Visit
821 E Grand River Ave
Hours
M 9-12, 2-5 Tu: 2-6 W: 7-12 Th: 9-12, 2-6

Chiropractic Care for Golfers

Did you know that professional and amateur golfers have been using chiropractic care as an integral part of their game for years and years? In fact, Tiger Woods once said, “Being a chiropractic patient has helped me immensely…seeing a chiropractor on a regular basis has made me a better golfer. I’ve been going to chiropractors for as long as I can remember. It’s as important to my training as practicing my swing.”

Today, the majority of PGA level golfers see doctors of chiropractic on a regular basis. In fact, at every stop on the PGA tour, you can find chiropractors working with these professional golfers to help prevent injuries, promote recovery, and improve the golfer’s bodily functions!

tiger-woods-79694_1920

You Don’t Have to Be a PGA Golfer to Reap the Benefits of Regular Chiropractic Care for Your Golf Game

You may not be a PGA level golfer — most of us aren’t! But if you’re like me, you are constantly looking for ways to improve your golf game. Research continues to show that chiropractic care is an integral part of improving sports performance, no matter your level of play!

For any sport, it is incredibly important that we take care of our bodies. The risk of injury from repetitive, one-sided motion such as a golf swing is greater among amateur level and weekend warrior golfers. The repetitive torquing of the spine puts stress and load on every joint in the spine, especially the lower back. Not only can this become painful, it can mess up your golf swing and hurt your score!

If you’ve ever strained your back during a golf game, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that 80% of golfers in the United States have experienced some sort of back pain. Some golfers choose to play through the pain, while others end up unnecessarily walking away from the game! Chiropractic can help.

Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn at Pure Chiropractic, located in Howell, Michigan, are experts in spinal motion. They are also highly trained in restoring proper joint function, reducing irritation to spinal nerves, alleviating pain, and helping golfers prevent further injuries. If left untreated, these repetitive motion injuries lead to long-term issues such as arthritis, joint destruction, tendonitis, bulging discs, herniated discs, and even nerve damage.

Consistent Adjustments Help Prevent Golf Injuries

Golfing, or any activity, is more enjoyable when the body is in great condition and operating as it should. Research shows that regular chiropractic adjustments help keep the body functioning at its top performance level. These routine adjustments keep the spine properly aligned, and reduce the risk of injury. With the neck and back properly aligned, golf swings, and therefore golf games improve! Proper spinal alignment also makes awkward movements such as a golf swing less likely to cause injury.

Chiropractic Adjustments Can Reduce Pain

Any type of back injury can be painful. When you’re a golfer, your back is a huge part of your game. Rather than turning to over the counter or prescription medications that only mask the symptoms, many golfers have started turning to chiropractic to treat their injuries.

Chiropractic care identifies the source of a golfer’s pain. Many times, it is due to subluxations in the spine. Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn can identify any subluxations in the spine. Next, with chiropractic adjustments, they will correct these subluxations.

This will restore proper function and movement to the spine. Most patients feel an immediate sense of pain relief after spinal adjustments! The best part? Chiropractic treats back pain at its source!

Chiropractic Can Help Golfers Recover Faster

Did you know that chiropractic is proven to help heal injuries to the back and neck faster? Through spinal adjustments, chiropractors restore the spine to its proper position. This allows the nervous system, and therefore the rest of the body, to function as it should!

When the nervous system is functioning as it should, the entire body functions and heals better. Doctors of chiropractic are trained to treat the whole body. Because of this, they can target specific vertebrae, joints, muscles, and tissues that need restoration and healing.

Chiropractic Care Can Increase Mobility

Whether you play golf every day, or only a handful of times a year, having good mobility is crucial to the game. Stiff joints and weak core muscles not only can lead to injury, but they can mess up your golf game.

Routine chiropractic adjustments keep your spine in alignment and your body functioning as it should. This helps prevent injury while increasing mobility — two key factors in a strong golf game.

It’s also important to remember that even though golf is not a contact sport, it’s important to properly warm up before a round. Stretch, stay hydrated, and stop the round should you experience any pain.

Pure Chiropractic Can Help With Your Golf Game

If you like to play golf, chiropractic is a valuable tool in your golf game arsenal. It can help you stay healthy, improve your swing, and promote healing from injuries.

Regular adjustments from Drs. Chris or Krystal Hohn at Pure Chiropractic will keep your spine aligned, your immune system functioning well, and your nervous system in great condition. All of these things not only lead to a better golf game, but to a healthier life!

Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn at Pure Chiropractic seek to provide all of their patients with the highest quality chiropractic care. They treat the whole body, not just the spine. Together, Drs. Chris and Krystal are devoted to their family, patients, health, and strive to live a life full of integrity.

Have a question for us? Reach Pure Chiropractic today by phone at 810.588.4036 or by email at info@purechiropractor.com. You can also utilize our 24/7 chat services, here. We look forward to working with you in your wellness journey!

A Summer Health Cheat Sheet

Summer is here! This time of year can be so busy and full of activities, trips, family time, and more. Through the hustle and bustle (and hopefully relaxation too!) it is a good idea to take some proactive steps on ways to stay healthy this season. Preventive care is the best way to fight disease and live a long, healthy, full life.

Whether you and your friends and family plan to visit the neighborhood pool, hit the hiking trails, load up the van for a road trip, or enjoy a nice staycation in Howell, Michigan, feeling your best will make each of these activities more enjoyable!

We’ve compiled a list of 8 simple steps for you and yours to take this summer in order to boost your health! Read on for 8 of our tips to help keep you healthy and active this season.

watermelon-846357_1920

8 Simple Steps to Better Health This Summer

1. Get rid of the junk in your diet. For some this may be difficult to accept, but the junk in your diet has got to go. Use this season as a fresh start. Eliminate junk food, fast food, fried foods, and added sugars from your diet. Focus on getting your complex carbs from fruits and vegetables and less from grains. It’s worth it to put in a little more time and effort to freshen up your diet with fresh fruits and veggies this summer when they are in their peak season!

2. Drink more water. If you are still drinking soft drinks, stop. You already know they are bad for you. Cut back or eliminate the amount of juices and sports drinks you and your family drink as well. Water is the best way to stay hydrated and refreshed this season! It will keep you hydrated, will boost your health, will make your skin glow, and isn’t packed with sugars and calories.

3. Eat your fruits and vegetables. Doctors recommend eating a minimum of 5 to 7 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Summer is a great time to try and up your fruit and veggie intake and to get the entire family involved. Head to a local farmers market and let each family member pick out some of their favorite produce, as well as one new type of fruit or vegetable to try. You can even take it a step further and work on recipes together with your produce haul!

