Euclid Chiropractic serving Upland Claremont Cucamonga Ontario

Left to Right:  Dr. Anthony Ratkovic, Lisa C., London P. Great event to promote Chiropractic Wellness.  I was impressed how many people, know and see a Chiropractor! The staff, London and Lisa, did a great job answering questions about Chiropractic and Spreading the Word. Also, Reverend Herman for his technical skills putting together and intro video for the office.  It will be on the web soon! It makes no business sense to do these events, but getting the Chiropractic "love" to the community is worth more than Gold. Yours in Health, Dr. Anthony Ratkovic, D.C. Euclid Chiropractic Clinic 60 E. Foothill Blvd Upland, CA 91784 909-981-5666 Euclidchiropracticinc.com FaceBook

This article was written by Herman Dunn, on our behalf to avoid bias. You toss and turn all night, your back aches and your neck is in a knot.  Snap, crackle and pop a pill. Regardless of the cause of the pain our first inclination is to take a pain reliever, either over-the-counter or by prescription.  Most of us probably never read the directions and don’t know when to take the pain pill i.e. before a meal, with a meal or after a meal.  The most frightening part is we probably also don’t know the side effects. OK, you have taken this pain reliever before with no ill side effects but, that may have been before we started taking blood pressure meds or a multitude of other prescribed and non prescribed medication. Do you know that pain medications are not your only choices?  A better alternative might be to consult a Doctor of Chiropractic. Pain medications do not fix problems, it masks the pain and the pain is still there when the medications wear off.  Whatever is causi

Here is post from last year.   With the large number of new patients recently, I have interviewed some of them for office quality control.  And, as I was hoping,  we getting similar answers.  Here is the article (revisited): Why has our office seen 12,000 visits per year for the last 5 years?  The key is building a successful relationship with our patients through  TRUST . I have been mentored by two successful doctors, have read a plethora of books and listened to many audio CDs relating to successful people in all professions. I have found this single trait of trust, to be the precedence. There are several reasons how trust is built before the patient even enters the office. I will share the top four: In selecting a chiropractic office, most patients in our office are referred to us by a friend, family member, or co-worker who already is a patient. Other patients have commented on the professionalism of our website, FaceBook, Verizon Yellow Pages or Clarke th

You are in an auto accident. First of all, are you okay?  Do you need to be taken to a hospital because of bleeding, broken bones or unconsciousness for you or someone else in your vehicle? Once the short-term “crisis” is under control, then we can deal with the long-term process of healing the body and returning LIFE back to normal. Here are the most common questions & answers from auto accident patients: 1)  When should I see a Chiropractor? At our office, we would like to see the patient within the first week of having an accident.  This allows us to the see the patient when there are still heightened injuries and symptoms.  Some positive examination tests will only occur at this time giving validity to the severity of trauma. 2) What are common questions asked by the doctors for auto accident patients? Has the patient suffered any head injuries?  Some patients can suffer from Post-Concussion Syndrome: having dizziness, headaches, and/or eye pressure days after an accide

This article was written by Herman Dunn, on our behalf to avoid bias. We have all been indoctrinated into the medical model, and few of us have much understanding of chiropractic procedures.  Each is distinct, and it is important to know the difference if you wish to make intelligent health care choices. Allow me to explain further. First of all, let me make it clear that Chiropractic is not better than Medicine nor vice versa – they are just different.  The practice of medicine saves lives!  We need to know the truth about it, however, in order to use it appropriately. If we view the scale of our state of health as a range from perfect health to extreme sickness, we can distinguish the focus of Chiropractic from the focus of Medicine and clearly see the difference between the two.  Medicine is primarily concerned with the sickness end of the scale, and the Medical Doctors are expert at identifying and treating illness.   Chiropractic Doctors focus is on the health end of th

X-ray Findings X-rays taken to exam scoliosis are specifically taken from the front-to-back or back to front view of the middle and low back. In this position we are able to evaluate the spine for normal versus abnormal curvatures. In this normal x-ray, the spine should be straight and look symmetrical from both sides. In this x-ray diagnosed as scoliosis, there is an “S” shaped curve in the spine. In evaluating an x-ray for scoliosis, the Cobb Method is the standard measurement performed. The result of the Cobb method is a degree of angulation; the higher the angulation, the more severe the scoliosis. A Cobb angle of 0-5 degrees is considered normal. From 5-10 degrees is considered abnormal from four to twenty years old (before the last growth spurts). Over 10 degrees is considered abnormal for all ages. As patients are treated for scoliosis, new x-rays are taken to show improvement. Treatment There are 4 types of treatment available to correct scoliosis (in intensiv

