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The Health Benefits of List-Making

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 17:03:45 GMT

In our fast-paced and hectic lives, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and forgetful. But there is a simple yet powerful tool that can help bring order to the chaos and improve your overall well-being—list making. Let’s look at some benefits:

Increased Productivity

One of the primary benefits of list making is its ability to boost productivity. By jotting down tasks, goals, and deadlines, you create a clear roadmap for your day or week ahead. As you tick items off your list, you experience a sense of accomplishment, which motivates you to keep going. This structured approach helps you prio ritize your tasks and prevents procrastination, resulting in increased efficiency in both your personal and professional endeavors.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety

Another incredible advantage of list-making is its impact on mental well-being. When you have a lot on your mind, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious. However, by transferring your thoughts onto paper (or a digital medium), you free up valuable mental space. The act of writing things down creates a sense of relief and control over your thoughts, allowing you to focus on the present moment and reduce stress levels significantly.

Improved Memory and Focus

Have you ever had a brilliant idea or important task slip through the cracks of your memory? List-making acts as an external memory aid, ensuring that you don’t forget essential information or commitments. Writing things down reinforces your memory and increases your ability to retain information. Moreover, when you have a visual representation of your tasks, it becomes easier to stay focused and avoid distractions, leading to improved concentration and enhanced cognitive function.

Enhanced Organization

List-making promotes organization in all areas of your life. Whether it’s organizing your daily errands, planning meals for the week, or keeping track of important deadlines, lists provide structure and prevent chaos. By categorizing tasks and breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps, you gain a sense of control over your responsibilities. Additionally, organized lists make it easier to delegate tasks, collaborate with others, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

3 Ways Having a Pet Could Boost Your Overall Health

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 17:21:17 GMT

Pets have been a cherished part of human life for centuries, providing companionship, love, and endless joy. But did you know that owning a pet can also have significant health benefits? Here’s a look at three of them:

1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety

Life can be stressful at times, but having a furry friend by your side can make all the difference. Interacting with pets has been shown to lower levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, and increase the release of feel-good hormones like oxytocin. This can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and even lower blood pressure.

Whether it’s cuddling with a cat, playing fetch with a dog, or watching fish swim gracefully in an aquarium, the simple act of spending time with a pet can provide a much-needed escape from the pressures of daily life. Their unconditional love and presence can bring comfort and a sense of calmness, making them an excellent source of emotional support.

2. Improved Physical Fitness

Pets, especially dogs, can encourage you to lead a more active lifestyle. Taking your four-legged friend for a walk or run not only benefits them but also provides you with an opportunity to get some exercise. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, improving cardiovascular health, and boosting overall fitness levels.

3. Enhanced Social Connections

Pets are natural icebreakers and can serve as a catalyst for building social connections. Taking your dog to a local park or participating in pet-related events can provide opportunities to meet and connect with other pet owners. These interactions can lead to new friendships, support networks, and a sense of belonging.

Furthermore, pets can also help alleviate feelings of loneliness, especially for individuals living alone or those who may be going through challenging times. The companionship and unconditional love offered by pets can provide a sense of purpose and improve overall mental wellbeing.

Another powerful way to maximize your health is with chiropractic care. Book an appointment today!

3 Easy-on-the-Joints Exercises for Seniors

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 17:30:23 GMT

As we age, maintaining an active lifestyle becomes more important than ever. However, the normal wear and tear on our joints can make certain exercises difficult or even painful. This doesn’t mean you should give up on exercise, though. There are plenty of low-impact workouts that are not only safe for your joints, but also beneficial for your overall health. Here are three easy-on-the-joints exercises for seniors that will help keep you active and healthy.

1. Swimming

Swimming is a fantastic exercise that provides a full-body workout without putting stress on your joints. The buoyancy of the water supports your weight, reducing the impact on your joints, while still providing resistance to help build muscle strength and endurance.

2. Chair Yoga

Yoga is known for its ability to improve flexibility and balance, but traditional yoga can be challenging for those with joint issues. Chair yoga, however, is a gentle form of the practice that allows you to reap the benefits of yoga without having to get down on the floor.

3. Walking

Walking is a simple, yet effective exercise that is easy on the joints. Regular walks can help maintain a healthy heart, improve balance and coordination, and boost mood. It’s also an exercise you can do anywhere, whether around your neighborhood or at a local park.

Remember, it’s never too late to start exercising. These easy-on-the-joints exercises can help you stay active and healthy, regardless of age or fitness level. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine. Chiropractic care may also keep your joints healthy so you can stay active and healthy!

Why Shop the Perimeter of Your Grocery Store?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 17:36:42 GMT

If you’ve ever wondered how to make healthier choices in your grocery shopping routine, a simple tip is to shop the perimeter of your supermarket. This strategy is based on the layout of most markets and can be an effective way to improve your diet.

In general, the outer edges of the market are where fresh foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, and fish are located. These foods are whole and unprocessed, making them some of the healthiest choices available.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

The fresh fruits and vegetable section, often right at the entrance of the market, is a cornucopia of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Here you’ll find everything from apples and oranges to leafy greens and root veggies. Buying various fruits and vegetables allows for a diverse diet packed with necessary nutrients.

Protein Options

Next, you’ll typically encounter the butcher and seafood departments. Lean meats, poultry, and fish provide high-quality protein, essential for maintaining muscle and promoting satiety. Plus, seafood offers omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart and brain health.

Dairy and Alternatives

As you continue around the perimeter, you’ll come across the dairy section. Here, you’ll find milk, cheese, and eggs—all excellent sources of calcium and protein. For those who are vegan or lactose intolerant, there are plenty of alternatives, such as almond milk and tofu.

The Inner Aisles

While the perimeter of the market tends to house the freshest, most wholesome foods, this doesn’t mean you should completely avoid the inner aisles. They contain healthy options, like canned beans, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. However, they also house heavily processed foods and snacks, which should be limited in a balanced diet.

Shopping the perimeter of your supermarket is a simple strategy to guide healthier food choices. By filling your cart with various fresh foods from the store’s edges and supplementing with select items from the inner aisles, you can ensure a nutrient-rich diet for you and your family.

5 Lessons We Can Learn From the Blue Zones

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 17:39:58 GMT

The Blue Zones are five regions around the world with higher life expectancy and lower disease rates than average. They include Ikaria, Greece; Okinawa, Japan; Loma Linda, California; Sardinia, Italy; and Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica. Here are some reasons why many of those who live in the Blue Zones enjoy greater longevity.

Strong Social Networks

Blue Zoners have very strong social networks. They are highly engaged in their faith-based communities and have a sense of purpose in life. This deep connection to their surroundings helps them remain optimistic and focused on the wellbeing of others, providing them with a sense of satisfaction that influences their lifespan.

Daily Movement

Exercise is an important part of life in the Blue Zones. This doesn’t mean going to the gym every day, but living a lifestyle of low-intensity physical activity, like walking or gardening. By integrating exercise into their everyday lives, people in these regions can stay active and healthy without having to make a conscious effort to do so.

Healthy Diets

Traditional diets are rich in plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts. Meat is eaten sparingly, usually as a small portion. This diet provides Blue Zoners with essential nutrients while avoiding processed and unhealthy foods.

Limited Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol isn’t consumed to excess in the Blue Zones. People typically drink moderate amounts of wine with meals, and there’s usually a social component to the drinking experience. This helps reduce stress levels and makes it easier for people to connect meaningfully.

Community Engagement

Blue Zoners are highly engaged in their communities. They know their neighbors, eat together regularly, and look out for each other’s wellbeing. This sense of connection to their surroundings is an important factor in their longevity and happiness.

Chiropractic care may also add more life to your years and years to your life. Give our practice a call today to book an appointment!

4 Ways Seniors Can Improve Balance at Home

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 19 Aug 2023 17:46:52 GMT

As we age, our balance can decline. However, there are several ways seniors can improve and maintain their balance at home. Here are four of the most effective strategies:

1. Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity is essential for improving balance and strength. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, tai chi or yoga can help improve coordination and flexibility, both of which are essential for good balance.

2. Set Up Safe Spaces: It’s important to have a safe place to practice balancing exercises. Make sure the area is free of objects that could cause falls and accidents. You can also use furniture with non-slip surfaces and handrails when needed.

3. Have Proper Posture: Improving your posture can help keep you steady and balanced. Stand up straight with your shoulders back, feet flat on the floor, and weight evenly distributed between both sides of the body.

4. Use Balance Aids: If you find it hard to maintain balance, there are tools that can help. These include weighted vests, stability shoes and slant boards. Your doctor or physical therapist can recommend the best balance aid for your individual needs.

Following these four strategies may help you stay balanced and injury-free as you age. It’s important to build a routine of exercises that target your balance and strength, while making any necessary modifications because of safety concerns. With enough practice, you can maintain your balance and stay healthy for years to come.

The Importance of Chiropractic Care

Regular visits to a chiropractor may also help seniors stay active and reduce their risk of falls. Chiropractic care could help improve coordination, flexibility, and circulation, which can all contribute to improved balance. Book a visit today!

Is Blue Light Keeping You Wired?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 18:04:18 GMT

The modern world is replete with technological advancements that keep us connected more than ever before. However, there’s a downside to this digital age: the pervasive blue light emitted by our devices. But how is it affecting your sleep and overall health? Let’s take a look.

Understanding Blue Light

Blue light is a type of light with a short wavelength, which produces higher amounts of energy. While it’s naturally present in sunlight, it’s also prevalent in digital screens like computers, smartphones, and televisions. Because we’re exposed to these devices for extended periods, our exposure to blue light has significantly increased.

How Blue Light Affects Sleep

Our bodies have an internal clock known as the circadian rhythm, which regulates our sleep-wake cycle. Exposure to blue light can disrupt this rhythm, making it harder for us to fall asleep at night. This is because blue light suppresses the production of melatonin, the hormone that controls our sleep-wake cycle.

The Health Implications

Beyond sleep disruption, prolonged exposure to blue light can lead to other health issues. Some studies suggest it may contribute to digital eye strain, which results in symptoms like dry eyes and headaches. In severe cases, it could potentially lead to age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss.

Mitigating The Effects

Fortunately, there are multiple ways to reduce the effects of blue light:

Adopt the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This can help reduce digital eye strain.
Use blue light filters: Many devices now offer built-in settings or apps that filter out blue light, particularly useful during evening hours.
Wear blue light blocking glasses: These glasses have special lenses that block or absorb blue light, reducing exposure.

By taking simple steps to protect our eyes and regulate our sleep patterns, we can enjoy the benefits of technology without compromising our wellbeing. Another way to optimize your health is through chiropractic care. Book an appointment today to learn more about how we can help.

5 Health Benefits of Walking 20 Minutes a Day

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 22 Jul 2023 18:08:17 GMT

Walking is often considered one of the most underrated forms of exercise, but it can be an effective health-enhancing activity. It’s simple, free, and one of the easiest ways to become more active, lose weight, and become healthier. Here are five compelling benefits of incorporating just a 20-minute walk into your daily routine.

1. Enhancing Cardiovascular Health

Firstly, walking for just 20 minutes a day can significantly improve your cardiovascular health. Regular walking has been shown to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. It strengthens the heart, lowers blood pressure, and improves cholesterol levels, collectively enhancing heart health.

2. Boosting Mental Wellbeing

Mental health is as important as physical health, and walking has profound benefits for our minds too. A daily 20-minute walk may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones, promoting a sense of calm and wellbeing.

3. Aiding Weight Management

Walking is an accessible and low-impact way to aid in weight management. A brisk 20-minute walk can burn up to 100 calories. It also increases metabolism, helping you burn more calories even when at rest. Over time, this can contribute to weight loss and healthier body composition.

4. Strengthening Bones and Muscles

Regular walking helps strengthen bones and muscles, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and frailty in later life. It can also improve balance and coordination, reducing the likelihood of falls in older adults.

5. Improving Digestion

Finally, a post-meal stroll can do wonders for your digestion. It aids in the breakdown of food and absorption of nutrients, leading to better metabolic health.

Take the First Step Today

From boosting cardiovascular health to improving mental wellbeing, aiding weight management, strengthening bones and muscles, and enhancing digestion—walking has many wonderful benefits.

Looking for more ways to add health to your day? Be sure to book an appointment for chiropractic care which can help you keep making great strides!

Preventing Workplace Injuries with Chiropractic Care

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 18:21:59 GMT

Work-related injuries can be a significant issue for individuals with sedentary jobs or improper workplace ergonomics. In this blog post, we’ll offer tips on maintaining proper ergonomics at work and discuss how regular chiropractic adjustments can help prevent work-related injuries.

Ergonomic Tips for a Healthier Workplace

To reduce the risk of workplace injuries, it’s essential to implement proper ergonomics throughout your workday. Here are some tips to help you achieve optimal posture and alignment:

Adjust Your Chair: Ensure your chair provides adequate lumbar support and allows your feet to rest flat on the floor. Your knees should be level with or slightly lower than your hips.
Position Your Monitor: Place your computer monitor at eye level and roughly an arm’s length away to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders.
Keyboard and Mouse Placement: Keep your keyboard and mouse close to your body to minimize reaching and maintain a neutral wrist position.
Take Breaks: Stand up, stretch, and walk around periodically to break up prolonged periods of sitting and promote healthy circulation.

The Role of Chiropractic Care in Injury Prevention

Regular chiropractic care can play a crucial role in preventing workplace injuries by addressing misalignments and imbalances in the musculoskeletal system. Here’s how chiropractic treatments can help:

Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments can correct spinal misalignments, reducing the risk of developing chronic pain and discomfort associated with poor posture.
Increased Flexibility: Chiropractic care can help improve joint mobility, making it easier to maintain proper ergonomics during your workday.
Stress Relief: Regular adjustments can help alleviate tension in the muscles and joints, reducing stress-related pain and discomfort.
Personalized Advice: Your chiropractor can provide tailored recommendations for ergonomic improvements based on your specific needs and workplace environment.

By addressing spinal misalignments and promoting h ealthy posture, you could enjoy a more comfortable and pain-free workday. Book a visit with our practice today to start your journey towards improved workplace wellness!

Chiropractic Care for Posture Correction

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 18:31:40 GMT

Poor posture can lead to a variety of health issues, including back pain, neck strain, and headaches. In this post, we’ll explore the role of chiropractic care in correcting poor posture and preventing related health problems.

The Impact of Poor Posture on Health

Poor posture can negatively affect your health in numerous ways, such as:

Musculoskeletal Imbalances: Poor posture can cause imbalances in your muscles and joints, leading to pain and discomfort.
Reduced Mobility: Over time, poor posture can limit your range of motion and flexibility.
Increased Risk of Injury: I mproper alignment can put added stress on your body, increasing the likelihood of injury during physical activities.
Headaches and Neck Pain: Strain on your neck and shoulders from poor posture can result in tension headaches and chronic neck pain.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Correct Posture

Chiropractic care offers various benefits for posture correction and overall spinal health:

Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractors perform spinal adjustments to correct misalignments, helping to improve posture and decrease pain.
Muscle Release Techniques: Chiropractors use muscle release techniques to relieve tension and tightness in the muscles supporting the spine, promoting better posture.
Strengthening and Stretching Exercises: Chiropractors can recommend specific exercises to strengthen weak muscles and stretch tight ones, further improving posture.
Ergonomic Advice: Chiropractors can provide guidance on proper workplace ergonomics and daily habits to maintain good posture throughout the day.

Maintaining Proper Posture for Long-Term Health

To enjoy the benefits of good posture, consider incorporating the following habits into your daily routine:

Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity to keep your muscles strong and flexible.
Practice Mindfulness: Be aware of your posture throughout the day and make necessary adjustments.
Use Proper Ergonomics: Set up your workspace to promote good posture and take breaks to stretch and move throughout the day.

Ready to improve your posture with gentle chiropractic care? We’d love to help. Contact our practice today to get started.

Three Things to Keep Out of Your Coffee

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 29 May 2023 18:35:22 GMT

Coffee is a staple in many people’s morning routines, but some additives can zap your energy levels and cause negative side effects.

Here are three things to avoid putting in your coffee if you’re looking to avoid the jitters and crash.

Artificial Sweeteners – Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose can lead to a host of unpleasantries–some people with sensitivities may experience headaches and digestive problems. Instead of artificial sweeteners, try adding natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup.

Creamers – Creamers often contain ingredients like hydrogenated oils and high fructose corn syrup which may lead to weight gain and other health issues. Instead of creamers, try adding almond milk or coconut milk for a creamy texture without the added sugar.

Flavored Syrups – Flavored syrups may taste good, but they are packed with sugar and artificial ingredients. Instead of flavored syrups, try adding fresh fruit or spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a natural flavor boost without all the added sugar.

If you’re looking for an energy boost without the caffeine jitters, there are plenty of healthy alternatives to coffee that can give you the same pick-me-up without all the negative side effects. Some great options include matcha tea, golden milk lattes, chicory coffee, apple cider vinegar drinks, fresh juices and smoothies, and kombucha drinks or herbal teas.

Chiropractic care is another great way to naturally boost energy levels by helping your body function as designed!

Ready to book an adjustment? Contact our practice today-we look forward to seeing you in the practice soon.

Understanding Sciatica and Chiropractic Care

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 19 May 2023 18:37:42 GMT

Sciatica is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, or weakness in the buttocks and legs. The condition affects millions of people worldwide, and many find relief through chiropractic care.

What Is It?

Sciatica is caused by a pinched or irritated sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. The nerve can become compressed for a variety of reasons, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease.

Symptoms of sciatica include pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg, tingling or numbness in the leg or foot, and muscle weakness in the affected leg.

In our practice, we help sciatica patients through non-invasive and drug-free methods. Chiropractic care for sciatica typically involves adjustments, which may help to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce inflammation in the affected area.

In addition to adjustments, we may also recommend other complementary therapies to help alleviate symptoms and prevent future flare-ups. These may include exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles that support the lower back, as well as lifestyle modifications like weight loss, improved posture, and stress reduction techniques.

Ready to Learn More?

If you are experiencing sciatica symptoms like lower back pain, leg pain, or numbness, chiropractic care may be the solution you’ve been searching for. Contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about how care can help you find relief from sciatica symptoms.

Remember, early intervention is key when it comes to sciatica, so don’t delay in seeking care if you suspect you may be suffering from this condition.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Beat Auto Accident Pain Naturally: How Chiropractic Care Helps With Recovery

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Thu, 11 May 2023 18:45:48 GMT

Auto accidents can be traumatic experiences that leave victims with a wide range of injuries. While severe injuries require immediate medical attention, many accident injuries can benefit from natural chiropractic care.

Common Accident Injuries

Whiplash

Whiplash is a common injury that occurs when the neck is jerked back and forth suddenly, causing the soft tissues in the neck to stretch and tear. This injury can be caused by low-speed collisions and doesn’t have to be a high impact crash. Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness.

Back Pain

Back pain is another common accident injury that can occur due to the impact of the collision. It can be caused by muscle strains, sprains, or damage to the spinal bones. Chiropractic care can help realign the spine and reduce pressure on the nerves, which can alleviate pain and promote healing.

Headaches

Headaches can be caused by several factors after a car accident, including whiplash, concussion, and tension in the neck and shoulder muscles. Chiropractic care can help alleviate headaches by reducing tension in the neck and promoting proper alignment of the spine.

Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can result from the impact of the collision or from holding onto the steering wheel during the accident. Care with us may help improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain by addressing any underlying issues in the spine.

Knee Pain

Knee pain is a common car accident injury that can result from hitting the dashboard or the steering wheel. Chiropractic care can help reduce knee pain by improving joint mobility and addressing any underlying issues with the spine or nervous system.

Chiropractic Care for Car Accident Injuries

If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, we’ll evaluate your condition, develop a custom care plan, and use natural techniques such as spinal adjustments and soft tissue therapy to promote healing and reduce pain. Contact our team today to book a visit and get started!

*If you have been involved in an auto accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention at the nearest hospital immediately if you’re in severe pain or dealing with traumatic injuries.

Don’t Let Age Slow You Down!

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 02 May 2023 18:48:57 GMT

Surprising Ways Chiropractic Care Can Boost Senior Mobility

As we age, our bodies undergo several changes that can impact our mobility. Senior citizens may experience a decline in strength, flexibility, and balance, making it more challenging to move around and perform daily activities. Here are some of the top mobility issues that seniors face:

Joint Stiffness

Joint stiffness is a common mobility issue that can result from a variety of factors, including arthritis, injuries, and aging. Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain and stiffness. The stiffness can make it challenging for seniors to move their joints freely, limiting their range of motion.

Muscle Weakness

Muscle weakness is another common problem. It’s often caused by a lack of physical activity, which can lead to the loss of muscle mass and strength. As a result, seniors may find it challenging to perform daily activities such as walking up stairs or lifting objects.

Poor Balance

Poor balance is a significant mobility issue that affects many seniors, particularly those over 65. It can be caused by several factors, including inner ear issues, neuropathy, and side effects of medication. Poor balance can make it challenging for seniors to stand or walk without support, leading to a higher risk of falls and injuries.

Chiropractic Care for Mobility Issues in Seniors

Chiropractic care may be an effective way to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls in seniors. In our practice, we use a range of natural techniques to alleviate joint stiffness, improve muscle strength, and promote better balance. We also recommend exercises and stretches that can help seniors improve their mobility and prevent falls, helping them make the most out of their golden years.

If you or a loved one are struggling with mobility issues, please schedule an appointment with our team. We can evaluate your specific needs and create a custom care plan to help you improve your mobility and prevent falls. Contact us today to learn more about how chiropractic care can help you regain your mobility and maintain your independence.

The Importance of Movement

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 19:00:34 GMT

As a chiropractor, it’s no secret that we see patients who suffer from pain and stiffness every day. Sometimes, that pain and stiffness can be attributed to a lack of movement in their daily lives. While many of us have sedentary jobs or lifestyles, it’s important to make movement a priority in order to maintain health and wellbeing.

Tricks to Sneak More Movement Into Your Day

Movement is essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. It can improve circulation, strengthen muscles, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Movement can also help alleviate stress and anxiety, improve mood, and boost cognitive function.

Unfortunately, many of us spend a large portion of our day sitting, whether it’s at a desk, in a car, or on the couch. This can lead to a host of health problems, including poor posture, muscle imbalances, and joint stiffness. That’s why it’s important to find ways to incorporate movement into our daily lives, even if we have sedentary jobs or lifestyles.

Take a Walk Break. Instead of taking a coffee break, take a walk break. Even a 10-15 minute walk can help improve circulation and reduce stress. If you’re working from home, take a walk around the block or do a few laps around your house.
Find a Movement Buddy. Finding a friend or coworker who is also interested in movement can be a great way to stay motivated. You can take walking breaks together, do desk exercises together, or even join a fitness class.
Practice Active Sitting. This can be done on an exercise ball or cushion, which requires you to engage your core and balance.
Use a Pedometer or Fitness Tracker. Setting a daily step goal will help you challenge yourself and offer motivation to move more.
Walk and Talk. When taking phone calls, try walking around your office or home, or even pacing in place. This can help increase your daily step count and keep your body moving throughout the day.

What else do you like to do to sneak movement into your day? Let us know at your next appointment!

4 Ways Chiropractic Can Work for Athletes

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 18:51:39 GMT

It’s no secret that many patients choose to visit us to overcome back or neck pain. However, chiropractors can also play an important role in supporting the performance and recovery of athletes of all skill levels.

Here’s how!

Improving Joint Mobility and Flexibility: Athletes require optimal joint mobility and flexibility to perform at their best. Chiropractic adjustments may help improve joint mobility by realigning the spine and reducing restricted movement. This may help reduce the risk of injury and enhance athletic performance.

Enhancing Nervous System Function: The nervous system controls every aspect of the body, including movement and coordination. Chiropractic adjustments may help improve nervous system function by removing interference. This could help athletes respond faster and more efficiently to stimuli, improving their reaction time and overall performance.

Reducing Inflammation: Inflammation can occur in response to injury or overuse, and can interfere with athletic performance. Adjustments can help reduce inflammation by improving blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which can help speed up the healing process and reduce pain.

Improving Muscle Strength and Endurance: Adjustments may help improve muscle strength and endurance by optimizing joint function. This can help athletes generate more power and perform at their best for longer periods of time.

Give Care a Try

Whether you’re a weekend warrior, student athlete, or professional, we’d love to help. Find out how our custom care plans could help improve your game by booking a visit with us today. We can’t wait to get started.

Stretch Your Way to a Pain-Free Back

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 19:03:43 GMT

As your partner in natural health, we know that back pain can be debilitating and impact your quality of life. That’s why we’ve put together a list of stretches that can help alleviate your pain from the comfort of your own home. These stretches are easy to perform and may help relieve tension in the lower back, spine, and piriformis muscle. We recommend incorporating these stretches into your daily routine to promote healing and prevent future pain.

Child’s Pose

Child’s pose is a relaxing stretch that can help ease tension in the lower back. Begin on your hands and knees, with your hands under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Lower your hips back towards your heels, stretching your arms forward. Hold this position for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Cat-Cow Stretch

Cat-cow stretch is a simple stretch that can help relieve tension in the entire spine. Begin on your hands and knees, with your hands under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Slowly arch your back towards the ceiling, then round your spine towards the floor. Repeat this motion 10 times.

Knee-to-Chest Stretch

The knee-to-chest stretch can be an effective stretch for easing tension in the lower back. Begin by lying on your back, with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Slowly bring one knee towards your chest, clasping your hands around the back of your thigh. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides.

Piriformis Stretch

The piriformis muscle can often become tight and cause pain in the lower back. Begin by sitting on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Cross one leg over the other, placing your foot flat on the floor. Gently pull your knee towards your chest, holding for 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.

While these stretches can be helpful in relieving back pain, it’s important to remember that every case is unique. If you are experiencing persistent or severe pain, it’s important to address the root cause. At our practice, we can provide a thorough examination and personalized plan to address your specific needs.

Don’t let back pain control your life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey towards pain-free living.

