Finally it's December and the beginning of Summer!! This year has gone so quickly and I hope you are all going to take some time out and rejuvenate for the new year. 
In this newsletter; the best way to nap, some delicious recipes, Xmas ideas (and a wedding photo).

Articles
I liked this article about the best way to nap. Most people I see say that their energy takes a dip in the early afternoon. This might be your perfect time for a power nap!
This week I have read two very interesting articles on the difference in a baby's gut bacteria depending on if the are born vaginally or via c-section and furthermore the difference between the gut bacteria of breastfed vs formula fed babies. Regardless of the way bub is born or fed, there are ways of boosting the gut bacteria with specially formulated baby probiotics. Let me know if you would like to discuss further.

Recipes
I've saved my favourite recipes to share with you for this time of year.
My favourite is Ottolenghi's Honey- Roasted Carrots. It is not only a delicious recipe but carrots are a great source of Vitamin A, Biotin, Vitamin K, B6 & Potassium. 
I love the idea of having a meal with friends and friends with a number of dishes to share. Whole Roasted Snapper with Herbs is a dish that works perfectly for this along with a few different salads and of course the carrots.
Finally, it's not the holiday season without something a little naughty. Try these Tahini and Halva brownies. A bit different & a lot naughty (everything in moderation!)

Out & About
I went for lunch to West Village this week on Terminus St (the ex White Cockatoo). The food is a little on the pricey side but really good! They also have a great outdoor area and plenty of space for prams. A must try! 
Let me know if you have tried any new places around the Inner West or in the city!

Christmas Gifts
Struggling for Xmas gift ideas?
How about.... 

1. Dr Graeme General Purpose Massager (like I use at the clinic) 
2. Foam rollers 60cm or 90cm round or 30cm half
3. Heat packs 
4. Pillows - memory foam or latex
5. Gift voucher for an Initial Consultation

To order or enquire about a product please call the clinic, send an email or ask me at your next appointment.

Holiday Season Hours
Please refer to the website for holiday hours

Wedding Photo
Here is one photo from my wedding day earlier this year- I told many of you that I would send one through and forgot so here it is! Ps It is at the end of the gallery.

To make an appointment before Xmas please give the clinic a call on 8021-4636, book online or email.

Have a great holiday season and I look forward to seeing most of you before Xmas or otherwise in 2016.

Amy

It is almost Spring time! I hope that you are all gearing up from some warmth and hopefully some more exercise and movement as the weather becomes more friendly.

Healthy Articles
I often get asked "why should I stretch?". Here is a very simple explanation. I do of course recognise that it can be uncomfortable and quite sore but think about how good the body feels afterwards and how easy it COULD be if you stretched every day!

Have you heard of growing pains? As with many conditions, growing pains are still poorly understood but here is a little insight into this common cause of pain in childhood.

Sleep is extremely important! Are you thinking about getting a new mattress or pillow? Here are a few considerations that might encourage you to take the jump.

Recipe
My Mum has taken to sending me a new recipe everyday from various websites...I think she is trying to make the point that one should be adventurous with their cooking. Here are some of the ones that I have recently tried and loved!
Miso glazed eggplant - Yum!! Eggplant is a good source of  fibre, vitamin B1, and copper. It is also a good source of manganese, vitamin B6, niacin, potassium, folate and vitamin K. Miso is a great source of fibre and protein too.
Oven Roasted Cauliflower - this was delicious! Cauliflower is a great source of vitamin B6, vitamin K, vitamin C, folate & B5.
Roast Onion Soup - this is so nourishing and was really delicious. It only has 5 ingredients and has the most beautiful smell while roasting. It is also a great soup for when you are feeling rundown because of the huge amount of garlic and onion. The phytochemicals in onion help the functioning of vitamin C and garlic has great anti-viral and anti-bacterial qualities. 

Around Petersham
I went to Illi Hill with the lovely Bec (my locum). We both had salads and both food and service were great. A nice addition to the Marrickville cafe scene.
I've also heard of  a few new cafes opening in Dulwich Hill. I would love to hear your feedback!

