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Unexpected Benefits of Chiropractic

Unexpected Benefits of Chiropractic

Unexpected Benefits of Chiropractic

It was once considered a fringe medical treatment, but chiropractic has come into its own in recent years, with tons of research and clinical studies to support the benefits of chiropractic and its effectiveness and safety.

More than 35 million Americans now visit a chiropractor every year. Most of these patients visit a chiropractor to ease back pain and avoid the need for meds or surgery. Although, pain relief is only one of the many benefits of chiropractic.

Keep reading to discover all the different benefits of chiropractic care.

Improved Immune Function

Chiropractic adjustments help regulate the nervous system. As a result, this can then offer immunity improvement. When the nervous system can perform as it should, it’s better able to fight off infection and disease, showcasing one of the benefits of chiropractic.

Easier Breathing

Once your nervous system is in line, your body’s functions will all start to regulate. Because of this, many chiropractic patients notice that they can breathe easier. Patients with asthma also report better asthma control following chiropractic care, highlighting another benefit of chiropractic.

Fewer Headache Symptoms

Headaches are often the result of tension in your joints and muscles. Chiropractic adjustments help release this tension by realigning your body. This ensures that headaches and any accompanying symptoms are a thing of the past.

Better Sleep

Pain and tension inhibit true rest and relaxation. Thanks to the way chiropractic relieves these, patients often sleep better after treatment.

Increased Energy Levels

Chiropractic care can help you get in tune with your body’s natural circadian rhythms. As a result, you’ll likely have more energy during the day.

Lowered Blood Pressure

Forty-seven percent of American adults have high blood pressure. This is a huge risk factor for stroke and heart disease. Chiropractic adjustments can be effective at lowering blood pressure over time, illustrating another benefit of chiropractic.

Better Balance and Posture

By realigning your body, chiropractic adjustments improve your posture and balance. Posture improvement also helps prevent further pain and degeneration later in life.

Healthier Pregnancies

Chiropractic can relieve the pain caused by a changing center of gravity during pregnancy. Here, the Webster technique is especially beneficial. Through this method, chiropractic offers expecting patients healthier pregnancies and easier childbirths.

Improved Range of Motion and Sports Performance

Chiropractic adjustments relieve inflammation and tension in your joints and muscles. Following chiropractic, patients often notice greater mobility, flexibility, improved sports performance, and improved recovery time.

Faster Recovery

The increased mobility that chiropractic promotes can help you recover from sports faster. Other benefits, such as better sleep and less tension, also boost your chances of a quick sports recovery as your body can rest and recuperate.

Your Guide to the Unexpected Benefits of Chiropractic

As this long list shows, there are many unexpected benefits of chiropractic.

From easier breathing to better sleep, chiropractic can help in many more ways than people realize.

To find out how chiropractic could help you, schedule an appointment with us today. Or, for more information, contact us at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness!

Benefits of Prenatal Massage

Benefits of Prenatal Massage

Prenatal Massage for Moms-To-Be in Mill Creek

A massage can help with many different ailments, including chronic pain, injuries, sore muscles, headaches, anxiety, and depression and those are just the benefits for someone who isn’t pregnant. If you are pregnant and considering a massage, it’s a smart choice. A prenatal massage can help any pregnancy-related aches and pains, such as sciatic pain, and also help you relax. Pregnancy can take its toll on a woman’s body and a massage can help alleviate many of the effects of carrying a baby. To learn more about the benefits prenatal massages, read on.

What is Prenatal Massage?

A prenatal massage is similar to a regular massage, but there are some special adjustments that may be made. During a regular massage, you generally start by laying on your stomach. This obviously isn’t possible during a prenatal massage unless there is a special pregnancy pillow with a cutout for your stomach which we have here at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness. Otherwise, you will get the massage lying on your side or on your back.

All muscles are safe to massage during a prenatal massage, so be sure to let your massage therapist know if you have any areas that you would like them to focus on (or avoid).

When Can I Get a Prenatal Massage?

