 A Chiropractor's Guide to Getting Better Results Safely By Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh, DC Soft Touch Chiropractic Porter Ranch, CA Many people purchase a home neck traction device hoping to relieve neck pain, headaches, arm pain, stiffness, or pinched nerves. While these devices can be helpful for some people, one of the biggest mistakes is using continuous traction for too long. Ironically, more time under traction does not always mean better results. Your Body Is Designed to Adapt Your body constantly tries to maintain balance, a process called homeostasis. When you place your neck under traction, the muscles initially relax and allow the joints and discs to gently separate. This is exactly what we want. However, after a couple of minutes, something interesting begins to happen. Your nervous system notices the stretching and starts to protect your neck by tightening the muscles again. As those muscles contract, they gradually reduce the amount of traction reaching the joints and discs. Think of it like stretching a rubber band. At first it stretches easily. Leave it stretched long enough, and the material begins to adapt. Your muscles behave in a similar way—they start resisting the pull. A Better Way to Use Home Neck TractionInstead of one long session lasting 5–10 minutes, consider using short intervals. A simple approach is:
Each new cycle gives your neck another fresh therapeutic stretch instead of allowing the muscles to settle into a resistant state. Movement Is Part of the Therapy ;There is another major advantage to interval traction. Every time you release and reapply traction, your neck experiences gentle movement. Healthy joints depend on movement. This repeated motion can help:
When you gently compress and release a sponge, fresh water moves in and out. Likewise, gentle cycles of movement help exchange fluids within the discs and surrounding tissues, supporting their health. Comfort MattersHome traction should never be painful. The goal is a gentle stretching sensation—not a strong pull. If you experience increased pain, numbness, tingling, dizziness, headaches, or worsening symptoms, stop using the device and consult your healthcare provider. The amount of force should always remain comfortable. Neck Traction Is Only One Piece of the PuzzleEven the best traction device cannot correct every cause of neck pain. Many neck problems involve:
The Bottom Line Using your home neck traction device smarter—not longer—may produce better results. Rather than holding continuous traction for long periods, short repeated intervals may help:
Ready to Find the Cause of Your Neck Pain? If you're experiencing chronic neck pain, headaches, arm pain, or stiffness, don't just treat the symptoms. Discover why your neck is hurting and whether traction is appropriate for your condition. At Soft Touch Chiropractic, Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh provides gentle, personalized chiropractic care designed to restore healthy joint movement, reduce nerve irritation, and improve overall spinal function. Call Soft Touch Chiropractic today at (818) 831-0100 to schedule your consultation and learn the safest, most effective treatment plan for your neck. neck traction, home neck traction, cervical traction, neck pain relief, chiropractor Porter Ranch, chiropractor near me, cervical spine pain, pinched nerve treatment, neck stiffness, chiropractic care, cervical disc health, gentle chiropractic, headache relief, Soft Touch Chiropractic.
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 How Your Ribs, Mid-Back, and Lymphatic System Move With Every Breath By Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh Soft Touch Chiropractic Porter Ranch, CA Have you ever noticed that after taking a slow, deep breath, your body naturally feels more relaxed? That's because breathing is much more than filling your lungs with air. At Soft Touch Chiropractic, we believe that every deep breath is also gentle movement therapy for your rib cage, thoracic spine (mid-back), diaphragm, and surrounding muscles. Healthy breathing helps keep your body moving the way it was designed to move. If you've been searching for a chiropractor near me, mid-back pain relief, rib pain treatment, posture correction, or gentle chiropractic care in Porter Ranch, understanding how breathing affects your spine may completely change the way you think about your health. Why Breathing Is More Than Just Air Many people believe breathing only involves the lungs. In reality, every deep breath creates movement throughout your upper body. During a healthy inhale:
Think of your rib cage like an umbrella. When you open it, every rib moves smoothly together. When it closes, everything returns to its resting position. Healthy breathing is healthy movement. Your Rib Cage and Spine Work as One Each rib is attached to your thoracic spine. That means every breath creates small movements in your spinal joints. Imagine a row of door hinges. If you open and close them every day, they stay flexible. If they never move, they begin to stiffen. The same principle applies to your ribs and thoracic spine. When we spend hours sitting, looking down at phones, working on computers, or living under stress, those joints often lose motion. Breathing becomes shallower, muscles tighten, and stiffness develops. From a chiropractic perspective, restoring normal joint motion can help the body move more comfortably and breathe more naturally. Deep Breathing Helps Move Your Lymphatic System Unlike your heart, which has its own pump, the lymphatic system depends on movement. It relies on:
When water flows freely, everything stays clean. When the flow slows down, waste begins to collect. Every deep breath gently compresses and releases lymphatic vessels, helping move lymph throughout the body. Chiropractic Care and Better Breathing At Soft Touch Chiropractic, we often see that when rib joints and the thoracic spine move better, patients frequently report that taking a deep breath feels easier and more comfortable. Chiropractic adjustments are designed to restore normal joint motion. When joints move more freely, surrounding muscles can relax, allowing the body to function more efficiently. Think of a rusty bicycle chain. Cleaning and lubricating it doesn't make the bicycle stronger—it simply allows it to move the way it was designed. Your spine works much the same way. What Breath by James Nestor Teaches Us James Nestor's book uses simple stories to explain how breathing influences nearly every system of the body. Here are the biggest lessons. We Have Forgotten How to Breathe Modern life has changed the shape of our faces and narrowed many people's airways. Story: We upgraded the "computer" (our brain) but accidentally made the ventilation system smaller. Takeaway: Modern habits have made efficient breathing more difficult. Your Mouth Is the Emergency Door Nestor temporarily breathed only through his mouth during a scientific experiment. Within days he developed:
Driving a luxury car with a clogged air filter. Takeaway: Your nose is designed for breathing. Your Nose Is Nature's Air Filter Your nose:
 Takeaway: Breathe through your nose whenever possible.
