Pigeon Chiropractic & Deer Holistic

10/20/2025

POV. You come into my office for backpain. It's right acrossed your beltline. What goes through my mind? First I pay attention to your gait. How you walk in tells me alot about the mechanism of injury. Are you leaning to one side? Do you appear twisted or is one hip higher? Did you do anything specific to cause the injury? Does it hurt more when you are sitting for awhile? Or standing for awhile or both? Is getting up from a seat difficult? Or oppositely, is sitting down difficult? Can you bend over at the waist? Does it feel to you like tight muscles or sharp pain? How did it first begin? Did it happen quickly or come on slowly? Is it reoccurring or is this the first time? Did you tug or lift something in a funny way? What time of day do you feel most uncomfortable, in the morning or evening? Do you sleep awkwardly? Do you have an allergy problem either unknown or left unchecked and gone rampant? Is there a problem with urination or bowel movements? Do you have incontinence or sexual dysfunction? Could it be an infection? What about emotional triggers? Are you more stressed currently? Have you done anything out of the ordinary recently like start a new exercise regimen or get a new chair at work? Are the knees, ankles and feet involved? All this in the first few minutes! No wonder I'm mentally drained by the end of the day... But, it is also very stimulating for my ADD mind! I thoroughly enjoy my work because I never know what new puzzle will walk through my door! Call me today and come into the office so my brain can figure out the puzzle that is you!
989-453-2020
See you soon!

10/19/2025

The "Sweet Spot" as I refer to it in your neck is a place that I focus on to affect many other parts of your body. It involves the nerve roots of C4 and C5 mostly. I have a technique that basically 'calms' down the entire nervous system by utilizing trigger point therapy on this area while you move in certain repetitive actions (akin to active release therapy) to provoke a response where the brain learns not to respond to that stimuli. It helps with so many issues! Here is a description of what impingements on these nerve roots can lead to if not corrected:
A C4 impingement refers to pressure at the fourth cervical vertebra in the neck, which is a high-level spinal cord area. This problem often results in diaphragm dysfunction, requiring interventions for breathing assistance. It also can affect ALL four limbs, though degree can vary, as well as impair bowel and bladder control, and potential autonomic dysfunction, dys- reflexia and skin irritations.
A C5 impingement can lead to a partial numbness or paralysis of the arms AND legs, but preserves shoulder and some neck muscle control. Individuals with a C5 injury can experience paralysis or other neurological issue below the shoulders, including hands and fingers. Breathing may be affected and potential complications include respiratory issues, autonomic dysreflexia, and the need for rehabilitation and support.

These areas are extremely important in maintaining normal functioning of the entire body. Come in to experience the great relief that comes to my patients when I work in these areas. Its miraculous in some cases. The ability to move in ways you had thought were impossible again-- Priceless! All this without pharmaceutical intervention!

10/16/2025

So, I’ve been asked my opinion on GERD, acid reflux, indigestion. Well, it is an interesting illness with multiple factors to consider.
Nutritional
First and foremost, it is usually exacerbated by diet. Most people who have it often say that spicy and acidic foods bother them. However, sometimes it is helpful to use an acidic food to eliminate symptoms, like apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, mustard or dill pickles ( thus the side of pickle with your sandwich everywhere)... The reason for this is innate. The body intrinsically craves balance and is always reacting to things that we take in. So, if I eat a lot of acidic things, my stomach tells my brain that the acid ratio is off and things need to be buffered. So, my brain sends signals to recover calcium from other parts of my body (wherever it has stashed it and can most easily be reabsorbed) and uses that calcium to put into my stomach in order for it to buffer the acid imbalance and regain the proper PH levels. So, there is the rub! Which acid foods cause irritation and which will make your body respond properly and result in alkalizing your system? I believe it is unique to the individual but there is a list you can use for reference.

http://www.rense.com/1.mpicons/acidalka.htm

On the other hand, using tums/ rolaids only causes the opposite to occur…. The body begins to produce more acid to keep up with balancing the buffering effect of the antacid. Not to mention, our body finds the calcium in tums fairly unabsorbable so it just stuffs it into nooks and crannies…. That’s why so many people find themselves eating one tums after another its a negative feedback loop!

