Mick's up With Some Questions

Here's a change for you...
You will not gain any useful information from this blog post.  It consists solely of questions for you.  I would like to know what you have to say.

This is a great week for this, because it is Listening Week.  So, I am listening to you.

I need your help!

Any advice here will be in the comments you leave for me.

So, here it goes.

My question is about shin splints.  Do you have any words of wisdom for me? 

I have dealt with shin splints for as long as I can remember, but I thought it was only from over-exertion and lack of stretching.  So, I didn't let it bother me.  However, when I started getting into jogging a few years back, the pain got so bad that I could not even touch my shins without nearly screaming. My chiropractor's advice was to rub ice on them.  Ugh!  I cringe to this day, thinking about it.  Yet, here I sit, icing my shins, while I write.  Granted they aren't as sensitive now as they were then, so I can lay an ice pack on them, but it does still hurt to touch them.

When they were that tender back then, I researched what could be the cause, knowing this had to be more than a tendon or muscle issue.  What I found out is that there can actually be a fracture in the bone.

With the research, I realized I had probably advanced in speed and distance too quickly over time.  So, I took it easy for a while.  Unfortunately, I also developed a heel spur, and so my jogging eventually went out the window.  It was temporary, but it still meant I lost all that momentum, and had to start slowly again, working to get back in shape.  (During a stress-laden time, that is and was difficult... but no excuses now!)

The chiropractor I spoke with early on about the shin splints got discouraged, also, and finally concluded there must be something that is causing me to always have them, and basically there is no hope for me to be able to exercise without experiencing this pain.

That was a disappointing day.

I more recently asked another chiropractor about shin splints, explaining that I've dealt with them for as long as I can remember.  He went through the typical list of stretches, which I do multiple times daily, and then shared some information about ankles.  He analyzed mine, and then adjusted them, with hopes that the shin splints might be lessened.  Unfortunately, I have not seen any difference.

In fact, apparently one day last week I ran too fast too soon (and without enough stretching), and now I have throbbing shins.  What fun.

The crazy part is that I have been doing the same half-mile jog at the same basic pace for nearly two months consistently (during my lunch break).  How can speeding up my take-off one day cause more damage and thus more pain than normal?

During her recent visit, I was enjoying some time of catching up with my mom, and I got on this topic.  All of a sudden, it occurred to me that my cousin was not accepted full-time into the Army, because of shin splints!  When I had originally heard that, I thought it an odd reason, because I still thought of them as a minor, temporary, and sporadic condition.  However, I'm beginning to realize that there is something more to it.

So, what do you know about shin splints and their duration?

I posted this question on the Mick's up Life Facebook page, and some very helpful information was posted in a comment by a friend.  Check it out.

Don't let that stop you, though.  If you have more you'd like to share about the topic, please leave a comment here.

Thanks!!

"Don’t be wise in your own eyes.
    Have respect for the Lord and avoid evil.

That will bring health to your body.
    It will make your bones strong."

^{Proverbs 3:7-8 (NIV)}

^~

Mick’s up with a Golf Ball and an Ice Pack

Do you know what I fear most?  I fear readers will view my blog as written by an arrogant person with a know-it-all attitude, avoid it, and thus hinder any possibility of total wellness for themselves and those around them.

Why would I want to take time away from family, work, and other life responsibilities to write about something unimportant or make believe?

Just like the header on this blog says, “... it's just THAT important to get this information out to YOU!”

Looking back on various phases in my life, I remember receiving health advice, which I shrugged off, just like a lot of people still do these days.  Don't let your loved ones make the same mistake!

Now, I’m paying for it, and THAT is why I am so adamant about getting the word out on wellness.  I want to save my readers from suffering similar or worse challenges my husband and I have dealt with.

For me, it's nothing compared to what so many people out there are going through, but it doesn't mean I don't want to save others from even my small ailments.  I’m now living with the consequences of not wearing the proper shoes for all my miles of walking and years of exercising, nor stretching consistently.  Dealing with a heal spur for more than 6 months and plantar fasciitis for much, much longer… and now seeing how bunions are going to torture me as they get ever-increasingly worse as time goes on… I am in constant pain and discomfort.  Even though I’m using all the remedies I know of, minus the medications and surgery, my symptoms have not subsided.

Not only that, but I can’t count how many times my parents warned me about incorrect and heavy lifting.  Even after years of chiropractic care, I still suffer terrible pain, because of over-usage of my back while still in the uncorrected stage.  If I had listened, and if I had had proper care of my spine early enough, I might not be experiencing this seemingly downward spiral of my wellness at this age.

