 Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! Welcome back to my blog, where I discuss anything and everything related to chiropractic care and healthy living! I aim to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health. In my last post, we discussed intervertebral discs, how they function, and how to care for them. Today, we’ll be talking about some common sports injuries and how to prevent them. The term “sports injury” refers to injuries that occur in active individuals, such as during sports or exercise, but this can also include injuries that occur in individuals who participate in activities with repetitive movements. If you are interested in learning more about sports injuries and how to prevent them, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started.
Being active is great for your overall health, and has many benefits. However, accidents can happen when playing sports or exercising. Sometimes, sports injuries are due to poor training practices or using improper gear. Additionally, not properly warming up before exercising or playing a sport can lead to injury. Let’s take a look at some of the most common sports injuries. Sprains and Strains Sprains and strains are different, but they are two of the most common sports injuries. A sprain is a stretch or tear to the bands of tissue, or a ligament, that connect two bones together. Sprains are commonly caused by falling, twisting, or getting hit. A strain involves an injury to a muscle or to the tendon that connects a muscle to a bone. Strains can happen suddenly or over time and often happen while playing sports. Mild strains can be caused by repetitive motions. Common symptoms of sprains include:
Almost any area of the body can be sprained, but the most common areas include the wrist, ankle, and knee. Common symptoms of strains include:
Strains are most common in the knee, lower back, and hamstrings. To prevent sprains and strains, stretch and warm up properly before exercising or participating in any physical activity. Warming up consists of low-impact activity, such as walking, jogging, or jumping jacks. Be sure to stretch for a few minutes before participating in physical activity. Additionally, make sure you are wearing the right shoes for your sport. Your shoes should fit well and provide support. It is also important to keep a healthy and balanced diet to keep your muscles and joints strong! Tennis Elbow Tennis elbow, formally referred to as lateral epicondylitis, is an irritation of the tendons, or tissue, that connect the forearm to the elbow. This is generally caused by repetitive wrist and arm motions. Despite its name, this condition does not only occur in tennis players or other athletes. In fact, people of many professions can develop tennis elbow, including painters, plumbers, and carpenters. It can also occur in those with careers that require constant typing on a computer. Common symptoms of tennis elbow include:
This injury is essentially due to the overuse of the forearm muscles that you use to straighten your hand and wrist. In order to prevent tennis elbow, you may find it helpful to perform exercises that stretch and strengthen your forearm muscles. Some exercises include simple finger stretches and wrist flexor stretches. Additionally, if you cannot avoid making the same hand and arm movements repeatedly, try wearing a brace, or taking breaks as often as possible. If you are participating in a sport or other activity that requires repetitive motions with your arm, be sure to warm up and stretch properly beforehand. Learn how to utilize your shoulder and upper arm muscles to take some of the strain off of your elbow. Rotator Cuff Injury Shoulder injuries, such as rotator cuff injuries, are some of the most common. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. It keeps the top of the upper arm bone firmly within the socket of the shoulder, and allows you to lift your arms and reach upward, making it one of the most important parts of your shoulder. Rotator cuff injuries are common and can become more common with age. Injuries to the rotator cuff can be caused by progressive wear and tear of the tendon tissue, repetitive overhead activity, or prolonged bouts of heavy lifting. Additionally, it can be caused by a single incident, such as falling down on an outstretched arm. Some symptoms of a rotator cuff injury include:
In order to prevent rotator cuff injuries, exercise the small and large muscles of the shoulder to strengthen the rotator cuff. Additionally, it helps to maintain good posture, because leaning or slumping forward can irritate your shoulders. It is also helpful to avoid activities with repetitive overhead motion, if possible. If you are an athlete, have a job that can increase your risk of sports injuries, or are a generally active person, it is a good idea to consider seeing a chiropractor regularly. You do not need to seek chiropractic care only if you are injured– Chiropractic care can be preventative, too! Chiropractic adjustments remove interferences known as subluxations that prevent your body from healing itself naturally. Removing these subluxations helps your nervous system operate at its optimal best and can prevent injury. A chiropractor can also recommend stretches and exercises that can help you treat and prevent sports injuries. As you can see, sports injuries are common, but can be prevented through proper techniques, exercise, massage and chiropractic care. If you have any further questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out to us. As a chiropractor, I can also provide you with nutritional advice and other recommendations for lifestyle changes that can help you keep your body functioning at its best. I hope you found this article informative. If you have any concerns about your bone health, consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered!
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 Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! Welcome back to my blog, where I discuss anything and everything related to chiropractic care and healthy living! I aim to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health. In my last post, we discussed the importance of staying active, as well as some workout tips. Today, we’ll be talking about intervertebral discs: What they are, how they work, and how you can keep them in the best possible condition. Intervertebral discs are located in the spine, which is the body’s central support system. It is important to understand their function so that you can care for them as well as understand the source of your pain if you are having disc problems. If you are interested in learning more about intervertebral discs, I encourage you to stick around and keep reading! Let’s get started.
