The Importance of Chiropractic on Overall Health

At the heart of chiropractic medicine is an understanding that the alignment of the spine affects the nervous system in a big way. The spine houses the spinal cord and nerves extend from the brain to the body and back. Therefore, it is crucial that this flow is uninhibited and able to carry messages that affect how we function. For this reason, chiropractic care is capable of improving a variety of conditions and disorders including anything from migraines to foot pain.

Here’s information you need to know about what your spinal cord consists of. Your spinal column, made up of 24 independent vertebrae, is what allows your body to move, twist, and bend through every motion of your busy day. It also encases and helps protect the delicate central nervous system that controls and coordinates every muscle, tissue and organ of the body. This is why chiropractors believe the first step to an active lifestyle is a properly functioning spine.

When two or more vertebrae aren't functioning together properly, it is what many chiropractors refer to as a subluxation or a misalignment. These subluxations are actually joint dysfunctions that can cause you to experience pain, discomfort, decreased mobility, or many other symptoms and conditions. Imagine all of the pain you could possibly experience from subluxations, not only will you suffer from pain, but as well as limited mobility on a daily basis. Stressing your spine will only make the situation worse and could leave you in a vulnerable position. Joint dysfunctions often go unnoticed and can cause miscommunication between your brain and body.

Joint dysfunctions in the spine may eventually lead to symptoms in other parts or joints of the body as well. These symptoms are your body’s only way of letting you know something is wrong. Unfortunately, the absence of pain is not an indication of health. By the time pain and symptoms appear the problem may have been present for months, even years. However, the great news is that you can help prevent these types of symptoms and conditions with routine chiropractic care.

If you’re tired from suffering from chronic back pain, you might want to consider visiting the Gonzaba Medical Group in San Antonio, as their chiropractic care will do their best to get rid current back pain and eliminate any chance of the pain reoccurring. An examination of the spine to evaluate structure and function is what differentiates chiropractic from other healthcare procedures. Chiropractic Services are a part of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department at Gonzaba Medical Group.

Here is a list of the following treatments that Gonzaba Medical Group offers:

• Gentle, effective spinal manipulation
• Evaluation of spinal conditions, including nerve, muscle, bone and connective tissue
• Joint-related conditions
• Auto-accident injuries
• Back-pain relief
• On-the-job injuries

No matter how the patient develops spinal complications, Gonzaba Medical Group is capable of treating any sort of back pain. Many patients fear there might not be an effective solution or treatment for them to utilize in order to get rid of their back pain. Which no one can blame them for since back pain is the second most common injury.

Not only can back pain be a struggle to experience, but the injury can be life-changing. Not for the better, but for the worst as you will not be able to perform certain tasks like you used to in the past. Patients who are still young should consider getting the treatment they need to prevent any more back pain. If patients decide to get rid of their back pains at a much later age, the complications will be greater as well as adapting to different treatments.

The chiropractic professionals at Gonzaba Medical Group also provide and/or prescribe:

• Electrotherapy
• Therapeutic exercise
• Ice/heat therapy, including ultrasound
• Lifestyle and nutritional counseling
• Massage therapy
• Physical rehabilitation

It’s important for patients to continue their physical rehabilitation as well as massage therapy. Any progress they make with the two treatments can be lost if they are not consistent. No good will come out of that and will eventually bring them back to square one or even worse, develop more back problems than they can handle. The process for patients to return to their normal state of having healthy spines will be challenging only because of how fragile the spine can become after an injury. Gonzaba Medical Group is not only seeking to provide the treatment and services needed to get rid of back pain, but they are interested in going through each step of the rehabilitation process with their patients.

 Don’t suffer from back pain like the millions of Americans do nowadays, with the help of the chiropractic care from the Gonzaba Medical Group, you can prevent yourself from unnecessary pain. Take the first step and call 210-921-3800 to set up your consultation with one of the chiropractors at Gonzaba Medical Group and eliminate your back problems today.

