest number of kids living with an ADHD diagnosis, and many believe that the majority of these kids are misdiagnosed and very overmedicated.

Whether your child has been diagnosed with or medicated for ADHD or not, children are notorious for having little self-control or impulse control, being easily distracted, acting restless. But when these tendencies are excessive and long-lasting, they can seriously take away from the child’s wellbeing, education, and social development. Medicating for these concerns is not a long-term fix, nor is it really even a solution at all. The medications simply reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity while increasing concentration. They offer no help at actually improving the child’s ability to control poor behavior or ADHD tendencies without the medication, and they come with their fair share of risks and side effects, including decreased appetite, insomnia, and substance abuse risks.

Chiropractic Is a Long-Term Solution for Behavior Problems

ADHD and other behavior problems are most commonly associated with the reticular activating system, or the attention center of the brain. Scientists learned in the 1990s that brains have plasticity, meaning they can change and grow, provided that they’re given the opportunity. Chiropractors, like Dr. Diana, remove misalignments in the spine that are causing miscommunications with the nervous system and the rest of the body. A chiropractic adjustment will align the spine properly, normalizing brain function and encouraging proper function of all parts of the brain, including the parts that control impulses, activity, reasoning, and more. Chiropractic seeks to create a balance between both sides of the body and all hemispheres of the brain, leading to proper brain development and better behavior and wellbeing for the individual under chiropractic care.

Chiropractic doesn’t just help those with ADHD, either. Kids with learning disabilities, dyslexia, sensory integration problems, irritability, nervousness, coordination issues, and more can all benefit from the benefits of chiropractic care. When kids are given the opportunity to thrive—and their body supports that opportunity by functioning effectively and developing properly—there is nothing they cannot achieve.

Countless case studies have been done to prove the efficacy of chiropractic care in children with learning impairments and behavioral issues. While new case studies are being completed regarding this topic, several from many decades ago are still showing their relevance in the world of chiropractic and in helping parents give their kids their best shot at a happy, healthy, and successful life.

If your child is suffering from any sort of behavior problem, whether diagnosed, medicated, or not, give Dr. Diana a call at The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona today. Dr. D would love the opportunity to meet with you about your child and make a plan to improve his or her behavior, health, and life.

Find our office.

Call or Text Dr. Diana at 1 (602) 524-0222 to get started.

Sources

Schetchikova, N.V. “Children with ADHD Medical vs. Chiropractic Perspective and Theory; Part 1.” Journal of the American Chiropractic Association, 2002 Jul; Reprint. http://www.chiro.org/pediatrics/FULL/adhd_part1.shtml .

Walton, E.V. “The Effects of Chiropractic Treatment on Students with Learning and Behavioral Impairments Due to Neurological Dysfunction.” International Review of Chiropractic, 1975; 29: 4-5, 24-26. http://icpa4kids.org/Chiropractic-Research/the-effects-of-chiropractic-treatment-on-students-with-learning-and-behavioral-impairments-due-to-neurological-dysfunction.html .

All credit goes to source .

Concussion Crisis: What Doctors Aren't Telling You

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 20:52:59 GMT

Our very own, Dr. Evan Mladenoff, was a special guest on the Macklin Connection podcast discussing the topic of concussions. Click the image below to listen or visit the source link at the bottom on the page.

Dr. Mladenoff began by illustrating the complexity of concussions through a series of personal anecdotes involving his family. He emphasized that concussions can happen not just in sports but in everyday situations like car accidents or simple falls. Importantly, Dr. M explained that one doesn’t need to hit their head to suffer a concussion. Instead, it’s the sudden movement of the brain inside the skull—the so-called 'sloshing'—that is the root cause.

Symptoms and Implications of Concussions

A key point raised was the variability and subtlety of concussion symptoms. Concussions are not only about immediate headaches or disorientation; they can lead to longer-term issues such as hormonal imbalances, sleep disruptions, and emotional disturbances. Dr. Mladenoff explained that symptoms might not appear immediately and can exacerbate over time if not properly treated. He used compelling analogies, likening the brain to Jell-O and explaining the 'exceeding metabolic capacity' that can lead to significant challenges in daily functioning.

Diagnosing and Treating Concussions

Addressing the common misbelief that a week is enough recovery time, Dr. Mladenoff suggested that recovery can range from a month to even a year. He highlighted the need for thorough functional testing and a tailored recovery plan. Surprisingly, less than 5% of those who suffer head trauma lose consciousness, and yet many of these undiagnosed cases go on to suffer long-term consequences.

For parents, athletes, and educators, understanding the comprehensive impact of a concussion is essential. Dr. M stressed the importance of confronting the crisis of getting back into activities too quickly. He cited the necessity of a realistic and gradual return-to-play protocol and expressed concern over the lack of awareness and preparation among some healthcare providers.

Practical Advice for Parents and Patients

From a practical standpoint, Dr. Mladenoff advised parents to actively engage with healthcare providers by asking specific questions about their examination and treatment capabilities. His book includes a list of such questions, ensuring families receive the best possible care. Additionally, Dr. Mladenoff emphasized interviewing doctors to understand their approaches to handling concussion cases thoroughly.

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Understanding concussions requires moving beyond traditional perceptions of head injuries. Dr. Mladenoff’s contributions provide a comprehensive look at the impact, diagnosis, and treatment of concussions. This podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in sports, education, or health care, and it underscores the importance of informed and proactive health management. Be sure to check out DR. MLADENOFF’S BOOK and the forthcoming "Concussionology" podcast series to equip yourself with the knowledge needed to handle post-concussion procedures and promote better health outcomes.

Episode Summary

Concussion Crisis: What Doctors Aren't Telling You

Ron and Deb sat down with returning guest Dr. Mladenoff, a leading expert in concussion care, to discuss his new book which delves into the intricacies of diagnosing, treating, and understanding this serious health issue. Dr. Mladenoff shares personal experiences with concussions, both within his family and professionally, highlighting the physical, emotional, and long-term cognitive effects.

All credits go to SOURCE.

Understanding The Power Of Chiropractic

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 21:40:41 GMT

Why do so many women become pregnant under chiropractic care, when they were never able to become pregnant before? Why are so many women seeking out chiropractic care in pregnancy in preparation for safer, easier births? Why are so many birth care providers referring pregnant mothers to chiropractors? How is it that babies who cannot breastfeed or are experiencing symptoms of digestive distress undergo significant changes with feeding and digestion? What does the chiropractic adjustment do to restore normal physiology and improve function?

Chiropractors claim to have a direct influence on a person’s nervous system through the chiropractic adjustment. We further claim that people who remain subluxated (having a misalignment in the spine which causes a distortion in the communication of the nervous system) will have some form of neurological dysfunction. However, most people are not aware of the global health changes that can occur under chiropractic care, nor do they understand the complex neurological changes that occur with adjustments. Many people who have been to a chiropractor understand chiropractic from the classic “nerve pressure” theory. In a nutshell, the theory implies that a bone, or some other structure, moves from its normal position and places pressure on a neighboring nerve. The pressure leads to the nerve not functioning properly, which can result in a host of problems. People under chiropractic care visualize this explanation and can easily understand it. However, if this is the only explanation we give them, they will understand only a very small piece of the power of the chiropractic adjustment.

We know that chiropractic adjustments in the upper cervical spine (upper neck) significantly decrease an individual’s hypertension. There is no peripheral nerve connection from the neck to the structure that controls blood pressure, so the nerve pressure theory cannot be the explanation, yet these changes still occur. I contend that the nerve pressure theory is a very small piece of what is taking place inside the body. In my opinion, the most powerful connection between a chiropractic adjustment and a person’s global health changes is the direct effect the adjustment has on the brain and central nervous system.

So how does a spinal subluxation affect the brain and nervous system? The subluxation acts as both a physical stressor, due to the strain of the supporting structures connecting to that vertebra, and a chemical stressor, due to the accumulation of inflammation inside the joints. These physical and chemical stressors flood the brain with negative information from the body. The negative stress information is the neurological connection between the subluxation and the limbic system, which launches the stress response. The stress response activates two systems: The sympatho-adrenal system (SAS), and the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis (HPA). The SAS activates the sympathetic nervous system, which in turn releases hormones into the circulation. Once these hormones reach the adrenal glands, the adrenal glands release adrenaline into the bloodstream. Adrenaline supplies energy to the muscles and heart to prepare for the stress; however, it takes this energy from reproductive organs and the gastrointestinal tract.

The HPA axis activates the area of the brain that releases additional hormones into circulation. Once these hormones reach the adrenal glands, the adrenals release cortisol. Cortisol supplies energy to the muscles, but it takes this energy from reproductive organs and the immune system. This stress response is a normal response, provided the stressor is removed within a short period. However, when the stressor is not removed quickly, this chronic release of stress hormones negatively alters the immune, reproductive, and gastrointestinal systems, triggering a cascade of disease and illness. By removing the stressor (the subluxation) via chiropractic adjustment, we help stop the chronic stress response and allow energy to be reallocated to the centers that promote growth, expansion, and health.

In a nutshell, each time a chiropractor adjusts someone’s spine, we replace the negative information that is flooding the brain with positive information. This recalibrates the brain to help stop the release of chronic stress hormones and allows overall health and healing to occur. Every time a person receives a chiropractic adjustment, it positively affects the brain and nervous system. This positive effect on the brain promotes a state of ease and well-being within the body.

Even this is a small piece of the puzzle, but it gives us better insight on how chiropractic adjustments have a profound neurological effect on the central nervous system. Understanding this neurological effect can help us better identify how an adjustment changes the body’s stress response patterns and restores a state of ease. This knowledge enhances our understanding of how a woman can become pregnant under chiropractic care when she was unable to do so in the past. It opens up an important dialogue about how pregnant women under regular chiropractic care may experience greater resilience to modern stressors and have easier pregnancies and births. It may also shed some light on how breastfeeding and digestion in infants improve under chiropractic care. As chiropractors, we do not claim to have a cure for infertility, colic, or any other ailment. What we do is assess and adjust spinal subluxations to help the brain and body adapt and heal. The adaptation and healing process is as unique to each person as their own brains are!

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today: Call or text 1 (602) 524-0222 to get started.

All credit goes to source .

A Grateful Mind Opens Up A Loving Heart

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 22:12:26 GMT

Operating from a state of appreciation and gratitude is not only the secret of fulfillment, but it’s also the secret of decreasing the editing, fractions, side-bending, and wanderings in life.

You have more vitality when you are grateful for all you are, do, and have.

Every single day: Stop. Reflect. Think about what you could be grateful for. Make it your aim to appreciate the magnificent life you experience.

When you are grateful you become less burdened by subconscious emotional baggage. You become more uplifted and more enlightened.

True gratitude reflects the state of mental order and poise.

Gratitude enhances all seven areas of your life :

Spiritual : You become more present, caring, and loving when you are grateful.
Mental : You have less brain noise and a clear mind when you are grateful.
Vocational : You become more productive and engaging when you are grateful. You are likely to care about your customers and employees.
Financial : You become more objective and reasonable when you are grateful. Your financial assets are more likely to appreciate in value than depreciate.
Familial : You are more dialogue-oriented than monologue-projective, as well as more patient, when you are grateful.
Social : You are more caring of others and centered when you are grateful. You display more equity with those you lead or influence.
Physical : You are more poised than poisoned when you are grateful, more homeostatic than emotionally erratic.

Every situation contains something to be grateful for. Every situation is neutral until you subjectively bias your perceptions and label it otherwise. It inherently has both sides. It is neither positive nor negative until you filter it through your values, or polarize it to one side or another and narrow it down with a moral or ethical label.

There are at least two sides to every event in your life. What happens to you doesn’t matter as much as how you perceive it. The events of your day might appear to be negative at first glance. And then, later—perhaps in a day, a week, a month, a year, or even a decade—they can reveal their positive side.

The speed in which you see both sides is a reflection of your wisdom, and the breadth and depth of your awareness.

If I told you that you are always :

Nice and never mean
Kind and never cruel
Generous and never stingy
Positive and never negative
Peaceful and never wrathful

Your intuitive B.S. meter would go off and let you know that that is not the whole you.

If I told you that you were always :

Mean and never nice
Cruel and never kind
Stingy and never generous
Negative and never positive
Wrathful and never peaceful

Your intuitive B.S. meter would again go off; that’s not the whole you, either.

But if I said that you are sometimes :

Nice and sometimes mean
Kind and sometimes cruel
Generous and sometimes stingy
Positive and sometimes negative
Peaceful and sometimes wrathful

Your intuition would immediately say that that is true. Events or actions are neither positive nor negative. You are neither one label nor another as a whole person, but at any one moment you could be perceived to be one or the other.

When your highest values in life appear to be supported, you can display one side. But when your highest values appear to be challenged, you can in turn display the exact opposite side.

So, too, for events in your life. They are neither positive nor negative until you, with your incomplete awareness, label them as such. When you see both sides simultaneously, you become grateful for the hidden order within your apparent chaos.

Whatever you label will run your life until you return it to balance and become grateful.

Anything you are ungrateful for becomes baggage, and anything you are grateful for becomes fuel.

Wisdom is the instantaneous recognition that every:

Crisis is accompanied by a blessing
Challenge is accompanied by an opportunity
Door that is shut is accompanied by an open window

Wisdom is the synthesis and synchronicity of complementary opposites. Seeing only one side of an event will run your life until its complementary opposite side is revealed. The sooner you see both sides, the wiser and more grateful you become.

When you are infatuated with someone, you are conscious of that person’s positives and ignore the negatives. When you are resentful of someone, you focus on the negatives and overlook the positives. You embrace your conscious and unconscious sides simultaneously when you become fully conscious and grateful.

Your intuition is attempting to awaken you to this wiser state of poise that makes you grateful.

Anything you are not grateful for will run your life. Anything you cannot say thank you to will occupy space in your mind and run your life until you do.

The result of gratitude is what matters, and what liberates your mind.

You can be accountable and diligent on your own and discover the hidden order. Or gratitude can be generated through self-reflection, which is wise and productive. You can even seek assistance from a knowledgeable specialist or facilitator to see the balance and become grateful.

Once you see things on the way instead of in the way, you become free of the bondage and burden of an incomplete and one-sided emotional perspective. A balanced objectivity is more empowering than emotionally biased perceptions.

Give yourself permission to see both sides, and liberate your mind and life from unnecessary burdens. A grateful mind opens up a loving heart.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today. Call or text our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

All credit goes to source .

Birth Trauma: Why Infants Need Chiropractic Care

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 00:46:10 GMT

It is common to get strange looks from people I talk to about taking infants to the chiropractor. I know what is going through their heads:

Is it safe?

Babies don’t have back pain.

Do babies get adjusted the same way I do?

These are legitimate concerns for any parent, but to answer them I will begin with the most important question: Why?

Being born is tough work. There are a lot of pressures and forces being exerted onto your baby during her journey into the world. A recent study by Viola Frymann demonstrated that 90 percent of newborns suffered the effects of birth trauma: associated strain through the neck and cranial areas following birth. Frymann, an American osteopathic doctor, studied more than 1,500 babies periodically across an eight-year period. She examined all babies within the first five days of birth; in fact, many were checked within the first 24 hours of birth. This study revealed that approximately:

10 percent of the newborn babies had perfect, freely mobile skulls or cranial mechanisms.
10 percent had severe trauma to the head, evident even to untrained observers.
The remaining 80 percent all had some strain patterns in the cranial mechanism.

Left uncorrected, this trauma continues to impact a baby’s spinal growth and development, reducing the healthy function of her nerve system. This can cause many health challenges later in life that could easily have been prevented.

Birth Trauma

Birth in its many different forms can be quite traumatic. While each birth is unique, there is always a chance that the baby suffers some sort of strain due to a variety of reasons. Even the most natural births can result in trauma that goes undetected. As researcher G. Gutmann has written, “The trauma from the birth process remains an underpublicized and therefore significantly under-treated problem.”

What can cause birth trauma?

Very short labor
Very long labor
Failure of the cervix to dilate
Use of Pitocin to strengthen/induce uterine contractions
Use of forceps or vacuum extraction
Cord around baby’s neck
Cesarean delivery (due to lack of progress)
Pulling or twisting on the head to deliver the infant’s body

Evidence

Beyond the Frymann study detailed above, a Harvard University pathologist, Dr. Abraham Towbin, found evidence of spinal injury common as a result of the birthing process. He also found evidence of spinal injury in many cases of SIDS and infant respiratory conditions.

Birth trauma often causes neurological dysfunction. In fact, a study by Gutmann examining more than 1,000 infants concluded that approximately 80 percent had some form of nerve dysfunction. This is of utmost importance, since 65 percent of neurological development (brain and nerve system) occurs in a child’s first year . During this crucial time it is vital that the nerve system be healthy so the child can grow and develop to her potential.

What can nerve dysfunction from birth trauma look like?

trouble breathing
reflux/frequent spitting up
irritability/colic
difficulty nursing (impaired sucking/swallowing or head positioning)
balance issues
sleeping difficulty
delayed developmental milestones

Chiropractic care is focused solely on removing nerve dysfunction (which improves brain-body communication) so a new baby can grow, develop, and function at its highest potential. We as humans were born with an innate ability to heal. Chiropractors minimize the obstructions to that ability.

Spinal Elongation

A baby’s spine lengthens by 50 percent in his first year. At no other time does this growth happen so rapidly, so you want to make sure your baby is in proper alignment, ensuring proper symmetrical growth.

The Hueter-Volkman law states that bones change shape with pressure by slowing bone growth in response to pressure (compression forces). Any spinal misalignment changes the balance of pressure across the spinal bones and can lead to asymmetric bone development. This is the difference between having a spine like a straight, strong oak and having a spine like a crooked tree.

The first year of life is also the time of spinal curvature development. There are curves called lordosis present in your neck and lower back, and curves called kyphosis in your mid-back and sacrum. These spinal curves are necessary for movement, balance, upright posture, protection, and shock absorption. Without being in alignment during this crucial time, a baby’s spinal curves may not develop properly—giving him a poor foundation for later in life.

Optimize the nerve system

The central nerve system consists of the brain and spinal cord, and it processes everything that your body does. Movement, a heartbeat, seeing a baby smile, feeling the sun on your skin, laughing, smelling, creativity—all are coordinated by the brain and spinal cord .

In infants the central nerve system also controls their growth and development. Infancy is the time of greatest brain and proprioceptor (body position sensors) development, so infancy is the time to ensure the health of the nerve system. Chiropractors who take care of babies look for disturbances in their nerve systems that interfere with healthy growth and development.

Remember: If your baby’s spine stays out of balance, it can put tension on the nerve system.

Is it safe for infants to get adjusted?

Yes. Adverse events linked to pediatric chiropractic care are virtually nonexistent, estimated at 1 in 250 million pediatric visits. There is not a single medical procedure safer than that, but I would encourage parents to seek out chiropractors who routinely take care of children in their practice.

When adjusting a newborn, a skilled chiropractor will only use the amount of pressure that you would use to comfortably push on your eye. The child gets checked by hand and with technology, then is placed in position (usually in Mommy’s lap), and gentle pressure is applied. That’s all there is to it. It’s simple, safe, and effective.

Two major studies on chiropractic and infantile colic have shown that over a period of two weeks (usually three visits) 94 percent of babies adjusted by chiropractors showed a successful rating, with 25 percent showing improvement after the first adjustment. Dr. S. Vallone, in a 2007 study, concluded, “Chiropractic adjustments in the early stages of neurologic imprinting appear to safely and effectively address the craniocervical dysfunction and help restore natural, efficient suckling patterns for infants who are unable to successfully latch.”

Better immunity through a healthy spine and nerve system

A leader in psychoneuroimmunology, Dr. Candice Pert, credits chiropractic as having a significant effect on maximizing immunity via maintenance of a healthy nerve system.

A pilot study examined the relationship between intensity of chiropractic care and incidence of childhood diseases. The results showed that children who went to the chiropractor more than seven times per year had an increased resistance (immunity) to common childhood diseases.

Many parents have their children checked regularly by chiropractors as part of a healthy lifestyle to help them develop to their potential. Chiropractic is a safe, gentle, and effective way to address nerve dysfunction and promote overall wellness in the newborn and growing child.

All credit go to source & our friends over at Pathways Chiropractic.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana at our Wellness Clinic in Phoenix. Call or text 1 (602) 524-0222.

Is Your Child’s Backpack A Source Of Spinal Stress?

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 21:59:44 GMT

We know that back pain is the most common ailment among working American adults. Even more significant than back pain and associated injury is the implications that postural distortions have on nerve system function. These postural adaptations can cause spinal nerve stress.

Stress to the nervous system can adversely affect numerous functions in the body leading to a wide array of health concerns.

While backpacks are one of the most convenient and frequently used ways to carry books and school supplies, there are numerous precautions for selection and use. Doctors of Chiropractic have been offering constructive suggestions about this issue for many years.

Wearing backpacks improperly or carrying ones that are too heavy put children at increased risk for spinal injury. Postural compensations carrying the heavy loads are causing what chiropractors term repetitive stress injury to many children. The postural imbalances appear to be most significant with prepubescent female students because of the heavy load required to carry at their ages and the sensitivity of their developing spines at this time of life.

Doctors of Chiropractic offer these tips for safe backpack use:

Wear both straps and avoid the one-strap styled back packs. Uneven distribution of the load causes postural compensations and spinal stress.
When putting on and removing backpacks, bend at the knees or have the pack at a higher level such as on a desk or table. Sudden twisting motion adds to the potential of injury.
Arrange the backpack so it rests evenly in the middle of the back. Shoulder straps should be adjusted to allow the child to put on and take off the backpack without difficulty and permit free movement of the arms. Straps should not be too loose, and the backpack should not extend below the lower back.
Keep the load at 10-15% or less of the student’s bodyweight. Carry only those items that are required for the day. Request additional textbooks to be kept at home instead of hauling heavy books to and from school.
Organize the contents of the backpack by placing the heaviest items closest to the back.

There are some ergonomically designed features in backpacks that enhance safety and comfort:

A padded back and shoulder straps will reduce pressure on the back, shoulders, and underarm regions, and enhance comfort.
Hip and chest belts help to transfer some of the backpack weight from the back and shoulders to the hips and torso.
Reflective material enhances visibility of the child to drivers in the evening hours.

The following signs may indicate that the pack is too heavy or not positioned correctly on the back:

Postural adaptations when wearing the backpack such as: excessive leaning forward, spinal tilt to one side or an elevated hip supporting the excess weight
Difficulty when putting on or taking off the backpack
Pain or discomfort when wearing the backpack
Tingling or numbness in arms and even into fingers
Redness or soreness in neck, upper back and shoulder muscles.
Lower back pain with either gradual or sudden onset

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana Mladenoff today. Call or text our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

All credits go to SOURCE .

Nutrition Tips To Help Students Improve Concentration And Focus

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 19:39:29 GMT

It’s a million-dollar question: does nutrition impact our ability to focus? The resounding answer is yes, it absolutely does.

Specific nutritional strategies can greatly support increased cognitive health, focus, and attention in children and adults alike. In modern society, screen time and other common lifestyle factors can significantly impact kids’ ability to concentrate—but diet and certain targeted supplements can make a notable difference.

By adjusting macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbohydrates), lowering refined carbohydrates, and increasing the intake of omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, and other brain foods and nutrients, students can start the school year with an improved ability to concentrate. Let's dive into this month's wellness blog topic, nutritional tips to improve cognitive function.

SIGNS THAT STUDENTS ARE STRUGGLING WITH CONCENTRATION AND FOCUS

Kids are naturally active. Their ability to focus looks different from that of adults, and varies depending on their age. In fact, many school-aged kids today experience a constant influx of factors that make it harder for them to focus and concentrate. For example, increased screen time, lack of exercise, less social interaction, inadequate sleep, and mounting school and extra-curricular pressures all play a significant role.

While these aren’t always a major concern, keep an eye on the following to gauge whether or not your children need additional support for concentration and focus:

Inability to sit still and maintain a train of thought
Appears to often be daydreaming
Difficulty following instructions
Inability to stay organized
Lack of interest
Easily distracted

Some of these are unavoidable and completely normal in children. Still, if school success and daily tasks are being significantly interrupted, nutritional tips to improve cognitive function can help.

TIPS TO IMPROVE STUDENTS’ CONCENTRATION: HOW TO HELP KIDS FOCUS

If you sense a serious problem with your child’s ability to focus, it’s always important to check in with a provider. The following tips can help support concentration and focus in students, along with overall health.

AVOID FOOD DYES

Evidence suggests that artificial food coloring agents can impact students’ attention and focus, particularly red #3, red #40, and yellow #5. In the UK and European Union, most foods must come with a warning label if they contain certain food dyes, and many have been banned. It’s best to avoid processed and packaged foods with artificial dyes whenever possible.

ADJUST MACRONUTRIENTS

The typical American plate is high in carbohydrates, often has too much (or unhealthy types) of protein, and is low in healthy fats and high in unhealthy fats. Try to fill half of your child’s plate with colorful vegetables and fruits (with more emphasis on the vegetables), a serving of animal or plant-based protein, and a serving of healthy fats like avocado, olives, olive oil, coconut, coconut oil, nuts, seeds, and nut and seed butters.

Carbohydrates are quickly digested and can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate, which impacts attention and focus. Protein and fats are more slowly digested macronutrients that provide more sustainable energy for the brain and body.

BALANCE REFINED CARBS

In very active kids, carbohydrates must not be labeled “bad” across the board. Though food made with flours is what we typically think of when we talk about carbohydrates, vegetables and fruits are also a source of carbohydrates and unarguably an important part of the diet. However, quality is of utmost importance, along with exercising moderation when it comes to refined carbohydrates like white flour bread and pasta, cookies, cakes, crackers, and other commercial baked goods.

PAIR CARBS WITH PROTEIN AND HEALTHY FATS

Enjoying carbohydrate-rich foods with protein and fat will help prevent a blood sugar rollercoaster, as well as related discomforts like brain fog, irritability, lack of concentration, and more. Healthier carbohydrate options include vegetables, fruits, starchy vegetables like plantain and sweet potato, and legumes.

INCORPORATE FOODS HIGH IN ZINC, IRON, B-VITAMINS, VITAMIN C, AND OMEGA-3S

While a well-balanced plate of whole foods will support concentration, incorporating specific nutrients to help kids focus is key. Zinc, iron, B vitamins, vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids have all been shown to boost concentration and brain health in various ways, so incorporating foods rich in these nutrients can be beneficial. Ask Dr. Diana today about what supplements she recommends for those who feel they are not meeting their daily vitamin and mineral intake.

PINPOINT FOOD INTOLERANCES

Known food allergies and sensitivities should be taken into account, but other food intolerances that are challenging to test for could also play a role in difficulty with concentration and focus. If you suspect that your child has a food intolerance, try eliminating that food for 2-4 weeks and observe any changes in your child’s ability to focus. Depending on age, the most common food intolerances tend to be gluten and dairy. This is something that Dr. D can help monitor with as well. Inquire today.

BRAIN FOODS FOR KIDS

These brain foods are rich in the nutrients mentioned above, and can support students both in school and beyond.

FISH AND SEAFOOD

Fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and tuna. Wild fish is ideal if you can find it locally, but mercury contamination is an important consideration in these larger fish. Sardines are an excellent omega-3-rich alternative, and you can combine them with other types of fish if your kids aren’t crazy about sardines.

WALNUTS AND FLAXSEEDS

Both walnuts and flaxseeds are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based source of omega-3 fats. Flaxseeds are easily added to smoothies, yogurt, salads, and any other dish you can imagine. If possible, buy whole flax seeds and grind them for a few days at a time in a seed or coffee grinder, then store them in the refrigerator to prevent oxidation.

GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES

Green leafy vegetables are an excellent source of magnesium and iron, among many other important vitamins and minerals. You can mix a handful into a smoothie if your kids don’t like the taste. Great choices include kale, spinach, arugula, lettuce, Swiss chard, collard greens, and bok choy.

CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES

Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, kale, bok choy, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts, among others. Research suggests that they are likely to support brain health and function due to a sulfur-containing compound called glucosinolate. This compound slows the breakdown of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which plays a key role in learning and memory.

VITAMIN-C-RICH FOODS

Vitamin C enhances iron absorption by capturing non-heme iron and storing it in a form that is better absorbed by the body. Vitamin C-rich foods include citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, green leafy vegetables, strawberries, and bell peppers.

MEAT

HIGH QUALITY MEAT*. Iron serves many important functions in the body. Its primary role is transporting oxygen as a part of red blood cells. Low iron status has been shown in children who deal with concentration and focus issues, along with zinc, the hidden them in a child's nutrition. Great food sources of iron include organ meats, red meat, shellfish and fish, legumes, spinach, and dark chocolate.

KIDS SUPPLEMENTS FOR ATTENTION AND FOCUS

It’s ideal to push whole foods as the primary source of nutrients for kids, but there are many circumstances in which discussing supplements is needed. Nutrient depletion in soil, picky eating habits, and other factors can make it important to fill nutritional gaps with high-quality supplements.

Along with foods that are rich in these same nutrients, students often benefit from supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, B vitamins, magnesium, and iron. In the case of iron, ferritin levels should always be tested with your doctor before supplementation. Levels below 50 are typically improved with a high-quality iron supplement.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The last years of increased screen time, lower social activity, and heightened stress has highlighted the growing problem of students’ inability to focus at school. Kids of all ages depend on a solid diet of whole foods to support their psychological, emotional, and physical health, and by providing them with a balanced plate of whole foods rich in brain-supportive nutrients, avoiding food dyes, and considering supplementation when necessary, you can help your children greatly increase their focus, concentration, and overall wellbeing.

Contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff today to learn more. Schedule an appointment by calling or texting our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

All credits go to source .

Cross-Brain Fitness

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 19:32:44 GMT

An Integrative Workout for the Mind and Body

Many of you participate in summer travel and actives. Whether you are hiking up north or enjoying the waters of another state to escape the Arizona heat, keep in mind that certain activities can boost your brain power. This month we explore ways you can activate both hemispheres of your brain while enjoying some summer fun.

Holistic approaches to health and well-being that consider the entire person - body, mind and spirit - are especially effective in cultivating creativity and mental equilibrium. Cross-brain fitness training encourages the use of both the left and right hemispheres of the brain in tandem to improve body and brain function.

One study published in Advances in Physical Education suggests that exercise involving movements across the middle of the body improved the ability to transfer motor skills from one hand to the other, most likely due to improved communication between the two sides of the brain. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Exercise, Nutrition and Biochemistry found that a 12-week brain health exercise program for seniors improved lower and upper body strength, as well as aerobic endurance, while also increasing cognitive function and levels of brain-deprived neurotrophic factor, a protein that plays an important role in neuronal survival and growth.

ENGAGING SPORTS

Physical activities that engage both brain hemispheres booth health and enhance creativity by integrating analytical and creative thinking. Team sports such as soccer and basketball are excellent for cross-brain development. They demand strategic planning and logical thinking, activities typically associated with the left hemisphere. At the same time, they require players to use spatial awareness and creativity - skills linked to the right hemisphere. This combination encourages players to continuously switch between different modes of thinking, thereby improving brain agility and coordination.

"Team sports require players to analyze the game situation, anticipate opponents' moves and strategize accordingly," says Danielle Smith, a registered dietitian and personal trainer. "Players need to understand the rules of the game, their position-specific responsibilities and how to execute plays effectively." Team sports offer a great way for these skills to develop naturally in a fun environment."

Rock climbing and hiking are prime examples of an activity that blends cognitive demands. It requires meticulous problem-solving and advanced planning (left-brain activities) to choose the best routes and techniques for ascent. Simultaneously, climbers and hikers must employ spatial awareness and adaptability (right-brain activities) to navigate and adjust to new challenges on the fly, making it a comprehensive brain exercise.

Sailing combines the technical knowledge and analytical thinking characteristic of the left brain, such as navigating and understanding sailing mechanics, with the intuitive grasp of environmental elements like wind and water, a right-brain activity. Sailors must continuously interpret these dynamic elements and adjust their strategies accordingly, promoting an advanced level of hemispheric integration.

IMPLEMENTING A ROUTINE

Incorporating a variety of cross-brain training activities into a regular fitness routine is crucial for engaging different parts of the brain and maximizing cognitive development. Here are some tips and strategies for creating an effective cross-brain fitness routine:

Add variety. Rotate between actives that challenge different cognitive skills. For example, blend team sports, which enhance strategic thinking and cooperation, with individual pursuits like rock climbing, tennis or golf that require problem-solving and adaptability. This diversity not only prevents boredom but also stimulates different brain areas.
Be consistent. Schedule brain-stimulating physical activities like Brain Training sessions in-office with Dr. Diana several times a month to help encourage new neural connections and improve brain function over time.
Progress gradually. Start with simpler tasks and gradually increase the complexity of the activities as cognitive and physical abilities improve. This progression keeps the brain challenged and engaged as training advances.
Track results. Use a journal or digital app to record the types of activities performed, their duration and any noticeable improvements in thinking, problem-solving or creative output. Also reflect on changes in emotional and mental well-being. Such monitoring is essential to appreciate the benefits of a cross-brain fitness routine.
Check cognitive progress. Consider periodic cognitive assessments to formally measure cognitive improvements. Ask Dr. Diana how she can help.

HOLISTIC SUPPORT

Cross-brain fitness or Brain Training can be supported by other activities during the day. Regular mediation, for example, quiets the mind's chatter, allowing both sides of the brain to work in harmony, thus enhancing the ability to generate new ideas and solve problems creatively. "Meditation and mindfulness practices are associated with strengthening the brain's connectivity," explains Kathleen Benson, a registered dietitian specializing in women's health, sports nutrition and digestive health. "This can improve attention, memory, decision-making and general mindfulness. Regular practitioners often have improved emotional control, lower stress and clearer thinking. "

What we eat significantly impacts our brain function ad overall health. A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and proteins can enhance cognitive function and support both the logical and creative faculties of the brain. Foods like blueberries, nuts, fish and green leafy vegetables boost brain health and foster mental clarity.

Adequate sleep helps consolidate memories and clear brain fog, making room for new ideas and creative thinking. Sleep also balances the emotional states, ensuring that both the analytical and creative sides of the brain can function optimally without the interference of stress or anxiety.

If you are ready to start your customer Brain Training program, contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff today. Call or text 1 (602) 524-0222 to get started.

Source: David J. Sautter is a Certified trainer, fitness-nutrition specialist, and health and fitness writer; Natural Awakenings, Health Living | Healthy Planet August 2024.

Why Your Teen Needs Chiropractic Care

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 21:11:24 GMT

Teenagers are not immune to the challenges of back pain, a condition that often plagues adults. Various factors, such as anxiety, poor posture, injuries, lack of sleep, and more, can contribute to back pain in adolescents. In this blog post, we will delve into the causes of back pain in teens, explaining how each affects them. Furthermore, we will explore the benefits of chiropractic care for teenagers and how it can help them lead pain-free, healthy lives.

Understanding the Causes of Back Pain in Teens

Anxiety

Teens often face academic pressure, social stress, and other emotional challenges that can lead to anxiety. High levels of stress and tension can manifest physically, causing muscle contractions and discomfort in the back.

Poor Posture

With the rise of smartphones and computers, many teenagers spend extended periods hunched over screens. This poor posture can strain the muscles and spine, leading to back pain over time.

Injuries

Active teens who participate in sports or physical activities are at risk of injuries. Sprains, strains, and even minor accidents can cause back pain, especially if left untreated.

Lack of Sleep

Adolescents require sufficient sleep for growth and overall well-being. Inadequate sleep can lead to muscle tension and discomfort, contributing to back pain.

Heavy Backpacks

Carrying heavy backpacks filled with textbooks and school supplies can strain the back muscles and spine, particularly if worn incorrectly.

Growth Spurts

Rapid growth during adolescence can affect the alignment of the spine, leading to temporary discomfort and pain.

The Impact of these Causes on Teens

Anxiety and stress can cause muscle tension, leading to chronic back pain if not managed. Poor posture and heavy backpacks can put undue pressure on the spine, affecting its alignment and causing discomfort. Injuries and growth spurts can exacerbate these issues, further contributing to back pain in adolescents.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Teens

Pain Relief

Chiropractors can provide effective pain relief by adjusting the spine and addressing muscular imbalances, helping teens find relief from back pain.

Injury Prevention

Chiropractors can work with teens to enhance their musculoskeletal health, reducing the risk of injuries and helping them recover more quickly when injuries occur.

Better Sleep

Chiropractic care can promote relaxation and relieve muscle tension, contributing to better sleep quality for teens.

Enhanced Mental Health

Chiropractic care can have a positive impact on mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and tension, contributing to improved overall well-being.

Boosted Development

Proper musculoskeletal health, facilitated by chiropractic care, can support the healthy physical development of teenagers as they continue to grow and mature.

Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona

In conclusion, chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach to address back pain in teenagers and enhancing their mental health and supporting their overall development. You can help your teen live a pain-free, healthy life with the help of chiropractic care from Dr. Diana Mladenoff, located in the Camelback East neighborhood of Phoenix, Arizona. Contact us today for drug-free healthcare ahead of the curve. Call or text 1 (602) 524-0222.

All credit goes to SOURCE .

Boost Your Fitness Journey With Chiropractic Care

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 23:01:30 GMT

How Regular Chiropractic Care Can Improve Your Gym & Sports Performance While Preventing Injuries

Regular chiropractic care can greatly enhance your gym performance by preventing injury. Many athletes and gym enthusiasts may overlook the importance of chiropractic care. This may be to your detriment. Chiropractic is well known to provide a range of benefits that can help you reach your fitness goals.

Chiropractic care is a natural, non-invasive form of healthcare that focuses on the relationship between the spine and nervous system. By realigning the spine and joints, chiropractors can improve the body’s ability to function well. By reducing pain and inflammation and increasing mobility. This is especially important for those who engage in physical activity and for those who are taking their first fitness steps.

Chiropractic Care Can Offer a Handful of Helpful Benefits

Chiropractic care can offer a variety of helpful benefits for those looking to enhance their gym performance, including:

Balancing Body Movement: Chiropractic care can help improve symmetry in movement. Reducing the risk of uneven wear and tear on muscles and joints and promoting injury prevention by enhancing your neuromuscular engram over time.

Preventing Injury: By improving movement coordination, chiropractic care can help reduce the likelihood of injury during physical activity.

Aiding Recovery: Chiropractic adjustments can reduce inflammation and aid in recovery, allowing gym-goers to stay motivated and consistent.

Promoting Consistency: Regular chiropractic care can help the body recover quickly from physical stress, allowing gym-goers to maintain their workout schedule.

Improving Efficiency: Chiropractic care can optimise range of motion and posture, allowing for more efficient workouts. It is important for proper muscle firing patterns and less compensations in the body.

One of the most significant benefits of chiropractic care is increased flexibility and range of motion. With regular adjustments, you can experience a more supple muscular system and avoid strains and sprains. A chiropractor can also help identify areas of soreness in your body. Developing a customised exercise plan can help you improve these areas and prevent future injuries.

Ways to Improve Sports Performance With Chiropractic Care

A study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics showed that spinal manipulation therapy, a common chiropractic treatment, reduces cytokine levels in the blood immediately after the session. Cytokines play a role in the body’s inflammatory response, and lower cytokine levels indicate lower inflammation levels. Chronic inflammation can limit the amount of time athletes can train or compete. Lowering inflammation is a significant benefit all athletes can benefit from in their sports performance.

Muscle strength is crucial for success in sports. Whether it’s the ability to withstand a tackle in football, score a goal in soccer, or finish first in a race, muscle strength is a key factor. A study published in Frontiers in Neurology found that chiropractic care may increase lower leg muscle strength by making muscle fibres more responsive. While the study focused on the use of chiropractic care for stroke patients, its findings can also be applied to sports medicine.

How The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona Can Help

Regardless of the type of sport you engage in, whether for competition, fitness, or weight loss, chiropractic care can enhance your performance.

At the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, Dr. Diana focuses on the spine, muscles, and nerves to provide pain relief to help you live life to the fullest. Our aim is to effectively relieve your symptoms with minimal visits, allowing you to quickly get back to your active lifestyle.

The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona is a wellness clinic located in the Phoenix region of Arizona. We are focused on our patient’s healthcare by providing the highest standards of Chiropractic musculo-skeletal care and more.

Chiropractic care is often thought of as a solution for injuries, but regular chiropractic visits can actually help prevent injuries. By ensuring the proper functioning of the spine and musculoskeletal system, chiropractic care can improve your performance and reduce the risk of injury in any physical activity. If you are starting to exercise, looking to be more active, or trying to reach a specific sports goal, chiropractic can benefit you. Whether it’s improving performance, avoiding injuries, treating injuries, or enhancing overall musculoskeletal health, Dr. D is here for you.

In addition to treating back and joint pain, chiropractic care can also help relieve stress. Regular chiropractic adjustments, even when you’re not experiencing pain, can help improve your emotional well-being and reduce stress levels.

If you have a question, feel free to email, text or call the clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222. When it comes to your spine or joints, there is no such thing as a silly question. We are here to help! Wellness awaits you.

6 Ways Acupuncture Can Completely Change Your Health

Mon, 27 May 2024 03:32:07 GMT

In this month's wellness blog we dig into six benefits of acupuncture, the impacts with regular visits and why its worth the commitment.

DISEASE PREVENTION

What if we told you that the leading doctors in medicine today believe that all illness is caused by stress? The link between body and mind, between stress and disease, has been claimed by Eastern medicine for hundreds of years now, Western physicians are getting onboard - and for Traditional Chinese Medicine has known all along.

There is a dramatic and powerful connection between your mind and body. In fact, it really should be called a connection because it is just one bi-directional system. 95% of all illness is caused or worsened by stress. There are many studies about how effective acupuncture is in relieving stress, including ones showing how acupuncture lowers the stress hormone cortisol and stimulates the release of endorphins in the brain.

IMPROVES SLEEP

If there's one thing that everyone agrees on it's that sleep is the most important aspect of good health. Poor sleep contributes to everything from inability to lose weight to faster aging.

Acupuncture is super helpful with getting good sleep! Studies show that acupuncture improves sleep activity and quality, as well as melatonin production. Patients receiving acupuncture fall asleep faster, are less active at night and are less stressed.

There is so much more that could be written about how to sleep more deeply (like our brain training programs), but if you really want to maximize your sleep - we highly recommend regular acupuncture treatments.

MORE REJUVENATING THAN A NAP

If you haven't had the daytime 'acupuncture nap', then maybe it's time to try it out. There are a few reasons why: you can make an appointment for it, it's just as good alone and your boss will probably let you slip out of the office at lunch to do it! 99% of patients say they 'zone out' for 20-30 minutes every time they get acupuncture. They say they go into a deep, sort of lucid dreaming state. After acupuncture, they slowly return from this relaxed state and feel balanced, grounded and fully charged, as if they just returned from a week vacation.

WELL-BEING + EMOTIONAL STABILITY

Chinese medicine allows for the effects of the emotions on the body to be classified and treated regularly.

Each emotion has a corresponding organ. For example. frustration, anger and irritability are emotions ruled by the liver. Now, you wouldn't go to your regular doctor and say, "My acupuncturist tells me I have liver qi stagnation. Can you please check my liver?" It's more the energy of the liver we are talking about. Basically, if you are having a stressful week and are starting to get irritable, then odds are your liver energy is becoming stagnant and needs to move! So, Dr. D would focus the acupuncture on the points of the liver used to move the liver qi and break up stagnation.

By doing acupuncture regularly, you'll be able to keep the liver energy moving and precent the irritability and frustration from starting in the first place.

HERBAL MEDICINE

Another aspect of what acupuncturists do is herbal medicine. Herbs are an all-natural, mostly plant-based medicine that are effective for everything from PMS, hormonal acne, painful menstruation, irregular periods, hormone balancing, menopausal hot flashes, digestion, high cholesterol and so much more. We have seen women with eight- or nine-out-of-ten pain, vomiting and nausea, go down to a one- or two-out-of-ten pain in two or three months using a combination of recommended supplements and acupuncture.