Small Steps, Big Changes: How to Build Healthy Habits That Stick

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 19:07:16 GMT

We know that building healthy habits can be challenging-but it’s also something that’s essential for long-term health and well-being. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, exercise more, or reduce stress, building healthy habits takes time, effort, and commitment.

But don’t worry, there’s good news: It is entirely possible and well worth the effort.

Before you dive in, it’s important to understand the science of habit formation. Habits are behaviors that we repeat regularly and automatically, often without conscious thought. We form habits through a process called “habituation,” which involves a cycle of cue, behavior, and reward. Over time, habits become ingrained in our brains and are more difficult to break.

So, how can you build healthy habits that stick? Here are some tips for setting and achieving goals:

Start small: Choose one or two healthy habits to focus on at a time. Small changes are easier to stick with and can lead to bigger changes over time.
Make a plan: Set specific, measurable goals and create a plan for how you will achieve them. Write down your plan and track your progress.
Be consistent: Consistency is key when it comes to building healthy habits. Try to do your healthy habit at the same time and in the same way each day.
Get support: Enlist the help of friends, family, or a professional to support you in your healthy habit-building journey. This can help keep you accountable and motivated.
Celebrate your successes: When you reach a milestone or achieve a goal, take the time to celebrate and acknowledge your hard work.

Looking for a healthy habit to add to your routine? How about regular chiropractic care. Chiropractic adjustments may help keep your spine and nervous system functioning properly, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve overall well-being. By making care with us a regular part of your self-care routine, you might even help prevent future injuries.

The Connection Between Spinal Alignment and Mood

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 19:11:33 GMT

Many people are aware of the benefits of exercise, nutrition, and stress management for maintaining good mental health. But have you ever considered how spinal alignment may also be a crucial part of the puzzle?

As your chiropractor, we’re trained to diagnose and care for conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, including the spine. By correcting spinal misalignments, we aim to improve the function of the nervous system and restore the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

One of the ways in which spinal alignment may affect mental health is through its impact on the nervous system. This system is the body’s primary means of communication, and it is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spine is misaligned in certain ways, it may put pressure on the nerves, which can interfere with proper function. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including anxiety and irritability-especially when pain is present.

Adjustments may also help improve sleep quality, which is an important factor in maintaining good mental health. When the spine is misaligned, it can lead to discomfort and pain, which can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. By correcting spinal misalignments, chiropractors can help improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of sleep-related disorders.

It’s important to note that chiropractic care is not a cure for mental health conditions, but it may be an effective complementary way to improve symptoms and enhance overall well-being.

Book Your Visit

If you’re looking for a way to feel better naturally, we’re here for you whenever you’re ready. Give us a call to book an appointment and find out if chiropractic care is right for you.

Tips for Improving Foot Pain

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 21 Jan 2023 19:16:24 GMT

Whether it’s a sharp pain, dull ache, or burning sensation, foot pain can make it hard to walk, stand, or even sleep. If you’re experiencing foot pain, it’s important to understand the causes and take steps to improve it.

As something we see in the practice every day, we wanted to share a bit more on the common problem so that you can be sure to take the right steps to combat it yourself.

Understand the Causes: Foot pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, injury, and underlying medical conditions. Some common causes of foot pain include plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, tendinitis, and stress fractures. Understanding the cause of your foot pain can help you take the right steps to improve it. Unsure of the cause? We can help you get to the root of the issue.
Wear the right shoes: Wearing shoes that fit properly and provide proper support can help reduce the risk of foot pain. Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose, and opt for shoes that have a wide toe box and good arch support.
Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can put extra stress on the feet, which can lead to pain and discomfort. Losing weight can help reduce the pressure on the feet and improve overall foot health.
Strengthen your feet: Strengthening the muscles in your feet can help improve foot pain. You can do this by doing exercises such as toe curls, heel raises, and ankle rotations.
Stretch your feet: Stretching the muscles and tendons in your feet can help improve flexibility and reduce pain. Try stretching your toes, ankles, and calves.
Chiropractic care: Chiropractors may help alleviate foot pain by identifying the underlying cause of the pain. Our practice can also provide adjustments, massage and other therapeutic techniques to improve the function of the foot and reduce pain.
Ice and rest: Applying ice to the affected area and resting can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Orthotics: Custom orthotics may also help correct any structural imbalances that could be contributing to your foot pain.

It’s important to note that foot pain can be a sign of an underlying condition, and if pain persists or worsens, it’s important to seek the help of a qualified healthcare professional.

If you’d like to learn more about how chiropractic care could benefit you, we’d love to help. Book an appointment with us to get started.

Friluftsliving: No, That’s Not a Typo

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 19:32:26 GMT

With the New Year upon us, now’s a fantastic time to embrace new healthy habits. While it may be something that’s hard to say five-times-fast, friluftsliving is one such habit that nourishes your body and mind. This Nordic term means “open-air living.” It’s an activity where people choose to spend time outdoors and appreciate the beauty of nature.

This kind of lifestyle has many benefits, including improving physical and mental health, reducing stress levels, and increasing creativity. Here are some tips on how to make friluftsliving part of your New Year.

Plan Ahead

The key to making friluftsliving part of your regular routine is to plan ahead. Decide what activities you want to do outside, such as hiking, walking your dog, cross country skiing, you name it-as long as it’s outdoors. Then plan the details. Research trails or parks near you that have your preferred activities available, gather supplies and create a plan for when you will go out in nature. Having a clear idea of what you want to do will help ensure that you stick with it over time.

Bring Friends & Family

Going out in nature with friends and family can be a great way to increase motivation and enjoyment of outdoor activities. Having someone else along can help keep each other accountable for staying on track with your outdoor plans, plus it’s more fun! Spending quality time outdoors with those you love can improve relationships by creating shared experiences that strengthen bonds between individuals.

Stay Safe

No matter where you go or what activity you choose to do while friluftsliving, always remember safety first. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions and even consider bringing a first aid kit if necessary.

Of course another healthy habit to engage in is getting regular chiropractic care, which we’re always here to help with.

How Chiropractic Could Boost Your Athletic Performance

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 17 Dec 2022 19:38:07 GMT

Whether you want to shave a minute off your mile, add more steps to your day, improve your golf swing or have another performance goal, you want to stay at the top of your game and keep fit. Maximum performance requires athletes to keep their body in peak condition, and chiropractic care can be a valuable tool to help achieve that goal.

Injury Prevention and Recovery

One of the biggest benefits of chiropractic care for athletes is injury prevention and recovery. Regular visits to the chiropractor can help athletes identify potential weaknesses or areas of vulnerability before an injury occurs. Additionally, if an athlete does suffer an injury, getting treated by a chiropractor as soon as possible can reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation while helping promote faster healing times.

Improved Performance

Chiropractic adjustments can also improve athletic performance by improving range-of-motion issues that may be limiting an athlete’s ability to train effectively or compete at the highest level.

For example, professional golfers often use chiropractic care to increase flexibility and improve their swing mechanics. Professional runners have reported improved agility after receiving regular adjustments. Such improvements result in increased performance, whether on the field, fairway, or court.

Mental Health Benefits

Chiropractic care can also yield mental health benefits. That’s because regular spinal adjustments have been shown to reduce stress levels while increasing alertness and clarity of thought—all important factors for any athlete looking to stay on top of their game mentally as well as physically.

Discover how our natural care may help you be at your athletic best. Contact us today to book an appointment!

How Chiropractic Care Helps Improve Posture

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 19:42:35 GMT

Bad posture is more than just a cosmetic issue – it can lead to serious health problems. That’s where chiropractic care comes in. Regular adjustments may help improve how you stand and sit, which in turn can help alleviate back pain, headaches, and other issues caused by poor posture.

Here are a few other ways chiropractic could help you.

1. Adjustments can help align your spine.

One of the major causes of poor posture is a misaligned spine. When your spine is out of alignment, it puts strain on your muscles and ligaments, which can lead to pain and stiffness. Adjustments can help align your spine, which takes the pressure off of your muscles and ligaments and can help improve your posture.

2. Chiropractic care can help strengthen the muscles that support your spine.

When your spine is misaligned, proper muscle support weakens. Over time, this can lead to a severe loss of strength. Chiropractic care can help strengthen these muscles, which will help improve your posture.

3. Adjustments can release tension in the muscles that support your spine.

Are your muscles tense or tight often? Because adjustments are designed to restore alignment, that means your muscles won’t have to pull as hard to keep things in their correct position.

4. It may help improve your balance.

When your spine is out of alignment, it can cause you to lose your balance. Chiropractic care works to restore that balance, making it easier for you to stand or sit tall.

5. Chiropractic care can help improve your flexibility.

When your muscles are tight, they can restrict your range of motion and make it difficult to change positions. This can lead to mobility issues. Chiropractic addresses the root cause of the problem, allowing things to move easier within your body.

If you are struggling with poor posture, we’d love to help. Contact us today to learn more and get your appointment booked.

How to Beat Burnout for Good

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 19:46:44 GMT

We’ve all been there before. That feeling of being completely overwhelmed, exhausted, and just plain burnt out. Whether it’s from work, school, or life in general, burnout is something that can sneak up on us when we least expect it.

But what exactly is it? And how can we prevent it from happening in the first place?

Here’s everything you need to know about burnout, plus some tips on how to beat it for good.

What is Burnout?

Burnout is a state of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion. It can be caused by work, school, or any other stressful situation in life.

When you’re burnt out, you may feel like you can’t do anything right. You’re tired all the time, even if you’ve been sleeping for eight hours each night. You may have trouble concentrating or making decisions. And you may start to feel hopeless or cynical about your situation.

While stress is a normal response to a challenging situation and can be helpful in small doses, when stress becomes chronic, it can lead to burnout.

How to Prevent It

There are several things you can do to prevent burnout before it happens. First, it’s important to recognize the signs of stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or hopeless, take a step back and assess your situation.

It’s also important to set boundaries in your life. If work is starting to feel like it’s taking over, make sure to take some time for yourself each day to do something you enjoy. This can be something as simple as reading a book, going for a walk, visiting us for an adjustment, or taking a yoga class.

Finally, it’s important to ask for help when you need it. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to a friend or family member about what’s going on. They may be able to offer some helpful advice or just lend a listening ear.

If you feel like your body needs help combating stress, we’re here for you. Contact us today to book an appointment.

Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 19:48:41 GMT

As a parent, you want your child to be happy and healthy. But just like adults, sometimes, children can feel overwhelmed by stress or experience episodes of poor mental health.

If you’re noticing your child is going through a hard time or seems to be in a funk, here are some tips for supporting them:

1. Talk to your child about what is causing them stress. Help them identify their feelings and talk through solutions together.

2. Encourage healthy coping mechanisms like exercise, journaling, or deep breathing exercises.

3. Make sure your child is getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and spending time outdoors in nature.

4. If they’re feeling up for it, schedule time for a fun at-home activity like playing a game together, baking something homemade, putting on music for a dance party, or spending some time outdoors in nature, which has been shown to have an incredible positive effect on mental health.

5. Seek professional help if you are concerned about your child’s mental health. A children’s therapist can provide additional support and guidance.

By following these tips, you can help your child manage stress and improve their mental health. As always, our team is here for your entire family when it comes to helping the body better manage physical stress. Contact us today if it’s time for a spinal checkup-we’re ready and waiting to help.

Plantar Fasciitis: How to Overcome the Pain

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 16 Oct 2022 19:50:48 GMT

If you’ve ever experienced sharp, stabbing pain in your heel or arch of your foot, you may be suffering from a condition called plantar fasciitis. This condition is caused by the inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, from your heel to your toes. Plantar fasciitis is common, affecting millions of people around the world every year.

There are several things that can contribute to plantar fasciitis, such as:

Age – as we get older, our bodies start to break down and our tissues become less elastic. This can lead to the formation of tiny tears in the plantar fascia, which can cause pain and inflammation.
Obesity – carrying around extra weight puts additional strain on the plantar fascia, which can lead to plantar fasciitis.
Pregnancy – the added weight and hormonal changes of pregnancy can contribute to the condition.
Standing or walking for long periods of time – this repetitive stress on the feet can lead to the formation of tears in the plantar fascia.
Shoes – shoes that don’t provide adequate support or cushioning can put extra stress on the feet and lead to problems.

There are several common treatments for plantar fasciitis, such as:

Rest – resting your feet will help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Ice – applying ice to the affected area can also help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Stretching – stretching the muscles and tendons in the feet can help to loosen them up and reduce pain.
Orthotics – custom orthotic devices, such as arch supports or heel cups, can help to take pressure off of the plantar fascia and provide support.

Chiropractic care can also be an effective option for plantar fasciitis. As a chiropractor, we’re trained to identify problems within the musculoskeletal system, including the feet.

If you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis, consider visiting us for an appointment to find out how we may be able to help.

How to Boost Self-Esteem

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 19:59:58 GMT

Everyone has days when they don’t feel so great about themselves. Maybe you can’t stop thinking about why you didn’t get that promotion, or about that time that you got turned down for a date.

As your partner in natural health, we want you to know that it’s entirely normal to have ups and downs when it comes to how you’re feeling about yourself. The important thing is recognizing when you’re in a funk, and taking steps to pull yourself out of it.

Here are things you can try to boost your self-esteem when it starts to dip.

1. Spend time with people who make you feel good about yourself.

2. Do something that makes you feel accomplished, like learning a new skill or hobby.

3. Help someone else. Doing something nice for someone else can make you feel good about yourself, too.

4. Give yourself some credit. Don’t be so hard on yourself! Acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how big or small.

5. Get active. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting properties.

6. Dress to feel good about yourself. Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident.

7. Practice positive self-talk. Replace negative thoughts with positive ones. For example, instead of saying “I don’t like the way my body looks,” try “I’m working on taking care of my body by eating healthy and exercising.”

Boosting your self-esteem can take time and effort, but it’s worth it. Having a positive opinion of yourself can lead to better mental and overall health.

What to Expect Before and After Your First Adjustment

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:02:03 GMT

If you’ve never been to a chiropractor before, you may be wondering what to expect during your first visit. First off, we’d like to thank you for putting your health first and deciding to give chiropractic care a try! We bet you’re going to love the results, gentle techniques, and natural wellness.

Here are a few things you can expect before, during, and after your first visit with us.

Before your adjustment, we will ask you about your medical history and any current pain or symptoms you’re experiencing. This helps us best understand your problem areas and why you’re seeking care. We may also perform a physical examination to help us determine the best possible way to care for you.

Next comes your adjustment, which will be entirely custom to what your body needs. We’re proud to be able to utilize a variety of techniques dependent on what will work best for you. We want you to know that adjustments with us are entirely comfortable, gentle, and never forceful. If you’re nervous about receiving an adjustment, we’ll do our best to walk you through the entire process so there are never any surprises. While not everyone does, if you hear a ‘popping’ sound, that’s entirely normal. The goal of an adjustment is to restore balance and proper alignment to your spine.

After the adjustment, most people feel great! Some patients may feel soreness in the adjusted area, but this will likely dissipate over the coming hours and days. We hope you’ll notice that you feel more relaxed and have less muscle tension. We typically recommend making sure that you stay hydrated, as this is always beneficial for your health.

Ready to experience a chiropractic adjustment for yourself? We’d love to see you in the practice soon. Contact us today to get started!

How to Overcome Prolonged Stress

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 20:04:18 GMT

It’s safe to say that the past couple of years has brought the world more stress than we would have liked. While a certain amount of stress is normal, too much of it can overwhelm the body and our systems, which can result in feeling stuck in a fight-or-flight state.

Whether it’s the state of the world, heartbreak, or your own healing journey, we’d love to offer a few tips for overcoming periods of prolonged stress so that you can get back to living life to your full potential.

Pay attention to your inner dialogue. While negative emotions or thoughts can happen during times of stress, spiraling into constant thoughts of worst-case-scenarios can become crippling. Try to become aware of whether or not your internal dialogue is leaning negative. When you notice this, pause to breathe, listen, and replace the negativity with a positive spin.

Make self-care a priority. Take care of yourself physically by getting enough rest, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. This will help to improve your overall energy and mood, which can make it easier to cope with stressors in your life.

Seek inspiration. Sometimes, getting through times of stress takes a little outside help. Looking for inspiration from people you admire (both real and fictional) can help you connect with how they managed to persevere and overcome their own hurdles.

Show compassion to others. Some believe that what we put out into the world, we get back. By showing compassion to others during times of stress, you’re allowing (and inviting) others to reciprocate it to you.

Schedule a visit with us. We regularly see patients who feel like their body is stuck in a stressful state. Through focused, gentle chiropractic techniques, we’re often able to help restore balance and harmony to their body.

Tips for Eating Well and Wasting Less Food

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 20 Aug 2022 20:07:05 GMT

At Connors Chiropractic Health Center, we’re big believers in the power of food! After all, it’s something that fuels and heals our body. Unfortunately, something so powerful and important is also prone to wasting.

In the United States, it’s estimated that upwards of 30% of all food is thrown away each year. In Europe, households waste an estimated 6.7 million tonnes of food yearly. And country-wide in Australia, roughly $10.5 billion is spent on food items that are never consumed.

While those numbers might be staggering, there is good news. Becoming waste-conscious in regards to your food purchases can be easy with a few helpful tips.

Go to the supermarket more often. This will keep you from over-buying on one trip. When you go twice each week instead of once, you’ll be more conscious of what you still have in your refrigerator to eat as well as what else you’ll need to tide you over until next week.

Consider buying some organic frozen fruits or vegetables. While fresh produce is certainly ideal, frozen produce can offer similar benefits and be just as nutritious. And an added bonus-frozen foods won’t suddenly go bad on you, which means you’ll be tossing them less.

Freeze your leftovers. Have you ever made a really delicious meal that had plenty leftover to feed you the next day? Sometimes, life gets in the way and we forget to consume leftovers, which leads to waste. Instead of storing your leftovers in the fridge, freeze them in a freezer-safe container. You’ll have a longer period to enjoy them.

Keep your refrigerator organized by expiration date. Put foods closest to expiring at the front of the fridge. This can help stop foods from getting lost behind other items.

Do you have any other ways that you reduce food waste? Let us know in the comments!

Statistics courtesy of UNEp.org .

Ice VS. Heat: What to Use and When

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 20:10:02 GMT

Life is full of bumps and bruises. And if you’ve found yourself injured, there seems to be a lot of differing information online about whether or not you should be using heat or ice to help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

As your partner in health, we wanted to set the record straight.

Here are a few tips for choosing heat and ice when it comes to specific injuries.

Headaches: If you have a throbbing headache, instead of reaching for a pain reliever like ibuprofen, consider using a cool compress at the base of your skull and around your neck. If you’re dealing with a tension headache, choose a warm compress around your neck to help relax tight muscles. Suffer from frequent headaches? Book a visit with us.

New Injuries (less than six weeks old): Ice is usually the winner when it comes to new injuries. That’s because ice may help constrict blood vessels, which lowers pain and inflammation. Heat, on the other hand, may increase inflammation in new injuries.

Chronic Injuries (older than six weeks): Choose a heating pad for lingering injuries as the warmth may help promote circulation and relax tight muscles, which can relieve stiff joints and offer relief.

Strains or Sprains: Using both heat and ice can be beneficial. Immediately after a strain or sprain, choose ice to help reduce swelling and inflammation. When inflammation has gone down, use heat to help relieve muscle stiffness.

Need More Help?

We’re always here for you. If you’re dealing with a new or chronic injury, consider booking a visit with our practice to find out if natural, gentle chiropractic adjustments could help. We’d love to welcome you into the practice!

How to Naturally Boost Your Mood and Energy

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 24 Jul 2022 20:12:44 GMT

Feel like you’ve been stuck in a slump that you haven’t been able to break out of? You’re not alone. In fact, it’s common for mood and energy levels to ebb and flow. Knowing a few ‘happiness hacks’ to help break the cycle could make all the difference.

Give these tips and tricks a try!

Reset your circadian rhythm. Get your body’s clock back on track by waking up with the sun. When you expose yourself to sunlight early in the day, your body will produce serotonin for a longer period of time. Give this a try for two weeks and see if you notice a difference.

Stretch when you wake up. Now that you’re getting up with the sun, do some light stretches in the morning to help your body wake up. Stretching can help get your circulation going, reduce muscle tension that may have happened during sleep, and relieve stiffness.

Keep your workspace smelling good. Scents can be a powerful mood booster. For feelings of calm, choose lavender or jasmine. For relaxing scents, choose vanilla or sage. If you’re looking for energizing scents, go for grapefruit or lemon. Candles or essential oils are great ways to get more scents into your space.

Unplug from social media. It can happen without even realizing it-suddenly, you find yourself scrolling endlessly through Facebook or Instagram. Consider doing a social media pause to reduce the amount of negativity you’re taking into your brain. Replace the habit of scrolling with a new book, journaling, or DIY project.

Spend time outdoors. There’s a reason that Vitamin D is sometimes called the ‘sunshine’ vitamin. Spending time in the sun can be a natural mood booster-just make sure you also wear sunscreen.

Looking for more ways to improve your mood and energy levels? Visit our practice to learn more about how gentle chiropractic adjustments may help.

Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Crack Your Own Back

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 20:22:44 GMT

Have you ever stood up after you got out of bed in the morning, stretched your arms, and then turned side to side to crack your back?

If so, you’re probably not alone. But that doesn’t mean it’s a habit you should continue with.

As your partner in spinal health, we want your back to be happy, healthy, and free of chronic issues like pain. But adjusting your own spine is something you should leave to us-and here’s why.

Your spine is complex. In fact, it’s so complex that chiropractors undergo thousands of hours of training to be able to provide you with the care that your body needs. The spine is fragile, and let’s face it, you only get one!

You could damage your nerves. Between each of your 33 spinal bones pass a network of nerves that help your brain communicate with the rest of your body. Imagine letting an untrained friend, or even yourself, move your bones forcefully without proper training or knowledge-it could wreak havoc on your nervous system or even cause damage.

You’re likely not adjusting the area that needs it. When a chiropractor examines your spine and body, they find the areas of subluxation and work to correct the problem. Sometimes (quite often, in fact), the area that hurts isn’t actually the area where the problem lies. So, if you twist to crack your spine because your lower back hurts, the issue could be somewhere else, which means you’re doing more harm than good.

If you’re dealing with back pain, let us help. Reduce your risk of limited mobility, muscle tears, injury, and more by seeing a trained professional for your chiropractic care instead of going the do-it-yourself route.

We look forward to getting to know you and welcoming you into the practice.

5 Steps for Starting a Plant-Based Diet

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 20:26:09 GMT

Contrary to popular belief, most diets don’t come with a “one size fits all” model to follow. Instead, crafting a way of eating for you and your family all depends on one thing: What works best for your needs.

Whether you want to consume less meat and more veggies, or are ready to make a drastic change in your diet, here are a few tips for incorporating more plant-based foods into your day so that you can set yourself up for success.

Determine your “why”. Doing this will help you stay on track during those moments where you may feel compelled to slip into old habits. Common reasons for going plant-based include the want to incorporate healthier options into your day or eating more sustainably.

Map out your current diet. Over the course of a few days, write down everything you eat so that you can see what your current habits are, as well as preferences or trends.

Notice where you can make changes. The key here is to focus on things that are realistic. Starting to go plant-based is a process, and it’s not one that has to happen over night. Instead, look at your current diet and identify animal products that you can swap out easily for other options. For example, if you usually have toast with butter in the mornings, swap the butter for a butter alternative.

Build out your recipe collection. This is the fun part! Join online groups for inspiration, or ask friends for their favorite plant-based meals. It may even be worth purchasing a new cookbook. You’ll learn a lot in this part of your journey, like how easy it is to switch out lentils for taco meat, or jackfruit for pulled pork.

Time to go shopping. Keeping your pantry stocked with shelf stable plant-based foods is important. Things like canned lentils, pastas, and beans as well as frozen veggies are great staples to keep on hand.

Looking for more information on what you can do to improve your health naturally? Ask us at your next appointment-we look forward to seeing you in the practice soon.

Spice Up Your Salad With This Delicious Green

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 20:29:01 GMT

It’s no secret that leafy vegetables are packed full of nutrients that help keep our bodies well. While popular picks like spinach and kale get most of the air-time, there’s another leafy green that deserves just as much attention-arugula!

Arugula is a bitter leafy green, also known as rucola and Italian cress. It’s a cruciferous veggie just like broccoli and collard greens.

Unlike the more popular (and tamely tasting) salad bases like romaine, butter lettuce, or spinach and kale, arugula has more of a kick to it, with many describing it as peppery and a little spicy.

Here are some of the nutrients arugula is high in:

Folate – This nutrient helps to keep cells healthy and optimally functioning.

Magnesium – Plays an important role in calming your nervous system in addition to supporting heart health.

Fiber – In need of balancing your blood sugar? Fiber is the ticket, and it’s also great for helping to support gut health and removing toxins from the body.

Vitamin A – Helps support healthy skin, eyes, and reproductive health.

Calcium – Maintains strong and healthy bones as well as keeps your muscles and nerves working adequately.

The next time you’re in the mood for a salad or sandwich, consider tossing some arugula into the mix.

Looking for More Ways to Add Health Benefits to Your Day?

Consider booking a visit with our practice. We’ll discuss your health goals and come up with a plan to help you achieve them through natural, gentle chiropractic adjustments. We look forward to welcoming you into the practice soon.

The Best Time of Day to Walk

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 29 May 2022 20:31:03 GMT

Getting outside and into the fresh air for a period of time every day is something we should all strive to do. There’s just something refreshing about soaking up warm sunlight, a light breeze, and crisp, fresh air.

If you already walk daily, you’re on the right path! But according to science, there’s a specific time each day that provides the most benefit from walking.

It’s morning!

That’s because our bodies rely on light for timekeeping. Getting light into our eyes and onto our skin within an hour of waking up each day helps to keep our circadian rhythms balanced and healthy. Upon waking each morning, your body’s light sensitivity is extremely low, so getting outside for just ten minutes can give your brain the blast of brightness that it needs to get into the rhythm of your day.

In fact, how we spend the first hour after waking up can play a big role on how we’ll sleep that night.