In a previous blog, we took a closer look at the spine and the parts that make up the spine. For a brief recap, the spine consists of vertebrae, facet joints, intervertebral discs, the spinal cord and nerves, and soft tissues. Intervertebral discs are flat and round cushion-like structures that sit between the vertebrae and act as shock absorbers for the spine. They are about an inch in diameter and one-quarter inch thick, and are held in place by ligaments connecting the spinal bones. There are 26 bones that make up the vertebral column, and these discs sit in between each one. Their cushion-like function is due to the discs being filled with a gelatinous substance known as nucleus pulposus. Nucleus pulposus consists of mostly water, as well as collagen fibers. Surrounding this gel-like substance is the annulus fibrosus, a tough exterior composed of layers of collagen and proteins that acts as a protective layer for the nucleus pulposus, helping keep it intact when pressure is applied to the spine. Intervertebral discs allow the vertebral column to be flexible and protect it from damage from everyday activities, such as running, walking, bending, and jumping. Intervertebral discs are not vascular, meaning they do not consist of blood vessels or have a blood supply. They depend on the end plates of the spine for nutrients. End plates are located at the ends of each disc, separating the vertebral bone from the disc itself. Glucose, oxygen, and other nutrients reach the inside of the discs through the process of diffusion. Although these discs are known as “shock absorbers”, they are actually not as flexible as you might think. There is actually little, if any, room for discs to slip or move. Additionally, the fluid-filled sacs begin to solidify as we age. As this happens, the discs become less elastic, making them more prone to injury. The discs become dehydrated and the cartilage surrounding them stiffens. This is part of the normal aging process. If you have an issue with an intervertebral disc, there’s a good chance that you will know– It is often quite painful. Some common disc problems include herniated discs and bulged discs. Both of these issues are often caused by gradual, aging-related wear and tear, known as disc degeneration. Since intervertebral discs play an important role in keeping the spine protected, it is important that we do our best to keep them in the best possible condition. Although we cannot prevent normal wear and tear due to aging, there are some other steps we can take. Let’s take a look! Improve your posture. A good way to care for your intervertebral discs and your spine as a whole is by improving your posture. This can be done in a few different ways. Generally, there are two different kinds of posture: Dynamic and static posture. Dynamic posture refers to your posture while you are moving, such as walking, running, or bending down. Static posture refers to your posture while you are not moving, such as sitting, standing, or sleeping. The key to both dynamic and static posture is the position of your spine. Correct posture should maintain the spine’s natural curves, without increasing them. Be mindful of your posture during everyday activities. When standing, stand up straight and tall and put your shoulders back. Pull your stomach in and keep your head level, with your arms hanging naturally at your sides. When sitting, keep your feet on the floor, rather than crossing your legs. Relax your shoulders and make sure that your back is fully supported. If you are sitting for a long period of time, be sure to stretch and change positions frequently. Lift heavy objects correctly. There is a proper way to lift heavy objects. This is sometimes referred to as “good body mechanics”. Lifting heavy objects is one of the most common ways that people end up with back injuries. When lifting something off of the floor, do not lift from a standing position with your knees locked or waist bent. Instead, stand close to the object, kneel with one knee resting on the floor, and use your legs to lift yourself and the object up. Instead of kneeling, you may also choose to squat. Let your legs do the work, and avoid twisting your body. Slowly straighten your hips and knees– Not your back. Keep your shoulders in line with your hips as you move. Get the right mattress. It may be surprising, but the mattress you sleep on can have a huge impact on your spinal health! Generally, a fairly firm and supportive mattress is best. This will support the body’s weight and allow your muscles to decompress and relax. However, if a mattress is too firm, or too soft, it won’t support your spine correctly. Additionally, the posture in which you sleep can play a huge role in the overall health of your back and spine. Sleep posture refers to the position your body is in during or prior to sleep. Some of the best sleep postures are sleeping flat on your back, sleeping on your side, or sleeping in the fetal position. For more information about sleep and chiropractic care, check out one of my previous blogs! Maintain a healthy weight. We have all heard the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, but did you know that it’s also beneficial to your spine? Excess weight can alter the natural curvature of your spine, and it especially affects your pelvis, back, and knees. Extra weight means extra stress on your spine and joints. Additionally, extra weight can press on intervertebral discs, causing them to become herniated or causing pressure on nerves. Dropping only a few pounds can make a big difference and help reduce back pain, or prevent it. Maintaining a healthy weight means making changes to your diet, participating in regular physical exercise, getting adequate sleep, and reducing stress. Incorporating healthy foods into your diet, meal planning, and being mindful of calories are all good ways to get on track to maintaining a healthy weight. As you can see, intervertebral discs play a big role in our everyday activities, and taking care of them as best as we can is key to preventing back issues down the road. If you have any further questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out to us. As a chiropractor, I can also provide you with nutritional advice and other recommendations for lifestyle changes that can help you keep your spine functioning at its best. I hope you found this article informative. If you have any concerns about your bone health, consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered!  Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! Welcome back to my blog, where I discuss anything and everything related to chiropractic care and healthy living! I aim to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health. In my last post, we discussed how to take care of your spine. Today, we’ll be talking about the importance of staying active and I’ll be sharing some workout tips. As you probably know, staying active is good for your overall health. In fact, staying active can help improve brain health, manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, lower your blood pressure, and much more. When you are receiving routine chiropractic care, it is important to keep your body in the best shape possible to achieve optimal results. Oftentimes, chiropractic care works best when used in conjunction with other healthy habits and lifestyle changes. Staying active is one of the best ways to keep your body in good shape! If you are interested in learning more about the importance of staying active, as well as some workout tips, you’re in the right place! Let’s get started.
As we age, it becomes even more important to protect our bones, joints, and muscles. Keeping our bones, joints, and muscles in good shape ensures that we are able to perform our daily activities and remain physically active. Additionally, back pain is a common problem in our world– Up to 23% of adults suffer from chronic low back pain. Staying active has been proven to prevent or reduce back pain. This is partly because aerobic exercises increase the blood flow to the soft tissues in the back, reducing stiffness that can cause back pain and improving the healing process. How much should I exercise every day? The amount of exercise one needs can vary from person to person. However, a general rule of thumb is to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. Aerobics refers to cardiovascular exercise, commonly known as cardio. This includes running or jogging, biking, walking, swimming, hiking, and more. If you cannot meet the daily recommended goal, remember that small amounts of exercise can still be beneficial. Workout Tips Let’s face it– Working out isn’t always as easy as it may seem. However, there are simple things that you can do to make your workouts easier and more beneficial! Let’s take a look. 1. Warm up properly Before you begin exercising, it is important that you warm up properly. A warm up is essentially “waking up” your body before a workout. Just as the name suggests, a warm up literally raises your temperature slightly in order to make your muscles, tendons, and joints more flexible to improve your performance and prevent injury. Warming up also increases blood flow, which helps facilitate the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your working muscles. Although it may be tempting to skip a warm up, doing so can put more strain on your muscles and can lead to injury. So, it’s important to get your muscles ready for exercise mode. Here are some easy warm ups:
