Strength Training for a Healthy Back
The Healthy Commute
In this episode of The Health Commute, we dive into the importance of strength training for maintaining a healthy back. Discover how building muscle strength can help protect your spine, improve posture, and reduce the risk of back pain and injury. We'll explore the best exercises to target key muscle groups that support the spine, including the core, lower back, and shoulders. Whether you're new to strength training or looking to optimize your current routine, we provide practical tips, modifications, and safety guidelines to help you build a strong, resilient back. Tune in to learn how a...
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Preventing Back Pain in Children and Teens
The Healthy Commute
In this episode of "The Health Commute," we tackle a crucial but often overlooked topic: back pain in children and teens. As digital devices, heavy backpacks, and sedentary lifestyles become a part of young people's daily routines, back pain is increasingly common among children and adolescents. But the good news is that with the right knowledge and proactive steps, it's possible to prevent it. We explore the latest research on the causes of back pain in young people, including poor posture, improper backpack use, and excessive screen time. We'll discuss how these factors impact their...
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What Does a Perfect Adjustment Look Like?
The Healthy Commute
In this episode of The Healthy Commute Podcast, we tackle the elusive idea of the "perfect adjustment" in chiropractic care. We explore whether achieving a flawless adjustment is even feasible given the many variables at play. While many patients believe that a perfect adjustment is characterized by loud cracks or a profound sense of relief, our focus is on achieving ease of movement and optimal spinal function. We also share practical tips on what patients can do before their appointment to enhance the effectiveness of their adjustment. Tune in to...
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Pacing Yourself for Long-Term Wellness
The Healthy Commute
In this episode of The Healthy Commute, we dive into a common challenge faced by many patients beginning chiropractic care. Often, after just a few visits, patients start feeling better and get excited about resuming their activities—only to overdo it and risk re-injury or aggravation of their condition. Join us as we explore the delicate balance between enthusiasm and caution. We discuss why it’s crucial to avoid jumping back into intense activities too quickly and how doing so can derail your progress. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Risks of Overdoing It: Why feeling better...
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Fun Spinal Facts
The Healthy Commute
In this episode of The Healthy Commute, we delve into the fascinating world of the spine and uncover some amazing facts about this vital part of our body. Join us as we explore how the spine functions and its crucial role in maintaining overall health and strength. Key Highlights: Structure of the Spine: Discover the 33 vertebrae in five regions: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal. Spinal Cord and Nervous System: Learn how the spinal cord transmits signals between the brain and body for coordinated movement. Shock Absorbers: Understand the role of...
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Unplug to Recharge: The Importance of a Digital Detox
The Healthy Commute
In this episode of "The Health Commute," we delve into the necessity and benefits of a digital detox in today's tech-saturated world. Constant connectivity can take a toll on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being, leading to issues such as eye strain, poor posture, sleep disturbances, and increased stress levels. Join us as we explore the signs that you might need a digital detox and the positive impacts it can have on your overall health. We discuss practical tips on how to disconnect from screens, set healthy boundaries with technology, and create more mindful digital habits. We...
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Is 10 Visits Enough?
The Healthy Commute
In this episode, we explore the insurance model that often restricts patients to just 10 chiropractic visits. We discuss how this limitation is not truly designed to help patients achieve full recovery or optimal spinal health. Instead, it frequently leaves patients with incomplete treatment, unable to reach their full potential. Our conversation covers the origins of this model, its impact on patient outcomes, and potential alternatives that could better support long-term health. Join us as we question the adequacy of the 10-visit limit in chiropractic care and advocate for a more...
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Case of the Week: Scoliosis Management - 31 degrees down to 13 degrees!
The Healthy Commute
In this week's episode, we delve into an inspiring case of a 13-year-old who experienced a remarkable improvement in scoliosis. This young patient managed to reduce their spinal curvature from 31 degrees to just 13 degrees! Join us as we discuss the journey, the treatments involved, and the incredible results achieved. June is Scoliosis Awareness Month, and we're committed to educating the public about this condition. We explore what scoliosis is, how it can affect individuals, and the various approaches to managing and treating it. Whether you're a patient, a parent, or just someone...
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June is Scoliosis Awareness Month!
The Healthy Commute
Welcome to our latest episode, where we spotlight an important health observance: Scoliosis Awareness Month, celebrated each June. Join us as we delve into the world of scoliosis, a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. In this episode, we explore: What is Scoliosis? Understanding the basics of scoliosis, including its causes, symptoms, and the different types of spinal curvatures. Early Detection and Diagnosis: The importance of early detection, how scoliosis is diagnosed, and the tools and tests used by healthcare professionals. Treatment Options: A comprehensive...
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Lasting Impact of Childhood Injuries
The Healthy Commute
In today’s episode, we explore why injuries sustained during childhood can have significant repercussions on spinal health as we age. Key Points Discussed: Developmental Vulnerability: The spine is in a critical phase of growth during childhood and adolescence. Injuries during this time can disrupt normal development, leading to structural abnormalities or weaknesses that persist into adulthood. Compensatory Changes: Children's bodies often adapt to injuries by altering posture or movement. While this helps manage immediate pain, these compensatory changes can lead to long-term...
info_outlineBack pain plagues 80% of the population at some point in their lifetime. 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!