10 Poor Posture Habits to Avoid and Tips for Back Pain Prevention

Good posture is essential for maintaining spinal health and preventing discomfort. Lower back pain affects millions worldwide, often stemming from habits that compromise the spine’s natural alignment. In 2020, low back pain affected 619 million people globally, with a projection of 843 million prevalent cases by 2050. By identifying and avoiding poor posture habits, you can take proactive steps to stop lower back pain and promote long-term back health.

10 Poor Posture Habits to Avoid

Poor posture often develops gradually due to repetitive habits or a lack of awareness. Many people frequently ask, "How to stop lower back pain?" By identifying and addressing these habits, you can significantly enhance spinal health and alleviate back pain.

1. Slouching While Sitting

Constant slouching places unnecessary pressure on the lower back, leading to stiffness and discomfort. This habit often develops during long hours of desk work or lounging on sofas.

2. Hunching Over a Desk or Screen

Leaning forward toward a screen strains both the neck and back. Over time, this leads to muscle fatigue and exacerbates back pain, particularly in the lower and upper regions.

3. Sitting for Long Periods Without Breaks

Prolonged sitting reduces circulation, increases muscle tension, and weakens core muscles, all of which contribute to lower back pain.

4. Crossing Legs While Sitting

This common habit misaligns the pelvis and spine, potentially causing long-term imbalances and discomfort in the lower back and hips.

5. Leaning to One Side While Standing

Standing with your weight on one leg or leaning to one side creates muscle imbalance and strain, impacting the spine’s alignment over time.

6. Carrying Heavy Bags on One Shoulder 

Uneven weight distribution caused by heavy bags stresses the spine and can lead to chronic back pain. This habit is particularly common among students and professionals.

7. Incorrect Sleeping Positions 

Sleeping on your stomach or using an unsuitable pillow strains the neck and back. Opting for a supportive mattress and sleeping on your back or side can prevent unnecessary pressure on the spine.

8. Improper Bending and Lifting Techniques

Using your back instead of your legs to lift objects places excessive stress on the lower back, increasing the risk of injury.

9. Wearing Unsupportive Footwear 

Shoes without proper support such as high heels or worn-out sneakers affect your posture and can misalign the spine, leading to discomfort.

10. Cradling the Phone Between Shoulder and Ear 

This habit strains the neck and upper back, creating tension that can radiate down to the lower back. Using a headset or holding the phone properly can help.

Tips for Better Posture

Improving your posture doesn’t require drastic changes small, consistent efforts can make a big difference in how you sit, stand, and move throughout the day.

• Stretch and Strengthen: Incorporate daily exercises that target the core and back, such as planks and bridges, to support spinal alignment.
• Ergonomic Adjustments: Set up your workstation with a chair that supports the lumbar curve and a monitor at eye level.
• Take Breaks: Move around or stretch every 30 minutes during prolonged sitting.
• Mindfulness: Stay aware of your posture while sitting, standing, or moving. Use reminders or posture-correcting tools if needed.
• Supportive Tools: Invest in ergonomic chairs, lumbar cushions, and proper footwear to maintain alignment.

Conclusion

Poor posture habits can have a significant impact on your spinal health and overall well-being. By recognizing and addressing these habits, you can take strong steps to reduce discomfort and improve your quality of life. 

At Active Chiropractic & Laser Center, Dr. Berry and the team provide personalized care to help you achieve lasting relief and better posture. 

Schedule your consultation today and start your journey toward a healthier, pain-free future!

Read More »

The Importance of Chiropractic Care for Preventative Health

Chiropractic care is often associated with managing back pain or recovering from injuries. However, it is much more than a reactive solution to discomfort. At its core, chiropractic care emphasizes maintaining optimal health and preventing future issues. As preventative health gains attention in today’s wellness landscape, chiropractic care is a powerful supporter in promoting long-term health and vitality. 

What is Preventative Health?

Preventative health focuses on taking proactive measures to avoid illnesses and injuries before they occur. Unlike reactive healthcare, which addresses problems after they arise, preventative health emphasizes early intervention, routine care, and healthy lifestyle choices to support overall well-being.

By adopting a preventative approach, individuals can reduce the risk of chronic conditions, enhance their quality of life, and minimize healthcare costs. Chiropractic care is uniquely positioned within this pattern to support and maintain the body’s natural functions, helping individuals avoid potential health concerns.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Preventative Health

Chiropractic care is rooted in the belief that a healthy spine is the foundation of overall well-being. Chiropractors focus on the spine’s alignment and its relationship to the nervous system, which controls every organ and function in the body. When the spine is misaligned, it can cause disruptions in nerve signals, leading to pain, reduced mobility, and other health issues.

