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Michael Beattie

May 05

The connection between stress and pain, and time to get a little sunshine.

By Uncategorized

The Connection Between Stress and Pain

Most people have reconciled themselves to the fact that life will never be free of stress. It’s a part of our daily lives whether or not we wish it was present. It’s not all the time, however, that stress piles up and results in serious problems. 

Stress affects your body in many different ways. But have you ever connected it to pain you might be feeling? There are several ways that stress may cause you to feel discomfort, such as 

  • Muscle aches and pains. Have you noticed that stress can cause your muscles to tense up? Over time, that means soreness that can appear nearly anywhere in the body. You might experience it most often in the back, neck or shoulders. 
  • Jaw, ear and head pain. People often clench their jaw or grind their teeth when they’re feeling stressed. And most aren’t even aware that they’re doing it! The result can be a tight, sore or achy feeling around the jaw and head areas. 
  • Headaches. Research shows that greater levels of stress means more days a headache is experienced. Of course, there are many triggers for headaches, but the number of studies connecting it to stress make it tough to discount the connection between the two. 
  • Stomach pain. Stress may also cause symptoms in the gastrointestinal system including nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation and general abdominal pain. Many people are used to these types of symptoms, but that doesn’t make them normal! 

Which Came First – the Chicken or Egg? 

Because stress is so ever-present, people might have trouble figuring out which came first, their pain or the stress they’re feeling. But when it continues to build up, symptoms become unbearable. 

Why do some people end up with high pain levels from stress, while others seem to take it in stride? We’re all built differently. The same stressor might feel heavy to one, while another doesn’t even register it as a blip on their internal radar. 

When stress is continuously high, however, is when the real issues will start to crop up in your body. Chronic pain has been linked to higher cortisol levels, with cortisol being commonly known as the “stress hormone.”  

Consider, too, that living with chronic pain is no simple feat. Many who experience it may find themselves riddled with anxiety or fighting with depression, which can lead to a vicious cycle of feeding into habits like isolation or lack of movement that will contribute to pain levels. 

What Can You Do? 

If you feel that your stress levels have become unmanageable, it’s important that you speak to a health professional. Discuss your concerns and the toll they’ve been taking on you. When it comes to dealing with the aches and pains of life, keep in mind that we are trained in treating arthritis, neck pain, back pain, headaches, injuries and more. If you want to live free from discomfort and be able to complete all your daily activities with a greater level of ease, call us and schedule an appointment.

 

What Sunlight Can Do For Your Health

Have you started to notice more days of sunlight moving in? It’s the time of year when we can enjoy soaking up more rays than the chilly winter season brought and start to think about spending more time outside. The sun is essential for life. It helps plants, trees and crops grow, keeps us warm and even provides solar energy.

But when you think about the sun, does your mind go to the damage it can do? In recent years, much talk about sunlight has been focused on skin cancer. Too much can certainly be a cause for concern! But in small amounts, getting out into the sun can have many advantages.

Most vitamins, humans can get through food or supplements. Vitamin D, however, is produced as a reaction when we’re exposed to sunlight. So what are the benefits of sun exposure? 

  1. Improved sleep. Not getting the rest you need? Time to head outside. Research shows that getting an hour of natural light in the morning will help you sleep better at night. According to one study, “When people are exposed to sunlight or very bright artificial light in the morning, their nocturnal melatonin production occurs sooner, and they enter into sleep more easily at night.”
  2. Reduced stress. When you’re outside in the sun, your body will get natural help in regulating melatonin, which may also reduce your stress level. Consider, too, that if you’re outside, you’re likely getting some exercise, which is a bonus in lowering stress levels. 
  3. Better bone health. Vitamin D is essential to healthy bones. Why? Because Vitamin D will assist your body in maintaining calcium and prevent brittle bones. Calcium can’t be absorbed without this essential vitamin. 
  4. Greater immunity. Don’t want to get sick? Consider getting out in the sun. With consistent sunlight exposure, you’ll get the Vitamin D that is critical to immune system health. And a more robust immune system means less risk of infections and illness. 
  5. Boosted mental health. Exposure to the sun can increase your body’s serotonin level. Serotonin has the power to improve your mood while helping you remain calm and feel more focused. 
  6. A longer life. One study that involved about 30,000 Swedish women who had active sun exposure habits found they had a higher life expectancy than those who avoided the sun. Plus, they had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death. 

The Consequences of Not Getting Enough Sun

If you don’t get the Vitamin D your body needs, there are serious effects. Children can develop rickets, and more severe cases can mean joint deformity, bone pain, muscle weakness and abnormal growth patterns. In adults, the consequences may not be quite as obvious and can include fatigue, bone pain, and weakness or aches in the muscles. It may even cause changes in mood or feelings of depression.

So, how much is enough? 

It depends on the shade of your skin, whether you wear sunscreen and other factors, but it’s estimated that your body needs somewhere between 5-30 minutes in the sun each day.

Apr 08

I Have a Herniated Disc! Now What? 

By Health Blog

I Have a Herniated Disc! Now What? 

A herniated disc is one of those health conditions that most people have heard of, but few very know what it means. With any luck, you’ll never need to experience it firsthand! But it’s important to understand what a herniated disc is, what the symptoms are, and what you can do if this often-difficult disc issue ever strikes.

As you may already know, your spine is made up of different segments called vertebrae. Each vertebra is cushioned by a spinal disc. When these discs are healthy, they’re like shock absorbers for the spine. These discs are what keep your spine flexible and mobile as it should be.

In some cases, however, a disc may become damaged. A herniated disc is one that has bulged or even broken open. It’s also commonly referred to as a slipped disc or a ruptured disc.

Why Do Our Discs Get Damaged?

There are plenty of reasons you could end up with a herniated disc. Our spines, though meant to take wear and tear, can end up with too much of it over time. The most typical cause of a herniated disc is that wear and tear, which occurs over time. The discs of our back should remain flexible and hydrated, but they can lose fluid and become less flexible.

The outer layer of the disc, once it loses some of that hydration, can get small cracks or tears. The disc itself can slip through those, making the disc bulge or break open.

Wear and tear isn’t, however, the only cause of a herniated disc. It can also be the result of an injury. It could be something like lifting a heavy object or even a simple sneeze! That’s just one of many reasons to take it incredibly seriously when you have back pain, particularly if it turns chronic.

It’s of the utmost importance to remember proper lifting techniques, to take it slow, and to ensure there is never more pressure than necessary on your back. When performing repetitive activities, be sure to reduce the stress on your spine as much as you possibly can. 

