Videos with Dr. Prieto

How Does Spinal Decompression Work? - Dr. Brian Prieto

At Prieto Chiropractic & Spinal Decompression Center, Dr. Brian Prieto is proud to offer the revolutionary DRX 9000, a state-of-the-art spinal decompression technology designed to alleviate low back pain without the need for surgery. Located in Yorba Linda, California, our center specializes in helping patients achieve significant pain relief and healing naturally.

The DRX 9000 system targets the lumbar vertebrae surrounding injured discs, which are often the culprits behind chronic low back pain. By precisely isolating these areas, the DRX 9000 reduces intradiscal pressure, thereby enhancing the diffusion of water, oxygen, and essential nutrients into the vertebral disc space. This process not only helps retract bulging or herniated discs but also promotes the healing and rehabilitation of damaged spinal structures.

Rediscover your lifestyle without back pain at Prieto Chiropractic Spinal Decompression Center. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Brian Prieto today and learn how our targeted DRX 9000 treatment can help you get back to a healthier, more active life.

What is a Herniated Disc? - Dr. Brian Prieto

Understanding Herniated Discs: Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Welcome to Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center, located in North Orange County, Yorba Linda, California. I'm Dr. Brian Prieto, and today, we're exploring the question: "What is a herniated disc?"

First, let's understand the basic anatomy involved with a herniated disc. Imagine the spine as a stack of vertebral bodies separated by discs, which I like to refer to as the disc complex. These discs act as cushions, preventing the vertebrae from rubbing against each other. They are made of a tough, cartilage-like outer layer and a softer, gel-like center known as the nucleus pulposus.
When this disc structure fails, it results in what we commonly call a herniated disc. You might also hear terms like bulging disc, disc protrusion, or disc extrusion, which refer to the specifics of how the disc material is misaligned or extruded.

Using MRI technology or magnetic resonance imaging, we can precisely identify and measure these herniations. For example, in the lumbar spine, a 1thru 3 millimeter herniation is considered mild, while a 4-6 millimeter is considered moderate and a 7 millimeter or larger herniation would be severe. These measurements help us understand the severity of the condition and plan the appropriate treatment.
Herniated discs can protrude laterally, towards the foraminal canal, or centrally towards the spinal canal. Symptoms can vary based on the herniation's location, ranging from pain in one leg due to a lateral herniation to numbness or pain in both legs from a central herniation.

This video is part of our educational series on spinal health, aiming to provide you with a clear understanding of spinal conditions and their treatments. For more information on herniated discs and other spinal issues, check out our other videos.

Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to helping you achieve better spinal health at Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center.

Is Spinal Decompression Right For You? - Dr. Brian Prieto

Are You a Candidate for Spinal Decompression? Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Welcome to Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center, located in the heart of North Orange County, Yorba Linda, California. I’m Dr. Brian Prieto, and today, we’re discussing who might be a candidate for spinal decompression therapy.

Many of our patients come to us after experiencing persistent pain and trying various treatments with limited success. These treatments often include chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, and even pain medications or epidurals. If these methods haven’t alleviated your discomfort, you might find yourself exploring more specialized options like non-surgical spinal decompression.

At our center, the journey begins with a thorough history and physical examination to understand your unique situation. Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role; if you haven’t had any recent scans, we typically proceed with X-rays and an MRI. The MRI is particularly important because it allows us to see if there is a bulging or herniated disc that could be causing your symptoms.

Based on a comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms, history, and diagnostic results, we can determine if spinal decompression therapy is a suitable treatment for you. This decision is carefully made to ensure that it aligns with your health needs and treatment goals.

If you're struggling with back pain and traditional treatments haven't been effective, you might be a candidate for spinal decompression therapy. Check out our other videos for more information on how this treatment can offer relief and support your journey back to health.

Thank you for considering Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center as your partner in managing and overcoming back pain.

Can you see a Bulging Disc on an X-ray? - Dr. Brian Prieto

Can You See a Bulging Disc on an X-ray? Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Welcome to Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center, located in North Orange County, Yorba Linda, California. I’m Dr. Brian Prieto, and today we’re addressing a common question: Can you see a bulging disc on an X-ray?

Many patients arrive at our clinic with X-rays in hand, believing they show a bulging disc. However, X-rays primarily reveal bone structures and are not capable of showing soft tissue like a bulging disc. This leads to a frequent misunderstanding, as X-rays alone cannot diagnose a bulging disc. The most effective way to accurately diagnose a bulging disc is through an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). MRI scans are sensitive enough to detail soft tissue, allowing us to measure the extent of the disc bulge in millimeters and classify it as mild, moderate, or severe.

