1. What Is Chiropractic and How Does It Work?

Chiropractic is a natural healthcare approach that focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. Your nervous system controls every function in your body, from breathing to digestion to immune response. When the spine is in proper alignment, the nervous system can function optimally, allowing your body to heal and regulate itself effectively.

At the core of chiropractic care is the detection and correction of vertebral subluxations—misalignments of the spine that interfere with nervous system function. Subluxations can occur due to physical stress (such as poor posture or trauma), emotional stress, or chemical stress (such as toxins in food or the environment). Chiropractors use specific adjustments to realign the spine, remove interference, and restore proper communication between the brain and body.

2. What Are Vertebral Subluxations, and Why Do They Matter?

A vertebral subluxation occurs when a spinal vertebra shifts out of its proper position and disrupts nervous system function. This interference can lead to various health problems, including pain, decreased immune function, fatigue, and poor overall well-being.

Subluxations can happen for many reasons, including:

• Poor posture (e.g., sitting at a desk all day, looking down at a phone)
• Physical injuries (e.g., car accidents, sports injuries)
• Emotional stress (e.g., anxiety, depression, work pressure)
• Chemical stress (e.g., processed foods, pollution, medications)

Over time, untreated subluxations can lead to chronic pain, muscle imbalances, organ dysfunction, and even degenerative conditions. By receiving regular chiropractic care, you can ensure that your spine stays aligned and your nervous system functions at its best.

3. Does Chiropractic Care Only Help with Back and Neck Pain?

While many people seek chiropractic care for back and neck pain, the benefits go far beyond pain relief. Because the spine houses the nervous system, proper spinal alignment can improve overall health and well-being.

Chiropractic care has been shown to help with:

• Headaches and Migraines – Misalignments in the neck can contribute to tension headaches and migraines.
• Improved Immune Function – A properly functioning nervous system supports a strong immune response.
• Better Digestion – Nerve interference can impact the function of digestive organs.
• Increased Energy Levels – Reducing nervous system interference allows the body to function more efficiently.
• Enhanced Sleep Quality – Many patients report better sleep after regular adjustments.
• Improved Athletic Performance – Athletes often receive chiropractic care to optimize movement, reduce injury risk, and enhance recovery.

Rather than focusing solely on pain relief, chiropractic care aims to enhance overall function and wellness.

4. How Often Should I See a Chiropractor?

The frequency of chiropractic visits depends on your specific health needs and goals. Chiropractic care is not a one-time treatment but a lifestyle choice that supports long-term wellness.

Here’s a general guideline:

• Initial Phase (Intensive Care) – If you have significant subluxations, you may need multiple visits per week to correct them and retrain your spine.
• Corrective Phase – Once your spine begins to stabilize, visit frequency may decrease to once a week or every other week.
• Wellness Phase (Maintenance Care) – Many people choose to continue care with regular adjustments (once every few weeks or once a month) to maintain spinal health and prevent future problems.

Just like brushing your teeth or exercising, chiropractic care is most effective when it’s part of a consistent health routine.

5. Is Chiropractic Care Safe?

Yes! Chiropractic care is one of the safest and most effective forms of healthcare. Chiropractors undergo extensive training in spinal anatomy, biomechanics, and adjusting techniques to ensure patient safety. Unlike medications or surgery, chiropractic adjustments are natural, non-invasive, and free of harmful side effects.

Some people may experience mild soreness after an adjustment, similar to what you might feel after exercising. This is a normal response as the body adapts to a better alignment. Serious complications are extremely rare, especially when receiving care from a qualified and experienced chiropractor.

Furthermore, research supports the safety of chiropractic care, showing that it provides effective relief for a variety of conditions without the risks associated with drugs or invasive procedures.

Conclusion: Chiropractic Care Is for Everyone

Chiropractic care is much more than just pain relief—it’s a proactive approach to health that helps your body function at its best. By addressing vertebral subluxations and optimizing nervous system function, chiropractic care allows you to live a healthier, more vibrant life.

