Back in the 1950s, a pair of conjoined twins named Masha and Dasha were born in Russia. They shared a unique anatomy with one arm each and a common set of legs, yet each had their own heart and circulatory system. What was truly fascinating about them was that while they shared the same blood, each twin had her own brain and spinal cord. This difference in their nervous systems led to intriguing situations where one twin would fall ill, say with the flu or measles, and the other would remain completely unaffected—even though they shared the same circulating germs.

Traditionally, medical teaching asserts that germs are the direct cause of disease. If you encounter germs, you get sick, right? Well, Masha and Dasha's case throws a wrench in that simple explanation. It shows us that just because germs are present, doesn't mean illness is inevitable. The real game-changer here is the immune system, which operates under the guidance of the brain and nervous system. There's a groundbreaking piece of science in the book "Autonomic Failure" from 2013, which shows how crucial certain immune cells, like macrophages, are regulated directly by the sympathetic nervous system.

This brings us to the role of chiropractic care, which isn't about treating symptoms or curing diseases directly. Instead, chiropractors focus on aligning the spine correctly to enhance its movement. This alignment helps the brain and nervous system communicate effectively with the rest of the body, boosting its healing capabilities. Regular chiropractic adjustments can remove nervous system interferences, significantly enhancing immune function.

The insights from Masha and Dasha's life have enriched our understanding of the body's potential. They highlight how caring for the nervous system can lead to profound healing and restoration. In fact, research from 2011 demonstrated that spinal adjustments could boost certain immune-boosting hormones by up to 139%. As we continue to learn from the past, it becomes clear that effective health care may rely less on expensive medications and more on supporting the innate healing abilities of a well-cared-for nervous system. The growing field of chiropractic science is spreading this message, teaching us the long-term benefits of nurturing our nervous systems for healthier lives for all ages.

European Journal of Applied Physiology April 2018
"The effects of a single session of spinal manipulation on strength and cortical drive in athletes."
TL Christiansen, IK Niazi, K Holt, RW Newdergaard, J Duehr, K Allen, P Marshall, KS Turker, J Hartvigsen, H Haavik

Runners, whether they're sprinting past the competition or jogging on a Sunday morning, are always on the lookout for that extra edge. And it turns out, one powerful advantage might come from an unexpected place: chiropractic care. This isn't just about eating right or following the latest training program; it's about maximizing everything from your recovery time to your race day performance through spinal adjustments.

Recent studies, including one from January 2018, shed light on why chiropractic care might just be a runner’s secret weapon. This research found that even a single spinal adjustment could boost muscle strength and increase the activity between the brain and muscles in elite athletes. This kind of edge can make a significant difference in training, allowing athletes to work harder and more precisely.

But the benefits don’t stop there. Chiropractic care enhances mobility and biomechanics too. It’s like oiling the hinges of your body: adjustments help improve movement in your spine and joints, which can make you more efficient and reduce the risk of injuries. Think of it as fine-tuning your body’s mechanics, much like you would a high-performance car.

And let’s not forget about the spine's critical role in overall health and how it communicates with the brain. Keeping your spine aligned and moving properly is crucial, especially with the demands of regular running. This helps maintain the health of your nervous system, which is vital given the physical toll that running can take.

Every runner knows that training is a cycle of activity, recovery, and improvement. With chiropractic care, every aspect of this cycle can be enhanced. It’s not just about making you stronger or faster in the short term; it’s about sustaining your running journey. By integrating chiropractic care, you enhance not only your performance but also your recovery and injury prevention strategies.

So, whether you’re lacing up for a race or just for the joy of running, chiropractic care could be the ally you didn’t know you needed. It's about more than just finishing first; it's about running smart, recovering well, and keeping your body in tune for the long run. After all, running isn’t just a sport; it’s a metaphor for life, and chiropractic care helps ensure you can keep enjoying both for years to come.

European Journal of Applied Physiology April 2018
"The effects of a single session of spinal manipulation on strength and cortical drive in athletes."
TL Christiansen, IK Niazi, K Holt, RW Newdergaard, J Duehr, K Allen, P Marshall, KS Turker, J Hartvigsen, H Haavik

The most important improvements from a Chiropractic adjustment occur in the brain and nervous system. The latest research on headaches and depression reports that, “autonomic dysfunction plays a role in the pathogenesis of tension-type headaches and depressive disorders.” The research indicates why so many people suffering from headaches find relief through Chiropractic adjustments. The research also indicates that people coping with depression often turn to Chiropractic for long term relief and resolve which cannot be provided by drugs and prescriptions.