By getting morning light into our eyes, it helps our bodies slow the production of melatonin, which is a hormone that helps us fall asleep at night. If we wake up slowly, and, for example, stay in a dark bedroom for an hour after waking up, our melatonin levels can be thrown off.

That’s why getting outside is so important. In addition to helping our bodies get moving, cortisol will also begin coursing through our veins, providing energy we need for the day.

So, the next time you wake up, make it a goal to get outside and walk for just ten minutes to let the sun wake you up naturally (without sunglasses unless you have a medical condition requiring them).

Let us know if you notice any differences the next time you visit our practice. We can’t wait to hear about your experience!

How to Beat Headaches: Prevention Tips

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 07 May 2022 20:36:53 GMT

Did you know that 50-75% of adults experience at least one headache each year? Among those, roughly 30% have reported migraines. And as many as 4% of the world’s population are afflicted with headaches for 15 or more days every single month.

While most people focus on treating headaches after they happen, we’d like to offer some preventative tips to help you stop headaches from starting in the first place. In fact, we’ve helped many patients overcome headaches and migraines naturally through focused and gentle chiropractic care.

Here are a few tips for beating some of the most common types of headaches.

Cluster headaches: One of the most painful types of headaches, a cluster headache is typically felt on one side of the head near the eyes and lasts anywhere between 30 – 90 minutes on average. If you’re prone to cluster headaches, potential triggers may include bright lights, foods with nitrates like deli meats, a sudden altitude change, and alcohol or smoking. Try avoiding these triggers to see if your headaches improve.

Tension headaches: This type of headache doesn’t always throb, but instead feels like tightness or tenderness in the head and neck. To prevent a tension headache, take note of what you did just before the headache occurred. Sometimes, stress is a trigger, so practicing mindfulness or breathing exercises regularly may help.

Migraine headaches: Most research around migraine headaches points to environmental triggers, hormones, and genetics as the main culprits. Making sure you stay hydrated, avoid foods high in salt, and stick to a regular sleep schedule may help lessen their frequency. Other triggers may include bright fluorescent lights and strong smells.

Get Help Today

Suffer from headaches? We’re here for you. Contact our team today to book an appointment and put head pain behind you.

5 Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 20:41:53 GMT

Did you know that the shoulder is one of the biggest and most complex joints in the human body?

While a traumatic event or injury is typically the culprit of sudden shoulder pain, there are many other causes that can lead to tension and mobility issues.

Here are a few of the most common issues we see in the practice.

1. Rotator cuff injuries. This type of problem doesn’t always come from sudden trauma. In fact, years of wear and tear can lead to eventual rotator cuff tears. They typically occur in the dominant arm and are more common as you age.

2. Bursitis. All over your body, you have thin, sac-like structures called bursae, which helps to keep soft tissues from rubbing against your bones. Sometimes, bursa can experience too much friction, which leads to inflammation and ultimately, pain.

3. Arthritis. This can occur in any joint in the body. When a person experiences shoulder pain without a known injury, it may be caused by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Frozen shoulder. Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this type of pain happens when the tissue surrounding the shoulder becomes tightened, which restricts movement and makes function difficult.

5. Spine problems. That pain you feel in your shoulder may not actually be caused by a problem in your shoulder. Herniated discs and misaligned spinal bones can cause pain to occur in the arms, hands, and even shoulder.

At our practice, we often work with patients struggling with shoulder pain through natural, gentle adjustments. If you’re interested in finding out more about how chiropractic care may help, contact us today.

When to See a Chiropractor for Neck Pain

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 20:46:49 GMT

A stiff neck is always cause for concern, though often, pain and discomfort subsides in a few days depending on the root cause of the issue.

If regular neck pain is a part of your life, or if you’re experiencing any of the following, we’d love to see you in the practice to determine if we can help!

If neck pain is hanging around for more than a few days, it’s a good idea to book an appointment with us. When an accident is to blame, it’s always important to get evaluated by a medical professional to rule out anything serious.
When you’re waking up with neck pain that seems to get better by the end of the day, it could be a sign of improper sleep posture or even teeth grinding. Nighttime clenching of the jaw can work its way into your neck and shoulders.
Do you find yourself reaching for frequent over-the-counter pain medication to manage neck pain? If so, we’ll help identify the root cause of the issue so that you can resolve it at its source to break the cycle of medication reliance.
Look to the left, and then to the right. Do you feel a sharp pain when making those movements? If so, get evaluated.
Have you noticed your neck pain spread to other parts of your body? For example, sometimes pain can start in the neck, and then slowly turn into tingling in other parts of the body, like your arms or fingers.
When daily tasks start becoming an issue due to the pain you’re experiencing, it can cause new emotional and physical stress. Getting help now before the issue becomes more serious is always a good idea.

Whether you’re dealing with neck pain or another chronic issue, we’re here for you. Contact us today to book a visit.

The Best Exercises for Seniors

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 26 Mar 2022 20:49:46 GMT

At Connors Chiropractic Health Center, we love welcoming patients of all walks of life, especially our beloved seniors! In fact, helping older patients feel better and continue to enjoy moving freely and participating in the activities they love is one of our favorite parts about doing what we do.

As your partner in health, we want to ensure you stay active for years to come. After all, activity equals independence! One of the best ways to do that is to exercise regularly.

Here are a few of the best exercises for seniors.

Resistance bands. You’ve probably seen or used resistance bands at some point during your life. They’re long, rubbery, and stretchy, with different levels of resistance for whatever kind of workout you’re seeking. You can use resistance bands from the comfort of your own home and to work on strengthening various body parts including the core, which is critical for maintaining good balance and posture as you age.

Chair yoga. This low-impact exercise involves the same movements you’d find in a typical yoga class but modified to take place in a seated position. This means it’s more accessible for people of all ages, and is less stress on arthritic bones, muscles, and joints. Ask your local yoga studio if they offer classes or discover beginner videos on YouTube.

Water aerobics. Growing in popularity now more than ever, water aerobics offers people the ability to get a full body workout without the added stress on their joints due to buoyancy. In the water, you can work on improving strength, flexibility, and even balance. If you have a pool or a local gym with a pool, try running on the spot in the shallow end, or hanging onto the side of the pool while you extend your legs backwards and kick.

Have other questions about exercise? We’d be happy to answer them at your next appointment.

6 Things That Happen When You Sit Too Often

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 20:53:40 GMT

In the past, you may have heard us reference the saying, “Sitting is the new smoking.” While it might be hard to believe that simply spending too much time in a seated position can possibly damage your body as much as tobacco does, it’s entirely true.

Here are six different effects of over-sitting.

1. Your metabolism can slow down. Decreased muscle use can lead to a slower clearance of fat from the body and decrease the effects of insulin.

2. It can lead to chronic pain. Sitting for too long, especially at a desk, can cause excess pressure on certain parts of the body, like the lower back.

3. You’ll have less energy. Sitting too much means moving less. Movement, like going for a brisk 20-minute walk, can up our energy levels quickly.

4. It can increase your risk of heart disease. Leading a sedentary lifestyle is tied with a higher risk of heart problems, among other issues.

5. Our mental health suffers. In fact, studies have indicated that sitting indoors and communicating with others strictly online can reduce social skills and affect psychological well-being.

6. Your posture becomes compromised. More pressure is put on lumbar discs when sitting instead of being distributed equally. This causes the pelvis to rotate backward, which can sometimes lead to our head moving forward.

Your body was made to move. If movement has become difficult for you, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more about how gentle chiropractic adjustments may help restore function to your daily life.

Takeout Tips: Order This, Not That

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 27 Feb 2022 21:08:08 GMT

Who doesn’t love a night off from cooking? Ordering take-out is fun (and delicious) for the whole family, but oftentimes, we give in to our guilty pleasures and don’t always opt for the healthiest menu items.

But we’ve got good news. You CAN have the best of both worlds by changing up your normal food selections and swapping them for more health-conscious items.

Here are some tips.

Italian : Did someone say pizza? We’re already drooling. Make your pizza healthier by opting for thin crust when it’s an option. You might even have the option to choose a cauliflower or gluten-free crust. When it comes to pasta, tomato-based sauces typically have less saturated fat than creamy options like carbonara.

Mexican : Craving tacos? Skip the sour cream. We promise it will still taste good. If you’re choosing beans as a side, go for whole beans over refried beans. Refried beans are sometimes made with added lard. If you love burritos, opt for a veggie bowl instead—it has nearly all of the same ingredients as a burrito with the benefits of added veggies, minus the tortilla.

Thai : Spring rolls are yummy, but they’re usually fried. Choose summer rolls instead as they’re steamed and packed full of veggies. If it’s on the menu, give a green papaya salad a try for something unique!

Chinese : Many Chinese take-out dishes come with a side of rice. Instead of choosing white, go for brown, which has more fiber and micronutrients. You’ll likely see that many meat (and maybe even veggie) options on the menu are fried. Choose a steamed option instead, with any sauce on the side.

American : Regular burgers are often loaded with saturated fat. Instead, give a black bean or veggie burger a try. You can still add your favorite toppings, like lettuce, onion and tomatoes. While we can’t tell you French fries are healthy, choosing sweet potato fries over those made with russet potatoes do offer more nutrients. Craving a bowl full of comfort? Typically, broth-based soups are healthier than those made with a cream base.

6 Tips for Improving Your Posture

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 21:17:44 GMT

“Stop slouching-sit up straight.” You likely heard your mother say something similar growing up. Your well-meaning mother was right. Not only does proper posture look more attractive, but it’s also better for your body. When you have good posture, you’re likely to have a better mental outlook, experience less pain and have more confidence.

Causes of poor posture include:

Toting too much body weight
Lack of muscle tone
Sitting for lengthy periods
Using improper form when walking or exercising
Prolonged time on digital devices
Sleeping in the wrong position

The good news is there are many things you can do to perfect your posture. Here are some tips.

#1. Engage in posture exercises.

While any type of exercise may help improve posture, specific posture exercises can help you stand a little taller. You can also develop more strength, balance and flexibility in your body.

#2. Set up an ergonomic workstation.

Sit in a chair with a straight back, and keep your feet flat on the floor. You should also consider using an adjustable standing desk that allows you to alternate between sitting and standing throughout your workday.

#3. Strengthen your core.

Your core muscles affect your ability to maintain proper posture. A strong core can help you maintain better posture. Pilates, yoga and core fitness exercises programs target the core, which can help improve your posture.

#4. Avoid tech neck .

Whether you’re streaming your favorite show on your tablet or texting a friend on your smartphone, having your head in a downward position can lead to neck problems and poor posture. It’s a good idea to raise your screen higher, hold your head up and keep your phone at eye level, and take breaks often.

#5. Mind your mattress and sleep position.

Choose a firm mattress that provides good support to your spine, and avoid sleeping on your stomach. By lying on your side or back, your spine will be in a neutral position.

#6. Get adjusted.

Chiropractors can correct poor posture, such as forward head translation or slouching, and realign your spine. Regular adjustments could help you maintain proper posture.

5 Easy Ways to Get More Veggies in Your Diet

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 21:23:58 GMT

Rich in vital nutrients, vegetables are plant powerhouses full of health-promoting properties. It’s no wonder we’re encouraged to eat more vegetables. But what if you’re not a fan? Or perhaps you have a family of picky eaters who consider French fries their veggie of choice. Here are some simple ways to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

#1. Hide them.

It’s a snap to be sneaky when it comes to adding more veggies to your diet. Seeking to eat more greens? Add some kale or spinach to a berry smoothie. You’ll likely taste more of the berries versus the greens. You can also add shaved zucchini or carrots to casseroles. Sweet tooth? Avocado or sweet potatoes can be added to a healthy muffin recipe. Like marinara sauce? Consider adding onions, green peppers or carrots.

#2. Rebrand.

A plate of naked green beans is unlikely to get many takers. But what if those were called “sweet and spicy green beans”? Carrot sticks-boring. Instead, how about “citrus and honey-glazed carrots”? By describing vegetables using deliciously descriptive language, eating vegetables is something you and your family may actually look forward to.

#3. Snack smarter.

It’s easy to pack on the pounds by mindlessly munching on chips and other nutritionally vacant snacks. Instead, consider baby carrots or cherry tomatoes and hummus, or baked kale or Brussels sprout chips.

#4. Choose convenience.

If you’re like most busy people, you don’t want to spend lots of time in the kitchen chopping or dicing vegetables. Instead, select pre-chopped vegetables at the supermarket or zoodles (zucchini noodles) which are a fantastic and nutritious alternative to pasta.

#5. Make soup the star.

One of the easiest ways to incorporate more vegetables into your diet is with veggie soup. Short on time? Use mixed frozen vegetables or canned beans. Like spice? Add some cayenne, jalapeños, or paprika to the pot. Another benefit of vegetable soup is its high in nutrients, but low in calories. You’ll also feel full due to the fiber content, so eating more vegetable soup may help you love your scale.

Are You Low on This Crucial Carbohydrate?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 21:32:37 GMT

If you’re feeling sluggish often, there may be more behind it than just a poor night of sleep. While fiber is an important part of our diets, many adults don’t get enough each day.

Fiber is categorized as a carbohydrate, though it’s different from most and cannot be digested. This allows it to pass through the body and help regulate the use of sugars, which keeps our blood sugar and hunger balanced.

Are you low on fiber? Here are a few common signs.

1. Your cholesterol is higher than normal. Healthy fiber intake means cholesterol is moved out of your system before it can clog the arteries. In a review by the British Medical Journal, it was discovered that for every 7 grams of fiber eaten daily, the risk of heart disease dropped by 9%.

2. You’re always hungry. When you don’t get enough fiber in your diet, you may feel hungry quicker than you would if you ate a fiber rich meal. One reason for this is because your stomach empties more slowly after a high fiber meal.

3. You’re struggling to lose weight. Without adequate fiber intake, you won’t feel as full and may end up eating more food sooner than you should.

4. You’re constipated. Because fiber absorbs water, one of its benefits is producing softer stools, making it easier to go to the bathroom. Get more fiber into your diet by adding beans, broccoli, berries, and avocados to your meals.

As your partner in health, we always want you to feel your best. Let us know if there’s anything else we can help you with naturally the next time we see you.

Is Stress Causing Your Back Pain?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 25 Dec 2021 21:36:27 GMT

Every day, we see patients in the practice who are stressed. Whether it’s physical, emotional, or chemical stress building up in your body, one thing is certain: too much of it isn’t helping your chronic or acute pain. In fact, it could be making it worse.

How?

Stress and pain go hand in hand. When you’re dealing with pain, a certain level of anxiety typically pops up surrounding the injury. When it’s not addressed, pain continues and so does stress. As more pain and more stress builds in the body, it can begin to affect your daily life and activities.

Here’s a deeper look at the cycle of pain:

Phase 1: You become limited in certain functions of day-to-day life and leisure activities.

Phase 2: Fear builds surrounding the decrease in activities

Phase 3: Limitations and less movement can lead to weakened muscles, ultimately causing more pain. This can start the cycle over.

To break the cycle and limit the stress you’re experiencing, try these things:

1. Fuel your body with food that nourishes from the inside out. This means eating whole grains, healthy fats, and limiting sugar and excess carbohydrates.

2. Do some form of exercise for at least 30 minutes each day (unless you’re in severe pain). Exercise lowers the stress hormones in your body over time, and may improve your quality of sleep.

3. Visit us. We’re here to help address this very concern and have the necessary knowledge and tools to restore function and wellness to your spine.

Tips for Practicing Mindfulness This Holiday Season

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 21:41:02 GMT

This time of year, things can spin out of control quickly, triggering stress and other unpleasantries. As your partner in natural health, we wanted to offer some tips for how to stay grounded and present as 2021 comes to a close.

Give these mindfulness tips and tricks a try and let us know how they worked for you!

1. Focus on the small stuff. One of the biggest parts of mindfulness is heightening your awareness. You can ease into this by focusing on the small stuff first. Do this by closely sensing the coldness of your first sip of water each morning. You can also try this at mealtime. Focus on the flavor of each individual bite throughout your breakfast, lunch or dinner.

2. You don’t have to give up an hour of your day. While some people practice meditation or mindfulness activities for 60 minutes or longer each day, don’t worry, you don’t have to. Instead, find a window of time that works for you. This could be 60 seconds, five minutes, or longer. The key is to do this as a part of a routine. Whatever amount of time you choose for your daily mindfulness, practice it each day at the same time.

3. Mindfulness doesn’t have to mean sitting down. For some, it might, but for others, practice mindfulness wherever you feel most motivated to do so. That may be outside on your evening walk, gardening, or through breathing exercises.

4. Don’t be hard on yourself if you forget to practice mindfulness daily. In fact, forgiving yourself is an act of self-compassion, which research suggests improves our wellbeing.

If you’re struggling to find balance this holiday season, we’re here for you. Contact our practice for a gentle, focused adjustment.

Five Ways You Can Improve Range of Motion

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 21:42:56 GMT

If you aren’t moving…you aren’t living! At our practice, we believe that movement is life, yet for so many people today, moving is difficult due to decreased range of motion.

When range of motion is inhibited, it’s common to experience pain and discomfort which may lead to overcompensation in other body parts as they try to pick up the slack, beginning a cycle of dysfunction.

Instead of dealing with poor range of motion and the pain it can bring, here are a few different ideas for getting back to proper movement.

1. Don’t let stress get out of control. It’s no secret that stress can cause problems in the body, but did you know it can also keep muscles tense, limiting movement? If you’re feeling stressed before exercising, try some breathing exercises to calm your body so that you don’t go into your workout with already tight muscles.

2. After working out, remember to stretch the muscles you just used. Spend at least 10 minutes doing light to moderate stretching after exercising.

3. Stay hydrated. When your body and muscles don’t get enough water, a variety of health problems can occur—especially relating to tightness and cramps, which can further restrict range of motion.

4. Consider getting a massage. Massage helps to relax tense and tight areas, while promoting circulation that may help with healing.

5. Visit us for an evaluation. We’ve helped numerous patients just like yourself move easier and better with a focused, gentle chiropractic care plan. We’d love to learn more about your goals and help you understand the benefits of adjustments firsthand. Contact us today to learn more.

5 Different Kinds of Headaches…and How to Help Them

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 22:42:44 GMT

When it comes to managing headaches, you have other options than just popping pain pills. But first, it’s important to figure out what type of headache you’re suffering from.

With over 150 headache possibilities (yes, we said 150!), we break down a few of the most common below to help you better understand their causes.

Rebound headaches. Have you ever reached for aspirin or ibuprofen to treat a headache, only to have the headache return once the pain killer wears off? You may be dealing with a rebound headache, which can be caused by medication overuse.

Sinus headaches. These types of headaches occur when you’re dealing with a sinus infection or sinus inflammation. A sinus headache may be accompanied by other symptoms like fever, stuffy or runny nose with green discharge, and facial pressure.

Migraine headaches. These types of headaches are typically intense and can last for up to three days at a time. Migraines may be one-sided and be so severe that they interfere with your daily activities, bringing associated symptoms like vomiting, light sensitivity and sound sensitivity. Triggers like poor sleep or diet and hormonal changes may cause them to occur.

Caffeine headaches. While you might love coffee, it can leave you feeling worse for wear when the caffeine leaves your system. Caffeine withdrawal is real, and when it happens to you, headache is a common symptom. Caffeine withdrawal headaches typically happen for people who drink a lot of caffeine, as in more than five cups of coffee each day.

Tension headaches. These kinds of headaches are the most common type of headache experienced today, and typically feel like a constant ache in the head. Some people describe it as a pressure in the neck or back of the head. Unlike migraines, they typically do not have nausea or vomiting. Tension headaches may be caused by stress response and chemical changes in the brain.

Do you suffer from regular headaches? We’d love to help. Contact our team to learn more about focused, gentle chiropractic care and discover why so many people just like you have visited us for headache and migraine care.

We look forward to welcoming you into the practice.

Improving Your Gut Health Naturally

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 22:46:00 GMT

Did you know that you have a second nervous system in your gut? Called the enteric nervous system, this network of nerves extends from your esophagus all the way down through your stomach and intestines. It’s so important, it’s often referred to as a second brain.

While many people only associate the spine with your nervous system, we want to help patients understand the importance of proper gut health and what you can do to encourage an optimally functioning enteric system naturally.

Eat more whole grains. Foods like oats, bulger, and barley have fiber that helps the intestines with digestion and keeps things moving properly. Eating these types of foods has also been shown to raise the number of good bacteria in the gut, which is crucial for proper function.

Practice proper oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth each day and night, as well as sticking to your regularly scheduled dental checkups is critical for a healthy gut. Why? Poor oral health can lead to unhealthy bacteria in the mouth, which can actually infiltrate the gut.

Eat dark chocolate…seriously. In case you were looking for a reason to consume more of your favorite candy, we’ll give you one. Dark chocolate is rich in fiber as well as polyphenols, which microbes in the gut use as fuel. Dark chocolate is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Spice up your life. Adding spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic to your breakfasts, lunches or dinners may help stop unhealthy gut bacteria from growing.

Cut artificial sweeteners. Some research suggests that they can increase blood sugar levels and have an overall negative impact on the microbiome in your gut.*

Feel like your nervous system is out of balance? Schedule a checkup with us to restore proper function. We look forward to seeing you in the practice soon for a focused, gentle adjustment.

*Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4615743/

Why Are My Muscles Sore After I Work Out?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 22:53:49 GMT

Exercise is an important part of a healthy life. But can something so good for you be painful? For some people, yes. But don’t worry—it’s entirely normal to be sore after a new workout.

Delayed onset muscle soreness, also known as DOMS, can happen after a workout and cause sore muscles that may reduce your range of motion for up to two days. While you may be slightly uncomfortable, it’s actually a positive sign that your muscles are working properly and getting used to your new activity or exercise.

DOMS occurs with resistance training and is a result of micro-tears in muscles, which leads to more blood flow and inflammation. This can bring light swelling that triggers your pain receptors.

However, this is only temporary. As your muscle recovers, it’s able to eventually handle heavier and heavier loads, making you stronger.

Reducing Muscle Soreness

Even though sore muscles and working out go hand in hand, there are steps you can take to reduce your discomfort as your body recovers from a new workout.

Although you may not have guessed it, MORE exercise helps to relieve DOMS. However, make sure it’s something gentle like light cardio or yoga a day or so after your DOMS inducing exercise.
Warm up your muscles for five minutes longer than you usually do before your next workout.
Stay hydrated! It’s important to drink plenty of water on days you work out and days you don’t.
Give each muscle group adequate time to recover. There’s no need to work out your legs several days in a row. Instead, focus on legs one day, followed by shoulders, then core.

Want to give your body an even bigger boost for combating muscle soreness and performing optimally? Contact our practice to book an appointment for a chiropractic adjustment. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Technology: A Real Pain in the Neck

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 25 Sep 2021 22:56:22 GMT

Sure, you might call work related emails in the middle of the night a “pain in your neck.” But for some people, they cause a literal pain in the neck. Enter: Tech neck.

Tech neck, sometimes called text neck, is a new-age problem that involves poor posture when using technology, typically phones, tablets and computers.

If you spend hours of your day hunched over a screen or sitting behind a desk, this blog is for you.

How Tech Neck Happens

Usually, supporting the weight of your head is no problem for your shoulders and neck. However, when you throw an ergonomically incorrect chair into the mix as your head tilts down while you type an email, the load on your neck can more than quadruple—in other words, it’s like having multiple bowling balls on your neck at once!

How to Correct Your Posture

The best way to combat tech neck is to correct your posture—and not just standing posture. How you sit when you’re browsing the web or working at a desk is incredibly important to your spinal health.

Step 1: Keep your device at eye level instead of looking down. This may mean that you need to raise or lower your computer monitor as well as adjust the height of your chair.

Step 2: Make sure your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle when seated and that your feet are planted firmly on the floor in front of you.

Step 3: Give yourself a break. Every hour, stand up and move around to loosen your muscles and avoid unnecessary tension. This will help your neck and spine relax, and give your eye muscles a break from the screen.

If you’re struggling with neck pain, we’re here to help. We’ll make sure your spine and neck are in proper alignment with a focused, custom chiropractic adjustment. Call us today to make your appointment.

Core Exercises to Strengthen Your Back

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 22:58:30 GMT

Did you know that a weak core is often a cause of back pain and problems? Your abdominal muscles are actually the front anchor of your spine, and when they’re weak, the muscles in your back have to work extra hard to provide the support it needs to function and stay in proper alignment. As you can guess, when muscles work overtime, injury can happen!

Do you work out your core muscles? If not, here are a few easy ideas to add to your exercise routine.

1. Side bridge. While laying on your side, prop yourself up onto your forearm (which should be kept directly below your shoulder. Your top foot should rest on the ground in front of your bottom foot. While maintaining the natural curve of your spine, lift your hips off the ground and hold the pose for 10 seconds. Repeat a few times on each side.

2. Reach and kick. Place your hands and knees on the floor as if you were in a table top position. Your knees should be directly under your hips, and your hands under your shoulders. Kick one leg back in a straight position, and with the opposite arm, reach forward. Squeeze your shoulders. Retract your limbs slowly and repeat evenly on both sides.

3. Superman. While lying face down on your stomach, reach your arms out in front of you and lift. At the same time, lift your legs up. Hold the pose for a few seconds and repeat.

Looking for Another Back Boost?

We’re here when you need us. We regularly work with patients to devise custom care plans that include adjustments, focused exercises and stretching to help their spine work optimally. Schedule a visit with us today to get started.

Blood Flow Boosting Foods

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 23:00:58 GMT

It’s no secret that proper blood flow is essential to the overall health and function of our body. But how can it be improved? One of the best (and most natural ways) to do so is through nutrition.

If you feel like your circulation could use a boost, consider adding these healthy foods to your diet—or eating more of them without going overboard—and see if you notice a difference.

1. Omega-3s. Fish aren’t the only way to ensure you’re getting Omega-3s into your diet. Protect the lining of your blood vessels with chia seeds and nuts in addition to fish like salmon.

2. Leafy greens. Did you know that leafy greens are good for blood vessel health? Things like arugula, brussels sprouts and broccoli make great sides with dinner.