3 TIPS FOR TRYING ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture has a cumulative effect on your health overall. And if you're less stressed, are sick less often, sleeping better and waking more restful you are going to be more productive. And you're also going to have a higher quality of what you produce.

Be sure you 'click' with your practitioner. You'll get the most out of the experience if you are confident and comfortable with the person you see and if you feel they 'get you'.

Go for several treatments. For some people, it can take several treatments to start to notice the changes in their body, and for some, the effects are immediate.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today. TEXT or call our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

All credit goes to SOURCE .

5 Ways Pediatric Chiropractors Can Help Your Kids

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 23:30:37 GMT

When you think of a pediatric chiropractor, you probably think of helping kids who are growing so fast that their bones can’t keep up. You might also assume they focus on children who have been in car accidents or have other physical problems related to their rapid growth spurts.

But as it turns out, there is much more to pediatric chiropractic care than we think. In fact, there are many benefits of bringing your kids to see a pediatric chiropractor. In this blog post, we'll explore five ways that a pediatric chiropractor can help your child grow stronger and happier from the inside out.

1. They can help with your child’s digestive health.

One of the most advanced areas of pediatric chiropractic care is digestive health. In fact, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) has a certification program specifically dedicated to digestive health. Dietary changes, especially during childhood growth spurts, are all too easy to overlook, but they can have a significant negative impact on your child’s health. A pediatric chiropractor can help your child achieve better digestive health by suggesting diet changes and nutritional supplements. They can also use gentle spinal adjustments to help your child’s digestive tract function as it should.

2. They can treat chronic pain and inflammation.

Chronic pain and inflammation are problems that many kids experience. Unfortunately, they are often overlooked, misdiagnosed, and mistreated. A pediatric chiropractor is uniquely qualified to help with these issues. Chiropractors receive extensive training in how your nervous system works and how it can affect your health. With this knowledge, they are able to treat pain and inflammation by adjusting the spine and surrounding tissues. This often helps the body’s natural healing process take over and reduce pain. Any type of pain or inflammation is cause for concern and should be discussed with your pediatric chiropractor. They can help determine the best course of action to treat your child’s specific pain.

3. They can assist with development and behavior.

As children grow, they go through various stages of development and adjustment. While many children naturally progress through these stages, others have trouble. This may result in developmental delays, behavioral issues, or other problems. A pediatric chiropractor can assist with these issues by examining your child’s spine and nervous system. This can help them identify the root cause of your child’s developmental or behavioral issues. Often, they can suggest gentle adjustments and exercises that can help your child’s development or behavior issues.

4. They can help with sleep problems.

Chiropractors can also help kids with sleep problems by adjusting the spine, especially the upper back area, which can be tight in many kids. Tight muscles in the upper back can negatively affect sleep by restricting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. This may cause your child to wake up feeling tired or groggy, or it may even lead to issues like headaches or irritability. Dealing with snoring, interrupted breathing or sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome or other sleep issues? Your pediatric chiropractor may be able to help. Chiropractic adjustments can improve blood flow to the brain, which in turn can help your child fall asleep faster. This can be especially helpful if your child’s sleep issues are caused by stress or anxiety.

5. They can help with ear infections.

Another common complaint of kids under the age of two is frequent ear infections . This can be a sign that the Eustachian tube, which is responsible for draining the ear, is blocked or not working properly. When the ear isn’t draining, it can cause infection and pain in the ear, which can be very difficult to deal with in infants. Kids under the age of two are particularly vulnerable to this issue because the Eustachian tube is relatively small and hasn’t fully developed yet. With proper chiropractic adjustments, pediatric chiropractors can help reduce pressure on the Eustachian tube, which can help improve drainage and reduce the risk of ear infections.

Conclusion

Most people associate a pediatric chiropractor with helping growing kids or kids with sports injuries. But a great deal more goes into the profession, including digestive health, pain, ear infections and sleep management. Its much easier to grow healthy children than it is to “fix” injured adults! In fact, many chiropractors recommend starting children at age one or two. This allows them to grow up with the benefits of chiropractic care from an early age. If you want your child to thrive, the best thing you can do is bring them in to see a pediatric chiropractor!

About Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona

We are a prenatal and pediatric chiropractic clinic located in the Camelback East area of Phoenix, Arizona. We’ve been serving Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley moms, children and their families since 2018. The practice has grown over the years into a well-trained and experienced team that meets the unique needs of women, babies and young children.

Schedule an appointment today: TEXT or call our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

All rights and credits go to SOURCE .

When Your Nutrition Isn't Enough

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 03:29:45 GMT

It can be easy to miss the warning signs our bodies are sending us in our jam-packed, fast-paced lives. The fact that nutritional deficiencies don’t show up overnight, but build up over time, can also make them tricky to notice.

Did this ever happen to you? You’re driving along without a care in the world when you suddenly notice something strange. Although you’re putting your foot on the gas pedal, your car is slowing down, not speeding up. You look down at the dashboard and realize with shock that the car has run out of gas as you slow down to a crawling halt.

Just like your car needs gasoline, transmission fluid, engine oil, and coolant, your body requires vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, fatty acids, and other phytonutrients in order to keep its organs, systems, and processes running smoothly.

People who don’t have a lot of variety in their food choices, eat mostly processed or fast foods, have food intolerances or allergies, have certain health conditions, or avoid particular food groups like carbohydrates or animal products, may end up with nutrient deficiencies.

Are You Meeting Your Daily Nutritional Needs?

Every “body” needs a different amount of nutrients to function optimally. The amount you should consume depends on your age, sex, health, how physically active you are, and if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

The Food and Drug Administration established Daily Values (DVs) for each nutrient in order to help us understand which nutrients we need to stay healthy. You can find DVs on food and dietary supplement labels in order to help you navigate your daily nutritional needs.

Nutrients are essential for a wide range of processes in the body, from the regeneration of bones and muscles to the removal of waste products; the production of nerve signals to the creation of enzymes, and much more. If nutritional needs aren’t being met, a breakdown may occur and our body may start to “complain.”

Signs of Nutrient Deficiency

If you’re not sure whether you’re meeting your body’s needs, here are some telltale signs that you might not be getting enough nutrition.

Feeling Tired

Frequent lack of energy can be a sign of anemia, or iron deficiency. Without enough iron, your body can’t produce sufficient hemoglobin — a compound in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen. This can leave you feeling tired and out of breath. Other signs of anemia include pale skin, weakness, fast heartbeat, and lightheadedness. Low energy levels can also be a sign that you aren’t eating enough protein.

Foods rich in iron include animal products like meat, shellfish, and fish — these are also great sources of protein. If you steer clear of animal products, dark leafy greens and legumes, such as lentils, are also great sources of iron. You can also boost iron absorption by including a vitamin C-rich food when eating plant sources of iron. For example, a great pairing would be a spinach salad with tomatoes.

Other vitamin deficiencies that can cause fatigue are lack of magnesium, potassium, vitamin B12, and folate. If you’re feeling unusually tired or weak, it’s time to commit to a balanced diet full of all of the food groups. If you need extra help filling nutritional gaps, LipoSomal D3 is the way to go. Not only will this supplement help reduce anxiety, depression, dementia and cognitive decline in all populations, it will help improve resistance vs many infectious diseases and activates our immune defense. LipSolmal D3 also promotes Calcium absorption in the intestines.

Thin Hair & Weak Nails

Multiple nutrient deficiencies can cause hair loss or thinning and lead to weak, brittle nails. If you notice some unhealthy changes in your hair and nails you may not be getting enough of vitamin D, vitamin C, iron, zinc, calcium, protein, and/or essential fatty acids.

The best way to remedy this is to focus on “eating a rainbow” of fresh fruits and vegetables, and consuming plenty of protein and complex carbohydrates. Taking the Zinc30 supplement can greatly benefit more than just thing hair & weak nails. View the image below on all the amazing benefits it provides:

Slow Healing Wounds

The skin is a vibrant organ that functions as a physical and immunological barrier between the outside world and the inside of our bodies. Not getting enough nutrients in your diet can have a negative effect on how your skin looks and how it heals.

If you bruise easily or your wounds take longer than usual to mend, your diet may be lacking in vitamin C, which helps tissue repair itself, or vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting. Most fruits and many veggies are rich in vitamin C and dark leafy greens are high in vitamin K. You can also try I-6 Factor to. help reduce inflammation for better healing.

Weakened Immune System

Does it feel like every time you get over a cold, you get another one in its place? The culprit could be that you aren’t getting enough nutrition. Vitamins C, E, and A are antioxidants that support the body’s natural immune response. Zinc is a mineral that helps boost germ-fighting white blood cells.

Apart from eating your daily fruits and vegetables, you can also get a immune system boost from counteracting stress with TOTALLY STRESSED. This supplement supports immune deficiency and reduces stress from illness.

Excellent sources of vitamin A include carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy green vegetables. Nuts, seeds, spinach, and broccoli are abundant in vitamin E, while sources of zinc include nuts, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, and beans.

Brain Drain

If you're finding it hard to concentrate, or catch yourself in a bad mood more often than not, it could be that you are feeling the effects of nutrient deficiency. A variety of nutrients are vital for healthy brain and cognitive function as well as maintaining a healthy mood. Some of these brain boosters are omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, choline, as well as vitamins C, D, and E.

Again, a balanced diet is best, but you can also take aim at your brain with CereReNu. CereReNu has two ingredients to support healthy blood flow - Bacopa Leaf and Ginkgo Biloba Extract. Other ingredients help support the blood vessel walls, the brain's enzyme systems, neurotransmitters systems and overall connectivity.

Reduced Night Vision

Our eyes are incredibly complex organs that need a host of nutrients to keep them healthy. If you are finding it harder to see in the wee hours of the night, you may not be consuming enough vitamin A. This vitamin plays a vital role in allowing us to see in low light conditions.

Plant-based phytonutrients like carotenoids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and polyphenols also play a critical role in nourishing, cleansing, and protecting our eyes. For example, lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids, found in dark leafy greens, that are particularly important for eye and vision health. If you want an extra vision boost, you could also try ACoA Factors that supports muscle that controls near vision, causes glands to secrete tears and more.

Up Your Nutrient Intake

If you’re noticing any of the above signs, it’s time to start replacing empty calories with nutrient-dense foods. You can start by eating at least five servings of fruits, berries, and vegetables each day. Ten servings would be even better. Sound like a lot? You can build up to it! Three servings with both lunch and dinner, one or two servings with breakfast and a snack, and voila! You’ve got your daily nutritional needs covered.

If you can’t manage it every day, it’s completely understandable. That’s why dietary supplements were invented! Just be sure that the vitamin supplements that you choose can be absorbed and utilized by your body, and are not packed with chemical additives, solvents, or preservatives. Contact Dr. D today to learn more or schedule an appointment . Get customized nutritional guidance specific to your needs at The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona located in the camelback east neighborhood of Phoenix. Wellness awaits you.

Searching for stress relief? Look no further than iStressedOut.

Why should children be checked by a chiropractor?

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 01:42:58 GMT

Children with a properly aligned spine and neck tend to have better posture and be in better overall health. Chiropractic not only helps align the spine and neck, but also helps to clear the neural pathways.

Doctors of Chiropractic work with reducing spinal nerve stress by correcting spinal misalignments. Since the master control system of the body is the nervous system, its proper function is imperative for overall health and well-being.

The American Chiropractic Association quotes, "in children, chiropractic is also commonly used as primary or adjunctive therapy for non-musculoskeletal conditions such as colic, enuresis, asthma, recurrent otitis media, cancer and illness prevention."

Pediatric chiropractic care is a specialty that concentrates on treating infants, toddlers, children, and teens in order to help align their spine and balance their nervous system. It promotes a broad spectrum of benefits such as supporting growth milestones, enhancing immune health, aiding in digestion, reducing ear infections and allergies, improving sleep, and more. A pediatric chiropractor, like Dr. D, has undergone specialized training to ensure that the care, evaluation, and adjustments they provide to kids correspond properly to their specific age, body type, and unique requirements.

Chiropractic adjustments on kids are safe, non-invasive, and use only light and gentle pressure to achieve optimal results. Many parents comment that it looks like just a gentle touch, tickle, or massage. On bigger kids, we can incorporate fun activities into their adjustments, such as jumping.

Children are susceptible to trauma in their spines from various activities and events. Birth in our society can often be a traumatic event, even if operative devices are not used. Simple micro traumas from diapering techniques to excessive time in infant seats can also affect the developing spine and interfere with nervous system function.

From promoting healthier sleep and boosting immunity to improving behavioral issues and even aiding in digestion, regular chiropractic care may benefit your kid(s).

While there are various reasons you may decide to see a pediatric chiropractor, here is our list of the top 10 benefits:

1. IT BALANCES YOUR CHILD’S NERVOUS SYSTEM

When our spine is out of alignment, this can affect so much more than just our posture, aches, and pains. The spine is the central network of our entire system– physical, mental, emotional, and energetic. Our children’s spine and nervous system are very delicate as they are still growing and developing.

Regular adjustments to a child’s back and neck will invite their system to feel more synchronized and settled. A balanced nervous system translates into many areas of their life, promoting wellbeing, greater immunity, and healthy spinal development.

2. IT REVITALIZES CHILDREN’S IMMUNE HEALTH

Our immune response becomes activated based on neurotransmitters which are dependent on the health and functionality of our spinal cord. Something as simple as a pinched nerve or as severe as a slipped disc can disrupt the ability of our immune system to respond to outside threats.

This is especially important for toddlers and children who are still building their immune health and exposed to more germs than adults. It has been found that children who see a pediatric chiropractor regularly get fewer colds than those who have never seen one.

3. IT PROMOTES HEALTHIER SLEEP CYCLES

Is your child a good sleeper? Chiropractic care can help a child sleep better through the night and feel more rested and calm. After regular pediatric chiropractic visits, parents have noted positive changes in their child’s sleep patterns such as earlier bedtimes, fewer late night wake-ups, more consistent sleep behavior or naps, decreased lethargy, and a more balanced flow of energy levels.

4. IT IMPROVES DIGESTION AND CONSTIPATION

If your child is experiencing digestive issues, such as constipation, a pediatric chiropractor can offer your little one an extremely gentle and non-invasive adjustment as opposed to medications or other harsh treatments. Light adjustments administered to the child’s spine and neck have been known to relieve constipation and numerous digestive issues.

Chiropractic care is intended to help release trapped gas from the joints which can improve blood circulation. Healthier blood flow is a super simple way to encourage more regular digestion. Not to mention, proper alignment of the mid-low back, hips and pelvic area can relieve tension on the intestines and promote a more easeful experience.

5. IT REDUCES ALLERGIES, EAR INFECTIONS, AND ASTHMA

Have you ever noticed the need to blow your nose after an adjustment? Our lymphatic system is dependent on the spine and surrounding muscles for proper flow and functionality. Neck adjustments can often help with lymphatic drainage.

Additionally, the biomechanics of the cervical vertebrae can determine when the musculoskeletal system is not functioning properly. If your child experiences difficulty breathing, mobilizing the thoracic spine (upper-middle back) can help them to breathe easier and alleviate symptoms of asthma. For kids with consistent allergies, asthma, or ear infections, please be sure to accompany chiropractic treatment with care from your pediatrician or regular health care provider.

6. IT PROMOTES POST-BIRTH RECOVERY

During and following childbirth, a baby can experience a variety of physical traumas such as crooked spines, torticollis, underdeveloped digestive systems, infants are especially vulnerable to trauma during birth. Infant chiropractic care can alleviate these traumas, promoting post-birth recovery and helping babies grow and thrive.

7. IT SUPPORTS GROWTH MILESTONES AND AIDS IN POSTURE, BACK PAIN, AND INJURIES

Although our kids may seem rubbery and indestructible at times, childhood is a key time for habitual postures and patterns to start setting in. The developmental years are the perfect time to preserve the abundant health our kids are born with rather than needing to go back to ‘fix’ or heal issues that may arise throughout their life. Kids are often very active and sometimes take falls that we may not know how significantly have impacted their spinal alignment. It can be helpful to have a pediatric chiropractor monitor our child’s health on a regular basis – especially for kids who are not old enough to effectively communicate their needs.

8. IT IMPROVES MOOD, MENTAL FOCUS AND ADHD

It’s important to clarify that chiropractic care does not necessarily “treat” ADHD. However, it can impact children positively who have been diagnosed and it is known to be a safe and natural treatment for the symptoms. Regular adjustments help to support more efficient and effective nerve flow. Spinal misalignments can often lead to behavioral issues as well as changes in brain functionality. Adjusting your child’s spine restores balance to their brain, body, and their entire nervous system which can lead to higher levels of concentration, improved mood and focus.

Pediatric chiropractic care is designed to offer a whole body approach to wellness. In addition to the adjustments, Dr. Diana offers a variety of brain training programs (sound and light frequencies) as part of their therapy. Dr. D may also recommend certain dietary changes and exercises. It has been found that by eliminating certain foods, introducing moderate exercise and healthier sleep patterns can help ADHD symptoms to subside. These recommendations could be useful not only for ADHD but help to alleviate headaches, balance the nervous system, regulate sleep, enhance their immune system and so much more!

9. IT RELIEVES TENSION, MIGRAINES AND HEADACHES

Headaches can be linked to innumerable causes. In a world full of loud noises, bright lights, countless ingredients, radiation, and toxins, it’s best to try to minimize the factors that may be playing a role in irritating our system. Tension in the upper cervical and neck area can often be a significant cause of recurring headaches and migraines. How does this issue first arise? Misalignment of the neck is quite common in both kids and adults. More and more, we find that kids develop a slouched posture and that the cervical or natural lordotic curve in their spine becomes diminished due to looking down at devices, texting while walking, and lack of movement for long periods of time.

Movement is certainly medicine when it comes to your spine. While it’s impossible to consistently monitor our child’s posture, behavior, and activity, seeing a pediatric chiropractor is a wonderful way to ensure they are receiving the care they need in this busy life. Relieving the tension in their neck and encouraging a healthy cervical curve is sure to help alleviate the headaches and migraines they may be experiencing.

10. IT SUPPORTS INFANT CARE

Chiropractic care for infants has been found to relieve and soothe colicky babies. In fact, a 3-month long study found that 94% of subjects experienced improved colic symptoms after receiving regular chiropractic adjustments. Subluxation misalignment in infants is the most common reason for colic. This means that when their nervous system becomes imbalanced, other parts of their body start to work improperly. This can lead to dysfunction in a baby’s digestive system, for example and may cause them to start crying intensely.

In addition to easing the symptoms of colic, there are many benefits to chiropractic care for newborns such as:

Reducing Fussiness
Promoting better sleep
Supporting neurological development and growth milestones
Enhancing the immune system
Pre and post treatment of lip-ties and tongue-ties

Although symptoms, such as pain and malfunction may not show up for years, injury affecting their vital nervous system may be present immediately and have a lifetime of effects.

At the Mladenoff Clinic of Ariozona, our goal is to educate, empower, and adjust families toward a life of natural health through chiropractic care. Our office is focused on pediatrics, pregnancy, and overall wellness. With a special interest in improving the lives of children with pediatric chiropractic adjustments, we want to give the kids a healthy start in life. We love teaching our young patients the importance of wellness and the importance of regular chiropractic care and the role it plays in their health.

While we do see a lot of babies and kids, we see a lot of adults and full families too. It’s important for kids to grow up healthy, but it’s never too late to get on the path to health as an adult either. In fact, another area we specialize is prenatal chiropractic care and we are Webster Technique certified.

Our office is located in the Arcadia neighborhood of Phoenix, and we serve surrounding communities such as Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Paradise Valley, North Phoenix, Chandler and more).

If you’re interested in chiropractic care for your child, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Diana for more information or to schedule your first visit .

Start the New Year Right: Wellness Benefits of a Routine

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 21:37:01 GMT

New Year’s is the perfect time to implement new resolutions, whether you want to improve your health, get more organized, be more zen, pick up a new hobby, or start crossing items off your bucket list! However, it can be challenging to continue some resolutions; our schedules begin to get in the way, and some of us might need a little extra motivation.

This is where developing a wellness routine can help! A routine can help you feel organized, reduce stress, and give you more time to focus on essential things, but it can also do wonders for your motivation when it comes to your New Year’s resolutions! The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona shares wellness resources highlighting family care and healthy routines. We want you to make the most out of this upcoming year, so we’ve put together tips for developing a routine to stay motivated and enhance your lifestyle and wellness.

What Are The Benefits of a Wellness Routine?

One survey found that only 12% of Americans make resolutions yearly. While they may seem silly, resolutions are much more than a festive tradition; they come with many benefits, including:

Practice for setting essential life goals
Time for reflection
A catalyst for positive changes
Self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment

The New Year offers a chance for people to start fresh, focus inward, and make positive changes through resolutions. The best way to ensure these resolutions are implemented into our lives is by adding them into a wellness routine that works for you and your schedule.

Neuroscientists have pinned down the origins of habit-building in a part of the brain called the basal ganglia; this area is responsible for motor function and learning. Once an activity or an event has been learned and practiced, the basal ganglia can take behaviour and form an automatic routine. When you implement positive goals into your daily routine, the benefits can include:

An increase in positive emotions
Improved brain activity
Better sleep
Healthier relationships
Feeling more organized

Below are some ways to implement your New Year’s resolutions into a routine.

Break Down Your Goals

Think about what you want to improve and focus on in your life. For example, are you struggling with your mental health? Do you want to enhance your physical wellness? Do you want to start living a pain free life? Are you looking to ensure your children are developing in the most healthy way possible?

Make a list of anything you think could benefit your personal life, health, and happiness, and ask yourself how these changes can fit into your daily schedule.

Make a Plan

Once you have your list of resolutions, it’s time to start planning. If you have a calendar or planner, make notes on each date, so you’re more likely to remember to complete the task. You can also set reminders on your phone with notifications; for example, if your goal is to drink more water, set a reminder that goes off every 1-2 hours, reminding you to take a sip!

You also want to prepare for any obstacles or challenges you might face. For example, if you’re resolution is to work out five times a day, plan your workouts for the week around your other events or responsibilities. By focusing on your goal, you’ll be better prepared to stick to your routine and overcome anything that could sidetrack you.

Start Small

When we take on too much at once, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and frustrated. For instance, if you start a restrictive diet, begin an intense workout, or considerably alter your everyday life, your routine can almost instantly derail itself.

Focus on taking small, realistic steps for your routine to build yourself up to reach larger goals.

Get Some Support

The “buddy system” works for a good reason. You can stay motivated and accountable by reaching out for support.

Ask friends or family members to join you in your new routine and create a solid support system. Gather a group of neighbors to go on a daily walk or invite your family over for a healthy meal-prep day, where you all prepare fresh ingredients to use throughout the week.

New Year’s resolutions can benefit your lifestyle. Dr. D is dedicated to sharing health and wellness lifestyle resources and helpful information so you and your family can discover healthy living.

Contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff at the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona today by TEXTING or calling our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

Applied Kinesiology: The Best Kept Secret in Healthcare - The Documentary

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 20:13:01 GMT

We are honored to be featured in the ICAK-USA Film Project that is now in production. Here are some behind the scenes featuring Dr. D, Dr. Chip and Dr. Evan Mladenoff.

The ICAK-USA is moving forward with the professional production of an AK documentary entitled Applied Kinesiology: The Best Kept Secret in Healthcare - The Documentary. The film will describe the history and origins, describe what AK is and isn't, as well as how advanced AK has become and where the industry is going moving forward.

About This Film

The Future of AK

59 years in the making, on the eve of AK's 60th birthday... The story that's long overdue to be told is about to become a critically acclaimed documentary. The film will be premiered in Dallas, TX. Learn more about the production here.

Dr. Diana, Dr. Chip and Dr. Evan Mladenoff.

ICAK-USA Documentary - Why this Matters

5 Amazing Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Kids

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 19:23:35 GMT

It's that time of year again when we not only enjoy quality family time and gratitude, but we also assess our health & wellness ...and for growing families, the health & wellness of our little ones.

Most children around the world are writing Santa letters for what they want for the holidays and you, as parents, need to ensure that proper health & wellness make the list. From sports, to play dates, to learning and exploring the world, kids are adventurous and always exploring. Kids are growing fast, and their bodies go through a lot during the school year and all their daily activities. Hunching over a desk, caring a heavy backpack, or taking a tackle at football practice can all harm your child's spine and back health. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective way to improve your child's overall wellness and address spinal problems before they become chronic. Here are five reasons to consider chiropractic care with Dr. D for your child:

1. Healthier Development

The spine houses the spinal cord-the highway of the nervous system. Misalignments in the spine can cause pain, coordination problems, lowered immune system, and even increased anxiety. Throughout a child’s life, their spine takes a lot of trauma, from falling while learning to walk to active play and maybe sitting too much once they get older. At the same time, their spine is undergoing an amazing developmental process. The curves in their spine are forming, and their adult frame is taking shape. During this time, it’s especially important to correct subluxations in the spine, bad posture habits, or congenital issues.

Chiropractic care may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of healthcare for children, but it is one of the safest ways to ensure your child’s wellness. Chiropractors are taught special techniques for adjusting children. They can evaluate your child’s spine, make lifestyle recommendations, and correct any existing subluxations. Keeping their spine aligned as they grow will lead to a healthier back and nervous system in adulthood.

2. Less Pain and Better Athletic Performance

Student-athletes have unique needs that can be addressed with chiropractic care. Chiropractic adjustment and other treatments offered in your chiropractor’s office, like laser therapy, are safe, non-addictive solutions to pain. Chiropractors are equipped to evaluate and diagnose injuries and provide in-office and at-home treatment plans. Chiropractic treatments reduce inflammation and allow the body to heal faster. This means your teen might be able to get back to the sport they love sooner.

Better yet, regular chiropractic care can help prevent injuries. Since spinal adjustment affects the nervous system, it improves coordination, range of motion, and flexibility. Athletes who receive regular chiropractic care get injured less often than those who don’t. They also show measurable increases in athletic performance. Most professional sports teams keep a team chiropractor on hand to treat their players, but your child doesn’t have to be a professional athlete to reap the benefits of chiropractic care.

3. A Robust Immune System

Every parent knows that as soon as the fall/winter season starts, the creeping crud starts going around. Colds and stomach bugs happen to everyone sometimes, but a strong immune system helps cut down on sick days. Since the nervous system interacts with the immune system, chiropractic adjustment can increase immunity. Studies have shown that both children and adults who receive regular chiropractic care experience fewer viral infections than those who don’t.

In addition to being preventative, chiropractic adjustment can also help heal certain illnesses. Babies and young children who struggle with chronic ear infections can benefit from chiropractic care. A specific adjustment technique is used to free the nerve that controls the opening and closing of the Eustachian tubes within the ear. In one study, 93% of the children involved saw improvement in ear infection symptoms after adjustment. Studies have also shown that regular chiropractic care in young children can make ear infections less frequent.

4. Improved Sleep & Behavior

Sometimes when children have trouble sleeping, the cause is tight muscles or discomfort that they aren’t able to explain. Kids also deal with stress, and as with adults, stress can disrupt their sleep. Chiropractic adjustment can help with stiffness and pain as well as stress reduction. Chiropractic care has been shown to improve bed wetting, reduce signs of stress and improve sleep in children. Many parents of children diagnosed with ADD/ADHD have noticed improvements in their child’s behavior and ability to focus after they receive an adjustment. Again, this is all due to the effect of spinal adjustment on the nervous system. An aligned spine frees the nervous system to function optimally, which in turn benefits mental and physical health.

5. Better Posture Habits

If your child is complaining of headaches or is struggling to sit still at times, posture may be to blame. Just as adults need to sit with correct posture to avoid injury, kids also need to avoid hunching or slouching. Your chiropractor can evaluate your child to see if bad posture may be causing them discomfort. He will also help give you and your child tips on how to use better posture in life.

Some kids have weak core muscles. This can make it more difficult for them to sit with a healthy posture. Kids with weak core muscles may also struggle with motor skills like writing or doing up buttons. Dr. Diana can evaluate your child for this and assign exercises to improve their core strength.

Chiropractors, like Dr. D, are holistic practitioners. This means she takes the whole person, lifestyle, diet, and habits into account. She is a great resource for parents like you, who may be wondering how to help their child wear a backpack correctly, eat healthier or be more active. Don’t hesitate to bring up these concerns during your child’s appointment.

Chiropractic Care for Kids in Arizona

At Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, we believe that chiropractic care can change lives. We treat patients of all ages and have years of experience helping families meet their wellness goals. If your child is experiencing headaches, dizziness, or sleep problems, don't wait to bring them in for an appointment with our caring expert. Chiropractic care can help your kids have a happier, healthier end and new year.

Contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff today. TEXT is best (or you can call) 1 (602) 524-0222. Or visit our New Patient Center linked here.

Nutrition for Mental Health, Minerals for Gut Health and Heavy Metals 101

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 23:37:26 GMT

Nutrition for Mental Health

Not only does your brain influence what you eat, what you eat influences your brain. This bidirectional relationship between the gut and the central nervous system is modulated by diet, the microbiome, and inflammation. That means that your nutrition has a direct impact on mood, cognitive function, and mental health (for better or worse).

An Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Eating a processed, low-nutrient diet is correlated with increased rates of depression and anxiety. On the other hand, eating a nutritionally-wealthy, Whole Foods diet decreases risk for these mental health issues.

To support optimal mental health (and overall health), fill your plate with colorful vegetables and fruits, quality protein, healthy fat, whole grains and legumes, and flavorful herbs and spices. Improving your diet can have a profound impact on mood, sleep, energy, and focus in only a few weeks.

The enteric nervous system is often called a 'second brain' because it is composed of hundreds of millions of neurons that regulate blood flow, muscle contractions, secretions, immune function, and neurotransmitter production in the gut.

Minerals for Gut Health

CALCIUM
Increases HCI gastric acid secretion
Improves intestinal permeability
Eases diarrhea
MAGNESIUM
Balances calcium's stimulatory effect on HCI
Supports regularity of bowel movements
Improves gallbladder emptying
Relieves constipation
SELENIUM
Supports pancreatic health
Used to create anti-inflammatory selenoproteins
Provides antioxidant effects in gut and pancreas
ZINC
Used to produce pancreatic digestive enzymes
Supports tight junctions of gut lining
Regulates immune cells in gut
Decreases inflammation and oxidative damage
Protects against iron and copper toxicity
Increases microbiome diversity
Eases diarrhea
ELECTROLYTES
Sodium, potassium, and chloride support proper hydration, which impacts bowel motility, fluid balance, and regularity

What about iron?

While iron is a necessary mineral, too much iron in the gut is inflammatory and feeds microbes (the wanted & unwanted).

Heavy Metals 101

Lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and aluminum are the heave metals of most concern to human health. Even very small amounts can cause serious consequences. They compete with other essential minerals, leading to nutrient deficiencies, gut dysbiosis, decreased bone density, anemia, enzyme and hormone dysfunction, DNA and mitochondria damages, impaired nerve signaling, and cell death.

Chronic exposure or impaired detoxification of heave metals can result in a build-up in the liver, heart, and brain. Each individual has a different capacity to store and detoxify these minerals as nausea, headaches, gut issues, joint pain, muscle weakness, or conditions like dementia, diabetes, autoimmunity, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. You can support healthy mineral balance by decreasing heavy metal exposure, supporting regular detoxification (like a weekly ion balancing detox foot bath), and maximizing your dietary intake of antioxidants and minerals.

SOURCES: food, water, air

industrial waste
fertilizers
metal pipes
old paint
IUDs
dental fillings
vaccines
deodorant
supplements
cookware
occupational exposure

Fish, seafood and crops grown in contaminated soil are primary dietary sources of heavy metals.

Most exposure from these sources is 'below the tolerable limit', meaning it will not result in acute toxicity. However, each can contribute to cumulative levels in the body.

A relaxing, easy way to rid your body of these harmful toxins is a weekly ion balancing foot bath with Dr. D. Learn more about this service here.

If you feel that your current diet and wellness routine are not properly nourishing your brain and body or have questions, contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff today. Schedule an appointment by TEXTING (or calling) our Arizona Wellness Clinic located in the Phoenix area of Arizona at 1 (602) 524-0222.

10 Most Toxic Ingredients Found in Candy + The Harmful Effects of Artificial Additives

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 22:48:38 GMT

While the past century has brought incredible advancements in food preparation, most of the candy found in today’s grocery stores contains additives and chemicals which are known to harm the human body. The best way to avoid these is to eat an all-natural diet high in fruits and vegetables.

Each of the following additives, sweeteners, and colors can have a negative impact on health if consumed regularly. Here are the 10 most toxic ingredients found in candy.

1. Artificial Colors

Artificial colors like Blue 1, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Red 40 have been linked to some cancers, and could even cause hyperactivity – particularly in children. If you have young children at home, be certain to check any candy wrappers for these colorings and consider choosing a healthier alternative if one or more of these colors are present.

2. t-Butylhydroquinone

t-Butylhydroquinone, or TBHQ for short, is a synthetic antioxidant. It is primarily used to prevent food from spoiling. While it is FDA approved , some scientists have claimed that it could potentially increase the risk of cancer.

3. High Fructose Corn Syrup

This sweetener is manufactured from corn starch sourced from genetically-modified crops. It has replaced natural sugar in many candies and soft drinks and is linked to obesity, heart issues, arthritis, diabetes, and insulin resistance.

4. High Amounts of Sugar

Before purchasing candy or other sweet treats like donuts, try to remember to check the sugar content of the product. Many candy bars contain exorbitant amounts of sugar, which can contribute to weight gain, tiredness, and long-term health issues.

5. Polysorbate 60

Polysorbate 60 is an artificial thickener that is used in baked goods like donuts, bread, and croissants, as well as other sweet treats like ice cream and milkshakes. Studies have suggested that it acts as a cancer-causing agent in animals, which means it could also be harmful to humans.

6. Camauba Wax

This chemical is used to give longevity to bubble gum. It can also be used as a glaze in other sweet foods. Camauba wax is thought to cause cancerous tumors.

7. Sucralose

While sucralose is often marketed as a healthier alternative to sugar, you should be aware of the dangers of consuming too much. Increased intake of sucralose is associated with shrinkage of the thymus gland and swelling of the kidneys and liver.

8. BHT/BHA

Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) are related preservatives that are primarily used to extend the shelf life of candy and other foods. In recent years, both have been linked to the growth of cancerous tumors.

9. Aspartame

Aspartame is a sweetener that is also an excitotoxin. It is known to cause headaches, dizziness, stomach problems, and blurred vision, and is also thought to be carcinogenic.

10. Sodium Nitrate

Sodium Nitrate is often added to processed food to prevent the growth of bacteria. It has been linked to cancer in humans and is considered one of the most harmful food additives.

Food Dye and ADHD

Can food dye cause hyperactivity?
What is in food dye?
Does sugar cause symptoms of ADHD?

For more than 30 years, scientists have examined the relationship between food coloring and hyperactive behavior in children, but with mixed results. To date, no conclusive evidence has been found to show that food coloring causes ADHD. Some studies, though, have suggested an association between the two. Most likely, ADHD is caused by the combination of changes in brain structure, environmental factors, and heredity.

Can food dye cause hyperactivity?

A study of nearly 300 children by the United Kingdom’s Food Standards Agency in 2007 showed that the consumption of foods containing dyes could increase hyperactive behavior in children. In the study of 3-, 8- and 9-year-olds, children were given three different types of beverages to drink. Then their behavior was evaluated by teachers and parents.

One of the drink mixtures contained artificial food colorings, including:

Sunset yellow (E110)
Carmoisine (E122)
Tartrazine (E102)
Ponceau 4R (E124)

It also contained the preservative sodium benzoate. The second drink mixture included:

Quinoline yellow (E104)
Allura red (E129)
Sunset yellow
Carmoisine

It also had sodium benzoate. The third drink mixture was a placebo and contained no additives.

The researchers found that hyperactive behavior by the 8- and 9-year-olds increased with both the mixtures containing artificial coloring additives. The hyperactive behavior of 3-year-olds increased with the first beverage but not necessarily with the second. They concluded that the results show an adverse effect on behavior after consumption of the food dyes.

What is in food dye?

Food coloring consists of chemicals used to add color to food. Food coloring (dye) is often added to processed foods, drinks, and condiments. They are used to maintain or improve the appearance of the food.

Manufacturers usually add dye for the following reasons:

To add color to colorless foods
To enhance colors
To avoid color loss due to environmental elements
To provide consistency when there are variations in the coloring of the food

The FDA regulates color additives to ensure that they are safe for human consumption. Regulation also helps ensure that foods with coloring are accurately labeled so that consumers know what they are eating. To determine the approval of an additive, the FDA studies the composition of it and how much is consumed and notes any health effects and safety factors that need to be observed. Once the food dye is approved, the FDA determines an appropriate level of use for that additive. The FDA only allows an additive to be approved if there is a reasonable certainty of no harm to consumers.

There are two types of approved color additives - dyes and lakes. Dyes are water-soluble and usually come in the form of powders, granules, or liquids. Lakes are not water-soluble. They are found in products containing fats and oils.

Some food colorings are synthetically produced. Examples of these color additives include FD&C Blue Nos. 1 and 2, FD&C Green No. 3, and FD&C Red No.40. Other food colorings come from pigments of vegetables, minerals, or animals. Examples of these natural additives include beta-carotene, grape skin extract, caramel color, and saffron.

Does sugar cause symptoms of ADHD?

Processed sugars and carbohydrates may have an effect on a child’s activity level. These sugars produce a rapid increase in blood glucose levels because they enter the bloodstream so quickly. A child may become more active due to an adrenaline rush produced by this blood sugar spike.

Decreased activity in the child is sometimes noted as the adrenaline levels fall.

If you are still looking forward to handing out treats, here are some yummy, healthy Halloween candy alternatives for your trick-or-treaters:

100 calorie packets.
Granola bars.
Mini box of raisins or other dried fruits.
Fruit snacks.
Packets of popcorn.
Organic cheese cracker packets.
Juice pouches.
Honey Sticks.
Oranges/Cuties/Clementines with Pumpkin Faces
Mini Water Bottles
Drink Packets like Liquid IV or Crystal Light.
Glow Sticks.
Bubbles.
Halloween Bouncy Balls.

For more information contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff. TEXT or call our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

Source 1

Source 2

Top 10 Health Benefits of Low-level Laser Therapy

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 17:57:15 GMT

If you have been keeping up with the recent wellness trends, you may have come across low level laser treatments and be wondering about the health benefits of cold-laser technology.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), also known as cold laser therapy or photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, is a non-invasive, low-intensity light therapy that has been approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to stimulate healing. In contrast to standard lasers often used in surgery to apply intense heat to make incisions, the light intensity in LLLT is too low to heat the body’s tissues.

Specifically, the application of red and near infra-red light over injuries or lesions may improve wound and soft tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and relieve acute and chronic pain, especially musculoskeletal pain.

What’s cold laser therapy? Cold laser therapy is low-intensity laser therapy that stimulates healing while using low levels of light. The technique is called “cold” laser therapy because the low levels of light aren’t enough to heat your body’s tissue. The level of light is low when compared to other forms of laser therapy, such as those used to destroy tumors and coagulate tissue. Surgical and aesthetic lasers heat the tissue being treated. True to its name, cold laser therapy does not. Cold laser therapy is also known as:

low-level laser therapy (LLLT)
low-power laser therapy (LPLT)
soft laser biostimulation
photobiomodulation

Potential Benefits of Low-Level Laser Therapy

Clinical trials and studies of low-level laser therapy suggest many beneficial effects, including:

1. Alleviates pain (analgesic): Low-level laser therapy alleviates pain in the following ways:

Partially blocks pain signals from nerves to the brain
Decreases nerve sensitivity
Reduces inflammation ( see No. 3 below )
Stimulates the production of high levels of pain-killing chemicals including endorphins, enkephalins, and opioids in the brain and adrenal glands
Stimulates muscle trigger points and acupuncture points non-invasively to relax contracted muscle fibers

2. Supports detoxification and removes fat that may stimulate weight loss: Low-level laser therapy liquifies the fatty content contained in fat cells and disrupts the membranes of these cells, inducing the formation of transitory pores that enable the liquified fat to seep out of the cells into spaces where the lymphatic system can begin to flush it from the body.

3. Reduces inflammation: Low-level laser therapy dilates blood vessels and activates the lymphatic system to drain swollen areas that are the result of trauma or inflammation.

4. Accelerates cell growth and tissue repair: Low-intensity light penetrates deep into tissues to accelerate cell reproduction and growth and increase energy availability to cells. It enhances cell metabolism by increasing adenosine triphosphate (ADP) production, which improves cell nutrition and waste elimination, which is especially effective in repairing tendons, ligaments, and muscles. It also stimulates fibroblast development in damaged tissue ( fibroblasts are the building blocks of collage , the essential protein required to replace old tissue or repair tissue injuries), making LLLT especially helpful in treating burns and open wounds.

5. Enhances vascular activity: Low-level laser therapy speeds the healing process, closes wounds more quickly, and reduces scarring in two ways:

Significantly increases the formation of new capillaries in damaged tissue
Dilates blood vessels (increases their diameter), thereby improving the flow of blood to damaged tissues

6. Increases metabolic activity: Low-level laser therapy stimulates higher outputs of specific pro-healing enzymes in blood cells, along with improved oxygen and nutrient delivery.

7. Reduces formation of scar tissue: Low-level laser therapy reduces the formation of fibrous (scar) tissue from cuts, scratches, burns, or surgery.

8. Enhances nerve regeneration and function: Low-level laser therapy speeds up the process of axonal regeneration and nerve cell reconnection.

9. Supports immune system function: Low-level laser therapy directly affects immune function by stimulating the production of immunoglobulins and lymphocytes and by improving the ease of penetration of white blood cells into damaged tissue.

10. Reduces reliance on medications: Low-level laser therapy is considered a safe, natural, and effective alternative therapy that may help reduce or eliminate the need for opioids and other analgesics, anti-inflammatories, and other medications that may have undesirable side effects.

Low Level Laser Therapy Uses

Low-level laser therapy has a wide range of applications, including the following:

Musculoskeletal injuries and pain: Sprains (muscles and ligaments), tendonitis, bursitis, tennis elbow, neck pain, lower back pain, knee pain, muscle spasms, joint swelling.

Inflammation: Inflamed gums, carpal tunnel syndrome, and inflammation caused by autoimmune conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia).

Wound healing: For wounds that resist treatment, such as those related to diabetes.

Detoxification, fat loss, and weight management: When used as a complimentary element of an integrative plan of care, low-level laser therapy — like the protocol now available with Dr. D — may aid the body in eliminating excess fat that could be contributing to dysfunction or chronic illness.

Acupuncture: For patients who are uncomfortable with needles.

Skin rejuvenation: Acne, psoriasis, burns, vitiligo, dermatitis, rashes, edema (swelling).

If you think you may benefit from low-level laser therapy, we encourage you to contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff via TEXT (or call) at our Arizona Wellness Clinic, (602) 524-0222.

Ep. 69 The Essential Role of Trust in Patient Care with Dr. Evan Mladenoff

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 17:36:30 GMT

The Story in Your Head By Macklin Connection with Dr. Evan Mladenoff

In this episode of “The Story in Your Head,” Ron, Deb, and guest Dr. Mladenoff challenge the impersonal nature of Western medicine and discuss the profound significance trust plays in the doctor-patient relationship.

“The Story in Your Head” podcast is about sharing stories through host interactions and interviews with guests so people will create space to learn about themselves, build authentic connections, produce opportunities to gain knowledge, and get out of their own story to make space for others – no matter someone’s background and experiences.

Join us to hear how understanding the idea of “self-talk” — and what you can do about it — could change your relationships and life for the better.

Visit for more information www.macklinconnection.com

What Does a Prenatal Chiropractor do for Pregnancy?

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 20:52:39 GMT

Choosing to see a prenatal chiropractor is a great idea during pregnancy. Even if you are completely healthy and do not expect to experience any problems during your pregnancy, there are still many benefits that come with choosing to be under a professional chiropractors care.

About chiropractic treatment while pregnant

There are a lot of great alternative medicine treatment options, including visiting a prenatal chiropractor .

