Core Chiropractic Blog

How Chiropractic Care Supports Recovery From Workplace Injuries

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 22:53:59 GMT

How Chiropractic Care Supports Recovery From Workplace Injuries

Workplace injuries don’t always come from a single accident. For many people, discomfort develops gradually from repetitive movements, physical demands, poor ergonomics, or prolonged sitting or standing. Whether you work in construction, healthcare, retail, warehousing, or an office environment, work-related musculoskeletal strain can interfere with both job performance and daily life.

At Core Chiropractic, we support individuals dealing with workplace-related physical strain through evidence-informed chiropractic care focused on movement, function, and recovery.

Common Causes of Workplace-Related Physical Strain

Many work injuries involve the muscles, joints, and connective tissues rather than acute trauma. Some common contributors include:

Repetitive motions such as lifting, bending, or reaching
Prolonged sitting or computer-based work
Poor workstation ergonomics
Physically demanding or labour-intensive roles
Sudden increases in workload or physical stress
Inadequate recovery between shifts

Over time, these factors can contribute to stiffness, restricted movement, and ongoing discomfort if not addressed.

Types of Workplace Conditions Chiropractors Commonly Assess

Chiropractors are trained to assess neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Depending on the individual and clinical findings, chiropractic care may be appropriate for concerns such as:

Mechanical low back pain
Neck and upper back tension
Shoulder and arm strain
Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)
Joint stiffness and reduced range of motion
Postural-related discomfort

Care is always based on a thorough assessment, and referrals are made when symptoms fall outside the chiropractic scope of practice.

What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit for a Work Injury

Initial Assessment

Your chiropractor will take a detailed health history and perform a physical examination to understand how your symptoms relate to your job duties and daily activities. This helps determine whether chiropractic care is appropriate for your situation.

Individualized Care Plan

If indicated, care may include a combination of:

Spinal or joint mobilization or adjustments
Soft tissue techniques
Movement and exercise recommendations
Postural and ergonomic education
Guidance on activity modification

Treatment techniques are selected based on comfort, clinical findings, and your individual needs.

The Role of Movement and Education in Recovery

For many workplace injuries, recovery isn’t just about hands-on care. Education and active participation play a key role. Chiropractic care often emphasizes:

Improving joint mobility and movement patterns
Building strength and resilience through guided exercise
Understanding body mechanics at work
Gradual return to normal activities

This approach supports long-term function and helps reduce the likelihood of recurring issues.

Workplace Injuries and WCB Alberta

Some work-related injuries may be eligible for coverage through the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) Alberta, depending on claim approval. Chiropractors are recognized healthcare providers within the WCB system, and care must follow specific guidelines.

At Core Chiropractic, we ensure documentation and communication meet WCB requirements and professional standards.

Supporting Healthy Work and Long-Term Function

Work injuries can be disruptive, but early assessment and appropriate care may help support recovery and functional improvement. Chiropractic care focuses on how your body moves and responds to physical demands both on and off the job.

If you’re experiencing ongoing discomfort related to your work duties, a chiropractic assessment can help determine appropriate next steps.

Core Chiropractic proudly serves Edmonton, St. Albert, and surrounding communities.

**This information is educational and not a substitute for medical care. Individual outcomes vary, and treatment recommendations are based on clinical assessment.

Hockey Injuries and How Chiropractic Care Can Help Players

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 20:58:49 GMT

Hockey Injuries and How Chiropractic Care Can Help Players

Hockey is a thrilling, fast-paced, and physical sport, yet it carries certain injury risks. Whether in youth leagues or adult recreational leagues across St. Albert, Edmonton, and nearby regions, hockey players may face challenges such as sprains, strains, concussions, and joint pain. At Core Chiropractic, we offer tailored chiropractic care specifically designed for hockey players to accelerate recovery, enhance mobility, and minimize the chances of future injuries.

Common Hockey Injuries

Hockey players often face injuries to the shoulders, knees, back, and wrists. Common issues include:

Sprains and Strains: Overstretched muscles or ligaments from sudden stops, pivots, or collisions.
Concussions: Head impacts that cause dizziness, headaches, or difficulty concentrating.
Shoulder Injuries: Checks, falls, and repetitive movements can damage joints or muscles.
Knee and Ankle Injuries: Twists, falls, or collisions may cause ligament tears or sprains.
Back and Neck Pain: Repetitive skating motions and body checks can strain the spine.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Hockey Players

Chiropractic care for hockey players goes beyond mere pain relief; it enhances your body’s ability to perform optimally and aids in recovery.

1. Pain Relief and Faster Recovery

Adjustments and soft tissue therapy reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension, helping you return to the ice sooner.

2. Improved Mobility and Performance

Chiropractic care restores proper joint alignment and muscle balance, improving flexibility and range of motion for skating, shooting, and pivoting.

3. Injury Prevention

Regular chiropractic care strengthens supporting muscles, corrects posture, and improves movement patterns, helping prevent injuries common in hockey.

4. Personalized Rehab Plans

Every player is unique. We desig n tailored rehabilitation programs with exercises, adjustments, and recovery strategies specific to hockey injuries.

5. Support for Youth Hockey Players

Growing athletes are prone to overuse injuries. Gentle, age-appropriate chiropractic care ensures they stay active, strong, and injury-free.

When to Seek Care

You should consider chiropractic care if you notice:

Persistent pain or stiffness
Decreased mobility
Pain that worsens during play
Lingering symptoms after a hit or fall

Early care can speed recovery and prevent long-term complications.

Why Choose Core Chiropractic

At Core Chiropractic, we specialize in hockey injury treatment and recovery for players in St. Albert, Edmonton, and surrounding communities. Our approach targets the root cause of injuries, helping athletes recover fully and safely return to the game.

Don’t let an injury keep you off the ice book your hockey injury assessment today!

Why See a Chiropractor After a Motor Vehicle Accident?

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 17:07:44 GMT

Why See a Chiropractor After a Motor Vehicle Accident?

Even a minor car accident can lead to long-lasting effects on your body. While seatbelts and airbags help shield you from severe injuries, the abrupt force of a collision can result in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. This is why many individuals seek a “motor vehicle injury chiropractor near me” following an accident—to receive safe, gentle care that aids their recovery.

At Core Chiropractic Center in St. Albert, we recognize the distinct needs of patients recuperating from motor vehicle injuries. Here’s why chiropractic care can be an essential component of the healing process.

The Effects of Car Accidents on the Body

Car accidents frequently lead to injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Adrenaline and shock can obscure pain, but hours or days later, symptoms such as the following might arise:

- Neck and back pain

- Whiplash-related stiffness

- Headaches

- Shoulder tension

- Reduced range of motion

- Muscle soreness

Even collisions at low speeds can impact the spine, muscles, and joints, highlighting the importance of being evaluated by a qualified professional.

Chiropractic Care for Whiplash and Other Injuries

Whiplash is one of the most prevalent conditions following a car accident. It occurs when the head is abruptly jerked forward and backward, leading to strain on muscles and ligaments.

Chiropractors specializing in motor vehicle injuries employ safe, evidence-based techniques to:

- Restore proper movement in the spine and joints

- Alleviate stiffness and tension in muscles

- Enhance mobility and flexibility

- Promote the body’s innate healing processes

For those who prefer a more gentle approach, techniques such as the Activator Method may be utilized—this low-force, tool-assisted adjustment is crafted with patient comfort in mind.

Why Opt for Chiropractic Care After a Car Accident?

Many individuals seek chiropractic care after a collision due to its:

- Drug-free approach – emphasizing natural healing without the use of medications

- Gentle and adaptable nature – appropriate for all ages and conditions

- Personalized treatment – customized to each patient’s specific injury and recovery objectives

Early assessment is particularly crucial, as it can help mitigate the risk of enduring discomfort or restricted mobility in the future.

Insurance Coverage for Motor Vehicle Injury Treatment

In Alberta, chiropractic care for motor vehicle injuries is frequently covered by your insurance provider. At Core Chiropractic Center, our dedicated team is here to assist you with the necessary paperwork and guide you through the claims process, allowing you to concentrate on your recovery.

Your First Visit: What to Anticipate

When you visit our St. Albert clinic for care related to motor vehicle injuries, we will start with:

Consultation – Discussing your accident, symptoms, and medical history

Assessment – Evaluating your spine, joints, and overall mobility

Treatment Plan – Developing a tailored care plan aimed at achieving your recovery objectives

Final Thoughts

Car accidents can be distressing, but your recovery doesn’t have to be challenging. Whether you're dealing with whiplash, neck pain, or back discomfort, a motor vehicle injury chiropractor can offer safe and supportive care to facilitate your healing process.

If you’ve been looking for a “car accident chiropractor near me” in St. Albert, Core Chiropractic Center is ready to assist you.

�� Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward regaining comfort, mobility, and peace of mind following a motor vehicle accident.

Why Families in St. Albert Choose Chiropractic Care for All Ages

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 19:59:40 GMT

Why Families in St. Albert Choose Chiropractic Care for All Ages

When families search for a “family chiropractor near me” in St. Albert, they’re often looking for safe, natural ways to support their health and well-being at every stage of life, from infancy to senior years. At Core Chiropractic Center, we’re proud to offer family chiropractic care that not only addresses immediate health concerns but also adapts to the unique needs of individuals, whether they be kids, adults, or seniors.

But what makes chiropractic care such a valuable option for families navigating the wellness journey together? Let’s take a closer look at how it can provide significant benefits tailored to each generation, ensuring that everyone feels their best and enjoys a higher quality of life, no matter their age.

Chiropractic Care for Kids and Teens

Growing bodies face a variety of unique challenges that can significantly impact their overall well-being. With heavy backpacks weighing them down, long hours of screen time leading to unhealthy postures, and rigorous sports activities putting strain on their developing bodies, it’s no surprise that many children and teens experience issues related to posture, discomfort, or muscle strain.

A chiropractor for kids employs gentle and effective techniques — often utilizing the Activator Method — to provide safe and precise adjustments that are specifically tailored to accommodate their age, size, and individual needs. These treatments can play a crucial role in supporting several aspects of their physical development, including:

Promoting healthy posture during critical growth spurts when their bodies undergo rapid changes.
Facilitating recovery from strains related to sports or play, helping young athletes bounce back quickly.
Encouraging comfortable, natural movement for active kids, allowing them to engage fully in their favorite activities.

Parents often appreciate the proactive approach of chiropractic care, as it helps their children stay active, healthy, and balanced as they grow. With the support of chiropractic treatments, kids can thrive physically and feel their best during these formative years.

Chiropractic Care for Adults

Between the demands of work, the challenges of commuting, parenting responsibilities, and the various stresses of daily life, many adults end up experiencing discomfort and tension in their back, neck, and shoulders. The common practice of sitting at a desk for hours on end, combined with the physical toll of carrying young children, can place significant strain on both the spine and the joints, leading to chronic discomfort.

Family chiropractic care for adults often focuses on several key areas aimed at alleviating these issues:

Reducing everyday discomfort that can arise from various activities, whether at work or at home.
Improving mobility and flexibility, allowing for a greater range of motion and ease in daily activities.
Supporting recovery from workplace or lifestyle strain that may have accumulated over time.
Enhancing overall wellness by integrating services such as massage therapy and acupuncture, which can complement chiropractic treatment.

Many adults find that regular chiropractic care significantly helps them move with more ease and comfort. As a result, they are able to better enjoy quality family time, engage in physical exercise, and participate in community activities, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Chiropractic Care for Seniors

Mobility, independence, and overall quality of life are paramount priorities for many older adults. As we journey through life and age gracefully, various conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis may begin to impact daily comfort and levels of activity, making it essential to seek supportive care.

A chiropractor for seniors employs gentle, low-force techniques, including methods like the Activator Method, to ensure that adjustments are not only safe but also effective for their unique needs. The approach to care for seniors often emphasizes several key aspects:

Maintaining balance and flexibility to enhance overall movement and stability,
Reducing stiffness in joints, which can significantly improve comfort and ease of movement,
Supporting healthy, active living to help seniors engage in the activities they love,
Encouraging independence and mobility, allowing older adults to maintain a sense of autonomy.

Moreover, seniors frequently appreciate that chiropractic care is highly personalized, tailored to fit their specific health concerns and goals.

This individualized approach fosters a supportive environment where older adults can work towards achieving and sustaining their optimal health and wellness.

Why Choose a Family Chiropractor in St. Albert?

A family chiropractor offers the advantage of treating every member of the household in one welcoming clinic. Instead of seeking different providers for each family member, families can enjoy the convenience of care under one roof.

At Core Chiropractic Center, we work with children, parents, and grandparents to create treatment plans that align with their health goals. Our team is trained in a variety of safe techniques, including the Activator Method, and we also provide massage therapy and acupuncture for a complete wellness approach.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

When you bring your family to Core Chiropractic Center, you can expect:

A thorough health history and consultation
A personalized assessment for each family member
Gentle, safe treatment options tailored to age and condition
Clear communication and care that fits your lifestyle

Final Thoughts

Family health is essential at every stage of life. Whether nurturing strong growth in children, assisting adults in managing their hectic routines, or ensuring seniors remain active and self-sufficient, family chiropractic care can significantly contribute to overall wellness.

If you’re searching for a “chiropractor near me” in St. Albert, Core Chiropractic Center is here to care for your whole family.

�� Book Family Chiropractic Care in St. Albert today and take the next step toward wellness for every member of your household.

What to Expect When Visiting a Chiropractor Near You?

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 16:32:20 GMT

What to Expect When Visiting a Chiropractor Near You?

If you've searched "chiropractor near me," chances are, you're looking for relief from pain, stiffness, or injury—without depending solely on medication. Chiropractic treatment is a holistic, hands-on approach aimed at your spine, joints, and nervous system. At Core Chiropractic, our goal is to guide you through an understanding of what chiropractic treatment is, how it works, and how it might be the solution you're looking for.

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic Doctors are licensed healthcare professionals that diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions, particularly of the back or the spine. The difference between chiropractic treatment and other treatments is that chiropractic aims to treat the cause of the discomfort through adjustments, soft tissue treatment, and corrective exercises.

No matter if you experience chronic back pain, headaches, a new sports injury, or just plain discomfort, a chiropractor can diagnose your issue and come up with an individualized treatment plan.

The benefits of consulting a chiropractor

Spinal adjustments through regular chiropractic care can offer numerous health benefits, including:

Fewer back and neck pains
Improved posture
Relief of Migraines and Tension
Increased range of motion and flexibility
Enhanced sleep quality and energy level
Enhanced nervous system performance

Most patients feel not only physical changes but also improved overall well-being.

What is the Activator Method?

Not everyone is comfortable with the traditional hand manipulation of the vertebrae—that's where the chiropractic activator method comes in handy. The technique, instead, uses a hand-held, spring-loaded instrument on which to deliver very lightly a low-force impulse to targeted areas of the back.

The Activator Method is most appropriate for:

Older adults or children
Individuals who have osteoporosis or arthritis
Individuals who are wary of manipulation by hand

We incorporate the Activator Method into our patient-focused method of caring, which enables us to adapt our services to each patient's individual needs and comfort level.

What to Expect on Your Chiropractic Visit

Upon arrival at Core Chiropractic, you begin with a comprehensive health consultation. You are asked about:

Any trauma or pre-existing conditions
Medical history, surgeries, and medications
Lifestyle and activity level

We then perform a physical examination, which may include posture analysis, range of motion, neurological exam, and orthopaedic exam. We can also, as necessary, refer you to get X-rays or imaging to better see the state of your spine.

From there, we’ll develop an individualized treatment program, which may include spinal manipulation, massage, stretching, exercises to build strength, or the Activator Method—whichever your body needs.

Looking for a Chiropractor Near You in St. Albert or Edmonton?

We're proud at Core Chiropractic to serve patients in St. Albert, Edmonton, and the surrounding communities. If you're searching online for "chiropractor near me" or simply want to learn how chiropractic can enhance your life, we're here to help!

We follow an integrated, research-based approach which not only treats our patients' symptoms but also the whole person.

If you are new to chiropractic or seeking more personalized attention, Core Chiropractic offers reliable care based on decades of expertise. From traditional spinal adjustments to acupuncture and the Activator Method, we tailor every treatment to your specific goals and lifestyle.

Book your appointment now and experience the difference that local, professional care can create.

Chiropractic Benefits for Office Workers: Overcoming Consequences of Sitting All Day

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 19:39:51 GMT

Chiropractic Benefits for Office Workers: Overcoming Consequences of Sitting All Day

In today's tech-driven world, millions of Canadians work from desks. As much opportunity and reliability as these jobs present, a sneaky consequence lurks in the shadows: long-standing sitting. Sitting for long stretches can manifest in various ailments, including backache, stiffness in the neck, poor posture, and constricted mobility. Fortunately, chiropractic care is a powerful tool for office workers to overcome the consequences of sitting at a desk for long hours.

The Repercussions of Sitting for a Long Period

Too many work hours at a desk can wreak havoc on your body. Poor posture, a common feature in office workers, tends to generate a deviation in spinal positioning. Over the years, this can manifest long-term experiences of backaches, headaches, and even compromised lung function through a restriction in expansion. Sitting in a seated position for long work hours can even generate obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

"Tech neck" is a repetitive posture that commonly results in muscle strain, stiffness, headache, and even long-term issues like poor posture or spinal alignment. The common occurrence of forward hunching of the head—whether it be at a computer or on a smartphone—adds unnecessary stress to the cervical spine, leading to pain, loss of range of motion, and frequent aches.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

The practice of chiropractic care addresses the function and positioning of the nervous system and spine, and for that reason, it can be a perfect remedy for office workers. Some of its beneficial aspects include:

Improves Posture: Chiropractic appointments can detect and correct postural issues. Chiropractors can prescribe specific stretches and ergonomic adjustments to encourage a healthy stance.
Enhances Mobility and Flexibility: Sitting for long stretches can lead to stiffness and a restricted range of motion over time. Chiropractic manipulations reverse the restricted range of motion and stiffness, allowing for an easier and more comfortable range of motion.
Increases Circulation: Chiropractic care maximizes blood circulation and lessens inflammation, allowing for overall general wellness. Expanded circulation helps in delivering nutrition and oxygen to tissue and muscle.

Tips for Office Workers

Aside from chiropractic care, healthy habits can go a long way in changing your life. Here are simple tips to follow:

Take Breaks: Get up and move about at least every 30 minutes to avoid the strain of long-term sitting.
Shell out for Ergonomics: Invest in an adjustable seat, monitor, and desk to build a working environment conducive to proper postures.
Stretch Often: Include stretches for your neck, shoulders, and back in your routine.
Hydrate: Optimum hydration keeps joints and muscles healthy and fewer aches and pains between sessions with your chiropractor.

Conclusion

White-collar work may become part of today’s reality, but its physiologic price doesn’t have to become an inescapable fact. Chiropractic care can provide office workers with an effective answer to fighting off the damaging consequences of long-term sitting, from ache relief to improved range of motion and proper postures. With healthy habits and ergonomics, and regular sessions with a chiropractor, your life can become a healthier, less painful one even with a sedentary working environment. Contact us today at Core Chiropractic and kiss your aches Goodbye!

5 Chiropractic Tips for Holiday Decorating: Stay Comfortable and Pain-Free This Season

reception@coreclinic.ca (Randy Vollrath) — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 19:40:47 GMT

5 Chiropractic Tips for Holiday Decorating: Stay Comfortable and Pain-Free This Season

The holiday season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and festive decorations. But amidst the excitement, decorating your home can significantly strain your body, particularly your back, neck, and shoulders. Chiropractors often see an uptick in patients this time of year due to injuries and overexertion. Follow these five chiropractic tips to keep your spine healthy and enjoy the season pain-free.

1. Lift Smart, Not Hard

From hauling boxes of decorations to positioning your Christmas tree, improper lifting is one of the biggest causes of holiday injuries. Always bend at your knees instead of your waist when lifting heavy items. Keep the object close to your body and avoid twisting your torso. If something is too heavy, don't hesitate to ask for help or use tools like dollies or straps.

2. Use a Stable Ladder

Settle high-reaching areas to hang lights or ornaments using much care, since high falls may result in critical injury. Get a ladder that is not only sturdy but also high enough for the task you have in mind. Refrain from using chairs and other temporary platforms. Position the ladder on level ground; similarly, three points of contact should always be made- two hands, one foot, or vice versa.

3. Take Your Time

Holiday decorating can be heavy work, and it's easy to get caught up in the festive spirit and overdo it. Break tasks into smaller bits, taking regular breaks to stretch and hydrate. The risk of overexertion may result in muscle strain, fatigue, and even injury. Listening to your body is key to staying safe.

4. Stretch Before You Start

For these motions, decorating frequently involves repetitions of reaching, bending, and twisting. Minor preparation of the body beforehand using basic stretching may bring a world of difference. Emphasize stretches opening the shoulders, back, and legs. Specific stretches fitting your needs may be directed by a chiropractor. By practicing stretching, not only is this form of injury prevented but overall flexibility and comfort will also become enhanced.

5. Be Aware of Your Posture

Whether kneeling to arrange a nativity scene or standing for hours to string lights, poor posture can quickly lead to discomfort. Keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed while decorating. When standing for extended periods, shift your weight between your legs to avoid strain. Use cushions or kneepads if you are working on hard surfaces for long durations.

Bonus Tip: Visit Your Chiropractor

If you start to feel discomfort or stiffness during or after decorating, don't ignore it. A chiropractic adjustment will help alleviate tension, improve alignment, and prevent minor aches from becoming long-standing problems. Your chiropractor may also offer specific advice on how to keep your spine healthy during the holiday period.

Celebrate Without the Strain

Holiday decorating should not be a 'pain' but rather a joy. By following these simple chiropractic tips, you can avoid straining your spine and muscles while turning your home into a winter wonderland. This season, take care of your health so that you may thoroughly enjoy the season with your friends and family.

Ready to stay pain-free this holiday season? Schedule a visit with Core Chiropractic today to ensure your body is in top shape for all your decorating adventures!

Complete Guide To Managing Stress Through Chiropractic Care

reception@coreclinic.ca (Randy Vollrath) — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 19:27:39 GMT

Complete Guide To Managing Stress Through Chiropractic Care

Are you feeling stressed and unsure how to get relief? Managing stress through Chiropractic care might be the answer you need. Stress can cause headaches, muscle pain, and trouble sleeping, and traditional methods might not always help.

Don't worry as this guide will show you how chiropractic care can ease stress, improve your health, and bring you some relief.

Let's explore how these techniques could help you feel better and more relaxed.

Understanding Stress and Its Effects

Stress triggers our body's "fight or flight" response, causing various symptoms. These might include headaches, muscle pain, irritability, and trouble sleeping.

If stress continues over time, it can lead to more serious problems like high blood pressure, depression, and anxiety.

How Stress Affects the Body?

When we are stressed, our body releases cortisol, a hormone that can cause inflammation and disrupt other hormones. This can lead to muscle tension, poor posture, and misalignments in the spine, which can increase stress and discomfort.

Effective stress management needs to address both physical and mental aspects.

Chiropractic Techniques for Stress Management

Chiropractic care focuses on the spine and nervous system, which can have a big impact on overall health and stress levels.

Here are some chiropractic techniques that can help with stress:

1. Spinal Adjustments

Spinal adjustments are a key part of chiropractic care. These involve applying controlled force to the spine to correct misalignments.

Proper spinal alignment can reduce nerve interference, improve nervous system function, and help the body manage stress better.

2. Massage Therapy

Many chiropractors include massage therapy in their practice. Techniques like deep tissue massage or myofascial release can help relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation.

By reducing muscle knots and improving blood flow, massage therapy can ease the physical effects of stress.

3. Posture Correction

Poor posture can make stress worse by causing muscle strain and discomfort. Chiropractors often provide advice on improving posture through exercises and ergonomic changes.

Better posture can reduce strain on the spine and muscles, helping to lower stress and improve overall well-being.

4. Stretching and Exercise

Adding stretching and exercise to chiropractic care can help manage stress. Chiropractors may suggest specific exercises to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and support spinal health.

Regular exercise can also release endorphins, which are natural stress relievers.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Stress Management

Chiropractic care offers several benefits for handling stress and improving mental health:

· Reduction in Physical Symptoms

By fixing spinal misalignments and easing muscle tension, chiropractic care can help reduce physical symptoms of stress, like headaches, back pain, and muscle stiffness.

· Better Nervous System Function

Correct spinal alignment supports a well-functioning nervous system, which can improve the body's response to stress and enhance mental clarity and emotional balance.

· Improved Sleep Quality

Chiropractic adjustments and treatments can lead to better sleep by reducing pain and discomfort. Good sleep quality can help manage stress more effectively.

· Holistic Approach

Chiropractic care looks at health in a comprehensive way, addressing physical symptoms and promoting overall well-being. This approach can be very helpful in managing stress and improving mental health.

Integrating Chiropractic Care into Your Stress Management Routine

To get the most out of chiropractic care for stress management, include it as part of your overall wellness plan. Regular chiropractic visits, along with healthy habits like balanced nutrition, good sleep, and stress-reducing activities, can help maintain both physical and mental health.

Common Misconceptions About Chiropractic Care

reception@coreclinic.ca (Randy Vollrath) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 16:51:30 GMT

Common Misconceptions About Chiropractic Care

Is chiropractic care truly effective, or are there valid causes for concern? Due to the confusion and mixed information out there, many people are just not sure whether to try chiropractic care or not. In turn, this makes it rather difficult to trust whether or not it is good for your health.