Exhaling Matters as Much as Inhaling Breathing isn't only about getting oxygen in. A slow exhale helps maintain healthy carbon dioxide levels, allowing oxygen to be released where your body needs it. Story: Oxygen is the delivery truck. Carbon dioxide opens the loading dock. Takeaway: A relaxed exhale helps your body use oxygen more efficiently. Slow Is Powerful Breathing slowly helps calm the nervous system and improve efficiency. Story: A well-tuned engine doesn't need to race to perform at its best. Takeaway: Slower breathing often supports better health. Breath Holding Trains the Body Short, controlled breath-holding exercises can improve tolerance to carbon dioxide and help the body use oxygen more efficiently. Story: Just as lifting weights strengthens muscles, controlled breath training strengthens the breathing system. Takeaway: The body adapts when challenged appropriately. Chewing Shapes Your Airway Modern soft foods require very little chewing. Over time this may contribute to:
Takeaway: Healthy chewing supports healthy facial development. Your Breath Is Like a Control Panel Different breathing techniques can help you:
Takeaway: Learn to use breathing intentionally. The Chiropractic Perspective At Soft Touch Chiropractic, we believe healthy breathing and healthy spinal movement go hand in hand. Every deep breath gently moves:
Movement is life—and breathing is one of the easiest ways to keep your body moving every minute of every day. Take the Next Breath Toward Better Health If you're experiencing:
A chiropractic evaluation can help determine whether restricted spinal motion is contributing to your discomfort. At Soft Touch Chiropractic, Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh provides gentle, individualized chiropractic care to help restore healthy movement, improve posture, and support your body's natural ability to function at its best. Call Soft Touch Chiropractic today 818-831-0100 to schedule your consultation and discover how improving spinal motion—and breathing better—may help you move better, feel better, and live better. Stress, Communication & Your Spine: Can Better Conversations Help Reduce Physical Tension?27/7/2026  Presented by Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh Soft Touch Chiropractic Porter Ranch & Northridge, CA Stress doesn't only affect how we feel emotionally. It can also affect how our bodies feel and function. Stress can show up physically through behaviors such as:
This is one reason we encourage patients to consider not only their physical health, but also the stress in their everyday lives. How Much Does Stress Matter? In The Science of Natural Healing, Dr. Mimi Guarneri discusses the relationship between stress and health. The American Institute of Stress has cited estimates that 75–90% of visits to health-care providers involve stress-related complaints or disorders. This does not mean stress causes 75–90% of all illnesses. Rather, it highlights how frequently stress may be associated with symptoms that bring people to health-care professionals. And where does a lot of everyday stress come from? 🗣️ Our relationships and communication.Family disagreements, workplace conflicts, marriage difficulties, misunderstandings and arguments can keep us emotionally—and physically—tense. 🧊 Think of Conflict Like an IcebergIn Supercommunicators, Charles Duhigg shows that what we're arguing about may only be the tip of the iceberg. Above the water we hear: Opinions • Positions • Arguments But underneath may be: ❤️ Values 😨 Fear 🛡️ Safety 👤 Identity 👨👩👧 Family experiences 🤝 Belonging 📖 Personal history When we attack only the person's position, this can create a cycle: ⚔️ ATTACK → 🛡️ DEFEND → ⚔️ ATTACK → 😡 CONFLICT → ⚡ STRESSInstead, try changing the conversation. ❤️ From Conflict to ConnectionInstead of: “How can I prove you wrong?” try: “Help me understand why this is important to you.”  Then follow this simple pathway:
❓ CURIOSITY“What experiences shaped your opinion?” 📖 STORY“What happened?” ❤️ EMOTION“How did that affect you?” 👂 UNDERSTANDING“I understand why this matters to you.” 🤝 CONNECTIONRemember: Understanding does NOT mean agreeing.You can disagree with someone's conclusion while still understanding their feelings and experiences. Stress → Muscle Tension → Physical DiscomfortThink about what happens during a stressful argument. You may unconsciously: Clench your jaw → Raise your shoulders → Tighten your neck → Brace your back If this happens repeatedly, those muscles can remain tense and contribute to stiffness, restricted joint movement and discomfort. At Soft Touch Chiropractic, we believe reducing unnecessary stress while addressing musculoskeletal dysfunction can be an important part of a broader wellness strategy. The Soft Touch Chiropractic MessageWhen conflict begins, remember: Don't immediately attack the position. ❤️ Get curious. 👂 Listen for what's underneath. 🤝 Look for common ground. 