If you’ve been considering chiropractic care, now is the perfect time to take control of your health. Whether you want to relieve pain, improve your overall well-being, or enhance your body’s ability to heal itself, chiropractic care can be a powerful tool on your wellness journey.

Have more questions? Reach out to a subluxation-based chiropractor near you and discover the life-changing benefits of chiropractic care!

The post 5 Common Questions About Chiropractic Care | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

We’ve all been taught to care for our teeth, eyes, heart, and overall health—but what about our spine? Spinal hygiene is the act of maintaining the health and proper function of the spine, think of it as brushing and flossing your spine. Sounds unusual? It makes perfect sense.

Why Is Spinal Health Important?

Your spine is the foundation of your body. It provides structural support and protects the spinal cord, which acts as the communication highway between your brain and the rest of your body. A healthy spine contributes to better movement, improved posture, and overall well-being.

Yet, most people only think about their spine when they experience pain. By then, damage may already be done. Poor spinal health doesn’t just cause discomfort—it can lead to sleep disturbances, digestive issues, fatigue, and a weakened immune system. That’s why regular spinal care is essential for everyone, from children to adults.

The First Rule of Spinal Hygiene

Just like regular dental checkups, routine spinal checkups are a must. Chiropractors help ensure your spine is functioning optimally, preventing long-term issues before they start. Make spinal checkups a habit—once a month is a great place to start!

Tips for Excellent Spinal Hygiene

Besides chiropractic care, here are simple ways to maintain a healthy spine:

Move More, Sit Less – Prolonged sitting is the new smoking. It puts excessive strain on the spine and accelerates degeneration. Stand, stretch, and move frequently.

Improve Your Posture – Poor posture affects breathing, digestion, and even mood. Sit and stand tall, avoid slouching, and keep your head aligned with your shoulders.

Stay Hydrated – Water keeps your spinal discs (the cushions between vertebrae) hydrated and healthy.

Reduce Inflammatory Foods – Cut back on sugar and processed foods to prevent spinal degeneration.

Quit Smoking – Smoking dehydrates spinal tissues, leading to faster degeneration.

Prioritize Sleep – Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep. Sleep on your back or side with proper pillow support to keep your spine aligned.

Exercise Daily – A simple 20–30 minute walk keeps your spine flexible and strong.

Lift Smart – Just because you can lift something heavy doesn’t mean you should do it alone. Use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

Limit Screen Time with Poor Posture – Avoid prolonged head-down positions when using electronic devices. This applies to both kids and adults.

Listen to Pain Signals – Pain lasting more than two days is not normal. Seek chiropractic care to prevent further issues.

Maintain a Healthy Weight – Extra weight strains your spine and contributes to discomfort and degeneration.

Manage Stress – Chronic stress causes muscle tension and spinal rigidity. Practice relaxation techniques to keep your body and mind at ease.

The Path to a Healthier Spine

This list isn’t exhaustive, but it’s a solid foundation for improving your spinal hygiene. By making small daily changes and prioritizing spinal care, you can prevent crisis situations and enhance your overall health, mobility, and vitality at every stage of life!

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Understanding Cold Weather and Back Pain

Noticing more back pain as temperatures drop? You’re not alone. Cold weather can affect your musculoskeletal system in several ways:

Muscle Tightness: Lower barometric pressure and colder temperatures can cause muscles to contract, leading to stiffness and discomfort.

Reduced Circulation: Cold weather may slow blood flow, which can increase pain perception and exacerbate chronic back pain.

Tailored Exercises and Stretches

Combat winter aches with these effective exercises and stretches:

Gentle Warm-Up Exercises

A proper warm-up is essential in cold weather when muscles are more prone to stiffness. Start your day with activities like brisk walking, leg swings, or stationary cycling to improve blood flow and prepare your body for the day ahead. These low-impact exercises enhance circulation, promote joint mobility, and reduce the risk of injury.

Core-Strengthening Exercises

A strong core is vital for a healthy spine. Add these to your routine:

Planks: Engage multiple muscle groups for strength and stability.

Bridges: Target the lower back and glutes for better core balance.

Pelvic Tilts: Activate deep abdominal muscles with controlled movements.