The Signs of a Herniated Disc

It’s important to know that one of the symptoms that you may have a herniated disc is: nothing! That’s right; there may be no pain involved that would make you realize an issue is present. It’s only if the herniated disc presses on a nerve that you’ll experience discomfort. If that occurs, you may notice 

  • Pain down the leg
  • Tingling or numbness in one leg
  • Weakness in the leg
  • Severe muscle spasm and pain

What to Do to Get Help

If you experience pain that doesn’t go away in a short time period, it’s time to get help. Give us a call as quickly as possible. There are several avenues of treatment for a herniated disc. An adjustment can reduce the pressure on your spine, relieving your pain and get you back on the path to living your life! 

 

How to Use the Power of Positivity In Your Life

For decades now, we’ve been hearing all about the power of positivity. There are bestselling books, online articles, and podcasts that are all about being more positive. So what’s behind this phenomenon, and how can it be of benefit to you?

Often, people think that positive thinking means they ignore the less pleasant situations in life. In actuality, it just means that you see those times of unpleasantness in more positive, productive ways. You think the best is going to happen, and you’re able to see silver linings. Getting there, however, takes work.

Research shows overwhelmingly that thinking positive and being optimistic has incredible effects on your health and well-being. These may include 

  • Increased life span
  • Lower depression rates
  • Lower levels of pain
  • Greater physical and psychological well-being
  • Improved cardiovascular health 
  • Reduced risk of cancer, respiratory illness, and infections
  • Better ability to cope with stress and hardship

From the list above, you can see how beneficial positive thinking would be. But how do you get started, if you’re not already feeling very optimistic? 

The Daily Life Habits You Need

Your first step is to identify when these behaviors are occurring. Then, you need to focus on how to shift this negativity into positivity. Remember, this is a process that will take time and practice. Creating new habits does not occur overnight! 

Here are some steps you can take toward being the best version of you: 

  1. Identify which areas you need to make changes in. You may think negatively about your your job duties or a relationship with someone in your life. Focus first on one area rather than feeling pulled in so many directions. Consider some positive ways to manage the stress in this particular area of your life. 
  2. Check your thinking. During the day, have regular intervals where you assess your thoughts. Are they mainly negative? Look for a positive spin you can put on them. To remember that you need to evaluate your thoughts regularly, consider setting a phone alarm. 
  3. Remember the power of humor. Laugh, smile, and look for the humor, even in your typical, everyday activities. During difficult times, this can carry you through. Not feeling it? Fake it until you make it. You may find your pretend smile becomes genuine more quickly than you thought possible 
  4. Consider other aspects of your lifestyle. If you want your mind to be healthy, your body has to get there first. Eat the right foods that support your well-being. Move your body regularly. Get ample amounts of sleep. Manage your stress levels. 
  5. Have the right people around. You want to surround yourself with supportive people who you can turn to for good advice and positive feedback. Negative people can often increase your stress levels, which is the last thing you need when you’re trying to make positive life changes. 

Remember, you are your own worst critic! But by drowning out the negativity with positivity, you will start defaulting to the positive self-talk. 

 

Mar 14

All about your knees and nerve system

By Health Blog

Your Complete Guide to Knee Pain

No matter how many candles there were on your last birthday cake, you may find yourself suffering from a condition that can be difficult to resolve: knee pain. Knee pain can affect people of all ages and in any stage of life. Our knees endure a great deal of stress each and every day. You need them to take on daily activities like walking, lifting, and kneeling. If you are experiencing knee pain, it’s natural that you’d start feeling pretty limited in your life!

To understand what’s behind knee pain, it’s important to grasp the anatomy of the knee. There are five separate components:

  1. Bone. The tibia (shin bone), femur (thigh bone), and patella (kneecap) form the knee.
  2. Cartilage. The ends of each bone are covered by cartilage that functions as a protective layer and shock absorber.
  3. Muscles. Two muscle groups support the knee: the quadriceps at the front of the thigh, and the hamstring, at the back.
  4. Tendons. Muscles are connected to bones through tendons.
  5. Ligaments. Ligaments connect bones to one another. They have different functions in the knee, like limiting movement and protecting the joints.

The Most Common Types of Knee Pain

Though common, it’s important to know that knee pain isn’t normal. Any type of knee pain has a specific cause. It may be due to an injury, overuse, or a specific health condition. The causes that strike most often include:

  • Injury. These include ACL tears, fractures, torn meniscus, bursitis, and tendinitis.
  • Mechanical issues. Iliotibial band syndrome, dislocated kneecap, and pain in the hip or foot can all lead to knee pain.
  • Arthritis. There isn’t just one single type of arthritis; instead, there are hundreds. These include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

The Risk Factors Involved In Knee Pain

Have you ever noticed that some people seem to simply be more susceptible to health challenges than others? You may have more risk factors than others. Those involved with having knee pain include excess weight, lack of strength or flexibility in the muscles, playing sports, working a manual labor job, and having had a previous injury. If you have injured your knee once, you must be extremely careful in the future, as you are more susceptible to have a subsequent injury.

Do not wait to get attention until your knee pain is so bad that you can hardly stand it. Instead, seek help the moment that you noticed the pain isn’t going away. Those some forms of knee pain may go away with simple self-care measures, others will require the attention of a professional. If your knee pain is chronic and accompanied by swelling, redness, tenderness, or fever, be sure to contact us for an assessment.

If you are not in any emergency situation, remember we have the training and expertise to care for your entire body. Chiropactors are well-versed in the anatomy of the knee, and may be able to provide you with the conservative care you need to get relief.

 

Your Incredible Nervous System

Have you ever stopped to think about how amazing the human body is? Without having to give it any instructions, it knows you need to breathe. That your heart beats. That your legs help you walk without having to give any thought.

Every single one of these functions – and all the rest that happen without you having to help the process along, like digestion, or vision – are all thanks to your nervous system. This complex network of cells and nerves carries messages from the brain out to every part of the body, all the way down to your toes.

If you think it, say it, or feel it, the nervous system is involved. As you can guess, the nervous system affects every aspect of your health. That includes your movement, thoughts, senses, sleep, stress response, and all bodily processes. Your nerves receive information from the world around you. Then, the nerves interpret that information and control your response.

Think of the nervous system like a giant information highway that runs across your entire body. 

What Happens When a Nerve Is Injured? 

There are thousands of conditions that can affect your nerves, and in turn, your overall health. If a nerve is damaged in some way, it will have trouble functioning as a part of the information highway of the body. A nerve injury can cause symptoms like numbness, pain, or the sensation of pins and needles. You might not even be able to fully move the affected area. 