However, don't worry, because this article is going to clear up common chiropractic misconceptions. By the end, you'll have the facts and feel more confident considering this treatment to help with your health issues.

So, let's get started.

1) Chiropractors Aren't Real Doctors

One myth that has stuck to chiropractic care is that chiropractors are not real doctors because they do not hold a medical degree.

They study things like anatomy, physiology, and neurology, much the same as any medical doctor. Chiropractors also have to take and pass national and provincial board exams before they can practice. They are highly trained professionals specializing in musculoskeletal health.

Chiropractors are recognized as primary care doctors in Canada as well as most countries in the world

2) Chiropractic Care Is Only for Back Pain

Many people believe that chiropractic care is used solely for the treatment of back pain. It is fair to say that chiropractors use treatments for aiding individuals with issues regarding their backs; however, chiropractic care can be used for many other problems outside of this realm, including those listed above.

Chiropractors focus on the spine because it connects to the nervous system, which controls a variety of functions in the body. This may help, by aligning the spine, in headaches, neck pains, joint pains, and even some issues like stress and digestive problems.

Thus, chiropractic care helps in general health rather than just for back pain. It works holistically on well-being.

3) Spinal Adjustments Are Painful or Dangerous

Most people believe that the spinal adjustments hurt or may be dangerous. Such perceptions might arise from the popping of joints while undergoing treatment, which scared many. These sounds are believed to be released as gas escapes from joints, similar to cracking knuckles.

In reality, most patients report that there is minimal discomfort, if any at all, with an adjustment. The procedure is safe because the licensed chiropractor is taught to apply force in a delicate and precise manner. Dr. Vollrath’s choice of adjusting is with an instrument called an activator which is virtually pain free.

Actually, chiropractic adjustments are considered much safer than surgical operations or long-term medication such as painkillers.

4) You Need to Keep Going Forever

Another myth is that once you start going to a chiropractor, you will be going forever. This is not true. Chiropractic care can be tailored to suit whatever needs you may have.

Some patients just require a few visits to alleviate symptoms, while others continue regularly for maintenance or because they have chronic conditions that require it.

Continuous care is no different from continuing to go to the gym or visiting the dentist on a regular basis. It is not mandatory but may help by maintaining good health. With the relief many patients get after a few visits, they can decide upon the frequency of their return.

5) Chiropractic Care Isn't Based on Science

Another common myth is that chiropractic treatments are unsupported by scientific research and evidence. Such a belief is totally wrong. Chiropractic treatment has been researched for many decades, and research has shown it to be effective for the treatment of disorders such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches.

Several studies have proved that adjustments indeed work to reduce pain, and hence improve mobility. Many medical groups, like the American Medical Association, recognize chiropractic care as one of the possible treatments for musculoskeletal ailments.

It's a science-based practice that accordingly has continued to evolve and applies natural pain management principles to this day.

Final Words

In conclusion, chiropractic care is often misunderstood, but many concerns are based on myths. Chiropractors are trained professionals with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree, and they focus on spine health.

They can help with more than just back pain, including headaches and joint pain.

Chiropractic care is backed by scientific research and recognized by medical groups. Knowing these facts can help you feel more confident about trying chiropractic care for your health.

The Role of Chiropractic in Managing Chronic Pain Conditions

reception@coreclinic.ca (Randy Vollrath) — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 17:03:38 GMT

The Role of Chiropractic in Managing Chronic Pain Conditions

Are you tired of living with chronic pain? If so, you are not alone. Millions of people around the world struggle with ongoing discomfort, affecting their quality of life. However, there's hope.

The role of chiropractic in managing chronic pain is a topic worth exploring. Chiropractic care offers a natural and holistic approach to pain management, focusing on the body's ability to heal itself.

In this article, we will dive into how chiropractic care can help alleviate chronic pain and improve your overall well-being.

So, let's get started.

Understanding Chronic Pain

To understand the role of chiropractic in managing chronic pain, it's essential to first understand what chronic pain is and how it affects the body.

Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for weeks, months, or even years. Unlike acute pain, which is a normal sensation that alerts us to possible injury, chronic pain can be debilitating and affect daily life.

Chronic pain can have various causes, including injury, illness, or underlying health conditions. It can affect any part of the body and can manifest as a dull ache, a sharp or stabbing sensation, or a burning sensation. Chronic pain can also lead to other issues, such as sleep disturbances, depression, and anxiety.

Managing chronic pain can be challenging, as traditional treatments such as medication and surgery may not always provide long-term relief. This is where chiropractic care can play a significant role.

The Role of Chiropractic in Managing Chronic Pain Conditions

As you may know, chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing chronic pain. Chiropractors focus on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine, and believe that proper alignment of the spine can help the body heal itself and alleviate pain.

During a chiropractic treatment session, the chiropractor will use hands-on spinal manipulation and other techniques to adjust the spine's alignment. By doing so, they aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function.

One of the key benefits of chiropractic care is its holistic approach. Chiropractors not only treat the symptoms of pain but also address the underlying cause. This comprehensive approach can lead to long-lasting pain relief and improved overall health and well-being.

Research has shown that chiropractic care can be effective in managing chronic pain conditions such as lower back pain, neck pain, and headaches.

In fact, a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care was more effective than medication in treating chronic low back pain.

In addition to spinal manipulation, chiropractors may also use other techniques such as massage therapy, exercise therapy, and nutritional counseling to help manage chronic pain.

Final Words

Living with chronic pain can be challenging, but it doesn't have to be a lifelong struggle. Chiropractic care offers a natural, holistic approach to managing chronic pain that focuses on addressing the underlying cause of pain and promoting overall health and well-being.

If you're living with chronic pain, consider giving Core Chiropractic a call. It could be the key to unlocking a pain-free life.

Chiropractic Care for Seniors: Improving Mobility and Quality of Life

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 17:02:34 GMT

Chiropractic Care for Seniors: Improving Mobility and Quality of Life

Are you or a loved one experiencing stiffness, pain, or reduced mobility? Chiropractic care for seniors offers a gentle yet effective solution to these common issues. As we age, our bodies undergo changes that can lead to discomfort and limited movement.

In this article, we will explore how chiropractic care can improve mobility and enhance the quality of life for seniors.

So, let's get started.

Chiropractic Care for Seniors

Chiropractic care for seniors is a specialized form of healthcare that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those related to the spine.

It is based on the principle that proper alignment of the body's musculoskeletal structure, particularly the spine, can enable the body to heal itself without the need for medication or surgery.

Chiropractors use hands-on spinal manipulation and other alternative treatments to properly align the body's musculoskeletal structure, particularly the spine, to enable the body to heal itself without surgery or medication.

Chiropractic care is often sought out by seniors to help manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.

But how? Let's discuss that in detail.

How does Chiropractic Care Improve Mobility and Quality of Life in Seniors?

Chiropractic care improves mobility and quality of life in seniors through several key mechanisms:

Spinal Alignment:

Chiropractic adjustments help restore proper alignment of the spine, which can reduce pain and stiffness in the joints and muscles. This improved alignment can also enhance flexibility and range of motion, making it easier for seniors to move comfortably.

Joint Health:

Chiropractic care focuses on improving joint health by addressing issues such as inflammation, degeneration, and misalignment. By restoring proper joint function, chiropractic adjustments can help seniors move more freely and with less discomfort.

Nervous System Function:

The spine houses the nervous system, which controls every function in the body. Misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can interfere with nervous system function and contribute to mobility issues and pain. Chiropractic adjustments can help remove these subluxations, allowing the nervous system to function optimally and improve overall mobility.

Muscle Strength and Balance:

Chiropractic care often includes exercises and stretches designed to improve muscle strength and balance. Stronger muscles and better balance can help seniors prevent falls and maintain their independence.

Pain Management:

Chiropractic care is known for its effectiveness in managing pain, particularly musculoskeletal pain. By reducing pain levels, seniors can move more freely and engage in activities that improve their quality of life.

Overall Wellness:

Chiropractic care takes a holistic approach to health, focusing on the body's ability to heal itself. By promoting overall wellness and addressing the root cause of health issues, chiropractic care can help seniors enjoy a higher quality of life.

Final Words

In conclusion, chiropractic care improves mobility and quality of life in seniors by addressing the underlying causes of mobility issues and pain, promoting overall wellness, and empowering seniors to live life to the fullest.

Ready to feel your best? Call Dr. Randy Vollrath today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you!

Chiropractic Care for Children: Promoting Healthy Growth and Development

Tue, 07 May 2024 20:05:37 GMT

Chiropractic Care for Children: Promoting Healthy Growth and Development

Are you worried about your child's health and growth? Chiropractic care for children is becoming more popular as parents look for natural ways to help their kids stay healthy.

From when they are babies to when they're teenagers, kids grow and change a lot, which can sometimes cause health problems.

It can be hard to find the right solutions, but this article is here to help. In this article, we will explain how chiropractic care can be good for children and how it can help them grow up healthy and strong.

So, let's get started.

Chiropractic Care for Children

Chiropractic care for children focuses on the health and alignment of the spine and nervous system. Many parents are turning to chiropractors to help with many common childhood issues.

Chiropractors use gentle, non-invasive techniques to adjust the spine, which can help improve overall health and wellness.

As you may know, one of the key principles of chiropractic care is that the body has the ability to heal itself when properly aligned. By ensuring that the spine is in alignment, chiropractors can help children maintain a healthy body and reduce the risk of developing health problems in the future.

Chiropractic care for children is safe and effective when performed by a qualified chiropractor. Many parents report seeing improvements in their child's health and well-being after starting chiropractic care.

Whether your child is experiencing health issues or you simply want to ensure their overall wellness, chiropractic care can be a beneficial addition to their healthcare routine.

Now let's discuss the benefits of chiropractic care for children and how it will help your child growing up.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Children

Chiropractic care offers numerous benefits for children, supporting their healthy growth and development.

Some of them are:

Improved Neurological Function:

Research suggests that chiropractic adjustments can positively impact the function of the nervous system, which is vital to maintaining good health.

Support for Musculoskeletal Health:

Chiropractic care can help prevent and manage musculoskeletal issues in children, such as back pain, sports injuries, and scoliosis.

Better Sleep Quality:

Chiropractic care can help improve sleep quality in children, which is essential for their growth, development, and overall well-being.

Enhanced Athletic Performance:

For children involved in sports, chiropractic care can help improve their athletic performance by optimizing spinal alignment, joint function, and muscle coordination.

Final Words

So the benefits of Chiropractic care for children highlights the diverse ways in which chiropractic care can support children's health and well-being, providing them with a strong foundation for a healthy future.

Types Of Migraines And How Chiropractic Care Can Help?

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 21:59:30 GMT

Types Of Migraines And How Chiropractic Care Can Help?

Do you keep getting different types of migraines and don't know what to do? Migraines are more than just bad headaches. They can really change how you live your day. There are many kinds of migraines, and each one can affect you in different ways.

But don't worry, you're in the right place to learn more about them. This article will talk about the different migraines and how seeing a chiropractor might help you feel better.

We will keep things simple and easy to understand, giving you hope and new ways to deal with your migraines.

So, let's get started.

What is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is a way to help with body pains and problems, especially with the back, without needing surgery or lots of medicines. Chiropractors are like experts in making sure your bones, especially your spine, are in the right place.

They believe if your spine is straight and in good shape, your body can fix some of its own problems.

In chiropractic care, the chiropractor uses their hands to help fix your spine or other parts of your body that might not be moving right. This is called an adjustment. It's a quick and careful push to a part of your body to help it move better and hurt less.

Chiropractors also give advice on how to stay healthy with the right food, exercise, and ways to handle stress.

This kind of care is getting more popular because it's a way to feel better without needing to take medicine or have surgery. Now, let's see how this can help people who get migraines, which are really bad headaches that can make you feel terrible.

Types of Migraines and How Chiropractic Care Can Help?

Now that we have discussed what chiropractic care is, let's discuss the types of migraines and how this unique form of care can offer relief.

Migraine without Aura: This is the most common type of migraine, affecting about 70% of migraine sufferers. It usually lasts between 4 to 72 hours and does not have any warning signs or symptoms before the headache starts. Chiropractic care can help prevent or reduce migraine without aura by adjusting the cervical spine (the neck) and improving its mobility and stability. This can reduce the pressure on the nerves and blood vessels that supply the head and brain, as well as balance the hormones and neurotransmitters that are involved in migraine.

Migraine with Aura: This type of migraine affects about 25% of migraine sufferers and is preceded by an aura, which is a sensory disturbance that occurs before or during the headache.

The aura may include visual changes, such as:

Flashes of Light

Blind Spots

Zigzag Lines

Temporary Vision Loss

The aura usually lasts between 5 to 60 minutes and is followed by a headache that is similar to migraine without aura.

Chiropractic care can help treat migraine with aura by adjusting the cervical spine (the neck) and improving its mobility and stability thereby reducing inflammation and irritation. This can help decrease the frequency and severity of the aura and the headache.

Chronic Migraine: This type of migraine occurs when a person has more than 15 headache days per month for more than three months, with at least eight of them being migraines. Chronic migraine can severely affect a person's quality of life and may be associated with other conditions, such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, and fibromyalgia. Chiropractic care can help manage chronic migraine by providing regular spinal adjustments and massage therapy that can improve blood circulation, relax muscles, release endorphins (natural painkillers), and enhance mood.

Vestibular Migraine: This type of migraine affects about 1% of migraine sufferers and causes vertigo (a sensation of spinning or moving) along with a headache. The vertigo may last from a few minutes to a few hours and may be triggered by head movements, changes in position, or certain visual stimuli. Chiropractic care can help treat vestibular migraine by adjusting the upper cervical spine (the upper part of the neck) and improving its alignment and function. This can reduce the pressure on the vestibular nerve (the nerve that controls balance and coordination) and normalize its signals to the brain.

Final Words

So, that's how chiropractic care can offer a new perspective and approach to managing different types of migraines. By focusing on the body's alignment, particularly the spine, chiropractors can address some of the root causes or exacerbating factors of migraines.

Can Chiropractor Help With Pulled Muscles? Complete Guide

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 21:52:24 GMT

Can Chiropractor Help With Pulled Muscles? Complete Guide

Can chiropractors help with pulled muscles? If you have pulled a muscle, you know how much it hurts and stops you from doing your regular activities. You might be wondering if seeing a chiropractor can make you feel better.

This article is here to help you out. We are going to talk about how chiropractors can help with muscle pain in a way that's easy to understand.

By the time you finish reading, you will know more about how chiropractic care can help you get back to feeling good and doing what you love.

So, let's get started.

Understanding Pulled Muscles

Before getting straight to how chiropractic care can be beneficial, it's crucial to understand what pulled muscles are and how they occur. A pulled muscle, also known as a muscle strain, happens when your muscle is overstretched or torn. This injury can be a result of fatigue, overuse, or improper use of a muscle. It's a common issue among athletes, but it can happen to anyone, even during everyday activities.

Symptoms of a pulled muscle include pain, weakness, bruising, swelling, and limited ability to move the affected muscle. These symptoms can vary in intensity, depending on the severity of the strain.

Understanding the nature of your injury is the first step toward recovery. Pulled muscles can range from a mild strain, which might just need a few days of rest, to more severe injuries requiring professional treatment.

Now let's get to know whether chiropractic can help with pulled muscles or not.

Can Chiropractor Help with Pulled Muscles?

The short answer is, yes, chiropractors can help with pulled muscles. Chiropractic care is not just about the spine; it involves treating various musculoskeletal issues, including muscle strains.

Chiropractors use a range of techniques to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve function in the affected area.

Here's how they can help:

Pain Relief: Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce the pain associated with a pulled muscle. By correcting misalignments in the spine and other joints, chiropractors can decrease tension in the body, which in turn, can alleviate pain in the strained muscle.

Improving Circulation: Enhanced blood flow is crucial for the healing process. Chiropractic adjustments can release muscle spasmsmwhich can increase circulation to the injured muscle, speeding up the recovery process by delivering oxygen and nutrients more efficiently.

Increasing Flexibility: Chiropractors can recommend specific stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to your injury. These exercises help restore flexibility and strength to the affected muscle, reducing the risk of future injuries.

Reducing Inflammation: Chiropractic care can help manage and reduce inflammation around the injured muscle. Techniques like ultrasound therapy or electrical muscle stimulation can be used to decrease inflammation, promoting a quicker healing environment.

Correcting Biomechanical Problems: Sometimes, a pulled muscle can be a symptom of an underlying biomechanical issue, such as poor posture or improper movement patterns. Chiropractors assess and address these underlying issues, which can help prevent future muscle strains.

Final Words

It's important to note that while chiropractors can provide significant relief and aid in the recovery from pulled muscles, the effectiveness of treatment can vary depending on the individual case.

It's always recommended to consult with a chiropractor for a personalized assessment and treatment plan.

Chiropractic Care for Athletes: Enhancing Performance and Recovery

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 21:18:47 GMT

Chiropractic Care for Athletes: Enhancing Performance and Recovery

In the demanding world of sports, athletes constantly strive for peak performance and faster recovery times. To achieve these goals, they often turn to various methods, including rigorous training regimens, cutting-edge nutrition, and state-of-the-art medical treatments.

However, one often overlooked but highly effective approach to enhancing performance and recovery in athletes is chiropractic care. This holistic and non-invasive form of healthcare has gained significant recognition in recent years for its ability to support athletes in their pursuit of excellence.

So in this article, we will explore how chiropractic care can play a crucial role in improving mobility, reducing the risk of injuries, and aiding in the recovery process for athletes at all levels.

Whether you're a professional athlete or an amateur enthusiast, understanding the benefits of chiropractic care could be the key to unlocking your full athletic potential.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Athletes

Chiropractic care encompasses a range of techniques and practices that focus on optimizing the functioning of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine.

Athletes, who place immense physical demands on their bodies, stand to gain significantly from chiropractic care.

Here's how:

· Enhanced Mobility

One of the primary goals of chiropractic care is to improve joint mobility and flexibility. Athletes rely on their bodies ability to move fluidly and without restrictions to excel in their chosen sports. Chiropractors are trained to identify and address issues such as joint misalignments and muscle imbalances that hinder an athlete's range of motion.

Through targeted adjustments and therapies, chiropractors help athletes regain and surpass their peak mobility, enabling them to perform at their best.

· Reduced Risk of Injuries

Injuries are the bane of an athlete's existence, often sidelining them for weeks or even months. Chiropractic care plays a crucial role in injury prevention.

By correcting musculoskeletal imbalances and ensuring that the spine is aligned correctly, chiropractors help athletes maintain better body mechanics. This reduces the stress placed on vulnerable areas and decreases the likelihood of injuries, such as sprains, strains, and stress fractures.

· Accelerated Recovery

When injuries do occur, a swift and comprehensive recovery is paramount. Chiropractic care is not only about prevention but also about aiding in the healing process. Chiropractors employ various techniques, including soft tissue manipulation, to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair.

This accelerates the recovery timeline, allowing athletes to return to their training and competition sooner than they might with conventional treatments alone.

Final Thoughts

Chiropractic care is a valuable resource for athletes seeking to maximize their performance and minimize the risk of injuries. Its holistic approach, focusing on mobility, injury prevention, and accelerated recovery, aligns perfectly with the needs and goals of athletes at all levels.

So, whether you're a professional athlete competing on the world stage or an amateur enthusiast striving to excel in your chosen sport, consider adding chiropractic care to your arsenal of tools for achieving athletic excellence. If this sounds like you, Dr. Randy Vollrath at Core Chiropractic can help you on your journey toward becoming the best athlete you can be.

Back-to-School Stress and It's Impact on the Spinal Health

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 19:22:51 GMT

Back-to-School Stress and Its Impact on Spinal Health

The back-to-school season, with its flurry of activity, can often be a stressful time for both students and parents. The transition from lazy summer days to packed schedules, homework, and extracurricular activities can lead to increased stress levels. What many may not realize is that this stress can have a profound impact on spinal health.

In this article, we will delve into the effects of stress on the spine and explore how chiropractic care can play a crucial role in managing stress-related tension.

The Spine: A Pillar of Support

Before we delve into the effects of stress on spinal health, it's essential to understand the spine's significance. The spine is not just a stack of bones; it's the central support structure for our entire body.

Comprised of 24 vertebrae, the spine houses the spinal cord, which connects the brain to the rest of the body. It serves as a communication highway for the body's nervous system, allowing messages to travel between the brain and various organs, muscles, and tissues.

The Stress-Spine Connection

Stress, whether related to school, work, or personal life, can manifest physically throughout the body. When we experience stress, our bodies release hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, preparing us for the "fight or flight" response.

While this reaction is crucial for survival in short bursts, chronic stress can wreak havoc on our physical health, and the spine is no exception.

1. Muscle Tension : One of the most immediate effects of stress on spinal health is muscle tension. When we are stressed, our muscles tend to contract and tighten. Prolonged muscle tension can lead to discomfort and pain in the back, neck, and shoulders.

2. Poor Posture: Stress can also affect our posture. Many people tend to slouch or hunch their shoulders when stressed, which can place additional strain on the spine over time. Poor posture can exacerbate existing spinal issues and lead to new ones.

3. Inflammation: Chronic stress has been linked to inflammation in the body, including the spine. Inflammation can contribute to conditions such as arthritis and may worsen spinal problems.

Chiropractic Care as a Stress Management Tool

Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, which includes the spine. Chiropractors are trained to detect and address issues related to spinal misalignment, muscle tension, and poor posture.

Here's how chiropractic care can help manage stress-related tension:

1. Spinal Adjustments

Chiropractors perform spinal adjustments to realign the vertebrae and relieve pressure on nerves. This can reduce pain and discomfort associated with stress-induced muscle tension.

2. Muscle Relaxation Techniques

Chiropractors often incorporate muscle relaxation techniques into their treatments. These techniques can help release built-up muscle tension, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

3. Posture Correction

Chiropractors can guide you in maintaining proper posture during chiropractic visits and daily life. This guidance can help prevent the development of poor posture habits caused by stress.

4. Holistic Approach

Chiropractors often take a holistic approach to health and wellness. They may offer advice on nutrition, exercise, and stress management techniques to address the root causes of stress-related spinal issues.

Final Thoughts

As the back-to-school season approaches, it's essential to recognize the potential impact of stress on spinal health. Chronic stress can lead to muscle tension, poor posture, and inflammation, all of which can contribute to spinal discomfort and pain.

Chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to managing these issues, providing spinal adjustments, muscle relaxation techniques, posture correction, and guidance on overall well-being. If this sounds like you, consider contacting Dr. Randy Vollrath for all your questions regarding what course of treatment would be right for you.

The Benefits Of Chiropractic Care, Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, And Foot Orthotics

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 18:36:44 GMT

The Benefits Of Chiropractic Care, Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, And Foot Orthotics

In our fast-paced and demanding modern world, it's essential to prioritize our physical and mental well-being. When it comes to holistic healthcare, there are various complementary therapies and treatments available to help us maintain optimal wellness.

In this blog post, we will delve into the world of chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, and foot orthotics. Let's discover how these services can enhance your well-being and support your journey toward a healthier life.

Chiropractic Care: Activator Method

Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to healing that focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. One popular technique used in chiropractic care is the Activator Method. This gentle and precise approach employs an instrument known as the Activator Adjusting Instrument to deliver controlled, low-force impulses to specific areas of the body. The benefits of chiropractic care with the Activator Method include:

Pain Relief: Chiropractic adjustments can alleviate various types of pain, such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint discomfort.
Improved Mobility: By addressing spinal misalignments, chiropractic care enhances joint mobility, enabling you to move more easily and flexibly.
Enhanced Nervous System Function: Proper spine alignment ensures optimal nerve function, positively impacting overall health and well-being.

Acupuncture: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Healing

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This technique aims to balance the energy flow, known as Qi, to promote healing and alleviate ailments. Key benefits of acupuncture include:

Pain Management: Acupuncture has been shown to effectively relieve pain caused by conditions such as chronic headaches, arthritis, and musculoskeletal disorders.
Stress Reduction: By stimulating specific acupuncture points, this therapy encourages relaxation and reduces stress levels, helping to improve mental well-being.
Enhanced Body Function: Acupuncture treatments can stimulate the body's natural healing mechanisms, boost the immune system, and improve overall physical function.

Massage Therapy: Unwind and Rejuvenate

Massage therapy is a time-honored practice that involves manipulating the body's soft tissues to enhance relaxation, promote healing, and improve overall well-being. The benefits of massage therapy are extensive and include:

Stress Relief: Massage therapy reduces stress by releasing endorphins, promoting relaxation, and easing muscle tension, leading to an improved sense of well-being.
Muscle Rehabilitation: Therapeutic massage aids in the recovery from injuries, enhances muscle flexibility, and improves circulation, helping to alleviate pain and promote healing.
Mental Clarity: Regular massages have been found to enhance mental focus, improve sleep quality, and reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.

Foot Orthotics: Supporting Your Foundation

Foot orthotics are custom-made devices designed to correct biomechanical imbalances in the feet and support proper alignment. The benefits of using foot orthotics include:

Pain Reduction: Orthotics can alleviate foot and ankle pain caused by plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and overpronation.
Improved Posture: Proper alignment of the feet can positively impact overall posture and reduce joint stress, preventing future injuries and pain.
Enhanced Athletic Performance: Athletes and active individuals can benefit from foot orthotics, as they provide better support, shock absorption, and stability during physical activities.