3. Beets. The benefits of beets have long been studied. Some research even ties fresh beet juice to a reduction in blood pressure. Add beets to your next salad or sandwich!

4. Green tea. A study by the Chiba Hokusoh Hospital in Japan found that green tea intake was related to a lower risk of developing coronary artery disease. Green tea also makes a great pick-me-up during your midday slump.

5. Dark chocolate. No, we’re not kidding! Dark chocolate contains polyphenols that work to mobilize stem cells, which may aid in circulation.

Want to give your circulation and body an even bigger boost? Schedule a visit with our team and learn more about the power of natural chiropractic care. We look forward to welcoming you into the practice soon.

Battling Brain Fog? Here’s How to Beat It

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 23:04:59 GMT

While sleeping on a cloud sounds idyllic, waking up with a cloudy feeling in your head just doesn’t sound as pleasant.

Every day, people battle brain fog—a funny feeling in the head that can be different for everyone, with common symptoms being pressure, slow thinking, confusion, forgetfulness, fatigue or headaches.

If you’re one of the many people who deal with this regularly, you’re not alone. Here are a few tips for turning brain fog into a clear head.

1. Recognize your triggers. Think about what may be causing you to experience brain fog. Do you notice that the following morning after a heavy meal you feel cloudy? Can you tie how you’re feeling to a stressful experience? When you experience brain fog, keep notes on what you did or ate in the previous 24 hours. Eventually, you may discover a common culprit.

2. Get better sleep. This doesn’t necessarily mean you should spend more hours in bed, but aim for improved quality. Improve sleep quality by minimizing electronic use before bedtime, cutting caffeine at least four hours before slumber, and foregoing that midnight snack.

3. Look at your medications. If you’re experiencing brain fog that’s regular but new, think about whether or not you’ve recently started any medications. If so, speak with your doctor about the connection between your prescription and brain fog.

4. Watch your food intake. Foods that contain MSG, aspartame, and even peanuts or dairy may be linked to brain fog if you’re allergic or have food sensitivities.

5. Book a visit with us. If you often get headaches alongside your brain fog, we’re here to help with a gentle, focused adjustment. Contact us today to book your visit!

Solving Plantar Foot Pain

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 25 Jul 2021 23:08:23 GMT

Do you ever take that first step in the morning only to be met with excruciating heel pain?

Or maybe it sets in after a long day of working on your feet. Whatever the trigger is for you, the likely culprit is something called plantar fasciitis, which is a condition that results in an inflamed ligament that connects your heel bone to your toes.

While it’s often a result of a repetitive strain injury, other causes can include running, exercise, wearing inadequate shoes, jumping, abnormal foot mechanics, and weight gain among others.

At Connors Chiropractic Health Center, we want you to feel your best naturally. If you’re struggling with foot pain, consider giving the following stretches a try.

Calf stretches. Did you know that a tight calf muscle can make plantar fasciitis more painful? To loosen your calves, do the following stretch. Place your hands against a wall. Keep the knee of your affected foot straight. Bend the other knee while keeping both feet flat on the ground. You should feel a stretch in your calf and heel of the extended leg. Hold this stretch for up to 10 seconds at a time. If you find this position painful, release the stretch immediately.

Towel curls. To work your foot muscles more and give them a stretch, place a hand towel on the ground in front of you while you’re seated in a chair. Place your feet on top of the towel or cloth. Now, grab the center of the towel with your toes as you curl them toward your body. Repeat this a few times.

Toe pickups. In a seated position, place 10 small objects in the ground next to an empty bowl—marbles or something of a similar shape and size will work great. Pick up one item at a time by curling your toes and placing them into the bowl. This helps to exercise and stretch your feet.

Foot Flexes. While seated, place your legs out in front of you. Using an elastic exercise band or a large towel, wrap it around your foot while continuing to hold the ends with your hands. Gently point your toes toward and away from your body, holding each position for a few seconds before switching.

If you’re looking for more support as you work to overcome foot pain and improve function, we’re here for you. Contact our team to find out if chiropractic care can help you reach your goals in health.

Not Sleeping Well? Here’s 5 Possible Culprits

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 23:14:24 GMT

Are you one of the millions of people across the globe who dread going to bed each night knowing you’re in for a sleepless slumber full of tossing and turning? If that sounds familiar, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone—and more so—we’re here to help.

Here are a few different culprits of poor sleep and what you can do to help give your body the best chance for a solid night of rest.

1. You’re lacking a sleep routine. A sleep routine helps prepare your body for slumber each night. A good sleep routine includes going to bed at the same time every night and waking up at the same time each morning. You can also incorporate things like light stretching before bed, or reading a few pages of a book to help your brain wind down.

2. You’re getting too much screen time before bed. Most electronics emit blue light, which can throw off your circadian rhythm and make it difficult to fall asleep. Try to cut screen time at least one hour before bedtime. If that’s not possible, see if your device has a yellow-light setting that can be turned on in the evening hours.

3. Your mattress is due for an upgrade. As a general rule of thumb, a mattress typically lasts around six to eight years. If you find yourself waking up with aches and pains, an old mattress could be to blame. Other signs of needing a new mattress include squeaky springs, not feeling rested upon waking, and sinking into the middle of the mattress without proper support.

4. You’re drinking caffeine before bed. While sipping evening tea may sound relaxing, if it’s caffeinated you could be doing more harm than good to your sleep schedule. In fact, you shouldn’t consume caffeine within four hours of bedtime for optimal slumber.

5. Your nervous system is out of balance. Your nervous system helps regulate all of the other systems in your body. When it’s not in proper balance, problems like insomnia and disrupted sleep can happen among others. If you’re having trouble sleeping due to back pain or insomnia, give us a call to book an adjustment.

Is Sciatica to Blame for Your Pain?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 23:30:12 GMT

Do you ever wake up with a dull ache in your back, hips or legs? Or, maybe a pain that seems to radiate throughout your entire lower body without rhyme or reason? It’s possible that sciatica is to blame, and the best way to get rid of sciatic pain is to understand its root cause.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatic pain results when the sciatic nerve is compressed, irritated, or inflamed. Common culprits can be herniated discs, misaligned spinal bones, tense or tight muscles, as well as an injury to or near the nerve. As the longest nerve in your body, it runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks and down into each leg. As it touches so many crucial parts of your body, it’s easy to see how it can become irritated.

Sciatic pain can also be triggered by things like:

Unsupportive shoes
Sitting on a full back pocket—i.e., one with a phone, keys or wallet in it resulting in an uneven seated position
Stress

How to Get Sciatica Under Control

While sciatica can be painful to deal with, there is hope at getting it under control. As slipped or herniated discs, inflammation and misaligned spinal bones are common culprits, giving chiropractic care a try is often a first step. The goal of care with us will be to improve the way your body is functioning, restoring its ability to heal itself naturally through focused, gentle care.

Not only can we provide specific adjustments, but we’ll also recommend various stretches and exercises to help you manage and overcome the discomfort.

We look forward to seeing you in the practice soon!

Here’s What Happens When You Stop Eating Sugar

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 28 May 2021 23:36:29 GMT

Did you know it is recommended to consume under 100 calories of added sugar per day for women and just 150 calories of added sugar for men? Yet most of us are consuming far more than this—in fact—it shouldn’t surprise you to learn that it’s easy to consume triple this or more! And every day around the globe, people do exactly that.

If you find yourself dealing with mood swings, weight problems and feeling sluggish, too much sugar could be to blame.

One thing to consider trying is a sugar detox.

Here’s a look at what might happen to your body when you give up added sugar.

After One Hour

One hour after a sugary snack, the initial “sugar rush” should start to wear off and you’ll find yourself more energized, but you might have the urge to reach for a sweet or processed snack.

After Three Days

For some of us, sugar is an unrealized addiction. After a few days without it, you might find yourself craving it more than ever and even experiencing withdrawal symptoms including headaches, anxiety and mood swings. It’s critical to keep yourself properly hydrated during this time, which could last several days.

After One Week

If your diet before quitting added sugar was primarily dependent on sweetened sodas, juices and other processed snacks, you may still be feeling some moderate side effects as your body continues to detox. However, you should begin to feel less sluggish and may even find that your energy levels are increasing.

After One Month

Congratulations! You’ve made it one month without added sugar—you should be proud. By now, you’re probably feeling healthier than you had before. You’re likely finding cravings for sweets have subsided or are very limited. At this point, some people even notice they may begin craving protein or vegetables instead.

After One Year

After a full year without added sugar, your body should be adjusted to functioning on essential nutrients, so long as you’ve replaced sugar with healthy options! It should be no surprise that you might be feeling better than you have in years, and you may have even lost weight.

While giving up sugar completely isn’t for everyone, it’s important to at least monitor your intake. Looking for other nutritional tips? Ask us at your next appointment.

Getting Relief from Muscle Knots

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 18 May 2021 23:45:00 GMT

In today’s fast-paced world, chances are you know the feeling of a muscle knot all too well. Suddenly, an achy, tender area appears, be it from stress, injury or simply doing too much. Muscle knots can be painful, but they usually don’t last too long—especially when you know how to find relief.

What Are Muscle Knots?

People who are prone to muscle knots usually notice them popping up in their shoulders, neck or even upper and lower back. Also known as myofascial trigger points, muscle knots can occur during activity, or when pressure is applied to the trigger point.

People often report muscle knots occurring due to:

Dehydration
Joint issues
Poor posture
Emotional or physical stress
Heavy lifting
Repetitive activities
Sleep problems

Those at the highest risk for developing muscle knots are older individuals, people with joint or muscle diseases and those with chronic stress.

How to Feel Better

Releasing the trigger point causing the tension you’re experiencing is a key goal in managing muscle knots.

You may find relief from:

Stretching
Light exercise—for example, if you have a severe knot in your shoulder, it’s best to not go overboard in the gym with shoulder strength exercises.
Massage
Acupuncture
Ultrasound or cold laser therapy
Focused chiropractic care

If you deal with frequent muscle knots or achy joints and muscles, we’re here for you. Contact us today to book a visit—we’ll do our best to help you feel better quickly.

Why Does My Back Hurt?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 01 May 2021 23:49:50 GMT

Whether you’re dealing with chronic or acute back pain, one thing is certain-continuing to take pain medication to get through your day isn’t a long-term solution.

At our practice, we dive deep to uncover the root cause of your problem while developing a care plan that serves you and your unique needs.

If you’re not sure what’s causing your back pain, here are a few common culprits we see often.

1. Bad posture. Keeping your spine properly positioned all day is hard work. For most of us, slouching happens when we use our phones, computers or even watch television. When we fall out of proper posture, the muscles in your back can start to hurt.

2. Scoliosis. Our spine has a natural curve-but some people have an additional curvature that can cause problems. Scoliosis can be mild, moderate, or severe.

3. Your mattress. How long have you been sleeping on your current mattress? If it’s been longer than 7 years, your mattress has likely lost its support and it may be time to purchase a new one.

4. Old injuries. Have you ever been in a car accident? Or played sports? Injuries that are months, years and even decades old can cause problems present day. Why? It’s possible that if the injury never had the chance to heal properly, your body overcompensated for the injury, resulting in problems today that are finally expressing themselves. Fortunately, identifying the root cause of the injury can often lead to success in care.

5. Stress. When you’re stressed, your muscles tighten. If chronic stress is a part of your life, so are tight muscles around the clock. As you can imagine, tense muscles that last for weeks on end can easily cause pain in the body.

Jump-start Your Health With a Plan

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 23:53:20 GMT

It’s no secret that the choices you make every day have an impact on your overall health. Are you making time to eat well? To exercise? To relax and focus on your mental health?

One of the hardest parts about making wellness a regular part of your day is carving out the time to do so. That’s why having a dedicated plan to move forward and get healthy can make all of the difference.

Here are a few things that can help you get your plan in place.

Start with a goal that fits your needs. Make sure it’s something that’s attainable, yet compelling. If you want to lose 50 pounds, instead set out to lose an initial 20.

Achieve change by making good choices. Identifying the choices that can help you reach your goal is a big part of attaining it. If you want to lose 20 pounds, making healthier eating choices is a great place to begin.

Identify obstacles. Making yourself aware of challenges early on can help you have a plan to overcome them. For example, if you have a dinner party coming up but want to make sure you stick to your eating plan, offer to bring a healthy dish to pass so you have something that fits within your goal while still enjoying time with friends or family.

Reward yourself along the way. If you’re planning a month-long goal and are sticking to your benchmarks every week, consider a weekly reward leading up to the completion of the goal. This will entice you to keep working hard while allowing you to splurge on yourself along the way.

Have a health goal we can help you with? Feel free to reach out to our practice to book an appointment.

How to Keep Your Spine Happy

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 23:58:11 GMT

When your spine is happy, life is easier. A happy spine moves better, experiences less pain, and recovers from injury quicker.

So, what can you do to make sure your spine is happy? Follow these helpful tips.

Nourish your spine with healthy foods. A happy spine is a healthy spine-and healthy foods will help keep your spine well. As a general rule of thumb, your diet should consist of mostly foods that would ‘decay’ if left sitting out and unrefrigerated-things like veggies, grass-fed meats, and fruits. Foods high in calcium are also great for preventing common conditions like osteoporosis. Hydration is also key!

Give your spine support. This goes beyond sitting in an ergonomic chair. Supporting your spine means strengthening important muscles to help keep your body upright-particularly the core. Strong core muscles will help give your spine the extra boost it needs to stay in proper posture. Strengthen your core with focused exercises like sit ups, crunches and side-to-side twists.

Use the right pillow at night. Not every pillow is created equal! When you climb into bed for the night, you want to use a pillow that promotes the natural curve of your spine and neck. For side sleepers, try a thicker pillow to keep your head and neck held steady between your shoulders. For those who sleep on their back, choose a pillow that doesn’t prop your head up too high as to not disrupt the natural curve of your neck.

Wondering what else you can do to keep your spine happy? Make regular chiropractic care part of your wellness routine. Contact us today to book a visit.

Feeding Your Brain

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 21 Mar 2021 00:03:21 GMT

At our practice, we believe that food is medicine. It can be consumed to help heighten our energy levels, reduce inflammation in the body, and even improve how your brain functions.

If you find yourself feeling sluggish or in a fog, try incorporating some of these nutritional tips for better brain power throughout the day.

Breakfast

Chocolate for breakfast can’t be good…can it? Actually, yes. Raw cacao is great for your brain in the morning, helping to wake it up by increasing blood flow to the area. You can add raw cacao to morning protein pancakes, smoothies and oatmeal.

Lunch

Greens and reds are ideal for lunch-that is, leafy green veggies like kale, spinach and ripe avocados as well as red peppers and beans. How can you incorporate these foods into one healthy lunch? Throw them all into a salad with your favorite dressing.

Leafy greens contain an incredible amount of fiber, which has recently been linked to a lower risk of dementia. Red peppers contain capsaicin, responsible for its red pigment, which may also reduce depressive symptoms.

Dinner

Feeling fishy? Good! Quality seafood like wild salmon and tuna are great sources of protein and Omega-3s, which not only decrease stress but can also improve your mood. Salmon and tuna make excellent main courses, and can be paired with other healthy foods like roasted potatoes, carrots, grilled veggies and more.

Feel like your brain needs an extra boost that goes beyond food? We can help. Contact us to book an appointment for a focused, gentle adjustment.

Is Working From Home Wrecking Your Back?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 00:08:33 GMT

As we all get used to our new ‘normal’, we know many are finding working from home difficult-especially those without a dedicated, ergonomic office space to carry out your day.

While this in and of itself can be a pain, it’s also likely causing literal pains in your back, neck and eyes.

As your partner in health, we’d like to provide a few work-from-home tips to help you thrive in your makeshift office space.

1. Do you have to read documents for your job? Make sure you don’t read them from a flat surface-because that means your neck is hanging down. If you deal with paper documents or use an iPad for viewing, invest in a vertical document holder. Have an old music stand? That will also do the trick.

2. Sit back in your chair with your feet flat on the ground in front of you. We know, it’s tempting to work from your comfortable couch-but your back won’t like it after a while. If your feet don’t reach the floor when you’re sitting back in your chair, grab a few books and place them under your feet as support.

3. Standing desks may be all the rage, but use them in moderation. Why? Standing puts more stress and strain on our circulatory system (as well as the feet and legs) than sitting does. The best option is to alternate between your chair and standing desk hourly.

4. Ditch the mouse pad with the squishy wrist rest. Having anything under your wrist can actually add compression on the median nerve.

5. Make sure your screen or monitor is set up perpendicular to a window. This will help reduce glare from the light and minimize visual eye strain.

Dealing with back pain, neck tension or headaches that you just can’t seem to kick to the curb? We’re here to help. Contact us to book an appointment for an adjustment.

4 Low Impact Exercises You Can Do Every Day

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 21 Feb 2021 00:13:15 GMT

Some people love intense workouts with heavy weights and lots of sweat. But that’s not the only way to get a “good workout.”

Low impact cardio also has numerous health benefits-and the best part? It’s ideal for any age and stage of life.

Getting active for 30 minutes each day with some cardio can have an impact on your mood as endorphins are produced, as well as heighten heart health which can aid in the fight against type two diabetes and high blood pressure.

So, why not give it a shot? Here are a few different low impact exercises you can work into your day.

1. Walking. A brisk 20-minute walk can get your heart pumping, muscles activated and calories burning. The best part? You can set the pace. Add more walking into your day by making it a habit to go for a walk after each meal.

2. Biking. Have a bicycle collecting dust in your garage? Now is the perfect time to dust it off. Start by setting a weekly mileage goal for yourself-it takes about four minutes (on average) to bike one mile.

3. Swimming. If you have access to a pool, swimming is an excellent way to sneak cardio into your day. If you have injuries, it’s also ideal for rehab exercises.

4. Stretching. Yes, stretching is exercise! Better yet, it can help you wake up in the morning or relax after a long day.

Finding even light exercise painful or hard to do? That’s where we come in. Give us a call to book an adjustment-we’ll do our best to balance your spine and nervous system so that you can get back to living the life you love.

Is Stress Sneaking In Through Your Food?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 00:16:49 GMT

We’ve all got enough on our plates-too much stress shouldn’t be one of them! And when we say plate, we mean that literally. Stressors can be found all around us, even in our food.

That’s why when you’re feeling stressed, it’s important to skip the comfort food and head for something nutritious.

This state of emotional tension can be rooted in anything from work-related pressures to difficult relationships. While stress comes and goes, it is a completely natural feeling. However, it can become unnatural and harmful to your health when you’re dealing with it constantly as it contributes to various diseases and can lead to craving comfort foods-something that can make the cycle of it even worse!

The Cortisol Connection

Also known as “the stress hormone,” cortisol can increase when you’re feeling tense or stressed. As a result, you may be inclined to eat more comfort foods such as ice cream, pasta or other sugary or high-fat foods. Why? Because intensified levels of cortisol contribute to higher insulin levels.

When this happens, your blood sugar dips, creating carb cravings. In addition to banning bad carbs, try to eat a diet filled with nutrient-dense foods such as leafy, green vegetables. And while a glass of wine may seem like a harmless way to relax and subtract stress, alcohol can also increase cortisol levels.

Reducing stress can not only help you maintain a healthy weight, but it also can allow you to enjoy better overall health and a reduced chance of experiencing common ailments and inflammatory diseases.

Combatting Stress Beyond Your Diet

Exercise is one of the best ways to combat stress in our daily lives. As exercise boosts the body’s feel-good neurotransmitters, also called endorphins, stress can lessen and your mood can improve dramatically. The best part? You don’t have to be a marathon runner to reap the rewards of exercise. Brisk walking is a terrific, low-impact way to feel better, both mentally and physically.

Another thing you can try when you’re feeling stressed? Regular chiropractic adjustments, which are designed to reduce stress by decreasing interference in the nervous system and releasing muscle tension. If you’d like to give it a try, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

All About Heat Therapy

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 00:31:08 GMT

Last month we discussed when to use heat vs. ice therapy for pain. This month we’re going to deep dive into heat therapy, when to use it, for how long, and much more.

How it Works

When you warm up a sore joint or tight muscle, your blood vessels enlarge. This allows more blood, oxygen, and nutrients to be delivered to the injured tissues. Better circulation means more relaxation for those stiff muscles and joints.

When to Use Heat Therapy

For chronic pain such as arthritis, stiffness, muscle spasms, and some headaches, heat is a good option. Don’t use heat for swollen, bruised, or new injuries as it can increase inflammation.

Remember: heat relaxes. So when you feel that all-too-familiar pain caused by tension, feel like you need a massage, or just can’t seem to relax your muscles, try heat therapy. As an inexpensive, safe, at-home option, it’s truly one of the best.

Types of Heat Therapy

There are two types of heat therapy: dry heat and moist heat. Dry heat is an electric heating pad or sauna, whereas moist heat is a hot bath, steamed towels, or moist heating pack. While either type can be effective at easing pain, some think that moist heat helps the heat better penetrate the muscles and may provide better pain relief.

You may need to try different types of heat to determine which feels the best for your specific pain. Here are some options to try:

Hot water bottle
Electric heating pad
Gel pack
Heat wrap
Hot tub
Sauna
Warm bath

*Note: Please be sure to use a barrier between the heat and your skin to avoid burns. Apply heat for about 20 minutes at a time and take a break of at least 20 minutes between sessions.

When Heat Therapy Isn’t Helping

If you’re not experiencing the relief you’d hoped for from at-home heat therapy, it may be time for a visit. It’s important to remember your structural health as well, so an adjustment, combined with heat therapy, may be just what you need. Give us a call today and we’ll get you on the schedule.

Heat or Ice? Which is Better for Your Pain?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 00:33:00 GMT

Have you ever found yourself with an ache or pain wondering, “Should I apply heat or ice?” Here we’ll explain which situations call for heat and which call for ice, as well as what to do if neither is helping.

First off, a general rule of thumb is to use ice for recent, acute injuries that are less than 6 weeks old and heat for long-term injuries that have been persisting for over 6 weeks. The reason is ice constricts blood vessels, numbing pain and reducing inflammation, which is what you need for a new injury. Heat, on the other hand, increases blood flow to relax tight muscles and aching joints. Heat can increase inflammation in certain injuries, so give us a call if you are unsure which to use for your particular injury.

Heat is often best for:

Arthritis
Headaches caused by neck spasms
Muscle spasms
Tendinosis
Relieving stiffness of strains and sprains after inflammation has resolved

Ice is best for:

New injuries
Strains and sprains
Sports injuries
Throbbing headaches
Gout flare-ups
Tendinitis (commonly in the shoulder, elbow, knee, and wrist)

Applying Heat and Ice

A bag of frozen peas or corn makes a great ice pack that molds to the injured area. Conversely, a warm bath, heat wrap, or heating pad can be used for heat therapy.

Apply heat or ice for 20 minutes at a time, taking a break of at least 20 minutes in between sessions. Remove the heat or ice if it becomes uncomfortable and do not apply ice directly to the skin, wrap it in a lightweight cloth or towel.

When the Pain Isn’t Improving

If at-home heat or ice therapy isn’t improving your condition, give us a call. We’ll get you in for a visit to see if we can help.

7 Surprising Causes of Back Pain

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 30 Sep 2020 00:42:01 GMT

Back pain plagues more than 1 in 10 people worldwide. And when we think of back pain, we often think of injury, accident, or overuse. But there are many other, less commonly known, causes of back pain. Knowing these may help you pinpoint the cause of your pain and help you discover a way to fix it.

1. Lack of exercise. Exercise helps you build the muscle tone you need to properly support your back. Being too sedentary can also lead to weight gain which puts added strain on your back. Try to incorporate cardiovascular and strength training exercises into your routine a few days a week, focusing on your abs and back muscles for a strong, supportive core.

2. Your phone. Using your shoulder to hold your cell phone against your ear can cause strain on your neck, which can extend to your back. Headphones are a great solution that allow you to keep better posture when on long phone calls. Be mindful of texting, too, as bending your neck to look down at your phone can cause similar pain.

3. Your office chair. Staying in any one position for too long can lead to back pain. So it’s no real surprise that sitting at your desk for long periods of time can wreak havoc on your spine. If your office chair is not supportive, is uncomfortable, or you don’t get up and move every 45 minutes to an hour, it may only be a matter of time before your back starts to feel the effects.

4. Worn out shoes. If you spend a lot of time in one pair of shoes, make sure they’re supportive and the soles aren’t worn out. Proper arch support is crucial and without it your gait is impacted, which can lead to back pain.

5. Mattress. As we mentioned earlier, spending too much time in one position can lead to back pain. Now think about how much time you spend on your mattress. If your mattress is old, you sink into it when you lie down, or it’s just not supporting you in a way that’s comfortable (and this is different for everyone), it may be time to replace it. While comfort levels vary by person, lean toward the firmer, more supportive side if you’re dealing with back pain.

6. Heavy over-the-shoulder bags. Carrying around a large handbag or heavy backpack on one shoulder can affect the curve of your spine and put strain on your neck. If you’re suffering from back and/or neck pain, take a look at what you carry around on a daily basis. A backpack carried properly on both shoulders may be a better option. At the very least, try to clean out and downsize your handbag so it isn’t too heavy.

7. Smoking. We all know smoking is bad for your lungs and heart. But did you also know that smoking deprives your body of oxygen, which can lead to weak muscles? Weak muscles can lead to back pain. If you were looking for another reason to quit smoking, this is it.

Chiropractic Checkup for Back Pain

If you’re dealing with back pain, it may be time to come in for a visit. We can help you determine the cause of your pain and you may find relief with adjustments and alternative therapies. Let us help you get “back” to your old self!

Natural Headache Relief

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 30 Aug 2020 00:48:42 GMT

Does the current state of the world have you experiencing more headaches than normal? Tension, anxiety, stress… These can trigger headaches in anyone at any time. But there are natural ways to relieve headache pain and calm the tension causing it.

Hydrate – dehydration is a common cause of headaches, but easily remedied. Fill up your largest water bottle and drink up.

Relaxation techniques – meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises have been shown to lower stress levels and reduce headache frequency.

Chiropractic – You may find relief from chiropractic adjustments. Neck pain, back pain, and tension can all lead to headache pain. Give us a call today to make an appointment.

