Category: Chiropractic

  • Chiropractic for Back Pain – What Does a Chiropractor Do?

    Chiropractic for back painAre you experiencing acute or chronic back pain? Trying over-the-counter medication, heating pads, and topical creams do not help, and you are desperate for help and relief. What can chiropractic do for back pain? Let’s find out.

    A friend mentioned seeing a chiropractor for back pain – could this be the solution to your acute or chronic discomfort? You have heard about chiropractic care and are curious but are not sure what it entails or if it is the right solution for your pain.

    Chiropractic care started in the late 1800s and has grown to become the preferred choice for patients seeking alternative treatment methods. A skilled chiropractor knows how to adjust your spine to affect your health from the inside out. If you are unsure about scheduling a first-time visit, we are here to break down the specifics for you.

    Keep reading to find out what to expect from a chiropractic visit and how it can help you find relief from back pain, and more!

    What to Expect on Your First Visit

    On your first visit to a chiropractor, you can expect to be treated with care and respect. You will go over previous and current health history, accidents, injuries, and what you hope to achieve from chiropractic care. The first couple of visits last around one hour, but the subsequent visits will be much shorter.

    Many chiropractors will want to conduct X-rays of your spine to see what issues you may be experiencing. Our office utilizes NASA-certified scanning equipment called the “Insight Subluxation Station,” which gives us insight into how your nervous system is functioning. Your spine and nervous system function as one, and knowing the health of your nerves can help us prepare an appropriate plan for you.

    Your first visit will often include a session based on your information obtained from x-rays and scans and what the doctor finds from that information.

    Once you have discussed what you want to achieve from chiropractic care, you and the chiropractor will discuss a treatment plan to help reduce pain and restore the health of your spine.

    What to Expect During Treatments

    Not all chiropractic care is created equal. Some chiros use techniques that include manual manipulation – this is where you may think of the ‘cracking’ or ‘popping’ associated with chiropractor adjustments. However, at Dody Chiropractic Center, we use a small instrument called ArthoStim™ to treat the intended areas. It is a gentle yet effective treatment tool.

    A chiropractic adjustment lasts, on average, five minutes, and you will often see your chiropractor more often at the beginning of your treatment plan. As time passes and you are reassessed, the goal is for your pain to dissipate and get you back to feeling like yourself. Eventually, your visits will become maintenance focused, reducing the frequency.

    How Long Until I Notice Results?

    Some patients will notice a difference in as little as one session. However, in one to four weeks, most patients start to feel changes with consistent care.

    Consistency is key in the chiropractic world, and keeping your scheduled appointments is vital to the success of your treatment plan.

    How Else Can Chiropractic Care Benefit Me?

    Your spine is a powerhouse that supports your entire body. The nerves in your body connect to the spinal column, affecting each part of your body. The health of your spine dictates how your body handles allergies to the quality of your sleep.

    Seeing a chiropractor for back pain is a small part of what chiropractic services can offer. Dody Chiropractic Center is passionate about chiropractic care and how it can improve your quality of life.

    If you are dealing with stress and anxiety, we offer neurofeedback services to assess how these factors affect your brain. We provide functional nutrition services, including bloodwork panels, to help clients optimize their relationships with food and treat their bodies with holistic practices.

    If you would like to schedule a consultation with our office, send us a message and let us help you alleviate pain and live a more full, happy, and healthy life!

  • When Should I See a Chiropractor for Neck Pain?

    Neck pain and chiropractic care (1980 × 800 px)According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 222 million individuals around the world experience neck pain. You may be one of them. If so, you may be thinking about going to a chiropractor for neck pain. 

    However, you may be wondering if such a treatment is necessary. If so, read on. 

    What Causes Neck Pain?

    The neck portion of your spine starts at the base of the skull and continues down to your shoulders. It consists of seven vertebrae that have the primary job of holding up your head. Often, this area can become injured when it’s pushed beyond its limits. 

    Numerous actions and situations can cause injury to the neck. Poor posture during activities such as sleeping, slouching, and looking at an electronic device can all cause vertebrae misalignment. Injuries such as those from car accidents and medical conditions such as osteoporosis can also cause neck problems. 