You should spend at least 5 to 10 minutes warming up. If your workout is going to be more intense, your warm up should last longer. 2. Stay hydrated We’ve all heard about the importance of staying hydrated, but do you know the reasoning behind it? Drinking enough water daily helps your body regulate temperature, lubricate joints, keep organs functioning properly, and more. Additionally, when you are exercising, your body will begin sweating in order to return to its optimal temperature. When sweat evaporates from the skin, heat is removed from the body– But this also removes body fluid. Therefore, it is important to drink plenty of water to replace that fluid lost through sweating. Adequate hydration prevents your body from overheating and can also help keep your muscles loose to prevent injury. A general rule of thumb is to drink 7 to 10 oz of water for every 10 to 20 minutes of exercise. 3. Invest in a good pair of shoes I mentioned the importance of a good, sturdy and comfortable pair of shoes in my last blog. The shoes that you wear play an important role in supporting your lower back. Choosing the right shoe with adequate support can help keep your spine aligned properly, therefore preventing injury. Whether you are walking, running, or performing exercises with gym equipment, having a proper pair of shoes is a must. Good shoes lessen the impact of your step and cushion your foot from heavy landings. There are a variety of shoes to choose from, such as running shoes, lightweight walking shoes, aerobic shoes, and more. You should choose a type of shoe that best corresponds with the type of exercise you perform most often. 4. Set goals When you are just getting started exercising, it may feel difficult to find motivation. That’s where goal-setting comes in. Setting fitness goals helps hold yourself accountable and give yourself incentive to keep going. In order for these goals to work as well as they possibly can, they must be well-structured. This can refer to SMART goals– Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound goals. Following this criteria will help make your goals more reachable. You must clearly define your goal. Rather than saying that your goal is to be healthier, think about what “healthy” means to you. Do you want to lose weight? Do you want to minimize back pain? Think about what you are trying to accomplish, and why. You should also specify a number within your goal, whether it is a number of repetitions, or a length of time you want to spend exercising, etc. This will allow you to slowly work towards that number each time you work out. 5. Listen to music For some people, the key to a successful workout is good music! Studies have shown that listening to music during a workout, especially motivational or energizing music, helps people push through fatigue and perform better. Music has also been proven to elevate mood, so you may feel more motivated or excited to workout. Try creating a playlist of upbeat songs to listen to while you work out. Keep in mind that everyone is different, however– Some people prefer to exercise in silence. Do whatever makes you feel comfortable! 6. Cool down Just as warming up is important, it is just as important to cool down after a workout. This allows for the gradual recovery of your pre-exercise heart rate and blood pressure. When exercise comes to a sudden stop, it can cause side effects such as lightheadedness. Cooling down properly helps prevent this. At the end of your workout, continue what you were doing but at a much slower pace and reduce the intensity. For example, if you went for a brisk walk, continue walking slowly for 5 to 10 minutes. As you can see, these are just a few ways that you can stay active and make the most out of your workout! If you have any further questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out to us. As a chiropractor, I can also provide you with nutritional advice and other recommendations for lifestyle changes that can help you keep your spine functioning at its best. I hope you found this article informative. If you have any concerns about your bone health, consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered!  Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! Welcome back to my blog, where I discuss anything and everything related to chiropractic care and healthy living! I aim to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health. In my last post, we continued a discussion about the best foods for bone and joint health. Be sure to check out part one, as well! Today, we’ll be talking about how to take care of your spine. We get regular checkups for our overall health, and for our teeth, so why don’t we do the same for our spines? The spine is an important part of the human body, and it is vital to keep it in the best shape possible. If you are interested in learning more about the spine and ways you can take care of it, you’re in the right place! Let’s get started.
What is the spine? To begin, let’s take a closer look at what the spine actually is. Also referred to as the backbone, the spine is your body’s central support structure. It connects different parts of the musculoskeletal system, which is made up of your bones and joints and helps you move. The spine helps you do many things that you probably don’t think much about on a daily basis: Sitting, standing, twisting, walking, and bending. A healthy spine has four natural curves that make an “S” shape. These curves are known as the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral curvature. Together, these natural curves absorb shock to your body and protect your spine from injury, while also helping you stay balanced and flexible. Additionally, the spine is made up of a few different parts:
Approximately 80% of Americans experience back pain at some point, often due to an issue in the spine. Vertebrae and discs can age and wear down over time, which can cause pain. So how can you keep your spine functioning at its optimal best? How can you care for your spine? Just as we should keep other parts of our body in shape, we should do the same for our spine. Here are some ways that you can take care of your spine. 1. Exercise We have all heard about the importance of exercising to maintain our overall health. Exercise is also great for your back muscles and spine! Your core muscles, located in your lower back and abdomen, must be strong in order to support your spine. For most people, these core muscles are rarely used during everyday activities, and should be toned through targeted exercises. Strengthening these muscles can help manage or prevent back pain and improve range of motion. There are plenty of exercises out there, so if you are not sure which ones are appropriate for you, speak with your chiropractor, personal trainer, physical therapist, or other health professional. Some of the best exercises for strengthening your core muscles include using an exercise ball or a resistance band, but there are also exercises that can be done without any equipment. 2. Proper sleep posture You may not realize it, but the position in which you sleep can do a number on your spine. Just as there is good posture when it comes to standing, there is good posture when it comes to sleep, too! (Check out my previous blog about sleep and chiropractic care!) When you lay down at the end of a long day, all of the structures that make up your spine finally have a chance to relax. An ideal sleeping position supports the natural curve of your neck and spine, keeping them in proper alignment. Some of the best sleeping postures include laying flat on your back, sleeping on your side, and the fetal position. The type of mattress you use can also play a role in your spine health. For example, firmer mattresses are best because they adequately support the spine, whereas old or soft mattresses can cause the spine to sag. 3. Eat a healthy diet While a healthy diet is important for your overall health, it is also important for your bones, including your spine. Often, inflammation can cause back pain, and this inflammation can be due to certain foods. For example, processed meats, fried foods, foods high in sugar, and refined grains are known to increase inflammation. Additionally, these unhealthy foods can also contribute to weight gain, which can increase your risk of inflammation. Therefore, reducing your intake of these foods, or eliminating them completely, can help reduce or prevent inflammation. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy and anti-inflammatory foods out there that you can incorporate into your diet. For example, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, fatty fish such as salmon or tuna, and fruits such as strawberries and oranges are all anti-inflammatory foods. 4. Wear the right shoes Did you know that the shoes you wear play an important role in supporting your lower back? Your feet support the weight of your entire body and help keep your spine aligned properly. Shoes that offer inadequate support can cause vertebrae in the spine to become misaligned. Some shoes are more likely than others to cause back pain. For example, high heels place extreme pressure on the front of the foot, changing your posture and disrupting the natural curve of the spine. Additionally, flip flops lack the proper support for your feet and lower back, which affects the way your hips move. When shoe shopping, choose well-cushioned shoes with arch support. Ideally, ditching high heels is best. But if you cannot, opt for lower heels instead. It is also best to avoid tight-fitting shoes, as these can affect alignment and gait. 5. See a chiropractor Seeing a chiropractor regularly is one of the best ways to take care of your spine! The body has an amazing natural ability to heal itself, and chiropractic care ensures that there are no interferences in that process. Chiropractic adjustments can remove any interferences, known as subluxations, so that the spine stays properly aligned and can function properly. If you visit a chiropractor regularly, routine adjustments can prevent other subluxations from occurring. Making an appointment with a chiropractor is just the first step towards a happy, healthy, and pain-free life! These are just a few ways that you can take good care of your spine! If you have any further questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out to us. As a chiropractor, I can also provide you with nutritional advice and other recommendations for lifestyle changes that can help you keep your spine functioning at its best. I hope you found this article informative. If you have any concerns about your bone health, consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered!  Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! In my last blog, we talked about the link between sleep and chiropractic care. Today, we’ll be continuing a previous discussion about some of the best foods for bone and joint health. Be sure to check out part one first! Eating a proper diet is essential for our overall health, and that includes the health of our bones and joints. In fact, there are certain foods that are particularly great for your bones. You’ve most likely heard about the importance of calcium for building strong bones, with milk in particular being pushed as a source of calcium. While this is certainly true, there are many more options out there– You are not limited to milk! If you are interested in learning more about the best foods for bone and joint health, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get right into it!