Chiropractic care focuses on the spine and nervous system. Scientific evidence proves that small misalignments of spinal vertebrae coupled with altered mobility create stress in the nervous system. The nervous system stress, also referred to as autonomic dysfunction, increases stress hormones in the blood and body. A sustained increase in stress hormones creates an environment for symptoms such as headaches, pain, and even depression. The most powerful medications in the world do not relieve the nervous system stress that underlies the cause of many of the unwanted symptoms associated with headaches and depressed mood disorders. Chiropractors do not pursue the resolution of a specific disorder through an adjustment. Chiropractors assess, locate, and adjust areas of nervous system stress and misalignment. The outcome focuses on restoring normal function and tone in the brain and nervous system to provide a powerful environment of healing and wellness. Allowing the body to function and heal at optimal levels often leads to the resolution of symptoms ranging from headaches and pain to organ function and even depressive-type conditions.

An estimated 80%-90% percent of the population will suffer from headaches at some point. Approximately 15% of people experience a headache at any given time. Headaches, mental health, and many other conditions benefit from spinal adjustments all over the world. Drug therapy serves as the most prescribed form of relief from headaches, but people deserve to know, understand, and experience the benefits of Chiropractic care. The medical community often prescribes powerful drugs with dangerous side effects which offer no permanent solution to these conditions. Chiropractic care focuses on long-term and permanent healing.

Research from June of 2018 showed Chiropractic adjustments helped with chronic headaches of more than two years in duration by reducing stress in the autonomic nervous system. Headache relief also accompanied reduced feelings of sadness and decreased bouts of extremely low moods. Participants also reported a decrease in thoughts of death and suicide. Many study participants previously sought relief through physical therapy, acupuncture, traditional Chinese therapy, and even six-month regimens of various drug treatments. Results of previous interventions yielded little to no benefits. The study concluded after six months of Chiropractic care which focused on restoring function and healing. All articipants reported a decreased or absent presence of headache pain and depressive-type symptoms as well as the reduction or elimination of medication use.

The benefits of removing interference from the nervous system through gentle and precise adjustments to the spine often result in a reduction or elimination of symptoms. The body possesses powerful innate intelligence that always strives for adaptation and balance. The majority of unwelcome symptoms occur due to interference in the body. A significant form of interference in the nervous system comes from spinal bones being misaligned or not moving appropriately. This interference (called subluxation) occurs in much of the population due to stress. People routinely care for their cardiovascular system, digestive system, and immune system but overlook the need for routine nervous system care and maintenance. The irony being that the nervous system regulates the health of all other systems. Every adult and child deserve a health care plan involving nervous system care.

Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, May-June 2018
"Long-term relief from tension-type headache and major depression following chiropractic treatment."
Eric Chun Pu Chu, Michelle NG

Have you ever considered how chiropractic care might stack up against common pain relievers like Tylenol, NSAIDs, and even opioids? Well, recent studies have shown that chiropractic treatments may not only be a match but might actually be a better choice for tackling back pain. It turns out that over 80% of us will experience back pain at some point, with millions feeling its sting daily. Traditionally, the go-to solution has been to reach for the nearest bottle of pills, but chiropractic care offers a route that goes right to the root of the problem, avoiding the mere masking of symptoms that medications often do.

When it comes to pain relief, the usual suspects include Tylenol (acetaminophen), NSAIDs like aspirin and Advil, and opioids. Each of these comes with its baggage of potential risks.

Tylenol (Acetaminophen): While it’s the most widely used non-opioid painkiller worldwide, recent findings link it to serious health issues such as liver and kidney disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, and even an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, especially at higher doses.

NSAIDs: These are often prescribed for chronic pain in older adults and are linked to a doubled risk of heart failure, as well as higher chances of gastrointestinal issues and even heart attacks or strokes.

Opioids: The side effects here include depression, sexual dysfunction, addiction, and a significantly increased risk of death from overdose. The opioid crisis has become a global epidemic, wreaking havoc on countless lives and communities.

Chiropractic care, on the other hand, has been shown to reduce the risk of these scary drug side effects by 51%, according to a 2018 study. It not only alleviates pain but also reduces the need for drugs, which decreases the chances of experiencing adverse effects from medications.

