How to Avoid Getting Sick During the Holidays

Bottom Line:

Do you get sick around the same time each year? The stress of the holidays (if not carefully managed) can wreak havoc on your immune system. When you feel stressed out, your immune system's ability to fight off harmful bacteria and infections is reduced. The stress hormone cortisol can suppress the effectiveness of your immune system, and many people become more prone to a not-so-healthy coping mechanism like eating inflammatory foods, smoking, and getting less sleep as a result.

Why it Matters:

Chronic holiday stress can take a toll on your immune system. Cortisol can create an inflammatory response that causes a cascade of aches and pains. In addition, your body decreases its lymphocyte production. These white blood cells are essential to helping fight off infections, and with less of them you could be more susceptible to viruses and colds. Looking for a few ways that you can proactively combat stress this season? Follow the health tips listed below to lower your stress and improve your immune system function.

- When you’re feeling stressed out, reach for a healthy snack instead of a sugary dessert.

- Take a few minutes before bed reduce your stress by reading or meditating.

- Stay active throughout the day by tracking your steps using your favorite fitness app.

Next Steps:

If you're concerned about staying on track with your healthy habits this holiday season, use your smartphone to help. Set daily reminders using our health tips above and come to our upcoming workshop. During the workshop, we will discuss additional strategies on how you can avoid getting sick during the holidays!

Science Source:

Stress and the inflammatory response: a review of neurogenic inflammation. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity. 2002

Feeling Great this Holiday Season

Bottom Line:

The holidays often bring plenty of cheer…and a healthy dose of seasonal stress. Between the travel, parties, and shopping, there are a lot of demands placed on your time, your mind, and your body, and all this commotion can result in muscle spasms and the re-occurrence of familiar aches and pains. For many people, these aches show up in two distinct areas - the low back and the neck and shoulders. Sound familiar?

Why it Matters:

Nagging low back or neck pain during the holidays can quickly turn into a flare-up that can sideline your holiday plans and pile on the frustration and stress. It’s a vicious cycle, but by making a few smart decisions now, you can position yourself to have a pain-free holiday season. Here are a few key holiday health facts to remember:

- Stress and fatigue can lead to the re-emergence of familiar aches and pains.

- Research has shown that Chiropractic adjustments can help decrease both pain and muscle tension.

- Staying on track with your care plan will help ensure that you are moving and feeling great this holiday season.

Next Steps:

We understand that the holidays are busy, but don’t let give you an excuse to put off self-care! Health and happiness go hand in hand, and your health is our top priority. By staying well-adjusted this holiday season, you’ll give your body the best opportunity to stay pain-free and yourself the best opportunity to start the new year off right. Be proactive and give us a call to schedule your next adjustment so you can be ready for family and festivities!

Science Source:

Mechanism of action of spinal manipulative therapy. Joint Bone Spine. 2003

Your Gut and Your Health

Bottom Line:

Bacteria is something we are trained to from childhood, but the truth is that our bodies are filled with trillions of bacteria that help play an essential role in our digestive processes and much more. Researchers have recently discovered that the types and amounts of bacteria in your gut is actually linked to your likelihood of developing diabetes, obesity, depression, and even cancer. So, it would appear that our digestive health isn’t just about what we put into our mouths, but is a critical factor in our overall health and well-being.

Why it Matters:

There are hundreds of different types of bacteria in your gut that line your entire digestive system and continuously interact with your nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. Believe it or not, these small bacteria can impact everything from your mood to the strength of your immune system! But they also are responsible for how efficiently your body is able to process the foods you eat. Imbalances in your gut bacteria can slow down your metabolism and even lead to metabolic syndrome, which is a precursor to diabetes.

- You have a unique combination of bacteria in your gut. It is specific to you, just like your fingerprint.

- A gut with too much or too little bacteria can cause a variety of health problems including constipation, irritable bowel, or metabolic syndrome.

- A healthy diet and active lifestyle can dramatically improve the overall health of your gut.

Next Steps:

Body signals such as constipation, irritable bowel, or even mood swings can be signs of an imbalanced gut. If you have been suffering from any of these symptoms, please let us know. We’re aware of the impact those body signals can have on your daily life. Our team has helped guide hundreds of people to better gut health, and we would be happy to see if we could also help you!

Science Source:

Gut Bacteria in Health and Disease. Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2013

Healthline. 10 Ways to Improve Your Gut Bacteria. 2016

What is Leaky Gut?

Bottom Line:

Leaky gut has been getting a lot of publicity over the past year, but what is it? Researchers have theorized that leaky gut is when partially digested protein and fat seep out of your digestive system and cause inflammation in your body. The inflammation, or allergic response, can lead to bloating, thyroid issues, fatigue, joint pain, digestive issues, food sensitivities, and a host of other unpleasant symptoms. As a matter of fact, one of the primary signs of leaky gut is experiencing multiple food sensitivities.

Why it Matters:

No one wants to deal with bloating, fatigue or food sensitivities, but the real reason leaky gut has become such a problem is that if left untreated, it has the potential to develop into inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and even chronic fatigue syndrome. Eating lectin, gluten, and sugar have been identified as the three primary factors in developing a leaky gut. All three of these substances can affect the bacteria in your gut, promote inflammation in your intestines, and even lead to micro-tears that cause leaky gut.