Aim to perform these exercises three times a week to build core strength and reduce unnecessary strain on your back.

Flexibility Stretches

Keep your back muscles flexible with stretches like:

Cat-Cow Stretch: Improves spinal flexibility with fluid movement.

Child’s Pose: Elongates the spine and relieves lower back tension.

Spinal Twists: Enhance rotational flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Incorporate these into your daily routine, especially before and after physical activity, to improve posture and back health.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Winter Wellness

Small changes to your daily habits can make a big difference in managing back pain:

Stay Active
The cold might make outdoor activities less appealing, but staying active is crucial. Try indoor options like yoga, swimming, or cycling. Regular exercise improves circulation, keeps muscles flexible, and reduces stiffness.

Take Regular Breaks
Avoid prolonged sitting or standing by taking regular breaks to stretch and move around. This relieves stress on your back and keeps circulation flowing.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Hydration is just as important in winter as in summer. Drink plenty of water or warm herbal teas to keep your spinal discs elastic. Pair this with a nutrient-rich diet that includes calcium and vitamin D to support bone and muscle health.

Chiropractic Insights

Chiropractic care can be a game-changer for winter back pain:

Routine Chiropractic Adjustments
Schluter Chiropractic specializes in correcting spinal misalignments that can cause pain. Regular adjustments keep your spine in optimal alignment, improve nerve function, and reduce musculoskeletal discomfort.

This proactive approach not only eases current symptoms but also prevents future issues, promoting long-term spinal health.

Beat Winter Back Pain With Schluter Chiropractic
Cold weather doesn’t have to mean more back pain. At Schluter Chiropractic, our experienced team is ready to help you stay pain-free and enjoy winter to the fullest.

With tailored chiropractic care and expert guidance, you can manage your back health effectively and proactively. Contact Schluter Chiropractic today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, happier back this winter.

The post Winter Back Pain Solutions | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

But what happens when things aren’t aligned? That’s where chiropractic care comes in. Let’s break it down.

The Connection Between Your Spine and Your Immune System

Your spine plays a critical role in protecting your nervous system. It’s home to your spinal cord and nerves, which carry messages between your brain and the rest of your body. If yourspine is misaligned (what we call a subluxation), it can interfere with these messages. This can lead to:

1. Stress Overload: Misalignments can trigger your body’s stress response, leading to higher cortisol levels. Over time, too much cortisol can weaken your immune system.
2. Communication Issues: Subluxations can disrupt the balance of your autonomic nervous system, which regulates important functions like digestion and immune response.
3. Inflammation: Chronic irritation of your nerves can cause inflammation, which is linked to a wide range of health issues, including a weakened immune system.

When we adjust your spine, we’re helping to remove these interferences, allowing your nervous system to function as it should. And when your nervous system is working well, your immune system can do its job even better.

How Adjustments Support Your Immune Health

Regular chiropractic adjustments are about more than just pain relief—they’re about helping your body function at its best. Here’s how chiropractic care can directly support your immune system:

1. Lowering Stress Levels: Adjustments can help reduce cortisol, your body’s stress hormone. Less stress means your immune system can work more efficiently.
2. Improving Nerve Function: By restoring alignment, we ensure that your brain and body are communicating clearly, which helps regulate your immune responses.
3. Reducing Inflammation: Adjustments can decrease nerve irritation, which often reduces inflammation in the body.

Many of our patients tell us they feel healthier and even notice they get sick less often after starting regular chiropractic care—and it’s no coincidence.

What the Research Says

There’s a growing body of research that backs up the connection between chiropractic care and immune health. For example:

• Studies show that chiropractic adjustments can influence the production of cytokines—important proteins that help regulate immune responses.
• Research has found that adjustments can lower stress markers like cortisol, which are known to suppress immune function when elevated for too long.
• Some studies even suggest that chiropractic care may help boost white blood cell counts, which are crucial for fighting off infections.

And while we’re still learning more through ongoing research, what we do know is promising.