Generally, women can get a massage at any time during their pregnancy. However, some therapists will not massage a woman who is in her first trimester, as the miscarriage risk is highest during this time period. Discuss this with your doctor and your massage therapist to determine when the right time for you is to get a massage.

Is It Safe?

In general, prenatal massages are safe, but if you are a high-risk pregnancy you should always speak with your doctor first. If you are high-risk or have certain conditions, your doctor may recommend that you don’t get a massage. These conditions include:

  • preeclampsia
  • high blood pressure
  • pregnancy-induced hypertension
  • pre-term labor
  • severe swelling
  • bleeding

If you get the okay from your doctor to get a massage, you should make sure that your therapist is certified in prenatal massage. Prenatal massage therapists have extra training and know how to safely position you while you are pregnant, watching for symptoms like blood clots or varicose veins, and making sure that you have support to prevent straining uterine ligaments.

Swedish massage is the most recommended type of massage for pregnant women, as it focuses on reducing muscle tension and improving blood circulation and lymphatic functions in your body. Your therapist can focus on areas where you are having pain, sore muscles, swollen feet, or simply focus on relaxation. The benefits of prenatal massage for your overall well-being is highly important during this exciting time in your life.

While we do not offer massage therapy, our office specializes in prenatal chiropractic treatments.  If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment for these services, please click the link below. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness!

Fallen Arches in the Feet: Everything You Need To Know

Fallen Arches in the Feet: Everything You Need To Know

Examining the structure of a normal adult foot reveals a visible upward arch in the midsole. This is because a network of tendons is constantly pulling the 26 small bones in the foot toward each other. However, some adult feet don’t have much of an arch, if any is present at all. This condition, known as fallen arches in the feet, happens when the tendons weaken and can’t exert enough force to maintain the natural curve. Over time, this can lead to widespread pain and a host of other symptoms.

To learn more about the consequences of fallen arches and the treatments available for them, keep reading through this guide.

What Are Fallen Arches?

Fallen arches are also called pes planus, a term that literally means “flat feet”. It affects an estimated 20-30% of people. Some of the most common fallen arches symptoms and signs include:

  • feeling tired after standing for a short time
  • swelling and/or stiffness in the feet
  • aches or pains in the heels and arches
  • difficulty scrunching or bending the feet
  • difficulty standing on toes
  • widespread pain through the legs and back
  • reduced balance

Those who think they may have flat feet can check inside their shoes for uneven wear on one side. They can also get their feet wet and make a footprint on concrete or paper. If the entire sole leaves a print, it’s time to suspect fallen arches.

What Causes Flat Feet?

Some people are born with weak tendons and have congenital fallen arches. Others develop the condition later in life due to injury, overuse, poor footwear, or degeneration due to normal aging.

Some chronic medical conditions, like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, can increase your chances of fallen arches. Obesity and pregnancy can also contribute due to the feet having to support increased weight.

How to Treat Fallen Arches

If you’re on your feet a lot during the day, investing in supportive footwear should be your first course of action. The best work boots for fallen arches also have firm heels, a natural bend at the toes, resistance to twisting motions, and a removable insole. Along with the right shoes, orthotic shoe inserts can offer even more support.

Drugstore arch-support shoe inserts are an option, but the best orthotics for fallen arches are made specially to fit your feet. Those with flat feet can visit their chiropractor for a diagnostic foot scan. Based on the results, they can get custom orthotics that support their feet in a variety of shoes.

Finally, a chiropractor may also recommend following an exercise and stretching regimen to strengthen the feet and improve their flexibility. This could include exercises like toe raises, towel scrunches, and stork stretches.

Is It Time to Seek Fallen Arches Treatment?

Those with flat feet don’t have to learn how to live with fallen arches and the pain they cause. Instead, they can learn the signs of pes planus, invest in supportive shoes, and remember to stretch and strengthen their feet.

The most important intervention, though, is investing in custom orthotics. For those in the Mill Creek, WA area, Amazing Life Chiropractic can help. Visit our “new patients” page to learn more and set up an orthotics appointment today.

Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

Avoiding Swollen Feet During Pregnancy: 4 Chiropractic Tips That Can Help

Did you know that each year 123 million women attempt to become pregnant and succeed? Are you currently pregnant, and want to make sure you avoid swollen feet during pregnancy? Or, maybe you’re currently experiencing swelling, and want to know what to do next?  In this article, explore the top chiropractic tips for keeping your feet at a normal size with no swelling. Read on to explore these tips from your chiropractic office here at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness. 

When Do Your Feet Swell During Pregnancy? 

Swelling (edema) affects many pregnant women each year. You might notice it beginning between weeks 22-27. It’s common for it to stay until you give birth. 

What happens is your body fluids increase for both your baby and you. This increased fluid accumulates within the tissues in your body.

Pressure is experienced on your vena cava and pelvic veins from your uterus growing. This can cause swelling in your feet and ankles. It can also cause swelling in your hands as well. 

1. Exercise

To prevent swelling, do pregnancy-safe exercises, rest, drink plenty of water, and eat healthily. Make sure to choose comfortable shoes instead of anything too tight and restricting. Be mindful of your shoe size because some women might experience a permanent shoe size change from pregnancy. 

2. Stretch

During the day, have your feet up and stretch your legs to ensure you’re keeping the blood flowing. Don’t sit or stand for too long at a time. When you raise your legs, keep them higher than your heart. 

3. Avoid Socks

Avoid stockings or socks since they can restrict your blood flow. Instead, choose compression socks. They can help reduce any swelling you’re currently experiencing. 

4. Reduce Salt

In the United States, many Americans eat a high sodium diet. While some might find it delicious, it can increase your risk of swelling during pregnancy.

Ensure that you watch how much salt you use, and cut down on it. Instead, choose foods that are lower in sodium content. Choose fresh herbs instead of salt for your meals. 

Home Remedies for Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

To decrease the swelling you’re experiencing, choose a high potassium diet. Examples of foods high in potassium are bananas, salmon, lentils, yogurt, beans, spinach, and sweet potatoes. 

If you drink coffee or tea with caffeine, you’ll want to cut back. Coffee can make the swelling you’re experiencing worse due to the caffeine. Instead, go for herbal tea or decaf coffee. 

Choose waist-high maternity support stockings during pregnancy to help out. Make sure that you’re getting enough water as well. If you’re not finding relief with at home care, you’ll want to schedule a chiropractic appointment

Tips for Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

Now that you’ve explored the top tips for reducing and preventing swollen feet during pregnancy, you should have better information to have less swollen feet soon. Are you uncomfortable from your swollen feet, and want relief? 

Or maybe you’re trying to get your baby into a good position before delivery? Contact us today and we’ll come up with an action plan that’s specific to your needs. 

 

Understanding Chiropractic Care for the Management of Pregnancy Pains

Understanding Chiropractic Care for the Management of Pregnancy Pains

Pregnancy Pains – Chiropractic for Pain Management 

Being pregnant is a journey of joy and pain. It’s so exciting to be close to welcoming a new life into your world, and yet — does it have to be so uncomfortable?

Pregnancy pain is a fact of expecting a child. Most mothers have back pain during pregnancy, and many have neck pain as well. Another common source of discomfort is tailbone pain during pregnancy.

The good news is that you don’t have to simply suffer. Chiropractic care can make a big difference. Here’s what you need to know!

Is Seeing a Chiropractor During Pregnancy Safe?

Understandably, many mothers are concerned about the safety of the baby and aren’t sure about seeing a chiropractor. However, seeing a chiropractor while pregnant is considered safe.

Chiropractic care doesn’t involve drugs or surgery, and it’s based on gentle movements to align your spine and reduce pressure on your nerves. Of course, you want to be sure to get a doctor’s approval before any treatment when you’re pregnant.

There are times you shouldn’t seek chiropractic care during pregnancy. For instance, if you’ve had vaginal bleeding, toxemia, or placenta issues, it’s not a good idea. You also don’t want to get chiropractic care if you have an ectopic pregnancy.

