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.
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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...
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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.
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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 of The Health Commute, we explore the "LIFT MORE" study, a pivotal piece of research that investigates the role of high-intensity resistance training in improving bone density and overall musculoskeletal health for individuals over 65.
Discover how lifting weights later in life can help combat osteoporosis, enhance mobility, and promote longevity. We break down the study's findings and share practical tips for safely incorporating weight training into your routine, no matter your age.