Interestingly, the position during an MRI scan can affect the results. While traditional MRIs are conducted with the patient lying down (supine MRI), a sitting MRI can often reveal the true extent of a disc’s compression, which might not be as apparent in a supine position. Though sitting MRIs are less common and more costly, they can provide a clearer picture of spinal issues.

This distinction became clear to me years ago when a discrepancy arose between a patient's symptoms and their supine MRI results. After conducting a sitting MRI, we discovered the bulging disc was significantly larger than previously indicated, aligning more closely with the patient's actual symptoms.

For those exploring spinal health options or undergoing a spinal decompression consultation, remember: while an X-ray can be a helpful tool for viewing bone health, only an MRI can definitively show a bulging disc.

For more insights on spinal health and accurate diagnostic techniques, check out our other videos. Thank you for tuning in to learn more about bulging disc diagnosis at Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center.

Trying to Avoid Spinal Surgery with Spinal Decompression? - Dr. Brian Prieto

Exploring Non Spinal Surgery Options using Spinal Decompression? Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Welcome to Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center in the heart of Yorba Linda, California, and serving the North Orange County area. I'm Dr. Brian Prieto, and today we're addressing a critical question I often receive: "Do I need spinal surgery?"

Many patients who visit us are actively seeking alternatives to surgery, hoping to exhaust all possible non-surgical treatments before considering this significant step. The decision to undergo spinal surgery can be complex, as the outcomes can vary. Some patients experience great success, particularly with procedures like microscopic discectomies, which involve minimal tissue disruption using advanced microscopic techniques.

However, other more invasive surgeries, such as those involving the insertion of cages or metal for stabilization and fusion, can have mixed results. It's important to understand both the potential benefits and the risks associated with these surgical options.

At our center, we specialize in non-surgical treatments, particularly spinal decompression therapy using the DRX 9000 system. Since 2005, this technology has helped a significant number of our patients avoid spinal surgery. Our website features numerous testimonials from patients who have benefited from this approach.

While spinal decompression therapy has been a successful alternative for many, it is crucial to note that some cases still require surgical intervention. If you're contemplating whether surgery is the right option for you, it’s essential to explore all available treatments. Consulting with a specialist in spinal decompression can help determine if you might be a candidate for non-surgical therapies aimed at alleviating your symptoms.

For more information and to explore other related topics, please check out our videos. Thank you for considering Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center as your guide to understanding spinal health and treatment options.

What is Spinal Stenosis? - Dr. Brian Prieto

Understanding Spinal Stenosis: Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Welcome to Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center, located in North Orange County, Yorba Linda, California. I’m Dr. Brian Prieto, and today, we’re diving into an important question: "What is spinal stenosis?"

Spinal stenosis occurs in two main areas of the spine: the central canal, which runs vertically through the spine, and the lateral foraminal canal, located at the sides of each vertebra. Central canal stenosis involves the narrowing of the canal housing the spinal cord due to the encroachment of various materials, such as bulging discs, thickened ligaments, bone spurs (osteophytes), or cysts. This narrowing, or stenosis, can lead to symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling down both legs, especially when walking.

Lateral foraminal stenosis, on the other hand, affects one side of the body and is caused by similar issues—bulging discs, cysts, or osteophytes in the lateral parts of the spine. This type of stenosis typically results in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness on one side of the leg or arm, depending on whether the stenosis is in the lumbar or cervical region.

If you're experiencing symptoms down both arms or hands, it could be an indication of central or lateral stenosis in the cervical area, highlighting the condition's impact beyond the lumbar spine.
This brief overview introduces the basic concepts of spinal stenosis and its potential symptoms. For those interested in deeper insights or exploring non-surgical treatment options like spinal decompression therapy, please check out our other videos.

Thank you for joining us at Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center as we explore essential spinal health topics.

Difference between Spinal Decompression and Traction

Understanding the Differences - Traction vs. Spinal Decompression: Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Welcome to Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center, located in Yorba Linda, California, part of North Orange County. I’m Dr. Brian Prieto, and today we’re exploring a common query: What is the difference between traction and spinal decompression?

To illustrate, let’s compare traction and spinal decompression to types of vehicles under the "car" category. Consider traction as the general category like a car, within which you have different types—pick-up trucks for hauling, SUVs for passenger capacity, and Formula One cars for speed. Each is designed for specific purposes but fundamentally, they’re all cars.

In the context of spinal care, traction can be as simple as manually pulling on your leg, using an inversion table, or a basic traction machine. These methods create a stretching force on the spine but are generally uniform and non-discriminative in how they apply this force.

On the other hand, spinal decompression, like the DRX 9000 system right here in our office, is the Formula One car of traction. It’s a sophisticated version designed specifically for decompressing the spine. This system utilizes a servo motor that operates subtly to decompress the spine without triggering the body’s natural protective responses. This advanced mechanism allows for precise control over the decompression, helping to retract bulging or herniated discs and relieve pressure on the spine.