- Leaky gut is a condition affecting millions of people and can result in bloating, fatigue, joint pain, and food sensitivities.

- Lectin, gluten, and sugar all contribute to the inflammation process that can lead to leaky gut.

- Removing the foods that cause leaky and rebalancing your gut bacteria can make a massive impact on your overall health.

Next Steps:

If you want to learn more about leaky gut, and what you can do to prevent it, I invite you to join us for our upcoming complimentary “Eliminate Digestive Issues” workshop. This workshop is completely free to attend and packed with information to help you improve your gut health.

Science Source:

WebMD. Defining Leaky Gut Syndrome. 2018

Harvard Health. Leaky gut: What is it, and what does it mean for you? 2018

The Gut/Brain Connection

Bottom Line:

If you have ever had “butterflies” or have been stressed to the point of your stomach hurting, you’ve experienced the gut/brain connection firsthand. Even the thought of food can activate your digestive system because it’s intimately connected with your brain and central nervous system. They are in constant communication, sending messages back and forth. So not only can stress make your stomach hurt, but your stomach hurting can actually stress you out!

Why it Matters:

Researchers have discovered that people with digestive issues may actually experience pain more acutely due to the sensitivity in their gut. Any added stress can cause this pain to seem even more intense. Some of the most common gut and digestive system issues related to stress are heartburn, abdominal cramping, and bloating. The good news is, researchers also found that people who were able to reduce stress have seen significant improvement in their digestive complaints.

- Your brain and gut are continually communicating, with your mood affecting your gut and your gut affecting your mood.

- Digestive issues like heartburn, abdominal cramps, and bloating can all occur due to stress.

- Reducing daily stress has been shown to improve many of those digestive issues significantly.

Next Steps:

Gut and digestive issues can place a tremendous amount of stress on your daily life. By reducing your stress with a combination of exercise, diet, and Chiropractic care, you give your gut the best opportunity to stay balanced and happy. If you have any questions about your gut health, let us know! We’re happy to help you find a natural solution!

Science Source:

Harvard Health Publishing. Healthbeat. 2018

Johns Hopkins Medicine. The Gut-Brain Connection. 2018

How Digestion Works

Bottom Line:

Our modern diet and lifestyle have been linked to a variety of digestive issues. The overall health of your digestive system is closely tied to the food you eat, the exercise you get, and your overall stress levels.

Your digestive system is a group of organs that take the food you eat and turn it into energy and nutrients for your body. The digestive system interacts with your nervous systems, immune system, endocrine system, and others to help regulate its function.

Why it Matters:

Perhaps what’s most interesting about digestion is that it actually starts in your brain! Your hypothalamus coordinates your appetite and how much food you eat. For example, if you are tired or are stressed out, the chemicals in your brain may influence you to eat more than usual in an attempt to find balance. We call this, you guessed it, “cravings.”

- Your digestive system is a complex network of organs, systems, tissues, and nerves controlled by your brain.

- Turning the food you eat into fuel for your body is the primary job of your digestive system.

- You can get rid of your food cravings by getting regular exercise and reducing your overall stress.

Next Steps:

Understanding that cravings are caused by a variety of physiological factors, and not just willpower, is the first step to controlling them. The next step is making a decision on which factors you want to impact this week - maybe it’s beginning a new exercise routine or finding ways to reduce daily stress in your life. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you are able to take control of your cravings by making a few smart decisions with your lifestyle!

Science Source:

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Your Digestive System & How it Works. 2018

Mayo Clinic. See How Your Digestive System Works. 2018

Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep

Bottom Line:

Staying up late one night usually only results in feeling a little tired the next day, but when this happens day after day, it can really start to negatively affect your life. Research has shown that a lack of proper sleep can result in irritability, increased stress, a weakened immune system, and even joint pains. However, by developing a few healthy habits, you’ll be able to ensure that your brain and body get the rest the deserve, so you are ready to have a productive next day.

Why it Matters:

Practicing a relaxing nighttime ritual, such as powering down your electronics and reading a book, can help prepare your body for a good night's sleep - and don’t forget the TV. While some people like to sleep with the television on, researchers have found that minimizing background noise can actually help your brain get more rest. In our own office, we’ve also heard from countless patients that they get a better night’s sleep after getting adjusted, which makes sense considering the numerous benefits of Chiropractic care. 

- Wind down for approximately 30 minutes before bed by turning off your electronics.

- Minimize background noise to help your brain get much-deserved rest.

- Many patients report a more restful sleep after getting adjusted.

Next Steps:

Looking for more tips on how you can get a better night's sleep? Come to our upcoming workshop where we’ll teach you about the best sleep position for your spine, how sleep helps your immune system stay strong, and how Chiropractic care can decrease the stress you hold in those muscles supporting your neck and shoulders. If you want to Sleep Better Tonight, then this workshop is for you!