Some common causes of nerve damage are

  • Infection, cancer, or autoimmune disease. These conditions cause issues in the nervous system. For example, a diabetic may experience neuropathy, which is tingling or pain in the legs and feet. 
  • Stroke. If a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts, the part of the brain that isn’t getting blood will die. And then, it won’t be able to send messages to the nerves. 
  • Accidental injury. A motor vehicle accident can cause a nerve to be crushed, stretched, or even cut, damaging a nerve anywhere in the body. 
  • Pressure. This is a common form of a nerve issue, occurring when a nerve is pinched or compressed. It may happen from overuse, a structural problem, or something more serious, like a tumor. 
  • Toxins. Exposure to toxic substances like poison or illegal drugs will cause nerve damage. 
  • Aging. As you get older, the signaling process of the nervous system may not occur as quickly as it once did. Your reflexes can slow down, or you may feel weaker than you used to. 

What’s the Chiropractic Connection? 

Anyone with concerns about nerve problems or the health of their nervous system may do well to consult with a Chiropractor. Why?

Chiropractors are experts in the spine, muscles, and the nervous system! If a neuromusculoskeletal condition is present, we can provide an effective treatment that may manage the symptoms you have. We are qualified to treat the joints, muscles, bones, and soft tissues that keep you going every day. The benefits you may be able to look forward to include the alleviation of pain, the promotion of health, and a fantastic improvement to your quality of life! 

 

Feb 09

Muscle Imbalances Causing Your Problems and All About The Mediterranean Diet

By Uncategorized

Are Muscle Imbalances Causing Your Problems?

Muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and other connective tissue are all what make up the human body. When there is dysfunction in one, it can cause a range of issues that may show up elsewhere. You’d be hard-pressed to find a person who hasn’t fought off some form of acute or chronic pain during their lifetime.

Though sometimes the culprit can be obvious, like sitting for too much of the day, others can be a little difficult to pinpoint. One aspect to consider? Muscular imbalances.

For the body to function optimally, the muscles must have balanced length and strength. It can become particularly tough to find this as we get older. As children, most of us were running, jumping, and playing for a good part of the day. As adults, however, we’re far more sedentary, sitting for most of our waking hours.

As a result, one side of the body can feel tighter than another. You may have noticed one side of your neck is more prone to aching, or one side of your low back seems to be more painful than the other. It may be due to an imbalance from simple daily activities such as picking up a child or grandchild, sitting in front of a computer or bringing grocery bags into the house. 

How It Occurs

Each joint in your body is surrounded by muscles. The muscles work with the joint to create movement. If one part of the muscle is overused, it becomes tighter, while the muscles on the other side get weak from not being used as heavily.

When a muscle imbalance happens, it means you’re more likely to injure yourself. The imbalance affects the position of the joint when it’s in a resting state or when in motion. The instability can damage not just joints and muscles, but ligaments, tendons, bones and connective tissue. The result? Limited mobility, pain and an imbalanced appearance. 

Six Steps to Improve Muscle Balance

  1. Watch out for repetitive motions. Since this is a major cause of muscle imbalance, start thinking of ways to switch up routines – for example, switch up your workout routine by finding another set of exercises that targets the same area. 
  2. Don’t sit for too long. Even if your job involves long hours parked in front of a monitor, get up to refill your water glass, to stretch your shoulders or to have a chat with a colleague to give your body a break. 
  3. Think about your driving position. When people drive, they tend to keep a leg bent or slouch. Keep a neutral position, and be sure to take frequent stops if you’re on a longer drive. 
  4. Check your seated posture. When you do need to sit, make sure you’re balancing each side of your body and not overusing one. Make sure your shoulders and upper back aren’t slouching towards your monitor, which causes your upper back to lengthen. Core exercises can be a huge help with staying balanced while seated. 
  5. Talk to us. That’s right – we are very knowledgeable in all joints and muscles of the body, and can give you appropriate advice on muscle imbalances, as well as giving you a thorough evaluation to try to pinpoint the cause of your problems. 

 

All About The Mediterranean Diet

For decades, people from all over the globe have been chasing after the right diet – the perfect foods that will set them up for the best possible health. 

If you’re looking around for how to eat, there’s no shortage of information. In fact, there’s usually a little too much out there to be able to sort through the conflicting information or fat diets. 

The Mayo Clinic touts the Mediterranean diet as a heart-healthy eating plan. The World Health Organization says it’s a healthy and sustainable way to eat.  So, what’s the Mediterranean diet all about?

How It All Started

The buzz about the Mediterranean diet began back in the 1960s. It was noticed that the Mediterranean countries like Greece and Italy had far fewer deaths due to heart disease than in the rest of Europe and North America.

Further studies showed that eating in this manner seemed to be associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Subsequent research focused on a link between a Mediterranean diet and Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s. More research, however, is needed on these topics. 

It’s Not a Diet!

Though it’s often referred to as the Mediterranean diet, it’s not about restricting your food intake. Rather, it’s about a certain way of eating. It features foods native to the Mediterranean area including nuts, olive oil, whole grains, vegetables, fish, fruits, and beans.

These foods are all rich in fiber, healthy fats, and Omega-3 fatty acids.

With the Mediterranean diet, 35-40% of calories come directly from fats. These fats include olive oil, fish oil, flaxseed oil, almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts.

Give It a Try

If you’re interested in going Mediterranean, there are some changes you can implement into your diet: 

  • Vary your fruit and vegetables. Go for different ones each day, such as lentils, beans, chickpeas, eggplant, spinach, blueberries, tomatoes, broccoli, grapes, figs, and peppers. Experiment to find out what you like! 
  • Eat whole grains. Stick to brown rice, oats, and whole wheat bread, pasta or couscous. Stay away from refined grains such as white bread. 
  • Choose healthy fats. Olive oil is a great staple, but don’t forget about nuts and nut oil, either. 
  • Limit unhealthy fats. Avoid palm oil, butter, and coconut oil, which are rich in saturated fats. Limit fats from animal products like meat and dairy. 
  • Eat vegetarian. A meal doesn’t have to involve meat, but can be centered around beans, lentils, vegetables, or whole grains.
  • Include fish. At least two times a week, eat herring, tuna, mackerel, lake trout, salmon, or sardines. 
  • Moderate your dairy, poultry, and egg intake. These foods are okay to include sometimes, but when possible, go for low-fat products. 
  • Reduce your red meat. If you’re going to eat red meat, have it just a few times a month. And try for smaller amounts when you have red meat. 
  • Cut back on sweets. Whether for a dessert or snack, make sure you only have sweet things a couple of times a week. 

If you’re interested in starting to eat Mediterranean-style, but it seems difficult, start slowly. Pick a couple of items from the list above and implement them into your daily life, building up to more as you become comfortable and adapt your lifestyle to your new way of eating!