Spinal decompression creates a negative pressure within the disc, which can help draw displaced disc material back into place, potentially providing significant pain relief and functional improvement. This sophisticated technology is not only more effective but also significantly more expensive than standard traction devices, reflecting its advanced capabilities and outcomes.

For those suffering from disc-related issues like bulging discs, spinal decompression offers a targeted, effective treatment option beyond traditional traction. Check out our other videos for more information on how these therapies work and their benefits.

Thank you for visiting Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center. Explore our resources to better understand how advanced treatments can enhance spinal health.

Does Insurance cover Spinal Decompression?

Is Spinal Decompression Covered by Insurance? | Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Welcome to Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center, located in Yorba Linda, California, in the North Orange County area. I’m Dr. Brian Prieto. A common question we encounter is whether insurance covers spinal decompression therapy. Today, I'd like to address this concern.

Since I started using the DRX 9000 machine in 2005, I have noticed that insurance coverage for spinal decompression has been virtually nonexistent. Despite nearly two decades of use, insurers consistently classify this treatment as experimental, which is why they generally do not offer reimbursement.

The reluctance of insurance companies to cover spinal decompression therapy appears to be more financially driven than based on the health benefits of the procedure. This situation can often seem frustrating, especially when considering the potential relief it offers to patients with conditions like bulging discs who wish to avoid surgery.

Due to this lack of insurance support, spinal decompression therapy is primarily available through specialized clinics like ours rather than general hospitals. If insurance companies recognized and reimbursed this effective treatment, it’s likely that more mainstream medical facilities would adopt it.

Unfortunately, the reality is that those in need of spinal decompression must often seek out local specialists who offer this service at their own expense. This ensures that patients still have access to this vital treatment despite the financial hurdles.

For more information on spinal decompression and other treatments we provide, please check out our other videos. Thank you for considering Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center for your spinal health needs.

Integrating Spinal Decompression Therapy with Exercise and Chiropractic Therapy - Dr. Brian Prieto

Integrating Spinal Decompression Therapy with Exercise and Chiropractic Care: Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Welcome! I’m Dr. Brian Prieto from Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center in Yorba Linda, California. A common question we encounter is whether you can combine exercises, chiropractic adjustments, and physical therapy with spinal decompression therapy.

Spinal decompression therapy requires a progressive approach, similar to training for a marathon. You wouldn’t run 20 miles on your first day of training—your body needs to gradually adapt to the increasing demands. Similarly, we start spinal decompression with lower intensity and gradually increase it, allowing your body to adjust effectively.

Many patients wonder if they can engage in other activities while undergoing decompression therapy. To illustrate, let’s consider a metaphor: if your car runs out of gas, you might try to push it to create momentum. If you’re strong enough, you can generate the initial force needed to move the car. However, a person who lacks the strength, like a hypothetical 90-year-old, wouldn’t be able to generate this force.

In the context of spinal health, chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and exercises act as momentum—they are more effective when the initial force, or relief, comes from spinal decompression. These treatments are crucial for maintaining the improvements and supporting the spine after decompression therapy has alleviated the primary pressure.

Therefore, while you can start with gentle stretching or light activities, more intensive exercises and therapies are typically recommended in the later stages of spinal decompression therapy. This sequential approach ensures that each treatment complements the others effectively, enhancing the overall recovery and health of your spine.

In summary, while spinal decompression therapy prepares your spine for activity by relieving pressure, subsequent exercises, chiropractic adjustments, and physical therapy help maintain and enhance these benefits. This staged approach maximizes the effectiveness of each treatment.

For more information on how to safely integrate different therapies with spinal decompression or to explore other health topics, please check out our other videos.

Neck Pain from Heavy Handbags: Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Hello everyone, this is Dr. Brian Prieto from Yorba Linda, California. Today, we're addressing a common yet often overlooked source of pain: heavy handbags. Last week we discussed the "George Costanza wallet" issue; today, it's all about handbags and purses.

Many of us don't think twice about the weight of our handbags, but did you know that carrying a heavy bag can lead to significant neck and back problems? A recent segment on an NBC affiliate highlighted how the trend towards larger handbags is contributing to increasing aches and pains among women.

We often load our bags with essentials—lotion, keys, cell phones, address books—and before we know it, we're carrying around ten pounds on one shoulder. This uneven load can strain your neck and back, leading to discomfort and potential long-term health issues.

So, should your handbag be that heavy? Generally, no. Lightening your load can help prevent neck and back strain. However, there's one scenario where a heavier bag might just be your ally—during a tussle. We've all seen those dramatic scenes in movies where a heavy purse comes in handy, but in real life, it's best to keep your bag as light as possible.