Final Thoughts

Exploring complementary therapies like chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, and foot orthotics can be transformative when prioritizing your well-being. These services offer a holistic approach to health, addressing both physical and mental well-being.

Whether you're seeking pain relief, stress reduction, enhanced mobility, or improved athletic performance, incorporating these therapies into your wellness journey can support your overall health and contribute to a higher quality of life.

Consult with Dr. Randy Vollrath at Core Chiropractic to discover how these services can benefit you on your path to wellness.

Enhancing Your Self-Care Routine: The Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 15:34:24 GMT

Enhancing Your Self-Care Routine: The Benefits of Chiropractic Care

In today's fast-paced world, where stress and demands on our time are ever-increasing, prioritizing self-care is more important than ever. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being should be a top priority in your daily routine. While many people associate self-care with activities like exercise, meditation, and healthy eating, one often overlooked aspect is chiropractic care. Incorporating chiropractic care into your self-care routine can benefit your health and well-being.

In this blog, we'll explore how chiropractic care can enhance your self-care routine and why it's worth considering.

Understanding Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is a natural healthcare approach focusing on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. The central nervous system controls every function in the body, and any disruptions or misalignments in the spine can interfere with the proper functioning of the nervous system.

Chiropractors are trained professionals who use hands-on techniques to adjust the spine and restore its proper alignment, relieving pain and allowing the body to heal naturally.

Here are some benefits you can expect by adding chiropractic into your self-care routine.

Improving Posture and Spinal Alignment:

One of the key benefits of chiropractic care is its ability to improve posture and spinal alignment. In today's modern lifestyle, where many spend long hours sitting at desks or hunched over electronic devices, poor posture has become a common problem.

This can lead to spinal misalignments, muscle imbalances, and chronic pain. Regular chiropractic adjustments can help correct these issues by realigning the spine and improving posture.

By doing so, it relieves tension in the muscles and ligaments, reducing the risk of chronic pain and promoting overall well-being.

Alleviating Pain and Discomfort:

Chiropractic care is well-known for its ability to alleviate pain and discomfort. Chiropractic adjustments can provide significant relief if you're suffering from chronic back pain, headaches, or joint stiffness.

Besides, Chiropractic care offers long-term solutions by addressing the underlying cause of the pain rather than just treating the symptoms. It helps to restore proper joint function, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

As a result, you can enjoy a higher quality of life and engage fully in your self-care activities, such as exercise and relaxation techniques.

Enhancing Nervous System Function:

The nervous system plays a vital role in our overall health and well-being. It coordinates every function in our bodies, from sensory and motor response to being able to breath and digestion ability. When the spine is misaligned, it can interfere with the proper functioning of the nervous system, leading to various health issues. Chiropractic care focuses on restoring the spine's alignment, allowing the nervous system to function optimally.

By enhancing nervous system function, chiropractic care supports the body's natural healing abilities and promotes overall wellness.

Reducing Stress and Promoting Mental Well-being:

Stress has a profound impact on both our physical and mental health. Chronic stress can lead to muscle tension, headaches, insomnia, and overall poor health. Chiropractic care can help reduce stress levels by releasing muscle tension, improving blood flow, and promoting relaxation.

Additionally, chiropractic adjustments stimulate the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural "feel-good" hormones. This can positively impact your mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall mental well-being.

Incorporating Chiropractic Care into Your Self-Care Routine

Now that we understand the benefits of chiropractic care, how can we incorporate it into our self-care routine? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Make regular chiropractic appointments: Regularly visit a trusted chiropractor to receive adjustments and ensure your spine stays properly aligned.

2. Combine chiropractic care with other self-care practices: Chiropractic care can complement other self-care activities such as exercise, stretching, meditation, and healthy eating. By combining these practices, you can create a well-rounded self-care routine that addresses your physical and mental well-being.

3. Communicate with your chiropractor: Share your self-care goals and concerns with your chiropractor. They can provide personalized recommendations and guidance to help you achieve your self-care objectives.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating chiropractic care into your self-care routine offers numerous benefits for your physical and mental well-being. From improving posture and alleviating pain to enhancing nervous system function and reducing stress, chiropractic care plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

By taking the time to prioritize your self-care and include chiropractic care, you can experience the transformative benefits it has to offer. Consult with Dr. Vollrath to discuss how chiropractic care can be integrated into your self-care routine and start reaping the rewards of a healthier, more balanced life.

Embracing the Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Travel

Wed, 24 May 2023 17:06:40 GMT

Embracing the Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Travel

Traveling can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, whether you're exploring new destinations or embarking on a business trip. However, the physical demands of travel, such as long flights, sitting for extended periods, and carrying heavy luggage, can take a toll on your body. This is where chiropractic care comes in. As a leading chiropractic clinic in St. Albert, Alberta, we understand the unique needs of travelers and the tremendous benefits that chiropractic care can offer. In this blog post, we'll explore why embracing chiropractic care can enhance your travel experience and keep you in optimal health.

Alleviating Travel-Related Aches and Pains: Traveling often involves spending hours in uncomfortable positions, whether it's sitting in cramped airplane seats or enduring long road trips. These extended periods of immobility can result in stiffness, muscle tension, and even pain in the neck, back, and joints. Chiropractic adjustments can effectively alleviate these travel-related aches and pains by realigning the spine and restoring proper joint function. By addressing the root cause of discomfort, chiropractic care promotes natural healing and provides lasting relief.

Improving Mobility and Flexibility: Maintaining good mobility and flexibility is crucial for enjoying your travel adventures to the fullest. However, sitting for extended periods during travel can lead to reduced range of motion and tight muscles. Chiropractic care incorporates various techniques, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and stretching exercises, to enhance mobility and flexibility. By increasing joint mobility and releasing muscle tension, Dr .Vollrath helps ensure that you're physically prepared to make the most of your travel experience.

Boosting Energy Levels: Traveling can be physically and mentally exhausting, especially when dealing with jet lag and adapting to new time zones. Chiropractic care focuses on optimizing the function of the nervous system, which plays a crucial role in regulating energy levels. By aligning the spine and removing nerve interference, chiropractic adjustments can enhance nerve communication throughout the body, leading to improved energy levels, better sleep quality, and overall vitality. With chiropractic care, you'll feel more energized and ready to embrace all the exciting opportunities your travels have to offer.

Stress Relief and Mental Well-being: Traveling can be stressful, whether it's dealing with airport delays, navigating unfamiliar territories, or managing a busy itinerary. Chronic stress can negatively impact your physical and mental well-being, affecting your travel experience.

Chiropractic care not only addresses physical issues but also helps manage stress by reducing tension in the body and promoting relaxation. As your body and mind become more balanced, you'll feel calmer, more centered, and better equipped to handle the challenges that may arise during your travels.

Embracing chiropractic care before, during, and after your travels can significantly enhance your overall experience. By alleviating travel-related aches and pains, improving mobility and flexibility, boosting energy levels, and providing stress relief, chiropractic care prepares your body for optimal health while you embark on your travel adventures. As a trusted chiropractic clinic in St. Albert, Alberta, Core Chiropractic is committed to ensuring that you enjoy your travels to the fullest while maintaining optimal health.

What are Foot Orthotics?

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 18:14:27 GMT

What are Foot Orthotics?

Foot orthotics, also known as shoe inserts or insoles, are custom-made devices designed to support and align the feet. They can provide a range of benefits for people with various foot conditions and can help alleviate pain and discomfort. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of foot orthotics in more detail.

Improved Foot Function and Alignment

One of the main benefits of foot orthotics is improved foot function and alignment. When the feet are properly supported and aligned, it can reduce stress on the feet, ankles, knees, and lower back. This can help alleviate pain and discomfort and improve overall posture and balance.

Reduction in Foot Pain and Discomfort

Foot orthotics can also provide relief for people with foot pain and discomfort. They can help redistribute pressure on the feet, reducing pain caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, and flat feet. Orthotics can also help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and corns.

Improved Athletic Performance

Foot orthotics can also be beneficial for athletes. They can help improve foot and leg alignment, reducing the risk of injury and improving overall performance. Orthotics can also help absorb shock and reduce stress on the feet during high-impact activities such as running and jumping.

Prevention of Foot Problems

Foot orthotics can also help prevent foot problems from developing in the first place. They can help support the feet and promote proper alignment, reducing the risk of developing conditions such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and heel spurs.

Customized to Your Feet

Another benefit of foot orthotics is that they are customized to your feet. Dr. Vollrath can take precise measurements of your feet to create orthotics that are tailored to your individual needs. This ensures that you get the most benefit from your orthotics and that they are comfortable to wear.

In conclusion, foot orthotics can provide a range of benefits for people with various foot conditions. They can help improve foot function and alignment, reduce pain and discomfort, improve athletic performance, prevent foot problems, and be customized to your individual needs. If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, or if you have a foot condition, contact Dr. Randy Vollrath at Core Chiropractic Clinic to see if foot orthotics are right for you.

How Can Chiropractic Adjustment Help You To Reduce Back Pain Injuries?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 18:33:34 GMT

How Can Chiropractic Adjustment Help You To Reduce Back Pain Injuries?

As the winter brings snow, ice, and slippery conditions, it also increases the risk of slips and falls. Unfortunately, these accidents can result in back pain, which can seriously impact an individual's routine life. Back pain can badly affect one's ability to perform daily activities and work and even lead to psychological distress.

Chiropractic care can effectively manage back pain and prevent it from becoming a chronic issue. This article will discuss how slips and falls can cause back pain, the importance of chiropractic care, and how it is helpful to keep you safe in winter.

What is Chiropractic?

Chiropractic is a healthcare profession that mainly focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mechanical disorders of the skeleton, particularly resolving spinal issues and joint pain. Our body can heal itself, and this natural healing process can provide better and quick results by properly aligning the spine and other joints. Chiropractic therapy helps improve muscle function, keeps tendons and ligaments in an accurate position, and improves posture and flexibility of the body.

What is a Chiropractor?

A chiropractor is a doctor who cares for any muscle, bone, joint pain, or neuromusculoskeletal system dysfunction. They can treat neuromusculoskeletal pain in any part of your body, such as head and jaws, shoulder, elbows, wrists, lower back pain, neck pain, headaches, etc.

Chiropractic Techniques:

Chiropractors use various techniques in the treatment process to achieve optimal health and wellness, such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and various stretches and exercises. The process of chiropractic therapy is very simple. Dr. Vollrath will lay you facing down on a specially designed-chiropractic table and use an adjusting instrument called an Activator to thrust into a joint at a precise angle and pressure to realign the vertebrae in your back. An Activator can be used on any joint in the body that may be misaligned. Chiropractic adjustments main goal is to reduce pain by restoring the bodies normal range of motion and function .

Importance of Chiropractic in Winter

Although chiropractic care is important and beneficial for people of all ages all year round, it can be more beneficial during winter. Because as the temperature drops, people prefer to remain at home and become less active, which causes stiffness and pain in muscles and joints. Many other issues can occur, like back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and headaches, if a person slips and falls on icy areas in winter.

Chiropractic care can be particularly helpful for such conditions. During the winter, this treatment is sufficiently helpful for arthritis, back pain, or cervical pain because these types of issues are exacerbated due to cold weather and less physical activity. Chiropractic adjustment improves spinal alignment and reduces muscle stiffness, relieving pain and improving the body's overall function.

Other Benefits Of Chiropractic:

Herniated discs:

Slips and fall can cause herniated discs in the neck or back. The activator adjustment is a gentle and pain-free process best option restoring proper function to the spine to relieve the pressure of a herniated disc.

Minimizing Migraine headaches and Neck pain:

Another benefit of chiropractic is that it helps to alleviate migraines by reducing neck and spine stiffness. This process improves blood flow to the brain and reduces inflammation and migraines. The chiropractor may also use soft tissue techniques to reduce neck pain and improve mobility in the neck.

Improve posture:

The nervous system controls every function of the body. The process of chiropractic treatment works on the neuromusculoskeletal to improves posture problems. Chiropractic adjustments help realign the spine, alleviating the interference and enabling the nervous system to function properly.

Reduce the symptoms of chronic conditions:

The chiropractic adjustment is more beneficial in winter for people who suffer from chronic diseases such as Arthritis, sciatica, joint pain, and muscle aches. It reduces the pain and severe symptoms of the disease and simply makes the patient feel better.

Is Chiropractic Safe?

Yes, chiropractic adjustments are a safe treatment if performed by a licensed chiropractor. Usually, slipping and falling can cause serious injuries, or a person can experience different kinds of pain. It is important to diagnose the real issue before treatment, so it is important to access licensed chiropractors like Dr. Vollrath.

How long does it take to recover?

Generally, the recovery time depends on the condition of the patient and also the severity of the injury. Many people feel immediate relief after 1 or 2 sessions of chiropractic adjustment. Other people may need several adjustments to recover. Overall, most people feel better with each visit. The main goal of chiropractic treatment is to get you health and then keep you healthy with regular maintenance adjustments to prevent future problems as well as diet and exercise counselling.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, chiropractic adjustments can help to be more healthy by targeting the root cause of your problem. Dr. Vollrath diagnoses and treats the problem by correcting the misalignments of the spine and joints. It is one of the best therapies that improve your body's flexibility and joint mobility for an overall healthy being. If you are experiencing any of the above injuries or pain, Core Chiropractic Clinic may be right for you! Contact Dr. Randy Vollrath at 780-458-1012 to see if chiropractic care is right for you.

Combining Acupuncture And Chiropractic

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 21:47:59 GMT

Acupuncture - Combining Acupuncture And Chiropractic

Are you looking for acupuncture and chiropractic services in your area? If so, acupuncture combined with chiropractic care is an excellent option. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine used for centuries to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve overall physical health. Chiropractic care focuses on aligning the spine and joint mobility to help reduce pain, improve overall health and wellness, and increase function.

Combining acupuncture with chiropractic care can provide a unique treatment that offers many benefits.

Let's discuss those benefits in detail.

Benefits of Combining Acupuncture and Chiropractic

While acupuncture has many benefits, combining acupuncture and chiropractic care may offer even greater benefits. The following are some of them:

1. Improved Energy Flow:

Acupuncture and chiropractic treatments both work to remove blockages from the body, which in turn helps improve the energy flow throughout the entire system. This improved energy flow can help to reduce pain and speed up healing.

2. Reduced Pain:

Acupuncture and chiropractic care reduce muscle tension, inflammation, and pain. When used together, acupuncture and chiropractic treatments will provide more comprehensive treatment for those seeking relief from chronic pain or discomfort.

3. Improved Flexibility:

By combining acupuncture with chiropractic care, patients will experience increased flexibility in their muscles and joints due to the release of tight muscles that acupuncture provides and the alignment of spinal joints that chiropractic treatments offer.

4. Improved Balance:

Combining acupuncture and chiropractic care can also help improve balance in the body. This improved balance can reduce the risk of injury and improve overall health and well-being.

5. Faster Healing Times:

The combination of acupuncture and chiropractic treatments can speed up healing times compared with other forms of treatment alone, ensuring you get back to feeling your best faster.

Pro Tip

If you're looking for acupuncture and chiropractic services near you, consider getting acupuncture combined with chiropractic care. It may be the most efficient treatment available to you and can provide many benefits.

You'll be able to contact Core Chiropractic Clinic today to book your acupuncture combined with chiropractic session. Dr.Vollrath is dedicated to helping you find relief from pain, improve your overall health and well-being, and get back to feeling your best in no time!

We look forward to providing you with the highest quality care.

Conclusion

Acupuncture combined with chiropractic care is a great option for improving their overall health and well-being. Combining acupuncture and chiropractic treatments can provide many benefits.

If you're searching for acupuncture near me or a chiropractor near me, contact Core Chiropractic Clinic today! Dr.Vollrath is dedicated to helping you get back on the path toward better health and wellness.

Book your session now!

How to Relieve Mid Back Pain? Learn Easy Yoga Stretches to Relieve Mid-Back Pain

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 19:52:33 GMT

How to Relieve Mid Back Pain? Learn Easy Yoga Stretches to Relieve Mid-Back Pain

Mid-back strongly impacts your daily living. It will badly disturb your routine. Are you facing midback pain and looking for some easy steps to get rid of this? Here we have rounded up some easy stretches to ease your pain.

There are many methods to eliminate mid-back pain, but stretches are a more beneficial way to get rid of pain and get a well-shaped and flexible body. These stretches not only help to relieve the pain, but they will help you to increase flexibility and strengthen your body.

Reasons For Mid-Back Pain

A variety of reasons may cause back pain. An unhealthy lifestyle, some medical issues, or some injuries can cause middle back pain. These are some symptoms of this pain.

● Muscle spasticity or stiffness

● Sharp pain in the middle of the back

● A lower range of motion

The following stretches are helpful and easy to do. Everyone can do it, and you can take some breaks during the day and do these stretches to relieve the pain and stress.

1. Cat cow Movements

This is a simple yoga exercise. It helps to soothe the shoulder muscles and relieve back stiffness. It improves back flexibility if done regularly.

Start with your hands and knees. Keep the knees below the hip and the wrists below the shoulder. Spread the fingers wide and start moving them evenly, distributing weight. Keep your spine neutral.
Gently inhale, let the stomach down to the ground, and keep your buttocks out. Lift your head and shoulders and look forward to making a cow pose.
Exhale, lift your back upward like a cat, tucking in your pelvis, rounding your spine. Lift your head down.
Repeat this exercise 5-7 times and let your body warm up, then deepens the stretches.

2. Seated Twist

People with a lot of sitting cause midback muscles to tighten, and they can't be able to twist their spine. This stretch will give them relief from pain.

Sit with crossed legs or straight in front. Ensure to sit tall, inhale and place your right hand behind you and your left hand on the right knee, and hold this position for 30 seconds and exhale. Then do the same with the second side.
Repeat this exercise 5-7 times.

3. Cobra Pose

This gentle backbend is most effective in strengthening your back. Focus on engaging the back muscles is the main thing to relieve back pain and improve posture.

Lie down on your stomach and keep your hands under the shoulders.
Inhale, put up your chest from the ground, and focus on engaging your back muscles.
Slightly pressure your hands and exhale; keep the stretch. Many people can't do this for as long. So only do as you are comfortable.
Hold the stretch for a few seconds and release.

4. Backbend

After spending a long and hectic day at work, this stretch is more effective in making you feel relaxed.

Roll up a small towel or a small blanket. Place the roll on the floor or yoga mat.
Place the roll below the shoulder blades and lie straight.
Relax in this position. You can keep a pillow under your head if needed.

Take long and deep breaths.

Final Thoughts

Back pain is a common problem that affects your lifestyle seriously. Regular stretching exercises help you to remain healthy. The stretches mentioned above are easy to do at home or anywhere else. So step forward to obtain a healthy lifestyle and feel pain-free back

Hiking and Chiropractic: A Perfect Combination for Better Health

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 17:57:27 GMT

Hiking and Chiropractic: A Perfect Combination for Better Health

If you're looking for a way to improve your health this summer, you should consider going on more hikes! Hiking is a great way to get the exercise you need with the added benefit of enjoying nature.

Hiking plus routine visits to your chiropractor is a great combination full of health benefits that will have you feeling amazing!

Benefits of Hiking and Chiropractic Care

Here are the benefits of hiking and chiropractic care:

1. Hiking and Chiropractic Care Can Improve Your Overall Health

Enjoying nature isn’t the only great thing about hiking… Being outdoors helps you soak up that Vitamin D, lessen your anxiety, and may even improve your immunity. It's also low impact, which means it's easy on your joints. And, when you combine hiking with chiropractic care, you can see even more health benefits!

Chiropractic care is known for improving spinal alignment and overall health. When your spine is in alignment, your nervous system can function correctly. This means that all your body's organs and systems can work correctly.

2. Hiking and Chiropractic Care Can Help Relieve Pain

If you suffer from pain, chiropractic care can help. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to help relieve pain, from providing you with exercises and stretches to complete at home as well as through adjustments.

Hiking is a great way to help further aid your pain relief. After receiving an adjustment, it’s important you continue to move your body in order to strengthen your bones and muscles. You use many of your muscles when you hike, which helps stretch and strengthen them, hiking can also help build bone density.. This can lead to less pain overall!

The best part is everyone can hike! There are many trails in every city that cater to various levels of fitness and ability. If you don’t feel ready for a hiking trail quite yet, even a walk around your neighborhood can provide similar benefits.

If you suffer from chronic pain, consider hiking and chiropractic care as a way to help relieve your pain.

3. Hiking and Chiropractic Care Can Improve Your Mood

Hiking and chiropractic care can both help improve your mood. When you're in pain, it's tough to be in a good mood. But, when you can relieve your pain with chiropractic care, you'll likely find that your mood improves.

Exercise releases endorphins, which are known as "happy hormones." When you hike in nature, you'll also get a dose of fresh air and Vitamin D, both of which can help improve your mood.

If you're looking for a way to improve your mood, consider hiking and chiropractic care.

4. Hiking and Chiropractic Care Can Help You Sleep Better

If you have trouble sleeping, hiking and chiropractic care can help. When you're in pain, it's tough to sleep. But, when you're able to relieve your pain with chiropractic care, you'll likely find that you sleep better.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a way to improve your health, consider hiking and chiropractic care. These two things can work together to improve your overall health, relieve pain, improve your mood, and help you sleep better. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start hiking! And, don't forget to see Dr. Vollrath regularly for adjustments.

Activator Method: Is It The Right Chiropractic Treatment For You?

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 17:55:01 GMT

Activator Method: Is It The Right Chiropractic Treatment For You?

The Activator chiropractic technique is used to treat many conditions like spine issues, TMJ, headaches, back & neck pain, and more.

The treatment involves use of a hand-held specialized tool called an Activator Adjusting Instrument. This tool is spring-loaded and allows your chiropractor to provide precise low-force impulses to the targeted area very quickly.

Since the pulses provided by the tool are so quick, the muscles being treated will not have time to react to the treatment. Meaning they won’t resist the treatment by tensing up. This is why the Activator Method has been one of the more successful treatments in pain reduction.

Does The Activator Chiropractic Method Work?

A review on the effectiveness of the Activator Method was investigated by the National Library of Medicine.

8 clinical trials where the Activator Method was used were reviewed, and patients experiencing spinal pain & trigger points found the treatment favorable.

In addition to the review there are many case studies, series, & clinical trials that show the Activator Method provides positive and clinically meaningful benefits to patients experiencing spinal pain & trigger points.

Patients saw further improvements with the activator chiropractic method in the following areas:

● Acute & Chronic Lower Back Pain

● Sacroiliac Joint Pain

● Neck Pain

● TMJ

● Trigger Points in the Trapezius Muscles

Does The Activator Method Hurt?

As long as the treatment is performed by a trained chiropractor the Activator Method is a safe treatment.

Even though the treatment delivers quick pulses, most patients report the sensation as being relatively mild & comfortable. Overall it is a gentle treatment that chiropractors have been using for years!

As with any new treatment though, it is important to discuss it with your chiropractor first. If you would like to learn more about the Activator Method & if you would benefit from this treatment contact Dr. Vollrath today !

Dowager's Hump: What It Is and How Chiropractic Can Help

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 21:16:15 GMT

Dowager's Hump: What It Is and How Chiropractic Can Help

Do you have a hump on your back? You might be suffering from Dowager's Hump. A hump on the upper back characterizes this condition and can be pretty painful. In this blog post, we will discuss what Dowager's Hump is and how chiropractic care can help. We will also provide some tips for preventing this condition from developing in the first place.

What Is Dowager's Hump?

Dowager's Hump is a condition that is caused by poor posture. When you slouch, the weight of your head pulls down on your upper back, causing the spine to curve inward. This can lead to a hump forming on your back. In addition to being unsightly, Dowager's Hump can cause pain in the upper back and neck. The good news is that chiropractic care can help to correct this condition.

How Can Chiropractic Help?

Chiropractors are trained to identify and correct spinal misalignments. When you visit a chiropractor for Dowager's Hump, they will perform a thorough examination of your spine. Once they have identified the cause of your Dowager's Hump, they will develop a treatment plan to correct the problem. This may involve spinal adjustments, massage, and stretching exercises. In most cases, regular chiropractic care can help to improve posture and reduce or eliminate the pain associated with Dowager's Hump.

Prevention Is Key

The best way to treat Dowager's Hump is to prevent it from developing in the first place. You can do this by maintaining good posture. Make sure that you sit up straight and stand tall. You should stand with your shoulders back and down and your chin tucked in slightly. When you sit, make sure your feet are flat on the floor, and your knees are at a 90-degree angle. Take breaks often if you sit for long periods of time. And when you are sleeping, lie on your back with a pillow under your knees.

Conclusion

If you have Dowager's Hump, don't despair. Chiropractic care can help to improve your condition. And by following the tips for preventing Dowager's Hump, you can avoid this condition altogether. If you are experiencing Dowager's Hump contact Dr. Randy Vollrath today to see if chiropractic care is right for you.