Chiropractors who decide to treat pregnant women must first undergo additional training in order to learn how to provide spinal adjustments in a safe and thus effective manner. Dr. Diana Mladenoff is specialized in prenatal and postnatal chiropractic care.

According to the American Pregnancy Organization, chiropractic care is a process that helps maintain the spinal column, discs, and related nerves so the mother and baby can both be in perfect health.

What a prenatal chiropractor does for pregnancy

The following information outlines what prenatal chiropractor s, like Dr. D, have to offer pregnant women who are preparing to go into labor.

Nausea control

While nausea is a common symptom of pregnancy, pregnant women who experience nausea will often look into their treatment options in order to experience less or even no nausea. Since nausea will often last for months, seeing a prenatal chiropractor for treatment is something more and more pregnant women are exploring, as chiropractic care is an alternative treatment that is both safe and drug-free.

Relief from body aches and pain

Chiropractic adjustments help to relieve any joint, back or neck pain that pregnant women often experience during their pregnancy. As the fetus grows, they can expect their center of gravity to shift, which in turn can cause them to experience problems with their posture. This can cause pregnant women to not be in their proper balance, requiring them to undergo chiropractic adjustments in order for them to get better balance.

Reduces the labor and delivery time

Seeing a prenatal chiropractor can help pregnant women improve the labor and delivery process. When a pregnant woman chooses to undergo chiropractic adjustments, they can expect their labor and delivery to be less painful and take less time. It does not matter if a woman is pregnant for the first time or for the fourth time, she will still reap the benefits that prenatal chiropractors have to offer.

Prental chiropractors can help expecting mothers to feel more comfortable during their pregnancy, as well as during labor.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

As your belly grows, so does your spinal curvature. The placenta will also start to secrete increasing amounts of a hormone called relaxin that will eventually help the cervix dilate. Prior to labor, relaxin helps loosen your ligaments, allowing the pelvis to soften, so it can accommodate a vaginal birth. All those loose ligaments can lead to hip pain, pelvic pain, and sacroiliac dysfunction.

Chiropractic care can help realign the spine and joints affected by pregnancy. By combining regular adjustments and supportive modalities, such as stretching, acupuncture, and hot and cold therapy, you may find relief from your aches, pains, and muscle tension.

Because musculoskeletal adjustments affect the nervous system, you may also experience additional benefits, such as:

Reduced nausea
Fewer headaches
Less edema (swelling)
Reduced sciatic pain
More restful sleep
Faster, less complicated labor and delivery

When to Start Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

You can start chiropractic care as soon as your pregnancy is confirmed and your obstetrician approves treatment, though many people are already regularly seeing a chiropractor while they're trying to conceive. As soon as you feel pain, check with your OB-GYN, then call your chiropractor and make an appointment. Don't wait until the discomfort is unbearable — the sooner you seek help, the sooner you can coax your body into a better position and improve your day-to-day living.

Even if you've gone through most of your pregnancy without seeing a chiropractor, you can still see one before delivery. Perhaps you felt great for 8 months, but realize your baby still hasn't flipped into the proper head-down position and your due date is rapidly approaching. Perhaps you simply need a little relief while you're in the home stretch. Reach out, and ask Dr. Diana for an assessment to see how she can help.

Which Week of Pregnancy Should I Stop Chiropractic?

Not only is there no reason to stop seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy as long as you remain healthy overall, you'll likely benefit from adjustments even more as you navigate your third trimester. The final few months of pregnancy are often marked by a burst of weight gain as your baby fills out, and those extra pounds combine with loosened ligaments and a widening pelvis to throw everything from your gait to your posture out of whack.

Rather than toughing it out and waiting until your baby is born to get help, allow your chiropractor to step in and correct your alignment, so you can have the comfortable pregnancy you deserve.

To connect with a pregnancy chiropractor you can trust, text (or call) Dr. Diana at The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona today at (602) 524-0222. With a convenient location in the Phoenix area (camelback east between Arcadia and Scottsdale), our wellness clinic can offer you easy access to the help you need to have the pregnancy, labor and delivery you've always wanted.

Acupuncture: How It Works, Benefits & Results for Pain

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 20:51:48 GMT

Acupuncture, the practice of treating conditions through triggering certain points on the skin with needles, may help with anxiety, allergies, migraines, fertility issues and insomnia.

If you’re new to holistic healing as a type of treatment, acupuncture can seem a bit intimidating. How could pressing needles into your skin possibly make you feel better ? Doesn’t that hurt?

Well, no, it’s definitely not the overtly painful procedure you may be imagining, and considering that it’s been studied and practiced for over 2,500 years , it seems acupuncture enthusiasts could seriously be onto something. Some people swear by acupuncture, citing it as a “miracle” to improving their quality of life because it’s said to be able to treat everything from depression and allergies to morning sickness and cramps.

If you listen to devotees, the prickly treatment sounds almost like a wonderful cure-all — and we think it is, but let's take a closer look.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine-based approach to treating a variety of conditions by triggering specific points on the skin with needles. Acupuncture is a minimally invasive method to stimulate nerve-rich areas of the skin surface in order to influence tissues, gland, organs, and various functions of the body.

Each acupuncture needle produces a tiny injury at the insertion site, and although it’s slight enough to cause little to no discomfort, it’s enough of a signal to let the body know it needs to respond. This response involves stimulation of the immune system, promoting circulation to the area, wound healing, and pain modulation.

What’s the philosophy behind acupuncture?

The Chinese philosophy behind acupuncture is a bit more complicated, as the ancient practice isn’t traditionally based in science and medicine. They believed that the human body was filled with and animated by an invisible life-giving force which they called ‘qi’ (pronounced ‘chee’) and when the qi was flowing well and going to all the right places, then a person would experience good mental and physical health. When the qi was flowing incorrectly (blocked or deficient) that would result in illness.

The concept of qi isn’t too out there — think of it as your body’s natural inner workings. Sometimes you’re more prone to illness when feeling stressed or anxious. When you’re relaxed and healthy, your body physically reflects that too. After all, your mood, mental health, and general well-being do affect your physical health. Thus, acupuncture aims to assist people in achieving balance, or qi, and, as a result, provide relief for many ailments.

What Does Acupuncture Do?

You may be interested in acupuncture for a variety of reasons — for example, the majority of patients seen by Dr. D are for chronic headaches and sinus pressure — but there are countless conditions and symptoms that acupuncture has been said to help with. Here are just some of the many claims:

allergies
anxiety and depression
osteoarthritis
chronic pain, often in the neck, back, knees, and head
hypertension
insomnia
menstrual cramps and PMS
migraines
morning sickness
sprains
strokes

Some studies even suggest that acupuncture can help with cancer treatment, fertility issues, and multiple sclerosis.

Additional ailments that acupuncture may help with are:

acne
abdominal pain
cancer pain
obesity
insomnia
diabetes
schizophrenia
stiff neck
alcohol dependence

While there’s no evidence that acupuncture is a miracle cure-all, it does seem to have some evidence as a worth-while treatment for people who may have multiple conditions and illnesses. There’s a reason it’s been around for more than 2,500 years and as research grows, so will our knowledge of exactly what works and what does.

Contact our Arizona Wellness Clinic today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana. TEXT IS BEST or call: 1 (602) 524-0222.

Source: Healthline .

Chiropractic Care for Infants & Toddlers 101

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 19:23:31 GMT

Attention new mom's and mom's-to-be: Learn about the many benefits of chiropractic care specific for your infants and toddlers (and even prior to delivery and after!)

The truth is that chiropractic care isn’t just for adults. Children of all ages are treated every day by chiropractors for a variety of health reasons. And when it comes to babies, they are never too small for an adjustment. In fact, it could be the best thing for them.

Childbirth is traumatic

Before we go into the various benefits of chiropractic care for babies, it’s important to point out that unless the baby comes out untouched, the birthing process is a traumatic experience for them. As the doctor is assisting the mother, they sometimes must twist and pull on the baby as it comes out of the birth canal. No matter how careful they are, these forceful movements can unknowingly hurt the baby’s shoulder(s) or neck. This can cause them to grow crooked or be in such pain that they cry all the time.

We believe a chiropractor should be a big part of a baby’s life. In fact, as soon as baby and mom are mobile, the baby needs to be checked out by a chiropractor, like Dr. Diana, as soon as possible to ensure the baby is happy and functioning properly.

Is it beneficial to take a baby to a chiropractor?

While many people might believe that chiropractic care is primarily for adults, it's also safe for newborn babies in the first few weeks following birth and can help them avoid problems such as ear infections, colic, and more.

Why even the smallest spines can benefit from chiropractic care

Why do kids get adjusted?

While you don't need a specific reason to have your child adjusted, parents often initially seek out chiropractic care for a specific condition. In younger children, it is often due to ear infections, colic, reflux or more broader coordination complaints.

What are the benefits of a pediatric chiropractor?
It might not seem obvious, but studies have found that regular pediatric chiropractic appointments can be beneficial in boosting your child's brain development. It does this by reducing pressure on your bones and joints and well as the spine, enabling oxygenated blood and nutrients to reach and fuel the brain cells.

Do C section babies need chiropractors?

Some babies born via c section may also experience slower development, breathing conditions such as asthma, and weight issues like obesity. For all these reasons, the benefits of chiropractic care for C-section babies are very important .

7 benefits of chiropractic for infants

Adjusting misaligned vertebra
Post-birth recovery
Ease colic symptoms
Assist in treating and preventing ear infection
Boost Immune System
Decreases the risk of injury in toddlers
Aid in proper physical development

Here are the top 10 reasons that parents bring their newborns in to check their spinal health:

To maximize their child’s brain and nerve development (Wellness)
To enhance their child’s immune system
To strengthen immunity and reduce the incidence of colds, earaches, and general illness
To help with colic and Irritable Baby Syndrome
To help with asthma, breathing difficulties, and allergies
To improve spinal posture, crawling abnormalities, and latching/suckling issues in breastfeeding
To improve their child’s ability to concentrate
To assist with behavioral disorders and offer greater emotional well-being
To help alleviate bed wetting and digestive problems
To assist with sleep issues

Can a chiropractor help with colicky babies?

Yes, they can . There's evidence that baby chiropractic adjustments significantly improve colic symptoms. A 3-month long scientific study conducted in 2012 established that chiropractic care may help treat colic. In the study, fully 94 percent of the subjects experienced improved colic symptoms.

Call Dr. Diana at the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona today

In the meantime, we urge you to bring your baby to a family chiropractor. Science has continually proven that chiropractic care is safe, and hundreds of thousands of parents say that it has provided a myriad of benefits for their children and babies. The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona in Phoenix, AZ specializes in pediatric, pre- and postnatal chiropractic techniques and care. Healthcare ahead of the curve...wellness awaits you.

Call or text us today for your next appointment: 1 (602) 524-0222 (Text is best).

Acupuncture for Fertility

Tue, 16 May 2023 17:48:30 GMT

Increase your chance of conception without side effects. Learn how acupuncture for fertility may be the solution and tool for you and your growing family.

Making the decision to grow your family is exciting and should be filled with love and joy. However, for some people it's not that easy and outside help is needed. The overwhelming anguish and sense of loss experienced by women struggling with infertility issues is an unwelcome motivator, driving them to seek other treatment options to overcoming infertility. From home remedies, fertility drugs, and even surgery, to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and donor eggs and embryos, modern healthcare has vastly expanded the array of options available for couples struggling to conceive.

But not all can afford the financial costs of infertility which can range from hundreds of dollars spent on drugs to tens of thousands spent on advanced procedures such as Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and IVF. In the search for affordable and effective health care, alternative and holistic treatments are gaining wider appeal among the general public.

Traditional Chinese medicine, for example, has been practiced for thousands of years and includes techniques and practices such as tai chi, moxibustion, tui na, Chinese cupping, and acupuncture. Acupuncture in particular has rapidly grown in acceptance by the general public and practice among therapists today. Not only is acupuncture valued for stress-relieving and relaxing benefits, but also as a component of fertility treatments.
A recent study from Tel Aviv University reports, “When combining IUI with TCM treatments, 65.5 percent of the test group were able to conceive, compared with 39.4 percent of the control group, who received no herbal or acupuncture therapy.” For the 4.5 million couples experiencing infertility each year, acupuncture may be just what the doctor ordered.

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE HELP FERTILITY?

Acupuncture can increase fertility by reducing stress, increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs and balancing the endocrine system, according to several studies and medical research. A recent study found that acupuncture, when used in conjunction with Western fertility treatments, increases conception rates by 26%.

THE EVOLUTION AND HISTORY OF ACUPUNCTURE

With a recorded history of about 3,000 years, the foundations of acupuncture are believed to date back to the Stone Age when sharp edged tools were used to puncture the skin and drain blood and abscesses.

The Chinese document titled Lingshu (translated as “Miraculous Pivot”) listed nine classical acupuncture needles: Filiform, Shear, Round-Pointed, Spoon, Lance, Round-Sharp, Stiletto, Long, and Big. These classical needles were originally made from bronze, gold, or silver, but modern acupuncture uses only stainless steel filiform needles.

In the U.S., physicians have been practicing acupuncture since the early 1800s. When the New York Times published the documentation of James Reston’s visit to China in 1971, acupuncture piqued public interest. In 1997, the National Institutes of Health Consensus Statement advocated for acupuncture’s potential to manage postoperative pain, vomiting, and nausea. Ten years later, according to a report published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), a “. . . survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, almost 40% of adults used complementary and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, in the prior year.”

The rise in popularity of acupuncture has compelled researchers to take a closer, scientific look at the full potential of acupuncture. From aiding in weight loss efforts, to reducing stress and relieving pain, the benefits of acupuncture have raised interest in its potential to increase the chances of conception.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND INFERTILITY

Because of the delicate balance between the hypothalamus, pituitary, and reproductive glands, stress is capable of preventing a woman from ovulating entirely. This can contribute to the cause of female infertility. Stress can also create spasms in both the fallopian tubes and the uterus, which can interfere with movement and implantation of a fertilized egg. In men, stress can alter sperm counts, motility, and cause impotence. Acupuncture infertility treatment counters the effects of stress and cortisol by releasing endorphins in the brain. An herbal impotence cure is also an option for men and can reduce stress.

Hormonal balance does not have to be disrupted by cortisol to cause infertility. The most common cause of female infertility is an ovulation disorder, in which the release of a mature egg from the ovary is prevented, usually because of a hormonal imbalance. Without enough progesterone, for example, the fetus is unable to attach to the uterus. High levels of prolactin, the hormone that stimulates the production of breast milk, can also prevent ovulation.

An imbalance in reproductive hormones can also negatively affect male reproductive function, such as sperm motility and production. However, the fertility drugs that stimulate ovulation in women by regulating the hypothalamus and pituitary, the glands that control reproductive hormones, don’t perform nearly as well for men (success rates are about a third of those for women), nor have they been approved for men by the FDA. Male infertility treatment must take another track. An herbal impotence cure — if impotence is a factor in a couple’s infertility — causes no side effects and has a reported success rate when taken in conjunction with male infertility treatment.

While the fertility drugs commonly prescribed for women can produce a 20 to 60 percent pregnancy rate, they also commonly include such side effects as abdominal tenderness, bloating, fluid retention, weight gain, and nausea. Some studies show that they may also cause breast cancer.

THE POTENTIAL OF ACUPUNCTURE TO INCREASE CHANCE OF CONCEPTION

The goal of an infertility treatment from a Chinese medicine perspective is not just to get pregnant, but to stay pregnant and to have a healthy baby. Among many other benefits, acupuncture can provide better blood flow to the ovaries and uterus, creating a stronger chance for an egg to be nourished and carried to term.

Modern acupuncture consists of the gentle insertion and stimulation of thin, disposable sterile needles at strategic points near the surface of the body. Over 2,000 acupuncture points on the human body connect with 14 major pathways, called meridians. Chinese medicine practitioners believe that these meridians conduct qi, or energy, between the surface of the body and internal organs. It is qi that regulates spiritual, emotional, mental and physical balance. When the flow of qi is disrupted through poor health habits or other circumstances, pain and/or disease can result. Acupuncture helps to keep the normal flow of this energy unblocked, thereby increasing a couple’s chances of conceiving.

Acupuncture infertility treatment can improve almost every cause of this obstacle. While 40 percent of infertility is caused by problems in the female, another 40 percent is caused by problems in the male, such as low sperm count or motility. The cause of female infertility stems from problems such as anovulation and endometriosis. The remaining 20 percent is caused by unknown factors.

One of the ways acupuncture infertility treatment increases fertility is by reducing stress, which is often a key factor in the fertility of both men and women. When people are under stress, the hormone cortisol is released in the brain. This alters the brain’s neurochemical balance, thus changing hormone levels and disrupting the pituitary balance that is key to the reproductive cycle.

If the thyroid is over- or under-functioning, acupuncture can help address the effects on fertility. Acupuncture can also, ..."be used to treat any type of fertility disorder including spasmed tubes. Spasmed tubes are often de-spasmed with acupuncture, though blocked tubes will not respond to acupuncture,” according to the American Pregnancy Association.

However, acupuncture cannot address issues with tubal adhesions. Acupuncture is also contraindicated for the abdomino-pelvic area, which includes the following points: Gallbladder 21, Large Intestine 4, Bladder 60, Stomach 12, Spleen 6, and Bladder 67, as well as any other points on the lower abdomen.

Chinese medicine can help support a woman through this important time in her life—whether that is emotionally or physically, acupuncture can help with much more than just conception. It can help with morning sickness, nausea, aches and pains (low back pain, for example), anxiety preparation for birth, and insomnia, among many others.

ACUPUNCTURE’S SIDE EFFECTS

Acupuncture for infertility treatment, by contrast, produces few or no side effects while performing the same function as the drugs do: stimulating the hypothalamus to effectively balance the endocrine system and its hormones and to get to the root cause of female infertility as well as male infertility.

The natural, time-tested alternative treatment used by eastern cultures just might be worth a try.

Contact Dr. Diana today and schedule an appointment by TEXTING or calling our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

SOURCES

Tel Aviv University study

http://www.aftau.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&;id=15808
http://www.healthy.net/Health/Article/The_History_of_Acupuncture_in_China/1819

http://www.itmonline.org/arts/bleeding.htm

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5512332/

http://americanpregnancy.org/infertility/acupuncture/

Click here to learn more about Pacific College of Oriental Medicine’s Chicago acupuncture school, New York acupuncture school , and San Diego Acupuncture School Programs.

Brain Train to Improve Sleep and Function

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 22:37:21 GMT

Just as you exercise your physical body, you can now workout and train your brain with our new brain fitness offering, BrainTap.

Think Better.

BrainTap gives you the gift of a present mind. Instead of feeling overwhelmed and distressed, you’ll feel energized and have the confidence to make better choices.

Sleep Better.

Train your brain to relax into your body’s natural sleep pattern and awaken rested, with a sharp, focused, and fully restored brain.

Perform Better.

Your performance accelerates as your brain gains a heightened sense of clarity and your energy returns to its fullest form. As a result, you acquire the energy to engage fully and make core actionable changes happen.

From Stress Reduction, Restful Sleep, Focus and Clarity, Athletic Performance, Optimal Health, Weight Wellness, Breaking through PTSD, Pain-Free Lifestyle, Children and Learning, Brain Training, and more, brain training with Dr. D can help you improve your health and wellness.

Your Brain is Your Greatest Superpower. That’s Why Dr. Diana is Committed to its Fitness.

Neuroscientists now know that the brain is plastic, a quantum leap from the outdated notion that we are victims of genetics or permanently limited due to our IQ. Brain plasticity, scientifically known as neuroplasticity, is the brain’s innate ability to change and adapt its structure and function in response to experiences and is, therefore, key to optimal overall wellness.

Brain states that were once only possible during deep meditative states achieved over years of disciplined practice are now available to everyone in 20 effortless minutes.

BrainTap gently guides the brain from the chronic and destructive fight-or-flight state into deep relaxation, naturally restoring the parasympathetic balance, which is often all that’s needed to achieve mental harmony, better health, and an exceptional quality of life.

Significant Findings

Increased heart rate variability
Improved quality of sleep (sleep efficiency)
Increased parasympathetic activity
Decreased stress, worry, and irritability Improved brain health (episodic memory)

In a Single Session…

38.5% Improvement on the stress index scale
27.3% Improvement on overall neurological markers
Increased heart rate variability

– Global Advances in Health and Medicine Vol. 9, 2020

Science-Based and Validated

The BrainTap technology is grounded in proven science, validated through clinical studies and trusted by thousands of health providers.

Effortless Experience

BrainTap stimulates the brain directly, requiring no active participation by you, and allowing you to let go completely. Even when the sessions tell you to breathe in, you can breathe out—and the tech still does all the work.

Discover Brain Fitness with Dr. D Today

From heads of state to athletic superstars, educators, C-suite executives, founders, and everyday people wanting to be at their best, BrainTap continues to serve humanity in transformative ways. BrainTap has proven that your brain can be retrained to operate at its best and that it’s never too late to tap into your brain’s fullest ability.

Contact our Arizona Wellness Clinic today! Schedule an appointment by TEXTING or calling Dr. Diana at 1 (602) 524-0222.

6 Things You Should Do During Pregnancy

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 22:00:28 GMT

Labor is like a marathon. It is hard work and you want your body to be physically ready for it! Continue reading for Dr. Diana's highly recommended tips to do during your pregnancy to avoid a long labor.

1. Eat the Dates

Dates are full of vitamins and minerals. They're also rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from cell damage. During pregnancy, it’s important to eat a balanced diet with the key nutrients needed for you and your baby. Here are some of the health benefits of eating dates during pregnancy:

Dietary Fiber. Dates contain a lot of dietary fiber, which helps with bowel movements. Four dates have about 6.7 grams of dietary fiber, equaling about 25% of the recommended daily intake of 20 to 35 grams. Dates can help relieve constipation. This is a common symptom during pregnancy, because hormones cause the gastrointestinal tract to slow down. Iron supplements, which many pregnant women take, can also increase the likelihood of constipation.

Potassium. Your body needs potassium to maintain fluid balance and support regular cell functioning. Less than 2% of adults in the U.S. meet the daily recommended amount of 4,700 milligrams of potassium.

Many pregnant women experience vomiting in their first trimester, which can lead to lower potassium levels. Dates have 696 milligrams of potassium in a 100-gram serving (about 4 dates).

Folate . Dates also contain the B vitamin folate, an important nutrient during pregnancy as it prevents serious birth defects such as spina bifida. Doctors recommend that pregnant women take folate in a folic acid supplement to reach the daily recommended amount of 600 mcg. Dates provide 15 mcg of folate per 100-gram serving.

Iron. Pregnant women are at a higher risk of iron-deficiency anemia, and need twice the amount of iron as those who aren’t pregnant. Severe iron-deficiency anemia can raise your chances of having a preterm or low-weight baby and developing postpartum depression.

Low GI food. Dates are a low glycemic index (GI) food. This means that they’re digested more slowly and won’t cause a rapid increase in your blood sugar levels. Some 10% of pregnant women develop gestational diabetes, which involves high blood sugar levels. This can lead to complications such as a higher birth-weight baby and preterm labor.

Sugar substitute. Dates can also be used as a substitute for sugar. Date sugar, which can be found in some grocery stores and health food shops, is made of ground-up dried dates. It has about 30% fewer calories than regular sugar. Keep in mind that date sugar tastes like dates, so it won’t always work well as a sugar substitute.

Are Dates Safe to Eat During Pregnancy?

There's no evidence showing any negative effects of eating dates during pregnancy.

In fact, dates are great snacks to help curb sugar cravings. Eating a few dates instead of ice cream or candy can help satisfy your sweet tooth. A study of mothers and their children found that high-sugar diets during pregnancy can affect a child’s brain function. However, eating natural sugars from fruits, like dates, was associated with higher intelligence scores.

While dates are safe to eat during pregnancy, there are some things to keep in mind:

High in calories. Dates are high in calories and carbohydrates, so be aware of the number you're eating per day. A 100-gram serving of dates, or about four pitted dates, is roughly 277 calories. This is just under the additional 300 calories needed in the second trimester.

Another study showed that pregnant women who ate 6 dates a day for 4 weeks before their due date had a shorter first stage of labor and their cervix was softer before delivery. Eating dates in late pregnancy has also been shown to lessen the need for oxytocin, the medication used to start or speed up labor.

Tip: Four weeks before your due date, eat six dates a day.

2. Drink Raspberry Leaf Tea

Raspberry leaf tea is an herbal tea made from the leaves of the raspberry plant and has been used throughout history for uterine and pregnancy health. Purported benefits include strengthening the uterine muscles, shortening labor, and easing labor pain.

Tip: Get your uterus ready for action by drinking raspberry leaf tea.

3. Be Active (if you're able to!)

Don't just sit on the couch for 9 months. For healthy pregnant women, regular exercise can keep your mind and body healthy. Physical activity can help you feel good and give you extra energy. It also makes your heart, lungs and blood vessels strong and helps you stay fit.

Being active during your pregnancy can even make your labor shorter and recovery faster. It may also make it less likely you'll have complications like: Gestational diabetes (a type of diabetes that happens during pregnancy).

Tip: Stay active during pregnancy.

4. Prenatal Yoga

This will help you be limber and strong. Labor is hard work and you need to be ready for it. Prenatal yoga can:

Improve sleep.
Reduce stress and anxiety.
Increase the strength, flexibility and endurance of muscles needed for childbirth.
Decrease lower back pain, nausea, headaches and shortness of breath.

Tip: Do prenatal yoga.

5. Take a Birth Class

This will help you know what the hell is going on down there.

6. Prenatal Chiropractor

You want to make sure everything is aligned, especially your hips! If anything is our of wack, it is going to make it really hard for that baby to come out. Better alignment in the pelvic region will decrease intrauterine constraint and that will allow the baby to pass through the labor canal with more ease. The goal of the chiropractor is to correct the subluxations in the pelvis to help balance the uterus and allow the baby to get into a better position.

Tip: See a prenatal chiropractor like Dr. Diana.

Contact our Arizona Wellness Clinic today! TEXT or call Dr. Diana Mladenoff at 1 (602) 524-0222 to schedule an appointment.

3 Keys to Optimal Nutrition

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 22:06:39 GMT

Not meeting your fitness or weight goals? Underperforming at work, at home, or during workouts? Are you looking for more energy while you chase the kids around? Maybe it’s your eating plan.

A healthy diet is essential for good health and nutrition. It protects you against many chronic noncommunicable diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer . Eating a variety of foods and consuming less salt, sugars and saturated and industrially-produced trans-fats, are essential for healthy diet.

There’s no “perfect” diet for optimal health and performance. No matter what your eating plan is, there are 3 keys to good nutrition to keep in mind: balance, quality, and timing. Healthy eating plans should include balanced meals that contain high-quality foods and drinks at regular times. If not, Dr. Diana can provide you a custom nutritional plan that includes performance-nutrition tips to ensure you’re getting the fuel you need to feel and perform your best.

Balance

Eat from all or most of the food groups. Eating a variety of foods from the 5 major food groups provides a range of nutrients to the body, promotes good health and can help reduce the risk of disease - as well as keeping your diet interesting with different flavors and textures. What happens if you don't always eat food from all the food groups? Eating a varied diet can benefit our health by reducing risks associated with malnutrition, which happens when we don't get the right amount of nutrients from our diet. Malnutrition can cause weak muscles, decrease mobility, increase illness, and lead to breathing problems , among other symptoms. A well-balanced diet provides all of the: energy you need to keep active throughout the day - nutrients you need for growth and repair, helping you to stay strong and healthy and help to prevent diet-related illness, such as some cancers.

Eat the right amount for your activity and performance goals. Your digestive system functions best when it is not overloaded with food. Managing portions will help to end cramping and bloating after eating . Balanced blood sugar too. Overeating can lead to a blood sugar imbalance by overloading your body with glucose; which can eventually lead to insulin resistance.

A rough guide for each meal is:

Vegetables or salad: Half a plate.
High-quality protein: Quarter of a plate — this includes meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, tofu, beans.
Complex carbs: Quarter of a plate — such as whole grains and starchy vegetables.
High-fat foods: Half a tablespoon (7 grams).

Feel satisfied and energized from your eating plan. Here's how to stop feeling tired after eating

Eat little and often. Rather than eating big meals, eat smaller meals and snacks every few hours to keep up energy levels.
Get good-quality sleep.
Go for a walk.
Take a short nap during the day.
Try low-level laser therapy.
Avoid drinking alcohol with meals.

Quality

Focus on whole foods, fewer processed foods. Whole foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains (such as oats, brown rice and barley), nuts, beans, fish, shellfish and eggs . Minimally processed foods are foods that are a little processed, such as frozen produce or whole wheat flour.

Choose more plants - the more colors, the better. Colorful foods, which are generally fruits and vegetables, contain many of the vitamins and antioxidants we need – with few calories. Along with maintaining good health, the nutrients in vegetables and fruits work together to protect against cancer, heart disease, vision loss, hypertension and other diseases .

Aim for foods with naturally occurring nutrients. Nutrient-dense foods are rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients important for health, without too much saturated fat, added sugars and sodium .

Timing

Follow a regular eating pattern. In general, scheduling what and when you eat will help you maintain a balanced diet and create a more stable energy source , as your metabolism will be engaged at optimal levels all day long. The goal is to eat every 3 to 4 hours in order to keep your blood sugar consistent and for your stomach to optimally digest.

Avoid skipping meals or going too long without eating. Skipping meals: Causes the body to lower its metabolism (how much energy it needs to function), it causes us to burn less energy (fewer calories), and can lead us to gain weight. This can leave you with little energy because the body has run out of the fuel we get from food, leaving you sluggish. But, don't overeat - remember our stomachs are only the size of our fists.

Fuel before, during, an after exercise. Studies suggest that eating or drinking carbohydrates before exercise can improve workout performance and may allow you to work out for a longer time or at a higher intensity . If you don't eat, you might feel sluggish or lightheaded when you exercise. Intense training requires proper fuel. Eating every three to four hours throughout the day and eating post-workout is an important part of supporting your body.

Why It Matters

Good nutrition is essential in keeping current and future generations of Americans healthy across the lifespan. Tip for New Mom's: Breastfeeding helps protect against childhood illnesses, including ear and respiratory infections, asthma, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

People with healthy eating patterns live longer and are at lower risk for serious health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. For people with chronic diseases, healthy eating can help manage these conditions and prevent complications.

Contact The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona today and see how Dr. D can help you find the proper nutritional guidance to live happier and healthier. TEXT or call our Arizona Wellness Clinic at 1 (602) 524-0222.

Grow Your Family in Wellness

Sat, 18 Feb 2023 23:49:59 GMT

Regular wellness treatments (yes, even for your littlest ones) is vital to having a thriving family. Parents who are able to make informed decisions, manage their basic needs, and tackle pressing human and community issues are better equipped to lead happy, healthy lives. Continue reading to learn more about family wellness and how The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona can help improve health and wellness routines.

What does family wellness mean?

Family wellness means that everyone in the family has healthy mental functioning, productive activities, and fulfilling relationships with one another and people outside the family . Family wellness allows everyone in the family to adapt and bond together to help one another through change and difficult times.

How do you promote family wellness?

Family health and wellness is the glue that holds a family together. There are many ways that a family can encourage physical and mental fitness, and one way you can promote a stable mindset in your household is by following family wellness programs.

How will your wellness impact your family?

Family wellness is based around physical, intellectual, occupational, social, emotional, and spiritual wellness. While, healthier lifestyle guarantees that you and your family avoid chronic health problems including cardiovascular diseases and other health problems , it also helps you feel your best, give you more energy for everyday tasks and allow you to live a productive life.

Wellness looks different for all ages, but is always centered around routine and balance. Let’s take a closer look at what health and wellness looks like for a few different age ranges:

For children ages 0-12 years old, health and wellness should be centered around improving general wellbeing and vitality. This means improving hand/eye coordination, improving allergies, digestive issues, and sleep problems, and balancing emotions.

For people 13-25 years old, health and wellness should be focused on the rapidly growing body, which means maximum engagement in all developmental areas. There’s a lot going on during this phase of life, which means that wellness should surround building confidence, balancing hormones and emotions, getting in shape, and reducing stress.

26-35 year olds still have a lot of energy to use, but not everyone in this category knows where to place that energy. To maintain a good health and wellness schedule, this age group should focus on staying active or continuing their involvement in sports, improving focus and drive, tending to specific health conditions, reducing stress, and increasing flexibility.

People who are between the ages of 36-50 are at a major crossroads for their health. The body doesn’t respond quite in the way that it used to starting at this period, which means that health and wellness programs are more important than ever. Programs that focus on maintaining and improving physical fitness, rebounding from health conditions, recovering from injuries, maintaining and improving flexibility, and staying at a healthy weight.

5 tips to help improve your family's wellness:

Cook with your kids.
Family night.
Hold regular family meetings.
Open those scrapbooks or photo albums.
Volunteer.
Outdoors activities.
Game nights.

Family Wellness Tips

There are six dimensions of family wellness, and those include the components of physical, intellectual, occupational, social, emotional, and spiritual wellness. By modifying these behaviors, we have a certain degree of control over our lives.

In order to get a better handle on these components of family wellness, check out these family wellness tips:

The first of the five family wellness ideas is to cook with your children. If you choose to make dinner with your family over picking up takeout or microwaving something at least once a week, it will give you and your family a chance to eat healthier, catch up, and just talk. You can even teach your kids about math and science throughout the cooking process! Cooking a homemade meal also brings along a sense of satisfaction, and you can even start a family tradition by doing this.

Another family wellness example is to set aside time each week for a ‘family night.’ This is when you and your family can plan to do an activity together - whether that activity is a board game (through board games, children can learn valuable life skills and hone their problem-solving abilities and creative prowess), backyard camping (this is one of our favorite summer family wellness tips), art hour, or a family slumber party.

Holding regular family meetings is another great way to encourage family wellness. This allows children to be a part of the decision-making process, and family meetings allow you to map out the week regarding meals, chores, activities, rules, and consequences.

Poring through scrapbooks and photo albums is a wonderful bonding experience for a family. You can reminisce over shared memories and see how much you’ve all grown over the years - taking a step back in time is also a great stress reliever.

The last family wellness tip is to volunteer with your loved ones. You can easily find opportunities in your town or neighborhood where you can volunteer as a family. You won’t only grow closer, you’ll also improve your community while you’re at it.

Impactful changes

Some of the most impactful health and wellness activities for families focus on movement and play. Encouraging your kids to get active doesn’t just help their physical body, it can be a huge aid to their mental health as well. A few great ways that you can get the whole family moving is by doing yoga - practicing techniques helps to build strength and flexibility, and also can reduce stress. You can also have fun by playing hopscotch, jumping rope, hosting family races, and much more.

A family wellness activity that you can’t go wrong with is simply playing. Playing is what helps children’s imaginations grow, and it’s especially enjoyable for them when their parents join in. A few ideas for activities that encourage your children to play are: Doing a nature scavenger hunt, creating sensory play with sand, play-doh, or other materials from the kitchen, and pretend-playing by making up entertaining scenarios from everyday life.

Nutritional guidance

There’s no doubt that healthy eating is a major component of family wellness, but there are activities that you can do to make this (sometimes difficult) task fun. Activities like creating a taste testing station for your children so they’ll try out new foods, getting creative with how you prepare meals, and arranging the plate in amusing designs go over great with kids.

Contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff today to learn more about our family wellness program. To schedule an appointment TEXT (or call) our Arizona Wellness Clinic in Phoenix at 1 (602) 524-0222.

Acupuncture for Migraines

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Stress-related headaches and migraines can disrupt your entire day or even week. If you are dealing with headaches, acupuncture may help. Read on to learn more about the benefits of acupuncture for headaches and migraines.

Acupuncture for Migraines May Be The Best Natural Treatment for Your Headaches

The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona provides effective, natural treatment that is clinically proven for fast relief and long-term prevention for migraines and headaches in Phoenix Arizona.

According to the Migraine Research Foundation, this neurological disease affects nearly 39 million Americans. Below are reasons why you should consider getting acupuncture for your migraine headache and other helpful information.

Types of Headache: Tension Headaches, Migraine, Cluster Headaches, Sinus Headaches, Hypertension Headaches, or TMJ Headaches.

Headaches can also be diagnosed according to specific symptoms, times of occurrence, location on the body, type of pain, triggers and remedies which provide relief. Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners, like Dr. Diana Mladenoff, will also attempt to determine what root causes are contributing to the symptoms. By identifying and treating the underlying causes, not just the symptoms, Dr. D can apply the most effective acupuncture care for migraine relief.

Other Unwanted Symptoms that Acupuncture May Help With

Digestive Health: Irregular bowl movements, gas & bloating, Cohn's Disease, IBS.
Stress Management: Anxiety, Insomnia, Panic attacks, Depression.
Inflammation: Allergies, Acne, Arthritis, Eczema, Dermatitis, Muscle & Joint Pain, Fatigue, Gout, Weight Gain, Type 2 Diabetes.
Women's Health: Menstrual Irregularities, Hormone Irregularity, Yeast Infection, Fertility, PCOS, PMS, Menopause.
Immune Support: Colds & Flus, UTI, Chronic Infection.
Paid Management
Respiratory Health
Cardiovascular Health

Migraine attack is classified as a primary headache, and it is a neurological disorder. Call today and find relief.

What Are The Migraine Causes and Symptoms?

Whether you have chronic headaches or the worst migraines associated with neurological symptoms , including light and noise intolerance, pain behind eye, nausea, vomiting, depression, and irritation, the cause may be associated with a structural issue. When the nerves are irritated or compressed, they send disturbing sensory messages to the brain. This disturbed or heightened sensitivity of the nervous system can lead directly to acute headache or migraine.

Seven Reasons to Get Acupuncture for Migraines

Because modern medicine doesn’t completely understand this neurological phenomenon, the typical treatment is somewhat hit or miss. One way to seek relief is by reaching for drugs and other medications. Unfortunately, common medications do not address the root causes and can cause unwanted side effects when used over long periods of time. Common side effects of medications are sleepiness and fatigue, racing heartbeat, nausea, difficulty thinking, and trouble functioning.

There is an alternative migraine treatment, and this alternative is acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Because TCM treatment is customized to the individual’s conditions, it can do much more than just relieve pain. Here are seven reasons why you should consider getting acupuncture:

1. Acupuncture has been proven to relieve migraine pain. This is the number one reason why people seek acupuncture. Thousands of studies have shown acupuncture treatments can effectively relieve and reduce pain for acute and chronic pain. When acupuncture is combined with chiropractic care, the results can be instant and even longer lasting.

2. Acupuncture reduces inflammation. While migraines are not completely understood, it is agreed upon by most professionals any headache involves some sort of inflammatory response by the body. Acupuncture promotes the release of vascular and immune-mediating factors that actually decrease inflammation.

3. Acupuncture can reduce serotonin levels. Serotonin is a chemical the body produces. Many scientists and neurologists believe serotonin may be linked to triggering migraines. Because acupuncture can be used for preventive medicine, it can also help to balance serotonin levels on a long-term basis. Thus you may have less frequent migraine attacks.

4. Acupuncture can help with the symptoms of migraines. Acupuncture can treat not only pain but also the symptoms of migraines. Studies have shown symptoms like nausea, dizziness and vomiting can all be reduced with regular treatments.

5. Acupuncture improves blood circulation. When you experience pain, it is because of a lack of proper blood flow and decreased oxygen. This is as true for migraines as any other type of pain. Acupuncture can improve blood circulation, which also increases the amount of oxygen that reaches the tissues.

6. Acupuncture Provides Fast Pain Relief. Yes. There is an effective, natural treatment that is clinically proven to provide fast relief and long-term prevention.

7. Leading National and International Health Organizations recognize acupuncture to be effective in the treatment of headaches.

What Do You Mean My Qi Is Out of Balance?

An important part of acupuncture and TCM is the concept of Qi. Qi (pronounced “chee”) is the vital energy that animates the body and protects it from illness. It flows through pathways called meridians and provides nourishment to all the body’s organs. When there is an imbalance or blockage in the flow of Qi, physical symptoms may result. Stagnation of Qi may be the cause of your headaches.

During acupuncture treatment for migraines, in order to restore the balance and flow of Qi, Dr. Diana will insert fine sterile needles at specific acupuncture points along the meridian pathways. Based on your unique symptoms, Dr. D will choose to concentrate on acupuncture points related to specific organs. Afterwards, she may prescribe a variety of self-care techniques further expedite your healing process.

It is important to remember that acupuncture for migraine or headache is not a quick fix, but most patients experience (almost) instant relief. Changes may occur quickly or over a longer period of time, depending upon your overall constitution and health. It is also important to closely follow the care recommendations suggested by Dr. D. Whether it is one visit to address an acute problem, or several visits to address a chronic problem, a migraine acupuncture specialist like Dr. Diana will create a treatment protocol for your migraine headache symptom that will maximize your healing potential.

Common Issues Acupuncture Can Help With:

Neck Pain
Stress
Headaches
Allergies
Back Pain
Anxiety
Digestive Issues
Fertility

Looking to Grow Your Family? Acupuncture Aids Fertility

Balances hormone levels and regulates the menstrual cycle.
Reduces inflammation including the intensity of menstrual cramps and severity of endometriosis.
Improves blood flow to the uterus and ovaries.
Thickens uterine lining (endometrium) and helps with endometrial receptor expression.
Promotes ovulation in anovulatory patients such as women with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or hypothalamic amenorrhea.
Improves semen quality and sperm count in men.
Improves embryo implantation rates.

In conclusion, acupuncture and chiropractic care are extremely effective in reducing the frequency and severity of headache or migraine. By working with Dr. D, you will be on your way toward a healthier, happier, pain-free life.

Contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff at the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona today. Schedule an appointment by TEXTING or calling 1 (602) 524-0222.

Reference:

Otesa,Miles. Migraines and family history. Migraine.com, Nov 2010.
Nelson, C. F., Bronfort, G., Evans, R., Boline, P., Goldsmith, C., & Anderson, A. V. The efficacy of spinal manipulation, amitriptyline and the combination of both therapies for the prophylaxis of migraine headache. Journal of Manipulative & Physiological Therapeutics 1998 Oct: 21(8), 511-9.
“Acupuncture for the prevention of episodic migraine,” The Cochrane Review, published June 28, 2016.
Migraine and cardiovascular disease: systematic review and meta-analysis, BMJ 2009;339:b3914.

Keeping Santa Healthy

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 21:26:05 GMT

Even Santa has a health and wellness routine that involves regular treatments from Dr. Diana. See what services Santa (and you) can benefit from.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic is the healing art based on the optimal function of the nervous system (especially the spine and nerves extending from the spine to all parts of the body). Chiropractic explains the idea that the causes of many diseases beings with the body's inability to adapt to the environment. It looks to address these diseases not by using drugs and chemicals but by locating and adjusting a musculoskeletal areas of the body that are functioning improperly.

Applied Kinesiology (AK)

Applied Kinesiology (AK) is the system that evaluates the structural, chemical, and emotional aspects of health using manual muscle testing combined with other standard methods of diagnosis.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a health science used to successfully decrease pain and improve function in the body by restoring harmony to yin and yang an balancing the Qi of the body.

Energy Balancing Ion Therapy (foothbath)

Balances the body's energy levels throughout the body which provides more vitality and optimizes nervous system function.

Low Level Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is painless, sterile, non-invasive, drug free modality that is used for a variety of conditions including acute or chronic pain, body contouring and acne.

Nutrition

Nutritional supplements serve as a great adjunct to an average person's diet to offset nutritional deficiencies. Customized programs and dietary recommendations are created based on your individual needs and goals.

Pediatric and Prenatal/Postnatal Chiropractic

Utilizing the fundamental clinical skills, research and knowledge pertaining to the care of children and pregnant mothers. Dr. D can help you and your children achieve your health and wellness goals.

Contact Dr. Diana at The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona today and get started on your journey to better health and wellness. TEXT or call 1 (602) 524-0222.