Let us know how it goes. We are excited to see the healthy changes happening in you!

 

Jan 06

How to Lift Without Getting Hurt and What Is Keto?

By Health Blog

Happy 2026!

Remember we are here to ensure you are as healthy as possible for 2026! Let’s make 2026 your best year yet, and here are some tips. Especially the information about Keto diets. This time of the year we get a lot of questions about diets.

How to Lift Without Getting Hurt

It’s happened to nearly all of us: you bend down to pick something up or carry a heavy load – and something seems to suddenly “snap.” Before you know it, you’re on the ground and in serious pain. What just happened? 

It can result from the simplest of actions. But suddenly you’re immobilized, and the slightest movement produces agony. If this happens to you, you will want to call us right away!

Learn What You Can Do

When you don’t lift objects in an optimal manner, it can affect your muscles, joints, discs, and ligaments.

To avoid becoming a statistic, it’s important you know how to lift. Here are a few easy guidelines to follow: 

  1. Think carefully. Before lifting, consider what the load is and how to do it properly. Will you need help? How far do you need to take it, and is there any equipment available that can assist you? 
  2. Clear the area. Remove any clutter around that you could potentially trip on. Make note of any surfaces that aren’t completely flat, so that you know what to look out for. 
  3. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. Then squat down, bending only your hips and knees. If need be, put one knee on the floor, with the other bent at a right angle. Slowly lift by straightening out your knees, then hips. 
  4. Consider your posture. While lifting and carrying, look straight ahead. Your back should be straight, chest out, and shoulders back. That will mean your upper back area is straight, while the lower back has a slight arch. 
  5. Avoid twisting. Keep your core muscles tight. If you turn, do so by pivoting your feet, not by twisting your back. 
  6. Hold the load close. Keep your load close to your waist, which will reduce the pressure placed on your back. Hugging the load close will also ensure you have a good, tight grip, and aren’t likely to drop it. 
  7. Carefully set down your load. Just like when you lifted, lower your hips and bend at the knee, careful not to let your back take on the weight. 

Know Your Limits!

Take help when it is offered or ask for help when it’s available. If you don’t think you can easily manage carrying the load, do not try to lift it. There’s a tremendous difference between being ABLE to lift a heavy load and being able to SAFELY lift a heavy load – don’t be afraid to accept some help. And if injury does occur, be sure to call us right away!

 

What Is Keto?

This time of the year, there is a lot of information about diets, and you’ve likely heard plenty about “keto.” This term is a shortening of “ketogenic,” which is a style of eating that has become popular in recent years.

Whether or not a keto-diet is right for you, here’s some great information about it.

Back in 1920, the ketogenic diet was first in use – to treat epilepsy in children. Today, however, it’s become more known as a way to lose weight. 

How to Eat Keto

The main tenet of keto involves depriving the body of carbohydrate sources it can use as energy. When this occurs, the body has no carbohydrates to burn up, and it converts fat to what are called “ketone bodies.” These ketone bodies reduce the feeling of hunger, which may produce weight loss. This rapid weight loss, however, is mainly due to a loss of water stored in the body.

The typical keto diet includes

  • 5% of calories from carbs
  • 25% of calories from protein
  • 70% of calories from fat

The mainstays of the keto diet include eggs, fish, full-fat plain yogurt, cheese, nuts, poultry, meat, coconut oil, olive oil, avocado, and low-carb veggies like kale, spinach, and lettuce. 

Foods to avoid on keto include bread, potatoes, lentils, beans, peas, cereals, sweets like cookies and pastries, and fruits or vegetables that are higher in sugar, such as beets, corn, apples, oranges, and carrots.

Eating a ketogenic diet requires quite a shift in the diet that most people currently have. If you’re considering eating in this manner, be sure to consult a medical provider to check whether it’s appropriate for you. Then, you may want to begin with taking all non-keto foods out from your fridge and pantry, and finding a list of keto foods to shop for on your next grocery trip. 

What the Research Says

There have been numerous studies on the keto diet and its effectiveness for various purposes. Research is lacking, however, on long-term safety as well as effectiveness. Keto has been found to provide short-term weight loss.

Many athletes and active people eat in this style because it allows their body to burn more fat during low-intensity and moderate-intensity exercise. Others, however, feel carbohydrates are a key brain and nervous system fuel, making them a good fuel source for varying levels of exercise.

You should know that there are side effects to keto that people report. Eating in this high-fat, low-fiber manner can result in nutritional deficiencies that produce rashes, cramps, and constipation. A higher fat consumption can cause digestive problems for many, as well.

One of the most important facets of changing your diet to consider is what you may be able to cut out to make a positive change. For example, whether keto or another type of diet, eating less processed, lower-sugar foods is going to be a great choice for anyone. Concentrate on filling your plate with vegetables and whole foods to make sure you’re getting the nutrition you need!

Dec 05

Winter hiking and shovelling snow, done right

By Uncategorized

Shovelling Snow Done Right

Winter is back! Now we have to hope for the best and prepare for the worst. It’s not uncommon to anticipate a light drizzling, only to wake up to inches of a beautiful white sea of snow.

Much like all other opposing facts about snow and it’s maintenance, shovelling can be a great workout – or it can cause some painful damage if it’s not done right. From head and neck injuries, to spinal issues, to injured ankles; the snow can be just as treacherous as it can be fun if it’s not done right.

Shovelling after a storm doesn’t have to leave you injured or sore, here are a few pointers to ensure you are doing your best to remain injury free this winter:

Warm Up a Little: Like with any form of activity, you don’t want to start with cold, tight muscles. Have a stretch before going outside, go for a little walk before shovelling. It may tack on a few minutes to your activity but it will be worth preventing months of recovery from an injury.

Stay Hydrated: People often don’t realize how easy it is to become dehydrated in the cold winter months. Yes, sweating in the sun can quickly lead to dehydration. But the cold winter air can be very dry, and although you aren’t sweating as much as you would in the sun, you’ll still sweat and require refuelling your water supply.

Wear Layers: It’s one thing to go from the car to your front door in the cold air, it’s another to be outside for an extended period of time. Wearing layers can help your muscles to remain warm, and they can be easily removed if you start to overheat.

Wear Proper Footwear: Boots or shoes with solid treads will help reduce the chances of you slipping or falling.

Use a Lightweight Shovel: It’s easy to think a bigger shovel will cover more ground, thus making shovelling a faster process. But a bigger shovel just means more weight will be added. Shovelling (or pushing) smaller/lighter amounts of snow will reduce your chances of injury. And yes, there are ergonomically correct shovels you could purchase that have a curved handle to make the process easier on your body.