Acupressure and massage – Many people find relief from acupressure and massaging tense muscles. Acupressure is based on ancient Chinese medicine that believes stimulating certain pressure points on the body may help the body heal. Here is a resource that demonstrates how to apply pressure to a point commonly thought to ease headache pain.

Avoid food triggers – pay attention to what you’re eating on days you experience headache pain. Many migraine sufferers know that certain foods can trigger their migraines and by limiting their intake of those foods, they can keep migraines at bay. For example, chocolate, processed meats, coffee, nuts, citrus fruits, aspartame, and alcoholic drinks are some of the most common headache triggering foods. If your headaches are becoming a regular part of your week, start keeping a food diary to pinpoint possible triggers.

Essential oils – Certain essential oils are thought to help ease headache pain. Peppermint, for instance, is commonly used to ease tension headache pain when applied to the temples and forehead. (Make sure to read all instructions that come with your oils thoroughly for proper use.)

Sleep – Sleeping too much or too little can bring on migraines, so keeping to a regular sleep schedule can help prevent them.

You don’t have to live with frequent headaches. Pain is a signal that something is not right, so try to stay positive while pinpointing the cause. And remember, we’re here to help you. Let’s work together to find your relief.

How to Spot Dehydration & Increase Your Water Intake

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 00:58:35 GMT

Did you know that by the time we feel thirsty, we are often already dehydrated?

And since our fluid levels affect our ability to control our temperature, pulse, blood pressure, digestion and millions of other functions, it’s something to take seriously.

Common Ways We Lose Water

There are many ways we lose water throughout the day. It’s important to be mindful of these to ensure you’re adequately replenishing your body with water.

Perspiration (which increases dramatically when exercising)
Urination (self-explanatory)
Breathing (you expel a little water with every breath)
Stress (impacts hormones that regulate fluid levels)
Herbal supplements (particularly those used to combat fluid retention)
Breastfeeding (breastfeeding requires an additional 2 cups of water per day)
Irritable bowel syndrome (or other gastrointestinal upset)

The Top Signs of Dehydration

If you experience any of the following symptoms, dehydration may be playing a role:

Excessive thirst and dry mouth are usually the most obvious signs of dehydration and are signals that should not be ignored.

Dark urine is another sign of dehydration. When well-hydrated, your urine should be pale yellow.

Fatigue is a common symptom that has many different causes, but you may be surprised to hear that dehydration can be one.

Dry, flaky skin is a sign of long-term dehydration. Drinking plenty of water keeps the blood supply to your skin flowing, resulting in a healthy complexion.

Headaches are another very common sign of dehydration, so try drinking a glass of water next time you feel one coming on.

When You’re Bored with Water…

It’s important to drink several glasses of water each day, but if drinking another glass sounds a little too flavorless, try adding more of these water-rich foods to your diet:

Watermelon
Strawberries
Cantaloupe
Oranges
Cucumber
Lettuce
Broth
Zucchini
Celery
Tomatoes
Skim milk

Hydrate for Health

Don’t underestimate the power of water. It’s essential to all of our body’s systems and drinking enough is an easy way to help them function properly.

Have you had a glass of water recently? Go grab one now!

*Source: HealthyFoodGuide.com.au

The Thing About Pain

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 28 Jun 2020 01:03:16 GMT

Pain is serious. And relieving it is big business. Those who suffer from pain spend billions seeking its relief. In fact, pain is often what prompts people to visit our practice.

It turns out there are some very important reasons why we’re equipped to sense pain. Dorland’s Medical Dictionary used by health professionals around the world list over 34 different types!

But pain is rarely the problem.

Naturally, if you’re experiencing pain, you want it to go away. And while you can expect our compassion, we’re interested in correcting the underlying cause of your pain.

A Limit Has Been Reached

Pain is a way our body tells us we’ve reached a boundary. When our finger exceeds the limits of the joint function for which it was designed for, we experience pain.

This warning protects us so we can avoid a more serious injury. It’s a good thing. And while a life without pain may sound good, it’s essential for our health and well being.

Providing a Warning

Pain is a signal our body uses to alert us that something needs our attention. Physical pain, social pain and even psychological pain are warnings that something must change.

Pain is a way the wisdom of your body communicates with its owner: you.

Headaches. Spasms. Tingling. Aches and pains alert you that something is amiss and needs correction.

First, your body will gently whisper to warn you. Unheeded, it speaks with greater urgency. If ignored, it may escalate into full-fledged shouting!

Fooling Your Body

Pain prompts many to take a pill to reduce it or suppress it.

But numbing your body with a pain reliever doesn’t make the problem go away. It’s still there. The drug merely fools your body so you can’t feel the warning.

With time, the dosage must be increased to quiet your body’s outcry. Besides possible addiction, it can lead to far more serious problems. As your body tries to eliminate the medicine it sees as a foreign substance, kidney and liver damage may result. Even stomach bleeding.

Using a drug to fool your body’s warning system may be convenient, but dangerous.

A thorough examination can help determine if the pain is due to wayward spinal structures. The moving bones of the spine are often implicated in neck and back pain.

Our strategy is to address the underlying spinal problem with gentle and natural chiropractic adjustments. As spinal joints move better and nervous system function improves, the self-healing capacity of your body is revived. Symptoms subside. Naturally.

10 Reasons to Avoid Sugar

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 27 May 2020 01:08:39 GMT

While nutrition experts tend to disagree on a variety of topics, they all seem to agree that we’re consuming far too much sugar. Besides contributing to the obesity epidemic, sugar in its various forms is causing diabetes cases to skyrocket.

Sugar, in its many forms, is an increasingly common ingredient in processed foods. Many of us eat the equivalent of 53 heaping teaspoons of sugar every day! Many experts now agree that reducing sugar intake is essential for better health.

Here are ten reasons to avoid refined (white) sugar:

1. When certain bacteria in the mouth digest sugar it produces an acid that etches tooth enamel and causes tooth decay.

2. Calcium loss in urine occurs when a person consumes a soft drink containing sugar.

3. Ingesting sugar makes the pancreas work harder to produce insulin. Diabetes results when the overworked pancreas can no longer eliminate sugar from the blood stream.

4. Bleached with chlorine, when white refined sugar is exposed to certain organic compounds it converts to dioxin, a lethal compound.

5. Sugar can hinder weight loss because high insulin levels (see #3 above) cause the body to store excess carbohydrates as fat.

6. Sugar increases the likelihood of chronic fatigue.

7. Sugar increases mood swings, irritability and anxiety.

8. Sugar compromises the immune system, lowering the efficiency of white blood cells for at least five hours after eating.

9. Eating sugar can decrease helpful high-density cholesterol (HDLs) and result in an increase in harmful cholesterol (LDLs).

10. Sugar can contribute to hyperactivity.

Careful. Sugar is commonly disguised. If you wisely read nutrition labeling, avoiding obvious sugar ingredients when they’re listed as cane sugar or high fructose corn syrup is relatively easy. But sugar goes by many other names.

Here are some of them. Barley malt, beet sugar, buttered syrup, cane juice, caramel, castor sugar, dehydrated cane juice, dextrose, fruit juice concentrate, glucose, golden sugar, lactose, malt syrup, maltodextrin, molasses, sorbitol, sucrose and treacle.

Because food manufacturers must list ingredients in descending order by quantity, using different types of sugar permits them to list them among the sixth or eighth or tenth ingredients. Yet when added together, sugar may be the number one ingredient!

Stress and Your Spine

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 01:12:28 GMT

Many of the problems that show up in the spine are the result of our attempts at accommodating stress.

Stress is part of everyday living, and the COVID-19 global pandemic is the biggest crisis to happen in our lifetime. Long story short–it’s understandable if you’re feeling extra stressed out these days.

The 3 Different Types of Stress

Emotional Stress

Fear, grief, anger and other emotions affect our entire body. Frustration, and a sense of powerlessness, both widely held emotions at this time of global uncertainty, are common forms of emotional stress.

Chemical Stress

Common causes of chemical stress include poor nutrition, sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats. Drugs, preservatives, tobacco, alcohol, pollen and a host of other substances can affect our nervous system, muscle tone and spine.

Physical Stress

A whiplash injury from a car accident is an obvious source of physical stress. As is a slip and fall, lack of sleep or overdoing it in the garden. Early on, learning to walk, ride a bike and the birth process itself can be sources of physical stress.

A Relentless, Unseen Stress

Among the most prevalent stress we encounter is something you probably haven’t considered.

Our bodies are subjected to it 24/7. Even when we sleep.

It’s gravity.

Which most of us are equipped to handle with ease. When every joint is in proper alignment and functioning properly, we can turn, bend and move painlessly. In spite of gravity.

But when there is a misalignment, even something subtle, things can change!

The Effects of Gravity on Your Spine

When we evaluate spinal X-rays from the side, we confirm that the four spinal curves are present. Then we notice spinal bones, which may have lost their integrity in relation to the ones above or below it. These “less-than-a-dislocations” or “subluxations” are often implicated in a host of health issues.

Subluxations are accompanied by inflammation. Your body, sensing the instability, begins transporting calcium salts to the area. Almost as if mending a broken bone, the calcium is used to splint the unstable area.

When Gravity Disappears

Clearly, gravity plays a role in spinal decay.

Would the weightlessness of space be the answer? Based on extended stays at the International Space Station, microgravity can produce a host of other health issues. Even with regular exercise (up to 2 hours a day), a loss of bone and muscle mass have been reported.

The solution? A thorough chiropractic examination to assess the spine. Followed by a care plan designed to reduce misalignments and restore structural integrity. Have you had one?

The Amazing Chiropractic Adjustment

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 18 Mar 2020 01:14:53 GMT

The centerpiece of your chiropractic care is the chiropractic adjustment. At first glance, adjustments appear quite similar visit to visit. But there’s more to this routine procedure than meets the eye. There’s a lot going on as we track the many subtle changes your body is making.

Here are some of the nuances associated with your chiropractic adjustments.

Intention

Intention makes chiropractic adjustments different from general spinal manipulations. Our intent is not to treat your pain. That’s the practice of medicine. Instead, chiropractic adjustments help restore joint function and reduce nervous system interference. As function improves, your body has no need to express symptoms.

Technique

We choose from a variety of adjusting techniques to optimize clinical results and patient comfort. Your adjustments are unlike those received by others in our practice. We tailor your care to your size, age, unique spinal pattern and the progress we detect on each visit.

Precision

Before each thrust, tap or touch to your spine, we form a mental picture of your particular spinal issue. We compare that with our understanding of the optimal spinal structure and function. This gives us the data we need to determine how much energy to use. Plus, the exact direction in which it should be applied. This combination of art and science makes every adjustment just a little different.

Specificity

Sometimes the primary subluxation is in the upper spine, but your symptom is showing up in the lower spine. This secondary subluxation is merely a compensation reaction. The low back pain is simply a symptom of a symptom. Our experience with countless patients makes sure your adjustments produce the greatest benefit.

Timing

The timing of your adjustments is not left to chance. Each of us has countless patterns that control our sleep, hunger and the release of hormones and neuropeptides. We consciously time your adjustments based on your respiration cycle and muscle tone.

Frequency

Your care plan is designed to produce the best results in the shortest amount of time. Visits that are too far apart often fail to produce the momentum necessary for healing. When visits are too close together we may find that your body is still processing the previous adjustment. Our goal is to discover the sweet spot based on the feedback from your body.

Outcome

The all-natural result for which chiropractic is famous doesn’t follow a straight line. During the first week or two of care there are three possible outcomes. Some show relatively quick improvement. Those who have suffered recent trauma may find a temporary worsening before improving. Others report steady improvement as each visit builds on the ones before. Everyone responds differently.

We chiropractors think the adjustment is pretty special. Besides sharing the principles of chiropractic, the adjustment is the most important thing we do.

Do you know someone who should be getting adjusted?

Medical Treatment Versus Chiropractic Care

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sun, 01 Mar 2020 01:34:59 GMT

Chiropractic is different. Always has been. Chiropractors and medical practitioners share a few things in common. Both receive many years of education and training. Both have practices. And both care deeply about their patients. But that’s pretty much where the similarity ends.

Medicine and chiropractic have different operating philosophies. They have different ways of assessing a patient’s problem. And they have different types of interventions. If you visit our practice with medical expectations you might be pleasantly surprised. If you saw a medical doctor but expected a chiropractic experience, there could be disappointment.

Here are some of the most common distinctions. It doesn’t make one better than the other. Just different.

Blood Versus Nerves

Medicine relies heavily on the results of blood tests. Blood chemistry can detect a variety of metabolic diseases. Chiropractic is based on the condition of the nervous system. Chiropractors focus on nervous system integrity because nerve interference is the underlying cause of many types of health problems.

Treatment Versus Care

A medical doctor has three treatment options. The most common are drugs to change blood chemistry. Then, there’s surgery to remove or modify tissues. And more recently, radiation to burn tissues. These treatment options are primarily designed to treat symptoms while largely ignoring the underlying cause.

The primary form of chiropractic care is the adjustment. There are dozens of chiropractic techniques. Adjustments don’t treat disease. Instead, their intent is to permit more normal brain-to-body nerve communications. As nerve interference is reduced, the body is able to function as designed. Then, symptoms usually subside.

Side Effects Versus Positive Effects

Drug intervention always produces side effects. Or more accurately, unwanted effects. It gets even dicier when you contemplate the interactions caused when two or more drugs are prescribed at the same time.

The side effects of chiropractic care are almost always positive effects. In other words, a patient often begins chiropractic care for Problem A. And later reports that Problem B, which they didn’t even mention, is improving too.

The Body Part Versus The Whole Person

Because of the complexity of the human body, it has spawned dozens of medical specialties. These are experts who know a lot about a small aspect of the body. Thank goodness for specialists.

Chiropractors see the body as a whole. We’re generalists. Our focus on the spine is because it is the most common source of nerve interference. Problems along the spinal column can produce obvious spinal problems. But, organs and tissues controlled at that segmental level can be affected too.

Broadly speaking, medical doctors are experts at lifesaving. If you’re bleeding, have broken bones or your heart has stopped, see a medical doctor. Immediately! But if you want a partner to help you with natural methods to be your best, see a chiropractor.

Your First Visit to a Chiropractor

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 01:39:27 GMT

In some ways, your first visit will be similar to seeing a medical practitioner. And in other ways it will be quite different. And while every chiropractor has a slightly different first-visit procedure, here’s what you can generally expect.

A Warm Welcome

Chiropractors practice in medical centers, freestanding clinics, converted home offices and even hospitals. When you arrive you’ll be greeted with a smile. The first thing you’ll notice is the comfortable, stress-free environment. You might hear soothing music and smell the relaxing aroma of essential oils.

You’ll start feeling better and you haven’t even met the chiropractor yet!

First the Essentials

Naturally, there will be some brief paperwork. This captures your contact details, your health history and current health concern. You may encounter questions about your diet, sleep habits and stress levels that may seem unrelated to your symptoms. Relax. Our interest is in you first, and your symptoms second.

Meet the Chiropractor

Soon you’ll be invited back to meet the chiropractor for an initial consultation. Based on your case history, he or she will ask you to elaborate. When did your problem begin? What makes it worse? What makes it better? What other approaches have you tried?

The purpose is to get to know each other better and to determine if you’re a good candidate for chiropractic care. If you’re not, an appropriate referral will be made. If you are, a thorough examination is next.

A Thorough Examination

The examination will often include a series of physical, orthopedic and neurological tests. These are designed to reveal the presence of nerve interference from spinal misalignments. This will include turning and bending, plus testing your reflexes and other noninvasive tests.

Some chiropractors employ diagnostic X-rays, surface electromyography, thermography and other technologies. These are designed to reveal the function of your spine and nervous system. You’ll get to see these at your report of findings.

Many patients tell us that it is among the most complete examination they’ve ever had.

Your Report of Findings

After correlating your exam findings, the chiropractor will report his or her findings. Sometimes this is done on your first visit. Other times on your second. Your report will explain what was found, what it means and what can be done to help you. Some reports are formal, set-down presentations. Others are brief. It just depends on your unique case.

The final portion of your report consists of care recommendations and fielding your questions. You may be offered exercises, stretches, dietary suggestions and other home care instructions.

Chiropractic care is a partnership. Your results will be based on what we do on each visit, and what you do between visits.

Your First Adjustment

Based on your case, you’ll receive your first chiropractic adjustment. In other situations that will occur on your second visit. It just depends.

Using his or her hands, or a small hand-held instrument, a precise amount of energy will be added to your spine at just the right time and place. Adjustments help restore healthier spinal patterns and reduce nerve interference along your spine.

Relax. Adjustments feel great. If they didn’t, chiropractors wouldn’t get patients to return for the follow-up adjustments needed to make lasting spinal changes.

Hope and Healing Begin

Set aside about an hour for your first visit. Future visits will be shorter as we get to know you and how your body responds to your adjustments.

Be sure to ask questions and get involved. Those who do seem to get better results.

Chiropractic care is different from medical treatment. It’s a difference that has helped millions. For over a century. Naturally. Without drugs or surgery.

“There’s Something I Forgot to Tell You…”

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Thu, 30 Jan 2020 01:44:40 GMT

After a week or two of care a new patient will often pull us aside.

They go on to describe some aspect of their health that has improved. Only thing, it’s not what prompted them to originally see us for care.

This happens surprisingly often.

They didn’t mention their acid reflux, indigestion or some other condition during our initial visit. That’s understandable. Many people think of chiropractic as something that only helps spinal conditions.

Those who see chiropractic as only a treatment for headaches and back pain overlook something more significant. Namely the role that chiropractic may play in whole body health. Here’s how:

1. Your nervous system controls and regulates every cell, tissue and organ.

2. The nervous system consists of your brain, spinal cord and all your nerves.

3. The most important parts of your nervous system are protected by bone.

4. The moving segments of your spinal column are vulnerable to misalignment.

5. Aberrant spinal biomechanics can affect nervous system communications.

6. Impaired nerve messages can produce problems peripheral to the spine.

7. As nervous system interferences are reduced, symptoms often resolve.

Which raises an important question.

When is a stomach problem a stomach problem? And when is a stomach problem actually a nerve communication problem between the brain and stomach?

It’s the brain that controls your stomach. Just as it controls your lungs, your knees and every other function of your body. It controls and regulates every bodily function via nerve messages sent over the spinal cord. Interference from the moving bones protecting these nerves could show up as a stomach problem. But the real problem is along the spinal column. Correct the spinal problem and the stomach problem often resolves.

Does that make chiropractic a treatment for stomach problems? Of course not. The intent of chiropractic care is to restore proper function to a compromised nervous system. Instead of ‘side effects’ the happy result is ‘positive effects’ that many patients notice as their care progresses.

Five Reasons to See Us After a Car Accident

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 01:51:39 GMT

A common automobile injury is being rear-ended from behind. You’re stopped at the light. And you see the car bearing down behind you in the rear view mirror. There’s little you can do. Simply brace yourself for the sound of crushing steel and broken glass.

CRASH!

The result is often a case of whiplash.

Thankfully, chiropractors are successful with whiplash cases. In fact, great results are often routine.

Here’s why you should urge others to consult us if they’ve been in a car accident:

1. Medical minimization – There may be a visit to an emergency room. But if there isn’t any bleeding or broken bones you’ll get a clean bill of health. Expect some muscle relaxers and pain medication. You’ll be warned to take it easy for a day or two. However, the misaligned vertebrae and muscle micro-tears will be ignored.

Chiropractors take car accident injuries seriously. We help correct the sometimes hidden structural and neurological damage.

2. Faster Recovery Times – The biggest mistake that many make is waiting too long before seeking chiropractic care. Waiting weeks, months or even years permits the formation of scar tissue. This makes correction more difficult, time-consuming and expensive later on.

Chiropractic care following a car accident helps avoid needless problems. Plus, it may reduce recovery times.

3. Fewer Medications – Traditional treatment relies on pain medication. But many find the side effects more troubling than their injuries. Tragically, the opioid crisis often gets its foothold here. Chiropractors help victims return to their pain-free, pre-accident condition.

Chiropractors use safe and natural spinal adjustments. Thankfully, adjustments feel great.

4. Insurance Coverage – The last thing you want to worry about is money. Especially the cost of your care. Many auto insurance policies offer some chiropractic coverage. However, they may only cover a certain number of visits. Others have fee limitations. Some may require a medical referral. Yet, chiropractic is often less expensive than medical treatment.

Chiropractors are experts in soft tissue injuries. They routinely help those who have been in car accidents.

5. Introduced to Wellness – Many first discover chiropractic after a car accident. As they learn about today’s chiropractic, they opt to continue their care. Naturally, how long you benefit from chiropractic is always up to you.

Many patients mention that regular chiropractic checkups help them stay well. Others observe that they don’t seem to get the latest “bug” going around.

Whether you were driving or a passenger, a car accident is traumatic. Seek a chiropractor who can detect and correct the hidden damage to your spine and nervous system.

The Last Diet You’ll Ever Need

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 28 Dec 2019 01:54:34 GMT

A diet isn’t always the best option for you. Instead, choose a healthy lifestyle.

It’s that time of the year again when we make resolutions to lose some weight and embrace healthier habits. That usually involves some type of “diet.”

Every year it seems there are more choices. Paleo. Ketogenic. Mediterranean. Weight Watchers. The list goes on.

Which one is best?

It’s a question we get all the time from those who have either begun a slimming program or are considering one. They’re looking for confirmation as to which diet is easy and effective.

But virtually every diet has a serious flaw. It’s the diet part.

Name the diet, and if someone follows it, they’ll likely lose some weight. When they reach their goal, they congratulate themselves and return to their original eating and exercise habits. These are the eating and exercise habits that created the need for a diet in the first place!

Not surprisingly, they’re back to where they began. But now, discouraged and disillusioned. This is such a common condition it even has a name. It’s called the Yo-Yo Diet.

When you resolve to lose some weight, think long term. Instead of a diet, plan on forming a new habit. Plan on a new way of eating and moving that you intend to do for the rest of your life.

We see this in our practice. Many people see their chiropractic care as a short-term “diet” of sorts. They come in religiously when they’re hurting. But discontinue their care when they’re feeling better.

Not surprisingly, later, they experience a return of their original problem.

That’s because your body makes lasting spinal changes with continued care after symptoms subside. In fact, in many cases, because of so many years of neglect, a full correction isn’t possible. Instead, some type of ongoing supportive care is needed. Kind of like brushing and flossing for the rest of your life. It’s a lifestyle choice.

So rather than a brief episode, getting and keeping our nervous systems interference-free is a lifestyle choice. That’s why we have more and more patients who opt to see us on a monthly or twice-monthly basis. They’re the ones that tried the chiropractic diet a couple of times and decided to go for the chiropractic lifestyle.

Autopsies Confirm Chiropractic Premise

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 18 Dec 2019 02:03:37 GMT

Chiropract or examines spine.

Choosing us for your care means that we’ll examine you as a whole, correcting problems you may not have known about.

Over a hundred years ago the founder and developer of chiropractic were considered odd fellows. While most pursued the treatment of diseases based on the germ theory, the Palmers took a different path.

They wanted to know why some people got sick and others didn’t.

Why was it that when people were exposed to germs, some got sick but others didn’t? Rather than suppressing the symptoms of the sick—the direction taken by traditional medicine, chiropractors looked deeper.

Was there something other than the presence of germs that could predispose someone to illness and disease?

Why yes there was.

In fact, it is the foundation on which chiropractic is based. It’s why student chiropractors spend so much time studying anatomy and nervous system physiology. In the early days this was called “nerve tracing.”

Nerve tracing is the art of tracing sensitive, inflamed nerves from the spinal cord to the affected organ or tissue. This tracing revealed that many health conditions could be traced back to nerve irritation from the spinal column.

Disease, as the result of neurological compromise, got the attention of an open-minded medical doctor. In particular, Dr. Henry Windsor of the University of Pennsylvania.

His research was published in the November 1921 issue of Medical Times. After conducting 50 autopsies, Dr. Windsor isolated a total 139 diseased organs. In each case he traced the nerve supply back to the spine.

Was there any correlation to the diseased organ and the condition of the spine?

Yes. Dr. Windsor found misalignments and changes in normal spinal curves linked to 128 of the 139 diseased organs. In the other 10 he found issues in the spinal segment above or below the primary site.

Dr. Windsor summed up his findings this way. “The disease appears to precede old age and to cause it. The spine becomes stiff first and old age follows. Therefore, we may say a man is as old as his spine.”

Today, many patients seek chiropractic care because of a specific spinal complaint. That’s great. However, chiropractors see the body as a whole. In our practice you’ll find a chart showing the nerve pathways between the spine and the various organs of the body.

Next time you’re in for your adjustment, take a closer look. Because if your nervous system and spine are healthy, you’re more likely to be healthy.

The Hygiene Hypothesis

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 23 Nov 2019 02:12:08 GMT

It’s convenient to think of our bodies as machines that take in energy and are able to perform millions of different tasks. Consider the increasingly sophisticated computers and robots that now do what humans previously did. Seeing ourselves as mere machines overlooks at least one critical difference. You and I are self-healing. Machines aren’t.

This self-healing capacity is a mystery. However, the power that made our body is the power that heals it. When we die, this self-healing ability immediately stops.

It’s this self-healing capacity that intrigued the very first chiropractor. Why was it that two men, working side by side, one man would get sick, and the other, exposed to the same germs did not?

This question led D.D. Palmer to question the prevailing germ theory of a century ago. “It must not be the germ, but something intrinsic to the man,” he surmised.

Ironically, Louis Pasteur, the actual author of the germ theory had second thoughts too. On his deathbed he recanted his theory proclaiming, “…the microbe is nothing, terrain is everything.” In other words, it’s soil, not the seed (germ), that is the key to whether a germ will manifest into disease.

This fear of germs still lingers in our culture. We mistakenly believe that if we kill enough germs it will produce health. This has resulted in what’s called the “hygiene hypothesis.”

The hygiene hypothesis suggests that some exposure to germs and microorganisms in early childhood is good for us. It helps develop the immune system. Many believe that a lack of exposure to microbes can result in allergies, autoimmune conditions and a less robust immune system.