🕊️ Seek understanding rather than simply winning. Better communication → Less unnecessary conflict → Less stress → Less muscle tension📞 Are Stress and Muscle Tension Affecting Your Neck or Back? If you're experiencing persistent neck tension, back pain, headaches, stiffness, jaw tension, or tight shoulders, consider having your musculoskeletal function evaluated. Soft Touch Chiropractic Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh Serving Porter Ranch, Northridge, and surrounding communities If you're searching for a chiropractor near me, chiropractor in Porter Ranch, chiropractic care in Northridge, neck pain relief, back pain treatment, posture correction, or gentle chiropractic care, contact Soft Touch Chiropractic to schedule an evaluation. ❤️ Don't just manage the argument. Learn to manage the stress it creates.I used “may contribute to” rather than stating that stress directly causes vertebral subluxation, which makes the claim more appropriate for patient-facing health content while preserving your chiropractic message. The Hidden Connection Between the Cervical Spine and Shoulder Function Presented by Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh Soft Touch Chiropractic – Porter Ranch, CA Is Your Shoulder Really the Problem? Many people assume that shoulder pain starts in the shoulder. While injuries such as falls, rotator cuff tears, or arthritis can certainly cause shoulder pain, many chronic shoulder problems develop gradually because the muscles controlling the shoulder are no longer working in proper balance. The surprising part? The imbalance often begins in the neck. The Shoulder Is Unlike Any Other JointUnlike the hip, which is built for stability, the shoulder is designed for maximum freedom of movement. The shoulder can:
 The shoulder depends heavily on healthy muscles for its stability. Instead of relying primarily on bones and ligaments, the shoulder stays centered because many muscles constantly work together to keep it aligned. Think of these muscles as a team. If one player becomes weak or another becomes too tight, the entire shoulder begins to function differently. Muscle Balance Is Everything Healthy shoulder movement requires a balance between:
Examples include:
Over time, this imbalance changes how the shoulder moves. The AC Joint and Sternoclavicular Joint Can Become Stressed As muscle balance changes, the shoulder girdle may no longer move efficiently. This can place increased stress on important joints such as:
But What Controls Those Muscles? Here's the question that often gets overlooked. What tells those muscles how much to tighten or relax? The answer is: Your nervous system. Every shoulder muscle receives its instructions through nerves that originate from the cervical spine (neck). These nerves influence:
Could the Neck Be the Missing Piece?Many people notice shoulder pain without realizing they had:
While not every shoulder condition starts in the neck, cervical dysfunction can contribute to altered shoulder mechanics in some individuals. Addressing only the shoulder without evaluating the neck may leave an important contributing factor untreated. What Happens Over Time?The process often develops gradually. Stage 1Neck dysfunction affects nerve and muscle function. Stage 2Muscles begin losing proper balance. Stage 3The shoulder no longer stays perfectly centered. Stage 4Abnormal movement places extra stress on tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Stage 5Pain, inflammation, reduced motion, and weakness become noticeable. By the time shoulder pain appears, the underlying movement problem may have been developing for a long time. A Chiropractic ApproachAt Soft Touch Chiropractic, we evaluate more than just where the pain is located. Your examination may include assessment of:
The goal is not simply to reduce pain—but to improve how the entire shoulder system functions. Don't Wait Until the Damage Is DonePain is often the last sign that something has been changing for months or even years. The earlier muscle imbalance and movement dysfunction are identified, the better the opportunity to improve function before more significant tissue irritation develops. Your shoulder doesn't work alone. It works together with your neck, nervous system, muscles, and posture. Understanding that connection could be the key to lasting improvement. Schedule Your Shoulder Evaluation TodayIf you've been living with: ✔ Shoulder pain ✔ Neck stiffness ✔ Clicking or popping ✔ Limited range of motion ✔ Pain reaching overhead ✔ Weakness when lifting Don't just treat the symptoms. Find out whether your neck and nervous system are contributing to your shoulder problem. Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh Soft Touch Chiropractic 11145 Tampa Ave., Suite 14A Porter Ranch / Northridge, CA 91326 ☎ (818) 831-0100  Presented by Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh Soft Touch Chiropractic – Porter Ranch, California Have you ever gone to bed feeling perfectly fine, only to wake up with severe neck pain that makes it difficult to turn your head? This is one of the most common questions patients ask at Soft Touch Chiropractic. One of the most overlooked causes of morning neck pain is a slight, prolonged muscle contraction that occurs while you sleep. During the night, your head may slowly rotate toward the pillow, or your neck may press against the pillow or your own shoulder. The pressure is usually so gentle that it doesn't wake you up, and you may not even realize your neck muscles are contracting to hold that position. Think of it this way. Imagine holding a very light object in your hand. For the first 15 or 20 minutes, it doesn't seem difficult. But if you continue holding that same light object for several hours without resting, your arm will eventually become tired, sore, and may even go into spasm. Your neck muscles behave the same way. Even a very small amount of muscle contraction, maintained for three, four, or even seven hours, can overload the muscles. As they continue working throughout the night, blood flow may decrease, reducing the delivery of oxygen needed for normal muscle function. When muscles are forced to work with insufficient oxygen, they temporarily rely more on anaerobic metabolism, which produces lactate as a normal byproduct. This change in metabolism, along with prolonged muscle contraction and the buildup of other inflammatory chemicals, can contribute to muscle fatigue, tenderness, stiffness, and painful muscle spasms when you wake up. How Can You Prevent Morning Neck Pain? A few simple changes may help reduce your risk:
 If you frequently wake up with neck pain, it may also be a sign of underlying joint dysfunction, muscle imbalance, poor posture, or previous injuries that should be evaluated by a chiropractor.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?If your morning neck pain:
At Soft Touch Chiropractic, we identify the underlying cause of your neck pain rather than simply masking the symptoms. A thorough evaluation allows us to determine whether the problem comes from the muscles, joints, posture, sleeping habits, or previous injuries so we can recommend the most effective treatment plan. Call to ActionDon't let morning neck pain become your new normal. If you wake up with neck pain, stiffness, or headaches, schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh at Soft Touch Chiropractic. We can help identify the source of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you wake up feeling refreshed instead of hurting. Soft Touch Chiropractic 11145 Tampa Ave., Suite 14A Porter Ranch / Northridge, CA 91326 📞 (818) 831-0100 Your mornings should begin with comfort—not pain Presented by Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh, DC Soft Touch Chiropractic Understanding Morning Stiffness and What You Can Do About It Do you wake up feeling stiff, sore, or like your body needs several minutes before it starts moving normally? If so, you're not alone. Morning stiffness is one of the most common complaints I hear from patients at Soft Touch Chiropractic in Porter Ranch, California. While a small amount of stiffness upon waking is normal, stiffness that lasts more than 15 to 30 minutes or occurs every day may be a sign that something else needs attention. Let's explore why morning stiffness happens and what you can do about it. Why Is Some Morning Stiffness Normal? During sleep, your body remains in relatively fixed positions for several hours. While you rest:
Stretching signals your nervous system to increase movement, improve circulation, lubricate the joints, and prepare your body for the day. For most healthy individuals, this stiffness disappears within a few minutes. When Morning Stiffness Lasts Too LongIf your stiffness persists well beyond the first few minutes of the day, several factors may be contributing. 1. Restricted Joint MotionWhen joints do not move properly, they can become irritated and inflamed. In chiropractic, these areas are often referred to as joint dysfunctions or vertebral subluxations, meaning the joints are not moving through their normal range of motion. Restricted movement may:
2. Muscles Become Less Active During Sleep : Although your muscles are not completely "turned off" while sleeping, your nervous system significantly reduces muscle activity, especially during REM sleep. Remaining in one position for several hours allows muscles and connective tissues to temporarily tighten. This is another reason why gentle stretching and movement immediately after waking often feels so good.  the body's inability to get rid of the chemicals produced during sleep, will also prolong the time that the body remains stiff. The body itself produces 70% of toxins in our bodies. Those chemicals that keep us still during sleep must be disposed of by the liver after waking up. If the body does not detox itself of those chemicals, it's like driving a car while the hand break is on. Your Liver Works All Night Many people think the liver only works after eating, but it is actually one of the busiest organs in your body while you sleep. Throughout the night your liver:
However, your liver depends on one very important nutrient to work efficiently: Water Why Proper Hydration Is Essential for Liver HealthYour body is approximately 60% water, and nearly every biochemical process depends on adequate hydration. Water helps:
Even mild dehydration may contribute to:
Water Helps More Than Your LiverProper hydration also benefits: Your Spine The discs between your vertebrae contain a high percentage of water. Adequate hydration helps them maintain their cushioning properties. Your Muscles Water allows muscles to contract and relax more efficiently while reducing the likelihood of cramping. Your Joints Healthy cartilage is largely composed of water. Proper hydration supports joint lubrication and smooth movement. Your BrainEven mild dehydration has been associated with reduced concentration, memory, and physical performance. Scientific Research on HydrationResearch supports the importance of maintaining adequate hydration for overall health:
When Should You See a Chiropractor? Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes, occurs daily, or is accompanied by pain should not be ignored. A thorough chiropractic examination can determine whether your symptoms are related to:
Simple Tips to Reduce Morning Stiffness
The Bottom Line A few minutes of stiffness after waking is perfectly normal. However, prolonged morning stiffness may indicate restricted joint motion, muscle tightness, inflammation, or other underlying issues. Staying well hydrated supports your liver, kidneys, muscles, joints, spinal discs, and overall health. Combined with regular movement and proper chiropractic care, hydration can help your body function at its best. If you're waking up stiff every morning, don't ignore what your body is telling you. Schedule an Appointment at Soft Touch Chiropractic At Soft Touch Chiropractic, Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh provides comprehensive chiropractic evaluations to identify the source of your stiffness and develop a personalized treatment plan. Whether your symptoms are caused by spinal joint dysfunction, muscle tension, poor posture, or an old injury, we're here to help you move better and feel better. Call Soft Touch Chiropractic today at (818) 831-0100 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward pain-free mornings. Extra info: While muscle paralysis is often associated with "deep sleep," it specifically occurs during Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep (REM atonia). In contrast, non-REM Deep Sleep (Stage N3) is characterized by general muscle relaxation, tissue repair, and hormone release. The primary landmark study on the exact chemical mechanism behind sleep paralysis was published in The Journal of Neuroscience (2012) by neuroscientists Patricia L. Brooks and John H. Peever at the University of Toronto. Key Neurotransmitters Causing Muscle Paralysis (REM Atonia)The University of Toronto study demonstrated that sleep paralysis is driven by two primary inhibitory neurotransmitters acting together on motor neurons:
During true NREM Deep Sleep, the chemical profile shifts from paralysis to tissue recovery and muscle relaxation:
The 3 Biggest Mistakes That Can Make Your Back Pain WorsePresented by Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh, DC Soft Touch Chiropractic Inversion table for back pain, spinal decompression, Porter Ranch chiropractor, Northridge chiropractor, inversion therapy, chiropractic care, low back pain treatment, natural back pain relief Thinking About Using an Inversion Table? An inversion table can be an excellent tool for relieving back pain, reducing spinal compression, and improving mobility—but only when it is used correctly. Unfortunately, many people unknowingly use inversion tables in ways that may reduce their benefits or even make their symptoms worse. After treating thousands of patients with neck pain, back pain, disc injuries, and sciatica, I have noticed the same mistakes repeated over and over. Let's separate the myths from the facts. Misconception #1: "The Lower You Go, the Better."This is probably the biggest mistake people make. Many people believe they should hang completely upside down with their head pointing toward the floor. More inversion does NOT necessarily mean more benefit. When you invert too aggressively:
The result? Sometimes patients actually feel more pain after using the inversion table. The Better Approach Only invert until you first feel a gentle traction or stretch in your spine. That may be:
If the stretch feels comfortable... You've already reached the therapeutic zone. Remember: The goal is traction—not acrobatics.  Misconception #2: "The Longer I Stay Inverted, the Better."Another common mistake is spending:
This sounds logical... But the human body doesn't work that way. Your Body Is Designed to Maintain HomeostasisYour muscles and nervous system constantly try to return your body to its normal resting position. This process is called homeostasis. When you stay inverted for a prolonged period:
Think of pulling on a rubber band. Initially it stretches easily. Leave it stretched long enough... It begins resisting. Your muscles behave similarly. The "3-Minute Rule"At Soft Touch Chiropractic, we've found that short, consistent sessions are often much more comfortable and practical than one long inversion session. A simple routine is:
This approach may also reduce the tendency for muscles to become increasingly protective during one long stretch. Consistency usually beats intensity. Misconception #3: "If It Hurts, Keep Going."Pain is not the goal. Your nervous system constantly evaluates whether you are safe. If you feel:
Tight muscles reduce the effectiveness of traction. Comfort Creates Better RelaxationYou should always feel: ✔ relaxed ✔ supported ✔ comfortable ✔ gently stretched Never force your body into a position that feels stressful. Gentle decompression generally works better than aggressive stretching. Prone vs. Supine InversionMost inversion tables place patients on their back (supine position). In clinical practice, however, some patients appear to tolerate prone positioning (face down) better during certain forms of spinal traction because it may allow different loading of the spine and can feel more natural for some individuals. The best position depends on:
A chiropractor can help determine which method is most appropriate for your condition. What Does the Research Say?Research on inversion therapy has shown promising—but mixed—results. Several studies suggest inversion therapy may:
A systematic review published in Disability and Rehabilitation concluded that inversion therapy may provide short-term improvements in pain, flexibility, and disability, although the overall quality of evidence is limited and more high-quality research is needed. In other words: Inversion therapy is not a cure—but when combined with proper chiropractic care, exercise, posture correction, and spinal stabilization, it can be a useful part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Who Should NOT Use an Inversion Table?Inversion therapy is not appropriate for everyone. Avoid inversion or consult your healthcare provider first if you have:
Our Clinical RecommendationsAt Soft Touch Chiropractic, we generally recommend: ✓ Only invert until you feel gentle spinal traction. ✓ Stay comfortable. ✓ Never force full inversion. ✓ Limit each session to approximately 3 minutes. ✓ Repeat shorter sessions if needed. ✓ Focus on consistency rather than intensity. ✓ Combine inversion therapy with stretching, strengthening exercises, chiropractic adjustments, and proper posture correction. The Bottom LineAn inversion table can be an excellent addition to your home back-care routine—but how you use it matters just as much as whether you use it. Gentle traction, short sessions, and consistency often provide a more comfortable experience than aggressive, prolonged inversion. Remember: More is not always better. Better is better. Ready to Find the Cause of Your Back Pain?If you suffer from:
At Soft Touch Chiropractic, Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh provides comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans based on your specific condition—not a one-size-fits-all approach. Schedule Your Consultation Today Soft Touch Chiropractic 11145 Tampa Ave., Suite 14A Porter Ranch (Northridge), CA 91326 📞 818-831-0100 Whether you're considering an inversion table or looking for a complete, evidence-based approach to spinal health, we're here to help you move better, feel better, and live pain-free. https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/what-are-inversion-tables https://oneandonlychiro.com/the-connection-between-chronic-stress-and-muscle-tension-copy/  Less Medicine, More Health? What Research Says About Avoiding Unnecessary Medical Care Can more medical tests and treatments actually make you less healthy? For decades, many people have believed that more testing, more scans, more medications, and more procedures automatically lead to better health. However, a growing body of medical research suggests that more healthcare is not always better healthcare. Dr. H. Gilbert Welch, professor of medicine at Dartmouth Medical School and an internationally recognized researcher in medical screening and over diagnosis, argues that unnecessary medical care can sometimes expose patients to risks without improving outcomes. The goal is not to avoid medical care—it is to receive the right care at the right time. What Is Over treatment? Over treatment occurs when patients receive medical tests or treatments that are unlikely to improve their health but may increase costs, anxiety, side effects, or complications. Examples include:
1. Not Every Risk Can Be Eliminated Everyone has some risk of developing disease. Modern medicine can reduce many risks, but no treatment can reduce risk to zero. Studies have shown that aggressively treating every possible risk factor often produces only small improvements while increasing medication side effects and healthcare costs. Research Highlights