By ensuring proper spinal alignment, chiropractic care helps maintain balance in the body, reducing strain on muscles and joints while enhancing the nervous system's ability to function efficiently.

Benefits of Chiropractic Preventive Care

1. Improves Posture and Alignment

Modern lifestyles, often dominated by sedentary habits and excessive screen time, can wreak havoc on posture. Poor posture places unnecessary strain on muscles, joints, and the spine, increasing the risk of long-term musculoskeletal issues.

Routine chiropractic posture adjustments help correct posture, prevent spinal misalignments, and relieve tension in overstressed areas, promoting better alignment and preventing future complications.

2. Boosts Immune Function

A healthy spine plays a crucial role in the immune response. Spinal misalignments also known as subluxations, can disrupt the nervous system, and impair the body’s ability to fight infections.

Chiropractic adjustments address these misalignments, supporting nervous system health and enhancing immune function. This proactive approach helps the body maintain its natural defenses, making it more resilient against illnesses. 

3. Enhances Flexibility and Mobility

Stiffness and reduced mobility are common complaints that can lead to more serious injuries if left unaddressed. Chiropractic care promotes flexibility by ensuring proper joint movement and spinal alignment.

Regular adjustments help maintain joint health, prevent stiffness, and support long-term mobility, especially as the body ages. 

4. Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation

Stress often manifests physically, causing muscle tension, headaches, and digestive issues. Chiropractic care addresses these physical symptoms by reducing tension and restoring balance in the body.

Beyond physical relief, the spine alignment has been linked to better mental health outcomes. Patients often report improved mood, better sleep, and reduced feelings of anxiety after chiropractic sessions.

5. Improves Athletic Performance and Recovery

For active individuals, chiropractic care offers dual benefits: injury prevention and faster recovery. Proper alignment enhances flexibility, strength, and coordination, reducing the likelihood of sports injuries.

For those recovering from intense physical activity, chiropractic adjustments speed up healing by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and restoring normal movement patterns.

Chiropractic Care as Part of a Holistic Approach to Health

Chiropractic care is most effective when integrated into a holistic lifestyle. Combining it with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate hydration creates a comprehensive preventative health strategy.

At Active Chiropractic & Laser Center, we embrace this holistic philosophy. Our approach goes beyond spinal adjustments to include personalized wellness plans that address your unique health needs and goals.

When Should You See a Chiropractor for Preventative Care?

You should see a chiropractor for preventative care every 6 to 8 weeks to maintain optimal health and prevent issues before they arise. Regular visits can help improve joint mobility, reduce stress, enhance sleep quality, and strengthen the immune system. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of injuries and chronic conditions, ensuring your body functions effectively over time

Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Future with Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care plays a vital role in preventative health by maintaining spinal alignment, reducing stress, and promoting overall well-being. When incorporated into a holistic wellness routine, it supports the body’s natural ability to stay healthy and vibrant.

At Active Chiropractic & Laser Center, we are committed to helping you achieve long-term health through personalized care. We also provide advanced laser therapy to enhance your healing process further and support your overall well-being.

If you’re seeking to prevent injuries, enhance your mobility, or maintain your well-being, our expert team guides you at every step. Schedule your appointment today and get started with the required chiro treatment. 

Read More »

5 Myths Parents Believe About Pediatric Chiropractic

Pediatric chiropractic care is popular among parents who want natural and holistic healthcare options for their children. From infancy through the teenage years, many families turn to chiropractic care to help with a variety of health concerns and to promote overall wellness. However, along with this rising interest, myths and misconceptions about the safety and effectiveness of pediatric chiropractic have also emerged.

In this blog, we’ll explore and debunk some of the most common myths about pediatric chiropractic care, giving parents the facts they need to feel confident in this approach to their child’s health.

Myth 1: Pediatric Chiropractic Care is Unsafe for Children

The Facts: Pediatric chiropractic care differs from chiropractic care for adults. Chiropractors specializing in treating children are trained to use gentle, customized techniques specifically designed for children’s growing bodies. The pressure applied during a pediatric adjustment is exceptionally light. 