4. Do not skip breakfast. You know what they say, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Do not let your summer schedule get the best of you. Start each morning off right with a well-balanced breakfast. Choose from healthy foods such as steel-cut oats, eggs, vegetables, fruits, raw nut butters, and more. Try to hit a healthy balance between carbs, fats, and protein in order to fuel you for the day ahead.

5. Choose healthy fats and proteins. Make it a point this summer to be intentional about where you are sourcing your fats, proteins, and carbs. Try and choose healthier sources of fat and protein such as avocados, fish, and lean cuts of meat. This will boost your brain health and your energy levels!

6. Get your beauty rest. You need to get at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Make this a priority! Sleep helps your entire body and its systems reset. Adequate sleep plays an important role in your hormonal health, weight, mood, and more.

7. Exercise! Aim to exercise at least 30 minutes each day, 3 to 5 times per week. Even simply taking a walk can do wonders for your overall health. Head outside, hit the running or walking trails, go to a CrossFit box, dance away the day with Zumba, you name it – it’s time to get active this season. Make sure you use proper stretching before and after your exercise to keep your muscles limber and avoid injuries.

8. Get routine chiropractic care. Chiropractic care is about far more than pain management. It has been proven time and time again to boost immunity, promote better sleep, reduce recovery time, increase energy, treat aches and pains, and more! Incorporate routine chiropractic care into your summer wellness routine in order to feel your best this season!

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care seeks to help the body learn to heal itself. Subluxations can be present in the spine long before symptoms present themselves. When subluxations occur in the spine, the body cannot function as it should. Nerve communication is interrupted, bodily functions don’t operate at their peak performance, and eventually symptoms appear.

Poor sleep, exhaustion, anxiety, depression, back or neck pain, shoulder pain, knee pain, ear infections, seasonal allergies, headaches, and everything in between are indications that subluxations in the spine exist. All of these ailments make it difficult to fully enjoy each day.

Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn at Pure Chiropractic in Howell, Michigan long to help each patient live their best life. They firmly believe chiropractic plays an integral part in this! Through targeted spinal adjustments, they can correct subluxations in the spine and help patients feel their best. Proven benefits of chiropractic adjustments include, but are not limited to:

  • Increased range of motion
  • Better sleep
  • Improved mood
  • Fewer headaches
  • Faster recovery time
  • Reduced pain
  • Increased energy
  • Better athletic performance
  • Easier labor and delivery during pregnancy

Contact Pure Chiropractic Today

If you’re ready to make this summer your best yet, contact Pure Chiropractic today! Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn can help you jump start your path to wellness this season. Through regular chiropractic care, exercise, and proper nutrition, there’s no limit to what you can accomplish this summer.

Reach us by phone at (810) 588-4036 or by email at info@purechiropractor.com. We look forward to working with you on your pathway to better health!

Stiff Neck Causes & Natural Treatments

A stiff neck is one of the most common causes of neck pain. It impacts both kids and adults! Neck pains often originate in the spine. The neck is highly susceptible to strains, sprains, stiffness, and muscle aches. Why? Because the neck has incredible range of motion and plays a critical role in supporting your head.

Neck stiffness has many triggers. Sports injuries, poor posture, repetitive movements, and more can often cause this pain. A stiff neck is a strong sign that you’ve been overworking or straining your neck muscles. Some may experience mild pain, while others experience debilitating pain with a stiff neck. Others may only experience pain for a short time, while others suffer from it chronically.

Read on to learn ways to treat, prevent, and identify the source of your stiff neck pain!

giraffe-165212_1280

Symptoms of Stiff Neck Pain

Symptoms of stiff neck can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. It’s important to note that just because the symptoms of stiff neck disappear, that doesn’t mean it is cured. In order to treat stiff neck pain at its source, visit your chiropractor. They are skilled experts in identifying the source of neck pain and correcting it!

The most common symptoms associated with stiff neck include, but are not limited to:

  • tightness or soreness in the neck
  • pain when attempting to move the neck
  • limited neck mobility
  • difficulty sleeping due to pain
  • shoulder pain
  • headaches
  • arm pain
  • loss of range of motion

Causes of Stiff Neck Pain

The most common causes of stiff neck and other neck pains are:

  • muscle strains around the neck and shoulders
  • bulging or herniated discs
  • stress or anxiety
  • repetitive movements of the neck and spine
  • muscle tension or inflammation
  • poor sleep habits
  • sedentary lifestyle
  • poor diet choices
  • spending too much time in front of a screen/cell phone

5 Natural Treatments for a Stiff Neck

More often than not, stiff neck pain can be treated without any use of over the counter of prescription drug medications. If you’re suffering from a stiff neck or neck pain, read on for 5 natural treatments that work!

1. Chiropractic Care

Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn are experts in the field of chiropractic. They can identify the source of your stiff neck pain and correct it. Through targeted adjustments they will provide neck pain relief with safe, natural, and effective care.

Drs. Hohn will also show you helpful exercises to help restore range of motion to the neck, and prevent the stiffness from returning. By focusing their attention on the overall health of your spine, they are able to reduce muscle tension, alleviate stiff neck pain, and help you get back to feeling your best.

For every inch that your head sticks out from its center of gravity, it adds an extra 10 pounds of stress to your neck. Think about that as you text your friends, send your work emails, etc. You can trust Drs. Hohn to help show you the best practices for your posture, and other exercises to keep neck stiffness at bay!

2. Exercise

Exercising regularly helps improve muscle strength, manage stress, lower inflammation, improve sleep, and keeps bodyweight in check. Combined, all of these benefits lead to fewer injuries and incredible health benefits for you!

Inactivity leads to muscle weakness, poor circulation, and increased chances of injury. If you stay active, you help promote healing in your body. Exercise helps circulate oxygen to the soft tissues around your spine, promoting healing.

When participating in any exercise routine, it’s important to be safe! Don’t overwork your muscle groups, and start off slowly. Be sure to stretch and warm up before jumping into your routine, and always consult your doctor before starting a new fitness routine.

3. Sleep

Sleep does more for your body than simply making it well rested. Experts recommend adults get between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. This gives your body time to recover from the day, exercise, illness, and more.

Sleeping on your side is the most recommended sleep position for those suffering from a stiff neck. This helps keep the spine is the best alignment. Try placing a pillow between your knees in order to reduce pressure.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Diet

If you’re experiencing high levels of inflammation, your body is on constant alert. It makes your muscles more susceptible to injury, weakens your bones and joints, reduces your body’s range of motion, and blocks the body’s ability to heal itself.