    What Are the Symptoms of Neck Pain? 

    cervical spine (300 × 300 px)Pain is, of course, the main symptom of neck pain. However, this can be the root of many other problems. In addition, you may find yourself experiencing symptoms that may seem unrelated. 

    Neck and back pain can come with struggles to move in the usual ways. This lack of motion can make it difficult for you to do everyday activities as well as work and play. You may also find that you experience muscle spasms, poor balance, and a specific weakness in your arms and grip strength. 

    You may find it difficult to sleep or concentrate. The feeling of the pain can also affect other aspects of your life. But pain is not the only symptom of neck issues.

    You may also notice shoulder pain and stiffness if you have neck misalignment. The nerves that exit your spine in your neck also travel all the way down your arms to your wrists and hands. 

    Another common symptom seen in chiropractic clinics from neck pain is headaches. If you suffer from headaches, neck misalignment might be the underlying cause of those symptoms. 

    When Should I See a Chiropractor for Neck Pain? 

    Neck pain can go away on its own after some time. However, if your symptoms are acute or chronic (meaning they’re sticking around for some time), you may want to seek treatment. If you’re experiencing a loss in quality of life due to this condition, getting help is even more critical. 

    You can visit any of the chiropractors in your area and ask them if you may benefit from their treatment. The doctor will perform an examination and look through your medical records. 

    At our Littleton, CO chiropractic clinic, we perform three state-of-the-art nerve scans to help pinpoint where the issues are coming from in your neck. These scans help optimize the treatment recommendations you will receive from the examination and ensure you get the proper care you need.

    Research has shown that chiropractic treatment is an excellent and effective method for treating neck pain. If you want to read more about these studies, check out this article- Chronic Neck Pain and Chiropractic.

    Get Effective Chiropractic Neck Pain Treatment From Us 

    In sum, the symptoms of neck pain can vary and range from mild to severe. If you feel like your symptoms are difficult to deal with, you may want to consider seeing a chiropractor for neck pain. 

    When you do, consider scheduling a visit with us. We’ve been providing the Littleton and Bow Mar areas with quality chiropractic care since 2003. It’s our goal to make you healthy and keep you healthy. 

  • Chiropractic and ADHD: Is Chiropractic Effective for ADHD?

    Chiropractic and ADHD Is Chiropractic Effective for ADHDADHD diagnosis rates across the world are increasing. It is estimated that around 10 percent of children in the US have been diagnosed with this troubling condition. Many of these children and young people are on strong medication, and the side effects severely impact their lives. 

    What if there was another way? An increasing body of evidence suggests that other more gentle treatments, including chiropractic, can be effective. Read on to learn all about chiropractic and ADHD. 

    What is ADHD?

    ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a condition that causes problems with hyperactivity and impulsivity. It can interfere with day-to-day life. Children with ADHD are likely to find school settings and other aspects of life more challenging than other children. 

    When it comes to understanding ADHD, there are many different world views. More often than not, though, medication will be prescribed by doctors. This medication can have severe side effects for some children. Also, it is not always effective in managing the condition. 

    Chiropractic and ADHD – What’s the Connection?

    Many people will never even have considered chiropractic treatment for ADHD. First things first, though. What is a chiropractor? Let’s go back to basics before we talk about chiropractic and ADHD. 

    Chiropractors are best known for making spinal adjustments and manipulations to relieve pain in the muscles and joints. The adjustments can improve nerve conductivity and blood flow to the joints and muscles where the person is experiencing pain. 

    Research conducted at Duke University School of Medicine has shown that chiropractic treatment has had significant benefits for children with ADHD. Chiropractic care has been seen to affect children with ADHD positively and can lead to a reduction in symptoms. 

    The same results have been shown in case studies published in PubMed, specifically on how chiropractic adjustments can reduce ADHD symptoms in kids.

    Chiropractic Guide to ADHD

    ADHD is a condition that is based in the brain and diagnosed with behavioral symptoms. So it might seem strange to think that physical manipulation of the body could be helpful. However, the spinal cord carries neural signals from the brain to the rest of the body and vice versa. 

    A chiropractor will look for and address any subluxations in the spine. This relieves any pressure on the nervous system caused by misalignment and can help the whole nervous system to function better. This, in turn, can help to relieve ADHD symptoms and help the balance between brain and body. 