Science Source:

Harvard Health Publishing. Harvard Medical School 2018

EOS Sleep Centers. Dr. David Volpi

The Best Sleep Position

Bottom Line:

One of the most common questions we get from patients is: “What's the best sleeping position?” Considering you spend nearly one-third of your life sleeping, this is an important question to ask! Top researchers have found one of the best positions to sleep is on your side with your head supported, shoulders centered, and a pillow between your legs. This allows for the best alignment of your spine and reduces the pressure on your neck, low back, hips, and legs – all of which leads to a more restful night of sleep.

Why it Matters:

Sleeping is the time where your body can maximize rest and recovery. Not only can a lack of sleep cause grogginess the next day, but chronic sleep issues can lead to depression, insomnia, and even make aches and pains worse! If you have ever woken up with a “crick” in your neck, you know how taxing an awkward sleeping position can be on your spine. Maintaining a neutral position and keeping your spine in alignment overnight is an essential part of waking up energized and ready to conquer the day.

- Chronic sleep disturbances have been linked to depression and many common pain syndromes.

- Maintaining proper spinal alignment at night can decrease your aches and pains.

- Sleeping on your side with your head and legs supported is the best sleep position for your spine.

Next Steps:

Tonight, when you lie in bed, take a look and make sure your nose and belly button are in alignment. If they are, it’s a good sign your spine is in both an optimal and comfortable sleep posture. Then, take a small pillow and place it between your knees to give your legs and hips that proper added support. Following these quick tips will help you get into the best position to have a great night's sleep.

Science Source:

National Sleep Foundation. www.sleep.org

Harvard Health Publishing. Harvard Medical School 2018

Sleeping Well Can Keep You Healthy

Bottom Line:

New research has shown that not only can a good night’s sleep keep you mentally sharp, but it can also help you stay healthy by strengthening your immune system. For years physicians have believed that sleep supports the healing process, and now new evidence has been discovered that indicates sleep also plays a role in regulating your immune function. Your immune system is the complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that protect your body from disease, so keeping that system functioning at its highest level is very important to your overall health and wellness.

Why it Matters:

While you’re asleep, your central nervous system is in constant communication with your immune system. Many immune system functions operate on a 24 hour cycle, just like your sleep schedule. In fact, your T-cells, which are some of the most important immune cells, are very, very active while you’re asleep. Everyone may not require the same amount of sleep, but the research is clear: getting a good night's sleep will help bolster your immune system.

- Your body uses sleep as its time to rest and recover.

- Sleep patterns are tightly linked to your immune function.

- Chronic sleep issues promote inflammation and pain.

Next Steps:

Sleeping well has been proven to be an essential part of staying healthy. Sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, can make it extremely difficult to get a good night's sleep and leave you feeling tired and sleepy all day. If you have experienced difficulty sleeping, let us know. We have an upcoming workshop where we’ll be discussing not only the causes of many of these issues, but also the action steps you can take to FINALLY get a great night of sleep!

Science Source:

Sleep and immune function. European Journal of Physiology. 2012

Adjusting Your Sleep Schedule

Bottom Line:

Neck and back pain are the most common reasons people experience sleep disturbances. Patients talk about sleeping on the floor, or sleeping in a lazy boy, or even sleeping bent over their bed attempting to get into a position that helps them get those few precious moments of rest and relief. Talk about a pain! All you want is the ability to get some rest, yet every position seems to make things feel worse. Well, don’t worry - you’re in the right place to get back on track!

Why it Matters:

Your body needs rest to heal.  If you are in pain, it can be challenging to find a comfortable position to rest. As Chiropractors, we understand this better than anyone. Chiropractic care has been shown to increase your spinal range of motion, decrease inflammation, and even reduce the pressure on the delicate nerves exiting your spinal column - all of which will make it much easier to find a comfortable sleep position.

- Finding a comfortable position to sleep when you’re in pain can be difficult.

- Adjustments reduce the stress on your spine, helping you more easily find a comfortable position to sleep.

- Sleep is essential to healing because your body is better able to accelerate the healing process when properly rested.

Next Steps:

If stress has kept you up at night, you're not alone. However, you can rest easy knowing you’re in the right place! Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce the stress in the muscles supporting your head and neck, allowing you to experience a more comfortable - and more restful - night of sleep.

Science Source:

Neurophysiologic effects of spinal manipulation in patients with chronic low back pain. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2011

The Connection Between Posture and Headaches

Bottom Line:

Ergonomics is the study of the posture and positioning of your body. It sounds pretty boring until you consider that millions of people are suffering from headaches every day that are related to their posture! Whether it’s an assembly line, a computer, a tablet, or your phone, you’re likely spending a lot of time looking down. Research has found that up to 20 pounds of pressure is placed on the neck for every inch the chin extends forward or down. This increased pressure can irritate the tissues of the neck leading to everything from premature degenerative changes to chronic headaches.

Why it Matters:

Maintaining a healthy posture not only helps reduce the stress and pressure on the spinal joints of your neck, it also helps dramatically reduce your headaches. The first step in regaining proper posture is to establish normal motion. This is why Chiropractic adjustments are likely to become your new best friend! Our care is focused on finding the areas of your spine that aren’t moving correctly and gently helping them regain their normal range of motion. After we’ve worked with you to restore proper movement, we can then focus on strengthening the muscles that support your neck and back. This personalized type of care is how we’ve been able to help many people (just like you!) establish better posture and reduce the frequency and severity of their headaches.