Get your body’s inflammation under control by eating a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods. Minimize sugar consumption, processed foods, refined grains, and alcohol. Try and up your intake of leafy greens, healthy fats, lean proteins, and probiotic foods.

You are what you eat, and pumping your body full of nutrient-dense foods will help you feel better, sooner!

5. Manage Stress and Pain 

It is far easier said than done to reduce your stress levels, we get that. However, you should know that stress creates tension around your neck, shoulders, and head. This leads to pain in those areas, which ultimately causes more stress, and round and round it goes.

Should you start to experience pain and tension due to your stress, using heat and massage can help release muscle tension. It’s also important to make sure that this muscle tension isn’t due to subluxations in the spine, so be sure to contact Pure Chiropractic! Dr. Chris or Dr. Krystal can evaluate your neck and spine for subluxations, and adjust it as necessary.

Pure Chiropractic Can Help Your Stiff Neck Pain

If you’re experiencing a stiff neck or other neck pain, do not delay in contacting Pure Chiropractic! Neck pain is not something that you should accept as part of your life.

Drs. Chris and Krystal can help identify the source of your neck pain and correct it. Chiropractic offers a safe, natural, and effective way to treat stiff neck pain and injuries. Reach us today at (810) 588-4036 or by email at info@purechiropractor.com.

We look forward to hearing from you!

10 Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Most people know that chiropractic care is a great option for pain relief. However, chiropractic is about far more than pain management! Chiropractic has been studied for decades, and science continues to point to this fact: chiropractic care is safe, natural, and effective in treating the whole body.

When you find the right chiropractor, like Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn, you’ll see amazing benefits ranging from deeper sleep to improved mood and everything in between.

Read on for 10 powerful benefits of chiropractic care.

youth-570881_1920

10 Powerful Benefits of Chiropractic Care

1. Powerful pain relief.

Several studies have shown that chiropractic care can reduce pain more effectively than over the counter or prescription medications. A study done in 2013 found that patients with neck pain had faster improvement with chiropractic treatments, but also they paid less for pain treatment overall.

2. Treat ailments at their source.

Taking over the counter or prescription medications for life’s aches and pains may temporarily make the symptoms disappear, but they do not treat the cause. A doctor of chiropractic can identify any subluxations in the spine, which are often the root of our issues.

The spine houses the body’s nervous system, which controls every function of the body. If the spine is misaligned, the nervous system cannot function as it should, and the body feels it. Subluxations may result in a variety of ailments from headaches to seasonal allergies, back pain to neck pain, poor sleep habits to snoring, and everything in between.

By identifying and correcting these subluxations at their source, your ailments can be gone, once and for all.

3. Drug-free pain management.

Unfortunately, there is a pain killer epidemic across the United States. Both prescription and over the counter medications are far too easy to come by, and they do not treat pain at its source!

Chiropractic adjustments offer a safe, natural, effective, and drug-free alternative to pain management. Doctors of chiropractic treat the whole body. They focus on giving the body a healthy and sturdy spine and foundation. Why? Because the nervous system within the spine controls everything in the body.

A healthy nervous system allows the body to heal itself, and keeps pain under control. In many cases it may even eliminate pain by treating it at its source!

4. Can treat work or auto accident injuries.

Chiropractic is a great way to treat work and automobile injuries. Whiplash is a common side effect of both. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Whiplash is a neck injury due to forceful, rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck, like the cracking of a whip…Common signs and symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness and headaches.”

It is recommended to seek treatment within 24 hours of the accident. This gives the doctor of chiropractic time to correct subluxations before the pain and swelling can intensify. Those who seek chiropractic as their first method for whiplash treatment often have a faster recovery time and lower levels of pain.

5. Can help make pregnancy and delivery easier.

Doctors of chiropractic can help prepare both mom and baby for delivery. Women who received regular chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy experience:

  • shorter labor times
  • faster recovery
  • baby in correct position for birth
  • fewer interventions during labor and delivery
  • reduced back and neck pain
  • natural sciatica treatment

6. Non-invasive treatment option.

Chiropractic is based on the fact that the body is designed to heal itself. One of the best parts of chiropractic treatment is that it is often quick. While more than one visit is often necessary for full healing, appointments generally do not take long to provide instant relief!

7. Improve posture.

Your mom was on to something when she told you 100 times to sit up straight. Your posture packs a lot of power. Apart from a great posture exuding confidence, it can also reduce pain. Good posture helps keep the spine in alignment, the body’s systems functioning as they should, and helps you portray confidence to those around you.

8. Offers preventative care. 

When subluxations are present in the spine, the body cannot function as it should. Subluxations may result in muscle pains, back pain, trouble sleeping, allergies, and more. By regularly seeing a chiropractor, you can prevent these issues from occurring in the first place!

9. Improves overall mood.

Chiropractic care is proven to reduce pain and stress. By reducing pain and stress, it’s obvious that one’s mood would improve! Often, by simply treating life’s pain and ailments and their root causes, chiropractors are able to help treat anxiety and other mood disorders.

Patients who often suffer from chronic pain often suffer from tension, anxiety, and depression. Pain can feel and is certain debilitating. By treating pain, chiropractors are improving the quality of patients lives. This helps boost their moods and their quality of life!

10. Get better sleep.

According to Dr. Bill Davis, “With 40 million Americans experiencing a chronic sleeping disorder and 62% of American adults experiencing problems sleeping a few nights a week, Americans desperately need to sleep better. Chiropractic has been shown to improve sleep, both in children and adults.”

It is recommended for adults to get no less than 6-8 hours of sleep each night. Unfortunately, most of us fall far short of that mark. Whether we are tossing and turning to get comfortable, or can’t turn our minds off, chiropractic can help!

Pure Chiropractic Can Improve Your Quality of Life

Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn believe in the power of chiropractic to transform each patient’s life. Whether you’re interested in chiropractic care to treat pain relief, or as means to boost your immunity, Pure Chiropractic can help.

Chiropractic care has so many benefits. These include, but are not limited to:

  • increased energy
  • better sleep
  • improved athletic performance
  • improved mood
  • relieve stress
  • improve posture
  • more cost effective healthcare

At Pure Chiropractic, we believe in treating the whole body. If you’re interested in chiropractic care, call our offices today at (810) 588-4036, or fill out our Contact form here.

We look forward to walking with you along your wellness journey!