Yet, healthy individuals (that’s the key) are perfectly equipped to handle just about any germ or virus that comes our way. If not, the human race would have died off long ago.

Thankfully, our immune system (controlled by our nervous system) is on the job 24/7. It’s subduing countless germs and microbes without a single conscious thought from us.

Something that a machine will never be able to do.

Internal Inflammation

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 02:16:09 GMT

It might seem tasty, but fast, highly processed food is a known cause of inflammation.

Inflammation is your immune system’s response to an infection, injury or irritation. It’s how our body’s white blood cells protect us from bacteria and viruses.

An infected cut shows signs of inflammation with swelling, redness and pain. A similar response can occur inside our body from the foods we eat.

We usually think of inflammation as something outside the body. But it can occur inside the body too. Which can lead to stroke, heart disease and other ailments. Author Nicholas Perricone, MD, proposes that inflammation may well be the force behind premature aging.

He and other researchers believe that widespread inflammation is due to our diet. It may be the main factor in the increase of degenerative diseases. These are the most costly to treat and can take years to develop. These include diabetes, cancer, arthritis and Alzheimer’s.

Does your diet consist mostly of foods cooked at high temperatures? Such as most “fast food?” Does your diet include a lot of refined sugar? Do you consume hydrogenated or refined oils? That would include potato chips, margarine and most baked goods.

If so, you are more likely to be experiencing inflammation. Instead, add more of these types of foods to your diet:

Fruits, such as apples, berries, fresh pineapple, lemons, limes
Vegetables, such as onions, tomatoes, greens (spinach, broccoli, kale), bell peppers, garlic
Spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, basil, mint, parsley, rosemary
Nuts and seeds, such as sunflower seeds, walnuts, almonds
Fish, such as halibut, salmon, sardines, oysters
Olive oil
Beverages, such as green tea, black tea, red wine and lots of water
Dark Chocolate, but not the sugary milk chocolate

Fortunately, we can control inflammation by being more mindful the foods we eat. Try to introduce at least one anti-inflammatory food into every meal. Many quickly notice relief from some of the symptoms that have been bothering them. Plus, as an added bonus, they’re better able to maintain a healthier weight.

Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 02:19:17 GMT

Interested in improving your nutrition and overall health? Great! Here are some popular choices. You’ve probably heard of most of them by now:

South Beach
Atkins
Weight Watchers
Jenny Craig
Scarsdale
Pritikin
Keto
Paleo

And the list goes on. Which one is best?

While many of these nutritional plans have been around for a mere decade or less, there’s a proven eating plan with healthful benefits that has been around for centuries.

It’s a style of eating popular in the southern Mediterranean area. You’ll find it in Greece, Portugal, southern Italy, southern France and Spain. No wonder it’s called the “Mediterranean Diet.”

Interest in the Mediterranean diet began over 50 years ago. That’s when it was observed that coronary heart disease caused fewer deaths in Mediterranean countries. Subsequent studies determined that the Mediterranean diet is linked with reduced risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

This finding is significant since cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in our country.

What’s so special about the Mediterranean Diet? Studies suggest that those who follow this diet enjoy these health benefits:

Decreased risk for cardiovascular disease
Lower risk for Alzheimer’s disease
Higher life expectancy rate
Decreased risk for certain types of cancer
As much as 40% of the daily caloric intake of this diet comes from eating fats. In particular olive oil. It’s a major source of antioxidants and a monounsaturated fat that doesn’t raise cholesterol levels.

This plant-based diet is considered healthier than the typical meat-based diet that so many of us grew up with. That’s because it relies heavily on the daily consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, and cheese. Fish, a major source of omega-3 fatty acids, is consumed several times a week. Red meat is limited to only once or twice a month.

A related factor may be exercise levels. Many in the Mediterranean region do not rely on cars as their basic means to travel. Thus they are more apt to walk, getting sufficient exercise.

The Mediterranean diet is delicious and healthy. Many who switch say they’ll never eat any other way.

The Ideal Time to Exercise

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 15 Oct 2019 02:21:04 GMT

Do you tend to sit for most of the day? Do you generally lead a sedentary lifestyle? Then you’ll want to set aside some time to exercise.

That doesn’t mean you have to join a gym or buy the latest workout fashions. But it does mean including time to exercise in your already busy schedule.

Which begs the question: what’s the best time of the day to exercise?

Many experts agree that the best time of day to exercise is any time that you can consistently attend to it. If you’ve found a time of day that’s working for you, then stick with it!

Others disagree. They think the “best” time of day to exercise should be determined by your circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms are the body’s “internal clock.” They control blood pressure, hormones, appetite, sleep cycles, body temperature and countless other details. Your circadian rhythm is what gets out of step when you cross multiple time zones and experience jet lag.

Researchers have found that body temperature is an important variable in determining the quality of one’s exercise program. Body temperature is at its lowest during the one to three hours before you awaken. When body temperature is low, muscles are tight and blood flow is reduced. This can make an early morning workout more sluggish. Plus, it increases your chances of injury.

Many report that an early morning workout makes them sharper and more productive during the day. If an early morning workout is the only time you can fit in a workout, take extra care in stretching and warming up before hitting it hard.

On the other hand, early afternoon and evening workouts tend to be more productive. That’s because we’re more alert, our body temperature is higher, our muscles are warmer and more flexible. Plus, our lung function is at its peak.

Working out after a tough day at the office is also a great way to release stress. Not to mention it helps control the amount of food you eat at dinner.

However, consistency is the key. When regular exercise becomes a habit, simply add a few additional routines for optimum health. Namely getting the proper amount of sleep, eating a healthy diet and getting regular chiropractic adjustments.

Cervical Collars: Helpful Fashion Statement?

Sat, 28 Sep 2019 02:24:13 GMT

You see them on people all the time – those big stiff collars that keep someone’s head from moving.

They are often prescribed after a car accident, a sports injury or a fall, for whiplash or a soft tissue injury to the neck. They look uncomfortable. More and more of us are questioning whether they should be used at all.

Neck pain is one of the most prevalent and costly health problems. Although, cervical collars are a seemingly benign intervention, they can have adverse effects, especially when used for longer periods of time.

The concern is that a long period of immobilization can result in atrophy-related secondary damage. Continued usage can cause the muscles in the neck to weaken because the collar is actually taking the place of those muscles.

Some studies have even shown that the use of a cervical collar may actually prolong the recovery process. In fact, many patients with whiplash injuries have persistent pain for at least 6 weeks. Studies show that soft cervical collars do not change the duration or degree of pain.

So how should you treat a neck injury?

Get in to see us. The sooner proper spinal, muscle and joint function are restored, the better. Waiting lengthens recovery time.
Try to keep your neck moving in as normal a fashion as possible; this helps keep the muscles from stiffening.
If you’re inclined to use a cervical collar, limit its use to less than a week.
Perform stretching exercises that help support the neck muscles/joints.
Continue with your normal daily routine and activities; try not to “baby” the injury.

Whiplash injuries can also affect the normal curve in the neck. A chiropractic exam can determine the amount of damage. While pain relievers and muscle relaxers may make you feel better, they won’t heal damaged ligaments, muscles and tendons. And a cervical collar does nothing to return the natural forward curve to the neck.

If you know someone wearing one of these fashion accessories, encourage them to call us for a no obligation consultation. We promise to give them the same high quality care that you’ve come to expect.

NSAIDs – Friend or Foe?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 18 Sep 2019 02:26:32 GMT

Among the most common over-the-counter pain relievers are Non-Steroidal, Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). You probably recognize them by names such as aspirin, Advil, Motrin, Aleve or simply ibuprofen.

These and similar drugs block the body’s production of prostaglandins, reducing inflammation and fever. These drugs have been linked with an increase in heart attacks.

Additionally, studies conducted in Britain are concerning. They concluded the use of NSAIDs led to a greater risk for gastroduodenal conditions (i.e., stomach bleeding, lesions, ulcers). One such study found that one in 1200 patients taking NSAIDs for at least two months died from gastroduodenal complications. The researchers conceded that age and overall health may have affected their outcomes. Yet their results strongly suggest that chronic use of NSAIDs can result in severe complications. They advocate usage of only the minimum dosage for the shortest amount of time.

And as if these effects weren’t enough, long-term use of NSAIDs can cause damage to the eyes. That includes dry eyes, cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration and retinol hemorrhage.

Besides regular chiropractic care, what are some alternatives you can use to relieve inflammation and pain?

Fish oils, that contain omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to be effective in reducing neck and low back pain.
Reducing sugar and grains from your diet helps lessen arthritis pain.
Increasing the amount of vitamin D your body receives, through sun exposure or cod liver oil.
Certain herbs, such as willow bark, are natural alternatives to reduce inflammation and pain.

The bottom line? NSAIDs have recently come under scrutiny by governmental watchdogs. In light of the research, chiropractic care is certainly a safer alternative. And while NSAIDs are convenient and widely available, it doesn’t make them safe.

Do you know someone who reaches for the medicine cabinet to relieve pain? Encourage them to reach for the phone and call us for a no-obligation consultation.

Walking For Health

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 31 Aug 2019 02:30:10 GMT

What do you think is the most popular form of exercise?

Walking, of course. After all, it’s cheap, it’s easy, it doesn’t require fancy equipment, special clothes, an expensive membership and it’s available 24/7 for just about anyone.

Walking, even just 30 minutes a day can strengthen your bones, reduce body fat, boost your muscle power and increase your cardiovascular fitness. It’s a low impact form of exercise that offers at least 10 health benefits:

Reduced risk of cancer
Lower chance of stroke and heart disease
Better management of diabetes
Increased longevity
Weight loss or maintenance
Improved sleep
Better muscle strength
Stronger bones
Reduced incidence of depression
Increase in “good” cholesterol
What’s the best way to get started with a walking routine?

First, get a good pair of flat shoes that have adequate arch support. Remember to stretch a bit, particularly the calves and hamstrings. Start out slow. Like chiropractic adjustments, each session builds on the ones before. Ease into it slowly and increase your pace and distance gradually until you are where you want to be.

And like chiropractic care, walking should be done on a regular basis for optimum effectiveness.

Many of us overlook even small opportunities to walk. Instead of stressing out trying to find the closest parking spot, walk. Instead of driving, walk to the convenience store.

Walking is generally a safe way to exercise, but be sure to exercise some common sense:

Make sure you’re healthy enough to exercise, especially if you’re overweight or over the age of 40.
Be sure to warm up by stretching first and then cooling down afterwards by slowing your pace.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and supportive, well-fitting footwear to avoid blisters and shin splints.
Drink plenty of fluids before and after your walk. If you are taking a long walk, take water with you.
Stay focused, keeping your eyes ahead to avoid uneven surfaces. Avoid texting or other distractions.

A brisk walk for 30 minutes a day, five days a week will work wonders for your physical and mental health. So get up off that couch, climb out of that chair, grab a friend and start walking!

Probiotics – The Good Gut Bacteria

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 21 Aug 2019 02:32:24 GMT

Almost half of our body isn’t even us. It’s bacteria. Trillions of them. Most reside in our stomach, intestines and colon. They are essential for digestion and to our overall health and well being.

The bacteria on our skin, airways and digestive tract are our first line of defense against infection. We acquire our first bacteria while being born. Some take up residence inside our body and help our immune system develop.

There’s “good” bacteria and not so good bacteria.

Antibiotics are classified as a drug designed to fight the not-so-good bacteria. The ones that can cause illness. However, antibiotics have no effect on illnesses caused by viruses, such as colds or the flu.

Antibiotics have saved countless lives. However, antibiotics are rather indiscriminate. They kill good bacteria along with the bad.

Enter probiotics.

The word means “for life.” Probiotics are beneficial or “good bacteria” that can promote good health.

You’ve probably heard that there’s been an overuse of antibiotics. This has created resistant strains that can overtake the good bacteria in our body. This makes treating certain illnesses more difficult.

Probiotics support the body’s natural immune function and helps digest the foods we eat. In fact, the gastrointestinal tract is home to more than 400 different types of bacteria. Acidophilus is among the most familiar. Probiotics also help to keep the level of harmful bacteria down.

The largest percentage of probiotics comes from dairy products. They contain lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

Probiotics are also available in supplement form.

Studies are assessing the use of probiotics in managing many types of conditions. Among them: Crohn’s Disease, lactose intolerance, high cholesterol, eczema, vaginal and urinary tract infections.

Want to know more about probiotics? Just ask us. We’d be happy to discuss them with you.

The Importance of Spinal Curves

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 27 Jul 2019 02:35:02 GMT

Your spine is made up of a series of interconnected bones, each on top of the other. Besides serving as an armature to support the weight of your body, your spine provides:

Protection of the spinal cord and nerve roots
The capacity to withstand a certain amount of physical shock
The ability to walk, run, turn and bend

Your spine is most capable to perform these tasks if it has the proper curves.

From the rear, your spine should be straight. (Which is why it’s called a spinal column.) Any sideways curvature is called a scoliosis. That’s when an area of the spine bends to one side and the body compensates, moving another area in the opposite direction. This keeps the head centered above the body in relation to gravity.

However, from the side, a healthy spine should exhibit four curves, consisting of two types:

Cervical Lordosis (forward)
Thoracic Kyphosis (backward)
Lumbar Lordosis (forward)
Sacral Kyphosis (backward)

These offsetting curves create a spring-like structure, enabling the spine to act as a natural shock absorber. Plus, these curves permit the spine to support more weight than it could if it were straight.

Children are born with a “C” shaped spinal curve until the age they begin to crawl. As children pick their heads up, the ideal cervical lordosis takes form. If all goes according to plan, as kids learn to walk upright, the spine assumes its four curves.

The cervical curve is especially prone to loss or distortion. This often results from some type of trauma, whether from the birth process, whiplash injury or other physical stress.

The loss of proper cervical curve is often referred to as a “military neck.” While serious, it is not as detrimental as a reverse cervical curve. Besides symptoms of headache and neck pain, a loss of cervical curve can affect your ability to rotate your head. Plus, there can be neurological effects throughout the body.

Chiropractic care may improve the structure and function of the spine.

If you know someone who is far too dependent upon their rear view mirrors (or their car’s back up camera), or who tends to turn their entire body to look at you, encourage them to give us a call. A thorough examination can determine if they’ve lost their cervical curve and whether they’re a good candidate for chiropractic care.

Walking Your Way to Wellness

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 17 Jul 2019 02:40:32 GMT

Want to bring some unexpected joy into your life? Try some lighthearted, low stress exercise.

Most of us don’t move enough. Many of us sit most of the day. This lack of movement can profoundly affect our health and well-being.

Introducing… walking!

It’s free, it’s easy, it doesn’t require any fancy equipment or membership, it’s convenient, there’s no set schedule and you can do it almost anywhere.

The benefits of walking are well documented. Walking can increase your life expectancy, reduce cardiovascular disease, lower blood pressure, improve your mental health and your outlook on life.

Daily walks can improve the quality of your sleep and lower cholesterol. Walking also improves muscle strength and builds bone mass. And there’s more:

Reduced body fat
Increased bone density
Lowered blood pressure

While most people can easily understand the physical benefits of walking, the mental/emotional benefits are often overlooked. Walking can improve self-esteem, reduce stress and anxiety, and make you feel good. Walking in a beautiful natural environment can relax you and provide you with the time you need to engage in personal introspection.

Ready to get started?

First, get a good pair of shoes that have adequate arch support. Remember to stretch a bit, particularly the calves and hamstrings. Start out slow. Ease into it slowly and increase your pace and distance gradually until you’re where you want to be.

Just like any other type of physical activity, you’ll want to walk on a regular basis if you want to see and feel the results. Many of us overlook even small opportunities to walk. Park further out and walk to the store. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

A brisk walk for 30 minutes a day, every other day or so, will work wonders for your physical and mental health.

And before starting your walking program, stop by for a chiropractic checkup. Make sure your exercise program doesn’t stress malfunctioning joints of your legs, hips and spine. Then, get up from behind the computer, grab a friend and start walking.

Laughter – An Essential Ingredient of Good Health

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 22 Jun 2019 02:43:05 GMT

For years, Readers Digest featured the column “Laughter, the Best Medicine.” It contains jokes, riddles and humorous musings designed to tickle the funny bone. But just how important is laughter to our everyday health?

Turns out that when we laugh we produce natural killer cells which destroy tumors and viruses. Plus there’s an increase in the production of Gamma-interferon (a disease-fighting protein), T-cells (important for our immune system) and B-cells (which make disease-fighting antibodies). Besides lowering blood pressure, laughter increases oxygen in the blood, which also facilitates healing.

Laughter helps us to deal with stress, cope with loss, work through tragedy, hide our embarrassment and calm our fears. Laughter helps the body relax. It lowers blood pressure, increases immune system functioning and assists in warding off disease.

In terms of mental health, laughter:

Helps us connect with others
Improves our coping with grief, fear or loss
Makes us more productive – happy people have more energy
Releases negative emotions such as anger, fear, sadness and depression
Releases endorphins in the brain that help you to feel good

Did you also know that laughter is a form of aerobic exercise? You may even feel fatigued if you laugh continuously for any length of time. Just remind yourself to laugh well and often in order to experience the aerobic benefits of laughter.

Physicians in the 14th century regularly used laughter as an analgesic. Laughter was used by French surgeon Henri de Mondeville to divert patients from the pain of surgery. Plus, it seemed to help them recover.

More recent research has found that those watching comedy videos needed less pain medication. The authors suggest, “These results can best be explained by the action of endorphins released by laughter.”

Dr. Norman Cousins, author of “Norman Cousins Anatomy Of An Illness,” famously used laughter to treat his ankylosing spondylitis. His book describes his regime of daily doses of laughter and vitamin C that he used to recover.

What steps can you take to increase the amount of laughter in your life?

Surround yourself with positive upbeat people who laugh a lot – laughter is contagious!
Find out what makes you laugh – is it funny movies, watching the comedy channel, reading funny material? Whatever it is – do it more often!
Don’t take yourself, or anyone else, or even life for that matter, so seriously.

Always remember, happiness is your birthright…so laugh and when you do, laugh loud and often!

Fasting–Are There Health Benefits?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 12 Jun 2019 02:45:54 GMT

Many chiropractors and other natural healing disciplines suggest fasting from time to time as a means to cleanse the body and rid it of toxins so it functions better. Critics of fasting say that it starves the body and that regular sleeping and periods in between eating are enough to give the digestive system the rest it needs. So…whom do we believe?

Fasting has been practiced for centuries, for both religious and therapeutic reasons, and is well documented in Biblical accounts. It involves the voluntary abstinence from all substances, except pure water, for a certain period. While most healthy individuals can tolerate a one to three-day fast on their own, fasts of a longer duration should take place with the supervision of a trained health care professional to coach you through the process.

Benefits associated with fasting include:

Provides the digestive system with a rest from its daily activities, just as we need to take a vacation from our jobs.
Cleanses the body by eliminating harmful toxins
Allows the body a period of rest for meditation and spiritual development
Introduces a period of transition (i.e., weight loss, overcoming addictions, shift from meat eating to vegetarian diet, etc.) to the body to gear up for it

Of course, fasting is not advised for pregnant or nursing women, those with a life-threatening illness (cancer, AIDS), and those with diabetes or liver disease; individuals on prescription medications need to check with their doctors prior to initiating a fast.

Studies conducted by Mark P. Mattson at the U.S. National Institute on Aging on mice concluded that fasting has beneficial effects on the aging process as well. Mattson said an earlier study found that mice that fasted every other day had extended life spans and a new experiment found the mice also did better in factors involved in diabetes and nerve damage in the brain similar to Alzheimer’s disease. Apparently, the cells of the body respond to fasting by increasing their ability to handle even more stress, responding with an attitude of “that which does not kill us makes us stronger!”

Find out more and get your questions answered by scheduling a chiropractic checkup. Discover what you should eat before your fast and your first meal after ending your fast.

Does Scoliosis Automatically Mean Surgery?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 24 May 2019 02:51:16 GMT

A routine school exam reveals your child has scoliosis. Naturally you’re concerned.

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine. About 80% of scoliosis cases are idiopathic. Which means the cause isn’t known. Idiopathic scoliosis may have hereditary factors.

Scoliosis afflicts around 2 to 3 percent of the population. Children aged 10 to 15 are the largest age group. And it seems girls are more affected than boys. While common in this age and gender group, a growing number of adults have scoliosis. This often stems from trauma to the spine followed by years of neglect.

Congenital scoliosis occurs before birth. These deformities are often from partially-formed vertebrae. Or vertebrae that are fused together.

Among children, “wait and see” is often the first-line of traditional treatment. If the scoliosis has progressed beyond a 45° – 50° curve, surgical fusion is often recommended. This surgery involves implanting steel rods, hooks and screws to straighten the spine. These are covered with bone fragments to fuse the metal rods with the spine.

As you can imagine, this is a major surgery with serious risks.

Problems include infection, neurological compromise, collapsed lung and back pain. Some have even reported broken rods. These often require more surgeries.

Recently, studies have shown that chiropractic care holds great promise. Repeated adjustments can help make changes to spinal structures and function. Pre and post X-rays often reveal dramatic changes. Many cases show a significant reduction in the degree of curvature. After 12 weeks of chiropractic care, plans for surgery have often been abandoned.

Many are interested in alternatives to medical treatment. Why? Because natural solutions are less risky and often produce as good or better results.

If you have a loved one with scoliosis, please mention it on your next visit. We’d be happy to share our experience with scoliosis cases. Let’s create a strategy to introduce them to safe and natural chiropractic care.

Sources: Mayo Clinic , National Scoliosis Foundation , MedicineNet , Spine Health

Is Chocolate Actually Good for You?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 14 May 2019 02:53:04 GMT

Chocoholics take heart – literally that is. Seems that a bit of a chocolate bar might actually be good for your ticker.

Dark chocolate, not that dreamy milk chocolate that melts in your mouth. It’s a comfort food that we can all live with – in moderation of course.

Several studies have concluded that it’s the flavonoids in dark chocolate that are beneficial. These are the substances in plants that give fruits and vegetables their health benefits.

The authors don’t suggest that you go out and consume five or six candy bars, as the sugar and fat content in a typical candy bar would have a negative effect on your health.

Dark chocolate is loaded with nutrients. It’s made from the seed of the cocoa tree and is one of the best sources of antioxidants on the planet.

Dark chocolate seems to improve brain function. Various research studies, conducted in the U.S. and Switzerland, have concluded that chocolate flavonoids give short bursts of energy to the brain. Besides combating fatigue and sleep deprivation, it may also improve cognitive function among the elderly.

Dark chocolate increases blood flow to the brain and contains stimulants like caffeine and theobromine.

Some experts say that epicatechin, found in cocoa beans, may be as important as penicillin. It’s believed that epicatechin improves circulation and relaxes blood vessels.

A Central American Indian tribe, the Kuna, drink up to 5 cups of cocoa water each day. They exhibit less high blood pressure, cancer, heart disease and stroke than people in more developed countries.

According to the International Journal of Medical Science, the Kuna were:

Five times less likely to die as a result of heart disease
25 times less likely to die from cancer
10 times less likely to die from the effects of diabetes
13 times less likely to die from a stroke

In addition, a research team in Finland has been studying a group of Helsinki executives. Their findings among those born between 1919 and 1934 are interesting. The chocolate-lovers in the group tended to be leaner. They had a lower incidence of diabetes. And they were better educated than those who consumed other sweets. They also tended to be happier and suffered less depression. Maybe because eating chocolate also releases endorphins, which produce pleasurable feelings.

So go ahead and indulge in some dark chocolate. It just might make you feel better now, and many years into the future.

Health Facts About Omega-3

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 04:00:07 GMT

What is Omega-3 and why is it important?

First, it is a fat. The good type of fat. The “omega” is simply a way organic chemists name the long string of carbon atoms. At one end is a carboxylic acid molecule (called alpha) and a methyl at the other end (called omega).

Omega-3 fatty acids are often compared with Omega-6 fatty acids.

Because of our dependency on fast foods, most people consume too much Omega-6. This can increase inflammation, produce depression and lead to many types of health issues.

Our bodies do not produce omega-3 fatty acids. The only way to get them is through our diet. Eat fish (salmon, halibut, tuna), walnuts, flax seeds, beans, olive oil and fish oil supplements.

The physical and mental health benefits linked with omega-3 fatty acids include:

Increased brain function. Studies have looked at children whose mother’s increased omega-3 intake during pregnancy. By age four, these children scored higher on cognitive ability tests. In adults, omega-3 improves memory, focus and recall.
Better mental health. Increasing omega-3 helps with the symptoms of depression, ADHD and other brain chemistry-related conditions. Research suggests that low levels of omega-3 are common in ADHD and depression.
Reduced inflammation. This is of benefit to those suffering from arthritis or other painful condition. Inflammation has been linked to heart disease. It also reduces bad (LDL) and raises good (HDL) cholesterol. Plus, it lowers blood pressure along with risk of stroke and heart attack.

There are other studies too. Some show the benefits of omega-3 on cancer, bone loss, diabetes and other disorders.

Many of the benefits of omega-3 are well documented. But as with any health benefit there is no “magic pill” or supplement that can do it all. It requires a combination of things. Healthy eating, exercise, proper rest and the right kinds and amounts of vitamins and minerals. Plus, a nervous system free of interference so every organ and tissue and function properly.

So eat more fish, olives, flax seed and nuts, stay active and make sure we see you for regular chiropractic checkups!

Sit Up Straight!

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 16 Apr 2019 04:03:42 GMT

Remember when your mother used to say things like, “Eat all your vegetables.” And, “Look both ways before crossing the street.” “A person is known by the company they keep.” And let’s not forget her mantra, “Sit up straight! Don’t slouch!”

She was offering excellent advice.

So many of us today work in sedentary jobs that require that we sit for most of the workday. However, whether at a desk, or at a football game, or in front of a television set, good posture is imperative for optimum spinal health.