A child’s chiropractor tailors the treatment to the child’s age, size, and specific health needs. Adjustments may involve only soft pressure for infants, while older children and teens might require slightly different but gentle methods. Chiropractic care for children is safe when provided by licensed professionals, and research backs this up with low reports of complications.

Myth 2: Chiropractic Adjustments Are Painful for Kids

The Facts: Pediatric chiropractic adjustments are designed to be both gentle and comfortable. The pressure in adjustments for children, especially chiropractic and infants, is very light, ensuring a pain-free experience. Many children find chiropractic adjustments to be relaxing and enjoyable. Parents often report that their children are calm and even look forward to their chiropractic visits because they feel better afterward.

Chiropractic care focuses on improving function and reducing discomfort, so children usually leave feeling more comfortable than when they arrived. Using age-appropriate techniques, pediatric chiropractors ensure the experience is positive and that no unnecessary stress is placed on the child’s body.

Myth 3: Pediatric Chiropractors Only Treat Back Pain

The Facts: While chiropractic care is effective for back pain, it addresses more than just spinal issues. Pediatric chiropractors take a holistic approach, focusing on spinal alignment and how it affects the nervous system. This means that chiropractic care can help with various childhood conditions beyond back pain.

For example, chiropractic for teens and younger children can be used to address common issues like colic, ear infections, poor sleep, and even digestive problems. Chiropractic care helps support the body’s natural healing processes by promoting proper spinal alignment and nervous system function, improving overall health.

Myth 4: Chiropractic Care is Unnecessary for Healthy Children

The Facts: Chiropractic care is not just for treating existing health problems; it can also play a vital role in preventing future issues and promoting overall growth and development. Just like regular visits to the pediatrician, chiropractic checkups help ensure your child’s spine and nervous system are functioning properly. This is important for overall health, as the spine and nervous system regulate many bodily functions.

Regular pediatric chiro care can help healthy children maintain good posture, prevent injuries, and ensure optimal nervous system function. In the long run, this can lead to improved sleep, better immune function, and a healthier lifestyle as children grow.

Myth 5: Pediatric Chiropractic Care is Not Scientifically Backed

The Facts: Contrary to this belief, a growing body of scientific research supports pediatric chiropractic care. Studies have shown chiropractic care is safe and can effectively address various childhood health issues. Organizations like the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) conduct research and advocate for the benefits of chiropractic care for children.

Research has shown that chiropractic care can help with conditions like colic, ear infections, and sleep problems in children. Additionally, many families report positive outcomes and improvements in their children’s health after receiving chiropractic care, adding real-world support to the scientific findings.

Final Thoughts

Pediatric chiropractic care is a safe, effective, and holistic approach to supporting your child’s overall health and wellness. Many myths surrounding this practice arise from misunderstandings, but the facts show that chiropractic adjustments for children are gentle, safe, and beneficial for their growth and development. If you’re considering chiropractic care for your child, it’s essential to consult with a certified pediatric chiropractor.

At Active Chiropractic & Laser Center, Dr. Berry and the team specialize in providing chiropractic care that nurtures the health and well-being of children at every stage of development. Schedule a consultation today to discover how chiropractic care can help your child grow up healthy, happy, and well-aligned. Don’t let misconceptions keep you from pursuing the right treatment—contact us today for more information!

Read More »

Chiropractic Care Benefits Across Different Age Groups

 Have you ever wondered about a no-drug approach to spinal problems? The term “chiropractic” comes from the Greek word “cheir” meaning hand, and “praxis,” meaning action. It refers to “being done by hand’. As the name implies, chiropractic care is a health profession focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system by manual adjustment and controlled force. Chiropractic professionals believe in the body’s ability to heal itself, leading to several benefits across age groups. Let us see this in detail below.

Understanding Chiropractic Care

A chiropractic adjustment is a technique where trained chiropractors use their hands or a device to apply a controlled, quick force to a spinal joint. This procedure, called spinal manipulation, aims to improve spinal mobility and overall physical function.

Chiropractic Care for Infants and Children

During the early stages of life, children undergo rapid growth and development, sometimes leading to musculoskeletal issues. The benefits of chiropractic care include offering a gentle, non-invasive approach to address these problems and support healthy development. Here’s how chiropractic care addresses concerns and benefits the youngest members of our families. 