It seems that many adults are catching on to the benefits of non-drug approaches. Nearly 80% of adults express a preference for non-pharmacological treatments over medications for pain management. This shift is largely due to the growing awareness of the long-term damage and dependency that can come from traditional drug treatments.

The rise in chiropractic care is a testament to its effectiveness and the growing desire for healthier, sustainable methods of managing pain. Chiropractors not only provide relief but also contribute to a significant reduction in the need for drug prescriptions and the risks associated with them.

Embracing chiropractic care can be a transformative step towards a healthier, more sustainable future in pain management, offering a scientifically backed, drug-free approach to healing. It's about choosing wellness over temporary fixes, and many are already reaping the benefits.

Journal of Manipulative Physiological Therapies, June 2018
"Association Between Utilization of Chiropractic Services for Treatment of Low Back Pain and Risk of Adverse Drug Events."
JM Whedon, AWJ Toler, JM Goehl, LA Kazal

Military personnel, both active and retired, often deal with intense physical and emotional pain due to the demanding nature of their duties. The rigorous training, high-stress environments, and physical demands they face are unlike any other profession. Unfortunately, the care available to these heroes, especially veterans, often falls short. Many end up relying on medications that only mask their pain and underlying issues.

There's good news on the horizon, though. Recent groundbreaking research highlights the potential benefits of chiropractic care for our military men and women. Traditionally, when military veterans seek help for pain, they're typically prescribed powerful medications, including opioids. However, when milder treatments like NSAIDs don't do the trick, the next step often involves more potent and addictive drugs.

A study published this year in the Journal of Pain Medicine sheds some promising light for veterans and their families. It found that veterans from recent conflicts who engaged in chiropractic care used fewer opioids compared to those who didn’t receive such treatments. The data revealed that nearly one-third of the veterans who underwent chiropractic treatments still had opioid prescriptions. Yet, the frequency and reliance on these prescriptions decreased significantly once they started their chiropractic sessions.

Chiropractors don't directly treat pain or ailments. Instead, they focus on realigning the spine to ensure a healthy central nervous system. This approach can alleviate various symptoms and conditions due to its positive impact on nervous system balance. The beauty of chiropractic care lies in its ability to offer relief without drugs or surgery, providing a non-invasive option to those who've served our country.

This recent study further supports the argument that chiropractic care should be a staple in the healthcare regimen of military personnel. It offers a path away from dependency on pain medication and toward long-term health and vitality. Military veterans deserve every opportunity to live active, fulfilling lives, and it looks like chiropractic care could be a key part of that journey.

Pain Medical September 1, 2018
"Opioid use Among Veterans of Recent wars Receiving Veterans Affairs Chiropractic Care."
AJ Lisi, KL Corcoran, EC DeRycke, LA Bastian, WC Becker, SN Edmond, CM Goertz, JL Goulet, SG Haskell, DM Higgins, T Kawecki, RD Kerns, K Mattocks

Parents really go above and beyond for their kids, don't they? They sacrifice so much—money, time, you name it—all to ensure their little ones not only get a solid education and form meaningful connections at home and in the community but also stay healthy and thriving. Health is a top priority, because let's face it: when kids are healthy, they're set up to chase down every opportunity without limits, growing mentally, physically, and emotionally in the best ways possible.

The truth is, being in good health is a game changer. It means kids can focus better, steer clear of pain, and have the energy to meet their full potential. There’s an old saying that a healthy person has a thousand dreams, but someone who’s ill can only dream of getting better. That really underscores why ensuring our children are healthy is crucial, especially as they hit new milestones each school year with fresh challenges and environments to navigate.

And here’s where chiropractic care comes in—it's like a secret weapon for health and performance, suitable for kids of all ages. The science behind it is impressive, with over 120 years of research showing that chiropractic adjustments can boost brain and nervous system health. It all boils down to the spine’s connection to the brain and central nervous system. A healthy spine plays a critical role in how well the entire body functions.

Chiropractors focus on unlocking this health potential, creating balance within the body so every organ and system can operate at peak efficiency. Kids receiving chiropractic care often see enhancements in their health, acing intellectual and physical challenges and shaking off symptoms from previous issues. Imagine—a healthy spine opening up a world of possibilities!

There’s also solid research, like a 2016 study, that found chiropractic adjustments can enhance the pre-frontal cortex—the command center for functions like focus, learning, and personality—by more than 20%. And the benefits don’t stop there; chiropractic care helps with a variety of issues without relying on drugs or invasive procedures.