For those experiencing pain from heavy handbags, or if you're curious about how to minimize this issue, don’t hesitate to contact me. My team and I are here to help you address and prevent pain related to your everyday carry items.

Correct Posture - Dr. Brian Prieto

Combat the Social Media Slouch: Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Hello, this is Dr. Brian Prieto from Yorba Linda, California. Today, I want to discuss something increasingly common yet often ignored: the social media slouch. This term describes the poor posture many of us adopt while engrossed in long sessions on Facebook or other social media platforms.

You might not notice it in yourself, but perhaps you’ve seen a coworker or a family member hunched over their computer screen. Our society is deeply integrated with technology, making the social media slouch a widespread issue. This poor posture can lead to a variety of symptoms that affect your spinal health, including headaches, neck and upper back pain, lower back pain, and even numbness and tingling in the arms.

At our clinic, we've observed that many patients experience these symptoms due to their posture while using computers. The good news is that there are effective solutions available. Our chiropractic care has helped many patients who spend extensive time on computers, and we can also offer specially designed posture shirts to support proper spinal alignment.

Remember, maintaining good posture while on the computer is crucial for your spinal health. If you or someone you know is suffering from symptoms related to poor computer posture, don’t wait for it to worsen. It’s time to take action and seek treatment.

Arthritis in the Spine - Dr. Brian Prieto

Understanding Spinal Arthritis: Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Hello, this is Dr. Brian Prieto from Prieto Chiropractic and Spinal Decompression Center in Yorba Linda. Today, we’re delving into a common but often misunderstood condition: arthritis in the spine, specifically osteoarthritis. This type of arthritis is characterized by stiffness and pain in the spine, typically worse in the mornings and evenings, though it may ease during the day as you become more active.

Osteoarthritis in the spine can manifest in various ways:

1. Sensitivity to Weather Changes: Many patients report increased spinal irritation during changes in barometric pressure and cooler weather.
2. Localized Tenderness: This occurs when pressure is applied to the affected joint or area of the spine.
3. Aching Pain: This pain can be steady or intermittent, often exacerbated by movement.
4. Reduced Flexibility: For example, difficulty bending down to pick up objects off the floor.
5. Crepitus: A crunching feeling or sound of bone rubbing on bone during joint movement.
6. Nerve Compression Symptoms: Tingling, numbness, or pinching sensations caused by bone spurs that irritate nearby nerves.

Osteoarthritis develops gradually as a natural part of aging, with some individuals experiencing symptoms earlier than others. Movement is crucial for maintaining joint health; it helps produce fluid that lubricates and nourishes spinal joints. However, when joints are too painful or stuck, professional intervention may be necessary.

I have over 30 years of experience treating patients with arthritis-related wear and tear, ranging from 20 to 90 years old. If you find yourself stiff in the mornings or evenings, or if you’re concerned about arthritis, it’s essential not to rely solely on short-term solutions like Advil or Tylenol.

If you suspect you might be dealing with spinal arthritis or are experiencing related symptoms, I encourage you to take action. Contact us to schedule an appointment where we can assess the extent of your condition and discuss ways to manage and slow its progression.

Choosing the Right Pillow - Dr. Brian Prieto

Choosing the Right Pillow to Prevent Neck Pain: Dr. Brian Prieto Yorba Linda Chiropractor Explains

Hello, this is Dr. Brian Prieto from Yorba Linda. Today, we're tackling a common question: How can your pillow hurt you? Many people ask me about the best pillow to use for sleeping, and the answer largely depends on maintaining your neck in a neutral position throughout the night.

First, let's consider what type of sleeper you are:
• Back Sleepers: If you sleep on your back, using a large pillow or stacking multiple pillows can strain your neck. A smaller, flatter pillow is typically better as it helps keep your neck aligned without forcing it forward.
• Side Sleepers: For those who sleep on their side, a small pillow is inadequate as it allows your neck to tilt downwards. A thicker pillow that fills the gap between your ear and shoulder is ideal to keep your head and neck in a neutral alignment.
• Tummy Sleepers: Sleeping on your stomach is challenging for spinal alignment as there’s no effective way to keep the head straight; this position often requires turning the head to one side, which can strain the neck.

Using an inappropriate pillow for your sleeping position can lead to several issues, including stiff necks, neck pain, and headaches. This is particularly common among people who fall asleep with their head propped up by multiple pillows or a folded pillow while watching TV.

If you're experiencing any discomfort from your pillow or if you're unsure about which pillow is right for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch. My team and I are dedicated to helping you achieve a pain-free, restful sleep with the right pillow and sleeping posture.