Do you get it yet?!  Sure, there are people out there suffering a lot worse than I am, and I do count myself as very blessed to have the health I have… but do you see?  I’m trying to save you… or if you think it’s too late for you, then save your loved ones!  I don’t want anyone else feeling doomed to waking up every morning, wondering if they can get out of bed without having to catch their breath because of the pain, after an extremely uncomfortable night’s sleep.  I don’t want anyone else thinking they’re old before their time.

I want newly-weds to enjoy their first 15 years of marriage, instead of having the tension and worry of chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.  I don’t want them wasting their money on medications, nor their date nights on doctors’ visits.  They should be putting their time, energy, and resources into maintaining their first house they are so proud of, not on maintaining their sanity and self-esteem.

How many people do you know make the comment that they don’t have enough energy to keep up with the kidderz, whether they mean their children or grandchildren?  That’s not the way it has to be, just because we’re used to hearing it.  If we take care of ourselves early on, we can live a full life, and run around with the children and grandchildren… and even great-grandchildren!  I already bragged on my grandmother, who still runs around with the great-grandchildren, even sledding down snowy hills in the dead of winter.  I wish I could be like her!

Don’t be like me.

Take the advice, when you receive it.

I’m not perfect.  I’ve made lots of mistakes and have seen the other mistakes made.  Read what I have to say about it.  Learn from our mistakes. Don’t make the same mistakes.  Allow the changes to be made in your life and your family members’ lives now, so you can enjoy the benefits before it’s too late.

Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you;
   love her, and she will watch over you.
The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom.
   Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
Cherish her, and she will exalt you;
   embrace her, and she will honor you.

Proverbs 4:6-8

~

Mick’s up with Your Travel

Since we just finished a great week of travel over the holiday, soaking up lots of love from family, I’m thinking you might be traveling, too.  We love visiting parents, brothers and sisters-in-law, nephews, grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles… but it sure can be a pain in the neck!


I don’t mean it as a cliché.  I mean it literally!

If Jay and I don’t take our regular pillows with us when we travel, then we have pains in our necks each morning and throughout the days.  Why is that?  Do you have the same problem?  What do you use for sleeping?  What is recommended for proper sleeping?

First, the why:  “Sleeping on a pillow that does not properly support your neck or causes it to tilt forward can gradually decrease the angle of the cervical curve and cause pain, stiffness, headaches, and misalignment of the vertebrae over time.” (Dr. Suzy)  There it is!  We need to support the natural curve in our necks.  “A normal, healthy neck has a small lordosis, which means it curves.” (Anne Asher)

Next, the what:  I have always wondered what is healthiest for sleeping, and so I was very excited to be told at my previous chiropractor’s office of a neck support to use while sleeping.  So far, that is the best thing I have found.  Nothing worked as well before I used this cervical pillow, and I have not yet come across anything since.

You might use a type of pillow suggested by your doctor.  I am not going to say it is good or bad.  If you are trying to improve your cervical curve, then that is a great place to be!

Finally, the how:  As much as people don’t want to hear it, there are some sleep positions that are just not at all good for the spine.  If you truly, honestly want to be the healthiest you can be, then you need to consider your spine, and in this case, how you sleep.  Lying on your back and using spinal supports is the best thing you can do for yourself, when it comes to sleeping.  It takes time to get used to it, if you are not a back sleeper… but it sure is worth it!  (I heard a great tip from a chiropractor recently.  She suggested that a stomach sleeper wear an oversized shirt for pajamas, and stuff a pillow under the shirt at the chest/belly area.  This should hinder a stomach sleeper from rolling onto their belly while sleeping.)

Keep your chin up!

In peace I will lie down and sleep,

for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety.

Psalm 4:8 (NIV)

~

Mick's up on Toxicity

Why in the world should anyone consider detox? 

My husband and I used to think all the talk about toxins was a new fad.  It wasn't until we did some research, and were seriously looking for some answers and a solution for his chronic pain, that our eyes were opened, and we began to understand.

All I can say is, if you are in that same spot, wondering why you have to deal with what you're dealing with, and wishing for a way out, this might be the time for you to do some research.

If you have any of the following problems, you might have an issue with toxicity.

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Eyelid, face, or muscle twitching
• Digestive issues
• Dizziness
• Irritability
• Muscle and joint pain
• Sensitivity to sound
• Inability to concentrate (“brain fog”)
• Hormone deregulation
• Cold hands and feet
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Sleep problems
• Overweight and weight-loss resistant

If you're thinking, "Yes, I need to find out more," then read the post on Mick's Sum up for Week and read more at Maximized Living.

Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.