Probiotics is important for gut health as well. But make sure you are getting the right kind of probiotic. It should brag on the label that it has a special coating that makes sure the microflora reach the small intestine. There, the bacteria should recolonize and proliferate so that a 30 day treatment should be enough for oral dosing.

Organs
Another factor to consider is organ system dysfunction. Usually, it is a combination of pancreas, gall bladder and liver dysfunction that makes our digestion suffer. This can generally be corrected, however, through nutrition, supplements and Chiropractic Manipulative Reflex Technique.

Structural / Biomechanical
Structurally, a high rib cage (all the ribs seem to be pushed upward and together) or, the sternum is literally pushed into the chest. This creates pressure on the stomach/ esophageal hiatus and can sometimes lead to a hiatal hernia which will allow excess acid to leak upward into the esophagus, causing irritation. Also, digestion is run by the nervous system and the spinal nerves associated with digestion come from the upper-middle back between the shoulder blades. Impingement on these can have a serious impact on digestive health. These factors can most definitely be corrected through chiropractic care. :)

Allergies or side effects from Medications
Some medications can also cause these issues.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/expert-answers/heartburn-gerd/faq-20058535

http://www.everydayhealth.com/gerd/treating-gerd/medications-that-worsen-reflux.aspx

Emotional
Finally, something to consider....High stress levels can make your chest constrict. This will have an overall negative effect on digestive health. Sometimes, too, people have pressure in their chest from 'swallowing their words'…. They literally over-swallow in order to keep themselves from saying things out loud. Communication and talking things out is generally helpful for chest and throat constriction.

Certain medicines can make symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) worse. Learn more.

10/07/2025

Wondering about services?
Dr. Julia Deer, Holistic Chiropractor:
Here are some of the things we offer in addition to our several traditional styles of chiropractic care:
☆Optimal Function Philosophy☆
1. Brain function and nervous system regulation - creating balance (homeostasis) within your body.
2. Organ reflexology utilizing C.M.R.T. Chiropractic Manipulative Reflex Technique (historically referred to as "bloodless surgery")
3. Muscle testing and Applied Kinesiology - Assessing and positively affecting organ systems through muscle strength analysis and neurological trigger points.
4. Sacro- Occipital technique (S.O.T.) to retrain loose ligaments and joint instabilities.
5. Joint mobilization and rehab for increasing Range of Motion in immobilized or "frozen" areas of the body.
6. Balance and equilibrium training to increase stability while walking or standing in place (post- stroke/ surgery/ or just degeneration over time...)
7. Post-surgical re-education to learn the optimal biomechanics for your particular body.
8. Neuro-Emotional training to calm stress systems and reduce anger, anxiety and depression through hands-on light touch therapies.
9. Self-Control behavioral techniques to increase mindfulness, attention and focus while calming spontaneous actions/ reactions to external and internal stimuli. (Most helpful to those patients dealing with symptoms of ADD, ADHD, OCD anger and anxiety)
10. Nutritional Counseling including muscle testing for food sensitivities and other allergies as well as finding nutrient deficiency or overloads in your system.
11. Supplement advice - Brown Bag all your supplements and bring them in so that we can determine any necessity for specific vitamins/supplements and your correct dosages.
12. Hormone balancing with food or supplementation along with training for you to recognize your own symptoms and balance yourself hormonally, with ease.
13. Cranial /facial bones alignment including ears, nose, orbits (eyes), sinuses, etc.
14. TMJ correction through light touch, gentle jaw adjustments.
15. Allergy specific muscle-testing and allergy elimination treatments.

10/07/2025

I often get asked, "What is a Holistic Chiropractor?"

I am a specialist chiropractor. I specialize in hard cases when regular spinal adjustments are not "holding" their position. Not only do I adjust the spine, but also align extremities, organs and the skull. "Holistic" chiropractors look at the whole body as a single unit and determine where the breakdown is occurring in communication between the brain and the body. They are then able to correct any issues through manipulation and resetting of the nervous system. I utilize multiple techniques to help my patients on many different levels including structural, biomechanical, emotional, digestive, hormonal, psychological and organ function.
I've developed my own unique style and technique along with a personal philosophy and approach to whole body health. Depending on the needs and preferences of a patient, I am able to tailor fit a care plan to each individual within their own comfort level... anywhere from traditional low force adjusting to completely non-force adjusting styles.
In addition to spinal manipulation, I have a comprehensive approach including Kinesiology, Chiropractic Manipulative Reflex Technique to regulate organ systems, post-surgical and chronic illness rehabilitative care and muscle testing to regulate hormone imbalances through whole foods or supplements. Each body tells a story, and I act as a capable interpreter. I discover what nutrients/ body chemicals and hormone imbalances may be playing a role in your organ's dysfunctions and also may be keeping you from optimal wellness.
Most patients find long-term relief within just a few treatments spread out over the course of three to six weeks.