For a quick recap, let’s take a look at what bones and joints actually are. Bones are living, growing tissue made up mostly of collagen. Collagen is a type of protein naturally produced by the body and is found in various parts of the body including tendon, bone, and skin. Calcium phosphate is a type of mineral that aids in healthy bone development and is crucial from infancy to adulthood. The combination of collagen and calcium makes our bones strong and flexible enough to withstand stress. As we age, bone mass can either stabilize or start declining. The route your bones take is largely determined by your lifestyle. If you lead a healthy lifestyle with plenty of exercise and a diet sufficient in calcium and vitamins, C, D, A, and K, you can prevent bone loss. Last time, we mentioned foods such as red peppers, salmon, almond butter, cruciferous vegetables, ginger, and beans! Let’s take a look at some more bone-building and joint-supporting foods! Eggs Eggs contain a variety of vitamins and nutrients that are beneficial for your overall health. Some of these nutrients are particularly good for your bones and joints, too! For example, eggs contain vitamin D, which is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps the body absorb and retain calcium. Since the body only produces vitamin D when skin is exposed to sunlight, getting vitamin D through your diet is important. Additionally, eggs contain zinc, which is a trace mineral that plays a major role in healing damaged tissue, building proteins, and more. This essential mineral has also been found to promote bone regeneration, and it increases protein synthetase, which helps protect bone health. A recent study found a positive link between whole egg consumption and bone health. Seeds There are a variety of seeds out there: Pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, chia, and more! Since seeds help develop plants, they are rich in nutrients. Seeds are great sources of fiber, as well as minerals and antioxidants. Some seeds also provide calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Magnesium is a mineral that plays a large role in maintaining healthy bones. In fact, about 60% of magnesium in the body is found in the bones! Phosphorus is another mineral that is a component of bones and teeth. It works closely with calcium to build strong bones and supports bone augmentation and maintenance. A few of the best seeds for bone health include chia seeds, ground flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds. Whole Grains A whole grain is the grain of any cereal that contains the endosperm, germ, and bran. They offer a full range of health benefits, unlike refined grains, which only contain the endosperm, and are stripped of valuable nutrients. The bran is the outer layer that is rich in fiber and supplies B vitamins, iron, zinc, magnesium, antioxidants, and more. The germ is the middle part, or core, of the seed and contains healthy fats, vitamin E, B vitamins, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. The endosperm is the inner layer that contains carbohydrates, protein, and small amounts of B vitamins and minerals. Phytochemicals in whole grains help protect against a variety of diseases, including osteoporosis, which causes bones to become weak and brittle. Dark Chocolate If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in luck! Dark chocolate is a type of chocolate that contains cocoa solids and cocoa butter, without milk and butter that is found in milk chocolate. This type of chocolate has been touted for its health benefits, which have been supported by science. In order to get the maximum benefits that dark chocolate has to offer, it’s best to look for high-quality dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, such as a bar containing 70 to 85% of cocoa. Dark chocolate with high cocoa content can provide fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. Studies have shown that dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa can provide a good source of these minerals that promote bone health. However, because of the high sugar content, dark chocolate should be consumed in moderation. Garlic Garlic is the edible bulb of a flowering plant closely related to onions. It has long been used for medicinal purposes, as it is rich in antioxidants and is incredibly nutritious. Additionally, studies have shown that garlic consumption helps reduce oxidative stress, which is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Oxidative stress can take a toll on bone health. Research has found that garlic can be especially beneficial in preventing bone loss in women, as it helps increase estrogen levels, which supports bone health. Fortified Foods And Drinks There are also a variety of fortified foods and drinks out there that can help promote bone health. Fortified refers to food or drink that has extra nutrients added, or nutrients added that do not occur naturally. Fortified foods contain vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients that are crucial for many important body functions. This helps make it easier for people to get what they need in their diet. It is also helpful because some foods that are naturally rich in these nutrients can be expensive– Fortified foods are generally less expensive, which makes it easier for many people to buy regularly. The most common fortified foods include breakfast cereal, fruit juice, milk, yogurt, and bread. Common nutrients added to these foods include calcium, vitamin A, vitamin D, folic acid, and iron. Some fortified cereals or juices actually contain a higher amount of calcium than what can be found in leafy green vegetables. What foods should be avoided? While there are many foods that are great for bone health, there are also some that may have the opposite effect. For example, a diet high in salt can cause calcium loss, which weakens bones over time. (To be clear, this means table salt, not simply sodium.) Getting the recommended daily amounts of calcium and vitamin D can help offset the bone loss from salt. Salt is a key ingredient in many processed foods, including fast food, so avoiding processed foods is best. Additionally, you may try cooking without added salt. Here is a short list of processed foods, as well as other foods, that can be detrimental to bone health:
If you cannot cut these foods out of your diet, try to eat them in moderation. As you can see, these are just some of the best foods that support bone and joint health, as well as a few of the foods you may want to avoid. Keep in mind that you cannot get strong, healthy bones from a diet alone– You must also make other lifestyle changes, such as getting adequate exercise. Additionally, chiropractic care helps enhance your body’s natural healing process, thus supporting bone health. I hope you found this article informative. If you have any concerns about your bone health, consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered!  Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! In my last blog, we discussed headaches and chiropractic care. Today, we’ll be talking all about sleep and chiropractic care. Not only can chiropractic care help with sleep issues, but making a few changes in your sleeping habits can also help eliminate sleep issues and discomfort that prevents you from getting the sleep you need. We’ve all heard about the importance of getting adequate sleep, but are you aware of the actual reasons why? Sleep is an essential function and is vital for adequate function of the brain and body. When you do not get enough sleep, your risk for health conditions rise, including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, depression, and migraines. Additionally, lack of sleep can compromise your immune system, which increases your risk of disease and infection. People can have trouble sleeping for a variety of reasons, including insomnia, sleep apnea, and discomfort or pain. In fact, pain seems to be one of the leading causes of poor quality sleep. If you are interested in learning more about the link between sleep and chiropractic care, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get started.