6 Ways You Can Stay Hydrated for Summer ‘16

Summer is here. There’s nothing better than relaxing in a pool and enjoying a cooled beverage. Even though we look forward to the sunny days during the summer, you can’t forget about the heat that comes along with the bright weather. In certain parts of the country, you’ll have state's reach as much as 90 to 110 degrees. That is why it is probably not the best idea for you to head out for a run during the peak hours between 1 p.m. to 4 p. m. The chances of withstanding the heat at those times is low. It can be unbearable and can leave you dehydrated throughout the rest of the day. Now that summer is here, what can you do to prevent yourself from experiencing dehydration?

1. Water

The first thing to come to mind is drinking water, of course! Water is probably the most reliable why to remain hydrated throughout a hot summer day. If you didn’t know already, water is non-caloric, it plumps up your skin, and it hydrates your muscles. It’s recommended for a person to drink at least eight glasses of water each day. Quite frankly, it wouldn’t hurt to exceed that limit once the summer time comes around. If you know you’re going to be out for a while whether it would be indoor or out, be safe and always take a water bottle with you. The last thing you would want is to suffer from dehydration and putting your health at risk. Speaking to your doctor about the importance of staying hydrated is always a benefit. 

2. Sodas and Caffeine & Energy Drinks

If water isn’t your first choice that comes to mind, beverages such as sodas, iced tea, coffee, and other drinks that contain caffeine are second best to good old-fashioned water. Caffeine drinks and flavored water act as diuretics, even though you’re getting water, you’re also pulling a little extra fluid from your body because of the caffeine. Do you notice when you’re out at a restaurant, more than likely you’re interested to ask for a soda or iced tea and maybe even fruit juice? It’s understandable if you get tired of drinking water, due to the fact that it’s available everywhere. However, if you happen to be an athlete, you will likely rely on energy drinks and water since those beverages are considered main sources of hydration.

3. Fruit

Let’s not forget about fruit! It’s hard to resist it since they contain a significant amount of sugar and flavor. You might want to consider eating fruit the next time you spend majority of the day doing outdoor labor work because of how much water it contains. Include as much fruit as you can into your meals in order to not only gain hydration from what you drink, but what you choose to eat as well. If you’re not sure which fruit offers the most hydration, you’ll recognize that grapes, grapefruit, and watermelon are filled with more than enough water for you to enjoy.

4. Soup

Sometimes you may become the unfortunate one of getting sick during the summer time which can be challenging due to how dehydrated you can become. Usually when you’re sick, you’re limited to eating and drinking certain things. Believe it or not, you can benefit from eating soup because of how much water it contains. Eating soup may very well be the best reasonable option for you to eat if you’re trying to recover from your illness. One thing to consider, you want to avoid eating soup with solid foods such as saltine crackers or bread due to how much water those foods absorbs which can limit you from receiving the water you need.

5. Meat

The summertime is a good excuse for everyone to grill their own hamburgers, chicken breasts, steaks, and brisket. Is there a certain amount of meat you need to eat in order to stay hydrated? If you happen to be a meat lover, then you’re in luck! Amazingly, meat contains a high percentage of water, as much as 60 percent. Keep this in mind, if your family or friends invites you over to their cookout, don’t be shy to stock up on your meat for the summertime. There’s nothing better than staying hydrated by simply eating your favorite choice of meat and a nice cooled beverage.

6. Smoothies

Who would ever begin to think that smoothies were actually a good source of hydration? There’s many combinations of fruit and flavors that are incorporated into a single smoothie. The great thing about smoothies is you don’t always need to pay someone to make it for you. However, when you create your own smoothie at home, you are given the chance to put as many things as you’d like in order to stay hydrated. Usually, the preferred smoothie to make for the summertime would be fruit smoothies. It’s the healthiest choice and easiest to make since you can purchase the certain fruits you want included in your smoothie.

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the heat will get to your or a family member. If that happens, seek help! The Gonzaba Medical Group can offer support when you need it this summer.