2. Not Every Abnormal Finding Needs to Be Fixed Modern MRI, CT, and ultrasound technology can detect extremely small abnormalities. Many of these findings never become painful or dangerous. Research Shows Studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that many healthy adults have spinal disc bulges, disc protrusions, rotator cuff tears, meniscus tears, and other imaging abnormalities despite having no pain. Examples include:
The patient—not the image—should guide treatment decisions. 3. Earlier Detection Is Not Always BetterEarly diagnosis saves lives in many situations. However, early detection can also identify diseases that would never become harmful. This is called over diagnosis. Research Evidence Major studies involving prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer have demonstrated that increased screening can increase diagnosis rates without producing equivalent reductions in mortality. Researchers estimate that a significant percentage of certain cancers detected through screening may never have caused symptoms during a person's lifetime. This is why many screening guidelines now recommend individualized decision-making rather than universal screening. 4. More Testing Does Not Always Mean Better Care Many imaging studies reveal incidental findings, sometimes called incidentalomas. These unexpected findings often trigger:
Sometimes, the test itself creates a cascade of unnecessary medical care. 5. Sometimes the Best Treatment Is Conservative Care Not every condition requires immediate surgery or medication. Evidence-based conservative treatment may include:
Many musculoskeletal injuries improve naturally with appropriate conservative care. 6. Newer Is Not Always Better New technology is exciting. But "new" does not automatically mean "better." Some medications and procedures appear promising initially but later reveal previously unknown complications after widespread use. Medical history contains many examples where treatments once considered breakthroughs were later modified or withdrawn because long-term risks became apparent. Evidence—not marketing—should guide healthcare decisions. 7. Health Is About More Than Living Longer The ultimate goal of healthcare is not simply avoiding death. True health includes:
Healthcare decisions should reflect each patient's goals and values. What Does This Mean for Chiropractic Patients? At Soft Touch Chiropractic, we believe patients deserve thoughtful, evidence-informed care. Many musculoskeletal conditions improve with conservative treatment before invasive procedures become necessary. Chiropractic care focuses on:
 Conservative care is recommended by numerous evidence-based guidelines as an appropriate first-line treatment for many spine-related conditions.
Questions to Ask Before Agreeing to Any Test or Procedure Before proceeding with imaging, medication, injections, or surgery, consider asking your healthcare provider:
The Bottom LineMedicine has transformed countless lives. Emergency care, trauma care, vaccines, antibiotics, and many surgeries save lives every day. At the same time, decades of research show that more testing and more treatment do not automatically produce better outcomes. The best healthcare is personalized, evidence-based, and focused on providing the right treatment for the right patient at the right time. When appropriate, conservative care can help patients recover while avoiding unnecessary risks and procedures. Looking for Conservative Care for Neck Pain, Back Pain, or Auto Accident Injuries?If you are experiencing neck pain, back pain, headaches, whiplash, or joint pain, our team at Soft Touch Chiropractic provides comprehensive evaluations and evidence-based conservative treatment plans tailored to your condition. We focus on helping patients reduce pain, restore movement, and improve function before more invasive options are considered, when appropriate. Call Soft Touch Chiropractic today at (818) 831-0100 to schedule your evaluation and learn whether conservative chiropractic care may be the right first step for your recovery. References
 Soft Touch Chiropractic | Porter Ranch & Northridge, CA Most Motor Vehicle Accidents Are Preventable When people hear the term "car accident," they often assume the event was unavoidable. However, transportation safety experts have long recognized that many motor vehicle crashes are preventable and result from human error rather than unavoidable circumstances. Research from the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has estimated that human factors contribute to the overwhelming majority of motor vehicle crashes, with driver-related errors playing a major role in most collisions. Common human errors include:
Human Error Can Change Your Life in SecondsYou may have done everything correctly:
Even crashes at relatively low speeds can produce significant forces on the body. Not All Car Crash Injuries Hurt Right AwayOne of the biggest misconceptions after a collision is:  "I'm okay because I don't have pain."