Back to School Chiropractic: A Guide for Parents and Students

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 21:08:12 GMT

Back to School Chiropractic: A Guide for Parents and Students

The new school year is quickly approaching, meaning millions of students worldwide will be heading back to the classroom. For some parents, this can be stressful as they try to adjust their kids to a new routine. For students, getting back into the swing of things can also be tough after a summer of fun. Let’s talk about how both parents and students can prepare for back-to-school while keeping their health at the top of mind!

1. Get a Good Night's Sleep

First and foremost, getting a good night’s sleep is essential. This may seem like an obvious one, but it’s often overlooked. A tired body is more susceptible to injury, so ensure your child gets at least eight hours of sleep each night. If they’re having trouble sleeping, talk to your chiropractor about ways to improve their sleep habits.

Chiropractic care can help kids (and adults) sleep better. One study found that children who received regular chiropractic adjustments slept more soundly and had fewer nightmares than those who didn’t receive treatment.

2. Eat a Healthy Breakfast

A nutritious breakfast is the foundation of a healthy day. Eating breakfast gives kids the energy they need to learn and play. It also helps them concentrate and remember what they’ve learned.

If your child isn’t a morning person, try packing their breakfast the night before so they can just grab it and go in the morning. A healthy breakfast can be as simple as whole-wheat toast with peanut butter or a bowl of oatmeal with fruit and nuts.

3. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is crucial for both kids and adults. Drinking plenty of water helps our bodies function properly, including our brain function. It also helps flush out toxins and keeps our joints lubricated.

Conclusion

Getting back into the school routine can be tough, but following these tips can help make the transition smoother. Chiropractic care is also a great way to promote overall health and well-being. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Core Clinic today!

Foot Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis: How They Can Help

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 20:09:43 GMT

Foot Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis: How They Can Help?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that can cause a lot of pain. If you are suffering from this condition, you may be wondering if foot orthotics can help. In this article, we will discuss how foot orthotics can help to relieve the pain caused by plantar fasciitis. We will also look at the different types of foot orthotics available and how to choose the right one for you.

How Foot Orthotics Can Help To Relieve The Pain

There are a number of different ways in which foot orthotics can help to relieve the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. One of the most common ways is by providing support to the arch of the foot. This can help to reduce the amount of strain placed on the plantar fascia, which can, in turn, help to reduce the pain.

Foot orthotics can also help to improve your alignment. If your feet are not properly aligned, it can put extra strain on your plantar fascia. This can lead to pain and inflammation. By wearing foot orthotics, you can help to improve your alignment and reduce the amount of strain on your plantar fascia.

Another way in which foot orthotics can help is by providing cushioning. If the soles of your feet are not properly cushioned, it can increase the amount of impact when you walk or run. This can lead to pain and inflammation. By wearing foot orthotics, you can help to cushion your feet and reduce the amount of impact on your plantar fascia.

Types Of Foot Orthotics

There are a number of different types of foot orthotics available on the market. The type that you choose will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Some of the most common types of foot orthotics include:

Arch support insoles: These insoles provide support to the arch of the foot. They can help to reduce strain on the plantar fascia and improve alignment.

Heel cups: These cups are designed to cushion the heel. They can help to reduce the amount of impact on the heel and reduce pain.

Metatarsal pads: These pads are designed to cushion the ball of the foot. They can help to reduce pain and improve alignment.

How To Choose The Right Foot Orthotic For You

There are a number of factors that you should consider when choosing a foot orthotic. Some of the most important factors include:

The type of foot orthotic: There are a number of different types of foot orthotics available. You should choose one that is suitable for your needs.

The size of the foot orthotic: Foot orthotics come in a range of sizes. You should choose one that is the right size for your foot.

The level of support: Some foot orthotics provide more support than others. You should choose one that provides the right amount of support for your needs.

The Bottom Line

Foot orthotics can be a helpful treatment for plantar fasciitis. They can provide support, improve alignment, and reduce pain. There are a number of different types of foot orthotics available. You should choose one that is suitable for your needs. Contact Dr. Randy Vollrath today to see with orthotics are right for you!

Can Acupuncture Help Tinnitus?

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 20:02:54 GMT

Can Acupuncture Help Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is a condition that affects many people and can be quite disruptive. There is no one cure for tinnitus, but some people have found relief through acupuncture. In this article, we will explore the link between acupuncture and tinnitus and discuss how this treatment can help improve your quality of life if you are struggling with this condition.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. The practice involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. These points are believed to be connected to energy channels, or meridians that flow throughout the body. By stimulating these points, acupuncture is thought to help improve the flow of energy and promote balance in the body.

Acupuncture is generally considered to be a safe treatment, but there are some potential risks involved. These include bleeding, bruising, and soreness at the needle site. It's important to consult with a qualified practitioner who has experience in treating tinnitus to ensure that the needles are inserted correctly and to minimize the risk of any complications.

How Does Acupuncture Help Tinnitus?

There is no one specific cause of tinnitus, but it is often linked to an underlying health condition. For example, tinnitus may be a symptom of hearing loss, Meniere's disease, or a side effect of certain medications.

While there is no cure for tinnitus, some people have found relief from the condition through acupuncture. It is thought that this ancient treatment can help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the body. This, in turn, may help to lessen the symptoms of tinnitus.

While the exact cause of tinnitus is not known, it is believed that acupuncture can help to improve blood flow to the affected areas, helping to promote the regeneration of nerve tissues. In addition, acupuncture can help to calm anxiety and reduce the effects of chronic stress. Finally, acupuncture can also help to improve sleep, which is often disturbed in people with tinnitus. While there is no cure for tinnitus, acupuncture can help to lessen the symptoms and improve the quality of life for those who suffer from this condition.

If you are considering acupuncture for tinnitus, it is important to consult with a qualified practitioner. They will be able to assess your individual case and determine whether this treatment is right for you. It's also important to keep in mind that acupuncture is not a cure-all, but it may help to improve your symptoms and quality of life.

Things To Avoid

While acupuncture can be helpful for tinnitus, there are a few things you should avoid if you suffer from this condition. First, avoid loud noises as they can worsen your symptoms. Second, try to reduce stress as much as possible, as chronic stress can make tinnitus worse. Finally, avoid alcohol and cigarettes as they can also aggravate tinnitus.

The Bottom Line

If you suffer from tinnitus, you know how debilitating this condition can be. While there is no one cure for tinnitus, acupuncture may help to lessen your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Contact our clinic today to find out if acupuncture is right for you!

Spring Gardening Causing Back Pain? Here’s 3 Tips for Pain Free Gardening

Tue, 10 May 2022 21:17:02 GMT

Spring Gardening Causing Back Pain? Here’s 3 Tips for Pain Free Gardening

Spring is in the air and that means it’s time to give your garden the TLC it needs after a long winter!

However before you jump into your spring gardening, it’s important that you keep the health of your back in mind!

Back pain is a common concern that is associated with gardening, so let’s look at some tips you can implement this season to avoid the pain.

Prevention

Gardening works out many different muscles at once from a variety of movements. From kneeling and bending over (for prolonged time periods at that) to squatting, awkward lifting, and pulling.

All of this will give your body a good workout but also put a lot of strain on your body. To combat the strain and prevent gardening pain there are two main areas of focus:

Proper Warm Up
Good Posture

A strong core and good flexibility are good deterrents to back pain. So keeping this in mind, try incorporating a yoga routine before you begin gardening. Yoga will help strengthen your muscles and loosen tight muscles. This will help prevent pain from a lengthy gardening session.

Focus on posture when doing any lifting, digging, or kneeling, as these are the movements that are sure to trigger back pain.

When lifting, ensure you use the correct lifting form by squatting down to your object, keeping your back nice and straight, and lifting with your legs. Do not lift with your back!

If you must kneel to dig or to plant, don’t hunch over. Hunching, or bending forward for a prolonged period of time will add a lot of stress to your lower back and increase the odds of you experiencing back pain. If you need to kneel, keep your back straight and focus on good form and posture!

Let Tools Do The Heavy Lifting

Tools are a gardener's best friend, especially if you are susceptible to back pain.

Kneeling - Purchasing cushioned knee pads from your local hardware store will do wonders for your knees. You will be able to kneel longer and shouldn’t experience pain once you stand up.
Lifting & Moving - A wheelbarrow is your best friend for moving hundreds of pounds around your garden relatively seamlessly. If you need to move heavy pots consider purchasing a plant dolly as well.
Stand Up Weeders - Kneeling down, digging out, and pulling those pesky weeds can wreak havoc on your back! Purchasing a stand up weeder can make this tiresome chore much easier!

Take Breaks & Rest

Within a gardening session make sure you switch up tasks every so often. You want to avoid repetitive motions as these can lead to injury.

For example, if you are weeding one area of your garden don’t move on to a new area and continue weeding. Perhaps you can take out some pruners and clean up shrubs and trees, allowing your back some rest from pulling weeds.

Once you’ve completed a different task, then move back on to weeding!

Additionally, listen to your body when it says it’s done for the day. Allowing your body the rest it needs after a gardening session will make the next one that much easier on yourself.

Your Chiropractor Can Get You Into Gardening Shape!

If you need some extra relief from pain to get back into gardening, Dr. Vollrath is here for you.

We will assess the root cause of your back pain and develop a treatment plan to get you back into gardening shape. We will provide adjustments as well as exercises and stretches you can do for long term relief.

Chiropractic For Neck Pain

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 19:41:34 GMT

Chiropractic For Neck Pain

Neck pain can be a debilitating condition with huge impacts on your quality of life. It's one of the most common reasons people visit their chiropractor.

Let's discuss why chiropractic for neck pain is beneficial.

Understanding Neck Pain

The neck comprises seven vertebrae, twelve pairs of cranial nerves and a complex array of muscles, ligaments and fascia that work together to allow you to look forward and rotate your head. Neck pain has many possible causes including muscle strain or injury, whiplash, sprains, and inflammation due to conditions such as herniated discs or arthritis.

Chiropractors can help treat neck pain without the need for surgery or drugs. They are experts in diagnosing and treating disorders of the spine and nervous system, particularly with hands-on techniques. And they are trained to develop a treatment plan that addresses the underlying cause of your condition while providing effective pain relief.

How Does Chiropractic Help Neck Pain?

Chiropractic treatment helps realign the bones of the spine and neck, relieving pressure and restoring normal function to the spinal nerves. Chiropractors also use various techniques that help relax muscle tissue and improve blood flow in the area, which further supports your recovery.

Before beginning treatment, your chiropractor will take time to learn about your medical history and perform an examination to determine if you have any conditions that would make it unwise for you to receive chiropractic adjustments.

To determine if you have any nerve damage, your chiropractor may use a combination of physical examination and imaging tests including x-rays and MRIs. These tests will help the doctor pinpoint the cause of your neck pain.

If you're cleared for treatment, your chiropractor will begin by providing manual adjustments to restore alignment to the vertebrae of your spine and neck. These adjustments are gentle and non-invasive.

To sum it up, neck adjustments are a common type of treatment for neck pain and can help relieve stiffness, improve mobility and reduce inflammation. In addition to adjustments, your chiropractor may also recommend massage therapy or other forms of physical therapy as part of your treatment plan. These treatments can help relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow in the affected area of your neck.

Dr. Vollrath and the team at Core Chiropractic are experts at treating neck pain and will get you feeling 100% in no time.

If you have any questions about neck pain or you’re ready to book an appointment, please contact us today!

What Causes Back Spasms & How You Can Relieve The Pain

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 19:33:08 GMT

What Causes Back Spasms & How You Can Relieve The Pain

Back spasms are a common issue that many people deal with. But what causes back spasms? There are many potential causes; from long hours sitting at a desk, commuting, or lifting incorrectly.

Back spasms are involuntary contractions of the muscles in the back. They have the potential to be very painful and can make it impossible for you to move. Back spasms may result from muscle strain or medical conditions. Thankfully, most cases of back spasms can be treated without the need for surgery so long as the pain is unrelated to nerve problems in your spine.

Here are some further causes of back spasms, and steps you can take to remedy the pain.

What causes a person to experience back spasms?

Muscle strain

Muscle strain is the most common cause of back spasms. A muscle strain occurs when people twist, lift, or bend too much, causing the muscles to become stretched or torn. Golfers may particularly relate, as a golf swing demands sudden and intense twisting of your back.

Another cause of muscle strain is having poor posture or standing for too long in a fixed position.

Poor posture

People with poor posture tend not to use the muscles in their core, which leads to weaker core muscles. Poor posture also creates tension on the spine and surrounding muscles, which can lead to injury.

Injuries or Medical Conditions

A herniated disk - A spinal disk can bulge or rupture and place pressure on a nerve root, which can cause pain to radiate down your leg.

Spinal stenosis - The narrowing of open spaces in your spine can put pressure on your spinal cord and nerves.

Osteoarthritis - A type of arthritis that affects the joints in your spine. It can cause inflammation in your vertebrae (the bones of your spine), resulting in pain and stiffness.

Sedentary lifestyle

People who don't exercise are much more likely to injure their backs. Especially when they suddenly exert themselves or begin a new exercise regimen. Also, people who sit for long periods tend to have weaker cores and more back injuries.

Improper lifting

Improper lifting causes a lot of back injuries due to straining the muscles or causing them to tear. The safest way to lift something is by bending at the knees rather than at the waist and keeping your back straight.

Treating Back Spasms

Self-care for back spasms can include:

Over-the-counter pain relievers - Medications like ibuprofen may help with the pain and inflammation associated with back spasms.

Ice and heat therapy - Applying ice to your back during the first 24 to 48 hours after a spasm can reduce inflammation and pain. After that, using heat on your lower back may help relax the muscles.

Stretching exercises - Stretching is a great way to strengthen the muscles that support your back. If you can, take it easy as you slowly stretch your lower back muscles. Move slowly and stop if you feel any pain while stretching or exercising. Don't exercise if it causes more than mild discomfort.

Seeing your chiropractor - When at home treatments aren’t helping relieve your back pain, it may be time to see your chiropractor. Dr. Vollrath and the team at Core Chiropractic will assess the root cause of your back spasms and develop a treatment plan to get your back to 100%.

If you have any questions about back pain or you’re ready to book an appointment, please contact us today!

How To Relieve Tension in Jaw: 3 Movements for Temporary TMJ Relief

bianca.alexis@hotmail.ca (Bianca Ramirez) — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 19:23:38 GMT

How To Relieve Tension in Jaw: 3 Movements for Temporary TMJ Relief

Do you suffer from tension or pain in your jaw? Do you have a headache from clenching or grinding your teeth at night? At Core Chiropractic, we know how debilitating tension in your jaw from TMJ can be.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, a long-term solution is likely needed to address the root of the problem. In the meantime, you need relief. Here are some things you can try.

Self TMJ Massage & TMJ Exercises

Chin Tucks

● Stand or sit tall

● Tuck your chin back and create a double

● Hold the tucked chin position for 3-5 seconds and repeat for as many sets as necessary

Chin Tucks is a stretch like any other. The longer you hold it along with routine performance will work to add strength and flexibility to your jaw. Which may add relief to TMJ disorders.

Jaw Relaxation

● Place your tongue on the roof of your mouth just behind your upper front teeth

● Repeatedly open and close your mouth

● Focus on a slow and controlled opening and closing of your mouth. Let the relaxation be natural

This movement is good to combat the tension that can build up in your jaw and relax the muscles. Complete the movement as many times as required until you begin to feel relief

Mouth Resistance

● Place your thumb under your chin

● Open your mouth slowly, as wide as you’re able to

● Keep your thumb under your chin the whole time and as you open your mouth push into your chin to add resistance.

This movement will help to strengthen your jaw since you are providing resistance to the muscles.

Why Does My Jaw Hurt? Causes of TMJ

The causes of TMJ disorder can vary from muscle tension in other places of your body, pinched nerves, jaw injuries and stress.

For a long-term solution to pain caused by a TMJ disorder, you should speak to your Chiropractor about your individual case. At Core Chiropractic we determine if you have proper jaw alignment and will ensure key muscles that contribute to TMJ disorders are looked after.

In the meantime, these easy-to-do-at-home exercises will assist you in first relaxing your jaw, stretching, and strengthening which may provide the temporary relief you need.

For any questions about TMJ disorders or other pain, you may be experiencing don't hesitate to contact Dr. Vollrath today

Do These 5 Stretches Before Getting Out of Bed

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 19:07:58 GMT

Do These 5 Stretches Before Getting Out of Bed

It’s quite common to hop out of bed in a rush to get started on your busy day. But before you make that morning cup of coffee or even brush your teeth, here are 5 stretches to do before even getting out of bed.

All of these stretches can be done from the comfort of your bed and will wake up your body and improve circulation. A good morning stretch routine will help get your body ready for a productive day!

Full Body Stretch

One of many people’s go-to stretches. You may already be doing some variation of this every morning!

Simply lock your fingers together and reach your arms far behind your head. Make sure you flip your palms out so they’re touching either the wall behind you or the headboard and push away from you.

At the same time, keep your knees straight and push your feet away from you.

This is a great stretch for that early morning stiffness and tightness.

Single Knee Pull

Lie on your back and keep your legs extended. Then choose one of your knees and bend it towards your chest. Then grab your thigh and continue to hold your leg in place wherever comfortable to maintain the stretch.

With the opposite leg (the one still on the bed) flex your foot and press your thigh toward the bed. If done correctly, you should feel the stretch in your hips and thighs. Proceed with the same steps and do it to the other leg.

Cobra

The cobra stretch is amazing for a few reasons. It’s one of the easiest and most accessible stretches to get into. Meaning most people are able to do it.

It is also a great combater to all the rounded shapes we put our bodies in throughout the day, like when at the computer for example. This is because the cobra stretch involves arching your spine backward (spinal extension).

To start, simply lay face down on your bed. Keep your legs extended and your toes pointed. Place your hands facing down near your shoulders and lift your chest.

Easy!

Supine Twist

The supine twist is a great stretch for opening tight shoulders, as well as releasing some of the tightness in your lower back.

To start, lay flat on your back and stretch your arms out at shoulder level. Bend your right knee and cross it on the outside of your left leg, close to the left knee.

Twist to your left side and use your left hand to push down on your bent knee. Hold the stretch for as long as you comfortably can, then do the same thing with your other leg!

Child’s Pose

Child’s pose is an easy and relaxing stretch that will loosen up your spine, thighs, hips and ankles. Along with the great stretch, it also can increase your circulation, activate digestion, and relieve tension.

To start, get on all fours. Keep your knees hip-width apart and touch your toes together.

You’ll then want to drop your buttocks and rest it on your heels. From there, you want to reach your hands in front of you while you rest your head on the bed. Focus on reaching as far as possible with your hands, while pushing into your heels.

Why You Should Do These Easy Morning Stretches

After a long night of sleep, your muscles and your brain need that blood to get flowing for an optimal morning and day. Stretching first thing is going to help with your circulation and as a result you’ll feel looser, be sharper, and will perform better in your everyday activities.

Stretching first thing is also a great way to maintain good posture. (<-- link to posture article) Since tight muscles are one of the leading causes of poor posture, a good stretch routine first thing in the morning will have your muscles relaxed and lengthened.

Stretching in the morning will also help with injury prevention as well as improved flexibility. Before starting any new exercise regimen however, it’s important you consult with your doctor. If you have any questions about implementing a stretching routine specific to your body, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Dr. Vollrath and book an appointment today.

Can Bad Posture Be Fixed

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 23:23:48 GMT

Can Bad Posture Be Fixed

The first step to solving a problem is knowing that it exists. The good news is that if you or someone you know has bad posture, it can be addressed.

Good posture and good health go hand in hand. So if you’ve been wondering how can bad posture be improved, keep reading!

Signs of Bad Posture

Bad posture is often developed without even realizing it’s happening. If you work in an office, bad posture can come from slouching in a chair all day. Likewise, staring at a screen whether it’s your computer, phone or tablet is an everyday contributor to poor posture.

One of the more common signs is Forward Head Posture. If your ears are past the vertical midline of your body, not inline then you have FHP. This can create a lot of stress on your cervical spine and if not addressed can lead to degenerative changes to your neck.

Hunchback (Kyphosis) can be another sign of poor posture. Kyphosis can be spotted when your upper back appears to have an exaggerated curvature.

Rounded Shoulders, Tight Pectorals, Back Pain, Neck Pain, and Headaches can all be signs of bad posture as well.

Is Bad Posture Permanent?

The good news is that bad posture CAN be improved. You will have to work at it every day, but there are steps you can take to improve your posture.

You’ll want to focus on strengthening and stretching the muscle groups that are affecting your ability to sit or stand with good posture. Yoga can also be a great posture-improving activity.

When taking these actions, in addition to seeing your chiropractor, you’ll find that bad posture does not have to be permanent. We can come up with an actionable plan to improve posture and live healthier.

Exercises For Posture Improvement

As mentioned, one of the most important things when improving posture is to strengthen your body. Developing some flexibility will help as well. Taking these actions will result in less pain and less stress on your muscles, which can help prevent injuries down the road.

Here are 3 easy exercises for you to try that can help with posture improvement.

Cat Cow

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqnua4rHVVA

Start on your hands and knees. You’ll want to line up your wrists underneath your shoulders and knees under your hips.
Take a deep breath, let your belly fall down, your shoulders roll back and look towards the sky.
As you breathe out, carve your belly in and look towards your navel.

Cat cow is a great exercise for massaging your spine and will relieve a lot of tension throughout your body.

Child’s Pose

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYvYsFrTI0U&ab_channel=ViveHealth

Start on all fours
Sit back towards your feet.
Use your hands to push back to get a deep stretch in your back.

Child’s Pose is very easy to do, and feels great on your back!

Chest Opener

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgcpqpJ2GU4&ab_channel=KyleNorman

Put your hands behind your back, resting near your lower back.
Squeeze your glutes and engage your abdomen
Pull your shoulders apart and open up your chest.

Having a tight chest from hunching over a desk or your phone is a common cause of bad posture and rounded shoulders. Doing a simple exercise like the chest opener will help fix your posture.

Be sure to consult your chiropractor before starting a new exercise regimen especially if you have injuries or are trying to correct posture. Reach out to Dr. Vollrath for questions about posture improvement.

How To Fix Bad Posture

Having a bad posture can lead to some serious health effects, such as pain, difficulty breathing, and degenerative wear on your spine.

The good news is that it can be improved. In addition to some of the exercises listed above, a simple thing like being mindful of your posture throughout your day is something you can implement right now. Whether you're at your desk, or on a walk. Make a mental note to sit up straight, walk tall, and keep your shoulders back.

Wearing the correct footwear is another simple thing you can do for posture improvement. For women, try wearing comfortable shoes with a low heel. High heels, for example, put a lot of strain on your muscles and can be bad for your posture.

See your chiropractor. Regular visits to your chiropractor are a great way to improve posture. Here at Core Clinic, we can make adjustments to your spine that will allow you much greater mobility and range of motion. We will also recommend exercises specific to where your body is at. Book an appointment with Dr. Vollrath today by clicking here.

Can a Chiropractor Help With Sciatica?

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 22:09:09 GMT

Can a Chiropractor Help With Sciatica?

You can’t sit down for extended periods of time, maybe at all.

You can’t get out of bed without experiencing pain.

Your mental and emotional energy is starting to take a toll from this pain.

You aren’t alone.

Unfortunately, Sciatica is an exhausting and common condition that affects upwards of 40% of people . Sciatica is usually caused as a result of Spinal Stenosis (your spine compressing or pinching your nerves) but can also be triggered by bone spurs or a herniated disk.

You’re likely experiencing a sharp pain that starts in your lower back, travels through your buttock and down your leg. This is because the sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in your body, it starts in your lower back and ends in your foot. So pain as a result of Sciatica can be felt anywhere along this nerve pathway.

At Core Chiropractic, we understand how debilitating Sciatica can be and its effects on your life. We are here for you and can help you get back to living your life pain-free.

Sciatica Chiropractic Treatment Techniques

The most important thing a chiropractor will do to treat Sciatica is to relieve the pressure from the Sciatic nerve.

The goal is to restore your lower back, pelvis, and hips’ normal motion. We have a few different ways of achieving this.

An Accurate Diagnosis - The most important thing is diagnosing that pain you’re experiencing is in fact from Sciatica. For example, Piriformis Syndrome can often be mistaken for Sciatica. We will conduct a comprehensive assessment based on the reason for your visit. You may be sent for x-rays to ensure we can get to the root of your pain.

Chiropractic Adjustments - Spinal manipulations will be performed in order to relieve the pressure from your Sciatic nerve. Our adjustment will try to achieve a few things depending on the issue. Either allow a herniated disc to rest back into position, restore misaligned vertebral discs, or free limited spinal movements.

Acupuncture - Acupuncture for Sciatica can be an extremely effective treatment method for pain. According to the NCBI , acupuncture “triggers the release of adenosine, which produces a rapidly effective analgesic action on radicular sciatica.” Analgesia is your body’s inability to feel pain.

With the proper diagnosis, along with acupuncture and spinal manipulations, a visit to a chiropractor can help ease the pain and address the issue of Sciatica.

How Many Treatments For Sciatica With a Chiropractor?

As with any condition, your body’s reaction to Sciatic treatment with chiro will vary from patient to patient. In the best-case scenario, pain can be relieved within 5 visits.

Sciatica ultimately requires a multi-faceted approach. In addition to your periodic chiropractic adjustments, it’s important you take steps at home to treat your Sciatica.