Healthy Holidays 101

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMT

The holidays are full of family, friends, great food, and great memories. But they aren’t always compatible with a healthy lifestyle. When the holiday season rolls around, it’s easy to get a little lax on the healthy eating and exercise that we typically maintain.

Coupled together, all those festive parties and the stress the holidays can bring, can mean a hit to our overall well-being from November to New Year’s. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Fortunately, with a few tricks and regular visits to Dr. Diana Mladenoff at The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, it’s possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle year-round.

It’s all about moderation

Moderation will be your saving grace during the holiday season. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying an indulgent, festive dinner — but you’ll want to make sure that your meals surrounding it are healthy and nutrient-dense. Have a light lunch like salad with olive oil dressing, and opt for a healthy breakfast the next morning like avocado on whole wheat toast. By eating healthy during the holiday season, you can afford to go all out for a few big events.

Opt for homemade instead of processed foods

Homemade everything can be difficult when you have a lot going on, but it can also ensure that you’re eating much healthier. Canned, processed, and premade foods are full of excess salt and sugar that you can avoid by making the dishes yourself. Reduce your sodium intake by making your own cream of mushroom soup, and reduce your sugar by making cranberry sauce from scratch. Both take only moments to stir in a pot before letting them simmer.

Making the food from scratch will also make you much more aware of what you’re eating and when, giving you more control and awareness in the long run.

Add more vegetables

It’s easy to go all-out with our favorite recipes, but sometimes eating better is as simple as keeping more healthy choices on hand. Increase the number of vegetable dishes on the dinner table, finding small twists to dress them up without making them unhealthy. Roasted asparagus can be beautiful on its own, and roasted carrots or sweet potatoes are rich in taste and a bright pop of color.

When in doubt, serve vegetables first — like a salad before dinner or a vegetable-based appetizer earlier in the afternoon. This will help everyone make sure they get the vegetables they need instead of filling up on buttery mashed potatoes.

Slow down during meals

While the decadent food might make us eager to eat, a key tip to staying healthy over the holidays is to slow down during mealtime. Multiple studies have shown that eating slowly can give our stomachs enough time to send the hormonal signal to our brain telling us that we’re full, which will stop us from accidentally overeating. This can help us maintain better portion control as a result.

Remember portion control

Speaking of portion control — portion control will be your best friend throughout the holiday season. Eat small snacks during the day, and have three medium meals instead of three extra-large ones. This will improve your digestion and reduce the amount you’re eating, both during meal times and overall. If you’re worried about portion control, you can use smaller plates or reduce the number of dishes you serve at each meal.

Take a walk after dinner

Walking after a meal can give you several distinct benefits. First, you can get exercise at a time when you might not otherwise be exercising as frequently. It can also provide some quiet alone time to de-stress and aid your digestion all at once. All of these factors combined are good for your physical and mental health, and can contribute to weight loss. To maximize these benefits, research suggests that walking immediately after a meal is better than waiting even an hour.

Don’t forgo exercise

There’s a million other things to do, and if you’re away from your home gym, working out can seem even more difficult. Despite that, it’s important to maintain regular exercise for both your mental and physical health. Exercise is good for your body and can also relieve the stress that’s so commonplace during the holiday season.

Even if you can only exercise in small bursts throughout the day, make time to do some jumping jacks on the patio or go ice skating with your family.

Try to stick to your typical sleep schedule

This can be particularly challenging with the increase in parties and family in town. But sticking to your sleep schedule will improve your quality of sleep both now and after the holidays. Studies have shown that, unsurprisingly, irregular sleep schedules can lead to poor sleep quality, fatigue, poor eating habits, and daytime sleepiness that can take time to reverse. Avoid this by going to bed and waking up as close to the same time as you usually do.

Take time for yourself

The holidays are full of family and friends, and while this can be a great thing, it can also be draining and stressful. Whether you’re staying with family over the holidays or just attending a large number of events, remember to take time every day for yourself. Go for a walk, meditate once a day, or offer to go to the store for a few minutes of quiet. Even extroverts need time to recharge.

Takeaway

Eating well and staying healthy can be difficult over the holiday season, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. By maintaining your physical and mental health with some of the easy tips in this wellness blog post and, you’ll be able to start the new year off strong. Start your journey to better health and wellness for you and your whole family with regular treatments from Dr. Diana. Contact our Arizona Wellness Clinic today! Schedule an appointment by TEXTING or calling 1 (602) 524-0222.

Source: Heathline.

How Does Chiropractic Care Boost the Immune System?

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 15:07:45 GMT

Regular chiropractic adjustments remove any misalignments in the spine, allowing the messages to flow properly and the immune system to kick in. One of the most important ways that chiropractic care can aid immune function, especially during times of travel, is by increasing the number of antibodies the body produces.

An Immune System Boost

You wouldn't want to head off to vacation with your family only to spend your entire time stuck in your room feeling sick or tending to a sick kid. A boost to your and your family's immune system via chiropractic care from Dr. Diana - which may help to prevent this. The mind and body need to be connected properly through the nervous system. Joint restrictions can cause an imbalance that leads to a breakdown of the nervous system and a slew of health problems if the subluxation persists. Chiropractic care restores that balance so you are less likely to feel ill. That said, you'll still want to watch what you're eating and drinking when you're away so food poisoning or dehydration doesn't become your problem instead.

Pain Prevention

Sitting for a long period of time on a plane, train, or in a car can easily lead to back problems and pain. Prevent pain by seeing a chiropractor liked Dr. D before you travel so that the body is better able to handle the long sit time. Flexible joints are less likely to become stiff and sore during your travel plans than those that are already weak or have a limited range of motion. Chiropractic will restore joint flexibility and improve said range of motion so the traveling does not interfere with the enjoyment you could have once you arrive.

Activity Advice

Dr. Diana won't only remove joint restrictions. She can also offer you advice on different activities you may be trying while you're away, such as hiking. You'll be able to learn about different stretches or exercises that may help you prepare. Recommendations on nutritional options in faraway places can also be discussed.

Consider seeing a chiropractor at The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona before you head to your next family vacation destination. Removing joint restrictions or subluxations and getting the mind and body connected properly can help ensure your time away goes as smoothly as possible for a carefree trip.

Contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff today and schedule an appointment for you and the whole family this travel season and beyond.
TEXT or call 1 (602) 524-0222.
Wellness awaits you and your whole family.

The Secret to a Healthy & Happy Pregnancy

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 00:13:09 GMT

This ancient method may help you manage some of the most common pregnancy discomforts and even help with labor pain. If you're looking for relief from morning sickness, back pain, or other pregnancy issues, you may wonder whether acupuncture before, during and after pregnancy helps.

The journey from pregnancy into motherhood is both miraculous and daunting. As the fetus develops and becomes a baby, remarkable demands are place upon your body as you become host to another life. As you physically carry that responsibility, your health and well being are challenged in many ways. Acupuncture is an all natural, holistic approach to help you meet the everyday challenge of digestion, constipation and colds. It can also be helpful with pregnancy related nausea, respiratory and urinary infections, pelvic, low back, upper back and neck pain, leg cramps and carpal tunnel syndrome.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of traditional medicine that's been practiced in Asian countries for thousands of years. It involves inserting very thin needles into specific points (known as meridians) in your body to help balance the flow of life force (known as chi or qi).

The method has been touted to address a host of health complaints, from nausea and vomiting to headaches. Overall, research suggest it may be helpful in managing pain and even help in infertility issues.

Acupuncture stimulates nerves, muscles, and connective tissue to result in potential benefits.

Is acupuncture safe during pregnancy?

Not only is acupuncture safe during pregnancy, it's also a best kept secret (until now) which helps with prenatal discomforts and challenges. When performed by a licensed practitioner like Dr. Diana Mladenoff who has experience treating expecting patients, acupuncture during pregnancy is considered safe and effective. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) approves the use of acupuncture during pregnancy to manage labor pain (sweet!).

A 2015 study that looked at 105 studies on acupuncture during pregnancy reported a very low rate (1.3 percent) of mainly mild to moderate negative side effects - most commonly pain where needles are inserted.

Another 2019 stud of more than 20,000 women in Korea found that acupuncture during pregnancy didn't increase the risk of preterm birth or stillbirth. And a 2015 analysis of 15 studies on the practice found that even inserting needles into traditionally forbidden points during pregnancy (such as the lower back) didn't increase the risk of complications including miscarriage, preterm birth, or stillbirth. Not only does acupuncture treatment decrease unwanted results, it also is used to treat other unwanted symptoms that you may deal with everyday. (See graphic below).

Benefits of acupuncture during pregnancy

Acupuncture treatments from Dr. Diana have been performing for many years to address a number of common pregnancy complaints and conditions. Treatments are likely helpful for managing labor pain . Many studies have suggested that acupuncture may safely and effectively ease labor pain. A 2020 review of 28 studies involving nearly 4,000 women found that acupuncture may increase satisfaction with pain reduction and reduce the need for medications (such as an epidural) during labor, as well as possibly even decrease the need for c-section birth.

Several small studies have found that acupuncture during pregnancy is a safe way to ease lower back and pelvic pain . Nausea and vomiting is also treated by acupuncture treatments.

Are you looking to increase your chances for having a natural childbirth?

In the weeks before childbirth, acupuncture can be used to prepare your body for labor. Studies have shown that women who receive acupuncture weekly in the last 4 weeks of pregnancy have more comfortable labors with fewer medical interventions (pitocin, epidural injections and cesarean sections.) Additionally, when needed, acupuncture can be used to turn the baby (with posterior or breach presentations) and induce labor.

Acupuncture is an excellent way to manage pain and discomfort during labor. After the baby is born, new mothers are often challenged. Classically, the Chinese have viewed the first month as Zuo Yuezi or "sitting the month." In this important time the mom is supported, nurtured and sheltered to help both the new mom and baby develop and bond.

Can acupuncture help new mothers?

Yes! Acupuncture can help you with lactation problems, postpartum depression and the many physical issues that visit the new mother's body. The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona supports the health of the mind, body and heart to come into balance in pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood and at any time of your life. Acupuncture can also help dad's relax as well as acupuncture is known to help reduce stress and support better quality sleep. Schedule an appointment for you and your loved ones today. Contact our Arizona wellness clinic by TEXTING or calling 1 (602) 524-0222. Wellness awaits you and your growing family.

Back to School = Back to Back Health

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Strong back muscles are essential for core stability and avoiding any unnecessary stresses to the body's supportive structures, such as the ligaments and tissues.

Your spine supports your whole body

Adult or child, your spine is responsible for protecting your nervous system, the master control centre of your entire body. If you have a spinal problem that isn't being properly managed, the function of vital organs and systems could be affected which may lead to further pain or health problems.

Your spine is, quite literally, the backbone of your ability to move, sleep and function properly. Why should you care about your spine health? Simply put, most every movement originates from your spine, so taking care of your cervical (upper) and lumbar (lower) spine should be of utmost importance for students going back to school, athletes, weekend warriors and everyone in between.

Without a healthy spine, everyday tasks and movements such as sitting up straight, bending over, picking up objects, walking, twisting and moving your neck can become extremely difficult or painful. When the spine is injured you can expect to have limited mobility; and the inability to move normally, without pain, can be a blow to your quality of life and focus, so it’s important to care about your spine health and to understand its role in your overall well-being. Dr. Diana Mladenoff can help you and your family get adjusted and be ready for the new school year.

Your spine has three major functions:

Protecting the spinal cord and associated nerve roots
Providing structural support and balance to maintain an upright posture
Enabling flexible motion

The nervous system uses the spine to transmit electrical impulses resulting in feelings of sensation. Sensory information like pressure, touch, cold, warmth, pain and sensations in the skin, muscles, joints and internal organs all originate in the spine. A damaged spinal cord can interrupt neural responses, disabling sensations in certain parts of the body.

Tips for a Healthy Spine at Any Age

There are a few fairly straightforward ways for you to protect your spine health every day:

Watch your technique when lifting. If you don’t have the proper form when picking up heavy objects, you may twist the wrong way and damage your spine. To lift correctly, stand as close to the object as you can and use your legs and knees as opposed to your back and upper body to lift the item. If the item is too heavy for you, get help and don’t attempt to lift yourself.

Get a good night’s rest. Your body repairs itself while you sleep, especially when little ones are growing at a rapid pace. It’s important to get enough sleep to allow for complete healing. Also, try sleeping on your side instead of on your stomach – as sleeping on your stomach puts extra pressure on your spine. A supportive mattress and pillows promoting proper alignment of the spine and neck are also good investments.

Stay active and stretch regularly. Maintaining an active lifestyle can help lower your risk for experiencing low back pain. Optimal exercise routines involve a combination of aerobic activity, core strengthening and stretching. Stretching to stay flexible also helps to promote good joint function and range of motion, which helps to promote spine health and reduce your overall risk for injury.

Treat yourself to a massage. If you’re nursing a back injury, a good massage can help encourage blood flow to the affected area. This may bring healing nutrients to help speed up the recovery process. Ask Dr. Diana about the use of manual therapy in recovery techniques.

Maintain a healthy weight. Carrying around excess weight (even at a young age) can strain the lower back due to added stress on the muscles, ligaments and tendons in the spinal area. Diet and exercise are the main ways to maintain a healthy weight.

Stay hydrated. Staying hydrated helps to maintain soft tissue elasticity and fluidity in the joints, which is important for spinal discs to keep their height. When spinal discs shrink due to dehydration, you can become more likely to suffer from a painful disc condition such as a herniation or bulging discs. Water contributes to overall structural health. Make sure to encourage your little ones to drink water before and after being active, in the morning and after every meal.

If you feel your spine health is suffering or you want to give your children the best opportunity to grow properly, don’t delay in seeking holistic medical help from Dr. Diana at The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona.

The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona is a wellness clinic in the Phoenix area. Specializing in pediatric chiropractic, pre- and postnatal treatments, acupuncture, low level laser therapy, and nutritional guidance. Contact us today for drug free healthcare ahead of the curve. Schedule an appointment by TEXTING or calling 1 (602) 524-0222.

Infant Chiropractic: Why It is Vital to Your Baby's Development

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Nowadays people are more aware than ever that chiropractic care is quite essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular visits to your chiropractor can lead to significant improvements in wellness for adults. Most often people think that chiropractic care is just for adults. But that’s not so. Chiropractic care is also beneficial for infants and kids. You don’t have to be a grown-up to gain a wide range of advantages offered by chiropractic care. Infants, toddlers and young children can benefit from regular visits to pediatric chiropractors.

Most parents would need concrete reasons to convince them of the need for any preventive or proactive measures that can benefit their kid’s health. As you consider taking your child to a chiropractic clinic near your location, consider the following benefits of chiropractic care for infants.

Realigning the spine – before babies are born, they adopt a fetal position for their entire process. The space in the womb gets cramped up as the due date for birth approaches. After birth, some kids may suffer slight vertebra misalignment that may hinder proper development and growth. Chiropractic care can correct the problem, even right after birth.
Treating colic symptoms – the early months of child-rearing can be quite overwhelming when you have a colic child. A chiropractor that specializes in infant care can help treat colic symptoms, especially because the most common cause is a problematic gastrointestinal system resulting from a misaligned spine.
Preventing and treating ear infections – fluid buildup and excessive pressure in the ears is common among children, which then leads to ear infections. Through chiropractic adjustments, Dr. D can help restore the functioning of the eustachian tubes to drain them from excessive fluids and pressure.
Boosting the immune system – any problems in the nervous system affect the body’s immune system. When different body parts begin to malfunction, your child will have various health complications while in a lot of pain. Chiropractic care from Dr. Diana can help boost your child’s immune system, sometimes directly and other times indirectly.
Increasing mobility – although it is a natural process of growth and development, some children have a difficult time with mobility than others. Your child may take longer to walk than is the standard period for other infants and toddlers. Chiropractic treatments can promote a range of motion, ensuring your child meets all the milestones in the correct timeline.
Promoting proper development – children’s bodies change a lot in a short amount of time. The young bones grow, the spine doubles in size, and the neck and lower back curvatures start forming. All these developmental stages are important milestones that are necessary indicators of growth that may be affected if the spine is misaligned.
Decreases the risk of injury – once your kid starts moving around, their risk of injury increases immensely. To treat and prevent injuries, you will need Dr. Diana’s help to overcome any spine or nerve strain.
Improving eating tendencies – some infants struggle with breastfeeding and eating properly partly due to gastroesophageal reflux. Chiropractic care from Dr. D for children can aid in various digestive aspects, including relieving gas, alleviating abdominal pain, and promoting optimal intestinal functionality. All these will promote better eating for the baby.

Contact The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona today. Schedule an appointment by TEXTING or calling 1 (602) 524-0222. Wellness for you and the whole family awaits.

Chiropractic Care: What You Might Think

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Chiropractic is a healthcare practice that cares for your neuromusculoskeleton system - the bones, nerves, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It helps manage back and neck pain through the use of spinal adjustments to maintain good alignment.

Chiropractic is focused on the body's ability to self-heal and includes other treatments like nutrition and exercise. By Improving the neuromusculoskeletal system's ability to perform, chiropractors believe the benefits of spinal adjustments and realigning joints improves the functioning of other systems throughout the body.

Neuroregulation

The coordinating influence of the nervous system on cells, tissues, and organs. Neuroregulatory mechanisms adjust the activities of the body in accordance with the needs of the organism and with the changes that occur in the environment.

Neuroregulation is one of the principal mechanisms for the self-regulation of bodily functions. These are vital for growth, development, and reactions to external influences are well coordinated. This coordination is maintained by a number of regulatory systems. They are responsible for the initiation, cessation, intensification, and weakening of activities in the cells and organs.

Neuroregulation also affects the tissues that respond to the metabolic needs of the body, for example, fatty tissue. A cell must be sensitive to a mediator substance in order that the mediator to have an effect - the cell must have the corresponding receptors.

Life Expression

This is a phrase that can be defined in many ways. This phrase is used when something completely fantastic, upsetting, shocking, and mind-altering occurs that questions the meaning of our existence and the existence of everything else. This can also be used when you are speechless and there are no words to describe your thoughts. For example, the color splashed Arizona sunsets can leave you speechless due to their beauty and make you grateful for existing and being healthy enough to experience life as it is. Chiropractic care can clean pathways to your body and brain to help experience more positive experiences in life. Ultimately, giving you a more optimistic and happy outlook on life. Some say, that it helps rewire your brain to 'think more positive.'

Immunity

The immune system is extremely important to fight off disease and keep you healthy. Chiropractic care ensures that your immune system is functioning properly. The immune system's way of protecting the body against an infectious disease. The three types of immunity are innate, adaptive and passive. Innate immunity includes barriers, such as skin and mucous membranes, that keep harmful substances from entering the body. It is the first response of the body's immune system to a foreign substance. Adaptive immunity occurs in response to being infected with against a microorganism. The body makes an immune response, which can prevent future infection ie cold and flus. Adaptive immunity can last a person's entire life. Passive immunity occurs when a person receives antibodies to a disease rather than making them through his or her own immune system. Passive immunity provides immediate protection, but only lasts a few weeks or months.

Reconnects

We know our bodies have this amazing intelligence that helps us adapt to everything we encounter on a regular basis. But, what happens when we can't adapt? What happens when physical, mental, or chemical stressors add up to the point they interfere with our everyday life? Simply put, when the body can't adapt, it puts off warning signs like a fire alarm, letting you know there is an interference with that innate ability to heal. For example, a baby has colic or reflux, a mom can't breastfeed or has sciatic pain while pregnant, dad can't get rid of that cold, or grandma and grandpa have back pain. Chiropractic care from Dr. Diana Mladenoff targets that true underlying cause to interference to your nervous system, and removes it, so you can unleash your innate intelligence to thrive again! That is the concept behind reconnection and chiropractic care.

Function

Regular spinal adjustments can benefit brain health in so many ways. Visiting Dr. D on a weekly or bi-weekly basis can help reduce pain, improve muscle function, and support a healthy brain. Chiropractic can also support the brain's reaction time, how quickly your brain processes information, motor control and much more.

Balance

The first and most significant way that a chiropractor will improve the balance and coordination of individuals (hello athletes!) is by restoring the proper alignment of the musculoskeletal system. Through the regular activities of life, the joints, muscles, and bones of the body may come out of alignment.

Performance

Heavy workouts can put muscles under immense stress, and accidents occasionally happen. Chiropractic treatments improve the body's natural regenerative abilities and speed up recovery times, greatly enhancing performance and reducing workout stress.

Contact us today for drug-free health care ahead of the curve. To schedule an appointment, TEXT or call our Arizona office at 1 (602) 524-0222 today.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Infants

Sat, 04 Jun 2022 17:57:24 GMT

In the first year of life your baby's spine grows at the fastest rate it ever will. Gentle and safe chiropractic care can help align your chid's spine and boost their overall posture and health.

Your newborn can experience various physical complications during childbirth. When their spine gets misaligned, they can develop asthma, digestive problems, and difficulty with breastfeeding. Fortunately, these issues can be assessed by taking your little one to a skilled chiropractor for infants.

It's safe for newborns within the first few weeks after birth to receive chiropractic care. Dr. Diana Mladenoff uses soft pressure to make gentle spine alignments to help restore normal nervous system function and promote the body to heal itself. While these adjustments aren't painful, your baby may cry because they are held in a position they're not used to, but Dr. Diana Mladenoff has a few methods that make these treatment a breeze.

Pediatric chiropractic care can improve your child's mobility, enhance their bodily functions, and boost their immunity. Here are the benefits of taking your newborn to the chiropractor:

1. It supports their physical development

Your little one's body experiences lots of changes in a short period of time. For instance, their lower back and neck curvatures start to form as they learn to sit or lift their head. Without proper alignment, their spinal curvatures may not develop properly, which can affect their physical development.

You can prevent your baby from developing any spine problems by seeing Dr. Diana. Gentle and safe chiropractic care can help align your child's spine and boost their overall posture and health.

2. It boosts their recovery after birth

The birth process can affect the nerves in your child's body. Chiropractic adjustments for babies involve gentle movements in strategic areas that can help correct nerve problems and ease tension and strain. As their spine gets aligned properly, you are assured that there is no nerve dysfunction that can lead to reflux, breathing and sleeping difficulties, and colic symptoms.

3. It eases colic symptoms

Colic may be associated with an under-active or immature gastrointestinal system that leads to gas buildup and indigestion. Leaving this unaddressed may cause the gas to get trapped in your baby's gut, causing pain and bloating.

If your child is diagnosed with colic by your pediatrician, schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana as soon as possible. Gentle adjustments from chiropractic care can stimulate their nerve flow to their small intestines and increase peristalsis that helps push gas and liquid through.

4. It improves their immune system

Your child's spine affects their immune system. Since the nervous system runs through the spine, any misalignment can cause the nerve pathways to get irritated and impact all systems in the body, including the immune system. By making gentle spinal adjustments, your little one's body boosts releasing disease-fighting cells and improves their immune system.

5. It makes them less fussy and irritable

Your little one may become fussy and irritable, and identifying the exact reason that might be causing them to feel that way can be challenging. Their fussiness could be the result of mechanical restrictions in their spine, and these can lead to sleeping difficulties, headaches, and more. Chiropractic sessions with Dr. D can help with spine problems and make them (and you) feel better.

In conclusion, correcting your child's spine misalignments through chiropractic care offers many health benefits that can improve their well-being. When searching for a chiropractic for your little one, look for one that specializes in giving care for infants like Dr. Diana Mladenoff.

Visit our wellness clinic if you're looking for a skilled chiropractor for babies. Dr. Diana Mladenoff offers neurologically-based chiropractic care in Phoenix, Arizona. Schedule an appointment now. TEXT or call 1 (602) 524-0222.

Source.

Take Aim at Chronic Pain

Sun, 15 May 2022 00:00:00 GMT

A New Treatment Tool to Effectively Treat Pain Without Harmful Side Effects

Prevalence of Chronic Pain in the US

In the United States it is estimated that 56 million individuals suffer from some form of chronic pain annually. The prevalence of chronic pain accounts for the greatest number of work absenteeism then any other group of diseases, and the prevalence of chronic pain reports is estimated to increase. Often, people with acute or chronic (low back pain, a sore knee, or persistent neck stiffness) will quickly turn to over-the-counter pain medicine for relief; however, the FDA recently issued strict warnings regarding the misuse and overdosing of over-the-counter pain medications due to severe complications such as stomach ulcers, hearing disorders and liver failure. Further, a growing concern amongst physicians exists regarding the side-effects associated with prescription pain medication.

Now There is a New Treatment that Has Been Proven Safe and Effective by the FDA

Low level laser treatment from Dr. Diana Mladenoff offers a new clinically proven treatment option that is safe, effective and cleared by the FDA for the treatment of:

Chronic Neck Pain
Post-Operative Pain
Shoulder Pain
Heel Pain Related to Plantar Fasciitis

How it Works

Low level laser therapy (LLLT) or cold laser, is a painless, non-invasive, drug-free modality that is used for a variety of conditions such as, acute and chronic pain, body-contouring, acne and appearance of cellulite.

Housed within the mitochondria, the cell energy manufacturer, are receptors capable of absorbing distinct parameters of light. Think of these receptors like any drug receptors. When we consume a prescription medication, the compound is absorbed by the body and it locates a particular receptor; based upon its molecular design, will bind to that receptor. Once the drug binds, a secondary reaction inside the cell takes place. A similar mechanism is observed when exposing the body to a particular color of light. During a laser treatment, the light will penetrate the skin and is absorbed by this receptor within the mitochondria. Receptor stimulation with light promotes energy production, biochemical reactions, protein and growth factor synthesis, cell growth and proliferation and enhanced blood and oxygen flow. Nothing heals faster.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and see if low level laser treatment could help you ease pain, heal quicker, and aid in recovery from injury and more. TEXT or call our Arizona office at 1 (602) 524-0222.

How Acupuncture Can Relieve Pain and Improve Sleep, Digestion and Emotional Well-being

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Acupuncture is a 3,000-year-old healing technique of Traditional Chinese Medicine. In 1997, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) documented and publicized acupuncture’s safety and efficacy for treating a wide range of conditions.

How does acupuncture work?

Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on an ancient philosophy that describes the universe, and the body, in terms of two opposing forces: yin and yang. When these forces are in balance, the body is healthy. Energy, called "qi" (pronounced "chee") flows along specific pathways, called meridians, throughout the body.

This constant flow of energy keeps the yin and yang forces balanced. However, if the flow of energy gets blocked, like water getting stuck behind a dam, the disruption can lead to pain, lack of function, or illness. (Yikes!) Acupuncture therapy from Dr. Diana Mladenoff can release blocked qi in the body and stimulate function, evoking the body’s natural healing response through various physiological systems. (Yay!) Modern research has demonstrated acupuncture’s effects on the nervous system (brain health), endocrine and immune systems, cardiovascular system, and digestive system. By stimulating the body’s various systems, acupuncture can help to resolve pain, and improve sleep, digestive function, and sense of well-being.

What happens during an acupuncture treatment?

First, Dr. D will ask about your health history. Then, she will perform some routine examinations depending on your individual health needs. Using these unique assessment tools, Dr. Mladenoff will be able to recommend a proper treatment plan to address your particular condition. To begin the acupuncture treatment, you lay comfortably on a treatment table while precise acupoints are stimulated on various areas of your body. Most people feel no or minimal discomfort as the fine needles are gently placed. The needles are usually retained between five and 30 minutes (times may vary). During and after treatments, people report that they feel very relaxed.

What conditions are commonly treated by acupuncture?

Hundreds of clinical studies on the benefits of acupuncture show that it successfully treats conditions ranging from musculoskeletal problems (back pain, neck pain, and others) to nausea, migraine headache, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and infertility.

Case-controlled clinical studies have shown that acupuncture has been an effective treatment for the following diseases, symptoms or conditions:

Allergic rhinitis (including hay fever)
Biliary colic
Depression (including depressive neurosis and depression following stroke)
Dysentery, acute bacillary
Dysmenorrhoea, primary
Epigastralgia, acute (in peptic ulcer, acute and chronic gastritis, and gastrospasm)
Facial pain (including craniomandibular disorders)
Headache
Hypertension, essential
Hypotension, primary
Induction of labor
Knee pain
Leukopenia
Low back pain
Malposition of fetus, correction
Morning sickness
Nausea and vomiting
Neck pain
Pain in dentistry (including dental pain and temporomandibular dysfunction)
Periarthritis of shoulder
Postoperative pain
Renal colic
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sciatica
Sprain
Stroke
Tennis elbow

The following diseases, symptoms or conditions have limited but probable evidence to support the therapeutic use of acupuncture:

Abdominal pain (in acute gastroenteritis or due to gastrointestinal spasm)
Acne vulgaris
Alcohol dependence and detoxification
Bell’s palsy
Bronchial asthma
Cancer pain
Cardiac neurosis
Cholecystitis, chronic, with acute exacerbation
Cholelithiasis
Competition stress syndrome
Craniocerebral injury, closed
Diabetes mellitus, non-insulin-dependent
Earache
Epidemic haemorrhagic fever
Epistaxis, simple (without generalized or local disease)
Eye pain due to subconjunctival injection
Female infertility
Facial spasm
Female urethral syndrome
Fibromyalgia and fasciitis
Gastrokinetic disturbance
Gouty arthritis
Hepatitis B virus carrier status
Herpes zoster (human (alpha) herpesvirus 3)
Hyperlipaemia
Hypo-ovarianism
InsomniaLabour pain
Lactation, deficiency
Male sexual dysfunction, non-organic
Ménière disease
Neuralgia, post-herpetic
Neurodermatitis
Obesity
Opium, cocaine and heroin dependence
Osteoarthritis
Pain due to endoscopic examination
Pain in thromboangiitis obliterans
Polycystic ovary syndrome (Stein-Leventhal syndrome)
Post-extubation in children
Postoperative convalescence
Premenstrual syndrome
Prostatitis, chronic
Pruritus
Radicular and pseudoradicular pain syndrome
Raynaud syndrome, primary
Recurrent lower urinary-tract infection
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy
Retention of urine, traumatic
Schizophrenia
Sialism, drug-induced (excessive salivation)
Sjögren syndrome
Sore throat (including tonsillitis)
Spine pain, acute
Stiff neck
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction
Tietze syndrome
Tobacco dependence
Tourette syndrome
Ulcerative colitis, chronic
Urolithiasis
Vascular dementia
Whooping cough (pertussis)

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana text or call our Arizona office located in the East Camelback area of Arcadia/Scottsdale at 1 (602) 524-0222. Wellness awaits you.

Source.

FAQs About Chiropractic Care for Infants

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 04:02:26 GMT

At The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona, Dr. Diana Mladenoff treats babies as little as few weeks old to toddlers for issues related to sleep, tummy, or colic. It’s important to mention that the care involved is specialized, gentle, and unlike the adjustments performed on adults and the techniques used by pediatric chiropractors are quite different for infants and young children. Here are some of the questions parents have regarding chiropractic care for infants.

Is chiropractic care safe for my baby? The short answer is, yes! Typical chiropractic care for adults may involve a little use of force (not as scary as it sounds, neither is it unsafe or painful), but with treatments from Dr. Diana, adjustments for infants are more gentle and less forceful. Dr. Diana Mladenoff is specially trained in pediatric chiropractic care and has a different and far gentler approach.

Often time, the manipulations may only involve a gentle massage that goes unnoticed by the baby. The adjustment and manipulation are gentle and any pressure that may be applied is done so with a gentle and soft hand. All in all, with the right and experienced practitioner like Dr. D, the procedure is safe and beneficial for the infant and their nervous system.

Will my baby cry during a chiropractic adjustment? This is another frequently asked question and rightly so. Seeing your baby cry is not easy and it is a major concern for parents. The answer is, it depends, but mostly likely no. Dr. D has a special kids Chiro table that she uses to treatment on which makes it more comfortable for them. There are also various factors involved, like the personality of the baby, the nature of the procedure and the skill of the practitioner. Some babies are friendly and okay with strangers touching them, while others are more sensitive to being touched by an unknown person.

With that said, the adjustment is not painful and 9/10 babies recommend Dr. D as their primary chiropractor.

Why does my infant need chiropractic care? When it comes to infant care and treatment, Dr. Diana has been known to successfully treat issues like trouble in latching or breastfeeding, treating an underdeveloped digestive system, acid reflux, misaligned spine, and ear pain/infection.

Would regular infant chiropractic really help them sleep better at night? We can all agree that babies are nothing but small humans and if adults benefit from chiropractic care then so can babies and infants. If your baby has trouble sleeping through the night or is extremely fussy then there is a chance that your pediatrician might recommend chiropractic care.

Benefits of Chiropractic for Infants

While there are numerous benefits of chiropractic care for infants and children, these are the 7 most common benefits of infant care you should know about.

Adjusting misaligned vertebra

Birth is a miracle of nature and while it is amazing in itself, it is a complex and hard process. Before birth, the baby is used to a small space in the womb and the space gets increasingly cramped as the pregnancy progresses, especially during the last month before birth. Now, as if being in a small space wasn’t bad enough, the birthing can get very messy.

Some infants are born with a slight misalignment in their vertebra, and chiropractic care comes in handy for a quick fix for proper growth. Many infants get adjusted right after birth, while others get adjusted a few weeks later. If the infant needs help, the chiropractor gently adjusts the misaligned spine/joint of the baby back into place while easing tension.

It’s important to mention here that any adjustment performed is extremely gentle and often times are as small as a touch of a finger, but knowing where and what to adjust is the key here.

Post-birth recovery

As I said, the process of birth is hard, both on the mother and the baby. During the birth, the baby is often forced out of the mother and this push and pull can hurt the baby’s spine. This remains true for both natural as well as births via c-section.

According to some studies, as much as 70lbs of pressure is being put on the baby’s head and neck during birth. This push & pull is bound to injure the nerves and joints of the infant body and while most of the babies heal on their own, some require a little chiropractic help for healing and speedy recovery.

Not just post birth, Chiropractic care is also helpful for other related issues which may arise during the first few months of infant development. Some infant’s are extremely fussy, some have trouble sleeping comfortably through the night and some develop ear pain and infections early on. Chiropractors attribute these problems with misalignment in the spine and proper adjustment can help the newborn sleep better through the night as well as overall better growth.

Another common issue in newborns is gastroesophageal reflux or GERD which results in infants spiting up a lot and general discomfort during their sleep. Usually, pediatricians recommend acid blockers to reduce the symptoms, but this does nothing to relieve the underlying issue.

Chiropractic care suggests a simple adjustment in the vertebra, which might be putting pressure on the stomach as a solution. Once the pressure is relieved, the nervous system along with the digestive system is able to perform their function properly.

Ease colic symptoms

Like mentioned before , chiropractic care is extremely efficient in treating symptoms of colic, and gastroesophageal reflux in infants. There are many reasons for an infant to develop colic symptoms, but one of the main reasons is an immature or underactive gastro-intestinal system. This is entirely normal, common and nothing to worry about, but it does cause the baby a lot of unease leading to a fussy and crying baby.

The issue usually arises from a misaligned spine leading to problems in intestinal function. An undeveloped digestive system is unable to cope with gas buildup and you might notice your baby trying to pull up its legs or move around to relieve gas. If they are unsuccessful, it leads to pain in the abdomen and discomfort.

Most pediatricians describe it as an issue that goes away with time, however, chiropractic care has been shown to reduce the symptoms for 9 out of 10 babies. With proper adjustment, the chiropractor is able to relieve the pressure and allow the body to perform its functions properly.

The solution here is a gentle manipulation of the muscles to help stimulate the small intestine to mimic the natural movement of the muscles in the body to aid the movement of fluid and gas. A simple adjustment goes a long way and helps the baby digest and process food without any problem.

Assist in treating and preventing ear infection

Another issue most common among infants is ear infection due to fluid buildup in the eustachian tubes. When the tube fails to drain, it leads to excessive pressure in the ear causing infection and pain to the infant. Chiropractic care is helpful here because research suggests that ear infection in infants can be a result of a minor injury of nerves during birth or due to later allergies.

Whatever the reason, one thing is certain that with chiropractic care, infants find relief from ear pain and infection and a simple manipulation is able to restore the function of the tube. Chiropractic care helps drain the eustachian tube by dilating the muscles around it, thus relieving pressure and unblocking it. This treatment goes hand in hand with medical treatment, but gentle manipulation helps the tube stay unblocked preventing further pain and infection.

Boost Immune System

The body is like a machine and if one part is malfunctioning, it is bound to cause issues in some other areas. Similarly, it goes without saying that an issue in nerves will cause the other body parts to malfunction. Studies suggest that when the spinal cord and nervous system are working properly, the body is able to fight off pathogens in a better and efficient manner.

Chiropractic care leads to improved body function in both adults and infants, leading to a direct and indirect boost in the immune system. The nerves system which is spread across the entire body is the main relay system and any issue in the spine, nerves, and muscles can cause the body to malfunction i.e. ear infection, gastro-intestinal function as mentioned before. Thus, if a baby is adjusted early on, it will be better protected against infections and allergens around it.

Decreases the risk of injury in toddlers

It’s an exhilarating and great experience to see your child crawl, and learn to walk with support followed by walking on their own. The baby is growing right in front of your eyes!

A great way to prevent injuries is regular chiropractic care. An outside injury is easier to see and treat but if there is a strain in a nerve or spine, it is harder to see and know, but not for a chiropractor. A chiropractor is trained to notice even minute changes in the spine or nerve, all with a touch of a hand, leading to early treatment and prevention. If you notice any difference in the way your child is walking or moving, a session with a chiropractor can be useful.

Aid in proper physical development

A baby has softer bones and they have a lot of growing up to do. During the first year of development, the spine doubles in length. The neck and back strengths. These important milestones happen over a short but significant period of time. The neck curvature is formed when the baby starts supporting the head on its own, while the lower back curvature forms when the baby is learning to sit up straight without external support.

However, a problem can arise if the spine is misaligned. This can easily decrease the infant’s physical development. In case there is any misalignment, the chiropractor gently manipulates the spine back into position, thus allowing the body to grow at a proper rate and improve the child’s overall posture during this important period of growth and development.

Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona is a wellness clinic located in the Phoenix area of Arizona. Dr. Diana specializes in chiropractic and pediatric chiropractic care, neurofeedback training, applied kinesiology, ion balancing therapy, cold laser, detox, and nutritional guidance. Contact us today for drug-free healthcare ahead of the curve. ��CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222 to schedule an appointment today.

Why You Might Want to Try Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMT

With all the testing, poking and prodding, therapies and preparation, it seems like there are so many things “to do” or try in pregnancy. What about acupuncture? Patients have experienced the most amazing results just from those wee needles I use! Here are the most common questions I am asked in my practice as a doctor of chiropractic specializing in pediatrics, pre- and postnatal care.

“I’ve heard acupuncture helps in pregnancy – is this true? Is it safe?”

My answer is always YES! Acupuncture is completely safe during pregnancy, and is proven to be extremely beneficial and effective. In the first trimester it helps to maintain a pregnancy, nourish the body and alleviates early symptoms such as fatigue, nausea and heartburn . Later, the aches, pains, constipation and swelling that go along with pregnancy can be greatly alleviated by acupuncture treatment as well.

One of the most important times to have acupuncture during pregnancy is the third trimester, to help prepare the body for labour. Routinely, I recommend a set of pre-birth acupuncture points, and add in specific points based on individual needs.

How does it work?

Pre-birth acupuncture prepares a woman’s body for labour by tonifying and nourishing the body. The acupuncture points help to relax and soften uterine ligaments and bring blood flow to the pelvis. This encourages the baby to descend into the birth canal in the proper position , while preparing the cervix to soften and dilate and the uterine muscles to effectively contract when needed.

What are the benefits?

Increased likelihood of spontaneous labour around due date, meaning reduced likelihood of induction.
Reduced risk of medical intervention (C-section, forceps, epidural, etc.).
Faster, easier birth (on average, 1.5 hours shorter).
When acupuncture has been done routinely, there is an increased effectiveness of natural “induction” acupuncture.

When should a woman begin pre-birth acupuncture?

She should start weekly 30 minute treatments, beginning at 36 weeks, and continuing until her due date.

If I am overdue, will acupuncture help induce me?

Yes, additional acupuncture points can be added if you are past your due date to: help your baby engage into the birth canal, gently promote cervical softening and dilation , and strengthen birth sensations (contractions) . These treatments can be done more frequently (every 1-3 days) until labour begins.

Acupuncture also helps to build energy and calm anxieties and frustrations , which often arise when a woman is past her due date.

Does acupuncture help with turning breech babies?

Yes. Often I will combine acupuncture with low level laser therapy (to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation and encourage cellular growth) to encourage babies to move to the proper position.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Typically no. Most people find acupuncture relaxing, and often fall asleep during the treatment. It is normal to feel some heaviness or warmth around points, but generally acupuncture is quite painless.

Does acupuncture cause pre-term labour?

No. Specific points are avoided until your due date, as they are known to promote labour. The points used for pre-birth acupuncture will not bring on early labour.

Why should I see a Doctor of Chiropractic specializing in Pre-, Postnatal and Pediatric care for this treatment?

Aside from acupuncture, I help women prepare for the journey of motherhood using other therapies such as chiropractic, low level laser therapy, supplements, ion balancing detox foot baths and hands on techniques . I always teach women how to apply acupressure at home and how to use these points as comfort measures during labour. Diet and lifestyle will also be discussed to ensure you (and your brain) are healthy throughout the remainder of your pregnancy and the post-partum period.

The other major benefit of seeing a Doctor of Chiropractic specializing in pregnancy/pediatrics is all of my treatment plans are tailored to your specific needs. We will discuss your questions about labour and birth, post-partum, breastfeeding, etc. and review your family history to make sure that you and your baby have the best possible start!

Dr. Diana Mladenoff is the Doctor of Chiropractic at The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona a wellness center in the Phoenix area. Dr. Diana works with all members of the family, but holds pregnancy, women’s health and pediatrics close to her heart. Schedule an appointment today by texting or calling 1 (602) 524-0222. Wellness awaits you.

The Advantages of Prenatal Chiropractic Care

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 17:23:50 GMT

CHIROPRACTIC CARE MAKES FOR EASIER PREGNANCY

During pregnancy, the body undergoes several physiological and endocrinological changes that result in spinal and pelvic misalignment. Hormones loosen the ligaments in the mother’s body that combined with a lowered center of gravity and the baby’s added weight can create great stress for the mother. Aside from being painful and generally uncomfortable for the mother, this can also result in several complications during delivery.

PRENATAL CHIROPRACTIC CARE IS SAFE

While some chiropractors have additional certification in prenatal chiropractic care, all chiropractors are trained to treat pregnant women safely and effectively.

Any chiropractor trained in pregnancy chiropractic care will use a special chiropractic table that accounts for the physical changes that occur during pregnancy in the female body. They will also know to keep a patient from lying flat on her back during pregnancy and will have her lie on her side as an alternative.

If you have any questions or concerns about chiropractic care during your pregnancy, talk to Dr. Diana. Dr. Mladenoff will both be able to answer your questions and help you determine the correct solution.

BENEFITS OF CHIROPRACTIC CARE DURING PREGNANCY

While seeing a chiropractor can relieve pain, seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy can have these added benefits:

Help with nausea
Reduce time of labor and delivery
Reduce lower back pain, neck pain, and joint pain
Help prevent a C-section
Lower risk of pre-term delivery
Reduced need for pain medication during delivery and pregnancy
Faster recovery time

However, the two biggest benefits of prenatal chiropractic care concern making delivery as easy for the mother as possible. They are restoring pelvic balance and maximizing room for the baby in the womb.

RESTORING PELVIC BALANCE

When pregnant, everything changes from the way a woman walks to the way she sleeps. Chiropractic care will help with postural discomfort and adjust the body for optimal health and wellness by realigning the spine and restoring pelvic balance. Through these methods, chiropractic care can naturally and safely relieve many of the aches and pains associated with pregnancy.

MAXIMIZING SPACE FOR THE BABY

Any chiropractor with a Webster Certification - Like Dr. Diana - has advance training in restoring pelvic balance during pregnancy and using pelvic balance to ensure the baby is in the optimal position for delivery.