How To Beat Auto Accident Injury Expenses with Medicare and Medicaid

There are nearly 1.3 million people who die from car crashes each year and averaging about 3, 287 deaths a day. If you wanted to be specific, there are over 37,000 deaths due to car crashes and is considered the second leading cause of death for young people between the ages 15-29. It’s an overwhelming statistic for many and road crashes can tarnish a person’s life. Most people don’t realize the amount of health expenses that go into automobile accidents. Others are fortunate to have insurance such as Medicare or Medicaid and are able to pay off their medical expenses. On the other hand, there are others who struggle due to the fact that they don’t have any insurance to cover their medical bills.  

How much can Medicare or Medicaid offer? Will everything or most of the expenses be covered? These are the questions one would most likely ask after experiencing an automobile accident or any other emergency situation. Before you panic or become overwhelmed with the medical expenses the first thing you should do is get in contact with your insurance provider. When dealing with automobile accident injury expenses, Medicare and Medicaid can help you with the payment process.

However, there are a few doctors that may not accept your insurance provider. It’s important for you to call the doctor’s office ahead of time to see if they will accept your insurance and does not require an additional upfront fee. Speaking to a pharmacist before finalizing the prescription you or whomever was injured in the accident needs to take is important. This method can give you an idea of what type of prescribed medicine your insurance can pay for or if there’s an alternative that can be covered.

For years Medicare and medicaid have helped millions of people around the United States become prepared and secured for any emergency that might occur. Not to mention, Medicare and Medicaid has given others the opportunity to save their time and money they might have spent if they didn’t have either of these health care providers.If you are interested to take advantage of your Medicare or Medicaid, feel free to contact Gonzaba Medical group to set up an appointment. 

Finding Medicare and Medicaid Doctors In San Antonio

Searching for a new doctor is hard! You want someone who is skilled, observant and empathetic but there are also technical requirements that have to be met. Your doctor needs to take your insurance. Medicare and Medicaid are not accepted by every health care professional.Don’t underestimate the importance of finding a doctor to fit your situations!

The easiest way of finding a doctor is using the Medicare government website. You can insert your zip code, city, or address to find a geographical location for your doctor search. From there you can also put in a certain doctor’s name, a specialty you are looking for, or a medical condition. After that you will be given a list of Medicare and Medicaid doctors found in San Antonio based off of your distance.

There are also additional search functions when looking for Medicare or Medicaid Doctors in San Antonio. You can focus your search on requirementslike gender, hospital affiliation, and Medicare assignment. This help pinpoints a doctor who meets both your personal needs and the needs of your insurance provider!

Exploring the Medicare website will help you find a number of services. It can help you find hospitals, nursing homes, home health services, dialysis facilities, and more. If you create a profile,the Medicare website can help you enroll on time and willwalking you through the Medicare enrollment application 855i.

If you aren’t sure what type of doctor you need, you can use an interactive search option to locate a doctor based on your symptoms. This interactive way can help you find a doctor based on your individual needs and is helpful for those who may not know which type of doctor they necessarily need. Give a clear list of options, it is easier to pin point symptoms that you may be aware of but don’t know how to describe.This helps clear up confusion for patients and unnecessary appointments that are not needed due to miscommunication.

Another option is going to a clinic, like the Gonzaba Medical Group, that accepts Medicare and Medicaid while also offering wide variety of services under one roof. Even if you develop a need for additional services outside of what you originally expected, having everything in one place allows the Gonzaba Medical Group to react promptly to your needs.

Finding Medicare and Medicaid doctors in San Antonio is a simple and easy process! With a few simple steps, you can find the perfect doctor for your family’s needs.

How to Celebrate your 65th Birthday

Are you or your spouse turning 65 soon? Just can’t think of the perfect gift for them? It’s hard to get a great present for someone who has everything.Consider the following:

·         Am I or my spouse going to finally retire?

·         Do I have everything I need to relax peacefully?

·         Do I have a disability?

All those questions will help you realize that the perfect gift for your spouse is a Medicare 855i enrollment application form! This enrollment form isn’t any ordinary form! At the magical age of 65, you automatically qualify for Medicare health insurance.

There’s no better way to say “I love you” to your loved onesthan reminding them that there are Medicare doctors all over San Antonio and cities just like it all around the nation! The best part about the Medicare 885i enrollment application form is that you can make it a surprise! You have three options on how to surprise your loved ones if you are planning on getting them the form.

