FINDING THE SOURCE OF PAIN CAUSED BY THE SPINE
Looking Forward To Spring Cookouts?
MAIN DISHES Instead of greasy burgers, brats and hot dogs, try some meaty mushrooms marinated in equal parts olive oil, balsamic vinegar and lemon juice. You’ll get immune-boosting nutrients in the mushrooms, vinegar and lemon juice. Plus, studies show that oleocanthal, one of the most concentrated anti-inflammatory compounds in olive oil, dampens the body’s inflammatory process and reduces pain sensitivity with a pharmacological action similar to ibuprofen. Another great option is salmon with a splash of lemon and a sprinkling of savory summer herbs. Salmon is rich in omega-3s and vitamin D, both of which enhance joint health, boost immunity and protect against inflammation. CONDIMENTS Instead of ketchup (which packs 2 teaspoons of sugar per tablespoon) or mayonnaise (which is relatively high in unhealthy fat), try antioxidant-packed salsa or pico de gallo. Weighing in at just four to five calories per tablespoon, and zero fat, salsa boasts plenty of nutrients. Don’t forget, olive oil based pesto or sundried tomato spread is another good alternative. All three ingredients – olive oil, basil and sundried tomatoes – are loaded with anti-inflammatory properties. SIDE DISHES Instead of mayo-based salads like coleslaw, potato salad and macaroni salad, try bean or Caprese salad. All beans boast fiber, protein and a bevy of anti-inflammatory phytonutrients. Put together some sliced tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar and olive oil and you’ll have a tasty Caprese salad. Plus you’ll get more oleocanthol and cancer-fighting lycopene.
Most of us will experience back or neck pain at some point in our lives. It is the price we pay for walking on two legs. If you suffer from the occasional ache or have chronic low back or neck pain, the goal is to relieve the pain, without the need for surgery. In fact, recent studies point to the fact that patients who underwent a common fusion procedure for the spine, were more likely to have a second surgery within 2 years*. The best way to avoid the need for spine surgery, is to improve the health of your spine, and physical therapy plays a key role in making that happen. Why does your neck or back hurt? One thing to understand about neck and back pain is that it is mechanical. Just like a car can have problems with moving parts, so can your spine. The daily barrage of strain on our backs with sitting, lifting improperly and poor nutrition can wreak havoc on our spines. Most spine pain comes from the following 4 areas: 1. Poor posture and alignment 2. Lack of knowledge on how to bend, lift, sit, sleep 3. Lack of muscle strength 4. Poor flexibility and muscle coordination The good news, is that your body is adaptable and you can always improve what you have. With the right treatment and training, your back or neck can usually make a full recovery. Physical therapists are the mechanics of the body, and coming to a physical therapist first can often avoid expensive testing or medical procedures.
*Anand Veeravagu,Tyler Cole, Bowen Jiang, John K. RatliffThe Spine Journal, Vol. 14, Issue 7, p1125–1131 Published online: October 14 2013
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No Doctor Referral Necessary Whether you want to come in for a check-up, suffered a recent injury or you want to improve your health, a doctor referral is not needed. In the state of Michigan you have direct access to physical therapy!
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