How can chiropractic care improve sleep? Chiropractors are licensed medical professionals that are trained to adjust and manipulate the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. These adjustments have a variety of benefits, including the ability to reduce or eliminate pain, improve posture, regain mobility, improve range of motion, and more. Although most people associate chiropractors with reducing back pain alone, chiropractic care can help with a variety of conditions, such as fibromyalgia and digestive issues. It can also help with sleep conditions such as insomnia or chronic pain that contributes to poor sleep. Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders that makes it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. People may experience acute or chronic insomnia. Some causes include stress and anxiety, lifestyle factors, a poor sleeping environment, and physical health conditions. Many people do not realize that the spine is directly related to the nervous system. The spinal cord allows nerve impulses to travel to and from the brain, helping your body perform necessary functions. When certain vertebrae are out of alignment, they can press on nerves and block signals. These blockages are known as subluxations, or interferences, and they prevent your body from using its natural ability to heal itself. Subluxations can be caused by accidents, falls, bad posture, or even emotional stress. The truth is, subluxations have the power to affect almost all areas of your health, causing digestive issues, headaches, pain, and sleep disorders. They are actually the cause of a multitude of health issues, and cannot be cured with medication; This only masks the problem, rather than addressing the cause. Chiropractic care can help treat insomnia and other sleep disorders by addressing the root cause or source of the problem, which may be a subluxation, or stress that caused a subluxation. When we think of stress, we often think of mental or emotional stress. But this kind of stress can also manifest physically, causing symptoms that can range from aches and pains to nausea and restlessness. When the body experiences stress, muscles often tense up in an attempt to shield the body from pain or injury. If you are feeling particularly stressed, you may notice that your jaw is clenched or you may feel tightness in your neck or back muscles. This is your body’s immediate response to stress; The muscles tense up, and then release once the stress passes. Chronic stress can cause the muscles to stay tensed almost constantly. An adjustment can release tension held in the muscles, which relaxes the body and increases blood circulation. Additionally, moving vertebrae back into their proper alignment can eliminate pain caused by tensed muscles, which may also reduce emotional stress almost immediately. If you are unable to sleep solely because of discomfort or pain that is not related to stress, an adjustment can alleviate that as well. Not only do adjustments release tension and increase blood circulation, but they also remove pressure on spinal nerves to encourage the body to perform its essential functions efficiently. A chiropractor also has the knowledge and means to speak with you and discuss your sleeping posture and habits, as well as lifestyle habits. They can offer advice and recommendations that can help you get the sleep you need. Sometimes, a small lifestyle change can make a big difference. What is sleep posture? Sleep posture refers to the position your body is in during or prior to sleep. You may be surprised to find out that there is a “wrong” way to sleep! Just like there is good posture when it comes to standing, there is good sleep posture, too. Different sleep positions have different benefits and play a huge role in the quality of your sleep. Your sleep posture can also have an impact on back pain. So what is the best position to sleep in? This may vary from person to person, depending on your needs. However, an ideal sleeping position supports the natural curve of your neck and spine, keeping them in proper alignment. You want to avoid sleeping positions that put unnecessary stress on your back, neck, and hips. Here are some examples of good sleep posture.
With that being said, there are also some sleeping positions that you should avoid:
Additionally, your mattress may be the cause of your back pain. A general rule of thumb is to search for a firm mattress. However, I recommend trying to change your sleep posture first. As you can see, chiropractors do so much more than relieve back pain. They can also help you get the good night’s rest that you deserve! I hope you found this article informative. If you or a loved one are suffering from poor quality sleep or any type of joint or back pain, you may benefit from chiropractic care. Consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered!  Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! In my last blog, we talked about the downsides of pain medication. Today, we’ll be discussing headaches and how chiropractic care can help. It’s a good segue from our last discussion, since many people reach for over-the-counter painkillers to soothe headaches. However, per my last blog, this does not address the root cause of the headache; it simply masks the pain. Headaches are extremely common. In fact, approximately 45 million Americans complain of headaches each year. We all experience a headache every now and then, but some people experience headaches on a more regular basis. When you get a headache, you may choose to lie down, take some pain pills, or just wait for it to fade. But did you know that there’s a better, drug-free, effective treatment? That’s right– Chiropractic care is a great treatment option for those who suffer from headaches. If you are interested in learning more, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s get started.