1 Chronicles 4:10 (NIV)

~

Have You Gotten a Mick’s up of Chiropractic

You might have gathered by now that I am very thankful for chiropractic care.  I never used to know why chiropractic is so good for me, but I just knew I felt better and was healthier when I received regular care. 

I am so thankful my parents became friends with a chiropractor so many years back, which first introduced us to this form of healthcare.

I’m thankful I found a wonderful office through the yellow pages and got back into regular chiropractic care, when I was pregnant with our first child, after I discovered chiropractic is excellent for pregnant ladies.  I was no longer in pain, regained comfortable sleep during those crucial months, improved my attitude, and later had a healthy baby because of chiropractic.

It is amazing to me the gifts God has given chiropractors:  the skill to be able to feel each bone in the spine and know it by name; the precision for moving the proper bone in the necessary manner; the understanding of where each nerve leads and what it helps, as well as what is hurt when it is not able to function properly; the compassion to care for each patient and their needs; even the knowledge of all other bones in the skeletal system, so as to aid in supplying answers for bewildered patients.

If you have not yet discovered the world of chiropractic, I urge you to do yourself a favor and look into it.

Listen to what Dr. Patrick Gentempo, owner of the Chiropractic Leadership Alliance, says: “Now that this whole wellness revolution has come into this world, chiropractic is expanding and growing because we've had such great training….  Chiropractic is proactive,” meaning we take the approach of, “Let's not wait for you to get sick and then do something.  Let's keep you healthy.”

As we enter into the more stressful holiday season, it’s good to contemplate what that stress is doing to us and what we can do to handle it in a healthier way.  Dr. Gentempo continues on to say, “Everybody knows that lifestyle stress adversely affects your health.  How stress is processed and managed is through the nervous system.  What's between stress and illness?  The Central Nervous System.  You live your life through your nervous system.  What chiropractors do is evaluate your nervous system, see how stress is affecting that, and if it’s causing disturbance in how your nervous system functions, we want to release those disturbances so your body can heal and regulate.”

Is chiropractic a lifetime commitment?  Dr. Gentempo explains, “Chiropractic doesn't treat conditions...  It gives lifestyle support to help better address whatever your challenges might be.”  This question is like asking, “Once you go to the gym, do you have to keep going back?  Once you eat healthy, do you have to keep eating healthy?”  As the doctor says, “If you want a healthy lifestyle, chiropractic is a critical component.”

Many thanks to Conway Family Chiropractic for encouraging me to use their video in my blog.  This is a great summary of what chiropractic is and why we need it.  Enjoy!

Remember, don’t stress this holiday.  Read the Proverb below.  If you find yourself stressing, be sure to see your local chiropractor!

 

A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.
Proverbs 14:30 (NIV)

 

~

Mick’s up Coordination

Do you consider yourself coordinated?  Would you, instead, have to admit that you are one of those people who has trouble walking and chewing gum at the same time?  Well, that’s not necessarily the kind of coordination our topic is about today.  However, balance and coordination can be an issue.

Your vertebrae contain special receptors to provide the brain with important information to give you balance and coordination.  “Injury or irritation to these mechanoreceptors results in balance disturbances and problems with coordination.” (ChiroPlanet/BackTalk)

Playing a vital role in this communication is the cerebellum.  “This is the back, bottom part of your brain which controls your eye movements, balance and coordination, and spinal postural muscles.  When one side of your cerebellum is not firing properly it can lead to a host of common ailments.  Traditional chiropractic adjustments are used in a very precise manner to stimulate function in the affected part of the brain.  [This naturally and holistically re-wires your brain and then allows your body to heal.]” (Dr. Gregory Symko)
 
“Using EEG (a brain-wave test), researchers in New Zealand found significant changes in brain function after patients receive chiropractic adjustments.  The researchers found that the adjustment instantly caused changes in the signals that the brain sent to muscles.  This may change posture and coordination and help explain the improved function and pain relief that patients experience.” (Adjustments Impact Brain Function)

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Chiropractic Helps Child with Brain Disorder 

“In the April 20, 2009 issue of the scientific journal, the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, was a case study report of a young girl who had signs of cerebellar ataxia that were completely eliminated with chiropractic care. Cerebellar ataxia is a disorder that results in balance and coordination problems.
“In this case a 7 year old girl was brought to a chiropractic clinic for health and wellness.  In the course of examination tests were performed that showed a brain malfunction consistent with cerebellar ataxia.  Chiropractic care was initiated for the presence of vertebral subluxations.  The young girl was seen weekly in the initial stages of care.  By the fourth adjustment the patient was re-tested and the specific findings of cerebellar ataxia were gone.”