When the pelvis is misaligned, it can limit the space the baby has in the womb. This makes it harder for the baby to move into the desired position for delivery, affecting the mother’s ability to have a natural birth. However with chiropractic care, the pelvic balance can be restored and this can often be easily solved.

FIND OUT HOW CHIROPRACTIC CARE FROM Dr. DIANA IN PHOENIX, ARIZONA CAN IMPROVE OVERALL HEALTH

Seeing Dr. Diana Mladenoff regularly has several advantages that are only added to during pregnancy. Pregnant women undergo incredible physical and endocrinological change that puts their bodies under great duress. These stresses can easily be alleviated by Dr. D and make pregnancy a more enjoyable experience for the mother. Contact us today to get started on your prenatal chiropractic care with Dr. Diana. Schedule an appointment today. TEXT or call 1 (602) 524-0222.

How Emotions and Organs Are Connected

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 21:28:35 GMT

Diagnosis in traditional Chinese medicine is highly individualized. Once an impaired organ system and/or emotional imbalance is identified, the unique symptoms of the patient determine the Dr.Diana's treatment approach.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), emotions and physical health are intimately connected. This integrated mind-body approach to health and healing operates in a dynamic loop where emotions impact the health of the body and brain and vice versa.

For example, according to TCM theory, excessive irritability and anger can affect the liver and result in multiple ailments, including menstrual pain, headache, redness of the face and eyes, dizziness, and dry mouth. Alternatively, imbalance in the liver can result in stormy moods.

Traditional Chinese medicine has been practiced for over 2,000 years and its use in the United States as part of complementary healthcare has grown dramatically over the last few decades. In fact, from 2002 to 2007, there was a 50% increase in acupuncture use, from around 8 million to over 14 million people accessing this treatment.

TCM is based on the principle that mental and physical well-being are intricately entwined. In turn, practitioners like Dr. Diana believe that optimal health is governed by balancing a person's qi (vital life force) with the complementary forces of yin (passive) and yang (active) and the five elements of fire, water, earth, wood, and metal.

In TCM, it is believed that emotional imbalances can act as both symptoms and causes for physical issues. Additionally, mental health conditions are linked to specific physical ailments of key organs.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, emotions are narrowed down to five basic feelings that are each associated with a corresponding element and organ in the body:

Anger with the liver
Fear with the kidney
Joy with the heart
Sadness and grief with the lung
Worry with the spleen

For example, under the TCM theory, breast distension, menstrual pain, and irritability during menses are treated with certain herbs and acupuncture points that target the liver. Headaches, dizziness, excessive anger, and redness of the face point to an alternative type of liver pattern and are treated in a different way.

When ailments occur, TCM practitioners like Dr. Diana seek to untangle the mind and body imbalances that contribute to a person's physical and mental health conditions using a variety of treatments, including acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, supplements (herbal), low level laser treatment or red laser therapy, applied kinesiology (bodywork), ion balancing detox (foot bath), and nutrition.

Regular treatments from Dr. Diana and TCM can be a productive component of an integrative health approach, which many people find to be beneficial to their mental and physical well-being. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment to get started on your journey to better health and wellness.

Source.

10 Unexpected Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 00:17:32 GMT

Have you ever visited a chiropractor because you had pain in your neck or back? Many of us have. But that’s not all chiropractic care is good for. In fact, you can reap a whole host of health benefits when you (and your whole family) pay regular visits to Dr. Diana.

Chiropractic care improves your quality of life

Chiropractic care isn’t just about your spine. It involves the nervous system and every part of your body. The overall goal of chiropractic care is to improve musculoskeletal health, which impacts your daily function and quality of life.

When a chiropractor improves your body’s biomechanical dysfunctions, you start to experience a host of unexpected benefits, and we’ve outlined ten of them for you.

1. Improved immune function

A healthy immune system keeps viral and bacterial infections at bay, which is now more important than ever. Your nervous system regulates cell functions, but even the slightest misalignment can interrupt the process, and this has a ripple effect on your immune system’s ability to fight off viruses.

Chiropractic care restores function to your nerves to ensure your cells are operating the way they ought to.

2. More (natural) energy

When your body is sore, joints and muscles tense up, resulting in inflammation. This tension and pain gets in the way of your well-being. But with chiropractic care, joint and muscles discomfort is reduced, and you experience a vitality boost.

3. Better asthma control

Do you find yourself reaching for your rescue inhaler more often than you’d like? People with asthma have reported a reduction in their symptoms after visiting the chiropractor. Spinal misalignments are known to disrupt the nerve impulses that are important for lung function, and realigning your vertebrae allows the nerves to function correctly.

4. Lowered blood pressure

Studies show that a chiropractic adjustment targets the nerves in your upper neck, which may be just as effective as taking blood pressure medication.

5. Improved digestion

The nerves running through your spine control your stomach functions. If the vertebrae are misaligned, your nerves may signal for more acid. This leads to acid reflux, gas, and heartburn. With chiropractic care, the nerves in your thoracic spine are affected, which may ease stomach issues.

6. Easier breathing

Even the lungs rely on nerve function to work the way they’re supposed to. When there is a misalignment in your cervical and thoracic spinal regions, it can result in lung problems. Chiropractic correction of these issues can help reduce lung inflammation and help you breathe easier.

7. Better balance

As we get older, balance can become a problem. While activities like tai-chi and regular exercise can help keep the core and legs strong, chiropractic care can also help improve your balance.

8. Healthier pregnancies

It’s been reported that chiropractic care may assist in healthier pregnancies and easier deliveries. Your body goes through momentous changes during pregnancy which impact the nervous system. Weight increases in the body’s core and ligaments in the pelvis loosen, placing increased pressure on your spine. Regular chiropractic sessions can ensure both a healthier mother and baby.

9. Splendid sleep

Pain and tension from a misaligned spine can result in sleepless nights. Chiropractic care can ease the pain and tension, aid relaxation and, ensure you enjoy a far more peaceful slumber.

10. Improved range of motion

Regular chiropractic care provides an improved range of motion, helping you to move easier and get through your daily activities with less effort.

If you want to improve your health through the many benefits of regular chiropractic care, the experts at the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona are here to help. Book your session with Dr. Diana Mladenoff today by calling our office in Phoenix (Arcadia), Arizona at 1 (602) 524-0222, or clicking the button to schedule your appointment online. Wellness awaits you.

Benefits of Neurofeedback

Sat, 16 Oct 2021 23:29:06 GMT

Benefits of brain training - Knowing the state of our brain can enhance skills and help overcome weaknesses. Generally speaking, we look for a neuromodulation of brain frequencies, a balance, so that the whole brain works in harmony.

Self-regulation teaching

During the day we experience different states. We are not always attentive, dreaming or relaxed. Therefore, we have to learn to manage these states, depending on the demands of the environment, and solving adaptation problems and providing self-control in situations of stress and anxiety. One of the main benefits of neurofeedback is that it teaches how to self-regulate the electrical function of the brain. Once the ability to regulate one’s states is acquired, it becomes automatic. Then we unconsciously enter the state of attention, creativity, concentration … that is needed. It’s like turning a switch on or off.

Discovering our interior

When one is in a neurofeedback session, it is as if you were engaging in a conversation with oneself – connecting with your inner self and being able to search for these desired states.

Neurofeedback is not invasive

Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that uses real-time digital technology to measure the electrical activity of the brain (EEG). It then presents this information on a screen, which allows the patient to perceive the altered electrical activity, and to learn to modify it. This treatment stimulates metabolism and blood flow, strengthens dendritic connections, as well as the functioning of neurotransmitters, which represents an improvement in brain function. It has no side effects, nor does it require the use of any medication.

It can be a complementary therapy

This is one of the great benefits of neurofeedback. The therapy can be combined with pharmacological treatment (if necessary), psychological and physical therapies, and it can also be done by both children and adults.

Increase your attention span and memory
Minimize symptoms of stress
Increase your intellectual and concentration capacity
Improve your ability to learn and perform
Increases self-control and relaxation
Delays the deterioration of aging

Brain training is also highly recommended for:

Important meetings and interviews
Public Presentations
Performances
Sports competitions
Exams
Studies
Projects
Art / creativity
Decision making
Stressful situations
Critical situations
Work overload

Benefits of Acupuncture During Pregnancy

Sat, 14 Aug 2021 22:22:26 GMT

Many pregnant women have symptoms that may cause them discomfort. Acupuncture is a safe and effective way to help relieve these symptoms. Besides providing relief for the mother, research shows that one acupuncture session a month during pregnancy can greatly improve your baby’s health.

What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a healing art that originated in China thousands of years ago. Traditional Chinese medicine views the body as two opposing forces, yin and yang. When an imbalance occurs between the two, it blocks the qi (pronounced CHEE), or the flow of vital energy along internal pathways (known as meridians) in our bodies. During acupuncture, Dr. Diana Mladenoff will insert hair-thin needles through the skin at points along the meridians to correct imbalances and restore health. Current patients say that they feel relief or the stress melt away during and after the treatments. Yes please!

Acupuncture helps treat unwanted symptoms that you may experience from endometriosis, PCOS, pain from ovarian cyst, menstrual cramps, PMS, infertility, labor induction, back pain due to fetal positioning, morning sickness, trouble sleeping, digestive issues, and irritability ... need we say more?

How Acupuncture can be beneficial during pregnancy?
Acupuncture during pregnancy may be helpful if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

Back pain and sciatica
Breech birth
Constipation
Depression
Edema (also called “swelling”)
Fatigue
Headaches
Heartburn
Hemorrhoids
Mood swings/Irritability
Nausea and vomiting (also known as “morning sickness”)
Pelvic pain
Sleep problems

Acupuncture Benefits During Pregnancy
While many people have heard that acupuncture can help a woman achieve pregnancy they may not be aware that receiving acupuncture for pregnancy pain has many benefits!

Stress Relief
Stress during pregnancy has been strongly linked to preterm delivery. Many mothers are very anxious about the health of their baby in the womb and are unable to relax. When they are in a state of constant stress the body pumps out the hormones adrenaline and cortisol, our “fight or flight hormones.” These hormones can weaken immunity, disrupt sleep, cause digestive issues and even cause the heart to beat excessively.
Nausea, morning sickness, constipation and heartburn
Morning Sickness is common in the first trimester of pregnancy although some mothers will have it for longer. Receiving acupuncture treatments from Dr. Diana can help soothe the digestive system and encourage regular bowel movements. Acupuncture and herbal therapy can be helpful in providing relief from heartburn as well. Heartburn usually tends to creep up during the middle to end of a women’s pregnancy and can be very uncomfortable.
Pain and discomfort
Back pain, leg cramping, varicose veins, neck tension and hemorrhoids are common ailments that occur during pregnancy. Acupuncture is a great way to resolve these problems so that you don’t have to take medications that may harm you and your baby.
Pre- and post-partum depression
There are many hormonal changes that come with pregnancy and they can be hard for women to manage on their own. It’s estimated that up to 14% of pregnant women have a major depressive episode at some point during or after their pregnancy. While antidepressants are commonly prescribed to people suffering from depression, there’s no definitive evidence on whether the medications are safe for pregnant women and fetuses. Regular exercise and acupuncture treatments have been shown to significantly reduce anxiety and depression.
Breech presentation
Many babies are in a breech position, where the baby’s head is facing upwards instead of down, in the last 3 months of pregnancy. This can result in a mother being forced to have a cesarean section. If you are in your last trimester with a breech presentation, acupuncture can encourage the baby to turn.
Induce labor and smooth the labor process
There are times when it’s necessary to induce labor, either for the health of the mother and the baby. Many women now seek out acupuncture to help induce labor or to move the labor process along, as an alternative to pharmaceutical methods.

These are just a few of the many benefits acupuncture can offer a pregnant woman. Contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff today to see if acupuncture treatments are right for you and your baby. TEXT or call 1 (602) 524-0222. Wellness awaits you.

4 Signs You Should See a Chiropractor

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 00:02:55 GMT

Back pain, neck discomfort and headaches could be reasons to seek chiropractic care for yourself and your family.

Every year, millions of people in the U.S. see chiropractors for relief of an array of ailments.

Chiropractors utilize treatments, including joint manipulation, physical therapy modalities, patient education, manual therapy, nutrition and rehabilitation exercises to address each patient's unique situation. Is seeing a chiropractor right for you?

Here are four reason you should see a chiropractor:

Low back pain.
Neck pain.
Headaches.
Muscle and joint pain and stiffness.

1. Low back pain. Chiropractors have a lot of experience treating back pain, particularly low back pain, says William J. Lauretti, a spokesman for the American Chiropractic Association. Lauretti, a chiropractor, is also a professor in the Department of Chiropractic Clinical Sciences at New York Chiropractic College in Seneca Falls, New York. Chiropractors are trained to diagnose the specific cause of back pain and are trained in effective therapies, which can include prescriptions for exercise and ergonomic advice. Chiropractors are dedicated to using conservative, non-surgical and medication-free therapies. This is particularly important because some physicians prescribe potentially-addictive opioids for back pain.

2. Neck pain. Whether your sore neck is from a whiplash injury or just sitting at your desk too much, chiropractic can offer a safe and effective variety of treatments.

Chiropractic treatments for neck pain can include:

Gentle spinal manipulation.
Stretching exercises.
Lifestyle advice.

3. Headaches. Many types of headaches are associated with chronic neck stiffness and muscle tightness. Chiropractors offer effective, drug-free treatment options, including gentle neck manipulations.

4. Muscle and joint pain and stiffness. Although chiropractors are widely viewed as spine experts, most practitioners are are also able to effectively treat nerve, muscle and joint pain throughout the body. Chiropractors can treat carpal tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, tennis elbow and hip, knee or ankle pain.

Overall, 62% of adults in the U.S. have had neck or back pain significant enough that they sought treatment from a health care professional at some point in their lifetime, according to the 2018 Gallup-Palmer College of Chiropractic Annual Report. Among patients who sought health care for neck or back pain, 63% saw a medical doctor and 53% sought treatment from a chiropractor, the survey found.

The estimated number of people who seek chiropractic care is in the tens of millions. A previous Gallup survey conducted on behalf of the Palmer College of Chiropractic, based in Davenport, Iowa, found that more than 62 million people have seen a chiropractor since 2011.

The number of adults in the U.S. who seek chiropractic care has remained stable since 2007, according to the National Health Interview Survey, which was released by the federal government in September 2017.

Chiropractors tout their treatment as the least invasive and safest therapy for many ailments. But chiropractic treatment is not without risk.

Here's a closer look at some of the advantages of chiropractic treatment and suggestions for how to obtain the best care.

What Chiropractors Do

Chiropractors treat people by aligning their spine with a variety of manipulations.

During the first visit, chiropractors typically perform a physical exam and take a health history, paying special attention to the spine and whether the patient has normal bone density.

People with lower levels of bone density, such as patients with osteoporosis, would receive gentler treatments. The chiropractor typically uses his or her hands to apply controlled, rapid force to a damaged or injured joint, to allow the joint to move in a normal manner and reduce pain and inflammation.

One common maneuver is the high-velocity cervical adjustment, in which the patient relaxes his or her head in the hands of the chiropractor, who quickly thrusts the head in one direction – sometimes creating a cracking sound. Chiropractors like Dr. Diana Mladenoff can also conduct gentler, low-velocity cervical adjustments perfect for your little ones.

Chiropractors also treat some patients for headaches that are caused by nerve irritation that refers pain to the head. Treatment can alleviate these headaches by reducing nerve irritation.

Benefits

Some research suggests that chiropractic care can be beneficial.

In a study published in Spine Journal in 2008, researchers evaluated the chiropractic treatment experiences of 192 people with back-related pain or sciatica, a condition in which a pinched nerve in the lower spine causes leg pain. The treatment they received for pain was rated worthwhile by 87% of the participants.

Another study published in the British Medical Journal in 2003 evaluated 183 patients with neck pain who were randomly assigned to receive treatment that involved either spinal manipulations, physiotherapy (mainly exercise) or care from a general practitioner, which involved primarily counseling, education and prescription drugs. The people in the study kept cost diaries for one year. The study found that spinal manipulations were more effective and less costly than physiotherapy or care by a general practitioner.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today; TEXT or CALL 1 (602) 524-0222.

Source: https://health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/should-i-go-to-a-chiropractor

Chiropractic Care Improves Brain Development & Function

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 00:46:21 GMT

Ask yourself this question: Would you rather have a back issue or a brain issue? Most people would answer that they would rather suffer from a back issue. But what many people don’t realize is that often times, a back issue actually is a brain issue and vice versa.

The spine is an integral part of the central nervous system. The brain and the spine work together to regulate the overall health of the body. Any problems with the spine can affect how the brain and spine communicate. When there is an issue of the spine, whether directly or indirectly related to spinal health, turn to a Phoenix chiropractor to improve overall health and, in turn, promote better brain function as well.

About Brain Development

Babies’ brain development begins from right to left. Most right brain development occurs within the first three years of life. The right brain controls emotions, processing, and things like making moral choices. The left brain development is then primarily from ages three to six. The left brain is where reasoning, problem solving, and language thinking occurs. Brain-body communication is essential to complete child development, but especially to brain development. Poor spinal health can affect nervous system health and lead to problems within the brain-body communication that takes place in a growing child. For example, children with development delays may have spinal misalignments that cause nerve interference. This means that messages can’t get through from the brain to the rest of the body as they should, leading to chaos and dysfunction. Spinal misalignments may stop the brain from making synaptic connections, which are required for learning. For children to grow into healthy adults, a healthy nervous system is key, which means optimal spinal health is imperative. Phoenix chiropractor Dr. Diana Mladenoff recognizes the importance of spinal function for brain development and works with children to promote spinal health.

What Exactly Does Chiropractic Care Do for the Central Nervous System?

The spine plays a major role in brain function. Therefore, chiropractic adjustments are incredibly beneficial for not only the back and spine, but also for the brain. The connection between the central nervous system, brain, and spine are extremely important for overall body function. Any interruption can affect a person’s overall health. Spinal misalignments may not seem like a big deal, but they disrupt nervous system function, meaning that the body and brain aren’t able to work cohesively. This will not only affect health, causing issues such as poor immune system function, back pain, or headaches, but it can also affect brain development in children. Removing any interference through chiropractic adjustments allows the brain and body to develop as they should for a healthier, happier child. Gentle adjustments are natural, safe, and incredibly beneficial for children of all ages, even in infancy, as many babies experience spinal trauma from the birthing experience. Regular chiropractic care for children enhances the brain-body connection and improves central nervous system function so that your child can grow and develop properly. For more information about chiropractic care for your child’s development, contact Dr. Diana Mladenoff of the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona. See for yourself how safe and natural adjustments can work wonders for your child’s health! Schedule an appointment today by texting or calling 1 (602) 524-0222.

Source here.

Best Yelp of 2020

Fri, 07 May 2021 01:21:26 GMT

My family was referred to Dr. Diana a few years back and we are super grateful.

My son and husband were the first to start seeing her and my daughter and I followed...

Dr. Diana aka "Dr. D" has worked with us on everything from colds and congestion, allergy relief, detoxification, shoulder/neck/back pain, and more... She has a gentle but effective touch and is wonderful with children. She utilizes kinesiology, chiropractic and nutritional knowledge in her healing approach and honestly, we just trust her.

Dr. D is a great compliment to the traditional medicine approach for our family, but I'm sure many others utilize her as a primary doctor.

Thanks Dr. Diana - we will see you soon because... life!

- Gabi M. Phoenix, AZ Elite Yelper '2020

Boost Your Immune System through Nutritional Biochemical Balance: The Key to Wellness 🧠🌱

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 00:42:23 GMT

Alleviate chronic fatigue, weakness, pain, imbalanced or declining hormones, and resistant weight gain and feel healthier both in your physical body and mental/emotional body.

Clinical Nutrition

Nutritional Biochemical Balance is the key to wellness. Based on the reality that the soil is depleted of its minerals, food can no longer be relied upon to maintain this balance. It is essential that a nutritional and homeopathic evaluation be performed based upon an individual's blood, hormone, and neural transmitter's tests, along with an analysis of the lifestyle stressors and family history. ��‍⚕️

A proper Nutritional Program can boost our Immune System, help alleviate chronic fatigue, weakness, pain, imbalanced or declining hormones, resistant weight gain, and act as a support for medical care of disease. The results can be that one looks younger, feels younger, has increased energy, and lives longer. ��

We provide specific recommendations on nutritional supplements and healthy food choices to enhance our patient´s return to optimal health. Do you know which supplements and vitamins are good for you? Dr. Diana Mladenoff can provide a structured nutritional program based on your individual needs. ��

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Mladenoff now. Dr. Diana specializes in chiropractic and pediatric chiropractic care, neurofeedback training, applied kinesiology, ion balancing therapy, cold laser, detox, and nutritional guidance. ��

Contact us today for drug-free healthcare ahead of the curve. TEXT or CALL The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona team at 1+(602) 524-0222. Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona is a wellness clinic located in the Phoenix area of Arizona. ☯️

How AK from Dr. Diana Can Improve Your Brain Connections

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Identify weak muscle patterns, poor organ function, nutritional issues, lymphatic drainage issues or vascular issues through applied kinesiology with Dr. Diana Mladenoff at The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona located in Phoenix - Camelback East.

�� AK involves the art and science of muscle testing. The word kinesiology comes from the words "kinesis" meaning movement and from "logos" meaning to study. It literally means the study of movement.

⚡️During the examination some muscles will test "strong" and others will test "weak". The chiropractor skilled in applied kinesiology may realize that the "weakness" found in the muscle test may not only indicate poor muscle function, but possibly a connection with organ function, nutritional issues, issues with the acupuncture meridian, lymphatic drainage issues or vascular issues.

��The kinesiologist understands that certain patterns of muscle weakness give clues to the body's function. Each muscle, for example, can be tested to give an indication of how a specific organ is functioning. A television set and a lamp plugged into the same circuit can both malfunction together. If the television has a short in it, it can overload the circuit breaker, denying power to the lamp, causing it to go out. �� Think of the television as being analogous to the organ. The circuit breaker is analogous to the nervous system (spinal nerve and spinal cord). The lamp is analogous to the muscle. A skilled applied kinesiologist can use muscle testing and relationships like those between muscles and organs to aid in diagnosis and treatment.

Muscle imbalance causes structural strain. It can result in muscle spasm, joint pain, poor sports performance, a tendency for injury, or even systemic health problems. �� Structural stress can affect the nervous system, affecting every organ and system in the body. Muscles not only move bones, they hold the skeletal system in place. There is a dynamic tension in the musculoskeletal system. ��

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Mladenoff for applied kinesiology therapy. Dr. Diana specializes in chiropractic and pediatric chiropractic care, neurofeedback training, applied kinesiology, ion balancing therapy, cold laser, detox, and nutritional guidance. ��‍⚕️

Contact us today for drug-free healthcare ahead of the curve. TEXT or CALL The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona team at 1+(602) 524-0222. Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona is a wellness clinic located in the Phoenix area of Arizona. ☯️

Supplementing with Zinc

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 20:51:34 GMT

Why Zinc? Zinc is found in cells throughout the body. It helps the immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses. The body also needs zinc to make proteins and DNA, the genetic material in all cells. During pregnancy, infancy, and childhood, the body needs zinc to grow and develop properly.

Zinc is a nutrient that supports growth during childhood and the immune system. Low zinc levels can increase a person’s risk of disease and illness. Zinc occurs naturally in many foods, such as beans, meat, and fish. It is also available as a dietary supplement by ordering from Dr. Diana.

Text (602) 524-0222 today to get started.

Baby Chiropractic: Why You Should Want a Chiro Baby

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 18:57:02 GMT

Many adults experience the health benefits that chiropractic care has on their function, mobility, and overall health, but did you know that chiropractic care for kids and infants can also help children in their growth?

It is common for infants and children to experience health issues while growing. A chiropractor for infants can help alleviate such issues. As children and infants experience musculoskeletal (MSK) pain from various activities such as day-to-day bumps, high-impact sports and falls, and postural strain, they can experience injuries to the neck, ankles, knees, back and shoulders.

It is essential to remember that chiropractic care for kids is tailored to take into consideration their age, developmental state, and size. Treatment plans may include soft tissue therapy or exercises, gentle joint mobilization.

Top 5 Reasons To Take Your Child To A Chiropractor

1. To promote proper growth and development and to limit health challenges such as issues with nursing and reflux.

2. To allow a child’s nervous system and spine to grow optimally and without interference. To reduce ear infections, bed wetting, asthma and allergies.

3. To improve a child’s immune system and digestive health and to limit colic and constipation.

4. To encourage nerve and brain development (neural plasticity). To promote proper perception and awareness preventing labels such as ADHD, Sensory Integration Disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

5. To be proactive about your child’s overall health and wellbeing which will limit and support them through colds and infections and allow them to meet their optimal potential.

Schedule an appointment today!

C: 602.524.0222 text or call

E: info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

W: www.mladenoffclinicaz.com

Be Optimal 30 Day Reset: A Mind/Body Approach to Rebalance, Rebuild, and Renew.

Sat, 19 Dec 2020 18:48:45 GMT

30 Days to a New You...

Would you like to feel healthier both in your physical body and mental/emotional body? Feel like you don't know where to start? Have you yo-yo dieted or started exercise regimens and haven't been able to stick with anything? Have you lost yourself in the stress and chaos that life has thrown at you? Then this course is for you!

Drs. Abby Kramer and Cari Jacobson have created this course as a way to help empower people to live their healthiest lives. No crash diets or cleanses here! This is a month long reset to create a new healthy lifestyle for you. It incorporates a collective 20 years of knowledge + wisdom to teach you best practices that will keep you well through nutrition, exercise, and tools for mind/body stress relief. These docs will hold your hand through the process!

Take a moment to visualize the healthiest version of yourself. In a short 30 days, this feeling can be more than just your imagination! Find out for yourself by signing up today.

What You'll Get

This course consists of 3 modules which you'll complete over a 30 day period.

Module 1: Rebalance

Learn the fundamentals of whole food based nutrition
Which foods to avoid and which foods to focus on
Grocery lists/shopping guides
Recipes
Sample meal plans
Ritual and goal setting practices

Module 2: Rebuild

How to incorporate exercise into your weekly routine
Which types of exercise are most effective
Video exercise circuits to use at home
Tips for recovery and stretching
Guided meditations and breath work exercises

Module 3: Renew

How to maintain healthy living as a new way of life
Supplement recommendations
Additional tips and resources
The importance of ritual
Strategies to maintain the new integrated practices

BONUS

Weekly zoom call with the Doctors to answer questions and keep you on track!
Private facebook group for students to share, connect, and foster community.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP TODAY!

How to Overcome the Stress of Thoughts, Toxins, and Traumas

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 01:07:13 GMT

People are stressed. Now more than ever. In different ways than ever before.

Stress is defined by the Cleveland Clinic as a normal reaction the body has when change occurs. Stress interferes with your body’s ability to communicate optimally and ultimately affects your health in a negative manner. It’s widely known stress is behind a significant portion of chronic health issues. In the chiropractic field we refer to the three Ts of stress that poorly affect your body’s ability to communicate via your nervous system and your health: thoughts, toxins, and traumas.

Thoughts

Your thoughts, mindset, and mental health affect your physical health. Doctors of all kinds now openly discuss the link between the mind and the body. In chiropractic, we have long talked about how the quality of your thoughts and mindset affect your body’s ability to adapt to life, your environment around you, and your health. Significant life stressors such as hard family times, deaths, changes in jobs, or homes and yes COVID-19 as well as chronically low grade dissatisfaction in relationships, unfulfilling work, and life with kids, create stress that result in physical reactions of the body. You may experience this as anxiety, excessive worry, and lack of being able to sleep in the beginning stages. Going unresolved for long periods of time wears down the body’s ability to function optimally and then the body becomes less able to ward off health issues. The immune system is diminished in its ability to function optimally and dis-ease (or uneasiness) in some form arises. Your thoughts matter.

Toxins

There are toxins everywhere. These are substances that are inherently harmful at some level and produce negative effects in the body. The soil and food supply are full of harmful chemicals. Makeup and cleaning supplies are riddled with additives that are toxic to the body. Much of the water supply is contaminated with metals and other substances not meant to be ingested. There are binders (additional ingredients) in supplements and medications that many people ingest. The farther away from the earth and its natural state something is, or the more synthetic it is, the more toxic it is. Toxins create disturbances and shifts in natural processes of the body, often at a chemical reaction level. This decreases the body’s ability to adapt most optimally to other stress you experience. As a result, your system becomes overloaded more quickly and with less stimulus. You are less than optimally healthy and you will become sicker easier.

Traumas

Trauma comes emotionally, mentally, and physically . All three of these wear on the body and its ability to communicate optimally and be as healthy as possible. Physical stress can come in the form of long days and little sleep, car accidents, sporting injuries, and chronic poor posture. When the body undergoes physical trauma it has to repair and heal. That process takes energy and resources that the body would otherwise be utilizing to support optimal communication and health. It is important to note that poor posture is a traumatic event for the body. This society is more sedentary than ever; in addition, we are inundated with technological devices that most use with fully unconscious body awareness. This means that, for most, they are often in a state of -- or causing -- physical trauma and have no idea they are doing so. Your physical interactions and experiences can create stress or promote proper communication and health.

Stress is all around us. Stress causes interference within the nervous system and the body’s processes. Stress in the form of the three Ts can affect the function and health of the spine. The spine houses and protects the nervous system. The better the spine functions, the better the nervous system has the ability to function optimally and the better opportunity you have to experience full health. Chiropractic adjustments restore motion of the spine, help decrease stress on the nervous system, and promote health and vibrancy of the body. If you have a spine and you experience any of the three Ts (and that would be all of you), you would benefit from getting checked and adjusted by Dr. Diana. Stop into The Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona and let Dr. Diana help you mitigate the effects of stress on your body and improve your quality of life.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today. CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222.

Source: The Joint Read the full article here.

Healing Through Acupuncture

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 02:25:02 GMT

Balance your life energy. Treat symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, back/neck pain, and more with this holistic and relaxing treatment from Dr. Diana and ancient Chinese medicine practices.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practice that originated thousands of years ago. It is based on the premise that a blockage or disturbance in the flow of the body's life energy, or “qi,” can cause health issues. Hair-thin needles are inserted to specific acupuncture points throughout the body to restore the flow of qi, balance the body’s energy, stimulate healing, and promote relaxation. Ahhh..sounds nice. According to TCM theory, there are over 1,000 acupuncture points on the body, each lying on an invisible energy channel, or “meridian.” Each meridian is associated with a different organ system.

How Does Acupuncture Work?

There are numerous theories. One theory is that acupuncture works by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals.

5 Benefits of Acupuncture:

Reduces inflammation
Improves digestion for proper elimination
Betters sleep for restoration
Prevents injury
Boosts the immune system to protect against invaders

Acupuncture is also said to influence the autonomic nervous system (which controls bodily functions) and the release of chemicals that regulate blood flow and pressure, reduce inflammation, and calm the brain.

Uses

Acupuncture is said to be useful in addressing a variety of health conditions, including:

Anxiety
Arthritis
Chronic pain (such as headaches, back pain, neck pain)
Depression
Insomnia
Migraines
Nausea
Sciatica
Sinus congestion
Stress and anxiety
Tinnitus
Weight loss

Some people use acupuncture to promote fertility. It is also used to quit smoking and as a component of the treatment for other addictions. Cosmetic acupuncture , also known as facial acupuncture, is used to improve the appearance of skin.

Health Benefits

Here's a look at some findings from the available research on the benefits of acupuncture:

Low Back Pain

For a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2017, researchers analyzed previously published trials on the use of non-pharmacologic therapies (including acupuncture) for low back pain.

The report's authors found that acupuncture was associated with decreased pain intensity and better function immediately after an acupuncture treatment, compared with no acupuncture.

Migraines

In a 2016 review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, scientists reviewed 22 previously published trials (involving 4985 participants). In their conclusion, they found that adding acupuncture to the treatment of migraine symptoms may reduce the frequency of episodes.

Tension Headaches

A 2016 review (involving 12 trials and 2349 participants) suggested that acupuncture involving at least six sessions may help people with frequent tension headaches.

In two studies, acupuncture added to usual care or treatment at the headache onset only (usually with pain medication) resulted in decreased headache frequency compared to those given usual care only.

The researchers note that the specific points used during treatment may play a less important role than previously thought and that much of the benefit may be due to needling effects.

Knee Pain

An analysis of previously published studies found that acupuncture improved physical function in the short and long term in people with chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis.

Another review, published in JAMA Surgery , analyzed previous studies on non-pharmacological interventions for pain management after total knee arthroplasty and found evidence that acupuncture delayed the use of patient-controlled use of opioid medication to relieve pain.

How Acupuncture Is Done

Before the initial appointment, you will be asked to complete health history. Dr. Diana might begin the visit by asking you about your health concerns, diet, sleep, stress level, and other lifestyle habits. You may be asked about your emotions, appetite, food likes and dislikes, and response to changes in temperature and seasons.

During your visit, the Dr. Diana Mladenoff will examine your appearance carefully, noting your complexion, voice, and tongue color and coating. She will take your pulse at three points on each wrist, noting the strength, quality, and rhythm. In Chinese medicine, the tongue and pulses are considered to reflect the health of your organ systems and meridians.

Typically, Dr. Diana will use anywhere from six to more than 20 tiny needles per treatment (the number of needles doesn't indicate the intensity of the treatment). The needles are often left in for 10 to 20 minutes.

Depending on what you're dealing with, Dr. Diana may use additional techniques during your session including:

Low Level Laser + acupuncture : This method is said to stimulate acupuncture points in addition to the use of needles to reduce inflammation and increase blood flow.

Ear acupuncture , also known as auricular acupuncture, is sometimes used during the treatment for weight loss, headaches, and anxiety.

Although the length of the acupuncture session can vary from a few minutes to over an hour, the typical treatment length is 20 to 30 minutes. The initial visit may take up to 90 minutes, including time for an intake and taking your medical history.

After the treatment, some people feel relaxed (or even sleepy), while others feel energetic. If you experience any unusual symptoms, you should consult your doctor.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

You may feel a slight sting, pinch, ache, or some pain as the acupuncture needle is being inserted. Most people report feeling relaxed and at ease.

A Word From Dr. Diana

If you are having difficulty managing pain or other health issues with conventional methods, acupuncture may be worth a try. Schedule an appointment today. CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222.

Source: VeryWell Health Online. Read the full article here .

Benefits of Infant Chiropractic Care

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 01:38:37 GMT

When you think of babies, you don’t tend to think of aches and pains that require chiropractic care. But the truth is, infant chiropractic care can actually be quite beneficial to little ones. Taking your baby to an infant chiropractor can lead to a number of positive effects, including better sleep patterns, healthy brain development, a stronger immune system, and colic relief!

Sleep Well

Ask any parent of a newborn how much sleep they’re getting, and they’re likely to throw their eighth cup of coffee in your face. It’s no secret that babies don’t sleep much during the night when they are first developing sleeping and waking patterns, which can lead to fussiness and crankiness during the daytime hours, for both the infants and their parents! By administering infant chiropractic adjustments, an infant chiropractor can help your baby feel more comfortable, which can lead to better sleep for the whole family.

Brain Boost

Evidence suggests that chiropractic adjustments can help promote brain and nerve development which can lead to overall brain health for your baby. Because the spine is the epicenter for so many of the nerves in the body, receiving a chiropractic adjustment is like doing a reboot on your nervous system, which can help the brain to perform at maximum potential.

Germ Buster

When an infant is brand new, their immune system hasn’t been introduced to common germs that older children and adults have built up antibodies against. This, of course, leads to babies at risk of catching colds and the flu, among other common illnesses. Many parents swear by infant chiropractic adjustments to lower the chances of getting sick and strengthening baby’s immune system naturally.

Bye Bye, Colic

If you have ever had a baby with colic, then you know how awful it can be for everybody involved. Colicky babies will scream for hours on end with no stopping, due to digestive discomfort. Not only does this mean that your infant is in pain, but it also means that you will not be getting a break from the constant wailing and the feeling of helplessness that can overcome you when your little one isn’t feeling well. Luckily, infant chiropractic adjustments may be just the thing to send that colic packing and clear up baby’s digestive issues with regular care.

If you are looking for an infant chiropractor in the Phoenix are of Arizona, contact Dr. Diana today. She specializes in chiropractic care for the whole family, and have completed extensive training in pediatric chiropractic care. Call or text (602) 524-0222 to schedule an appointment.

How Can Acupuncture Help?

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 00:11:50 GMT

How Acupuncture Can Relieve Pain and Improve Sleep, Digestion and Emotional Well-being

Acupuncture is a 3,000-year-old healing technique of Traditional Chinese Medicine. In 1997, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) documented and publicized acupuncture’s safety and efficacy for treating a wide range of conditions. Acupuncture is now used most broadly to relieve pain and emotional balance.

How does acupuncture work?

Acupuncture improves the body’s functions and promotes the natural self-healing process by stimulating specific anatomic sites--commonly referred to as acupuncture points, or acupoints. The most common method used to stimulate acupoints is the insertion of fine, sterile needles into the skin. Pressure, heat, or electrical stimulation may further enhance the effects. Other acupoint stimulation techniques include: manual massage, moxibustion or heat therapy, cupping, and the application of topical herbal medicines and linaments.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on an ancient philosophy that describes the universe, and the body, in terms of two opposing forces: yin and yang. When these forces are in balance, the body is healthy. Energy, called "qi" (pronounced "chee") flows along specific pathways, called meridians , throughout the body. This constant flow of energy keeps the yin and yang forces balanced. However, if the flow of energy gets blocked, like water getting stuck behind a dam, the disruption can lead to pain, lack of function, or illness. Acupuncture therapy can release blocked qi in the body and stimulate function, evoking the body’s natural healing response through various physiological systems. Modern research has demonstrated acupuncture’s effects on the nervous system, endocrine and immune systems, cardiovascular system, and digestive system. By stimulating the body’s various systems, acupuncture can help to resolve pain, and improve sleep, digestive function, and sense of well-being. Great, right? We think so too.

What happens during an acupuncture treatment?

First, Dr. Diana will ask about your health history. Then, she will examine your tongue’s shape, color, and coating, feel your pulse, and possibly perform some additional physical examinations depending on your individual health needs. Everyone is different. Using these unique assessment tools, Dr. Diana will be able to recommend a proper treatment plan to address your particular condition. To begin the acupuncture treatment, you lay comfortably on a treatment table while precise acupoints are stimulated on various areas of your body. Most people feel no or minimal discomfort as the fine needles are gently placed. The needles are usually retained between five and 30 minutes. During and after treatments, people report that they feel very relaxed and balanced.

How many treatments will I need?

The frequency and number of treatments differ from person to person. Some people experience dramatic relief in the first treatment. For complex or long-standing chronic conditions, one to two treatments per week for several months may be recommended. For acute problems, usually fewer visits are required, usually eight to ten visits in total. An individualized treatment plan that includes the expected number of treatments will be discussed during your initial visit.

What conditions are commonly treated by acupuncture?

Case-controlled clinical studies have shown that acupuncture has been shown to treat the symptoms of the following diseases/conditions:

Allergic rhinitis (including hay fever)
Biliary colic
Depression (including depressive neurosis and depression following stroke)
Dysentery, acute bacillary
Dysmenorrhoea, primary
Epigastralgia, acute (in peptic ulcer, acute and chronic gastritis, and gastrospasm)
Facial pain (including craniomandibular disorders)
Headache
Hypertension, essential
Hypotension, primary
Induction of labor
Knee pain
Leukopenia
Low back pain
Malposition of fetus, correction
Morning sickness
Nausea and vomiting
Neck pain
Pain in dentistry (including dental pain and temporomandibular dysfunction)
Periarthritis of shoulder
Postoperative pain
Renal colic
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sciatica
Sprain
Stroke
Tennis elbow

The following diseases, symptoms or conditions have limited but probable evidence to support the therapeutic use of acupuncture:

Abdominal pain (in acute gastroenteritis or due to gastrointestinal spasm)
Acne vulgaris
Alcohol dependence and detoxification
Bell’s palsy
Bronchial asthma
Cancer pain
Cardiac neurosis
Cholecystitis, chronic, with acute exacerbation
Cholelithiasis
Competition stress syndrome
Craniocerebral injury, closed
Diabetes mellitus, non-insulin-dependent
Earache
Epidemic haemorrhagic fever
Epistaxis, simple (without generalized or local disease)
Eye pain due to subconjunctival injection
Female infertility
Facial spasm
Female urethral syndrome
Fibromyalgia and fasciitis
Gastrokinetic disturbance
Gouty arthritis
Hepatitis B virus carrier status
Herpes zoster (human (alpha) herpesvirus 3)
Hyperlipaemia
Hypo-ovarianism
InsomniaLabour pain
Lactation, deficiency
Male sexual dysfunction, non-organic
Ménière disease
Neuralgia, post-herpetic
Neurodermatitis
Obesity
Opium, cocaine and heroin dependence
Osteoarthritis
Pain due to endoscopic examination
Pain in thromboangiitis obliterans
Polycystic ovary syndrome (Stein-Leventhal syndrome)
Post-extubation in children
Postoperative convalescence
Premenstrual syndrome
Prostatitis, chronic
Pruritus
Radicular and pseudoradicular pain syndrome
Raynaud syndrome, primary
Recurrent lower urinary-tract infection
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy
Retention of urine, traumatic
Schizophrenia
Sialism, drug-induced (excessive salivation)
Sjögren syndrome
Sore throat (including tonsillitis)
Spine pain, acute
Stiff neck
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction
Tietze syndrome
Tobacco dependence
Tourette syndrome
Ulcerative colitis, chronic
Urolithiasis
Vascular dementia
Whooping cough (pertussis)

To schedule an appointment, click here.

Source: UC San Diego School of Medicine. Read the full article here .

HOW NEUROFEEDBACK CAN HELP YOU

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 21:45:33 GMT

Jill, age 10, struggled with hyperactivity, restlessness, impulse control problems, inattention, and distractibility. Her pediatrician had suggested trying a couple of different medications but Jill's mother was interested in trying alternative treatments first. She had heard about our work with neurofeedback and wanted an alternative to medications.

Jill did neurofeedback twice a week and we quickly began seeing significant changes, including less hyperactivity and longer ability to focus. After her first phase in her program she was able to lower her visits to once a week and continued to excel in her home life and at school.

WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK?

Neurofeedback is a specialized treatment that uses advanced computer technology for balancing and optimizing your brain. It is a fun, interactive and engaging treatment that helps you strengthen and retrain your brain to a healthier, more focused state.

Using real-time displays of brain activity, you can learn how to self-regulate your brain function.

Brandon, age 17, came to the clinic for problems with anxiety, worrying, temper outbursts, poor school performance, and oppositional behavior. He had been in psychotherapy for two years, which seemed to help his temper problems but not his oppositional behavior or school performance. Additionally, he had tried two different medications but he did not like the side effects.

When he learned about neurofeedback he liked the idea of learning how to control his own brain. We did neurofeedback twice a week and within the first month he noticed less worrying. By the end of 6 months he felt more focused, less anxious, and overall more cooperative, which his family validated.

Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of neurofeedback to improve many conditions including:

ADD/ADHD
Anxiety
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Chronic Pain
Depression
Headaches
Memory Issues
PTSD
Sleep Problems
Traumatic Brain Injury

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NEUROFEEDBACK?

Patients report enhanced memory and focus, decreased impulsivity and anxiety, better mental clarity, more restful sleep, improved mood, and a host of other benefits after using neurofeedback without side effects !

In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics named neurofeedback a “Level 1: ‘Best Support’ intervention for ADD/ADHD, on par with medication.”

The effects and benefits of training last long after the training itself has stopped. Because the brain has actually learned (or relearned) a more efficient way of performing, it will continue in this way as new pathways in the brain are created, thus making lasting change the path of least effort.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

While each brainwave is responsive for different body functions, they all are equally important to your health and well-being. Researchers have known for decades the correlation between Irregular brainwaves and common neurological conditions. Brain Mapping and Neurofeedback are the first fields to directly target these irregular brainwaves and restore them to normal ranges.