First, let’s discuss what a headache actually is. A headache is generally defined as a pain or discomfort in the head or face that can be sharp, constant, throbbing, or dull. The location and intensity of the pain can vary. Most headaches begin in the nerves of the muscles and blood vessels if they swell or tighten. Basically, it is not actually your head or brain that is hurting, but rather the muscles, blood vessels, and membrane surrounding it. There are also different types of headaches. In fact, there are over 150 types. Let’s take a closer look. Types Of Headaches Headaches are generally divided into two categories: Primary and secondary headaches. Primary headaches are caused by the overactivity of or problems with pain-sensitive features in your head. These types of headaches are not a symptom of an underlying disease. Some of the most common types of primary headaches include:
Secondary headaches are symptoms of something else happening in your body and are usually caused by underlying medical conditions. They can be relieved by treating the primary cause or condition. Some of the common types of secondary headaches include:
In rare cases, some secondary headaches can be caused by life-threatening conditions. For example, spinal headaches are secondary headaches that occur due to a spinal fluid leak. Additionally, thunderclap headaches are secondary headaches that come on suddenly and give off intense pain that can last 1 to 5 minutes. These headaches can be a sign of a brain bleed or head injury. Chiropractic Care And Headaches So how can chiropractic care help treat headaches? Since primary headaches, such as tension headaches, are often caused by stress, neck, or back strain– or sometimes a combination of both– chiropractic care can provide relief through spinal treatments called adjustments. A chiropractic adjustment can relieve acute or chronic neck pain, which can reduce the number of headaches you experience. A chiropractor can diagnose the type of headaches you are experiencing, and then create a tailored treatment plan that best suits your needs. This will determine and treat the root cause of your headaches, rather than masking the pain. If the actual cause of the headache is not addressed, the headaches are more likely to keep occurring. Chiropractors will also use diagnostic imaging such as x-rays to identify any interferences or subluxations. Subluxations are misaligned vertebrae that can interfere with some of the body’s natural processes. Since the vertebrae are in such close proximity to the spinal nerves, misalignment can place pressure on the nerves and disrupt the nervous system, causing pain, headaches, and even neurological conditions. Research has shown that chiropractic care is an effective treatment for tension headaches and neck aches! Additionally, your chiropractor can discuss your lifestyle and provide recommendations and nutritional advice that may be helpful in preventing future headaches. For example, some foods are known to trigger headaches, such as alcohol, chocolate, cheese, and caffeine. If you sit all day at a desk or computer, it will be helpful to get up, stretch, and walk around every 30 minutes to an hour. This will loosen your muscles and relieve tension. By making these small modifications to your lifestyle, you may be able to prevent headaches and get the most out of your chiropractic adjustments. Here are a few other things to consider:
As you can see, chiropractic care is a great, drug-free, and effective way to treat and prevent headaches. I encourage you to stop reaching for over-the-counter painkillers and try an adjustment instead! If you have any further questions about chiropractic care, feel free to reach out to us. I hope you found this article informative. If you or a loved one are suffering from headaches or any type of joint or back pain, you may benefit from chiropractic care. Consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered!  Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! In my last blog, we discussed massage therapy and its benefits. Today, we’ll be talking about the side effects of pain medication, and how chiropractic care may be a better treatment option for you. When suffering from back or neck pain, muscle pain, or headaches, most people reach for over-the-counter pain medication, such as Tylenol or Advil. Some may use prescription pain medication, such as opioids. According to the CDC, 10.7% of adults surveyed in 2015-2018 said they used one or more prescription pain medications in the last 30 days. While these medications may appear to work short-term, they are actually not that great in the long run. Pain medications simply mask the pain for a little while, but they do not address the root cause of that pain. If you are interested in learning more about the downsides of pain medication, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get started.
Although medications that relieve pain can be helpful for patients and doctors alike, they can have side effects, just like any other drug. The most common pain medications are over-the-counter medications that you can purchase in the store without a prescription. These include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen, and they are usually taken for mild pain or fevers. Unfortunately, these medications can have negative side effects. For example, medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. NSAIDs inhibit certain enzymes in the body to reduce pain and inflammation. These drugs can cause bleeding in the stomach if taken over long periods of time. They can also cause indigestion and stomach ulcers, and if taken far too often, they can cause kidney damage. Acetaminophen is not a member of the NSAID family and does not cause stomach problems. However, taking too much of this drug or combining it with alcohol is known to cause liver damage. Opioids are the most powerful painkillers and are often prescribed to people who have recently had surgery or are suffering from a serious, long-term condition that causes pain, such as cancer. These drugs block signals between the brain and the body in order to block severe pain. Some of the most used opioid painkillers include codeine, hydrocodone, morphine, and oxycodone. While these drugs can be beneficial for people with severe pain, they also have negative side effects. One of the most common side effects of opioids is constipation. Other side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, itching, and sweating. These side effects can interfere with your daily life, making it difficult, if not impossible, to work or commit to activities. One of the most severe side effects, however, is addiction. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in 2019, an estimated 10.1 million people aged 12 or older misused opioids in the past year. Many people who take opioids feel the need to continue taking them even when they don’t need them anymore, and taking large amounts of these drugs can stop your breathing and lead to death. Although only a small amount of people prescribed opioids become addicted to them, the risk increases the longer you use the drugs. In most cases, opioids should be a last resort for pain management. Another thing to consider when taking over-the-counter or prescription painkillers is the cost. If you need to keep buying bottles of pills to manage your pain, those costs are going to add up over time. Not only will your wallet be hurting, but so will you– The pain is bound to come back after a little while. With that being said, over-the-counter or prescription pain medications are one of the worst options for treating acute or chronic pain. As mentioned above, these medications only mask the pain. Think of it as putting a bandaid over a wound that needs stitches– It may help for a short period of time, but it is not addressing the problem. Chiropractic care, however, focuses on finding, diagnosing, and treating the source of the problem. It is a natural treatment option that emphasizes the body’s ability to heal itself. For many people with acute or chronic pain, the source is in the spine, joints, or muscles. Sometimes, interferences called subluxations stop your body from functioning the way it is supposed to. In fact, most health problems or pains are actually caused by subluxations. These subluxations are often caused by misalignment in the vertebrae. This can be the cause of a variety of issues, such as pain, numbness or tingling, fatigue, headaches, stiffness, and nausea. Because the vertebrae are in such close proximity to the spinal nerves, subluxations can lead to neurological problems. Chiropractic care removes these subluxations through adjustments or joint and spine manipulation. These techniques can restore your body to better health. You can learn more about subluxations in one of my previous blogs! Since chiropractic care is non-invasive, all-natural, and does not require any medication, there are little to no side effects. Those who have never had a chiropractic adjustment before may experience mild symptoms for a day or two afterward because toxins that were trapped within the area of the subluxation have been released. This is a good thing, and means that the body is being cleansed. Any symptoms, such as muscle soreness, are