My Favourite Things

1. The hug a bub - a light weight wrap that is a beautiful and easy way to carry a newborn, freeing up your hands and having many health benefits for bub. (now stocking hug a bub and manduca baby carriers)
2. Sitting to standing desks - have a chat to your workplace about the possibility of changing to one of these brilliant creations. The change in posture and movement throughout the day will do wonders for the posture and take the stress off your neck and lower back. 
3. Foam rollers - some of you think they are the devil but they are such a good way to release the muscles in the legs and lower back. Also excellent for the thoracic spine extension i.e. the opposite of slouching! 

Have a great week and look forward to seeing you soon!!

Amy

It's almost Spring!! 
Just 1 month and we are there, so it's time to get yourself ready for the better half of the year. 

Research
Everyone knows turmeric as a beautiful spice used in indian cooking but it has some powerful properties. Curcumin has been found to help with post-exercise soreness, chronic inflammation and even treatment of alzheimer's disease.

Another interesting article: It has been found that commonly prescribed pain medication for lower back pain is not as effective as once thought. 

Nutritional Tip
Iron is a vital mineral that when low can cause tiredness, breathlessness and lightheadedness. It is often lower in women due to menstruation. It is important to get tested for iron deficiency before supplementing.

Fee schedule Update
From August 1st, Crystal Street Family Chiropractic's fee schedule has changed slightly. This is due to rising costs.
Initial consultations are going to remain the same but all other consultations will increase by $4. 
Standard consultations will now be $59 or $49 for a student.
Please have a chat with me if you have any financial concerns about the new schedule.

Out & About
I recently ate at Fish & Co in Annandale which was excellent. Dan is a pescatarian (vegetarian but eats fish) so is a rarity to go out and he be able to eat almost everything on the menu. Everything we tried was yum! Other notable to fish restaurants are Mohr Fish in Surry Hills, Love Fish in Rozelle, North Bondi Fish in Bondi & Fish Face in Double Bay. I've found fish restaurants tend to be a little more pricey but the portions are always huge!!

Extras
Pillows, rollers, massagers heat packs and supplements are still available for purchase. Currently I only have rollers in stock but am happy to order in anything you may need. 

Cancellation Policy
Just as a reminder if you do need to cancel or reschedule your appointment please give at least 12 hours notice or a cancellation fee will apply of $25. Missing an appointment without letting me know will incur the full fee of the consultation. 

Have a great week and I look forward to seeing you soon for a spinal checkup!

Amy

Hi!

Slowly (& sadly) the temperature is dropping and winter is emerging! I hope you are keeping warm and looking after your immune system.

Research
So many of us are getting into Luminosity and other such apps or books in order to sharpen our focus and memory. The article "Brain Games: Do They Really Work" looks at some studies carried out to prove/disprove the effectiveness. 

Many people suffer from osteoarthritis in the hips and knees. This is because they are the big weight bearing joints of the body and therefore take the brunt of the force with running, falls and sitting. Research is finding that exercise can prevent or slow down the progression of wear and tear, to eliminate the need for surgery.

Nutritional Tip
It can be hard to keep the immune system working at 100% this time of year. Zinc is a powerful mineral that can help ward off & decrease the time of colds. 

Fee schedule Update
From August 1st, Crystal Street Family Chiropractic's fee schedule is going to change slightly. This is due to rising costs.
Initial consultations are going to remain the same but all other consultations will increase by $4. 
Standard consultations will now be $59 or $49 for a student.
Please have a chat with me if you have any financial concerns about the new schedule.

Out & About
I recently went to Jamie's Italian for the first time in the city. It was really delicious and very reasonably priced for a huge dinner. The vegetarian board was excellent, as was the risotto. 
I also finally went to Brighton the Corner for food and it definitely lives up the hype. I had the cauliflower salad and it was excellent!

Cancellation Policy
Just as a reminder if you do need to cancel or reschedule your appointment please give at least 12 hours notice or a cancellation fee will apply of $25. Missing an appointment without letting me know will incur the full fee of the consultation. 


Have a great week and I look forward to seeing you soon for a spinal checkup!