---

We sometimes joke around about being clumsy, but this can be a serious matter.  At the very least, your brain might not be communicating fully with the rest of your body, resulting in organs gradually deteriorating… and possibly causing you pain in the short-term and major medical crisis in the long-term.  On a more serious scale, you could be dealing with major symptoms now, like vertigo and balance problems, visual disturbances and eye fatigue, memory and concentration difficulty, ADD and learning disorders.  What will it hurt to let a chiropractor get it checked for you?  It will save you money in the long run!

When you walk, your steps will not be hampered;

when you run, you will not stumble.

Proverbs 4:12 (NIV)

~

Mick’s up with the Psychology

I attended a Health Presentation last night, and I got some really great information!  I also experienced a light bulb turning on in my head.  Do you love moments like that as much as I do?  Who doesn’t?  Right?

I love writing this blog, because there is such great information to get out to people to empower them to make their own healthy choices for their family.  However, the light bulb for me is that I get so passionate about the subject, I forget that people already know what they’re supposed to be doing to be healthy.  It’s not shocking news that we need a good attitude, good nutrition, and exercise.  In other words, I can offer the information, but it’s up to you to take action.  No matter how passionately I offer this information, I can’t make it stick.  So, I’ll go a little easier on you from now on.

We all do things for one of two reasons:  Either we go toward pleasure or we go away from pain.  I view exercise as pleasurable, because I see the benefits associated with it, and go to it.  However, others view exercise as painful and “run away” from it.  Do you see exercise as pleasure or pain?  (Can I tell you how thankful I am that my husband’s chronic pain decreased enough that he could get past the idea that exercise equals “pain” and actually consider the benefits?  I love it when we take time to workout and improve our health together!)

It’s all in how you perceive it. 

“Not until the pain of the same is greater than the pain of change will you embrace change.” (Dave Ramsey)

Surprisingly, 80% of us don’t think about our health until it’s gone.  I beg you:  Don’t be a statistic.  What exercise choice will you make today for your health?  Are you running toward exercise or running away from it?

Many thanks to Dr. Frank Lombardozzi for the inspiration!

“Since ancient times

no one has heard,

no ear has perceived,

no eye has seen

any God besides you,

who acts on behalf of those who wait for him.”

Isaiah 64:4 (NIV)

 

~

Mick’s in Pain

What do you do for pain?

All this mountain climbing and vacuuming is making me a bit sore.  How about you?

What do you do for minor aches and pains?  Do you take ibuprofen or aspirin, etc., or do you prefer the more natural way with blueberries, bromelain, etc.?

Even though there is research trying to link ibuprofen and Alzheimer’s in a good way, there is still danger.  “Ibuprofen may cause life-threatening heart or circulation problems such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term.” (Drugs.com) … Plus…  “Long-term use of NSAIDs carries a risk of gastrointestinal problems.” (US News Health Buzz)

What are some of those GI problems?

“Internal bleeding may be caused as a side effect of medications (most often from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin) and alcohol.  These substances can cause inflammation and bleeding of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, the first part of the small intestine as it leaves the stomach.” (MedicineNet.com)

“According to a new study in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the use of low-dose aspirin increases the risk for GI bleeding, with the risk being increased further with accompanying use of cardiovascular disease-preventing therapies, such as clopidogrel and anticoagulants.  In patients who took proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), bleeding risk decreased.” (Science Daily via EurekAlert!)

“It is estimated that approximately 120,000 people are hospitalized each year with gastrointestinal bleeding due to NSAID use.  Conservative estimates are that 16,500 die as a result.” (Jeff Sargent on Natural Health Informer)

I used to take ibuprofen on a regular basis, but I am surprised and very glad to be able to say I haven’t taken any ibuprofen (nor cold meds) for a year!  It’s an amazing process:  change what you put into your body (such as sugar, grains/flour, bad oils, etc., which cause inflammation and toxicity), and eventually you can cut out some of the other things you used to feel like you had to put into your body (toxins, like pain relievers, allergy medicines, etc.).  Some people refer to the bad stuff as man-made foods and the good stuff as God foods.  I like that.  It’s a good reminder.

Which would you rather do… be uncomfortable for a little while, as you change your intake… or… risk your health for some temporary relief?  I think I know which one your family would choose for you.

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do,

do it all for the glory of God. “

1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV)

~

Mick’s in Some Vacuuming

I took time out today to prep the house for guests (my awesome parents-in-law).  So that got me curious to know how much of an interval training workout housework is, specifically vacuuming.

Any guesses?