Common Problems Addressed:

• Birth trauma: Chiropractic care can address musculoskeletal issues stemming from birth trauma.
• Nervous system health: Chiropractic treatment helps improve the wellness and vigor of a child’s nervous system in conditions such as spectrum disorders.
• Colic and digestive issues: Gentle adjustments can relieve pressure on nerves that affect digestion, potentially reducing colic symptoms.
• Asthmatic conditions: Chiropractic care can help manage asthma symptoms by improving lung function and reducing nerve interference.

Benefits:

• Improved sleep patterns: Chiropractic care can help infants and children sleep better by addressing spinal misalignments that may disrupt sleep.
• Enhanced immune system function: Proper spinal alignment supports the nervous system, which can boost immune function.
• Aid in neurological development: Chiropractic care can help ensure the nervous system functions optimally, supporting neurological development and overall health.
• Support developmental milestones: Regular adjustments can support healthy growth and development.

Chiropractic care for children is safe and can be particularly beneficial in addressing early-life issues and promoting overall health.

Chiropractic Care for Teenagers

Teenagers often experience musculoskeletal issues due to sports, poor posture, and the physical changes associated with puberty. Chiropractic treatment provides an approach to managing these concerns, helping teens maintain good health and performance during this vital development period. 

Common Conditions Addressed:

• Scoliosis: Early detection and treatment of spinal curvature can prevent severe deformities.
• Headaches and migraines: Chiropractic care can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches in teenagers.
• Back and neck pain: Teenagers who suffer from back and neck pain due to sports or injuries can benefit from chiropractic care.
• Respiratory problems: Correct spinal alignment can improve lung function and breathing.

Benefits:

• Improved posture: Regular adjustments can help teenagers maintain good posture, which is important during growth spurts.
• Enhanced athletic performance: Chiropractic care can optimize musculoskeletal function, benefiting young athletes.
• Relief from growing pains and sports injuries: Spinal adjustments and other treatments can relieve pain and speed up injury recovery.
• Reduction in stress and anxiety: Chiropractic treatment can help reduce stress levels by promoting rest.

Chiropractic Care for Adults

As with other age groups, adulting can become challenging due to spinal problems and difficult pain due to a sedentary lifestyle, sports, physical labor, and other concerns. Chiropractic care helps in managing pain and supports better performance as an adult. 

Common Conditions Addressed:

• Chronic back pain: Work or stress can cause back pain in individuals, and chiropractic tools can relieve this pain.
• Mental health problems: Providing useful solutions for mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.
• Workplace ergonomics: Addressing poor posture and repetitive strain injuries common in the workplace.
• Injury recovery and prevention: Supporting injury recovery and preventing future musculoskeletal issues.

Benefits:

• Pain relief from chronic conditions: Chiropractic treatments can effectively manage chronic back and neck pain.
• Stress reduction: Regular adjustments can help reduce muscle tension and stress.
• Enhanced mobility and flexibility: Chiropractic care can improve joint function and overall mobility.
• Can treat a wide range of conditions: Chiropractic procedures provide solutions for various musculoskeletal (back, neck, joint) as well as mental conditions (depression, stress, insomnia).

Chiropractic Care for Seniors

Our bones and joints can wear and tear as we age, leading to various problems. By 2050, about 22% of the US population will be 65 or older. This data shows the need for major healthcare opportunities for older people. While surgeries and heavy medications can be an invasive option, chiropractic benefits involve a gentle and safe method of improving the physical and mental health of seniors. 

Common Conditions Addressed:

• Joint pain: Chiropractic adjustments can help improve joint pain and related conditions for seniors.
• Osteoporosis: Gentle techniques tailored for individuals with osteoporosis.
• Degenerative disc disease: Managing symptoms and improving spinal health.
• Arthritis chiropractic care: could benefit by improving joint conditions such as arthritis.

Benefits:

• Balance and coordination: Benefits of chiropractic care include aiding balance and improving range of movement for seniors.
• Pain management: Chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pain associated with arthritis.
• Reducing the risk of injuries: Chiropractors help strengthen the musculoskeletal system of the elderly, reducing the risk of slip and fall injuries.
• Better quality of life:  By managing pain and improving mobility, chiropractic care can enhance the overall quality of life for seniors.