    Chiropractic Tips for Managing ADHD

    Chiropractors are holistic practitioners who look at the whole person. As such, they may also have some lifestyle advice for people living with ADHD.

    There are some particular types of food that people with ADHD should avoid. This includes processed food and anything containing artificial sweeteners, food coloring, or additives. Many practitioners will recommend a diet based on natural, organic foods and high in protein. 

     

    Your Chiropractic ADHD Guide

    Now that you have learned more about chiropractic and ADHD, you might be ready to consider seeing a specialist for help with your child’s ADHD symptoms. Here at Dody Chiropractic Center for Wholeness, we are always happy to welcome new patients. Don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss how we can help you. 

  • Chiropractic Care for Asthma

    chiropractic care for asthmaAsthma is a widespread condition, affecting up to 25 million people in the US alone. It is a lifelong condition that can severely impact the quality of life of those who suffer from it. 

    While asthma is a serious condition, there are many treatment options available. Most people with asthma are able to control the condition and reduce the likelihood of asthma attacks.

    Many sufferers are unaware of the efficacy of chiropractic therapies for treating asthma. Seeing a chiropractor can significantly improve asthma symptoms and the quality of life for people who suffer from these symptoms. Read on to find out more about this holistic treatment option. 

    What Is Asthma?

    Asthma is a disease that causes swelling and inflammation of the airways. This leads these airways to become narrower, restricting the airflow from the nose and mouth to the lungs. 

    Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and pain or tightness in the chest. It can be deadly. The WHO states that up to 455,000 deaths may have occurred due to asthma across the world in 2019 alone. 

    Allergens, including pets or dust particles, trigger some people. Other sufferers find their symptoms can be worse after exercise or even after eating certain foods. 

    There is currently no known cure for asthma. Many treatments are available, including chiropractic therapies, which can improve the quality of life for people living with asthma. 

    What Is a Chiropractor?

    People often think of chiropractic treatment as being solely for back pain. But chiropractors offer holistic treatments for the whole body. Chiropractic care focuses on improving health and wellness and, therefore, can often help with the route causes of conditions like asthma. 

    The central nervous system is affected by the misalignment of the spine. This misalignment and lack of movement in the spine can cause interference with the neural transmission of the spinal cord. Interference of nerve transmission means that the body cannot function optimally, which can lead to health issues such as asthma and other respiratory conditions. 

    Chiropractic Therapies for Asthma

    rib cage and spineIt is important to realize that chiropractic treatment will not cure asthma entirely. Still, it can positively impact symptoms and quality of life. By realigning the spine and the nerves within the spinal system, every function of the body can be improved. 

    Directly relating to asthma, chiropractic manipulation can help to remove any obstructions affecting the nerve conduction to the lungs and the airway. This allows the lungs to function more effectively and thus relieves asthma symptoms. 

    Any musculoskeletal alignment issues affecting the spine and ribcage can also impact breathing. Correcting these can help the body’s respiratory function to operate more effectively. 

    There have been multiple case studies showing the effectiveness of chiropractic care for asthma. If you would like to read some of this research, check out this website- https://chiro.org/Conditions/Asthma.shtml

    Chiropractic Tips for Asthma 

    Perhaps you have found that traditional medical remedies for your asthma have not helped to manage your symptoms. Or maybe you would like to try a more natural and holistic approach.

    In that case, chiropractic therapies could be exactly what you need. This gentle, whole-body approach can really help the body’s overall function and improve the quality of life. Don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts to find out how we can help you breathe with more ease today.

  • How Subluxations Impact Your Health and What to Do About Them

    How Subluxations Impact Your Health and What to Do About Them (1980 × 800 px)Back pain is the number one cause of employees missing work. Every year, 83 million days of productivity are lost due to back issues. 

    At this point, back pain does not just impact health but income as well. It can also affect friendships and family relationships, as well as your general quality of life. Dealing with pain every day makes people with chronic pain three times more likely to develop a psychiatric condition.

    Subluxations are a common source of back pain. To learn more about these and how to treat them, keep reading below. 

    What Is Subluxation?