“Exercise by any other name still counts.  Several household chores qualify as aerobic activity, including sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, washing windows or cleaning out the garage, according to the American Heart Association.  The National Institute on Aging adds that raking leaves, gardening or cutting the lawn with a push mower constitutes moderate aerobic activity, as well.” (Pam Murphy, “Easy Ways to Increase My Heart Rate”)

“What's moderate intensity?  Moderate activity includes things like brisk walking and biking as well as daily activities such as mowing the lawn or vacuuming that raise your heart rate for at least 10 minutes continuously.  You feel a little warm and are able to talk while you exercise.  If you try to sing it's difficult.  You are working at 65%-74% of your maximum heart rate during moderate activity.” (Fit After 50)


I find counting calories not important for fitness (neither intake nor burning), but for those of your who are calorie counters:
“In this instance, a bigger house is better!  A 150 pound person can burn around 239 calories an hour pushing the vacuum around.” (National Academy of Sports Medicine)

“Different people burn calories at different rates, but the level of intensity and the duration of your chosen activity will determine how many calories you will burn.  Yes, it's true, even vacuuming burns some calories!  Generally speaking, the faster your heart rate, the greater the caloric burn.  So if you've got a huge house and work at a vigorous pace, you could even consider it a cardio workout.  Did you know that you can increase the rate at which you burn calories?  By simply adding a little lean muscle to your body by participating in a resistance training program, you can increase the number of calories your body burns on a daily basis.  A faster metabolism means less body fat.  You don't need to look like a bodybuilder to benefit from this either, even a little new muscle will help.  Your new and improved metabolism will help you burn more calories day and night, and applies to all activities, including vacuuming.  Happy house cleaning!” (Chris Gomes - NASM Elite Trainer)

Pay attention to proper vacuuming.  Don’t hurt yourself.  Instead, concentrate on your muscles for some added benefits:  “Practice engaging your core and using your hip and leg muscles as you vacuum.  You may be shown a partial lunge exercise to simulate the actions needed to complete this task safely.  Keep the vacuum directly in front of you at all times.  Avoid trying to reach around corners or objects.  This will force you to bend and twist your low back.  Don't twist or bend your trunk to get under objects or to reach into tight spots. Use the rules of safe lifting (described in Session Four) when lifting and transporting the vacuum.” (Back Care Boot Camp)

So, being a moderate activity, vacuuming is not getting the heart rate up to the target for interval (burst) training, which is what I needed… but it is a great workout, regardless!

Be safe, and have fun doing housework, knowing you’re getting a workout!

“She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.“

Proverbs 31:17 (NIV)

~

Mick’s in with Muscles and Spine Health

"Chiropractic just makes you feel so much better.
When I walk out of the clinic, I feel like I'm about three inches taller and everything's in place.
And as long as I see the chiropractor, I feel like I'm one step ahead of the game."
Tom Brady
3 Super Bowl Championship Rings MVP award winner Quarterback - New England Patriots

After doing some sort of exercise, like climbing a mountain, there might be some pains and other consequences to deal with.  You know what I mean.  We 40-something moms really know what I mean.

In reality, addressing certain things, like spinal health, before exercise is the best way to go.  Be sure you know what’s going on with your spine, before you get too serious about your exercise regimen.  “Depending on the extent of your [subluxations] and posture misalignment the doctor may have you abstain from certain high input activities that may adversely affect your spine.” (Nikitow Chiropractic Wellness Center )

Something I learned, and for which I am truly and forever grateful, is that not all back pain is due to subluxation.  I tend to have lots of lower back pain.  Yes, some of it is due to curvature in my spine, of which I am on a quest to correct.  However, some of it is also due to tightness in my muscles.

So you deal with low back pain?  If so, try stretching out your muscles.  Not only is it good for flexibility and reducing overall tension in the body, but targeting certain areas can have an incredible affect on your back pain.  Hamstrings tend to be the biggest culprit, when muscles are to blame for low back tension.

Try this exercise: 
Lay on your back, with one leg straight up in the air, the back of it against the wall.  (You’ll need to do this in a doorway, so your other leg can be resting flat on the floor.)  Push with your leg against the wall, holding for 20 seconds or so, and then release.  Move your body closer to the wall, causing more tension in your leg.  Repeat the push and release.

If you have someone who can help you, it works much better.  Your assistant will push your leg toward you, causing the resistance.