-       Every inch of forward head posture adds up to 20 lbs. of pressure on your neck.

-       This added pressure can contribute to tension headaches.

-       Research has shown that Chiropractic care can dramatically improve your posture and, in turn, reduce your headaches.

Next Steps:

Take a look around your workstation the next time you’re at the office. Is it set up in a way that's ergonomically correct? If not, or if you're not sure, just let us know! We would be happy to set up a time to come to your office, evaluate your workplace, and share our specific recommendations to help keep you and everyone you work with feeling great! 

Science Source:

Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Chiropractic Treatment of Adults with Headache. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Volume 34, Number 5. 2011

Efficacy of Manual and Manipulative Therapy in the Perception of Pain and Cervical Motion in Patients with Tension-Type Headache: A Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. (2014) 13, 4-13

Preventing Menstrual Migraines

Bottom Line:

For many women, monthly menstruation means monthly migraines. In addition to hormone changes, your diet, physical activity and stress levels all contribute to this pattern. While pregnancy and menopause are two ways to eliminate these types of headaches, we also have a few more practical ways to find relief!

Why it Matters:

New research recommends Chiropractic adjustments as part of an evidence-based approach to reducing the pain associated with migraine headaches. Regular adjustments can both help reduce the stress on the muscles that support your neck and improve your range of motion. By keeping active, reducing your stress, maintaining enough hydration, and staying well adjusted, you’ll give your body the best opportunity to manage those monthly hormonal changes and take the first step towards ending your migraine headaches! 

-       Hormonal changes cause monthly migraines for millions of women.

-       Stress has been shown to have a significant impact on hormonal balance.

-       Adjustments are recommended as an evidence-based approach to reducing both migraine headaches and overall levels of stress. 

Next Steps:

Did you suffer from migraine headaches before coming into our practice? If so, stop by the front desk and let us know! Sharing your journey and how Chiropractic care helped you find relief may inspire someone else in our community to take action and find a natural solution to their headaches.

Science Source:

Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Chiropractic Treatment of Adults with Headache. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Volume 34, Number 5. 2011

Finding Headache Relief Without Drugs

Bottom Line:

Waking up with a headache or consistently getting one by the end of work each day is not fun (or normal). Headaches can be caused by a variety of factors, none of which are a shortage of medication in your body! As a matter of fact, if you have been relying on drugs to find relief day after day, there is a variety of new research that encourages you to reconsider.

Why it Matters:

Relying on medications to find relief each and every day places an enormous amount of strain on your liver and other internal organs. What’s more, researchers have found that a common “side” effect of many popular headache medications is…more headaches! And if that wasn’t enough to encourage you to think differently about how to treat your headaches, new research has found an increased risk of heart attacks in people who had taken NSAIDs (or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). It’s easy to see why our firm belief is that the best way for most people to find relief from their headaches is through natural healthcare such as combination of Chiropractic and light stress-relieving exercise like yoga.

-       Headache medications often have dangerous side effects.

-       Research has shown little to no evidence that such drugs are effective at treating headaches.

-       In a recent study, over 30% of participants saw a 100% improvement in the frequency and severity of their headaches after receiving Chiropractic care.

Next Steps:

Our workshop on finding natural solutions and relief from headaches is coming up soon! We’ll help you discover the causes of many common types of headaches, share tips on reducing their impact in your life, and review the steps you can take to ensure that you don’t have to suffer from them in the future. Share this with a friend and be sure to let us know how many people will be attending the workshop with you!

Science Source:

Dose-Response and Efficacy of Spinal Manipulation for Chronic Cervicogenic Headache: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. The Spine Journal. 2010

Chiropractic spinal manipulative therapy for cervicogenic headache: a single-blinded, placebo, randomized controlled trial. BioMed Central. 2017

Decreasing Tension Headaches

Bottom Line:

Quick question: do you know anyone who isn’t interested in reducing the stress in their life? We’ll give you a minute. Still thinking? That’s what we thought! There aren’t too many of us who couldn’t benefit from reducing the stress in our daily lives. Between family, work, and the latest political thread on social media, the stress can be overwhelming! Chronic everyday stress can also significantly impact our brains and bodies, causing everything from fatigue and depression to debilitating headaches.

Why it Matters:

Headaches caused by stress are often classified as tension-type headaches. Pain at the base of the skull that starts in the neck and wraps around to the front of the head is common with tension headaches. Research has shown that Chiropractic adjustments effectively treat and correct the cause of these headaches, providing both relief from symptoms and lasting results. In fact, in addition to reducing tension in the muscles supporting your neck, adjustments can also improve your range of motion and reduce your overall feeling of stress. This unique combination of benefits is why millions of people rely on Chiropractic care to help them find relief.

-       Chronic stress can contribute to tension headaches.

-       Chiropractic care is one of the best ways to reduce stress on your musculoskeletal system and spine.

-       Adjustments have been shown to reduce the frequency, severity, and intensity of tension headaches.

Next Steps:

You don’t necessarily need to make drastic changes to your life to reduce your daily stress level. Picking up a new hobby, taking a few minutes to read before bed, or enjoying a relaxing activity like yoga can all help. If you would like to discover even more ways to help reduce your daily stress, we invite you to attend our complimentary workshop coming up soon. We’ll be covering everything you need to know to reduce stress and end your headaches now!