    A subluxation involves an abnormal separation of joints, organs, teeth, or eye lenses from their natural anatomical position. This unnatural separation is also known as dislocation.

    In chiropractic practice, subluxation has a slightly different meaning. Due to stress, the spine’s vertebra can shift out of place, causing a chiropractic subluxation. 

    Chiropractic practitioners treat subluxation of the vertebrae. Essentially, they work to return vertebrae to their natural anatomical position through adjustments that realign the spine. 

    To find out more, read our article on subluxation here- https://dodychiro.com/subluxations-what-are-they/.

    Symptoms of Subluxation

    The symptoms of subluxation are what impact your health. They may include:

    • Pain
    • Headaches
    • Inflammation
    • Difficulty focusing
    • Limited range of movement

    When body parts move from their natural anatomical positions, they often inhibit natural body functions and processes. For example, they can hinder healthy blood flow. This is why headaches and difficulty focusing may result from subluxations. 

    As previously stated, the pain caused by subluxation is not just physical but also impacts mental health. Conditions like depression and anxiety often accompany chronic pain. It’s not easy to move through life when you suffer every day. 

    Causes of Subluxations

    Subluxation is often caused by some physical trauma, like a sports injury or accident. However, it can also be caused by stress or toxins. These things can mess with the nervous system, causing the muscles to spasm. These muscle spasms can drive body parts out of alignment, creating a subluxation. 

    Treating Subluxations

    There are many things you can do to help treat subluxation. The first step is to make an appointment with a licensed chiropractor and get professional therapy. 

    A chiropractor often treats subluxation with precise, intentional force to move the body part back into its natural anatomical position. A chiropractor may also prescribe devices, like a TENS machine, to help with pain and muscle spasms that cause subluxation. This machine delivers electrical stimulation to the nerves, reducing pain signals sent to the brain.

    Exercise is an easy way for patients to treat subluxation at home. Strength training protects these body parts from moving out of alignment again. A chiropractor can inform patients of what specific exercises are best. 

    Of course, always consult with your doctor before trying any at-home treatment methods. 

    Improving Back Pain

    Even if subluxations are not the cause of the back pain, being under chiropractic care will help the situation improve. Chiropractors use various techniques to return body parts to their natural anatomical position. They can also prescribe exercises, stretching, or devices to use at home.

    If you’re ready to ask for professional treatment for your pain, contact us to make an appointment. 

  • What Are the Benefits of the Koren Specific Technique Chiropractic Method?

    What Are the Benefits of the Koren Specific Technique Chiropractic Method?Did you know that more than 35 million people visit a chiropractor every year?

    Many people think about seeing a chiropractor but are not sure if it will be right for them. Or they feel unsure about what style of chiropractic or technique might be used.

    Others wonder how rough or gentle the chiropractor might be. The Koren Specific Technique is a gentle approach that some chiropractors use today.

    Keep reading to learn the benefits of this wonderful form of chiropractic care.

    How Does the Koren Specific Technique Work?

    Dr. Ted Koren created The Koren Specific Technique in 2003. He determined that many symptoms could be relieved by locating and correcting misaligned vertebrae. 

    His technique includes a three-step “C” approach, now widely used by chiropractors.

    It includes: 

    1. Challenging – finding the misalignment
    2. Checking – deciding if and where to make an adjustment
    3. Correcting – making the adjustment

    Unlike other chiropractic methods, a unique FDA-approved handheld ArthroStim instrument is used to make adjustments on patients.

    Because of this special tool, chiropractors make adjustments without any twisting or turning of the patient’s joints.

    Conditions Soothed With the Koren Specific Technique

    The Koren Specific Technique can help with many of the typical chiropractic issues, such as back pain, neck pain, and even headaches. 

    However, because of its gentle method, it can also be effective in treating a wide variety of other issues. These include dizziness and vertigo, and it can even improve your balance. The Koren Specific Technique can also aid with anxiety and other emotional stress issues.

    Patients who have experienced the Koren Specific Technique also report that it can help you recover from injuries, help with PMS, and even help you breathe better. 

    Koren Specific Technique Benefits

    Let’s go over the benefits of this particular technique. 

