To Your Health To Your Health
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January 31, 2012 - Volume 6, Issue 3
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There is a saying in the world of chiropractic, "Your spine is the window to your health." How can the condition of your spine divulge so much information about your overall health? Your spine is the central support column of your body and its primary role is to protect your spinal cord. Think of it like the foundational frame of a house holding everything together. If the frame becomes dysfunctional, many problems will begin to manifest themselves.

The good news is you can perform a simple spinal health checklist to determine if you may benefit from the expert intervention of a chiropractor or other health care professional. Becoming familiar with simple spinal anatomy, structure and function will help empower you to take control of your health.

Through life's stresses, genetics, trauma, injuries, and neglect the spine can develop dysfunctions in these curvatures and the body must compensate by changing posture as a protective mechanism. What are some of the compensations your body develops and what can they tell you about your spinal health? Here are a few of the most common ones:

Rounded Shoulders: This is a very common postural distortion resulting from sedentary lifestyles. This poor posture pattern adds increased stress to the upper back and neck. Common effects are headaches, shoulder, pain, neck pain, and even tingling and numbness in the arms.

Uneven shoulders: One shoulder higher than the other is indicative of a muscular imbalance or spinal curvature. Stand in front of a mirror and you can easily see if this asymmetry is present. This asymmetry is a common precursor for shoulder injuries, headaches, neck pain and elbow injuries.

Uneven hips: Hips that are not level are like the foundation of a house that is not level. You begin to develop compensations further up the body so you remain balanced when walking. You develop altered spinal curvatures, shoulder positions, and head tilts. Signs of unbalanced hips may manifest in abnormal shoe wear, typically on the outside edges; and pants will fit unevenly in the leg length.

When you visit a chiropractor for a spinal evaluation, some of the things they will look for during your evaluation are underlying signs of spinal damage that you can't see. If problems are detected, corrective or preventive measures can be implemented to help your body function at optimum. The bottom line: See your chiropractor today to avoid health problems in the future.

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Most people don’t appreciate the health benefits of something as simple as walking. Vascular circulation, heart and brain functioning, stress relief, muscle strength, and balance are just some of the benefits of this easy activity.

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As we age, our brains need need to stay stimulated in order to keep cognitive decline at bay. According to researchers, activities such as playing board games, reading, writing, painting, dancing, performing, watching TV and listening to the radio all can help.

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When it comes to managing mild depression or "low mood," there's a lot you can do that doesn't involve pharmaceuticals. Believe it or not, improving you mood can start with nutrition. Here's how natural supplements can help turn that frown upside down and get you in a better mood.

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If you want to protect your cardiovascular system and keep your cholesterol level in a healthy range, nuts can be a good start. Learn more about the heart healthy benefits of nuts and their value in your daily diet.

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Traditional abdominal exercises like crunches and
sit-ups can strain your neck and spine while having only a minimal impact on the abdominal muscles. Learn how your abs in shape the right way.

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The information provided is for general interest only and should not be misconstrued as a diagnosis, prognosis or treatment recommendation. This information does not in any way constitute the practice of chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy, medicine, or any other health care profession. Readers are directed to consult their health care provider regarding their specific health situation. MPA Media is not liable for any action taken by a reader based upon this information.