Proper Exercise - We can discuss an exercise routine that will work best for you and your current health situation. Regular exercise and increasing core stability and back strength can do wonders in helping prevent your lower back pain.

Stretching - A good stretching routine will also help improve your Sciatica. Focus on stretching hips and hamstring muscles as these muscles can put a lot of pressure on your lower back when they are tight. Give your Piriformis muscle a good stretch as well, as mentioned earlier sometimes a tight Piriformis can be mistaken as Sciatica!

How You Can Treat Sciatica On Your Own

Here are some more treatment methods you can try on your own.

McGill Big 3 Exercises - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8VFbkSjCsQ

TENS Machine - A tens machine is a great little tool for muscle stimulation. You can control the intensity of the electrical current and use it to address pain and muscle spasms.

Heat & Ice - Whether you want to use a heating pad, a hot pack, or an ice pack, they can all be effective at treating pain from Sciatica. Heat or ice are great for reducing inflammation, just make sure you don't ice for too long! Try 20 minutes at a time.

Warm Epsom Bath - Many people find great relief from sciatic pain by soaking in a warm epsom salt bath. A few reasons for this:

Epsom salt bath relaxes your nervous system
The warm water increases circulation and reduces inflammation

Conclusion

Sciatica can be a huge hindrance in your day to day life. If left untreated, it can cause permanent nerve damage which can lead to chronic pain that may not be treatable.

Your best bet is to see a chiropractor. We will assess your condition, and determine if chiropractic treatment is right for you.

7 Healthy Habits For The New Year to Set You Up For Success

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 22:02:19 GMT

7 Healthy Habits For The New Year to Set You Up For Success

Picture this:

You wake up on New Year’s day ready to attack your resolutions!

Things go great for the first few weeks of January, but towards the end of the month, you notice some of that motivation has gone away.

Sound familiar?

You’re NOT alone. In fact, 80% of people fail their resolutions by mid-February.

Why is that?

There could be a few reasons. From vague goals to a negative framing of what you want to achieve.

So maybe we should look at it a little differently. Instead of forcing yourself to follow strict diets or drastic lifestyle changes to achieve desired outcomes, you should look to your habits.

Habits are extremely powerful, 40% of your daily actions aren’t actually conscious decisions you make, they’re habits.

Habits only get stronger over time, to the point that they become a daily routine. So rather than focusing on resolutions that are easy to fail, here are 10 healthy and easy habits you can start implementing now and set your new year up for success!

Start Your Day With A Glass of Water

A good night’s sleep can do a number on your hydration. Even if you don’t feel it, your body wakes up dehydrated, so drinking a few glasses of water first thing is a great habit to get into.

About 75% of your brain is water, which emphasizes that point even further! The earlier you hydrate yourself, the earlier you are giving your brain the fuel it needs for the busy day ahead.

It also gives you a great jump on hitting your daily intake of water. You should be drinking about 2 litres or half a gallon of water PER DAY. The benefits to drinking enough water include:

Increased energy and brain function
Can relieve constipation
Can aid weight loss
Boosts your performance during exercise
Promotes healthy skin

Start your morning off right and drink your water!

Speaking of mornings…

Eat a Great Breakfast

It’s called the most important meal of the day for a reason!

After a long night’s rest, your body needs replenishment of glucose to provide you with the energy needed for your day. Breakfast fires up your metabolism as well, which helps you burn calories throughout the day.

If you miss breakfast, then you aren’t providing your body with the fuel it needs early on. This can leave you lacking energy throughout your day. Additionally, most breakfast foods are full of essential nutrients and vitamins that are big contributors to your daily nutrient intake.

Breakfast is commonly skipped because of a lack of time. So consider planning ahead! Make overnight oats, breakfast quesadillas, or omelettes before going to sleep. This allows you to wake up, heat up your food and get that important meal into your body.

Stay Active In Ways That Work For You

The health benefits of regular exercise are immense.

Reduces depression and anxiety
Better sleep
Weight management
Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease
Improves your mood and energy levels
Can be fun and a way to socialize

Physical activity looks different for everyone. You don’t have to spend 2 hours a day at the gym in order to meet your fitness goals.

This is especially true for New Year’s resolutions. If you’ve never gone to the gym in the past, it is unrealistic to automatically make spending hours at the gym your goal.

As mentioned earlier, it’s better you tackle small habits that can lead to influential changes and routines in your life.

Maybe it starts with a 5-minute walk around your block. You’d be surprised how quickly a 5-minute walk turns into the desire to walk for 10 minutes, or 30. This is because the body releases endorphins in response to exercise, it’s why it’s easier to continue a workout than it is to start.

So whatever fitness looks like for you… whether it’s small walks, a stretching routine at home, or making time for the gym. Just get started with small steps. You will be amazed at how much more energy you feel, and how quickly your daily workouts turn into a routine.

Laugh More

There is a lot going on in the world today that can make laughing seem almost impossible. But there are some serious health benefits that come from laughing, no joke!

Believe it or not, laughter can boost your immune system, your mood, and can trigger the release of endorphins!

In fact, laughter encourages numerous positive effects on the body from physical to mental, to social benefits!

A good habit to work on is finding more things in your day that bring you humour and laughter. Consider watching funny shows or movies, listening to a funny podcast during your commute, or hanging out around people with great senses of humour!

Meditate

The popularity of meditation has been drastically increasing in recent years. For good reason, meditation has many health benefits and it’s a great way to reduce stress.

Did you know?

About one-third of adults suffer from insomnia symptoms? In a study conducted by Oxford , they found that people who meditated sleep longer and have improved insomnia severity versus people not taking medication for insomnia.

Meditation may also reduce memory loss due to age, control anxiety and emotional health, and even decrease blood pressure!

A common obstacle many people face when it comes to meditation is not being able to actually do it. Your thoughts race too much, and you find you can’t focus.

There are many guided meditations on YouTube that are extremely easy to follow. Try and get into the habit of doing a 10-minute meditation before going to sleep. You’ll find yourself getting better at meditating and your mental health improving as well!

Get Enough Sleep

Speaking of sleep, try and get into the habit of getting enough of it.

Of course, life gets in the way sometimes and there may be nights where you can only get 5 or 6 hours. But as often as you can, try and get a full night’s sleep in (7-8 hours).

Studies have shown that high-quality sleep can improve a range of issues you may experience, from blood sugar to energy for working out.

As we mentioned in point 2, during sleep the amount of glucose in your body drops. However, if you don’t spend enough time sleeping, or in “restorative slow-wave sleep” you aren’t giving your body enough time to lower glucose levels and allow a reset. Poor sleep has been l inked with high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

So not getting enough sleep may be increasing your risk of developing diabetes or prediabetes.

We live in a busy, demanding world, and it can be easy to neglect your sleep. But getting into the habit of prioritizing your sleep will have you feeling energized and empowered to tackle all the challenges your day throws at you.

Visit Your Healthcare Providers Often

Get in the habit of visiting your healthcare specialists at least once a year.

Routine checkups with your doctor can be important for catching issues before they become major problems. It is always good to get routine blood work, physicals, and blood pressure, among other important tests to ensure your health is in tip-top shape.

Likewise, visit your dentist for an annual check-up to ensure you have no periodontal issues. In case you didn’t know, infections to the structures that support your teeth can contribute to heart disease and diabetes.

Finally, no matter how healthy you live your life, you may still find yourself experiencing aches and pains. That’s where we come in! If it hurts, come see us at Core Chiropractic. Regularly visiting your chiropractor can help alleviate many types of chronic pain, and can improve your posture and fitness!

Implementing

The most important thing come the new year is that you set yourself up for success. It is better that you set up easy, attainable habits that you know you can achieve day in and day out, rather than lofty goals that you may not reach.

This will improve your determination to stick with it, and ultimately turn your habits into routines you carry for life!

These were 7 healthy habits for the new year that you can start nice and easy. When it comes to any new habit, just make sure it works for you and your body. If you have any questions about a new habit you want to try or general health advice, book a consultation with us. We’d love to hear from you!

Chiropractic and Pregnancy Related Back Pain

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 15:37:32 GMT

Chiropractic and Pregnancy Related Back Pain

The body of a pregnant woman goes through many changes. One of those changes can be the onset of back pain. Up to ten percent of pregnant women who suffer from back pain have deemed the level of discomfort severe enough to disrupt their daily routines. However, there are steps that the mother-to-be can take to protect themselves from back pain.

Causes of Pregnancy-related Back Pain.

Weight Gain: The average pregnant woman gains 30 pounds or more while pregnant. The added weight puts extra stress on the back, feet, ankles and knees. In addition, as the baby grows, the core abdominal muscles become stretched. The stretching of the core abdominal muscles can affect the body's posture and stability compared to pre-pregnancy.

Hormones: Starting in the third trimester, a hormone called "relaxin" increases in production. Relaxin aids in loosening joints allowing the pelvis to accommodate the enlarging uterus. However, the loosening of joints often forces the muscles located in the back and pelvis to work overtime to keep the body in an upright and balanced posture, leading to back pain.

How to Minimize Back Pain

Exercise: Staying active with exercise can go a long way to increase muscle support for an aching back. Remember though, a health care practitioner should always be consulted before starting a new exercise regimen. Exercises such as low-impact cardiovascular activities, like swimming, walking, or stationary cycling, can help relieve pain and maintain a therapeutic fitness level.

Sleep position: Trying to sleep on the left side helps reduce the pressure on the uterus and the large blood vessels in the abdomen, optimizing blood flow to both the mother-to-be and the baby.

Pillow position: Placing a pillow between the knees can take the pressure off the lower back when sleeping on the left side.

Support your body: Support becomes crucial with the additional weight gain during pregnancy. Some suggestions are to use a lumbar support pillow in your chair at home or work and to wear flat, supportive shoes. If working in a sedentary type of job, be sure to take a few minutes to walk around each hour.

Take Breaks: Implement frequent mini breaks to elevate your feet. These mini breaks allow the restoration of energy and give your back a chance to relax.

By understanding the causes of back pain and implementing the suggestions above, hopefully relief from pregnancy-related back pain can be achieved.

If you or someone you know is experiencing back pain due to pregnancy, Dr. Vollrath can help. Contact Core Chiropractic Centre today.

Chiropractic Care and Post-Surgery Recovery

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 14:07:50 GMT

Chiropractic Care and Post-Surgery Recovery

Seeking chiropractic care regularly not only improves the health of your back, but your body as a whole.

In many cases, regular chiropractic adjustments with Dr. Vollrath can help you avoid back surgery and stay out of the surgeon's office. While degenerative diseases and unavoidable accidents can happen to anyone, surgery becomes the only option in those cases.

However, Chiropractic care can still help you to recover faster and make your body stronger. Here's how:

Relax Muscles : Many of us hold tension in our back muscles when under stress and getting back surgery tops the stress scale. Chiropractic treatment can help your muscles relax and alleviate some of your pain. Your ability to move may progress much faster after your back surgery than if you hadn't gone to see a chiropractor.

Realign Vertebrae : Misalignment of the vertebrae is a common side effect of surgery. Side effects can include pain, lethargy, and mood changes. Dr. Vollrath can realign the vertebrae that may have shifted during your surgery to enhance your body's ability to heal itself.

Increase Circulation : Tense muscles and misaligned vertebrae can reduce circulation around the tissues, nerves, and vessels in the back. Decreased circulation can make it more difficult for your body to get what it needs to heal. Regular chiropractic care can result in better circulation, ensuring that your body gets the blood, oxygen, and nutrients it needs.

Improve Nervous System Communication : Your nervous system is essential for the body to function correctly. The nervous system helps the brain communicate with every cell in your body by directing what needs to happen.

A pinched nerve can cause extreme pain or numbness in the limb, resulting in your body not being able to function correctly. With the help of chiropractic care, communication can be re-established within your nervous system. This communication allows your brain and body to start working together again to heal you.

Provide Exercises to Increase Strength : The work of Dr. Vollrath has gone far beyond the office. He advises you on how to improve your posture and changes in lifestyle for overall health. In addition, Dr. Vollrath can recommend some exercises you can do at home to help improve the strength of your core muscles and back. By consistently doing these exercises, your back strength will return quicker and making it less likely to re-injury in the future.

Ask Dr. Vollrath about what's best for your body. He will evaluate you to determine the best course of treatment for your specific issues. Contact us today!

Knee Pain No More

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 14:07:47 GMT

Knee Pain No More

Did you know that many cases of knee pain can be treated with chiropractic care?

As a musculoskeletal specialist, Dr. Vollrath is very familiar with treating knee and joint pain. Knee pain can harm your lifestyle, causing you to reduce your activity levels or start taking more pain medications.

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human or non-human body movement, addressing physiological, biomechanical, and psychological dynamic principles and mechanisms of action. Kinesiology is a significant part of foundational chiropractic training. The entire makeup of our body is connected to one another in some way.

For example, the knee bone connects to the leg bone, then connects to the hip bone. Finally, the hip bone is connected to the pelvis, which is ultimately connected to the spine.

Therefore, an adjustment on either a misaligned spinal column or pelvis could help to improve the level of function in the knee.

Dr. Vollrath works with the spine through manual adjustments. Therefore, he can help decrease the knee pain you may be experiencing.

The most common cause of knee pain is being overweight. The extra weight adds additional force to the body's joints, causing muscle disparity and structural misalignments. The effects are felt explicitly in the low back, pelvis, hip, knee, and ankles.

Other known causes of knee pain include:

• Patellar tendinitis

• Knee bursitis

• Meniscus tears

• An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear

• Bone fractures

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Osteoarthritis

While not every cause of knee pain listed above can or should be treated with chiropractic treatment, many of them can be done effectively.

If you or someone you know is experiencing knee pain, Dr. Vollrath can help. Contact Core Chiropractic Centre today.

Put Spine Health on Your Back To School List

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 23:39:46 GMT

Put Spine Health on Your Back To School List

As summer draws to a close, we shift our focus to going back to school. You've got plenty to do in preparation, such as buying new backpacks, meeting new teachers, and new classes to register for. A definite must have on your to-do list is to add regular chiropractic care visits.

It's not surprising that returning to school can trigger some stress in children. Back-to-school jitters and excitement can often be emotionally and physically taxing. Still, the effects of heavy backpacks and the return to high-impact sports can potentially harm your child's physical well-being.

Here are a couple of tips for a healthy start to a new school year:

STRETCH IT OUT!

Summer vacation takes us out of our regular routine, which can often mean less activity than usual. Back to school is a great time to implement a stretching routine. Stretching is essential for your spine's health. Ensure that your child knows some stretches before heading back to school. Before starting any physical activity, your child should spend 10-15 minutes warming up and stretching. After finishing the physical activity, conclude with a cool-down period. This will help prevent injury to muscles that might not have been used in some time.

Back to school also means a lot of more sedentary activity. Some teachers are opposed to children leaving their seats, so some seated stretches are a great tool to teach your child. Teach them about proper posture while seated, which means books/tablets held at eye level, feet flat on the floor, and their back up against the back of their seat. With proper posture, your child will significantly reduce their chance of suffering from back, neck, and shoulder pain.

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE BACKPACK

Your child has been begging for a fancy new backpack, but what looks trendy today can often lead to back issues later. Instead, consider looking for a backpack made of durable material that features additional padding on the lower back area along with wide, padded ergonomic straps.

Pay close attention to how contents and their combined weight are loaded into the backpack. When loading the backpack, consider putting the heaviest items (like books) closest to the body, with lighter and oddly-shaped items furthest away. For the weight of the backpack to be evenly distributed, ensure the straps are correctly adjusted. Keep in mind the backpack's weight should not exceed 10-15% of the child's body weight. Ensure both shoulder straps should be worn and that the backpack sits snugly against the child's back. The lower part of the backpack should not extend beyond the child's backside. If the backpack reaches down to the child's backpack, it is hanging too low.

Implementing these tips into your child’s daily routine will help to avoid any negative physical effects.

If your school-aged child could benefit from a chiropractic adjustment, contact our Core Chiropractic Center to book a treatment making the transition back to school as smooth as possible!

Chiropractic Considerations for the Fall Season

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 16:17:34 GMT

Chiropractic Considerations for the Fall Season

The autumn season is perfect for pretty colours, pumpkin spice lattes, and fall carnivals. What the autumn season isn't always suitable for is your health. When the temperatures start to drop as the end of summer approaches, people start to experience a decline in health.

Dr. Vollrath has several tips you can put into place to keep your body mechanics functioning at peak performance.

Warm-up Before Commencing Yard Work

During the fall season, you can expect the build up of leaves on the lawn to feel endless. But, before you pick up that rake, be sure to warm up your body for adequate preparedness. By missing this critical step, the overuse of muscles can lead to injury.

Wear Comfortable Footwear

At this time of year, when participating in outdoor activities, Dr. Vollrath recommends wearing a sturdy pair of non-slip shoes. Wet grass and leaves are a common slipping hazard during the fall season.

Keep Well Hydrated

The heat of the summer months makes it easy to remember to drink enough fluids. Then, once fall hits, some we tend to stop drinking water as much. It is essential to keep drinking water to prevent injury by keeping the joints flexible, which results in improved overall health.

Seek Chiropractic Care Regularly

Dr. Vollrath is one of the best people to see during the autumn weather. He can assess your condition and administer adjustments to remove alleviate restrictions in the spine and improve the body's communication pathway throughout the nervous system. Frequent visits should be on everyone's to-do list if they want to remain healthy.

Taking these things into consideration will help improve health conditions and keep injuries from occurring as much as possible.

Call to book an appointment with Dr. Vollrath at Core Chiropractic Center today!!

Get Back on the Green!

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 20:21:52 GMT

Get Back on the Green!

The game of golf is loved by many. Rain or shine, you'll find many avid golfers out on the back nine. Don't be fooled, though. Golf is a sport like any other, and injuries can occur. The most common complaint is back and neck pain, which is due to the individual's body being in an awkward position as a result of swinging the clubs at golf balls.

Many golfers are turning to chiropractic care to help them deal with neck and back injuries. Here are several ways Dr. Vollrath can help his patients to get off the couch and back to the game they love.

Consistency of adjustments - Keep your body in tip-top condition and operating normally. For example, periodic spinal adjustments keep the body functioning at maximum capacity and reduce injury. In addition, if the neck and back are aligned correctly, awkward positioning such as a golf swing will have a less negative impact.

Reduction in pain - Dr. Vollrath's treatment regime focuses on the origin of the pain instead of just the symptoms. He helps his patients manage the pain through manipulations instead of drugs. After a few treatments, pain is often reduced and more controllable.

Quicker healing time - Back or neck injuries can heal more quickly when chiropractic treatment is sought rather than letting the injuries heal independently. Dr. Vollrath can adjust the spine and work on the joints and surrounding tissue that can cause pain and often speeding up the healing process. In addition, Dr. Vollrath will evaluate the body as a whole, promoting quicker healing of the injury.

Increased mobility - Golfers who play regularly or only get the opportunity to play a few times a year know mobility is a critical component to playing a good golf game. By maintaining a regular treatment schedule, the body is kept loose, strong and working at an optimum capacity which ultimately prevents injuries.

Pre-game warm up - By adding a solid stretching regime prior to playing, drinking lots of water and avoiding overexertion will go a long way to making your golf game that much more enjoyable.

In summary, a visit to Dr. Vollrath - as a precautionary measure or to treat an injury - can help you manage your pain and decrease the time it takes to heal.

So, if you are a golfer or know someone that could benefit from a chiropractic adjustment, contact our office to book a treatment so that you can get back on the golf course sooner!

Are Standing Desks a Good Idea?

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 20:21:48 GMT

Are Standing Desks a Good Idea?

The introduction of standing desks has taken the workplace by storm with promises of weight loss, improved posture and better focus. However, sitting for extended periods is proven to cause long-term health problems and aches and pains. In comparison, standing for long periods can also contribute to foot and ankle pain.

Don't despair! Standing desks aren't all bad news! These unique workstations can help reduce shoulder, arm and back pain, assuming you incorporate the proper body mechanics.

Getting the most out of your standing (and sitting) desk.

• Use proper sitting and standing posture . Natural tendencies to hunch over or hyper-arch our lower back can occur when we sit or stand for a long time. This can be attributed to poor body mechanics, bad posture or even caused by an unsupportive office chair.

• Wear shoes that support your back . Proper footwear is essential for everyday health, especially if you plan on using a standing desk during the day. Appropriate cushioning, and arch support help you to maintain your balance and minimize pain in your feet. If you often wear high heels to work, be sure to bring a pair of comfortable flats to change into at your desk. Standing in high heels for more than a couple hours a day can contribute to pain in your feet and ankles, as well as cause severe aches and pains in your spine.

• Get up and MOVE. Infrequent stretch breaks and limited movement throughout the day can create back pain. Make a point of taking a break every 30 minutes or so by either going for a walk outside or around your office. Set yourself a reminder to refill your water jug and utilize this task to stretch your muscles. These small activities help get your blood flowing and give you a boost of energy.

• Eating a balanced diet combined with drinking enough water and getting enough sleep at night = a happy and healthy spine for years to come!

I f you've been experiencing back pain for longer than two weeks, contact Dr. Vollrath at Core Chiropractic Center. He can diagnose and treat various spinal conditions and help get you back to your routine in no time. Make an appointment today!

Summer Activities That Promote a Healthy Back

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 17:50:47 GMT

Summer Activities That Promote a Healthy Back

Hello Summer!! The sunshine and warmer weather mean there are plenty of activities to look forward to. Whether it’s heading out of town on vacation or spending late nights sitting around the campfire. The list of fun activities goes on and on.

To get the most out of the summer months, you need to stay healthy and active. Maintaining a good diet and getting regular exercise will help protect overall wellness. It’s essential to pay extra attention to those hard-working body parts like your back.

We have put together a list of perfect activities for enjoying the outdoors in the summer months.

Swimming

Swimming is an excellent sport for strengthening muscles and alleviating back pain. Being in the water creates a weightless atmosphere, reducing pressure in the back and leading to less pain.

There is nothing better than jumping in a pool on a hot summer day. Take a dip and allow the water to improve the health of the body and back.

Yoga

Yoga isn’t just for the summer months, but many studios head to the peacefulness of the great outdoors in nearby parks and green spaces. Yoga is a fantastic source of exercise for the back and the rest of the entire body.

The many yoga poses will stretch out those stiff muscles, strengthen the body as a whole, and reduce any pressure or tension felt in the back. Ultimately, enhancing your health and leaving you pain-free.

Hiking

Hiking is an excellent summer activity. It doesn’t even have to be overly strenuous to reap the health benefits. Simply walking around the block is enough. Walking or hiking is a great low-impact activity. If you chronically suffer from low back pain, prepare for the walk by getting a good stretch.

In the community of St Albert, we have several trails, find one you like and go for a long, slow walk. You may find that your body loosens up, and your back begins to relax as the walk progresses.

Don’t Forget Chiropractic Care.

Along with these activities, it’s also a great idea to add chiropractic care to the mix. Dr. Vollrath can alleviate restrictions found in the spine, promote the overall wellness of the area, and leave you with a pain reduced, stronger, more capable spine. Adding that kind of care and even one of those activities can lead to a healthier spinal column than ever before.

If you would like to protect your back with chiropractic care this summer, book a consultation at the Core Chiropractic Center today!

Dr Vollrath: T8N’s Top 2021 Service Provider for Health & Wellness

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 17:50:46 GMT

Dr Vollrath: T8N’s Top 2021 Service Provider for Health & Wellness

Dr. Vollrath at Core Chiropractic Centre is not just committed to improving his patients' health. He is also dedicated to helping those who live in and around the community of St Albert.

As a health service provider, Dr. Vollrath gets to see the direct impact of chiropractic care on his patients' well-being, comfort, and quality of life. The same ethics lead him to care for his neighbours and to take part in community life.

Dr. Vollrath's involvement in the community comes in many capacities. In June 2021, he was awarded the T8N Magazine's "Best of T8N 2021" in the Health & Wellness category for the 4th year in a row.

As a member of the local BNI Saint City chapter, Dr Vollrath was an active participant in the 2nd Annual Community Cleanup Challenge in May 2021. This initiative encouraged everyone to show their community spirit by volunteering to clean up their favourite park, green space, block, trail, or road. Community service is not an add-on but instead reinforces Dr. Vollrath's vision and core values at every opportunity.

Dr. Vollrath enjoys helping young athletes from all minor sports in St. Albert achieve their most significant physical potential with chiropractic care, acupuncture, injury rehabilitation and nutritional guidance.

The team at Core Chiropractic Center are committed to upholding these values across all the services they offer and the community initiatives they take part in.

If you or someone you know requires chiropractic care, Dr. Vollrath and the Core Chiropractic Center staff are here to help. Book a consultation today!

Running: Your Own Built-in Gym

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 17:01:29 GMT

Running: Your Own Built-in Gym

Running offers many health benefits such as weight control, decreased blood pressure and cholesterol, and relief from stress. The downside to the tremendous benefits of running is the injuries that can happen to the body. Shin splints, tendonitis, ankle sprains, hip pain, and knee strains are just a few of the many injuries that a runner may experience.

Before heading out for that first run, it's crucial to take precautions to not get injured. By purchasing good quality running shoes and by respecting the body's limits are two excellent suggestions. Another excellent suggestion is to incorporate regular chiropractic treatments into your care regime.