Dispelling Myths about Chiropractic Care

There are several myths about chiropractic care, such as it being unsafe or only for back pain. Chiropractic care is a safe, evidence-based practice that can address many health issues beyond back pain. Educating patients about the benefits and safety of chiropractic care is essential to dispel these misconceptions. Some common ones are:

• Only for back pain support: Chiropractic treatments improve back pain and are beneficial in pain conditions like headaches, extremities, and chronic problems.
• Not real doctors: Unlike common misconceptions, chiropractors are highly educated healthcare professionals and may hold additional degrees.
• You need to keep visiting a chiropractor: Chiropractors can help you achieve better musculoskeletal health, which can be maintained on a personal level without frequent appointments.
• Chiropractic treatments are painful: Although chiropractic treatment can include mild discomfort or pain, these are temporary symptoms.

Safety Considerations for Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic care is safe when performed by an educated practitioner. It’s important to find a qualified chiropractor and discuss health matters before treatment. Some common safety considerations to keep in mind are:

• Licensed and trained professionals: It is important to receive chiropractic care from a licensed practitioner to prevent mishaps.
• Risks of traditional treatments: Chiropractic treatment is a traditional procedure for relieving pain and improving posture. Before opting for it, it is important to know the risks and get a proper healthcare check.
• Underlying conditions and medical history: The patient must understand all aspects of their physical and mental health before undergoing chiropractic care, including any disease, skin type, allergies, or other medical concerns.

Chiropractic Care Can Help You Lead a Pain Free Life

Chiropractic care offers valuable benefits for individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. It supports general health by enabling proper spinal alignment and improving nervous system function. For pain relief, improved mobility, or enhanced grade of life, chiropractic care is a versatile and effective treatment option for many health concerns.

Active Chiropractic & Laser Center for Quality Chiropractic Care

Are you looking to eliminate chronic pain and improve joint functionality? At Active Chiropractic & Laser Center, we offer a drug-free, effective approach to leading a pain-free life. Our expert provider, Dr. Berry, specializes in safe and practical chiropractic treatments to alleviate various physical and mental health concerns. Schedule an appointment with us or call (714) 639-4640 to learn more.

Read More »

How Tustin Chiropractors Help You with Posture Correction

Remember how your parents, elder siblings, teachers, and elders collectively called upon you when you were hunched over your phone, comic books, video games, or computers? In  2022, a study of adults who often practice bad posture when using gadgets found that more than 70% of the responders complained of bad posture problems, including back, shoulder, and neck pain.

However, the hunched-back generation is at its brim, thanks to office-goers and gadgets-addicted children. Thankfully, a better posture is one of the benefits of chiropractic care, a drug-free approach to a fitter physique. Learning about chiropractors and their tools and techniques can help you lead pain-free lives without medicines or complex surgeries. Additionally, find our free resource at the end to help you get started now. Let us begin by understanding all about postures.

What Is Good Posture vs Bad Posture?

Good posture isn’t just about standing straight so you look your best. Holding your body right can help prevent and fix many health and spinal issues. Posture can be of two types:

• Static posture refers to how your body is aligned when stationary, such as sitting, standing, or sleeping.
• Dynamic posture refers to your posture when moving, walking, or running.

Good Posture and the Three Natural Curves

Your spinal cord has three natural bends: at your neck, mid-back area, and lower back. The benefits of chiropractic care include maintaining these bends without increasing them. Ideally, your head should be directly above your shoulders, and your shoulders should align vertically with your hips.

Bad Posture and Misalignment of Curves

Slouching, arching, or bending forward while sitting can affect the natural bends in your spinal cord, leading to misalignment and musculoskeletal problems. Let us now see the major causes behind these problems. 

What Are the Main Causes of Bad Posture?

Have you ever observed the movements of a young child? You might notice their effortless running, standing, or sitting and their body resembling a graceful ‘S’ curve. As we grow up, slouching and bending become too common, leading to bad postures. Common causes include:

• Sedentary lifestyle: Spending long hours sitting can lead to slouching and poor alignment.
• Poor ergonomics: Incorrectly adjusted furniture can encourage awkward positions that strain the spine and muscles.
• Footwear: Shoes with improper support or high heels can alter your body's alignment, negatively affecting your posture.
• Excessive weight: Carrying excess body weight can strain the spine and joints, leading to postural changes to compensate.

What Problems Can Bad Posture Cause?

Bad posture can cause several problems. Whether consciously or not, many of us slouch, impacting our spine's health. Poor posture can lead to various adverse effects on our bodies. Some of the typical ones are: 

• Musculoskeletal issues: Poor posture can lead to stiffness, muscle tension, and pain, particularly in the neck, shoulders, and lower back, potentially causing long-term discomfort.
• Decreased flexibility and mobility: Incorrect posture limits your ability to move freely and comfortably, affecting daily activities and exercise routines.
• Impact on respiratory and digestive function: Slumping or leaning forward can compress the lungs, reduce breathing efficiency, and may affect digestion by compressing abdominal organs.