Amy

Hi!

Welcome to the Easter/ANZAC Day Edition of the Crystal Street Family Chiropractic newsletter. I hope everyone is excited for a bit of time away from the desk and hopefully some fresh air, good food and maybe even some stretching.

Research
A Cochrane review has found that upright labour lowers caesarean rates. This is a worthwhile read!
I have also included a very interesting study which has linked cancer treatment and arthritis. Although it is very complex, refer to page 438-439 for the summary.

Nutrition Tip
Vitamin of the month - Vitamin C, vital for this time of the year with its fantastic antioxident and immune properties.

Article
There is a lot of talk about the benefits and safety of babywearing. This article details a few of my thoughts.

In and Around Petersham and the Inner West
There are a few new places popping up in Petersham. Just down the road from the clinic is Brighton the Corner & on Stanmore rd is Daisy's Milk Bar. I have yet to try more than a coffee from Brighton the Corner, but that was good!

Foam Rollers
I have started stocking foam rollers for $60. They are extremely useful for stretching of the legs and upper body. They are also perfect for lying over instead of a rolled towel. Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing.
 
Housekeeping
Just as a reminder if you do need to cancel or reschedule your appointment please give at least 12 hours notice or a cancellation fee will apply of $25. Missing an appointment without letting me know will incur the full fee of the consultation. 

Have a great week!

Amy

 Baby carriers

There are many benefits of baby carrying. These include body contact, developmental benefits such as constant movement and hip alignment, ease of day-to-day activities for the parent and the feeling of security for the baby.  With so many styles available, it can be difficult to find the most suited to the wearer and to the baby.  Here are a few ideas;

The Newborn


Best choice of carry:

• Woven wraps in the front cross carry
• Stretchy wraps in front carry
• Ring Sling 
• Soft structure carrier

 All of these carrying methods allow for the baby’s head to be supported when they do not have this control, supports the developing spine and gives a broad base of support. They also allow for the hips to be placed in the ideal position for hip joint growth (when worn correctly).  The hips should be in flexion and abduction, a deep squat position.

Use of the cradle carry is not encouraged due to the risk of closure of the baby’s airways with prolonged chin tucking.

 The Young Baby (>3 months) with Neck Control

 At this stage, the baby should be able to lift their own head, which allows for other options, predominately the hip carry.


Whether using woven wraps or ring slings, the baby again should have a good base of support with their legs in a squatting position and should have their back and neck supported.  The same carries as the newborn are still great for this age-group too.

There is much debate about the use of back carries for this age. It is ok, if the baby is well supported in the above-mentioned ways. At this age, it can be difficult to get the baby into a back carry due to their lack of muscle strength and control. If you can get assistance in getting bub on and off the back or learn safe techniques to do so then this is fine too.


The Sitting Baby & Toddler

 Once the baby can sit on their own, most carrying techniques are safe. This includes upright back carrying.  At this age, baby will have more muscle control and therefore the positioning of the back carry will be easier.

Most of the time, the way baby is carried will be determined by the parent, based on what is comfortable and of course what baby enjoys. As previously mentioned, it is still important to make sure baby is secure, has good hip positioning, and a stable base of support.

International Hip Dysplasia Association, “Baby Carriers, Seats and other Equipment”, 2012, http://hipdysplasia.org/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip/prevention/baby-carriers-seats-and-other-equipment/


Considerations

• Does the sling allow for various carrying positions for the baby on the wearer? This is important if the wearer has mid or lower back problems. Some carrying positions and techniques will feel more comfortable and will help stabilise the area. Wide and/or cushioned adjustable shoulder straps will allow for easier carrying and less strain on the Carriers neck and shoulders too.

 

• Does the carrier allow for different positions for the baby:  for example; forward or chest facing, vertical, horizontal, folded legs, straight, or frog-leg position? All of these will help with the baby’s postural development. Does it allow for optimal positioning; specifically of the hips? The carrier should have a wide base of support that supports the thighs and flexes the knees. The legs should be in an “M” position. · Make sure that there is head and neck support for the baby and/or sleeping infant

 

• How long will the sling/wrap/pouch accommodate for the child’s growth and postural development?  This is important as often carriers suit different ages.