Individuals who run can reap many positive results from a regularly scheduled treatment with Dr. Vollrath. Such as:

Repetitive Strain. As disheartening as it is, runners who have sustained injuries must take a hiatus so they can heal. Many runners do not want to risk losing the stamina and endurance that interrupting their exercise routine brings. Dr. Vollrath can treat runners who have injuries as a result of the repetitive motion of running. By utilizing specific chiropractic adjustments, Dr. Vollrath can promote healing in the body as a whole.

Improved Range of Motion . Make no mistake, chiropractic care is not a guarantee that an individual will experience an increase in speed. The ease of movement in the joints and a better range of motion assists the runner in moving more freely and stands a better chance of avoiding running injuries.

Minimized risk of future injuries. Misalignment of the spine can act as a ripple effect making other parts of the body weaker and more susceptible to damage. One of the most common ways runners end up hurt is when one part of the body is over compensating for another being off-kilter.

By seeing Dr. Vollrath for regular adjustments, the negative impact of the jarring motion caused by running can be reduced and avoid running-relating injuries from a proactive approach.

If you need attentive care from a chiropractor in St Albert, trust that Dr. Vollrath at Core Chiropractic Center can provide that for you.

Ouch! My Wrist Hurts!

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 16:27:24 GMT

Ouch! My Wrist Hurts!

Besides our feet, our hands are one of the most frequently used body parts. In this age of technology, we spend so much time typing, the hand and wrist can become a typical source of pain and dysfunction. The anatomy of the hand has 19 bones, while the "wrist bone" is actually a collection of 10 different bones. Some of the wrist's carpal bones attach to the forearm, while others connect to the hand itself.

These bones are provided movement by a complex network of ligaments and tendons. Simultaneously, smooth, pain-free movement occurs through a combination of cartilage and synovial fluid. The "Carpal Tunnel" refers to nerves running through the space between the wrist bones. When overused, the tissues around these joints (tendons, ligaments, nerves, fascia, and blood vessels) create a system that can experience damage.

Wrist pain is commonly experienced due to:

• Dislocation or fracture - A fracture in the hand or wrist can be very painful and may require emergency surgery to repair. Dislocation of the fingers is referred to as an acute hand injury.

• Carpal tunnel syndrome – This syndrome occurs when the nerve (known as the median nerve) becomes pinched ,resulting in the difficulty of giving commands to the thumb, and the first three fingers. The swelling is caused by repetitive motions that strain the wrist's tendons or ligaments. Individuals with smaller carpal tunnels may be at a higher risk of developing this syndrome.

• Arthritis - This condition is described as painful swelling and stiffness in the joints of the hand. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. When the cartilage between the bone ends deteriorates, individuals are left with crippling pain in the fingers or thumbs. Age or injury can both cause arthritis.

• Trigger finger - Also known as Stenosing tenosynovitis, can cause one of one or more fingers to get "stuck" so that they cannot straighten out. This condition occurs as a result of inflammation in the sheaths around a finger tendon.

• De Quervain's tendinitis - De Quervain's tendinitis is a specific type of tendon inflammation that occurs toward the thumb's base. Overuse of the thumb or previous wrist fractures can make increase vulnerability to this injury.

By applying chiropractic adjustments to the wrists and arms joints, Dr. Vollrath will restore normal, natural movement to the injured hand and wrist.

If you're struggling with wrist pain and want relief, call Core Chiropractic Center to book a consultation today .

Waves of Sleep on a Waterbase Pillow

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 15:55:53 GMT

Waves of Sleep on a Water Base Pillow

In a follow-up to our previous blog titled ‘Trouble with Sleep?’, we examined the benefits of developing healthy sleep habits. One of the considerations mentioned was determining what is needed to get sufficiently comfortable in your bed.

We suggested that to help with hip or back pain, try using a pillow between the knees. As an alternative to sleeping on your side, you may be able to tolerate sleeping on your back with a body pillow behind you to take the pressure off your shoulders. Not replacing your mattress when it is worn out or too soft can often exacerbate back pain. In contrast, sleeping on a bed that's too firm can exacerbate hip and shoulder pain. Make sure that your sleep surface is the right fit for you.

Dr Vollrath has a recommendation that might be of interest to those that suffer from neck pain and/or other upper body pains and stiffness. Have you heard about the Chiroflow waterbase pillows? These water-based pillows provide luxurious comfort while sleeping and provide excellent support for the head and neck. The pillows are constructed of a thick, hypoallergenic cushion that sits over the top of a water base.

Clinical trials have shown that water base pillows can improve the quality of sleep whilst significantly reducing neck pain. Each chiropractic water base pillow can hold between 3 to 5 litres of water. These pillows can be personalized to fit each person by altering the amount of water in the pillow, which proportionately adjusts the pillow's thickness to accommodate each sleeper's needs. As the pillow's primary support is water, the allowance for adjustment throughout the night by properly cradling the head and neck as the sleeper switches positions.

If you or someone you know might benefit from a Chiroflow water base pillow, please contact Core Chiropractic Center directly. We have a number of these pillows in stock and available for purchase today!

Tune Up Your Body For Spring

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 15:55:48 GMT

Tune Up Your Body For Spring

After a long, cold winter, it's refreshing to see the signs of spring appearing all around us. It's important to remember that winter can take a toll on our bodies too. Several often debilitating symptoms can be resolved with a visit or two to Dr Vollrath. Symptoms to pay close attention to are:

Aching joints and/or muscles hurt - Do you find that you are sore when you wake up in the mornings? Are your knees aching, or does your neck hurt? Rather than offer a quick fix, Dr Vollrath digs deeper into your musculoskeletal health to determine the cause. Often a treatment plan of adjustments can help you have pain free mornings.

Motor Vehicle Accidents - Car accidents are among the most common causes of underlying joint and muscle pain. Even minor 'fender benders' with minimal damage to your vehicle can have compromising effects on your muscles. A complete examination by Dr Vollrath can help head off any underlying issues that might be lurking just under the surface.

Other Types of Accidents - While people often associate whiplash and other injuries with car accidents. Injuries can also develop due to slips, trips and falls either at home or at work. While you may not be experiencing problems immediately, these injuries can cause you issues in the future.

Limited Range of Motion - If you are a weekend warrior who enjoys recreational sports, you know just how vital your range of motion is to your performance. If you are suffering from a lack of movement within the normal range of motion you would expect, it's a good idea to get an assessment by Dr Vollrath. Range of motion issues also affects people naturally as they age. If this describes you, Dr Vollrath can help you regain the ability to move more efficiently with a regular treatment plan of adjustments.

Enjoy the fresh spring air - free of aches, pain and stiffness. Call Core Chiropractic Center to book a consultation with Dr Vollrath today!

Suffering from Sciatica?

Tue, 23 Mar 2021 17:15:56 GMT

Suffering from Sciatica?

If you have ever experienced a pain radiating from your low back, through your hips, and down one leg - you may have felt the effects of sciatica. In this particular blog post, we will explore what you need to know about sciatica and offer some recommendations to bring some relief.

What is Sciatica?

The sciatic nerve starts from the low back and runs down each leg ending at the back of the heels. The term 'sciatica' is used to describe the pain felt when the sciatic nerve is irritated.

This condition is different from typical low back pain in that it results directly from the sciatic nerve, rather than the spine itself. This nerve serves a vital function and can affect many muscle groups such as the hamstrings, calf muscles, lower leg muscles, and some foot muscles. The pain is often exacerbated by twisting, bending, sneezing or coughing.

What causes sciatic pain?

Research has shown that an estimated 90% of sciatica cases are caused by a herniated disc where the nerve root is compressed. The nerve root compression could have occurred from an injury, age-related wear and tear, lumbar stenosis or piriformis syndrome.

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

The most common complaint is pain radiating down the back of the leg often reducing mobility.

Who is most at risk for sciatica?

While research is still ongoing, it is estimated that:

• 5-10% of patients with low back pain often have it,

• 10-40% of people experience it in their lifetime.

The identified risk factors that increase the chance of developing sciatica are:

• Age

• Height

• Mental stress

• Cigarette smoking

• Occupations such as Machine Operators or Truck Drivers

How is sciatica diagnosed?

When a patient presents with complaints of pain radiating down their leg(s), Dr Vollrath will conduct a full history and physical examination to determine whether the sciatic nerve is to blame. If there are any other red flags present, Dr Vollrath will often work as part of a patient's health care team to identify the cause. For example, if a condition such as Cauda Equina syndrome is suspected – Dr Vollrath will recommend advanced imaging to determine if a Surgeon's consultation should be considered.

How is sciatica treated?

There are several treatments that Dr Vollrath can offer. Such as:

• Lifestyle changes such a diet and/or weight loss

• Physical activity

• Acupuncture

• Spinal manipulation

What can you do at home?

Talk to Dr Vollrath to ensure you are doing everything you can to improve your condition at home. Dr Vollrath may recommend:

• Using proper lifting techniques

• Go swimming, or try aqua fitness

• Using hot and cold packs for comfort

• Alternative between sitting and standing frequently

• Practice good posture

• Improve your core strength through exercise

• Gently stretch out your lower back and hamstrings

• Take walks regularly

How can you prevent sciatica?

Exercising regularly and paying attention to your posture can significantly reduce your chances of developing sciatica.

Dr Vollrath is a spine, muscle, and nervous system expert who provides effective treatment to promote health, alleviate pain, and improve his patient's quality of life. If you're struggling with sciatica and want relief, call Core Chiropractic Center to book a consultation today.

Sunshine is the Best Medicine

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 17:37:17 GMT

Sunshine is the Best Medicine

Vitamin D - often known as the sunshine vitamin - plays a critical role in the health of your bones. The body produces Vitamin D as the result of exposure to natural sunlight. Vitamin D is unique in the sense that most vitamins come from the foods you eat. Having the right amount of

Vitamin D in your body can affect the amount of calcium in your bones in the following ways:

• Too low a level of vitamin D can lead to decreased bone mass (osteoporosis), increasing your risk of bone fractures.

• Too high of a level of vitamin D can lead to calcium deposits in the kidneys (kidney stones), or calcium build-up in other soft tissues like the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.

It is estimated that more than 90% of a person’s Vitamin D requirement comes from casual exposure to sunlight. This poses a problem for those whose environments are limited in their exposure to the sun. In the winter months, countries in the northern hemisphere, the inhabitant is exposed to less ultraviolet light; therefore, reducing the amount of Vitamin D produced in the body.

Statistics Canada reports that, during the winter months, 40% of Canadians had Vitamin D levels below the recommended range. That number is much smaller in the summer, yet still a whopping 25% below the recommended range.

You can naturally absorb Vitamin D from many foods, including egg yolks or fatty fish such as salmon or mackerel. As mandated by law, foods such as milk, soy milk, rice beverages, and margarine are produced with fortified Vitamin D to prevent the risk of deficiency in the general population.

Nutritional labels often describe which foods contain a significant level of fortified Vitamin D. It also never hurts to add a little more sunlight to your day!

For questions about keeping your bones (and the rest of your spine, muscle, and nervous system) in good health this winter (and throughout the year), you can always ask Dr Vollrath.

Troublesome Trigger Points

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 22:54:01 GMT

Troublesome Trigger Points

What is a Trigger Point?

A trigger point is described as a spot or point in a muscle that sends referred pain or a weak sensation to another part of the body. A pain being felt on the side of the head (precisely behind the ear) could be caused by a trigger point originating in the upper trap muscle.

Trigger points are not unusual and can often occur within any muscle of the body. Those who suffer from trigger points exhibit a decreased motion of that particular muscle group due to persistent pain. The head and neck areas are the most common muscles affected by trigger points. Like a domino effect, this leads to developing other symptoms such as jaw pain, eye pain, headaches and ringing in the ear.

What are the most common causes of Trigger Points?

There are several causes for trigger points, such as:

• Lack of exercise

• Sleep disturbances

• Vitamin deficiencies

• A recent or long-term injury

• Poor posture over long periods

• Work-related or recreational activities that cause repetitive stress

How do I manage the effects of Trigger Points?

There are many ways to manage trigger points, including the following:

• Manual therapy (such as chiropractic care)

• Massage therapy

• Non-invasive modalities such as laser, ultrasound, or a TENS machine (which sends small electrical pulses through the skin to change the way pain signals are sent to the brain)

• Acupuncture treatment

What can I do to prevent or improve issues caused Trigger Points?

• Exercise : Regular, gentle exercise is an integral part of keeping our muscles nimble and preventing them from seizing up.

• Regulate your diet : A proper balance of vitamins and minerals in your diet can help prevent trigger points from happening or getting worse.

• Improve posture : People commonly hold stress and tension in their low back or neck area. Become aware of where you carry your stress and adjust your posture accordingly.

• Get enough sleep : Adequate rest is essential for your body in many ways. Make it a priority to allow your body enough time to restore and repair itself after a day’s worth of activities.

• Stretch: Always remember to stretch before and after working or playing recreational sports

If you are experiencing persistent muscle or nerve pain, make an appointment to see Dr. Vollrath at Core Chiropractic Center for a complete assessment.

Vanish the Vertigo

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 22:53:49 GMT

Vanish The Vertigo

As children, many of us enjoyed the sensation of spinning around in a circle, making ourselves dizzy. The dizziness made us laugh and the effects only lasted for a few seconds. However, vertigo sufferers feel this dizzy sensation for prolonged periods that often last for hours or even days. The symptoms can often appear out of nowhere.

For certain types of vertigo, Chiropractic Care is an effective treatment that ultimately provides relief to its sufferers.

What is vertigo?

Vertigo is a considered to be a symptom rather than a condition itself. Vertigo feels like your surroundings are moving, spinning, or swaying, leaving you with various degrees of feeling off-balance and dizzy. Experiencing these symptoms of dizziness is your body's way of telling you something isn't right.

Vertigo tends to be reported more commonly by elderly people. However, patients of all ages can experience this symptom.

What conditions can vertigo be a symptom of?

Vertigo can present itself when there has been damage to the inner ear or misalignment of the vertebrae in the neck. Damage to spinal joints or ligaments can also trigger vertigo-like symptoms. In rare cases, vertigo-like symptoms can point to significant brain disease such as a stroke or tumour.

How can Chiropractic treatment help with vertigo symptoms?

Chiropractic is an excellent option for treating particular types of vertigo. The kind of treatment Dr. Vollrath recommends will often be determined based on what your vertigo is a symptom of.

One particular treatment option may involve an adjustment specifically targeting the joints that aren't moving correctly. Specifically, in the upper neck cases, faulty motion patterns can result in false messages about the body's position and its movement being sent from your joints up to your brain. Dr. Vollrath has found that often a simple adjustment to the upper neck can correct this problem.

Another treatment option Dr. Vollrath may recommend is called the Epley Maneuver. This maneuver is used to address problems relating to the inner ear. Dr. Vollrath will use this technique to reposition misplaced otoconia (bony particles) back to their appropriate inner ear positions. Dr. Vollrath may also suggest specific exercises targeting the vestibulocochlear (inner ear) system.

Following the initial assessment, Dr Vollrath will decide the best course of action for you in treating the condition behind your vertigo.

If you or someone you know is suffering from vertigo-like symptoms, call Core Chiropractic Center to book a consultation with Dr. Vollrath today!

Prioritizing Chiropractic Care in the New Year

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 01:50:03 GMT

Prioritizing Chiropractic Care in the New Year

2021 has arrived! This is the time of year where we set goals to incorporate a healthier lifestyle, whether it be to achieve weight loss, increase fitness levels, or to develop healthier eating habits. Sadly, statistics have proven that more than 66% of those resolutions will be broken by February.

What is the key to achieving your resolutions?

• Set small, attainable goals by making them achievable

• Recruit a partner to help you along the way.

• While some loftier goals may not be attainable instantaneously, the benefits of overall improved health and wellbeing is felt right away.

• Regular chiropractic care is also a part of a holistic wellbeing plan.

Most people don't seek out Chiropractic treatment until they have sustained an injury, feel an odd pinch, or have an existing pain resurface. By maintaining regular Chiropractic visits, your overall wellbeing is positively affected in many ways, such as:

Improved Energy

Most people associate energy levels with coffee, tea, endorphins from exercise, etc. But did you know that spinal health plays a large part in your energy levels?

Often times if you're feeling tired, this can be the result of an unbalanced spinal column. Even a slightly misaligned spine can put your posture and weight distribution out of balance, which in turn makes your body work that much harder to keep everything together. After a prolonged period, this can result in loss of energy and make you feel sluggish regardless of the amount of coffee or how much sleep you get.

Once the misalignment is corrected, your body's energy can be redirected elsewhere. A visit to Dr Vollrath can make a big difference in your energy levels and can ultimately put a little more pep in your step.

Better Sleep

If you're feeling like you're not getting adequate sleep, this may be related to your body mechanics.

With a focus on your spinal health, chiropractic care adjustments relieve the tension and/or pain that may have built up resulting in a more relaxed body making it easier for you to fall (and stay) asleep.

Improved Mood

Chiropractic care may not be the first treatment you may think of for mood elevation and overall mental health wellness. However, proper body mechanics can significantly affect your mental state.

The issues caused by the misalignment of the spine may not be the immediate noticeable until the energy spent by your body to function drains you, which may be responsible for your reduced zest for life.

Chiropractic care can reduce the pain that affects your mood. Any negative impact on your nervous system and existence of chronic pain are common causes for depression. By relieving the muscle tension caused by a spinal misalignment, an increase in mental clarity results leading to overall optimal wellness.

Lowered Risk of Injury

Patients often present with existing pain that could have been prevented with by seeking regular chiropractic care. Not only does Dr Vollrath provide spinal adjustments for relief and realignment, but he also gives guidance for proper body mechanics during physical activity, dispenses nutrition advice and offers strategies to prevent injury. Spinal misalignment opens the possibility to damage the same way an open wound is a door for infection. So, it's essential to always ensure your body's spinal column is supported.

By having a close working relationship with Dr Vollrath in conjunction with regular chiropractic adjustments, you are headed in the right direction for attaining those New Year’s goals for a healthier lifestyle!

Keeping Kids Healthy with Chiropractic Care

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 01:50:00 GMT

Keeping Kids Healthy with Chiropractic Care

Just like adults, children face many challenges relating to their spinal health. These challenges can be caused by bending over their homework, hunching over phones and tablets, carrying heavy backpacks, and sitting for long periods.

Now is the time to teach your child how to deal effectively to these demands. By instilling healthy lifelong habits, you will make great strides in decreasing the chances of developmental issues occurring in their growing bodies. Dr Vollrath can also provide beneficial advice to help their young bodies function at their peak level.

During their formative, growing years, children will encounter many physical stresses. Problems with a child's spine can occur at almost any stage in their growth development. At regular visits, Dr Vollrath can identify any potential spinal dysfunction by ensuring their bones, muscles, joints and nerves are working together correctly, ultimately reducing any the stress placed on ligaments.

Common concerns

Backpacks

Frequent carrying of backpacks can place unnecessary stress on growing spines. These risks include poor posture, distortion of the spinal column, muscle strain, headaches, neck and arm pain, and even nerve damage.

Some helpful tips:

• Pick a bag that has adjustable wide padded shoulder straps along with hip or waist strap, a padded back piece and plenty of pockets.

• Select a backpack made of a lightweight material, such as vinyl or canvas.

• The maximum weight of the pack should not exceed 15% of the child's body weight.

• Always use both shoulder straps

• By using the waist strap, the strain put on the child's back is reduced and transfers some of the load to their hips.

Technology

Issues like text neck become real developmental threats as kids are spending more and more time using devices. Chronic use of these devices often results in poor posture along with many of other associated risks such as headaches; neck and shoulder pain; upper and lower back pain; and sore hands/fingers/forearms.

Some helpful tips:

• Impose limits on the number of hours your child sits with their device(s).

• Ensure your child is getting up and engaging in regular physical activity.

• If your child must look down at their device, encourage them to tuck their chin into their neck instead of hanging their head forward.

• When required to sit, always encourage your child to sit up straight with chest out and shoulders back.

• To strengthen their posture, make sure your kids stretch their hand, shoulder and neck muscles.

Sitting & Slouching

An overindulgence in sedentary behaviour often produces entirely avoidable health risks, such as neck/shoulder/ back pain, and tension headaches. Additionally, a slouching posture may affect your child's level of confidence.

Some helpful tips:

• Make sure your child is reaching the recommended daily limit for physical activity of at least 60 minutes of daily exercise.

• Make sure kids do not sit for more than 45 minutes getting up to stand or and stretch.

• Make a visible reminder such as a bracelet or tying a colourful string around your child's wrist to remember to change position, get up and move around.

Dr Vollrath is a spine and musculoskeletal system expert trained to assess, diagnosis and treat spinal health. He is proficient at treating all age groups, including children. Book a consultation with Dr Vollrath at Core Chiropractic today.

Staying Active During the Winter

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 12:00:28 GMT

Staying Active During the Winter

When the temperature starts to drop, we tend to gravitate towards spending more time partaking in indoors activities making it more difficult to stay physically active.

To reap the health benefits from exercise, the average adult needs a total of 2.5 hours of activity spread across the week broken down into increments of 10 minutes or more. To be of physical benefit, these activities need to be of moderate-to-vigorous nature.

For example, aerobic exercises would fit in this category. Other moderate-intensity physical activities include bike riding or brisk walking. If you're working up a little bit of a sweat and you're breathing harder than when you're moving at an average day-to-day pace, your exercise level is that of a moderate intensity.

Activities such as jogging or cross-country skiing would be considered to be vigorous-intensity activities where you'll be more likely to find yourself sweating and feeling out of breath.

We've put together a few tips to help keep you feeling driven to stay active during the winter months.

• Plan activities ahead . Make a commitment to your health by putting the activities in your calendar, so you're less likely to forget them.

• Find a fun local activity. Explore the Red Willow Trail system by engaging in activities like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

• Dress in layers . Keeping your body warm and insulated making it easier to continue being active outside.

• Use your daylight hours . Start activities earlier in the day to make the most of the daylight hours.

• Find indoor activities at Servus Place such as aerobics or yoga classes and indoor sports such as badminton or basketball.

• Climb stairs . Use the stairs instead of the elevator. In as few as five minutes, you won't believe the considerable difference that can be made your health.

• Visit a library to find more motivation . Keep it exciting and varied by borrowing an assortment of free DVDs with activities that can range from dance, step, aerobics, or Pilates.

• Sign up for a fun run . Have your friends and family join you in signing up for a non-competitive "fun run" ranging between 5 and 10 kilometres.

• Find an activity buddy. Find a friend to keeps you accountable by planning to meet for morning walks or afternoon workouts.

Regardless of what physical activity you're doing, remember to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. Even though it's cold out, your body needs just as much hydration in a snowstorm as it does in a heatwave.

For help on setting activity goals based on your specific musculoskeletal needs, you can always ask Dr Vollrath about what activities are right for you.

Wondering About Winter Boots

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 12:00:24 GMT

Wondering About Winter Boots

As we all descend into the winter months, it is crucial to ensure you have warm winter apparel. One of the most important elements of winter apparel is the winter boot. Footwear manufacturers tend to market winter boots according to the degree of cold rated for warmth.

After factoring in warmth, your next consideration needs to extend to: how are the boots going to fit? It's essential to get the right fitting footwear to ensure that you have the support needed for walking or shovelling or to generally engage in all sorts of fun winter activities.

Boots that fit too small will not only cramp your feet but also disrupt circulation resulting in your feet feeling cold. It would be best if you considered sizing your winter boots a half-size larger than your actual shoe size. The extra room in the boot will encourage the blood to circulate more freely, allowing thick fuzzy socks to be comfortable worn, and to establish a surrounding pocket of insulating air.

Be sure to choose socks that wick moisture away from the foot such as polypropylene, acrylic, or wool materials. Avoid cotton socks as they hold water against the skin, which is an invitation for cold feet and potential frostbite.

Useful tips for getting the right Winter Boots:

• Removable Insoles – allows for the removal of the insoles to dry between uses or to take out of the boot completely to be replaced with a custom-made orthotic.

• Rubber Soles – provide stability and traction on ice to help prevent slips or falls. Choose boots with a lower heel and wider outsole to provide the broadest base of support to offer maximum stability.

• Laces – An athletic, lace-up winter hiker style of boot will generally provide the best support and comfort and give the most adjustability and support in boots for walking and overall comfort. Velcro straps offer medium support, and pull-on styles provide the very least amount of support.

• Waterproof Leather or Membrane – keeping your feet dry wicking away moisture is the single most crucial step to ensuring warmth and comfort. Be sure to choose boots that have been treated to be waterproof or a breathable membrane such as Goretex that allows your feet to breathe.

Preventing Injuries and increasing enjoyment:

Adorning proper footwear makes winter walking and shovelling safer and more enjoyable. The use of custom orthotics in winter boots will help correct your gait as we switch between the types of necessary footwear from season to season. Custom made orthotics help prevent ankle, knee, hip, and low back pain when out walking in the winter conditions whilst enjoying every aspect this winter wonderland has to offer!

If you have any questions about the best choices for winter footwear or if you think you would benefit from a custom made orthotic, book a consultation with Dr Vollrath today.

Heat or Ice

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 21:23:34 GMT

Heat or Ice

This question is one that most active people have mulled over during their life after they've sustained an injury.

The answer is 'It Depends'.

It depends mainly on the situation whether to treat an injury with a hot pad or an ice pack. In this blog post, we will look at the uses and benefits for each.