At this stage, you may seek the role of chiropractors in posture correction.

The Role of Chiropractors in Posture Correction

Chiropractors play an important role in improving posture and enhancing spinal health. They are trained to identify and fix posture problems without drugs or surgeries. Below is how they do it:

• Identifying spinal misalignments: Chiropractors are trained to detect and diagnose spinal misalignments (subluxations) that contribute to poor posture.
• Improving postural awareness: They educate patients about proper posture, spinal alignments, and ergonomic practices to prevent future misalignments.
• Tailored care: Chiropractors often integrate exercises, stretches, and lifestyle advice to support posture correction and overall spinal health.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Posture Correction

Chiropractic care can transform your posture, reduce the risk of developing a hunched back, and prevent severe injuries and mishaps. The major benefits include:

• Pain relief: Chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pain in the neck, back, and joints by addressing underlying spinal issues and reducing nerve interference.
• Improved posture and mobility: Through spinal adjustments and corrective exercises, chiropractors help restore proper alignment and flexibility promoting better posture and reducing the risk of future problems.
• Natural approach: Chiropractic care is holistic, focusing on the body's natural ability to heal and function optimally without invasive procedures or medications.

Tips for Posture Correction and Maintenance

While chiropractic care can help correct wrong posture and provide useful guidance for maintaining flexibility and core strength, maintaining good posture requires a more comprehensive approach. See some helpful tips below:

• Be mindful: Regularly check your posture throughout the day. Ensure your head is aligned with your shoulders and your shoulders with your hips.
• Adjust your workspace: Ensure your chair, desk, and computer are ergonomic. Your feet should be flat on the floor, and your screen should be at eye level.
• Strengthen core muscles: To support your spine, practice exercises that strengthen your core muscles, such as planks and abdominal workouts.
• Use supportive footwear: Wear shoes that provide proper support, and avoid high heels for extended periods, as they can affect your alignment.

How Tustin Chiropractors Can Help

Our chiropractic care for posture correction utilizes hands-on and instrument-assisted spinal manipulation to adjust your spine. Before initiating treatment, the chiropractor evaluates postural issues such as scoliosis, neck damage, and lower back curvature. Our approach is a comprehensive, multi-stage process comprising:

• Posture assessment: The first step in treatment involves assessing the natural curves of the neck, middle, and lower back. The chiropractor will evaluate your spinal alignment and measure any deviations. This posture examination is essential for developing a treatment plan.
• Precise adjustments: Once postural imbalances and misalignments are identified, the chiropractor will perform joint adjustments using varying techniques and forces to correct these issues and restore joint mobility. These adjustments are tailored to each individual, using specific methods to address the posture problem.
• Soft tissue therapy: Chiropractors also use soft tissue massage therapy to relieve tension in muscles that have become stiff due to poor posture. This therapy enhances muscle flexibility and improves posture over several sessions.
• Guided exercises: Stretching exercises help relieve tension in weak muscles and strengthen them. Chiropractic treatment includes these exercises to help you maintain good posture for the long term.

Chiropractic Care Is Essential for Posture Problems

Chiropractic care is essential for correcting and enhancing posture. Chiropractors specialize in identifying and treating spinal misalignments, referred to as subluxations, that can greatly affect posture. By spinal adjustments, chiropractors realign the spine, freeing nerve and muscle pressure.

Posture Correction Without Invasive Treatment at Active Chiropractic & Laser Center

At Active Chiropractic & Laser Center, we aim to help you achieve the perfect alignment and balance for posture correction. Our effective treatment strategies get you better spinal health and pain-free living without complex surgeries or medications. Still in doubt?  Download our free Super 6 posture exercises to start today, or schedule an appointment to learn more.

Read More »

Knee Pain Without Injury: Causes and Treatment

The knee is probably one of the most important joints in the human body. It has a major role in supporting our body weight, and it helps us perform tasks like walking, running, jogging, and exercising. Any bodily movement may lead to an injury, leading to knee pain. However, knee joint pain is not necessarily caused by an injury. Let us understand this structure and the causes of knee pain below.

How Does the Knee Work?