8 Natural Headache Remedies

9 out of 10 Americans suffer from headaches. Unfortunately, far too many people accept headaches as a normal part of life. Some people suffer from headaches frequently, while others only get them every now and again. Some headaches are dull and throbbing, others are sharp and debilitating. However the headache presents itself, it’s an indicator that something is “off” in your body.

Headaches can be triggered by subluxations in the spine, stress, fatigue, poor posture, hormones, allergies, poor lifestyle and diet choices, and more. Whatever the cause, it’s time to start paying attention to your body’s signals when a headache sets in.

Over the counter and prescription medications do not treat headaches at their source. They simply mask the symptoms. Natural remedies, such as chiropractic, locate the cause of your headache and treat the source. Here are 8 natural headache remedies to use the next time one of those annoying or painful headaches sets in!

brain-1845962_1920

 

1. Magnesium. People who suffer from headaches often have magnesium deficiencies in their diet. Increasing magnesium intake is proven to reduce frequency in headache and migraine attacks.

By taking 200-600mg of magnesium daily, the number of headaches and severity of headaches can be lessened. Diets high in magnesium include beans, whole grains, seeds, nuts, and fibrous vegetables such as broccoli, squash, and leafy greens.

Dairy, meat, chocolate, and coffee also contain good amounts of magnesium. Eat up!

2. Essential Oils. Essential oils are not new to the game in the world of holistic health. Many cultures have used essential oils for thousands of years in order to treat life’s ailments. Peppermint oil and lavender oil can be especially helpful when treating a headache.

Peppermint oil creates a cooling effect on the skin. It also stimulates an increase in skin blood flow of the forehead. It can even soothe muscle contractions.

Lavender oil is effectively used as a mood stabilizer and relaxant. A study done in 2012 showed that by just inhaling lavender oil for 15 minutes, of 129 headache attacks, 92 responded to the lavender oil remedy.

Use peppermint and lavender oil to treat your headaches by placing a few drops into your hands and rubbing the blend on your forehead, temples, and neck. You can also diffuse the combination of oils for aromatic treatment.

3. Chiropractic. Chiropractic is a safe, holistic, and effective way to treat headaches and migraines. When subluxations are present in the spine, the nervous system cannot function as it should. This can create pain throughout the body, that manifests itself in different ways. Headaches are often an indication of subluxations present in the spine.

Several clinical trials prove that spinal manipulation through chiropractic care can not only help treat, but may also help reduce headache frequency. Talk to Drs. Hohn today if you suffer from headaches. Pure Chiropractic can help!

4. Herbs. Feverfew and butterbur herbs have been used for thousands of years to relieve tension and headaches in the body. Plenty of research shows that consuming feverfew reduces the frequency of migraine headaches and their symptoms. You can purchase feverfew supplements as capsules, tablets, or liquid extracts, and researchers recommend consuming between 50-100mg of feverfew extract for headache relief.

Butterbur is known to reduce inflammation that can trigger headaches in the body. Researchers recommend around 75mg, twice a day, for the best headache reducing results.

5. B-Complex Vitamins. Several B vitamins help the formation of neurotransmitters that may be lacking in people who suffer from migraines. Unfortunately, many Americans are deficient in one or more of the B vitamins. This causes fatigue, headaches, and other nasty side effects.

B-complex vitamins include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, biotin, and pantothenic acid. Together, these all work together to boost immunity, boost circulation, improve mood, and even prevent headaches.

6. Hydration. Dehydration can be a major trigger to headaches. Too many of us pump our bodies full of caffeine, sugary drinks, and alcohol which actually dehydrate the body. The bottom line? Most Americans just aren’t getting enough water. Drinking water in and of itself can prevent or relieve headache pain. Aim to drink at least 64 oz of water each day.

You can also get some extra hydration by eating fruits and vegetables. Try adding these foods into your diet to help you stay hydrated!

  • cucumbers
  • celery
  • green peppers
  • cauliflower
  • eggplant
  • spinach
  • grapefruit
  • strawberries
  • oranges
  • cantaloupe
  • zucchini

7. Stretch and Move. Staying in the same position for too long can trigger a headache. Whether you’re stuck behind your desk, driving on a road trip, or texting your best friend, being stuck in the same position can lead to body tension and headaches.

In order to avoid headaches from this, make it a goal to take a break every 30 minutes to an hour. Get up and stretch — move your head and neck around — and take a little stroll. By incorporating stretching and movement into your day, you’ll release muscle tension, improve your posture, and clear your mind!

8. Cayenne Pepper. Cayenne pepper has been used for thousands of years as a holistic treatment option. Cayenne contains capsaicin, which is great for pain treatment and reducing inflammation. Cayenne works in treating headaches by reducing the bodily element, P, and stimulating a pain response in another area of the body.

When less substance P is presence in the body, pain signals no longer get sent to the brain, allowing relief. Many cultures use cayenne topically, in muscle rubs, in order to alleviate headaches and relax muscles.

Pure Chiropractic Can Help With Your Headache Pain

If you find yourself suffering from headaches or migraines, Pure Chiropractic can help. Located in Howell, MI, Drs. Chris and Crystal Hohn strive to help the community live happier and healthier lives. Chiropractic care has proven time and time again to be an effective remedy in treating migraines and headaches.

Whether you’re suffering from headaches, allergies, back pain, or more, chiropractic can help. It is a safe, holistic, and effective wellness path.

Contact our office today at (810) 588-4036 to schedule your appointment. We look forward to helping relieve your headache pain!

Chiropractic Care and Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a very exciting time in a woman’s life. Each day is full of new experiences. With these new experiences come a many changes in the woman’s body. These changes, while amazing, can do a number on a woman’s body. The spine, joints, muscles, and nerves are all pushed to their limits throughout pregnancy and birth.

pregnant-1088240_1920

Bodily Changes During Pregnancy

The hormonal fluctuations and physical strain of pregnancy change a woman’s body throughout the pregnancy. Nearly every system in the body is impacted. Read on for specific ways the body changes throughout pregnancy:

Respiratory System: 

  • The respiratory rate rises in order to accommodate increased maternal oxygen consumption. This increase in oxygen intake is needed for the demands of the uterus, fetus, and placenta.

Cardiovascular System:

  • The entire cardiovascular system readjusts during pregnancy. A woman’s blood volume increases and blood vessels grow. Also, pressure of the growing uterus on large veins in the body slows down blood flow on its return to the heart.

Gastrointestinal System:

  • As the uterus grows during pregnancy, it rises up and out of the pelvic cavity. This moves the stomach, intestines, and other surrounding organs! The shifting of these organs may cause constipation, reflux, and heartburn.