I.Presentation A common candidate for a Scoliosis examination is in elementary through high school years of age. This person may or may not have pain, depending on the severity of the Scoliosis. Some patients may also complain of hip, knee, ankle or foot pain. If there is presence of pain, it is usually associated with exercise and long periods of sitting. Other common symptoms are headaches, chest tightness with taking a deep breath, and shoulder pain. During a posture examination for Scoliosis, the patient is viewed from the front, back and sides looking for deviations versus normal. From the front, shoulders may be unlevel, head may be tilted or turned more to one side, and one foot may be turned out to the side. From the back, the shoulder blades may not look symmetrical: one may be higher or protruding out from the body. This may also cause the ribs to protrude out. From the sides, the patient may have a forward protruding neck and a back that is compensating for th

The term scoliosis is derived from the Greek word skolios , meaning crooked.  Scoliosis , as defined medically, describes any lateral deviation of the spine from the midsagittal plane (front to back view).    Scoliosis can occur from a number of reasons.  Some are diseases that can affect the spine at any age (tumors, trauma, and infections).  The most common form (80%) of scoliosis is Idiopathic (from an unknown cause).  The contributing factors for Idiopathic Scoliosis are inheritance, diet, and muscular imbalances.  In this process, as a spinal bone enlarges in the developing child, different segments of the bone grow faster than others.  This produces a lateral curve in the overall spine.  Idiopathic Scoliosis has age-based sub classifications due to its occurrence seen in different growth periods.  Infantile Idiopathic Scoliosis is between birth and 3 years old and rarely has any signs beyond 3.  Juvenile Idiopathic Scoliosis occurs between 3 and 10 years old.  About 30%

    Scoliosis is defined as having an abnormal curve of the spine when looking at someone from the front or back.  Although it specifically related to the bone structure seen on an x-ray of the back, scoliosis can be detected by muscle imbalances and postural irregularities.            Many factors can lead to scoliosis.  Inheritance plays a significant role, but other factors such as diet and abnormal physical stresses will also play a role.  Scoliosis is most distinct during the rapid growth stage of 8 years old until 22, when eventually the bones of the spine stop growing.      The most common signs of scoliosis when looking at a standing adolescent would be leaning to one side, having one shoulder higher than the other, having one leg and foot rotated out, non-traumatic pain next to the back that does not go away with rest, and increased pain with exercise.  In the early stages of scoliosis there is usually no pain or other symptoms.  With progression, symptoms can become m

London describes who should have massage therapy and how the procedures are done. Massage therapy is a key ingredient in continuing good health. By relaxing the muscles, the entire body as well as the mind will work together smoothly. Try massage therapy at Euclid Chiropractic Clinic, for your better health. London P. Massage Therapy from Herman Dunn on Vimeo .

Dennis describes as a worker in the construction industry, he constantly and back and neck pain. Medical doctors could only prescribe pain medications and physical therapy, which didn't work. The pain returned sometimes greater than what he had before. Working with Dr. Ratkovic, Dennis has been able to alleviate the pain and enjoy his retirement. Video of Dennis H.

Euclid Chiropractic interviews JJ and Dylan about healthy and unhealthy foods found in your local grocery stores. Dylan, at seven years old, has learned to understand what foods are good for his body through is mom, JJ, giving him choices. JJ and Dylan discuss tear down and build up food. J.J. Adams is a advocate for children's health and a representative of Juice Plus+ .  This company provides supplements that bridge the gap between the fruits and vegetables we eat the and nutrients our body requires daily to stay healthy. To receive a FREE  copy of  9 Simple Steps to a Healthy Diet or other information, please contact J.J at: 909-957-1110 cl 909-579-1616 message  Juiceplusjj@yahoo.com Juice Plus+

In the first article, we wrote about how the body uses innate intelligence or spirit to heal itself.  In article two, we subdivided NERVES to show how pain is associated when a nerve becomes pinched.  Part 3 will bring the theory of parts 1 and 2 to PRACTICE: 5 factors of everyday health. 1. Diet What we put in our body is a direct correlation to body's ability to function normally.  As an infant through adolescence, nutrition is vital to human development and growth.  For example, in Type 2 Diabetes a child's body mutates to leave abnormal levels of sugar in the bloodstream through an unhealthy diet.  The proper foods in our diet keep our energy levels optimum throughout the day and fight off environmental factors that degrade our body.  2. Exercise Lack of muscle strength makes our posture compensate to maintain balance.  If left untreated, this usually progresses to pain and arthritis long-term.  When we exercise, muscles grow.  Our body works efficiently when there