Supporting Your Immune System Holistically

Along with chiropractic care, there are other ways to help boost you immune system as well — it’s about embracing a well-rounded approach to health. That’s why we also encourage patients to focus on:

1. Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals gives your immune system the fuel it needs.
2. Exercise: Staying active helps improve circulation and keeps your body strong.
3. Sleep: Quality rest is when your body heals and recharges—it’s essential for immunity.
4. Stress Management: Chiropractic care helps, but so do mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises.

When you combine these healthy habits with regular chiropractic adjustments, you’re giving your immune system the best possible support.

Your Path to Better Health

If you’re a current patient, you’ve likely already seen how chiropractic care improves how you feel overall. And if you’re thinking about starting care, now is the perfect time. Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of cold and flu season or just want to feel your best, chiropractic care can help.

So, let’s work together to keep your nervous system—and your immune system—functioning at its absolute best. If you have any questions or want to schedule your next adjustment, just let us know. Your health is our priority, and we’re here to help you thrive.

The post How Chiropractic Care Can Boost Your Immune System | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Understanding Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal issues, particularly those involving the spine. Misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can interfere with nerve function and lead to discomfort, pain, or other health issues. Chiropractors use manual adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and other techniques to restore alignment and promote the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

Chiropractic care is not just about addressing pain but also about improving overall functionality, mobility, and wellness. This distinction plays a key role in understanding whether regular visits are necessary.

Acute Care vs. Maintenance Care

Chiropractic care can generally be divided into two categories: acute care and maintenance care.

Acute Care This phase addresses immediate pain or discomfort. For example, if you’ve suffered a sports injury or have chronic back pain, a chiropractor may recommend a series of adjustments to alleviate symptoms and correct underlying issues. Acute care is typically more frequent at the beginning, as the goal is to address the root cause of the pain and promote healing.

Maintenance Care Once acute symptoms are managed, many patients opt for maintenance care. This approach involves periodic visits to maintain spinal alignment, prevent the recurrence of issues, and support overall wellness. Maintenance care is not mandatory but is often recommended for those who want to proactively manage their health.

Do You Need Regular Visits?

The need for regular chiropractic visits varies from person to person. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Your Condition:
   • If you’re dealing with a chronic condition like degenerative disc disease or scoliosis, ongoing care may be beneficial to manage symptoms and maintain mobility.
   • For acute injuries, regular visits might be necessary initially but can taper off as you heal.
2. Your Goals:
   • If your primary goal is pain relief, you may only need a short course of treatment.
   • If you’re interested in improving overall wellness, maintaining posture, or enhancing athletic performance, periodic visits might help you achieve these goals.
3. Lifestyle Factors:
   • Your daily habits, such as sitting for long hours, engaging in repetitive movements, or leading a sedentary lifestyle, can impact your musculoskeletal health.
   • Chiropractors can help mitigate the effects of these stressors through regular care and ergonomic advice.
4. Personal Preferences:
   • Some people find chiropractic care so beneficial that they choose to make it part of their long-term health routine, much like regular dental checkups or fitness training.

The Benefits of Regular Chiropractic Care

Even if you don’t have a pressing health issue, regular chiropractic visits can offer several benefits:

• Improved Posture: With today’s screen-heavy lifestyles, poor posture is common. Chiropractic adjustments can help correct alignment issues and reduce strain.
• Enhanced Mobility: Regular care can keep your joints and muscles functioning optimally, reducing stiffness and improving flexibility.
• Stress Reduction: Adjustments can help relieve tension in the body, contributing to a sense of relaxation and overall well-being.
• Injury Prevention: By maintaining alignment and addressing minor issues before they become major, chiropractic care can help prevent injuries.

A Personalized Approach

One of the strengths of chiropractic care is its personalized nature. Chiropractors assess each patient’s unique needs and develop a treatment plan tailored to their goals and health status. This means that your chiropractor will consider whether regular visits are necessary and, if so, how often they should occur.

It’s important to communicate openly with your chiropractor about your expectations and goals. This collaboration ensures you receive care that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.

Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, the decision to visit a chiropractor regularly is up to you. If you find value in ongoing care and it fits your health goals, it can be a worthwhile investment in your well-being. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach—some individuals may only need short-term care, while others might benefit from periodic visits.