only temporary and are uncommon. The majority of chiropractic patients do not report any side effects, but instead feel immediate relief! Chiropractic adjustments are safe when performed by a licensed and trained professional. In fact, chiropractic care is one of the safest and most effective treatments out there. After an adjustment, you should get adequate rest and stay hydrated. Hydration is one of the best ways to flush out toxins and keep your body in good shape. Additionally, exercising regularly and eating well are key to getting the most out of your chiropractic adjustment. Your chiropractor can recommend nutritional advice and simple exercises that can be done at home to keep your body functioning optimally. When it comes to chiropractic, consistency is key. Ideally, you should adopt healthy habits and come back for routine adjustments to diagnose and remove pesky subluxations before they start causing problems. These “maintenance” appointments will ultimately lead to you staying healthier and pain-free. It is important to note that no medication or exercise can get rid of a subluxation. Exercise and stretching help keep your muscles loose, but only chiropractors can remove vertebral subluxations. As you can see, chiropractic care is an extremely safe, non-invasive, long-lasting, and effective treatment for acute and chronic pain. Correcting the cause of your health problems with chiropractic care can help you avoid costly medications and even costlier surgeries down the road. Stop reaching for the Tylenol and try a chiropractic adjustment! Your body will thank you. If you have any further questions about chiropractic care, feel free to reach out to us. I hope you found this article informative. If you or a loved one are suffering from any type of joint or back pain, you may benefit from chiropractic care. Consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered!  Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! In my last blog, we talked about reasons why you should visit a chiropractor. Today, we’ll be talking about massage therapy and its benefits. Many people suffer from issues such as back or neck pain or soreness. Instead of taking an over-the-counter pain killer and calling it a day, massage therapy may be the answer. Here at Lowcountry Chiropractic, we offer both Swedish and Therapeutic massage for stress relief and relaxation. Believe it or not, massage therapy goes hand-in-hand with chiropractic care– You can experience a more effective chiropractic adjustment when your muscles are relaxed! In this blog, we’ll be talking about different types of massage and their benefits. So, if you are interested in learning more, you’re in the right place! Let’s get started.
The word massage is a general term for pressing, rubbing, or manipulating the skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It has been proven to have a wide range of benefits, such as:
In addition, massage therapy can also be beneficial for those who suffer from conditions such as anxiety, digestive disorders, headaches, nerve pain, sports injuries, joint pain, and even insomnia. 43% of Americans seek out massage therapy for pain management and overall wellness, and 88% of consumers agree that massage is effective in relieving pain. Research has shown that massage therapy is effective for low back pain, reducing headache frequency, lowering blood pressure, and boosting the body’s immune system functioning. Massage therapy is performed by a trained, certified medical professional known as a massage therapist. It is performed by manipulating the soft tissues of your body, including muscle, connective tissues, ligaments, and skin. This manipulation is done with varying degrees of pressure, movement, and techniques. One goal of massage therapy is to slow down your nervous system, helping you to relax and release stress and tension. By doing this, you can find relief from symptoms, heal injuries, and support your overall wellness. When massage therapy is used in conjunction with chiropractic care, the two complement each other to bring a multitude of benefits. As mentioned above, massage therapy can help your body respond faster and more effectively to chiropractic adjustments. This, in turn, can allow your body to function at its optimal best. There are a variety of types of massages, and each one serves a different purpose. Let’s take a look at a few. Swedish Massage Swedish massage is one of the most common massage types. It is sometimes referred to as a “classic” massage. It is gentle and best suited for those who are looking for tension relief and relaxation. This massage loosens up tight muscles, so it can be helpful for people who spend a lot of time sitting at a desk or computer, or who hold a lot of tension in their lower back, neck, or shoulders. During a Swedish massage, some techniques used are kneading, deep circular movements, long strokes, and passive joint movements. This is meant to not only relax the body but also increase blood flow and stimulate nerve endings. Swedish massage is also great for those who have never had a massage before, as it is very gentle. Deep Tissue Massage Sometimes referred to as therapeutic massage, a deep tissue massage targets specific muscle groups or problem areas that are causing pain or restricting a person’s range of motion. This type of massage is great for athletes and people with injuries, and can also be beneficial for those who suffer from conditions such as fibromyalgia. A deep tissue massage uses some of the same techniques as Swedish massage, but applies more pressure, as it targets the inner layers of the muscles, tendons, and connective tissue. Although this massage applies more pressure and may be more intense, you should not feel any pain or discomfort. Sports Massage As the name suggests, a sports massage is great for athletes, especially if they have an injury to a muscle due to repetitive use. It is also a great option if you are prone to injuries in general. A sports massage can help increase flexibility, relieve pain, improve athletic performance, and release muscle tension. It can be performed as a full-body massage or on specific parts of the body that need attention. It is often performed with deep pressure and alternating strokes, including strokes that are applied in circular or linear motions. Trigger Point Massage A trigger point is an area of tightness within muscle tissue that is often caused by repetitive activity. Essentially, the muscle has tensed up and refuses to let go. It is commonly associated with people who spend their days hunched over at a computer. These tense muscles can cause pain and discomfort, as well as stiffness. A trigger point massage is great for those who have chronic pain, injuries, or a specific condition. The massage focuses on the areas of trigger points by using alternating levels of pressure to alleviate tension. This type of massage can also be performed at home by using your fingers to press firmly into the “knots” or sore spots you find. Lymphatic Drainage Massage Also known as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), a lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle massage that helps lymph fluids to circulate throughout the body. The lymphatic system consists of lymph, lymph nodes and vessels, and lymphoid tissues. Together, this system helps eliminate the body’s waste and protects the body from toxins and invaders that can cause illness. It is part of your immune system, and utilizes the natural movements of muscle and tissue to do its job. However, some medical conditions or damage can interfere with this system and cause fluid to build up. Improved circulation of the lymphatic system can help with conditions such as fibromyalgia, fatigue, stress, digestive problems, arthritis, and migraines. It is possible to perform this massage at home by using light pressure. As you can see, massage therapy is an effective treatment with a long list of benefits, and it is especially great in conjunction with chiropractic care! When your muscles are relaxed and your body is free of interference, your body can utilize its natural ability to heal itself. If you have any further questions about massage therapy or chiropractic care, feel free to reach out to us. I hope you found this article informative. If you or a loved one are suffering from any type of joint or back pain, you may benefit from chiropractic care. Consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered!  Hello, everyone! This is Dr. Bob Salamon with Lowcountry Chiropractic. As always, I hope you’re doing well and staying healthy! In my last blog, we talked about the different types of diagnostic imaging used by chiropractors. Today, we’ll be discussing why you should see a chiropractor. If you’re someone who has heard about chiropractic care but hasn’t made an appointment for yourself, this article is for you. There is a common misconception that you only need to see a chiropractor if you are injured or in pain. However, this is not the case. In fact, seeing a chiropractor regularly can help prevent injury and pain– But we’ll get to that later. If you are interested in learning more about chiropractic care and why you should visit a chiropractor, you’re in the right place. Let’s get started!