Science Source:

Do Manual Therapy Techniques Have a Positive Effect on Quality of Life in People with Tension-Type Headache? A Randomized Controlled Trial. European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine. February 2016

Your Arm Pain May Be Coming From Your Neck

Bottom Line:

Cervical radiculopathy is the medical term for when a spinal disc in your neck is irritating or compressing a nerve root, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm and hand. Specific neck movements, like twisting or bending, may increase the pain. This can happen because of injury or degenerative changes in the spine. The good news is that over 95% of people get well with natural healthcare like Chiropractic.

Why it Matters:

A pinched nerve in your neck can cause a lot of pain, and it can be tempting to reach for medications to find relief. However, research shows us you may want to contact your Chiropractor before reaching for any pills. The Annals of Internal Medicine found that Chiropractic adjustments provided more pain relief than medications for people suffering from neck pain and the relief was long-lasting. The patients in the study experienced statistically significant relief up to 1 year after the initial treatment!

- Discs in your neck can compress or irritate your nerves causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

- Research has shown that adjustments were more effective than medication in the short and long-term.

- Chronic neck pain can be reduced by up to 75% or more after Chiropractic adjustments.

Next Steps:

Research has shown that Chiropractic is an extremely safe and effective healthcare option for treating neck pain or pinched nerves. Additionally, Chiropractors are trained to help you proactively combat neck pain and to prevent it from showing up in the first place. Ask us about some simple stretches and exercises you can perform to help improve your range of motion while keeping your discs and nerves healthy and happy.

Science Source:

Spinal Manipulation, Medication, or Home Exercise With Advice for Acute and Subacute Neck Pain- A Randomized Trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, Volume 156, 2012

Safety of Chiropractic Manipulation of the Cervical Spine. SPINE, Volume 32, 2007

Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Chiropractic Treatment of Adults with Neck Pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Volume 37. 2014

Outcomes from Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Confirmed Symptomatic Cervical Disk Herniation Patients Treated with High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude Spinal Manipulative Therapy. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2013

Neck Pain, Posture, and Headaches

Bottom Line:

You know that feeling - the one where you start to feel a headache coming on. For many people, it is a daily occurrence and often begins in the neck and shoulders. That’s right - tight muscles around your neck can result in tension headaches. What’s more, if you sit at a computer all day, your posture may also be contributing to a decreased range of motion, premature degenerative changes in your spine, and headaches - but there’s good news! There are a few simple steps you can take to help you feel less pain, increase your energy, and fend off those degenerative changes. New evidence-based guidelines strongly recommend a combination of exercise, stretching, and Chiropractic adjustments to help reduce neck pain, headaches, and muscle tension.

Why it Matters:

Chronic neck pain can rob you of the things you love. Enjoying your hobbies, taking a few moments to relax, and time with your family can all be affected. However, neck pain and headaches don’t have to be a part of your daily life. By understanding the latest research, you can take massive action to improve your health. Check out the next steps below to find a few tips to help you take your life back from pain.

- Research recommends a combination of Chiropractic, exercise, and stretching to reduce neck pain.

- Chiropractic has an extremely high patient satisfaction score of over 90%.

- An amazing 85% of people receiving Chiropractic adjustments for acute neck pain experienced significant improvement.

Next Steps:

It’s exciting that research has continued to showcase that you’re in charge of your health. Your habits and lifestyle can make a massive impact. Start reducing neck pain today by taking breaks every 45-60 minutes and stretching out your neck and shoulders. Take a brisk walk during lunch or hit the gym a few times a week to increase your activity levels. Finally, don’t forget about getting adjusted. Research proves that Chiropractic adjustments are a smart decision!

Science Source:

Spinal Manipulation, Medication, or Home Exercise with Advice for Acute and Subacute Neck Pain- A Randomized Trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, Volume 156, 2012

Perceived Value of Spinal Manipulative Therapy and Exercise Among Seniors with Chronic Neck Pain: A Mixed Methods Study. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine. 2014

Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Chiropractic Treatment of Adults with Neck Pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Volume 37. 2014

Outcomes from Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Confirmed Symptomatic Cervical Disk Herniation Patients Treated with High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude Spinal Manipulative Therapy. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2013

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How Safe is Chiropractic Care?

Bottom Line:

Safety first. Not only is “do no harm” part of the oath that doctors take, but it’s also a pretty good principle for all of us to live by. No matter how safe you are, there are times when you get hurt or injured, and finding a healthcare option that is safe, provides excellent results, and has high patient satisfaction can be tricky. Or is it? In 2007, SPINE (one of the worlds most respected research journals) looked at data from over 50,000 Chiropractic adjustments given to nearly 20,000 patients, and they found Chiropractic care to be incredibly safe and effective.

Why it Matters:

Awkward sleeping positions, poor posture, and long hours at a computer can all lead to neck pain. By staying active, taking periodic breaks to stretch throughout the day, and setting up your workstation to minimize the stress on your spine, you can dramatically reduce the likelihood you will encounter a bout of neck pain. It’s great to know that if you do end up experiencing neck pain, Chiropractic adjustments are one of the safest and most effective options to help get you back on track.