    Gentle

    One of the most important benefits of the Koren Specific Technique is that it is so gentle on the body. It uses much less force and pressure than most other chiropractic techniques. 

    Immediate

    Another great benefit is that it will reduce the patient’s pain immediately. The healing process will continue to help the body unwind after the adjustment.

    Flexibility

    Because adjustments are made using the ArthroStim, they can be done in any position. You can sit, stand, or lie down, whichever position may cause the pain to be worse or is most comfortable for you.

    No Tests

    Thanks to Dr. Koren’s three-step technique, no testing, imaging, or x-rays are required. At our Littleton, CO chiropractic clinic, we do three state-of-the-art nerve systems scans that help us precisely determine what is going on with you. 

    It Works

    Even if typical chiropractic care hasn’t worked for you in the past, there is a good chance the Koren Specific Technique will.

    It’s for Everyone

    All ages can benefit from this technique. It is gentle enough for use with babies, the young at heart, and every age in-between.

    Get Relief Today

    Finding the best way to relieve pain is difficult. 

    If you have tried chiropractic care in the past, it may be time to try again with this gentle approach.

    If you are new to chiropractic care and ready to take control of your health using this great method, then Koren Specific Technique may be right for you.

    Reach out to us today, and we will contact you to set up an appointment!

  • How to Develop a Chiropractic Wellness Lifestyle

    How to Develop a Chiropractic Wellness Lifestyle (1980 × 800 px)There is an opioid crisis in America. Between 21% and 29% of people prescribed opioids develop an unhealthy habit. That’s one reason why more Americans choose complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) over conventional care.

    Chiropractic wellness is one option within this CAM category. Chiropractic medicine is inherently holistic. Rather than focusing on a specific symptom or body part, chiropractors consider the entire system and its interrelated parts.

    To learn more about how chiropractic wellness can impact your health for the better and how to cultivate this for yourself, keep reading below.

    The Chiropractic Discipline

    The chiropractic discipline is a holistic one. It specializes in the human musculoskeletal system, however, it considers how the body functions as a whole.

    Chiropractors use their hands to manually adjust joints, soft tissue, and the spine. The foundation of this method has roots in the practice of bonesetting, something that is ancient in the East and is still very popular there today.

    Chiropractic Wellness Care

    Chiropractic wellness care differs from conventional medicine because it is proactive and preventative. Most people only go to the doctor when something is wrong and they want treatment to fix it. Wellness, however, has to do with caring for our bodies as a daily practice.

    Chiropractic wellness involves a licensed chiropractor routinely examining their patients for the misalignment of the spine and other body parts. The chiropractor then treats the misalignment, or subluxation, so that the body part returns to its natural anatomical position.

    When a body part is out of alignment, it affects bodily functions. It often interferes with natural processes and causes pain or other conditions, like headaches. Practicing chiropractic wellness and receiving regular chiropractic adjustments prevents this from happening.

    Chiropractors also have other tools at their disposal. Some provide physical therapy in their office as well. Additionally, they may have electrical stimulation devices or use heat and ice therapy.

    Cultivating Chiropractic Wellness

    A professional chiropractor can also recommend lifestyle options to improve their patients’ wellness lifestyle at home. These may include diet options, stretching or exercise options, and even the use of portable medical devices like a TENS unit.

    In terms of stretching or exercise, there are many yoga poses that a chiropractor may recommend. For example, poses like cat/camel, bird dog, or mountain pose may reduce back pain. They are also very simple and can be done without any equipment.

    A TENS unit can also be used at home. This unit provides electrical stimulation to the nerves, reducing pain signals sent to the brain. A chiropractor can also provide instructions for heat or ice therapy at home.

    Of course, it’s also important to eat for wellness. A healthy diet generally consists of lots of leafy greens and limited alcohol, red meat, and refined sugar.

    Professional Guidance

    Chiropractic wellness involves a routine of healthy choices at home combined with regular chiropractic care. Many forms of American health insurance recognize chiropractic care and cover a percentage of the cost.

    If you’re interested in following a chiropractic wellness lifestyle, contact us to book an appointment with one of our professional chiropractors.