 

• Can the infant be moved from one wearer to another without disturbing them and can they be removed without disturbing them? This can be an important consideration especially if the baby is generally hard to settle or is in a clingy phase or a wonder week. It can be stressful for both the parent and baby.

• Is cleaning of the carrier easy? Can you throw it in the washing machine?

 

• Does the wearer have both hands free or does the baby still require some support with a hand? The baby should be secure enough in the carrier for the wearer to not have to support with their hands. If this is the case, it is possible that the carrier is not tight enough, not on correctly or not suited to the wearer or baby.

 

• Can the baby be put into all carrying positions by the wearer on their own, or do they require help from a second person?

 

• Is there an even distribution of the baby’s weight for the wearer’s comfort? Does the sling/wrap cause repetitive postural stress to one area of the wearer’s spine and pelvis?

 

• Breastfeeding is not generally recommended while baby is in the carrier. This is not because it isn’t possible or more efficient, but because breastfeeding is its own activity and should have the focus of Mum. Eye and body contact is important during this time.

 
 My favourite carriers are the soft structured carriers. Based on the Mei Tai design, they are easy to use for beginners, quick to put on and take off and some designs allow for a number of different carries. In saying that, I like almost all carriers because they allow for contact between parent and baby.

 Amy Melamet is an Inner West Chiropractor in Sydney and a university tutor with a special interest in women’s and kid’s health and pregnancy care. She is also a Die Trageschule baby wearing consultant, having completed the basic course earlier this year.
http://www.crystalstreetchiro.com
http://www.facebook.com/crystalstreetchiropractic

References:

Anisfed, E, Casper, V, Nozyce, M & Cunningham, N, “Does infant carry promote attachment? An experimental study of the effects of increased physical contact on the development of attachment.” Child Development, Vol 5, October 1990, pp1617-1627

Barham-Floreani, J, 2013, “Are baby carriers safe for my baby’s developing hips and spine”, http://welladjustedbabies.com/are-baby-carriers-safe/

Blois, M. “Birth: Care of Infant and Mother: Time Sensitive Issues.” Best Practices in the Behavioral Management of Health from Preconception to Adolescence, edited by William Gordon and Jodie Trafton. Los Altos: Institute for Disease Management. 2007-8. pp. 108-132. (www.indiseasemanagement.org).

Didymos,  2012, “Experts’ Opinions’, http://www.didymos.de/en/DIDYMagazine/Opinions-and-Photos/Experts-Opinions

Fettweis, E.: The child Hüftluxationsleiden. The treatment in seated squat position. In: Steel, Ch (eds.):. Advances in orthopedics and traumatology. Vol 3:. Landsberg ecomed, (1992) 

Hunziker, U, Barr, R,  “Increased carrying reduces infant crying: A Randomized Control Trial. “ Paediatrics, Vol 77, May 1986, pp641-648

International Hip Dysplasia Association,  2012, “Baby Carriers, Seats and other Equipment”, http://hipdysplasia.org/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip/prevention/baby-carriers-seats-and-other-equipment/

Kirkilionis, E.: A baby wants to be carried. Kösel, Munich (1999) 


Kirkilionis, E.: The basic needs of the infant and the medical aspects - prepared and characterized on the type of boy carrying Ling. notabene medici,1997, 27 (2), pp61-66, 27 (3), pp117-121

Welcome to 2014! I have a feeling it is going to be a good year.


Research
Here are 12 reasons chiropractic is the best choice for back pain using research studies. This is an interesting look at some of the research backing the profession. 

Reflux
Does your little one have reflux? It can be a stressful and tiring to deal with. Here are some Reflux Survival Tips. 

Nutrition Tip: Each month I will be focusing on different vitamins and minerals. This month it's all about Omega 3.

Recipe
Looking for a healthy, filling breakfast option? Try Shakshuka. This egg dish hails from the Middle East and is really healthy and delicious as a breakfast, lunch or dinner. Serve with some toast and hummus on the side. There are many different recipes available. This one uses paleo fat but margarine, butter or olive oil is fine to grease the pan. 