Consider the way you’re sitting right this moment:

Are your feet flat on the floor, with your knees at a 90° angle?
Are your buttocks, back and shoulders up against the backrest of your chair?
Does the chair you’re sitting in provide enough lumbar support? Does the backrest fit into the natural curve of your spine? Are all your spinal curves properly supported?
Are your shoulders relaxed and even, not hunched in a forward position?
Is your body weight equally distributed across both hips?
Are your knees level with or slightly higher than your hips?

If you answered “No” to any of these, you’re probably exerting undue stress on your spine.

Keep in mind that it is not a good idea to sit in the same position for more than 40 minutes. Chronic slouching affects the discs between the vertebrae and may cause bulging or herniation.

Remember to periodically take the time to stand up and stretch your back and legs or take a short walk.

The chair you use should provide lumbar support that allows the backrest to fit into the curve in your lower back. This helps avoid pressure on the spine and prevents back muscles from becoming fatigued. If your chair doesn’t have it, you can use a rolled towel or invest in a lumbar support pillow to provide you with the proper amount of spinal support. If you sit for long periods, it is certainly worth the investment.

Seven Reasons to See a Chiropractor

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Sat, 23 Mar 2019 04:08:46 GMT

1. It’s effective. Your nervous system controls every cell, tissue, organ and system of your body. The primary focus of chiropractic care is the restoration of nervous system integrity. As your nervous system works better, you work better.

2. It’s natural. Chiropractic care doesn’t add chemicals or foreign substances to your body. Nor does chiropractic care remove parts or take things out. Instead, chiropractic care helps restore proper control and regulation of your body so health can return, naturally.

3. It’s safe. Chiropractic care is safe. So safe, even newborns get adjusted to correct the spinal trauma from the birth process. Chiropractic care is tailored to each patient’s age, health problem and goals.

4. No side effects. There are no warning labels required for chiropractic care. In fact, the side effects of chiropractic care are often considered positive effects. They include better balance, more energy, increased vitality, extended endurance and improved coordination.

5. No obligation. Tour our website or schedule a consultation to find out if you’re a good candidate for chiropractic care. If you are, we’ll invite you to begin care. If you’re not, we’ll recommend someone we think can help you.

6. Delighted patients. If those critical of chiropractic had a real basis for their objections, chiropractic would have disappeared 100 years ago. However, it continues to thrive due to high levels of patient satisfaction. It simply works.

7. Smart choice. It makes sense to correct the underlying cause rather than numb the body with drugs. Research shows that those who are more highly educated choose chiropractic care.

If you know someone who you think we could help, please send him or her our way. At least share these reasons why chiropractic care makes sense.

Is Your Debt Making You Sick?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 04:16:14 GMT

There is an epidemic plaguing many. It’s called debt stress.

Credit card companies and retail outlets make it easier than ever to obtain credit on demand. They’re perfectly agreeable to generous credit limits. They’re anxious to exploit your need for instant gratification. But all this “generosity” comes with a cost. Count on exorbitant interest rates and minimum payments that barely put a dent in the amount you owe.

There are 30% of us who don’t have a credit card. Those who do, have almost four of them. Each with an average interest rate of 17%. Paying only the minimum payment means it would take years to pay each card off. And all of this debt is causing a lot of stress and health-related concerns for plenty of people.

Mental disorders, migraines, heart disease, high blood pressure, weight gain/loss, insomnia – these are just a few of the by-products of debt stress. For some, spending is an addiction, just like alcohol, drugs or gambling, and it needs to be treated in much the same way.

What can you do about your overwhelming and out-of-control debt? Here are some suggestions to help you regain control of your debt and your health:

Seek the advice and guidance of a reputable credit counselor.
Contact your creditors. Many will work with you to set up financially feasible payment schedules.
Reduce spending and stop incurring new debt.
Use a debit card instead of a credit card.
Use money in a savings account that is earning minimal interest, to pay down any high-interest credit cards.
Remove credit cards from your purse or wallet
Pick your smallest debt and pay it off, moving on to the next smallest debt.

It’s possible, with determination and discipline, to regain your credit and your personal health. It starts with recognizing that you have a problem and moving on from there to help yourself.

Golfers Love Chiropractic

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 27 Feb 2019 04:19:22 GMT

For many, a relaxing game of golf is the perfect way to spend a sunny weekend with three of your best friends. But, the next day, some feel pronounced pain in the lower back. Does this popular leisure time activity produce lower back pain?

According to the Professional Golfers Association, lower back pain is a frequent golfer complaint. These injuries are often the result of playing too much. Back pain affects weekend golfers too, but for the opposite reason. They don’t play often enough!

Many occasional golfers lack proper swing technique. Plus, they often don’t get enough regular physical activity. They tend to swing harder and the muscles used in this type of swing tend to get stressed. An improper swing causes tension on the lower back. Investing in some golf lessons to learn proper swing mechanics could lessen this risk.

Engaging in a regular walking or other aerobic activity is helpful in preventing lower back pain. In addition, older golfers (and younger ones too) need to be aware of their endurance levels when they play. As a golfer gets tired, swing mechanics can worsen, leading to spinal stress, stiffness and increased lower back pain.

It’s interesting to note that many professional golfers rely on chiropractic care. Tiger Woods, Zach Johnson, Jordan Spieth, Mike Weir, Vijay Singh and David Duvall regularly consult their chiropractor. If it works for them, it could work for you.

Burn Calories Without Breaking a Sweat

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 04:34:25 GMT

You may have suspected that proper weight control cannot be achieved entirely by dieting alone. In fact, you may know a few people who are engaged in a sedentary lifestyle who never work out, yet seem able to maintain an ideal weight.

How do they do it?

Turns out you can burn extra calories with activities that require little, if any, physical exercise.

Here’s a guide to some of the more common calorie-burning activities and the number of calories per hour they consume:

One hour spent jogging: 398
Whimpering about an ache or pain: 392
Complaining about a headache: 350
Whining about a sleepless night: 337
Moaning about low back pain: 336
Reaching into the medicine cabinet: 300
Creating excuses to avoid chiropractors: 298
Telling others about chiropractic: 10

Just kidding!

This chart may begin to explain why some of our patients don’t “pay it forward” by telling others about today’s safe and natural chiropractic care. Could it be that referring others doesn’t burn enough calories?

Do you know someone who seems to be burning calories by whining, complaining or taking medications for their ache or pain? If you think we could help them, please put in a good word for us. You’ll feel better—and so will they.

What is Spinal Stenosis?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 05:26:38 GMT

For many of us, advancing age brings on more than just grey hair and wrinkles. It also surfaces degenerative changes to the spine. It’s not always the aging process. More likely, it’s the cumulative effect of years of neglect.

Spinal stenosis is one such condition. This is a narrowing of the canal housing the spinal cord. In the neck it’s called cervical stenosis. In the lower back lumbar stenosis.

It’s rarely diagnosed before the age of 60.

Narrowing of the spinal canal puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. Which can produce a variety of symptoms.

The symptoms of lumbar stenosis often include lower back pain, leg pain, or numbness. The symptoms of cervical stenosis can be more serious. Besides neck pain, symptoms may include burning and tingling in the hands. Many have problems with walking, balance, and bladder control.

Patients with cervical stenosis often had an injury or trauma to their neck. Whiplash from a car accident is among the most common.

Medical treatment includes medication, physical therapy, injections or surgery. But medication has side effects. Physical therapy merely exercises misaligned spinal joints. Surgery is risky, with little guarantee of success.

Many who have had chiropractic care report improvement from spinal stenosis. Chiropractic care seeks to reduce the underlying cause. Restoring spinal alignment and proper curves may reduce spinal stenosis. It’s an approach that’s all natural and non-invasive.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of spinal stenosis, see a chiropractor. Remember, chiropractic first, drugs second and surgery last.

What is Pain Trying to Tell You?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 16 Jan 2019 05:30:27 GMT

An ache here, a pain there. Or maybe something more chronic, like migraine pain or lower back pain.

What is the purpose of pain? What’s it trying to tell you?

Many people try to avoid pain at all costs. So, at the first sign of any type of pain, they take something to mask it. But their pain is merely a sign that something else is amiss. The pain is not the problem.

It’s merely a communication system. It’s the way your body gets the attention of its owner. You.

If you ignore it, or suppress it with a pill, it doesn’t go away. It’s like covering your “Check Engine” light on the dashboard of your car. The issue is still there.

Traditional medicine is great at reducing or suppressing symptoms. Prescription and over-the-counter medications often produce quick relief.

Until they don’t.

That’s when even larger dosages are required.

Until they don’t work.

This philosophy towards pain and its relief has been a factor in the growing opioid crisis.

A Natural Approach to Pain

Chiropractic care takes a very different approach. Pain, or other symptoms, is a language your body uses to alert you that a limit has been reached or a change needs to be made.

This usually involves the functioning of your nervous system. Because it controls and regulates every cell of your body. Every nerve message between your brain and body travels the spinal cord.

If a vertebra is out of place, even slightly, it can put pressure on the spinal cord or the nerve roots that exit the spine. The resulting interference to nerve communications can be the cause of a host of health issues.

A series of precise spinal adjustments help restore proper spinal function. The result? Revived brain to body communications. Oh, and less pain.

If you’re experiencing pain, get a thorough spinal examination. Chiropractors have been able to help many who were threatened with surgery. Or told to “learn to live with it.” It’s an all natural solution that has helped millions.

What Happens When You Get Whiplash?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 05:42:18 GMT

Who knew a fun day at the amusement park could result in a whiplash injury?

When they hear the word, “whiplash,” most people immediately picture a rear-end motor vehicle accident. But there are other ways that whiplash injuries can occur, including:

Assault, such as being punched or shaken
Roller coaster rides
Sports, especially football or boxing
Falls

A whiplash injury occurs when the cervical spine (neck) is stretched beyond its normal range of motion in a forward (flexion), backward (extension) or sideways movement.

The discs between the vertebrae, along with their associated muscles, tendons and ligaments can be stretched or torn, resulting in symptoms such as:

Neck pain, stiffness or tenderness
Headache and dizziness
Numbness or tingling
Muscle spasms
Irritability and memory loss
Blurred vision
Ringing in the ears

How Chiropractic Can Help

These symptoms and related pain can show up immediately or up to 72 hours after the impact that caused the whiplash injury. And the pain and discomfort can last for months, even years.

People often down play the extent of their injuries initially after an accident. This can cause serious problems later on as most of the injury is to the disc and facet joints.

The goal of chiropractic care is to return neck joints affected by whiplash to their normal position to relieve stress on affected nerves and strain on affected muscles. Know someone who might benefit from our care? Contact us today.

Insider’s Guide to Free Radicals

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 05:44:12 GMT

Imagine a huge ballroom dance in which couples are whirling and twirling to the music.

Until a single, unpaired dancer enters the ballroom. He cuts in on another dancing couple. This leaves one of the original couples without a partner.

This new lone dancer disrupts another couple by cutting in. This odd-man-out scenario creates chaos. A chain reaction of changing partners disrupts the dance again and again.

When molecules in our body do this it’s called oxidative stress.

Free radicals are molecules with a missing electron. They seek out sources from which they can steal an electron.

After they get an electron, the donor molecule is often damaged. When this electron shuffling is widespread it can become a major health problem.

Oxidative stress from free radicals is a natural process. Our body uses it when we exercise or fight an infection. It’s a normal part of the body’s intricate system of keeping itself healthy.

Yet, when there are too many free radicals problems can result. It can contribute to a variety of modern day inflammatory diseases. Conditions such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, heart disease and high blood pressure can result. Even Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer and many neurological diseases are implicated.

The solution?

Having one more dancer enter the room can reduce this ballroom chaos. In the body, that’s what an “antioxidant” does.

Antioxidants are molecules that can donate an electron without making themselves unstable. This causes the free radical to stabilize and become less reactive.

The good news is that there are two key strategies we can use to fight free radicals.

Reduce Exposure – The old adage, “When you find yourself in a hole, stop digging,” comes to mind. Look for ways to reduce the oxidative stress on your body. This can include reducing your exposure to ozone, pesticides, tobacco smoke and pollution. Reduce alcohol and sugar in all its many forms.

Increase Antioxidants – Our body relies on the foods we eat to provide antioxidants. Damage from free radicals requires becoming more mindful of our diet. Consider adding grapes, blueberries, nuts, dark green vegetables, root vegetables, beans and fish. Limit processed meats such as sausages, bacon and salami.

As with so many things in the body, we need balance. We need the right amount of free radicals, and the right amount of antioxidants to keep them in check.

Common Factors That Affect Healing

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 05:47:16 GMT

Most of our patients begin care because they have an ache, pain or some other health issue. Naturally, they want it resolved as quickly as possible.

Ingest a pain reliever and within minutes the drug disperses throughout your body, numbing the symptom. Many of us have grown accustomed to this almost instantaneous result.

Granted, it’s produced by fooling the body so it can’t feel the symptom. The cause is still there. But the annoying symptom is gone.

Chiropractic care works differently.

Instead of suppressing the symptom, chiropractic care looks to reduce nerve interference. Your body is then better able to function as designed and symptoms often lessen.

How long does that take?

Since we’re relying on you and your body’s recuperative ability, it’s difficult to predict. Here are seven of the major factors.

Your Problem – Certain types of health issues resolve more quickly than others. That’s because instead of focusing on the problem in the person, we focus on the person with the problem.

How Long You’ve Had It – Most spinal problems can exist without symptoms for years, even decades. The ache or pain may have shown up last week, but it has been festering for some time. More recent problems tend to resolve faster than long-standing issues.

Your Health – Is your immune system compromised? Do you tend to do a lot of sitting? Are you overweight? Do you get enough restful sleep? Are you a smoker? Those who lack vitality often find it takes longer to recover.

Your Age – The older we are, the slower we heal. In your teens or twenties a little cut on your hand might heal in three or four days. With each passing decade it takes longer and longer.

Your Lifestyle – What are you willing to do (or stop doing!) between visits to give your body the best opportunity to heal? We may suggest changes to your diet, exercises, increased water intake or other home care procedures.

Your Stress Levels – There are three types of stress. Physical stress, such as trauma from a car accident. Chemical stress, such as drugs, alcohol or a poor diet. And emotional stress from worry, depression, anger or fear. Those with a greater stress burden take longer to heal.

Your Attitude – The mind-body connection plays an important role. Take part in your care. Believe we can help you. Want better health. These can speed your recovery. Become invested in your health. Chiropractic care is a partnership.

Your Visit Schedule – Your care plan is designed to produce the best results in the shortest amount of time. Results come from the momentum of regular, periodic visits. Missing a visit can impede your progress.

If you have questions about the speed of your recovery, ask! There’s usually a logical explanation. We may need to revise your care plan or make other changes. Our primary interest is your health and well-being.

All About Salt

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 05:53:58 GMT

Salt is the primary seasoning used to flavor food and an essential ingredient of the diets of both animals and humans alike.

The human body contains about four ounces of salt. If you don’t have enough of it, your heart won’t beat, you can’t digest your food, your blood won’t circulate throughout your body and your muscles won’t work properly.

While salt may contribute to high blood pressure in some people, for others it may be a treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome.

A Salty History

In ancient times, salt was a valuable commodity, often used as currency. In fact, the word “salary” is derived from the Latin word for salt, salarium. To be told that you weren’t “worth your salt” implied that you were lazy and not worthy of your wages.

Prior to modern refrigeration, salt was also used as a food preservative. In regions where winters were severe and fresh foods were unavailable for long periods of time, salt was used to “cure” meats.

And of course, Grandma had many uses for salt:

Adding it to salad greens to prevent wilting
Using it to help cut flowers last longer
Rinsing a sore throat with it
Polishing teeth with it on a toothbrush
Cooking eggs with it to make them set faster

Like with many things, too little salt prevents your body from working correctly. Too much salt, and other problems arise.

What determines the “right” amount? The wisdom of your body, orchestrated by your nervous system—the focus of your chiropractic care.

What Makes Chiropractic Different?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 05:58:25 GMT

By adjusting your spine, our practice is focused on balancing your nervous system.

By now you know that chiropractic care is different from medical treatment. This difference goes beyond the importance of repeated visits.

At our practice, the focus remains on the integrity of your nervous system. How do we do it? By seeing YOU.

Seeing the Person

While medicine is interested in the problem in the person, chiropractic is interested in the person with the problem.

Another difference? Chiropractic doesn’t treat your symptoms.

Sure, patients with symptoms happily report that their symptoms often lessen or disappear with chiropractic care, but that’s not the intent of chiropractic care.

Instead, our objective is to reduce the underlying cause of your symptoms. As the cause is reduced (vertebral subluxation), your body no longer needs to sound alarm bells.

That’s a big difference.

This difference has allowed chiropractic to thrive beside medicine as a separate and distinct healing art.

None of us want to live in a world without medical doctors, necessary drugs or lifesaving surgery—you probably don’t either. However, medicine has its own purpose, intent and outcome. As does chiropractic—that’s why they’re different.

If it’s been a while since your last visit, we’d love to see you in our practice soon.

Are You a Victim?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 10 Oct 2018 06:00:36 GMT

Our health (and the decisions we make about it) is among the most personal of decisions.

Are we passive, ignoring our health until we lose it? Or do we actively assume the responsibility for and take action to promote our health?

The choice we make is often revealed by how we respond when we have a health crisis of some type.

Strategy One: Eliminate the invader. Whether it’s applying weed killer to eliminate the dandelions in our lawn, or using a chemical concoction to “kill 99.9% of germs on contact,” this approach sees the problem as “out there.” It’s a victim mentality—we think we’re prey for the “bug that’s going around” or are afflicted with poor genetics or simple bad luck.

Strategy Two: Bolster the host. Killing germs doesn’t automatically produce health. Instead, this strategy employs strategies to strengthen the immune system and enhance our ability to resist infectious invaders. This includes good nutrition, quality sleep, regular exercise, stress reduction and of course, regular chiropractic checkups.

Which strategy is best? Both, of course. Be mindful about needlessly exposing yourself to pathogens, while optimizing your health and well-being so your body can function at its best.

To help maintain your health, consider booking an appointment with our practice.

Why Spinal Problems Often Return

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 26 Sep 2018 06:03:52 GMT

Chiropractic skeptics often pooh-pooh the idea of periodic chiropractic checkups after symptoms subside with the classic, “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it” line.

This justification often results in a relapse into the original problem for countless patients.

How come?

Because biomechanical changes along the spine affecting nerves and muscles don’t heal like a cut, infection or some other self-resolving health condition.

Addressing Long Lasting Problems

By the time spinal problems produce obvious symptoms, the problem has been there for some time—maybe even decades. Yet the symptom didn’t emerge until “last week, when I bent down to pick up the paper.”

Thankfully, a chiropractic care plan may produce symptomatic improvement in a matter of months, sometimes weeks. The patient is delighted, but we haven’t completed the retraining of the underlying muscles and soft tissues necessary for lasting spinal changes.

That’s why the original problem is likely to return. It’s hard to know when, but it’s almost always after some major physical, chemical or emotional stress.

“I thought you fixed me,” laments the returning patient.

Granted, there was symptomatic improvement, but without some type of ongoing supportive care, the weakened area remains susceptible to re-injury.

Schedule Your Visit

If that should happen to you, give us a call. You’ll be welcomed back for another episode of care. Your records will already be here, along with our genuine concern for you and your health.

Nervous System 101

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 06:07:32 GMT

The nervous system in your body is made up of two parts: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.

The brain and the spinal cord make up the central nervous system. The spinal cord transmits sensory messages to the brain and motor messages from the brain. Sensory nerves carry messages from receptors to the brain. If you touch a hot stove, pain receptors tell your brain to move your hand. Motor nerves send signals from the brain to the muscles in the body. These nerves help us to do things, like walk, kick a ball or pick up an object.

The peripheral nervous system transports the messages between the central nervous system and the body. It consists of cranial and spinal nerves that carry messages to and from every cell in your body.

The Autonomic Nervous System

Part of the peripheral nervous system is called the autonomic nervous system. The actions of the autonomic nervous system are generally involuntary (automatic). It controls actions such as breathing, your heartbeat and digestion—things you don’t have to think about.

The autonomic nervous system is made up of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. The sympathetic system alerts the body when there is an emergency or danger. Like what happens when you push the accelerator pedal in your car, everything speeds up in what is called a “flight or fight” response. The parasympathetic system is like the brake pedal, returning your body to normal once the danger has passed.

Chiropractic care is designed to improve the integrity of the nervous system so that everything works the way it should. That is why it is important to have your spine checked at regular intervals.

The Brain in Your Gut

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 06:15:05 GMT

It surprises many to learn that they have an enteric nervous system. Have you heard of it? It controls and regulates the esophagus, stomach, small intestine and colon and has five times the number of neurons as your spinal cord.

You’ve probably heard the admonition “trust your gut.” Turns out it’s wise advice. If you’ve ever felt butterflies in your stomach, felt a hunch or sensed that the crab cakes were a bit “funky,” you may have heard from your “second brain.” In your gut.

Have you ever vomited?

Then you’ve experienced the wisdom of your enteric nervous system firsthand. You may not have felt well, but the intelligence of your nervous system caused those funky crab cakes to become projectiles, producing the contractions necessary to force them back up your esophagus. A healthy response even though you didn’t feel well.

The enteric nervous system is thought to play a major role in our emotional well-being, too. It connects to the brain, directly affecting feelings of sadness or stress, even influencing memory, learning and decision-making.

Many gastrointestinal disorders such as acid reflux, colitis and irritable bowel syndrome begin with the brain in our gut.

Do you know someone who should be seeing us to better balance their enteric nervous system?

Once You Go…

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 15 Aug 2018 06:17:48 GMT

Probably one of the greatest myths about chiropractic care is that, once you go, you have to go for the rest of your life. Of course, this isn’t true. However, we do have patients who plan to see us regularly for the rest of their life.

So what gives?

Five Ways to Use Chiropractic

The most common reasons patients choose ongoing chiropractic care include:

Relief – Many people begin here. Their ache, pain or other symptom is often what prompts them to begin chiropractic care.

Correction – With the most obvious symptoms reduced, many opt to continue their care to stabilize and strengthen their spine.

Maintenance – Regular chiropractic care can help you maintain your progress and avoid a relapse.

Prevention – Periodic chiropractic checkups can help catch new problems early.

Wellness – Simply put, we experience life through our nervous system. That’s why optimizing our spine and nervous system is the key to becoming all that we can be.

Visit Our Practice

How far you take your care is up to you. Our job is to offer the best chiropractic care possible, and your job is to decide how much of it you want. If it’s been a while since your last visit, consider giving us a call.

Boost Your Body

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 01 Aug 2018 06:24:37 GMT

We’ve all heard the old adage, “Use it or lose it.” It’s especially true when it comes to joint function.

As we age, many of us suffer from a loss of joint mobility. Morning stiffness starts to show up. Or we need time to recover after getting up out of a chair or driving for a long distance. Knees, hips, shoulders and elbows are common culprits. Less obvious, but even more important, are the joints of the spine.

As we start to feel the brunt of a lifetime of insults and injuries to the spine, chiropractic care becomes especially helpful.

Besides helping to keep spinal joints functioning as optimally as possible, many seniors choose some type of regular chiropractic care for:

Better balance – Falling is often the beginning of the end for the elderly. Regular chiropractic care may help the elderly maintain better balance.

Increased vitality – With the nervous system focus of chiropractic care, many patients report better sleep, more energy and a greater sense of well being when they get adjusted regularly.

Has it been a while since your last visit? Give us a call today to book your next appointment.

We look forward to seeing you!

3 Ways to Get to Sleep

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 06:27:55 GMT

You’ve darkened your bedroom. It’s quiet. You’ve set the temperature to a comfortable 68 degrees. You’ve avoided eating or exercising before bedtime. You get adjusted regularly to quiet down your nervous system. You’ve avoided the blue light emitted by your digital device. It’s time to fall asleep.

Now what?

If you’re someone who has difficulty getting to sleep each night, you’re not alone. Millions of people worldwide admit to some type of sleep problem. Sleep insufficiency can contribute to a variety of chronic diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, depression, and obesity, as well as cancer, increased mortality, and reduced quality of life and productivity.

Once you’re lying down, think about anything but falling asleep. Here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Starting at your toes and slowly moving towards your head, focus on contracting and relaxing your muscles. Repeat as needed.

2. Count your breaths. Become mindful of each inspiration and expiration as you become aware of the subtle changes of your lungs expanding and contracting.

3. Visualize some type of repetitive action, such as swinging a baseball bat, digging with a shovel or the classic, all-time favorite, counting sheep.

Naturally, getting stressed about falling asleep is the quickest way to stay awake. If slumber evades you, get out of bed and read a book. You may also resolve to get more exercise or consider chiropractic care.

Emotions and Your Spine

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 04 Jul 2018 06:35:10 GMT

When we explain that physical, chemical and emotional stress is the underlying cause of subluxations, many wonder how emotions can cause spinal misalignments. Yet, our language reveals some common connections.

“I just can’t stand it.”

“He’s a real pain in the neck.”

“She’s cramping my style.”

“My feet are killing me.”

Our emotions are linked to the meaning we give to situations or circumstances.

For example, for some of us, just the sight of a snake produces fear or aversion. But for others, the same snake is a beautiful reptile to be picked up and held—two very different emotional responses to the same thing!

The Fight or Flight Response

The relationship is complex, but simply put, when we become stressed, our body releases a “fight or flight” hormone called cortisol, influencing muscle tension throughout the body.

When muscles supporting the spine tighten, they can misalign spinal bones, affecting the spinal cord and adjacent nerve roots exiting the spine. After all, bones don’t move unless acted on by muscles, and muscles don’t contract unless commanded by the nervous system.

Our emotional health affects our immune system, increasing our susceptibility to colds and infections during or following emotionally difficult times. And while regular chiropractic care won’t eliminate stress, it may help you to better accommodate it.

Headaches Are Common – But Not Normal

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 20 Jun 2018 06:37:51 GMT

You may believe that everyone gets headaches. After all, they’re normal, right? Some are dull; others are throbbing. Some occur on only one side; others produce nausea or light and sound sensitivity.

Common? Yes. But normal? Nope.