And when it comes down to it, posture is everything. The same rules apply for shovelling snow as does any heavy lifting. Bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and use your arms, knees and legs to do the actual lifting motion. Avoid twisting or turning when moving snow, and it’s always a good rule of thumb to push the snow rather than the “lift and throw”.

Have Fun and Be Safe!

Now that you’ve got all the tips and tricks, go out there and enjoy our winter safely. And if you happen to develop soreness or pain after a session of shovelling, make sure you visit us for ways to remain pain and injury free.

 

Winter Hike Safety

During the frigid winter months, people generally fall into two categories: People who avoid being outdoors at all costs and people who don’t let the cold stop them from spending time outdoors. For those of you who enjoy the cold, crisp air and beautiful snowy landscapes, this is for you. And, if you are not outdoorsy in the winter, this may inspire you to give a winter hike a chance.

Hiking is one of those outdoor activities that can be easy or strenuous. Either way, being comfortably outdoors and moving your body is good for you. The fresh air, sounds of nature, hills, rivers, and indirect sunlight are all great for your body and mind. To optimize this experience, you must be prepared and safe in order for the hike to be enjoyable.

Here are some tips for a safe and enjoyable hike:

Stretch your muscles. Make sure you stretch your muscles before you begin your hike. Preventing strains, sprains, and overworking cold muscles is the best way to avoid injuries!

Wear appropriate clothing. Hiking in the winter requires layers for warmth and moisture absorption. Your layers should be cotton instead of synthetic materials, as cotton remains breathable even when it is sweaty. You’ll also need slip-proof boots or spikes you can add to your boots to prevent slipping on ice, warm socks, mittens, a scarf, a hood or a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Footwear for hiking. Your winter hiking boots are different from your summer or fall hiking boots. In the winter, your boots should have an extra lining for warmth and an additional grip for anti-slippage. Slip-on ice grippers are popular as they can be attached to your boots to prevent falls and injuries. Walking poles can help you maintain your balance for extra slippery or hilly hikes.

Hike with a partner or in a group. Hiking in the winter can pose some added risks that are not present in less inclement weather. Having a partner or a group that can enjoy the surroundings with you and provides assistance if you slip and injure yourself is the best way to remain safe. Hikes are enjoyable, and the added safety of having friends around is a great choice.

Be aware of the potential for changing weather. The weather can change very quickly in the winter. Before you head out, check your weather app or the local forecast for signs of imminent snowfalls or ice storms. Light flurries can be a beautiful addition to every hike. Still, heavy snow can significantly reduce visibility and cover up footprints making you harder to find if you become lost.

Be aware of the time. In the winter, the days are much shorter, which means you may find it more challenging to find your way back earlier in the day. In addition, the temperature can drop significantly in the dark. It’s best to plan your hike with enough time to return to your car or cabin before nightfall.

With any outdoor activity, there is a chance of injury. However, there is a greater chance of improved mood, mobility, and strength. Remember to consult us about ensuring your spine and back are ready for that winter hike.

Nov 10

Time to stand and ways to stay flexible during winter

By Health Blog

What We Really Think About Standing Desks

It’s no secret that sitting for hours a day is not what our bodies are designed to do. I share endless information about the power of movement, posture and chiropractic care. I mean, I see people daily in relation to back pain and the truth is, much of this pain is caused by sitting too much!

Is Standing Everything We Think it is?

Sitting is not great for your mental wellness, it contributes to heart disease, strokes, diabetes, some cancers, obesity, and so many other issues. But how good is standing for your body?

If you do invest in a standing desk, you will feel some fatigue as you get used to it. However, the pain and stiffness experienced by sitting for too long is the alternative. Ultimately, having an active lifestyle is exactly what we need, but standing at your desk while you work can alleviate the discomfort you would experience while sitting. When you stand to work on a computer, you are more likely to have good posture which will put your spine at ease. 

How You Stand Matters

Learning how to stand at your desk with correct posture can take some time, but once your shoulders are back, hips pulled in, and your knees are aligned under your pelvis, you may wonder how you didn’t invest in a standing desk earlier.

Some other important tips to ensuring you have proper posture while you work are: 

  • Ensuring your screen is at eye level. If you are having to hunch over or lean your neck down to see your monitor, you can develop ‘tech neck’. Tech neck is very challenging to reverse, so prevention is a major key here. 
  • Have an ergonomic chair. The times you will want to take a break and sit matter. Again, ergonomics are paramount, and reducing slouching or leaning can reduce back aches and pain. Investing in a chair that can be used for a standing and a sitting desk is the best use of space. 
  • Move around. Just like with sitting, you should be moving around at least every 30 minutes. Do a lap around your desk or office, grab a glass of water, use the washroom, stretch and get back to work!
  • Practice good posture. Make sure your shoulders don’t slouch, elongate your neck and remember your back should be in a straight line position. 

Remember Us!

If a standing desk is on your list of purchases because you have been experiencing pain aches and pain, let us know. A new desk/chair is a part of your treatment plan, and it’s important to have all of the information available to your Chiropractic team. The addition of a standing desk may not magically make all of your spine and adjustment needs disappear immediately, so making adjustments to your entire plan could be exactly what you need to find relief. 

So, what do I really think about standing desks? I think they are a great tool if they are used properly. Now that many people are spending more time in front of a computer than ever before, preventative tools are going to be what saves people from long term injury or chronic pain.

It’s how you use these tools, and how you combine them with regular treatments that will make all the difference.

 

How We Can Help You to Prepare For Winter

The temperature is dropping, and the damp, chilly weather can mean various things to our bodies. For many, the excitement of winter activities like ice skating and tobogganing begin. For others, there are winter fairs and markets. Some prepare for the holidays and spend time indoors with loved ones and warm blankets. Whatever your winter activity or inactivity consists of, there is also a reason to ensure you continue to have regular visits with us. 

Here are a few reasons you should not skip your Chiropractic Care in the winter: 

Cold Weather & Joint Pain

Stiffness, achy joints, and soreness increase in cold weather. The combination of stiff muscles due to extreme temperatures, changes in barometric pressure, and flu season can cause your joints to become inflamed and more painful than usual. The fluid that helps our joints remain lubricated can be affected by cold temperatures, which is why your chiropractor can become the most valuable player in your healthcare team over the winter months. Your chiropractor’s work will help loosen up the fluid in your joints so they can flow more freely. Not only that, but reminders about how to safely keep yourself warm, along with natural ways to keep your immune system functioning optimally, will all create a system for your body that will allow you to enjoy the winter months pain-free. 