Endocrine System Changes:

  • Several changes occur in the endocrine system — the system responsible for the body’s hormones. Increased estrogen and progesterone levels occur. Higher hormonal levels take place. Basal metabolic rate is raised as the body needs more energy to grow baby.

Abdomen Changes:

  • During the second trimester of pregnancy, the abdomen starts to expand. By the end of this trimester the top of a woman’s uterus is near her rib cage! As ligaments that support the uterus stretch, a pregnant woman may experience pain and discomfort.

Changes in Weight

  • Most doctors recommend a weight gain between 25-35 pounds during pregnancy. It is important to remember that each woman’s weight gain should be discussed with their doctor. It is not a one size fits all category!
  • Weight gain during pregnancy is typically distributed as:
    • Baby: 6-8 lbs
    • Placenta: 1-2 lbs
    • Uterus: 1-2 lbs
    • Amniotic Fluid: 2-3 lbs
    • Breast: 1-2 lbs
    • Blood: 3-4 lbs
    • Protein and Fat: 8-10 lbs
    • Body Fluids: 3-4 lbs

Other Common Changes

  • Hormone changes may change a woman’s hair and nail texture and growth throughout pregnancy
  • Leg cramps caused by fatigue, compression of blood vessels in the legs, or calcium and magnesium deficiencies may occur
  • Feet and ankles may swell from the extra fluid in the body

5 Ways Expectant Mothers Benefit from Chiropractic Care

With all of these changes occurring throughout the body at the same time, it is crucial for a woman’s nervous system to be in great shape!

Chiropractic care is proven to help maintain a healthier pregnancy, control symptoms of nausea, reduce labor and delivery time, and relieve back, neck, and joint pain.

Read on for other ways expectant mothers benefit from chiropractic care!

1. Chiropractic care keeps the spine in alignment. Pregnancy adds additional weight and pressure to a woman’s body. This weight gain can often impact the spine, causing subluxations.

These misalignments can cause severe pain. Chiropractic care helps keep the woman’s spine in alignment, so she can avoid the back, neck, and joint pain so many women experience throughout pregnancy.

2. Chiropractic care reduces the need for pain relievers. We are firm believers in the idea that the body was made to heal itself. When subluxations exist, the body’s nervous system cannot function as it should. This makes it difficult for the body to properly heal.

Chiropractic adjustments are a safe, natural, and effective way to relieve pain at its source. Over the counter medications simply address the symptoms, not the cause of the pain. Use chiropractic throughout pregnancy to help treat any aches and pains.

3. Chiropractic care strengthens and repairs joints. During pregnancy, an expectant mother’s joints are under a lot of pressure. Chiropractic care helps reduce the stress of a growing abdomen on a woman’s spine, hips, legs, and ankles.

By looking at the overall picture of the body, chiropractic care strengthens the body and helps promote healing.

4. Chiropractic care helps achieve pelvic alignment. A properly aligned pelvis helps create an easier birthing process. When the pelvis is not aligned, it restricts the amount of room baby has to grow. This can prevent baby from getting in the right position for birth.

A doctor of chiropractic can help properly align the pelvis. This helps both mother and baby have an easier birth experience, with less interference.

5. Chiropractic care helps the mother have an easier recovery. Expectant women who use chiropractic care throughout pregnancy report better posture, less pain, increased mobility, and a faster recovery post pregnancy than those who do not use chiropractic.

Because chiropractic helps the body use its innate ability to heal itself, women who use chiropractic during and after pregnancy can expect to feel their best, faster.

Let Pure Chiropractic Help You With Chiropractic Throughout Your Pregnancy

Chiropractic care during pregnancy has proven to beneficial before, during, and after pregnancy. It helps mom naturally handle the changes her body experiences throughout pregnancy. It also helps both mom and baby experience an easier birthing process. Finally, chiropractic care helps mom recover from pregnancy faster.

If you are trying to get pregnant, currently pregnant, or recently gave birth, contact Pure Chiropractic today. We would be honored to walk with you on your wellness journey during this special time in your life.

You and your baby deserve the best start to life possible! After all, pregnancy should be one of the happiest times in a woman’s life. Contact us today for your appointment. We can help you feel your best throughout your pregnancy and recovery. Contact us at (810) 588-4036 or info@purechiropractor.comWe look forward to hearing from you!

Pure Chiropractic is proud to serve the areas of Howell, Pinckney, Brighton, and their surrounding towns and cities. Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn are a husband and wife team, and are passionate about health and wellness. You can trust Pure Chiropractic with all of your chiropractic needs!

Health Benefits of Good Posture

Sit up straight! Stop slouching! You’ll end up like that forever!

We have all heard these phrases over and over again in regards to our posture. It might have been your teacher, your mom, or even your doctor telling you to sit up straight, and as it turns out, it’s for good reasons!

figure-1808322_1920

What Is A Good Posture

According to The Cleveland Clinic,

“Posture is the position in which you hold your body upright against gravity while standing, sitting or lying down. Good posture involves training your body to stand, walk, sit and lie in positions where the least strain is placed on supporting muscles and ligaments during movement or weight-bearing activities. Proper posture:

  • Keeps bones and joints in the correct alignment so that muscles are being used properly.
  • Helps decrease the abnormal wearing of joint surfaces that could result in arthritis.
  • Decreases the stress on the ligaments holding the joints of the spine together.
  • Prevents the spine from becoming fixed in abnormal positions.
  • Prevents fatigue because muscles are being used more efficiently, allowing the body to use less energy.
  • Prevents strain or overuse problems.
  • Prevents backache and muscular pain.
  • Contributes to a good appearance.”

An emphasis on good posture is all over the place these days. Offices are investing in stand up desks, ergonomic chairs, and everything in between. Why? Because POSTURE MATTERS. Here are 10 proven benefits of good posture:

1. Good posture portrays power. 

Posture is a great representation of power. In a study conducted by Amy Cuddy, author of “Power Posing,” Cuddy found that those with an open, expansive posture reflect they are high in power. People with narrow, closed postures reflect they are lower in power.

In fact, a person’s posture can not only display power, it can produce power. Those with high power poses radiate more feelings of dominance, risk-taking, and power, while also having reduced anxiety.

2. Kiss back pain goodbye.

Proper posture actually reduces back and neck pain. When you slouch, this can strain the back and neck muscles while putting stress on the spine. This can create spinal misalignments and even constrict blood vessels and nerves.

The Cleveland Clinic states that those who suffer from back pain often experience pain relief when they correct their posture.

