Spark Post #3:

Studies have shown that people with Parkinson's Disease that are encouraged to exercise, on a stationary bike, can reduce the effect of the disease. In the brain, the mild stress of exercise fortifies the infrastructure of our nerve cells by activating genes to produce certain proteins that protect the cells against damage and disease, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and Dementia.

"Spark" Post #2

The mind is so powerful that we can set off the "stress" response just by imagining ourselves in a threatening situation.  Thus, activating our "Flight or Fight" response.  This prepares our body for movement.  Physical activity is the natural way to prevent the negative consequences of stress.  The body's response to chronic stress causes an increase in the release of the hormone "Cortisol." This hormone directs the body to create and store fat reserves, especially around the abdomen.  We need to move in order to prevent that storage from happening.

Like Us and Learn Part One

Good Day and Happy New Year to all of you, I wish you health, happiness and prosperity for the new year.  One of my New Year Resolutions, yes I made some, is to "blog" and communicate through social media more regularly.  

One of the activities I enjoy is reading.  History and historical fiction are my favorites but I also enjoy reading about new advances in Health Science from diet and nutrition, exercise, rehabilitation to surgery.  I thought this year you and your circle of friends might enjoy and gain insight from the blogs I post, commenting and relaying info from the current literature I am reading.  

The first book is; Spark: The revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain, by John J. Ratey M.D. Dr. Ratey is a clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.  He has authored/co-authored many books on neuroscience and the brain.  His Book, "Spark" has excellent reviews and is frequently referenced in today's Health  Literature.  

As I read, I will be sharing my thoughts on topics within the book: 

Exercise elevates "Miracle-Gro" type chemicals in the brain.  One study found people learn 20% faster following exercise.  Exercise improves learning on 3 levels: 

1. It optimizes your mind-set to improve alertness and attention. 

2. It encourages nerve cells to bind together. 

3. It spurs development of new nerve cells.  

During vigorous exercise, learning is decreases then sharply increases shortly after.  

How much exercise do I need to improve my brain function?  GOOD QUESTION!

Jogging/fast walking 30 minutes, three times per week for twelve weeks is a good start.  The brain also needs to be challenged with various physical activities to continue to grow.  So mix it up!  

Stay tuned to see what next week brings!!  

What a Bargin!

Lowe's had 5 bags of mulch on sale for $10!  So after I spent several hours (and 30 bags later), my yard looks great.  Unfortunately my back is saying a very steady "HELLO!" (And chiropractors cannot adjust their own backs, we have to have colleagues do that for us.)  We hear many stories like this everyday in our office and we are always ready and willing to help.  Remember, that when springtime brings yard work and gardening your body may not be used to the change in pace, so PACE YOURSELF, STRETCH, REST AND ENJOY YOUR TIME OUTDOORS!

Spring Training in Peoria, AZ

Last weekend I took a trip to the San Diego Padres Baseball spring training facility in Peoria.  In a  word, WOW! The sports complex has 13 full size fields and 2 separate clubhouse/gym/batting and pitching areas/ rehab and sports trainer areas etc.  The Padres share the facility with the Seattle Mariners.  The main stadium field is very modern and family friendly with open spaces and grassy areas, so bring the kids.

I was given a tour by Will Simon, the Lake Elsinore Storm's head trainer.  The technology used in sports today is amazing, however it all still comes down to physical performance.  I also had the opportunity to meet many of the players, coaches, staff and team doctors regarding various sports specific conditions.  Cool stuff!

We are once again the official clinics for the Lake Elsinore Storm Baseball team and the season starts April 10th.  We hope to see you at a game this season!

It's Back to School Time!

Much to the delight of many parents.
It is ALSO the season for high school football, girls tennis, golf, water polo, cross country, cheer leading, marching band, and the list goes on...We treat may children and teenagers all year long but especially at the "Back to School" time.  With sports, backpacks and those "wonderful" chairs at school, back and neck problems can develop:  Sometimes even headaches can occur from computer time or reading a lot.
Give us a call if anything comes up with your  "Back to Schooler!"

Scoliosis

This condition is common in name to most people, however, most do not know what it actually is.

By definition; scoliosis is a complicated deformity of the spine with both rotational and lateral movements.  The two basic classifications of scoliosis are Structural and Nonstructural.  In general, that means: a bone/spine deformity causing scoliosis, or a muscle imbalance.  A very common cause of scoliosis, and often over looked by many physicians, is a compensatory scoliosis that occurs due to leg length discrepancy.  Something as simple as a dropped or fallen arch on one foot, or a leg fracture during your growing years can create a "short leg" on one side.  Thus the compensatory scoliosis due to your body compensating for the difference.  Today's children, with their busy lifestyles, sports, backpacks, etc... should all be evaluated for scoliosis.  Many times the condition can be corrected fairly easily.  
To discuss this topic further, schedule a free consultation for your child today.