Christina S. has suffered from constant migraines for 2 years before treatment at Euclid Chiropractic. Now, symptoms are rare, mild headaches. Christina S.  For other testimonials regarding children's benefits from Chiropractic, please contact our office at:  Euclidchiropracticinc.com email us: euclidchiropracticinc@yahoo.com (909) 981-5666

Dr. Tony will be posting his next articles on Monday July 5, 2010  Have you see Euclid Chiropractic's new website? Some people are saying "amazing, cutting edge." See for yourself at: Euclidchiropracticinc.com Our in-office x-ray

Women's Health Part 2: Dr. Anthony Ratkovic interviews Gina Shackelford again and discusses: Orientation and Assessment as a New Member of a Fitness Center Gina Shackelford is the owner of Womens Fitness Club in Rancho Cucamonga and a leading health advocate for womens' health.  She will be interviewed monthly to share information in guiding women in choosing a healthier lifestyle. For more information regarding Gina and Womens Fitness Club , she can be reached at: 909-980-7487 WomensFitnessClub.com ginashack@womensfitnessclub.com

Children's Health Part 2: Dr. Anthony Ratkovic interviews J.J. Adams discussing: Educating Children about Nutrition with Parental Modeling J.J. Adams is a advocate for children's health and a representative of Juice Plus+ .  This company provides supplements that bridge the gap between the fruits and vegetables we eat the and nutrients our body requires daily to stay healthy. To receive a FREE  copy of ARE YOU DIGGING YOUR GRAVE WITH YOUR FORK or other information, please contact J.J at: 909-957-1110 cl 909-579-1616 message  Juiceplusjj@yahoo.com Juice Plus+

In part 1 of Chiropractic Attitude (see March edition) we stated Innate Intelligence travels through nerves to allow the whole body to function.   Now we will discuss in detail the subsections of the nerves and their functions. The main or CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM is responsible for the control and coordination of entire body function, include the body's adaptation to its environment.  It can be broken into three parts: MOTOR NERVES (45%) This part of the central nervous system controls the muscle function through controlled or reactionary movement.  Normally the muscle is relaxed in its resting state.  Abnormalities such as spasm, weakness or tightness can occur when there is improper nerve flow.  AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM (45%) Their function is controlling the body systems such as the organs, veins, arteries.  This happens automatically when this part of the central nervous functions normally.  In abnormal circumstances, a person can experience stomach problems, urin

Dr. T's Blog next post will be Monday May 3, 2010 . Articles are posted monthly and discuss current patient concerns.

Here is the link to the first of several videos regarding womens' health and fitness: Choosing the Right Fitness Club for You Gina Shackelford is the owner of Womens Fitness Club in Rancho Cucamonga and a leading health advocate for womens' health.  She will be interviewed monthly to share information in guiding women in choosing a healthier lifestyle. For more information regarding Gina and Womens Fitness Club , she can be reached at: 909-980-7487 WomensFitnessClub.com ginashack@womensfitnessclub.com

Taking care of a child’s well-being is at the heart of every parent, guardian, relative or friend. In the midst of a national recession with no end in sight, people are more conscious where they spend their dollars. And as unemployment continues to hit historic highs, parents, out of work and no health insurance benefits, are desperate and forced to cut back keeping their children healthy. University of Miami pediatric and psychology professor Daniel Armstrong thinks children's overall health will deteriorate in this economy. Here are a few predictions for leading forecasts: Less prenatal checkups leading to complications Increase in pre-term births and low weight infants A rise in SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) Infant and child hospital stays lengthened due to less pediatric checkups Increase in dental decay with parents unable to pay for dental care Children development failing because they are unable to attend special therapies

Part One: The Surface Chiropractors, as a profession, are viewed by the general public as healers of back and neck pain .  To attain your license, you must pass exams which show your competency in the medical sciences and patient exams.  But is that IT ?  NO WAY!   The start of bone doctors in America, Chiropractors, is over 100 years old .  It has survived persecution and jail time to keep our profession alive, before becoming licensed .    It is through the PHILOSOPHY OF CHIROPRACTIC these doctors ( B.J. Palmer being the founder) have worked passionately to affect the human body to work at its peak level.  One Quote that describes Chiropractic Philosophy states,   “The Power that Made the Body, Heals the Body.” What does that mean?  Let’s break it down:             “The Power that Made the Body” : our body has innate intelligence , spirit, being, etc. (not our brain) which controls our physical development from conception until when we die.  This intelligence performs this

The next article posting will occur Monday April 5th. Would love to hear your comments and questions from all the articles below.  Your FEEDBACK is valuable and appreciated. Dr. T Something new:  Below is a video testimonial.  Going to add this to our website and would like any feedback. Susan C.'s Testimonial  

