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Chiropractors Support the Primary Care Doctor

Chiropractors Support the Primary Care Doctor

by | Nov 2, 2020 | Providers, Resources, Wellness

Does a Primary Care Doctor Benefit by Referring Patients to Chiropractic Care?

The primary care doctor has long been assigned the role of gatekeeper or coordinator of care in the healthcare arena and with good reason. They are the initial contact for many patients and they have the unique ability to guide and follow up on treatment alternatives.

While the role is predefined, many providers are on the lookout for effective referral relationships that afford the best medical care and help treat the vast influx of patients needing treatment.

In Snohomish County, Washington, the primary care provider to patient ratio is 1,900:1, far above the national average that is closer to 1,100:1.

That means that you need a qualified and conscientious referral team of care providers that treat your patients effectively and return them to your practice reliably.

Making Chiropractors Part of Your Musculoskeletal Team

Whether in Family Practice, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, or OB/Gyn, you find yourself with patients presenting with musculoskeletal issues, i.e., the car accident victim with whiplash, the pregnant woman with back aches.

These patients typically require more than just pain medication. They can benefit from non-invasive treatment options that help to correct the underlying problem before relying on surgical alternatives. In fact, patients frequently self-refer to chiropractors wanting to find a solution that doesn’t involve invasive options.

Can You Be Confident in Chiropractic Care?

When referring patients to chiropractic care, primary care doctors need to feel confident in the treatment being delivered. In a recent Harvard Medical School article, Robert Shmerling, M.D., suggests that offering chiropractic care to patients is a solid treatment strategy and one that he offers his patients.

Dr. Shmerling also points to a study cited by the JAMA Open Network entitled “Effect of Usual Medical Care Plus Chiropractic Care vs Usual Medical Care Alone”. This study showed that a statistically significant improvement in low back pain intensity and disability was experienced by patients when chiropractic care supplemented traditional back pain treatment by a primary care doctor alone

A Colleague with Solid Training and Experience

At Amazing Life Chiropractic & Wellness, our clinicians are board-certified and have deep knowledge and experience in treating a wide array of musculoskeletal issues. We listen to the patient and take a holistic treatment approach taking into account the patient’s lifestyle and overall health goals.

Our expertise includes:

  • Chiropractic manipulation using the latest techniques that are proven gentle and effective for muscle aches and pains throughout the body. Excellent when a patient is faced with back, neck, and extremities pain from exercise or work-related strains or injuries.
  • Neuropathy care for patients experiencing nerve pain and weakness, numbness, or acute pain.
  • Care for people who have suffered injuries due to car accidents, most often neck and back pain.
  • Lifestyle support with weight loss solutions, exercise counseling, and custom orthotics for work and leisure activity.

We also understand that when referring patients to another practice you want to feel confident that you will receive timely follow up. At Amazing Life, we inform your practice by sending patient progress and updates back post-care. We want you to be fully informed on the progress we’re making and rest assured that your patients will be directed back to you when treatment is complete.

If you are a primary care physician in the Mill Creek community, please contact us to discuss how we can partner with you and your patients.

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Some Injuries Are More Common Than Others Among Tech Workers

Some Injuries Are More Common Than Others Among Tech Workers

by | Nov 2, 2020 | Advice, exercise, Informational, Injury, Stretching, Wellness

Some Injuries Are More Common Than Others Among Tech Workers

Tech jobs seem like safe office jobs that place strain on the brain, not the body. In fact, many tech workers spend so much time sitting at their desk that they have to be actively reminded to stand up and stretch every once in a while for their own wellbeing.

But despite the fact that most tech jobs are performed in an office setting, tech injuries are actually more common than you think. 

Tech injuries like ‘tech neck’ and eye strain can affect tech workers like developers, designers, IT specialists, and anyone else who spends their day in front of a computer. 

Tech Injuries – Tech Neck

Tech neck is a condition that occurs due to the constant bending of the neck from looking down at phone, tablet, and computer screens. Due to the large amount of daily screen time they experience, the condition tends to be more prevalent among those working in the tech industry.

But tech neck is certainly not exclusive to those working in tech. Heavy smartphone users can find themselves suffering from the condition too.

Tech neck can negatively affect posture, cause pain in the neck area, and can even lead to problems such as herniated discs. 

Thankfully, there are several exercises you can do in order to relieve the pain of tech neck and potentially even realign your neck. If you suffer from tech neck, try these 3 exercises.