Lower Temperatures Cause Many to Be Sedentary

Hibernating is for the bears, not people. It does us a disservice to be ultra-active in the warm months only to undo our fitness all winter. It can be harder to muster up the motivation to get out and exercise. Putting on weight can add extra stress to your joints and can lead to difficulties in repairing injuries that can happen when the snow and ice take over. Regular adjustments can help you to remain limber, and your chiropractor can help you stay on top of your physical fitness. Whether it’s accountability or new ways to move your body indoors, visiting us in preparation for the winter months will always benefit your overall health. 

Whatever You do, Don’t Wait for an Injury

Ultimately, the goal should be regular chiropractic visits as a part of your everyday health routine. Being proactive with your health will always be the best course of action. Preventative health care will save you money and time away from work and family and improve your quality of life. Preventative care in place of waiting for an injury is the best health care. We are here to help you with this every step of the way.

A Better Way to Enjoy Winter

You don’t have to love winter, and you don’t even have to like winter, but we want you to have the tools to be safe and healthy. Whatever your winter activities consist of, even if it’s binge-watching television, we want you to be comfortable and pain-free. Finding ways to fit physical fitness into your days is essential, and so is finding ways to prevent injuries if you’re an active winter person. Adjustments (and lots of water) will keep your joints lubricated and keep your immune system functioning. More than anything, they’ll keep you in alignment so you don’t develop pesky injuries that can compromise your ability to choose how active you will be!

If Chiropractic care isn’t a regular component of your care, ensure you reach out to us for an assessment.

Aug 09

Care for scoliosis, shoulder pain and brain function.

By Newsletter

Health-E-News August 2016
empowering you to optimal health

The Role of Chiropractic Care in the Management of a Child’s Scoliosis

Idiopathic scoliosis is defined as a side-ways curvature of the spine greater than 10 degrees and has no known cause. The effects of scoliosis go beyond back pain and may include psychological distress, decreased respiratory function, changes in biomechanics and movement, and it can give rise to other debilitating conditions. Typical courses of management include physical therapy, monitoring with self-care, use of back braces, and surgical intervention in severe cases. Chiropractic is a vital role in the management of scoliosis by removing as much stress as possible to the fragile spinal joints.

A 10-year old female came to a chiropractic clinic complaining of migraines accompanied by dizziness, pain behind the right eye, loss of flexibility, shoulder tightness, and ringing in her ears while reading. Tylenol and rest were her go-to remedies; however the migraines would still occur 2-3 times per week. The initial findings of her x-rays and postural assessment showed a lateral curvature in her thoracic spine (area between shoulder blades) of 35 degrees, indicating moderate scoliosis. These were concurrent with the results of an x-ray performed by an orthopedist a month earlier. Other findings included a leg length difference of ¼ inch with the left leg being shorter, as well as a shift in her right shoulder and hip.

Over the course of six months, adjustments were delivered followed by a reassessment of leg length and posture to monitor the changes after the course of care. The child had x-rays taken for the same orthopedist she saw before beginning chiropractic care to monitor the progression of the scoliosis. The medical radiologist found the curve had decreased by 10 degrees, and was now a 25 degree curvature. There was a decreased frequency of migraines with a 75% symptom reduction, improved neck range of motion, as well as a balanced right hip and shoulder.

An upper cervical subluxation could affect the flow of information from the brain to the body about posture, proprioception, and balance which may have caused the distortion in her spine. In six months, there was a 10 degree reduction in curvature and many other benefits to the symptoms she had been experiencing. Continued chiropractic care may help further reduce the curvature and alleviate her migraines by affecting the subluxation in the upper cervical region.

Chung, J., & Salminen, B. (2011). Reduction in Scoliosis in a 10 Year Old Female Undergoing Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care: A Case Report. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal, and Family Health, 2011(1), 23-30.

 

What’s The 2nd Highest Risk For Early Death?

Being out of shape is a bigger risk for early death than either high blood pressure or high cholesterol, finds a large new study. In fact, the only thing worse for longevity was smoking, the study found.

The study, which spanned 45 years, was published Tuesday in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.

In 1967, at 54 years of age, the 792 men did an exercise test. Of those, 656 men also did a maximum exercise test in which they pushed themselves to the limit. The remaining men were excluded from the maximum exercise test because they had a health condition that could make it unsafe.

The studies determined the men’s VO2 max, or maximal oxygen uptake, as a way to measure their aerobic capacity. The higher the VO2 max, the more physically fit the men were.

The men underwent several physical examinations every 10 years until 2012, when they would have reached 100 years old. Data on their cause of death was obtained from the National Cause of Death Registry.

“The benefits of being physically active over a lifetime are clear,” said lead author Dr Per Ladenvall, a researcher in the Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden.

“Low physical capacity is a greater risk for death than high blood pressure or high cholesterol.”

Original Report

If back pain, neck pain or spinal pain in general is preventing you from exercising, call us. Chiropractic can help you live a long and healthy life.

 

Another Study Shows How Chiropractic Helps Shoulder Pain

The term frozen shoulder does not refer to temperature, but is a condition involving great pain and reduced range of motion in the shoulder accompanied by inflammation and stiffness.

Traditional first line approaches to treating this condition involve nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs combined with activity modification and physical therapy. If these do not work, more invasive treatments such as injections with local anesthetics and corticosteroids are prescribed. Many of these options involve looking at the shoulder itself without considering the root of the problem.

A 51 year old male presented right shoulder pain with restricted range of motion that began two days ago without any known trauma or overuse. Following examination, upper cervical adjustments were used as a trial of care. After the first adjustment, the client noted a significant reduction in pain and increased shoulder range of motion. Upon the fourth visit, the client indicated continued improvement in both pain and range of motion.

Often times the problems and symptoms are indications of a deeper problem elsewhere in the body. Subluxations of the upper cervical region of the spine may affect the function of nerves that pass through this area, including the nerves that are involved in moving the shoulder and arm. Adjustments to this portion of the spine can enhance the natural healing properties of the body to restore optimal function.

Shin, M. & Alcantra, J., (2015). Resolution of Frozen Shoulder Following Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care to Reduce Vertebral Subluxation. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2015(4), 213-216.

 

Chiropractic Does Affect Brain Function

We do know that spinal function does affect brain function. A recent study, published in the Journal of Neural Plasticity provides solid evidence that adjusting the spine changes brain function. This is the fourth time that the effect of adjusting the spine has on the brain has been studied.

This study indicates that adjustments impact the function of the prefrontal cortex. The significance of this finding is that the prefrontal cortex is the ‘conductor’ in the brain, controlling many functions within the body.

Such a finding can explain many of the previous findings of Chiropractic’s effects such as improvements in sensorimotor function relevant to falls-prevention; better joint-position sense in both the upper limb and the lower limb; improved muscle strength in lower limb muscles; better pelvic floor control; and better ability to carry out mental rotation of objects.