If you’re not experiencing those complications, seeing a chiropractor can make a big difference in your pregnancy pain!

How Chiropractic Care Addresses Pregnancy Pain

As your baby grows, your center of gravity shifts, and your posture changes as well. This can impact the alignment of your spine. Back pain in pregnancy is a common complaint.

Chiropractic adjustments realign your spine and help provide pregnancy back pain relief. You can also address tailbone pain during pregnancy with adjustments to realign your pelvis. Having your pelvis in the right place will help your baby have the space they need to grow and move.

Receiving care from a chiropractor can help with pregnancy pain relief in every area. You’ll be healthier and more comfortable, and you’ll have less pain in your back, neck, hips, and joints.

Other Ways to Manage Pain During Pregnancy

Staying comfortable between chiropractic visits is essential as well. Our professionals can show you stretches and gentle movements that can help.

Don’t forget to exercise regularly to strengthen your abdominal muscles. You can treat cramps with a warm bath or shower. A heating pad may also help relieve back pain.

Try to minimize the time you spend on your feet and be careful when lifting heavy objects — including other children. You may also want to get chair massages to help relax your muscles.

Being pregnant isn’t comfortable, but there’s a lot you can do to reduce your pain.

Connect With a Chiropractor Today

Over six million women in the United States get pregnant every year. You deserve the best care you can receive to stay healthy and comfortable.

Seeing a chiropractor can make a huge difference in managing pregnancy pain. The practitioners in our office have specialized equipment and training to help. You’re worth it!

Contact us to make an appointment today. Your body will thank you!

The Proven Benefits of Chiropractic Care After Pregnancy

The Proven Benefits of Chiropractic Care After Pregnancy

Did you just have your baby, and you’re wondering if you should see a chiropractor or not?  Explore the many benefits of chiropractic adjustment after pregnancy, and why so many choose it. Read on to explore all of these benefits, and find out why you can feel better in no time!

Chiropractic Treatment After Pregnancy

Whether you’re seeing a chiropractor before, during, or after pregnancy, it has numerous benefits. Chiropractic care will help to make sure your pelvic area is in proper alignment. This is also beneficial during pregnancy as well. 

Back Pain Relief

If you’re experiencing lower back pain, chiropractic care can help with this. Your chiropractor will fix any misalignments that are contributing to your low back pain. 

Normal Biomechanics

As your baby grows, you gain weight as well. This extra weight will cause pressure in different parts of your body. 

You might notice that your posture overall is different during and after pregnancy. If you let it go, this can cause other problems for you. 

Sciatica Treatment

You might notice your spine having problems causing radiating pain down one leg which is known as sciatica. This is when your nerves compress in the lower spine. Common symptoms you might experience include a tingling and numbing sensation. 

Pain Relief

You might notice pain in your shoulder blades and neck over time. This can lead to headaches. A chiropractor can help to relieve any elbow pain, sciatica, or wrist pain you’re experiencing. 

Harmful Movements

After having a baby, you’ll be doing different movements that are harmful to your body such as rocking your baby to sleep, breastfeeding, and carrying car seats. This can all cause changes and pain to your mid-back. You’ll learn stretches and different movements that will help you alleviate any pain you’re experiencing. 

Evaluate Joint Movement

Your chiropractor can take an in-depth look at your joints, and evaluate the pain you’re experiencing. They can tell whether you’re not moving enough, or overdoing it. They can then make any adjustments necessary. 

At Home Back Care Relief

Before heading in to see your chiropractor, there are a few home methods you can try. You might notice that your back pain will last for a few months after pregnancy and delivery. 

First, try out different gentle exercises. Even if it’s just walking, that can help with some pain relief. Take it easy when you first begin and receive the clear from your doctor. 

Exploring Chiropractic Care After Pregnancy

Now that you’ve explored the different benefits of chiropractic adjustment after pregnancy, you shouldn’t have to suffer anymore. Don’t delay, contact us today! We’ll come up with an action plan that’s specific to your needs.