Out and About
The newly opened Grumpy Barista on Audley Street has fantastic coffee and a build it yourself salad bar. I love that! What a great option for a quick, healthy lunch. 

Massagers
I have ordered some more massage machines in. Please contact the clinic ASAP to reserve one. 

I hope the beginning of the year has treated you well! Please let me know if there is a way I can support any community initiatives that your are involved in.

Remember to keep up your maintenance care to keep your body working as its the only one you have to live in!

Keep Healthy

Amy

 Gastro-oesophageal reflux occurs when acid from the stomach and food moves from the stomach backwards into the oesophagus. It is unknown why some children have symptoms such as pain from the inflammation and others do not, but it is thought to be caused by a number of factors acting together.  

IMPORTANT: Discuss with your GP or paediatrician treatment options!!

Some of these factors include:

-Lack of oesophageal control ie. Relaxation at the incorrect time.
-Abdominal pressure increasing due to crying, coughing, overfeeding, slouching, straining or sitting after feeds.
-Conditions which cause the muscles or nerves to abnormally function.
-Food sensitivities.
-Genetics or hereditary factors.

Medical intervention is sometimes necessary which involves testing and treatment based on the findings- consult you GP or paediatrician.

So what are the symptoms and signs of Reflux?

Usually a baby will not display all of these signs and it is important to note that the number of symptoms do not indicate the severity of the condition. Another note: the signs and symptoms in this list can also be due to other causes so do not assume that the only cause is reflux and seek advice from a health practitioner.

1.    Feeding problems: arching of the back, refusing to feed despite being hungry, crying after or during a feed or even feeding frequently

2.    Hiccupping repeatedly

3.    Crying, screaming or general irritability

4.    Sleeping problems: frequent waking, easily disturbed sleep or difficulty settling

5.    Nasal congestion or recurrent upper respiratory infections

6.    Possetting/vomiting or choking/gagging

7.    Hoarse cry

8.    Excessive salivation in the absence of teething

9.    Weight gain/loss or slow growth

Tips for Managing Reflux

These are some common strategies. If the symptoms persist or are severe, your doctor may suggest referral to a paediatrician or medication.

-       Avoid overfeeding

-       Try a probiotic for baby and Mum. This can help increase the good bacteria and settle the reflux (Bioceuticals makes a great one!)

-       Feed bub in an upright position and following the feed try to keep them upright for at least 30 minutes. (Laying them flat may aggravate the problem at this time).

-       Try to avoid bouncing your baby especially after a feed.

-       Tight clothing especially around the waist is to be avoided. This includes nappies and waistbands.

-       Before the feed, try and change nappies and have tummy time rather than after the feed.

-       Sometimes there may be food sensitivities present. In this case consult a health practitioner before changing your child’s diet or mum may consider an elimination diet for herself.

-       Use of a dummy can sometimes help settle the baby.

-       Some food and drink cause more irritation and increase aciditiy. These are to be minimised eg caffeine, spicy foods, citrus, tomato for Mum and bub.

-       It is still important to follow safe sleeping guidelines.

-       Thickened feeds are effective in some cases where vomiting is a common symptom. Discuss with your GP or paediatrician how to introduce thickeners.

Here are a few survival tips:

-There is no right or wrong way to deal with the problem. Each child is different and therefore often treating the problem will include some trial and error.

-Do not be too hard on yourself. Try and focus on what you are doing right because often it is just not having worked out the best answer for the problem yet.

-Realise that most people will not understand but find a support group that have had to deal with similar episodes in order to share ideas and not feel alone in this – you aren’t alone!

-Trust your instincts- reflux is a medical condition and is not in your mind. Often my clients tell me they were worried that the screaming is just the way their baby is.

-Reflux can be triggered by various factors such as humidity, colds, teething, routine changes, tiredness.

-Look after yourself. It is easy to forget about your wellbeing while dealing with sleeplessness. You are better equipped to find solutions when you are rested.

Adapted from articles from ICPA