If, as this research suggests, adjusting improves prefrontal cortex activity, a part of the brain that is responsible for just so much higher level function, then what does this mean in terms of chiropractic’s impact on things like behaviour, decision making, memory and attention, intelligence, processing of pain and emotional responses, and more.

This study showed that Chiropractic care doesn’t just alter brain function a little, it increases the prefrontal cortex activity by 20%! This means every time you receive a Chiropractic adjustment, the part of the brain that is responsible for ‘higher level functions’ is being stimulated, increasing body awareness and allowing your body to function at a much higher level.

Lelic et al. “Manipulation of dysfunctional spinal joints affects sensorimotor integration in the pre-frontal cortex: A brain source localization study,” Neural Plasticity, Volume 2016. Original Report

Jul 08

Shoulder Pain? Headaches? Chiropractic can help.

By Newsletter

Health-E-News July 2016
empowering you to optimal health

Shoulder Pain? Chiropractic Can Help

If you suffer from chronic shoulder pain and your range of motion is restricted, chiropractic care can help.

Shoulder pain is a common complaint amongst individuals. It is attributed to a number of causes, which can include the single onset or a combination of: tears in the rotator cuff muscles, overuse of the muscles, bursitis, adhesive capsulitis, tendinitis, impingement syndrome, avascular necrosis, osteoarthritis, or from traumatic injury. The condition can cause significant pain and can restrict range of motion in the effected shoulder.

The patient is a 55 year-old male who presented for chiropractic care with a complaint of pain in his right shoulder after falling from a 10-foot ladder. He had been experiencing the pain over a 7-month period. He had previously been taking medication that only provided short-term pain relief. During the Range of Motion (ROM) examination, the patient was distressed due to pain. He demonstrated restricted ROM in abduction and flexion, and reported pain at the rotator cuff muscles.

The patient received four adjustments over a period of two weeks. The patient’s full ROM in the shoulder returned after the first visit, and the ROM was maintained for the next three visits. The patient had no further complaints, so he did not require or continue further care. After just one visit to the Chiropractor, his ROM was restored. This demonstrates the power of Chiropractic Care.

Alcantara, Joey., Alcantara, Joel & Alcantara, Junjoe. (2014). Upper Cervical Care of Patients with Chronic Shoulder Pain and Restriction in Motion: A Case Series. Journal of Upper Cervical Research- Chiropractic4, (3).

If you have tried traditional medical care for shoulder pain without success, know that there are numerous studies that demonstrate how Chiropractic can help those who suffer with shoulder pain.

 

How Effective Is Chiropractic Care For The Treatment Of Headaches?

Very!

Research has shown that the Chiropractic care is incredibly effective in treating headaches that are caused by neck problems. In 2014, the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics (JMPT) stated that chiropractic treatment often results in marked improvement in patients with chronic neck pain and headaches originating from neck problems.

Some headaches are caused by a triggers such as: lights, stress, noise, foods, insomnia, changes in blood sugar, and more. Of the different classifications of headaches, “primary” headaches include cluster, migraine and tension headaches; and it is these types of headaches that Chiropractic typically helps.

Most primary headaches are due to tension, stress and irritation to the neck muscles and nerves. Inactive lifestyles, poor posture, and mis-alignment of the neck vertebrae all cause irritation of the nerves in the neck. It’s when these nerves become irritated, they cause muscle tension, neck pain and headaches.

Chiropractors check the alignment of the bones in your neck, ensuring they are moving properly and not causing nerve irritation. When the vertebrae, or bones, in the neck are moving properly, the irritation to the nerves is eliminated, allowing the muscles and body function smoothly.

Other than Chiropractic, frequent movement is crucial if you spend a lot of time in one position. If you sit in front of a computer, for instance, getting up and moving every 30-60 minutes is perfect to reduce the tension in your neck. Even going for a walk at lunch is a perfect activity to help loosen up the tight muscles and joints in your neck.

One of the most sought after forms of alternative healing is Chiropractic care. Amongst cancer survivors who seek chiropractic therapy, 84% do so to alleviate pain, improve mood and sleeping habits, as well as to relieve stress.

 

Top Benefits Of Seeing A Chiropractor

The purpose of Chiropractic treatment is not only to relieve pain, but to improve quality of life by alleviating systemic problems relating to muscles and the central nervous system. Given the researched benefits of chiropractic care, it is likely that you or someone you know could benefit from this alternative therapy.

Here are the top 10 reasons why almost anyone can benefit from chiropractic therapy:

  1. Elevates Sports Performance
  2. Reduces Headaches
  3. Stimulates the Immune System
  4. Wellness & Prevention – treats underlying health problems
  5. Alleviates Allergies & Asthma
  6. Pregnancy – balancing the muscles, pelvis, and ligaments to relieve pressure on the uterus
  7. Mitigates Chronic Pain
  8. Manages Behavioral and Learning Disabilities
  9. Weakens Dependence on Medication and Medical Interventions
  10. Normalizes Blood Pressure

 

Original Article

 

Have High Blood Pressure? Chiropractic Can Help

Over the last few years, the leading cause of death in North America is cardiovascular disease. This is alarming because issues related to heart health are highly preventable. Individuals at risk of cardiovascular diseases can be assessed based on measurements such as blood pressure. Blood pressure is the necessary force that the cardiovascular system generates to circulate blood throughout the body. Normal blood pressure is measured to be 120/80 mmHg. Whereas, high blood pressure or hypertension, is classified as having multiple blood pressure measurements of ≥ 140/90 mmHg in resting conditions. Hypertension indicates a greater stress and an increase in demand for the heart to work at rest. The cardiovascular system has to work harder when arteries are narrowed or blocked. Thus, individuals with hypertension are at risk for heart attacks and other heart conditions.

A 57 year old male patient with hypertension had been taking medication for his condition for five years. Without experiencing any improvements from taking medication, he sought out chiropractic care. He then received regular Chiropractic care while continuing to monitor his to monitor his blood pressure. After his eighth visit, his blood pressure improved by 70% relative to his initial visit. Following two months of regular adjustments, the patient’s blood pressure has been reduced to 120-130/80-90 mmHg. Hethen stopped the medication and chose to continue on with Chiropractic care.

Blood pressure is regulated by areas of the brain stem. Chiropractic adjustments to the upper cervical spine, which is located at the base of the brain stem, has been shown to reduce hypertension without the use of medication. Chiropractic care aids the restoration of healthy bodily functions to reduce the risk of disease.

Jonathan Chung D.C., Justin Brown D.C., Joseph Bursa D.C. Resolution of Hypertension Following Reduction of Upper Cervical Vertebral Subluxation. Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research. 2014; 1: 1-6.