What is good posture anyway and why is it so important? Basically posture refers to the body's alignment and positioning with respect to the ever-present force of gravity. Whether we are standing, sitting or lying down gravity exerts a force on our joints, ligaments and muscles. Good posture entails distributing the force of gravity through our body so no one structure is overstressed . Having correct posture not only affects the way you look to others, but also good posture passes along many health benefits. These Health Benefits allow your organs, circulation and movement to functional at a most favorable level.  In contrast, improper sitting or standing allows the opposite to occur. Here are a plethora of guaranteed health benefits to living longer and happier . Minimize your risk of permanent neck and back problems . Ensure that your joints don't wear abnormally, which can lead to Arthritis . Be able to use your muscles more efficiently, because your bones and j

These concerns, or as I call them anxieties , usually prevent someone from seeing a Chiropractor. And sometimes, stops the person from starting Chiropractic care after they realize they need it. Let’s see what they are and how our office has been able to ease these fears over the years. #1: “I don’t want you to break my neck.” Who hasn’t seen an action movie that involves the twisting of a neck and instantaneous eternal sleep (death)? Scary, right? ONLY in the Movies !!! Approximately 2-5 new patients per year have this permanently scared in their brain and refuse to at least give it a try. With the use of x-ray , exam and health history you have a better probability of getting a stroke from a scary movie than a chiropractic adjustment. The “ popping sound ” of the adjustment is the release of joint pressure similar to the feel and sound of your knuckle popping. The initial muscle relaxation alone after your first neck adjustment is usually enough to break this anxiety . #2: “

Ouch! Your knee hurts . What causes the knee injuries? A fall while skiing or gradually increasing pain with your type of Work? Lastly, what type of rehab should you do? Let’s answer these questions right now. Which Case are YOU ? Case 1: Long-term Knee Pain Patient has a work history that requires repetitive squatting and climbing stairs. The knee pain has increased gradually and has started to affect the ability to walk normally. The patient should have minimal knee pain and minor instability. Upon exam and x-ray , the patient presents with mild swelling and a grinding feeling around the knee joint. The patient will have full range of the knee, but pain going from a seated to a standing position. The knee x-rays may show some joint space lose because of arthritis or cartilage loss. Short-term Rehab : In-office rehab is prudent for most recoveries. First, the pain should be reduced through Ultrasound (an inflammation reducing physical therapy machine) and icing. Sur

My office has done over a dozen follow up x-rays for Scoliosis throughout January.  These patients’ ages range from 6-24 years old.  Seeing the mostly positive results from the patient’s first and second x-rays, reiterates why we treat this disease. This is an article written two years ago by our office to help parents understand Scoliosis: How do I know if my child or I have Scoliosis?     Scoliosis is defined as having an abnormal curve of the spine when looking at someone from the front or back.  Although it specifically related to the bone structure seen on an x-ray of the back, scoliosis can be detected by muscle imbalances and postural irregularities.      Many factors can lead to scoliosis.  Inheritance plays a significant role, but other factors such as diet and abnormal physical stresses will also play a role.  Scoliosis is most distinct during the rapid growth stage of 8 years old until 22, when eventually the bones of the spine stop growing.      The most common signs

Over my years of practice, our patients frequently use ice and heat improperly to reduce pain. Purpose of both Ice and Heat Ice : used to reduce swelling or inflammation by slowing down blood flow. It can reduce pain by dulling or numbing the injured area, but it is not primarily a pain reducer. Heat : increases blood flow which helps to deliver oxygen and nutrients and remove waste. It relaxes healthy muscles, reducing pain. Patient in acute, intense pain says, “Hey, but heat feels better!” Doctor: “Yes and it promotes more swelling and pain. Ice it for now. ” Have you sprained an ankle in the past? You automatically use ice to reduce swelling. I doubt your first instinct would be a heating pad. Treating the Spine The problem with acute back or neck pain is the non-visible swelling that occurs in the spine versus the superficial ankle joint, for example. By reducing the swelling with ice on the back or neck, you reduce the inflammation in the soft tissue as well as diminis

             Look well to the spine for the cause of disease.                                                             -Hippocrates Now that the obvious stress of the holidays are over, our daily lives will go back to being nice and rosy, right?  WRONG!    Your worries of job security, traffic congestion, and the on-going difficulties of having a household all create Stress . According to a recent survey by the American Psychology Association , 44% of Americans are concerned about their daily stress levels.   Here are some Q & A about stress: Are There Different Kinds of Stress? Physical stress for example is trauma from a car accident or sports injury. Emotional stress is our reaction to a physical stress.  One person’s response to criticism (a physical stress) may be defensive, while another might be unresponsive.  Effects of Emotional Stress? In response to these daily strains, your body automatically increases blood pressure to your muscles at low amount