Ice

• By applying ice (or a cold pack) reduces blood flow and the sensation of pain to an area. Using a cooling approach to the injured area, (especially a tendon or joint), reduces the inflammation and swelling that causes pain.

• It is best to use ice therapy as soon as possible and continue to do so for the first 24-72 hours of post-injury for short periods (maximum 10-15 minutes) several times a day.

• Keep in mind, don't cool an area to the point where you are shivering. Your brain tends to interpret excess of cold as a threat. When the brain thinks there's something wrong, it may amp up your area of pain as a defense mechanism.

• Make sure there is always make sure there is a barrier between the ice and your skin. The barrier can be a Ziploc bag or a washcloth. Be cautious of applying ice directly on the skin as is it can cause damage (such as frostbite) to the skin and tissues.

Heat

• Heat therapy works by improving circulation and blood flow to an area.

• The use of heating on the affected area can soothe discomfort, increase muscle flexibility and help heal damaged tissue.

• Most useful for sore muscles, chronic pain and repetitive stress injuries. A comfortable temperature of heat can take the edge off

symptoms like muscle aching and stiffness.

• Heat can be most beneficial 36-72 hours after the injury has occurred.

• Use small heated gel packs or a hot water bottle.

• Do not use heat therapy if the area is bruised or swollen; it may be better to use an ice pack.

• DO not apply heat therapy to an area with an open wound.

• Heat therapy is most beneficial when used for long periods.

• For treatment of minor stiffness complaints, relief can be felt after 15 to 20 minutes of heat therapy.

• For moderate to severe pain, relief is provided by longer sessions of heat therapy lasting between 30 minutes and two hours.

Please remember though - whether using ice or heat - both treatments are meant only to mask the discomfort of your injury. If your pain hasn't subsided after a few days of either heat or cold treatment, seek advice from Dr Vollrath.

Dr Vollrath is a highly educated and specially trained musculoskeletal expert. If you experience stiffness or pain related to sport or active living, book a consult with Dr Vollrath.

Trouble with Sleep?

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 20:59:06 GMT

Trouble with Sleep?

Sleep disrupting pain can be attributed to several factors. A few reasons that top the list are advanced age, an old injury, or even a failing mattress. The result is the same - sleep deprivation.

When you have fewer than seven hours of sleep, your body starts to change the way it functions. Your brain, immune system, your appetite and metabolism changes when you don't get enough sleep. The more sleep you lose, the more intense the effects become.

Be proactive with your bedtime routine.

Try hot and cold treatments can help to promote relaxation and to relieve pain. By applying heat, blood is brought to the injured area and promotes healing, while the use of cold reduces swelling. Alternate using hot and cold treatments, depending on your pain-needs.

For those individuals living with chronic pain, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It can sometimes take some trial and error to find the best combination to help improve sleep.

Sleep is a biological necessity. It's incredibly beneficial to find the pain management behaviours, the bedtime routine, and the sleep positions that work best for you. There's no guarantee that all of your aches and pains will disappear altogether. Still, in establishing a healthy sleep routine, your pain will be reduced and ultimately improving your quality of life.

Build healthy sleep habits

Avoid having any distractions such as gym equipment or electronics in your bedroom so that your mind doesn't get mixed signals and ramp up for activity when you should be getting ready for bed. Reserve your bedroom space, both mentally and physically for sleep. To improve the conditions further, consider using light-blocking window coverings. Incorporate the use of white noise machines to reduce distracting sounds, and lower the thermostat.

Make bedtime a priority.

A person's body needs the predictability of a regular bedtime. By establishing a routine of going to bed at the same time each night (even on weekends), your brain will begin to release sleep hormones at the same time every night and strengthens your response to those hormones.

Stretch before sleeping

Before getting into bed, take a few minutes to stretch your body. Stretching can help you get to sleep and wake up with less pain. Start by targeting the areas in the body where you hold tension or a feeling of "tightness," such as your neck, shoulders, back or hips. Be sure to stretch slowly; you should feel tension in your muscles, but never pain.

Consider what you need to get comfortable.

To help hip or back pain, try using a pillow between the knees. As an alternative to sleeping on your side, you may be able to tolerate sleeping on your back with a body pillow behind you to take the pressure off your shoulders. Therapeutic pillows or memory foam mattress toppers are other options that can help to alleviate pain. Replacing your mattress when it is worn out or too soft can help to exacerbate back pain while sleeping on a bed that's too firm can exacerbate hip and shoulder pain. Make sure that your sleep surface is the right fit for you.

Meditate before bed

Meditation has been shown to reduce the anticipation of pain, which may ultimately decrease the perception of pain itself. Implementing mindfulness meditation before sleep can trigger the body's relaxation response, which may reduce your heart rate and blood pressure.

If you struggle with sleep, then a visit to Dr Vollrath is definitely in order. Call Core Chiropractic Center to book a consultation today.

Tips for Fall Clean-Up

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 01:56:35 GMT

Tips for Fall Clean-Up

Autumn will soon be upon us. The tasks of cleaning up leaves and getting the yard and garden ready for the winter is on the 'To-Do' list of many homeowners.

Please proceed with caution though, raking leaves and other jobs in and around the house can take their toll. Dr Vollrath treats many patients who injure themselves at this time of year. Dr Vollrath has a few suggestions before you start:

• Pace Yourself - Don't take on too much too soon. Start with the small jobs and work yourself up to more labour-intensive jobs.

• Spend Some Time Preparing - some gentle stretching exercises before, during and after vigorous work activity are recommended.

• Alternate Your Position - Avoid remaining bent or stooped over for long periods of time. Your back is not used to being in this position, and it won't be afraid to tell you so!

• Dress Appropriately - Wear the ideal clothing for the climate. Try not to overdress or underdress for the weather. Consider layering.

• Use Tools to Your Advantage - Long-handled tools to saves you from bending. Pushing or pulling while being bent over can put unnecessary strain on the shoulders and back.

• Let Your Legs Do the Work - When shovelling or lifting, use your legs for leverage and to take the strain, NOT your back.

• Switch It Up - Change which hand you're using often whilst hoeing, raking, and/or shovelling. Distributing the load helps rather than evenly putting all the effort on one side of the body.

• Rest, Ice, Repeat - If joint or muscle soreness occurs, try resting and apply an ice pack for 15-20 minutes every hour.

• When in Doubt See Dr Vollrath - For acute injuries or severe pain in the spine, call Dr Vollrath to make an appointment. There is no need to be one of those people who suffers needlessly by telling themselves the pain will get better on its own.

If you are experiencing back pain or want to know what you can do to prevent injuries caused by yard work, contact Dr Vollrath at Core Chiropractic Center today to book a consultation.

Walking for Health

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 01:45:37 GMT

Walking For Health

Nothing beats taking a walk through the beautiful trail system in St Albert in the fall. Did you know just by walking that more than 200 individual muscles spring into action which includes all of the muscles in your spine and pelvic area? Not only is walking for exercise is extremely good for you, it can be very beneficial to overall health, including your spinal health. In most cases, walking is an excellent complement to chiropractic care.

Here are five good reasons for Dr Vollrath’s patients to get moving:

RELIEVES AND PREVENTS BACK PAIN -. Walking is a low impact exercise and very gentle on the back, burning around 265 calories in 30 minutes. When exercising, pain-relieving endorphins are released. However, be sure to avoid walking on uneven terrain or concrete.

INCREASES CIRCULATION - Walking increases circulation throughout your body, including your spine. By increasing circulation, there is a continual flow of blood to the muscles and nutrients to the spine. While harmful toxins are drained away, soft tissues are nourished and enriched.

Walking also increases circulation, which, in turn, lowers blood pressure. The body is brought into balance and increases your stamina. When blood is moved through your body, it provides nourishment to all of your muscles, which makes you stronger and also makes it easier for you to exercise.

IMPROVED FLEXIBILITY AND MOBILITY - As the act of walking increases your circulation, flexibility and mobility are enhanced. By incorporating some light stretching, walking can increase your flexibility and give you a better range of motion. These benefits can reduce the risk of injury and improve your posture.

Dr. Vollrath recommends stretching in combination with cardio (such as brisk walking) to help with back pain management and good spinal health. By incorporating these recommendations in addition to your chiropractic care, these activities help your treatment work even better.

HELPS REHYDRATE SPINAL DISKS – Throughout the day movement causes your spinal discs to compress, which results in squeezing out the water that fills the discs, so they provide a cushion to your vertebrae. By increasing the circulation, vital water is channeled to the needed area. The water is absorbed and rehydrates the discs so they can continue to do their job as shock absorbers for the spinal column.

WEIGHT LOSS AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT - Abdominal fat can create excess weight in the front of the body, causing significant stress and swayback effect to the spine. The pressure put on the lower back can result in pain in that area. The spine is part of the body’s core. The muscles that surround the spine aid in balance and movement. When those muscles become strained, they must work harder to maintain balance when excess weight is present.

Weight management and weight loss are helped by activities such as walking. The calories burned by walking attributes to the elimination or reduction of the effects of excessive weight.

As a simple activity like walking can benefit your whole body. Walking is a great way to: reduce your risk of heart disease, improve your blood sugar and blood pressure, curtail your risk of osteoporosis, assist in maintaining your body weight, improve your mental health, and can even lessen your risk of certain cancers.

As your spine is at the core of your body, good spinal health plays a part in every one of these conditions. A combination of walking and chiropractic care, you are giving your body its best chance at good health and optimal function.

The Relationship between Migraines and Food

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 21:21:56 GMT

The Relationship between Migraines and Food

In this month's blog post, we are going to discuss the relationship between your diet and migraine headaches.

Many different additives and chemicals found in foods are common culprits amongst migraine sufferers. For many migraine sufferers, the most common dietary culprits are amines, additives and chemicals. . Many headache sufferers also experience digestive issues, irritable bowels and skin irritations or rashes. Monosodium glutamate (MSG), aspartame, high sodium and nitrites are some of the more prominent triggers to avoid if you experience any of the symptoms as mentioned above. MSG is not only found in restaurants but is a common additive to many sauces, canned veggies and soups sitting on the shelf in your pantry right now. Aspartame in diet soda is another common trigger. Nitrites are commonly found in processed meats like bacon and deli items.

By tracking your diet, you can now start to identify possible triggers by using these five easy steps:

1. Track for seven consecutive days:

• Headaches - Time of day, where you are when the headache occurs, how severe based on a scale of 0-10

• All food - Be specific and be sure to include all sides and condiments.

• All fluids - even include water. People should aim to drink at least ½ your body weight in ounces daily.

2. Read food labels carefully - It is not always possible to avoid all processed and packaged food. Focus on the ingredient list. Ingredients are listed in order of highest to lowest quantity.

3. Eliminate all foods high in amines, MSG, aspartame and nitrites for four to six weeks. While understandably not an easy task, you'll find that the benefit of less intense and infrequent headaches will be worth your while. By focusing on the ingredient list, you'll be able to identify which foods to avoid quickly.

4. Reintroduce one food at a time - start with fruits and vegetables. Then wait three to four days between reintroducing more foods. By taking several days, in-between introductions will make it easier to identify the culprit. Alternatively, if you are symptom-free for three to four days, it's safe to say you can tolerate that food. If you begin experiencing symptoms again within that time, it's best to avoid those foods in the future.

5. Consider common food allergens and intolerances. If you don't experience less headaches over the four- to six-week testing, consider four to six weeks of eliminating more common food intolerances and allergies, such as peanuts, gluten, dairy, eggs, soy and corn.

We hope that these five steps have helped guide you to less frequent headaches and an improved quality of life! Dr. Vollrath is a wealth of knowledge and is always happy to answer any further questions you may have about this topic. Book a consultation at Core Chiropractic Center today.

Getting To Know Your Chiropractor

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 21:01:42 GMT

Getting To Know Your Chiropractor

When you see the word chiropractor , does Dr Vollrath immediately come to mind?

Do you know what Dr Vollrath does?

What types of conditions does he treat?

Do you know how Dr Vollrath can help you as part of your healthcare team?

If the answer is “No,” then this blog post may provide some clarity to those questions.

What does Dr Vollrath do?

Dr Vollrath is educated in the prevention, assessment, diagnosis and management of spine, muscle, and nervous system conditions. Using his unique knowledge and diagnostic skills, Dr Vollrath can recommend a course of treatment to help relieve pain and improve function without surgery or pharmaceuticals.

Examples of treatment include manipulation (commonly referred to as an adjustment), mobilization, soft tissue therapy, exercise, education, modalities (i.e. acupuncture) and rehabilitation.

What types of conditions does Dr Vollrath most commonly treat?

• Subluxation . The result of the spine in which alignment, movement integrity and physiological functions are compromised.

• Back Pain - Managing back pain (acute or chronic) with chiropractic care can help alleviate back pain and restore quality of life.

• Chronic Pain. The key to managing this pain is to relieve pressure on the nerves. This is accomplished through chiropractic adjustments.

• Herniated Disc - Symptoms usually originate at the location of the bulging disc and could travel along the affected nerves. Below are some of the common symptoms: Back pain, Neck pain, Leg pain, Arm pain, Stiffness, Tenderness of the spine, Migraine Headaches, Neck Pain, Sciatica and Sports Injuries.

Do you know how Dr Vollrath can help you as part of your healthcare team?

Dr Vollrath does not prescribe drugs or perform surgery, but he may make a referral to medical specialists for such treatment when appropriate.

If you wish to learn more about Dr Vollrath and the benefits of how chiropractic treatment can help you, please call Core Chiropractic Center today.

Your Body Behind the Wheel

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 20:22:59 GMT

Your Body Behind the Wheel

Given the recent pandemic restrictions and the limited availability of flights, summer vacation plans may need to be focused around places that can best accessed by car. Alberta is a beautiful and expansive province making driving necessary to get where we need to be. Whether it be a long drive for pleasure or for your daily commute to work and back, driving is a fact of life for most.

Some choose to make driving their career such as long-distance truck drivers, bus, taxi or delivery drivers. With that much time spent sitting in the same position, back pain can be an unfortunate side effect of living on the open road.

What causes back pain when I drive?

When driving for long periods, back pain can be triggered by a number of factors:

• your lumbar curve is all but lost which then places extra strain on the vertebrae and discs

• your spine absorbs all of the bumps or quick turns you make

• by driving with your seat reclined or lowered, the legs tend to be straighter which puts strain on the hamstrings. This results in a pulling of the pelvic attachments and the pelvis rolling backwards causing the spine to pitch posteriorly. The rest of the spine is then forced to curve forward to compensate.

• your neck is also forced to flex your neck by up to 20 degrees in order to look straight ahead when the seat is reclined or lowered seat

How can I ease my back pain while driving?

There are a number of ways to help ease your pain:

• Using a lumbar support in the car – This is a specially designed cushion for your lower back that can be purchased or it can be as easy as using an old couch pillow or a rolled up towel.

• Moving your seat forward – Be as close as you can to the steering wheel, without it being uncomfortable. This is the optimal driving distance to prevent back pain. This allows you to avoid slouching and strain in reaching the pedals.

• Adjust your hands on the steering wheel – Driver instructors are well-known for telling their students to “keep those hands at 10 and 2”. This isn’t necessarily the best position to place our hands in when trying to alleviate back pain. Since the invention of airbags, research has found that your hands should be at 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock. This position allows you to rest your elbows on the armrests, which can help ease pain, especially in the upper back.

• Stretching – Stretching before hopping in the car is a great way to prevent driving related pains. For those long trips, plan to get out and stretch every half-hour or so will alleviate some of your pain.

When in doubt, you can always see Dr Vollrath if you are still unsure about how to prevent and alleviate back pain. Dr Vollrath is an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the musculoskeletal system (the body’s bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, joints and connective tissue). Dr. Vollrath will first assess your back’s current condition and then develop a treatment plan for you to help ease your pain.

The Relationship Between Chiropractic Care and Nutrition

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 20:17:39 GMT

The Relationship Between Chiropractic Care and Nutrition

The phrase 'you are what you eat' is commonly heard when it comes to making the right choices on how we choose to fuel our bodies. Nutrition is an essential element when it comes to your overall health.

How and what you choose to eat can severely impact both your muscular and skeletal system. Selecting natural foods and products over processed versions can directly affect the outcome of your chiropractic care.

Nutrition Affects the Nervous System - As you may be already aware, the nervous system plays a critical role in your body. The purpose of your brain and spinal cord is to tell your body what to do, how to do it and to help your body to allocate the nutrients from the meals that you feed it. The nutrition is stored and broken down appropriately throughout the body. Your nervous system may be interrupted if you aren't nourishing it correctly.

During chiropractic care, Dr Vollrath is busy trying to realign the spine and nervous system. These techniques are used to treat patients who have suffered an injury or even for those patients who are just concerned about maintaining their overall health. Chiropractic treatment can often involve the manipulation of bones and working around the spinal cord that it protects.

The very essence of chiropractic care revolves around the health of the spinal and nervous system. A disruption to the nervous system (as a result of not nourishing your body properly) means you could be undoing all of this hard work. Proper nutrition allows both the nervous system and the skeletal system to work together toward healing.

Balanced Nutrition Can Reduce Inflammation - Inflammation of the muscles surrounding the spine is one of the most common issues seen in chiropractic care. Inflammation can be caused by sports injuries, car accidents, or even twisting the wrong way at the checkout line.

Consider increasing or introducing some of the following foods into your diet to avoid or reduce inflammation: olive oil, nuts, fish, fruits, leafy green vegetables and tomatoes. These types of foods also offer many protective factors such as antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals in the body and protect cell health. Free radicals form when food is digested, but the body is unable to process it. The end result is known as 'oxidative stress'.

Balanced nutrition is not only good for digestion but can also improve the chances that your chiropractic treatment is going to be successful at the cellular level. At the cellular level is where the real change to your body begins. Eliminating free radicals and reducing inflammation is the start of a healthy system.

Don't Forget the Musculoskeletal System - It is evident that nutrition matters while under chiropractic care on a cellular level, but we can't forget about effects on the musculoskeletal system. This musculoskeletal system is fundamental in the treatment of both spinal health and nervous system health.

Let us look at how nutrition impacts the spinal and nervous system health:

• As your body processes the food, the necessary nutrients are taken and distributed them throughout the body. The musculoskeletal system often receives the bulk of your body's calcium, protein, and vitamin D. Calcium, protein and vitamin D are essential for the long-term health of your bones and muscles, especially those that are manipulated during your chiropractic treatment.

• However, musculoskeletal nutrition must also include magnesium. Eating lots of raw magnesium -rich foods (cooking foods with magnesium can wash it away) or taking a daily magnesium supplement. Protein is also essential in improving both bone health and muscle health that can prevent some of these chronic ailments.

• All four of these elements - magnesium, calcium, protein, and vitamin D - work together to promote better bone health and stronger muscles. They also prevent significant diseases that affect the spine, such as osteoporosis.

Every Diet is Different - Dr Vollrath may have specific recommendations or suggestions for the type of diet that you should follow. The difference in diet can be attributed to your body’s specific needs. You may need to work on improving bone health or reducing inflammation in your muscular system. No matter what you need to work on, there is a nutrition component that can contribute to your overall health.

Incorporating a balanced diet into your chiropractic care is important if you want to treat the entire body. You will likely see benefits that extend well beyond just your spinal and nervous system health. Many people experience an increase in their energy or at minimum a decrease in other symptoms that are unrelated to their treatment.

Take the advice of Dr Vollrath and start focusing on whole-body wellness in addition to your chiropractic treatments. In the end, your body will thank you.

Just Like Riding a Bike

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 14:17:26 GMT

Just Like Riding a Bike

Cycling as a way of transportation or just for enjoyment is an excellent way to keep in shape. But having a sore back can you prevent you from enjoying this favourite outdoor activity. Various factors can cause back pain or discomfort while riding a bicycle such as a poorly fit or wrong-sized bike, poor riding posture, or even pain from a pre-existing injury.

Cycling, in particular, requires some conditioning and adaptation. If you're new to this sport, you may want to do some research before strapping on your helmet. Pay close attention to any recurrent or prolonged back pain during or after cycling. If you start to experience back pain, be sure to consult Dr. Vollrath for a prompt assessment and treatment. By getting some simple adjustments made, you can continue with enjoying leisurely bike rides, prevent injury or prevent existing damage from progressing to a more severe problem.

Often, simple fixes such as adjusting your bike seat or correcting your posture could help tremendously. We have compiled several helpful tips:

1. Take it easy - Be careful not to overdo it. On long rides, make sure to take breaks as needed, hydrate and do some stretches.

2. Find the right fit for your needs - There is a bike for every rider whether you are interested in touring, road racing or all-terrain cycling. Make sure you have a bike that suits your needs. When you purchase a new bike or take your existing bike in for maintenance, ensure you ask to have your bike properly fitted to your frame.

3. Posture - During your bike ride, keep a neutral spine by bending at the hips. Avoid the "hunch" in your mid-back. Try to avoid excessive movement from your upper body and use your back as a lever instead.

4. Core Strength - Well-conditioned abdominal and back muscles often help to support your upper body while riding and minimize excessive swaying. Dr. Vollrath can recommend exercises that are targeted to your core, as well as exercises to enhance your overall conditioning.

5. Adjust your bike to your frame - Minor adjustments can make a massive difference as different styles of bikes require different riding postures. By undergoing general adjustments, this can help to ensure a relaxed, comfortable position while riding your bicycle.

Dr. Vollrath is here to make sure that the discomfort of back pain does not keep you from enjoying time outside riding your bike. Book an adjustment with Dr. Vollrath at Core Chiropractic Center today!

Treating TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Pain

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 16:32:44 GMT

Treating TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Pain

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain can be debilitating. Patients often become aware of a TMJ condition by experiencing severe headaches and the feeling of the jaw getting stuck in place sometimes even dislocating. The pain associated with TMJ can be so intense that concentration at school and work is affected and often takes away the patient’s ability to participate in extracurricular activities.

What causes TMJ pain?

The bones of the temporomandibular joint are separated by a disc of cartilage to keep your jaw moving smoothly. When those muscles become irritated; the disc becomes displaced. Common symptoms include a popping, a clicking sound or sensation, muscle tenderness, joint tenderness, and being unable to open your jaw wide.

There are three main categories of TMJ pain:

· The most common is in the muscles that control the jaw and the connecting neck and shoulder muscles;

· Internal disorder of the joint, or a dislocated or displaced disc; and

· A degenerative joint disease in the jaw joint, like arthritis.

Your risk of developing this pain increases by jaw injury, stress, or grinding and clenching your teeth.

How do I manage TMJ pain?

There are several things you can do to treat or reverse TMJ-related pain:

· Eating softer foods

· Applying ice packs

· Avoiding extreme jaw movements

· Learning techniques to relax and reduce stress

· Practicing gentle stretching of the jaw to help increase its movement

· Soft tissue massage

How can a Chiropractor help with TMJ?

Chiropractors can help in several ways, including manipulation of the joint to help restore movement and by releasing the nearby muscle gaining access through the patient's mouth.

If you are experiencing TMJ issues, contact Core Chiropractic Center today to book a consultation.

Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 16:26:05 GMT

Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)

Do you ever wonder why you experience muscle soreness following a workout?

In most cases, delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is the culprit. DOMS reduces your range of motion and muscle strength, often occurring 24-48 hours after you try new exercises or an increase to your workout intensity. It’s a sign that your muscles are adapting to new movements.

Muscle soreness post-workout has often been attributed to lactic acid build-up. This idea is not entirely accurate. Lactic acid only lasts in your muscles 1-2 hours following a workout. Activities such as resistance training causes micro-tears of muscle fibres, drawing increased blood flow and inflammation to the area, even leading to mild swelling, which stimulates the pain receptors in the muscle tissue and makes them more sensitive to movement.

The damage to the muscle is temporary. As muscle rebuilds itself, it gets stronger and can handle heavier pressures.

Dealing with Muscle Soreness

DOMS is a natural reaction that indicates your body is getting stronger; however, there are ways you can reduce the discomfort. Here are some suggestions:

Do a light workout such as mild cardio, stretching or yoga a day or two after a heavy workout. Increase the intensity once the pain is gone.
Give your body time to adapt by only introduce new exercises for one to two weeks
Increase the amount of time warming up before resistance training.
Take an Epsom salt bath. Epsom salts are made from magnesium, which helps relax muscles and improve circulation.
Alternate your routine. Plan to concentrate on leg exercises one day, work your arms the following day and core the day after. These changes in activities give each muscle group time to repair.
Drink plenty of water and replenish your electrolytes with a balanced diet full of fruits - mainly bananas - and vegetables such as leafy greens.

Something More than DOMS

However, there are times when the pain may be something more severe than DOMS. Pay close attention if:

The problem does not reduce after three days.
The pain is so intense that you are unable to participate in daily tasks.
Your legs give out due to the severity of pain
You begin to experience significant swelling, redness, discolouration, or intense cramping.
Sprains and strains present themselves as very sharp pains.

If you suspect the pain you are experiencing post-workout is more than DOMS, see your Chiropractor at Core Chiropractic Center. Your Chiropractor can conduct a thorough assessment and offer unmedicated pain management strategies, stretches, or manual treatments. If the cause of pain is outside of the scope of chiropractic care, a referral will be made to the appropriate medical professional.