If you’re unsure whether regular chiropractic care is right for you, consider scheduling a consultation. A chiropractor can evaluate your condition, discuss your goals, and provide guidance on the best course of action. By taking an informed and proactive approach, you can make the most of chiropractic care and enjoy a healthier, more balanced life.

The post Do You Need Regular Chiropractic Visits to Stay Pain-Free? | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Persistent Pain and Discomfort

One of the most obvious signs that you may benefit from chiropractic care is persistent pain or discomfort, especially in the spine, neck, or lower back. Whether your pain is sharp, dull, or radiating, it could be indicative of misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations. Chiropractors specialize in identifying and correcting these misalignments, aiming to restore proper function and alleviate pain.

It’s crucial not to dismiss recurring pain as a normal part of life. Chronic pain can significantly impact your quality of life, making daily activities challenging and affecting your mental well-being. If pain persists for more than a few days or becomes a recurring issue, consulting a chiropractor may help uncover the underlying causes and provide effective solutions.

Extremity Adjusting

Beyond addressing spinal issues, chiropractors are skilled in treating extremities, which involves the evaluation and adjustment of joints outside the spine, such as shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles. Extremity adjustments can be beneficial for individuals experiencing pain or dysfunction in these areas.

Whether you’re dealing with a sports-related injury, repetitive strain, or general discomfort in your extremities, a chiropractor can assess and treat these issues through targeted adjustments. Extremity adjusting aims to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall function in these specific areas.

Limited Range of Motion

If you find yourself experiencing a limited range of motion in your joints or muscles, it may be time to seek chiropractic care. Reduced flexibility and stiffness can result from various factors, including muscle tension, joint restrictions, or spinal misalignments. Chiropractors use adjustments and other therapeutic techniques to enhance joint mobility and restore proper range of motion.

Whether you’re an athlete looking to optimize performance or an individual struggling with day-to-day activities, a chiropractor can assess your musculoskeletal system and develop a personalized treatment plan to improve your range of motion.

Headaches and Migraines

Headaches and migraines can be debilitating, affecting your ability to concentrate and enjoy daily activities. While there are various causes of headaches, spinal misalignments and tension in the neck and shoulders are common culprits. Chiropractic adjustments aim to alleviate tension in the muscles and promote proper blood flow, potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of headaches.

If you find yourself relying on pain medications to manage headaches, it may be worth exploring chiropractic care as a drug-free alternative. A chiropractor will conduct a thorough examination to determine if spinal adjustments and other therapies can provide relief from your specific headache symptoms.

Poor Posture

In today’s digital age, poor posture is increasingly prevalent due to prolonged periods of sitting and the use of electronic devices. Slouching and incorrect ergonomics can contribute to spinal misalignments, leading to discomfort and pain. A chiropractor can evaluate your posture and spine alignment, providing guidance on posture correction and recommending exercises to strengthen supporting muscles.

Addressing poor posture not only helps in reducing pain but also contributes to overall well-being. By maintaining proper spinal alignment, you can enhance your body’s ability to function optimally, improving both physical and mental health.

Numbness and Tingling

Experiencing numbness or tingling sensations in the extremities, such as the hands or feet, could be a sign of nerve compression or irritation. Misalignments in the spine can exert pressure on nerves, leading to these uncomfortable sensations. Chiropractors are trained to identify and correct such misalignments, relieving pressure on nerves and restoring normal nerve function.

If you’re dealing with persistent numbness or tingling, especially on one side of the body, consulting a chiropractor may be a proactive step toward addressing the root cause of the issue. Ignoring such symptoms could lead to further complications over time.

Recent Trauma or Injury

Whether you’ve been involved in a car accident, suffered a sports injury, or experienced a slip and fall, seeking chiropractic care following trauma or injury is essential. Even if you don’t immediately feel pain, underlying musculoskeletal issues may manifest later on. Chiropractors can conduct thorough assessments to identify hidden injuries, such as whiplash or soft tissue damage, and provide appropriate treatment to prevent long-term complications.