What is chiropractic care? First of all, let’s take a closer look at what chiropractic care actually is. Chiropractic is a form of natural medicine that emphasizes the body’s amazing ability to heal itself. Sometimes, interferences known as subluxations can disturb and prevent this healing process. The term subluxation refers to a partial dislocation or slight misalignment of the vertebrae which can block signals within the spinal nerves. Since the nervous system coordinates all healing and function, misaligned vertebrae can irritate spinal nerves and interrupt communication between the brain and body. Subluxations can occur due to an injury or can happen spontaneously, and they can cause a variety of issues and illnesses. (Check out my previous blog to learn more about subluxations!) A chiropractor uses treatments called spinal adjustments to remove these interferences and help the body function optimally. Chiropractic care is a safe, drug-free treatment for a variety of conditions. Why should you see a chiropractor? There are a variety of reasons why people visit chiropractors– And it’s for more than just back pain. Seeing a chiropractor can provide a wide range of benefits and can help you live a healthy, pain-free life. Here are a few of the reasons why you should see a chiropractor. 1. You have joint or muscle pain. When experiencing joint or muscle pain, most peoples’ first reaction is to grab an over-the-counter pain killer, like Tylenol. However, this only masks the pain– It does not address the cause of the pain. The pain could be due to problems with your musculoskeletal system or alignment. A chiropractor can use diagnostic imaging to help determine the cause of pain, and then come up with a treatment plan tailored to your needs. 2. You have chronic back pain. Back pain is considered to be chronic if it lasts for three months or longer. Again, over-the-counter pain medications can only put a “bandaid” over the real issue. This is one of the most common reasons why people see a chiropractor. Back pain can be caused by a variety of things, ranging from something as simple as sleeping in the wrong position or having poor posture, to something more serious like degenerative disc disease, sciatica, or scoliosis. A chiropractor will use diagnostic imaging and look at your medical history to determine the cause of your pain, before coming up with a long-term treatment plan. Chiropractors can also give you advice and tips for lifestyle changes that may alleviate or prevent back pain in the future. 3. You have headaches. Approximately 45 million Americans complain of headaches each year. Many of them will also reach for their medicine cabinet, despite the fact that chiropractic care can offer a real solution. Headaches can range from annoying, mild aches to severe migraines. There are a few different types of headaches, including tension, cluster, and migraine. If headaches are interrupting your daily life, visiting a chiropractor may be beneficial. A chiropractor can determine the types of headaches you are experiencing and the cause. There are many causes of headaches, such as lack of sleep, certain foods, poor posture, and even subluxations. Spinal or neck manipulation can help relieve headaches, and your chiropractor can give you nutritional advice that may be helpful. 4. You’re an athlete or an active person. If you play sports or spend a lot of time working out or being active, your body is subjected to repetitive strain. A chiropractor can treat sports-related injuries and help you recover quickly from them, as well as discuss techniques that can help prevent injury. In fact, athletes and those who are very active should regularly see a chiropractor before an injury occurs– This can help keep your vertebrae aligned and keep your body functioning at its optimal best so that you can continue being active. 5. You have digestive problems. Did you know that chiropractors can help with digestive issues, too? The nervous system controls the digestive system by sending signals to the brain and organs. Since your brain and spinal cord help make up the nervous system, your nervous system has a direct link to the digestive system and to your spine. When vertebrae are misaligned, they can put pressure on nerves or block signals from the brain to the digestive system. This can cause digestive problems, such as heartburn, bloating, and discomfort. Chiropractic adjustments can remove these subluxations to allow the digestive system to work properly. 6. You are pregnant. If you are pregnant, chiropractic care may be beneficial. When a woman is pregnant, her body undergoes many physical and hormonal changes in a short period of time. Pregnancy can shift your posture, causing discomfort. As a result, many pregnant women experience aches and pains in the lower back and hips. A chiropractor can use different techniques and adjusting tables to provide treatment that does not put pressure on the stomach. Chiropractic care is safe and effective during pregnancy and can help manage pain as well as establish pelvic balance. Additionally, chiropractic care can lead to a more comfortable pregnancy and delivery! 7. You have recently been in an auto accident. Many people suffer from neck or back injuries and pain after an auto accident. Even if you initially feel fine after a collision, it’s a good idea to visit a chiropractor to check for any misalignments that may cause pain later. Individuals who have been injured in a car accident often experience intense muscle pain and stiffness, and these conditions can worsen over time, leading to serious issues if left untreated. Whiplash is one of the most common injuries after an auto accident. It is a neck injury that can cause pain, loss of range of motion in the neck, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and tingling or numbness in the arms. Some people may also experience blurred vision. Whether your pain is acute or chronic, a chiropractor can treat it. 8. You want to live a healthier lifestyle. If you are interested in a healthier lifestyle, chiropractic care can be a great first step. Your spine is an incredibly important part of your body and is essential to your health. In the same way that we regularly visit dentists to take care of our teeth, we should be doing the same for our spines. In addition to routine adjustments, a chiropractor can provide you with helpful information about exercise routines, stretches, and nutritional advice. These are just a few of the reasons why you should see a chiropractor. Visiting a chiropractor is the first step towards getting healthier, so set up a consultation today! If you have any further questions about chiropractic care, feel free to reach out to us. I hope you found this article informative. If you or a loved one are suffering from any type of joint or back pain, you may benefit from chiropractic care. Consider reaching out to Lowcountry Chiropractic! We specialize in different chiropractic techniques, as well as both therapeutic and Swedish massage. Send us an email or give us a call and we’ll assess the situation and develop a treatment plan to address your needs. We want to help you live a healthy and pain-free life– it’s what you deserve. As always, this is Dr. Bob and I have your back covered! |
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