10/04/2025

How does anyone get through their lifetime without chiropractic care?? It always floors me when someone comes in as an older adult who has NEVER been to a chiropractor in their entire life! I utilize chiropractic care for sooooo many things! I also don't understand when people tolerate aches and pains for weeks, months and even years! Some of these folks find their way to me eventually, only to realize that that ache or pain can be eased completely within 1- 3 visits usually. It's such an instant gratification for most patients that they often lament... "why didn't I come in sooner??"
That is the big question! I believe that my profession has unfortunately dropped the ball on getting information out into the mainstream for so many years. Chiropractic care should be the body's first line of defense and utilized as a management protocal for guiding a patient through there healthcare journey. I catch so many issues that can be easily corrected and/or addressed medically (if necessary) for those that have more medically-oriented degenerative or disease processes going on. Many of my patients utilize me as a primary care doctor as they trust my evaluations and thorough assessments to give them a heads up as to whether they need further medical intervention. I believe Allopathic and Natural doctors can and should work together to increase vitality and wellbeing for our patients.
Also, I am a big proponent for natural remedies, but not without discernment and evaluation by a learned professional. I am that professional! I can give guidance to those seeking a productive regimen of natural supplements instead of an arbitrary "this may be good for you, that is great for everyone" type of mentality.
I try to stick to a personalized but simplistic regimen for necessary supplementation only. I also use supplements for healing and not just taking arbitrarily.
Why not maintain the body we have? Why do people wait until they are "sick" to do anything proactive for their health? I'm waiting on an answer, but there isn't one. It comes down to lack of information within our society. If you have ever thought about utilizing body work or natural supplements in your life to prevent illness and/or deal with acute issues, I can help guide you in the realm that is natural healthcare. It can be confusing to try to jump into it without a proper background. I have been guiding patients for over 20 years to find their healthiness and live their best life through chiropractic, naturopathic therapies and God's gift of herbal and homeopathic remedies. Please connect with me if you are interested in turning over a new leaf for your body and mind! Call 989-453-2020 today to schedule an appointment. You won't regret it or the amount of information you will learn about your body in just one consultation. It's yours for the asking! Just call.

10/04/2025

The big reveal!! Well, it's taken a few months, but I finally have my new Bay City office in order. Here are the before and after photos for everyone to see. So thankful to my family for all the help, sweat and time they generously gave ❤️ 😍

10/02/2025

Sooooo, what's one easy way we can monitor our digestive health daily? That's right...POOP!

BMs can tell us alot about what's going on inside of us. I always ask patients about the color, consistency and frequency of their BMs. I have had many respond with, "i dunno.... i dont look at it!" Why not? Its like a little text message from your insides!! Pay attention to it and you may be able to nip dysfunction in the bud (or butt as the case may be, lol) I used to ask them if their BMs were 'normal', but now I ask specifics because, I realize everyone's normal is different. People have answered 'yes' that it is normal for them and upon further investigation, i have found that 'normal' could mean anything from 6 times per day to once a week!!! Holy crap!! Those are not normal BMs even if its been happening all your life!

What can be done about it??
LOTS of things! Come in for an evaluation so that I can:
1. interpret your signs and symptoms
2. use reflexology to reset the organ systems and get them all functioning together optimally
3. adjust certain vertebrae to relieve nerve impingement that could contribute to communication breakdown between the brain and bowels
4. muscle test for specific short term supplement needs
5. give great advice to pinpoint certain foods and potential allergies that may be causing inflammation
6. release muscles in the abdomen to decrease motility restriction
7. build an entire plan of action to regulate and balance your digestive track, etc!

So, pay attention and monitor your body's texts everyday.... it just might be trying to tell you something!!!

10/01/2025

09/27/2025

Back off, back pain! I'm not afraid to banish you...