·         First, you can surprise them up to three months early!

·         Another option is surprising them on the day of their birthday!

·         Lastly, you can surprise them up to three months after their birthday, in case you want to get a series of gifts! 

The 855i enrollment application is the perfect gift when you or your spouse reaches the age for Medicare enrollment! With the Medicare general enrollment period being seven months long, you are able to enroll any time during that period to qualify for the healthcare.

The best part about this present is that it’s not a one-time gift! Medicare offers assistance in different situations, such as staying in the hospital, skilled nurses, home health, and hospice! If you do want to tell your loved one an extra “I love you,” you can join on to the part b where, for a small premium, Medicare will assist in the cost of medical, lab, home health, and outpatient! 

Make the right decision today by showing a loved one that you would like them to live a long and healthy life!Get them a Medicare 855i enrollment application form today!

How To Effectively Use Medicaid And Medicare

Medicaid and CHIP are often feel overwhelming. However, with a little help, these programs can make a huge different in older adult’s lives. Here is a simple walk through on how to enroll and how to effectively use your Medicaid, CHIP, and Medicare!

There are two ways to set up Medicaid for your families. Which method you choose to follow is a matter of personal preference.

HEALTH INSURANCE MARKETPLACE

The first way to apply is through the Health Insurance Marketplace.The marketplace is a middle man service where you input your family information. If anyone does qualify for CHIP or Medicaid, their information will be directly sent to the relevant state agency, which will contact you about enrollment.

STATE AGENCY

Another way to apply for CHIP and Medicaid is with directly applying to your state agency. Each state agency has their own application. With Medicare you can apply using an 855i Provider Enrollment form, which can be found in multiple languages. It is important to start the Medicare application for the applicant four months before the person turns 65, during the Medicare general enrollment period.

You also need know how to USE your Medicaid and Medicare! Here are some quick tips on how to effectively find a doctor for your needs.

·         Use search engines provided my Medicare and Medicaid to find doctors who accept your insurance.

·         Call the doctor’s office ahead of time to see if the doctor accepts the insurance and does not require an additional upfront fee.

·         Talk to a pharmacist before finalizing the prescription to see if your insurance pays for the prescription or if there is an alternative that is covered

·         Be on time with your yearly check-ups and shots to avoid any discrepancies in your file.

Medicare and Medicaid have helped millions of people around the nation and it is important to have health care in case of any emergency to occur. Using these quick tips will help you get most out of your Medicare or Medicaid!

When you are ready to take advantage of your Medicaid and Medicare, feel free to contact Gonzaba Medical Groupto set up an appointment.

What is Covered Under Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare and Medicaid are two topics which are commonly discussed but frequently confused by many Americans. Both of these are run by the government to help people who meet a certain criteriaaccess healthcare and benefits. It is important to know the differences, how they complement one another, and when each one is in action.

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for people with limited income and resources. There are also benefits not covered usually by Medicare, such as nursing home care and personal care!

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people of different qualifications. Medicare is for those of or over the age of 65, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with other major conditions. The age of Medicare enrollment is very important as most people are not covered for Medicare unless they make a strong case. It is important to start the paperwork at least 9 months prior to turning 65 to help have an easy transition. 

Medicare and Medicare go hand in hand when it comes down to coverage. Medicare serves as a large contributor to a home as it helps with the burden of many costs. Medicare helps throughout the entire process of which a person may experience with medical attention. First, the Medicare coverage helps pay for the hospitalization cost. After those costs have been addressed, Medicare then pays for any additional costs such as medical equipment, physician services, lab and radiology work, and administrative fees.  After those fees have been covered Medicare uses their advantage plan to help pay outstanding fees and assist with the cost of prescription drugs. 

It is important to understand that Medicaid does not require you to be 65 years or older. Three million people in the state of Texas qualify for Medicaid. Medicaid is for those who are Low income, disabled, pregnant women, and children under the age of 18. All Medicaid and Medicare doctors are found on the respected insurance website. The website easy to use and looks at the different criteria’s needed as well so everyone can be given the best treatment needed.