Chin Tuck

  • While standing, tuck your chin in towards the rear of your body (like giving yourself a double chin)
  • Hold for 10 seconds and repeat 5 times twice a day
  • Will reset the curvature of your neck

Neck Extension

  • While sitting up straight – arch your shoulders back and extend your head backward to look up towards the ceiling or sky
  • Hold for 20 seconds and repeat 5 times twice a day
  • Will improve your neck’s range of motion

Neck Tilt Stretch

  • While standing upright, tilt your neck towards your left/right side by bringing your ear towards your shoulder 
  • Hold for 10 seconds and repeat 5 times
  • Will stretch out the muscles on both sides of your neck and improve motion

Remember to take great care when performing these exercises! If you experience any pain or discomfort stop right away!

Tech Injuries – Eye Strain

Large amounts of screen time won’t just affect your neck, but also your eyes. 

Eye strain is also a condition that is common among tech workers. Too much screen time strains the eyes and can result in a variety of symptoms including red eyes, headaches, and sore or tired eyes. 

Optometrists have noted a significant increase in patients with tech-related eye strain. They recommend the 20-20-20 method to give your eyes a break and prevent eye strain. Every 20 minutes you should spend 20 seconds focusing on an object 20 feet away. This will give the eyes a chance to reset and rest. 

There are other things you can do to relieve eye strain as well. The best thing you can do is limiting screen time and giving your eyes a break. Additionally, keeping a greater distance away from the screen and adjusting screen brightness may also help.

Another way to potentially relieve the pain of tech injuries is through chiropractic treatment. While chiropractic treatment won’t fix eye strains, it could help with tech neck. Contact us today to learn more!

The Best Natural Supplements to Boost Your Immune System

The Best Natural Supplements to Boost Your Immune System

by | Oct 27, 2020 | Informational, Nutrition, Wellness

The Best Natural Supplements to Boost Your Immune System

Did you know there are immune cells in every tissue of your body? They are like watchdogs constantly looking for pathogens that may infect us like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. 

Is there a way that you can help boost these immune cells and your immune system? Does exercise boost your immune system? What changes can you make in your life to be as healthy as can be? 

 

Do you want to give your body the extra protection it needs to fight illness day in and day out? Keep reading to learn more about supplements to boost your immune system!

Probiotics 

Have you seen some brands of yogurt touting “probiotics” on their label? That’s because probiotics are good bacteria that you want in your body to maintain your digestive health which in turn boosts your immune system. 

They also stimulate activity in your immune cells waking them up to fight off illness. 

Zinc 

This supplement helps to balance out immune response by not overreacting and keeping a lid on inflammation that can cause damage to your health. It keeps an immune response from “spiraling out of control.”  

Omega 3s

You can find these in fish oil supplements for the immune system or in fish, like salmon, anchovies, and herring, oysters, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseed. 

They work to help the body return to normal after the threat of infection has passed by lowering the cell stress response. This limits long-term damage to cells and tissues saving you from chronic health problems. 

Vitamin C

This is one of the best immune booster supplements for kids and adults alike. It is another powerful antioxidant that works to prevent infections from viruses and bacteria. It reduces the duration and severity of the common cold. 

Vitamin B6

You can find this vitamin in foods like chicken, tuna, salmon, green vegetables, and chickpeas, if you’d prefer to find it in your food rather than taking a supplement. 

Vitamin B6 is very important for biochemical reactions in your immune system. 

Melatonin

This powerful antioxidant is important to your innate immune response, which is your first line of defense against invading pathogens. 

It also helps you sleep. Getting the proper amount of sleep is one of the best ways to naturally boost your immune system. 

Curcumin

This is a spice that is extracted from the turmeric plant. It is widely known as a powerful antioxidant and for the positive effects on inflammation in the body. 

Taking this immune health supplement also enhances the response of your body’s antibodies and promotes the immune response of your white blood cells. 

 

Immune System Support Supplements

Now that you know some of the supplements to boost your immune system, which ones will you choose? Remember to speak to your physician especially if you are taking medication. 

At Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness, we can help you achieve optimum health. We are dedicated to providing you with excellent care and service. Contact us today for an appointment with our experienced staff. 

 

 

Relax and Rejuvenate: The Benefits of a Sauna on Immune Health

Relax and Rejuvenate: The Benefits of a Sauna on Immune Health

by | Oct 19, 2020 | Informational, Wellness

Our immune system is one of the most important bodily processes. That’s because our immune system can save our lives. But not everyone has a powerful immune system. Poor diet, bad lifestyle decisions, and too many sicknesses can decrease your immunity.