The knee joint is an essential structure in the body, enabling a wide range of movements. It is composed of three main bones: the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). During movement, the knee joint functions like a hinge, permitting flexion and extension. Ligaments and tendons stabilize the joint, while the cartilage reduces friction and absorbs shock. This detailed coordination allows for proper knee functioning.

However, certain conditions, disorders, or infections can inhibit joint functions, leading to pain without knee injuries. 

What Causes Knee Joint Pain and How to Treat It?

Knee pain without an injury is frequently caused by various underlying conditions. Identifying these causes can aid in proper diagnosis and treatment. Here are some common conditions behind knee pain with their treatment options:

Overuse of Knees

Overusing the knee joint is a common cause of pain, especially among athletes and individuals who engage in repetitive activities. Overuse injuries occur when the knee is stressed without adequate rest and recovery. 

How to Recover from Knee Overuse?

Treatment focuses on rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility.

Muscle Imbalances

Muscle imbalances occur when there is unequal strength or movement between different muscle groups around the knee. They can be caused by improper training techniques, lack of conditioning, or anatomical differences.

How to Fix Muscle Imbalance?

Addressing muscle imbalances involves targeted exercises to strengthen weaker muscles and stretch tight ones. Physical therapy, pilates, and muscle training can help develop a balanced exercise program to prevent further issues and improve overall knee function.

Osteoarthritis

A kind of arthritis in the knee, osteoarthritis is characterized by the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in the knee joint. As the cartilage deteriorates, the bones chafe against each other, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. 

What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Osteoarthritis?

The symptoms of osteoarthritis improve with rest and deteriorate with much activity. While physical therapy, weight management, and medications may help with short-term relief, regular exercises to strengthen the joints are the most effective.

Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between the bones, tendons, and muscles near the joints. Bursitis can result from repetitive kneeling, prolonged pressure, or direct trauma. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness. 

How to Treat Bursitis?

Treatment typically involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or bursa aspiration may be necessary to provide knee pain relief.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, also known as "runner's knee," is a condition indicated by pain around or behind the kneecap. It is often caused by overuse, improper patella alignment, muscle imbalances, or structural abnormalities. It can manifest as a dull, aching pain that declines with activities like squatting, climbing stairs, or sitting for prolonged periods.

How to Treat Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)?

Treating PFPS involves using the RICE technique, pain medications, and physical therapy. The focus is on strengthening the muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps, improving stretchability, and correcting any biomechanical issues with orthotics or supportive footwear. 

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)

Iliotibial Band Syndrome affects the iliotibial band (IT band), a thick band of connective tissue that runs outside the thigh from the hip to the knee. ITBS occurs when the IT band becomes tight or inflamed, leading to pain on the outer side of the knee, especially during activities like running or cycling.

How to Treat IIiotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)?

Getting sufficient rest, taking medication, undergoing physical therapy, and doing muscle training exercises can assist with ITBS. Foam rolling and massage can also help alleviate tension in the IT band. 

Identifying Risk Factors and Preventing Knee Pain

Risks of knee joint pain may incorporate age, excess weight, and excessive physical activities. Preventing knee pain requires taking prompt steps to manage your lifestyle or the above conditions for long-term relief and a better quality of life. These steps can be:

• Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Excess weight adds stress to knee joints, and reducing it is essential for proper functioning.
• Avoiding Overuse: Repetitive or high-impact activities can lead to overused knee injuries.
• Regular Exercise: Strengthens knee-supporting muscles with low-impact activities.
• Proper Stretching: Guided stretching can help improve the flexibility and movement of leg muscles.
• Appropriate Footwear: Improper footwear leads to uneven weight distribution. Using the right ones helps with leg alignment and comfort.

When Should You See a Professional for Knee Pain?

Regular workouts, a healthier lifestyle, and rest can help manage knee pain. However, in case of worsening symptoms or any unusual discomfort, one must consult a professional immediately.

Managing Knee Pain Without An Injury

Other than an injury, knee pain can be caused by certain medical conditions or infections. Identifying the symptoms of knee pain and addressing them through treatment steps and prevention strategies may help relieve discomfort and reduce any damage to the knees. Modifications like healthier living, light exercises, and immediate intervention can help manage knee pain.

Active Chiropractic and Laser Center: Faster Relief from Knee Joint Pain

Are you seeking professional help with knee pain without injuries? At Active Chiropractic and Laser Center, we specialize in a drug-free, comprehensive treatment approach for long-term conditions. Our focus is healing at the cellular level, providing targeted relief. Contact us or call (714) 639-4640.