The three most common types of headaches are:

Tension headaches caused by muscle tension in the head, neck or shoulders as a result of emotional stress. These can become constant when tightened muscles fail to relax.
Migraine headaches may be triggered by certain foods, smoke, wine, weather, stress or hormonal changes. These tend to be more common in women than in men.
Cervicogenic headaches, often resulting from whiplash, poor posture or structural and functional changes to the neck and shoulders, frequently produce pain in the forehead or behind the eyes.

Many reach for some type of pain reliever when headache pain emerges. Some migraine sufferers take daily medications designed to prevent a headache from even starting. But these medications can produce some potentially dangerous and unwanted effects.

Chiropractic Care and Headaches

Many people tend to find relief from chronic headaches when they begin chiropractic care. It’s our goal to discover underlying spinal issues in patients that might be causing headaches, including subtle misalignments, loss of a proper cervical curve or the effects of long-standing spinal decay.

Next time you or someone you know has a headache, instead of reaching for a pill, reach for the phone and call our practice to make an appointment.

The Deceptive Slipped Disc

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 06:40:06 GMT

The intervertebral disc is a special type of cartilage found between each of the 24 bones of your spine. Bands of fibrous tissue surround its jelly-like center. The disc provides space so pairs of nerve roots can exit the spinal cord from between each spinal bone.

However, “slipped disc” is a misleading term. That’s because no slippage actually occurs. Instead, a disc can thin, wedge, bulge, protrude, tear or herniate but never simply slips.

What Causes A “Slipped Disc”?

The jelly-like “ball bearing” center is called the nucleus pulposus. Improper lifting, slips and falls, a car accident or other trauma can cause the disc to bulge or herniate. This can irritate nearby nerves, which can be quite painful.

Traditional management of disc conditions usually involves potentially addictive pain medication and, eventually, surgery.

A more conservative approach is chiropractic care. A series of adjustments can often restore spinal biomechanics. As structure and function are improved, many disc problems resolve naturally. While it may require some type of ongoing supportive care, our all-natural approach avoids the risks, costs and unpredictable outcomes associated with surgery.

Do you know someone suffering from a so-called “slipped disc”? Remember, chiropractic first, drugs second and surgery last.

The Health Benefits of a Digital Detox

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 23 May 2018 06:44:24 GMT

Living in a world awash in technology can make life easier in some respects, but it can also be enslaving and detrimental to health and relationships. Whether we spend hours texting and tweeting or surfing and gaming, tech time can potentially become addictive.

There’s no doubt that technology can play a vital role in our workday and everyday life. There are times though when a break is in order. Here are five ways to institute a digital detox:

Put away phones and other devices at mealtimes. By turning your phone or tablet off while eating with family and friends, you’re cultivating critical bonds with each other. That’s priceless.
Take a holiday from technology during your travels. Whether you’re tempted to post a picture from Paris or tweet a review of a fabulous restaurant in Rome, resist the urge. Instead, experience your vacation with the people you’re with.
Put to bed blue light distractions. Consider powering down your phone and other devices at least one hour before your head hits the pillow. You’ll likely unwind easier and may sleep better as you won’t be exposed to the blue light from your gadgets.
Impose a daily limit on tech time. Consider checking your email fewer times a day, going on social media less and turning your phone off by a specific time at night.
Fill your technology-free time. Imagine all the things you can do when technology isn’t sneakily stealing your time. Relax, get together with friends or family, exercise, take a trip, learn something new or volunteer. The options are seemingly endless.

While it’s unrealistic that we’ll adopt a monastic-like existence without worldly distractions, occasional or regular digital detoxes can nourish the mind and body. For another form of detox, ensure your nervous system is functioning optimally by scheduling an appointment with us.

Poor Posture, Poor Mood

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 09 May 2018 06:48:36 GMT

As many people are finding themselves spending more time sitting slumped behind a screen or standing on their feet for hours on end without a break, paying attention to your posture is more important than ever. If you’ve never thought much about whether you’re sitting or standing stance is doing harm to your health, you might want to start before you find yourself in a bad mood. Here’s why:

Each time we lean forward 60 degrees, the stress placed on our neck is increased dramatically. This can lead to numbness, pain, pinched nerves and improper breathing—none of which are good for your mood! Stress on your neck can also lead to tense upper back and shoulder muscles, resulting in headaches which can be very frequent for some with poor posture.
Your body language is closely related to posture. A slumped stance can make us appear sad, afraid or disinterested to peers leading to different treatment that can bring you down without even realizing it.
In a 2015 article, researchers concluded that when facing a high-stress situation, study participants with good posture maintained a higher self-esteem and mood, while those with poor posture experienced heightened stress and used negative words to describe their experience.

Dealing With Poor Posture? We Can Help

You can better your posture naturally through chiropractic care, exercise, stretches and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle. Ask us for more tips on your next visit.

Sources: The Official Journal of the Division of Health Psychology, American Psychological Association

Give This Simple & Free Exercise a Try

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 24 Apr 2018 06:51:56 GMT

It may be the most important and beneficial exercise there is. It also happens to be the cheapest and the simplest, requiring exactly no equipment, zero floor space and no special clothes.

It’s stretching.

You may have known that stretching increases flexibility, allows for easier movement and promotes better balance. But did you know it can relieve low-back pain, reduces muscle soreness, promotes relaxation, improves posture, agility and athletic performance? Stretching can also reduce tension, improves circulation, reduces anxiety, stress, and fatigue, improves mental alertness, decreases the risk of injury, makes your work easier, tunes your mind into your body and flat-out makes you feel better naturally!

What Makes Stretching So Great?

Stretching conditions the muscles for exertion and exercise, making every muscle movement more efficient. Sound interesting? At your next visit, ask us for a list of stretches that can help your particular spinal pattern and then apply these simple rules:

Always warm up your muscles for at least five minutes prior to stretching. A good warm-up might include jogging in place, slow biking or jumping jacks.
When you start, never bounce or bob. Not only is this less effective than simply “holding” the stretch, but it can also be very dangerous and lead to injuries.
Always perform each stretching exercise in a slow, controlled manner.
Exhale as you begin the stretch and then relax and breathe normally throughout the stretch, holding each for 20 to 30 seconds.
Stretches should feel slightly uncomfortable, to “feel the stretch” in the muscles, not the joints. There should be no acute pain.
Always complete each stretch for both sides of your body or limb in the same way.

Are you a frequent stretcher? Comment below and tell us how regular stretching has positively influenced your life!

Screening Your Children for Scoliosis

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Thu, 12 Apr 2018 06:54:19 GMT

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curve in the spine that, if not caught early, can become worse with age, cause significant back pain, and lead to arthritis in the spine. We want your children to grow healthy and strong, which is why it’s important to know the signs of scoliosis and check your kids around age eight.

Checking Your Kids

Checking your child’s spine for scoliosis is possible at home and in our practice. If you’re opting for the at-home method, do the following:

1. Have your child bend over at the waist. Stand behind them and check the curve of the spine. This is called Adam’s test for scoliosis. The back should have a smooth curve. Also take a look at the ribcage on both sides as they bend forward. If you notice the ribcage bulging more on one side than the other, it may be a cause for concern.

2. Next, look at your child’s back while they are standing and check for any of the following:

Is one shoulder higher than the other? They should be level.
Is one hip higher than the other? They should be level.
Does the spine look straight or curved? Curving sideways is a problem.

If you think you may be seeing signs of scoliosis in your child, we’d love to help. It’s important to remember that discovering scoliosis early can often lead to improved management and excellent outcomes.

Contact our practice today to book an appointment.

What’s Bringing on Your Back Pain?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 06:58:36 GMT

Many people with sudden, acute back pain think, “But gosh, I didn’t even do anything!”

What many folks don’t know, or understand, is that it’s not always a case of what you did five minutes ago, or what you did yesterday, or even what you did last week that’s causing the current problem; it’s more a case of “the straw that broke the camel’s back,” no pun intended!

Discovering the Cause

Sometimes it’s chronic stress that wreaks havoc on your nervous system and finally causes your back to “go out” or a “pain in your neck” because of the strain of carrying the weight of all that stress on your back and neck.

Let’s use an everyday example to demonstrate. You go to the local eatery and put your purchase on your bank debit card. All of a sudden, bells and whistles go off because you didn’t have enough money in your account to cover that charge. It’s not this charge that “broke the bank,” it’s all the money you spent before this purchase and the fact that you didn’t properly manage your account in the first place that put you in this predicament. Now, you’re faced with fees, embarrassment and the inconvenience of having to deal with the situation.

It’s the same with your health–ignore it and it will find a way to let you know you’re overlooking something.

Beating Back Pain

The best way to stay on top of things so you don’t wind up “over spent” is to stay on schedule with your chiropractic adjustments, eat healthy foods, sleep at least eight hours each night, and learn how to manage your stress.

Why You Should Sit Up Straight

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 13 Mar 2018 07:02:02 GMT

Find yourself sitting too close to your computer screen? Not only is this perpetuating poor posture, it’s also bad for your eyes!

Remember when your mother used to say things like, “Eat all your vegetables.” And, “Look both ways before you cross the street.” Let’s not forget her mantra, “Sit up straight!” So many people today work in sedentary jobs that require them to sit for most of the workday. However, whether sitting at a desk, a football game, or in front of a television set, good posture is imperative to your spinal health. And poor postural habits are a leading contributor to back pain.

Checking Your Posture

Let’s take a look at how you’re sitting right at this moment.

Are your feet flat on the floor, with your knees at a 90-degree angle?
Are your buttocks, back and shoulders up against the backrest of your chair?
Does the chair you’re sitting in provide enough lumbar support? Does the backrest fit into the natural curve of your spine?
Are your shoulders relaxed and even, not hunched in a forward position?
Is your body weight equally distributed across both hips?
Are your knees level with or slightly higher than your hips?

If you answered “No” to any of these questions, you are probably exerting undue stress on your spine; this will eventually cause back pain.

Change How You Sit

Keep in mind that it is not a good idea to sit in the same position for more than 40 minutes. Chronic slouching affects the discs between the vertebrae and may cause them to bulge or become herniated. Take the time to stand up and stretch your back and legs or take a short walk periodically.

If you’re already finding that back pain is creeping into your life, give us a call.

5 Reasons to Stay Away from Sugar

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 14 Feb 2018 07:05:19 GMT

Sugar, in its many forms, is an increasingly common ingredient in processed foods. In fact, many of us eat the equivalent of 53 heaping teaspoons of white sugar every day! Many experts now agree that reducing sugar intake is an essential ingredient for natural health.

And in case you needed more convincing, here are five reasons to avoid refined (white) sugar.

Sugar causes the body to release more adrenaline, which has been linked to hyperactivity in young children.
Ingesting sugar makes the pancreas work harder to produce insulin. Diabetes results when the overworked pancreas can no longer eliminate sugar from the bloodstream.
Sugar increases mood swings, irritability and anxiety. If you’re already an anxious or stressed person, sugar won’t make your life any easier, but a visit to our practice might.
Sugar has been known to compromise the immune system because it lowers the efficiency of white blood cells for a minimum of five hours.
Eating sugar can decrease helpful high-density cholesterol (HDLs) and result in an increase in harmful cholesterol (LDLs).

Healthier Choices

Need to sweeten your food? Try adding raisins, dates or honey. Alternative sweeteners like Stevia are also a better bet–they’re available in several forms, have no calories and won’t raise blood sugar levels.

All About the Cervical Spine

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 31 Jan 2018 07:07:17 GMT

The cervical spine – that is, the upper seven of our vertebrae – must surely rank among the most under-appreciated and most vital parts of our body. Its 37 separate joints endlessly allow the head and neck to move atop the torso – all the while obeying constant commands from the special senses and reflex mechanisms.

Look at it this way: the cervical spine faithfully holds up our heavy heads between 14 to 16 hours a day. This is hardly easy. First of all, the head is far from evenly balanced on top of our spine. In fact, it’s tilted heavily forward; without the cervical muscles, it would topple over onto our chest.

Secondly, the head’s weight can become unbearable over time. (If you’d like to get a clearer picture, try this experiment: hold a bowling ball with your elbow on a table for as long as you can. Few people can keep this up longer than an hour.)

That means the cervical spine is a vital part of nearly all our everyday activities, including speaking, gesturing, sitting, standing, lying down, breathing and many more. Most of what our head does, it does thanks to the cervical spine.

Protecting Your Spine

That’s why so many of the injuries to this area are so serious – often resulting in paralysis or death. For example, hitting your head on the bottom of the pool or tackling in sports can compress the cervical spine against the shoulder and cause grave injury. Even everyday headaches often involve the cervical spine.

And that’s why you’ll be glad to know that chiropractors have led the way in recognizing the cervical spine’s uniqueness – even from the rest of the spine – and caring for it accordingly.

The Key to Health

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 17 Jan 2018 07:14:43 GMT

Visiting the doctor when you’re feeling great is something new. Yet, a growing number of people who want to be and do their best are visiting chiropractors on a regular basis – to stay well, not just to take care of their back pain!

The First Symptom

Remember staying home from school when we were sick and returning when we were feeling better? We learned to think of being sick as having obvious symptoms. But these days, many health problems are the result of lifestyle choices that don’t always have obvious symptoms until the effects are well advanced.

Healthy Response

The reverse is true as well. If you eat improperly prepared food and find yourself vomiting to expel it, you probably won’t feel good, but you’re having a healthy response.

Turns out that true health is how well our bodies work, not how we feel.

Central Control

How well our body functions is based upon the integrity of our nervous system. That’s why so many seek our practice for wellness care. They want to make sure that every organ and tissue has an uninterrupted nerve supply. It just makes sense to detect little problems before they become serious concerns.

Achieving True Health

True health is optimum physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Drinking more water, eating nutritious foods, regular exercise and virtually every other healthy habit produce even bigger dividends when you have a properly working nervous system.

Although everyone wants to feel good, your care should not be based on whether

you have pain or other symptoms. Problems may exist without obvious symptoms…just like dental cavities, high blood pressure or heart disease.

What do you do to maintain health? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

So You Want to Live to 100?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 02 Jan 2018 07:19:57 GMT

Doing your best to stay naturally healthy doesn’t just add life to your years…it can add years to your life. And with so much to see and do across the globe, who doesn’t want to live longer and happier?

Here are a few suggestions to do just that.

Maintain an ideal posture. Aside from causing back or neck pain, poor alignment and postural deviations may suggest unresolved emotional issues.
Shun alcohol and tobacco. Tobacco narrows the arteries and restricts blood circulation. Too much alcohol can counter any positive benefits.
Cultivate your spiritual connection. Those who regularly worship, meditate or maintain their connection to God are shown to enjoy greater life expectancy.
Accept what is. Make life the kind of adventure that will compel you to see how it all turns out!
Eliminate unnecessary stress. Your ability to accommodate stress is based on the condition of your nervous system–this is one way regular chiropractic care may help you live longer.
Keep it positive. The power of our thoughts and emotions are often overlooked.
Avoid hospitals. Between hospital-acquired infections, unexpected drug interactions and just plain mistakes, hospitals can hurt, just as they can help.
Have a purpose. If your goal is retirement, you better have a passionate reason for living. Serve. Donate your time. When you let up, you’ll likely suffer a let down.

Let Us Help You Thrive

Chances are you’ll live longer than you think. Heed the warning of one elderly woman who observed, “If I’d known I was going to live this long, I would have taken better care of myself.”

If it’s been a while since your last adjustment, give us a call.

4 Steps to Improved Immunity

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 07:23:40 GMT

A properly functioning immune system is necessary for optimal health. But how do you get one? Follow these do’s and don’ts to help your body fend off sickness and make room for health.

1. DO take probiotics. Probiotics are the good bacteria that go into the digestive system and aid in the digestion of food. Research has linked the strength of the immune system to the quantity of probiotics inside the stomach.

2. DON’T subject yourself to sugar. Sugar is what many people know as an anti-nutrient. I am talking about the refined simple sugars that contain no nutrients and, upon entering the body, take nutrients away from the body’s storage to be metabolized into the system. Once these storehouses are depleted, then we have created a mess for our body and our immune system faces a greater challenge in fighting off colds and flus.

3. DO get nervous system checked. Your nervous system (brain and spine) controls every cell, tissue, organ, and organ system within your body. The key here is to be sure that your spine is in its proper alignment so it can send out clear signals to the rest of your body. Give our practice a call to schedule your next visit!

4. DON’T let stress get to you. The more stress you subject yourself to, the weaker your immune system becomes. When our body is under stress we produce more cortisol, which is a stress hormone that increases blood pressure and blood sugar leading to a weakened immune system. The key here is to practice stress-relieving techniques such as meditation, yoga and exercise.

Do you have your own tips for a healthy immune system? Comment with your favorite tricks below.

Ease into Your New Year Fitness Resolution

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 05 Dec 2017 07:31:20 GMT

With the New Year quickly approaching, many will rush to renew their commitment to physical fitness, and that is to be commended. One of the most important factors in natural health is participating in a regular exercise program.

However, when we allow our gym routine to slide, rededicating and restarting a physical fitness program too quickly and too intensely provides the perfect situation for injury. Why? Overused muscles can lead to injury and scar tissue, restricting motion and causing pain.

Slow and Steady

Whenever renewing your commitment to exercise, avoid expectations of attaining fitness “this week” or even “this month.” Listen to your body. Plod rather than race to fitness. Allow joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments time to adapt to the challenge and they will. When you’re patient, chances are your body will firm, strengthen and stretch as you regain vitality.

In 2018, don’t subscribe to a “zero to 60″ fitness routine. Avoid start-up injuries, which can unnecessarily derail your zest to regain vitality. Consider regular chiropractic care as a complement to your exercise regimen, helping to keep your body balanced and on track.

Here’s to finding fitness this year—not this week or this month.

Does No Pain Really Mean No Gain?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 21 Nov 2017 07:48:58 GMT

How often have you heard the expression, “No pain, no gain”? It can apply to many life situations, including exercise to shape up, tone or drop weight. But when pain is severe or prolonged, you gain nothing and stand to lose a lot!

There are a number of tips to help you stay safe to avoid workout injuries. Some of them include:

Warming up – Warm muscles are far less likely to tear than cold ones. So, if you’re going out for a run, walk a bit first, then trot before you go into full running mode. Stretching your muscles, especially the ones you’re going to be using, also helps you to avoid injury.
Cooling down – The same is true when you end an exercise session. You can’t just automatically stop when you are finished with your workout because this may cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure. Using running as an example- slow down to a walk again before you just stop your exercise. It’s also important to stretch out those muscles again.
Staying hydrated – Water, water, water! Drinking water before, during and after a workout replaces fluids lost from sweating and exertion, especially important in warm or hot weather.
Listening to your body – Don’t continue your workout if suddenly you find yourself in pain. Your body is trying to tell you something. Ignoring it can only make it worse, so stop whatever you’re doing and give your body a few days to recover before starting up again.
Learning the proper technique for the workout – Make sure you know the proper technique for any new workout routine you are attempting for the first time. Correct technique is as important as warming up to avoid injury.

The decision to exercise is an important one for your overall health – as important as diet and regular chiropractic care – to keep your nervous system fit and healthy. Remember to start out slowly, don’t overdo it and stop if you feel any type of pain, in order to avoid serious injury.

Are You Over-Sitting?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 21 Nov 2017 07:36:44 GMT

It’s commonly accepted among experts that lower back pain is related to prolonged sitting. And let’s face it, in today’s world we spend plenty of time during our day doing exactly that—we sit in the car, we sit most of the day at work and we even sit to watch television after our workday is over.

It seems that the only time we’re not sitting is when we’re moving from one location to the next. Because this is how we’re living, it should come as no surprise that back pain can be a pretty common problem.

Sitting is the New Smoking

While we’re not suggesting that you stop sitting, what you should do is take some simple steps to minimize the impact by making your environment more back friendly.

Here are a few suggestions:

Take interval breaks throughout your day
Change your position as often as you sensibly can
Get up and walk every 45 minutes
Stretch your spine throughout the day

If you’re dealing with frequent back pain that seems to be sticking around, consider contacting our practice for an appointment.

Is Your Head Posture to Blame for Neck Pain?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Tue, 21 Nov 2017 07:34:30 GMT

You feel exhausted at the end of the day. Your neck always hurts. You have frequent headaches, and maybe even fibromyalgia. Have you wondered if head posture could be the cause?

All About Forward Head Carriage

When your head is positioned correctly, the opening to your ear is centered over your shoulder. If your ear opening is off center and is located to the front of the shoulder, you have forward head posture, also known as forward head carriage. For every inch that your head is off center, extra unnecessary weight is exerted on the muscles in your neck and upper back, making them work harder just to keep your head up!

Unfortunately, today’s lifestyle contributes to this condition far too often. Workers hunched over their computers all day, children watching television and playing video games, cradling the phone between your ear and your shoulder and driving in the car for long periods of time can all cause forward head posture. Left untreated, this condition can cause disc compression and poor health.

How You Can Help Yourself

Consider the following when it comes to correcting forward head posture.

Receive regular chiropractic adjustments. Chiropractic care has shown to be effective in reversing forward head posture, reducing pain and preventing further deterioration of the spine.
Get up and stretch every 15-20 minutes if you sit at a desk during the day.
Limit the amount of time you spend watching television or playing video games.
Focus more on your posture, making sure you are sitting up straight with your head in an upright position.
Sleep on a cervical pillow to maintain the proper curve in your cervical spine.

If you’re concerned about forward head posture and you have neck or back pain, headaches, muscle weakness, or fatigue, consider contacting us for an appointment.

What Type of Care Do You Choose?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 04 Oct 2017 08:08:55 GMT

We often hear the words “health care” in the news. But usually, they’re talking about “sick” care—care that is administered to someone who already has symptoms of an illness or injury. Often, “health care” refers to the heroic efforts we see in the media and on television to save a person’s life using drugs or dramatic surgery.

But true health involves what we do on a regular basis to stay healthy, the proactive approach we use to ward off life-threatening illnesses and disease. True health is a state in which your body works as it was designed. And it may actually have very little to do with how you “feel.” For example, if you eat tainted fish and you respond with an upset stomach and then vomiting, your body is actually functioning properly (health) and ridding itself of toxins, even though you don’t feel very well.

How to Stay Well Naturally

There are several things you can do to create a proactive approach to stay well

and enjoy optimum health:

Regular exercise – when was the last time a doctor gave you a prescription for exercise? Yet it is one of the most proactive things you can do.
Proper nutrition – Many of us do not eat the healthy foods we need to ensure our overall health. We skimp on fruits and vegetables and load up on added sugars and bad fats.
Adequate rest – Proper sleep balances your body’s hormones, slows down the aging process and decreases risk factors associated with many illnesses.
Chiropractic care – Keeping your nervous system in tip-top condition helps keep other systems and organs of your body working at their best.

Adopting a proactive approach to health is like brushing your teeth twice daily to prevent dental problems. While rescue measure healthcare may look heroic on television, the real “heroes” practice true “health” care every day of their lives!

Why Good Posture is Important

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 04 Oct 2017 08:05:14 GMT

If you ever experience tension or pain across the upper back or shoulder blades, get frequent headaches, have low back pain and are inflexible, you probably have poor posture.

Posture and Your Muscles

Poor posture shifts the body weight unevenly to some muscles, making them chronically tight and sore, while others get weak from under-use. Imbalanced muscles create un-even pull on the bones of the spine, shoulders and hips, causing misalignment and spinal nerve stress. That nerve stress leads to even tighter muscles, and the vicious cycle goes on and on. This is a common pattern in people with fibromyalgia, headaches, shoulder pain and upper back pain.

You can break this cycle in part by improving your posture – sit and stand up straight. However, that alone can’t undo the alignment problems that developed gradually from years of poor posture.

Schedule a Visit

Chiropractic adjustments can correct the spinal problems and relieve the nerve pressure and stress, allowing the muscles to start adapting and get more flexible so you can more easily straighten up.

Remember, you didn’t get that way overnight, and changing takes time, too.

The Shock Absorbers in Your Spine

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 04 Oct 2017 07:59:49 GMT

They bulge, herniate, degenerate and tear, but they don’t “slip.” Discs, along with the curves of the spine, serve as the “shock absorbers” of your body. Lower back pain may be the result of herniated discs and other disc problems. Separating each vertebra, they create the necessary spacing for nerves to exit the spinal cord to service the organs and tissues of your body. Rings of fibrous tissue called the annulus contain a soft jelly center.

Here’s a look at two common disc problems.

Bulging Disc

A weakened area of the annulus can allow the softer center of the disc to bulge out like a balloon. This can put pressure on nearby nerves. Bulging discs respond well to chiropractic care. With improved spinal function we’ve seen many cases in which surgery was threatened, resolve nicely.

Herniated Disc

A herniated or ruptured disc tends to be more serious. It can occur anywhere in the spine, but seems most common in the lower back. This is when part of the soft center pushes out through a weakened area due to trauma or degeneration, putting pressure on the spinal cord.

Chiropractic care, along with simple exercises, such as walking, increased water intake and improved nutrition offer a natural, non-surgical resolution for many disc problems.

Does Your Child Have a Bad Back?

info@thewebsitestore.co (The Website Store) — Wed, 04 Oct 2017 07:51:35 GMT

Natural health care, including chiropractic care, isn’t just for adults! In fact, using natural healing techniques for children is every bit as beneficial for them as it is for their parents. Nevertheless, the idea that children, even newborns, would see a chiropractor to get adjusted is a stretch for some. Why would a parent bring them in? How would a child benefit? What would prompt the need for chiropractic care?

Here are a few reasons:

Birth trauma. Even so-called natural childbirth methods can take a toll on a baby’s spine. Cesarean Section can be even more so.
Colic. Lacking the ability to explain their discomfort, babies cry. And cry! Many experience extraordinary relief with chiropractic care.
Ear infections. Mechanical tension in the upper spine can compromise the inner ear and eustachian tubes, becoming fertile ground for infection.

Gentle, Effective Care

Children seem to enjoy their adjustments. Besides requiring a lighter touch than the ones you receive, most infants respond quickly. They rarely have the build up of scar tissue that we often see in adults with long-standing problems.

Do you know a child that could benefit from today’s safe and natural chiropractic care? Resolving these problems early can avoid problems later on.