Before starting your Neurofeedback program, you must get a Brain Map to determine the foundation of your brain health.

Schedule an appointment to get your brain mapped today. Call or Text (602) 524-0222.

Health & Wellness Delivered Right to Your Door

Sat, 28 Mar 2020 02:52:00 GMT

Order the necessary supplements from the safety of your home for the whole family.

THE FLU PANDEMIC & CHIROPRACTIC

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 23:23:53 GMT

The 1918 influenza pandemic has been labeled in history as one of the most devastating outbreaks in the history of the world with deaths estimated at between 20 and 40 million people.

Over 675,000 American citizens lost their lives due to this awful epidemic. Why are we talking about this? The 1918 flu crisis has been labeled in the Chiropractic profession as the reason for our success and proliferation as an occupation. Here are some of the statistics that give merit to the power of the
Chiropractic adjustment:

In Davenport, Iowa 50 medical doctors cared for 4,953 cases with 274 deaths. Also in Davenport, 150 chiropractors saw 1,635 cases with only one death. In the state of Iowa, medical doctors treated 93,590 patients, with 6,116 deaths, a loss of one patient out of every 15. In the same state, excluding Davenport, 4,735 patients were seen by chiropractors with a loss of only six patients – a loss of one patient out of every 789.

National figures show that 1,142 chiropractors cared for 46,394 for influenza during 1918, with a loss of 54 patients – one out of every 859. In New York City, 950 out of 10,000 cases died with medical methods while 25 out of 10,000 died using drugless methods.

Yes, the medical profession was seeing a majority of the worst of the worst; however, one of the greatest statistics backing chiropractic care comes from the state of Oklahoma. There were 233 cases in which the medical doctors had cared for
patients and eventually pronounced them as “lost” or beyond hope… chiropractors took care of all 233 with only 25 deaths.

Chiropractic’s journey into health care took a huge leap forward thanks to its incredible effect on the thousands of Americans during the flu crisis. What I hope you all gain from this is the incredible results of the chiropractic adjustment. When you get adjusted, you decreased sustained sympathetic tone in your nervous system (bad), which subsequently leads to an increase in immune function (good), among many other consequences (Journal of Neurophysiology, February 2007). An increase in immune function is important for everything from the cold and runny nose to influenza, cancer, and heart disease, not to mention the great enhancing effects on a healthy individual. This is why we encourage you all to come in to get checked despite if you are not feeling the best. An adjustment will stimulate your immune system to better fight off any illness in your body.

The stresses that people endured in the early 1900s were entirely different than those we incur presently. In order to achieve these dramatic results you must not only get adjusted, but also make changes in your lifestyle so your body can at least
have an opportunity to heal. A few simple steps can maximize the effects of your adjustments. Eat more green, leafy vegetables with every meal, take a 20 minute walk outside every day, and have a more optimistic view on life.

Read the full article here .

Celebrating International Women's Day

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 17:35:20 GMT

"We celebrate today so that our lives matter tomorrow."

We Celebrate YOU: Mom, Grandma, Aunt, Sister, Daughter... All Women Who are Capable of So Many Amazing Things, Including GIVING LIFE.

Pregnant Women Have Super-Power Strength

The old joke is that if men were the ones giving birth that there would be a population shortage. I think it's true! Men may be able to bench press more than most women, but when it comes to true strength and the ability to endure pain, women blow men away.

We are reminded of this after reading a story about a pregnant cow in the Telegraph . I know it sounds crazy, but this cow's story was really inspiring. She fell down a 250-foot hill, which would normally be thought to have killed even the toughest of bulls, and not only did she survive, but a day after being dug out from the brush and lifted to safety, she gave birth.

Much like this cow, the moment we find out we're going to be moms, I think something switches on in us and we are inexplicably devoted to this little being we're bringing into this world, and we will do anything and everything to protect it. It's as if pregnant women seem to have an extra reserve of power that we can tap into—like a real-life Superwoman .

If you think about it, it's pretty amazing that our bodies shift into autopilot when we're pregnant and they morph into exactly what we need to make room for and nurture a baby inside us. We can also handle high amounts of excruciating pain—in the form of contractions , back pains , heartburn and foot swelling —for sometimes hours, days or even months on end (NOTE: Your contractions should not last months, but it sometimes feels like they do!).

Then there's also the mental stress of worrying that the baby we're carrying is healthy, juggling work with pregnancy exhaustion , trying to plan out the nursery down to the last perfectly-matched detail and coming up with a baby name that's unique enough to stand out yet won't get him or her teased on the playground for years to come.

It would be enough to make most men crack! But the universe only gives you as much as you can handle. I'm convinced pregnant women are superheroes, because they can handle anything the universe has to throw at them!

TELL US: What's your pregnant super-hero strength?

A Little History For You
While International Women's Day only got official United Nations recognition in 1977 , the global celebration dates back to the early 1900s. The theme for #IWD2020 is "I am Generation Equality," and it's a moment for women to bring attention to issues like gender parity.

In celebration of International Women's Day, we've rounded up advice from 13 female founders who started their companies by themselves and drove them to success.

These women worked, pitched, applied, and saved their way to the funding they needed to grow. Today, they maintain full ownership of their businesses, or otherwise share ownership with their cofounders.

PRESENTING: 13 female founders who self-funded their businesses share their top advice for startup success

Female founders may not receive as much venture funding as their male counterparts, but they're more likely to start businesses, according to a recent report by Visa .

In honor of women who are shaping business and leadership, we've rounded up 13 female founders who started their companies by themselves and drove them to success. Read the full article here.

Source: Parents. Read the full article here .

How Do You Treat Brain Fog? If You’re Feeling Super Out Of It, These 5 Tips Might Help

Sat, 22 Feb 2020 23:58:57 GMT

Brain fog and its symptoms can prevent you from concentrating, recalling memories, and can lead to mental fatigue.

Do you ever feel like in the middle of the work day you've expended your usefulness at work? After the caffeine rush has worn off, do you feel like you need a nap before you can do anything else productive? Your afternoon exhaustion or dip in energy isn't just in your head - well, it is - but it's a real issue called brain fog, aka mental fog or clouding of consciousness. The symptoms of brain fog can vary, but it is characterized by fatigue, forgetfulness, poor memory, difficulty focusing, and overall decreased mental performance while working or performing tasks. Though anyone can suffer a bout of brain fog, it is routinely associated with chronic illnesses, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus, or Fibromyalgia (people who live with Fibromyalgia usually refer to brain fog as "Fibro Fog"). Mental illnesses are also linked to more frequent episodes of brain fog.

While there is no official cause of brain fog, experts believe it can be influenced by number of factors, or a combination of things. In addition to chronic illness, your sleep habits, hormones, and digestive health may play a role in worsening brain fog.

Fortunately, if you find yourself experiencing this type of mental exhaustion on the regular, small lifestyle changes can help you overcome this frustratingly fuzzy thinking. Here are five ways to fight brain fog, according to science.

1. Sleep. Sleep. Sleep.

Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can have a profoundly negative impact on your cognitive health - leading to memory problems, sluggishness, and changing how your brain functions at a cellular level (yes, really). Since brain fog is sometimes caused by fatigue, one of the most assured ways to cure a serious case of brain fog is by getting a good night's rest. This means aiming to get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep every night.

What's more, if you like to take naps, give it a go and give your brain a break. However, try to limit your midday siesta to 20 minutes, since most experts agree napping for much longer than that can actually be detrimental to your health.

2. Change Your Diet To Include Brain-Boosting Foods

Looking to brain-gut connection can help explain brain fog. In fact, research has shown there's a bilateral connection between your digestive health and mental health - meaning, if the healthy bacteria in your gut aren't happy, your brain probably won't be either (and vice versa). Try writing down your food intake along with your symptoms and note if any particular foods are associated with lower mental acuity.

3. While You're At It, Take Prebiotics and Probiotics

Since gut health can impact cognitive functioning, you can improve the microbiome with diet, probiotics, and prebiotics if you want to beat brain fog. Both prebiotics (aka, high-fiber foods that healthy gut bacteria feed on) and probiotics are naturally found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods you can get from Dr. Diana at your next visit. Or schedule an appointment by calling or texting (602) 524-0222.

4. De-stress Your Life With Self-Care

Stress or anxiety can be a cause of brain fog. So prioritizing self-care is essential to beating mental fatigue. Meditation, taking a hot bath, and developing other healthy coping skills will help improve your mental health, and by extension, your brain fog. Even if you have a busy schedule, finding time for a few moments of mindfulness can be key: In fact, as some research reports that just ten minutes of mindful meditation a day improved cognitive function.

5. Exercise

Sometimes the best way to clear your mind is by moving your body. According to research, the benefits of exercise come directly from its ability to reduce insulin resistance, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the release of growth-factors - chemicals in the brain that affect the health of brain cells, the growth of new blood vessels in the brain, and even the abundance and survival of new brain cells. What's more, another study discovered that exercise can improve thinking skills in people as young as 20.

You don't need to do high intensity workouts, or go for a five-mile run everyday: Sometimes as simple as a brisk walk, or a short yoga session on your lunch break can do the trick.

When you are experiencing brain fog, finding the motivation to do some of these activities may be difficult in the moment. However, your brain will thank you for taking the time to slow down, and smell the metaphorical roses. Brain fog is definitely frustrating, but by adopting a few lifestyle changes, and scheduling an appointment with Dr. Diana, you can give yourself the boost you need to beat the mental exhaustion.

Schedule an appointment today.

CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222

Be Good to Your Brain

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 05:59:37 GMT

So what can you do for your brain? Plenty. kids friendly blog

How do you remember the way to your friend's house? Why do your eyes blink without you ever thinking about it? Where do dreams come from? Your brain is in charge of these things and a lot more.

In fact, your brain is the boss of your body. It runs the show and controls just about everything you do, even when you're asleep. Not bad for something that looks like a big gray wrinkly sponge.

Your brain has many different parts that work together. We're going to talk about these five parts, which are key players on the brain team:

cerebrum (say: suh-REE-brum)
cerebellum (say: sair-uh-BELL-um)
brain stem
pituitary (say: puh-TOO-uh-ter-ee) gland
hypothalamus (say: hy-po-THAL-uh-mus)

The Biggest Part: the Cerebrum

The biggest part of the brain is the cerebrum. The cerebrum is the thinking part of the brain and it controls your voluntary muscles — the ones that move when you want them to. So you need your cerebrum to dance or kick a soccer ball.

You need your cerebrum to solve math problems, figure out a video game, and draw a picture. Your memory lives in the cerebrum — both short-term memory (what you ate for dinner last night) and long-term memory (the name of that roller-coaster you rode on two summers ago). The cerebrum also helps you reason, like when you figure out that you'd better do your homework now because your mom is taking you to a movie later.

The cerebrum has two halves, with one on either side of the head. Scientists think that the right half helps you think about abstract things like music, colors, and shapes. The left half is said to be more analytical, helping you with math, logic, and speech. Scientists do know for sure that the right half of the cerebrum controls the left side of your body, and the left half controls the right side.

The Cerebellum's Balancing Act

Next up is the cerebellum. The cerebellum is at the back of the brain, below the cerebrum. It's a lot smaller than the cerebrum. But it's a very important part of the brain. It controls balance, movement, and coordination (how your muscles work together).

Because of your cerebellum, you can stand upright, keep your balance, and move around. Think about a surfer riding the waves on his board. What does he need most to stay balanced? The best surfboard? The coolest wetsuit? Nope — he needs his cerebellum!

Brain Stem Keeps You Breathing — and More

Another brain part that's small but mighty is the brain stem. The brain stem sits beneath the cerebrum and in front of the cerebellum. It connects the rest of the brain to the spinal cord, which runs down your neck and back. The brain stem is in charge of all the functions your body needs to stay alive, like breathing air, digesting food, and circulating blood.

Part of the brain stem's job is to control your involuntary muscles — the ones that work automatically, without you even thinking about it. There are involuntary muscles in the heart and stomach, and it's the brain stem that tells your heart to pump more blood when you're biking or your stomach to start digesting your lunch. The brain stem also sorts through the millions of messages that the brain and the rest of the body send back and forth. Whew! It's a big job being the brain's secretary!

Pituitary Gland Controls Growth

The pituitary gland is very small — only about the size of a pea! Its job is to produce and release hormones into your body. If your clothes from last year are too small, it's because your pituitary gland released special hormones that made you grow. This gland is a big player in puberty too. This is the time when boys' and girls' bodies go through major changes as they slowly become men and women, all thanks to hormones released by the pituitary gland.

This little gland also plays a role with lots of other hormones, like ones that control the amount of sugars and water in your body.

Hypothalamus Controls Temperature

The hypothalamus is like your brain's inner thermostat (that little box on the wall that controls the heat in your house). The hypothalamus knows what temperature your body should be (about 98.6°F or 37°C). If your body is too hot, the hypothalamus tells it to sweat. If you're too cold, the hypothalamus gets you shivering. Both shivering and sweating are attempts to get your body's temperature back where it needs to be.

You Have Some Nerve!

So the brain is boss, but it can't do it alone. It needs some nerves — actually a lot of them. And it needs the spinal cord, which is a long bundle of nerves inside your spinal column, the vertebrae that protect it. It's the spinal cord and nerves — known as the nervous system — that let messages flow back and forth between the brain and body.

If a spiky cactus falls off a shelf headed right for your best friend, your nerves and brain communicate so that you jump up and yell for your friend to get out of the way. If you're really good, maybe you're able to catch the plant before it hits your friend!

The nervous system is made up of millions and millions of neurons (say: NUR-onz), which are microscopic cells. Each neuron has tiny branches coming off it that let it connect to many other neurons.

When you learn things, the messages travel from one neuron to another, over and over. Eventually, the brain starts to create connections (or pathways) between the neurons, so things become easier and you can do them better and better.

Think back to the first time you rode a bike. Your brain had to think about pedaling, staying balanced, steering with the handlebars, watching the road, and maybe even hitting the brakes — all at once. Hard work, right? But eventually, as you got more practice, the neurons sent messages back and forth until a pathway was created in your brain. Now you can ride your bike without thinking about it because the neurons have successfully created a "bike riding" pathway.

Emotion Location

With all the other things it does, is it any surprise that the brain runs your emotions? Maybe you had fun on your birthday and you were really happy. Or your friend is sick and you feel sad. Or your little brother messed up your room, so you're really angry! Where do those feelings come from? Your brain, of course.

Your brain has a little bunch of cells on each side called the amygdala (say: uh-MIG-duh-luh). The word amygdala is Latin for almond, and that's what this area looks like. Scientists believe that the amygdala is responsible for emotion. It's normal to feel all different kinds of emotions, good and bad. Sometimes you might feel a little sad, and other times you might feel scared, or silly, or glad.

Incorporate the following to improve your brain health and overall wellness:

Eat healthy foods. They contain vitamins and minerals that are important for the nervous system.
Get a lot of playtime (exercise).
Wear a helmet when you ride your bike or play other sports that require head protection.
Don't drink alcohol, take drugs, or use tobacco.
Use your brain by doing challenging activities, such as puzzles, reading, playing music, making art, or anything else that gives your brain a workout!

��Chiropractic ��Acupuncture ��Applied Kinesiology ��Neurofeedback ��Nutritional Therapy ��Cold Laser ��Ion Detox

Schedule an appointment today. ✉️: info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

CALL or TEXT��: (602) 524-0222

Chiropractic Care + Your Nervous System

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 20:59:18 GMT

Chiropractic care was developed in the 1800s based on the remarkable outcomes that spinal adjustments had on the body as a whole, and especially on the positive impact it could have on the functioning of the nervous system. The nervous system coordinates actions through the transmission of signals throughout the body. It serves as an inner communication tool, as it provides information to the brain and guides the body to react accordingly and appropriately.

Everything that we do is determined by what is happening in the nervous system. It is accountable for the way in which we experience senses, taste, smell, touch, sound and sight; our movements and the functioning of our organs is also regulated by our nervous system, as it is the control center of the body.

Interested in learning more about the benefits chiropractic care can have on your nervous system? Dr. Diana is a family chiropractor based in Phoenix Arizona, with excellent tips on improving the way your mind and body feels through 'turning on' your nervous system, so that it can properly communicate to the brain. She is not only dedicated to the health of your spine, but your overall wellness, too!

When chiropractic adjustments are performed, they are affecting the nervous system. For example, by removing subluxations, which cause interferences in the nervous system, chiropractors are altering how the brain communicates with the other parts of the body. Spinal subluxations are slight misalignments inside the spine that might compress spinal nerves, which could lead to a variety of illnesses.

Daniel David Palmer, also known as the father of chiropractic, believed that internal illness such as liver disease, developed due to a subluxation compressing the spinal nerve that leads to the liver. Therefore, he believed this could be cured through manipulation, by handwork that would ultimately relieve and fix any misalignments. While they're not curing any diseases through chiropractic adjustments, over time, research studies have found that chiropractic adjustments can create a positive effect on the overall body and nervous system, which might also lead to correcting nervous system dysfunction.

The central nervous system (Brain and spinal cord), communicates with the rest of the body parts via the nerves. The nerves run everywhere there is a vein or an artery in the body, and it is so important, that it is protected by bone, the skull and spine in particular. With this in mind, when you're thinking of Chiropractic care, such as adjustments and how they affect/work with the spine (which is what most people think) we're actually providing benefits to your body’s nervous system.

Chiropractic care can positively impact your nervous system, spine, brain and organ functioning, and can provide overall health and well-being benefits. To live your life fully aligned and feeling great, remember your regular chiropractic visits! Having an expert chiropractor on your side is the perfect way to help heal your body naturally and feel the benefits of moving your body, relieving tension almost immediately. At Dr. Diana's Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona in Phoenix, your health is in your hands, but our hands are here to help.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today! CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222

How Chiropractic Care can Help Children With ADHD

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 20:29:04 GMT

ADHD (Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) is characterized by an inability to pay attention to the present moment, the attention-related demands of other people, or to the demands of the educational environment. Children with ADHD also may suffer from hyperactivity and impulsivity.

A child with ADHD is more likely to have more problems in school and life than other children. They will also be more frustrated than they were before they attended school. The way these difficulties are handled can be very different from one school to another. In addition, many parents of ADHD children find it hard to get help. They may experience difficulty in finding satisfactory and effective chiropractic treatment. Although there is no cure for ADHD, as a parent of a child with ADHD, it’s natural to want to know more about what is causing your child’s condition and how it can be managed. Chiropractors, like Dr. Diana, can tell you what symptoms a child may be experiencing and may help you explore various chiropractic therapies that can alleviate the root causes of your child’s ADHD symptoms.

The following is a list of some of the common symptoms of ADHD:

Impulsivity
Inattentiveness
Lack of control
Hyperactivity

Other symptoms of ADHD common in children:

Impaired problem solving
Impaired social interactions
Impaired self-confidence
Difficulty focusing on tasks
Impaired memory
Difficulty learning new tasks
Lack of organizational skills
Impaired communication skills
Difficulty with follow-through
Decreased motivation
Difficulty staying engaged in school

Does chiropractic care help with ADHD?

In contrast to many other diseases, ADHD does not seem to respond well to treatment with medication. However, a study at Duke University Medical Center has shown that children who were treated by chiropractors during the school year showed significantly fewer ADHD symptoms compared to those who weren’t. These results indicate that there are some positive effects of chiropractic care for children with ADHD.

Chiropractic and ADHD

Chiropractic is one of the many health care options available to those with ADHD in Phoenix, Arizona. It is based on the idea that when a patient’s brain is functioning properly, they can be healthier than average. They may be able to avoid or reduce symptoms caused by problems with the nerves, blood vessels and muscles.

However be advised that the use of chiropractic care for ADHD is controversial, especially within the scientific community. However, in 2019 the American Academy of Pediatrics issued their most recent policy statement on the care of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder , stating that the care of children who exhibit the symptoms of ADHD should be a clinical decision.

Can a chiropractor help with a child’s behavior?

Children with ADHD have trouble controlling their behavior, but there is no one right answer. Chiropractic care can be a a type of behavioral counseling, and it can help your child manage their life better. Working together with Dr. Diana can vastly improve your child's behavior and life.

Can a chiropractor help a child with ADHD?

This care can certainly help children with ADHD. While chiropractic treatment will help a little, remember that the child will not be cured. Your child will probably need more than one treatment, but you should start to see an improvement after the first treatment.

What are the typical benefits of chiropractic treatment for children with ADHD?

Decrease in the frequency of falls and increased functional and communicative language skills.
Reduced self-harm behaviors
Reduced hospitalizations for behavioral problems
Reduced parental anxiety and negative attitudes toward children with ADHD
Reduced behavioral difficulties in schools
Improved communication in daily activities
Increased parental involvement in care and treatment of the child

Be advised that the overall effectiveness of chiropractic care for children with ADHD is difficult to determine. Because of the complexity of these syndromes and the wide variety of available treatment options, the research is limited.

Can chiropractic treatment help my own anxiety?

Many parents of children with ADHD suffer from stress, anxiety and exhaustion. Those in a clinical chiropractic program have lower levels of these problems and experience relief after undergoing chiropractic treatment. Don't just ask your chiropractor in the Phoenix, Arizona area if they have experience in handling ADHD. It’s also a good idea to see Dr. Diana t the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona for the treatment of your own depression or anxiety while your child’s ADHD is being helped.

Final words

The first step to getting help is to realize that you are not alone with a child with ADHD. Many people with a child with ADHD find that chiropractic therapy in the Phoenix/Arcadia/Scottsdale area improves their child’s attention and focus. If you’re not sure how to decide between chiropractic and other types of therapy, talk to a doctor about it.

To find out more about our program for ADHD patients and find out if we can help your child, please call (or text) us at (602) 524-0222 or fill out the contact form on our website.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Chiropractic Christmas

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 00:03:45 GMT

Celebrate this Christmas safely with these quick tips.

Your Arizona Chiropractor, Dr. Diana Mladenoff, is grateful to have had such a memorable year. We are surely looking forward to see what 2020 brings us and our patients. As the holiday season begins in full swing, we want to provide a few tips for a safe Christmas and New Year’s so that you can end your year on a healthy note.

Carrying Christmas Trees. When carrying a Christmas tree, lift with your legs and knees. Avoid lifting with your back which can lead to chronic lower back problems. If a tree is too heavy for one person, be sure to ask for help. Never carry more than what you are capable of, it can possibly damage your spine.

Don’t Sit Too Long. While sitting during holiday gatherings, don’t forget to get up and move your back and legs. Sitting down for long periods of time can strain your neck and can possibly cause herniated discs. Sit with a proper posture to avoid straining your body.

Stretch. Stretching can help improve your body’s flexibility and movement. Stretching encourages blood circulation to your body reducing the chances of suffering from chronic pain. Try to stretch when you get a moment of free time in between holiday parties or after waking up.

Engage Your Family. Ask your family to join you in your stretching exercises or when going on a short walk to avoid sitting too long. This will encourage them to reflect on their choices and how it’s possibly affecting their spine and overall body.

Eat Healthy. Foods rich in nutrients and healthy fats, which are good for brain health, should be present at the table. Eat foods like avocado, berries, walnuts, broccoli, pumpkin seeds, and turmeric.

Stay healthy and happy in 2020 & schedule a check-up & NEW PATIENT EVALUATION for you and your entire family. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

WHY SLEEP IS CRITICAL TO YOUR BRAIN HEALTH

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 22:18:33 GMT

Sleep keeps the brain healthy by clearing out toxins that naturally build up throughout the day.

Two types of cells, microglial cells and astrocytes, perform this cleaning process. During sleep, microglial cells help remove a toxic protein commonly found in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease patients called beta-amyloid. The astrocytes prune away unnecessary synapses and repair the brain’s neural wiring. However, the same process is activated when the body is deprived of sleep, but instead of only attacking toxins, microglial cells and astrocytes start attacking healthy, functioning tissues.

The effects of sleep deprivation

Even one night without sleep can wreak havoc on the brain. Duke University researchers compared individuals’ gambling decisions after a night of good sleep and after a sleepless night. They discovered that individuals who were kept from sleeping made riskier decisions, ones which favored betting large amounts of money regardless of potential losses. In other words, sleep deprivation increased sensitivity to positive rewards while diminishing sensitivity to negative consequences.

Casino owners have known this for years. A casino’s bright lights, loud noise, and lack of windows are designed to stop you from noticing the passage of time, thus keeping you at the tables long after you should be in bed.

Good sleep hygiene practices

Sleep requirements vary over the course of a lifetime, with the most hours of sleep needed in infancy and the fewest needed after the age of 65. Generally, adults should sleep between seven and nine hours a night, but individual requirements vary by health status and activity level.

If you’re having trouble getting a good night’s sleep, consider the following good sleep hygiene practices :

Limit napping to 20 minutes.
Avoid caffeine and nicotine close to bedtime.
Exercise! But not too close to bedtime.
Stay clear of foods that might trigger indigestion right before bed. Generally, you should quit eating three hours before bedtime.
Make sure you get enough sunlight during the day to keep your internal clock in-check.
Try to keep a regular sleep routine — this helps the body know it’s time to sleep.
Keep your environment pleasant. Make sure your environment matches your needs; optimal sleeping temperature is between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit, consider investing in blackout curtains, and wear earplugs if you’re easily woken by noises.

Today, our lives are busier than ever, but it’s important to get enough sleep. In order to keep the brain healthy, it needs time to rest and rejuvenate.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today and see how the Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona can help you sleep better tomorrow.

Call or text (602) 524-0222 to schedule an appointment.

Avoid Cold, Flu and Virus Symptoms

Sat, 30 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Do you want to stay well during the cold and flu season?

Cold, Flu and Virus Symptoms

Typically, the cold and flu season arrives in the United States around October and tends to stay until May, peaking between December and February. Some years are worse than other years, in terms of number of people affected and the severity of the illness.

Cold vs. Flu, What's the Difference?

The common cold and the flu (influenza) often share many of the same symptoms, so it can be difficult to tell them apart. The flu is generally worse than the common cold, and those suffering from the flu will typically have symptoms such as fever, body aches, fatigue and dry cough. Symptoms for the common cold are usually runny nose, congestion and sneezing. Both conditions are common, contagious, short-term and typically self-treatable.

High-Risk Flu Patients

Young children, elderly, pregnant women and those with chronic disease or a weakened immune system are considered high-risk for influenza and complications, and they should consult their doctor if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms.

Understanding Viral vs. Bacterial Infections

Bacteria are typically harmless and at times even helpful, while most viruses cause disease. Viruses hijack your normal cells and use them to multiply. Some common viruses are cold and flu—these types of infections cannot be treated through use of antibiotics.

Some common bacterial infections are strep throat and urinary tract infections. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, but as antibiotic usage has become widespread, some strains of bacteria are becoming antibiotic-resistant. This poses certain risks and indicates that use should be limited. Other common infections like pneumonia, ear infections and sinusitis, can be bacterial or viral.

Treating Cold and Flu Symptoms

Many people turn to over-the-counter medications to mask the symptoms of the cold and flu, but often these medications come with other side effects and may or may not relieve the symptoms.

The Lymphatic System, the Central Nervous System and Chiropractic

One of the critical systems of the body is the lymphatic system, which is a network of organs, lymph nodes, lymph ducts and lymph vessels that move lymph (clear/white fluid made of white blood cells and chyle) from tissues to the bloodstream. This system is a major and important part of the immune system; the lymph nodes of the body (people have between 501 and 700 lymph nodes) make immune cells to help fight infection.

Lymph is transported throughout the body by the musculoskeletal system; to put it simply, it's transported through the motions and contractions of the muscles. We also know through a study published in Nature in June of 2015 that the central nervous system (the brain and the spinal cord) is connected to the lymphatic system.

These connections between the musculoskeletal system, central nervous system (the brain and the spinal cord) and lymphatic system help to explain how a chiropractic adjustment can improve the function of the immune system. The chiropractic adjustment removes subluxations in the spine, which occur when a vertebrae or vertebras move out of position and can prevent proper communication within the central nervous system. Subluxations can also thwart movement in the musculoskeletal system.

Prepare for the flu, colds, and viruses and schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today.

Make an appointment by calling or texting: (602) 524-0222 to talk to Dr. Diana about chiropractic and cold, flu and virus symptoms.

Benefits of Infant Chiropractic Care and Signs That Your Baby Needs It

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 01:22:09 GMT

You probably know when you need a chiropractic adjustment - whether it’s back pain, frequent headaches, or fatigue and lack of focus. Adults recognize the reliable signs that their body is out of balance, but babies can’t tell you what’s bothering them when they’re uncomfortable. Even though they can’t communicate it, being in alignment is vital for babies. Misalignments are compounded as their little bodies grow, while a spine that is properly adjusted gives them the best opportunity at healthy development. Besides your own intuition about your baby, there are some baby conditions that yearn for the benefits of infant chiropractic care. Here are a few things to watch for.

Colic

Babies with colic cry relentlessly, and usually seem to have abdominal pain. It’s often described as being untreatable, and babies simply suffer through it until they grow out of it. However, chiropractic care for babies with this condition has been shown to reduce the symptoms of colic in as many as 94% of babies. Because doctors are unsure of what causes colic, it’s hard to tell exactly how treatment helps, but it’s equally as hard to deny the benefits of infant chiropractic care in this scenario. It may be just one of the many benefits of a nervous system working in harmony with the body.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD, is a common problem among infants. Babies with this condition spit up a lot, and the acid that leaks from their stomach into their esophagus causes considerable pain. The conventional treatment is to prescribe acid blockers, which may reduce symptoms but do nothing to address the underlying problem. Chiropractic care for babies has shown that the source of the problem is often a misaligned spine putting unnecessary pressure on the diaphragm and upsetting the balance of the digestive system. With this underlying issue, one of the benefits of infant chiropractic care is the relief of that pressure, and this approach has been known to reduce symptoms in as few as four treatments.

Breastfeeding Problems

A number of studies have looked into how chiropractic care helps babies overcome breastfeeding difficulties. There are quite a few benefits of infant chiropractic care that can affect the movement of the neck, jaw, and shoulder to help babies latch and feed better. In fact, one study showed that 100% of babies who were treated by a chiropractor had an improved latch, and the overall stress of feeding for both mother and baby was reduced by 84%.

Irritable Infant Syndrome

Sometimes there doesn’t seem to be any reason for a baby’s fussiness. When doctors can’t explain a baby’s irritability, mysterious crying, and trouble sleeping, they use this catch-all term. And, yet, even with this fuzzy diagnosis, infant chiropractic care has been shown to reduce babies’ symptoms. It may be that this “syndrome” is simply the result of a developmental struggle, and the proper adjustments help restore balance to baby’s immature nervous system.

Special Needs

Babies with special needs often have physical problems other than their primary diagnosis. These medically fragile infants need even more support to grow as strong and healthy as possible. Case studies show that chiropractic care for babies with special needs such as Down Syndrome and cystic fibrosis has helped these little ones to reach developmental milestones. One of the less-known benefits of infant chiropractic care is its impact on sensorimotor integration that is often a problem for children on the autism spectrum. While being properly aligned isn’t going to eliminate all the challenges babies with special needs face, it is an effective and gentle way to help them be their strongest, healthiest selves.

When a baby isn’t feeling their best, it can be hard to figure out what’s bothering them. Whether you know exactly what the problem is or not, a gentle adjustment might be just the thing your baby is crying for. These are just a few of the benefits chiropractic care can have on your baby’s body and balance to feel better and stay well.

Dr. Diana specializes in pediatric chiropractic care. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today. Call or text (602) 524-0222.

Resources: View full article here.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S155083071100036X
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2597889/
https://search.informit.com.au/documentSummary;dn=773947335919944;res=IELHEA
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1556370711000952 rel=”nofollow”
search.informit.com.au
http://tapingbase.nl/sites/default/files/level_5_chiropractic_adjustments_plus_massage_and_kinesio_taping_in_the_care_of_an_infant_with_gastroesophageal_reflux_0.pdf#page=25
http://jccponline.com/jccp_v12_n2.pdf#page=34
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1550830711002308″

5 Conditions Chiropractic Care Can Improve During Pregnancy

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 00:15:20 GMT

A recent study found that more than 75 percent of pregnant women experience pregnancy-related low back pain, pelvic pain, or a combination; and that this pain increases as pregnancy progresses. Chiropractic care is a safe, effective, and drug-free way to manage these and other musculoskeletal symptoms during pregnancy.

Normal biomechanical changes during this time can result in discomfort and pain during pregnancy and labor. These changes include weight gain, anterior shift in center of gravity, increased lumbar lordosis, and laxity of lumbopelvic ligaments; as well as postural changes and altered gait pattern. Many obstetric providers are unaware that the resulting musculoskeletal conditions and their related symptoms can be managed and improved with chiropractic care and patient education. Following are some of the musculoskeletal conditions that occur:

Low Back Pain

Low back pain during pregnancy is caused by increased stress on the lumbar spine by an anterior shift in center of gravity. Compensatory muscle tightness and altered gait patterns also contribute, and this pain ranges from mild to severe depending on the patient’s activity level, daily activities and work duties.2,6 Low back pain is also very common during the postpartum period.7

Sciatic Nerve Pain

Hypertonicity in the gluteal muscles and deep external rotators can irritate or compress the sciatic nerve during pregnancy. Some studies suggest the baby’s growth contributes to uterine pressure on supporting vasculature or direct compression of the sciatic nerve, which results in low back pain with radiation into the legs.8

Sacroiliac Pain

Ligament laxity caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy allows these traditionally stable and primarily weight-bearing sacroiliac joints to move and shift. This increased mobility puts stress on the surrounding ligaments and muscles, which may cause pain. Patients sometimes incorrectly describe their discomfort as “hip pain,” however they indicate the sacroiliac joint as the area of complaint.

Pubic Symphysis Pain

During pregnancy, the hormone Relaxin allows the ligaments stabilizing the pubic symphysis joint to relax, and therefore allows the joint to move and separate. Also called Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction, or SPD, this condition produces pain and limitation of mobility. It also may contribute to instability of the bony pelvis.

Round Ligament Pain

The round ligaments of the uterus contain contractile fibers, and suspend and connect it to the anterolateral abdominal wall on either side. As the uterus grows, the round ligaments also stretch and can cause a sharp pain on either side of the abdomen or at the attachment sites of the ligaments near the pubic bones or labia.

While there are no direct contraindications to chiropractic care during pregnancy, knowing the patient-reported warning symptoms of potentially serious prenatal complications and timely communication with the patient’s obstetric/midwifery prenatal care provider is very important. These symptoms include:

Vaginal spotting, bleeding, or fluid loss
Persistent and/or uncontrolled high-blood pressure
Swelling or pitting edema in the hands, legs, feet
Sudden, severe headache(s)

Chiropractic care and patient education as part of a comprehensive prenatal care team has been shown to hold greater benefit for pregnant patients then traditional obstetric care alone. Educating these patients as a part of their treatment plan helps inform and empower them to better understand what is happening within their bodies, as well as allows them to better communicate this information with the providers of their prenatal care team during pregnancy, birth and postpartum.

Source: acatoday.com

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today. Call or text: (602) 524-0222 or email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

Pre- & Postnatal Care

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 03:12:14 GMT

What is prenatal care?

Prenatal care is the health care you get while you are pregnant. Take care of yourself and your baby by:

Getting early prenatal care. If you know you're pregnant, or think you might be, call your doctor to schedule a visit.
Getting regular prenatal care. Your doctor will schedule you for many checkups over the course of your pregnancy. Don't miss any — they are all important.
Following your doctor's advice.

Why do I need prenatal care?

Prenatal care can help keep you and your baby healthy. Babies of mothers who do not get prenatal care are three times more likely to have a low birth weight and five times more likely to die than those born to mothers who do get care.

Doctors can spot health problems early when they see mothers regularly. This allows doctors to treat them early. Early treatment can cure many problems and prevent others. Doctors also can talk to pregnant women about things they can do to give their unborn babies a healthy start to life.

I am thinking about getting pregnant. How can I take care of myself?

You should start taking care of yourself before you start trying to get pregnant. This is called preconception health. It means knowing how health conditions and risk factors could affect you or your unborn baby if you become pregnant. For example, some foods, habits, and medicines can harm your baby — even before he or she is conceived. Some health problems also can affect pregnancy.

Talk to your doctor before pregnancy to learn what you can do to prepare your body. Women should prepare for pregnancy before becoming sexually active. Ideally, women should give themselves at least 3 months to prepare before getting pregnant.

The five most important things you can do before becoming pregnant are:

Take 400 to 800 micrograms (400 to 800 mcg or 0.4 to 0.8 mg) of folic acid every day for at least 3 months before getting pregnant to lower your risk of some birth defects of the brain and spine. You can get folic acid from some foods. But it's hard to get all the folic acid you need from foods alone. Taking a vitamin with folic acid is the best and easiest way to be sure you're getting enough.
Stop smoking and drinking alcohol. Ask your doctor for help.
If you have a medical condition, be sure it is under control. Some conditions include asthma , diabetes , depression , high blood pressure , obesity , thyroid disease, or epilepsy . Be sure your vaccinations are up to date.
Talk to your doctor about any over-the-counter and prescription medicines you are using. These include dietary or herbal supplements. Some medicines are not safe during pregnancy. At the same time, stopping medicines you need also can be harmful.
Avoid contact with toxic substances or materials at work and at home that could be harmful. Stay away from chemicals and cat or rodent feces.

Contact our office today to schedule an appointment. info@mladenoffclinicaz.com
(602) 524-0222

Chiropractic Care & Pregnancy

Tue, 27 Aug 2019 17:41:27 GMT

Are your aches and pains growing alongside your baby bump? Or maybe you worry about how your body will be able to withstand the rigors of labor.Chiropractic care with Dr. Diana can help press the reset button on your body, alleviating pain, strengthening your nervous system, and contributing to the overall health of you and your little one.

Why Pregnant Women Should See a Chiropractor

During your pregnancy, you will experience many changes to your body that can lead to discomfort, including severe back and pelvic pain. You may also notice other physical, emotional, and mental changes that can be overwhelming.

The following conditions in pregnant women are commonly treated by chiropractors.

1. Back Pain

Your big belly is a joyous symbol that your little one is growing well. However, your protruding belly may also cause back pain. There are a number of reasons for this.

Have you ever heard of the pregnancy waddle? It’s a real thing and the most common reason for back pain.

You lean backwards as your center of gravity changes. You bend your knees less and splay your hips out more ( source ). All of this means your body is no longer maintaining a healthy posture, which can lead to some serious back strain.

You may also experience back pain due to ( source ):

Weight gain.
Hormone changes.
Stress .

2. Pelvic Pain

Your pelvis is the large bone structure located at the bottom of your spine. The pelvis supports your trunk and connects your trunk to your legs. It also supports many of your internal organs ( source ).

While pressure on your pelvic region is normal, some women may experience a condition known as symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD). It is also known as pelvic girdle pain.

SPD occurs when the hormones meant to prepare your body for delivery work a little too well, causing the ligaments in your pelvis to become relaxed ( source ). Your pelvis is held in place by these ligaments and, if they become too stretchy, your pelvis can become misaligned.

This, in turn, can cause serious pelvic pain.

3. Sciatica

Your sciatic nerve is formed by the lower spinal nerves runs through your lower back and through your hip and buttocks ( source ). When the nerve becomes compressed, which can occur during pregnancy because of prolonged sitting or postural misalignment, you can experience inflammation, numbness, and pain.

In most people, sciatic pain is the result of a bulging or herniated disk ( source ). This is rare in pregnant women, but if your pain is severe you may want to check it out further.

What To Look For In A Chiropractor

It is so important you find a chiropractor with the right certifications and training to ensure they treat you with the highest quality of care. Contact Dr. Diana today! Call or text for an appointment (602) 524-0222.

The Benefits of Acupuncture

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 23:36:48 GMT

Acupuncture has been used for more than 2,500 years. It decreases inflammation and increases blood flow, which helps alleviate chronic pain of all kinds: headaches, joint pain, muscle pain, and more. Experience relief without the side effects of treatments like surgery and prescription medications.

Acupuncture is a health science used to successfully decrease pain and improve function in the body by restoring harmony to yin and yang and balancing the Qi of the body.

Acupuncture treats a wide range of conditions, including:

Chronic and Acute Pain
It is estimated that over 100 million Americans suffer from chronic pain (pain lasting for more than three months) with low back, mid back, upper back, hip, shoulder, knee, elbow and joint pain being the most common complaints. Studies have shown that acupuncture helps alleviate chronic pain and it comes without the side effects of more common treatments like surgery and prescription medications. The process increases blood flow and triggers the release of the body’s internal chemicals such as endorphins and enkephalins, which have pain-relieving properties. Acupuncture can help manage chronic pain and related disability associated with back pain, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, neck pain, and severe headaches or migraines.

The Archives of Internal Medicine has documented research compiled by international experts spanning 29 studies and 18,000 participants. The results of these controlled studies concluded that acupuncture relieved common forms of pain up to 50%. In addition, there is less risk associated with acupuncture treatments compared to prescription medications.

Worldwide, 1.5 billion people suffer from chronic pain. Drugs are often prescribed as a first-line treatment, yet only 23% of patients with chronic pain find opioids effective. Acupuncture is an effective, evidence-based, safe, cost-effective, and available treatment modality to treat chronic pain

Stress & Anxiety
Stress has become part of everyday life and when unchecked it can lead to more serious concerns. Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health conditions in the United States. It’s estimated that 40 million adults ages 18 and older, or 18 percent of the country’s population, have an anxiety disorder. Acupuncture has been proven to reduce stress, preventing the onset of several chronic conditions including anxiety, head and neck pain, weight gain, and insomnia. Acupuncture provides a safe and effective option for those seeking a natural approach to the treatment of stress and anxiety related symptoms.

Sports Injuries
Acupuncture has been proven to accelerate the healing of several types of sports injuries such as sprains, strains and spasms. It relieves pain, decreases inflammation, and increases blood flow resulting in quicker recovery and enhanced performance.

Allergies & Respritatory
Studies have shown that acupuncture decreases the symptoms of seasonal allergies such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy and watering eyes. Many patients report relief during their first visit, and ongoing treatments enhance the benefits and keep symptoms at bay. NCBI – National Institutes of Health.

Insomnia, Sleep & Depression
Insomnia and depression are often linked and can be a result of chronic stress. The WHO estimates that more than 300 million people worldwide suffer from depression. It’s also the world’s leading cause of disability. Acupuncture treatment is associated with an increase in the level of neurobiologically active substances, such as endorphins and enkephalins. There are also data indicating that acupuncture induces the release of norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. In addition, a meta-analysis of research regarding the use of acupuncture for insomnia indicates that it is an effective treatment method. Additionally, acupuncture is a holistic medicine, treating not only the symptoms but also the primary cause without medication.

Migraines & Headaches
The Journal of the American Medical Association recently published a study showing that acupuncture helped reduce the frequency of migraines in participants who were chronic sufferers. Acupuncture offers a more natural approach to migraines and headaches without the side effects that often accompany medication.

Digestive Disorders
Acupuncture is widely recognized as an effective treatment for many digestive ailments including nausea, vomiting, heartburn and stomach pain. Preliminary studies show that it may also be an option for treating chronic constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease. Acupuncture works by rebalancing the endocrine system and assists the body in optimizing digestion. Both the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) support Acupuncture in the treatment of various digestive disorders based on Randomized Controlled Trials.

Relaxation
Acupuncture promotes deep relaxation by activating the body’s parasympathetic nervous system or “rest, digest and recover” functions. Reaching this state is essential to restoring and maintaining health. That is why regular acupuncture (at least 2x/month) is always recommended.

Personalized Treatments Plans: Treatment as unique as YOU

We believe that acupuncture should be a convenient and approachable part of everyday life.

Schedule an appointment, CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222

Source: Modern Acupuncture Read the full article here.

Top 5 Reasons To Take Your Child To The Chiropractor

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 17:23:16 GMT

Why Do Your Children Need To See A Pediatric Chiropractor?

I am constantly getting asked why are so many parents taking their children to a certified pediatric chiropractor. I tell them the answer is simple, children have spines and a nervous system just like adults and we want to make sure they are taking good care of it especially during the developmental years.