- Research has shown Chiropractic care to be extremely safe.

- SPINE examined nearly 20,000 patients and found zero complications.

- Up to 85% of people with acute neck pain found relief with Chiropractic adjustments.

Next Steps:

Believe it or not, many people are nervous to start Chiropractic care. The truth is that Chiropractic care is safer than many medications and has far less risk than surgery. Sharing research like this with your friends and family is a great idea. It will inspire them to make a smart decision using the Research That Matters!

Science Source:

Spinal Manipulation, Medication, or Home Exercise With Advice for Acute and Subacute Neck Pain- A Randomized Trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, Volume 156, 2012

Safety of Chiropractic Manipulation of the Cervical Spine. SPINE, Volume 32, 2007

Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Chiropractic Treatment of Adults with Neck Pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Volume 37. 2014

Risk of Vertebrobasilar Stroke and Chiropractic Care. SPINE, Volume 33. 2008

Health is Your Most Valuable Possession

Bottom Line:

What is the most valuable thing in the world to you? As the great physician Hippocrates once said: “A wise man ought to realize that health is his most valuable possession.” We agree. All the cars, watches, and bitcoins in the world has never improved anyone's health. That’s why we are so passionate about helping you get well and stay well with Chiropractic care - and we aren’t alone. A recent study in the Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine showed that Chiropractic care had an extremely high perceived value for people suffering from neck pain. In other words, people loved getting adjusted!

Why it Matters:

Whether you’re recovering from an injury or just looking to improve your quality of life, maintaining optimal health is a process - so you should have fun doing it! It’s a lot easier to get well and stay well when you enjoy the care and treatment. People love Chiropractic care not only because of the pain relief they receive but also because Chiropractors can help them to live a healthier lifestyle.

- An incredible 94% of people receiving adjustments reported high patient satisfaction.

- Chiropractors are trained to help people live a healthy, active lifestyle, using natural treatment options.

- Chiropractic is supported by top research journals like SPINE and the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Next Steps:

If you know someone who appreciates natural healthcare and wants to maintain an active lifestyle, then share this Research That Matters paper with them. Without any exposure to Chiropractic care, they may have to rely on dangerous medications or surgery to reduce the pain in their neck, but we believe there is a better way with Chiropractic.

Science Source:

Spinal Manipulation, Medication, or Home Exercise With Advice for Acute and Subacute Neck Pain- A Randomized Trial. Annals of Internal Medicine, Volume 156, 2012

Safety of Chiropractic Manipulation of the Cervical Spine. SPINE, Volume 32, 2007

Perceived Value of Spinal Manipulative Therapy and Exercise Among Seniors with Chronic Neck Pain: A Mixed Methods Study. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine. 2014

Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Chiropractic Treatment of Adults with Neck Pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Volume 37. 2014

Outcomes from Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Confirmed Symptomatic Cervical Disk Herniation Patients Treated with High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude Spinal Manipulative Therapy. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2013

The Low Back and Leg Connection

Bottom Line:

Most orthopedic practices have a specialist for your foot, a specialist for your back, a specialist for your hip, and a specialist for your knee. Based on the number of specialists for your back, hip, and leg you would think these joints aren’t designed to work together. But research has shown that not only are your low back and lower extremities linked by your nervous systems, but also by bio-mechanics. When you take a step, it’s the coordination of your toes, ankles, knee, hip, pelvis and low back that help you move forward. That is why when you have an issue with any part of that biomechanical chain, it’s important to evaluate every joint independently and how it’s working with the neighboring joints.

Why it Matters:

The proper motion of these joints is crucial to their longevity. Researchers have discovered that adjustments to the hip, knee, and ankle can decrease the pain associated with osteoarthritis and degenerative changes by over 60%! We know there is a strong connection between low back and hip pain. So, if you have hip, knee, or leg pain, it's essential to also address your low back. 

- Pain in your hip, leg, or knee can stem from a problem in your low back.

- Adjustments to your low back can improve the function of your hip and leg.

- People with hip pain have shown improvement in pain by over 60%.

Next Steps:

Over 85% of the population with be afflicted with back pain at some point in their life. Many will also have associated leg pain or radiculopathy. If this sounds familiar, know you are in the right place. Our practice is focused on helping people find relief naturally. We use the latest evidence-informed care to ensure you can get back on your feet as soon as possible and find lasting relief! 

Science Source(s):

Comparison of Chronic Low-Back Pain Patients Hip Range of Motion with Lumbar Instability. J Phys Ther Sci. 2015

A Single-Group Design Using Full Kinetic Chain Manipulative Therapy with Rehabilitation in the Treatment of 18 Patients with Hip Osteoarthritis. JMPT 2010

Comparison of Manual Therapy and Exercise Therapy in Osteoarthritis of the Hip: a Randomized Clinical Trial. Arthritis Rheum. 2004

That Bad Old Hip (and What to Do About It)

Bottom Line:

There aren’t too many daily activities that don’t require the use of your hips. The hip is a ball and socket joint that connects your legs to your pelvis. If you have been suffering from hip pain, even walking around the house can be difficult. However, is that bad old hip a result of age or joint imbalance?