  • 3 Key Qualities to Look for When Finding a Chiropractor

    3 Key Qualities to Look for When Finding a ChiropractorThere are around 70,000 chiropractors in the United States. Many people will experience back pain or another chiropractic ailment sometime in their life, and they have many practitioners to choose from. But how do you make the best decision on which professional to choose?

    While reviews are an excellent place to start, you should consider a few key characteristics. Read on to find out the three most important qualities to look for when finding a chiropractor.

    1. Educated

    One of the most important tips for finding a chiropractor relates to their education. Not only do they need to have a great base education, but they also need to keep up with their studies. There are many areas for them to stay in tune with, including the nervous system, muscular systems, exercise, nutrition, and the spine.

    Chiropractic techniques and practices are ever-evolving as we learn more and more about the human body. To get the most up-to-date and efficient care, they need to keep up with changes so they may implement them. Staying on top of current topics means that they need to regularly attend workshops, go to classes, and review research on the latest treatments.

    2. Passionate

    As obvious as this may seem, many people can become stagnant in their jobs. Losing the zest for practicing chiropractic often leads to less effort put into their work. Even when someone once loved the career they entered, they can lose interest.

    When it comes to hiring a chiropractor, you’ll want someone who is clearly passionate about what they do. They will be more driven to give you the best care and treatment. You won’t be just another number on their list of things to do!

    A good way to gauge if they are passionate about their work is to ask how they got into the career or ask why they love it now. It’s usually quite easy to tell if someone is devoted to their job based on their answer.

    3. Strong Communication Skills

    When visiting a chiropractor or any medical professional, you’ll want to see how their communication skills are. Do they make you feel comfortable? Do they listen to what you are saying to them? Do they communicate well back to you and speak in a way that you understand?

    These are incredibly important aspects for maximizing your treatment. When you understand each other, then you can both take the appropriate steps to ensure you are on the right path to recovery. Also, take into consideration how flexible they are with their treatments if you’ve brought up any concerns.

    Key Qualities When Finding a Chiropractor

    These are just a few of the most important qualities when finding a chiropractor. Be sure that you are noting these qualities as you visit with a chiropractor for the initial visit or read their online reviews.

    Don’t worry about being too picky. This is your health, and you should have control over it!

    Are you looking for the right chiropractor in Colorado? Contact us today to get help from our amazing team!

    schedule appointment today

  • 3 Sure Signs You Should Absolutely Visit a Chiropractor

    3 Sure Signs You Should Absolutely Visit a ChiropractorDo you wake up with aches, pains, or stiffness in the morning? Are you less inclined to engage in certain activities because of the way your body feels or the limitations it possesses? Do you find yourself saying, “I guess this is just something that I have to live with”

    If so, the question to ask yourself is: “Could visiting a chiropractor help me”? 

    Going to a chiropractor can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never been, so how do you know if it’s the right healing modality for you and your body? 

    Below are three signs that you could benefit from visiting a chiropractor. 

    1. You’re Pushing Past the Pain

    Pain is how the body alerts you to an injury, whether superficial or severe. It’s a warning that something isn’t quite right in the body. All too often, we are accustomed to ignoring these signals, dismissing the nagging discomfort. However, untreated pain can trigger the body’s fight or flight response, putting unnecessary stress on the nervous system.  

    Pain can occur in different locations and can generally be described as either acute or chronic. Acute pain comes on and goes away suddenly with no apparent cause, while chronic pain can last longer than six months. 

    Take a moment and think about the location of your pain. Pain in the lower back or neck can indicate spinal subluxations – misaligned vertebrae that cause disturbances in your nervous system – which can be improved with the help of a chiropractor.

    If you’re experiencing physical pain or discomfort, consider the possibility of relief, and don’t delay in contacting our Littleton clinic to schedule an appointment. 

    2. You Have Regular Headaches

    Another sign that you could benefit from visiting a chiropractor is if you suffer from frequent or chronic head pain. Headaches and migraines can be caused by many things, including stress, dehydration, or sleep deprivation. However, if you find yourself reaching for over-the-counter pain medications for frequent headache relief, it’s time to seek more effective treatment.

    In many cases, headaches come from prolonged tension in the neck and upper back muscles. This pain can also stem from misalignment in the spine, which puts additional pressure on the neck and head. 