Jun 08

Doing these 4 things dramatically reduce your risk of cancer

By Newsletter

Health-E-News June 2016
empowering you to optimal health

Chiropractic helps relieve pain of 30 year old pregnant nurse with a baby in a malposition

If you would wish the constant pains with pregnancy would go away, or know of someone who does, Chiropractic is definitely something to consider.

Pregnancy can cause a lot of stress on the body. It causes the release of several hormones in the body which change many internal structures to accommodate the growing baby. This includes the loosening of many joints around the pelvis, as well as causing the pelvis to tilt. These structural changes position the body in an unusual way that the body is not quite made for, causing the muscles to take up more work to also accommodate this. Much pain stems from these now overworking muscles, resulting in pelvic or low back pain.

In this case, a thirty-year-old nurse was brought to see a Chiropractor at 34 weeks of pregnancy, with her baby lying in her stomach in an unfavourable orientation. She expressed a variety of pain-related issues including: sharp left hip pain and right sided sciatica which increased when she stood up after sitting for long periods of time. It was noted that her previous child was delivered with extensive back labour.

Within a short time and routine of Chiropractic care her hip, leg, lower back, and pelvic pains subsided, and it was noted her child turned from the unfavourable orientation to a more favourable one for child birthing. She gave birth to the child without serious back labour or serious complications.

Alcantara, J., & Edwards, J., (2015) The Chiropractic Care of a Pregnant Patient Experiencing Multiple Fetal Positional Changes. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal, & Family Health –Chiropractic 4, 4(2)

 

Roughly Half of all Cancer Deaths Could Be Eliminated By Doing These Four Things

Roughly half of cancer deaths in the United States could be prevented or forestalled if people quit smoking, cut back on drinking, maintained a healthful weight and got at least 150 minutes of exercise each week, according to a new report.

These same measures would also reduce the number of new cancer diagnoses by 40% to 70%.

For men, universal embrace of this lifestyle could avert or delay 67% of cancer deaths and prevent 63% of new malignancies each year, researchers calculated. If all of the nation’s women did the same, their yearly cancer mortality rates would fall by 59% and new cancers would drop 41%

The findings, published online this week in the journal JAMA Oncology, underscore how extensively public health measures aimed at fostering healthful lifestyles could cut into a disease that will claim the lives of 600,000 Americans this year and upend the lives of 1.6 million by turning them into newly diagnosed patients.

The effect of a healthful lifestyle varied according to gender and cancer type. For instance, women who followed the strictures on smoking, drinking, weight and exercise could reduce their lung cancer risk by 85% and their colorectal cancer risk by 60%. For men, the corresponding figures were 90% and 50%.

The results suggest the most effective way to fight cancer is to promote healthful habits that foster cancer prevention.

Original Report

 

Sadly, Even Children Suffer From Headaches

If your child or a friend’s suffers from headaches, Chiropractic can help.

People tend to think that painful headaches only affect teenagers and adults, sadly that isn’t the case. Some research has shown as many as 30% of children younger than 7 suffer from headaches. Fortunately, Chiropractic can help children as much as it can help adults who suffer from headaches.

A six-year-old boy suffering from headaches began a program of Chiropractic care, receiving a total of 10 visits. The child suffered from chronic headaches of two years duration before beginning Chiropractic care. Prior to Chiropractic care, the child had used standard medical over-the-counter ibuprofen. Unfortunately the medication did not help. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan and a computer tomography (CT) scan could not address the issue at hand, nor did a consultation with a neurologist.

The pediatrician suggested the mother and patient seek chiropractic care. During the Chiropractor’s examination, it was determined that the child suffered from subluxations in his neck. After the 5th visit, the patient no longer reported experiencing any headaches.

The article highlights the impact of Chiropractic care. It took over two years before the thought of Chiropractic intervention was introduced. Society is so reliant in medicine and drugs that we forget the alternative, and less intrusive, medical interventions. Before looking into additional invasive medical tests, it’s recommend to seek safe, alternative care options, such as Chiropractic.

Ryan Olsen, D.C.1& Joel Alcantara, D.C. Resolution of Chronic Cervicogenic Headaches in 6-Year-Old Male Following Care Directed at Vertebral Subluxations: A Case Report. Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic ~ Volume 2014 ~ Issue 4 ~ Pages 81-86

Your posture, the health of your spine, and diet all play a vital role in your health. If you are suffering with headaches, or back pain, seek safe care options like Chiropractic.

There Is A Single Nerve That Connects All Of Your Vital Organs

Chiropractors have known for over 100 years, that a healthy nerve system is vital for health. A recent article written from a neurologist has some interesting insights.

Kevin Tracey, a neurosurgeon based in New York, is a man with a mission. “My mother died from a brain tumor when I was five years old. It was very sudden and unexpected,” he says. “And I learned from that experience that the brain – nerves – are responsible for health.”

In the late 1990s, Tracey was experimenting with a rat’s brain. “We’d injected an anti-inflammatory drug into the brain because we were studying the beneficial effect of blocking inflammation during a stroke,” he recalls. “We were surprised to find that when the drug was present in the brain, it also blocked inflammation in the spleen and in other organs in the rest of the body. Yet the amount of drug we’d injected was far too small to have got into the bloodstream and traveled to the rest of the body.”

After months puzzling over this, he finally hit upon the idea that the brain might be using the nervous system – specifically the vagus nerve – to tell the spleen to switch off inflammation everywhere.

It was an extraordinary idea – if Tracey was right, inflammation in body tissues was being directly regulated by the brain. Communication between the immune system’s specialist cells in our organs and bloodstream and the electrical connections of the nervous system had been considered impossible. Now Tracey was apparently discovering that the two systems were intricately linked.

The vagus nerve was determined to be one of the vital nerves within your nerve system. It travels down each side of the neck, across the chest and down through the abdomen. ‘Vagus’ is Latin for ‘wandering’ and indeed this bundle of nerve fibres roves through the body, networking the brain with the stomach and digestive tract, the lungs, heart, spleen, intestines, liver and kidneys, not to mention a range of other nerves that are involved in speech, eye contact, facial expressions and even your ability to tune in to other people’s voices.

The vagus nerve is made of thousands and thousands of fibres and 80 per cent of them are sensory, meaning that the vagus nerve reports back to your brain what is going on in your organs.

Operating far below the level of our conscious minds, the vagus nerve is vital for keeping our bodies healthy.

Chiropractors check the alignment and movement of the cervical (neck) vertebrae in order to ensure the vagus nerve is functioning optimally, thus keeping your body healthy.

 

 

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