It’s crucial to prioritize your health and seek chiropractic evaluation after any significant trauma. Early intervention can help prevent the development of chronic pain conditions and promote a faster and more complete recovery.

General Health and Well-being

Chiropractic care goes beyond addressing specific symptoms; it aims to promote overall health and well-being. It does this by focusing on the function of your nervous system and how that affects your body overall, including your health. If you’re looking for a holistic approach to healthcare that considers the interconnectedness of the body’s systems, chiropractic care may be the right fit for you. Chiropractors often emphasize lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, and stress management as integral components of their treatment plans.

Even if you’re not currently experiencing pain or discomfort, seeing a chiropractor for routine check-ups can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. Proactive care and preventative measures may contribute to a healthier, more active lifestyle in the long run.

Deciding whether to see a chiropractor involves recognizing the signs and symptoms that your body may be signaling. From persistent pain and limited range of motion to headaches and poor posture, these indicators can guide you in seeking the appropriate care. Chiropractic treatment offers a non-invasive and drug-free approach to addressing musculoskeletal issues, focusing on restoring proper alignment and promoting overall well-being.

If you resonate with any of the signs mentioned in this blog post, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified chiropractor. A thorough examination and personalized treatment plan can help you embark on a journey towards better health, improved mobility, and enhanced quality of life. Remember, your body communicates with you, and listening to its signals can be the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life.

The post How to Know If You Should See a Chiropractor | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Simply put, your spinal discs are the little cushions that sit between the bones (vertebrae) in your spine.

Each disc is made up of a tough, fibrous outer layer (annulus fibrosis) and a jelly-like inner layer (nucleus pulposus). The tough outer layer contains and protects the softer inside layer.

These small discs have a big job.

They enable your spine to move in all directions.

Why it Matters:

Your spinal column has 24 moveable bones with spinal discs between each pair. Each disc acts like a small swivel to allow your body to tilt and rotate.

A disc’s inner layer is mostly made up of water, and that high water content helps keep it supple and moveable. However, as you get older and due to lack of function, your discs tend to lose their high water content, which can lead to degeneration.

Degenerative discs don’t move as well, are more prone to cause pain, and even contribute to the compression of your spinal nerves.

Next Steps:

Movement is one of the best ways to keep your spinal discs healthy.

Since the spinal discs don’t have a particularly good blood supply, movement is how they bring in nutrients. Those nutrients help the discs stay healthy and push out waste that can contribute to pain and inflammation.

If your neck or back hurts, let us know! We’ll help get your spinals discs moving and working together better so you get your life back from pain!

Science Source(s):

Intervertebral Disc: Anatomy-Physiology – Pathophysiology -Treatment. Pain Practice. 2000.

The post What are Spinal Discs Made of? | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Why it Matters:

Your spinal disc is a complex piece of cartilage that sits between the vertebrae (bones) that make up your spine. Your discs have two parts. The tough outer portion, called the annulus fibrosus, is made up of collagen fibers. The inside of the disc is called the nucleus pulposus, which is gel-like. The discs have three main functions: to absorb shock, hold the vertebrae of the spine together, and allow flexibility of the spinal column.

Back pain and other symptoms can occur if the disc is damaged or pressing on your spinal nerves. The following are some common disc problems.

Types of Spinal Disc Problems

• Herniated Discs – A herniated disc is often called a slipped or ruptured disc. Symptoms depend on what part of the spine is affected and usually only occur on one side of the body. Patients describe a burning, sharp, stabbing, or shooting pain with specific movements. Some people experience numbness, tingling, or weakness if there’s spinal nerve compression.

• Degenerative Disc Disease – When one or more spinal discs break down, due to a loss of nutrients and hydration to the disc, pain can result. Over time, your spinal discs become worn and lose their rubbery texture. It’s unable to act as a shock absorber, and flexibility can become limited.

Next Steps:

Does Your Back Hurt? Back pain can significantly impact your activities and active lifestyle. If you’ve experienced back pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness, give us a call. These symptoms may be a sign that you have a spinal disc problem.

