Friday, November 26, 2010

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care

You are suffering from a headache and what do you do?  You might take Aspirin or Tylenol seeking quick relief.  What if you could find out the root cause of your headache and address that cause therefore preventing future episodes? 
Identifying the cause of the symptom is critical to preventing reoccurrence.  A headache may be due to a myriad of reasons, such as your diet, stress, lack of sleep, caffeine, physical trauma, or emotional upset. 
Chiropractic is a healthcare profession in which Doctors of Chiropractic practice a gentle hands-on healing art that does not utilize medications or surgery.  Chiropractors provide a diagnosis and treatment plan based on a comprehensive patient examination. 
            Nutrition, dietary, and lifestyle counseling may also be a part of chiropractic care.  For example, neck or back pain or headaches often has an inflammatory component to them.  Therefore, it may be beneficial to use specific nutrition to naturally decrease inflammation in the body.  Additionally, it is important to modify daily activities in order to lessen the strain on those areas. 
Chiropractic care may help resolve musculoskeletal health issues including back or neck pain, headaches, muscle imbalances, scoliosis, etc.  Chiropractic patients often find they also have increased energy, feel more youthful, and are better equipped to handle daily stress.


Monday, November 1, 2010

Healthy Tips for the Holidays

 In the midst of the stress of the holidays it is easy to forget about your health goals and “let yourself go.”  However, with a bit of preparation, you can stay on track and prevent the typical stress and weight gain during the holiday season.  Carve out some time every day for YOU.  Use this time to do something you enjoy.  You might take advantage of this time to maintain balance despite the stress and indulgences that might come with the festivities.  You might go for a walk or jog, take a yoga or pilates class, or simply take a relaxing bath.  During holiday parties, it is easy to be tempted by foods that are not in line with your usual health goals, overeat, and drink more than you typically would.  In order to avoid these unhealthy and unwanted behaviors, you might practice some of the following tips:
·         Focus on the celebration of the holidays with friends and family rather than the food and drink.
·         Bring your favorite healthy dessert so that you can indulge without being tempted by other unhealthy desserts that are available.
·         Eat a small meal or snack ½ hour before you go to the party to avoid hunger and then overindulging.
·         Graze throughout the party on healthier options like vegetables and protein dishes.
·         If you choose to have foods and drinks that are not in line with your health goals, then balance them with extra vegetables and exercise that same day.