Read More »

How Effective Is Laser Therapy in Treating Pain?

Pain management solutions are crowding over the internet. From traditional treatment options to medications and alternative therapies, numerous options are available. One such approach is laser therapy, which is becoming widely popular for immediate and effective pain relief. Is it a valuable option for long-term pain relief? Let us find out by understanding laser therapy.

Understanding Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a medical intervention that uses concentrated beams of light to target specific tissues. The light source for this treatment is a laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation). As per a study, the laser emits an exact wavelength of light in a narrow, concentrated beam that may be useful in reducing pain and inflammation related to tissues, ligaments, and tendons. The type of laser used depends on the kind of therapeutic effect required.

Types of Laser Therapy

Depending on the intensity and level of penetration needed, laser therapy can be of two types:

• Low-level laser Therapy (LLLT) is a type of laser therapy that uses low-intensity red or near-infrared light to promote healing and reduce pain. 
• High-Power Lasers: These use higher-power light to achieve deeper tissue penetration and can provide faster pain relief.

How Does Laser Therapy Work?

Low-level laser Therapy (LLLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular function. The primary mechanism involves photons, which the cells absorb, leading to increased ATP production, reduced inflammation, and enhanced tissue repair.

Uses of Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a useful treatment option in pain management and cosmetic and therapeutic resources. The major applications include:

Medical Applications

• Wound healing: Laser therapy helps heal chronic and post-surgical wounds by stimulating cell regeneration and tissue repair.
• Reducing inflammation: Laser therapy's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and pain in arthritis and tendonitis.
• Improves circulation: Laser therapy supports oxygen flow and nutrient delivery to muscles, improving blood circulation. 

Cosmetic Uses

• Treating acne: Laser therapy can reduce acne by targeting the bacteria that cause breakouts and decreasing inflammation in the skin.
• Reducing scars: It helps diminish the appearance of scars by promoting collagen production and remodeling the affected skin tissue.
• Lessening wrinkles: Laser treatments facilitate collagen and elastin production, improving skin texture and reducing wrinkles. 

Therapeutic Purposes

• Pain management: Laser therapy for pain offers a less-invasive procedure to manage chronic pain, offering relief in various conditions.
• Improving joint functioning: Laser treatment can improve joint function and flexibility for those with mobility problems.
• Accelerating tissue repair: Laser therapy boosts quicker healing of injuries by stimulating cell growth and repair.

How Does Laser Therapy Work in Pain?

Low-level laser therapy utilizes the photons in the rays to eliminate pain and improve cell function. It works in the following ways:

• Laser therapy exposes the skin to photons, light particles containing electromagnetic energy.
• The mitochondria absorb the photons, revving ATP production and improving cell activity.
• The boost of energy benefits the injured muscles, accelerating tissue healing, enhancing circulation, and reducing pain. 

Benefits of Laser Therapy

Laser therapy has several benefits due to its various applications in the medical and cosmetic industry. Some of them are:

• Pain reduction: Laser therapy for back pain reduces discomfort and inflammation by blocking pain signals and reducing nerve activity.
• Non-invasion: This treatment option doesn't involve incision or surgery, reducing the risk of complications.
• Faster healing: Laser therapy accelerates healing by increasing cell activity and tissue function.
• Adjunct to other treatments: Laser therapy can be used besides other pain management strategies (physical therapy and medications). 

Choosing the Right Laser Therapy Doctor

While laser therapy is a versatile tool in pain management and other medical applications, choosing the right doctor is essential to maximize the benefits and reduce the risk of side effects or complications. You must look for an experienced professional who has the credentials and follows the highest standards of expertise and care.

Laser Therapy for Long-term Pain Relief

Laser therapy offers a promising solution for chronic pain conditions. It reduces pain and improves function, making it a popular choice. However, consulting a skilled doctor is vital to see if it's right for you. Explore this treatment option and find qualified professionals with us who can help you lead a pain-free life.

Active Chiropractic & Laser Center: Your Trusted Center for Effective Laser Therapy

Led by Dr. Berry, a professional with more than 39 years of experience in helping patients become healthier without drugs, Active Chiropractic & Laser Center is the prime destination for finding effective healing and long-lasting pain relief with laser therapy. Schedule an appointment today or call us at 714-639-(4640) to learn more.

Read More »