Thursday, January 15, 2009

SPORTS-related INJURIES

Chiropractors are some of the most actively involved health-care professionals in sports-related conditioning, injury prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. The most typical injury involves the back, neck or shoulder type injuries caused by over the head movements found in sports like tennis, softball, pitching, hockey and even golf leading to pain and lack of mobility. Alot of knee and back injuries are also caused by snowboarding, skiing and soccer.

Chiropractic manipulations are vital in restoring the biomechanics of the shoulder, neck, upper back and hips. Many professional sports teams employ chiropractors to treat and prevent sports injuries.


Chiropractic care of a sport injury regardless of whether you are a professional or amateur athlete can take a week to eight weeks to heal depending on the particular injury. Shoulder and knee injuries typically take the longest as those joints are the least stable. Once the injury has healed it is a good idea to continue with regular chiropractic adjustments to keep the body balanced properly and functioning at its peak.

Be safe and take care of yourself!

Thursday, January 8, 2009

BACK PAIN

Activity is good for your back because it:
-develops, stretches, and strengthens muscles and joints
-maintains and increases your flexibility
-prevents your joints from seizing up
-assists in developing stronger bones
-keeps your heart and lungs healthy
-reduces pain by releasing natural chemicals such as endorphins

Back Pain And Risk Factors
Back pain can be caused by:
-poor posture
-slips and falls
-un-natural movements
-carrying or lifting excessive weight
-stress-physical and mental
-overexertion
-lack of exercise
-medical factors

Back Pain Warning Signs
-leg pain with numbness, tingling and/or weakness
-back or leg pain with coughing or sneezing
-difficulty standing up after sitting for period of time
-stiffness in the morning that decreases when you move around
-pain in your hip, buttock, thigh, knee or foot
-inability to turn or bend to each side equally
-unbalanced posture
-pain which prevents you from sleeping well or spasms

Tips for a Healthy Back
-exercise regularly
-follow a healthy diet
-maintain good posture as much as possible
-do an active warmup before activity and stretch after
-don't overload your backpack or shoulder bag
-stretch your legs and back after each hour of sitting
-never cradle the phone between your neck and shoulder
-sleep on your back, or side not stomach
-get a good chair, pillow and mattress
-Have regular spinal check-ups

Take care of your back and stay fit!!! Get regular chiropractic check-ups to prevent further injury.

Saturday, January 3, 2009

SNOW SHOVELING TIPS- For a Healthy Back

With all this snow we are getting it is a good idea to have good technique to protect your body.
So here are some tips:
-Warm up before beginning any snow shoveling, about 5mins to get your joints moving and increase blood circulation, so you don't pull anything. Run on the spot, climb stairs, or go for a quick walk around the block. Follow with stretches for your low back, arms, shoulders, and legs. This will make sure you are ready for your task.
-Don't let the snow pile up-removing small amounts of snow on a frequent basis is less strenuous in the long run.
-Pick the right shovel-use a lightweight, non-stick, push-style shovel
-Push, don't throw- so push the snow to one side and avoid throwing it. If you are throwing do not twist and turn, position yourself to throw straight at the snow pile.
-Bend your knees-use your knees, legs and arm muscles to do the pushing and lifting while keeping your back straight.
- Watch for ice- keep your eyes open so you do slip and fall and hurt your back
-Wear proper footwear- something with a good grip to lessen the fall
-Take a break- if you are feeling tired or short of breath, stop and take a rest. Over working could only cause you damage and you could end up hurting yourself.

Try to enjoy the snow, and have fun!
Happy new Year and may 2009 bring you lots of happiness, good health and joy!!