It's not just about addressing a specific ailment; it's about holistic care. With one in every four kids dealing with chronic conditions and on medication, chiropractic care offers a hopeful, drug-free path. Proper spinal alignment helps minimize disruptions in the brain and nervous system, empowering the body’s natural abilities to tackle issues ranging from digestive to immune system challenges.

So, if you're aiming for the brightest possible future for your child, chiropractic care might just be the key to unlocking their limitless potential. It's all about ensuring those bright futures get a chance to shine even brighter.

Neural Plasticity, 2016
"Manipulation of Dysfunction Spianl Joint Affects Sensorimotor Integration in the Prefrontal Cortext: A Brain Source Localization Study."
D Lelic, IK Niazi, K Holt, M Jochumsen, K Dremstrup, P Yielder, B Murphy, AM Drewes, H Haavik

As the summer break winds down and kids gear up for another school year, it’s the perfect moment to think about health check-ups—not just the routine ones but also those that focus on spinal and nervous system health for everyone in the family.

Regular health assessments are familiar to most families, with young kids often seeing their pediatrician for annual wellness checks and student athletes getting physicals to ensure they’re fit for sports. These check-ups look at everything from heart health to nutrition advice tailored to active lifestyles.

However, an equally important check-up that often gets overlooked is for the spine and nervous system. Visiting a chiropractor for a spinal evaluation can be as crucial as those pediatric and athletic assessments. It’s all about preventive care—taking steps to maintain health proactively to avoid illness and injury before they begin.

The spine plays a vital role in overall health by influencing the nervous system which, in turn, affects the entire body. A misaligned spine can disrupt this system, potentially leading to various health issues. Maintaining spinal health is essential not just for physical wellness but for ensuring that all body systems function optimally.

Research supports the importance of spinal health, with studies showing that good posture and proper spinal alignment can significantly impact overall well-being. Just as we care for our teeth to prevent cavities, we should also care for our spine to prevent subtle shifts that may not immediately show symptoms but can lead to more significant health issues down the line.

So, as you prepare for the new school year, consider making chiropractic check-ups a part of your family’s routine. It’s not just about keeping your kids ready for school but ensuring they—and you—have a healthier future ahead.

Spine September 2005
"The impact of positive sagittal balance in adult spinal deformity."
SD Glassman, K Bridwell, JR Dimar, W Horton, S Berven, F Schwab

Just like how you'd maintain a car to prevent uneven tire wear by aligning the axles, similarly, ensuring your spine is properly aligned helps avoid excessive deterioration of the spinal discs. These discs, primarily composed of cartilage and water, function best when your spine is correctly aligned, facilitating mobility and acting as cushions between the bones.

Research has consistently shown that poor posture and misalignment in the spine accelerate the process of spinal degeneration. A notable study from 2017 highlighted that an uneven distribution of weight across the spine leads to faster degeneration of joints and discs. Chiropractic adjustments can counteract this by enhancing spinal alignment and movement, thereby reducing the degeneration risk.

Chiropractic adjustments do more than just fix physical alignments; they also enhance the central nervous system's function. This connection ensures that every adjustment not only eases pain and boosts mobility but also improves the overall communication between the brain and the body. This holistic improvement can significantly boost health and wellness, encouraging a regular regimen of adjustments.

Considering the statistics—over 80% of individuals will face lower back pain at some point, and more than 50% of adults over 55 experience disc degeneration—it's clear how crucial chiropractic adjustments are for maintaining spinal health. Many people don't even realize they have spinal issues until they're already significantly degenerated, which can severely impact overall health.

Chiropractic care extends its benefits to all family members, not just those currently experiencing pain. It has been shown to improve brain function, enhance spinal mobility, and boost the health of various organs, all while reducing the risk of future spinal issues. This makes it an essential part of a holistic health approach.

Still today healthcare professionals around the globe continued to endorse chiropractic care, recognizing its importance in a natural and drug-free approach to health. The extensive research and scientific backing make chiropractic an excellent choice for families seeking to maintain or improve their health and well-being naturally.

Asian Journal of Neurosurgery April-June 2017
"Neglected knowledge: Asymmetric features of lumbar disc disease."
A Kanat, U Yazar, B Ozdemir, H Kasdal, M Sabri Balik

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that used to mainly raise concerns following falls or car accidents. Nowadays, the fear of concussions spans all sorts of activities, from leisure pursuits to youth sports. Young children are particularly at risk, but a well-informed community can reduce fear and provide the right knowledge on how to both prevent and handle these injuries.