The Nervous System Controls Everything

The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal cord. From the spinal cord are nerves that go to every organ, gland, tissue, muscle and cell of the body. The nervous system is set up much like a big fuse box, and if there is a “blown fuse” a child could react with constipation, colic, bed wetting, ear infections, torticollis, fussiness, trouble sleeping, reflux and so on. Pediatric chiropractors can help with many childhood conditions, but our focus is not on treating disease or disorders. Quite the opposite, our focus is on allowing the nervous system to function without interference or to remove the “blown fuse” known as a Subluxation .

How Do You Want Your Tree To Grow?

The integrity and function of the nervous system is very important for proper growth and development, especially for children. So, it is very important that the spine, which protects the nervous system, is moving properly and in proper alignment. If the spine is misaligned it will cause a “blown fuse” and lead to many health issues. Think about a tree that is growing in your back yard. We want that tree to grow nice and straight so it can be strong and as healthy as possible. If we help the tree grow correctly from early on, it is much easier then to try and correct a tree that has grown “crooked” for 20 years. The idea is that by being proactive with children and allowing their spine and nervous system to grow properly early on we are preventing issues and the need to correct spinal misalignments later on in life.

How Do Children Get “Blown Fuses”?

Children unfortunately are over stressed much more than ever before. The trauma that they encounter at an early age or even before they are born such as intrauterine constraints, birth trauma, malpositioning (breech), c-section, birth intervention (forceps/vacuum suction) and even falls are enough force to shift the spine out of alignment. Furthermore, a child that encounters chemical stress (vaccines, antibiotics, medication, diet) and emotional stress (fear) will also cause a protective (fight/flight) response or tension within the musculature that supports the spine. These tense muscles can also misalign the spine and cause Subluxation .

Bottom line: When a child has been through trauma and the spine becomes misaligned and Subluxated (blown fuse) it needs to be corrected with safe and effective chiropractic adjustments. If the “blown fuse” is not removed, the spine will continue to grow “crooked” and the Subluxation will continue to cause health challenges such as constipation, colic, bed wetting, ear infections, torticollis, fussiness, trouble sleeping, reflux. Later on in life it can create trouble with focus, behavior, mood, hyperactivity, digestion, asthma, allergies, headaches and sensory integration.

Top 5 Reasons To Take Your Child To A Chiropractor

To promote proper growth and development and to limit health challenges such as issues with nursing and reflux.
To allow a child’s nervous system and spine to grow optimally and without interference. To reduce ear infections, bed wetting, asthma and allergies.
To improve a child’s immune system and digestive health and to limit colic and constipation.
To encourage nerve and brain development (neural plasticity). To promote proper perception and awareness preventing labels such as ADHD, Sensory Integration Disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
To be proactive about your child’s overall health and wellbeing which will limit and support them through colds and infections and allow them to meet their optimal potential.

The health and happiness of your child is the most important thing. Chiropractic care has been proven to be safe and effective at improving the wellbeing and happiness of children.

Just start talking to other mothers and families that have seen the benefits of chiropractic care. The positive results are endless.

Chiropractic care along with proper lifestyle choices are the foundation for proper growth, development, health and happiness.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today. CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222.

Source: Read the full article here.

The Importance of Gut Health

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 17:54:25 GMT

The main drivers of gut health change are shifts in stomach acid, gut immunity and gastrointestinal flora—the complex ecosystem of bacteria in your digestive system. When gut health is good, you're less likely to experience damaging inflammation and lapses in immunity.

2-6 pounds. That’s how much bacteria is in our bodies. Although that number might seem high, the fact of the matter is that the vast majority of our bodily function is controlled or influenced by the bacteria that makes up our microbiome. Bacteria might get a bad rap because it can make us sick, but the vast majority of bacteria in our bodies is actually beneficial and necessary for staying healthy! [1] Curious about what you can do to ensure your gut stays healthy and strong? We have 5 easy tips!

Don’t Kill the Bacteria! Over the past decade we’ve become a bit germ obsessed. It seems like almost everyone carries around a little bottle of anti-bacterial gel nowadays. The problem with using anti-bacterial gels and creams, and even abusing antibiotics, is that while these things do kill the bad bacteria, they also kill the good bacteria. Our bodies need good bacteria to function properly so using these products minimally is your best bet.

Keep Your Diet Clean: Processed carbohydrates and excess sugars have been shown to cause an imbalance in the gut. If you struggle with digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea or stomach aches you might also want to consider avoiding things like dairy, gluten and grains as these can be hard to digest and may negatively affect your gut health. Stick with whole, unprocessed foods and you will be supporting your microbiome! [2]

Supplement: Sometimes a healthy diet isn’t enough and we need to support our gut health with supplements. Mladenoff Clinic of Arizona offers a wide range of gut healthy supplements that you can implement when your diet alone doesn't give you enough nutrients. Ask Dr. Diana today about supplements.

Eat Fermented Foods: Fermented foods like sauerkraut, pickles, kimchi, yogurt and kombucha are rich in probiotics. In addition to taking a probiotic supplement, including at least one of these foods into your diet on a daily basis can help keep your gut functioning properly. Bone broth, although not fermented, is another great option to support gut health. [2]

Avoid Stress & Get Enough Sleep: Our bodies’ different systems work in symbiosis with one another. New research has shown that gut health can be negatively affected when other aspects of our bodies aren’t functioning properly. For example, a lack of sleep or a particularly stressful time can negatively affect our gut health. To support not just our microbiome but also our hormones, lymphatic system, etc., it is important to treat our bodies well across the board. [3]

Improve your gut health with Dr. Diana and schedule an appointment today. Call or Text (602) 524-0222.

Source: Amazing Grass . com Click here to view the full article.

[1] “NIH Human Microbiome Project defines normal bacterial makeup of the body”. National Institutes of Health . 13 June 2012. Web. 3 August 2016.

[2] Perlmutter, David. “8 Tips to Reset Your Gut & Optimize Brain Health”. Mind Body Green . 28 April 2015. Web. 3 August 2016.

[3] Breus, Michael. “Unlocking the Sleep Gut Connection” The Huffington Post . 13 January 2016. Web. 3 August 2016.

Patient Testimonial

Wed, 24 Jul 2019 04:03:04 GMT

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Kids and Chiropractic Care: 8 Times Your Child May Benefit From Chiropractic Adjustment

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 18:21:27 GMT

Have you considered taking your child to see a chiropractor? Children of all ages are commonly treated to chiropractic adjustments for various reasons, resulting in major benefits for their physical well-being. Here are 8 times kids and chiropractic care go hand in hand.

With alternative medicine practices on the rise, more and more people are taking their health into their own hands. Along with yoga and tai chi, chiropractic care is one of the most popular non-traditional health practices for children to try.

Chiropractic care is especially beneficial for children with chronic health conditions like allergies and asthma. One of the main draws of kids and chiropractic manipulation is that it is a more natural approach that does not involve the use of medications.

If you're interested in learning more about this safe and gentle treatment of the spine and nervous system, we've got some great information to share below.

Kids and Chiropractic Care: Eight Great Benefits

Chiropractic care isn't just for adults. In fact, there are numerous reasons, like a drug-free approach, to take your child to a chiropractor. Continue reading for the eight best health benefits your child can experience.

1. Improved Sleep Quality

One of the most important qualities of healthy childhood habits is getting a full night's sleep. But for the nearly 30% of children who experience sleep disorders like sleepwalking, sleep apnea, insomnia, and night terrors, it's an ongoing challenge.

But with the help of a chiropractor, sleep issues can be vastly improved. Gentle massage and spinal adjustments are the ideal treatments to help your child feel more relaxed. In turn, this relaxed state helps them get a better night's sleep.

2. Calms Colic

A baby who cries several hours a day can make many new parents feel helpless. Infants who suffer from bouts of colic often cry for up to three hours a day. Symptoms emerge around six weeks of age, then disappear by four months.

But with nearly 15 percent of newborn babies being diagnosed with colic, the common condition is actually very treatable. Chiropractic is a safe and natural way to ease colic symptoms and reduce the amount of crying by 50 percent . The long-term benefits of chiropractic care to treat infant colic, such as fewer incidences of waking up at night and temper tantrums, were also documented.

3. Sports Injuries and Improved Performance

Any parent of a child who plays baseball, basketball, gymnastics, or any other sport, knows how easy it is for sports injuries to happen. Something as simple as a tumble into home base can have major potential for long-term issues down the road. But with the help of a great chiropractor, your child's injuries can be helped.

With regular treatment and the practice of a few simple stretching techniques, they'll be on the mend in no time. And for kids who want to improve their game, chiropractic manipulation can help too! A study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Research and Clinical Investigation reported that in just 12 weeks, athletes who were under chiropractic care improved their agility, balance, kinesthetic perception, power, and reaction time by 30 percent.

4. Headache Buster

Whether it's a cold, a bump on the noggin, or an earache, when your child gets a headache, you want to help make it stop. But medication isn't always the answer, especially if your little one has allergies.

Because 95 percent of headaches are caused by muscle tension in the back or neck, spinal manipulation and adjustments can help. They work by relieving the tension in the body and help calm muscles and joints.

5. Autism

Stomach problems, anxiety, phobias, motor skills, and sensory integration are all major health concerns for children on the spectrum. The connection between the spine and the nervous system go hand in hand and that's why children are able to benefit from the gentle manipulations a chiropractor can provide.

Not only do these treatments help relax the muscles and joints, but they are also able to directly affect the nervous system. Because the spine is connected with many of the body's sensory reception areas, adjustments have been shown to improve many sensory conditions over time.

6. Ear Infections

Ask any parent if their child has ever had an earache and more often than not the answer is yes. In fact, five out of six children will experience an ear infection by the time they are three. For some, the cause might be due to a cold, virus, or sinus infection.

Although strong antibiotics are often prescribed, there are gentler ways to treat ear infections. And the good news is studies have proven chiropractic treatment of earaches is very effective. Adjustments to the spine and nervous system are able to help strengthen the immune system and help your child manage pain better.

7. Growing Pains

Two out of five children and teenagers will experience growing pains in their lives. The throbbing aches and pains in the arms and legs are strong enough to wake them up from a deep sleep. Despite popular belief, growing pains are not actually related to growth spurts.

Instead, they are the result of the rigorous daily physical activities children participate in. This stress can manifest in the spine and affect the nervous system. A visit to the chiropractor can help calm the pain associated with growing pains and take the pressure off the spine.

8. Digestive Problems

Children experiencing all types of digestive problems such as constipation, acid reflux, and stomachaches can reap the rewards of chiropractic treatment. Because there are specific areas of the spine connected to digestion, if any areas are out of alignment, the body will loudly react.

These inflammatory qualities block the body's ability to properly digest food while wreaking havoc on the stomach. Nerve function also affects how the body manages digestion. Chiropractic treatment can be very beneficial because once the spine is aligned with gentle manipulation, better digestion resumes.

Help Get Your Child on the Road to Better Health

When your child is in pain, you want to do everything you can to help them feel better. And when it comes to kids and chiropractic care, there is nothing you can't achieve.

When you're ready to try a new approach, we're here to help your family heal. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today. Call or Text Dr. Diana (602) 524-0222.

Source: mattsmithchiropractic.com Read the full article here.

Meridian Connection

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 17:19:48 GMT

"Everything that appears in the physical realm is always connected with energy flow at the invisible level." - Nan Lu

Connecting Everything in Your Body

Picture a road map: a profusion of points woven into a web by lines of travel. Now imagine this system 3-D in your body: a vast network of invisible energy pathways connecting to each other and to every atom, cell, tendon, bone, organ, each centimeter of skin—everything in your body! They link the upper portion with the lower and the surface with the interior, so that nothing is truly separate.

Now add other dimensions to this 3-D interconnected body “map”: your mind, your emotions, and spirit—everything conscious and unconscious within you. These amazing pathways are the meridians, and they form your body and all invisible aspects of your being into an intercommunicating whole.

Meridian Pathways

There are twelve major meridians that run on each side of the body, one side mirroring the other. Each meridian corresponds to an internal organ. And each organ, with its own physiological and invisible energy functions, is not only dependent on the other organ systems but also on the greater meridian network.

They include: Liver Meridian, Gallbladder Meridian, Heart Meridian, Small Intestine Meridian, Spleen Meridian, Stomach Meridian, Lung Meridian, Large Intestine Meridian, Kidney Meridian, Urinary Bladder Meridian, San Jiao Meridian, and Pericardium Meridian.

Carrying Energy, Blood, and Information

Energy and blood flow continuously through the meridians, yet they also transmit information to and among your organs. What kind of information? Instantaneously they send signals to raise or lower your body temperature, signs that your body needs to release water, signals to regulate emotion, among countless others. Are you aware that your body is constantly communicating with itself through innumerable messages flowing through your meridians? These life-giving energy pathways help coordinate the work of the organs and keep your body balanced by regulating its functions.

Free Flow of Qi

According to TCM, as long as Qi flows freely through your meridians and your organs work in harmony, your body can remain healthy. This means that when your body’s meridian system functions well, you are well. Yet due to a number of causes—like excess stress—your body’s meridians can become clogged or even blocked. This affects the function of the corresponding organ and ultimately the whole body-mind-spirit.

Receiving and Relaying Healing Stimulation

Meridians are incredibly sensitive. They can carry the effects of stimulation in the form of healing energy throughout your entire being. It is this special quality that allows the various TCM treatment modalities to work. By using food, herbs, Qigong, acupuncture, or acupressure, the flow of energy in the meridians can be stimulated, restoring balance and health.

» Read about the power of the meridians in this interview with Grand Master Xi-Hua Xu.

Read the full article here . Source: www.tcmworld.or g

Get Your Annual Brain Health Check Up

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 03:28:01 GMT

How Does Brain Mapping Work?

Using a cap placed on the scalp, our software captures the electrical impulses in the brain. This method is known as an electroencephalogram (EEG). The results show brain wave patterns in different parts of the brain. The process takes about 15 minutes, and the data is then converted into a visual brain map report. We analyze the brain map report and identify any problem areas. Dr. Diana will go over the report with you and it will display the results in a clear and concise format that can be easily understood. After your brain map you will be prescribed a custom protocol to rebalance your brain waves into a normal pattern using neurofeedback and other modalities.

What Is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback literally means “brain” and “input”, where the brain is monitored and input is given instantly. Neurofeedback specifically monitors brainwaves, looks for irregularities, then produces a signal that is designed to correct the irregularity and guide the brainwave back into a healthy pattern. With repetition of this process over time, the brain will learn to stay in healthy ranges without the aid of the computer. The result is an improvement in brain regulation, which in turn can reduce or eliminate most neurological symptoms.

What Type Of Input Is Used?
The signal source varies based on the system used, we use audio and visual stimulation. The process is so easy, a patient can actually get better just by listening to their favorite music or watching their favorite videos. The process is non-invasive, requires no drugs and is pain free.

Who Can Benefit?
Neurofeedback can work on anyone, no matter the age. All that is required is the ability to focus on the audio or video stimulation. Any neurological condition that involves irregular brainwaves can be targeted and improved with neurofeedback. These conditions include attention-deficit disorder, addiction, anxiety, autism, brain injury, depression, fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, obsessive compulsive disorder, stress, stroke and more!

What Are Brainwaves? How Do They Affect Me?
Neurofeedback targets the four primary brainwaves (Alpha, Beta, Delta, Theta). Each of these brainwaves is responsible for regulating the active and subconscious aspects of your body. Take a look at the diagram below:

Delta brainwaves are associated with deep, dreamless sleep and regeneration. Delta brainwaves occur when you are asleep and are responsible for healing the body.
Theta brainwaves are associated with light sleep or extreme relaxation. When your subconscious takes over you start producing Theta brainwaves.
Alpha brainwaves occur when you are awake but relaxed and not processing much information. When you first get up and right before you fall asleep, you are generating Alpha waves, as well as when you close your eyes to rest.
Beta brainwaves are associated with the mental state most people are in during the day and most of their waking lives. When you are alert and focused, you are producing Beta brainwaves.

While each of these brainwaves is responsive for different body functions, they all are equally important to your health and well-being.

Celebrate Brain Health this June and get your brain mapped to improve your health and wellbeing. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today. Call or Text (602) 524-0222.

We're Moving!

Fri, 24 May 2019 00:35:16 GMT

We are excited to announce that we are moving to a new address.

Feeling Exhausted? A Detox Foot Bath Can Help!

Fri, 17 May 2019 00:18:24 GMT

Designed and developed to restore the body's energy, balance and facilitate its natural detoxification process. It balances and restores the body's Ph and electromagnetic energy. State of the art research and development used to provide a form of energy that the body can readily use "bioenergetic life energy."

How Does Detoxification Work?
It does this mainly by removing impurities from the blood in the liver, where toxins are processed for elimination. The body also eliminates toxins through the kidneys, intestines, lungs, lymph and skin. However, when this system is compromised, impurities aren't properly filtered and every cell in the body is adversely affected. The copper array conducts direct current into the water and generates an ionic field that transfers into the body. The bubbles coming from the array indicate the ionic field is being created as the hydrogen and oxygen particles separate. Warm water allows feet to sweat, opening the pores, and allowing a greater absorption rate through the skin. The principle is similar to how a magnet works. Except in this case, the magnetic force functions to help cancel out and eliminate harmful free radicals and other toxins from the body. Our detox foot bath therapy uses an aqueous solution (water and sodium chloride in the form of sea salt) in a foot bath as a conduit for exchanging ions. The energy field created within the body draws negative and positive ions together, helping negate their harmful effect while gently stimulating cellular cleansing. Body toxins can come from the air people breathe, the water they drink, the food they eat and their lifestyle. Stress and depression are body toxins too.

The Benefits:

Remove Heavy Metals
Improved Injury Recovery Time
Increased Oxygen in your Body
Boost Immune System
Toxin and body waste removal
Inactive viruses, bacteria, yeast and fungus
Relieve pain and tension including headaches
Enhance nutrient absorption
Raise pH levels. Prior to ionic detox, approximately 95% of people experience a state of acidity in which their blood pH level is lower than 7.35, indicating and excess of hydrogen ions.
Reduce inflammation and unwanted fluid retention
Help clear up bad skin
Assist in weight loss
Slow down aging and improve body flexibility
Rejuvenate and energize your whole body
Improve Sleep
Purify the blood and lymph
Stimulate and balance the immune system
Cholesterol reduction

Detoxification therapy has become a necessity in our modern, convenient lives. Sessions typically take 30-35 minutes. Healthy individuals can expect to feel lighter and experience a greater feeling of well being. Some patients with arthritis, allergies, gout, lymphedema, headaches and nerve pain as well as other symptoms have experienced relief and benefits with multiple sessions.

Detox Foot Bath Therapy is designed to help enhance your body's natural detoxification process.
The electrical polarities set up, should cause toxin molecules to migrate along the meridians to the soles of the feet by a process akin to electrophoresis. This process is defined as the migration of charged colloidal particles or molecules through a solution under the influence of an applied electric field.

The meridians are one of the several pathways for toxins released from the matrix to exit the body. Capillaries and lymphatic channels will also pick up toxins and carry them to the liver and kidneys, where they will be detoxified and/or excreted. There are also spaces within the skin that can support the flow of materials released from the matrix.

Schedule an appoint with Dr. Diana today.

CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222

What are the benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy?

Thu, 16 May 2019 18:09:37 GMT

Chiropractic care during pregnancy can provide benefits for women who are pregnant.

Potential benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy include:

Maintaining a healthier pregnancy
Controlling symptoms of nausea
Reducing the time of labor and delivery
Relieving back, neck or joint pain
Preventing a potential cesarean delivery

Why should I have chiropractic care during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, there are several physiological and endocrinological changes that occur in preparation for creating the environment for the developing baby.

The following changes can result in a misaligned spine or joints:

Protruding abdomen and increased back curve
Pelvic changes
Postural adaptations

Establishing pelvic balance and alignment is another reason to obtain chiropractic care during pregnancy.

When the pelvis is misaligned it may reduce the amount of room available for the developing baby. This restriction is called intrauterine constraint.

A misaligned pelvis may also make it difficult for the baby to get into the best possible position for delivery.

This can affect the mother’s ability to have a natural, non-invasive birth. Breech and posterior positions can interfere with the natural ease of labor and lead to interventions such as c-sections .

The nervous system is the master communication system to all the body systems including the reproductive system. Keeping the spine aligned helps the entire body work more effectively.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana today.

CALL or TEXT (602) 524-0222

5 Amazing Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Tue, 14 May 2019 01:18:09 GMT

Regular chiropractic care increase the quality of life and increase health and well being.

1. Pain Relief

Chiropractic care is one of the most effective and safest forms of health care to treat pain due to spinal related conditions. Chiropractic is so effective because most causes of spinal disorders are related to abnormalities of the spine and the surrounding soft tissue structures.

2. Increased Range of Motion of the Spine and Extremities

Chiropractic care has been shown repeatedly to increase not only the range of motion of the spine but also in the extremities. Increasing a person's range of motion can positively affect lives in many ways. For some, an increased range of motion means being able to bend down to pick up their grandchildren. For others, it means they can garden without pain or get an extra 40 yards of distance out of their driver on the golf course.

3. Increased Balance and Coordination

Many problems in balance and coordination in the aging population have been shown to come from injury or degenerative changes to the cervical spine (neck region). Structures known as mechanoreceptors are located in the posterior (back) joints of the cervical spine and are responsible for providing the brain with essential information important for balance and coordination.

4. Decreased Joint Degeneration

A subluxated (misaligned) spine is much like a misaligned wheel on an automobile. This misalignment will cause the spine (and the wheel) to wear out prematurely. Since all moving parts will eventually wear down over time, it is very important to get your spine aligned periodically. Chiropractic care decreases spinal degeneration and other arthritic changes by normalizing the spinal alignment and reducing spinal stress.

5. Increased Health and Well-Being

We commonly ask our patients what changes they notice once they are out of pain. Here are some regular responses we hear every day:

"I feel great! I can sleep through the night!"

"Now I can play in the garden!"

"I have so much energy!"

Yes, chiropractic is far more than mere pain relief. Feeling good, staying healthy and doing the things that make us happy are what keeps us looking forward to each new day. Regular chiropractic care increase the quality of life and increase health and well being.

Schedule an appointment today (602) 524-0222 or email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

Blessings 2019

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 16:11:14 GMT

Easter Blessings from the Mladenoff Clinics.

A time for new beginnings.

The Astonishing Dr. You

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 22:53:04 GMT

We live in a universe of cause and effect. Every effect has a cause.

From the smallest cell to the largest creature, there is a special intelligence within each that causes movement, directs growth and permits healing. That special intelligence is on the job now in you. Taking care of millions of details to keep you alive.

the ability to move
the means to reproduce
the capacity to grow
the power to heal

Meet Dr. You!
Dr. You controls and regulates every detail. Not too much. Not too little. Just Right. You control it all... except when you can't. If you're not enjoying true health, something is interfering with Dr. You!

Do You Know What True Health Is?
Health: A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

It's not how you feel. You've lost your health long before symptoms are noticed. And, if you vomit to expel spoiled food, you're having a healthy response, even thought you aren't feeling well. How you feel isn't a good way to know if you're healthy. Yet, traditional "Health Care" is largely about feeling better. Pain? Numb it. Headache? Drug it. Muscle spasm? Chemically relax it. High blood pressure? Artificially lower it. Failing gallbladder? Surgically remove it. All while ignoring the underlying cause. Actually, true health is when every aspect of your body performs as its as designed.

What Controls How Your Body Performs?
Your nervous system. It controls and regulates every cell, tissue, organ and system of your body. Not your blood. Not your immune system. Not even your DNA. An interference-free nervous system is the key to good health. Your nervous system includes your brain, your spinal cord and all the nerves of your body.

When your heart beats faster when climbing stairs? Nervous system.
When your immune system shields you from infection? Nervous system.
When your digestion system converts food into energy? Nervous system.

Dr. You relies on your nervous system to make sure that everything is working as it should.

Since your nervous system is so important, bone protects the move vital parts. Eight bones of your skull protect your brain. Twenty-four moving bones cover your spinal cord. Nerve messages leave your brain and travel down your spinal cord and out to every cell and tissue of your body. Returning messages confirm that everything is working properly.

Anything That Interferes With This Vital Exchange Sets The Stage For Ill Health
The moving bones of the spinal column can interfere with your nervous system. Malposition of individual spinal bones can choke or irritate nearby nerves. These "subluxations" (less than a dislocation) can comprise brain-body communications. The organs and tissues controlled by affected nerves can become "dis-regulated." Imagine what can happen if nerve impulses are missing or incomplete. Or the reverse, when nerve messages are exaggerated & distorted. This can cause ill health.

Subluxations, can have a variety of causes. Physical causes include trauma, repetitive motions and whiplash injuries. Drugs, alcohol, tobacco, poor nutrition and environmental toxins can be chemical causes of subluxations. Our emotional reality can affect spinal muscles. Emotions are a common cause of subluxations.
Fear
Anger
Grief
Depression
Thankfully, Doctors of Chiropractic and licensed professionals who are highly skilled in the detection and reduction of subluxations. Precisely delivered chiropractic adjustments help restore vital nervous system communications. Naturally. Safely.

Chiropractic care is safer than back surgery.
Chiropractic care is safer than swallowing aspirin.
Chiropractic care is safer than most things that are considered safe!

Could today's chiropractic care help you?

How long will it take to get your body working as it should?

One thing is certain: With a better working nervous system, just about anything is possible. Thanks to Dr. You.

If you've begun chiropractic care, congratulations!

If you've considering chiropractic care, find out more call or text Dr. Diana (602) 524-0222.

Take Aim at Chronic Pain

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 22:04:55 GMT

A New Weapon to Effectively Treat Pain Without Harmful Side Effects

Stop the Pain Without Harmful Side Effects

Prevalence of Chronic Pain in the US
In the United States it is estimated that 56 million individuals suffer from some form of chronic pain annually. The prevalence of chronic pain accounts for the greatest number of work absenteeism than any other group of diseases, and the prevalence of chronic pain reports is estimated to increase. Often, people with acute or chronic pain (low back pain, a sore knee, or persistent neck stiffness) will quickly turn to over-the-counter pain medicine for relief; however, the FDA issued strict warnings regarding the misuse and overdosing of over-the-counter pain medications due to severe complications such as stomach ulcers, hearing disorders and liver failure. Further, a growing concern amongst physicians exists regarding the side-effects associated with prescription pain medication.

Now There is a New Treatment that Has Been Proven Safe and Effective by the FDA
Low level laser therapy administered by Dr. Diana is a proven treatment option that is safe, effective, and cleared by the FDA for the treatment of:
~ Chronic Neck Pain
~ Power-Operative Pain
~ Shoulder Pain
~ Heel Pain Related to Plantar Fasciitis

How It Works
Low level laser therapy (LLLT) or cold laser, is a painless, sterile, non-invasive, drug-free modality that is used for a variety of conditions such as, acute and chronic pain, body-contouring, acne and appearance of cellulite.

Housed within the mitochondria, the cell energy manufacturer, are receptors capable of absorbing distinct parameters of light. Think of these receptors like any drug receptors. When we consume a prescription medication, the compound is absorbed by the body and it locates a particular receptor; based upon its molecular design, will bind to that receptor. Once the drug binds, a secondary reaction inside the cell takes place. A similar mechanism is observed when exposing the body to a particular color of light. During a laser treatment, the light will penetrate the skin and is absorbed by this receptor within the mitochondria. Receptor stimulation with light promotes energy production, biochemical reactions, protein and growth factor synthesis, cell growth and proliferation and enhanced blood and oxygen flow.

Nothing heals faster.

Discover Laser Therapy and Take Fewer Prescription Drugs for Pain.

Schedule an appointment today.

Call/Text: (602) 524-0222
Email: info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

Let's Get Social

Thu, 14 Mar 2019 06:52:51 GMT

Follow us on social.✨For the latest research, news, & updates on health and wellness topics.

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Why Acupuncture Should Be Part Of Your Monthly Self-Care Routine

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 19:02:05 GMT

Self Love Comes In Many Forms, like Acupuncture. Book an Appointment Today (602) 524-0222

If you’ve never experienced the benefits of acupuncture, the idea of getting poked with needles to relax might sound like a joke. But committing to routine acupuncture appointments is actually a very easy, low maintenance habit that can help to heal pain and fight chronic stress.

Here are some benefits of acupuncture, the impact he sees with regular visits, and why its worth the commitment…

DISEASE PREVENTION

Dr. Mark Hyman (medical advisor to Bill and Hillary Clinton, New York Times best selling author and leading scholar) has said, “There is a dramatic and powerful connection between your mind and body. In fact, it really should not be called a connection because it is just one bi-directional system. Ninety-five percent of all illness is caused or worsened by stress.”

There are many studies about how effective acupuncture is in relieving stress, including ones showing how acupuncture lowers the stress hormone cortisol and stimulates the release of endorphins in the brain.

IMPROVES SLEEP

If there’s one thing that everyone agrees on it’s that sleep is the most important aspect of good health. Poor sleep contributes to everything from inability to lose weight to faster aging.

There is so much I could write about how to sleep more deeply. If you really want to maximize your sleep, I highly recommend seeing me for sleep solutions.

MORE REJUVENATING THAN A NAP

I believe the daytime ‘acupuncture nap’ are great. There are a few reasons why: You can make an appointment for it, it’s just as good alone and your boss will probably let you slip out of the office at lunch to do it! Ninety-nine percent of my patients ‘zone out’ for 20-30 minutes every time they get acupuncture. They say they go into a deep, sort of lucid dreaming state. After acupuncture, they slowly return from this relaxed state and feel balanced, grounded and fully recharged, as if they just returned from a week vacation.

WELL-BEING + EMOTIONAL STABILITY

Chinese medicine allows for the effects of the emotions on the body to be classified and treated regularly. Each emotion has a corresponding organ. For example, frustration, anger and irritability are emotions ruled by the liver.

Now, you wouldn’t go to your MD and say, “My acupuncturist tells me I have liver qi stagnation. Can you please check my liver?” It’s more the energy of the liver we are talking about. Basically, if you are having a stressful week and are starting to get irritable, then odds are your liver energy is becoming stagnant and needs to move! So your acupuncturist would focus the acupuncture on the points of the liver used to move the liver qi and break up stagnation.

By doing acupuncture regularly, you’ll be able to keep the liver energy moving and prevent the irritability and frustration from starting in the first place.

HERBAL MEDICINE

Another aspect of what acupuncturists do is herbal medicine. Herbs are an all-natural, mostly plant-based medicine that are effective for everything from PMS, hormonal acne, painful menstruation, irregular periods, hormone balancing, menopausal hot flashes, digestion, high cholesterol and so much more. I’ve seen women with eight- or nine-out-of-ten pain, vomiting and nausea, go down to one- or two-out-of-ten pain in two to three months using a combination of herbs and acupuncture.

3 TIPS FOR TRYING ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture has a cumulative effect on your health overall. And if you’re less stressed, are sick less often, sleeping better and waking more restful you are going to be more productive. And you’re also going to have a higher quality of what you produce.

Find a qualified acupuncturist with some herbal medicine experience. Don’t go to someone who has only met the bare minimum requirement of hours required to be allowed to put acupuncture needles in someone by the state medical board. “Dry needling” is an example of this. You want someone with a degree from the NCCAOM or the State of California Acupuncture Board.

Be sure you ‘click’ with your acupuncturist. You’ll get the most out of the experience if you are confident and comfortable with the person you see and if you feel they ‘get you.’

Go for several treatments. For some people, it can take several treatments to start to notice the changes in their body, and for some, the effects are immediate.

Call or Text Dr. Diana at (602) 524-0222 to schedule an appointment.

Source: The Chalkboard Mag Read the full article here.

Happy New Year 2019!

Sun, 30 Dec 2018 17:59:00 GMT

A Powerful New Year's Resolution that will change your life! What will you resolve to do or be this year? Make it count what ever it is!

Happy Holidays 2018

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 03:37:59 GMT

Traditional Chinese Medicine provides wisdom for bodies transition from autmn into winter months. If you can not adapt properly then things will go wrong.

Halloween Health Tips 2018

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 18:26:43 GMT

Happy Halloween

from the Mladenoff Clinic Team!

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Make sure to like, comment, and share this useful health information with your friends and family.

��✨

Don't let your body get scary - book an appointment now!

Call or text (602) 524-0222

��

Healthcare 101: The Importance of Back to School

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 16:42:03 GMT

Back-to-school season adds a lot of things to a busy parent’s to do list: purchasing school supplies, finding new clothes for your kids, and wrapping up summer programs. Don’t let a back to school check-up with Dr. Diana fall by the wayside during this busy time.

Having your child see a chiropractor resets their nervous system and gets them mentally, physically, and emotionally ready for the school year. Having your child see a chiropractor resets their nervous system and gets them mentally, physically, and emotionally ready for the school year. Having your child see a chiropractor resets their nervous system and gets them mentally, physically, and emotionally ready for the school year. Having your child see a chiropractor resets their nervous system and gets them mentally, physically, and emotionally ready for the school year.

Importance of the Back-to-School Check-Up

Late summer often results in a rush to complete back-to-school errands. Not to confuse a check-up with your school's annual physical, a check-up with Dr. Diana would be a preventative addition to your child's health routine. Particularly if your child is a student athlete, it is a smart idea for all parents to get their child on a weekly or bi-weekly health plan. This is important for a variety of reasons, including:

Opportunity to check developmental processes

During a routine physical, your health professional will check all of your child’s body systems to ensure there are no apparent problems. This allows you to catch any problems early on and get your child the best early intervention resources available.

Ask yourself the following questions:

Has your child complained of any pain, fatigue, dizziness or digestive problems?
Have your child’s eating habits changed?
Does your child seem anxious or depressed?
Has your child reached important developmental milestones on time?
Has your child experienced any learning difficulties or other classroom problems?
How well does your child sleep?

If you want to check-in with your child before the school year, schedule a check-up with Dr. Diana.

Schedule an appointment today and set your child's school year up for success. Call or text (602) 524-0222. Email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com @mladenoffclinicaz

5 Science-Inspired Ways to Banish Stress for Good

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 01:30:37 GMT

Just as a glass of red wine can make us healthier but ten glasses can result in a terrible hangover (and possibly alcohol poisoning), a little stress can focus our attention and stimulate us to dig within for new ways to grow... but too much is likely to hurt.

It’s been estimated by the American Psychological Association that over 80 percent of us suffer from chronic low-grade stress. Chronic or elevated stress burns us out,
and can kill.

People who live near airports and simply deal with the stress of giant airplanes roaring above them have higher rates of cardiac arrest than those who don’t . People who deal with a controlling or uncommunicative boss have a 60 percent higher chance of developing coronary heart disease than those who don’t . Unmanaged stress, simply from having a sense of disempowerment at work, can be more dangerous than smoking or high cholesterol .

Stress leads to tangible changes inside many the cells of the body. Stress triggers specific genes to express proteins which lead to inflammation; and chronic inflammation is associated with killers such as heart disease and cancer . Over time, stress reduces our ability to prevent ageing, heal wounds, fight infections, and even be successfully immunised . Excess stress also stops us learning new things, and if we aren’t learning, we aren’t growing .

Whether our stress is due to worry, fear, confusion, over-work, or being overwhelmed, if we let our powerful, biological stress response dominate our everyday lives, we may survive to pass on our genes... but are unlikely to thrive as we do so.

So here are five science-inspired, wisdom-wired ‘Thrive Hacks’ for banishing stress from your life, taken from my book Switch On: Unleash your Creativity & Thrive with the New Science & Spirit of Breakthrough

1. Breathe, stop (and shake)
When we are stressed, adrenaline gets pumped throughout the body , increasing our heart rate and making us breathe both fast and shallow. According to Harvard Medical School , just a few, easy deep breaths — ideally from your abdomen not your neck — will reset the system a little and shift you toward relaxation.

Stress also tends to leave a build up of energy within that keeps us out of balance. A great way to discharge it quickly (so you don’t divert this energy into anger or fear) is to shake, exercise or dance it out. If you feel the tell-tale signs of stress building up within, I recommend a 1 minute nano-rave at home or even in the bathroom at work.

2. Get curious
Your upper brain contains, amongst other things, your prefrontal cortex - which plays a major role in attention, motivation and executive thinking. It doesn’t work very well when under stress . In fact, we have to wait until we’re calm before it can help us approach situations with maximum insight and intelligence.

Curiosity hacks the stress response by engaging our upper brain and prefrontal cortex ... shifting us into reflection rather than rumination (which is what we are doing when we toss worries around our mind over and over again). On study has shown that the more curious we are, the better the quality of our attention . So we can create the right conditions for ourselves to be creative and adaptable with the stresses and strains of life by staying curious.

3. Hug it out
Hugging a loved one releases oxytocin, which reins in our stressed-out sympathetic nervous system , and seems to drive the repair of muscles , brain tissue and neurones . The more often we hug, the lower our heart rate and blood pressure tends to be , and so the more resilient we become to stress. Give someone you trust a hug. Hugging strangers can actually create more stress!

4. Get into your body
The insula in our cerebral cortex integrates information from the brain and body together. Advanced meditators, experienced warriors, and top athletes have a highly developed insula . They share a heightened ability to sense what’s going on in their bodies and act on it. They can anticipate a change in emotional state, which then helps them stay in peak condition during moments of stress on the battlefield. By getting to know your own body sensations better, you can boost the capacity of your insula to help you navigate through life.

Elite troops and meditators who have increased insula activity also have enhanced vagus nerve tone, which seems to help them perform better under stress . Doctors have been experimenting with stimulating the vagal nerve within the chest to treat depression and increase the speed of healing after paralysis from stroke. Scientists at McGill suggest that you can activate your own vagal nerve and builds its tone through breathing deeply and relaxing.

5. Feel the love
Feelings of love and connection melt away stress . One study has shown that the release of oxytocin (which happens when we feel love) reduces the stress hormones flooding the system of couples that are in conflict . Another study has shown that when feeling romantic love , people think more expansively and less analytically, have a much longer-term outlook, and are more creative. When people are horny and turned on but not actually in love, they think in a more short-term and less creative way!

So take charge of your stress levels by feeling loved and loving. For extra benefits, avoid fighting before bed, which can increase stress and make our sleep worse ; and sleep next to your lover. Its been shown to be able to reduce the dangerous chemicals of stress .

Read the full article here . Source: Huffingtonpost.com

Schedule an appointment today! Call or text Dr. Diana at (602) 524-0222. Or Email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

How Exercise Makes Your Brain Bigger, Better, and Stronger

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 01:20:27 GMT

New research is nailing down the idea that putting regular physical activity into your daily routine may just be one of the best things you can do to keep your brain healthy.

Doctors long have recommended that you get off your couch and exercise if you want to reduce the risk of common physical troubles, such as poor balance or back pain. Now, though, experts are gathering new data on how working out affects your brain, and it turns out that heading to the gym or popping in a fitness video holds significant promise for a building and maintaining a better-functioning noodle.

Hormones and genetics.

Exercise has a big influence on hormonal production within the body. It boosts the creation of substances such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, for example. These chemicals can improve your mood, and they positively affect areas like perception, arousal, motivation and attention. At the same time, exercise reduces levels of other hormones, such as cortisol. This hormone can damage cells in the hippocampus, one of the areas of the brain researchers associate primarily with memory and learning, so keeping it under control can have a protective result on your cognitive performance.

Hormones also signal your body to create more of a specific protein known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This protein helps neurons in the brain grow--in fact, scientists have dubbed it "Miracle-Gro for the brain." It also makes the synapses that connect those neurons stronger. Researchers believe this might be in part because ketones, which you produce during exercise as a byproduct of breaking down fat, prevent specific molecules from blocking the activity of the gene associated with BDNF. More specifically, BDNF production seems best with more intense aerobic exercise, particularly in sessions lasting an hour or more. Strength training and similar activities might be beneficial, too, as experts have proved they can boost the speed at which you process information, but the key to BDNF and brain building appears to be ensuring the exercises you choose are hard enough to include a cardiovascular component--that is, they need to elevate your heart rate.

Oxygen, glucose, and insulin.

Getting your sweat on translates to increased blood flow to the brain. Subsequently, brain cells have better access to the oxygen and energy-providing glucose (sugar) they need. Nevertheless, your cells still need a substance called insulin to absorb glucose for fuel. If you become resistant to insulin, which can happen because of habitual overconsumption of sugary foods , your cells no longer can get sufficient amounts of energy, and blood sugar levels can skyrocket. Insulin also plays a part in keeping the connections between brain cells strong. Thus, insulin resistance can mean you can't process or remember information as well. Exercise, however, reduces insulin resistance: If you exercise long and hard enough, you use up the glucose stored in your muscles. The body reacts by making the muscles respond better to insulin so they can take glucose out of the bloodstream and replenish their energy stores.

No wrong way to get in the game.

Exercise influences multiple processes in your body, including hormone production, insulin response, and oxygen uptake. The changes it initiates not only protect your gray matter, but can make your brain bigger and stronger, too. If you're looking to prevent cognitive decline and outperform your competition, go for a run, hit the pool, play physical games with your kids, or try a scientifically proven seven-minute workout .

Whatever you enjoy, just move! Your brain will thank you.

Read the full article here . Source: Inn.com

Schedule an appointment today! Call or text Dr. Diana at (602) 524-0222. Or Email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

Unlock Brain Potential to Protect Against Decline

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 01:07:34 GMT

Our brain is probably the most neglected, abused and poorly understood organ of our entire body. While sports concussions and Alzheimer’s awareness are at an all-time high, many of us fail to protect our brain from potentially reversible decline .

The No. 1 cause of cognitive decline is not the 13 percent of us who will develop Alzheimer’s disease nor the millions of traumatic brain injuries reported each year. One of the leading causes of diminishing cognitive capacity is healthy people letting their brain lose ground.

Fortunately, it does not have to be that way. There are a number of actions people can take to maintain and support life-long cognitive capacity in the absence of disease.

Research shows that the brain is inherently changeable throughout life. Just as lifestyle interventions can spur weight loss and decrease bad cholesterol, we now know that implementing healthy brain habits can improve neuron nourishing brain blood flow and strengthen weakened connections between brain regions producing positive cognitive change.

While our ability to improve brain health is becoming more widespread in the neuroscience community, the general public is still largely unaware of pivotal steps that can be taken to make the brain more resilient to decline or injury and regenerate after cognitive losses.

We want that to inspire individuals to “ change their mind “ through healthy thinking habits. That is why the Center for BrainHealth at The University of Texas at Dallas team is eager to announce that we have broken new ground on our Brain Performance Institute , the first facility of its kind dedicated to translating and implementing scientifically validated findings about brain health discoveries into practice. The building will not be an acute treatment facility, but a place where people can go to enhance brain performance.

Chancellor William H. McRaven of the University of Texas System best posed the question our research seeks to answer during our momentous groundbreaking ceremony last week. “How can we as individuals, as a state, as a society learn to think better and in thinking better become happier, more productive, more competitive and ultimately more successful? “

“Right here in Dallas, I believe we are on the cusp of the next great revolution, a revolution in brain health. My hope and my belief is that 40 years from now we will have made improvements in brain health of the same order of magnitude that we made in physical fitness,” McRaven said.

“In 1968, the year that Dr. [Kenneth] Cooper published his best seller Aerobics , only 100,000 people in America were jogging, only 100,000. Now there are more than 30 million Americans who run for fitness and good health. The physical fitness revolution

changed the way America thought about exercise. As a society we now understand the link between cardiovascular fitness and health,” he explained. “We’re going to know a lot more about how to take care of our brains. We are going to need it, because thanks in part to the physical fitness revolution, people are living longer. To make the most of the years we have, we need to make sure that brain fitness catches up with physical fitness. And I’m convinced it’s going to happen and I am here to state in no uncertain terms that The University of Texas System intends to lead this new revolution to benefit our state, our country and the world.”