Seven Tips for Gardeners

Wed, 20 May 2020 12:41:01 GMT

Seven Tips for Gardeners

As the snow begins to melt, many gardeners are giddy with excitement to start digging around in the dirt. Gardening can be advantageous, but it can also come with the associated risks of aches and pains.

Here are a few tips to help you maximize your joy of gardening while minimizing the risk of pain:

• Warm-up. Be sure to take the time to warm up your muscles before you start. By implementing a stretching regime, you can prepare your body for new movements.

• Take breaks. Set a timer and take a break every 15-20 minutes to stand up, stretch and walk around.

• Drink water. When you take your break every 15-20 minutes, have a drink of water, too.

• Breathe. Oxygenating breaths to nourish your hard-working muscles and help to improve circulation. When breathing deeply, you should see your abdomen extend out and then in calmly.

• Listen to your body. If you feel a twinge, take a break or change positions.

• Be mindful of substantial loads. Divide large loads into smaller batches that are easier to handle. Use a wheelbarrow for assistance.

Gardening can be a lot of work, but it’s also a great source of pleasure and beauty, all the more so when you feel in top physical condition!

Consider implementing some preventative chiropractic care before the start of the gardening season. You can accomplish this by scheduling a visit to your Chiropractor. Contact Core Chiropractic Center today.

Chiropractic for Construction Workers

Sat, 09 May 2020 16:53:03 GMT

Chiropractic for Construction Workers

For those that work in the construction trade, their bodies are put to the test every day.

Chiropractors are excellent health care allies for those who work in particularly physical jobs. Chiropractors are musculoskeletal experts. Their job is to treat sprains and strains, resulting in decreased pain. Chiropractors are also a wealth of knowledge when it comes to providing consultative advice on preventative techniques as a way to avoid further injury.

The most common injuries that construction workers tend to experience are:

Upper and lower back pain due to improper lifting techniques.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) often caused by excessive power tools use leading to damage of the wrists and elbow joints due to improper handling and excessive vibration.
Poor body mechanics - When we don't move correctly and safely, the spine is subjected to abnormal stresses that over time can lead to degeneration of spinal structures like discs and joints, injury, and unnecessary wear and tear.

The conditions, as mentioned above, cause patients pain and discomfort, which ultimately affects their ability to live their life normally. Chiropractic has proven to be an effective treatment for these types of conditions. Often manual adjustments are considered to be the most effective form of therapy, but every situation and patient is unique. The chiropractor may recommend some other treatments, such as soft tissue mobilization and taping.

Along with treating injuries and chronic pain, your chiropractor can help you prevent further damage by suggesting some lifestyle changes that will support your body both in and out of work.

Some simple lifestyle changes to consider are the type of footwear worn on your feet for long hours. Another variation can be the introduction of ergonomic equipment into some of your regular activities. Something as simple as implementing a 'warm-up and cool-down' stretch routine before and after work can significantly decrease the risk of injury.

If you would work in a physically demanding job and you are experiencing some of the complaints discussed in this blog, make an appointment to see us at Core Chiropractic Center.

These Dancing Shoes

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 13:50:41 GMT

These Dancing Shoes

Women know all too well that brand new high-heeled shoes can cause pain in your feet and often low back pain as well. Poor footwear in general can cause pain in other areas such as knees, hips, low back and all the way up the spine. It is recommend that the best shoes for your body are ones that provide adequate support and are relatively flat in nature.

Here are a number of methods to reduce the pain on those high-heels days:

• Feet tend to accumulate fluid and swell throughout the day so avoid shopping for shoes in the afternoon or evening.

• Select a heel height that you can walk in gracefully.

• Shoes with a heel height of no more than 2 inches are the best choice. By compromising in the height of the heel, the arched posture associated with high heels is still created without sending you toppling out of them.

• One of the most unstable styles is one with a recessed heel.

• Shoes with many thin straps should be avoided. The straps indent and dig into your skin causing pain and swelling.

• Choose shoes that have good support for the arches of your feet.

• Be sure to place a cushioning pad into the front of the shoe to pad the balls of your feet and also to prevent your toes from getting wedged into the front of the shoe.

• Take frequent breaks from wearing your high heels through-out the day. Take your shoes off, stretch out the tensed muscles, wiggle your toes and make circles with your ankles to help promote circulation.

• The following day you should consider wearing a low, comfortable shoe in order to rest your muscles. Give your feet a nice massage or

The bottom line is, if it hurts make an appointment to see the highly educated and specially trained musculoskeletal expert known as your Chiropractor. Call Core Chiropractic Center today.

Returning to Work

Tue, 04 Feb 2020 00:23:05 GMT

Returning to Work

An estimated 85% of the working adults will experience a back-related injury or condition during the span of their career. The expenses related to treatment, rehabilitation and lost-time costs are as much as $16.4 billion. In Alberta , the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) states that back injuries in the workplace account for more than 25% of all lost-time claims.

Workplace injuries can affect any industry - physical labourers like construction worker or warehouse employees, office workers, retail/sales employees, professional drivers and healthcare providers.

Back pain, strain or injury can happen when you least expect it. By simply bending, lifting, twisting the wrong way, sitting hunched over at the computer, or even stepping out of a vehicle after a long day of driving.

May 3-9 is North American Occupational Safety and Health Week (NAOSH). NAOSH aims to educate workers, employers, and the general public about how to prevent injury and illness in the workplace, at home and in the community.

If a worker suffers a back strain or injury, consider chiropractic treatment. Maintainable on-the-job recovery and swift return-to-work stats support chiropractic as the treatment of choice for back-related workplace injuries.

Statistics show that patients receiving chiropractic care return to work faster and at less cost than compared to other forms of treatment. For employers, by increasing the use of chiropractic care, a reduction in premium costs for benefits and overall contribute to an improved productivity within the workplace.

Providing workers with regular chiropractic benefits through extended health care plans also factors into managing costs. By the introduction and utilization of self-referred health care, the employer can benefit by seeing an improvement in organizational health and productivity. Which ultimately will play a greater role in improving bottom line results by reducing absenteeism and disability leaves.

There are numerous ways for workers to strain or injure their back at work. Both workers and employers need to examine the work environment and required activities to examine the potential risk for a work-related injury occurring.

Chiropractors are back care experts. They can provide advice and guidance on preventing work-related injuries in the future. Strategies such as improving workplace ergonomics, stretches, and exercises to keep employees working comfortably. No referral is necessary and access to treatment is relatively quick.

Chiropractic Solutions for Flat Feet

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 01:35:04 GMT

Chiropractic Solutions for Flat Feet

The average person spends about 4 hours per day on their feet and takes between 8,000 to 10,000 steps. It’s easy to forget about the repetitive brunt force our feet take all day …unless it’s your feet that are causing you the pain or discomfort.

We’ve all heard the term ‘flat-footed’. But what does this actually mean? Flat-foot means a lack of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot.

Not very many people have actual flat-feet. For those that do, this condition affects just under 2% of adults and is referred to as ‘rigid pes planus’. This is where the foot is completely flat even during non-weight bearing activities.

Approximately 20-25% per cent of adults are estimated to have what is called the ‘flexible (or functional) pes planus’ form of flat-feet. In these cases, the arch will appear normal when the person is sitting but upon engaging in weight bearing activities, you won’t be able to place an index finger under the arch. This is the type of flat feet we are describing in this blog post.

Having flat feet can lead to problems such as heel pain, bunions, hammertoes, shin splints, and knee/hip/back pain.

The pain generated by the above-mentioned conditions can be treated by engaging in visit to your Chiropractor. Once your Chiropractor has concluded that flat-feet is the cause of your discomfort, an individually fitted, orthotic arch support(s) will likely be recommended.

Custom Orthotics are designed to support the arches of your feet and keep the bones of your feet and ankles in proper alignment. Improving the biomechanics of your feet can benefit your entire body.

Contact the Chiropractors at Core Chiropractic Center if you are experiencing pain or discomfort that you feel may be the result of flat feet.

Chiropractic Tools

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 20:48:57 GMT

Chiropractic Tools

Whether you are new to chiropractic care or have been a patient for some time, there are a number of tools the Chiropractor uses that provide him or her assistance when performing adjustments to the body.

The most important tool of all is the trained Chiropractor’s own hands. However, in this blog post, we’ll provide an overview of the accompanying tools that may be used and what their specific purpose is.

Chiropractic Tables - One of the most common implements in any Chiropractor’s office is the chiropractic table(s). Depending on your Chiropractor’s personal preference or techniques used, will dictate what type of table they will select. For example, the traction table is used for decompression whereas the drop table is used to add extra force for the adjustment by way of gravity.

Activator Adjustment Tool – This spring-loaded tool allows the doctor to realign vertebrae by sending a low amount of force into the afflicted area of the back.

Electronic Impulse Adjusting Instrument – This tool is similar to the activator adjustment tool, however, is different in that it uses greater yet less painful force in treating back problems. During the treatment, the client will feel a light tapping sensation.

Pro Adjuster – By testing the area electronically prior to the adjustment, this software can help to determine the exact amount of force necessary as it applies to the patient being treated.

The Chiropractors at Core Chiropractic Center love to answer any questions you may have about treatment aids and/or protocols. Contact us today!

Ask Your Chiropractor

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 23:41:33 GMT

Ask Your Chiropractor

Chiropractors love to educate their patients and the general public about their specialized craft. In this blog post, we will cover some of the most frequently asked questions.

How do you know if a Chiropractor can help you? Are there only specific ailments that Chiropractors treat?

Chiropractors can help with conditions of the spine and extremities involving bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and the nervous system. They can help if you are experiencing back pain (thoracic, lumbar and sacral), neck pain (cervical spine and related structures) and/or headaches and migraines. Chiropractors also treat chronic and acute pain syndromes, including myofascial pain syndromes and arthritis. In situations where injuries are sustained by way to motor vehicle accident (such as whiplash), work injuries or sport injuries, Chiropractors also has treatment protocols for those instances. Chiropractors also have extensive knowledge in the areas of nutrition, therapeutic exercise, lifestyle and ergonomic counselling.

What can I expect during my first visit?

Typically, you’ll be asked to complete an intake form which asks for details of your health history. Your Chiropractor will go over the completed form before commencing treatment. A physical exam and then if necessary, you may be referred for an ultrasound or x-ray. Your Chiropractor will then provide you with a diagnosis and recommend the treatment that’s best for you.

How much can I expect to pay?

For Adults, you can expect to pay $109 for the first visit. Each subsequent visit is $50 per visit.

For Seniors and Children age 13-17, you can expect to pay $80 for the first visit Each subsequent visit is $40 per visit.

For Children under the age of 13, you can expect to pay $50 for the first visit. Each subsequent visit is $35 per visit.

How safe is chiropractic treatment?

The risk of a serious side effect is extremely low due to the treatments' non-invasive nature. Depending on the ailment, a sense of relief can be felt right away or some may experience a short duration of mild soreness. You should always discuss any concerns you may have prior to undergoing any chiropractic treatment. Any prolonged effects or concerns following the applied treatment, we would recommend talking to your chiropractor.

How frequently will I need to have a re-adjustment?

Frequency of treatment for each person is determined based on their individual needs. A few only require one treatment while the majority will require a structured treatment plan to resolve their issues.

What is that cracking sound during an adjustment?

Just like the sound you hear when you crack your knuckles, this is the sound of the dissolved gases being release of the dissolved gas from the fluid in the joint space. When the surfaces of a joint get separated, this reduces the pressure inside the joint cavity. The gases in the synovial fluid are then released forming a space for air. When the space then collapses upon itself, this results in a clicking sound. The patient can continue to experience the effects of this process anywhere from a few seconds to a few hours while gas is slowly reabsorbed.

Are Chiropractors considered to be doctors?

Health care legislation recognizes Doctor of Chiropractic (chiropractors) as doctors. Chiropractors are recognized and regulated under the same Health Professions Act in Alberta as medical doctors, dentists and optometrists.

Chiropractors are really no different from any other health care providers – all they want to do is help! The health of you and your body is of their utmost concern.

The Physical Effects of Stress

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 04:20:48 GMT

The Physical Effects of Stress

Christmas time is upon us once again. While this season is known for happiness and joy, it is indeed a busy time of year. The stress of managing the expectations involved and the hustle and bustle required, can definitely take a toll on a body.

The body operates like a vehicle. If the vehicle is pushed to its’ limits for extended periods of time, the vehicle will start to show signs of wear and tear resulting in a break down.

In times of stress, the body’s nervous system begins to trigger the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol into the blood stream. These hormones prepare your body for a fight or flight response. Like the vehicle analogy used above, your body begins to go into a state of overdrive, and this results in increased tension of the musculoskeletal (MSK) system.

The muscles and joints of the spine can be heavily affected by stress. It’s in times of extreme physical or emotional stress that the symptoms of joint problems are made more apparent.

The physical symptoms of stress are muscle tension and/or pain in the shoulders and upper and /or lower back. Tension in the upper neck muscles and joints can lead to headaches as well.

The tension and pain are caused by a compression of the joint which can be easily alleviated via a simple adjustment by a Chiropractor. By decreasing the pressure in the joint, the range of motion is increased, and any tension or pain caused by the joint compression is eradicated. The muscles around the joint move more freely when the restriction is eliminated. The result is an increased state of relaxation in the surrounding tissues.

Simple adjustments are a great way to relieve those crippling tension headaches brought on by stress. Tension headaches are treated by the adjustment of the upper two cervical vertebrae along with adjustments to the junction between the cervical and thoracic spine.

Following the stress reducing adjustments, your Chiropractor reinstates the natural flow of the nervous system resulting in improved function of the many organ systems throughout the body.

If the stress – be it good or bad – is taking a toll on your body this holiday season, the team of Chiropractors at Core Chiropractic Center are here to help.

Airplanes and Back Pain

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 03:59:21 GMT

Airplanes and Back Pain

In the coming months, many Canadians will want to escape the frigid temperatures and head to warmer climates. In order to get to these warmer destinations, the most common mode of transportation is by airplane. Sitting motionless for hours, cramped in a plane seat will result in muscles stiffening which can take its toll on your back.

Not to mention the loading of heavy luggage into the trunk of the car, too heavy carry-on bags racing dangling on shoulders and then trying desperately attempting to fit those bags into the overhead storage only compounds back problems.

There are a few ways to ease back pain, such as:

Pre-Flight - doing activities to strengthen your back and core before the flight, the better chance you have of surviving it without pain.

Mid-Flight - Taking a walk up and down the aisle every 40 minutes or so will allow your back muscles to loosen up a little. Try using a pillow or rolled up sweatshirt as lumbar support at the base of your seat will act as a lumbar support and cushion for your lower back. Stay sufficiently hydrated. Pre-existing disc problems will result in back pain especially if you’re dehydrated.

Post-Flight - after you’ve landed and departed the airplane, avoid sitting or lying down for long periods of time as this could exacerbate the back pain .

Scheduling an adjustment to your spine before and after a plane trip can save you from dealing with unnecessary back pain. Have your chiropractor at Core Chiropractic Center suggest some good posture techniques and stretching exercises in preparation for your travels.

Yoga and Chiropractic Care?

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 13:46:03 GMT

Yoga and Chiropractic Care?

Beyond the fitness benefits of tightening and toning the body, yoga has long been touted as a healing activity that can help alleviate depression, relieve stress, and decrease anxiety.

Chiropractors have begun recommending the benefits of yoga to their patients. Specifically, around the improvements in flexibility and overall spinal health.

The spine is the main support for the body. Chiropractic treatment is primarily intended to align the spine and balance the body. The spine houses most of the central nervous system and provides pathways for neural impulses to move throughout the body.

Chiropractic treatment is a very effective method to treat pain. The benefit of chiropractic treatment is that without the use of medications, this non-invasive approach is used to treat chronic pain, sports related injuries, and even injuries sustained as a result of automobile accidents. Chiropractic care has afforded patients relief of symptoms when nothing else worked.

The combination of yoga with chiropractic treatment only increases in its effectiveness while strengthening the body and making it better able to respond to manipulations. A number of patients are discovering tremendous health benefits from combining these two modalities.

Yoga is the perfect therapy for a chiropractic patient who is looking to help to lower blood pressure, decrease stress, and strengthen the body’s core. Yoga is helping to strengthen the muscles surrounding the spine and providing better support while chiropractic care is working to bring the spine into alignment and balance the body. Yoga’s positive effect on blood flow and relaxation help to increase chiropractic’s efficiency as a pain management tool.

Both yoga and chiropractic help with balance, flexibility, and mobility, but they come at it from somewhat different approaches. By these two methods supporting one another, the result is a more balanced, well rounded treatment of the problem areas.

Safe Shovelling Practices

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 16:28:00 GMT

Safe Shoveling Practices

Welcome November!

The leaves have fallen from the trees and we have already started to experience a few snow flurries here and there. Soon these snow flurries will become plentiful and the frequent need to shovel sidewalks and driveways will become an almost daily occurrence.

Now is a good time to prepare yourself by making sure you have gloves to keep your hands warm, proper footwear to keep your feet dry from the damp and slushy streets, and to make a conscious effort to maintain good posture when it comes to shoveling your sidewalk or driveway.

The accumulation of snow and ice on the ground create hazardous situations. By maintaining shovelled paths and using salt, sand, or other ice-melting substances to help to reduce the potential for slip and fall accidents.

In order to make snow shovelling as safe as possible, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Stand with stability: Wear non-slips boots while shoveling to help you avoid slipping while shovelling. To maintain your balance, stand with your feet at hip-width apart.
Keep the weight close to your body: To guard against straining or pulling a muscle, hold the shovel close to your body. Try to shovel smaller amounts (3–5 centimetres/1–2 inches) of snow at a time.
Grip strategically: To increase leverage when lifting the snow, space your hands apart on the handle.
Lift with your legs: When lifting, bend from your knees not your back. Strengthen your legs and protect your back at the same time.
Engage your core: In order to protect your back as you lift snow, tighten your stomach muscles.
Don’t twist: Move your feet instead to twisting your body.
Don’t fling the snow: Walks over to place the snow on the side of the path rather than throwing it. To maintain good form, turn your feet in the direction you’re dumping the snow.

For more information specific to the prevention of back strain, consult your Chiropractic professional at Core Chiropractic Center.

Combating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 15:25:02 GMT

Combating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

In the world of computers, keyboards have become a necessary operation tool. The repetitive key stokes required to operate a keyboard or the manipulation of a computer mouse put our wrists at risk for developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). CTS is a condition caused by a pinched nerve in the wrist.

The initial symptoms felt by the sufferers of CTS are intermittent numbness or tingling in the thumb, index and middle fingers. Simple things like holding a steering wheel, phone or newspaper can exacerbate these symptoms. These sensations may extend from the wrist radiating upwards to the forearm.

These symptoms can also cause the sufferer to drop things due to weakness of the thumb’s pinching muscles controlled by the median nerve. Many individuals diagnosed with CTS have reported that as the condition worsens, the pain may be enough to waken them from sleep.

As shared by the Alberta College and Association of Chiropractors, ‘women are two to five times more likely to develop CTS than men. This may be because the carpal tunnel area is relatively smaller in women than it is in men. Pregnant women are also at higher risk because the fluid retention that comes along with pregnancy can irritate the median nerve.’

Some of the ways to prevent CTS are:

• Reduce the amount of force applied and relax your grip when performing manual tasks.

• Improving your overall posture can avoid muscle being shortened in the neck and shoulders which can then affect wrist, fingers and hands.

• Keeping hands warm will help to reduce pain and stiffness in hands.

To read more about preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome read the full article or consult your Chiropractic professional at Core Chiropractic Center.

Reach Your Peak Performance this Hockey Season

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 17:10:47 GMT

Reach Your Peak Performance this Hockey Season

The crisp morning air reminds us that the seasons are changing from summer to fall. Winter is just around the corner, which means hockey season will soon be in full swing!

As sourced from www.chiropracticcare.today;

’As one of the most physically demanding sports to be played in America and Canada, hockey players often demonstrate speed, agility, balance, strength, and flexibility while they play the game.’

Hockey players of all ages put their bodies to the test whether it be during a regular practice or an actual game. All of the collisions and falls takes its a toll on a body resulting in spinal misalignment and reduced range of motion.

Seeking chiropractic care on a regular basis is essential for reducing the impact that hockey related injuries can have on your everyday life.

Four key benefits of chiropractic care for hockey players are:

Reduce pain from injuries.
Healing naturally.
Enhance balance and coordination.
Improve range of motion.

To find out how taking advantage of ongoing chiropractic care can help you to keep your skates on the ice, click the link to read the full article or consult your Chiropractic professional at Core Chiropractic Center.

Backpacks - Wear Them Properly

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 18:09:41 GMT

Backpacks and How to Wear Them

With the first week of ‘Back to School’ well underway, backpacks have been brought out of their summer retirement.

Backpacks were designed to allow the wearer to bring everything they could possibly need throughout the day, such as lunches, footwear, schoolbooks, etc. The contents of a filled backpack can result in a considerable weight being carried on the wearer’s back and shoulders.

But how much weight in a backpack is too much?

Backpacks should not be more than 10% of the wearer’s body weight. For example, the total weight of a backpack of a 60 lb. child should not exceed 6 lbs.

As shared on ‘www.chiropractic.ca’, a well-designed backpack should have the following:

• A waist strap - This distributes the weight of the bag more evenly

• Wide, padded shoulder straps - Too much weight on the shoulders and neck can impair circulation

• A padded back - This protects from oddly shaped objects in the bag

• Compartments - Like a waist strap, compartments distribute weight more evenly

To read more about preventing physical strains from ill-fitting backpacks read the full article or consult your Chiropractic professional at Core Chiropractic Center.

Love Your Spine

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 00:35:21 GMT

Loving Your Spine

#LoveYourSpine

When is the last time you said, “I love my spine”? Usually, declarations of endearment like that would follow something unique, like an extraordinary feat of strength. On October 16, Canadians across the country are invited to say just that and celebrate World Spine Day by embracing the skeletal system that’s had their back throughout their lives.

Many back problems come from a common cause – poor posture stemming from poor body mechanics. You’re probably not surprised to hear it but those hours spent sitting at a desk, hunched over a smartphones and bending over and lifting with your back can add up. Fortunately, turning back the clock on the different ways we build poor posture is a lot easier than you think. In fact, you may already be doing things that help to protect your health.

First off – check your posture!

It is important to note that optimal spinal health can look different from person to person but here is one quick way to examine your posture:

Stand against the wall. Your head, upper back and backside should all be touching the wall. If holding this position is uncomfortable, it is likely that you have poor posture.

If you’re like most people, there is probably some room for improvement.

Spinal health is personal

Signing up for a yoga class may be out of your comfort zone, but there are things you can do from the comfort of your own home to love your spine.

Try stretching! Stretching as little as three times a week can have a dramatic affect on relieving pain and improving flexibility. The stretching program on straightenupalberta.com is free and provides stretches and tips for both adults and kids.

Take a look at your furniture. We spend a lot of time sitting and lying down; make sure your furniture is ergonomically friendly and right for you. You can get started with our blog posts on taking a look at the drivers seat in your car, picking the right bed and adjusting your desk at work.

Get educated! There is no shortage of resources available to help you make little changes in improving your posture and boosting your spinal health. Try some of these:

In honour of World Spine Day, the Canadian Chiropractic Association has developed an educational booklet to empower Canadians like you to love your spine. You can download it here on their website.

The ACAC Blog, Everyday Chiropractic, is a great place to start learning about spinal health (in our humble opinion). Try starting with Protecting Your Back at Home, Protecting Your Back at Play and Protecting Your Back at Work.

Plant and Rake without the Ache

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 00:32:39 GMT

Plant and Rake with the Ache

Reprinted with permission from the Ontario Chiropractic Association.

Gardening is a great way to stay active and have fun in the sun. But many people sustain injuries that could easily have been prevented with a little know-how.

S-t-r-e-t-c-h before you start

To plant and rake without the ache, do each of these stretches five times. Don’t bounce, jerk or strain. Stretches should be gentle and should not ause pain.

Overall conditioning:

Take a walk, even on the spot. Ten to 15 minutes should do it. Don’t forget to lift your knees and gently swing your arms.

Your sides:

Extend one arm over your head
Bend left from the waist
Hold for 15 seconds and repeat to the right

Your thighs:

Lean against a tree
Bend your right knee and grasp your ankle with your left hand
Hold for 15 seconds and repeat with your left knee

Your hamstrings:

Stand
Reach your hands to the sky
Then, bending at the waist, reach toward your toes
Hold for 15 seconds

Your wrists:

Hold one arm out in front of your, palm down
Bend your wrist until the fingers point to the ground
Use your opposite hand to hold this position
Place your hands in “prayer” position, and press palms together
Keep your arm straight and place your palm in the “stop” position
Use your opposite hand to hold this position

Your shoulders:

Let your arms hang loose
Rotate your shoulder forward, then rotate back
Your arms and shoulders:
Hug yourself snugly
Slowly rotate at the waist as far as is comfortable to the left, then right

Your back:

In a seated position, bend from the hips, keeping your head down
Reach for the ground
If it hurts, see a chiropractor.

Chiropractors are highly educated and specially trained musculoskeletal experts. Your chiropractor can treat aches and pains, as well as build customized stretching routines and whole-body wellness strategies in conjunction with your chiropractic treatment. Consult with your chiropractor or find one near you.

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