Why it Matters:

Chronic hip pain has historically been treated with injections or even hip replacements. These invasive treatments have been performed tens of thousands of times per year, with mixed results. Thankfully, new research has begun to show that proper maintenance of your hips may be able to save you from the scalpel.  When your low back, hips, and pelvis are balanced and have a full range of motion, your hips will have equal wear and tear, and they’re designed to last a lifetime! Researchers have found that adjustments to the low back and hips can improve hip pain by over 60% and provide a statistically significant improvement in range of motion.

- Low impact exercise and adjustments can improve range of motion and reduce your pain.

- Research has shown improvement in hip pain by over 60% after chiropractic adjustments.

- Adjustments have been shown to be over 30% more effective than exercise for easing the pain of hip osteoarthritis.

Next Steps:

If you know someone who has a “hitch in their giddy-up,” invite them to our upcoming workshop where we will provide actionable health tips on how they can improve their quality of life without dangerous medications and risky surgery.

Science Source(s):

Relationship Between the Hip and Low Back Pain in Athletes Who Participate in Rotation-Related Sports. J Sport Rehab 2009

A Single-Group Design Using Full Kinetic Chain Manipulative Therapy with Rehabilitation in the Treatment of 18 Patients with Hip Osteoarthritis. JMPT 2010

Comparison of Manual Therapy and Exercise Therapy in Osteoarthritis of the Hip: a Randomized Clinical Trial. Arthritis Rheum. 2004

Reduce Knee Pain Without Drugs or Surgery

Bottom Line:

Knee pain can be debilitating. Getting up and down stairs, long walks, and even getting around the house can be difficult when your knees hurt. The cause of knee pain is often osteoarthritis or the degenerative changes of the joint. The pain associated with osteoarthritis of the knee is the number one cause of knee replacements worldwide. However, Chiropractic care may be able to help you regain mobility and get you back to performing the activities of daily living with less pain and without the need for drugs or surgery. 

Why it Matters:

Inside each of your knees, you have two primary surfaces (or condyles); one on the outside (or lateral) portion of the knee and one on the inside (the medial aspect). These are meant to glide and move freely with equally balanced forces much like the tires on your car. If they are not balanced, then one side is more likely to develop degenerative changes that can lead to osteoarthritis. Chiropractic adjustments can help restore the ideal alignment and balance. This reduces the wear and tear on your knees, can help reduce pain and inflammation, and improve their overall function.

- Osteoarthritis often causes knee pain.

- Improper alignment can contribute to degenerative changes.

- Adjustments have been found to improve the functional ability of the knee.

Next Steps:

Join us for our next workshop where we will discuss how our practice has helped people just like you reduce their knee pain and get their life back!

Science Source(s):

Increasing Prevalence of Knee Pain and Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis. Ann Intern Med 2012

Lumbar Manipulation and Exercise in the Management of Anterior Knee Pain and Diminished Quadriceps Activation Following ACL Reconstructions: A Case Report. Int Journal Sports Phys Ther 2014

The Initial Effects of Knee Joint Mobilization on Osteoarthritic Hyperalgesia. Man Ther. 2007

Every Step You Take

Bottom Line:

The average person walks over 100,000 miles in a lifetime! Every step places stress and strain on your foot and ankle. Most ankle injuries occur in the soft tissue, meaning your ligaments were stretched beyond their reasonable limits. It’s easy to suddenly twist your ankle when hiking, running, or even stepping off a curb in an awkward position. Research has estimated the re-injury rate after an ankle sprain could be as high as 80%. Thankfully, new research has also shown that adjustments can reduce your injury rate while also reducing pain and improving function.

Why it Matters:

Your foot contains 26 bones, dozens of ligaments, and more than a hundred muscles all working together through 33 joints. Also included in this complex structure are the arches of your feet. Your arches are designed to support the weight of your body when standing and disperse the forces of each step to reduce the overall wear and tear on the joints. As you can imagine, proper movement of the 33 joints in your foot is crucial to its performance.

- Your foot is made up of 33 individual joints or articulations.

- The re-injury rate of a sprained ankle has been estimated to be up to 80%.

- Emerging research indicates adjustments may be able to decrease the re-injury rate while also improving function and decreasing pain.

Next Steps:

Take a look at the soles of your shoes. Is the wear pattern even? Or is one area wearing out before the rest? If the wear pattern is not even, let us know! This is a sign that your gait is not balanced and you may be placing undue stress on your foot and ankle that could cause pain in the future or predispose you to twist an ankle. We would be happy to analyze your movement and provide you with a plan to find relief.

Science Source:

Predicting Short-Term Response to Thrust and Nonthrust Manipulation and Exercise in Patients Post Inversion Ankle Sprain. Journal of Orthopaedic & sports physical therapy  2009

Can Your Neck Cause Arm Pain?

Bottom Line:

Have you ever had a “dead arm”? It’s an uncomfortable combination of pain and numbness from sitting or sleeping in an awkward position that thankfully goes away after a few minutes. If you have cervical radiculopathy, that same feeling of pain, numbness, and weakness in your arm isn’t likely to go away on its own. Intense pain, numbness, or weakness in your arm and shoulder is commonly caused by a neck injury. If a disc, bone or ligament irritates or compresses a nerve root in your neck, it can create symptoms in your arm and shoulder. The nerves that exit the spine in your neck are responsible for the sensation and strength in your arm, and when those nerves become aggravated, it can result in pain.