“Tight hamstrings can restrict movement of the pelvis, which can cause a compensatory increase in rounding of the low back.  This increases the forces on the lumbar spine during forward bending, which can lead to injuries in the low back.  However, there are many causes of low back pain, with tight hamstrings being only one of many potential contributors to the problem.  Additional causative factors and potential treatments should be explored with a health care professional. ” (National Academy of Sports Medicine)

“The sensation of tightness in the hamstrings can be due to various reasons.  Typically it can be from poor postures, altered movement and walking patterns, or compensation due to other muscles being weak such as the gluteal muscles.  The hamstrings attach to the bottom of your pelvis.  With tightness, it can pull on the pelvis causing it to put more stress on the pelvis and back.  In these cases, education to mildly elongate or stretch the hamstrings may help.  Regardless, it is more important to retrain the proper strength and movement patterns of the legs and trunk so proper mechanics of the back can be restored.

“Sometimes tightness in the hamstrings can also be a protective mechanism from underlying nerve pathology in the sciatic nerve.  We have seen patients trying to stretch their hamstrings and instead develop sciatica as stretching irritated the nerve rather than stretch the muscle.  Further differential diagnosis of the hamstrings and their relationship to low back pain should be determined by a qualified health care practitioner.” (Brian Yee)

As the experts say, low back pain can be caused by a multitude of things.  The only way to know for sure the status of your spine health is by having a chiropractor view an x-ray of it.  What better time to go to your nearest corrective-care, principled chiropractor’s office to get an x-ray of your spine than during October:  Chiropractic Awareness Month?!

__________________________________________________________________________

October is National Chiropractic Health Month: Educational Foundation Launched to Advance Chiropractic Awareness

CARMICHAEL, Calif., Oct 06, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Foundation for Chiropractic Education (FCE), a not-for-profit 501 (C)(3) organization established to further educate the public regarding chiropractic care, is pleased to debut its charitable foundation during National Chiropractic Health Month, a nationwide chiropractic awareness campaign each October initiated by the American Chiropractic Association.

"The Foundation for Chiropractic Education has developed a comprehensive website to provide the public with an educational database of resources and documents relative to chiropractic care," says Kent S. Greenawalt, founder, FCE. "As more people begin to show their support of chiropractic by contributing to the FCE, our campaign initiatives will accelerate -- increasing the development of educational materials including evidence-based studies and public service announcements."

The detailed pages on the FCE website allow visitors to learn quick and effective informational tips to advance their knowledge of chiropractic. From introductory information to in-depth studies validating the clinical and financial efficacy of care, the FCE offers an all-encompassing resource center for anyone interested in learning more about chiropractic or considering a consultation.

"Investing in the FCE's mission to educate the public about one of healthcare's best kept secrets -- chiropractic care -- is not only a way to contribute directly to the growth of the profession, but also to advance overall wellness," shares Greenawalt.

This October, the FCE strongly encourages others to join efforts in the month-long chiropractic campaign by exploring the FCE website and making a contribution in honor of the organization and the chiropractic profession. Visit, www.Foundation4ChiroEducation.com to show your support and submit a donation today!

About Foundation for Chiropractic Progress

A not-for-profit organization, the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress aims to inform and educate the general public about the many benefits associated with chiropractic care. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.yes2chiropractic.com or call 866-901-F4CP (3427).

SOURCE: The Foundation for Chiropractic Education
     
        For the Foundation for Chiropractic Education
        Lauren Kennedy, 201-641-1911 (14)
        lkennedy@cpronline.com
     

Copyright Business Wire 2011

__________________________________________________________________________

~

Jabez cried out to the God of Israel,

“Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory!

Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm

so that I will be free from pain.”

And God granted his request.

1 Chronicles 4:10 (NIV)

~

A recent video (early 2013) shows more ways to stretch hamstrings, as well as strengthen your core:
Dr. Lombardozzi at Kempsville Chiropractic

~

FMS in the Mick’s?

I need to be totally honest with you.  I do not truly know what it is like to have brain fog.  I cannot say I fully understand.  However, I have had to deal with it second-hand.  It is difficult enough to watch someone trying to function in life while in a fog.  I can’t imagine the stress of being in that fog.  I am sorry that those of you with brain fog have to deal with it.  Please realize, though, that I am writing this blog to try to help you know you don’t have to live with it.  There is a way out of the fog!

Today’s topic is related to brain fog.  One of the symptoms of FMS is brain fog.
I’ve seen hope glimmering in my husband’s eyes, as he sees the fog lifting… and as he feels his quality of life improving dramatically, after dealing with FMS for years.  Yes, he’s a guy and he was diagnosed with FMS, even though the statistics say it’s a 7:1 ratio of women to men with FMS. (CDC)

What is FMS?
FMS = Fibromyalgia Syndrome = difficult to diagnose = frustrating for those with it, because of comments like, “It’s all in your head.”