Does that mean it’s too late to strengthen your immunity? Simple lifestyle changes, such as exercising and eating healthy, can make you healthier and more prone to defeat viruses and other infections. There are also surprising ways to improve your immune system, such as using a sauna regularly.

Does the sauna boost your immune system? Here are the benefits of a sauna and how they improve your immune system.

Increased Circulation

Improved blood circulation is connects the sauna and immunity. The hot temperatures inside the sauce cause your blood to circulate faster. This not only sends nutrients throughout your body but also flushes out harmful toxins when you perspire, a process called detoxification.

The increased nutrient flow and detoxification are beneficial to your immune system, helping protect you from viruses and infections. You’ll also have better heart health so you can achieve better immune health for the long term.

Increases White Blood Cell Count

What’s another way that connects a far infrared sauna and immune system? Your white blood cells are your body’s natural defense against outside organisms. High heat tells your body to make more of these white blood cells. When your body has more white blood cells, that means your body won’t only fight off infections better but will fight them off earlier.

Creates Other New Cells

Heat doesn’t only entice your body to make new white blood cells. The heat from the sauce entices your body to replace old and damaged cells with brand new cells. This process is called regeneration and it doesn’t happen frequently.

When your cells don’t regenerate, this causes many issues, such as wrinkled skin. But one of the first drawbacks of lack of regeneration is your immune system is weaker. New cells are stronger, improving your immune function.

Enhances Immune Function

Do you know why you get a fever? A fever is your body’s natural defense to kill foreign organisms. Many types of bacteria can survive in your body when your temperature is normal but has a hard time surviving when your body temperature increases.

Fortunately, you don’t need to be sick to mimic this process. Just sit in a sauna. When your body is exposed to high temperatures, your immune system kicks in and destroys germs.

Lowers Stress

There’s nothing more relaxing than sitting in a sauna. When you walk out, you feel refreshed and serene.

This relaxing sensation can also do wonders for your immune system. Stress can lower immune system function, so taking some time to rest in a sauna will not only benefit your body but also your mind.

Take in the Benefits of a Sauna

Do you know the benefits of a sauna? Many people wouldn’t guess the sauna is great for your immune system.

Saunas aren’t the only immune boosting method. Weight loss, massage therapy, and more can strengthen your immunity. We offer many of these services and other ways to live a healthier life. If you’re in Mill Creek, WA, take a look at our services.

How to Get Relief From SI Joint Pain During Pregnancy

How to Get Relief From SI Joint Pain During Pregnancy

by | Oct 14, 2020 | Informational, Pregnancy, Wellness

Pregnancy is hard on the body, and there are many ailments that accompany it—sacroiliac joint pain is one of them. For women suffering from this condition, the aching and discomfort can last for quite a while. Thankfully, there are remedies to help with SI joint pain during pregnancy and even after childbirth.

To learn more about how to get relief for SI joint pain during pregnancy, keep reading the information below.

What Is SI Joint Dysfunction?

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a lower back/ pelvic disorder that causes joint stiffness or hypermobility in the sacroiliac joints and pelvis. The sacroiliac joint is located between the sacrum and ilium, or the pelvic bone. Both sides of the joint work together, so if one side becomes stiff, it causes discomfort in the entire area.

Also, pain may worsen when a person walks or bends over. The disorder occurs during pregnancy or menstrual cycles because of hormonal changes that cause the ligaments in the body to become more lax.

Many people with SI joint pain feel a sharp, stabbing feeling on one side of their pelvis, back, tailbone, or groin. The pain may also go down to the knees when certain movements are performed, like standing up or turning over in bed. Unfortunately, 15-30% of all individuals who experience lower back pains are suffering from sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

How to Relieve SI Joint Pain During Pregnancy

Believe it or not, there are several things you can do to relieve SI joint pain during pregnancy. Below are a few of them:

1. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is one of the best methods for relieving SI joint pain during pregnancy. A chiropractor can provide adjustments to help with pain and discomfort by giving a spinal manipulation. It reduces stiffness in the joints and improves the joint’s range of motion.

Chiropractors also provide spinal mobilization, which is good for relieving SI joint pain as well.