Why it Matters:

Cervical radiculopathy is often misdiagnosed. It would seem as though the pain in your arm would be an “arm problem,” not a neck problem. Arthritic and degenerative changes slowly change the structure of your spine. Add in any sports injuries, poor posture, and the effects of gravity, and you quickly create a situation where your biomechanics, or how you move, is less than ideal. Over time this can result in destructive changes to the bone, disc, and ligament which in turn irritate the nearby nerves. Fortunately, exciting new research has showcased that Chiropractic care may be one of the safest and most effective conservative care options to help you recover from cervical radiculopathy.

- The nerves in your neck travel down your arm and hand to provide strength and sensation.

- Arm and hand pain or weakness can originate from the nerves coming from your neck.

- Research has shown Chiropractic care can provide more relief than many commonly prescribed medications and injections.

Next Steps:

Be sure to attend our next workshop which will help give you practical tips to avoid neck and arm pain. The care we provide is specifically designed to help you find lasting relief and regain your quality of life, and in this complimentary workshop, you will discover all the natural ways cervical radiculopathy can be prevented and treated. We look forward to seeing you there!

Science Source:

Spine Manipulation Post-Epidural Injection for Lumbar and Cervical Radiculopathy: A Retrospective Case Series. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. September 2004 Chiropractic Treatment of Cervical Radiculopathy Caused by a Herniated Cervical Disc. JMPT 1994

The Link Between Posture and Shoulder Motion

Bottom Line:

Your shoulder is one of the most complex joints in your body. It is surrounded and supported by a complex network of nerves, tendons, muscles, and ligaments. Many of these structures tie back to your spine or mid-back and neck. Your posture, or position, directly impacts the motion of your shoulder and scapula. Long hours at a desk or computer can lead to postural changes and muscle imbalances. Poor posture and a forward head position can lead to “upper cross syndrome.” Upper cross syndrome is an imbalance of the muscles in your upper back, neck, and shoulder that can lead to neck, back, and shoulder pain with restricted range of motion.

Why it Matters:

Whether it's working at a computer, long hours in a car, or using a tablet/smartphone, just about everyone is susceptible to developing upper cross syndrome. However, you don’t need to suffer or change your career to find relief. A combination of Chiropractic adjustments, stretching, and specific postural exercises can make a huge impact on your ability to stay happy and healthy. Taking short breaks every 20-30 minutes to lightly extend your arms and move your neck through a comfortable range of motion will help your body “reset” while working. Also, periodic Chiropractic adjustments will help you maintain an optimal range of motion and reduce restrictions that can occur in your spinal joints.

- The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the human body.

- Your posture greatly impacts the ability of your shoulders to move through their full range of motion.

- It’s important to address the neck and mid-back when treating a shoulder injury.

Next Steps:

Upper cross syndrome is one of the most common conditions we see in our practice. Far too many people suffer from pain for years before discovering Chiropractic care. Millions of people end up taking medications just to get through the day. Like you, we believe there is a better way. Take a flyer for our upcoming workshop and share it with a friend at work. We are excited to share how the challenges of upper cross syndrome can be overcome without drugs or surgery!

Science Source:

Upper Crossed Syndrome and Its Relationship to Cervicogenic Headache. JMPT 2004 MedicalNewsToday.com

Tennis Elbow? I Haven’t Swung a Racket in Years!

Bottom Line:

You don’t need to be John McEnroe to feel the pain of tennis elbow. Actually, 95% of people who suffer from lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, don’t even play tennis! Lateral epicondylitis is an inflammation of the tendon that attaches to the lateral epicondyle of your elbow. It can result in pain and weakness in the wrist and elbow. Repetitive motions and an awkward positioning of your wrist often contribute to tennis elbow. So how can you fix it? Keep reading…

Why it Matters:

Reducing inflammation around the tendon is an important first step. Reducing muscle spasms to improve blood flow, improve circulation and speed up recovery is also very important. After the pain has decreased, be sure to begin a combination of stretching and strengthening the muscles supporting your elbow, shoulder, and neck. Having restricted motion in your neck can predispose you to developing tennis elbow. Our team will carefully examine your neck, shoulder, elbow, and wrist to make sure the motion is natural and free of restriction.

- Tennis elbow is inflammation of the tendon that attaches to your lateral epicondyle.  

- Overuse and repetitive motion can cause tennis elbow.

- Postural changes, rehab, and Chiropractic care have been shown to be extremely effective at treating tennis elbow.

Next Steps:

Tennis elbow is unlikely to disappear on its own – but, by taking a conservative approach, you will be in the best possible position to find relief. Our team will help guide you through a complete plan of care to get your back in the game.  Once you are feeling better, you may even want to pick up tennis as a new sport!

Science Source:

Chiropractic Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis: A Case Report Utilizing Active Release Techniques. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine 2014 Conservative Chiropractic Care of Lateral Epicondylitis. JMPT 2000