3. Look and feel more confident.

When you sit or stand up straight, it helps you look taller, skinnier, and more successful. A study done by the Ohio State University found that people with good posture demonstrated more confidence than those who slouched. This outward confidence translated to more confidence in their thoughts as well!

4. Burn more calories.

Did you know that you can actually burn up to 350 more calories a day just by practicing perfect posture? How? By carrying yourself better, you take tension off the entire body and the entire body works and flows better!

5. Build a stronger core.

When you sit up tight and have great posture, you extend your back and allow for a neutral spine. A neutral spine allows the pelvis to position itself in such a way that the core muscles work better, and abs may appear more toned.

6. Breathe better.

An upright and proper posture opens up the airways in the lungs and helps ensure proper breathing. This means that more oxygen is able to flow throughout the body. This flow of oxygen helps the entire nervous system, organs, and other tissues throughout the body function more effectively.

7. Improve your memory and brain function.

Indiana University conducted a study focused on the link between words, memories, and posture. They found that babies’ learning abilities are affected by their posture. When they had upright and correct posture, they were better able to map new experiences and recall things.

8. Boost your mood.

Dr. Erik Peper, an internationally known expert on biofeedback and holistic health, carried out several experiments on how posture impacts energy level and the mind’s ability to generate positive and negative thoughts.

9. Reduce stress.

Stress and poor posture have a reciprocal relationship. Stress causes poor posture, and poor posture causes stress. Recent studies found that assuming correct posture when stressed can actually improve self-esteem and improve your mood. Try sitting up straight as a simple trick to reduce your stress levels!

10. Increase productivity.

Having good posture is actually linked to increased productivity. It makes you more alert, improves concentration, and increases productivity. Studies show that when you slouch, your body takes in 30% less oxygen than it can take in with good posture. This means that when you slouch, your body is expending more energy just to keep up!

How To Improve Your Posture

When sitting- 

  • Use a chair with firm lower back support
  • Keep your desk elbow high by adjusting your chair
  • Use a footrest when necessary to keep pressure off of the back of the legs
  • Sit with your knees slightly higher than your hips
  • Get up and take breaks to walk around at least once an hour
  • Do not sit on your wallet

When working on a computer-

  • Take a one minute break for every 20 minutes of work in front of a screen
  • Position the screen so that it is 15 degrees below eye level

When sitting in a car-

  • Adjust the seat so that you sit with your knees slightly higher than your hips
  • Place a small pillow in the small of your lower back

When sleeping-

  • Sleep on your side with your head supported by a pillow and your neck in a neutral position and sleep with your knees bent and a pillow placed between them to reduce spinal stress
  • Sleep on your back, making sure your pillow allows your neck to be in line with your spine

When lifting-

  • Lift with your legs instead of your back
  • Stand close to the object you’re lifting and lift from a squat position
  • Never twist or lift from the waist

Pure Chiropractic Can Help Your Posture

Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn of Pure Chiropractic in Howell, Michigan can help correct and improve your posture! We believe that good posture is good health. It allows you to live your life with more energy, less stress, improved focus, and better mood.

Unfortunately, in today’s day and age, posture related problems are only increasing. People are spending more and more time in front of a screen, hunched over a phone, sitting at a desk, driving cars, and living sedentary lifestyles with little emphasis on how it impacts our spine.

If you believe your posture could use some help and correction, contact our offices today for your appointment. Your spine controls every function in your body — it’s time to make sure yours is properly aligned! (810) 588-4036

 

Sleep Positions for Better Health

Sleep makes you feel better, it’s science. Unfortunately, according to the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Health Index, 45 percent of Americans suffer from lack of sleep.

Poor sleep habits and patterns are detrimental to your health. Being overtired goes far beyond being a grouch. It can actually take years off of your life! Is that extra episode on Netflix really worth it?

On the contrary, getting a good night’s sleep has incredible health benefits!

Serene woman sleeping at night in the bedroom

Health Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep

Improved Memory

During sleep, memories and skills you learned during waking hours are strengthened. This process is called consolidation.

Anytime you’re trying to learn a new skill, there’s only so much practice you can do. You need sleep to help embed it in your brain.

Curb Inflammation

Inflammation is linked to heart disease, stroke, arthritis, diabetes, and premature aging. Studies show that those who get less than six hours of sleep each night have higher inflammatory protein levels in their blood than those who get more than 6 hours of sleep each night.

Boost Creativity

When you sleep, your brain reorganizes and restructures memories, making your brain stronger. This allows your brain to be more creative!

Researchers at Harvard University and Boston College found that people strengthen emotional parts of memories during sleep. This emotion may also help spur creativity.

Enhanced Athletic Performance

A study done by Stanford University found that football players who slept at least 10 hours a night for seven to eight weeks performed better. They had less daytime fatigue, more stamina, and improved their sprint time.

Better Academics

A 2010 study in the journal, Sleep, found that kids between the ages of 10 and 16 who have sleep disordered breathing (snoring, sleep apnea, interrupted breathing during sleep) suffer from attention and learning problems.

These issues led to lower grades than students who were well-rested. Consistent sleep deprivation leads to impaired learning.

Increased Weight Loss

Researchers at the University of Chicago found that dieters who got more sleep lost more weight than those who were sleep deprived.

The well rested participants lost more fat — 56% of their weight loss — while those who were sleep deprived lost more muscle mass.

Dieters also felt hungrier when they were sleep deprived.

Lower Stress Levels

Stress and sleep are closely related. Adequate sleep can reduce stress levels. Being sleep deprived leads to higher stress levels and higher cholesterol levels.

Safer Driving

In 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that being tired was the number one cause of fatal single-car run-off-the-road crashes — even more than alcohol!

Being tired affects reaction time and decision making. Insufficient sleep for even one night can be as harmful to driving ability as having an alcoholic drink.

Better Mood

Lack of sleep can contribute to depression. A good night’s sleep can help decrease anxiety and provide emotional stability.

It’s important to note that you need to get sufficient sleep each night, not just plan to make up for sleep on the weekend.

Sleep Positions Matter

There are three main sleep positions: back, side, and stomach. Each one has health benefits and issues. Most sleep experts recommend sleeping on your back or side.

Read on for more information about the best sleep positions for your health!

Back Sleeper

Sleeping on your back helps to evenly distribute weight and pressure on the spine, neck, and joints. It also provides better circulation and rest.

Back sleeping reduces pressure on the discs in the spine so it is a preferred sleep position by many doctors of chiropractic.

It’s important to make sure your neck is properly supported when sleeping on your back. You don’t want your head to be pressed up too high or fall back too low. The neck should be aligned with your spine.