2. Exercise

Performing exercises for SI joint pain during pregnancy is one of the most effective methods for alleviating aches and discomfort. For instance, pelvic floor activations strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and help it to become more stable. Doing bridges works well too because it targets the glutes and keeps the pelvis in a stable position.

3. Prenatal Massages

Although sacroiliac joint pain primarily exists within the pelvic area and the lower back, the pain can often go down the legs. Prenatal massages are great for helping relieve symptoms associated with sciatic pain, which is similar to sacroiliac joint dysfunction in many ways.

Furthermore, if you’re having a difficult pregnancy, getting a prenatal massage is the best way to get overall relief from SI and other ailments. 

Relief For SI Joint Pain During Pregnancy

If you’re suffering from SI joint pain during pregnancy, Amazing Life Chiropractic can help. We offer a variety of chiropractic services and massages, including prenatal massage. Our team of expert staff will ensure that you’re free from Sacroiliac joint pain and other ailments.

If you have questions about our services, feel free to contact us at 425-737-5343 or contact us online.

We look forward to connecting with you soon!

Immune System Boosters You’ll Want to Try Today

Immune System Boosters You’ll Want to Try Today

by | Oct 5, 2020 | Informational, Nutrition, Wellness

Immune System Detox Boosters You’ll Want to Try Today

A 2016 survey in the US found that 3% of Americans have either a weakened, suppressed, or compromised immune system. Some researchers even believe that the numbers are rising, thanks in large part to medical advances that allow immuno-compromised individuals to live longer. That percentage may not sound like a lot—but when you consider that you or your loved ones could fall into that category, the stakes become higher. Are you considering ways to give your immune system a boost? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

Here, we list a handful of activities that help boost your immunity. Keep reading!

1. Physical Activity

You might be wondering, Does physical activity boost the immune system? It does, and in fact, it may be one of the most natural ways to boost your immunity!

In short, regular exercise can:

  • Improve your mental health (not exactly immunity-related, but a great bonus)
  • Lower your risk of illness
  • Increase the circulation of immune cells
  • Improve your immune response
  • Reduce harmful inflammation

Experts recommend an aerobic activity that lasts less than an hour, done regularly throughout the week (without overdoing it). This includes everything from walking to running, attending a spin class, or using the elliptical.

2. Quitting Bad Habits

This may not seem like an “activity,” but you can make it one! Record your highs and lows, progress and setbacks in a journal or with friends to make it more fun—and to hold yourself accountable.

Some habits to consider kicking include:

  • Smoking cigarettes
  • Excessive use of alcohol
  • Lack of sleep (more on that later)
  • A poor diet

3. Getting Adequate Sleep

Resting is an activity—and let’s admit, it’s a fulfilling one!

Not getting adequate sleep is detrimental to your immune system. On the flip side, getting good sleep fosters it.

When you sleep, your body creates cytokines, which are proteins that target infection and inflammation. The fewer sleep you get, the fewer cytokines your body produces. Not only does rest produce these proteins, but it releases them, too.

Sound sleep: it’s a win-win!

4. Visiting the Sauna

The health benefits of sauna-going are enticing!

The heat from saunas can reduce inflammation, improve your immune response, and reduce harmful physical stress, which takes its own toll on the body’s immune response.

If you’re looking for ways to improve your immune function, use your local sauna for about 15 to 20 minutes tops (to avoid dehydration).

5. Checking in With Your Chiropractor

The best chiropractor will support you in your entirety—beyond the mechanics of your spine. In addition to this, chiropractors emphasize your body healing itself without the use of prescription drugs and/or surgery.

The relationship between your body’s structure and its function is undeniable, and it’s something that’s significantly studied in the chiropractic world. The bond between these two things promotes the preservation and restoration of health, as well as the body’s natural recuperative power.

So, it might be time to visit your local chiropractor and see what they have to say about your nervous system, general physical health, and stress and anxiety levels.

Don’t Wait to Boost Your Immune System

If you’ve noticed one thing about these activities, it’s probably that they’re actionable on a daily basis. Additionally, they’re relatively simple to incorporate into your day-to-day.

Your immune system greatly depends on your efforts—your good habits, your sleeping patterns, your exercise levels, and more. If you can practice these activities regularly, you’ll be glad you did.

At Amazing Life Chiropractic & Wellness, we strive to make you feel better, and we’re not just talking about your spinal health! We take a well-rounded approach that observes everything from your physical activity to your body’s general well-being.

If you’re a new patient, click here to request an appointment with our talented team. We look forward to hearing from you.