Targeted programs offered at the Brain Performance Institute assist healthy teens and adults in improving their strategic and innovative thinking skills — enhancing their school and work performances. Other programs help those diagnosed with impaired brain function due to illness or injury recover that brain function to the extent possible, and slow further cognitive decline. And still more offerings utilize innovative technology platforms to provide treatment and training programs for those on the autism spectrum.

The Brain Performance Institute offers a brain health physical to benchmark and monitor cognitive performance and changes on an annual basis. A variety of high performance brain training programs tailored for different populations target improvement in complex reasoning and innovation and reducing toxic brain habits.

Randomized clinical trials have shown this training yields significant benefits, including:

• As much as a 25 percent increase in reasoning among middle school students in poverty.

•An 18 percent improvement in increased memory for facts for middle school students, regardless of socioeconomic status.

• Up to a 12 percent increase in brain blood flow , which is a promising metric of brain health fitness.

• Up to a 60 percent decrease in depressive symptoms in individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury.

That success is just the beginning. We are continuing our research on the training to increase brain plasticity using directed cortical stimulation or drug agents combined with cognitive reasoning training. Our work to improve brain health fitness for all never stops.

Historically it can take at least 20 to 40 years before scientific exploration and discoveries trickle down to applications and medical practices that improve people’s lives.

We think that is not fast enough.

Twenty years is too long for seniors with longevity who need their mental capacity to remain independent or for those struggling to maintain brain function in the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s. It is too long for our military service members trying to re-integrate into society after suffering a traumatic brain injury and/or post-traumatic stress disorder. And it is too long for teens who are having trouble in school and need to be equipped with the innovative learning skills to solve the complexity of the world’s problems tomorrow.

Our goal for the new Brain Performance Institute is to transform the way we take action toward advancing the health of our most valuable organ. Our goal is to hasten the day all Americans have access to the information, techniques and treatments they need to harness the tremendous potential of their own brains. A rich potential that we have not even begun to tap.

For more information about the exciting research now underway and ways to benefit from it, we encourage readers to visit www.centerforbrainhealth.org .

Read the full article here. Source: Huffingtonpost.com

Schedule an appointment today! Call or text Dr. Diana at (602) 524-0222. Or Email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

You Need an Exercise Routine for Your Brain

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 00:44:42 GMT

More than 1,000 retired workers, all aged 75 or above, stood in line. They were about to sit down to a barrage of tests judging their memory and thinking skills . The tests were grueling, and it was only the beginning. For eight years, these retirees would line up every 18 months for the same battery of tests and evaluations, almost as if they were migratory birds following their instincts.

But they weren’t compelled to subject themselves to the draining tasks and judgments. No, they volunteered — and for good reason.

The brains of these older men and women held the answer to a question neuroscience researchers believed they could unlock: Does a life of stressful and demanding work actually make you mentally healthy?

After eight years of tireless study, sifting through mountains of data, and controlling for every possible variable, they had their answer:

Your life of constant stressors that require fast thinking, prioritizing, and decision making — the things you complain leave you exhausted every day after work — are actually making your brain stronger and preparing it for top performance for years to come.

If you ever worry about the stress and constant juggling of priorities in your life... that’s probably good. You don’t want it to become unhealthy. But you don’t want to eliminate it, either. Your difficult work — the things you struggle with but are proud to accomplish — are actually keeping you healthy for a lifetime.

Why Difficult Work Makes You Stronger

When you go to the gym, your muscles get bigger and your body grows stronger. Everyone knows this, and the path to creating physical health is well-established (even if we struggle to follow it). If you do it regularly, you can expect to enjoy a capable body as you grow old.

It makes sense, intuitively, that the same would be true of your mind. Exercise it regularly and it ought to also grow stronger, sharper.

While the analogy rings true, most health advice you read today suggests the opposite. Don’t overdo it at work. Lower your stress. Regularly take your mind off the hard things. It’s good advice — too much stress is terrible for you, but it doesn’t tell the whole story.

What the eight-year study by neuroscientists at the University of Leipzig found is that forcing your brain to work on difficult problems and juggle a variety of tasks — when done with care — really is akin to lifting weights with your brain. [1]

The thousands of men and women they studied were given the same mental agility tests year after year and, without a bias for race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and a myriad of other potential confounding variables, those who spent their days exercising their brains performed measurably better.

We know hard work leads to accomplishment. Now we know it leads to a healthier mind with more longevity, too.

The question is, what can you do to maximize the benefits of your difficult work?

How To Strengthen Your Mind Every Day

If it isn’t obvious by now, the answer to maxing out your brain’s performance abilities for the rest of your life lies in how you exercise it — just like your body. That means building a brain-exercise routine will probably be successful if it mirrors the most successful ways to create any other routine.

In the beginning, that means creating a schedule you stick to until you’ve formed a habit. Then, working to merge it into every aspect of your daily life. Here are a few ways you could maximize the exercise your brain is getting in the different areas of your life.

At work . Attack your big challenges first. Don’t waste your mornings with routine, repetitive tasks. Instead, tackle your legacy work. Finding time to work on all the other things will also help you refine your executive functions .

At home. Don’t sit and watch TV at the end of the day. Instead, train yourself to take on more challenging hobbies. Do a crossword puzzle, play Sudoku, make home improvement plans. These are the things that keep your brain healthy.

In relationships. Don’t shy away from difficult conversations with your partner or friends. Tackling them together will improve the performance of your brain (and probably of your relationship, too). Discuss big ideas and how to bring them to life

Just like lifting weights, growth happens when you push yourself a little further than you thought you could. Watch your stress levels, and keep them in check. But don’t shy away from big challenges. The science says the more you take on, the longer you’ll get to enjoy them.

Read the full article here. Source: https://www.huffingtonpost.com/tyler-tervooren/brain-exercise_b_7763628.html

Schedule an appointment today! Call or text Dr. Diana at (602) 524-0222. Or Email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

Stress Kills! 5 Ways to Keep Your Stress Levels Low.

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 00:10:12 GMT

The ability to manage stress is what sets apart successful entrepreneurs from not-so-successful ones.

I’ve been known to skip a few meals, dump four shots of espresso into one cup and even drink a few of those five-hour energy bottles. I thrive on these adrenaline rushes, but no one can live like that for long periods of time.

So, every so often I retreat to my home in South Dakota for a respite from the fast pace of business (or New York City ). If you’re like me and thrive on adrenaline, I’ll be the first to tell you it’s okay to hit the pause button: It doesn’t matter whether you’re a small business owner, an entrepreneur or a c-suite executive.

Life is just simply going to be stressful. The competition, the long work hours, the slashed budgets, deadlines and expectations for employees, customers and shareholders: These things, plus the high-risk decisions associated with them, take a toll.

This is hardly news, of course: According to a report by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), 40 percent of workers surveyed reported that their jobs were very or extremely stressful; 25 percent viewed their jobs as the number one stressor in their lives.

But what people should stay attuned to are the ways in which stress can manifest itself -- mentally, physically and emotionally, -- and the negative pesults, like edginess, impatience, anxiety and moodiness. The main sources for the problem ? As measured by the American Institute of Stress, they're : workload (46 percent), people issues (28 percent), the demands of juggling personal and professional life (20 percent) and lack of job security (6 percent).

For inspiration on managing all this stress, we can turn to the business greats -- people who run multi-billion dollar corporations. If they can manage their stress levels, the rest of us can, too. Here are five lessons these icons have to teach:

1. Keep it simple.

When you have a couple of hundred emails in your inbox, a day full of meetings and calls and everyone asking you for your opinion, keeping it simple seems like the most complicated goal -- or the last thing on your mind. But it’s something that must be done, to gain a little perspective on what’s most important at that moment.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has said , “The ability to boil things down, to just work on things that really count, to think through the basics . . . It’s a special form of genius.” At this point, we can all agree that the method to Gates’s madness has worked.

One of my own mottos that I try to impart to my team is, “Work smarter, not harder.” By working smarter, I keep things simple. I don’t need to be copied in every single email chain, or be a part of every conversation or decision; that’s why I have a team -- to take care of the process. My team feels empowered to make decisions in my absence, so I can focus on what matters most -- growing the business.

2. Focus on what matters.

One of the easiest things to do is become overwhelmed by all that needs to be done or isn't getting done. When we’re overwhelmed, our tempers flare, and we take things out on those closest to us; things spiral downward.

But ask yourself, What’s really important? I have 20 things on my "to-do" list, but what will happen if, instead of taking care of all 20, I take care of only the top five? Will the world stop spinning?

No, Nothing will happen. Those worries are all in your head.

Richard Branson is synonymous with the Virgin brand, but he is someone who has his priorities straight. Said Branson: “If I lose the whole Virgin empire tomorrow, then I’d just go and live somewhere, like Bali. Now, if there was a problem with my family, healthwise . . . that’s a problem.”

It sounds trite sometimes, but prioritizing things that really matter can reduce stress levels considerably. If the big things are taken care of, or are going well, the business side of things will be okay, too. I’ve bought and sold over 250 businesses over the years, I’ve had my fair share of failures (one of them involved a failed pheasant farm).

But these failures are nothing compared to my family's welfare.

3. Take control.

When we have looming deadlines, meetings with clients or investors, lists a mile long: Our brains can short-circuit. Being overwhelmed breeds inaction and confusion. How can we break the cycle? By taking control of the situation.

If you’re stressing about the million things that need to be done, the only number you need to focus on is the number "1." What’s first on your list? Tackle that specific task, and only that task -- forget the others. Being that laser-focused allows you to take control of the situation, which propels you into the next task and gives you a sense of accomplishment, thereby, lowering stress.

Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos said, “Stress primarily comes from not taking action over something that you can have control over . . . I find that as soon as I identify it and make the first phone call, or send off the first email . . . it dramatically reduces any stress that might come from it.”

4. Take a break.

This sounds like an oxymoron at times, especially when you feel that the fate of the world is resting on your shoulders. But, if you’re saying, “Can’t take a break right now,” stop! After all, I’m saying it, and I'm the guy who flew from New York to Hawaii for a business meeting. I was in Hawaii for less than 48 hours.

Some entrepreneurs and executives have a higher tolerance for adrenaline rushes and a reputation for being workaholics -- that comes with the territory. But what good are you to your family or your team if you burn out? Working nonstop leads to burnout and slows productivity. Recognizing the signs can save you and your business headaches. In fact, 90 percent of leaders in a survey by the Center for Creative Leadership reported that they managed stress by temporarily removing themselves, physically and mentally, from their source of stress.

YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki believes in stopping and smelling the roses. Wojcicki said , “I think it’s really important to take time off, and I’ve also found that sometimes you get really good insights by taking time off.” I agree; I find not just inspiration, but perspective, when I’m home at the ranch or going on vacation to Italy with my wife.

5. Plan ahead.

We all know what we’re doing every single day of the week, so planning ahead is key in managing stress levels. Every Sunday night, I look at my calendar for the week and prioritize meetings, phone calls, events and the duties around those tasks. Then, I print my daily calendar, streamlining my workload even more to stay on track at a granular level.

Organizing, planning and streamlining tasks are effective management strategies; having a good system in place helps things run smoothly, reducing everyone’s stress levels.

Jack Dorsey, CEO of Twitter, said , “The more you can set a cadence around what you do, and the more ritual and the more consistency you can build into your schedule, the less stress you’re going to have.”

So, it’s not just grit, hard work and determination that separate the successful from the unsuccessful: It's also how people manage their stress levels as they run their operations. We’re all stressed, after all; it’s a natural side effect of pushing to achieve our dreams. But how we manage it sets us apart. Don’t let stress be your downfall.

Read the full article here. https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/292559

Schedule an appointment today! Call or text Dr. Diana at (602) 524-0222. Or Email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

A Stressed-out Childhood Could Seriously Ruin Your Kid’s Brain

Sat, 21 Jul 2018 23:17:11 GMT

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A quiet, unsmiling little girl with big brown eyes crawls inside a carpeted cubicle, hugs a stuffed teddy bear tight, and turns her head away from the noisy classroom.

The safe spaces, quiet times and breathing exercises for her and the other preschoolers at the Verner Center for Early Learning are designed to help kids cope with intense stress so they can learn. But experts hope there’s an even bigger benefit — protecting young bodies and brains from stress so persistent that it becomes toxic.

It’s no secret that growing up in tough circumstances can be hard on kids and lead to behavior and learning problems. But researchers are discovering something different. Many believe that ongoing stress during early childhood — from grinding poverty, neglect, parents’ substance abuse and other adversity — can smolder beneath the skin, harming kids’ brains and other body systems. And research suggests that can lead to some of the major causes of death and disease in adulthood, including heart attacks and diabetes.

“The damage that happens to kids from the infectious disease of toxic stress is as severe as the damage from meningitis or polio or pertussis,” says Dr. Tina Hahn, a pediatrician in rural Caro, Michigan. She says her No. 1 goal as a physician is to prevent toxic stress. Hahn routinely questions families about stresses at home, educates them about the risks and helps them find ways to manage.

Mounting research on potential biological dangers of toxic stress is prompting a new public health approach to identifying and treating the effects of poverty, neglect, abuse and other adversity. While some in the medical community dispute that research, pediatricians, mental health specialists, educators and community leaders are increasingly adopting what is called “trauma-informed” care.

The approach starts with the premise that extreme stress or trauma can cause brain changes that may interfere with learning, explain troubling behavior, and endanger health. The goal is to identify affected children and families and provide services to treat or prevent continued stress. This can include parenting classes, addiction treatment for parents, school and police-based programs and psychotherapy.

Many preschoolers who mental health specialist Laura Martin works with at the Verner Center have been in and out of foster homes or they live with parents struggling to make ends meet or dealing with drug and alcohol problems, depression or domestic violence.

They come to school in “fight or flight” mode, unfocused and withdrawn or aggressive, sometimes kicking and screaming at their classmates. Instead of adding to that stress with aggressive discipline, the goal is to take stress away.

“We know that if they don’t feel safe then they can’t learn,” Martin said. By creating a safe space, one goal of programs like Verner’s is to make kids’ bodies more resilient to biological damage from toxic stress, she said.

Many of these kids “never know what’s going to come next” at home. But at school, square cards taped at kids’ eye level remind them in words and pictures that lunch is followed by quiet time, then a snack, then hand-washing and a nap. Breathing exercises have kids roar like a lion or hiss like a snake to calm them. A peace table helps angry kids work out conflicts with their classmates.

‘We know that if they don’t feel safe then they can’t learn’
- Laura Martin

The brain and disease-fighting immune system are not fully formed at birth and are potentially vulnerable to damage from childhood adversity, recent studies have shown. The first three years are thought to be the most critical, and children lacking nurturing parents or other close relatives to help them cope with adversity are most at risk.

Under normal stress situations — for a young child that could be getting a shot or hearing a loud thunderstorm — the stress response kicks in, briefly raising heart rate and levels of cortisol and other stress hormones. When stress is severe and ongoing, those levels may remain elevated, putting kids in a persistent “fight or flight” mode, said Harvard University neuroscientist Charles Nelson.

Recent studies suggest that kind of stress changes the body’s metabolism and contributes to internal inflammation, which can raise risk for developing diabetes and heart disease. In 2015, Brown University researchers reported finding elevated levels of inflammatory markers in saliva of children who had experienced abuse or other adversity.

Experiments in animals and humans also suggest persistent stress may alter brain structure in regions affecting emotions and regulating behavior. Nelson and others have done imaging studies showing these regions are smaller than usual in severely traumatized children.

Nelson’s research on neglected children in Romanian orphanages suggests that early intervention might reverse damage from toxic stress. Orphans sent to live with nurturing foster families before age 2 had imaging scans several years later showing their brains looked similar to those of kids who were never institutionalized. By contrast, children sent to foster care at later ages had less gray matter and their brains looked more like those of children still in orphanages.

Toxic stress is not the same as post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD is a distinct mental condition that can result from an extremely traumatic event, including combat, violence or sexual abuse. Experts say it can occur in adults and children who live with persistent toxic stress, including children in war-torn countries, urban kids who’ve been shot or live in violence-plagued neighborhoods, and those who have been physically or sexually abused.

The toxic stress theory has become mainstream, but there are skeptics, including Tulane University psychiatrist Dr. Michael Scheeringa, an expert in childhood PTSD. Scheeringa says studies supporting the idea are weak, based mostly on observations, without evidence of how the brain looked before the trauma.

The American Academy of Pediatrics supports the theory and in 2012 issued recommendations urging pediatricians to educate parents and the public about the long-term consequences of toxic stress and to push for new policies and treatments to prevent it or reduce its effects.

In a 2016 policy noting a link between poverty and toxic stress, the academy urged pediatricians to routinely screen families for poverty and to help those affected find food pantries, homeless shelters and other resources.

Recent studies suggest that severe stress changes the body’s metabolism and contributes to internal inflammation, which can raise risk for developing diabetes and heart disease.

“The science of how poverty actually gets under kids’ skin and impacts a child has really been exploding,” said Dr. Benard Dreyer, a former president of the academy.

Some pediatricians and schools routinely screen children and families for toxic stress, but it is not universal, said John Fairbank, co-director of the National Center for Child Traumatic Stress. “That’s certainly an aspiration. It would be a big step forward,” said Fairbank, a Duke University psychiatry professor.

Much of the recent interest stems from landmark U.S. government-led research published in 1998 called the Adverse Childhood Experiences study. It found that adults exposed to neglect, poverty, violence, substance abuse, parents’ mental illness and other domestic dysfunction were more likely than others to have heart problems, diabetes, depression and asthma.

A follow-up 2009 study found that adults with six or more adverse childhood experiences died nearly 20 years earlier than those with none.

Some children seem resistant to effects from toxic stress. Harvard’s Nelson works with a research network based at Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child that is seeking to find telltale biomarkers in kids who are affected — in saliva, blood or hair —that could perhaps be targets for drugs or other treatment to prevent or reduce stress-related damage.

That research is promising but results are likely years off, says Dr. Jack Shonkoff, the center’s director.

Alvin and Natalie Clarke brought their young grandchildren into their Cass City, Michigan home after their parents jailed on drug charges. The 6-year-old grandson hits, yells, breaks toys, misbehaves in school. His 4-year-old sister used to have nightmares and recoil in fear when her baby doll was left alone on the floor — signs her therapists say suggest memories of neglect.

The Clarkes had never heard the term “toxic stress” when they were granted guardianship in 2015. Now it’s a frequent topic in a support group they’ve formed for other grandparent-guardians.

Their grandson’s therapists say he has PTSD and behavior problems likely stemming from toxic stress. Around strangers he’s sometimes quiet and polite but the Clarkes say he has frequent tantrums at home and school and threatens his sister. He gets frightened at night and worries people are coming to hurt him, Natalie Clarke said.

Weekly sessions with a trauma-focused therapist have led to small improvements in the boy. The Clarkes say he needs more help but that treatment is costly and his school isn’t equipped to offer it.

The little girl has flourished with help from Early Head Start behavior specialists who have worked with her and the Clarkes at home and school.

“Thank God she doesn’t remember much of it,” Natalie Clarke said. “She’s a happy, loving little girl now.

Read the full article here . Source: https://nypost.com/2017/07/12/a-stressed-out-childhood-could-seriously-ruin-your-kids-brain/

Stress Really Is Killing Us

Sun, 15 Jul 2018 01:04:11 GMT

There are new clues that the high levels of stress many people endure every day are taking a deadly toll.

White, working-class Americans are dying in middle age at a rapidly increasing pace, reversing a long-standing trend toward greater life expectancy across all races and social classes, according to a new report from economists Anne Case and Angus Deaton.

Daniel Keating

Much of this alarming trend comes from "deaths of despair," especially opioid addictions and overdoses, suicide, and alcohol-related diseases. To stem this epidemic, they argue that we need to understand the underlying reasons why this is happening. Case and Deaton make a plausible case that "slow moving and cumulative" social forces -- lack of labor market opportunities and fraying of the accustomed social fabric -- are key explanations. They reject arguments that attribute this trend to income alone or to a decline in virtue.

But an even more basic cause lies hidden at the intersection of psychology and biology -- a widespread stress epidemic that is affecting this group dramatically at the present but threatens all of us unless we soon understand the source of this trend and take steps to address it.

Stress-related disorders and diseases have been on the rise in the whole population for decades, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including those leading to these deaths of despair, but also to heart disease , obesity , and diabetes .

National surveys by the American Psychological Association that also capture how stressed, anxious and overwhelmed we feel show a similar increasing pattern. And it shows up in our bodies, even before we get sick or start down the many roads to self-harm.

A recent study by the Hamilton Project looked at the "physiological stress load" in the US using biological markers tied to cardiovascular, kidney and liver function to create a stress load index. This physical stress load, a precursor to many diseases, has increased in striking fashion since the late 1970s, and it is getting worse as each new age group enters adulthood.

We should see this increase in mortality for what it is -- a leading indicator of what could be in store for many of us. What social forces are producing the broader stress epidemic, and how do they "get under the skin" to cause long-term damage? One major clue comes from a closer look at the stress load index.

It has increased for everyone, but with marked inequality -- it has risen more sharply for those with fewer social and economic resources but also more for the middle class compared to the well off. There is a clear line that connects increasing inequality in income and opportunities, to increases in stress and mortality that hits some groups earlier than others.

A central biological pathway is from excess cortisol -- the fight-or-flight hormone -- that characterizes being over-stressed for long periods of time. This "stress dysregulation" leads to risky health decisions, like addiction or overeating, and directly to many health problems linked to excess cortisol.

Why are white, working-class Americans showing the earliest effects? Surely African-Americans and Hispanics have been experiencing inequality at equal or higher levels over these same decades. The key lies in different starting points in perceptions of control -- stress is largely a psychosocial phenomenon, though, of course, material deprivation also plays a role.

Minorities have gained some ground materially, in relative terms, over recent decades, but they also did not start with an assumption of being in control in the wider society. Losing a sense of control that you believed you had, whether real or not, justified or not, creates stressful dislocations.

We have seen this pattern before. In the disintegration of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, the group that saw itself as having substantial control -- middle-aged Russian men in particular -- experienced a similar loss of control, economically and in terms of cultural identity as the "socialist vanguard." They also died younger, suffering dramatic increases in early mortality .

Type 2 diabetes hitting a younger generation 02:33

If we understand what is actually happening -- socially, psychologically and biologically -- we can see that this effect is not going to be limited to just one group in the future. My colleagues and I have reported a pattern of increasing inequality being tied to worsening population outcomes -- not for mortality, but for the health, achievement and social engagement of adolescents in rich Western countries. But what we also found was that this was not inevitable.

Countries (Austria, Denmark, France, Sweden and others) that controlled income inequality and maintained investments in human development -- such as early childhood and parenting support, education, and social safety nets in health care and unemployment -- did not experience these increasing problems in adolescent and youth development.

Slow-moving and cumulative social forces "get under the skin" early in life and can show up decades later in morbidity and mortality. The risk is magnified in light of very recent research showing that high levels of stress experienced by expectant mothers or by babies can make fundamental biological changes in infancy -- through what are known as epigenetic changes , which alter how genes work -- that can endure over a lifetime.

This burden of stress dysregulation in young Americans from early life adversity amplifies the stress epidemic by making more of us vulnerable, and by increasing the total amount of ambient stress we all experience everyday in our schools, our workplaces, our social media, on our highways, in our malls -- in effect, throughout our communities.

Increasing inequality and decreasing investment in human development place all of us at risk -- a stressful recognition itself in the current political environment where there is the potential for going even further in the risky direction. Resisting these trends is essential to health, because the consequences will show up for all of us for decades to come.

Source: CNN.com Read the full article here.

Schedule an appointment. Call or Text (602) 524-0222. Email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

US Life Expectancy Falls for First Time in 23 Years, with Rises for 8 of the 10 Leading Causes of Death

Fri, 11 May 2018 07:58:14 GMT

Life expectancy fell in the US last year for the first time in more than two decades, with death rates tied to eight of the ten leading causes of death all on the rise according to new data from the National Center for Health Statistics.

The last time life expectancy fell was in 1993 in the midst of the HIV/Aids epidemic. Drops have otherwise been rare as life expectancy has incrementally increased since the end of the Second World War.

Rises in death rates from heart disease, accidents (including drug overdoses), and Alzheimer’s were among the primary factors in the decline. There were also moderate increases in deaths from strokes, diabetes and suicide.

Of the ten leading causes of deathH only cancer killed fewer people as a portion of the population, with the death rate from influenza and pneumonia not changing significantly.

The increase in death rates cut across races and genders, with black women as the only major demographic group for whom the rate did not rise. The biggest rise came among white women, with increases also found among both white and black men.

Link to full article: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/12/08/us-life-expectancy-falls-first-time-23-years-rises-8-10-...

Stressed Out? Here Are 7 Ways to Beat It Before It Kills You

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 03:21:14 GMT

Stress doesn't have to be a side effect of building your business.

Unchecked stress can have a devastating impact on your body. And if you're not careful, you can live with it for years not recognizing the damage it's causing.

My body sent me signals for a long time that trouble was brewing inside: hair loss, gastrointestinal issues, and occasional bouts of depression.

I knew there was something not quite right, but I didn't know that stress was a major source of it.

Living with chronic stress means your body is always on high alert, as if it's ready to fight a ravenous tiger.

And since you aren't designed to operate on high alert for prolonged periods of time, breakdowns start to occur. Research from Harvard Medical shows that 60-90 percent of doctor's visits are caused by stress.

Here's how Dr. Kevin Cuccaro of Straight Shot Health describes the impact chronic stress has on you:

"If you have that on all the time, you're repeatedly stressed or maintaining that high level of stress response, it can actually start breaking down your body. It worsens things causing heart disease, it can cause gastrointestinal problems. Even things like just thinking clearly. You're not able to think as well. It affects every organ system in the body."

That's exactly what happened to me. After years of living with stress, my body couldn't take it anymore. I ended up in the hospital for ten days, and had a long recovery afterward.

Now that I know how detrimental stress is, I take great care to manage it both proactively and reactively. Here's are seven powerful ways I've learned to keep it in check. When you apply one or more of these into your routine, you'll start to beat it too.

This helpful article goes on to share proven ways to shift your thinking and your lifestyle to neutralize the stress response and help us live healthier, better and longer.

Link to the full article here: https://www.inc.com/sonia-thompson/stressed-out-heres-7-ways-to-beat-it-before-it-kills-you.html

Schedule an appointment today!

(602) 524-0222

Lower Life Expectancy Likely Caused by Lifestyle Choices

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 02:22:57 GMT

For the first time in two decades, the life expectancy of Americans declined slightly, and the overall death rate rose, according to a report from the National Center for Health Statistics.

While that information shouldn’t alarm many, it does point to challenges in keepingAmerica healthy.

“A lot of people are still trying to understand the data and speculate on what thereport means based on the information we have,” said Dr. Nicole Osevala, an internist and geriatrician at HPenn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

Osevala said the life expectancy report was broken down into age ranges, and adults age 65 and older saw no decrease in how long they are expected to live.

The decrease in life expectancy comes into play for the younger and middle-aged population. For those under the age of 65, accidental deaths and complications from chronic diseases such as heart disease, renal disease, stroke and diabetes were the causes of death that saw increases in 2015.

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“It’s concerning because in many ways, these are linked to lifestyle choices and obesity,” Osevala said. “And those are problems we don’t necessarily have medications for.”

Whether it’s young people abusing opiates or texting while driving, or middle-agedfolks failing to get exercise and maintaining poor diets, such lifestyle choices aren’tentirely within the control of the medical community.

“All of our medical knowledge, interventions and medications don’t seem to be making an impact on preventing these diseases from killing people,” Osevala said. “We cancounsel and educate patients, but we are not in their homes 24 hours a day, sevendays a week. It’s the day-to-day choices we are making that have the biggest impact.”

Link to full article: http://news.psu.edu/story/442469/2016/12/15/medical-minute- lower-life-expectancy-likely-caused-lifestyle-choices

Schedule an appointment today! Call or text (602) 524-0222.

How Back Pain Took Over The World

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 02:07:32 GMT

The biggest cause of disability around the world is surprisingly banal.

The rising importance of back pain as a cause of disability reveals two importantglobal trends: One, that we’ve gotten better at fighting the types of things that usedto really plague people, like measles (down 94 percent globally since 1990). Second, and relatedly, populations around the world are aging. And old peoples’ backs hurt.

But there are other factors that influence backaches, and those are all getting worse too. A high body-mass index and a lack of physical activity are both risk factors for back pain, and the same institute found a few years ago that obesity and overweight have increased by H28 percent in adults around the world since 1980. Trying to getobesity under control, Vos said, has been “spectacularly unsuccessful.”

It’s much the same story with back pain: We don’t really know what to do about it.There aren’t good treatments for it, Vos said, and some of the things that people useto try to manage it—like prescription opioids—have only morphed into health crises in their own right.

Link to full article: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2016/10/how-back-pain-took-over-the-world/503243/

Schedule an appointment by calling or texting (602) 524-0222

Physical Signs Your Stress Is Out of Control

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 01:52:12 GMT

Stress doesn't just dominate your mind—it makes its mark on your entire body.

Everyone gets stressed. Whether it's from financial troubles, relationships, health problems, or work, there's pretty much an endless list of things that can rile you up and leave you feeling frazzled. For some people, though, the consequences of stress can show up more outwardly than it does in others.

"Stress does not have to be either very high or necessarily chronic to feel it fairly immediately," JJulie Pike, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist and expert in the treatment of anxiety disorders, tells SELF. And by feel it, she means not just in the form of anxiety, overthinking, and worrying. "Stress is the body’s response to the mind’sperception that the environment is too demanding," she explains. So naturally, this response shows up in many ways throughout your body—for some, it hits harder than others.

Stress activates your sympathetic nervous system. "It tells our body it's in the presence of a predator, so we have to be on guard and either need to run or fight, which is why we get so nervous and so snappy," Pike explains. This fight or flight response sends our bodies signals, which cause countless effects, thanks to the rush of hormones and brain chemicals involved.

The article documents 11 of the most common physical signs that your stress levels are too high. These include: neck pain, headaches, hair loss, weight gain, skin conditions, insomnia, fatigue and more.

Link to full article: https://www.self.com/story/11-physical-signs-of-stress

Schedule an appointment today. Call or text (602) 524-0222.

What Stress is Doing to Your Body and How to Reduce It

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 01:26:26 GMT

The American Psychological Association reports that nearly 50% of Americans believe their stress has increased during the past year.

According to the Regus Group, China has the highest percent (86%) of stress in a workplace in the world. HA LifelineAustralia’s survey indicates that more than 90% of Australians claim they are stressed in at least one important aspect of their life. As claimed by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence in the UK, work-related illness is a major cause of 13.7 million lost working days each year.

Clearly, stress is in every corner of the world and in every sphere of our life. Rarely is one immune to this potentially serious health and social problem. In order to understand how to build stress resilience, we need to understand what stress is doing to our body and what potential health consequences it can bring.

When you are stressed-out, the autonomic nervous system is activated, which then activates the intestinal nervous system. Anxiety can trigger a digestive imbalance, heartburn and even irritable bowel syndrome. The composition and function of the gut bacteria can be also changed due to stress. Additionally, cortisol is a reason behind weight gain as it increases appetite making you crave for carbohydrates and other energy-rich foods.

How to raise your stress tolerance?

You cannot avoid stress, but you can decrease your stress response in a variety of ways. Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce the effects of stress. Social engagement creates the experience of safety and releases stress- reduction hormones. Even though you feel that you are caught in the hustle of life and that you cannot get out, try to make more time for yourself. Read a book, spend time in nature, listen to music, or watch a comedy.

This informative article goes on to recommend a series of natural solutions to help us manage and reduce our stress levels.

Read the full article here: pickthebrain.com

Don't stress any longer. Schedule an appointment today. (602) 524-0222.

Study Finds That Chronic Stress Really Does Spread Cancer in The Body

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 00:58:33 GMT

Stress is a b*tch.

There are two ways that cancer spreads throughout the body - through the blood vessels or through the lymphatic system, which is a network of tubes that drain fluid from tissue back into the bloodstream. But once it's out, it can form deadly secondary tumours, which is why it's so important for doctors to remove cancer as quickly as possible once it's detected.

Scientists already know that stress hormones can increase blood vessel formation, giving cancerous cells more potential escape routes, but until now it wasn't clear whether they also influenced the lymphatic system.

Not only that, the stress hormone actually physically changed the lymph vessels draining out of tumours, allowing cancerous cells to escape to other parts of the body faster.
"So not only do you get new freeways out of the tumour but the speed limit is increased and so the tumour cells can flow out of the tumour much more rapidly," said Sloan.

Read the full article here: sciencealert.com

Workplace Stress

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 00:31:49 GMT

The Health Epidemic of The 21st Century

Stress has been called the “health epidemic of the 21st century” by the World Health Organization and is estimated to cost American businesses up to $300 billion a year. - businessnewsdaily.com

It’s no surprise that workplace stress is a bigger problem today than even 10-yearsago. In the 1990’s the term work-life balance was coined to describe the solutionfor being able to “have it all” and manage it with ease. Time management courses popped up all over Corporate America in effort to help people balance their family, career, health and social life; promising a golden solution via setting priorities, maintaining a schedule and creating time boundaries. People everywhere jumped at the chance to bring solace to their life by way of this new buzzword, but rather than balance many found themselves taking on more and feeling greater pressure to perform better in all areas of life. The result...more stress.

In the early 2000’s, the phrase smart-hard work surfaced due to 80 million Millennials (those reaching young adulthood around the year 2000) entering the workforce. Smart-hard work was the business solution for accommodating the Millennial characteristic of performing at higher levels when able to work around the clock-on their own time in their own way. The concept of smart-hard work came on the coattails of ROWE (results only work environment). ROWE was CorporateAmerica’s response to the early 2000’s push for a more engaged workforce-measuring people’s performance based on results rather than time in the office. Corporate’s motive for participating in ROWE was increased engagement—a quantifiable link to profit. Both smart-hard work and ROWE was yet another promise to employees that work-life balance was finally within reach. However, rather than balance, people found themselves yet again taking on greater levels of responsibility and feeling increasingly more stressed.

As the 2000’s progressed, two seemly catastrophic occurrences hit Corporate America.The first being the great recession. In 2008 and 2009 the HHUUS labor market lost 8.4 million jobs. Throughout the country the corporate mantra became “Do More with Less”. Those who were still employed found themselves working around the clock in effort to keep up with business demands that required them to take on the responsibility of two or three jobs—resulting in dismal cultures and workplace stress levels hitting an all-time high.

The second occurrence was the rise of technical advances. New smartphones, tablets, aps and sophisticated enterprise wide systems promised cost savings, efficiency and finally work-life balance via the connected world. Doing more with less was now possible with a click of a button, but yet workplace stress continued to rise. People found themselves connected to their work 24/7 while a new societal addiction crept into homes and businesses throughout the country. As people spent more time with their heads down looking at their phones, checking email and texting around the clock, online gaming, and living through social media their lives shifted to overload and interpersonal relationships suffered. Work-life balance continued to feel like a pipe dream.

In 2013 Gallup announced 70% of the American workforce was disengaged, and the World Health Organization estimated workplace stress costing American businesses up to $300 billion a year. As we welcome 2016, both statistics are a harsh reality andeach continue to rise. So much so that stress has been called the “health epidemic of the 21st century” by the World Health Organization. An epidemic that will be one ofthe most significant challenges businesses face over the next decade—a threat to engagement, productivity, retention and looming health care costs.

Read the full article here: huffintonpost.com

For more information text or call Dr. Diana (602) 524-0222.

9 Ways Stress Messes with Your Body

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 02:29:30 GMT

Stress really sucks. It sucks up your energy, your desire to get to the gym, and even your libido. And while some stress can help you kick butt when your body goes into fight-or-flight mode, daily stress can mess with your mind and body in serious ways. Check out these freakish symptoms of stress and make an appointment with Dr. Diana today and see how Mladenoff Clinic AZ can help you stress less.

1. It Makes You Exhausted

Aside from the fact that your anxiety might be keeping you up at night, freaking out triggers your brain to release the hormone cortisol into your bloodstream. This helpful chemical quickens your heartbeat, gives your brain more oxygen, and releases extra energy to help your body deal with that stress. But frequent stress can cause your brain to limit the amount of cortisol it sends into your bloodstream, whichcan make you feel like you’re dragging your butt all day, every day. The good news is that about three hours a week of working out should keep those hormone levels in check. So what are you waiting for? Get moving!

2. It Messes With Your Libido

It’s not a secret that when your mind is someplace else, it can be hard to get in themood to get busy. But that’s not the only way stress impacts what's going down (ornot) between the sheets. Chronic stress can impact your body's production of estrogen, which keeps your reproductive system in working order. When that happens, you could feel a dip in your sex drive. Womp womp all around. In times of stress, concentrate on eating a healthy diet and cutting back on processed foods to help ease this symptom.

3. It Makes It Hard for You To Poop

Those knots in your stomach could me more than just an uneasy feeling. Chronic stress can impact the hormones released by your thyroid glands, which regulate your metabolism among other things. If these hormones get off track, it can lead to constipation. When you're feeling this symptom, head to the gym, drink lots of fluids, increase your fiber intake, or take a laxative if you need to.

4. You Can't Remember Anything

Traumatic stress, meaning stress that occurs when you feel a threat to your life or a loved one's life and feels like intense fear or helplessness, seriously impacts your hipoocampus, the area of your brain where your memories are stored. This kind of stress causes the hippocampus to actually shrink, making it tough to remember facts, lists, the entirety of an event, or long gaps of time (from minutes to days). Plus, damage from stress can make it hard to create new memories.

5. It Screws With Your Manicure

If you have a nasty habit of picking or biting your cuticles, it might be how your anxiety is rearing its ugly head. And besides ruining your perfectly manicured tips, picking at your fingers can lead to a nasty infection since you use your hands for pretty much everything. To keep this anxious habit from affecting your nails, makes sure you're moisturizing frequently and wearing bandages on your fingers to minimize the damage.

6. It Makes You Gain Weight
A University of Kentucky study found that dieters who learned stress-management tactics were more successful at losing weight than dieters who didn't. The connection between reducing stress and losing weight could be that it helps cut back on stress-related binge eating. Plus, another study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology found that women who were constantly stressed out metabolized fat and sugar differently than those who weren't anxiety-ridden.

7. You Could Lose Some Hair

Just as a spike in androgens can cause your skin to break out, it can also cause your hair to shed more than usual, usually three to six months after a super stressful situation. The good news is that this unfortunate side effect should only be temporary, and a balanced diet can help the cells in your hair follicles heal back to normal.

8. It Makes You Break Out

When you're really freaking out, the level of sex hormones called androgens in your body spike, causing acne to flare up. You can try using birth control to keep breakouts in check or using topical treatments when they occur. In addition to zits on your face, stress can also show up on other parts of your skin in the form of rashes. That's because anxiety wreaks havoc on your immune system, which can make eczema act up or cause skin infections like staph.

9. It Makes Your Back Ache

When you're stressing, your heart rate and blood pressure rise and your body pumps out hormones to help with your fight-or-flight response. This combination can cause your muscles to tighten up and amplify the aches you get from sitting at a desk all day. You can combat stress-related back pain by standing up every hour and stretching.

Read the full article for the remaining ways that stress messes with your body here: womenshealthmag.com

Got Stress? Here's Why

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 00:44:25 GMT

Ever wonder why you're feeling so stressed? There are several reasons why we may be feeling overwhelmed.

The American Institute of Stress suggests that our stress factors are divided up in the following way:

46 percent — Workload
28 percent — People issues
20 percent — Juggling work/personal lives 6 percent — Lack of job security

Almost half of all stress we experience is connected with our workload. This should come as no surprise since at least half of our waking time is spent with work relatedactivities. If you’re getting seven hours of sleep, you’re awake for about 17 hours, of which about 10 are spent with work matters.

People issues can drain us beyond belief. Especially if you have issues with people at work and at home. Of course, if we have issues with people, then they probably have issues with us too. It’s just that it’s harder for us to recognize the issues people havewith us because we usually fail to see our own shortcomings.

Creating a work-life balance is a huge struggle for almost everyone. Work can be so demanding that we often end up neglecting our family and friends, which also have demands on our time and mental energy.

According to the Psychology Today, “...meditation reduces anxiety, stress, and depression.”

Even if it’s only five minutes a day. Look at it as a small investment into the part of your existence that controls almost everything else about you. It doesn’t have to belong and complicated. Just take out a few minutes every day to clear your head and breath deeply and keep your mind only on your breath. When the mind wanders and starts to plan your day, just bring it back to the breath.

Link to full article: huffingtonpost.com

Schedule an appointment today.

(602) 524-0222 | info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

How Stress Influences Disease

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 00:30:53 GMT

Stress wreaks havoc on the mind and body. Prolonged stress alters the effectiveness of cortisol to regulate the inflammatory response. Runaway inflammation is thought to promote the development and progression of many diseases.

Stress wreaks havoc on the mind and body. For example, psychological stress is associated with greater risk for depression, heart disease and infectious diseases. But, until now, it has not been clear exactly how stress influences disease and health.

A research team led by Carnegie Mellon University's Sheldon Cohen has found that chronic psychological stress is associated with the body losing its ability to regulate the inflammatory response. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the research shows for the first time that the effects of psychological stress on the body's ability to regulate inflammation can promote the development and progression of disease.

"Inflammation is partly regulated by the hormone cortisol and when cortisol is not allowed to serve this function, inflammation can get out of control," said Cohen, the Robert E. Doherty Professor of Psychology within CMU's Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Cohen argued that prolonged stress alters the effectiveness of cortisol to regulate the inflammatory response because it decreases tissue sensitivity to the hormone. Specifically, immune cells become insensitive to cortisol's regulatory effect. In turn, runaway inflammation is thought to promote the development and progression of many diseases.

Cohen, whose groundbreaking early work showed that people suffering from psychological stress are more susceptible to developing common colds, used the common cold as the model for testing his theory. With the common cold, symptoms are not caused by the virus -- they are instead a "side effect" of the inflammatory response that is triggered as part of the body's effort to fight infection. The greater the body's inflammatory response to the virus, the greater is the likelihood of experiencing the symptoms of a cold.

Read the full article here: www.eurekalert.org

If you want to decrease your stress and start living a healthier life, make an appointment today with the Mladenoff Clinic AZ by calling or texting (602) 524-0222. You can also email us at info@mladenoffclinicaz.com

12 Effects of Chronic Stress On Your Brain

Wed, 04 Apr 2018 21:47:38 GMT

Chronic stress increases the stress hormone cortisol and affects many brain functions, putting you at risk for many mood disorders and other mental issues.

Stress is an unavoidable part of modern life.

There are two main kinds of stress — acute stress and chronic stress — and not all stress is bad for you.

Acute stress is the reaction to an immediate threat, commonly known as the “fight or flight” response.

Once the threat has passed, your levels of stress hormones return to normal with no long-lasting effects.

90% of doctors’ visits are for stress-related health complaints.
Chronic stress makes you more vulnerable to everything from cancer to the common cold.

The non-stop elevation of stress hormones not only makes your body sick, it negatively impacts your brain as well.

When stress becomes chronic, it changes your brain’s function and even its structuredown to the level of your DNA.

The Effects of Chronic Stress on Your Brain

While stress and cortisol take a toll on your body, they take an equally high toll on your brain.

Some of these brain-related stress symptoms will be obvious to you, like memory problems, anxiety, and worry.

But most of these effects of stress on your brain are “behind the scenes.”
You don’t notice they’re happening but you will notice the side effects ... eventually.

Some side effects of stress that impact your mental well-being include:• excessive worry and fear

• anger and frustration
• impatience with self and others
• mood swings, crying spells or suicidal thoughts
• insomnia, nightmares, disturbing dreams
• trouble concentrating and learning new information
• racing thoughts, nervousness
• forgetfulness, mental confusion
• difficulty in making decisions
• feeling overwhelmed
• irritability and overreaction to petty annoyances
• excessive defensiveness or suspicion
• increased smoking, alcohol, drug use, gambling or impulse buying

Chronic stress may seem to be an unavoidable part of life, but proactive steps will definitely reduce its wear and tear on your brain.

Link to full article: https://bebrainfit.com/effects-chronic-stress-brain/