Science Source(S):

Herniated Lumbar Disc. BMJ 2011

The post The Most Common Spinal Disc Problems | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Why it Matters:

No matter how naturally powerful or talented you may be as an athlete, receiving Chiropractic care can have some pretty serious benefits. Most professional athletes receive Chiropractic care throughout their careers to help them make sure they continue to stay at their best.

Chiropractors can help athletes recover between workouts and improve their movement patterns & biomechanics, decreasing the risk of injury. Since athletes put their bodies through a lot of stress, their skeletal system takes a beating. Having a Chiropractor on their side helps them to make sure their body is solid, strong, and fit to keep on performing.

• Nearly every professional sports team has a Chiropractor on their healthcare team.
• Chiropractors can help athletes recover and perform by bridging the gap between the coaches, trainers, and medical staff.
• Research has shown that adjustments can improve functional ability and may even be able to provide immediate short-term strength increases.

Next Steps:

Whether you’re a professional athlete or weekend warrior, one thing is for sure: Chiropractic care can help you perform at a high level and recover. Just because you’re an athlete doesn’t mean that you have a limited shelf life. Your body is built to perform. You just need to take care of it! Let us help you today.

Science Source(s):

The Effects of a Single Session of Spinal Manipulation on Strength and Cortical Drive in Athletes. European Journal of Applied Physiology. 2018.

The post The “Secret” to Top Sports Performance | Tulsa Chirorpactor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Why It Matters:

Exercising lowers the levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. It also stimulates the production of endorphins in the brain. Think of these as natural pain killers with the power to elevate your mood. Neurochemical changes like these are why exercise has been shown to alleviate some symptoms of anxiety and depression.

What about stress? Symptoms such as tense muscles, headaches, and even back pain, can be rooted in chronic mental stress. Pain is distressing and can place your body into a stress response, where the mind and body enter a vicious cycle of tension and anxiety. Exercising can help reduce this stress response and relax both your mind and body.

Finally, exercising during the day helps regulate your sleep schedule and allows you to spend more time in a deep, restful sleep. Moderate exercise increases the slow wave sleep you get at night, which is the deep sleep that gives your brain and body a chance to rejuvenate and recover for the next day.

Next Steps:

Exercising daily can help reduce the stress on your mind and body. It’s never too late to start exercising, and even small changes can make significant differences in your overall health. With a better mood, more restful sleep, and the ability to live a longer life, exercising daily is a crucial part of living a healthy lifestyle.

Science Source(s):

Exercising for Better Sleep. Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2020.

The post Looking to Relax? Try Exercise | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Why it Matters:

Time marches on but getting older doesn’t mean that you’ll have to live an inactive life. Weakness and poor balance are the result of inactivity, not age. There are plenty of activities that you can take part in to avoid slowing down as you age.

Not sure where to start? Here are a few of our favorites:

• Lighting Weights: Don’t worry, you don’t have to throw up hundreds of pounds on the bench press to benefit from lifting weights. Studies have shown that even light to moderate weight can increase bone density and help you maintain a healthy body weight. Researchers have also discovered that weight training has the potential to help get rid of nagging pain you may have in your shoulders, lower back, and knees.

• Light Cardio: Sprints and 5-mile runs aren’t necessary to improve your cardiovascular health. You don’t even have to jog. There are plenty of ways to get a solid cardiovascular workout without hurting your joints or wearing you out for the next three days. Popular options include cycling, swimming, and daily walking.

• Yoga: Even people who are in the prime of their lives will find that yoga requires a unique combination of flexibility, strength, and balance. By balancing strength and flexibility, yoga remains one of the best ways to keep your body limber.

Next Steps:

Pain is not a byproduct of aging. If you are not as active as you would like to be, let us know. Our team is dedicated to helping you find ways to enjoy doing the things you love with the people you love for years to come.

Science Source(s):

Physical Exercise as Therapy for Frailty. Nestle Nutrition Institute Workshop Series. 2015.

The post Getting Older Doesn’t Mean Slowing Down | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Why it Matters:

Do you drive to work and then spend your day on the computer? You may not realize that you have been spending 8, 10, or even more long hours each day sitting down. That much sitting can have a negative impact on your back, legs, neck, and even your mind.