Side Sleeper

Did you know that approximately 69% of people sleep on their sides? Many chiropractors support this sleep position.

By sleeping in the fetal position, with legs curled and a pillow between the knees, you keep the pelvis level. It also helps reduce the risk of lower back pain and stiffness.

Unfortunately, side sleepers are more likely to have nerve compression that may lead to neck, back, or sciatic nerve pain. To combat this, choosing the right pillow is important!

According to Dr. Cogan, team chiropractor for the Detroit Lions from 2002-2015, “For the side sleeper, the pillow should be firm enough to support the head and high enough so that the head is in a neutral or even position. This reduces stress and pressure placed on the neck, which will cut down on neck pain, muscle aches, and stiffness. The proper pillow supports the head and neck and never the shoulders.”

Stomach Sleeper

If you’re a stomach sleeper, we’ve got some bad news for you. Sleeping on the stomach is the position with the most potential disadvantages. It can harm digestion and circulation, while creating pressure on the back and neck.

In order to breathe, stomach sleeping causes the neck to bend in one direction or the other. This twisting of the neck causes strain and pressure and can lead to neck pain during waking hours.

Stomach sleeping also places a huge amount of pressure on the lumbar spine, heart, and lungs.

Sleep Positions: Talk To Your Chiropractor

Each sleep position comes with its risks and benefits. In order to determine the best sleep position for you, talk to Dr. Hohn. Dr. Chris or Dr. Krystal can analyze your spine and identify any subluxations that are present.

Through chiropractic adjustments, they can remove these subluxations so that your nervous system can function as it should. They can also analyze your spine to help decide which sleep position is best for you.

This process can lead to better and deeper sleep, leading to a happier and healthier life.

Call Pure Chiropractic today to schedule your appointment! (810) 588-4036

We look forward to hearing from you! Sweet dreams.

Whiplash: Symptoms and Treatment

In the United States, over 2 million people suffer from whiplash injuries each year.

Typically associated with car accidents, whiplash can actually occur with any impact or blow that causes your head to jerk forward or backward.

This jerking motion strains the neck and the sudden force can injure bones in the spine, disks between the bones, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and other tissues in the neck.

Most people who experience whiplash recover within a few months. However, some people are impacted by the injury for several months or years.

Acting quickly when dealing with a whiplash injury helps speed up the healing process and reduces overall pain and swelling. Do not delay!

Studies show that the sooner someone visits a doctor after the injury, the shorter their recovery time. We highly recommend scheduling an appointment with the chiropractic within 24 hours of the accident!

Close up of man rubbing his painful back. Pain relief concept

What Causes Whiplash

When the head jerks beyond its usual range of motion, it pulls muscles and ligaments and causes their fibers to tear.

Any time a fiber is torn in a muscle or tendon, it’s called a strain. It this occurs in a ligament, it’s called a sprain. Whiplash usually involves both a strain and sprain. In extreme cases, it may also include fractures or dislocations.

This type of injury may result from auto accidents, a sudden blow to the head during sports or an altercation, a fall which causes the head to jolt backwards.

In order to treat whiplash promptly and effectively, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your chiropractor as soon as possible after the accident. Within 24 hours is best!

depositphotos_36839635_l-2015

Whiplash Symptoms

Symptoms of whiplash usually present themselves within 24 hours of the accident, but typically show up within the first 6-12 hours! If left untreated, symptoms only worsen in the days following the injury.

Common symptoms of whiplash include: neck pain, dizziness, stiffness, headaches, pain with neck movement, tenderness in the upper back/shoulders/arms, fatigue, and tingling or numbness in the arms.

Less common symptoms include: lower back pain, muscle spasms, jaw pain, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, difficulty sleeping, irritability, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating.

Symptoms associated with whiplash are often made worse by sustained postures such as reading, driving, sitting at a computer, using a cell phone, or watching TV.

If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms following an accident, please contact our offices today at (810) 588-4036 or email us at info(at)purechiropractor.com.

Young woman with neck and shoulder pain close up

5 Natural Treatments for Whiplash

1. Chiropractic Adjustments. Spinal adjustments done by a doctor of chiropractic will help restore normal joint movement and function in your neck.

By treating the subluxations in your spine, Dr. Hohn can treat your whiplash pain at its source.

This will decrease your recovery time and restore function to your nerves quickly, allowing your body to recover faster.

Chiropractic adjustments can reduce your pain levels and help you feel better faster!

2. Massage. In combination with chiropractic care, massage can be a beneficial treatment for whiplash injuries.

A massage by a trained therapist can help relieve pain and discomfort associated with whiplash. There are 3 types of massage are often used for whiplash treatment.

The first type of massage is called myofascial release. Myofascial release techniques help loosen restricted neck muscles and fascia to improve range of motion that often decreases with whiplash.

The second type of massage is called static compression. Applying static compression to the affected trigger points increases oxygen flow to the impacted muscles. This increased flow of oxygen helps muscles heal faster.

The third type of massage is called deep tissue massage. Deep tissue massage helps release deep fascia, adhesions, and scar tissue that may occur with a whiplash injury. This type of massage will help free up tissue that has tightened around local nerves in the neck and back.

Make sure to tell the massage therapist your pain level before receiving any type of treatment!

3. Essential oils. Essential oils are a great way to naturally treat muscle soreness in whiplash injuries.

Try applying just a few drops of oil to the affected area and gently massage the oils into the skin. Try the following essential oils to help with your whiplash pain:

Wintergreen oil. Wintergreen oils serves as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic agent. It provides a warm sensation to the tender area and helps increase circulation in the damaged areas.

Blue tansy oil. Blue tansy oil has pain relieving properties and works as an anti-inflammatory.

Camphor oil. Camphor oil works as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. Apply a few drops to the sore areas and relax.

Marjoram oil. Marjoram oil works to decrease muscle spasms by relaxing the muscles. It also increases blood circulation, allowing the muscles to get the nutrients they need to heal.

Lavender oil. Lavender oil helps relax tense muscles and improve blood flow. It also helps lower stress levels, aiding in both physical and mental recovery from whiplash.

4. Ice and Heat. Applying ice to the neck and shoulders after an accident will help reduce swelling and pain. Apply ice for 20 minutes at a time. You can do this every hour if needed for the first 48 to 72 hours after the accident.

After that, apply heat in the same intervals to help relax the muscles and restore range of motion to the affected areas.

5. Exercises. There are several exercises one can do to help recover from a whiplash injury. Try these simple exercises to help your injuries heal faster and to regain normal range of motion.