It seems that the older you get, the less likely you are to suffer a concussion. High schoolers, with their bustling schedules, are particularly vulnerable to head injuries. In fact, around 2.5 million high schoolers reported a concussion in 2017 from sports or other activities. These injuries can affect everything from bodily functions to brain performance, and younger individuals often need longer to recover, requiring careful attention to their mental and emotional health.

Interestingly, about 15.1% of these students felt they might have had more than one concussion over the year, and 6% reported more than two. Athletes playing multiple sports are even more at risk. However, students not involved in sports aren’t safe from harm—activities like band, dance, and cheerleading also come with risks.

One major issue is that concussions often go unreported. Roughly 40% of affected students said their symptoms went unrecognized by coaches or teachers. Continuing activities post-concussion can heighten the risk of further injury. That’s why many high school sports bodies are pushing for better education on concussions for coaches and teachers to ensure students are properly cared for and don’t resume activities too soon.

Chiropractic care is becoming increasingly recognized as vital in the recovery from concussions. Our bodies have certain limits for tissue damage, and the jolts to the head and neck often seen in concussions can also harm the cervical spine. Research supports that issues in the cervical spine can mirror concussion symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and problems with memory and vision.

Proper spinal assessments and treatment can significantly aid recovery after a brain injury. Focusing on the cervical spine is crucial, and the growing body of evidence supports this as a key recovery component. Chiropractic methods offer a non-painful way to help the body return to optimal functioning and health. More than just treating symptoms, chiropractic care can improve overall performance and quality of life following a concussion.

Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report June 22, 2018
"Self-Reported Concussions from Playing a Sport or Being Physically Active Among High School Students - United States, 2017."
L Depadilla, G Miller, S Everett Jones, A Peterson

Experts have noticed a troubling trend: allergy seasons are getting worse, thanks to rising temperatures and higher levels of carbon dioxide.

"We're seeing higher temperatures and increased levels of carbon dioxide," said Dr. Jeffrey Demain, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, at the recent American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology meeting.

Dr. Demain explained that allergy seasons are now lasting up to 27 days longer than they were just seven to ten years ago. This extended period gives allergens more time to wreak havoc on people's lives. "A staggering 25 percent of our population has some form of allergic disease," he said. "These issues are going to affect a vast number of people around the world."

Before you reach for that allergy medication, there might be a safer and more effective way to tackle your symptoms. It's crucial to understand why some people suffer from allergies while others don't. Pollen often gets the blame, but it's not the whole story. Pollen is indeed a stressor to the body, but the key factor here is how well the body can adapt.

Think of it like this: imagine filling a bucket with water. The bucket represents your body's ability to handle allergens. As long as the amount of water (or allergens) stays within the bucket's capacity, you're fine. But if the bucket overflows, that's when allergy symptoms kick in—itchy eyes, congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. People who don't suffer from allergies simply have a larger bucket; their bodies can handle more allergens without overflowing.

Your body has the potential to adapt and fight off most allergens. Several factors can help improve this adaptability, and one powerful ally is chiropractic care. A 2010 study found that people receiving chiropractic care had higher levels of immune-boosting antibodies in their blood. These antibodies help minimize the effects of allergens. Alongside chiropractic care, diet, exercise, and emotional health are crucial in managing allergy symptoms.

Traditional medical advice often involves anti-histamine drugs as the first line of defense against allergies. However, these drugs can have harmful side effects and don't address the root cause of the problem. This means people end up relying on these medications without ever finding a permanent solution. What allergy sufferers need is a drug-free alternative that addresses the underlying issues. Chiropractic care offers just that—a safe, drug-free way to help the body adapt and fight back against allergens.

Here are some tips to help your body combat pollen and other allergens:

1. Regular chiropractic care: Ensure good posture at work and home.
2. Healthy diet: Cut down on sugar and refined processed carbohydrates.
3. Stress reduction: Practice yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation.
4. Physical activity: Engage in walking, jogging, high-intensity interval training, and resistance training.
5. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water (aim for 50% of your body weight in ounces).

By following these steps and considering chiropractic care, you can help your body better handle the challenges of allergy season.

Chiropractic & Osteopathy 2010
"Interleukin 2-regulated" in vitro antibody production following as single spinal manipulative treatment in normal subjects."
J Teodorczyk-Injeyan, M McGregor, R Ruegg, HS Injeyan