    Chiropractic adjustments can significantly assist in reducing the frequency and severity of your headaches and have even been proven to eradicate them over time. 

    3. Your Flexibility and Mobility Are Limited

    Another key indicator that you should visit a chiropractor is if you have limited mobility and flexibility. Do you find it hard to bend over, sit on the floor with your children or grandchildren, or exercise without discomfort? If so, then chiropractic care can help. 

    Your body’s movement is centralized around the fluidity of your spine. When the spine is in poor alignment, your muscles and joints are not able to properly do their job.

    Practices like daily stretching or yoga can help to improve flexibility and mobility, but they may not be enough to address the deeper spinal issues. Your muscles will work overtime to keep the body out of pain, even if that means keeping your body out of proper alignment. A visit to the chiropractor can help realign the vertebrae, allowing the muscles to relax their grip and you to move with more ease. 

    Stretching and chiropractic care complement each other beautifully. When you combine these two practices, you will begin to see wonderful improvements in your body’s range of motion. 

    Don’t Wait to Visit a Chiropractor

    Going to a chiropractor can be a life-changing experience. Not only can regular visits help reduce physical pain (chronic and acute), but you will experience more mobility, flexibility, and better overall health. 

    Why wait? Contact our Littleton clinic today to schedule your first appointment.

    schedule appointment today

  • Yoga and Spinal Health

    When many of us in the western world think of yoga, we think of contorting our bodies into odd, seemingly impossible shapes. In reality, yoga has nothing to do with fancy poses or impressive flexibility. Yoga means to yoke or unite. At its core, the goal of yoga is to unite the breath with movement, which consists of moving the spine in six directions.

    The six directions are:

    • Flexion and Extension – rounding and extending the spine
    • Right and Left Rotation – twisting the spine
    • Right and Left Lateral Flexion – side bending

    These ranges of movement will help prevent stiffness, improve flexibility, and promote longevity of the spine.

    What Exactly Is A Healthy Spine?

    The spine is designed to provide both stability and mobility through the core of your body, your torso, and your limbs. As you age, a healthy spine is essential to maintaining a vibrant lifestyle. By keeping the spine strong and flexible, it will increase your range of motion, promote better posture, a stronger core, and improve balance.

    A healthy spine allows the nervous system to function effectively, ensuring that all systems of the body are communicating properly. A strong and flexible spine also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which means that the body is in a state of rest. This state increases the body’s ability to endure and navigate stress more efficiently – physically, mentally, and emotionally.

    What Yoga Poses Work Best for Spinal Health?

    Yoga doesn’t have to be intimidating, it can be easy. Moving through a full set of spinal exercises can take less than 5 minutes. And they can all be done standing or even sitting at your desk.

    It doesn’t matter what you look like or how flexible you are. Think Function over Form. Follow the guidance of your body and do what feels best.

    Cat Cow Yoga PoseFlexion and Extension

    Cat and Cow pose

     

     

     

     

     

    rotation yoga poseRotation

    Twist to the right, then left

     

     

     

     

    side bend yoga poseLateral Flexion

    Side bend to the right then left

     

     

     

    How Does Yoga Help Your Spine?

    Moving your spine in six directions every day will not only increase spinal mobility and strength but improve the overall health of your spine.  A healthy spine allows the nervous system to operate optimally and communicate effectively will all systems of the body.

    How Does Chiropractic Care Help Your Spine and Your Yoga Practice?

    At our Littleton, CO chiropractic clinic we specialize in a gentle, specific chiropractic technique call Koren Specific Technique (KST). Specific adjustments help with motion in the spine as well. Your spine has 2 major functions. First is to protect the spinal cord. Second is to keep you upright, also known as your posture. Stresses cause shifts in segments of your spine or even curvatures of your spine. These shifts are what we call subluxations.

    Subluxations not only cause lack of motion, they can also affect the brain-body connection. Our goal is to find these interferences and correct them gently. Once your spine is moving properly it can help out your yoga practice.

    The saying, “Motion is Life” could not be a truer statement. Keep your motion and enhance your life.

    If you would like to find out if you have subluxations (interference) please schedule a consultation at our clinic today. We use state-of-the-art nerve system scans to find out exactly where your issues are at. Let us help you thrive!

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