How is FMS diagnosed?
“To receive a diagnosis of FM, the patient must meet the following diagnostic criteria:

• Widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for a minimum duration of three months
• Tenderness or pain in at least 11 of the 18 specified tender points when pressure is applied”

Progress has been made by Dr. Bruce Gillis to give hope to FMS sufferers that doctors can determine that their symptoms are not just in their heads.  He has developed a blood test that is 95% accurate in detecting fibromyalgia.  It looks at cytokines in the blood.  What do cytokines do?  “The simple answer is that cytokines are small protein molecules released by nerve and immune cells that send signals to other cells in the body to do things like alter cell functions and increase/decrease the regulate of genes.  In the case of fibromyalgia, these messengers cause the central nervous system to create the widespread body pain characteristic of fibromyalgia as well as other physiological, hormonal and behavioral changes.”  These cytokines are related to inflammation in the body.

Toxicity and inflammation are two major factors involved in the pain of FMS.  Once they are decreased, there is a definite decrease in symptoms.  My husband is living proof.

Not only is decreasing toxins and inflammation a great start to combating FMS, but so are improving nutrition and focusing on spinal care.  After all, didn’t God give you a system in the body that will heal itself, if the stuff that isn’t supposed to be there will just get out of the way and let it do its job?!

The Fibromyalgia Fact Sheet even lists chiropractic as one of the alternatives to help improve an FMS victim’s quality of life, since “increasing attention is being devoted to the central nervous system as the underlying mechanism of FMS.”  Take note: ”Increasing rest, pacing activities, reducing stress, practicing relaxation and improving nutrition can help minimize symptoms and improve quality of life.” (National Fibromyalgia Association)

Again, we’re back to focusing on 5 simple items to change your quality of life:  attitude, spine/nerve system health, nutrition, exercise, and toxins.

Maybe this week, as we're spotlighting toxicity, we need to look at what we’re putting in our bodies, and make sure it’s not toxic.  If we’ve had a history of taking medications, having vaccinations, living with mercury fillings in our teeth, cleaning with chemicals, eating unhealthy fats and sugars, and living in toxic environments, then we should figure out a way to rid our bodies of the toxins we’re continually taking in and the toxins already stored there.  Find a detox something like Daily Detox and allow your body to function like it’s supposed to!

FMS is serious business, and it needs to be addressed.  I’ve witnessed the depression that accompanies FMS, and I can believe the suicide rates are higher among FMS sufferers. (CDC)  Please, please, please do not give up hope!

Yes, granted, there are medications out there.  Doctors don’t know what else to do, so they help to mask some of the symptoms with pain medications and others.  However, after a while, the body can adapt and then the symptoms will increase again, even with the medications.  Plus, the medications are increasing the toxicity of the body.

So, why not try something else?  What can it hurt?  If you need more information, go back through this Mick’s up Life, and read up on the 5 things I’ve emphasized for living as a healthy family.  Think about it:  You’ve tried everything else.  Why not this?  Then you can give all the glory to the God who made you in such a way that your body can heal itself!  Just think of it!  Amazing!

“But as for me, afflicted and in pain—
may your salvation, God, protect me.

I will praise God’s name in song
and glorify him with thanksgiving. “

Psalm 69:29-30 (NIV)

 

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Mick's up on the Sniffles

This seems to be sniffles week, so we'll finish it off strong!

You know how it goes.  Kidderz are the ones blamed for getting the sniffles and fevers and bringing them home (or from the teachers' point of view:  to school) for us adults to end up sick, too.  As the old saying goes, "Misery loves company!" 

It seems we're doomed.  It's just part of the process.  It has to happen… but isn't there a better way?

In my research, I found an awesome site:  International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA, Inc).  This site is all about helping your kidderz be at their 100%.  Remember from Mick's Signals: Central Nervous System at 100% = Immune System at 100% = Kidderz at 100%.

When is it best to start kidderz under chiropractic care?  You'll find the answer at the above ICPA link.  If you want to read more, check out the article on Chiropractic: The Answer for a Healthy Pregnancy and Healthy Baby!

"If a woman is pregnant her needs are increased, because the nervous system of a woman directs the creation of the fetus and the embryo to begin with. When a woman receives adjustments during her pregnancy, there is also better delivery, less back pain, healthier children, and less chance of a miscarriage" - Sir Jay Holder, M.D., D.C., Ph.D., of Miami, Florida

Are your kidderz beyond that stage already?  Well, have no fear!  Get them started today!  It's never too late for chiropractic to have a positive impact on a life.

Kids Having Fun
at the Chiropractor's Office

Look for a principled, corrective-care chiropractor near you, and get your family on your way to combatting those sniffles!

