Back Pain     Sciatica     Chronic Neck Problems Skateboarding Injuries     Rheumatoid Arthritis     Fused Spinal Cord Chronic Dislocation/Fatigue Following Auto Accident CHRONIC DISLOCATION/FATIGUE FOLLOWING AUTO ACCIDENT In 1980, I suffered massive head injuries in a car crash. Since that time, I have had a chronic dislocation problem in my spine. I have been to thirteen chiropractors (as well as massage, Rolfing, Reflexology, acupuncture, physical therapy, Applied Kinesiology and other practitioners) in seven cities and towns across the nation for treatments. All of them have been well-trained, skilled and caring professionals who did their best to remedy my chronic problem. I have always known when my atlas was "out" because my eyesight would be affected, my thinking would become "slower and less sharp," my overall bodily functionality would diminish (become depressed) and I would become increasingly weary of simply getting through the day. My symptomology was similar to what has been referred to as chronic fatigue. Indeed, the only treatments that actually seemed to address, and temporarily improve the situation, was when a chiropractor (using force or non-force technique) would "adjust" the atlas at the top of my spine. I put "adjust" in quotes, because even though they would cause some manner of shift in the atlas, they were never able to align it correctly. Now that I have learned about the NUCCA process, I understand why. Usually, within one or two weeks after such a treatment, my problems would again be present. I was referred to you by a NUCCA chiropractor in Portland, Oregon, whom I had contacted after learning about the unique approach to working with problems such as mine. I live in Santa Barbara and he referred me to you as the nearest NUCCA practitioner. I am happy to report that after having several treatments with you, all of my symptoms and chronic complaints are history. For me, this is indeed a life-changing experience! I now function normally in all daily activities and my sleep has become restful. What is so amazing is that I have gone from chronic fatigue to chronic well-being in an amazingly short period of time - as a result of your skill and application of the NUCCA technique. Dr. Tao, my body thanks you; my brain and emotional well-being thank you; my wallet thanks you (twenty years of treatments have all been cash-out-of-pocket); and I thank you for this renewed quality of life that you have given me. I am just amazed, day after day! Gratefully yours, Julian Dean [ Top of Page ] SCIATICA I originally came to see Dr. Tao for two reasons: (1) Consistent aching and "burners" on the left side of my neck and down across the back of my left shoulder. I had struggled with these for over 10 years, as a result of fusion surgery I had on my neck. Previously I had taken no chiropractic treatments because I was afraid to see a "traditional" chiropractor due to my fusion surgery. I was afraid it would do damage to me. When I heard from a friend who had seen Dr. Tao, he mentioned that Dr. Tao did not do the traditional chiropractic manipulation (or "cracking" of the neck as I call it). I decided to see him. (2) I had experienced consistent lower back pain from June through August. I was unable to lay in bed for more than 3-4 hours consecutively, without considerable pain. No amount of stretching or exercise would relieve it. After one treatment by Dr. Tao, I was able to sleep 10 hours that night. My neck and shoulders have relaxed considerably and I have noticeable more range of motion that I have had in many years. His treatments are so simple and painless that they leave you wondering if they will actually do any good. But believe me, they DO!! Our 11 year old son also had treatments from Dr. Tao due to back problems that caused him to slouch very badly. In just one treatment, he straightened up 85-80% and continues to improve. I am convinced that Dr. Tao's treatments can help a great variety of ailments. Thank you, Dr. Tao. Brian Engblom [ Top of Page ] FUSED SPINAL CORD A friend from my church suggested I see Dr. Tao, knowing all the difficulties I have had over the past five years, including 2 back surgeries. I had received a second opinion from a well respected surgeon/medical group who concluded it would require a third surgery to eliminate the sciatic pain and restore my back to health. For three weeks prior to this opinion, I had been working by laying on the floor of my office all day and then do more of the same at home. As I began driving back to the office from the surgeons, I thought "What do I have to lose?" So I made an appointment with Tao Family Chiropractic. Four hours later I saw Dr. Tao. Following his gentle care, in-depth explanation and genuine concern for my well-being, he concluded the procedure. I visited six to eight times and have not needed to see him again. Further, I have not had one second of sciatic pain since that first visit. I have sent my wife and no less than six people to see him in the past three months. My back, energy and lifestyle have been restored. My family and I are thankful to God, Dr. Tao and his family for hearing, caring and acting on our prayers. With deep appreciation. Keith Green [ Top of Page ] SKATEBOARDING INJURIES I have taken many falls skateboarding. I was often left with a sore and twisted body that would take weeks and even months to re-adjust. I visited Dr. Tao as a result of an ankle injury. To my surprise, not only did he assist my ankle injury to heal quickly, but he also adjusted my back and brought a great sense of relaxation that I rarely feel, since my profession is constantly rough on my body. I am hooked on Dr. Tao, and trust him very much. His treatment is very effective and his expertise very wise. Eric Bork [ Top of Page ] CHRONIC NECK PROBLEMS I came to Dr. Tao's office on the enthusiastic recommendation of a dear friend whose fibromyalgia has prompted her to utilize every form of chiropractic known. NUCCA alone has provided her with the relief she's been seeking, and she spoke very highly of Dr. Tao. Although he is not located in my immediate area, when I myself became in need of chiropractic care, I sought Dr. Tao for a chronic neck problem, which recently flared up. I have also used the service of a number of chiropractors over the last 20 years, which used a variety of different techniques. Never have I experienced the instantaneous relief of symptoms that I observed on my first visit to Dr.Tao. Also, not only did I not have to undergo what I have come to call “post-adjustment stress” (tension in muscles, bones and/or ligaments) a common aftereffect in the past - I actually had a physical, emotional epiphany, a vibrant sense of sell-being, right after my first adjustment. One other thing impresses me about Dr. Tao. I am convinced he is not in it for the money. After only a few visits here, accompanied by my steady improvement, he has already advised me that I return only on a ‘as needed' basis. I unconditionally recommend his service. As a person and as a practitioner, he is a pleasure to work with, and the most skilled chiropractor I have ever been under the care of. David Harris [ Top of Page ] RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS I first visited Dr. Tao's office for joint pain and arthritis. My symptoms began in May of 1995. I had previously seen a rheumatologist for this problem. He recommended medication and exercise. I receive no result from his treatment. I have had a substantial decrease in pain since seeing Dr. Tao. I only need Advil or valerian root occasionally. I can now exercise most of the time without pain afterwards. Natalie Durst [ Top of Page ] BACK PAIN I had been in pain so severe I could not walk more than 50 feet or stand. This had been going on for most of 2003. My HMO physician put me on more pain pills and physical therapy. It did not help. I am all alone, so I was having a real problem. I started going to any one that was recommended to me by word of mouth and networking with women friends. I tried acupuncture, dry cupping, stronger pills and massage. My sister told me some of her friends recommended Dr. Tao and NUCCA. I went to him and after just 3 or 4 treatments, the results with the pain in my back have abated. I like to go every 2 weeks and I can feel the relaxing in my spinal column. Sometime the pain goes away for a whole month. It is great! I can even walk in the Mall, which I had to give up. Thank you, Dr. Tao! Nancy Lee [ Top of Page ]