Chiropractic care has been proven to be a very effective
and efficient method to relieving life’s aches and pains. The duration of care and the treatment times
are often brief. When the pain goes
away, treatment often ends.
What can a patient do “when the pain goes away”?
- Posture – it’s important… Here are some helpful
tips:
Standing – Using good posture is an easy way to
maintain a healthy mind and body. When you practice correct posture, your body
is in alignment with itself. This can alleviate common problems such as back or
neck pain, headaches, and fatigue. Simply “think string”…Imagine a string is attached to the
top of your head and it is pulling you gently up towards the ceiling.
Visualization techniques like this can guide you to the proper posture
position.
Sitting - If you sit for long hours,
find a chair and work station that fits your body. The chair should allow your
feet to touch the floor with your knees at a 90 degree angle. If this is not an
option, try using a foot rest for support. With your lower back supported
against the back of the seat or a lower back cushion, try to align your ears
shoulders and hips in a straight line. This will help you avoid slouching or leaning
forward. Adjust your chair forward or
back so your elbows are at a 90 degree angle. If your elbows are too straight,
you are too far back. If they are less than 90 degrees, you are sitting too
close. Regardless, if you are too far away or too close, this will cause you to
slouch. Always, attempt to get out of
your chair and move around for a few minutes for every 30 minutes you are
sitting.
Sleeping - While you will not be able to
consciously maintain a particular posture while sleeping, you can attempt the
following: A firm mattress will help maintain proper back support. Sleeping on
your back will help keep your shoulders and back aligned and comfortable. If
you prefer sleeping on your side, try slipping a small, flat pillow between
your knees to help keep your spine aligned and straight. Use a pillow to
provide proper support and alignment for the head and shoulders. Don't overdo
the pillows. Too many, and your head can be bent in an unnatural position. Whatever
you do, avoid sleeping on your stomach. It is impossible to maintain good
sleeping posture on your stomach.
- Proper Body Mechanics and
Lifting Techniques
When you are lifting, always attempt
to bend at the knees and hips. Not just the
waist. Your back muscles are designed to stabilize your spine while your leg
and pelvic muscles are designed to lift the weight. Also, keep the objects close to your center
of gravity. Another tip… if the object is heavy or awkward, ask for help.
- Exercise – Flexibility / Strength /
Cardiovascular
An all-around fitness program to enhance aerobic
conditioning, muscular strength, flexibility and muscular endurance is a well
known way to help prevent back and neck pain.
Programs can vary depending upon one’s fitness level, age and
health. In the event one has had a
previous health concern, we recommend the program be designed by a trained
professional.
- Early Intervention with Chiropractic Care
Some patients rely on
chiropractic care to help manage episodes of spinal problems. If you start to
experience “warning signs” such as stiffness, achiness or twinges of pain, feel
free to call for an appointment. Early
intervention typically shortens the duration of your condition and reduces the
number of visits to get you pain free.
- Chiropractic Wellness Care
Some patients have a chronic spinal
condition that periodically turns into an acute problem. This leads to
frustrating bouts of disability. Often time’s
regular chiropractic care can be integrated into this patient’s lifestyle to gain ongoing
wellness without acute flare-ups.
Our patients who have the once a
month chiropractic appointment typically do the best.
How long you benefit from
chiropractic care is always up to you.
Schubbe Resch Chiropractic and Physical Therapy
representatives can meet with you individually to educate you further on how to keep the pain away. Call 920-720-0660 (Neenah) or 920-738-0200 (Appleton) to schedule your appointment today.