The compression that occurs in your mid-back while seated can lead to problems in your low back and has also been linked to shoulder issues. Researchers have found the people who sit the majority of the time are more prone to a variety of chronic health diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and depression.

Incorporating more movement into your day can help keep your body and mind healthier.

• Make it a habit to stand up from your desk every 30 minutes to stretch and try to get in a brisk walk at lunchtime each day.
• Improving the mobility of your mid-back (thoracic spine) can reduce your low back pain, improve your posture, & even decrease your likelihood of experiencing shoulder issues.
• Daily exercise can lower your risk of heart disease, help control your weight, and lower your blood pressure.

Next Steps:

A few small changes in your activity level can make a huge difference, so keep your health goals in mind and start taking small daily steps in the right direction. If you feel “tight” or have pain between your shoulder blades, let us know. You may have restricted motion in your thoracic spine, and we would be happy to help you improve your mobility and so you can move your way towards better health.

Science Source(s):

Exercise and Cardiovascular Health. Circulation. 2003.

The Short-Term Effects of Thoracic Spine Thrust Manipulation on Patients With Shoulder Impingement Syndrome. Manual Therapies. 2009.

The post Moving Your Body Towards Improved Health | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Why it Matters:

The first part of successfully treating back pain is to identify the source of the pain. MRI’s are a fantastic tool to show areas of your spine that aren’t perfect, but they don’t do a very good joint at pinpointing what is causing your pain. And if a surgeon has difficulty identifying the source of your pain, the results can be disastrous. Research has discovered fewer than half of all spinal fusions are successful, and many don’t offer significant pain relief.

• Up to 94% of people will still have back pain after surgery.
• Nearly 20% of people will need a follow-up operation 10 years after surgery.
• Failed back surgery syndrome has been found in up to 21% of patients.

Next Steps:

If you’ve been recommended an operation, we encourage you to get a second opinion. You only have one spine, and the healthcare decisions you make today will affect your life for decades to come. The majority of people suffering from back pain can find relief without surgery, and research has continued to show that Chiropractic care is one of the most safe and effective options to help you on the road to relief.

Science Source(s):

Prevalence, characteristics, and burden of failed back surgery syndrome: the influence of various residual symptoms on patient satisfaction and quality of life as assessed by a nationwide Internet survey in Japan. Journal of Pain Research. 2017

The post Can Surgery Fix Your Back Problem? | Tulsa Chiropractor appeared first on Schluter Chiropractic.

Why it Matters:

Spinal injections often can’t provide long term relief because they don’t address the cause of the pain: your pinched nerve. Reducing compression and opening space for the nerve is a better strategy. Chiropractic care can help improve the motion of your spine and decrease the irritation on your spinal nerves that causes pain. New research has found that chiropractic adjustments can provide more relief than injections, without any of the associated risks.

• Spinal injections have been shown to be ineffective at providing relief for low back pain.
• Chiropractic can offer more relief than spinal injections for people with lumbar disc herniations according to a paper published in JMPT.
• One study found Chiropractic patients experiencing up to 60% relief, while another discovered patients receiving spinal injections only reported 14% relief.

Next Steps:

The research is clear: before getting a spinal injection, it’s a smart decision to explore Chiropractic. We believe your body has an incredible ability to heal itself. Medications mask the symptoms, but to find lasting relief- you need to address the cause. If a spinal disc issue is affecting the life of you or someone you know, give us a call and get your life back!

Science Source(s):

The Effectiveness and Risks of Fluoroscopically Guided Lumbar Interlaminar Epidural Steroid Injections. Pain Science 2017

Interlaminar versus transforaminal epidural injections for the treatment of symptomatic lumbar intervertebral disc herniations. Pain Physician 2006

Symptomatic MRI-Confirmed Lumbar Disk Herniation Patients: A Comparative Effectiveness Prospective Observational Study of 2 Age- and Sex-Matched Cohorts Treated with Either High-Velocity, Low Amplitude Spinal Manipulative Therapy or Imaging-Guided Lumbar Nerve Root Injections. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2013 May; 36(4):218-25

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