What Happens to Your Spine as You Age?
The Healthy Commute
Aging is inevitable—but spinal degeneration doesn't have to be. In this episode, we explore what naturally happens to the spine as we age, what can speed up wear and tear, and most importantly, what you can do to slow it down. From disc hydration to posture changes and loss of mobility, we break down how to keep your spine moving well into your later years.
info_outline
How to Move Like a Lego Person
The Healthy Commute
In this fun and informative episode of The Health Commute, we shine a spotlight on Scoliosis Awareness Month and explore why everyone—not just those with scoliosis—should be moving with more intention. Inspired by the stiff, hip-hinging movements of a Lego person, we break down how proper movement patterns like hip hinging can protect your spine, reduce injury, and support long-term back health. Whether you're lifting groceries, tying your shoes, or working out, your spine deserves smart movement. We explain the importance of avoiding flexion through the lower back and why moving from...
info_outline
Afraid to Move? How Pain Creates Fear—and What to Do About It
The Healthy Commute
When someone experiences pain, especially after an injury, it’s common to become hesitant—or even afraid—to move. This episode explores kinesiophobia, the fear of movement due to pain, and how it can lead to a vicious cycle of stiffness, weakness, and more pain. You'll cover why this happens and how gentle movement and chiropractic care can help break the cycle.
info_outline
Rescues and Rinks: Wildfires and the Centennial Cup
The Healthy Commute
In this episode of The Health Commute, we go off the beaten path—literally and figuratively. First, Dr. Pascal recounts his unexpected evacuation from Nopiming Provincial Park as wildfires swept through the region, cutting his camping trip short and turning it into a dramatic rescue. Hear about the challenges, the coordination with emergency responders, and what it’s like to be pulled from the wilderness under extreme conditions. Then, we shift gears to the rink, as Dr. Dan returns from Calgary, where his son competed in the Centennial Cup—Canada’s National Junior A Hockey...
info_outline
Why Better Spinal Motion Means Less Back Pain
The Healthy Commute
In this episode of The Health Commute, we break down a major new study that looked at the relationship between spinal movement, pain, and disability in people with low back pain. With data from over 100 studies and 9,000 individuals, the research confirms what many movement-based professionals have observed: when the spine moves better, people often feel better. We explore how limited spinal motion is modestly—but consistently—linked to higher pain levels and more disability. We'll talk about what this means for day-to-day life, how chiropractic care and targeted exercises can help restore...
info_outline
First Week Doing Yard Work? Here's How to Not Overdo It
The Healthy Commute
Spring has sprung—and so has the rush to get back into the back yard! But before you dive into planting, pruning, and hauling heavy bags of soil, take a moment to protect your most valuable tool: your body. In this episode of The Health Commute, we’re sharing 5 essential tips to help you ease into gardening season without waking up sore the next day. From why most injuries happen on the very first day, to smart ways to lift, bend, and pace yourself, we’ve got your back—literally. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a daily digger, these strategies will keep you feeling strong...
info_outline
DEXA Scans: The Ultimate Health Check Beyond the Scale
The Healthy Commute
In this episode of The Health Commute, we’re diving into the world of DEXA scans — the gold standard for measuring body composition. Forget the scale! A DEXA scan reveals the real story about your muscle mass, body fat, and bone density. We’ll break down why body composition matters more than weight, how the scan results can guide your nutrition and exercise choices, and why maintaining muscle is key to longevity. Plus, we’ll cover how protein, fiber, and strength training play a vital role in optimizing your results. Whether you’re curious about your fitness progress, managing...
info_outline
Avoiding Injury as a Weekend Warrior: What You Need to Know
The Healthy Commute
Many people try to make up for inactivity by going all-out on the weekends, but this “weekend warrior” lifestyle often leads to injuries—especially in the spine, tendons, and ligaments. Dr. Keith Barr’s research highlights how tendons take longer to adapt than muscles, making them a weak link in injury prevention. We’ll discuss common weekend warrior injuries like Achilles tendon ruptures, knee ligament injuries, and rotator cuff strains, plus how chiropractic care can help. Finally, we’ll cover practical strategies to keep your body strong and resilient so you can enjoy your...
info_outline
What’s the Crack? The Science Behind Chiropractic Adjustments
The Healthy Commute
Have you ever wondered what that crack sound is when you get adjusted? Is it your bones shifting? (Hint: It’s not!) In this episode of The Health Commute, we break down the science behind chiropractic adjustments, explaining what actually happens inside your joints when you hear that pop. We discuss the role of cavitation, joint function, and nervous system health, plus why some adjustments don’t make a sound at all. We also tackle common myths like “cracking your own back is the same thing” and “once you start chiropractic care, you’re stuck forever.” Tune in to learn why...
info_outline
What Your X-Rays Say About Your Spine (and What They Don’t)
The Healthy Commute
Ever wondered what your spine actually looks like on an X-ray? Or why chiropractors sometimes take them? In this episode of The Health Commute, we dive into the real purpose of spinal X-rays, what they can reveal about your posture, alignment, and joint health—and just as importantly, what they don’t show. We’ll break down common findings like arthritis, loss of curve, and degenerative changes, and explain why some people with “bad” X-rays feel great while others with “normal” X-rays are in pain. We’ll also tackle misconceptions, like whether chiropractors overuse X-rays...
info_outlineIn this episode, we delved into the significant impact that small injuries and overlooked health issues can have as we age. We shed light on the importance of addressing seemingly minor concerns before they escalate into more significant problems.
We began by acknowledging the tendency to dismiss or ignore minor injuries, discomforts, or health symptoms as we grow older, attributing them to the natural aging process. However, we emphasized that these "little things" can accumulate over time, leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and diminished quality of life if left unattended.
Our conversation explored common examples such as minor joint pains, muscle strains, and posture-related issues that individuals often overlook or dismiss as inconsequential. We highlighted how these seemingly small issues can progress into more significant health challenges, affecting daily activities and overall well-being.
Throughout the episode, we provided valuable insights and practical tips for listeners to adopt proactive approaches to their health, including regular exercise, proper ergonomics, and seeking timely medical attention for persistent symptoms. By encouraging a mindset of preventive care and early intervention, we aimed to empower individuals to address "little things" before they become "big things" in terms of health impact.
By exploring the theme of "Little Things Become Big Things," our podcast episode sought to raise awareness about the importance of paying attention to subtle health cues and taking proactive steps to maintain optimal health and vitality as we age. We hope that listeners found our discussions informative and inspiring, motivating them to prioritize their health and well-being for a healthier and more fulfilling life.