In the meantime:
Remember to load up on that Vitamin D3 over the weekend, and then we'll touch on it some more next week, as we get into the family's nutrition!  Have a restful, healthy, fun, family-oriented weekend!


"Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the LORD."  Psalm 102:18 (NIV)

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Mick's Maxed

Max this.  Max that.  What is all this Maximized Living stuff?  What do I know about it?  I have experienced it and seen with my own eyes the  amazing  transformations that have resulted!

Imagine being sick and in pain for 15+ years, being told it's all in your head... but you know it's all too real.  Getting out of bed is one of the hardest things to do, not to mention having to focus on work to keep your job and support your family.  Oh… family… you feel as though you can barely function, so how can you possibly be a dad to your kids?  It's a struggle.  Trying everything you can think of only gives minor temporary relief.  You feel like a 95-year-old in a 45-year-old body.  

or…

Imagine as a child you're being told your body is not perfect and there is no definitive solution.  You're told all the bad things that might happen to you, and you're basically told there is no hope.

Now…

Imagine there is hope!  Someone is obedient to God's direction, and they share with you some amazing yet simple information.  You grab on, and it changes your life!

In October of 2010, I first heard about Maximized Living after noticing the Family Chiropractic sign moved to a different section of our local plaza, which led to stopping in out of curiosity and a need for a nearby chiropractor.  (At the time, the drive to and from the chiropractor's office hurt my back worse than anything, and so I really wanted to have an office within walking distance.  Yay!  God gave us one!)

At age 9, I was diagnosed with scoliosis, as well as some other spine issues.  Following the recommendations, my parents got me in to see specialists, who simply “monitored” the situation and prescribed exercises to try to train my muscles to straighten my spine (or at least not let it get worse), with the threat of a brace or even surgery if I did not keep up with my exercises.  My parents were also told to sign me up for karate, swimming, or gymnastics to strengthen my back.  Gymnastics was already my preferred hobby, so I continued in that.  (I have now learned that gymnastics might have actually caused more damage to my spine!)

Through the years, I dealt with headaches, back pain, knee pain, foot pain, and eventually saw several different chiropractors over a span of 20 years, even being told by one chiropractor that I would most likely have severe issues from carrying a baby to childbirth, possibly even leading to paralysis.

Finding Dr. Eric was a God-send for my family and me.  He provides the most up-to-date corrective techniques, and the 5 Essentials of Maximized Living that he talks about are just that: 5 Essential items to live life to the max!

My  BIG “Why” to get me revved up with the mindset to succeed with my new healthy lifestyle is to teach my children (by words and actions) how to take care of the temple God gave them, so they can live long, healthy lives to bring glory to His name.  I do not want them suffering from sickness or disease, or dying from heart disease or cancer at any time in their lives, whether young or old.

"Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple..." 1 Corinthians 3:16 (NIV)

My personal “Why” is to be fit (and have a flat tummy), no matter my age or maternal status.  In other words, I don’t want to look like a 40+ year-old mom with two young children. 

The result:

After jumping in to the 5 Essentials with both feet in November 2010 with the entire family, I lost 20 pounds… and this was after thinking I was doomed… just because I had 2 kids… to stay the same weight … am more fit than I’ve ever been… can actually see a 6-pack of abs!  Woohoo!… wear the smallest size I’ve ever worn, fight off colds faster than usual, and am overall healthier and more energetic than at any time in my past.  Plus, my family is healthier. Not only can my kidderz kick high fevers in one day and hardly be sick from month to month, but my husband has an amazing testimony as well, getting off pain meds, allergy meds, cold meds, sleep meds, and being a healthier and more energetic husband than the one I married 15 years ago!  Who is this guy?!  I like him!

Not only do we have the mindset to do what it takes to be the healthiest we can be, but we also are seeing correction in our spines because of Dr. Eric’s care.  The nutrition of the Advanced Plan is simply our lifestyle now, and we maximize our oxygen and lean muscle through the MaxT3 workouts.  Plus, living as toxin-free as possible (with our food, soap, shampoo, deodorant, detergent, etc.) and staying off meds and on  Daily Detox is a must!

I am thankful that God introduced me to chiropractic care long ago, especially so that my children would have the blessing of having chiropractic adjustments since first coming home from the hospital as newborns, which has made it a lifestyle to them.  They “get it!”  They understand that healing comes from the inside out.

Remember:
God made you perfect! There are no mistakes.  If you are dealing with issues of pain and/or dis-ease, it is simply due to interference.  Live the 5 Essentials to get the interferences out and live life to the max!

Have you taken the survey here on Mick's up Life?  It's up there, in the left margin.  Go ahead... we're all curious to know!