Ear to Shoulder: Stand up straight and look straight ahead. Try to touch your ear to your shoulder. Repeat on the other side. Be sure to keep your shoulders relaxed as you do this movement.

Shoulder Look: While standing up straight and looking forward, turn your head and try to look over each shoulder in turn.

Ceiling Stretch: Look up toward the ceiling as if you’re trying to point your chin to the ceiling. Next look down while tucking your chin to your chest.

Shoulder Shrug: Shrug your shoulders while breathing in and then relax them while breathing out. This will stretch your shoulder muscles and relax your neck. If you’re able, roll you shoulders as you do this stretch.

Arm Circles: Circle your arms, one at a time, like you’re doing the backstroke. This will help restore range of motion while loosening your muscles.

If you have experienced an injury and believe you are suffering from whiplash, call Pure Chiropractic today to schedule your appointment! (810) 588-4036

Our doctors will help properly diagnose and identify the source of your pain. Next, they will help establish a treatment plan that will aid in your recovery. No one should have to live with the long-term effects of whiplash.

Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn want each patient to experience their best life. Suffering from whiplash makes it difficult to function. It’s time to trust them with your whiplash treatment, as well as the rest of your chiropractic needs.

Their expertise and awareness of the body will help you live your best life, one adjustment at a time.

Natural Ways to Relieve Lower Back Pain

Did you know that nearly 80% of adults have suffered from lower back pain at some point in their lives? Unfortunately, most doctors recommend over-the-counter pain medications or prescription pain medications to treat lower back pain. This solution only masks the pain, and doesn’t treat the pain at its source.

Back pain

There are various types of back pain, with a variety of causes and treatments. It is crucial to find out what is causing the pain so the right treatment plan can be put in place!

Low back pain can stem from any of the following areas:

  • bony lumbar spine
  • skin covering the lumbar area
  • discs between the vertebrae
  • ligaments around the spine and discs
  • internal organs within the pelvis and abdomen
  • muscles in the lower back
  • spinal cord and nerves

Lower Back Pain Causes 

Certain risk factors exist that can cause or increase one’s likelihood of experiencing lower back pain.

  • Sitting for extended periods of time
  • Doing heavy lifting or pulling while twisting the spine
  • Carrying a heavy purse or backpack each day
  • Pregnancy
  • Chronic conditions such as spinal stenosis or fibromyalgia
  • Poor posture
  • Overdoing your exercises
  • Herniated discs

Lower Back Pain Prevention

Even though lower back pain is a prevalent issue in today’s society, there are certain steps we can take to prevent it!

  • Regular chiropractic care
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Using a wheeled briefcase or backpack
  • Exercise regularly
  • Life with your legs while keeping your back straight
  • Strengthen your core
  • Take breaks from sitting throughout the day
  • Warm up and stretch your muscles before exercising
  • Wear stable, comfortable shoes
  • Sit up straight
  • Raise your computer or electronic screen so you don’t have to hunch forward to see

Natural Ways to Treat Lower Back Pain

Treating lower back pain with over-the-counter and prescription medications can have damaging side effects on the body such as ulcers, addictions, intestinal issues, and more! Here are several natural remedies you can try to effectively treat lower back pain naturally

1. Chiropractic Care. A doctor of chiropractic will thoroughly examine your spine to identify any subluxations it may have. These subluxations, or vertebral misalignments, are often the source of lower back pain.

When spines are misaligned, bodies are unable to function as they should, and communication between the nerves and brain is thrown off.

Dr. Hohn will help identify and remove these subluxations in the spine through spinal manipulation. Next, Dr. Hohn will craft a treatment plan that will help keep back pain at bay.

Chiropractic care is one of the best, non-invasive, natural treatment options for permanent relief from lower back pain!

2. Exercise. Exercise releases endorphins within the body, and endorphins are natural pain relievers. They work by binding to the opioid receptors in your brain to block the perception of pain, much like OTC or prescription medications. The good news? Endorphins are 100% natural as they are made by your body, and their only side effect is putting you in a better mood!

By spurring the increase of endorphins through exercise, your pain levels can be drastically reduced. Obviously, choose gentle exercise that does not irritate your pain such as walking or yoga.

3. Essential Oils. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years for their analgesic effects. Some benefit from essential oils by simply using them for aromatherapy, while others incorporate them by applying the oils topically over the area in pain.

Oils such as peppermint oil, rosemary oil, and lavender oil are particularly known for their pain relieving effects.

4. Warm Baths. Soaking your body in warm water can help alleviate muscle pain and spasms, as well as several types of arthritis. Try soaking in a warm bath tub, hot tub, or even a warm pool!

Some people find added relief by adding Epsom salts or essential oils to their soak to improve muscle pain.

5. Heat Therapy. Applying heat to your lower back can help ease the pain. Try using a warm water bottle, a heating pad, or a hot bath for some relief!

Heat therapy helps in two ways:

  1. It increases the flow of healing oxygen and nutrients to the damaged area
  2. It suppresses pain signals

6. Massage Therapy. A high quality, therapeutic massage increases blood flow and helps nourish and heal the soft tissues in your body. It also helps release endorphins!

7. Stretch. Your body is designed for movement, so stretching the soft tissues in and around the spine is a great way to reduce lower back pain.

If you suffer from chronic back pain, it may take several weeks or even months to reap the full benefits of stretching to loosen up your spine and soft tissues. Stay consistent!

8. Get outside. Just 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure each day can help the body produce vitamin D. Studies show that those who get the recommended daily amount of 400 to 800 IU of vitamin D experience less pain than those who don’t!

Other research shows that increasing vitamin D may help soothe pain.

9. Sleep. If you’re not getting enough sleep each night, you’re making it difficult for your body to heal! Restorative sleep is critical in pain management and healing. Focus on getting to bed at the same time each night and making sleep a priority.

10. Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water throughout the day is essential for your overall health. Not only that, but staying well-hydrated helps reduce pain.

Hydration also helps the intervertebral discs in your spine stay healthy.

Drinking enough water helps reduce stiffness, helps your blood carry healing nutrients and oxygen, and helps flush toxins out of your muscles and other soft tissues.

Do Not Accept Lower Back Pain As Part Of Your Life

If you or someone you know is suffering from lower back pain, please give our office a call! Drs. Chris and Krystal Hohn will provide you with the best chiropractic care available and will help identify the source of your lower back pain!

Their knowledge and expertise in the chiropractic field has helped many people live happier, healthier, pain free lives. Call (810) 588-4036 or fill out this form via our online contact page to schedule your appointment today!