Immediately after a crash, your body releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and endorphins. These natural chemicals can temporarily reduce pain and mask injuries. It is common for symptoms to appear 24 to 72 hours later, including:
Common Injuries After a Motor Vehicle CrashA collision can damage much more than muscles. Common injuries include:
What Does the Research Show? Scientific studies have shown that:
Why Early Chiropractic Evaluation Matters Following a motor vehicle crash, chiropractic evaluation focuses on identifying injuries involving:
Don't Wait Until the Pain Gets Worse Many people delay treatment because they "feel fine." Unfortunately, once inflammation develops, pain and stiffness often become much more noticeable. The sooner injuries are identified, the sooner appropriate treatment can begin. Schedule Your Post-Accident Evaluation TodayIf you have recently been involved in a car accident, rear-end collision, T-bone crash, side-impact collision, or other motor vehicle crash, don't assume you escaped injury simply because you don't have immediate pain. At Soft Touch Chiropractic, we provide comprehensive evaluations for patients injured in motor vehicle crashes. Our goal is to identify hidden injuries, relieve pain, restore function, and help you return to your normal activities safely. Call Soft Touch Chiropractic today at (818) 831-0100 to schedule your comprehensive post-accident examination. Serving Porter Ranch, Northridge, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, North Hills, Reseda, and the surrounding San Fernando Valley. Frequently Asked Questions Should I see a chiropractor even if I don't have pain after a car accident?Yes. Many crash-related injuries do not produce immediate symptoms. A prompt evaluation can identify injuries before they become more serious. How soon should I be examined after a motor vehicle crash? Ideally, you should be evaluated within the first 24 to 72 hours, even if symptoms are mild or delayed. Can chiropractic care help with whiplash?Many patients with whiplash-related injuries receive conservative chiropractic care as part of a treatment plan designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and support recovery. Have You Been in a T-Bone Car Accident? Here's Why You Should Get Checked—Even If You Feel Fine8/7/2026  The Hidden Injuries of Side-Impact Collisions Presented by Soft Touch Chiropractic By Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh, DC Serving Porter Ranch, Northridge, Granada Hills, Chatsworth & the San Fernando Valley A T-Bone Accident Can Cause Serious Injuries Side-impact collisions—commonly called T-bone accidents—are among the most dangerous types of motor vehicle crashes. Unlike rear-end collisions, where the body primarily moves forward and backward, a T-bone collision causes the body to move violently from side to side. This creates unique stresses on the neck, spine, shoulders, ribs, pelvis, and supporting soft tissues. Even when there is little damage to your vehicle or you initially feel "okay," your body may have sustained injuries that are not immediately apparent. Many accident-related injuries do not become painful until hours, days, or even weeks later. Why Side-Impact Collisions Are DifferentDuring a rear-end collision, the neck experiences a rapid forward-and-backward motion known as whiplash. Although whiplash can be painful and debilitating, the anatomy of the cervical spine provides some natural limits that help restrict excessive backward movement. During a side-impact collision, however, the body has far less natural protection. The head and neck are suddenly forced sideways while the torso may remain restrained by the seatbelt. This places significant stress on structures that are not designed to absorb large lateral forces. As a result, side-impact collisions can produce injuries throughout the entire musculoskeletal system. Common Injuries After a T-Bone Accident Following a side-impact collision, patients may experience:
 Why Pain Doesn't Always Start Right Away Immediately after an accident, your body enters a protective survival response.
Your brain releases natural chemicals—including endorphins, enkephalins, and adrenaline—that temporarily reduce pain and help you function during a stressful event. While these chemicals are helpful in the moment, they can also mask injuries. Once these natural pain-relieving chemicals begin to wear off, inflammation develops and symptoms often begin to appear. This delayed onset of pain is one of the primary reasons chiropractic evaluation is recommended after a motor vehicle accident. Hidden Joint Dysfunction Can Be Easily MissedAfter a collision, the muscles surrounding the neck and spine often become extremely tight. These protective muscle spasms help stabilize injured tissues, but they can also hide underlying joint dysfunction during the early stages of healing. Without a thorough examination, injuries affecting spinal motion, soft tissues, and joint mechanics may go undetected. Over time, untreated dysfunction may contribute to:
Why Chiropractic Evaluation Is Important A chiropractor performs a comprehensive examination to evaluate:
Early care may help:
Don't Rely on Pain Medication Alone Pain medication can help reduce discomfort, but it does not correct the underlying mechanical injuries caused by a collision. Medication cannot:
A comprehensive musculoskeletal evaluation can help determine whether additional treatment is appropriate. When Should You See a Chiropractor?Schedule an examination if you've been involved in a T-bone accident—even if you feel well—especially if you notice:
Why Choose Soft Touch Chiropractic? At Soft Touch Chiropractic, we have extensive experience evaluating patients after motor vehicle accidents. Our office provides comprehensive examinations designed to identify hidden injuries commonly associated with side-impact collisions. Our services include:
Protect Your Health After a T-Bone AccidentNot every injury causes immediate pain. Some of the most significant injuries develop gradually as inflammation increases over the days following an accident. If you've been involved in a T-bone collision, don't wait until symptoms become severe. A prompt chiropractic evaluation may help identify hidden injuries early and support a faster, more complete recovery. Schedule Your Post-Accident Evaluation TodayIf you've been involved in a T-bone or side-impact car accident in Porter Ranch, Northridge, Granada Hills, Chatsworth, Reseda, North Hills, or anywhere in the San Fernando Valley, let our team help you determine whether you have injuries that require treatment. Soft Touch Chiropractic Dr. Masoud Shamaeizadeh, DC 11145 Tampa Ave., Suite 14A Porter Ranch / Northridge, CA 91326 📞 Call Today: 818-831-0100 Don't wait for pain to tell you something is wrong. Early evaluation after a T-bone accident can make a significant difference in your recovery. |
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